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Oral Care Tips for Parents by the Ages

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Statepoint
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Proper oral care is essential to overall wellness. Here are a few tips and strategies for each stage of your child’s development:

Teething

Even before your child’s first tooth appears, good oral care matters. While some discomfort is associated with teething, you can help alleviate it by being prepared. When it comes to teethers, look for smart designs, keeping in mind that a teether can only do its job if your baby can hold onto it.

The American Dental Association recommends a dental visit within six months of the appearance of a child’s first tooth, so this is also a good time to find a pediatric dentist for your child and schedule an appointment.

Babies and Toddlers

“It’s important to instill good habits at a young age. Even when your child still has a gummy smile, you can introduce the brushing gesture and oral hygiene habits with a toothbrush,” says Dr. Misee Harris, a pediatric dentist based in Arkansas. “One good option I like to recommend to parents is the Frida Baby Grow-With-Me Training Toothbrush Set because it’s designed specifically for this purpose with it’s triple angle bristles.”

Dr. Harris points out that the set contains both a training toothbrush for babies to provide sore gum relief and basic brushing training, as well as a training toothbrush for toddlers that helps continue to build good brushing habits and nurture their growing independence with your help. To learn more, visit fridababy.com.

“Making brushing fun and efficient is key when getting little ones to enjoy and engage in oral hygiene,” according to Dr. Harris.

Elementary-Aged Kids

By this age, kids should be well on their way to proper brushing techniques and oral care habits. Encourage them to keep up the good work by giving them a bit of control and independence. Let them select their own toothbrush and toothpaste, and help them create a routine that aligns with their dentist’s recommendations.

This is also a good time to instill good nutrition habits, as this can play a big role in oral hygiene. Indeed, cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So try to make snacks and beverages with added sugars more of a special treat than part of your child’s daily diet. Also, be sure to include plenty of foods that build strong teeth and gums.

Through each age and stage of your child’s development, you can play an important role in helping foster a healthy smile.

Spring is Here — Along With the Harshest Allergy Season Yet

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Statepoint
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Experts predict allergy season to be exceptionally severe this spring, according to the Allergy & Asthma Network. Rising global temperatures and a forecast of warm, dry air this spring after a winter of heavy snow could significantly increase pollen production. This comes after a year many people spent mostly indoors in quarantine.

As you head outside to enjoy the spring weather, allergens like pollen may come as a shock to the system. Spring allergens, which can lead to chronic and troublesome symptoms, such as respiratory irritation, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion, impact millions of Americans.

“After over a year spent in the confines of our homes during the pandemic, we want to spend as much time outdoors as we can this spring,” says nationally renowned natural health physician and best-selling author, Dr. Fred Pescatore. “Don’t let allergies ruin your long-awaited spring. There are steps you can take to alleviate your allergy symptoms.”

• Rinse Your Eyes. Allergies can cause burning, itching, and tearing in our eyes as well as swelling of the eyelids. Washing your eyes with clean water or an eye wetting product moistens them to provide relief when they are dry and irritated. It also removes allergens that cause eye inflammation.

• Wash Your Clothes Often. When worn outdoors, your clothes can carry small particles back into your home and cause more exposure and allergic reaction. Washing your clothes and taking a shower after outdoor activity can remove lingering allergens.

• Manage Your Stress Levels. Stress can be a powerful force on your physical and mental well-being, and it can pile on quickly. Stress hormones can negatively impact the immune system, increase oxidative stress levels, and inflame seasonal allergy symptoms. When you start to feel stressed, stop and take a breath. If you can, take a walk. Getting quality sleep also helps reduce the effects of stress.

With a tough allergy season ahead, remember these tips to manage your allergy symptoms and enjoy the spring season you deserve.

Sales Tax Holiday for Emergency Supplies, April 24-26

By
Luis Ruperto
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With the potential for severe weather approaching, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar reminds Texans they can purchase certain items tax-free during the state’s sales tax holiday for emergency preparation supplies, which begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 24, and ends at midnight on Monday, April 26.

