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APRIL 2021 Volume 10.1, Issue 12 3900 N. 1st Street, Suite #2 Abilene, Texas 79603 (325) 673-4521 www.HispanicLifeMedia.com [currently under construction]
PUBLISHER David A. Hernandez EDITOR HispanicLife Magazine editorial@hispaniclifemedia.com ADVISING EDITOR AND ACCEPTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Amy Hernández Helen Holguin info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 673-4521 Office
ADVERTISING SALES • Donna Lee (325) 518-8994 donna.lee@amclassabilene.com
• David Hernandez (325) 518-7091 sales@hispaniclifemedia.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Debbie Heep Sheila Baccus info@hispaniclifemedia.com
About Us
We are dedicated to serving the Abilene and the Big Country by providing up-to-date information and resources that promote healthy families and homes. We also promote our clients businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images within the Hispanic community. HispanicLife Magazine is published on a monthly basis and is owned & operated locally. Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. HispanicLife and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. HispanicLife does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. 2020 HispanicLIfe Media
All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without permission from the publisher. www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine
Spring is in the air or so it seems. Thankful that this spring is beginning to seem a bit back to normal. We are seeing more people out and about. Yes, still being cautious, but definitely enjoying life more than we have in the past several months; or year to say the least. So many of us are making the trip to Lowe’s and Home Depot getting beautiful flowers to plant, cute patio rugs and new patio furniture, and even getting your gardens prepped for this new season. All the hustle and bustle of prepping for this new season sometime makes us forget to take the time to be appreciative for all the blessings that are surrounding us already. We hope you have a great April along with your family members and friends. Take it slow, and don’t forget the small things in life. Blessings to you and yours! Amy Hernandez & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife Front Cover Photography by: CHAPA IMAGES • www.Chapa-Images.com
(325) 455-4770 FLORAL DESIGN by ‘Flower Boss’ PHOTO LOCATION at ‘Refuge Ranch’ (Pictured: Max & Liad Flores)
Join Us
April 22nd for our 82nd Annual Meeting. Members are invited to join us for a drive-through Annual Meeting at our Merkel Headquarters located at 226 CR 287, Merkel, TX 79536. Gates open at 10:30 a.m. and will remain open until 6:30 p.m.
4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Texas’ Newest State Park Just a Four-Hour Drive from San Antonio
Palo Pinto is first state park to open in nearly two decades By Camille Sauers | MySA
Outdoors lovers, rejoice: the development of Texas’ first new state park in nearly two decades is currently underway. Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, located about four hours north of San Antonio and 75 miles west of Fort Worth, spans nearly 5,000 acres and includes rolling hills, stunning vistas and a massive body of water called Tucker Lake. Once open, Texans can head to Palo Pinto for hiking, camping, fishing and more. It will also include an extensive network of trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Other highlights include RV parks, primitive camp sites, playgrounds and picnic areas. When that opening date might be, however, is still unknown.
The project began in 2011 when a 3,300-acre portion of former ranch land was purchased by Texas Parks & Wildlife. Currently, Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the state’s parks department, is working to raise about $9 million for Palo Pinto. The state park opening process is multi-phased and informed by a lot of surveying. Though the financial goal has yet to be met, building and development has officially, if tentatively, kicked off. If you want to donate to the Texas State Park effort, whether you want to help conserve the land (or selfishly want to expedite the road trip scheduled on your calendar) you can contribute online at https://rb.gy/uaotex.
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LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS
Anson Police Chief named City’s ‘Man of the Year’ By Jessica Ranck | BigCountryHomePage
The Anson Chamber of Commerce has “He gave people second chances where you named its Man of the Year for 2020. wouldn’t think anyone else would give them a second chance,” said Sanchez. The chamber selected Anson Police Chief Coy Sanchez, who took over for former After Thompson’s passing, Sanchez stepped Chief Jack Thompson after his passing. up. Sanchez grew up in Anson and spent many “It was basically nothing to it, but to do it,” years driving up and down the main road in said Sanchez. town. If you asked him 20 years ago what he’d be driving in his mid-30s, a car with the word ‘Chief’ on the back wasn’t it.
After two years of preparation the Grace museum has be Re-accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. (AAM) Accreditation is a rigorous process by which the AAM certifies that a museum adheres to the highest form of care for their collections. Display, storage, how the museum conducts themselves to the public, all of these things and more play a major role in accreditation. The Grace first received this honor in 2002 and this year it was re-affirmed. Making the Grace one of only 1,070 out of 33,000 museums in the nation and only 49 in Texas to hold this status. The Grace will be reopening on May 1st 2021 with a completely remodeled children’s museum on the 2nd floor.
“Growing up I never dreamed of being a police officer or cop or anything like that,” said Chief Sanchez.
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Sanchez’s career in law enforcement started back in 2012. He fell into a job at the Taylor County Jail and then took a spot at the Anson Police Depart- Now Sanchez sits where Thompson once ment. did, in the chief’s spot. “I always wanted to be a servant, give back He says it hasn’t been easy without him, but to whatever was given to me,” said Sanchez. he’s still using what he learned from the former chief and bringing it to the new generAs years passed, he found himself the right- ation. hand man to former Chief Jack Thompson. “Just being transparent and open and honest with the public. Because if we cant be that with them, then they can’t be that with us,” said Sanchez. Sanchez was officially appointed Chief in July of 2020. He leads a team of five officers.
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Turn Your Trash into Treasure By HealthAdvocateBlog
On warm spring weekends, people are advertising yard and garage sales in neighborhoods across America. It can be hard to drive anywhere this time of year without seeing a sign posted on a telephone pole or hung up on the local community board. And there is good reason – summer is a great time to clean out your home and possibly make a profit in the process. Decluttering can be stress relieving, and bringing in extra cash can help you reach upcoming financial goals (a vacation, perhaps?). Follow these steps to help you get started.
perk of a garage or yard sale, you also want to keep in mind that people coming to shop are looking for a deal. The big goal is to clear clutter from your home for a more relaxing, less stressful environment. Consider grouping items to sell faster, like 10 books for $5 or fill a shopping bag with baby clothes for $10. If you have higher value items you want to get more money for, consider working with a consignment shop instead. There are boutiques that specialize in high-end clothing, baby items, and more, and it is likely you’ll fetch a better price than with a typical yard sale.
Clear out the excess. This may be the tough-
Make it a party. The only thing more enticing
est part of the process – identifying items to possibly sell. Try tackling one room at a time and sorting through all the clothing, kitchen gadgets, books and tchotchkes, asking yourself if you really need each piece or if you have used it in the past year. If the answer to either question is no, you’ve found a good candidate. Sort items into three categories: •Trash – These are items in poor condition or that have no value to others (clothing beyond repair, chipped or cracked dishes, broken appliances). Determine if you can recycle them in any way, but otherwise, put them out with next week’s garbage. •Donate – If you have clothing, shoes, or toys that are in decent condition but may not be stylish or new enough to sell, consider donating them. Check out local shelters or an organization like Green Drop that will pick up donations at your home. •Sell – These should be items still in great condition that you just no longer need. Perhaps extra mugs taking up space in your cabinet, or a pair of pants you never wore because they don’t fit quite right. Once you’ve gone through all the rooms in your home, bring the “sell” items together to begin the next step.
Price to sell. While making money is a great
than a yard sale is a BIGGER yard sale. Ask your neighbors if they’d be interested in participating as well. Having more houses hosting sales will attract more buyers to your location, plus you’ll have more fun spending time with friends and neighbors.
Get the kids involved. Perhaps the kids can
host a lemonade stand or bake sale during the yard sale to make it more inviting. They can either put the proceeds toward their own bank accounts or perhaps pick a charity they want to support.
Advertise! Make sure people know about your
sale. Hang signs in the neighborhood, post announcements on community message boards and social media, put flyers on community bulletin boards, and more.
Decide your post-sale plan. Once the sale is
over, do not be tempted to keep what hasn’t sold. If you believe it still has value, you could try selling it online via eBay or Craigslist. Otherwise, plan to immediately donate the items so you can move on! Hosting a garage or yard sale may be a bit of work, but in the end it can be a win-win scenario. You make space in your home for the things you truly need and enjoy, someone else finds a new treasure, and you make a little extra cash! Happy selling!
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ACAC to Honor Hollywood Production Designer in May By Sidney Levesque | Abilene Cultural Affairs Council Marketing Director
The Abilene Cultural Affairs Council will host a special evening May 1 called “In the Heights of Hollywood” to celebrate the work of Nelson Coates, a movie and TV production designer and Abilene High School and Abilene Christian University graduate. This event benefits the HeARTS for the ARTS grant program, which supports Abilene’s nonprofit arts groups.
Nelson has worked on nearly 50 movies in numerous countries. His experience includes designing for in-camera physical effects such as pyrotechnics, explosions, collapses and complex moving sets. He was production designer for the film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway smash musical “In the
“We are thrilled to honor such a talented person who has risen to the top of his profession and is willing to take time to share an evening benefiting our grants program,” said Lynn Barnett, executive director of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council. This evening begins with dinner and drinks at the Center for Contemporary Arts, which will be transformed into an elegant Hollywood setting. During the dinner, fellow ACU alum and acclaimed artist Roland Diaz will create an original painting that will be auctioned. After dinner, we move to the Paramount Theatre, where Nelson with share moments on the big screen of his movie career, answer questions and receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. The night concludes with a glamorous dessert reception on the Paramount stage inspired by one of Nelson’s hit movies, “Crazy Rich Asians.” Tickets are $125 or $1,000 for tables of 8. Email info@abilenecac.org for reservations or visit our website at www.abilenecac.org/ hearts.
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Heights,” which tells the story of characters in the largely Hispanic-American neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York. The movie debuts June 11. Nelson worked with the same “In the Heights” director, Jon M. Chu, on the 2018 romantic comedy “Crazy Rich Asians.” For bringing to life Singapore wealth with decadent mansions and luxurious sets, Nelson won an Art Directors Guild award for Best Production Design.
