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1399 S. Danville Dr. 325-793-3028 HondaofAbilene.com
Pick us up at Long John Silver, Drug Emporium & Los Arcos Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 3
AUGUST 2019
Volume 10, Issue 4
Office Park West 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Abilene, Texas 79605 (325) 701-9505 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 info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 701-9505 Office
ADVERTISING SALES • Terri Collum (325) 439-1214 terri@hispaniclifemedia.com
• David Hernandez (325) 518-7091 sales@hispaniclifemedia.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Debbie Heep 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. 2019 HispanicLIfe Media
All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without permission from the publisher. www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine
And that is a wrap folks; Summer 2019 is about to come to an end! Hopefully you were able to have some type of vacation or even a fabulous staycation. Remember, it’s not about how much money you spend on your family, it’s the QUALITY of time you actually have with your family and the face to face interaction you spend with them. Unfortunately, you see it too often when parents and families are together at a restaurant and there is no communication or laughter, just their phones in their hands and silence. That’s the world we live in these days where social media has taking priority over family time, over talking and actually being involved in each other’s lives. Don’t let the moments slip away from you, we won’t get these days back, make the best of them, and pay attention to the people in front of you. Enjoy the ones you love and invest your time in them. No one ever regrets spending too much time with the people that matter the most! As we begin a new school year, we pray for all those involved in education, what an amazing influence and opportunity you have to do good, no matter how hard it may seem, your role MATTERS and we thank you. May the Lord bless each educator, janitor, lunchroom worker, school secretary, librarian, principal, bus driver, teachers aide and of course the students. May you all see the good in each other, be blessed in what you all do and be a blessing to others. Let us all try to make this world a better place; let us work hard to be united and not divided. There is enough ugly happening around us, let us strive not to be apart of it. God bless you all- Happy Beginning of School!
Amy Hernández & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife
4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Woman Drives Around Abilene with ‘Need Kidney’ on Car in Hopes of Finding Match By Kelsee Pitman | BigCountryHomePage Donna Schubert lives out her passion every day taking care of others, as a nurse.
Some of them even checking to see if they could donate a kidney but so far no match.
“Encourages me and my disabilities because sometimes you feel like life is over but if she is living with that then I can live with my disabilities and still have a positive attitude,” said Gary Simmons, One of Schubert’s Patients. For over 30 years Schubert has worked as a certified nursing assistant but after she was diagnosed three years ago she had to stop. Now she’s a caregiver for patients like Simmons. “When I ended up in the hospital they said that I was going into Renal failure,” said Schubert. Which means she needs a kidney transplant. “Yes, I got depressed. It was only natural. It’s from high blood pressure and diabetes,” said Schubert. After years of no matches, she decided to try something different.
“Something in my heart touched me God said advertise yourself so I put it on my car,” said Schubert. She wrote the words “need kidney” across her Ford SUV and she quickly got a responses from strangers. “It is so overwhelming. It seems like when I give up someone approaches me. It gives me hope and it lets me know that there is someone out there reading that sign,” said Schubert.
“I am not sad. I am not. They are happy tears. They really are happy tears. If you know how my heart feels right now,” said Schubert. She goes to dialysis treatment three times a week.
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
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LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS
Abilene Yard Greetings Stacie and John Mark Lopez, Owners
1. Tell us about your family
John Mark was raised in Rochester, Texas. He served 10 years in the United States Marine Corps. He now works as an Abilene Police Detective. Stacie grew up in Iowa Park, Texas and then attended Texas Tech University where she received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism. She currently works as a news anchor for KTAB News. Their son, John Mark Jr. is 10-years-old and is a 5th grade student at Wylie Middle School.
2. You recently purchased Abilene Yard Greetings. Tell us what made you decide to do that.
We knew for a while we wanted to have a business of our own. John Mark is passionate about providing for his family and looks for anyway to do that. The founder of Abilene Yard Greetings knew we were interested in the business, so when the former owners were looking to sale. We couldn’t say no.
4. If someone was interested, how do they get in 3. What areas do you serve with touch with you? (Phone Number, Facebook? Twitter? Instagram?) Abilene Yard Greetings?
5.If you had to say you had any competition out there, who would it be?
Yes, there is one other business out there “Card My Yard”
6. Besides Abilene Yard Greetings,
John Mark is the creative side, he makes Our phone number is 325-307-8484 (text is what else do you do? the signs and does the greetings. Stacie is in best) We have a Facebook page just search We both work full time, attend Zion Lutheran Abilene Yard Greetings. Our Instagram is @ Church, we volunteer with Big Brothers Big charge of our social media and booking. abilenetxyardgreetings. Our website is www. Sisters Abilene and love spending time with out family. abileneyardgreetings.com
6 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Boy Starts #ElPasoChallenge To Help Community Heal By KTSM El Paso
An El Paso elementary student is trying to help fellow El Pasoans heal after the deadly shooting at the Cielo Vista Walmart Saturday.
Eleven-year-old Ruben Martinez came up with what he’s calling
the #ElPasoChallenge. The idea is that people will complete 22 random acts of kindness, one for each victim of the Walmart shooting. It started with 20 acts of kindness when he first posted the challenge, but the victim count has since changed. Ruben’s mom Rosa Gandarilla said he came up with the idea himself. She said Ruben was having trouble dealing with the news, but she explained to him that people could not live in fear and encouraged him to think of something to make El Paso better.
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The list includes the following ideas and examples from Ruben: • Mow someone’s lawn • Visit a nursing home • Pay for someone’s lunch or dinner • Donate to families in need • Write someone a letter and tell them how great they are • Hold the door for everyone • Comfort someone when they are sad or stressed • Take flowers to someone in the hospital • Leave a dollar on the vending machine for the next person He says the best way to encourage others in El Paso to join in the #ElPasoChallege is to hold up posters, put out flyers and get it out to everyone on Facebook. If you’re participating in the challenge, you’re encouraged to spread the word by sharing your #ElPasoChallenge ideas and acts of kindness on social media with the #ElPasoChallenge hashtag. “This will show the world that people from El Paso, TX are kind and care for each other,” Ruben wrote. ~ He is especially challenging other students from across the city to participate with him.
There are only three ways to contact crime stoppers to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward up to $1000.00. They are: Call 676-TIPS (8477) Go on line at: Abilenecrimestoppers.com / or use our p3tips app for smart phones. Using social media, emails etc. you are not anonymous and you are not eligible for a cash reward. (ABILENE CRIME STOPPERS)
Pick us up at Law Enforcement Office & Cisco College | COMMUNITY | 7
Research Located Family Members Key to Dyess Memorial Park Effort By Abilene Reporter-News
Friday’s ceremony dedicating the Dyess Memorial Park expansion was a hit, despite swirls of dirt and typical summertime heat. The design met expectations of being unique, functional and uplifting. A lot of work went into this project, from raising funds to searching for families to invite to the event.
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That task was grabbed West Texas style — that is, by the horns — by Sidney Levesque, marketing director for the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council. With a background in research, from when she wrote for the Reporter-News and then employed in Abilene Christian University’s development office, Levesque offered her skills to this project. She also has expertise in probate genealogy with the local firm Bradbury & Nix.
names. Whitepages.com and spokeo.com were great tools. She quickly discovered that her cold calls often were met with hesitation. No, she wasn’t a telemarketer or wanting to scam the family. “I had to let them know I was the real deal,” she said. Once she explained her quest, the information and personal recollections flowed. In the end, the list of names topped 200. She was unsuccessful with only two airmen, who were single at the time of their deaths. No family could be found. “That really bothered me,” she said. “I’d research and research and research, then put it aside, then return to it. I did my best.”
Why did the Air Force not have this information? There was some information, of course, but not one source. And over time, with the first Dyess crash in July 1957, what information there was became outdated. Wives remarried, children were Col. Ed Sumangil, commander of the 7th Bomb Wing, delivers born, names changed, his remarks Friday at the dedication of the Dyess Memorial people moved.
A member of Daughters of the American Revolution with Kristina Jones, already part of the expansion project with the Civil Air Patrol, the all-volunteer Air Force auxiliary, Levesque asked Jones about how the families of the fallen airmen would find out about Park expansion. (Photo: Ronald W. Erdrich/Reporter-News) the ambitious project. She also found that families of victims of certain incidents had maintained Social media would be used, of course, but Levesque contact for years. This new memorial was a way of wondered if relatives scattered across the United extending the family. States would connect to something that happened decades ago. She offered her expertise and an attractive “In the end, I felt a personal connection to these indicompensation plan: she’d do it for free. viduals and families,” she said. She couldn’t bear to see a “gorgeous memorial” built and families not know. She obtained the list of 79 airmen and went to work. “I spent months on this project,” she said of using tools such as ancestry.com to locate parents, spouses, siblings and children. She worked through remarriages and both birth and death certificates. She found local news stories from when the deaths occurred to find
And that translates both to the base and this community. Through her research, those who died serving their country are more than a name or statistic. “They know the Abilene community hasn’t forgotten,” she said. Well done, Sidney Levesque. It’s why we call this Team Abilene.
