Golfers playing Plainview Country Club course at their leisure Feb_sm.pdf · golfers who might want...

By SKIP LEON

[email protected]

The Plainview Country Club golf course has seen an increase in its volume of rounds played over the past year, especially among golfers who are not members of the country club.

It appears golfers are playing the course at their leisure, and not necessarily in the various tournaments that are offered throughout the year.

Plainview Country Club golf pro Tim Davis said a total of about 13,000 rounds of golf are played on the course annu-ally. He said 45 to 50 percent of those rounds are played by non-members.

“Our play is up this year. We did about 1,100 more rounds this year than we did last year, as far as non-members,” Davis said.

That increase in rounds played did not translate to tour-naments, however. Davis had planned to add a number of tournaments at the course last year. He had to cancel some of them due to lack of interest.

Asked how the added tour-naments worked out, Davis replied, “Terrible. I did actually set up about three different new tournaments and I had to cancel them all. The city championship hasn’t been played in two years because we haven’t had many people signing up. I had six people sign up the year before last and this year I think we had eight. So, I can’t hold a tournament for that few people.”

Davis said a reason the tournaments have not taken off could be that they are in competition with so many other activities around town or activities that people have planned during the summer months.

“I think there’s too much stuff going on,” Davis said, “with people and their families, they have commitments with their kids or whatever. And they just don’t have time to do it (golf in tournaments). It seems like every time I set something up there’s always something going on either here or around town – kids’ basketball or baseball or foot-ball or whatever.”

Still, Davis is optimistic about the direction the course is headed. The number of rounds overall was higher for the year as people took to the golf course at their leisure. The club membership jumped by about 35 last year to a total of 265.

Davis said the golf course has been in excellent condition the past two years, which could be a reason for the increase in non-member rounds.

“I think a lot of it has to do with course conditions,” Da-vis said. “The course has been just phenomenal the last two years. I think people realized that in 2016 and so they came out and played more in 2017.”

Despite the tournament cancellations, some of the events that were added last year were very successful.

“Last year the Plainview Stars (Special Olympics team) had their first annual tournament to benefit the Special Olympics,” Davis said. “I’m going to get in touch with the guy who ran it and see what his plans are this year. That was a good tournament. We had a good turnout and everybody seemed to enjoy themselves. We’ll probably have another one of those. We just haven’t had a date set up on it.”

Another event that was different and drew a good amount of participation was a night golf tourney which included glow-in-the-dark balls and the course set up in a somewhat wacky format. The event was popular, but it also is expensive to put on.

“We had the first one. The second one had to get can-celled,” Davis said of the night golf events. “It wasn’t due to

lack of players. To put on that night tournament costs the club about $1,000 for the stuff we use to set up the course with plus the balls. Those glow-in-the-dark balls cost about $6 each. They’re not cheap. So, we have 72 balls for one tournament, that’s more than $400 there. It’s pretty pricey.”

Davis said he might try to get sponsorships for the night events to offset the cost of putting them on.

“We did hold one last year, the second one we cancelled,” he said. “We may do another one this year. I don’t know. It all depends if maybe we can get somebody to sponsor it a little bit. If we get a sponsor we’ll have it, because it’s always a big hit.”

Of course, the highlight of the season for the golf club is the annual Jack Williams Invitational, which draws about 180 players every year for the three-day tournament. This year it will be July 13-15.

“We had a pretty good tournament last year,” Davis said. “I think we had about the same number of teams. We might have been up by two teams compared to 2016. We had a good turnout.”

The Plainview High School boys’ and girls’ golf teams also utilize the course. They practice there and the annual boys’ Plainview Invitational was Friday and Saturday. The girls’ Plainview Invitational will be March 9-10.

In addition, Muleshoe High School hosted a tournament last year and is expected to return this year, as well.

Davis said there are no major renovations planned for the course this year. Last year ladies’ tees were installed on holes 16 and 17 to shorten the course for any ladies who come out to play a round of golf.

Davis said the course’s busy season usually begins about the middle of March or beginning of April, depending on weather. Last year when the weather was exceptionally mild, the course began to see an upswing in play in Febru-ary.

This winter has been colder than last year, which has resulted in the golf course closing more days during the winter months.

“We’ve had more days that we’re closed due to weather in 2017 than we had in 2016,” Davis said. “Cold weather, snow, whatever. Mainly, it’s cold. We haven’t had any moisture around here. We’ve had days when the high is 20 and people just don’t come out when it’s like that. We don’t

even open the course. If it’s under 32 degrees, the course is closed.”

The mild weather last year allowed the club to aerate the greens earlier than usual, which allowed for more rounds of golf earlier in the season.

“We aerated early last year,” Davis said. “We did it at the end of February. Most normal years you’re going to aerate the end of March or the first of April. We did it very early and then our greens were just perfect.

“It was warmer. We had better weather going forward, so we wanted to get it done early. It’s the worst when people start coming out in the spring, they start getting ready to play. They play a couple of weeks and all of a sudden the greens get aerated. And it’s terrible to play on aerated greens. It always takes a couple of weeks for them to come in.”

As for his goals this year, Davis said continuing to grow the club’s membership is always a top priority. He said memberships are done on a yearly basis, meaning when someone signs up for membership they sign a year’s con-tract.

“Obviously, we always want to build our membership. That’s the main thing,” Davis said. “Any club where you have memberships and rely on memberships, you want to build those.

“We’re going to keep plugging away. We don’t have any issues with the course, as far as expecting any problems with it.”

As it has been the past two years, the golf course is expected to be in tip-top shape again this year, ready for any golfers who might want to go there and play a round or two at their leisure.

February

Outlook 2018Community

Golfers playing Plainview Country Club course at their leisure

A PLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018COMMUNITY

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Special to the Herald

The Hale County Literacy Council, organized in 1986, is located in the Plainview ISD complex at 2417 Yonkers Street, Room 4. The Council’s mission is to increase literacy awareness in the adult population and to work with ready-to-read children and their families. It assists and enhances literacy efforts by serv-ing as an information source, by acting as a liaison among develop-ing and existing programs, and by linking individuals and services in the community.

The organization is funded by Plainview Area United Way, Hale County, the City of Plainview and various civic and corporate donors.

Ongoing programs include:

Junior Literacy Council

The Hale County Junior Lit-eracy Council is our student auxiliary, consisting of more than 40 public, private and home-schooled high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who volunteer in various capacities. Junior Literacy students are the best of the best and contrib-ute their time and efforts to various literacy programs such as Basic Computer classes for adults, First Thursday Family Reading Night, the Summer Reading Program at the Unger Li-brary and other community awareness events.

Adult Tutoring

On Feb. 1, 2013, Pla-inview’s largest employer closed its doors and more than 2,000 employees were displaced. It was determined that many of those who had worked in the positions for more than 10 years had no other skills and did not speak English. The Depart-ment of Labor along with Texas Workforce soon offered an opportunity for the Literacy Council to teach English as a second language, ESL, funded by a National Emergency Grant. Starting with two classrooms, almost 60 students were provided ESL and basic life skills instruc-tions. This grant ended in 2014, and subsequently the Literacy Council was given the opportunity though the Trade Adjustment Authority Act and South Plains Work-force to continue teach-ing ESL with many of the same students. Most of the students were not equipped to work in the community as they had no more than a 2nd grade education in their

country of origin and understood some but did not read, write or speak English.

A number of students are now literate in English, and several have gone on to earn a GED cer-tificate and have received other vocational training. The TAA program funding is ending in the spring. But the need still exists as more potential adult stu-dents from the community have indicated an interest in the ESL program. The Literacy Center pro-vides classes at no charge and is currently accepting applications.

My Dad Reads to Me

The Hale County Literacy Council partners with the Run-ning Water Draw RSVP to work with selected incarcerated offend-ers to read an age-appropriate book for their children with the assistance of a volunteer. The re-corded CD, CD player and books are then mailed to the children. This program helps offenders

communicate in a small but personal way with children who cannot visit their parents because of distance, time, transportation and financial restraints. The sound of Daddy’s voice in the reading, and in the brief words of encour-agement he is able to offer at the end of the reading, go a long way in keeping important emotional ties strong.

First Thurs-day Family Reading

The first Thursday of every month is a family reading night partnering a community leader with a Junior Lit-eracy Council member to read selected books with families. The children ages 4-7 wear

their pajamas, bring their blankets and enjoy bedtime stories. Parents enjoy these stories with their chil-dren and get reading tips to help encourage reading involvement at home. Each family leaves with a complimentary copy of the book.

Volunteer Opportunities

Other programs are offered on an as-requested, as-needed basis, such as tutoring in citizenship,

adult basic computer skills and financial literacy. Those wishing to be a part of this organization are invited to call for an appointment to tour the facilities. Find out more about the options available as a tutor or mentor or apply for any of the programs by calling 806-293-6186 or email [email protected].

Literacy Council works to increase, enhance literacy in adults, children

APLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 COMMUNITY

WWW.SOUTHPLAINSCOLLEGE.EDUQuality Education at an Affordable Price

Formore information:SPCPlainviewCenter1920W. 24th St.

806.296.9611 ext. 4302 or 4304

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GROWINGopportunity for businesso

Plainview Texas is Growing Opportunity for businesses and industry.An aggressive and supportive business climate, low taxes, inexpensiveenergy and enviable logistics make the Plainview/Hale CountyCommunity worthy of serious consideration for your business andindustry expansion.

Home to leading manufacturers in the country, The Plainview/HaleCounty Economic Development Corporation has successfullybrought many organizations to the Plainview area including:Wal-Mart Distribution with 1.2 Million sq. feet and 20 miles ofconveyor belts and, Azteca Corn Milling, the largest corn mill of itskind in the world.

Industrial EmployersAndalucia NutsAzteca MillingCasa Rica TortillasCHS, Inc.Gebo’s Distribution CenterGolden Spread Electric Co-op - Antelope StationPanhandle PopcornPioneer SeedPlainview Bio-Energy, a division of White EnergyT.T.S./B.N.S.F LogisticsWal-Mart Distribution Center

Higher EducationHome to Wayland Baptist University withtotal enrollment of 1200+ students.South Plains College - Academic Students -300+ and workforce developmentstudents - 1200MedicalCovenant Hospital Plainview with 100 bedsand 26 area doctors. Trained Paramedics withground and air transport.

Ports-to Plains Trade CorridorThis planned four-laned divided highway will facilitate theefficient transportation of goods and people from Mexicothrough West Texas To Canada. The Plainview EconomicDevelopment Corp. is committed to work with this initiative toenable the trading capacity from Mexico to Canada to grow andbring more trade related businesses to this region.

Life Worth LivingOver 20,000 residents call Plainview home with a total of36,000 residents in Hale County. An inexpensive cost of living,low utility rates, 51 churches, and educational and culturalofferings for all ages including Plainview’s own Symphony,contribute to an enviable quality of living in the Plainview Area.

Mike FoxExecutive Director1906W. 5th, Plainview, TX 79072806.293.8536Cell: 806.685.8942Email: [email protected]: Plainviewedc.org

transportation • low taxes • manufacturing • education • inexpensive energy

Low TaxesTexas is business friendly. No personal incometax. No state property tax or urinary tax.In fact, Texas is one of only seven stateswithout personal income tax.

Inexpensive Energy and Lots of it!Companies in Plainview and Hale County enjoyelectric and natural gas rates that are among thelowest in the nation. Texas bottom line savingshelp make the area an attractive operatingenvironment for business.

LogisticsLocated in the center of the United States. Plainview is easilyaccessible from the East and West Coasts with interstate 27connecting to interstate 40 within an hour’s drive. Plainview andHale County are well connected by highway, air and rail systems.

Highways Serving the Area - Interstate 27, U.S. Hwy. 70, TXHwy. 194 divided 4-lane Highway, FM Hwy. 400Plainview Airport - with runway lengths of 6,000 and 4,000;paved with lights, and instruments. Charter and Private Facilitiesat Airport and Jet Fuel available. Commercial air service on majorcarriers within 30 minutes. Rail - Burlington Northern - Santa Fewith 8 trains daily.

PLAINVIEW HALE COUNTYECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION


Unger Memorial Library is Plainview’s public library. It serves the community cen-ter -- the hub -- of Plainview, Hale County and surrounding counties by offering infor-mation in a variety of formats.

Want a book? Well, that’s (still) what we’re all about. Want to use the Internet or type up something (a resume, perhaps)? We’ve got you covered. What to know about community events? We’ve got a cal-endar. Want to learn something about your family history? We’ll help. Want to see an award-winning film or TV series? We have almost 3,000 DVDs. Want to know about Plainview and Hale County? There’s the comprehensive “Hale County, Texas, Bib-liography” with entries for more than 500 books that mention the people and places of and events occurring in our 128-year-old city and county. And on and on. If you want to learn something we’ll help you find the information that will start you on your path.

A public library was begun in 1913, later housed in the City Auditorium. In 1959, Minnette Unger, widow of Plainview businessman and farmer O.M. Unger, bequeathed the City $50,000 and the land on the corner of Ninth and Austin streets to build a permanent public library which was opened a year later. Seven years later, the City passed a $100,000 bond which was matched by the federal government to build the west side addition to the building which now has its entrance on Ninth Street.

With an annual budget of a little more than $400,000, the library is able to main-tain a staff of five and a building of about 12,000 square-feet full of books, magazines, DVDs and public computers with free Internet access and Microsoft Office pro-grams. Anyone can come into the building to browse or surf. If you’re 18 years old and have a Texas driver’s license or ID, you can get a free library card which allows you to borrow almost all of the books, books on CD, and DVDs in our collection or to re-quest a book we don’t have from another li-brary. If you’re a kid, you’ll need to get your parent or guardian to come to the library to sign you up for your own card. The parent is still financially responsible, but this way a child can use the card (responsibly) with-out the parent being there. We have more than 50,000 books, about 10,000 of which are children’s books.

The librarian reports to the assistant city manager who, in turn, is under the city manager, who answers to the mayor and city council.

There are several important groups at-tached to the public library. The Unger Me-morial Library Advisory Board comprises five members from the community who work with the librarian to set or revise poli-cies as the need occurs to supplement the library policy manual. The Friends of the Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group that voluntarily assists the library on various projects. They sponsor a major book sale on the last weekend in March (excepting Easter) each year which raises money for special projects and events. The Hi-Plains Genealogical Society meets once a month to hold programs about family research.