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Celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of the Taylor County Coliseum at the Western Heritage Concert Featuring Country Music Icon Trace Adkins By Jim Vance | General Manager, KLGD 106.9 FM “The Country Giant”
Join us at the Taylor County Expo Center newly renovated Coliseum, on Saturday May 8th. It will be a very special evening as threetime ACM Award winner Trace Adkins performs for Abilene and the Big Country. Come celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of the Taylor County Coliseum. Tickets can be purchased at taylorcountyexpocenter.com (proceeds to benefit Taylor County Expo Center) About Trace Adkins Towering baritone Trace Adkins has sold more than 11 million albums and charted more than 20 singles in his 25 years in Nashville, a remarkable run for one of country music’s most easily identifiable stars. With over one billion spins on Pandora (10 million per month), one million followers on Spotify and nearly 200 million plays on YouTube, the Louisiana native has released his latest EP Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy via Verge Records. A three-time GRAMMY Award nominee, Adkins has won three Academy of Country Music Awards, including the 2009 Single of the Year Award for “You’re Gonna Miss This” and Vocal Event of the Year with Blake Shelton for “Hillbilly Bone” in 2010. The Grand Ole Opry member is also an author and spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Project and The American Red Cross, for whom he raised more than $1.5 million dollars as the winner of NBC’s All-Star Celebrity Apprentice. In recent years, Adkins has performed for U.S. service members across 12 USO Tours. In his 2007 autobiography, A Personal Stand: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck, Adkins recounts his rise to fame, brushes with death and battles with personal demons. Ad-
kins has also acted in multiple films and television shows, playing a tough-as-nails biker in “The Lincoln Lawyer” (starring Matthew McConaughey), a desperate father in “Deepwater Horizon” (starring Mark Wahlberg), a wise oracle and tattoo artist in the family friendly film “Moms’ Night Out” (starring Patricia Heaton, Sean Astin, Sarah Drew) and as MercyMe’s real-life manager, Brickell, in the box office smash “I Can Only Imagine.” The film was the third biggest selling movie on its opening weekend in America. His latest role was as a grandiloquent former general in the film “Badland,” which was released in select theaters and on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV in November 2019. For more information and announcements, visit http://www.traceadkins. com/ or on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @TraceAdkins.
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Tickets on sale now - go to: www.taylorcountyexpocenter.com to purchase tickets About KLGD
The Country Giant, 106.9 FM is the only station in Abilene that truly offers a format tailored toward the true country music listener. KLGD is celebrating 11 years of serving the Big Country. Programmed with the best Country Music ever recorded by artists like George Strait, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks, Trace Adkins, Johnny Lee and many more. For more information about KLGD, please visit our website at www.1069thecountrygiant.com or facebook/thecountrygiant
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Teenage HEB Cashier Befriended 89-year-old Customer Who Died of Covid-19
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By Ryan Wolf | Fox San Antonio
Video of a toddler giggling as her grandmother plays with bubbles is one of the last recordings of Margaret Zepeda. “Within a few days, she was feeling ill,” Amanda Stricker, Zepeda’s granddaughter told Fox San Antonio.
“Because she was the sweetest person that I’ve ever met,” the 19 year old said. Zepeda had shopped at the HEB in Pleasanton, every week, for decades. She looked for her friend ever since Garcia asked to help load her groceries.
The 89-year-old contracted Covid-19 shortly after the holidays. Doctors eventually placed her on a ventilator.
“She didn’t want my help,” he said laughingly. “She didn’t. She was like, ‘Oh, I can do it. I can do it.’”
“She only made it a few hours,” Stricker said. “When they called about the medicine, she had passed.”
Garcia helped anyway.
Services were held at Hurley Funeral home in Pleasanton early February. The pandemic greatly impacted attendance. But, out of the dozen or so people seen paying their respects in the chapel was a masked mystery man who sat in the back. “We went and looked at the guestbook, actually,” Stricker told Fox San Antonio’s Ryan Wolf. “And, we saw his name. And, so then that’s when my aunt realized who it was. And, then we noticed because he had his HEB mask on.” Stricker nominated that person for the CASH FOR KINDNESS award. “Jessie?” Wolf asked. Jessie Garcia, Jr. was surprised outside his home. “How are you my friend?” Wolf asked. “Good,” he responded with a smile. “I’m Ryan Wolf from Fox San Antonio.” Stricker told him she was coming over to give him some of her grandmother’s belongings. Garcia is 70 years younger than Zepeda. They were the unlikeliest of friends. “Why did you go to ‘Miss Maggy’s’ funeral?” Wolf asked.
“So, I took out her basket,” he recalled. “And, we were in the parking lot talking and getting to know each other. You know, by time I looked at the time, it was 30 minutes and I had to get back to work!” Stricker said her grandma shared hugs, holiday cards and swapped stories with the teenage cashier over the next three years. It gave the family a sense of relief knowing she was being looked after there. “To find out that you had taken a day off from work for the services just really, really meant a lot to us,” she told Garcia. “ We wanted Atascosa County to know, Bexar county to know, all of your friends and family to know, what a special person you are.” Wolf shared the real reason why he was there. “This is for you,” he told Garcia. Wolf handed him a stack of $100 bills. “$100, $200, $300, $400, $500,” Garcia counted. “Oh wow! That’s a surprise!” “Miss Maggy” may be gone. But, her family hopes her spirit will endure in other kind acts-sure to follow. “I’m speechless,” Garcia said as he stared at the money. “I’m at a loss for words, you know. It’s just something I do when I’m there. Be kind to people. Smile.”
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Courtesy of: HispanicLife Magazine
To place your loved ones obituary or to honor them with a special message, please contact our offices at: (325) 701-9505 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com
Eddie Cortez Martinez, 73, of Abilene, passed away on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Eddie was born on September 28, 1947, to Eufracio and Juanita Martinez in Mitchell, Nebraska. He entered the military in 1968 while in Colorado and was discharged in Abilene in 1970. He married the love of his life, Quiotilde “Tillie” Salazar in Abilene on April 14, 1974. Eddie was a painter in Abilene for nearly 56 years. Surviving Eddie is his wife Tillie, Sons; Eddie, Israel and Andy Martinez and daughter Micaela Martinez, adopted children; Eliana, Aubrey, Adrian and Jacob Martinez as well as seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by four sisters; Sara Rivas (Marciano), Miqueila Perez (Rudy), Anita Mayorga (Eloy) and Aida Mayorga (Jose) as well as many other extended family members and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, four brothers; Silverio, Johnny, Ruben and Willie Joe Martinez and two sisters, Christine Perez and Monica Proctor. Eddie was a committed Christian and a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, and brother. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com. Macario “Mickey” Villalovos was born on February 29th, 1932, (a Leap Year baby). He was born in Abilene, Texas to Arcadio and Apolonia Villalovos, whom he loved dearly. He attended public schools in Abilene and volunteered in the U.S. Army and served as a combat soldier during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1954. He attended Barber College in Dallas, Texas. In 1956 after graduation, he married the love of his life, Lupita Herrera. Mickey and Lupita were neighbors and grew up together as friends. Both were members of the St. Francis Catholic Church. Mickey was a good husband, father, grandfather, and provider for his family. He loved to dance and joke around; he was always the life of the party. Mickey and his brother-in-law, Cris Herrera had a barbershop at the NCO at Dyess Air Force Base and retired after 25 years. He then went to work with his brother-in-law Paul Herrera, at Paul’s Barber Shop before he opened his own shop, “Mickey’s Hair Cuttery.’ In addition, Mickey and his wife opened and operated Macario’s Mexican Restaurant from 1978 to 1995. Through his two businesses it was often joked Mickey
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knew more people in Abilene than the Mayor. Mickey and his wife Pita became the Patriarch & Matriarch of the Herrera family, after his in-laws passed. He and his wife hosted the majority of all the family get-togethers at their home on Mesquite Street, where they lived for 60 plus years. Mickey was a man of God with a beautiful soul, who will be missed by many. His brother-in-law, Tolo Avila would often say, “Mickey is always laughing and happy & is very content with his life”. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Felix C. Villalovos, Isabella “Chavela” Vallejo, Frances “Kika” Chavana, Angelina “Quelo” Aguero, Mary V. Jaramillo; and his bi-lingual great-grand puppy Chihuahua, Bedearie. He is survived by his loving wife, Lupita “Pita” Villalovos; devoted daughter, Dolores V. Watson (Ted); granddaughter, Patricia E. Gamon; siblings, Felix “Pelish” Villalovos, Paula “Pavo” Garcia; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special in-laws, Juan Jaramillo, Cris & Liz Herrera, Elizabeth M. Herrera, Anita Herrera, Helen (Elena) H. Avila, and John & Sylvia Herrera Private family services and military honors will be held at a later date.
Joe Hernandez Arispe, Jr., 68, of Eula died Saturday, April 3, 2021 at his home. Joe was born February 9, 1953 in Tyler, Texas to Joe Hernandez Arispe, Sr. and Josephina (Campos) Arispe. He graduated from high school in Healdsburg, California. He met the love of his life, Dawn Booth, and married her July 9, 1994. They moved to Texas from California in 2002. Joe worked as a Deputy Sheriff in San Diego for many years, retiring in 2004. After moving to Eula, he worked for Tige Boats from 2006 until leaving for medical reasons in 2021. He volunteered for the Eula Fire Department, serving as Assistant Chief from 2009 until 2015 and Fire Chief from 2015 until 2019. He was a member of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Retirement Association and the Protestant Church. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Dawn BoothArispe of Eula; eight children, MaKenna Dell, 19, Ricky Daniel, 15, Isaiah Dalton, 14, Adalena Danae, 13, Logan David, 12, twins, Parker Devan and Cooper Dean, 9 and Sawyer Dawn, 7; all of Eula; two sisters, Mary Virginia Nichols and husband Bill of Yuma, Arizona and Darlene Jacobs of Santa Rosa, California; father-in-law and mother-in-law, David and LaWanda Booth of Dudley; sister-in-law Amanda Vedro and husband John of Fort Worth; brothers-in-law, Matthew Booth and wife Sandy and Michael Booth, all of Dudley; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Linda Green and Dorothy Dale and uncle and aunt, Johnny and Carmen Campos. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Eula Volunteer Fire Department.
Abilene Taylor County Public Health Director Annette Lerma Receives Odis Dolton Good Neighbor Award By Marley Capper | BigCountryHomePage
During Sunday night’s State of The City ad- worthy,” said Lerma. dress, Mayor Anthony Williams awarded Director of Public Health Annette Lerma the The award is for people who cross lines to Odis Dolton Good Neighbor Award. improve the lives of others, in honor of Odis Dolton and his years of dedication and service “You’re going to make me cry,” said Lerma. to Abilene. It’s been a hard year for public servants, especially Lerma. “God gives enough strength for one day, and I have just held onto that each day, like, ‘Give me enough strength for this day,’ and so he’s been faithful,” said Lerma. She went from being behind the scenes to front and center after the city manager gave her more responsibility during the early stages of the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am probably not in the same league as Odis, but obviously very honored to be chosen and even be considered,” said Lerma. Lerma says she shares this award with volunteers and staff members like Hailey Shirley, who says Lerma has also been an incredible boss. “She makes it known that she cares about us and wants us to succeed,” said Shirley. Lerma also thanks her family. “They have sacrificed quite a bit for me,” said Lerma.