8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Dyess Airman Performs CPR, Saves Child’s Life By Staff Sgt. David Owsianka | 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs On a hot July afternoon in Abilene, Texas, an apartment complex swimming pool was crowded with children and their parents trying to cool off. An enjoyable activity to beat the heat quickly turned into a tense situation, rushing to save a child’s life. One child noticed his friend was missing at the same time he noticed a shadow eight feet under the surface of the water. He swam down to the shadowy figure where he saw his friend. After the child brought his friend back above water, that’s when Tech. Sgt. Justin Dillinger, 7th Communication Squadron operations section chief, sprang into action to perform CPR in order to save the child’s life.
sary care and help give him a second chance at life,” Dillinger said. Air Force Self-Aid Buddy Care is training that encompasses basic life support and limb-saving techniques to help wounded or injured personnel survive in medical emergencies until medical help is available. This and American
“I believe it was pure fate that I was at the pool because my son and I intended on going to a splash pad but changed our plans last minute,” Dillinger said. After the child was pulled out of the pool, Dillinger noticed the child wasn’t breathing. Next, using the training he received from Air Force Self-Aid Buddy Care and CPR courses, he directed a bystand- Red Cross CPR trainings are vital to ensure er to call 911 and proceeded to perform chest Airmen are prepared to operate in certain milicompressions. tary environments. However, this training has also proven useful in a range of situations in After several minutes of providing care for the which airmen find themselves off duty. child, water began to shoot out of his mouth and he started to breath. “We are trained for a variety of different scenarios in Air Force that we could find ourselves “After he began spitting up water, I had a bit of involved with,” said Lt. Col. Michael Harris, relief because I knew he had a better chance of 7th CS commander. “Dillinger is the type of surviving,” Dillinger said. person who is willing to take charge and lead in difOnce the child became ficult situations. I’m proud more responsive, Dillinger of him for stepping up and turned the child to his side saving the child’s life.” and began rubbing his chest to help with circulaDillinger spoke with the tion until the paramedics Airmen in his unit after arrived to take control of the incident took place and the situation. provided them with some advice. Approximately 10 minutes after the paramedics got “The biggest thing that peoto the scene, the boy was fully conscious and ple should take away from this incident is that taken to a hospital for further inspection and you can’t take life for granted, especially your medical support. children’s lives,” Dillinger said. “Our lives can drastically change at a moment’s notice.” “I felt like the training I have received in the Air Force enabled me to provide the neces- I’m just glad that he survived, he said.
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A-MAX Insurance exists to serve people who may not be able to find what they need with larger companies. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
“The ladies are always friendly and willing to help. I recommend A-MAX to everyone I know.” “My experience with A-MAX was excellent, the team members were helpful with my payments as well as patient and working hard to satisfy my financial needs.” These are just two of the customer comments about the AMAX Auto Insurance services here in Abilene. The office has been open about six years. If you stop by the office at 3419 North First Street, you will be greeted by smiles, great customer service and agents willing to help. Office Manager Savannah Arias, and agent Victoria Castro will do everything they can to help you find the insurance coverage you need at an affordable price.
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“We are the leading non-standard insurance company in Texas,” says Regional Operations Manager for North Texas Jayson Cheves. Larger, national carriers tend to have certain criteria for customers they can serve. A-MAX caters to those who don’t meet those criteria and may not be able to afford a national carrier. “We serve single moms, laborers, construction workers,” says Jayson, “those who don’t qualify for an affordable rate with a large, traditional carrier.” A-MAX was founded in Dallas in 2002 and has grown to 150 locations throughout Texas. One of the things that sets A-MAX apart is an emphasis on Core Values of Respect, Team Work, Growth, Diversity, Integrity, Account Jayson started as an entry-level agent with the company and worked his way up through the positions of assistant manager, manager and district manager to his current position. He has been with A-MAX eleven years and supervises 221 employees and ten district managers. His favorite thing about the work is being able to make a difference for customers’ shopping experience for insurance. Those happy customers pass the word and refer others to A-MAX.
“Our biggest business is through referral,” he says. “That’s how we’ve grown.” A-MAX works with more than twenty partners to find the best package for a customer’s needs in auto, homeowner, renters, commercial auto and motorcycle insurance as well as liability for contractors. A-MAX offices serve customers in pretty much every area of Texas. “Abilene is a very predominant location for us,” Jayson says. “We’re open to everyone who is willing to come in and find a better rate.” You can call the Abilene A-MAX office at (325) 675-5000, visit www.amaxinsurance. com or email abilene@amaxinsurance.com.
Pick us up at Taqueria Riojas & Texas Workforce Center | COMMUNITY | 11
Texas Woman Celebrates 110th Birthday By BigCountryHomePage.com
A Houston woman is celebrating her 110th birthday. Family, friends and community leaders were all on hand to honor Elizabeth Francis, who they say remains healthy and strong. Elizabeth Francis gets emotional talking about the house full of family and friends here to celebrate her and her longevity. A life possible, she says, because of her faith “Blessing of the Lord. He’s the one keeping me. That’s why I’m living,” she says. Born in Louisiana in 1909, Ms. Francis is still sharp, has her memory, and is relatively healthy for a woman who has seen six generations of change. “It’s really special because she’s been able to watch and see all of her grandchildren grow up and be a part of their lives,” granddaughter Ethel Harrison says. Her family is grateful for her wisdom, for the stories she shares, and for her smile. It wasn’t just family celebrating her today, as Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner paid Ms. Francis a visit, too. It was the perfect way to begin the next century plus 10. The oldest known living person right now is Kane Tanaka, who lives in Japan and is currently 116-years old.
Abilene ISD’s Board of Trustees Approves Pay Raise for Teachers By Nicholas Teresky | KTXS
The Abilene ISD Board of Trustees approved a compensation plan on Monday night, which includes the largest pay raise for their teachers in years. In the compensation plan, firstyear teachers’ salaries will increase by $2,000, rising from $45,000 to $47,000. After that, teachers with one to five years of experience will see a 6 percent pay raise, with each pay raise increasing by 1 percent for each tier of experience for teachers. In early June, lawmakers gave school districts throughout the State of Texas more than $6 billion to improve public education and increase their teachers’ salaries.
12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Celebrate the Last Days of Summer atBy Abilene Stories at the Garden Public Library Everyone is invited to enjoy Stories at the Garden presented by your Abilene Public Library, City of Abilene Parks & Recreation Department, and the Abilene Zoo! We’ve all come together to bring you a fantastic event with an entire line-up of great activities and featuring some very special guests, all for FREE! Join us at Nelson Park Festival Gardens, located next to the Abilene Zoo, from 10am - 12pm on Saturday, August 24, 2019. Activities include: • Storytime at 10:45am • Abilene Zoo Animal Encounters • Princess and Superhero Meet & Greet
• HSU Six White Horses - Meet & Ride! • May Farms Petting Zoo • Bounce Houses • Bubbles & Chalk Drawing There will be so much to do and experience that you won’t want to miss it. Bring the whole family to this spectacular event. Then, keep the fun going by staying to visit the Zoo, play at the park, and cool off at the Splash Pad! Let’s send summer off right, and get ready for a great new school year. We’ll see you at the Festival Gardens on August 24th! Call 325-698-7565 or visit www.abilenetx. gov/apl for more information.
Pick us up at Drug Emporium, Monterrey Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 13
“The ALL HANDS ON DECK!
Show” Brings Healthy Dose of American Unity and Big Band Fun to Abilene on August 24 By Theodore Crosley | All Hands on Deck! Show
“Let the drums roll out, let the trumpets call, while the people shout, Strike Up The Band!” The Historic Paramount Theatre will be filled with the romantic and swinging sounds of the 1940’s when “The ALL HANDS ON DECK! Show” takes the stage on August 24, 2019 at 2:00pm.
“Seniors, Veterans and Servicemen just love our show—and we are thrilled to be bringing our musical message of patriotism to Abilene! Folks all across the U.S.A. really seem to enjoy our songs because they can sing-along with us,” said Broadway’s Jody Madaras in a recent interview. Co-star Valerie Hill added, “Our mission is to help bring America back together again—to help restore American unity by reigniting patriotism through our songs and tap dancing. They are timeless.” “The ALL HANDS ON DECK! Show” stars Broadway veterans Jody Madaras (creator, Ted Crosley), and Valerie Hill (Betty Blake), along with Madeline Clem (Daisy Maxwell), Randall Patterson (John Handley), and the rich sounds of the LIVE 9-piece Hollywood Victory Caravan Big Band Orchestra. It also features classic commercials, tight harmonies,
impromptu skits, Broadway-style tap dancing, and 42 of the greatest American songs ever written, as well as a full-circle patriotic salute celebrating the American way of life; reminding us of a time when our country was fully united. Songs include: Chattanooga Choo-Choo; Atchison, Topeka And The Santa Fe; I’m In The Mood For Love; Pennsylvania Polka; I’ll Never Smile Again; Any Bonds Today?; Don’t Fence Me In; America The Beautiful; Deep In The Heart Of Texas; Thanks For The Memory, and a powerful Military Medley – a rousing salute to America and our servicemen and women!