Here’s a list of extra-special things about the Unger Library:

* The Unger Library’s website is unger.myplainview.com.

* Hale County cemetery records database online.

* Digitized Plainview Herald newspapers (unfortunately only available at the library).

* About 1,500 books are available on Kindle.

* Fiction collection series are numbered for better access; also genre fiction (e.g., romance, western, Christian) are labeled for easy identification.

* Curated DVD collection of 2,000 adult titles and 1,000 juvenile titles.

* Hundreds of award-winning children’s books are available on CD.

* Pre-school story-time held every Wednesday morning during the school year.

* Texas Reading Club held in June every summer for pre-schoolers up to sixth grade.

* String figure programs are part of the reading club (and a picture is on library cards!).

* Hale County, Texas, Bibliography gives you access to the library’s extensive collec-tion of local history books.

* Huge Hale County map in reference section shows all historical cities, markers, and cemeteries.

* The genealogy and local history collection has thousands of books for refer-ence.

* The library sponsors two blood drives annually at Me-morial Day and Thanksgiving.

* The library has 15 public access com-puters and does not charge for job-related printing (resumes, etc.).

* Juvenile section has four non-Internet computers for kids to learn searching (I Spy) and other basic computers skills.

* All of the library staff are notary publics and there is no charge for this service.

* Almost complete collection of Plain-view High School yearbooks which are also

available on the library’s website.

* The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) -- or Ready-to-Serve Pro-gram -- is housed in the library’s basement.

* Annual Creative Quilters display every May brings features beautiful quilts hanging off our balcony.

There is much more at your public library.

Unger Library is much more than books

Caring FOR YOUR familyLIKEOur Own.

Owner/Administrator Nancy Kernell, R.N., CHPNwith her mother, Lydia Gaitan of Plainview

293-2732 www.achospice.com


Contact the city of Plainviewat 296-1100


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Located in the heart of downtown Plainview, the Fair Theater remains a great place for events such as con-certs and Community Theater as well as private parties, movie showings, weddings, business receptions and training seminars.

Reopening in October 1999, the theater was restored to its 1920’s original grandeur as part of a com-munity-wide restoration effort. Since then, the Fair has re-established itself in the cultural fabric of Plainview.

The auditorium includes 422 seats on the main floor and 110 seats in the rare twin split balcony and is able to accommodate patrons who may have special needs. The theater’s front rooms include a spacious lobby and a concession room complete with kitchenette. The downstairs area beneath the stage includes dressing rooms, a small kitchen bar and a pri-vate bathroom. It also includes access to its lighting and sound systems and

a large projection screen.

“As a community theater, we want to provide entertainment that the citizens of Plainview and surround-ing area will enjoy,” said Melinda Brown, Main Street/Fair Theater Manager. “Furthermore, this theater is supported by the community and we encourage the community to rent it for events – it is their theater!”

Upcoming events for 2017 include several weddings, movie nights, concerts, comedy, youth events and several private parties.

Concessions are available for most events at a very reasonable rate and the lobby area/concession area can be used for recep-tions or as an eating space for events.

Information about upcoming events can be found on the City of Plainview’s website

– www.plainviewtx.org – (click on the Living In tab and select Fair Theater), on the Plainview Alerts system or on Facebook – Fair Theater.

The Fair is available to rent for weddings, private movie parties and other events. Prices range from $75 - $300 depending on the length of the event.

For more information about up-coming events, to request a tour or to rent the Fair, please call Melinda or Tori at 293-4000 or email us at [email protected].

Fair Theater “The Gem of Downtown”

www.tyeroofing.com

Storm Damage?Have Leaks?

WE ARE LOCAL

FamilyOwned & Operated

806-729-9721

Plainview Country ClubWelcomes You

Dining open to the public every

Friday and Saturday Night

5:00pm to Close

Come and Enjoy!

Club House (806) 293-2445

Pro Shop (806) 296-6148

Fax (806) 293-2682

2902 West 4th Street • Plainview, Texas 79072


The common denominator for Plainview’s four biggest service organizations -- Lion’s Club, Rotary Club, Kiwanis and Sorpotomist -- can be summed up in one simple word – Serve.

Kiwanis

Most noted for their flag program, the Kiwanis Club of Plainview partners with five local organizations – the Pla-inview High School Band Boosters, PHS Jr. Navy ROTC, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Elks Lodge – to distribute more than 750 flags throughout the city on eight holidays each year.

“I joined Kiwanis because, as a smaller organization, I thought I would have the opportunity to make a bigger impact,” says Kiwanis President Kevin Lewis. “But it was the flag program that really spoke to me and I wanted to be a member of the club responsible for that program.”

Besides the flag program, Kiwanis members deliver Meals on Wheels every Monday, host a barbecue dinner in conjunction with the first PHS home football game, ring The Salvation Army bells at Christmas time, assist with the Hale on Wheels bike ride, and support a multitude of local efforts, including the prison chapel, Covenant Hospital and YMCA sports teams.

While one of the smaller service organizations in Plain-view, Kiwanis is “pound-for-pound the best fundraiser in town,” notes member and past club president J Pat Man-ning.

Not only does this group of around 20 individuals raise funds to support many local agencies, they also hand out close to $10,000 a year in the form of college scholarships for high school graduates who are Eagle Scouts as well as other merit-based scholarships.

Longtime Plainview Kiwanis members include Ron Gammage, Mark Warren and Rex Redies. Current board members are Kevin Lewis, president; Jonathan Petty, vice president, Mark Warren, treasurer; Janis Roberson, past president; J Pat Manning, Linda Sisk and Kent Bearden.

The club’s membership was boosted several years ago when several members of the Plainview Optimist Club, which was dissolving, joined the Kiwanis organization. Those members make up about half of the current Kiwanis roster.

Lions Club

While calling an organization or individual “hands on” is a popular buzzword, the Plainview Lions Club have been doing exactly that for almost 90 years – they work to be hands on community projects by helping out with volun-teer time as much as donating money.

The many projects the Lion’s Club support include FISH, Compassionate Care Pregnancy Center (where they installed a ramp), PAWS Pet Adoption, SnackPac4Kids (purchasing organizational items), Crisis Center of the Plains (repairing and replacing fencing at the safe house), Plainview Jr. Service League’s Dress-A-Live-Doll Project, YMCA Sports teams and Salvation Army by ringing bells.

“Our motto is We Serve,” says Jim Tirey, Lions Club president. “As someone raised to serve and be part of the community, this (Lions) is the group to get things accom-

plished.”

Lions Club have two big fundraisers a year – Lions Pancake Supper held in January and Silent Auction held in the spring. Not only do these fundraisers benefit local organizations, but they also help to fund the Texas Lion’s Camp. The camp is specially designed with physical altera-tions and trained staff to give children with disabilities or those living with diabetes an opportunity to attend camp like any other kid. As with their motto of serving through more than monetary donations, several local members have also visited the camp to help make physical improvements to the camp as well.

This 84-member organization is led by President Jim Tirey, First Vice President Misty Rowell, Second Vice President Doug McDonough, Secretary Brent Richburg and Treasurer Kevin Carter. The longest active member – since the early 1950s – is Ron White and the club includes members who have served at the district, state and interna-tional levels of Lions Club.

The Lions International is celebrating its centennial year and local Lions will be sure to find a way to help the Plain-view community to celebrate this occasion. “Turning 100 is quite a milestone for any organization,” says Tirey. “And our local club will doing several projects to celebrate the Lions International Centennial.”

No matter what project they tackle, Plainview Lions Club will show to be “hands on” with time, money and labor.

Rotary Club

Service Before Self – and the Rotary Club of Plainview demonstrates this through their various projects including dictionary distribution to every 3rd grader in Hale County, Meals on Wheels delivery, perfect attendance awards for the local junior high and high school and the Salvation Army bell ringing.

“The last 10 years we have really focused on the youth of this community,” says Leslie Gattis, interim president. “We invest in youth literacy, attendance rates at school and overall programs to encourage youth involvement in the community.”

The Rotary Club also awards Student of the Month and encourages those students to attend RYLA Camp, a leadership camp hosted by the Rotary Clubs throughout the state.

Most recently, Plainview Rotary Club has supported the formation of an Interact Club – the youth organization of Rotary. Led by Melody Brown, a former student of the month, the club will encourage high school students to get involved in the community and learn the tenants of Rotary through volunteer work.

Continuing with the theme of encouraging leaders and community minded youth, several Rotary members and their families have been hosting a foreign exchange student this school year, Maria Fernanda from Brazil. The club also sponsored Abby Hanoch during her year as an outbound exchange student to Japan.

The current officer team consists of Interim Presi-dent Leslie Gattis, Secretary and 2nd Interim President Ted Baker, President-Elect Kim Street, President Nominee V.O. Ortega and Treasurer Ron Hanby. Members of the Board of Directors include Janice Payne, Scott Franklin, Jay Giv-ens, Isauro Gutierrez, Andrew Freeman, Jay Gannaway and Cynthia Gregory. The club has a current membership of 72 and the longest serving member, J.B. Roberts, completes

his 58th year in Rotary this year.

“I enjoy serving this community through the different projects that Rotary supports,” said Leslie Gattis. “And the best part is that I get to do it (serve the community) with some of the finest people in Plainview.”

Soroptimist

Soptimist is defined by two Latin words as “best for women” – and chartered in Plainview in March 1980, this group of 26 women, work tirelessly to improve the lives of women in the community.

The most notable project the club organizes is Happy Feet. Members work with school nurses to receive the gender and shoe size of children who need new socks and shoes. Situations for new shoes could involve children who may are sharing or wearing other’s shoes, shoes that are several sizes too small or summer shoes during the winter months. After gathering all the information, members pur-chase the shoes and socks for the children and deliver them to the school nurse for distribution.

“They are so excited to show their mom,” said Debbie Price, Soroptimist president. “They are excited about the socks as well and many want to keep the box (the shoes came in).”

Besides Happy Feet, Soroptmist women are busy provid-ing emergency clothing to the schools in case of student accidents, donating new clothes for families who cannot obtain appropriate clothing for graduation and supporting a young women’s mentoring program for local fifth graders.

“We mentor fifth graders at a particular school and teach them about social etiquette, bullying, self-esteem and other relevant topics to girls who are about to hit adolescence,” said Price. “At the end of the year, we invite them to a three or four course meal at Wayland to celebrate and practice what they have learned about social etiquette. “

When they are not buying shoes or mentoring girls, Soroptimist can be found delivering Meals on Wheels, ringing the Salvation Army bell, participating in Relay for Life, throwing a baby shower for Compassionate Care Pregnancy Center or a food shower for FISH, providing gift items for Crisis Center clients and children to choose for the holidays and supporting Hale on Wheels bike race and Habitat for Humanity.

Soroptimist also provide scholarships for women who are the main breadwinners of their household and have overcome great obstacles. These are presented at the Live Your Dream Award Banquet and the guest speak this year is a past recipient of the scholarship who is now an Equip-ment Buyer for United Supermarkets.

Up next for the club is the Wine Tasting Event from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, in Centennial’s Down-town Banking Center. This “Taste of Texas” Wine Tour will include wines from all over Texas and several wineries will be represented at the event. Tickets are $40 per individual or $75 per couple and all proceeds support their scholar-ship program.

Currently serving as president is Debbie Price, vice presi-dent is Lynda Perkins and treasurer is Laurie Thobe.

“Being a member of Soroptimist is such a rewarding experience,” said Price. “It is amazing to see what we can do when we work together to support women and see them become successful not only for themselves but their family as well.”

By MELINDA BROWN

Mainstreet Manager

The City of Plainview is continuing to make strides in improving transparency and communications with its citizens. This ongoing process continues to be improved and adjusted to ensure the City is reaching as many people as possible with what is happening at City Hall.

One of the biggest tools of communica-tion for the City is its Facebook page with currently more than 7,000 followers. With more than 70 percent of the population on social media and a huge percentage of those people on Facebook it has proven to be a really good avenue to reach citizens.

“On average, we try to post once a day,” says Jeffrey Snyder, City Manager. “We fea-ture updates on what staff is doing, ongoing projects and information about various departments.”

Besides disseminating information, Facebook allows citizens to contact the City directly by commenting on a post or sending questions. Common questions include code violations, stray animals, street maintenance or recycling. This two-way communication is a huge step in improving transparency with our citizens.

Besides the City’s Facebook page, other Facebook pages include Main Street, Fair Theater, Unger Memorial Library and the Plainview/Hale County Health Department. In addition to Facebook, the City is on Twitter @Plain-viewTX and has also joined Instagram as another option. Search for the City’s account cityofplainviewtx to follow them.

Another tool used to con-tact citizens is The Plainview Alert System, powered by Everbridge, which has been in place since December 2015.

“This system is very im-portant to us, because it will be used during any kinds of emergency situations where

we want the public information as soon as possible,” Snyder said. “This system allows citizens to receive alerts, weather informa-tion, and general updates. Citizens can choose how to receive the information – via text, phone call, email. The system will try multiple ways until it receives confirmation from the user that the message has been received.”

With less than 2,000 users signed up but more than 21,000 residents, the City would definitely like to see more people using the system. If citizens aren’t computer savvy, they can call City Hall at 296-1100 and a staff person can manually enter them into the system.

The City also continues to use the newspaper, radio, and television to provide information. This is ac-complished through press re-leases, radio and TV interviews, as well as running ads related to

particular events.

“We realize not all our citizens use the in-ternet or have smartphones, so we continue to utilize all available forms of communica-tion,” Snyder said. “This includes the city manager and other department staff making the rounds at different civic clubs and organizations around town to give updates in person.”

In a Communication Plan presented to the City Council last November, staff is also looking to incorporate a number of objectives to continue the goal of informing citizens. Some of those include an updated website, various dissemination methods

for the monthly newsletter, increased staff presentations and more public education about City services.

“We continue to look for ways to reach our citizens,” said Snyder. “Whether it be social media, traditional media, face-to-face conversations or other methods, we are always striving to not only tell the citizens what their local government is doing but answer questions and concerns from citi-zens. Overall, the City’s goal is to have the most informed citizenry possible.”

For more information about City com-munication, contact the City at 296-1100.