“‘I am appointing you the czar of COVID-19, are you ready for that?’ and I said, ‘Sure,’” said Lerma says her family has been her rock Lerma. through these times, and if it weren’t for them, she wouldn’t be where she is today. Since then she has worked around the clock to bring testing into the city, receive COVID grants, and to make Abilene a vaccination hub. Which is why she receiving the Good Neighbor award. “When they told me, I almost thought I wasn’t
Pick us up at Communities of Abilene FCU, SBDC & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 11
12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
11 Things You Should Never Put Down The Garbage Disposal By All Star Plumbing of Abilene
It’s a sure sign that something is in the garbage 7. Grease-This is one of the most common misdisposal when it shouldn’t. You could be looking takes with garbage disposals. When grease coos at an expensive and time-consuming repair. it becomes waxy and can coat your garbage disposal. Worse yet, it will clump together in your As useful as garbage disposals are, they can’t pipes and cause a clog. Never get rid of cooking break down everything. Here are the top things to grease by dumping it down the garbage disposal keep out of your garbage disposal. or any drain. 1. Bones-There’s a myth going around that bones 8. Non-Food Items-A misunderstanding that a are good for garbage disposals because they disposal can dispose of anything has led people to sharpen the blades. throw everything and anything down garbage disposals. We’re talking paper towels, grocery bags, Your garbage disposal doesn’t use samurai plastic wrappers, you name it. swords. The blades aren’t strong enough to break up bones. In fact, bones often chip them or break 9. Flour-The mixture forms a sticky paste. When them. that paste dries, it hardens. Whether it’s wet or dry, flour paste is a problem for your garbage dis2. Egg Shells-You posal. might think that because eggshells are fragile and The paste can congeal on organic, they’ll go down your shredder blades and your garbage disposal damage them. When it with ease. They might, gets down your drain, the but they could stick paste can form a clog too. around longer than you realize. 10. Pasta and rice-Pasta expands as it sits in waEggshells turn into a sand-like grit when a ga- ter and on top of the expansion, pasta gets sticky rage disposal breaks them up. They can get stuck when you grind it up. That combination leads to a throughout the inside of your garbage disposal, clogged pipe in a hurry. or worse, inside your pipes. Eggshells also have a thin but strong membrane inside them. This 11. Certain Vegetables-Certain vegetables that membrane can get stuck to the mechanism of have stringy textures and can wind around the your garbage disposal and break it. blades.The most common culprits are celery, asparagus, rhubarb, artichokes, and carrots. In 3. Coffee Grounds-When grounds get wet, they general, if it feels like you’re flossing your teeth stick together. They’ll clump together in your while you eat it, it shouldn’t go down your garpipes and form a major drain clog in a hurry. bage disposal. 4. Corn Husks-Husks have a stringy structure. When they get into your garbage disposal those strings wrap around your blades. They can damage the motor if they get into the right places.
Keeping the Blades Running on Your Garbage Disposal - Without a doubt, a garbage disposal is a handy appliance to have. It reduces the amount of trash you toss into landfills.
5. Nuts-When you toss nuts down the garbage disposal. In fact, they become stickier than typical peanut butter because they don’t have any added oils. This accidental peanut butter will stick to every part of your garbage disposer and can lead to a clogged drain and a call to a plumber.
It can only do that if you keep it running, though. With this list of things you should never put down the garbage disposer on hand, you can keep your garbage disposal and your pipes in tip-top shape.
We all make mistakes, though. If you’ve broken some of the rules above and your drain is slow, you could have a partial clog. Call our plumbing 6. Fruit Pits-The pits will end up bouncing team to clear the clog and get your pipes back in around in your garbage disposal, making a rack- business. et. If they find their way into your pipes, they can cause a clog. Give us a call today for your plumbing needs. 325-665-3251
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Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Zookini’s | COMMUNITY | 13
Children’s Art & Literacy Festival Back on Track! By Sidney Levesque | Abilene Cultural Affairs Council Marketing Director
The Children’s Art & Literacy Festival is back on track this summer with safety measures in place such as required face masks and enhanced cleaning. Tractors, trucks and bats of all kinds will take center stage at the festival June 10-12. The CALF will bring to life a variety of books by best-selling illustrator and author Loren Long. Downtown Abilene will be transformed into a storybook adventure with costumed characters, dramatic readings and performers at 17 venues. Postponing last year’s CALF was one of the hardest decisions the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council has had to make, said Lynn Barnett, the council’s executive director. She said it was the right thing to do given that most major events across the state and U.S. were canceled due to safety concerns with the pandemic. “We missed seeing all the families downtown wearing their CALF shirts and taking photos with our costumed characters,” Barnett said. “But it was more important to keep everyone safe. We’re thrilled to be able to host the festival this year.” The festival kicks off to the public on Thurs-
day night, June 10, with a Loren Long charac- art exhibition at the National Center for Chilter costume contest followed by the Storybook dren’s Illustrated Literature. Friday and SaturParade, the unveiling of bronze sculptures of day, festival registrants can choose from a vast selection of enriching activities scattered throughout downtown. Children collect keepsake buttons for their festival lanyards as they complete each activity, which includes dramatic readings of Long’s most popular books, train rides, musical instrument petting zoo, and perennial childhood favorites like a magician and balloon sculptor. New this year is a “Trucktown” Touch a Truck event where chilOtis the tractor and his dren can explore and calf friend and artist talk touch a variety of vehiand book signing. Long cles of all sizes. has written and illustrated nine books in the Otis the tractor series. The last festival drew nearly 5,300 Long has putt puff puttedy chuffed his way people from 91 Texas cities and 12 all over the bestseller lists with the Otis titles states. as well as a new edition of The Little Engine Could, the Trucktown series, Mr. Peabody’s Registration is open and passes are Apples by Madonna, Nightsong about Chiro $8 for children ages 3 to 12 (2 and the bat, and two baseball chapter book series. under are free) and $13 for ages 13 Long will be in Abilene for the opening of his and up. After May 15, passes cost
$11 for children and $16 for adults. CALF is presented by the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce dedicated to promoting the arts and enriching lives in Abilene. For more information and full schedule of events, visit www.abilenecalf.com or call 325-677-1161.
14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
HispanicLife Media
TEACHER TRIBUTE Sparkle Mitchell - Mann Middle School
SUMMER 2021
WE-CONNECT EXTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Nominate your teacher at: ArrowTeacherTribute.com
My inspiration to pursue a career in education came from my children. As my kids entered school I volunteered with PTA, booster club, etc. My children have had GREAT teachers. After serving in the United States Air Force, I went back to school to get certified to teach. While on active duty at Dyess AFB, I graduated with an MBA and received my ELA teacher certification from McMurry University.
Through this unique professional development opportunity, educators from around West Central Texas will be selected to work side-by-side with industry peers during a 3-day paid summer externship experience at participating businesses.
My favorite thing about teaching is the relationship built with my students and colleagues. I try to find their passions and then use ELA foundations to teach. I love seeing their growth throughout the years. Outside of school, I like reading, watching movies and TV series. I love playing board games and working on puzzles. I’ve also coached volleyball at the YMCA and worked Sunday School at Grace Point Church. I do whatever I can to be active in my children’s lives. I am married to a USAF Veteran Tavarus Mitchell and we have three children. Tavarus is a senior at AHS, Javon is a sophomore at AHS, and Kazmin is in 6th grade at Mann Middle School. In her nomination, Emily said, “I’m nominating Mrs. Mitchell because she teaches in a way
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we can all understand. She connects with us and let’s us know we are never alone. She is the light in the darkness and always has a smile on her face.” ___________________________________
Grade Level: 6th & 8th Grade Student: Emily Jordan
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Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Relay: 1-800-735-2989 (TTY) / 711 (voice). This project is wholly funded with federal funds.
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EDUCATION
LOCAL SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS
Cisco College Welding Students Leave the Shop Ready to Work By Colton Wedeking | Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Cisco College
Cisco College is preparing students for rewarding careers in manufacturing, construction, oil field welding, general welders, welding apprentices. and many other professions in welding related industries. Students who choose a welding focused career pathway have several education options. Cisco College offers a level 1 Introductory and a level 2 advanced welding certificate to give them the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in the welding industry.
experience so that they’re confident in their fear in finding employment and gives them ability to weld. confidence while submitting applications and going to interviews. Trained individuals are in high demand for the fast-growing welding industry. The Cis- Not only does this program set the stage for co College welding program provides intense students to enter a rewarding career, students also discover all of the opportunities that the field has to offer.
Students may complete the level 1 certificate in less than 9 months and have the skills to go to work or continue with the advanced courses in the level 2 certificate. It takes students almost two years to complete both certificates. The program con- training in the major welding processes such sists of some classroom learning but, most as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas skills are taught in the lab setting. metal arc welding (GMAW), flux cored arch welding (FCAW), and gas tungsten arc weldIn the classroom students learn proper tech- ing (GTAW). nique and about the machines that they will be using. The lab setting gives students time The knowledge and skills, that the students with that machinery giving them a hands on gain in these areas takes away some of the
“I initially joined the welding program because I wanted to work with my hands,” said Dwayne Ryan, Welding Technology student. “After I complete the program I have every intention of obtaining my inspection license. I want to get out there, perform inspections, and make money.”
Fall 2021 classes begin on August 15, 2021. Registration opens on April 19th. For more information about the Cisco College Welding Technology program, contact Rick Marks at Rick.Marks@cisco.edu or visit Cisco.edu.
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16 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
TSTC Student Travels Unique Path to Paramedic Program By Ben Barkley | Communication Specialist, Texas State Technical College
Erik Duenes was asked a simple question while more than he expected, especially during the Wednesday lab sessions. working in his hometown of Ozona. “I was working in maintenance at a nursing home, “I did not realize we would have so much oneand the director of the EMS (emergency medical on-one time and be able to work with each other,” services) asked me if I wanted to drive an am- he said. “I knew there would be studying, but to come here on Wednesdays bulance,” said the Texas State and execute what we have Technical College student. “I learned is the best part of the knew it was a chance to make week.” some extra money.” What Duenes, who is studying to become a paramedic, did not expect was for a career to unfold. “I took my first emergency medical technician class at the local service, and I was hooked. I went on to earn advanced EMT certification, and now I am studying to be a paramedic. I never thought I would fall in love with the medical field.” Duenes said he is working to become a paramedic to support his wife and two children. “I wanted to be able to provide for them. They are the fire that drives me to succeed,” he said.
Duenes also likes learning from experienced instructors. “They know how everything is supposed to be done. They want everyone to work together to succeed,” he said. TSTC was the perfect choice for Duenes, and he hopes more people study Emergency Medical Services at the TSTC campuses in Abilene, Brownwood or Harlingen. “My EMS director in Ozona graduated from TSTC. So I am kind of following in his footsteps,” he said. “I have told other EMTs I know that they need to come to TSTC and study.”
The state of Texas has more than 20,600 In his first semester, Duenes has been impressed EMT-paramedics employed statewide, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. with the lab sessions and clinical work. Duenes wants to be part of that group. “Everything has been really good,” he said. “I knew becoming a paramedic would be more de- “I am ready to get back out there and work with manding. I understood that there would be more the new skills I am learning,” he said. studying and work, and prepared myself for it.” Duenes said his experience at TSTC has been For more information, visit tstc.edu.