Tickets to “The ALL HANDS ON DECK! Show” and are on sale now and start as low as $25. Tickets can be purchased: Online at AllHandsOnDeckShow.com or by phone at (646) 418-0126 or In Person day of show at the Paramount Theatre, 352 Cypress St. Abilene.
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Direct from Branson, “The ALL HANDS ON DECK! Show” is an homage to the days of Bob Hope, and an awardwinning authentic WWII-era Big Band Roadshow & Radio Broadcast reproduction featuring the songs, dances, laughs, and favorite radio commercials that America has loved for 70 years; a perfect show for seniors, veterans and patriotic Americans of all ages!
14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Gary Hobbs Working on New Music By Tejano Nation
Gary Hobbs shared a photo to social media on Tuesday that he’s currently working on new music with a legendary producer.
“I’ve written and recorded 36 plus songs and I hadn’t written a Tejano song in over 15, 17 years,” he said. “I’ve been writing lately, two, three songs. We’ve been in the studio with just preliminary stuff, but we should start recording the rest of the CD really soon.” The singer, known to many fans as “El Borrado de Eagle Pass”, released his last single, “Cuando Eras Mia”, in December 2017, a song that he wrote.
This will be the first album from Hobbs since “Recuerdos…de Mi Madre”, The photo released in August 2016, an album recorded shows the by the singer of songs loved and sung by his crooner with legendary producer Brando Mire- mother Anita McLemore Hobbs. les with a caption that read, “These two guys in the studio today. Brando Mireles and Gary Like Tejano Nation on Facebook, follow us on Hobbs. New Tejano music coming soon.” Twitter, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to No other information was given, but Hobbs new Tejano music first with our playlists on told Tejano Nation in an interview that he’s Spotify and Soundcloud. been writing songs for the first time in many years.
Pick us up at Alfredo’s, Gloria’s Grill and Kentucky Fried Chicken | COMMUNITY | 15
16 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
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
Rebecca Sosa, 63, passed away July 16, 2019. Ms. Sosa was born December 06, 1955, in Waco, Texas to Reuben and Georgia Loya. She lived in and attended schools in Abilene. Ms. Sosa was preceded in death by her father and a brother Ismael Loya. Left to cherish her memories are her sons: George Gonzales and wife Angela of Abilene, Jason Loya and wife Alisha Perez of San Antonio, brothers Candelario Flores and wife Ruth and Valentino Flores and wife Elizabeth all of Abilene, sisters Hope Torres and husband John of California, Virginia Moreno and husband Luis, Christina Loya and Barbara Ramirez all of Abilene. She also has nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews that she loved very much. In her heart, Debbie Rodriguez, caregiver and best friend, was the daughter she always wanted but never had. Mrs. Birdie Lee “Muh” Walker Wright, 96, a life long resident of Sweetwater, passed away Saturday, July 27, 2019 at her daughter’s home in Sweetwater, TX. Birdie was born to Frank C. and Christina (Hart) Walker on October 22, 1922 in Sweetwater, TX. She attended school at Booker T. Washington High School, where she played Basketball, and Softball. Birdie married Mr. Charlie Wright, Sr. in September of 1945 and began her family.
She worked for the C.L. Bast family 22 years, and the Bill Carson family several years. She joined Mount Rose Baptist Church in 1978 and was the “Mother” of Mount Rose at her passing. Survivors include a daughter, Linda Sweet of Sweetwater, TX, and a son, Clarence Wright of Sweetwater, TX, 12 grandchildren, 53 great grandchildren, and 75 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Charlie Wright July 13, 1979, two daughters, Wanda Lemmons, and Melba Johnson, three sons, Albert Wright, Thomas Earl Wright, Charlie Wright, Jr., and seven brothers and sisters and a son-in-law Reverend Robert Sweet. TC Barney of Abilene passed away Monday, July 22, 2019. TC was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi on January 1, 1925 to William and Lexie Barney. He received his education through the Hattiesburg, MS public schools. TC served in the Navy for 2 years and was a WWII Veteran. He met Louise Williams and they were married on August 30, 1953, then relocated to Abilene, TX in the 50’s. They were married for 54 years. TC worked at Merchant Fast Motor Lines for 28 years, the Country Club and also at New light Baptist Church for 14 years. He was a member of New Light Baptist Church for over 50 years and served as an Usher for many years. He was an all around “super star” at the church, lending a helping hand wherever he was needed. His number one hobby was fishing and he loved to BBQ for his family. He was a humble man who loved his family... and was so loved by his family, as well as his church family. TC was preceded in death by his wife Louise Barney, daughter Linda Barney Watkins, son Teddy Barney, son Tony Barney, sister Millie Sue Hayes, sister Bobbie Jean Hayes “Sweet”, brother George Barney and sister Mattie Barney. Left to cherish his memories are his son Terry Barney of Abilene, TX; grandaughter, Maurine Carrion of Abilene, Texas; grandson Terry Watkins (Regina) of Abilene, Texas; grandson Tony Watkins (Keisha); Sister Connie Bell James of Abilene, Texas; brother William Barney, Jr. of Hattiesburg, MS.; sister Patricia Grey of Laurel, MS; sister Mary McNair of Joliet, Illinois; 14 grandchildren 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family and many friends.
A Symphony of Love for Tejano Icon Selena
Pick us up at Communities of Abilene FCU, SBDC & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 17
By Joey Guerra | Houston Chronicle
Growing up in Chicago, Sanchez was inspired by pop divas like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. And, of course, Selena.
Selena’s 2002 album “Ones” is familiar territory for fans. It’s one of several compilations of her biggest hits, including six No. 1 singles.
“I remember my mom cleaning the kitchen to ‘Baila Esta Cumbia’ or crying listening to ‘No Me Queda Mas,’” Sanchez says. “I was subconsciously learning all the lyrics and just dancing to it all the time.
But the album closer, “Con Tanto Amor Medley,” cast her in a new light. It took three of Selena’s songs — “Amor Prohibido,” “Si Una Vez,” “Como la Flor” — and reworked them into a lush, symphonic arrangement. Even her pleading vocals, stripped from Tejano backdrops, sound wholly different against the music. That renewed sense of discovery is what the Houston Symphony is betting on with “The Music of Selena,” this weekend’s tribute to the late Tejano singer featuring San Antonio singer Isabel Marie Sanchez. Art Vivar, the Houston Symphony’s Hispanic Leadership Council Chair, says they started working on a Selena tribute several years ago.
Stepping into Selena’s shoes
That’s a whole lot of legacy to live up to. But Sanchez has powerful allies in her “We basically have a mandate, if you will, to corner. She records on Q-Zone Records, bring the Hispanic community to the symphony the label owned by Abraham Quintaniland bring the symphony to the Hispanic com- la, Selena’s father. munity,” Vivar says. “The idea of Selena, from the Astrodome to Jones Hall, is cool. It’s poetic, “It’s an honor, really. I would have never if you will, that it’s happening here in Houston.” thought in my wildest dreams that I’d be able to work with her family,” Sanchez, 16, says. Selena was murdered in 1995 by her fan club president at the cusp of what promised to be a Sanchez was a finalist on “La Voz Kids,” a jusuccessful crossover career. In life, she effort- nior version of “The Voice” on Telemundo. Aflessly soared to heights that women, and Teja- ter her time on the show, she released a cover of no music in general, never reached, taking her the ’80s tune “De Mi Enamorate,” which was pop-enhanced sound to Mexico and eventually eventually seen by “Mr. Q” and led to a meetaround the world. No other act has come close ing. He asked her to learn half of one song when they met. Sanchez learned two full numbers. to replicating her success. In death, Selena has become a legend, a beacon of hope for multiple generations of fans. She was immortalized in a 1997 film that also made Jennifer Lopez a star. Her final RodeoHouston performance became a bestselling album. Her songs are still in heavy rotation, and her albums regularly return to the charts. Incredibly, that 2002 “Ones” album was the bestselling Latin album by a woman in 2016. Last year, it returned to No. 1 on the iTunes Latin Albums chart, outpacing new projects from Shakira, J Balvin and Maluma. Earlier this year, Kacey Musgraves, Camila Cabello and Prince Royce honored Selena during their RodeoHouston sets. A Netflix series about Selena is in the works. A tribute cruise plans to set sail next year.