“While we can’t know when the next flood, tornado or hurricane may strike, we can make sure our families, homes and businesses have the supplies they need to face these and other emergencies,” Hegar said. “This tax holiday can help Texans save money while stocking up for emergency situations.”

The Comptroller’s office estimates shoppers will save more than $1.8 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, which was approved by the Texas Legislature in 2015.

There’s no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase. These include:

  • household batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced at less than $75;
  • hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300; and
  • portable generators priced at less than $3,000.

For purchases made online, note that delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges are part of the sales price. If the emergency preparation supply being purchased is taxable, the delivery charge is also taxable. Consider these charges when determining whether an emergency preparation supply can be purchased tax-free during the holiday.

For example, if you purchase a rescue ladder for $299 with a $10 delivery charge, the total sales price is $309. Because the total sales price of the ladder is more than $300, tax is due on the $309 sales price.

Several over-the-counter self-care items, such as antibacterial hand sanitizer, soap, spray and wipes, are always exempt from sales tax if they are labeled with a “Drug Facts” panel in accordance with federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

Purchases that do not qualify include:

  • batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles;
  • camping stoves and camping supplies;
  • chainsaws;
  • plywood;
  • extension ladders and stepladders; and
  • tents.

A list of emergency preparation supplies that may be purchased tax-free can be found on the Comptroller’s website.

Governor Abbott Reappoints Three to Texas Board of Respiratory Care

By
Luis Ruperto
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PHOTO: Office Of The Governor 3/22/21
 Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Timothy R. “Tim” Chappell, M.D., Sam Gregory “Gregg” Marshall, Ph.D., and Kandace D. “Kandi” Pool to the Texas Board of Respiratory Care for terms set to expire February 1, 2027. The board advises the Texas Medical Board, adopts rules to establish the certification and permitting program for respiratory therapists and sets minimum qualifications for respiratory care practitioners, standards of conduct and grounds for disciplinary actions.

Timothy R. “Tim” Chappell, M.D. of Plano is a pulmonary and critical care physician in private practice at Collin County Pulmonary Associates. He is a fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the American College of Chest Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine with board certification in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine. In addition, he is a member of the Texas Medical Association and Collin Fannin County Medical Society.  Chappell received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Nebraska. He completed his post graduate training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and Parkland Hospital in Dallas.

Sam Gregory “Gregg” Marshall, Ph.D. of Round Rock is professor and chair of the Department of Respiratory Care at Texas State University. He is the president-elect of the Coalition for Baccalaureate and Graduate Respiratory Therapy Education, a Fellow with the American Association for Respiratory Care, and an active member of the Texas Society of Sleep Professionals, Texas Society of Respiratory Care, American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Association of Sleep Technologists. Marshall received a Bachelor of Science from Baylor University, Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from Texas State University and a Ph.D. in Education from The University of Texas at Austin. He has served on the faculty at Texas State University since 1980. 

Kandace D. “Kandi” Pool of San Angelo is a Broker Associate with Teri Jackson, REALTORS. She previously served as the Executive Vice President of the San Angelo Association of REALTORS for 35 years. She is a member of the National Association of REALTORS and the Texas REALTORS. She is a member and church Secretary for College Hills Baptist Church, a former president of the San Angelo Symphony Chorale, and a former director of the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce. She served as Director and board secretary for the Women’s Job Corp, and was a past president of San Angelo’s Western Little League, and a District Board member of the State of Texas Little League.  Pool attended Howard College and Angelo State University. 

These appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar Partners with Texas Lawmakers to Promote Financial Literacy Month

By
Luis Ruperto
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Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar is partnering with members of the Texas Legislature to help give young Texans the knowledge and skills they need to make better-informed personal financial decisions in saving, spending, borrowing and planning. The partnership is in concert with nationwide Financial Literacy Month, which began April 1.

“The events of the past 12 months have only highlighted the need to promote financial literacy at an early age,” Hegar said. “As the school year winds down, we’re reminded that the goal of education is to prepare students to meet life’s challenges. It’s never been more important to equip them with the tools they will need to sustain lifelong financial health. That goal is more achievable if we take small steps early on to promote basic financial literacy.”