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Zookini’s | EDUCATION | 17
TSTC Nursing Student Follows Childhood Dream
18 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
By Ben Barkley | Communication Specialist, Texas State Technical College
Jadin Casto’s interest in nursing was sparked “The staff is one of the best you could ask for,” when she was a child. she said. “They want to make sure we have everything available to be successful.” The Texas State Technical College Nursing student personally saw how Instructor Jenny Wingate is nurses helped her injured seeing Casto grow into the sister recover. She also obprofession. served family members who were nurses, and it became “Even though she is in the her dream to make nursing a beginning stages of the procareer. gram, she is already growing her “My aunts and my mom professional nursing skills were nurses, so I have alin both the classroom and ways been interested in the clinical setting,” Wingate field,” she said. said. Casto enrolled in TSTC’s Nursing program in Breckenridge to become a licensed vocational nurse.
“She goes above and beyond by spending time making sure we are told the best way to do things,” she said. “All of the instructors show us what we could be doing, and that helps build my confidence. The teaching styles they all possess motivate me to work hard.” Casto said the fast pace of the program is sometimes challenging, but with constant communication, students can succeed. “If we do have a question, the instructors make sure to take the time to answer it. All they want is for all of us to succeed,” she said. During the month of March, TSTC wants to honor women in history and right on our campus who work to make strides in STEM fields every day. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
Wingate also noted Casto’s admirable work ethic and willingness to help others.
“She recently gave back to her community by participating in a COVID-19 vaccine clinic in Breckenridge, serving a large number of patients,” she said. “Her hard work and dedication to serving others are just a few top qualities that Casto said Breckenridge’s program is a “hidden ensure her future success as a nurse.” treasure” in Texas, and she hopes more people will take advantage of the opportunity. Casto said Wingate helps her with any situation. “TSTC has some great instructors and a really good support system,” she said. “Everyone at the campus goes above and beyond to help us.”
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McMurry’s Jaime Wins ASC Player of the Week Award in Final Game By McMurry University
Senior midfielder DJ Jaime capped what might have been the final game of his career with a reward to remember it by, earning American Southwest Conference West Offensive Player of the Week on Tuesday. Last Saturday against Sul Ross State, the War Hawks were seeking their first win and to end their season on a high note. In a 1-1 tie, McMurry drew a penalty inside the box and Jaime was called upon to take the penalty shot with five seconds to go. His attempt was successful and McMurry won 2-1.
Jaime – a Carrollton, Texas native – is a first-time player of the week winner. The senior midfielder is the 19th player in program history to earn the award and the first to win it this season. For all the latest information, visit mcmurrysports. com or follow McMurry University Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Pick us up at Riojas, Monterrey Mexican Restaurant & Alfredo’s | EDUCATION | 19
TEACHER TRIBUTE Shelly Muzechenko - Ward Elementary Nominate your teacher at: ArrowTeacherTribute.com
I was inspired to pursue a career in education by my mother. She worked in education for many years as a teacher’s aide. She was dedicated to helping students learn and grow. She
would always go above and beyond for her kids, and I wanted to do the same. My mother taught for 24 years and my younger brother is also a teacher and coach. My favorite thing about teaching is seeing the “lightbulb” moment when my students learn a new concept. I enjoy making math fun for my students through games and activities. When I am not at school, I enjoy cooking and outdoor activities with my family. I have two daughters and am married to Matt Muzechenko. Solaris nominated Ms. Muzechenko “because of the extra special way she makes learning fun. She is always kind which makes being in her class very special and exciting. I feel lucky she is my third-grade teacher.” ___________________________________
Grade Level: 3rd Grade Student: Solaris Niedecken
20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Female TSTC Automotive Technology Students Building Confidence By Ben Barkley | Communication Specialist, Texas State Technical College
Working on a car most of the week is building confidence in two women at Texas State Technical College. Kelsey Rice, of Abilene, and Nianica Dorado, of Wichita Falls, had different reasons for studying Automotive Technology, but they have similar goals. “I wanted to learn for myself all of the ins and outs of a car,” Rice said. “I did not want to take my car somewhere and they told me one thing was wrong and I knew it was something else.”
field is not a concern for them, but they acknowledged that there can be some disadvantages. Rice said loosening or tightening bolts has been challenging for her, but she is working to correct it. “I have been working out a lot to increase my strength,” she said. “Some of the guys like to jump in on my work, but I tell them I have it, and they step back.” Dorado said she has to overcome her height limitations when vehicles are on the rack.
Dorado began the program after being injured in an automobile accident in 2019.
“I know I am short, but I work hard to make sure I get the work done correctly,” she said.
“It took six months to fix my car. I decided then I wanted to learn more about what to do if something happened,” she said.
Both students said they have one advantage over the men in the program.
Both students plan to complete their certification and enroll in TSTC’s Diesel Equipment Technology program. Rice said working with her classmates has helped her build confidence in herself. “It is a good feeling, knowing you have done something right,” she said. Dorado and Rice both like the hands-on approach that TSTC provides. “I love the hands-on work we do. It offers a person great experience in the shop,” Dorado said. They agreed that working in a male-dominated
“Sometimes the guys ask us for some help in those tiny spaces. It pays to have tiny hands in that situation,” Rice said. The two students hope to continue working together. “When I see Kelsey walking into the shop, it brightens up my day,” Dorado said. “We are showing people this is not just a man’s job.” During the month of March, TSTC wants to honor women in history and right on our campuses who work to make strides in STEM fields every day. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
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FAITH&FAMILY
SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE
We Should Love Like Christ During These Times By Dillon Daniel | The Optimist, Abilene Christian University
At the end of the day we are all humans no mind, that by testing you may discern what is matter what religious, political or ethno-cen- the will of God, what is good and acceptable tric background we have. We will all make and perfect.” mistakes and lose sight of how we should act in different situations.
We are currently in one of the most divisive states, if not the most that this country has been in since the beginning of the 21st century. But before we are right or left, pro or anti-mask, we are Christians.
But if something has been made ever present to myself through examining human interaction this past year and two months its that many Christians are losing sight of how to be like Jesus.
We may defer on a lot of things, but if our versions of enacting change are not done in a spirit of love for the other person or their well-being, then our efforts will be unsuccessful.
This isn’t a new issue, but I believe the recent chain of unfortunate events has brought out the worst in people and the Christian community is not innocent in that regard.
Many try their best to omit evil in this world through punishment, censorship and doxing as if people that say or do bad things are not human. As believers we should be willing to step above the rest and be willing to help and guide others from bad or “evil” sentiments.
Consider this: if you identify yourself as such, what does your social media feed consist of? Are you complaining about the “liberals” moving to your state and taking away your “rights”? Are you complaining about the people you saw at Walmart not wearing a mask? Are you spreading negativity more than you’re preaching love?
God allows us to discern what is right and wrong in His eyes, but our ultimate call is to Paul says in Romans 12:1-2, “I appeal to you love everyone just as God has loved us. If we therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to do this, then we are on track of fulfilling the present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy call Paul gives us. and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, When we interact with one another, whether but be transformed by the renewal of your on social media, at the store or on campus, this should be at the forefront of our minds.
If we truly believe the causes we adhere to are righteous, then we must be willing to educate and love rather than steamroll through people who stand in our way. Like I said before, we are not perfect and mistakes will be made and people will be hard-headed. Luckily we have a God who will guide us nonetheless and certainty that He will bring justice when He is ready. All we have to do is love others like Jesus loves us.
How to Turn Your Pain into Something Positive
22 | FAITH AND FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well
Can pain ever be good? That’s a fair question, but mostly an intellectual one to me, until recently. You see I’ve been blessed with good health and without much physical pain for most of my life. But a recent injury put me in a season of constant and intense back pain. For quite a while, I was getting just a few hours of sleep a night, sometimes feeling lost in an emotional fog. Even though it’s been a painful setback, it’s got me thinking about the importance of pain, and asking some big questions: What will I do with my pain? How can I turn my pain into something positive? Whether pain is physical or emotional, it can be used for good, to make a positive impact on others. As I wrote about in my book, All Pro Dad, here are a few ways that pain can be used for something good and positive:
Pain can bring clarity to what is most important in life. Yes, pain can cre-
ate an emotional fog and make it hard to think straight. But it can also force you to an offramp in life for a while that can help you take stock of your priorities. As I’ve been working through the pain and fog, I’m also finding some clarity on things that are important in my life. It’s been a good time to take stock of my usage of time and resources to ensure I’m being a good steward of what’s been entrusted to me and my family.
Pain can be a bonding agent in relationships. Pain allows you to identify with
another person who is going through something very similar. Empathy is an important character trait of a loving leader. When you empathize with others, you experience similar feelings, thoughts, and emotions and then take action based on what you’ve experienced to meet the needs of others. It’s often the things we have in common that create or deepen our bonds.
Pain can change your trajectory.
Past pain can motivate us to look outward instead of just inward. [Tweet This] Sometimes pain is paralyzing, and we get very self-focused as we deal with it. But as we do, pain (especially relational pain) can eventually help us to see the need to work towards helping others. Maybe it’s breaking a cycle of dysfunction or brokenness in a family tree that we’ve experienced, or picking up the pieces from an addiction we’ve battled that has hurt more than just ourselves. Eventually, we face a choice: stay focused on self or be motivated to help others.
Pain can give us credibility and opportunity to help others. When we have
endured pain we’ve never experienced before, we have the power of empathizing with others going through the same pain, not just those suffering in general. As a result, others are aware that we know what they are going through and will listen to what we have to say, perhaps even more so than others who try to speak into their lives but haven’t shared the same pain.
Pain can give us a future message of hope to others. As we deal with the pains of
our past or present, God gives us hope and healing that can become a very meaningful message to others. The pain can become a purpose for our voice as well as the message of hope our voice proclaims to the world.
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
ON LIFE AFTER DEATH:
Pick us up at La Familia Mex Rest, Bogies & Abilene ISD | FAITH AND FAMILY | 23
Would You Know My Name if I Saw You in Heaven? By Chris DeLuna | Church of Grace
“If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11) Many people wonder about “the other side,” that is, they wonder if there is life after death. There is something innate in each of us that answers in the affirmative, “Yes, I will experience self-concious existence after the death of my body.” But if there is conscious existence after death, what will it be like? Will we be aware of our past earthly lives? What about others? Will we interact with them? Will we even recognize and meet with people we once knew from this life? We all long for this. For the sake of brevity I am refraining from addressing the common, but false assumptions people make in such questions particularly the false assumption that “heaven” will be some kind of disembodied immaterial experience. While grieving the loss of his young son, Eric Clapton penned his famous song Tears in Heaven. Contemplating, but perhaps more so speculating, he asks his deceased loved one, “Would you know my name if I saw you in heaven? Would it be the same if I saw you in heaven? Would you hold my hand if I saw you in heaven?” What Clapton longs for is the restoration of a relationship interrupted by death. I’m reminded of King David’s words at the death of his own son. He asked and answered his own rhetorical question, “Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Sam. 12:23). The universal human experience is that when people die, they die. And they stay that way. No one comes back from death. Except Jesus. The Bible tells us that God had promised Jesus that he would not abandon him to the grave (See Acts 2:27). God raised him from the dead, yet when he was risen he was no longer the same. How so? For starters, “Being raised
from the dead, [he] will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him” (Romans 6:9). When he appeared to his closest friends he assured them that it really was him and invited them to physically examine him for their own assurance; “See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have” (Luke 24:39). They thought they were seeing a ghost, a disembodied entity. Jesus assured them that they were not hallucinating, but that it really was him. This is my point. Jesus lived, he died, then lived again. Physically. And what of his relationships? He picked up where he’d left off. The last thing Peter did before Jesus died was deny him. He betrayed Christ in that respect. When Jesus came back from the dead, he made it a point to restore Peter. He reassured Peter of his love and forgiveness. So the Bible promises that “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11). So about your departed loved ones or soon-tobe departed because of terminal illness. If they die/died in Christ and if you too are in Christ, you’ll see them again. In the flesh. Like the father with the prodigal son you will run and fall upon their necks hugging and kissing them. You’ll pick up where you left off and the old things will have passed away. You’ll remember and they’ll remember. How do I know this? Because He is risen.