“He wanted to just hear how I sound in the studio,” Sanchez says. “I really wanted to impress him. He left for 30 minutes to get coffee, and when they came back, I had learned both songs. My mom and I were writing the lyrics on a napkin in the studio.” Sanchez signed with Q-Zone Records at 12 years old and has released three albums, including last year’s “XOXO Hugs & Kisses.” Her sound leans heavily into Tejano but she says she doesn’t like to limit herself to one style of music. Sanchez’s biggest successes, though, have been in Tejano, where she says the fans are “super, super loyal.” She won the 2017 Tejano Music Award for best new female artist and is a regular on Tejano radio countdowns.
“We moved to Texas when I was 9 years old. Our minds blew when we came here because there was a whole genre. We fell in love with it, really.”
‘She looked just like me’
She began singing at Trader’s Village and Market Square in San Antonio, her family making their own albums to sell to fans. Today, Sanchez has become a go-to for official Selena events, performing at the MAC makeup launch and Fiesta de la Flor. She also performs her own material throughout Texas. Sanchez says performing with a symphony has always been one of her “main goals.” During a recent rehearsal in Houston, she brought emotion and sensitivity to “Dreaming of You” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” Not a copycat, but a tasteful homage to a woman who Sanchez says inspired her beyond the music in a deeply personal way. “Selena is such a big stamp in our culture,” Sanchez says. “I saw a lot of artists out there who were Mexican, but they had blond hair, blue eyes. Then I saw Selena, and she looked just like me: dark skin, dark hair. I really, really connected to that because I knew that someone who looked like me could eventually make it.”
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Free Computer Classes Offered Internet Basics Friday, August 9, 2019 10:30 a.m. The Internet Basics class is a monthly hands-on class giving an overview on how to connect to and navigate the Internet - including tips on using search engines, some social media platforms, and more. This class is designed for people with little to no experience with the Internet, so don’t hesitate to sign up because everyone in the class will be a beginner. We will be using our new Mobile Lab of 20 laptops purchased with a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
Computer Basics Monday, August 12, 2019 10:30 a.m. If you have an interest in learning how to use a computer, but don’t know where to start, we have the class for you! The South Branch Library will be offering free computer classes for the public using our new Mobile Lab of 20 laptops purchased with a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. The Computer Basics class is a hands-on class giving an introduction to the parts of the computer and how to use them. This class is designed for people with little to no computer experience, so don’t hesitate to sign up if you fall into one of these categories. Everyone in the class will be a beginner. Class size is limited to 20 and registration is required at www.abilenetx.gov/apl on our events/program calendar, or call 325698-7565 for more information. South Branch in the Mall of Abilene
4310 Buffalo Gap Rd.
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EDUCATION
LOCAL SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS
HSU Black Student Union (Proven) Fosters Fun Environment to Engage Students By Grace Sosa | Staff Writer, Hardin-Simmons University
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HSU’s Black Student Union was founded last year to “foster a fun and safe environment that engages our students in discussion on issues affecting us and our surrounding communities.” The BSU goes by the name Proven. “We wanted it to be Proven because we have nothing left to prove,” said A’breanna Harrison ’20, this year’s Treasurer. “We’re not fighting for our rights. We’re already established. We have our human rights, and we know who we are and what we deserve.”
Engaging Events
Taylor Woods ’21 is the 201920 Event Coordinator. She hopes to add new events this year, including a barbecue, crawfish boil, and lawn party. Last year, Proven hosted a kickball game and a spring splash including a water balloon fight, cannonball contest, food, an egg hunt, and an egg toss. Harrison said this was her favorite event.
they need to be spoken about. Everyone is different, so we need to hear from every viewpoint.”
An Inviting Atmosphere Proven founded the
HSU Gospel Choir. The choir performed during Diversity Week and chapel last year and plan to continue performing this year. They were also instrumental in creating HSU’s Latin Student Union, Sangre. The two groups often partner for events.
“We really want to break the discomfort that people have on campus about topics that are hard to discuss,” Woods said. “People have lots of questions about these issues, but they sometimes need the right environment to discuss them.”
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HSU Black Student Union OfficersAlthough the organization is called the Black Student Union, all students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate in their events. “Our goal for this year is to reach more people,” Harrison said. “Everybody’s welcome.”
“I loved it because there were so many people that we were able to reach out to,” she said. “When I saw all these people of different races and ethnicities in one place, I thought, ‘if we can do this, imagine what we can do for Proven’s upcoming events and recaps are our campus.’” available on their website, Instagram, and sic, eat good food, and YouTube pages discuss current topics. The group also had movie nights watching The Best of Enemies and The Hate U Give in “We have fun and listen to music, but we also theatres. After the movies, they would stay in talk about deep issues like race and what it the theatre and discuss the film’s applications means to be a black man or woman in socito society. Another favorite event is Monday ety,” Harrison said. “So many times, people Music Meals. Students gather to listen to mu- don’t want to talk about things like this, but
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20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
HSU Creates Athletic and Medical Partnerships with Kenya By Dr. Kristina Campos-Davis | Director of Communications, Hardin-Simmons University
What started as a meeting in the HSU cafeteria has grown to an international partnership with multiple departments of the university. When Grey Hoff, Associate Vice President for Marketing and Global Engagement, met Kisemei Kupe three years ago, he quickly found out that Kupe had a heart for the Lord and a calling to minister to his people in Kenya. Today, the two have partnered with the HSU cross country team, University Recreation, the Physician Therapy program, and the Physician Assistant program to empower and learn from people in Kajiado County. Kupe knew that his community had a need for medical and athletic equipment for their clinics and youth center. After HSU constructed the new Fletcher Fitness Center, he had the idea to donate the old fitness equipment. Treadmills, leg press equipment, weights, and more were donated to help youth train in Kenya’s most prestigious centers. HSU also partnered with Global Samaritan Resources to donate medical supplies including surgical equipment, wheelchairs, exam beds, and chairs.
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In addition to training, the team participated in a community service project at the AIC Childcare Center, helping children with physical disabilities.
told him, “We have sent many of our people to America, and they forget about us. Don’t forget about us. Anything good you see, bring it back and connect it with us.” Kupe took the words to heart and remained dedicated to creRepresentatives from the Physical Therapy ating a partnership between HSU and Kajiado program also attended the cross country trip County. “I want to see HSU and the members of Kajiado Country work together in raising students and empowering people in my country,” said Kupe. “I have a lot to give back to HSU. HSU has given me more than I expected. I feel like I belong here, but I want to give back to my country.” Kenya Delegation at HSU’s Physical Therapy building
From May 20-27, the deputy governor, director of social services, and chief officer of medical services from Kajiado County, Kenya visited the HSU campus to explore possibilities for partnerships with the university. They inspected the medical equipment to be donated from Global Samaritan, discussed recruiting partnership with HSU’s Global Engagement Office, and met with the Abilene major, Anthony Williams, to learn about Abilene’s health services, education, water services, and garbage collection. They also planned details for HSU’s cross country team to visit later this month. From June 25-July 5, the HSU cross country team visited Kenya to train with internationally acclaimed Kenyan runners at the Ngong HSU President Eric Bruntmyer receives a tradiHills Facility. They also had the opportunity tional Masaai Shuka cloth. to experience an African safari at Amboseli National Park. to explore opportunities for a medical mission trip next year. The Physician Assistant pro“I want to see the cross-country team to ex- gram is also looking into a missions partnerperience the expertise of the Kenyan runners,” ship with Kenya as well. Kupe, Global Engagement Ambassador, said. “It is so valuable to train and run in another Kupe’s inspiration to connect HSU with his country.” home county came from a Maasai elder who
The vision for global partnerships began with HSU founder James B. Simmons. In a letter to an Abilene pastor he writes, “To tell you the truth, I have no use for Christlieb College (HSU) if it isn’t the College of Christ’s Love all round the world…This whole round Globe for Christ is the least we ought to think or say. And for that we should work, and sacrifice, and pray ‘till Jesus comes.” HSU’s emphasis on missions and global impact was at its peak under the administrations of HSU President Dr. Jesse Fletcher and Dr. Lanny Hall. “During that time, HSU was one of the leading mission-sending universities in the US,” said Hoff. “We had scholarships for missionary families, the Connally Missions center was constructed, and we held a Horizoning Conference for missions experts…We want to jump-start these things again and reanoint what we’ve been gifted for the nations around the globe.” Hoff’s vision for Global Engagement is far more than recruiting international students. “We want to welcome the nations here, but we also want our American students here to connect their degrees and passions to something beyond themselves,” he said. “A global education is a transformational experience.”
Pick us up at Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, H.E.B. & CISCO College | EDUCATION | 21
TSTC Welding Program Meets Industry Need By Sarah Trocolli | Communication Specialist, TSTC The welding program at Texas State Technical College is training and educating highly skilled welders quickly to continue to meet industry demand.
where they end up,” Elston said. “So, once we learn what they really want to do, we’ll help them start preparing for that weld test so they can get the job they want.”
Texas has the highest employment level for welders, cutters, solderers and brazers in the nation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And demand is expected to keep growing.
