Ask God to help you hear Him and understand His will in every circumstance.
Think about a time when you were highly distracted—it’s unlikely you were able to hear God at all. Sometimes, when that happens, the Lord chooses to speak through unusual circumstances .Consider Moses in the third chapter of Exodus. Though well-educated and raised by royalty, he was exiled to the wilderness. He was no doubt surprised by such a turn of events and preoccupied by fear, disappointment, and pride. But God had big plans for Moses. So He arranged something that the shepherd couldn’t ignore: a burning bush. Even more startling, the Lord spoke to Moses through it! And Scripture gives other examples, such as Balaam’s donkey being given the ability to speak (Num. 22:28). Sometimes this is exactly how God works—by doing something so unusual that we have no choice but to stop, look, and listen. It is helpful to recognize God in every circumstance, from the wild and unexpected to the simple and ordinary. By spending time in His Word and in prayer, we can get better and better at perceiving Him. And then, whether our situation seems unbelievably good or unbearably bad, we are wise to step back and ask the Lord to help us view the matter from His perspective.
To maximize your potential every day, you can follow seven simple steps:
- Remind Yourself of the Big Picture: Start by clarifying your life's purpose and reasons for getting up in the morning. Understand your "why" to stay motivated and focused. Write down your ideal life and 30 reasons why it's essential for you.
- Create a Plan: Plan your week in advance, setting realistic goals and breaking them down into smaller, actionable steps. This will keep you on track and help you celebrate your achievements.
- Treat Time as Gold: Efficient time management is crucial. Learn to manage your time effectively, use timers to stay focused, and explore different time management strategies daily.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive outlook on life. Reflect on ten positive things at the end of each day. A positive perspective is essential for maximizing your potential.
- Do One Thing at a Time: Avoid distractions and multitasking. Focus on one task at a time, and eliminate time-wasting activities like excessive phone use and email checking.
- Don't Forget to Rest: Adequate rest is vital for maintaining energy levels and reducing stress. Prepare for a good night's sleep by relaxing before bed with soothing activities.
- Make Life Simpler: Simplify your daily routine by planning ahead. Make decisions like wake-up time, outfit, and meals the night before to free up mental space for more critical choices.
Maximizing your potential isn't just about work but also about managing your time, staying positive, and taking care of your overall well-being. By following these steps, you can boost your productivity, enhance your happiness, and lead your best life. Remember, small, daily decisions can significantly impact your ability to make more substantial life choices.
The UTRGV Spirit Program earlier this month announced the search for UTRGV students – current and future – to be part of the university’s inaugural Drill Team.
The drill team is another part of UTRGV’s efforts to expand the UTRGV Spirit Program after students voted to support growing programs in 2021. The team will perform at future football games, parades and other community events.
“Now that there will be a drill team, I am confident that there will be an increase in student involvement, and enhanced school spirit and pride,” said Sel Gomez, head coach of UTRGV Spirit Programs. “As ambassadors of the university, the drill team will continue to support athletic games during football season, creating excitement and encouraging fan attendance.”
The new drill team workshop is Nov. 4, welcoming high school juniors, seniors and current UTRGV students. The tryouts are Nov. 18 and open to high school seniors and current UTRGV students.
Tryouts will be conducted by a panel of two to three judges, who will evaluate a series of choreographed routines that may include audition routines, high-kick sequences, technique and fight song choreography.
Students interested in learning more about the drill can fill out the form here: https://link.utrgv.edu/drillteam/. For any other questions, email [email protected].
Featuring: Poder Del Norte, Los Palominos, David Lee Garza, Jay Perez, & Alicia C.
Mercedes, TX. - The City of Mercedes is gearing up to host its 15th Annual largest Labor Day Weekend Festival in South Texas, closing the event with Poder Del Norte.
