SFA Professor Conducts Online Interviews with Public; Documents Everyday Life During Pandemic

-

April 9, 2020

Governor Greg Abbott has temporarily waived a series of regulations to lift certain telehealth restrictions and expand telehealth options as Texas responds to COVID-19. These waivers will allow a smart phone or any audio-visual, real-time, or two-way interactive communication system to qualify as a telecommunications technology that can be used to provide certain telehealth services. These waivers apply to speech-language pathologists and audiologists, behavior analysts, hearing instrument fitters and dispensers, and dyslexia therapists and practitioners. “As the State of Texas works to limit the spread of COVID-19, we also want to make sure that Texans have access to the health services they rely on,” said Governor Abbott. “By temporarily waiving these regulations and expanding telehealth options, more Texans will be able to access the care they need while still following social distancing practices.”

Trent Ashby’s Weekly Column- April 9, 2020

By

Rep. Trent Ashby

-

April 9, 2020

Though this Easter season may feel different, the message embodied by this Holy day could not be more appropriate for today. While we find ourselves in a season of uncertainty – wondering and worrying about what’s to come – it is my sincere hope that we find refuge and strength in celebrating the greatest triumph this world has ever witnessed. As Scripture reminds us, “If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” — Romans 8:11

With that, here’s the latest information on our state’s fight against the coronavirus. . .

Coronavirus Update

Since my last column, Governor Abbott issued another executive order implementing essential services and activities protocols. In accordance with guidelines set forth by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), this executive order renews the Governor’s request for Texans to stay home unless we are taking part in essential services and activities. For a comprehensive list of essential services, as defined by DHS, please follow the link provided at the bottom of the page.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has updated their website to include helpful links to information on testing, symptoms, prevention tips, and what to do if you’re sick. I would encourage you to use this site (link below) as your primary source for information regarding the virus, as it is updated regularly with factual data that has been tested and proven by experts.

With students temporarily out of school, it’s important that we continue keeping them engaged in learning activities and projects. As parents, we can keep our kiddos engaged by encouraging curiosity through at home projects, taking virtual field trips, or having a designated study space to help our kids focus. Additionally, The Texas Education Agency recently launched the Texas Home Learning Model, which supports quality at-home learning for students by providing daily and weekly learning plans in all grades that can be started immediately in a student’s home environment. While the utilization of the Texas Home Learning Model is optional, and provided as a contingency option for school districts, this is a great tool that helps provide educational resources to students and parents at home.

In an effort to process an unprecedented increase in unemployment claims, state and federal regulations have been loosened so that some who have previously been denied may now have access to unemployment benefits. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has also hired hundreds of additional specialists to help process calls and claims. If you have previously been denied unemployment benefits, or have had trouble contacting TWC, I would encourage you to reapply via their website or visit with a TWC staff person to determine the next step forward.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact our office if we can help you in any way. Our District office may be reached at (936) 634-2762, or you can call my Capitol office at (512) 463-0508.

Online Resources

Essential Services — http://www.tdem.texas.gov/essentialservices

Texas Department of State Health Services — https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/

Texas Home Learning — https://texashomelearning.org/

Texas Workforce Commission — https://www.twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/unemployment-benefits-services

Mike Maberry, Angelina County Emergency Delivery (ACED), step up in time of need

By

-

April 9, 2020

In a time of extreme uncertainty and unprecedented immediate change in our daily lives, one lifelong Angelina local has answered the call in a huge way to helping those in need within the county:

Mike Maberry, owner of Freedom Hill Texas off of US 59 in Lufkin, has fired up a new program called Angelina County Emergency Delivery, helping those in the county by coordinating with certain businesses in the area in helping get goods and provisions needed to survive at home without the need to risk public exposure. Maberry, in an effort to offer a needed service in our community and with the blessing of Sherriff Greg Sanches and the county, is picking up and delivering primary-needed goods such as non-perishables, canned goods, pharmacy prescriptions, and certain ag supplies such as feed, and delivering them about the county.

Maberry and ACED, as opposed to popular delivery apps like Favor, are avoiding the long lines and high risk of exposure which comes from large retailers such as Walmart and Target, while partnering with companies such as Walgreens, CVS, Tractor Supply, and Autozone to make pick-ups around and distribute them (mask, gloves, and all) to homes all around the county.

While ACED was not formed for the purposes of making a profit, they are accepting donations upon delivery in the hopes that they may be able to continue offering such a helpful service to our community.

Additionally, while Mike and ACED have expressed a desire to be more utilized through the county, it is important to remember that they are a small operation and do have their limits; However they hope you will reach out at 936-676-0354 if you find yourself in need of their services. We are truly blessed to have Mike and his services available to us in trying times such as these, and his sacrifices to help his lifelong community are inspiring.

3 Technologies to Help You Feel Connected to Far Away Loved Ones

By

-

April 8, 2020

When it’s not possible to be near loved ones, being connected becomes more important.