TEACHER TRIBUTE
Timothy Palmer - Mann Middle SchoolNominate your teacher at: ArrowTeacherTribute.com
You could say I was “tardy” to the classroom. ers get a bad rap, but they are so kind, sincere, After graduation with a degree in education and fun. I’m a better person because of their from McMurry in 2006, I spend the next 12 influence on my life. years working in minOutside of teaching, I love istry with college stuspending time with my dents. When a friend family. I also founded a first reached out to me company called So I Have (two weeks before the This Friend. We are workfirst day of school!) ing to cultivate peace, and about the theatre posicompassion to remind evtion at Mann Middle erybody that we belong to School, I was hesitant. each other! Check it out at But I realized so many www.soihavethisfriend.us. of the issues young adults face originate In her nomination, Tarena during those critical said, “He’s there for you years in middle school when no one else is. He’s and teaching at this taught me not only how to level provides an opact but also how to live my portunity to help create life to the fullest.” healthier and well-ad_____________________ justed young adults! My favorite thing about Grade Level: 7th and teaching hands down 8th Grade is my students! They teach me so much about what is means to be a kind, thoughtful human being every day. When Theatre Student: they grow, conquer new obstacles, or get back up after falling down, I’m reminded how in- Tarena Rodriguez credible human beings can be. Middle school-
24 | FAITH AND FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
When Life Goes Sideways, God Is Still in Control By Greg Laurie | Harvest Christian Fellowship
Have you ever had one of those days when everything was going along beautifully, and then suddenly a crisis hit? It may have caused you to say, “Why me, Lord? What did I do to deserve this?” The Bible asks the question, “For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has become His counselor?” (Romans 11:34 NKJV). The answer to that question is I have . . . on many occasions. I’ve tried to give God counsel and direction. But as I think about my attitude many times, I realize that I’m not alone. That’s why I’m so glad Peter’s story is in the Bible. You have to love a guy like him, because he was so utterly human. He was outspoken and thoroughly honest. Peter said what we’d probably say in a situation. Although Peter was impulsive, impetuous and hotheaded, he also was very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus. I can look at Peter’s life and say, “There’s hope for me,” because not only does the Bible record Peter’s great victories, but it also records his foibles and defeats. In Caesarea Philippi, Jesus commended Peter for his insightful statement in which he recognized that Jesus was the Messiah. But then Jesus spoke of His impending death and suffering. Matthew’s Gospel tells us, “From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day” (16:21 NKJV). Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He even knew who would betray Him. He knew He would
be raised from the dead, and He knew exactly So one moment Peter was speaking under the when that would happen. inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and the next moment he was speaking under the inspiration of Peter, however, couldn’t believe that Jesus was the devil himself. It’s that continual struggle saying this. In fact, Jesus used an interesting that we all face between right and wrong, beword here when He said He would be killed. tween the flesh and the Spirit. From the original language, this word also could be translated “murdered.” The Bible says, “The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the SpirI wonder if Peter heard anything else after that. it wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are He must have been thinking, “What? That can- the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. not happen!” These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good It’s commendable that Peter was concerned intentions” (Galatians 5:17 NLT). about Jesus, but he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he took things way too And guess what? The battle never stops. No far: “Then Peter took Him aside and began to matter how long you’ve been a Christian, this rebuke Him, saying, ‘Far be it from You, Lord; battle will rage until your final day. On one this shall not happen to You!’” (Matthew 16:22 hand you can speak under the inspiration of NKJV). the Holy Spirit, and on the other hand you can speak under the inspiration of the flesh. We Maybe Peter thought, “Look, I’m on a roll. It must guard our words and be careful, because wasn’t that long ago when He told me, ‘Flesh that battle will persist. and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.’ Hey, I’d better set Je- May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t sus straight. He’s making a big mistake.” do things the way we think He ought to do them. May God help us to trust Him when Interestingly, in the original language the word we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?” or when, used for “rebuke” carries the meaning of a like Peter, we say, “Lord, that’s a bad idea. leader or an officer rebuking someone under What are you doing? What are you thinking?” his jurisdiction. It’s a word that would describe a commanding officer giving his troops God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We a tongue-lashing. It also implies that Peter did can only see the short term and what will benthis repeatedly. efit us in this moment. God is looking at the long term, the big picture. And He knows what So picture this in your mind. Jesus had just He’s doing. made this statement and was obviously in anguish over it. And then Peter took an author- It’s during these times that we must trust Him, itarian position over the Lord and repeatedly cast ourselves at His feet and say, “Lord, I adbegan to rebuke Him. mit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.” Peter had lost touch with reality, but Jesus set him straight. He said, “Get behind Me, Satan! When it comes to things that I don’t underYou are an offense to Me, for you are not mind- stand, I fall back on what I do understand. I unful of the things of God, but the things of men” derstand that God loves me, that He’s looking (Matthew 16:23 NKJV). out for my best interests, and that He will work all things “together for the good of those who Now, why did Jesus say that? Because it was love God and are called according to his purSatan who wanted to stop Jesus from going pose for them” (Romans 8:28 NLT). to the cross. But Jesus would not let anything deter him from His course. He knew what He I don’t understand a lot of things that happen in had to do. life, but God will make it clear in that final day. Until then, we all need to trust Him.
Pick us up at Reyes Law Firm, The Enterprise Building, Martinez Barbershop | FAITH AND FAMILY | 25
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR VEHICLE PURCHASE WITH
AUTO-CHECK
God’s ‘No-Fail’ Recipes By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments
There are many lessons in life. One, in particular, I have found rises up again and again. If you give little, you receive little. Let me explain.
bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
There have been times when I “invested” in someone or something. I wasn’t really feeling it, but went ahead and “did my part.” Afterwards, I found myself wishing I had put more effort into the person or project. I could have really received great joy from giving my all. But instead, I had feelings of regret and disappointment.
So, plant your seeds of kindness, consistency, compassion, and determination. Then, just like
The takeaway, though, is that if you are going to do something -- GO ALL IN! Knowing you gave 100% is important. Knowing you did your best is freeing. Knowing you are a person of diligence and integrity is maturing and continues to build your character.
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As a stepmom, you will have many days when you just are too tired to give a hoot! Your husband doesn’t see your struggle. Your step kids don’t care. You feel like this whole blended family thing is overrated and not worth the effort. I’ve been there. I hate those feelings. So, here is how I handled the husband, kids -- life. I kept going and kept trying. I was consistent. I kept reaching out. I kept trying to do the little things to connect. I was open when someone needed to talk. I listened. I was helpful when there was a need. And amazingly enough, I found that when I gave my best - over a long period of time - the husband started really hearing me and the step kids finally trusted in me. I had a choice. I could have given up. Stopped trying. Not cared. But God gave me the energy and strength to keep on, just as I know He will do the same for you! Second Corinthians 9:6-8 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to
a seed’s need for water and sunshine, continue to nurture your marriage and family - every day. The beauty is there - it just takes time. And, from my experience, the harvest is amazing! Blessings in Your Blending! (Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/step mom since 2004; her blended family currently includes four children and four grandchildren. Follow Kristie on Facebook (facebook.com/theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram (theblendedfamilymom). Her books - “The Blended Family Mom,” and “Blended Mom Moments,” are both available on her website at www.theblendedfamilymom.com)
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26 | FAITH AND FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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The Truth About Your Worth
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091
By Madison Metcalf | boundblessings
I want you to imagine something for a sec…
You don’t have to be great. You don’t have to be of us. It’s about what’s within us. super hot. You don’t have to be super talented. Imagine ordering a blizzard… and you’re But you do have to be clean. And you do have That’s where our worth comes from. standing there inside a Dairy Queen at the to be empty. counter, and the girl making your blizzard goes God did not pick out the greatest, most presto hand you your bliz- You can’t be living in dirt. You can’t be filled up tigious people. He picked out fishermen, tax zard over the counter. with the wrong things. God says if you’ll give collectors, thieves!!!! He didn’t need them to But she turns around to me a vessel, I’ll give you my all. have a fancy title or the best clothes. He needed give it to you and she’s vessels. He needed people willing to open themgot it in her hands. We get so worried if we’re enough. If we’re the selves up to what He wanted to do in their life. best. How we compare to the people around No cup. us. Guess what!! I don’t care if you’re the most Because God uses ordinary people to do exbeautiful. I don’t care if you’re the most talent- traordinary things. At this point the ice ed. We are just vessels for God to use. When cream is dripping down we look at our lives as a means of comparison, And He wants to use you. her hands onto the we are missing the point!!! We will always feel counter. You’ve already empty. 2 Timothy 2:21 says, “Therefore, if anyone lost a couple of cookie cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he dough pieces that have fallen on the floor. You But when we realize that it is the Holy Spirit will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as don’t know where the girl’s hands have been. who lives inside of us, that we are meant to be holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for It’s just nasty. here to bring honor and glory and praise to Him, every good work.” we take this pressure off of ourselves. It’s not And don’t even think about asking her to flip about us!!! It doesn’t matter where you’ve been or what it upside down like they do for blizzards. That you’ve done. It doesn’t matter what struggles thing’s gonna just go *flop* right on the counter. It’s not about us. you have right now. It doesn’t matter if your Lookin’ like a sad, melted snowman. home is broken or you struggle with anxiety or You are a vessel - a container - just like this cup. depression. What matters is if you’re willing to I mean, can you imagine? You know what the When you fill yourself with the right things, open up your heart to God and be a vessel for first question you would be asking this girl you have boldness and confidence that others Him to live inside. would be if she came up to you and goes, “small don’t understand! All they’ll be able to say is, cookie dough blizzard.” You’d say, “Where the “They’ve been with Jesus.” I don’t know if you realize this, but the men Jeheck is my cup?!?!?!?! Because I was expecting sus picked out were unschooled. They were as the ice cream, the product, to come in a cup. I Look, I know what it’s like to live for the wrong ordinary as it gets. But when these men opened was expecting the product to come in a vessel.” things. I know what it’s like to feel the FOMO themselves up to Jesus, they became vessels for - fear of missing out and trying to live for the the Holy Spirit. And THEY were the ones who What I want you to understand is that the cup is world. To have my cup filled up with the wrong made the church come alive after Jesus died and only worth a few cents. It’s not very valuable. things. But I also know what it’s like to be a ves- rose again. THEY were the ones going around, But it takes on a tremendous importance and sel for God to use. I know the boldness and con- preaching the Good News. These ordinary, unvalue because of what is placed in it. fidence I have because of Him when I fill myself schooled men. up with Him. The cup does not give value to the product. It’s Did they ever mess up? Sure they did! But as the product that gives value to the cup. So that’s what I want for you. they kept opening up their hearts to God, they became stronger vessels. They didn’t have as Here’s what I’m getting at: We are just the ves- But maybe you’re thinking, “You don’t know many cracks. They began to hold in what God sel, and Christ is in us. And we shouldn’t get me. You don’t understand. You don’t know what was filing them up with. They may have made puffed up when God starts using us, because I’ve done. You don’t know my shame. I’m dirty. some mistakes along the way, but God didn’t we’re just a 9 cent cup. What do you do when I’m filled up with the wrong things.” give up on them, and He won’t give up on you. you eat all your ice cream and the cup is empty? You throw it away!! Because without any ice I may not know the details of your situation, but In Acts 4:13, there were these high and mighty cream in your cup, the cup is worth nothing. But I know how you feel. I also know that Jesus can men - I’m talking the popular kids, alright. when you are a filled-up vessel with the Holy make you clean. He wants to empty out all the These men saw these two disciples of Jesus heal Spirit inside of you, you are not worthless. You lies you have floating around in your mind to someone. This is what it says: are valuable. make room for Him. “When they saw the courage of Peter and John What I want you to get is this - it’s about what’s We have it mixed up. The world tells us it’s all and realized that they were unschooled, ordiinside of you that makes the difference. It is about what’s on the outside that matters. That nary men, they were astonished and they took what’s inside of you that determines your value. it’s all about us. But it’s not about what’s outside note that these men had been with Jesus. But