The 15th Annual Texas Street Festival will be on Saturday, September 2, from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
The celebration will be downtown, the heart of Mercedes, on the corner of Texas Business 83 and 5th Street. It will showcase the downtown business community. Attendees get to explore Mercedes’ preserved history with buildings from the 1920s and walk around to explore the businesses.
“We have worked so hard the past 6 months. It is a large volunteer group that includes the Chamber of Commerce, the Development Corporation, Public Works, Police Department, fire department, other city staff, and student groups from Mercedes I.S.D.” says Fred Gonzalez, Chamber of Commerce President.
Fred has been active with the chamber for 19 years. “15 years ago, we did some research to figure out what big event we can pull off showcasing downtown and being considerate to other RGV cities, making sure we don’t have an event in the same month. The first Texas Street festival we started off with about 5,000 people and we all feel extremely proud that it’s grown to 20,000 plus”, says Fred.
The event promises plenty of food, drinks, arts and crafts and informational booths along with free rides for kids, a car show, a wrestling match and more!
Headlining the main stage will be Poder Del Norte, Los Palominos, David Lee Garza, Jay Perez, & Alicia C.
If you are in the mood of Good Music, Good Food and exploring the heart of the City in Mercedes, Come on down!
For more information on the Mercedes Texas Street Festival or to purchase a table please call 565-2221.
EDCOUCH, Texas – AT&T supplied Prairie View A&M with laptops to distribute to Edcouch-Elsa ISD students on Aug.14. The laptops, were funded by an AT&T donation. This effort is an element of the AT&T Connected Learning initiative, which is part of their companywide, $2 billion commitment from 2021- 2023 to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability, and safe adoption.
Recognizing the importance of technology in today’s education landscape Prairie View A&M organized the distribution of 50 laptops to students in the Edcouch community. The heartwarming gesture took place at the Edcouch Community Center. Distinguished attendees were Paco Sanchez from Texas State Representative Oscar Longoria’s office, Senator Morgan LaMantia, and Dr. Benavidez: E-E ISD Superintendent.
AT&T and Human-I-T, a nonprofit that aims to create equitable access to the Internet, partnered to help address the digital divide; Furthermore, provided the Edcouch community with the connectivity, computers, and digital skills needed for success in school and life.
State Sen. Morgan LaMantia addressed the importance of technology and appreciation of AT&T and Human-I-T for their donation to the Edcouch community.
“On behalf of our community, I extend heartfelt gratitude to AT&T for their generous laptop donation. A significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering our students,” City of Edcouch Mayor Virginio Gonzalez said. “Technology serves as a powerful tool that empowers students to explore limitless possibilities and expand their horizons. Access to the internet, devices, and skills are needed to benefit from the online world,” Gonzalez said
"AT&T is proud to collaborate with organizations like Human-I-T to help close the digital equity gap in Edcouch. Many students here lack the devices and digital literacy they need for online learning and other online opportunities. Access to computers is vital in helping to bridge the digital divide and we are glad we can assist in providing these resources to those who need them most," said J.D. Salinas, vice president of External Affairs for AT&T.
As the Rio Grande Valley sun unleashes its scorching rays, we find ourselves seeking relief from the heat. Understanding the significance of staying cool during this season and adopting precautionary measures is essential to safeguarding our health and well-being. Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness that occurs when the body's core temperature rises to dangerously high levels, exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a medical emergency that demands immediate attention, as it can lead to organ failure, brain damage, and even death if left untreated. Individuals at a higher risk for heat stroke include the elderly, young children, and athletes. Individuals with heart, lung, or kidney disease, diabetes, and those on medications are more likely to experience heat stress problems.
Our bodies function optimally within a specific temperature range. When exposed to excessive heat, our internal cooling mechanisms can become overwhelmed. High temperatures cause excessive sweating, leading to dehydration which can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function, affecting our ability to perform daily tasks efficiently.