TSTC students spend a majority of their time in the lab with hands-on practice to ensure the technical skills, but Elston says the college is also dedicated to ensuring that students are jobready.
“The students come in and earn a Certification Level 1 - Structural Welding in three semesters and are trained in various welds like MIG, TIG, flux-core, stick, oxy-fuel, brazing and more,” Taylor Elston, welding instructor at the Sweetwater campus, said.
“With the TSTC Career Services team helping us, we really make sure the students have not only the quality education, but also the soft skills like resumes and job etiquette,” Elston said. “We make them treat school like their job; they have to show up and show up on time. So when they graduate they won’t just be good As students near graduation, Elston spends time welders, but also good employees.” with each one figuring out their career plans and caters to their education with that in mind. Elston encourages anyone interested in the program to come to the campus and schedule “About the third semester, we’ll start asking the a tour. students which type of welding they enjoy most and where they want to live and what kind of Registration for the fall semester is underway. job they want. Because in welding there are so For more information about TSTC, go online many specializations, they can have a choice of at tstc.edu.
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PT Student Directs Orphanage in Uganda
Pick us up at H.E.B., CISCO College & China Star | EDUCATION | 23
By Dr. Kristina Campos-Davis | Director of Communications, Hardin-Simmons University
The ministry began in 2017 when Eunice was reading his Bible. He could not shake the idea of a Physical Therapy office that works with orphanages. Although he had no idea how this would happen, he committed to praying about the ministry. Soon after, a friend connected him with Pastor Patrick, a Ugandan minister who was caring for 38 orphans. When Eunice realized that Pastor Patrick had no steady income to provide for the children, he decided to begin the organization. The name of the organization comes from Acts 4:13, a verse where the people realized that the apostles Peter and John were just ordinary people who had been with Jesus. “The name is to remind everyone that God still uses ordinary people to do amazing things; we just have to say yes,” said Eunice. “When I
first started putting everything together, people would always say things like, ‘That’s so cool, I wish I could do something like that!’ and I would always respond with, ‘Well, I’m just a guy who said yes to a need, so there is nothing stopping you.’” In addition to accepting yearround donations, Eunice plans three large fundraising events a year. “I knew nothing about fundraising, non-profits, or really anything that was being asked of me when God put it on my heart to stand up and provide of these orphans,” he said. “I’ve just been learning on the go, just trusting God to show up and be faithful in what He has called me to do.” Eunice said his trip to Peru with the PT program helped him develop a servant’s heart. In Peru, Eunice cared for individuals with special needs and their families. With Joni and Friends and Wheels for the World, Eunice was able to share the gospel and fit mobility devices for those in need. To learn more or contribute to Just A Guy Ministries, visit their Facebook page.
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Joseph Eunice ’19 was busy enough working and earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy, but when he saw a need in Mityana, Uganda, he knew he had the time to help children in need. Eunice is the Director of Operations at Just A Guy Ministries (JAG), where he fundraises to provide food, school fees, wells, homes, livestock, and vaccinations for orphans in the community.
24 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
West Texas A&M Brings Bachelor’s Degree to Roscoe By The Roscoe Hard Times
West Texas A&M University (WT), Western Texas College (WTC), and the Roscoe Collegiate Independent School District (RCISD) through its new 501 C(3) Non-Profit, Collegiate Edu-Nation (CEN), partner to deliver a bachelor’s degree without leaving the area. This partnership will provide many of the advantages of a local program and all the flexibility of an online degree. Officials kickedoff the agreement with a signing on July 22 in Roscoe to begin the program in fall 2019.
Students work with experienced advisors to devise their own set of courses from various disciplines, which is why the degree has become known as the Innovation Degree. The degree is especially adaptable for students who want to qualify for graduate school in a variety of disciplines or employees who aspire to earn promotions, pay raises or are considering a different career field. For more infor-
According to the U.S. Census, more than 9,000 people older than 25 years in the four-county area near Roscoe have some college but not a bachelor’s degree. Most are with jobs, mortgages and family commitments that make it difficult to pursue a traditional academic degree, and research suggests most nontraditional students dislike the isolation often found in online degree programs. In response to those challenges, WT and its partners have developed the “Innovation Degree.” This program utilizes up to 81 hours of prior college credit and has the flexibility to be tailored to the specific goals of each stu- West Texas A&M President Walter Wendler, RCISD Superintendent Kim Alexander, and Western Texas College President.
dent Barbara Beebe hold up their signed copies of the of the three schools to work together on the This is the most recent develop- agreements new Bachelor’s program at Roscoe Collegiate.
ment growing out of the University’s generational plan, “WT125: From the Panhandle to the World.” This plan looks ahead to the year 2035, WT’s 125th anniversary, when the University will have attained doctoral status.
“WT has some of the lowest tuition rates among universities in Texas. Furthermore, we assist in identifying courses at Western Texas College that will apply to this degree and further reduce the cost,” says Dr. Brad Johnson, vice president for strategic relations at WT. The flexibility of the program allows a student to satisfy all degree requirements through online courses while receiving staff support in person at the Roscoe Collegiate Academy.
mation about this opportunity, contact Patricia McCormick at 806-651-5307. “Through our Early College Program that provides students the opportunity to earn their Associate Degree prior to high school graduation, thanks to the long standing partnership between RCISD and WTC, we’re excited to now partner with WT to offer non-traditional support for students throughout the Big Country Area to complete Bachelor’s and Graduate Degrees from right here in Roscoe,” according to Dr. Kim Alexander, Chancellor of Collegiate Edu-Nation. “This new system model for K12 alignment with higher education could prove to be a real game changer for rural students throughout Texas and the U.S.”
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Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | EDUCATION | 25
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Hendrick Auxiliary Grants Scholarships for Abilene ISD Students By Marissa Thompson | Abilene Industrial Foundation
NEXTUniversity, a career development program of Abilene Industrial Foundation (AIF) partners with Abilene Independent School District (AISD) and Cisco College. Five scholarships funded by the Hendrick Medical Center (HMC) Auxiliary Board will be awarded to AISD students attend-
classes, so that they may earn college credit as they prepare for the workplace. Students also work to develop resume writing skills, participate in mock job interviews, attend local business site tours and more. Each HMC Auxiliary Board scholarship aims to fund the complete cost of tuition, fees, books and supplies with a total award of $10,500 per student. Students will be expected to enroll in 3 classes for the 2019-2020 school year and will be required to take and score at least a 75 on the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exam. NEXTUniversity graduates will also have a guaranteed opportunity to interview with Hendrick Medical Center.
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ing Holland Medical High School that complete the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program and wish to continue their education at Cisco to obtain a License in Vocational Nursing (LVN).
Susan Wade, Vice President Infrastructure & Support, Hendrick Medical Center states “The Hendrick Auxiliary is proud to partner with NEXTUniversity to provide opportunities for AISD students to pursue a career in nursing. Hendrick provides employment opportunities for LVNs in several departments and hopes that some of these graduates consider eventually becoming a licensed Registered Nurse. Texas is currently facing a shortage of Registered Nurses and that shortage is anticipated to be 59,970 by 2030 according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.”
NEXTUniversity seeks to address the ever-growing challenge for a “middle-skilled” labor force in light of a low unemployment rate. The local unemployment rate averaged 3.2% for 2018 and Students interested in the scholarship must: even hit a low of 2.6% for Abilene in May 2019. 1. Have completed the CNA program at Middle-skilled healthcare professions, such as Holland Medical High School OR will nursing, are expected to add almost 70,000 to complete the CNA program by the end their labor force by the year 2020 for the State of of 2019-2020 school year Texas alone. Regionally, healthcare professions 2. Be a senior that can take dual credit expect to have the best job growth adding over courses at Cisco College during the 20191,200 jobs over the next 5 years with an average 2020 school year 3. Complete an enrollment application to annual salary of $48k/year. Cisco College Jamilah Spears serves as the program’s counselor 4. Complete an enrollment application to with AISD. In this role, she works directly with NEXTUniversity by contacting Jamilah high school students to enroll them in dual credit Spears: jamilah.spears@abileneisd.org
Pick us up at La Familia Mexican Restaurant & YMCA on State St. | EDUCATION | 27
28 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Alumna Artist Makes Her Mark in Honduras with Abstract Creations By Allison Harrell | ACU Today
In Honduras where contemporary and realistic traditional art is the normal, Helga Sierra (’12) has surprised the market with her abstract creations.