Local service clubs live up to description

City continues to improve communications with citizens

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With agriculture being the backbone of the Plainview community, Plainview High School has been going to great measures to make sure that our students are equipped with the right skill set to promote and prosper in the agricultural field after high school. Our programs include a Agri-Business pathway, an Animal Science pathway and a Welding pathway within the program. In these pathways we are instructing our students using hands on experi-ences. Within our classes our students are learning to weld, measure, wood work and build items for their future such as picnic tables, book shelves, small trailers and cookers. Our students are also learning veterinary procedures and are able to witness and be hands on within a vet clinic to obtain a Certified Veterinary Assistant certification. The Plainview Ag program is also offering a Hunter’s Ed certifi-cation, beef quality assurance certification and even a level 1 floral design certification. The Plainview Ag program has a little something for every student. We are very student centered and will continue to mold the program to what

our students need in order to be successful. The Plainview Ag department also goes hand in hand with the Plainview FFA. The FFA is an organization that promotes premier leadership, personal growth and career success. We are setting our members up with public speaking skills, critical thinking skills, and leadership skills through our numer-ous contests. Plainview FFA students compete in many area and state contests and are very successful at all levels. We believe that our students are the best of the best. Our

students are also working very hard with their livestock projects. Our students show sheep, goats, pigs and steers throughout the school year. Plainview FFA students are learning hard work, dedication and time management with these projects. The Plainview FFA and the Plainview Ag department continue to strive for perfection and excellence within our students and program. We believe in the future of agriculture and we believe in our students.

February

Outlook 2018Business & Education

By Zoie WilliamsPlainview High School

There are many different electives for students to choose from at Plainview High School. This school year, I chose to be in the Child Guidance class.

This class has somewhat changed from the past years. For one, Child Guidance now involves two class periods instead of a single daily class. The reason for the slight change in the class is that now we’re able to go to different

elementary schools/day cares every week.

At the beginning of the year, we would mostly observe the children. We would watch the teachers do their job, and we would get to see how all children behave and react differently. Now, we get to experience all hands-on activity. We help out the teachers every chance we get. We partici-pate with students, help them learn new things—some of us actually watch babies as well. “I love the babies at Wee-care, I love that we get to help take care of them.” Junior Ariana Montoya said.

This class basically prepares PHS students for the future. During Child Guidance class with Mrs. Carlisle, we learn so much about life. We learn about children, disabilities, different things people may go through in life, sometimes how to manage money for the future, everything! Child Guidance is definitely my favorite class!

The Child Guidance class goes out to the elementary schools and day cares three times a week, Wednesday through Friday.

Child Guidance at PHS

Agriculture Career Cluster

B PLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018BUSINESS & EDUCATION


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Plainview High School

The Plainview High School A Capella choir, conducted by Debra Buford & Sally Bass, is stunning audiences all around the West Texas Panhandle. From competing in UIL to singing for a Big 12 Conference game, this choir has absolutely had a fabulous year.

This past weekend, February 3, the varsity choir headed to Frenship High School to compete in UIL solo & en-semble. The Bulldogs had more than 6 madrigal groups competing, and all but one made state qualifier! Plainview High School earned the most amount of awards out of all the districts competing. These madrigal groups performed “Fyer Fyer” by Thomas Morely. Along with madrigal groups, there were several amazing solos that are heading over to state later this year as well.

Along with competition, the A Capella choir had the opportunity to perform the National Anthem for the Texas Tech vs Texas game. The sold-out crowd of over 15,000 fans erupted in applause once the choir finished the patri-otic song.

This spring, the A Capella choir will be heading to Nashville, Tennessee to perform for crowds and enjoy many tourist attractions. This trip is always something for a chorister to look forward to after a year of hard work.

By: Megan Brown and Jaclynn Black

Plainview High School

The Plainview High School Band earned their 80th con-secutive first division last fall at the UIL marching contest. The Powerhouse of the Plains, once again, proved that they could do it.

Since late in July, the band has been working hard and putting their hearts and souls into their performance. “This year’s show is one of the best ones I’ve experienced out of my three years here,” explains Magaly Reyes, junior clarinet player, “we’ve put a lot of effort into the show, and I’m proud of how much we’ve improved.”

The directors of the band had also worked very hard by pushing, and encouraging the band to work smarter, not harder. “Our band directors are the ones to thank,” says Bryssa Balderas, a junior flute player, “they are the ones who pushed us through every day, day-in and day-out.”

The band has the longest record of consecutive first divi-sions in the state, all with the help of PHS and the students’

beliefs that they could achieve their goals. The band contin-ues to work hard every year in order to keep their streak going, and to keep the tradition alive. “All those early morning and late night rehearsals are definitely worth it,” Reyes explains, “all the sweat and hard works always pays off.”

As they continue their journey throughout the years, the band will always work their hardest to keep what they have,

going. To make the directors proud, to make the school proud, and to make themselves proud, the band constantly comes together as a family to make sure that everyone in Texas knows why they are called “The Powerhouse of the Plains.”

Band keepsStreak going

PHS Choir Excels

BPLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 BUSINESS & EDUCATION

Melinda Brown

Plainview Herald Correspondent


The history of popcorn is deep throughout the Americas, where corn is a staple food, but the oldest popcorn known to date was found in New Mexico. Across the border in Texas, we have our long time popcorn supplier - Panhandle Popcorn Company.

While they haven’t been in business since the first kernel of popcorn, they have been in the area for more than seventy five years. In 1942, the Glen Beard family moved to Plainview in the “Panhandle” of West Texas and opened the Glen A. Beard Popcorn Company. Located at 400 Ash Street, the building had been an old mule barn or livery stable built in 1902.

From 1942 until 1956, the company worked with local farmers growing and processing special hybrids of popcorn. In 1956, the name was changed to Panhandle Popcorn Company.

Glen and his son, Allen expanded the business to include a full line of concession equipment and supplies and later pre-popped popcorn. Items sold during that time included Panhandle Brand popcorn and oil, snow cone and cotton candy supplies, barbecue, chili, pickles, Mission fountain drinks, Orange Crush and Hires Root Beer as well as paper and box goods for those items.

In the late 70s, Panhandle Popcorn began selling solid white popcorn tins filled with Buttery Flavored, Cheddar Cheese and Caramel popcorn and the mail order business was born. At that time, few companies were offering this product.

“We were one of only a handful selling tins of popcorn and we became the first store to offer lithographed pop-corn tins,” said owner Jim Mock. “We started going to food shows and our business boomed.”

At one point, Panhandle Popcorn was selling to compa-nies like Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, JC Penney, Marshall Field and Bloomingdales. They continue to sell to Neiman Marcus offering a specially designed tin for them, including some that replicate the cover of the store’s famous Christmas catalog.

“We sell as a private label business to Neiman’s,” said owner Jim Mock. “We are excited to have continued that relationship for many years.”

In 1981, they moved to their present location – south of Plainview on Interstate 27 – and in 1987, four years as Beard died, Jim Mock bought the company and become the Owner and President of Panhandle Popcorn Company.

Shortly after that, they diversified regionally by moving into the grocery market with pre-popped popcorn, two pound unpopped popcorn and a small variety of flavored popcorn. Besides the grocery market, they supply pop-corn to colleges such as Texas Tech, West Texas A&M and

others for concessions. Other customers include schools, theme parks, banks, food service distributors and theaters.

Panhandle Popcorn also maintains a mail order catalog business, wholesale business during Christmas holidays and a website to order not just popcorn tins but popcorn and cotton candy machines and supplies.

And all this production is accomplished with six staff members – Jim Mock, Cindy Clark, Patty Noel, Veronica Jacques, Chris Roijas and Becky Hinojosa. Of course, dur-ing the busy holiday season, extra employees are hired to help produce up to 2,500 pounds of popcorn a day.

“When it is cranking, we can fill a semi-load full of pop-corn,” said Mock.

Producing a favorite snack that people have enjoyed for thousands of years is fun.

“Popcorn is considered a fun food,” said Mock. “I have always had fun at work. I enjoy the employees and custom-ers and it is pleasant business to be a part of.”

To order popcorn or to find out more about Panhandle Popcorn Company, stop by their location at 1300 South I-27, call them at 806.293.4361 or toll free at 800.332.1365, visit their website at www.panhandlepopcorn.com or find them on Facebook at Panhandle Popcorn Company.

The oldest popcorn may have been found in New Mexico but the best popcorn in found in Plainview – Panhandle Popcorn Company.

Melinda Brown


Plainview Christian Academy, known by their initials PCA, can easily be described as a Christian school in Plain-view; however, the “A” could stand for so much more – art, athletics, academics, auction, attitude.

PCA offers art classes from first grade to seniors in high school. The students learn a wide variety of art including fundamentals of art, art history, photography and cake decorating. In class, they use watercolor, pastels, chalk, oils, metal, clay, pencil, charcoal, icing, paper, wire and card-board.

“We explore all different types of art as well as using all kinds of mediums,” says Jenny Ragland, PCA Art Teacher. “We teach the fundamentals of art and have hands on projects to help the kids really learn the elements of art all around us.”

PCA art students have participated in the Regional Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) Art Festival. Competing against six schools, most of them bigger than PCA, art students have received numerous first, second and third place ribbons as well as many Best of Show awards.

“The art program at PCA is strong,” said Ragland. “I believe that is driven by our philosophy - that we represent God in all we do. He is the Creator of the Universe and we are made in his image – creative.”

Another artistic program available at PCA is Choir and Theater Arts. Taught by Marla Maresca, PCA has become known for quality productions. She has directed fifteen musicals in the last eight years –

eight high school programs and seven at the junior high level.

“The first production was Seussical, Jr.,” said Maresca. “We did Holy Grail in Spamalot: School edition this year but the two most memorable were Godspell and Fiddler on the Roof. Each had challenges but we were able to rise above them and make it happen.”

Maresca had many hats at PCA and in 2016, she added elementary music teacher to the list.

“It has given me the opportunity to begin to prepare students to be on stage at a young age,” said Maresca. “Each class stages their own musical with dialogue, solo and en-semble singing, blocking and choreography. It gives them a taste of how much work goes into putting together a show, and hopefully inspires a love of theatre in them that will last throughout their time in school.”

Participating in theatre teaches the students to become critical thinkers and develop problem solving skills that can be applied in all areas of their education and lives.

“I expect my students to give their best, and I hope as a result they will learn to expect the best from themselves and from others,” said Maresca. “My goal is to see each stu-

dent challenge themselves, to do more than they think they can, to purse their goals passionately and to have pride in what they accomplish and achieve.”

Another aspect of the “A” in PCA is athletics. PCA offers football, volleyball and basketball to students beginning in the sixth grade all the way through high school. They also offer volleyball, golf, tennis and track for junior high (7th grade) through high school.

PCA athletics included a state semi-final appearance by the football team this season, a trip to the state finals in girls basketball last year and a trip to the play offs again this year and several district, regional and state winners in golf and track.

Overseen by Athletic Director Andy Ellis, athletes at PCA are not only taught to win on the court or field but in life as well.

“We had a successful football season and girls’ basketball season,” said Ellis. “Everyone likes to win and these are fun wins but the life lessons are just as important.”

Ellis and his team of coaches look to use the lessons of athletics such as winning, losing and doing both with grace to respect.

“Sports teaches you that life has winners and losers,” said Ellis. “After losing a game, emotions are high. We try to instill how to be respectful when your emotions are all over the place.”

Accountability is another “A” word they use in the ath-letic department.

“When someone tells you that you did something wrong, you can either make yourself better or get defen-sive,” said Ellis. “Our athletes are doing a really good job of getting better and not getting upset when the coaches try to improve their game. At the end of the day, we want them to be productive citizens, spouses, parents, employees or whatever else they choose to do.”

As fun as art, theater, choir and athletics is for the stu-dents, the main “A” is academics. Accredited by the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools, PCA offers high achieving academic programs. All teachers are certi-fied and PCA meets or exceed all state requirements for academics.

PCA offer Spanish as early as Pre-Kindergarten, a Dave Ramsey financial class for the high school students as well as honor classes and many students are inducted into the National Honor Society. They have also had several Na-tional Merit Scholars attend PCA.

One of the programs offered to students is the Certified Learning program. This program is designed to train the brain how to learn. It looks at many aspects of the brain and helps explain such things as where their body fits in space,

memory practice and has a major focus in self-control.

“A child who is proficient in comprehension but low in memory will learn but not retain,” says Karen Earhart, PCA Administrator. “When you know your strengths and weaknesses, there are brain training exercises to help you with each.”

Students do take a test similar to the public school STAAR test called the Terra Nova 3. The test includes most subjects as well as bible and serves as a benchmark for the students.

“We think it is important to find out where the kids stand and testing is one of the ways to do that,” said Earhart. “We did take a released STAAR test and our students did really well. While no one likes testing, it is a great way to find out where the students stand compared to other students across the nation.”

As a private school, PCA raises money on an annual ba-sis through two different “A” approaches – the Annual Fund and the Auction. Instead of having students sell cookie dough, poinsettias or a multitude of other items, the school established an Annual Fund. This Fund allows anyone to donate to PCA at any time for any amount.

“We do ask that every family at PCA donate to the Annu-al Fund,” says Earhart. “We know some families can give a little, some families can give a lot. But all the money raised goes directly to the school, not to a fundraising company and we know this is a win for the parents and the school.” Another fundraiser is the PCA Auction. Organized by Clay and Heather Golden and held in the spring (and on April 6th this year), the auction raises more than $50,000 for the school.

“Not only does it raise money for the school but it is also a fun event for the community,” said Earhart. “We have a limited number of tickets and they are gone way before the event. Everyone wants to see what is available and how the bidding will go.” Items from previous auction include a gun raffle, trip pack-ages (including some that can’t be purchased otherwise), farm animals, pets, homemade furniture and items donated by each class. It is always a surprise at what will be available at the auction.

The last “A” could be for attitude. Everything is taught through a biblical view and that sense of peace and purpose for the teachers as well as the students can be felt the mo-ment you walk in the door.

“Our students really love each other,” said Earhart. “Of course they are all kids growing and becoming disciples but the overarching theme of loving God and loving one another really shines through.”

To find out more about PCA, contact them at 296.6034 or visit their website at www.pcaeagles.org. PCA – Plain-view Christian Academy offering arts, athletics, academics, auction and most important a loving attitude.

Panhandle Popcorn a mainstay in West Texas

PCA puts the A in Academy


Plainview High School offers an array of Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses through the Fam-ily and Consumer Science Department to help students prepare for future careers.