Fortunately, preventing heat strokes and other heat-related illnesses is relatively simple when adhering to the following precautions. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration. Limit direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. Seek shade whenever possible or create shade using umbrellas or canopies. Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to allow better air circulation and reflect sunlight. Take advantage of cooling methods such as fans, air conditioning, or cool baths/showers to bring down your body temperature. Keep a close eye on the elderly, children, and those with chronic health conditions during hot weather. Ensure they stay cool and hydrated.
Summer is a time of enjoyment and relaxation, but it also demands our respect for the dangers it can pose. Staying cool during the is essential for preserving our health and preventing heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. For more information contact Hidalgo County Family & Community Health Agent Tina Munoz at (956) 383-1026
It's easy to neglect our health amidst the demands of work and daily responsibilities. However, taking care of ourselves should be a top priority, as it directly impacts workplace performance and overall well-being. To achieve the most health benefits, it's essential to focus on three critical aspects: sleep, diet, and exercise.
When it comes to diet, convenience often lures us towards greasy, fast food options. However, research reveals that unhealthy eating can negatively affect productivity. On the other hand, consuming healthy foods boosts work engagement. Unhealthy evening eating can lead to emotional and physical strain the next morning, resulting in decreased performance.
Sleep plays a vital role in brain and heart health. Getting around seven hours of sleep per night can significantly enhance mental awareness, reduce fatigue, and decrease the risk of accidents. Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, leads to higher blood pressure levels, reduced brain function, and overall well-being. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and resisting the temptation to oversleep are essential steps in combating chronic sleeplessness. By prioritizing adequate rest, we can perform better in our daily tasks.
Exercise is a powerful tool for relieving stress and depression while promoting physical fitness. Treating workouts as an essential aspect of personal success rather than an optional activity is key. Prioritizing exercise means finding time for physical activity despite a busy schedule, and integrating it seamlessly into daily life. This might involve rearranging daily routines, exercising with family members, or incorporating workouts into daily activities.
Balancing these three components can be challenging, but finding creative solutions and making them a seamless part of daily life is essential. By consciously investing in self-care, we can unlock our full potential and lead fulfilling lives both at work and beyond.
The journey to self-discovery during uncertain times can be overwhelming. However, there are five crucial steps that can help you find your way towards a more fulfilling path.
Take time out
Taking time out is essential.. Instead of hurrying to find solutions, allow yourself the opportunity to contemplate the unknown. Embrace solitude, engage in meditation, or write in a journal to reconnect with your inner self and gain clarity on your fundamental beliefs.
Feel your emotions
Next, embrace your emotions. When you look inside yourself, hidden emotions might come up, and they can teach you important things. Fear is often the reason for uncertainty, but when you understand and experience different emotions, it makes them less confusing and less strong.
Explore your passions
Find what you love to do. Discover small things or hobbies that truly bring you joy and do them. This shift of attention away from overthinking creates a cycle of happiness, leading you to feel fulfilled in the end.
Take inspired Action
Inspired action is when you do things that match your true desires and make you feel good. If you've been trying hard but not getting anywhere, it might mean you're not on the right track. To do inspired action, focus on what you really want and let life happen naturally.
Let go of the outcome
Lastly, let go of the outcome. Embrace unpredictability and release the need to control everything. Embracing the unknown allows personal growth and opens the door to remarkable discoveries and experiences.
To sum up, not knowing what to do next doesn't mean you failed; it just shows that change is necessary. Your journey may be a straight path or involve many transformations, and both are okay and unique to you. Embrace change, as it will happen, and it leads to growth and transformation in your life. Remember, facing the unknown directly helps you build a better and more satisfying future.
Over 700 patients will receive free dental care including cleanings, fillings, and extractions during a Texas Mission of Mercy(TMOM) popup clinic Sep. 15-16 at Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg. Pre screenings dates are Aug. 26 at Nuestra Clinica del Valle in San Juan and Sep. 9 at Nuestra Clinica del Valle in Mission, both days from 8a.m -2p.m.