Here are three technologies to feel closer to friends and family, wherever they may be:

Stream in Sync

Streaming services like Netflix are introducing new features allowing users to watch programming in sync with their friends. Whether it’s the latest episode of your favorite reality game show or a movie you’ve all been excited to see, now you can host a virtual movie night or watch-party and share your reactions to the show in a real-time chat room.

Play Games Online

Many games found in app stores have the capability for multiplayer sessions whether its with a family member or friend on the other side of the world or right next to you on the couch. For many of us there has been an increase in the amount of free time that we have so why not get online and play a game to pass the time. Virtual Family Game nights are on.

Workout, Together

Have a gym buddy or workout partner who is suddenly remote? New tools can help you motivate one another and stay fit together, even if you are far apart. Some of the latest stationary bikes and treadmills on the market now allow you to connect to classes and coaches in real-time and have features that allow you to enjoy realistic city and countryside scenery as you sweat. Join the same class as a friend and compete against each other, or take a virtual tour of a city together.

Thanks to new technologies, the world doesn’t need to feel so big. Embrace the tools that let you feel close and connected.

-Statepoint

Coronavirus and Alzheimer’s: What Family Caregivers Need to Know

By

-

April 8, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic threatens the health of millions in this country and around the world, but the novel coronavirus presents unique challenges for more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s and more than 16 million family members and friends serving as their caregivers.

“Public health strategies aimed at limiting contact with others are nearly impossible for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias who rely on family caregivers and others to live their daily lives,” says Beth Kallmyer, vice president, care and support, Alzheimer’s Association. “This reality affects these individuals across all settings, including home, adult day services, residential and assisted living facilities and nursing homes.”

To help family caregivers navigate the complex COVID-19 environment, the Alzheimer’s Association is offering additional guidance to families, including:

• Foster safe hygiene habits. People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias may forget to wash their hands or follow other precautions to ensure safe hygiene. Caregivers are encouraged to be extra vigilant in helping individuals practice safe hygiene.

• Monitor sudden or sustained behavior changes. People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias may not be able to communicate if they are feeling bad or showing early symptoms of illness. Caregivers should monitor family members closely and respond quickly to any signs of distress, discomfort or increased confusion. These signs do not necessarily indicate a serious condition like COVID-19, but it’s important to determine the underlying cause.

• Prepare for potential changes in care and support. As public health containment strategies for COVID-19 escalate, families need to anticipate that less help may be available. It’s important for families to anticipate these changes and make plans for filling gaps in caregiving.

• Be calm and create a nurturing environment. The current COVID-19 pandemic is creating added anxiety for everyone. Do your best to remain calm, particularly in your interactions with family members living with dementia. These individuals often take their cues from the people around them. Creating a calm environment will help them feel safe and protected.

• Play gatekeeper with outside caregivers and guests. Carefully monitor who is coming into the home to ensure all who enter are healthy. Be proactive in asking outside caregivers and guests about their current health status and make sure they are not experiencing any early or recent symptoms of illness.

• Ask residential care facilities about communication policies. To protect the health of residents, many facilities are restricting access to outside visitors. Ask the facility about alternative communication methods during the crisis, including phone calls, video chats or emails. If your family member is unable to engage in calls or video chats, ask the facility how you can connect with staff to get health updates.

For more information, visit alz.org, the website of the Alzheimer’s Association or call its free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Many primary caregivers are not good about asking for help even as care responsibilities escalate. It’s important for family members and friends to be proactive during the current crisis in asking caregivers how they can help.

-Statepoint

HHS is Hiring Right Now at State Hospitals and State Supported Living Centers

By

-

April 8, 2020

Untitled design (81) — The CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial Lufkin surgical technologists include (from left to right) Cindy Cearley, Leslie Friday, Solymar Torres, Tyson Hines and Kirstie Russell (Not pictured: Stephen Childress, Stephanie Dilday, Jamie Flournoy, Kenny Frasher, Denita Kinger-Cruz, Raul Ramirez, Carols Solorzano, Crystal Wilson and Rhonda Winebremer).

Texas Health and Human Services is seeking to hire for hundreds of available positions, including psychiatrists, nurses, psychiatric nurse assistants, and direct care support staff, at its state supported living centers and state hospitals throughout the state.

“People who want to make a difference and help others will find a meaningful career with Texas HHS,” said Mike Maples, HHS Deputy Executive Commissioner for the Health and Specialty Care System, which operates facilities across the state. “This is an opportunity to be on the front lines of changing lives and giving back to your communities, your state and your fellow Texans.”

Texas HHS offers many benefits to employees, including career advancement, paid training, health and dental insurance, and paid vacation and sick leave. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment.