Child Development courses give students a well-round-ed knowledge of the whole child, beginning with concep-tion and ending with adolescence. The courses include information and hands on activities that will prepare stu-dents for parenthood, as well as knowledge that would be needed in a future career dealing with children. There are lab activities, fun and educational projects, and an oppor-tunity to become certified in CPR/First Aid. This course is the prerequisite for Child Guidance, a double-block career-based course for upper classmen.

Child Guidance is a double-blocked (2 credits) career-based course that provides both knowledge and hands-on practice for a career dealing with children. There will be hours of observations in both the elementary and child-care settings. Once observations have been completed, students participate in hours of hands-on activities and les-sons. Once course work is completed, there is opportunity for practicum level courses to expand on knowledge and experience.

The Interpersonal Studies course prepares a student for the real world. It begins with relevant decisions that must be made for a person at the current age and extends to the far future. It looks at the individual, the family, the commu-nity, and society as a whole. The course includes hands-on activities and projects, as well as interesting discussions. It focuses on relationships, leadership, and the future. It is the perfect course to lead into Counseling and Mental Health.

In Counseling and Mental Health courses, students mod-el the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a counsel-ing and mental health career through simulated environ-ments. Students are expected to apply knowledge of ethical and legal responsibilities, limitations, and the implications of their actions. They are taught professional integrity in counseling and mental health care and the dependence on acceptance of ethical and legal responsibilities. Students benefit from guest speakers and career exploration activi-ties.

Introduction to Culinary Arts emphasizes the principles of planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling the management of a variety of food service operations. Students will be learning in a newly-built professional kitchen at PHS. Certifications will include First Aid/CPR Certifications and food handler certifications. The course will provide insight into the operation of a well-run

restaurant and develop insight into food production skills, various levels of industry management, and hospitality skills. This is an entry level course for students interested in pursuing a career in the food service industry. This course is offered as a classroom and laboratory-based course.

Fashion Design is a year-long course that focuses on the fashion industry, as well as all aspects of fashion and ward-robe care. This is a project-oriented course focusing on tex-tiles, elements and principles of design, and basic construc-tion. Students may then elect to participate in Advanced Fashion Design, a one-year course right now being offered every other year. This course focuses on all aspects of the textile and apparel industries. This project-oriented course will focus on more advanced production techniques, careers in apparel, as well as creation of a fashion design portfolio. Through the fashion design courses students are learning clothing construction and other kinds of sewing, knowledge about fiber and fabric types, clothing care, cre-ativity, sketching, weaving, designing costumes. Students also have unique opportunities through class-related field trips. Advanced students assist the theatre department with costumes for the fall/spring production. This class also makes local field trips to a dry cleaners, home sewing studio, and fabric store as well as attending the Texas Tech Fashion Design Sr. Showcase Runway Show in the Spring.

CTE courses help PHS students prepare for careers


2017-2018 Board of Trustees

By Lauren PardoPlainview High School

Plainview High School is actively involved in assist-ing associations and organizations that benefit our student body and community as a whole. Students have a variety of active and ongoing groups able to accept members searching for volunteer or community service opportunities.

Among these organizations is Snak Shak. What started with a Bushland couple feeding 10 students in their kitchen has now escalated into a program feeding over 40,000 students amongst various districts.

Snak Shak is the upper level of Snak Pak 4Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving children’s lives by working with people in their own communities.

Statistics show that one out of four children in Texas are food insecure, meaning they are unsure about where their next meal is coming from or how they will get it.

Snak Shak believes that kids who go hungry over the weekend aren’t prepared to efficiently learn Monday morning, so volunteers package donated food to give to the students enrolled in the program to provide them with meals for Sat-urdays and Sundays when the students are away from school and cafeteria food.

Time, effort, and money are all contributed from students, staff, and donors in Plainview to make the program success-ful and thorough. Every week students access an online link in a week’s advance to initiate the process. Students choose specific food choices based out of 7 categories including: proteins, vegetables, milk, fruits, grains, snacks and water.

After selecting their food of choice, the students also pick a teacher they are comfortable with to receive their pack. Following that, PHS volun-teer students package their food throughout the week for the weekend, and the packs are delivered to teachers on Thursday afternoons. On Friday, students are able to pick up their food from their teacher of choice. The whole process is anonymous, other than the student and teacher of choice interaction.

A link is available on Plainview Independent School District’s Website for any student in need of as-sistance. A simple form is ac-cessible to all students at any given campus. Rene Kayler, the school’s sponsor, is also available for contact if anyone

Snak Shak makes a difference

Texas leads way in competitive employment of those with intellectual disabilities

400 E. 5th Street293-3912Plainview , Tx

5th & DateSince ‘58

Special Olympics Texas

AUSTIN – In the largest study to date of people with intellec-tual disabilities and their families, researchers found that Special Olympics Texas leads the nation in the employment of athletes with intellectual disabilities in competi-tive environments. The study also showed that children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities experi-ence a significant improvement in self-esteem through participating in Special Olympics in the Lone Star State. The findings of the research were released Jan. 24.

One-third (34 percent) of the SOTX family members surveyed reported that their athletes have gainful employment. And 72 per-cent of those athletes are employed in integrated or competitive work environments — a higher rate of competitive employment than Spe-cial Olympics athletes nationally.

The landmark study, conducted by the Center for Social Develop-ment and Education at the Uni-versity of Massachusetts Boston, surveyed more than 300 Special Olympics Texas athletes and more than 2,000 family members during spring 2016.

Although Special Olympics Inc. conducted a national study of Spe-cial Olympics athletes and families in 2008, the Texas study is the first of its kind done by a State Special Olympics Program and is the larg-est study ever of its kind.

“We will use the data to refine and improve the programs that we provide our athletes with intellec-tual and developmental disabilities,” said Margaret M. Larsen, president and CEO of Special Olympics Texas.

“I’m proud that we are the first Special Olympics chapter in the United States to delve deeper into the needs of our athletes and their families.”

Dr. Gary Siperstein, who directed the study, said he is encouraged

by the survey’s findings. “Special Olympics is working.”

“When you look at what’s hap-pening, Special Olympics Texas athletes are becoming part of their communities. We have been suc-cessful in improving the lives of children, adolescents, and adults,” he said.

According to the findings, 70 percent of SOTX athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities show “a lot” of improve-ment in their self-esteem and self-confidence because of their par-ticipation in SOTX sport programs, and 57 percent of family members have substantially increased their expectations for their athlete’s future because of SOTX.

SOTX provides year-round sports training and athletic compe-tition in 22 Olympics-type sports for children and adults with intel-lectual disabilities. The program, which started in Texas in 1969, serves more than 55,000 Texans of all ages.

Among other findings in the survey (based on the reports of athletes’ family members):

Special Olympics Texas Athletes:

65 percent of athletes improved their sports skills “a lot”

63 percent of ath-letes greatly improved their relationships with others

Family Members:

61 percent of family members reported that they were “a lot” more hopeful about their athlete’s future because of their involvement in Special Olympics Texas

55 percent of fam-ily members have increased their involve-ment in the commu-nity “a lot” because of

their family’s involvement in Special Olympics Texas

“Participation in Special Olym-pics allows families to expect more out of their children with intellectu-al disabilities,” Siperstein said. “The benefits of Special Olympics go well beyond the playing field and act as a bridge to the rest of the community.

Researchers also found that ath-letes in Texas participate in Special Olympics almost 5 years longer than their counterparts nationally. According to their family members, the adult athletes surveyed have participated in Special Olympics for an average of 14.4 years.

Key findings about the SOTX athlete (based on the reports of athletes’ family members):

79 percent of athletes join SOTX through school-based programs, most often between the ages of 2 and 10.

The median age of the SOTX athlete is 17 years, ranging from 7 to 64 years old. The age distribution is heaviest among school-age children (ages 7-20) at 66 percent.

36 percent of SOTX athletes have an intellectual disability, such as Down Syndrome, and there is an increasing number of athletes with autism spectrum disorder.

“Texans can be proud that we are leading the way in learning more about Special Olympics Texas ath-letes and their families,” Larsen said.

Dr. Mike Abbott, former SOTX board member, said the 2016 Texas study is a good start. “We will do a compre-hensive follow-up within three years, but plan to do some smaller-scale studies on other top-ics where we want to learn more about our athletes and families,

including subjects such as health care and employment.”


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Melinda BrownPlainview Herald Correspondent


“Keeping working families working” is the motto at Wee Care Child Center – and they have adapted to fit those needs in the community.

One of the best ways they have been able to help work-ing families in Plainview is by their hours of service they offer. They are open six days a week – Monday through Saturday – from 5:00 a.m. – 12:45 a.m.

“We found that these hours’ best fit the needs of Plain-view,” says Angel Morren, Director. “We may not always have kids at some of these hours but we are always avail-able.”

Wee Care was incorporated in 1981 and moved to their current location in 2010. Outgrowing the space, in 2010 with the help of several grants and donations, they doubled in size.

“When Mrs. Sam (another daycare in Plainview) re-tired and the YMCA was not able to continue their after school program, there more than 100 kids that needed a place to go,” says Morren. “Doubling our space allowed for us to accommodate those kids.”

Of course, hours and space are not what make a suc-cessful daycare. Wee Care currently has around thirty five employees who are first aid and CPR certified as well as minimum training requirements and continuing education. Wee Care attributes their success to their staff and curriculum they teach the kids.

“Our teachers focus on making a difference in tomor-row’s leaders,” says Morren. “Our lesson plans begin with the babies to help them meet milestones and continue through all ages.”

One of the focus for Wee Care to make a difference in tomorrow’s leaders is the preschool-age children. Their curriculum includes teaching the children their shapes, colors, numbers, letters, rhyming and sequencing so they will be ready for school. Wee Care was able to purchase several early learning computers for the kids with dona-tions in memory of Myrt Wilder.

“The learning software on the computers include twelve different categories each with different levels,” says Morren. “The touch screen allow the kids to work on their own with some adult supervision.” Wee Care also has a library, a cafeteria and four play-grounds – one infant playground, two ‘typical’ play-grounds and a nature playground. The nature play-ground provides a place where children can dig in the dirt and sand, roll down the dirt hill, see bugs, play on equipment made of trunk pieces and grow flowers, veg-etables and pull weeds.

Wee Care currently has around 250 children enrolled in their program from birth to thirteen years old. En-rollment in the summer increases more with the older children.

“During the summer we have more big kids,” says Morren. “We take them skating, bowling, swimming and to the movies. We want them to have fun on their sum-mer break.

Of course, the older kids are not the only one who get to take field trips. Other classes have gone to an Easter Egg Hunt, Trick or Treat at a nursing home, Assister Pumpkin Patch, a farm, dairy, the Science Spectrum and their big trip for the year is a visit to West Texas A&M University.

“The kids visit the Panhandle Plains Museum, tour the campus, eat in the cafeteria and play at the indoor water park,” says Morren. “One of the goals is for them to see college as a goal for themselves and to get excited about the opportunity.”

Fun and learning is important but so is eating. Wee Care provides three meals a day as well as two snacks. Recently Wee Care has seen tighter restrictions on the food they serve and have implemented a plan to encour-age kids to try new foods.

“If they try it, they will get a sticker. If they eat every-thing on their plate they get a happy plate sticker,” says Morren. “We make a big deal out of trying the food. We see the kids trying more things and learning to like vegetables or other foods they may not have liked.”

Wee Care receive funds from tuition, a United Stated Department of Agriculture grant and donations. They also haves a contract with Child Care Services – a state funding program through the Texas Workforce Board that provides fund to help cover childcare costs. Parents apply and if they receive funding, then it will be payed directly to Wee Care to cover some or all of the cost of tuition.

“We do not have a sliding scale, we keep our tuition rates the same,” says Morren. “If parents are not able to meet tuition, they can apply for Child Care Services.”

While it takes money to funds to run Wee Care, some-times the best payment is not monetary.

“Hugs are great and I really like to see the kids grow and be successful,” says Morren. “Not only academically, but physically and emotionally. Seeing them have empa-thy and learn to be kind and share is just as rewarding as them being ready for school.” Wee Care Child Center does currently have openings. They are located at 2305 Yonkers and can be reached at 806.293.8315 or [email protected].

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Staff Reports

In 2017 Plainview ISD became a District of Innovation

As explained by Greg Brown, executive director for administrative services, the designation as a District of In-novation will allow the district to access exemptions from certain requirements in the education code statues.

“It will allow us make decisions that better fit our dis-trict,” he said.

In March, Plainview school trustees adopted a resolu-tion to initiate the process for PISD to become a District of Innovation under provisions of House Bill 1842, adopted in 2015.

“During the past year, 30 to 35 districts across the state have moved forward with becoming Districts of Innova-tion, including Big Spring, Friona, Nazareth and Memphis, and many more have taken preliminary steps to explore that designation, including Amarillo and Canyon,” Brown explained.

“There was a reluctance initially because it looked too good to be true – it gives a district a lot more local control with making decisions that truly fit us,” Brown notes. “We were all waiting to see what was on the other foot. We were waiting to see if there was a down side, and it doesn’t appear to be one. Now it’s time to move forward before the Legislature convenes so we can be grandfathered under the current provisions.”

According to the Texas Association of School Boards, the District of Innovation designation allows traditional in-dependent school districts to access most of the flexibilities available to Texas’ open enrollment charter schools.

Greater independence is the chief attraction for this op-

tion.

“A local school district may want to pursue specific in-novations in curriculum, instruction, governance, parent or community involvement, school calendar, budgeting or other ideas,” TASB explains. “An innovation plan also allows a school district to gain exemption from many Texas Education Code requirements.”

TASB says districts can seek exemptions for such provi-sions as:

--Site-based decision making processes

--Uniform school start date

--Class size ratio

--The 90 percent attendance rule (compulsory atten-dance still applies)

--School discipline provisions (exceptions include a required code of conduct and restrictions on restraint and seclusion)

--Teacher certification (except as required by federal law)

--Teacher contracts

--Teacher benefits, including state minimum salary schedule, duty-free lunch and planning periods

--Teacher appraisal system

They still must adhere to other statues, including being governed by an elected board of trustees; maintaining the powers and duties of school boards, superintendents and principals; PEIMS (Public Education Information Man-agement System); bilingual education; special education; kindergarten; academic accountability, including student

assessments; financial accountability; open meetings and public records; public purchasing; nepotism and other state and federal laws outside the Texas Education Code.