TMOMs are designed to bring dental services to individuals who cannot obtain care any other way. The usual model for TMOM patients is based on a first come, first served basis. Due to COVID-19 all patients will be prescreened a few weeks before the event and given an appointment time for the event. The free dental clinic will be at the Bert Ogden Arena 4900S 1-69C Edinburg, Tx beginning at 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Volunteer dentists and dental students from across the country performed cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) is a mobile dental clinic that travels around the state providing charitable basic dental care to Texans with limited resources and/or access to care. Local community support along with dental and non-dental volunteers from across the state come together at the community's venue. Up to 700 patients may be seen during the 2 day events depending upon the size of the clinic's set up. Volunteer dental professionals' primary focus is on relieving pain and preventing infection by providing extractions, fillings, and cleanings. In limited cases, replacing missing front teeth or repairing partial dentures may be available to restore a smile.
“We have dental students from California here,” said Jen Banton, chair of the Access to Care Committee for Texas Mission of Mercy. “They might go to school in California, but they can still come and help. They can’t provide care because their license isn’t good in Texas, but when we have students from (Texas) A&M or (University of Texas), we have adjunct professors that they can work under.”
There will be 2 pre-screening events that will be held at two different clinics located in San Juan and Mission, Texas prior to the event. Here patients will be evaluated and will have a treatment plan set up to be completed at the TMOM event. To streamline the process and minimize wait times on the actual event days, it is highly recommended, but not required, to attend one of the pre-screening dates. This will ensure a smoother and more efficient treatment experience on the day of the clinic.
The detailed schedule and locations are as follows:
Dates for pre-screening below:
| Both days will run from 8 AM – 2 PM! |
| August 26, 2023: |
| Nuestra Clinica del Valle |
| Location: 801 W 1st St, San Juan, TX 78589 |
| September 9, 2023: |
| Nuestra Clinica del Valle |
| Location: 611 N Bryan Road, Mission, TX 78572 |
Alexander Acha has been named Mr. Amigo 2023 by the Mr. Amigo Association. The announcement and poster unveiling ceremony took place at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts and was hosted by the Mexican Consulate and the City of Brownsville. This award is given annually to a Mexican citizen who has contributed to fostering friendship between the United States and Mexico.
Alexander Acha is a well-known award-winning singer-songwriter with a passion for music. He is recognized for his songwriting talent, production abilities, and gifted singing. The President of the Mr. Amigo Association, Graciela Salazar, praised Acha's musical abilities and highlighted his upcoming participation in the Mr. Amigo festivities in Brownsville.
The Mr. Amigo festivities were August 2-6, 2023. These dates coincide with the United Nations International Week of Friendship, which aims to promote dialogue, solidarity, and mutual understanding among various communities and nations. The United Nations General Assembly was inspired by the idea that friendship between different peoples and countries can contribute to peace efforts and bridge-building.
City officials and their families celebrated the unity and friendship between Brownsville and Matamoros. Brownsville Mayor John Cowen met with Matamoros Mayor Mario Lopez Hernandez and spoke about the positive relationship and mutual respect the cities have for one another.“Thank you and may the friendship between Brownsville and Matamoros continue to thrive for years to come,” Cowen said.
The Mr. Amigo Association, established in 1964, bestows the title of Mr. Amigo to Mexican citizens who have played a role in fostering friendship between the United States and Mexico. The tradition began with the induction of Mexican President Miguel Aleman Valdes as the first Mr. Amigo honoree. The association has continued this tradition by recognizing remarkable Mexican individuals who have contributed to international goodwill through their professions.
The Mr. Amigo Association's selection process is carried out by a committee composed of past presidents. The chosen honoree should be a Mexican citizen who has contributed to fostering friendship and understanding between the U.S. and Mexico, while also excelling in their profession and exemplifying high personal and professional standards.
The Mr. Amigo Association is a non-profit organization run by community volunteers. For more information, you can visit their website at MrAmigo.com.