since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say.” Peter and John - these two unschooled, ordinary men - they puzzled these high and mighty men. The men were astonished it says. What made the difference for Peter and John is not that they won an award or wore the latest fashion trend or made the varsity starting lineup. It’s that they spent time with Jesus. It made such an impact on these other guys that they didn’t know what to say. They were absolutely speechless. I want to let you in on a secret… You have the ability to make people speechless too. Not by changing your hair. Or your clothes. Or your talents. Or your relationship status. It’s by spending time with Jesus. I’m not saying people are going to like it. I’m not saying it’s always going to be easy. Peter and John were literally in prison before this. But I am saying people are going to notice it. The mature ones will want it. So enough with this whole, “Am I enough? Do I measure up to the people around me?” All we are is people in need of a Savior. All we are are vessels needing to be filled up by the Holy Spirit. We’re just a 9-cent cup, but when Jesus is in our lives, we become so valuable. I don’t care if you’re Justin Bieber or the least popular person in your city or town. We are simply imperfect people in need of Jesus. You may think that different things here on earth will fill you up fortune, fame, popularity, all the material things. But when you try to do that all you get is crap in a cup. It’s worth nothing. Our worth comes from the Father. That worth makes all the difference. Maybe you’re someone who is filled up with the wrong things. You have little value because what you fill yourself up with has little worth. You fill yourself up with dirty Instagram accounts or judgmental thoughts, anxiety or worry. You do anything you can just to get some laughs or approval from people who don’t add any value to your life. Change that. Empty yourself. Ask Jesus to make you clean. Let the Holy Spirit in. Let it fill up your cup. Without it, you’re not worth much. But with it, you’re valuable. You’re precious. You’re extraordinary.
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Good Forgivers
By Greg Laurie | Harvest Christian Fellowship “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” —Matthew 6:14–15 The Bible gives us 76 different word pictures for forgiveness, but the main word the New Testament uses for it means “to release.” In Scripture, to forgive means to write “canceled” over a debt. However, forgiveness isn’t giving in to another person; it’s getting free of that person. It isn’t about whether he or she deserves your forgiveness. You may even think that you’re hurting someone by harboring a grudge against them. But do you know who’s really getting hurt? You are. It’s like eating rat poison and waiting for the rat to die. When we harbor anger and bitterness toward someone who has hurt us, we’re not destroying them. We’re actually destroying ourselves. When you withhold forgiveness, it will eat you up inside. And if you don’t forgive, then you’re choosing to hate. One person put it this way: “The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. And the first to forget is the happiest.” In fact, if you are married, then you really need to learn how to forgive. Someone once asked Billy Graham’s wife, Ruth, what the secret was to a strong and lasting marriage. She replied that a successful marriage is made up of two good forgivers. Is there someone you need to forgive at this very moment? Maybe it’s your mom, your dad, your child, your friend, your coworker, or your spouse. Has someone hurt or betrayed you, and you’re sitting around plotting your revenge? That has to stop. Lay it at the foot of the cross, and put them in the hands of God. You don’t want to be bound by it anymore. Let it go. Someone has wisely pointed out that when you forgive someone, you set a prisoner free: yourself. So learn how to be a good forgiver.
28 | FAITH AND FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
HEALTH&FITNESS April is National Autism Awareness Month:
What Are the Symptoms of Autism? By Renee A. Alli, MD | WebMD
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can look different in different people. It’s a developmental disability that affects the way people communicate, behave, or interact with others. There’s no single cause for it, and symptoms can be very mild or very severe.
picked up or guided with walking.
Communication
About 40% of kids with autism spectrum disorders don’t talk at all, and between 25% and 30% develop some language skills during infancy but then lose them later. Some children Some children who are on the spectrum start with ASD start talking later in life. showing signs as young as a few months old. Others seem to have normal development for the first few months or years of their lives and then they start showing symptoms. But up to half of parents of children with ASD noticed issues by the time their child reached 12 months, and between 80% and 90% noticed problems by 2 years. Children with ASD will have symptoms throughout their lives, but it’s possible for them to get better as they get older. The autism spectrum is very wide. Some people might have very noticeable issues, others might not. The common thread is differences in social skills, communication, and behavior compared with people who aren’t on the spectrum.
Social Skills
A child with ASD has a hard time interacting with others. Problems with social skills are some of the most common signs. They might want to have close relationships but not know how. If your child is on the spectrum, they might show some social symptoms by the time they’re 8 to 10 months old. These may include any of the following: •They don’t respond to their name by their first birthday. •Playing, sharing, or talking with other people don’t interest them. •They prefer to be alone. •They avoid or reject physical contact. •They avoid eye contact. •When they’re upset, they don’t like to be comforted. •They don’t understand emotions -- their own or others’. •They may not stretch out their arms to be
havior •Fixations on certain activities or objects •Specific routines or rituals (and getting upset when a routine is changed, even slightly) •Extreme sensitivity to touch, light, and sound •Not taking part in “make-believe” play or imitating others’ behaviors •Fussy eating habits •Lack of coordination, clumsiness •Impulsiveness (acting without thinking) •Aggressive behavior, both with self and others •Short attention span
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Spotting Signs and Symptoms
The earlier treatment for autism spectrum disorder begins, the more like it is to be effective. That’s why knowing how to identify the signs and symptoms is so important. Make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician if they don’t meet these specific developmental milestones, or if they meet but lose them later on: ¶Smiles by 6 months Most have some problems with communica- •Imitates facial expressions or sounds by 9 tion, including these: months •Coos or babbles by 12 months •Delayed speech and language skills •Gestures (points or waves) by 14 months •Flat, robotic speaking voice, or singsong •Speaks with single words by 16 months and voice uses phrases of two words or more by 24 •Echolalia (repeating the same phrase over months and over) •Plays pretend or “make-believe” by 18 •Problems with pronouns (saying “you” in- months stead of “I,” for example) •Not using or rarely using common gestures (pointing or waving), and not responding to them •Inability to stay on topic when talking or answering questions •Not recognizing sarcasm or joking
Patterns of Behavior
Children with ASD also act in ways that seem unusual or have interests that aren’t typical. Examples of this can include: •Repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping, rocking, jumping, or twirling •Constant moving (pacing) and “hyper” be-
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30 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Tips for Coping With Spring those Allergies
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
By Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
After a long, cold winter, nothing feels better •An immunotherapy option (allergy shots or tabthan spending time outside in the warm spring lets) for your type of allergy sun – unless you have allergies. Check pollen counts at the American Academy When plants grow and bloom in the spring, they of Allergy Asthma & Immunology so you can also produce pollen. Pollen can cause allergy avoid outdoor activities on days when counts symptoms. Plants release tiny pollen grains that are high. You can also check pollen forecasts on fertilize other plants of the same species. Pollen Pollen.com. from trees, weeds and grasses are light enough to travel by wind and cause the most problems. Also, follow these tips to control pollen in your home and prevent bringing it into your home If you are allergic to a type of pollen, you might when after you spend time outside: have what most people call “hay fever.” Experts call it “seasonal allergic rhinitis.” •Keep windows closed. •Use central air conditioning with a CERTIFIED What Are the Symptoms of Spring asthma & allergy friendly® HVAC filter, if posAllergies? When you are allergic to pollen, sible. •Remove your shoes before entering your home. •Take a shower and shampoo your hair before bed. •Change and wash your clothes after being outdoor. •Dry laundry in a clothes dryer or on an indoor rack, not on an outdoor line. •Clean pollen off pets with a towel before they come in your home. •Wash bedding in hot, soapy water once a week. •Use a nasal rinse to flush your immune system sees it as a foreign sub- out inhaled pollen out of your nose. stance. This causes your immune system to react. It can cause these symptoms: To reduce your exposure to pollen when you are outside: •Sneezing •Wear sunglasses and a hair covering, such as a •Stuffy nose (congestion) hat, when outside. •Runny nose •If doing yard work or cutting grass, wear an •Watery eyes N95-rated mask, gloves, and sunglasses/gog•Itching in the nose, eyes, or mouth gles. •Avoid going outdoors during peak pollen times. How Can I Get Relief From Spring Pollen is usually highest from 5 to 10 a.m. and Allergies? One of the best ways to man- at dusk. Pollen is also higher on warm, breezy age your spring allergy symptoms is to see a days. board-certified allergist. An allergist can help •While in the car, set your air conditioner to the you come up with a plan to treat your allergies. “recirculate air” setting. Your allergy treatment plan may involve: You don’t have to dread spring allergies. With •Taking allergy medicines, like antihistamines, the right treatment, you can manage your spring before your allergy season begins allergies and still enjoy the season. Using a nasal corticosteroid sprays
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9 Ways to Avoid Diabetes Complications By Michael Dansinger, MD | WebMD
Keeping your diabetes under control will help check. Take medications as prescribed. you prevent heart, nerve, and foot problems. Here’s what you can do right now. • Keep moving. Regular exercise can help you reach or maintain a healthy weight. Ex• Lose extra weight. Moving toward a ercise also cuts stress and helps control blood healthy weight helps control blood sugars. pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Your doctor, a dietitian, and a fitness trainer Get at least 30 minutes a day of aerobic excan get you started on a plan that will work ercise 5 days a week. Try walking, dancing, for you. low-impact aerobics, swimming, tennis, or a stationary bike. Start out more slowly if you • Check your blood sugar level at least aren’t active now. You can break up the 30 twice a day. Is it in the range advised by your minutes -- say, by taking a 10-minute walk afdoctor? Also, write it down so you can track ter every meal. Include strength training and your progress and note how food and activity stretching on some days, too. affect your levels. • Catch some ZZZs. When you’re sleep-de• Get A1c blood tests to find out your aver- prived, you tend to eat more, and you can put age blood sugar for the past 2 to 3 months. on weight, which leads to health problems. Most people with type 2 diabetes should aim People with diabetes who get enough sleep offor an A1c of 7% or lower. Ask your doctor ten have healthier eating habits and improved how often you need to get an A1c test. blood sugar levels. •Track your carbohydrates. Know how many carbs you’re eating and how often you have them. Managing your carbs can help keep your blood sugar under control. Choose high-fiber carbs, such as green vegetables, fruit, beans, and whole grains. •Control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.Diabetes makes heart disease more likely, so keep a close eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol. Talk with your doctor about keeping your cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure in
• Manage stress. Stress and diabetes don’t mix. Excess stress can elevate blood sugar levels. But you can find relief by sitting quietly for 15 minutes, meditating, or practicing yoga. • See your doctor. Get a complete checkup at least once a year, though you may talk to your doctor more often. At your annual physical, make sure you get a dilated eye exam, blood pressure check, foot exam, and screenings for other complications such as kidney damage, nerve damage, and heart disease.