“It would give our district, if we so choose, more flex-ibility with the school calendar,” Brown explains, “as well as teacher certification, particularly in the areas of Career & Technology. As it stands, our instructors most have industrial experience as well as teacher certification in their specific fields. It’s difficult to find people with both in some of those area.”

Although there has been concerns voiced by at least one professional educators group statewide over the possible loss of duty-free lunches and planning periods for teachers, Brown said those issues can be addressed by each district’s implementation plan.

“Approval of the resolution by the board Thursday would simply start a process to investigate and appoint a commit-tee to look into the possible adoption of an innovation plan that’s tailored specifically by and for each district,” he says.

If implemented, the innovation plan may have a term of up to five years, and may be amended, rescinded or renewed by majority vote of the District-Level Advisory Committee and the district’s board of trustees.

According to TASB, if a District of Innovation receives unacceptable academic and/or financial performance ratings for two consecutive years, the state commission of education may terminate the innovation plan or require the district to amend its plan. However, the Texas Education Agency does not have the authority to approve or disap-prove a district’s innovation plan.

Plainview ISD a ‘District of Innovation’

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Family owned businesses are the bedrock of the U.S. economy and when it comes to Plainview businesses, Brent and Codee Tye run a family first operation from their fam-ily to yours.

Brent Tye is a GAF certified roofing contractor with over 15 years of experience in the industry. He and his wife Codee started Tye Roofing back in 2012 because Brent wanted to take care of his customers his way.

Tye Roofing has experience in a variety of roofing styles from metal roofing to wood, composition and roofs for commercial buildings.

Brent says his goal is to provide honest work for an hon-est price.

Codee said the company does its best to make its cus-tomers happy.

“We want to make sure our clients are taken care of and that they are happy with their roof,” she said noting that while some roofing companies may try to get customers to pay for work up front she never encourages customers to pay up front, instead wanting them to be happy with the finished product first.

Brent said that while the company offers a variety of roof-ing needs for various circumstances, lately there has been a huge upsurge in residential roofing due to hail storms over the last couple of years.

Brent, who started in the business after getting his insur-ance adjusters license, has seen his share of storm damage having worked as an adjuster in the southeast. He noted

that the area went over 15 years without a hail storm before seeing frequent storms beginning in 2015.

Unlike other companies that popped up during recent storms, Tye roofing is a part of the community and wants to be here for their clients.

“We want to be able to provide the best possible service we can,” Codee said.

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Digital/Print

Publisher- Jeff Shabram (432) 687-8800

Editor- William Carroll (806) 296-1353

Advertising Director- Carmen Ortega (806) 296-1320

820 Broadway Street, Plainview, Texas 79072

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“Moooving around town,exploring the opportunities.”Dedicated to your success.

The Plainview Chamber of Commerce represents its members andcommunity as a resource for information, support and success. As anagriculture based community we are proud to have our retail, serviceand industry partners. We strive to provide support and services thatwill benefit our members and their success. Plainview is an activecommunity and supports a positive lifestyle through education, artisticand civic interest.

We welcome guests and visitors and encourage a call or visit to thePlainview Chamber of Commerce. Find us also on facebook.

Chamber Office: 1906 W. 5th Street • (806) 296-7431 • www.plainviewtexaschamber.com

Brandon Ahrens

Plainview

Chamber Of Comm

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Members of:TABS, ACSI, TAPPS, TEPSAC

310 S. Ennis St., Plainview, TX 79072806.296.6034 • pcaeagles.org

Academic ExcellenceDefined.

LEVELLAND – The South Plains College Plainview Center features a growing and vital academic transfer program. Each year, students enroll in core curriculum courses and electives at the SPC Plainview Center as well as prepare to transfer to a four-year institution.

SPC Plainview Center students get a great start to their college experience by getting a quality education at an affordable price. Along with traditional face-to-face and interactive TV courses, SPC students also have the opportunity to take online courses and/or courses at the main campus in Level-land, SPC Reese Center and SPC Lubbock Center.

The SPC Plainview Center serves as a one-stop shop by providing student services and academic support that allow the staff and faculty to assist a wide range of students, whether they plan to take courses at the cen-ter, online or at other locations. Individuals who want to receive their degree locally in Plainview are able to complete the general studies Associate of Arts (AA) or Associ-ate of Science (AS) programs by attending classes at the SPC Plainview Center and incorporating online classes as needed. For example, core sciences offered at the center include Anatomy & Physiology; Introduc-tion to Chemistry; and Microbiology as well as additional sciences that are available at other SPC locations and online.

By working closely with SPC and uni-versity advisors, a student can successfully transfer these courses to a university such as Wayland Baptist University to complete his bachelor’s degree in Plainview. Students also can take their core curriculum courses at the center and then transfer on to SPC Levella-

nd, SPC Reese and SPC Lubbock locations to complete their associate in other majors such as criminal justice, education and a variety of other program areas. Addition-ally, pre-requisite courses are available at the center for SPC technical programs based at the main campus/centers, such as allied health programs.

The SPC Plainview Center’s technical programs include:

· Automotive Technology fundamental certificate – This program is designed to train the student to service automobiles and light trucks. Students can earn certificate with emphasis in automotive fundamentals, including electrical systems, brakes, suspen-sion, steering, climate control, welding, computer applications, and business man-agement/human relation skills. To qualify for the Certificate of Proficiency, the student must complete a Capstone Experience in the final semester of the program.

· Cosmetology certificate – during this one-year program, students are taught the rules and regulations of the Texas Depart-ment of Licensing and Regulation. They will understand the theory and skills of sham-pooing, hair and scalp treatment, hair cut-ting, chemical hair relaxing, hair styling and shaping, manicuring, cold waving, hair col-oring, and facials. Students will acquire the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary to become eligible to test and be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and to work as a cosmetologist in the State of Texas. Stu-dents receive a Certificate of Profi-

ciency upon completion of the curriculum. To qualify for the Certificate of Proficiency, the student must complete a Capstone Experience during the final semester of the program.

· Industrial Manufacturing and Emerging Technologies (IMET – certificate, advanced certificate and associate of applied science) – the Industrial Manufacturing program is designed to provide students with skills nec-essary to become an entry-level technician. This program is designed to train technicians to troubleshoot, service, maintain and install wind/solar energy systems. Graduates are prepared to work as field service technicians in wind/solar and related industries.

· Vocational Nursing certificate – the Vocational Nursing program is designed to prepare individuals interested in the nursing profession to practice as licensed vocational nurses. Clinical experience is provided through affiliations with several area health care facilities. Satisfactory completion of the 12-month curriculum with a minimum grade of “C” in all course work entitles the student to receive a Certificate of Proficien-cy. The student is then eligible to apply to take the State Board licensure examination.

· Welding technology basic certificate – this certificate program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the welding and metal fabricating industry. Students will receive instruction in oxy-fuel cutting, shielded metal arc welding, flux cored arc welding, gas metal arc welding,

and gas tungsten arc welding of sheet metal, plate, and structural shapes. Reading and interpretation of industrial blueprints, basic metallurgy, basic electricity, and welding safety are also presented. To qualify for the Certificate of Proficiency, the student must complete a Capstone Experience during the final semester of the program.

Courses also are available in business for students seeking certification as a customer service representative. Dual credit courses are available for area schools including Plain-view High School and Plainview Christian Academy. Subjects include core curriculum courses, auto, cosmetology and welding.

The SPC Plainview Center Workforce and Continuing Education programs provide courses in certified nurse aid training, com-puter courses, customer service training, electrical & home

wiring, introduction to welding, phlebot-omy and other courses based on the needs of the local community and businesses.

The SPC Plainview Center offers student services such as admission, financial aid, business office, academic advisement, career counseling/assessment, and academic place-ment testing, tutoring and library access for students.

For more information on the educational opportunities that SPC has to offer, call (806) 296-9611, ext. 4301.

SPC Plainview Center offers academic transfer opportunities for students

Plainview ISD students experiment in science classPAGE 8B PLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018BUSINESS & EDUCATION

February

Outlook 2018Medical

From Covenant Health Plainview

Cholesterol, blood pressure and other heart health issues used to be primarily the concerns of the middle aged. But most American kids need to improve their heart health for the sake of their future.

“We are definitely seeing a rise in child-hood obesity right now,” Dr. Hima Jyothi, pediatrician at Covenant Health Plainview.

And pediatricians across the country say they are seeing more and more evidence that the cardiovascular problems that are seen in adults — heart disease, stroke, heart attack — and related issues such obesity and diabetes don’t develop overnight. In fact, these issues may be rooted in child-hood with poor health habits that progress over time.

“Unhealthy habits as a child can easily transform to health problems later on in life. Even now, we are seeing kids develop metabolic issues like high-blood sugar and high-blood pressure,” said Hima.

“Once you have those complications you are at risk for developing even worse complications that can reduce someone’s lifespan.”

So it makes sense to focus on our chil-dren when discussing healthy patterns that can last a lifetime and cut the risk of heart problems down the road.

The American Heart Association offers strategies kids and their parents can use to adopt heart-smart habits, modeled on similar guidelines developed for adults.

They include:

Maintaining a healthy weight

It’s obvious that diet and exercise are key components to a healthy lifestyle. Hima

says parents should play an active role their child’s health habits and support the change by implicating healthier lifestyle habits in themselves.

Hima said the ideal weight differs from child to child. Hima explained pediatricians use the Body Mass Index to determine a person healthy weight. BMIs are factored by age, weight and height. For example, a 10-year-old boy with a BMI of 18 would be in the healthy weight category.

However, because a child is weighing in at an ideal range doesn’t mean their neces-sary getting all the healthy nutrition they need.

“All because they appear skinny, doesn’t mean they’re eating healthy,” Hima said.

2. Eat a balanced diet.

Less than 1 percent of children ages 2 to 19 eat what’s considered a healthy diet, according to the AHA.

Hima suggests implementing the follow-ing changes. Don’t try and do it all at once, but take one step at a time; once the healthy habit is established, add on another one.

Don’t serve sugary drinks such as sodas or fruit juice.

Don’t overfeed children and insist that they clear their plates. Let children eat when they are hungry, and offer them healthy foods.

Serve foods low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium and added sugars. Build meals around whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean meats and produce.

When it comes to those fruits and veg-gies, try to offer a serving of one of them at every meal and snack time. Generally, a serving size is a half-cup for children 4 years

and older.

3. Exercise for one hour minimum per day.

Only half of boys ages 6 to 11, and one-third of girls, reach that exercise goal; those figures are estimated to be even less for teens.

“Children should be ac-tive at the very least 1 hour a day,” said Hima.

Hima sug-gests if the child is old enough, en-courage them to pick up a sport.

And it doesn’t have to be competitive; recreational leagues offer more than enough activity time. And it doesn’t have to be a team sport, as there are plenty of opportu-nities for running, swimming, skateboard-ing and other sports. If a child doesn’t like organized sports, make sure they get plenty of play time outdoors. That means cutting back on time spent watching TV or playing video games--screen time shouldn’t make up more than two hours each day.

4. Leading by example and genetics

Hima added that parents must lead by example when it comes to their children’s

health. This includes eating better, exercis-ing and cutting out unhealthy habits like smoking or a sedentary lifestyle after work or school.

Adults also must keep in mind hereditary health problems that could be passed down to their children. If diabetes or heart disease runs in the family, a child must know how to live healthier in order to avoid or prolong any future chronic diseases.

Hima said it is critical to see their pe-diatrician to get a basic check and better access a child’s health and create a plan for healthier living.

Kids need help to be heart smart

By HOMER MARQUEZ

Covenant Health Plainview

Covenant Health Plainview’s dedication to patient safety has earned the hospital yet another accolade as the facility recently received a grade “A” from a national non-profit healthcare organization.

“This award symbolizes our commitment to safety,” said Covenant Health Plainview CEO Bob Copeland as he commended the hospital on earning its second consecutive “A” rating from the Leapfrog Group.

“I am so proud of all of our caregivers including our nurses, clinicians and physicians who are absolutely, 100 percent committed to patient safety and great outcomes.”

Held as one of the leading healthcare rating orga-nizations, Leapfrog assigns letter grades of A, B, C, D and F to hospitals nationwide based on their perfor-mance in preventing medical errors, infections and other harms.

Covenant Health Plainview was one of the 832 awarded an “A” for its commitment to keeping pa-tients safe and meeting the highest safety standards in the U.S.

“It takes consistent, unwavering dedication to patients to achieve the highest standards of patient safety. An ‘A’ Safety Grade recognizes hospitals for this accomplishment,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We congratulate

the clinicians, Board, manage-ment and staff of Covenant Health Plainview for showing the country what it means to put patient safety first.”

Developed under the guidance of a Blue Ribbon National Expert Panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign the grade of more than 2.600 U.S. hospitals twice a year. It is calculated by top patient safety experts, peer reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public.

Covenant Health Plainview excelled in parameters which included infection control, surgical safety, com-munication about medicines and discharge, patient falls and other physical safety risks, and doctor, nurse and staff responsiveness and communication.

“Safety at Covenant Health Plainview is a top prior-ity as this reflects a level of compassion and commit-ment for patient welfare which is an important factor in quality health care,” said Leslie Hackett, Chief Nurse Officer at Covenant Health Plainview.

“We have a program to identify patients at high risk for falls. Our Environment of Care Committee, Process Improvement Committee and Infection Con-trol and Pharmacy and Therapeutics review patient safety issues and processes and implement new pro-cesses when needed. These committees report to the

Governing Board. We have committees of front line caregivers that work to improve processes and our core leaders round daily to ensure that we have a safe environment. We also have very engaged Governing Board members that actively ensure that we are pro-viding a safe environment for our community.”

Recently, Hackett announced Covenant Health Pla-inview had also received a Zero Harm Heroes Award from the Providence/St. Joseph Health system, the parent company of the Plainview facility.

The Zero Harm Hero awards is a recognition pro-gram across Providence St. Joseph Health to reward caregivers making strides in eliminating preventable harm. Certificates are given to facilities and nursing units that have not experienced events for 12 or more months.

Covenant Health Plainview was awarded for their prevention of Falls with Moderate/Severe Injury.

Covenant Health Plainview receives “A” in patient safety

C PLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018MEDICAL


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What to expect when expecting can be a little bit more comforting with the help of Covenant Health Plainview.

“This program can really help alleviate some of the worries some new mothers experience,” said Covenant Health LVN DeDe Griego, who is one of the instruc-tors for the hospital’s free child-birth classes.

