Week in Review Nov. 3-9, 2013

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Women’s Intercultural Center Nov. 3-9, 2013

Do Hispanics Need a National Leader

A national survey conducted by the Pew Research Center of how Latinos living in the United States say that their community needs a national leader.

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A place where WOMEN learn and work together to develop their SOCIAL, SPIRITUAL, ECONOMIC, and POLITICAL POTENTIAL.

Letter From the E.D. Reading the results of a national survey conducted by the Pew Research Center of how Latinos living in the United States say that their community needs a national leader; I recalled that this issue was discussed at a leadership training for Mexican/Americans conducted by the American Jewish Council in coordination with the Mexican Consulates across the country over five years

ago. Those trainings are still being conducted in Washington, DC and in Dallas, Texas. National leaders from across the country were at this training having the same discussion. At that time the most prominent Hispanic leader was identified as Henry Cisneros; however, everyone in the room did not see him as the replica of a Martin Luther King. It seems the discussion is still ongoing and according to the survey...we still find ourselves unable to name one or even believe that such a leader exists. Survey participants were asked to name the person they consider "the most important Hispanic leader in the country today," 62% said they don't know and an additional 9% said "no one." Three-quarters of Hispanic adults surveyed said that it is "extremely" (29%) or "very" important (45%) for the U.S. Hispanic community to have a national leader advancing its concerns. This sentiment is higher among foreign-born and Spanish-dominant Hispanics. The main barrier in the creation of a National Hispanic leader is the inability to interconnect the shared values of every race that is represented under the Hispanic/Latino umbrella. Back then, it was the main barrier identified in the leadership training. The American Jewish Council was trying to unify Mexican/American leaders to work as one to eventually create the leader we so desperate sought. However, just in the group of over 50 leaders from across the country, the American Jewish Council was dismayed at how everyone in the room

identified the reasons for our inability to merge as one. Enrique Morones, founder of Border Angels based in San Diego, CA, stated that it wasn’t that easy to connect everyone under the Mexican Flag or through religion because we weren’t all Catholic. Many identified that Mexicans grouped with each other based on the areas of Mexico that they came from. In doing so, this helped them recreate their homeland to feel much more comfortable in a foreign land. We all share common issues; however, there is an inability to find common ground. So if Mexicans, the largest representation of the Hispanic/Latino population cannot find common ground within themselves, how can a national Hispanic leader be created to advance the population’s concerns? The results from the survey demonstrate a broader and more hopeful picture as “34% say that U.S. Hispanics share “some” values with people living in their families’ country of origin. Almost 60% said "only a little" or "almost nothing." When you are not a the table you are on the menu. So, yes...we do need a national Hispanic leader but first we must begin training him/her within our local communities. We need to nationally engage the Hispanic population to leverage their numbers to go out and VOTE. And we need to educate them on the advocacy process while ensuring that they have a full view of the issue(s) and not a one sided blinding view in order to find common ground for us all. About the Survey: The survey was conducted from May 24 to July 28, 2013 by landline and cellular telephone, in English and Spanish, among a nationally representative sample of 5,103 Hispanic adults. The margin of error for the survey was plus or minus 2.1 percentage points. The report, "Three-Fourths of Hispanics Say Their Community Needs a Leader," authored by Mark Hugo Lopez, director of Hispanic research, is available at http://www.pewresearch.org/hispanic.

About Pew Research Center: The Pew Research Center is a non-partisan source of data and analysis. It does not take advocacy positions. Its Hispanic Trends Project, founded in 2001, seeks to improve understanding of the U.S. Hispanic population and to chroni-cle Latinos' growing impact on the nation.

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Join us in one of three celebrations in honor of our 20th Anniversary on November 15, 2013. The Arnie Castañeda, Mayor of Anthony will join us in the celebration at participant / Volunteer Potluck Luncheon. A $20 donation in honor of our anniversary is encouraged. Business Breakfast Celebration—7 to 9 am Local area businesses are invited to a special break-fast celebration at the Center from 7am to 9am. Come learn what we’re all about and how we can work together for the betterment of your business and our community. Participant/Volunteer Potluck Luncheon Celebra-tion—12 to 2pm Bring your favorite dish and your favorite story of the Center to share with your peers. All former participants

and volunteers are encouraged to join the fun. Let’s reminisce and catch up. Celebration Dinner—6:30 to 8:30pm Current and prospective donors join us in celebrating 20 years of being a catalyst for change. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to provide the tools and resources needed for women to become the authors of their own lives. Please RSVP for the Business Breakfast or the Celebration Dinner by 5pm on Thursday, November 14, 2013. For additional information contact Mary Carter at 575-882-5556 or via email at [email protected].