she regards this trip as a crucial turning point in her artistic career; it was then that she decided to begin painting a collection of pieces. “It was on that Lisbon trip where I recognized this is what I was made to do, in a very different “There’s not a lot of art education here, which way than I had before,” she said. has been one of the main hurdles with doing abstract art,” Helga said. “Here people are used With a clear calling to jumpstart her artistic cato seeing portraits or landscapes, and if you do reer, she decided she would take her collection that then you sell, but that’s not what I’m want- and return to Honduras in late 2016. In April ing to communicate.” 2017, she opened her first art show displaying the abstract pieces she had brought back from Helga received signifiPortugal. cant recognition when she was invited to par“Abstract for me kind ticipate in the 2019 of releases the tension “Towards the Future” of having to be perart show held in the fect,” she said. “I’m Museo Para La Idena perfectionist by natidad Nacional in Teguture, and I want to be cigalpa, celebrating the in control and every80th anniversary of the thing I do to be perInstituto Hondureño fect, but the reality is de Cultura Interamerimy life is not like that cana. The IHCI is supat all. That’s what abported by the U.S. Emstract art is for me a lot bassy in Honduras and of the time, expressing is a major promoter of what’s out of my conarts in Honduras. trol. It’s the only time I don’t feel like it needs Helga grew up in Honto be perfect. Obviduras and began paintously, I’m finding haring when she was only 8 years old. The train- mony within the piece and I’m using all the tools ing she received at a young age was primarily that I have, but in the actual painting process I traditional. Her first encounter with abstract art forget all of the other stuff.” was in a class taught by ACU art and design professor Dan McGregor (’97). Helga owns an art studio in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. She also works part time at “It was something that came very natural to a marketing and design consulting job. During a me, because I have a strong color theory basis,” two-year period, her artwork has been displayed she said. “And it just felt right. Every time I did at all major cultural shows in Honduras. Now abstract, it was some sort of expression of my one of her goals it to have an international presemotions.” ence, she said. She graduated from ACU with a degree in She recently was invited to display her work in a business administration and a minor in art, show in New York City, New York. In Septemthen obtained an MBA from ber, she plans to attend Lipscomb University. After a show in Panama City, graduation, she continued to Panama, where she will work in creative services and be the only abstract artist graphic design, but her artisfeatured. In the future, she tic dreams had yet to become plans to continue seeking a priority. new international opportunities and has considA year after graduation, she ered pursuing a residency travelled to Lisbon, Portugal, to assist in a or graduate school. She is exploring new art church planting opportunity. During the three forms, such as installation work and photogramonths she was there, she had free time to phy. And at some point, she hopes to be able to explore the city, visiting museums and taking begin a nonprofit organization with her business photographs. Away from family and friends, background.
-Pick us up at Central Finance, Mr. Gatti’s & La Popular Bakery | EDUCATION | 29
30 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
and TRUST GOD DREAM BIG grande, y confia en Dios! SueĂąa en
The Cisco College Criminal Justice program provides students with a basic understanding of the parts of the criminal justice system, as well as expanded knowledge in specialized fields of study. Students will be prepared to work in a variety of of roles, including police officers, probation officers, criminologists, customs officials, correctional officers, public and private investigators, and research and planning analysts.
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Children with Boys & Girls Club Sew Blankets for Rescue Dogs By Will Jensen | KTXS
Children attending a Boys & Girls Club summer program presented homemade blankets to Rescue the Animals, SPCA Tuesday. The Foster Grandparent Summer Program, hosted by the Boys & Girls Club on Clinton Street, taught children how to sew blankets. The childrens’ foster grandparents acted as their sewing instructors. The children gave Rescue the Animals nearly 60 blankets, providing dogs with something to sleep on. Paul Washburn, president of Rescue the Animals, SPCA, stated that the dogs will love the hand-sewn blankets.
32 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Eddie and Beatrice Hernandez know the secrets to keeping a family together. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine Beatrice Hernandez gathers the family together for every birthday. She bakes the birthday cakes from scratch. “Instead of buying gifts, we have time together,” she says. This is only one example of the togetherness Beatrice and her husband Eddie enjoy. Beatrice grew up in Anson. Eddie was born and raised in Lamesa. He met Beatrice when he was in Anson visiting family. They eloped when Beatrice was almost fifteen and Eddie was seventeen. On July 8 they celebrated their 40th anniversary. Beatrice spent her first wedding anniversary in the hospital giving birth to their son EJ (Eddie Junior.) He works for the City of Anson as Public Works Director. He and his wife Sandra have four children. Jason sells insurance and teaches classes at Crunch Fitness. His husband, Sean Marshall, is a professional truck driver. Jason also provides event-planning services, particularly for quniceaneras, the celebration of a young woman’s 15th birthday in the Hispanic culTheir second son Nathan works at the English ture. He specializes in original dances. Color Body Shop in Abilene. Nathan and JesThe Hernandez family’s togetherness insica have three children. cludes a Sunday meal at Eddie and Beatrice’s Beatrice didn’t know her third “baby” was home. The day starts with worship at St. twins until delivery. After Mason was born the Michael’s Catholic Church. Then the whole nurses started out of the room with him, but family gathers at the home in Anson that they the doctor called them back because another bought for $7,000 in 1994. baby was coming. That baby was Jason. Eddie took the house from two bedrooms to “She was twenty-one years old with four four, adding an additional bath. boys,” Jason says. “Even in the pictures she “I did a lot of carpentry,” he says. “And taught looks shocked.” the boys how to fix their cars.” “We were all shocked,” says Beatrice, “but it “We eloped in a ’67 Malibu,” Beatrice says. was the best thing.” “And he gave it to our oldest son. EJ still has Mason works for Lawrence Hall in Anson it. All the boys drove nice cars to high school.” where he prepares vehicles for their buyers. He also owns a gym called Awesome Mus- On Sundays Beatrice cooks for everyone. Her cles. His wife Leticia runs Tiny Tiger daycare brother, Ysidro, who recently lost his wife, ofand sister-in-law Sandra works there. They ten brings his granddaughter. have three children and three foster children. Some weekends tents, a bonfire, even TVs In the summers they run a sno-cone stand. spring up in the backyard for Grandma’s Eddie and Beatriz also work for the City of Anson in the Water Treatment Plant, a sure sign of togetherness. Eddie has worked there for thirty-five years and Beatriz for eighteen years.
Camp Out. The grandchildren, ages 17 to 2, enjoy s’mores and hanging out. For their 30th anniversary, Eddie and Beatrice’s sons surprised them with a party at the high school for friends and family. But for their 40th, the family came together for a meal and celebration. When asked the secret to a long successful marriage Eddie says, “getting along with each other, understanding what each other wants, getting to know what to expect.” Eddie and Beatrice know another valuable secret to a successful family: togetherness in all the areas of their lives.
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The Mindset of Moving On By Madison Bloker | boundblessings
Last week I was putting on a lid for some tomato soup I was going to bring for my lunch at work. It was moments before I was about to head out the door, and I was already running a little late. And as I forcefully tried to get that lid on the container, it flipped the whole container towards me, spilling tomato soup all over my new jeans and my carpet. Frustrated, I tried to scrub the soup out of the carpet and my jeans. I hurriedly made my way to work (with sadly no tomato soup). Work was rough that day. Words were spoken. Emotions were felt. And after a series of unfortunate events, I headed home in the early morning hours feeling exhausted. I opened up to Matthew that night and read this: “Jesus, knowing they were out to get Him, moved on.” I read it again. And again. And then I wrote it down. And something about that just resonated with me. He moved on. The guy who was fighting for everyone yet had everyone fighting against him. The guy who healed the sick and gave food to the hungry and sight to the blind, yet had people out to get him. But Jesus. Moved. On. And sometimes I think we forget that we have that choice as well. We get to choose whether or not we move on. Whether or not we let go of the circumstances that don’t make sense in our lives right now. Or the things those people said about us. Or the hurt we feel after a loss. Or the mistake we made five years ago. Or the tomato soup we spill all over new jeans. Just like Jesus, we have the power to move on. We have the power to choose hope when maybe right now it just looks like defeat. To choose faith when there’s a whole lot of fear. To choose positivity in a world of negativity.
Will this choice be a hard one? Yes. Will it cause some people to walk away from you? Yes. But check this out - right after it said Jesus moved on, it says, “A lot of people followed him, and he healed them all.” The right people followed Jesus after he had moved on. Yes, he lost some people, but he gained the right ones. And people were healed by Him because He chose to move on. So I don’t know what situation you’re in right now or what hurt you’re feeling or what mistakes from the past are haunting you today, but I do know that God has given you the power to move on. Life will be filled with situations we don’t necessarily want, but we have the power to choose how we respond to those situations. Verses later, Matthew, in a somewhat gross way, says, “Listen, and take this to heart: It’s not what you swallow that pollutes your life, but what you vomit up.” In other words, life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. You’ve got the power to move on. You have the power to see light where there is darkness. To see growth where there is pain. To see opportunity where there is change. You have the power to see goodness in the places society tells you it doesn’t exist. To see hope where there is hurt. To see triumph where there are trials. But you also have the power to see the annoyances, the small things that just don’t seem to go your way. You have the power to see the faults in people. Their flaws and imperfections. You have the power to see your problems. Your brokenness. Your mistakes. Each day you’re given the choice as to how you look at things. As to how you move on. Now the question is - what will you choose to see today?
