Posts by Ferrell Foster
Finding unity through the crisis
By Jamie Willmann In a time where much dissension exists, where the world is hurting out of a lack of love and community, and where isolation has hindered social interaction, we can find a sense of connection in the most unexpected places. There is benefit in meeting someone who is experiencing the same trials or…
Read MoreTeaching gets a boost from alternative certification program
By Mia O’Suji Upon entering my first year of college, I was unaware of systemic inequities in our education system and how they would play the largest role in the trajectory of my life. The residual effects of these systemic challenges led me to obtain a bachelor’s degree in English, with a minor in education.…
Read MoreFruit of the month: Pumpkins
Happy fall, y’all! I hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather as much as I am. The fruit I will feature in this blog is often mistaken as a vegetable, an all-time favorite the pumpkin. Pumpkins bring forth a bit of nostalgia, thinking of my late grandmother who would give us sun-toasted pumpkin seeds. I…
Read MorePlenty of free COVID-19 testing available in October
Surge testing available at the following sites and times: All tests are FREE. Pre-register or register on-site. All tests are the self-administered nasal swab taken from the lower nasal passage.For any updates to location and dates, please check: COVIDWACO.COM Pre-Register Here All sites open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Bring your voucher to you test appointment. If…
Read More10 Waco organizations collaborate to promote free mental health services
City of Waco Strategic Communications Workgroup MEDIA RELEASE Ten Waco organizations are partnering with Heart of Texas MHMR to promote free, confidential mental health services available to all Central Texans. Mental health needs have risen with COVID-19, and these organizations want community members to know there is help available at no cost to the recipient. Heart of Texas MHMR…
Read MoreWaco leaders stress safe practices & flu shots
By Ferrell Foster Five Waco civic, health, and school leaders Wednesday encouraged the people of Greater Waco to think of their neighbors and to be careful how they are involved in gatherings and celebrate the Labor Day weekend. They also stressed the importance of getting a flu shot. With the holiday coming and football season…
Read MoreFruit of the month: Apples
By Paula Solano As we to transition into the 2020-2021 school year, we can appreciate how our school and health systems work collectively to ensure the safety of students and educators. I find apples, a seasonal fruit often associated with both health and education, appropriate for this season. Extended workdays, possible home schooling, and other responsibilities…
Read MoreForum to focus on Waco’s water future
By Melissa Mullins Waco and the suburbs and rural areas in McLennan County are home to about 250,000 people. Our tap water comes from water sources such as Lake Waco and the Trinity Aquifer. Visitors contribute to our tourist economy and may experience the Brazos River downtown. Manufacturing and agriculture are both strong economic sectors for Greater Waco…
Read MoreState launches enhanced postpartum care services
NEWS RELEASE The Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced today the launch of HTW Plus, enhanced postpartum care services for eligible women enrolled in the Healthy Texas Women program. Beginning Sept. 1, about 90,000 HTW clients will automatically receive this new postpartum care coverage for up to 12 months. While all women in HTW…
Read MoreCOVID-19 vs. The Flu
By Kayla Gilchrist Oftentimes, many people confuse COVID-19 and its risks with influenza (flu), believing they are relatively the same. “It’s not that serious; it’s just like the flu.” “Why can’t they find a seasonal vaccine for coronavirus like they did for the flu?” “I’ve had the flu before so I’m pretty sure I can…
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