With a very casual and open format, the birth classes allow new mothers to ask questions, get to know the hospital environment, equipment and nursing staff as well as learn about the actual labor process.

“We like to give them a tour of the hospital and the third floor. We show them what labor and delivery looks like as well as their rooms. They also get a chance to meet a lot of the staff that will be caring for them,” Griego said.

Griego explained that many new mothers are scared when they first come to the hospital because they don’t realize all the medical aspects that go into delivering a baby.

Thankfully, Covenant’s birthing class allows the mother to see all the birthing processes firsthand before they go into labor.

Griego said by knowing what to expect, most of the mother’s anxieties are calmed when it’s time to welcome their new baby to the world.

“We want to do anything to ease their stress level,” Griego said.

In the class, mothers learn about all the equipment used during la-bor as well as breathing techniques and post-birth basics like breast-

feeding and more.

Mothers can even custom-ize their labor experience with Covenant’s “birth wish” plan. The plan allows the mother to make some special requests during their stay at Covenant Health Plainview.

“It’s a very open class. We try to make them feel com-fortable and ask any questions they want,” Griego said.

The classes are open to all mothers and a support per-son, free of charge.

Classes are scheduled around due dates.

Upcoming classes for 2018 are:

Feb. 21 for due dates in March and April.

Due Date in May/June: classes will be held March 28, April 4, April 11 and April 18.

Due Date in July/Aug: classes will be held May 30 and June 6, June 13 and June 20.

Due Date in Sept/Oct: classes will be held July 25, Aug. 1, Aug. 8 and Aug.15.

Due Date in Nov/Dec: classes will be held on Sept. 26 and Oct. 3, Oct. 10 and Oct. 17.

To enroll or for more information, please contact Covenant Hospital Plainview Women’s Services at 806-296-4264. Snacks and drinks are provided as well as some gifts and game prizes.

Classes start at 6 p.m. and mothers meet in the main lobby of Covenant Health Plainview.

By Christine Hall

Texas Medical Center

Congenital heart disease, the most com-mon birth defect, can affect the heart’s walls, valves and arteries.

The biggest problems associated with treating congenital heart disease are the limited availability and poor durability of replacement heart valves, said Henri Jus-tino, M.D., director of the Charles E. Mul-lins Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Very few options exist for young children with congenital heart disease, he said. Cur-rently, doctors replace valves using homo-graft valves from human baby cadavers.

“This means another baby has to die and donate their valve,” said Justino, an associate director of pediatric cardiology at Baylor College of Medicine. “There are not a lot of babies who die and donate their tissue.”

And that baby would have had to die without a major disease, infection or trauma.

This reality prompted Justino and two other researchers to start developing synthetic valves that could fit tiny hearts of varying sizes. Justino teamed up with Dan-iel Harrington, Ph.D., assistant professor at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Kwon Soo Chun, Ph.D., a pediatric cardiology instructor at Baylor, to form a company called Poly-Vascular. They recently participated in the TMC Innovation Institute’s TMCx medical device accelerator.

The medical device startup creates valves that can be scaled to a range of diameters. Valves for newborns and young children need to be as tiny as 8, 10 or 11 millimeters.

“There are basically no manufactured valves of that size,” Justino said.

The current procedure to replace heart

valves with other human valves is similar to an organ transplant in that the patient’s im-mune system must accept the new tissue.

However, the replacement valves could weaken over time, creating the need for another open-heart surgery.

“Now you are exposed to yet another human valve,” Justino said. “A person could end up being so sensitized to tissue that if they needed to have an organ transplant, they may not be eligible.”

The standard way to build replacement valves involves hand-sewing human or ani-mal tissue around a frame. These are mostly crafted for adult heart valves, so surgeons with tiny patients often end up retrofitting the valves to fit individual bodies.

PolyVascular’s idea is to change the manufacturing paradigm to make valves in small sizes, without human or animal tissue.

“We can bring an entirely new way of manufacturing that doesn’t involve hand-sewing of biologic tissue on a frame,” Justino said.

In addition, PolyVascular valves would be implanted through a minimally-invasive procedure using a catheter, which means the open-heart surgery now required to replace valves would not be necessary.

Road to commercialization

Chester Koh, M.D., has known Justino for close to four years and is familiar with the work he is doing at PolyVascular.

“His company has had a long pathway and a great story about perseverance, and about filling a niche need in the market,” said Koh, a pediatric urologist at Texas Children’s Hospital and associate professor of urology, pediatrics and OB/GYN at Bay-lor College of Medicine. “I give him a lot of credit for balanc-ing his

priority of taking care of patients while also being a physician scientist who brings inno-vative things from the lab to the bedside.”

The hurdles for pediatric device develop-ment are high: Not only is the pediatric field 10 years behind the adult market, but children and parents appear to be less will-ing to participate in clinical trials, said Koh, who directs the pediatric robotic surgery program at Texas Children’s and Baylor and co-directs a pediatric medical device consortium in Southern California and Houston that is supported by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

Often there is an unmet need in the pedi-atric world for pint-sized devices, but inves-tors don’t see enough financial potential for them, so many never come to market. But Koh and Justino are trying to change that.

“We need to think creatively to change the financial process with regard to the development of pediatric devices,” Justino said. “If we do our job right, and we can get the investment in a good valve and treat it from the get-go, the return to society and child could be enor-mous.”

Justino and his team have reached some milestones along the way to com-mercialization, including meeting with medical device manufacturers who are eager to work with PolyVascular.

In addition, the team has successfully performed pre-clinical trials of their valve in sheep. In testing, they were able to get their valve to work for 200 million cycles to meet clinical standards.

“That translates to five years of durability in the body at a regular heart rate,” Har-rington said.

Next, PolyVascular is going for FDA clearance in order to market their product as a Class III medical device, meaning the device would be implanted in the human body.

Reaching this milestone will take mil-lions of dollars in funding. Justino believes they will need $5 to $7 million to get them through the manufacturer’s contract, to per-form additional animal studies and then be ready for human clinical trials. It could be two or three years until the device is ready for human trials, and then longer before it would be ready for widespread use.

“We see it getting closer now,” Justino said. “Approval for general use could be in five, six or seven years, but we will get it into patients who need it as part of the clinical trial.”

Free child birth classes offered at hospital

Tiny valves for tiny bodies

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CPLAINVIEW HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 MEDICAL

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By Donna Ramirez


Given the ever-increasing obesity epidemic, researchers from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have discovered a promising developing drug that has been shown to selectively shrink excess fat by increasing fat cell metabolism. The drug significantly reduces body weight and blood cholesterol levels without lowering food intake in obese mice, according to a recent study published in Biochemical Pharmacology.

Obesity is a major public health problem around that world that is a leading cause of healthcare costs and com-promised quality of life. In the U.S., 40 percent of adults are obese and 30 percent are overweight, battling serious obesi-ty-related chronic diseases. The estimated cost of obesity in the U.S. is about $150 billion each year.

“As fat cells grow larger, they begin to overexpress a protein that acts as a metabolic brake that slows down fat cell metabolism, making it harder for these cells to burn

accumulating fat,” said senior author Stanley Watowich, UTMB associate professor in the department of biochem-istry and molecular biology. “In addition, as the fat tissue expands, they secrete greater amounts of hormones and pro-inflammatory signals that are responsible for several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovas-cular disease.”

The researchers discovered a molecule that blocks this metabolic brake from operating in obese white fat cells. By blocking this metabolic brake, they were able to increase the metabolism within white fat cells.

In the study, mice were fed a high-fat diet until they be-came obese and then received either the drug or a placebo. Following 10 days of drug treatment, researchers found that the obese mice receiving the actual drug lost more than seven percent of their total body weight and their white fat tissue mass and cell size decreased by 30 percent compared with the placebo group. In addition, blood cholesterol in drug-treated mice were lowered to normal levels, similar to those of non-obese mice.

On the contrary, placebo-treated mice continued to ac-cumulate white fat and gain weight throughout the study. Interestingly, mice in both the drug-treated and placebo groups consumed the same amount of food during the course of the study period, showing that the fat loss was not due to appetite suppression.

“Blocking the action of the fat cell brake provides an innovative ‘fat’-specific mechanism to increase cell metabo-lism and reduce the size of white fat deposits, thereby treat-ing a root cause of obesity and related metabolic diseases,” said senior author Harshini Neelakantan, a UTMB research scientist in the department of biochemistry and molecular biology. “These initial results are encouraging and support further development of this technology as a new and more effective approach to combating metabolic diseases.”

Other study authors include UTMB’s Virginia Vance, Michael Wetzel, Celeste Finnerty and Jonathan Hommel as well as Hua-Yu Leo Wang and Stanton McHardy from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

UTMB develops promising anti-obesity drug that shrinksfat without suppressing appetite



West Texas youth are participating in sports all year-round at an ever-increasing rate. The increase in year-round athlet-ics has been accompanied by an increase in the occurrence of ACL tears, a common knee injury among young athletes. A torn ACL is a partial or complete tear in one of the liga-ments that connects the upper and lower leg bones. It can be caused by sudden twisting motion and is often accom-panied by a loud pop.

The youth sports where we see the most ACL tears are soccer, basketball, and football for boys. That’s because the knees are particularly susceptible to injury when planting and turning.

To protect the knees, it’s important for young athletes to train and learn how to move properly. Here are some basic training and playing tips that will help prevent knee injury:

Do exercises that strengthen the hips and thighs. Stronger hip and thigh muscles will transfer less momentum to the knee when making sudden stops and starts.

Practice good patterns of movement, like bending from the hips, and keeping the knees over the toes. Don’t let the

knees collapse inward when planting or turning.

Develop a sense of balance--good alignment allows for softer landings.

Another joint frequently injured in youth sports is the el-bow. In this case, most of the injuries occur in baseball and softball, especially with year-round, single-sport play. The occurrence of serious shoulder and elbow injuries among youth baseball and softball players has risen fivefold since the year 2000.

Pitchers are at particular risk for little league elbow. This injury results from the repetitive throwing motions that can overwork young arms and elbows, resulting in micro-fractures of growth plates that have not fully matured. Pain is felt on the pinky side of the elbow and is aggravated by throwing.

Coaches and parents need to learn how to spot the signs of pain and overexertion in their players, and follow these guidelines for preventing injuries from overpitching and overthrowing:

All players should be monitored to make sure they are throwing with proper technique.

Pitchers should always stretch their arm, shoulder and back muscles before taking the mound.

The types of pitches and number of pitches thrown should be limited in accordance with USA Baseball’s recommenda-tions for youth pitchers.

Never encourage a child to pitch through pain or to pitch when fatigued. If you suspect little league elbow, the child must cease play and see the doctor.

No matter what sport they play, young athletes can reduce the risk of joint injuries that keep them on the sideline by getting in shape and staying in shape. Cross-training and participation in multiple sports are great ways to limit overuse injuries and are often more enjoyable for the young athlete than single-sport participation. If they are dedicated enough to their favorite sport to want year-round training, they should follow an off-season conditioning program that builds muscle strength, stamina and range of motion. Being strong and flexible is the way to stay in the game.

For all orthopedics needs, contact Covenant Health Pla-inview Orthopedics Specialists Dr. Benjamin Farr and Dr. Joshua Rollins at 806-291-5170 or visit them at 2508 Xenia Street.

All knees and elbows: Preventing ACL tears and overthrowing injuries in young athletes


Melinda Brown


Local, Home, in one’s element – the thesaurus uses these words interchangeably and owner Becky Steffens and the staff at Area Home Care would agree they are one in the same.

The only local home care agency, Area Home Care’s staff includes 19 full and part time employees, local nurses and a majority of the staff has been with the company for more than fifteen years. This close proxim-ity allows them to tend to the patient at a promptly and provides better customer service to the patients. “Since our nurses are local, the patient doesn’t have to wait for them to drive from Lubbock or Amarillo,” says Steffens. “Not only does being local provide quicker ser-vice times but it also means that neighbors are caring for neighbors. Our patients are people that we see at church, visit in the grocery store or have known for years.”

Area Home Care Inc. was founded by Becky Steffens, RN and her mother, Peggy Norris, LVN in 2001. Today, Becky serves as the Administrator of the agency and Peggy continues work as the Quality Im-provement Coordinator. Becky’s husband, David Steffens, is the agency’s Transporta-tion Manager.

Area Home Care provides services within a 30 mile radius of Plainview, includ-ing Hale Center, Olton, Hart, Tulia, Cotton Center, Lockney, Petersburg and Floydada.

While many regulatory requirements have changed, home care services remain the same for the patient. After being dis-charged from the hospital, home care can provide an array of services including

Skilled nursing, wound care, chronic dis-ease management, lab services, I.V. admin-istration, medication management, patient/caregiver education, joint replacement aftercare, surgical aftercare, ostomy care, physical, occupational and speech therapy, home safety and fall prevention and home care aide services.

“We provide many different services to help patients stay safely in their own homes as long as possible” says Steffens. “We do a great deal of educating our patients regard-ing their disease processes and medication management. The more knowledgeable the patient and their caregivers are, the more they are able to participate in and manage their care at home.”

To qualify for home care, a patient must be under a doctors care and be home bound, meaning that it is a taxing effort to leave the house and requires the assistance of a device or another person.

Most home care services are adminis-

tered after a patient has been discharged from the hospital, however a hospital stay is not required to initiate home care services.

“It is important that we engage with the patient as soon as possible after discharge (from the hospital),” says Steffens. “Evalu-ating and starting services within twenty-four hours of returning home has proven to reduce their risk of readmission to the hospital. Statistics prove that those on home care services have a dramatic decline in hospital readmission rates”.

Patients that meet home care admis-sion criteria can qualify for up to a sixty day episode of care. Near the end of that episode, if the patient has met all goals set in their plan of care they are prepared for discharge from home care services. If a patient has not met their goals or has had an exacerbation or complication, they are re-evaluated for another 60 day episode of care. There is currently no limit to the number of episodes that a patient can have as long as there continues to be a skilled need for services”.

Another service Area Home Care pro-vides is TeleHealth Live! TeleHealth Live! enables the nursing staff to have daily con-tact with their patients. With TeleHealth Live!, a nurse calls the home care patient on a daily basis to assess the patient’s most cur-rent condition and review his or her vital signs for the day. If any abnormal findings

are noted, the nurse will make a personal visit to the patient and conduct a thorough assessment of his or her health status and then notify the patient’s physician.