Financial Literacy Month highlights initiatives to help consumers learn more about managing their finances to benefit their lives. One such initiative is Money Smart Week, a project coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago which began Saturday, April 10, with a series of webinars on topics including savings, affordable bank accounts, housing protections and student loans.

Hegar participated last year in the Money Smart Week® Kids Read program, which featured a children’s book selected by the American Library Association and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Hegar read The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money, which aptly begins, When little bears spend every nickel and penny, the trouble with money is they never have any.

“As the father of three teenagers, I understand only too well that it’s never too early for young people to learn good financial habits,” Hegar said. “Studies show that students who take financial literacy courses are more likely to save, less likely to max out their credit cards and better able to choose cost-effective options to finance college.”

Governor Abbott Places State Resources On Standby In Preparation For Severe Storms And Critical Fire Weather

By
Luis Ruperto
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Governor Greg Abbott today placed numerous resources on standby ahead of severe storms and critical fire weather that are expected across the state this weekend. Severe storms with heavy winds and large hail are likely in the eastern part of the state. Extreme fire danger has been forecast in the west and southwestern parts of the state. 

“With both severe storm conditions and extreme fire danger expected in the state this weekend, I urge Texans to monitor their local weather reports and take proper measures to protect themselves and their property,” said Governor Abbott. “The State of Texas has been working closely with local officials to prepare for these dangerous conditions, and are prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise.” 

At the direction of the Governor, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has rostered the following state resources to support severe weather response operations:  

  • Texas A&M Forest Service: Saw Crews
  • Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force One and Texas Task Force Two): Boat Squads and Type 3 Urban Search and Rescue Packages
  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Texas Game Warden Boat Teams
  • Texas Department of State Health Services: Texas Emergency Medical Task Force Severe Weather Packages
  • Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters with hoist capability
  • Public Utility Commission of Texas:  Power outage monitoring/coordination with utility providers in the threat area

TDEM has also rostered Texas A&M Forest Service resources to support operations related to the extreme fire danger that is forecast for west and southwest Texas throughout the weekend. Those resources include a Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System Strike Team, fire engines and a water tender, an air attack platform, small engine air tankers, dozers, and a motor grader.

Bring More Music in Your Home

By
Statepoint
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 Music is a mood booster and can help promote mental health. This past year has been particularly challenging, inspiring many people to reap the many benefits of bringing more music into their homes. Here is how you can too:

• Be your own DJ: Music can instantaneously cause us to experience anything from joy to nostalgia to relaxation to inspiration, making it a pretty potent mood regulator. Whether you need a high-tempo blast of motivation to finish household tasks or something soothing to wind down after a stressful day, you can be your own DJ and tailor a playlist to your needs at the moment. (And if it means piping speakers into bathrooms, laundry rooms or other unusual spaces of your home, so be it!)

• Learn to play: Whether you’re a novice or an accomplished musician, playing a musical instrument is good for the mind, body and soul. Not only does a daily practice routine give you something to look forward to each day, but the adoption of a new skill can boost self-esteem. To explore the joy of learning to play, YouTube is not a bad place to start! However, a word of warning, be patient with it. While there are thousands of videos uploaded that can teach you ho to play an instrument, not all of them are good quality, that means you may have to do some digging to find a good tutorial video that suits your needs.

• De-stress with dance: If the gym is off the table for you right now, dance can be a great alternative for working up a sweat, and free tutorials abound online that can help you master such dance forms as belly dance, ballet, jazz and tap. 

Music can enhance your well-being, especially right now. Fortunately, there are brand new avenues for incorporating this age-old therapy into your life.

Give your Irrigation System an Audit

By
Cary Sims
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As we move out of winter weather and approach the summer months, now is a great time to give your lawn’s irrigation system an audit.

Just like a financial audit makes sure that funds are where they ought to be, an irrigation audit confirms that your sprinkler system is putting water where you want it and at the correct amount. Irrigation audits are a great way to make sure your system is operating efficiently so you can conserve water in your landscape. It is also a great DIY project for you to do on your own.