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32 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Nursing is ng a Medication Cleanout on Saturday, April 10th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can drive thru and drop off any unwanted medications for proper disposal at 1674 Pine Street. Help prevent misuse, abuse and accidental poisonings. Please leave medications in the original containers. We will remove your personal information. We do accept needles and other sharps. Please separate those from your medications. Call 806-414-9402 for more information.
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Eating Well for Mental Health
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By Sutter Health
From a young age, we’re taught that eating well helps us look and feel our physical best. What we’re not always told is that good nutrition significantly affects our mental health, too. A healthy, well-balanced diet can help us think clearly and feel more alert. It can also improve concentration and attention span. Conversely, an inadequate diet can lead to fatigue, impaired decision-making, and can slow down reaction time. In fact, a poor diet can actually aggravate, and may even lead to, stress and depression. One of the biggest health impairments is society’s reliance on processed foods. These foods are high in flours and sugar and train the brain to crave more of them, rather than nutrient-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables. A lot of the processed foods we eat are highly addictive and stimulate the dopamine centers in our brain, which are associated with pleasure and reward. In order to stop craving unhealthy foods, you’ve got to stop eating those foods. You actually start to change the physiology in the brain when you pull added sugars and refined carbohydrates from your diet.
Stress and Depression
Sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation throughout the body and brain, which may contribute to mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. When we’re feeling stressed or depressed, it’s often processed foods we reach for in search of a quick pickme-up. During busy or difficult periods, a cup of coffee stands in for a complete breakfast and fresh fruits and vegetables are replaced with high-fat, high-calorie fast food. When feeling down, a pint of ice cream becomes dinner (or you skip dinner altogether).
and brain are physically linked via the vagus nerve, and the two are able to send messages to one another. While the gut is able to influence emotional behavior in the brain, the brain can also alter the type of bacteria living in the gut. According to the American Psychological Association, gut bacteria produce an array of neurochemicals that the brain uses for the regulation of physiological and mental processes, including mood. It’s believed 95 percent of the body’s supply of serotonin, a mood stabilizer, is produced by gut bacteria. Stress is thought to suppress beneficial gut bacteria.
Brain Food
Your brain and nervous system depend on nutrition to build new proteins, cells and tissues. In order to function effectively, your body requires a variety of carbohydrates, proteins and minerals. To get all the nutrients that improve mental functioning, nutritionists suggest eating meals and snacks that include a variety of foods, instead of eating the same meals each day. Here are the top three foods to incorporate into a healthy mental diet: Complex carbohydrates — such as brown rice and starchy vegetables can give you energy. Quinoa, millet, beets and sweet potatoes have more nutritional value and will keep you satisfied longer than the simple carbohydrates found in sugar and candy. Lean proteins — also lend energy that allows your body to think and react quickly. Good sources of protein include chicken, meat, fish, eggs, soybeans, nuts and seeds. Fatty acids — are crucial for the proper function of your brain and nervous system. You can find them in fish, meat, eggs, nuts and flaxseeds.
According to the American Dietetic Association, people tend to either eat too much or too little when depressed or under stress. Eat too much and you find yourself Healthy Eating Tips dealing with sluggishness and weight gain. Eat too little •Steer clear of processed snack foods, such as potato and the resulting exhaustion makes this a hard habit to chips, which can impair your ability to concentrate. Pass break. In either case, poor diet during periods of stress up sugar-filled snacks, such as candy and soft drinks, and depression only makes which lead to ups and downs in enmatters worse. This cycle is a ergy levels. vicious one, but it can be over•Consume plenty of healthy fats, come. To boost your mental such as olive oil, coconut oil and health, focus on eating plenty of avocado. This will support your fruits and vegetables along with brain function. foods rich in omega-3 fatty ac- www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine •Have a healthy snack when hunids, such as salmon. Dark green ger strikes, such as fruit, nuts, hardleafy vegetables in particular are brain protective. Nuts, boiled eggs, baked sweet potatoes or edamame. This seeds and legumes, such as beans and lentils, are also will give you more energy than packaged products. excellent brain foods. •Don’t shop while hungry, since you’ll be more apt to make unhealthy impulse purchases. A Healthy Gut •Think about where and when you eat. Don’t eat in front Researchers continue to prove the old adage that you of the television, which can be distracting and cause you are what you eat, most recently by exploring the strong to overeat. connection between our intestines and brain. Our guts
Mark Your Calendars for Together with DIA on May 1, 2021
DIA, also known as Dia De Los Niños, is a national initiative that celebrates children and literacy from a variety of cultural. Bring your friends and family downtown to Cultura Local ABI at the Elks Arts Center 1174 N 1st St. for this cross cultural experience. For more info contact Joyce at 325.665.9880!
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How to Reset After Setbacks
34 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
By HealthAdvocateBlog
Over the last year, you may have been hit with one or several roadblocks, possibly involving your livelihood, career goals, or in other areas of your life. Despite the nature of the setback, it’s possible to learn to manage changes, build resilience, and maintain a “never give up” attitude to find a way forward. Here are some ideas to help you get there:
Be mindful of your self-talk. Getting in
the habit of saying “I can” and “I will” rather than “I can’t” or “I won’t” can help you become more open to new avenues, gain confidence and increase your chances of success in overcoming obstacles.
Need help to move forward? Realizing when you need help is critical to building resil-
Accept change. Remind yourself that life is ience. Talk to a licensed counselor or your doctor unpredictable, change is inevitable, and the only thing you can control is your response to it. This may involve adjusting your goals or timelines.
for a referral to a qualified professional.
Treat adversity as learning experiences. This can help you turn a negative
experience into a positive one and become more open to new opportunities that could turn things around.
Think through problems rationally. Keep your emotions in check and quiet your mind. Overthinking can hinder your ability to overcome challenges and focus on identifying a solution, tapping into resources that could offer a detour around a roadblock.
Look at the big picture. Jotting down
all your personal strengths as well as the positive things and people you are grateful for can energize you to move ahead. Realistic positivity can help you address hardships with a sensible outlook.
Develop a supportive network. Surround
yourself with people who will cheer you on, remind you of your true worth as an individual, and help you feel strong enough to go forward.
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BUSINESS&CAREER
Former Abilenian Erica Pangburn Returning to Head Global Samaritan Resources By Brian Bethel | Abilene Reporter-News
Global Samaritan Resources announced Thursday that its current executive director Michael Bob Starr is stepping down, with new director Erica Pangburn filling his slot after approval by its board of directors. Starr, a retired Air Force colonel, announced his departure earlier in the year. Pangburn, who served most recently as president of the Denton Chamber of Commerce, previously was a longtime resident of the Abilene area and worked at the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. She begins her new job April 14. “The ability to make a global impact from one’s hometown is not only an inspiring notion, but a tangible reality, through the mission of Global Samaritan,” she said. “I’m excited to return to Abilene and to serve that mission and its expanding partnerships.”
pact,” one that he had been honored to be part of for four years. “Though I’m stepping aside as executive director to pursue personal interests, I will always be a supporter and advocate for Global Samaritan Resources, for ‘Love, Hope, and Logistics,’ and for the staff and volunteers that make it all possible,” he said. A Christian aid organization, Global Samaritan began in 1999. According to its website, the group has shipped goods to people in need in more than 56 countries on five continents, and has provided millions of U.S. dollars in humanitarian aid, water purification and disaster relief. The group maintains a 55,000-square-foot warehouse in Abilene, filled by donated items and surplus from families, individuals, businesses, corporations, schools and churches.