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A woman’s genetic makeup and biology are the large determinants of health as do any number of socioeconomic factors, and her access to high-quality care. For example, if she has an inherited health condition, and is struggling to earn a living wage, her path to health is going to be rockier than that of someone who doesn't and isn't. How does WInC Help There are certain tools and resources we provide to help improve and maintain women's health. Tools and resources that have a direct and measurable impact on their bodies and minds, and that they embrace. Here is how: 1) Provide an opportunity to cultivate friendships and interact socially

The Center was founded on the premise to overcome social isolation which our founders discovered it often

led to depression. WInC has created the space to cultivate friendships and interact socially with each other to celebrate successes, share happiness, encourage/support each other and help women cope when they need it the most. Combat cognitive decline:

As Time reports, a 2011 study that followed a group of

How does WInC improve the health of women?

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more than 1,000 older adults, (whose average age was roughly 80) found that the most social seniors had a 70 percent reduction in their rates of cognitive decline over several years, versus their least social counterparts. According to Time, the same team of researchers previously found that sociability also decreased the likelihood of becom-ing physically disabled. Create strong social ties to boost longetivity: A 2010 review of roughly 150 studies measuring the frequency of human interaction and health outcomes, found that having strong social connections can improve a person's odds of survival by 50 percent. Conversely, so-called "low social interaction" was found to be more harmful than not exercising, twice as harmful as obesity, and the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes a day Psych Central reported. Why? “When someone is connected to a group and feels responsibility for other people, that sense of purpose and meaning translates to taking better care of themselves and taking fewer risks,” stated one of the study authors on the publication. Can help you lose weight:

As The Daily News reports, a 2012 study found that friendships can influence weight in more positive ways. Surrounding yourself with people who have healthy life-style habits can help you emulate them. Worry less about how small or large your

waistline is, and more about using your social connec-tions to motivate yourself to exercise and eat well.

2. We provide diverse exercise classes so that they can pick what they like and they can stick with it. Exercise is extremely important. There is simply no way around the fact that being active is a fundamental part of good health, and research shows that persistence matters. One study comparing women in their 70s found that those who got the most exercise (and ate the most fruits and veggies) were eight times less likely to die during the study period than those who got the least. We know it's imperative to provide exercise programs that work for them so that they can be inspired to work at it, day in and day out. 3. Provide educational workshops on a variety of health issues

Through various partnerships, WInC teaches the women how to care for themselves and their families. Being informed and knowing what to do is a huge factor in the overall health and well being of a woman as diet and exercise. Results of our efforts Our participants lead a happier, healthier, and a more balanced life; big factors in long-term wellbeing.

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The students in the Chaquira surprised their instructor, Rosalia, on her birthday. Each student presented her with a token of their affection. The one item that caught everyone’s eye was Suki’s handmade bead necklace with dollar bills. The fact that they acknowledged her birthday, brought joys of tears to Rosalia’s eyes. It was a very special day

for her, she had already received the best birthday present a mother could have…a visit from her son who lives in a foreign country. To continue the celebration, the students took her out to lunch and shared how much they enjoy her class and how inspired they are by her creativity.

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Benefit from making your 2013 gift to the Women's Intercultural Center through your IRA.

The IRA Charitable Rollover was extended through December 31, 2013, as one of the provisions of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. The IRA charitable rollover enables individuals age 70 1/2 and older to make direct transfers up to $100,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations, without having to count the transfers as income for federal income tax purposes. Who qualifies to use the IRA charitable rollover provision? Individuals who are age 70 1/2 or older at the time of the contribution. From what accounts can I make transfers? Transfers must come from your IRAs directly to the Women's Intercultural Center. If you have retirement assets in a 401(k), 403(b), etc., you must first roll those funds into an IRA, and then you can direct the IRA custodian to transfer the funds from the IRA directly to the Women's Intercultural Center. How much can I transfer? Up to $100,000 per spouse for 2013. Does this transfer qualify as my minimum required distribution? Once you reach age 70 1/2, you are required to take minimum distributions from your retirement plans each year, according to a federal formula. IRA charitable rollovers count towards your minimum required distributions for the year. What are the tax implications to me? Please consult with your own tax advisor to learn how an IRA charitable rollover may benefit you. Under federal law, the transfer of funds as your charitable gift, from your IRA account directly to the Women's Intercultural Center from your IRA custodian, will not be counted as income to you. You can lower your taxable income by making a charitable rollover distri-bution, which may place you in a more favorable tax

bracket. However, you will not be entitled to an income tax charitable deduction for this gift. Can I use the rollover to fund life-income gifts such as a charitable gift annuity or a charitable remainder trust, a donor advised fund or a supporting organization? No, these are not eligible. How do I know if an IRA charitable rollover is right for me? If you are at least 70 1/2 and: You do not need the additional income necessitated by the minimum required distribution, OR 1. Your charitable gifts already equaled 50% of your

adjusted gross income, so you do not benefit from an income tax charitable deduction for additional gifts, OR