To apply for jobs, candidates can visit the jobs page. Career counselors and job seekers can also contact a recruiter by emailing healthcareers@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Texas HHS operates 13 state supported living centers that provide 24-hour residential care, medical services and vocational training for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The state supported living centers are located in: Abilene; Austin; Brenham; Corpus Christi; Denton; El Paso; Lubbock; Lufkin; Mexia; Richmond; Rio Grande; San Angelo; and San Antonio.

The agency also operates 10 state hospitals that provide acute inpatient psychiatric care for adults, children and adolescents. The state hospitals are located in: Austin; Big Spring; El Paso; Kerrville; Rio Grande; Rusk; San Antonio; Terrell; Vernon; and Wichita Falls. HHS also operates a residential treatment center for youth in Waco.

More information on the Health and Specialty Care System and its mission of individualized care be found here.

How and Why to Keep Kids on A Schedule During School Closures

By

-

April 8, 2020

School closures have forced families nationwide to readjust to the current reality. However, a sense of structure is important for children’s developmental growth. To create a routine for your kids that sticks, consider the following tips:

• Just because there is no formal school day doesn’t mean kids should sleep in or stay up late at night. Keep the same bedtimes, wake-up routines and mealtimes you always maintained during a regular school week. Doing so will bookend the mornings and evenings with a sense of normalcy.

• Mimic a school day to the best of your ability. Use the distance-learning tools your child’s teachers offer as well as other educational apps and resources to have kids focus on different school subjects. This will help break up the day into little chunks just as would happen in the classroom. Be sure to build in time for art projects, exercise and music. Most importantly, don’t forget “recess.” If possible, allow children to play in the backyard where they can socially distance from neighbors, or set up an area of your home for playtime.

• Evenings are a good time to relax and unwind together. Play board games, watch your children’s favorite movies or even use the many resources available online to enjoy a virtual walking tour of a museum, botanical garden or zoo. This is also a good time to allow children to connect with their friends using video chat or with family members they are not currently able to see in-person.

• For many children, screens are their greatest distraction. For this reason, one of the best ways to ensure your children stay focused on the schedule you create for them is by managing their screen time.

One easy way to do so with less direct intervention from you (since you are likely busy yourself!) is by using a screen time monitoring and scheduling tool like the OurPact app. Get started by signing up for a free account and pairing your children’s devices. From there, you will be able to manage devices remotely to create a schedule that keeps kids offline when they need to be focused on other things. It can also be customized to allow children to visit and use only certain learning sites or apps during particular hours of the day. Because this schedule lives on the children’s devices as well, you’ll be giving them the comfort of a routine. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com.

During these challenging times, it can be tempting to let your family routine fly out the window. By using new tools such as distance-learning programming and schedule management apps, you can keep kids to a schedule that makes them ultimately happier and healthier.

-Statepoint

New, Free Program Empowers Parents to Boost Early Learning

By

-

April 7, 2020

Science has consistently shown that the first three years of life are vital to a child’s developing brain, and new research confirms that families play an important role in language development and educational readiness.

“We’ve seen first-hand in our research what a positive impact parents can have in the process,” says Dr. Dana Suskind, professor of surgery and co-director of the TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health at the University of Chicago.

Preliminary results from a five-year study, supported through a $3 million grant by the PNC Foundation and conducted by the TMW Center, reveal that parents improved their toddler’s language environments by increasing conversational turns almost four times more than parents in the control group. These findings are particularly meaningful because they mirror new and emerging research that points to the importance of conversational turn-taking in building a child’s language and cognitive skills.

These results are generating attention and investment in programs like “Any Time is 3Ts Time,” a campaign launched by the TMW Center that’s designed to empower parents with the knowledge and skills needed to make the most of everyday interactions with their young children.

The campaign, which is supported by an additional $3.3 million grant from the PNC Foundation, is built on the “3Ts” — Tune In, Talk More and Take Turns — and includes the distribution of online and print materials to parents through a network of community partners, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. The free, easy-to-use resources at the3Ts.org will become available in both English and Spanish in early 2020 and eventually include access to an interactive web-based app.

The grant, which is supported through PNC Grow Up Great, a bilingual $500 million, multi-year initiative helping prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life, also will support the TMW Center’s “Let’s Talk!” parent group program, which is designed for deeper 3Ts engagement and includes real-time coaching and in-person sessions. The group program will debut in Chicago and later extend to early education programs in other U.S. cities.

“We recognized an opportunity to develop high-quality, early educational resources for families with children under age three. Now, with proven research from the TMW Center, we are able to support their effort to make new resources accessible to millions of parents and caregivers across the country,” says Sally McCrady, chair and president at the PNC Foundation.

Access to high-quality early education and resources is critical for a child’s success in school and life. Thanks to new programs based on scientific research, more children are going to start school ready to thrive and learn.

-Statepoint

April 7th, 1913- “Mr. Sam” Rayburn Becomes a Congressman

By

-

April 7, 2020