It stores and ships goods and also arranges shipIn a statement released by the organization, ments for mission teams, churches and other Global Samaritan chair Casey Hatcher said that organizations that bring items to its warehouse, Starr had been “instrumental in developing an handling the logistics of those activities. intentional focus on logistics and communicating Global’s mission to partners at home and abroad.” Starr was formerly the 7th Bomb Wing Commander at Dyess Air Force Base before accept- In a statement, Starr said that Global Samaritan ing the executive director position. magazine has “an amazing mission with incredible imwww.facebook.com/hispaniclife
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36 | BUSINESS & CAREER | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Everything You Need to Know About Coronavirus Federal Small Business Stimulus Aid Programs By Sean Ludwig | CO, U.S Chamber of Commerce
bution of direct payments. In 2020, payments of $1,200 and $600 were disbursed to individuals that reported adjusted gross income of $75,000 a year or less or couples who jointly file with a gross income of less than $150,000 a year. In 2021, a payment of $1,4000 was authorized by Congress with similar income limits. While these payments are designed to help a Both Trump and Biden administrations have wide swath of Americans, they can also help implemented various programs and adminis- small business owners that qualify. trative changes throughout the pandemic. The most recent coronavirus bill is the $1.9 trillion COBRA Health care subsidies - One of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed most significant new policy changes for eminto law by President Biden in March 2021. ployers in the ARPA is the inclusion of new COBRA health care premium subsidies for During the pandemic, so many federal aid pro- employees who have been laid off or terminatgrams and policy changes have passed that it ed. might be hard for small businesses to keep track of them all. Below are the top coronavirus aid programs and policy changes small businesses should know. Between March 2020 and March 2021, Congress has passed multiple massive pieces of legislation to help individuals and businesses make it through the pandemic’s economic turmoil. These packages have included forgivable loans, direct payments, tax credits, grants, expanded unemployment benefits and more.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) - One of the most extensive programs Congress passed to help businesses survive the pandemic is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was initially passed as part of the CARES Act and later modified multiple times. Since the PPP was authorized in March 2020, more than $700 billion in forgivable loans has been distributed to businesses. PPP loans are issued by private lenders, credit unions and nonbank lenders but are backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). The essential purpose of the PPP is to get small businesses to keep workers on payroll and to rehire laid-off workers. As long as businesses spend the allocated funds in approved ways, the full amount of the loan can be forgiven. Businesses can apply for first- and second-draw PPP loans through March 31, 2021, but that deadline may be extended. They should start by talking with an existing lender first, but if that does not pan out, the SBA also has a tool called Lender Match that can help find approved PPP lenders. Stimulus payments - Another significant way the federal government has attempted to help individuals and small businesses is the distri-
2020 to help live venues that were harmed by COVID-19 restrictions. The SVO grant program will distribute $16 billion in funds to live venue operators, including eligible movie theaters, concert spaces, museums and performing arts organizations. A significant change in the SVO grants occurred in March 2021, with the ARPA revising eligible venues. As of this writing, venues can receive first and second-draw PPP loans and still apply for SVO grants, but grant amounts will be reduced by the value of their PPP loans. These grants will be administered directly by the SBA, and the application portal is expected to open on April 8, 2021. Notably, interested applicants should create a login.gov user account, obtain a D-U-N-S number, and sign up for SAM.gov immediately if they want to apply quickly.
Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) grants- One of the most significant parts of the ARPA is the new Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). This $28.6 billion grant program will specifically target hard-hit restaurants and bars. Affected entities will be able to apply for grants based on lost gross Employers are required to offer COBRA cov- revenue between 2019 and 2020, with maxierage to the majority of former employees for mum grant sizes totaling $5 million for restauup to 18 months. Still, the former employee rants and $10 million for restaurant groups. often has to pay the total cost of the coverage without the employer subsidizing the cost. The Similar to the SVO grants, RRF grants will be ARPA changes this so employers, plans or in- administered directly by the SBA. As of midsurers must provide subsidized COBRA cover- March 2021, applications are not open yet, age to eligible individuals from April 1 through but they are expected to open soon. InterestSeptember 30, 2021. ed applicants should create a login.gov user account, obtain a D-U-N-S number, and sign While employers will incur higher upfront up for SAM.gov immediately if they want the costs, the ARPA also created new advanceable chance to apply when the portal opens. and refundable tax credits to offset the costs. Employers (or plans or insurers) are able to re- COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster cover the cost by claiming a tax credit against Loans (EIDL) - The EIDL loan program exstandard payroll taxes. isted prior to the pandemic, but Congress created a new subset of EIDLs to provide low-cost Shuttered Venue Operators (SVO) grants loan options to businesses trying to survive Congress created the Shuttered Venue Op- COVID-19. Small businesses and nonprofit erators (SVO) grant program in December organizations may qualify for EIDL loans with
a 3.75% fixed rate for companies and a 2.75% fixed rate for nonprofits. Unlike PPP loans, traditional EIDL loans are not forgivable. However, the SBA does operate a separate COVID-19 Targeted EIDL Advance funding that is forgivable. Businesses can apply directly with the SBA for EIDL loans. Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) A vital tax credit every business with fewer than 500 employees should know is the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). The ERTC was first created in the CARES Act in March 2020, but it was not accessible for many businesses. Since that time, the ERTC has been modified and expanded by Congress twice so many more companies can use it. Businesses that experienced a decline in gross receipts by more than 20% in any quarter of 2020 compared to the same quarter in 2019 are eligible. As of March 2021, this refundable tax credit can be worth up to $7,000 per employee per quarter. This means companies could receive a credit for $28,000 per employee during 2021, a substantial sum that can help companies recover to pre-pandemic revenue numbers. Expanded family and sick leave- The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) was signed into law in March 2020 with the goal of providing assistance to employees and households affected by COVID-19. One important provision was making it possible for employers with fewer than 500 employees to receive tax credits to cover the costs of emergency paid sick leave. The employer tax credits for FFCRA benefits were first expanded in the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) through March 31, 2021. Then the ARPA extended the same tax credits through September 30, 2021. Under the current law, employers are not required to offer sick leave, but if they choose to, they can receive tax credits for up to $5,000 per employee.
Pick us up at Wal-Mart, Enterprise Bldg. & Armando’s Mexican Restaurant | BUSINESS & CAREER | 37
Secrets to Employee Motivation You Need To Know By JobSync
Employee motivation is a hot topic today among HR managers and business executives. Research shows that when employees are happy and motivated in their work, everything else within a company seems to improve as well. Because there are so many possibilities for employee motivation, it is difficult for companies to know where to begin and which practices work. Recently, however, there have been many initiatives taken by companies which have proven to be successful. Here are some of the secrets they uncovered that are applicable in almost any organization.
MAKE EVERY GIFT MEANINGFUL
give meaning to a position is to grow a relationship with the person who holds it. Look beyond fundamental interactions to interactions that can provide growth and connection. For example, instead of annual reviews, millennials prefer continual conversation and advice regarding their performance and generation z prefers a mentor. Both of these methods for performance evaluation foster more of a relationship than an annual review.
FOCUS ON INSPIRATION
In addition to building relationships with employees, another method that can be used to provide meaning to a job is inspiration. Companies can inspire employees to do better in their work and to work harder by showing them how their work makes a difference and connecting them with the population they impact through their work. Employees also respond positively to any inspiration that propels them toward long-term growth. Show them how they can grow in the company through different positions and the potential their future holds if they work hard.
Turning to gifts as a way to motivate employees is easy. After all, it is hard to find an employee that doesn’t appreciate a bonus check, gift certificate, or night out on the town. When using gifts to motivate employees, however, it is essential for every gift to be meaningful. If an employee does not understand why or how a gift was received, they don’t know how to earn it again and, therefore, have no reason to be motivated after the gift is received. To make gifts more effective, add a performance-based element to the gift or include a personal note When a company creates a plan for employee regarding why the reason for the gift. motivation and sticks to it, there is no telling how far it will go – the sky is the limit. EmRELY ON RELATIONSHIPS ployees respond when companies take action Currently, the two largest generations in the to motivate them and their attitudes, behavworkforce are the millennials and generation iors, and work ethic change for the better. The z. According to research, these two (very dif- bottom line, however, is that all employees ferent) groups both desire work that provides deserve the best a company can give them – value to their life over work that solely pro- and it is the job of HR managers and execuvides a steady paycheck. One effective way to tives to do that.
38 | BUSINESS & CAREER | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Owner of The Flour Shop Bakery Opens Gatehouse Café at Abilene Airport By Laura Gutschke | Abilene Reporter-News
Experienced caterer and bakery owner Leray Scifres has broadened his food empire to include the Gatehouse Café at Abilene Regional Airport. While passenger traffic builds slowly at the airport, primary customers at the newly opened café at the terminal, close to the front entrance, are employees at the airport and surrounding companies. According to the city’s request for proposal to operate a restaurant in space vacant since September 2019, there are 10 companies with a total of 450 employees within walking distance to the terminal. Another, Tigé Boats, is two miles away. Scifres began talking with the city about opening the café before the pandemic hit. The discussions resumed during the summer, he said. Just before the end of 2020, Scifres’ efforts
were derailed temporarily when he contracted COVID-19, he said.
etables – a different special each day.”
café. Curbside delivery also is being developed.
Also on the menu are hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups and scratch-made desserts, such as cookies, brownies and slices of cheesecake, cake and pie.
Scifres plans to expand hours once his wine and beer license is approved, he said.
The Gatehouse Café opened in early February with daily hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There also is a food kiosk past the security checkpoint for The most popular waiting passengers Leray Scifres serves desserts like this slice of peanut menu item is the to purchase snacks, butter pie at his Gatehouse Cafe inside Abilene Region- jalapeno popper coffee, fresh-baked al Airport. Photo by Ronald W. Erdrich/Reporter-News cheeseburger with a breakfast pastries half-pound of Wagyu and sundry items. beef, deep-fried peppers, ranch dressing and all the fixings. “We like to call ourselves a traditional diner with a modern twist,” Scifres said. “We do like Phone orders are accepted at 325-268-4113, a blue plate special with a meat and three veg- and airport parking tickets are validated at the
While setting up Gatehouse Café, Scifres has been in the process of moving The Flour Shop Bakery from downtown to 4021 S. Seventh Street in the Elmwood West Shopping Center. He also caters special events and has launched another company called Amazing Graze, which specializes in charcuterie boards. But owning a diner has been a dream, and he expects that the Gatehouse Café will take flight. “It’s been a little rough going getting started, but we’re up and running now and hopefully obstacles are out of the way and it’s full speed ahead,” Scifres said.
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40 | BUSINESS & CAREER | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Zookini’s | BUSINESS & CAREER | 39
Reliant Donates $15,000 to Food Bank By Nathaniel Ellsworth | Abilene Reporter-News
The Texas energy company Reliant recently provided a donation of $15,000 to the Food Bank of West Central Texas as part of a statewide effort to aid communities that were affected by the mid-February winter storms, the company said in a news release Wednesday. A total of $500,000 will be divided between 18 food banks around the state, which - according to the release - will provide 1.5 million meals to their communities. The donation is part of a $$3 million commitment from Reliant and its parent company, NRG Energy Inc., for disaster relief and recovery efforts. “Texas food banks are an essential lifeline to so many in our communities, and the recent winter storm coupled with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made their services even more critical,” said Reliant president Elizabeth Killinger in the release. “Supporting our neighbors in need, across communities large and small, is part of who we are as a company and we hope our efforts will help as we recover together.”
COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program Opens April 5 Until Funds Run Out By Community Foundation of Abilene
The Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program administered by the Community Foundation of Abilene opens on April 5th! Grants from $2,500 up to $50,000 are available, and the total program funding is $500K+. DETAILS: •The program is funded through a grant to the City of Abilene, Texas Government from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Coronavirus Aid, Relief Economic Security Act (CARES Act). •Grants will provide pandemic-relief grant funding to eligible small businesses impacted by COVID-19 that operate in Abilene, Texas. •These funds do not need to be paid back. •Grant funds cannot be used to cover/reimburse any items or expenses that were already covered through another federal program (EIDL, PPP, etc.) One public informational session will be held via zoom on April 13.Registration for the zoom sessions and more information on the application process can be found at www. cfabilene.org/community-impact/small-business
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