2. You do not itemize deductions, OR 3. You are subject to income tax deduction and

exemption phase outs. What is the procedure for executing an IRA charitable rollover? To complete an IRA charitable rollover, the first step is to contact your IRA custodian to learn their procedures. Please contact Mary Carter at 575-882-5556 or via email at [email protected] for wire transfer instructions before you direct your IRA custodian to transfer the funds to Women's Intercultural Center or kindly notify us if your IRA custodian will be sending your funds by check.

Thank You for Your Support!

TAX-WISE GIVING - ACT NOW

BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2013

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Today I Lived And You Did Too --by Rachel Macy Stafford

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Today I was awakened by the sound of shuffling feet. It was my early-bird riser in her big sister’s pajamas that drug across the floor. I wanted to pull the covers over my head and feign sleep. But instead I got up and made toaster waffles that she said tasted “divine.” She kissed me with syrupy sweet lips. Getting up wasn’t my first response. But I did it. Today I lived.

Today she lost her shoes for the 37th time in two weeks. It was right before we needed to head out the door. I wanted to scream, to scold, to throw my hands in the air. But instead I held her. I held her. My shoeless girl. Together we found them wet with dew in the backyard and she whispered, “Sorry, I am forgetful, Mama.” Being calm wasn’t my first response. But I did it. Today I lived.

Today the birds chirped noisily through the open back door. Their cheerful chatter seemed to accentuate the deadlines, the laundry, the mess piled up around me. I wanted to slam the door and silence the temptation; there was so much to do. But instead I put on my running shoes and my favorite hat. With each step, I got closer to what mattered and farther from what didn’t. Letting go wasn’t my first response. But I did it. Today I lived.

Today I stood in front of the mirror sizing myself up. It was apparent that stress and lack of sleep had left their mark. I wanted to dissect each wrinkle, pinch each layer of soft skin But instead I looked away and said, “Not today. Only love today.” Loving myself wasn’t my first response. But I did it. Today I lived.

Today I threw together a simple dinner and scooped it onto the plate. It looked pathetic and unappealing. I wanted to question my worthiness based on my cooking skills. But instead I hollered, “Let’s eat outside on the porch! Everything tastes better outside.” Offering myself grace wasn’t my first response. But I did it. Today I lived.

Today I was on a mission to tuck my child into bed as

quickly as possible. It had been a tiring day, and I just wanted to be alone. She asked if she could listen to my heartbeat. Reluctantly, I lay down beside her and she drew her head to my chest. “We have the same heartbeat,” she announced. “How do you know?” I asked expecting some child-like reasoning, but instead her poignant response brought me to my knees. “Because you are my mom.”

And there it was. My confirmation.

To choose to stay when I want to retreat. To choose to forgive when I want to condemn. To choose to love when I want to attack. To choose to hope when I want to doubt. To choose to stand when I want to fall.

Today I lived. It wasn’t my first response.

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WInC offers free counseling services for children, teens, adults, couples and families on Wednesdays. To request an appointment call us at 575-882-5556.

Do you have something on your mind?

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The dream to open a charter school in southern New Mexico began in January 2012 and 22 months later on September 27, 2013 was approved by the New Mexico Public Education Commission. Founders of the Health Sciences Academy are Brenda Avila, Nancy Duhigg, Raphael Nevins, Lorna Samraj and Jaime Tamez. Ron Haugen, former Gadsden Independent School District Superintendent, will the first principal and administrator of the Charter School The Board of Directors have less than 12 months to implement the plan and open the doors to the school. Projected school opening is August 2014. Mary Carter, Board Member of the Charter of School, followed the directive of the participants of the Women’s Intercultural Center who wanted their children to have more educational opportunities. Now, the women are in brink of getting their wish as the planning to start the Health Science Academy is being initiated. The ESL Room, where the first Board Meeting of the Health Sciences Academy was taking place, was packed to capacity with parents and distinguished guests.