“This not only saves time and money but is really one more step in the chain of care for the patient,” says Steffens. “We are able to monitor situations and catch problems before they become serious enough for a trip to the ER.”

Home care services are covered by Medi-care, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicaid, and some private insurance.

Area Home Care is a licensed and Medicare certified home care agency and a member of the Texas Association for Home Care & Hospice. Area Home Care Inc. has been voted as the best Home Care Agency for the last 16 consecutive years in Plain-view. Area Home Care is currently the only agency in Plainview with a 5 Star Medicare Patient Satisfaction rating.

For more information or to request services, contact Area Home Care at 806-296-2323, stop by their office at 201 W. 4th Street in Plainview or visit their website at www.areahomecareinc.com.

When local, home and in your element matters, Area Home Care will be there for you.

Home is where the heart is

By Lisa Merkl


The Houston Methodist Research Institute is making mini brains from human stem cells that put researchers on a fast track to repair the nervous system after in-jury or disease of the brain and spinal cord.

Houston Methodist neuroscientist Robert Krencik, Ph.D., and his team have developed a new system to reduce the time it takes to grow these brain models, which will give them the ability to screen drugs and study what’s behind disease-causing mutations more quickly. Their findings are described in an article titled “System-atic three-dimensional coculture rapidly recapitulates interactions between human neurons and astrocytes,” in the Dec. 12 is-sue of Stem Cell Reports.

“We always felt like what we were doing in the lab was not precisely modeling how the cells act within the human brain,” Kren-cik said. “So, for the first time, when we put these cells together systematically, they dramatically changed their morphological complexity, size and shape. They look like cells as you would see them within the hu-man brain, so now we can study cells in the

lab in a more natural environment.”

And why is this important? Krencik says cells grown in traditional lab cultures are put on a flat petri dish, broken up and otherwise manipulated, disturbing their in-teractions. This results in not being able to reproduce the form, structure and develop-mental growth of the brain’s cells in the lab, leading to very simplistic-looking and im-mature cells. In the human brain, however, these cells are very complex-looking and interact in intricate ways with each other and the environment. New technologies are now focused on 3-D culture systems, but the exhaustive time for these studies is not feasible for accelerating discoveries.

“Normally, growing these 3-D mini brains takes months and years to develop,” Krencik said. “We have new techniques to pre-mature the cells separately and then combine them, and we found that within a few weeks they’re able to form mature interactions with each other. So, the length of time to get to that endpoint for studies is dramatically reduced with our system.”

Krencik’s lab focused on a star-shaped cell type called astrocytes, because they are a key factor in getting the brain’s neurons to

connect and talk to each other by helping to increase the number and strength of neuronal connections in the brain and spi-nal cord. They are involved in most neural diseases and also are responsible for main-taining a healthy nervous system. With the model Krencik’s team bioengineered, the incorporation of astrocytes accelerated the connections of the surrounding neurons.

Krencik’s group is the first to specifically engineer astrocytes into these 3-D mini brains. By doing so, this led to the acceler-ated maturation of both the astrocytes and the surrounding neurons. Introducing them for the first time in this paper, he coined these bioengineered mini brains “asteroids” to distinguish them from other types of 3-D sphere cultures, known as organoids. Kren-cik’s “asteroids” contain specific popula-tions of astrocytes, whereas organoids have undefined numbers and types of cells.

“Using our system, we can generate mature astrocytes and have them interact intimately with neurons to a greater extent than has been done before,” Krencik said. “Unlike other cells in the brain and in the rest of the body, astrocytes have unique properties in humans. It’s thought they are partly responsible for the unique cognitive

functions of humans and also may underlie aspects of human diseases, such as Al-zheimer’s and autism spectrum disorders.”

Ultimately, Krencik is using these “aster-oids” to form functional neural circuits that researchers can experimentally manipulate for developing treatments and decipher-ing what makes diseases tick. Krencik says they can make induced pluripotent stem cells, commonly termed iPS cells, from any disease or patient and then form these mini brains to study the disease process, as well as screen therapeutic compounds on them to aid in the development of drugs. Within about five years, his goal is to use this system to develop clinical trials to improve or regenerate a person’s impaired nervous system.

Researchers collaborating with Krencik on this paper include Philip J. Horner, Nupur Basu, Caroline Cvetkovic and Saba Barlas with Houston Methodist Research Institute; Michael E. Ward with the NIH’s National Institute of Neurological Dis-orders and Stroke; and Li Gan, David H. Rowitch, Erik M. Ullian, Robert Chen, Connor Ludwig, Chao Wang, Kyounghee Seo and Jessy V. van Asperen with the Uni-versity of California, San Francisco.

3-D mini brains accelerate research for repairing brain function



Heart disease may be the leading cause of death in America, but being heart smart can help you lower your chances of problems such as cardiovascular disease, heart attack or high blood pressure. Learn how to keep your heart healthy and strong with our list below:

1. Don’t smoke. Smoking is a major factor in heart disease--it can increase the risk of high blood pressure, blood clots and the fatty buildup in the arteries called atherosclerosis that can lead to heart attacks. To read about a family that experienced the devastating health effects of cigarette smoking, click here.

2. Watch what you eat. A healthy diet maintains a healthy weight, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Some of the best foods for heart health? Berries, flax-seeds and dark, leafy greens.

3. Get moving. Exercise makes your muscles strong-

-and that includes the heart muscle. An easy way to get the exercise you and your heart need is walking, which is especially beneficial when you are taking other steps to-ward a healthy heart, such as lowering stress and watch-ing your cholesterol. When you are walking or working out, make sure to keep track of your heart rate to get the maximum benefits of exercising.

4. Know your heart age. Feeling young at heart gets a whole new meaning with a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that found the “age” of your heart--calculated with risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure--plays a role in your risk of a heart attack. You can learn more, and calculate your heart age, here.

5. Get regular checkups. Just like you’d take your car in for maintenance to keep it running smoothly, you should visit your doctor to make sure your heart›s in prime condition. Your physician can run tests and screenings to get a full picture of your heart health, as well as discuss any risk factors and offer guidance for

lifestyle changes.

6. Listen to your body. Being in tune with your health helps you know when something is amiss, such as with silent heart attacks. Knowing the warning signs of heart trouble means you’re likely to seek out valuable medical attention--and in the case of heart attacks, quick intervention can be the difference between life and death.

7. Keep track of your heart health. To get a full picture of the state of your heart, it helps to not only have healthy lifestyle habits but also have your numbers when it comes to cholesterol and blood pressure. Measure all those factors with the help of the American Heart As-sociation’s Life›s Simple 7checklist.

For any heart questions stay local with Covenant Health Plainview Cardiologist Dr. Kevin Jones at 806-291-5145 or at 2508 Xenia Street.

7 Things to do for a healthy heart right now

By HOMER MARQUEZ


If you’re a first-time mother-to-be, you’ve got a lot of information to take in as you prepare for your baby’s arrival. While you’re probably spending much of your time learning how to take care of the baby and the changes in store for your newly expanded family, what you’re doing now, during pregnancy, can affect the baby’s development.

Jessica Charest, an obstetrician/gynecologist with Covenant Health Plainview, highlights a couple things expectant mothers should know:

Prenatal vitamins: Ideally, you are taking folic acid supplements before you become pregnant.

“You should be taking folic acid, which prevents spine and brain defects, as part of a prenatal vitamin,” said Charest.

“In many cases, by the time a mother realizes she’s pregnant, the baby’s neural tube and spinal column has already been formed. So if you are taking prena-tal vitamins before you get pregnant, you will have enough folic acid that the baby should be okay.”

Other important vitamins include vitamin D and calcium, which helps the baby’s bones grow strong, as well as iron for the baby’s development.

Charest said however not to double up on vitamins.

“Do not over-do-it, prenatal vitamins are designed to be the optimal diet of vitamins,” Charest said.

Also make sure you drink lots of water and take the pill with food if it makes you nauseous.

Obesity: Women who have a body mass index of 30 or above are considered obese. And obesity can play a big role in you getting pregnant as well as may cause some complications during pregnancy.

For the fetus, there are increased risks of health problems, including neural tube and heart defects and early delivery before 37 weeks gestation.

“There are so many health risks associated with just obesity, including hyper-tension, diabetes and more. Being pregnant adds a whole new layer to that,” Charest said.

If you’re obese, it’s best to work with your doctor to lose weight before getting pregnant.

Once you are pregnant, Charest reintegrated to

watch weight gain.

“We don’t want to diet when we are pregnant. If you are underweight you may have to gain weight. But remember you are not eating for two. You’re really eat-ing for about 1.25,” said Charest

Charest said visits to your OB/GYN will help you

set up a custom plan for you and your baby’s health.

For more information about pregnancy or any other OB/GYN issues you can set up an appointment with Charest at the Covenant Healthcare Clinic of Plain-view at 806-291-5100 or at 2222 West 24th Street.

What Child Development Experts want You to know about pregnancy


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By Mike Williams


A probe invented at Rice University that lights up when it binds to a misfolded amyloid beta peptide — the kind suspected of causing Alzheimer’s disease — has identified a specific binding site on the protein that could facilitate better drugs to treat the disease.

Even better, the lab has discovered that when the metallic probe is illuminated, it catalyzes oxidation of the protein in a way they believe might keep it from aggregating in the brains of patients.

The study done on long amyloid fibrils backs up com-puter simulations by colleagues at the University of Miami that predicted the photoluminescent metal complex would attach itself to the amyloid peptide near a hydrophobic (water-avoiding) cleft that appears on the surface of the fibril aggregate. That cleft presents a new target for drugs.

Finding the site was relatively simple once the lab of Rice chemist Angel Martí used its rhenium-based complexes to target fibrils. The light-switching complex glows when hit with ultraviolet light, but when it binds to the fibril it becomes more than 100 times brighter and causes oxida-tion of the amyloid peptide.

“It’s like walking on the beach,” Marti said. “You can see that someone was there before you by looking at footprints in the sand. While we cannot see the rhenium complex, we can find the oxidation (footprint) it produces on the amyloid peptide.

“That oxidation only happens right next to the place

where it binds,” he said. “The real importance of this re-search is that allows us to see with a high degree of certain-ty where molecules can interact with amyloid beta fibrils.”

The study appears in the journal Chem.

“We believe this hydrophobic cleft is a general binding site (on amyloid beta) for molecules,” Martí said. “This is important because amyloid beta aggregation has been associated with the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We know that fibrillar insoluble amyloid beta is toxic to cell cultures. Soluble amyloid oligomers that are made of several mis-folded units of amyloid beta are also toxic to cells, probably even more than fibrillar.

“There’s an interest in finding medications that will quench the deleterious effects of amyloid beta aggregates,” he said. “But to create drugs for these, we first need to know how drugs or molecules in general can bind and interact with these fibrils, and this was not well-known. Now we have a better idea of what the molecule needs to interact with these fibrils.”

When amyloid peptides fold properly, they hide their hydrophobic residues while exposing their hydrophilic (water-attracting) residues to water. That makes the pro-teins soluble, Martí said. But when amyloid beta misfolds, it leaves two hydrophobic residues, known as Valine 18 and Phenylalanine 20, exposed to create the hydrophobic cleft.

“It’s perfect, because then molecules with hydrophobic domains are driven to bind there,” Martí said. “They are compatible with this hydrophobic cleft and associate with the fibril, forming a strong interaction.”

If the resulting oxidation keeps the fibrils from aggregat-ing farther into the sticky substance found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, it may be the start of a useful strategy to stop aggregation before symptoms of the disease appear.

“It’s a very attractive system because it uses light, which is a cheap resource,” Martí said. “If we can modify complexes so they absorb red light, which is transparent to tissue, we might be able to perform these photochemical modifica-tions in living animals, and maybe someday in humans.”

He said light activation allows the researchers to have “exquisite control” of oxidation.

“We imagine it might be possible someday to prevent symptoms of Alzheimer’s by targeting amyloid beta in the same way we treat cholesterol in people now to prevent cardiovascular disease,” Martí said. “That would be wonder-ful.”

Rice alumnus Amir Aliyan, now a postdoctoral research-er at Tarbiat Modares University in Iran, is lead author of the paper. Co-authors are Rice graduate student Bo Jiang, Rice research scientist Christopher Pennington and, from the University of Miami, graduate students Thomas Paul and Gaurav Sharma and Rajeev Prabhakar, an associate professor of chemistry. Martí is an associate professor of chemistry and bioengineering at Rice.

The Welch Foundation and National Science Founda-tion supported the research. The Center of Computational Science at the University of Miami provided computational resources.

By Donna Ramirez


Researchers from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston recently discovered that alcohol killed the stem cells residing in adult mouse brains. Because the brain stems cells create new nerve cells and are important to maintaining normal cognitive function, this study pos-sibly opens a door to combating chronic alcoholism.

The researchers also found that brain stem cells in key brain regions of adult mice respond differently to alco-hol exposure, and they show for the first time that these changes are different for females and males. The findings are available in Stem Cell Reports.

Chronic alcohol abuse can cause severe brain damage and neurodegeneration. Scientists once believed that the number of nerve cells in the adult brain was fixed early in life and the best way to treat alcohol-induced brain damage was to protect the remaining nerve cells.

“The discovery that the adult brain produces stem cells that create new nerve cells provides a new way of approach-ing the problem of alcohol–related changes in the brain,” said Dr. Ping Wu, UTMB professor in the department of neuroscience and cell biology. “However, before the new approaches can be developed, we need to understand how alcohol impacts the brain stem cells at different stages in their growth, in different brain regions and in the brains of both males and females.”

In the study, Wu and her colleagues used a cutting-edge technique that allows them to tag brain stem cells and ob-serve how they migrate and develop into specialized nerve cells over time to study the impact of long-term alcohol consumption on them.

Wu said that chronic alcohol drinking killed most brain

stem cells and reduced the production and development of new nerve cells.

The researchers found that the effects of repeated alcohol consumption differed across brain regions. The brain region most susceptible to the effects of alcohol was one of two brain regions where new brain cells are created in adults.

They also noted that female mice showed more severe deficits than males. The females displayed more severe intoxication behaviors and more greatly reduced the pool of stem cells in the subventricular zone.

Using this model, scientists expect to learn more about how alcohol interacts with brain stem cells, which will ulti-mately lead to a clearer understanding of how best to treat and cure alcoholism.