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Chis DeLuna’s Blog:
Receiving Good and Evil from God By Chris DeLuna | Pastor at Church of Grace Robstown, TX
You’ve heard people say, “Thank God! It was a good day.” What about the bad days? Do we thank God in them? Do not the scriptures tell us to “give thanks in all circumstances”? (1 Thess. 5:18). This is the sentiment Job expressed, “Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?” (Job 2:10). The truth is that too many of us have a less-than-Biblical understanding of God and his relationship to the world. Is God in control? If so, how much does he control? The Bible says, “In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other” (Ecc. 7:14). And consider Job again; We know that Satan (by God’s permission) brought much calamity upon him even the deaths of his family. When it was all over and Job is restored, the scripture says that family and friends visited him and “ate bread with him in his house. And they showed him sympathy and comforted him for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him.” (Job 42:11). Notice how despite Satan being the agent of calamity, in the final analysis scripture attributes the entire ordeal to God calling it “the evil that the Lord had brought upon him.” I know. It’s hard to understand, but let us not deny the plain teaching of scripture. God has his reasons. We aren’t always privy to them, so our faith is based on his good and holy character for “we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).
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Bullet Points By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments The Bible still amazes me. I have read through it since I was little, and yet it still comes alive and the Scriptures speak to me in new and fresh ways.
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Hebrews 4:12 says, “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit ...” As I was reading 2 Timothy 4, starting with verse 14, I found Paul’s bullet points for life – again, God’s Word alive and active – sharp and piercing.
Bullet Point 1: Paul reminds us that God
will repay others for the harm they have caused us. As stepmoms, we most likely have been hurt by a previous marriage or relationship. Presently, you may be terrorized by an ex. No matter who has done what, God sees the whole picture – the total truth. He will take care of the ones who have been unjust or malicious to you.
our society today, I’m troubled; I’m nervous for my kids and grandkids to navigate a world in which anything goes – with no absolute truth. Second Timothy 3:1-4 is our reality check. It says, “There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” Even as I scroll through my Facebook pages, it’s easy to find almost every item Paul listed. I encourage you to take a deeper look at Paul’s message to us in Second Timothy. God repays others who have hurt us. God stands by us as we proclaim Him. God rescues us from evil attacks. God has an amazing kingdom in heaven that is our home. Sounds like God has covered all the bases.
Bullet Point 2: In verses 16 and 17, Paul Now go walk in it! reminds us that even when we have been abandoned, God stands at our side to give us strength. Yes, God loves us. But the bigger picture here is of God proclaiming, through our lives, His glory. Our lives can be a powerful testimony of the presence, power, protection, and provision of God to an unbelieving and watching world.
Bullet Point 3: In verse 18, Paul reminds
us that God will rescue us from every evil attack. The battle is God’s. Trust, faith and belief is our part of the plan. I know that when we have been attacked, the first response is to retaliate. I’m guilty of that as well. But, I have to remind myself that God knows best! Let Him handle it.
Bullet Point 4: In verse 18b, Paul reminds
us of the final goal – to be safely with Jesus in His heavenly kingdom. As I look closely at
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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Finding the Purpose for Your Marriage By Jimmy Evans | Founder & CEO of MarriageToday Here’s a question I want you to think about: Did God put the two of you together?
1. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.
If you’re like most couples, you probably think to yourself, “Of course!”
God brings us together because relationships are why we exist. They are what help us become the people He created us to be.
In that case, here’s a follow-up question: WHY did God put you together? That’s harder to answer, right? I’ve asked that last question from the stage and in counseling and received a lot of blank stares. Helping couples figure out the why of their marriage is something I am extremely passionate about. In marriage, success never happens on accident. It takes work. It takes effort. It also takes unity. You’ll only be successful if both of you are committed to it and putting in the practice. Amos 3:3 asks, “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?” If you’re not traveling in the same direction, marriage can be a difficult journey.
2. Love your neighbor as yourself. (See Matthew 22:36-40.)
But the devil knows this, so he works to divide us. He creates walls and uses temptations to separate us from each other. He also puts distractions in our path. These are substitutions for what we get out of marriage. They are things we think will bring us happiness, like money, or a new job, or even a new spouse. He spreads dissatisfaction through these distractions. God’s plan is to bring us together and keep us together. He wants us to pursue Him and pursue our spouse. Satan wants to tear us away from God and apart from each other. Those methods have worked for a long, long time.
How do you find God’s purpose for your marriage? You can start by asking another question: Why are we here in the first place?
On earth, your primary human relationship is with your spouse, and building that relationship is why God put you together. That’s His plan for your life. Your marriage s your purpose. Your purpose is your marriage. Your family, your spouse, your faith…these are the things that matter.
The answer is that God put you here, and He created you for a purpose. He wants you to have a relationship with Him and He wants you to have a relationship with each other. Jesus’ two greatest commandments reflect this.
So, prioritize your spouse as you pursue God. Refuse to be distracted by substitutions. Not only will you find success, but you’ll be protected from the devil’s attempts to separate you. Your marriage will never be the same.
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10 Ways to Bring Joy into Your Life By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well
Studies show a toddler will laugh an average of 200 times a day. But, by the time he becomes an adult, he will only crack a smile 6 times daily. What will happen? Most likely, he will get steamrolled by the pressures of life. A rare few know how to find joy through faith in God, enjoying the simple things in life, and making family time a priority and not getting caught up in materialism. If this is a personal struggle for you, here are 10 ways to bring joy back into your life:
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One thing children are very good at is finding ways to have fun. Get in there and mix it up with your kids. Make funny noises. Laugh at ridiculous things.
5. Passion
We are not all fortunate enough to make a living doing a job we feel deep passion about. Find your passion elsewhere. What makes you come alive? Carve out time to do it.
6. Let It Go
Worries can be awfully heavy. Work on the things that are in your control. Do what you can do and let your worries go.
7. Friends
Make time to pursue friendships on a regular basis. Try to find people you can be open Over time we become maxed out in capac- with. Life is meant to be shared. ity. It leaves us stressed and unable to be productive. Streamline your life on occasion 8. Challenges the same as you would that closet. Drop the When you have challenges in your life, realthings you are holding on to that are no longer ize that it is an opportunity for growth. Use necessary or fit who you are. Time is limited those moments to strengthen your character and so are you. Simplify your priorities. and resolve.
1. Simplify
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2. Perspective
At times, we tend to only see the negative around us. Let’s gain a new perspective and really start picking out all the blessings we have been given. Joy surrounds us even at our darkest moments. Open your senses and receive it. Cultivate an attitude of thankfulness.
3. Outside
During any season, no matter where you are, nature is a great place to go to experience joy. Go hiking, ride a bike, or if you are married, simply walk hand in hand with your beautiful wife. Get outside and fill your spirit and lungs with this amazing creation we call earth.
9. Activity
Get your blood pumping by being active. Go throw the football outside with your son. Take your daughter to get ice cream after dinner and then window shop. Work out. Take a walk.
10. God
I believe we have a Father in heaven who loves us. One who cares for us just as you do with your own children, in fact, even more so. Try talking to God about your life. Seek His will for your direction and purpose. What, in your life, brings you joy?
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HEALTH&FITNESS
This Guy Revamped His Diet to Lose 35 Pounds and Get Ripped “The real shock happens when we go to the pool and the shirt comes off.” By Mike Darling | Men’s Health
Colton Wright didn’t think he was out of shape. Sure, the 31-year-old software consultant from Austin, Texas, worked a desk job, but he was still active, hiking and hitting the gym regularly. His diet wasn’t great, but he figured he’d offset that with his workouts. When he started getting lower back pain, he brushed it off as what your body feels like after you hit 30. High blood pressure he dismissed as genetic. “I think the scariest part of being at my heaviest, 220 pounds,” he says, “was it felt normal.”
YOLI GRIMES
about diet and exercise.” If he wanted to make real progress, he decided, he needed a trainer—someone who could build a personalized regimen.
“The biggest hurdle for me in the beginning was changing my mindset of going to the gym and checking it off the list versus going to the gym because it’s become part of my lifestyle,” Wright says. Structure helps keep him moti“I work with a trainer now who’s my biggest vated. He sets achievable goals and uses progress photos to help him see just how far he’s come. “Change happens so incrementally,” he says, “the photos really tell a good story and kept me on track and provided an added boost of motivation.”