Many came to show support, some parents came to get information and ask questions about the proposed Charter High School. .

“I have high school aged children, and it’s extremely expensive to send them to private schools, yet public schools in our area are so far from what it takes to achieve in today’s society,” said a parent, who attended the Board meeting. “There has to be a better situation, and I believe charter school is that choice. My sister and I are willing to drive our children to the school because we fill it’s a better option for our children.”

The Health Science Academy was the only charter school approved by the Public Education Commission this year.

This isn’t just about the children. This Charter School is going to impact the entire community by offering evening classes for adults interested in learning English, getting their GED or in breaking into health related careers. The Board of Directors held it’s first meeting to initiate the first steps into implementation. So far it seems that

the school will be located in Sunland Park, NM. Hiring faculty and staff, as well as preparing curriculum will still take a little bit of time. While charter schools are funded by the state, the Board of Directors will be focusing on seeking financial support to help pay start-up costs. “The community already has buy in. All we need is to get working,” Mary Carter said.

Raphael Nevins, who was elected President of the Board, encouraged attendees to help us spread the word about the Charter School and to continue attending future board meetings. Mary Carter feels it is the right time for a charter school. “Not only are passionate and hard working people in place to successfully launch it, but community support is strong,” she said.

“It’s been a dream for many years to open a charter school is Southern NM,” Lorna Samraj said. “I feel a personal and emotional attachment to it.”

The next Board meeting will be held on Monday, December 2, 2013 at 6 p.m. at the Women’s Intercultural Center. For now, all Board Meeting agendas will be posted at the Women’s Intercultural Center, on the Center’s website and at the Anthony City Hall.

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We cannot thank our donors and supporters enough for all that they do to help sustain us. Special thanks go out to our anonymous donors this week as well as the many donors that donate to our thrift store. Thank you for your kindness, it is because of your

support that provides us the ability to educate, empower & educate women as well as provide for the identified needs of the communities we serve.

Thank you for support!

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Interested in teaching a class, scheduling a workshop, presentation or training at WInC? We are always searching for Volunteer Instructors to teach in their areas of expertise. We currently have a special need for a haircutting instructor. For more info, contact Ilse Arrieta, Program Coordinator at 575-882-5556 or via email at [email protected].

dates to remember For additional information please contact us at 575-882-5556 or the contact number listed next to the event announcement.

October Open Enrollment—Medicare from 10:30am to 3pm

by Irene Sonora from the Sonora Insurance Group. The enrollments will be on Thursdays on the following dates: Oct. 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7, 14, 21; & Dec. 5: Open Enrollment - Medicare

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November 20th Anniversary Celebration: Join us in one of three celebrations in honor of our 20th Anniversary. Participant/Volunteer Potluck Luncheon. A $20

donation is encouraged. RSVP at https://winc20thanniversarycelebration.eventbrite.com/ Business Breakfast Celebration—7 to 9 am Local area businesses are invited to a special breakfast celebration at the Center from 7am to 9am. Come learn what we’re all about and how we can work together for the betterment of your business and our community. Participant/Volunteer Potluck Luncheon Celebration—12 to 2pm Bring your favorite dish and your favorite story of the Center to share with your peers. All former participants and volunteers are encouraged to join the fun. Let’s reminisce and catch up.

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Celebration Dinner—6:30 to 8:30pm Current and prospective donors join us in cele-brating 20 years of being a catalyst for change. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to provide the tools and resources needed for women to become the authors of their own lives. For more info call: 575-882-5556.

Come and join us in our Thanksgiving Potluck at 12 p.m. 27

Thanksgiving Day. In observance of the holiday, WInC will be closed. 28-29

Come to the End of Classes Cele-bration. Bring your favorite dish and have fun. It will be at 11 a.m.

December

13 Come and bring your best dish to our Christmas Party at 11 a.m. It will be a time to have joy and wish

everyone Merry Christmas!

20 Christmas Holidays. In Observance of the holidays, WInC will be closed. 23-27

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) Community Event from 12:30pm to 4:30pm. During this

community event you will learn: what DACA is, its benefits and potential risks; eligibility requirements and the application process; to identify the types of documents and so much more.

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Women’s Intercultural Center WHERE IT STARTS

303 Lincoln Street / PO Box 2411 Anthony, NM 88021

575-882-5556 Fax: 1-866-285-7245

www.womensinterculturalcenter.org

Week in Review Nov. 3-9, 2013

Documents

Transcript of Week in Review Nov. 3-9, 2013