You’ll first look to make sure all sprinkler heads pop up when their zone is running. Next, look for broken or leaning sprinkler heads. Turn on each zone and watch carefully to confirm that nothing is broken, that the spray pattern is going where you want it to go, and that you are not spraying water into the street, your driveway or other hardscaped areas of your yard. Occasionally, you may need to trim back shrubs so that a proper spray pattern is kept.

Identify any sprinkler heads that need adjusting or replacing. You can find replacement heads at larger gardening centers. Many times, it is as simple as removing the old sprinkler head and screwing in a new one. Run that zone again to confirm it is in proper working order.

Performance testing is a way to check how much water your irrigation system is putting out in your lawn. The best way to check this is by setting out some small rain gauges. I have heard that others often use tuna cans or small plastic food storage containers.

Put the cans out in several spots throughout the lawn, run your irrigation system for ten minutes, then measure how much water was fallen in each can. This helps you know the average amount of water your system puts out in ten minutes, and you can adjust your schedule to get the appropriate amount of water on your lawn each time you water.

Irrigation scheduling is the final, and possibly most important step in an irrigation audit. There are a lot of factors that go into the formula for figuring out how much water a lawn needs. Factors that alter settings over the year include temperature, relative humidity, plant requirements, soil type, and more. The rule of thumb for turfgrass is one-inch per week in the summer and less in the spring and fall. You can divide your watering schedule into two times per week at half an inch per irrigation time.

Remember to water only if your lawn needs to be watered. Look for visible wilt in your turfgrass. Never irrigate after a good rain. Water only after the top two inches of the soil has dried out. You can use a soil probe to determine soil wetness or simply use a long screwdriver. If the screwdriver is easily pushed into the ground, you know you have plenty of moisture in the root zone.

An easy rule of thumb is to provide one inch of water or more every five to seven days to promote deep roots. Grasses and shrubs will become more drought resistant if you give them infrequent and deep irrigation.

When done correctly, you will adjust the run time and frequency on the automatic controller each month, based on changing rainfall and temperatures.

Governor Abbott Sends Letter To Vice President Harris Demanding Shut Down Of Federally Run Unaccompanied Minor Facility In San Antonio

By
Joshua Blackwell
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Governor Greg Abbott today sent a letter to Vice President and Border Czar Kamala Harris demanding that the Biden Administration shut down the federally run unaccompanied minor facility in San Antonio. The Governor included a memo from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission that summarizes the allegations of sexual assault, bullying, understaffing, and disregard for COVID-19 protocols within the facility. 

“The State of Texas previously warned about overcrowded conditions at these facilities, and now those conditions have led to allegations of child abuse and neglect,” reads the Governor’s letter. “Our repeated warnings and questions have gone ignored by President Biden, yourself, and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas. In your role as Border Czar, you have a duty to these children and the American people to act immediately. I implore you to act immediately to protect these children, secure the border, and end this crisis.”

Read the Governor’s letter.

Last week, Governor Abbott sent a letter Vice President Harris demanding answers and swift action from the Biden Administration to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis at the border. In the letter, the Governor also urged Vice President Harris to visit the border to see the crisis for herself.

On March 6th, Governor Abbott announced Operation Lone Star to send law enforcement personnel and resources to high threat areas along the border. On March 17th, he expanded the Operation to include anti-human trafficking efforts

2021-2022 Drug-Free All-Star Applications Now Available!

By
Joshua Blackwell
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Attention Angelina County high school juniors! Applications for the Drug-Free All Star program are now available. Drug-Free All Stars serve as drug, alcohol and tobacco-free role models to the community and promote healthy living for Angelina County residents. All current high school juniors that are passionate about being drug, alcohol and tobacco-free are eligible for the program. The application can be accessed on The Coalition’s website at www.angelinacoalition.org/youth. The deadline for applications is Monday, May 31st. For more information on the Drug-Free All Star program, visit The Coalition’s website or social media channels @thecoalition936, or contact Abby Baker at abaker@angelinacoalition.org.

For over 30 years, The Coalition has focused on eliminating the use of harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes and behaviors, all in an effort to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. Since the inception of the Drug-Free All Star program, The Coalition has trained over 1,500 youth as drug, alcohol and tobacco-free leaders in the community.

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