Other authors include UTMB’s Erica McGrath, Junling Gao, Yong Fang Kuo, Tiffany Dunn, Moniqua Ray, Kelly Dineley, Kathryn Cunningham and Bhupendra Kaphalia.

Discovery lights path for Alzheimer’s research

Frequent alcohol drinking kills new brain cells in adults, females are more vulnerable











University of Texas

AUSTIN— Infant mor-tality rates in Texas vary dramatically even across neighboring zip codes, according to a new analysis and mapping tool from researchers at The Univer-sity of Texas System and UT Health Northeast. The analysis and searchable map, which are the first of their kind in Texas, use data from Texas Vital Statistics Linked Birth and Death Records from 2011-2014.

In Fort Worth, for exam-ple, the infant mortality rate was over six times higher in the 76164 zip code than in neighboring 76107. Among just black mothers in Hous-ton, there was an eight-fold difference in infant mor-tality rates across the city. Some zip codes in the state have not experienced an infant death in this four-year time period, whereas others have experienced more than 1 percent of their infants dying before their first birthday.

The zip code level rates were calculated for com-munities with 400 or more births in this four-year period, and were identified by the mother’s zip code of residence at delivery. The data were obtained from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

“What this reveals is that the infant mortality picture is dramatically more complex than we knew,” said David Lakey, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs for UT System. “The state average, which is lower than the national average,

obscures zip codes where rates are terribly high. Some of the higher city or county level rates, on the other hand, have obscured the variation within communi-ties, including neighbor-hoods where rates are very low.”

The variations, said Lakey, are both geographic and racial/ethnic. White women in Texas have a relatively low risk of their baby dying within the first year after birth. However, as with the infant mortality rate for all infants, there are significant community-level differences in infant mortal-ity rates among this group. The highest infant mortal-ity rates for white infants were seen outside the major metro areas. For example, Longview and Wichita Falls each had more than one zip code with a white infant mortality rate that was two or more times the overall infant mortality rate in the state.

Of the three major racial/ethnic groups in Texas, Hispanic women have the lowest rate of infant mortal-ity. However, as with white women, infant mortality rates for Hispanic women varied greatly based on where they lived when they were pregnant. In San An-tonio, for example, adjacent zip codes 78203 and 78220 both had Hispanic infant mortality rates that were over double the state rate.

Non-Hispanic black families in Texas and the U.S. are disproportionately impacted by infant mortal-ity. However, as for infants of Hispanic and white

mothers, mortality rates for infants of black mothers varied across zip codes, even within the same city. Within Houston, for example, mortality rates for infants of black mothers varied eight-fold across zip code, from

3.3 to 28.7 deaths per 1,000 births in zip codes 77077 and 77026, respec-tively.

Although the map shows the wide geographic variation in the state, it does not show why the variation exists. Research-ers with UT System will continue to work towards understanding why this variation exists and what can be done to reduce rates overall. UT System is also making public use data files available, as well as other technical information, to facilitate work by other researchers.

“Texas is deeply com-mitted to reducing infant mortality in every commu-nity,” said Lakey. “Having a lower than average rate, nationally, is not enough, particularly when we know that there are communities where rates are tragically high. What this kind of analysis should enable us to do, moving forward, is to even more precisely identify what best practices to emulate, where to target our interventions, and how best to deploy our resourc-es. We strongly encourage others to make use of this data, and to work on find-ing solutions. The sooner we can understand why babies are dying, the better off we will all be.”

By Laurie Fickman


On this 50th anniversary of the first heart transplant, which occurred in December 1967, a University of Houston biomedi-cal engineer is creating a next-generation heart pump for patients suffering with heart failure. Results are so promising that Ralph Metcalfe, professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering, who oversees the research project with William Cohn, direc-tor of the Center for Device Innovation at the Texas Medical Center, predicts radical improvement in treatment of failing hearts will happen within a decade.

What sets it apart from other devices is its ability to assist, perhaps temporarily with the potential to remove it, allowing some patients to avoid both heart transplants and life-long use of an LVAD (left ventricular-assist devices) heart pump. “This device, once perfected, can have as much impact on society as the polio vaccine had in the 1950s,” said Metcalfe. “Breakthroughs are coming very fast.”

These new devices in some cases – perhaps most – will be lifelong helpers for the heart. But for some, the device is expected to give the heart enough of a rest that the heart can actually heal, something infrequently heard of in today’s state-of-the-art practices. This will not be like the larger and more cum-bersome pumps of past decades, but a small device that can be implanted without major

surgery. The goal is to develop better, less invasive treatments that can be used early in the course of cardiovascular problems, long before critical stages of heart failure manifest. Potential benefits are enormous.

“If you look at the causes of death in 2015, the most recently reported year, about 23 percent were related to heart disease. Heart failure is a major part of that,” Metcalfe said. In the United States, more than 6.5 million people live with varying stages of heart failure.

In Texas Heart Institute laboratories, performance of LVADs depends in great measure on the small impellers mechanical engineering Ph.D. candidate Alex Smith is working to perfect. To maintain ideal speed and pressure, the impellers must maintain a flow that is neither so mild the pump is inefficient nor so forceful that cells become misshapen or otherwise damaged by shear in the blood flow.

3-D printers replicate Smith’s designs in about eight hours, a process that used to take a machinist months to craft by hand. “This is a huge advance, hard to overempha-size,” said Metcalfe.

A happy anniversary

Those early artificial hearts, medical break-throughs in the 1960’s, were huge and heavy, with only a small part of the mecha-nism implanted into a patient’s chest. The rest of the (often noisy) equipment was left

outside of the body, either bedside or on a cart that trailed the patient. Survival was measured in weeks at first, then in months. Today, patients can live up to a decade with their circulatory system at least partially de-pendent on an implanted mechanical pump with a wearable external battery.

Current artificial heart pumps are not replacements for a biologic heart. Instead, they are assistants that function alongside a weakened heart, helping do the job of pumping blood. These left ventricular-assist devices are implanted close to the patient’s own heart. They most often are considered a “bridge-to-transplant” treatment, a way to carry a very sick patient until a suitable donor heart is found.

The heavy, bulky equipment that func-tioned outside a patient’s body may be long gone, but the heart pumps now being implanted are still ungainly enough to cause discomfort.

Small miracles

The small device the team is developing fits easily in the palm of a hand. It will be im-planted percutaneously, meaning it will be

passed through an incision in the skin, most likely into the subclavian vein just beneath the collar bone, then carried to the heart’s atrial septum (the wall separating the left and right atria). In contrast, implanting a current heart pump requires a surgeon to make a large incision and open the patient’s chest.

Intervening early in the disease process, before the heart is too seriously damaged, allows the best chance for such healing to happen.

“It’s like an athlete whose injury is imme-diately immobilized on the playing field,” Metcalfe explains. “By being immobilized, the injured area heals quicker. We haven’t been able to immobilize a living heart, of course. But with this device, many un-healthy hearts may get the rest they need to recover.”

If complete healing is accomplished, the LVAD will be removed and the heart left to function on its own, healthy and strong. Those patients could expect full lifespans and enjoy normal lifestyles.

By Britni Riley


When cocoa beans—the main in-gredient in chocolate—were first cultivated in the Americas many centuries ago, both the Mayans and Aztecs believed they had heal-ing, even magical, properties.

Although the way we consume chocolate has changed, health professionals say that purer forms of chocolate can contribute to a healthy heart. That’s one less rea-son to feel guilty about indulging on Valentine’s Day.

“There is observational data tell-ing us that chocolate—the cocoa bean itself—can have favorable effects on heart and vessel health if consumed appropriately,” said William Zoghbi, M.D., chair of the department of cardiology at Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center.

The tiny beans pack a big punch. Just like blueberries, goji berries

and acai berries, cocoa beans are filled with antioxidants.

“Chocolate is rich with flavonoids and polyphenols, and research has indicated that those two forms of antioxidants have a positive effect on your heart,” said Daphne Hernandez, Ph.D., assistant pro-fessor in the department of health and human performance at the University of Houston.

Antioxidants work to prevent damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules in the body that are produced by natural biological processes or introduced via tobacco smoke or other pol-lutants. Free radicals can inhibit the ability of cells to function nor-mally and lead to heart disease—the number one cause of death for men and women.

The flavonoids in chocolate are known to have a beneficial effect on the vasculature of the heart, Zoghbi said, increasing the body’s production of nitrous oxide, which helps expand blood vessels

and improve blood flow.

Although chocolate is available in many forms and flavors, not all chocolate is created equal.

“Dark chocolate is better for you in many ways,” Zoghbi said. “It has more concentration of cocoa itself, it has less milk and other sugars and it highlights more of the positive effects of chocolate.”

But the darker and healthier the chocolate is, the less appetizing it may be for consumers.

“If you eat a piece of chocolate with a really, really high percent-age of cocoa, it is actually bitter,” Hernandez said. “Chocolates with higher concentrations of cocoa are also more expensive than other chocolates, which is often the case with healthier foods in general.”

Many popular and more afford-able forms of chocolate are filled with caramel, marshmallows, nuts, milk and sugar, which can wreak havoc on health.

“When you are wanting to reap the health benefits of chocolate, you will want to go straight for dark chocolate—at least 60 per-cent or higher cocoa concentra-tion,” said Diana Guevara, student dietetic intern at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health. “When you are looking at white chocolate, that is just cocoa butter, so that is not going to have any of the health benefits.”

While there are numerous ben-efits to cocoa beans and chocolate, experts warn to keep consump-tion to a minimum.

“You have to balance the positive effects of chocolate with the total caloric intake, as well as the fat and sugar intake that is in a choco-late bar,” Zoghbi said. “My advice usually is, if you like chocolate, aim for an ounce or two ounces of dark chocolate per week; don’t over-indulge.”

Keeping your chocolate intake to

a minimum might be easier than you expect, Hernandez said.

“Most chocolate bars today are designed with these tiny squares,” Hernandez said. “If you get a bar of dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa, just break yourself off a square—not more than an ounce or so.”

While Zoghbi does not prescribe chocolate, he does not frown on patients rewarding themselves with a little chocolate every once in awhile.

“Chocolate is not a medica-tion and it is not prescribed as a health supplement,” he said. “But I wouldn’t discourage them from having a proportionate, good amount of chocolate and, if the brain feels good from the satisfaction of the chocolate, you feel good, too, so it is good for the overall health.”

Yes, chocolate has its benefits

Making Heart Transplants Obsolete with Small Removable Pump

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By Britni Riley


Those who have kept their New Year’s resolutions may have stocked their pantries and refrigerators with ‘healthy’ snacks and drinks.

But some foods that profess to be healthy are more processed than consumers might expect, while plenty of high-protein offerings are actually belly bombs in dis-guise—high in sugar and fat and low in nutrition.

“There are always fads that are emerging, but we know what works for weight loss: calorie restriction and exercise,” said Roberta Anding, registered dietitian and assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine. “But if you are not willing or able to do that, then it becomes an ‘I’ll try anything’ kind of mentality… Maybe it’s the gluten, maybe it’s the dairy. You can spend a lifetime searching for some-thing.”

Gluten—a family of proteins found in grains such as wheat, rye and barley—has gotten a bad name in recent years for adding carbs to our diets. Because of this, costly gluten-free products, such as pasta, bread, and chips, have been popping up in grocery stores.

“For the average person who does not have celiac disease, gluten-free means they had to take something out of a food,” said Anding, who is also a sports dietitian for the Houston Astros. “To take something out makes the food more processed.”

Gluten has also been blamed for causing stomach ir-ritation in people who do not suffer from celiac disease, but Anding believes another group of substances—sugar alcohols—could be responsible for that.

“A lot of the protein bars with 20 grams of protein …that is equal to almost three ounces of meat. In order to keep the calories low, they may put in a category of sweeteners called sugar alcohols,” Anding said. “Sugar alcohols can cause cramping, bloating and diarrhea and, depending on how sensitive you are, that would be something to avoid.”

To avoid purchasing bars made with sugar alcohols, And-ing says to look for ingredients on nutrition labels ending in the suffix “ol.” Sorbitol, erythritol and mannitol are all examples of sugar alcohols.

Other seemingly healthy treats that are often over- pro-cessed and unhealthy? Veggie chips.

“We are all looking for the permission to eat a salty or savory snack and we feel better if it says veggie chips,” And-ing said. “There is really not enough vegetable in it for it to be worth the caloric investment.”

Because so much of the packaging for veggie chips de-picts beautiful, fresh vegetables, consumers may not realize that many are made with potato starch, potato flour, corn starch, spinach powder and other vegetable substitutes.

“This is a dietitian saying this: You would be better off eating a potato chip than a veggie chip because it is a real potato, where some of these manufactured veggie chips are really designed to make you think they are a better option, and they aren’t,” Anding said.

In addition to swapping out veggie chips for a bag of baby carrots or raw broccoli for a little crunch, Kristi King, a registered dietitian with Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, suggests another alternative.

“If you go to the health section of most grocery stores, you can buy actual dried vegetable chips,” King said. “They are very different from vegetable-blended potato chips that they market as ‘veggie chips.’”

Fruit juice and store-bought smoothies can also be con-fusing to consumers trying to eat healthy.

“Most folks grab a packaged juice with a picture of a pineapple and a peach on the front and it looks like it has fruit in it,” Anding said. “But it really only has 10 percent fruit juice so that means the rest of it is no different than a soda.”

Pre-made and store-bought smoothies can be just as bad.

“Smoothies and protein shakes can start with good inten-

tions, but can quickly go wrong,” King said. “It all depends on what they are made with. If you make your smoothie at home, you tend to be able to control the calories and the nutritional content better than if you were at a free-stand-ing place, where smoothies are often made with high-fat yogurt or milk. Making it at home is a much better option than buying it out.”

Anding also reminds consumers to have a more discern-ing eye when it comes to cooking oils.

“The top of the list for me—of foods that people think are healthy that aren’t—is coconut oil,” she said. “People cook with coconut oil and it really is one of the most satu-rated fats in the American food supply.”

Misled by the fact that coconut oil is plant-based food and might seem to be a better option than beef-fat, con-sumers need to know that it can still raise your cholesterol.

Anding says the real answer to healthy living and eating is actually very simple.

“Real food is the solution,” she said. “Whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean sources of protein. We keep trying to refine and find what the secret ingredient is, and there isn’t one.”

How healthy are ‘healthy’ snacks?

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