His turning point arWright’s proud of rived over the holidays how far he’s come: in 2018, when Wright In about five months, looked at photos of himhe’s lost 37 pounds, self in disbelief. It was dropping from 220 harder to kid himself pounds to 183. “I that he’d been building feel incredible as muscle when the truth a result,” he says. was staring him in the Now he’s thinking face. He realized that his about bulking back “healthy” meals, includup to 200, but with ing high-calorie post- After hiring a personal trainer, learning to count macros, and making simple diet changes, a healthier body fat workout rewards, had Colton Wright began to lose the extra pounds. percentage. been slowly undermining him. His family and friends supporter and cheerleader through this whole have noticed how much he’s changed, too, “I thought to myself, ‘Maybe I just need to process,” he says. “He’s an expert in diet and Wright says, and aren’t shy about voicing track myself better,’” he says. He thought exercise, I’m not, and I needed help from their support. “I lost a lot in my face,” he says. he had the right strategy, even if his execu- someone who knows how to do this and he’s “Where the real shock comes from is when we tion came up short. He refocused, and three the best.” Now he’s counting macros, eating go to the pool and the shirt comes off. That’s months after the holiday could claim he’d more vegetables and whole wheat pastas, and where most of the positive affirmation hapdropped five pounds. That wasn’t much. has a newfound love affair with sweet pota- pens!” toes. His workouts are specifically focused on “I considered this a small victory,” he says, burning fat, with cardio in the morning. CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 “but I knew I didn’t really know anything
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You Are Unique, You Are Incredible, and You Are Worth It! By Melissa Vinson | President, Christian Business Women’s Network
In a world of constant comparison, we must learn to love ourselves if we are ever going to be happy. Every day we look at the seemingly perfect lives of other women on Facebook and Instagram – their perfect children, perfect husbands, and perfect selfies. We begin to compare ourselves to them as mothers, wives and even as women, which is detrimental to our self-esteem. Ladies, every one of you has been created with individual gifts and talents for a purpose that only you can fulfill in this world. You cannot even begin to imagine how beautiful and special you are in your uniqueness. Christian Business Women’s Network has a mission of supporting and helping women in business define their own success and step out to follow their dreams. But we also love and support women in general – regardless of whether they own/ operate a business or work for someone else or are a stay-at-home mom. We strive to help every woman understand who they are, how they were created and what their purpose is in life. We offer encouragement and support in every area of life – but especially self-love. This year’s Encouraging Women Conference’s theme is THIS IS ME! We will celebrate who we are – the positive and beautiful along with what we perceive as bad. We will investigate and understand our personalities, learn to appreciate ourselves and work on turning what may seem like negatives into positives. We believe that every “failure” in life is just a lesson and that with a little help, we can learn from it and move forward with courage and wisdom. We come along side other women and lift them up to their full potential. We
believe in YOU! We absolutely believe that you can follow your dreams and be successful and happy. I encourage you to attend this Conference. You will hear various local speakers who, like you, have been through some tough times and have questioned their own worth, but have persevered and succeeded. There will be a fabulous lunch and dessert bar served along with snacks throughout the day. And, lastly, there will be multiple workshops to choose from that will be informative and fun. Call some girlfriends, sisters, etc. and register now to save your spot at this event! Group rates are available, and we will seat your group together. Go to www. christianbusinesswomensnetwork.com to register. For more information, you may contact us at christianbusinesswomensnetwork@gmail.com. You are worth the small investment of $59. We are still hearing testimonies from last year’s attendees about how this conference impacted them in their personal lives as well as their businesses. You will meet amazing women and form lasting relationships. If you feel stuck, discontented, or even depressed – step off that rollercoaster and attend this conference. This could just be exactly what you need right now to change your perception of yourself and ultimately change your life. We sincerely hope and pray you will join us!
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44 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Signs of a Stomach Ulcer A stomach ulcer is an open sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, says the National Health Service. The ulcer occurs when the layer protecting the stomach lining from stomach acid breaks down, damaging the lining. Signs of a stomach ulcer include: •Pain. •Indigestion.
•Heartburn. •Loss of appetite. •Feeling sick. •Weight loss. The agency urges you to seek immediate medical attention if you are vomiting blood, passing sticky, tar-like stools or have worsening, sharp stomach pain.
August is National Immunizations Month
How Vaccines Secure Your Child’s Freedom from Disease By American Academy of Pediatrics
Parents make all kinds of important decisions that impact their child’s life―where to live, where to go to school, what to eat. Vaccines are a powerful way parents take control of their children’s health and give them the best chances of growing into healthy young adults.
Vaccines keep children free from dangerous viruses and bacteria that continues to spread in the United States and in many parts of the world. Immunization has greatly reduced or
nearly wiped out many dangerous, infectious viruses and bacteria, such as polio, meningitis, and pneumonia. But, some remain just a plane ride away. In some parts of the world, diseases like measles are still spreading; infants and children who are not immunized can easily catch it. Recent measles outbreaks: In 2017, more than 21,000 people in Europe caught measles; at least 35 children died from it. A 2014 U.S. outbreak led to 667 cases recorded across 27 states―the highest amount since measles was considered eliminated from the country in 2000. Vaccinating our children is the best way to keep them free of infection when they are exposed to these germs.
Viruses and bacteria are unpredictable. Vaccines can control those threats. You can’t control what diseases your child is exposed to, or how bad a case he or she might get.
Don’t underestimate the seriousness of chickenpox! Most unimmunized children who get chickenpox will recover completely. But chickenpox can become serious―sometimes life-threatening―especially for babies, pregnant women, teens, and people with weak immune systems. Even healthy children can develop serious complications, and some children die. Others may experience lifelong health challenges such as seizures and mental disabilities. Immunizing your child against infectious diseases guards against the threat these unpredictable bugs pose once they get in your child’s body.
Vaccines build a protective wall around your family and community. When you vaccinate your child, you also
protect your family and friends who could catch a disease. This is especially important for people who cannot receive certain vaccines―including infants, pregnant women, el-
derly grandparents, and people whose immune systems are weakened by certain medications or conditions.
Vaccines strengthen your child’s natural immunity.
Used in their smallest but most effective form, vaccines boost a child’s natural defenses against illness. Vaccines train the immune system to identify and fight off dangerous bacteria and viruses that invade the body. This helps prevent the need for harsh medications and procedures, such as: Antibiotics. Since the pneumococcal vaccine was introduced in 2000, it has cut lifethreatening diseases related to this type of bacteria―things like meningitis and pneumonia―in children by 99%. The vaccine has also led to a decrease in ear infections, the condition most often treated with antibiotics in children. Preventing these infections means children do not need as many antibiotics. It also means fewer infections that become resistant to antibiotics.
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OB/GYN APPOINTMENTS.
AVAILABLE IN DAYS, NOT WEEKS. When you need to see an OB/GYN, you want to be able to see the doctor without a long wait. So at Abilene Physicians Group, we’re committed to seeing you faster. And if you have an urgent need, we’ll fit you in just as soon as possible. Give us a call today for women’s healthcare that’s personalized and prompt. To schedule an appointment, call 325-400-2585 or go to AbileneWomensHealth.com to request an appointment.
Omar Salam, M.D. OB/GYN
1680 Antilley Road, Suite 115 AbileneWomensHealth.com
Invasive medical tests. Before the Hib
vaccine, which became available in 1991, about 12,000 children got Hib disease―including meningitis―every year in the U.S. When a non-immunized infant shows symptoms of meningitis, doctors perform a “spinal tap” to test the fluid around the brain and spinal cord for the disease. Fortunately, that test is rarely needed in infants who have been vaccinated.
Hospitalizations. Vaccines help prevent
the need for hospital stays. During the 20152016 flu season, for example, 310,000 people became so sick that they needed hospital treatment.
Surgeries. Children who get a lot of ear
infections, for example, often end up having tubes put in their eardrums to drain the fluid and help save their hearing and speech development. Thanks to pneumococcal vaccine, fewer kids must get this and other types of surgery―including chest tubes for lung infections. Vaccines are an investment in your child’s health and your family’s wellbeing. Vaccines help protect your family’s finances by avoiding costly medical bills and missed days at work. Remember…Vaccines are one of the medicine’s greatest discoveries, saving an estimated 42,000 lives in the U.S. each year. Immunizing your child now helps give him or her a lifetime free from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Omar Salam, M.D., is a Member of the Medical Staff at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Abilene Regional Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.
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7/25/19 12:15 PM
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TTUHSC has put me in numerous situations throughout my clinical experiences that broaden my perspective on what patient care should look like. My clinical rotations have allowed me to reinforce my knowledge gained in the classroom and enhance my skills in working with patients and other health care professionals. “With a focus on patient safety, pharmacists are put in a position to prevent medication errors, minimize adverse effects, & maximize effectiveness of therapy. This patient-centered model of care drives me to remain vigilant and look at health care as more than simply treating a disease state.
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By Sylvia Barone | Abilene Bling Boutique
Several racks of $5 Paparazzi jewelry fill the space of Abilene Bling Boutique at 709 S. Leggett Dr in Abilene, Texas: necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings—all for $5 each. The boutique is run by three Paparazzi Accessories consultants, Sylvia Barone, Daniela Lopez, and Dee Williams. Barone bought the jewelry for over 2 years before making the decision to join the Utah-based company as an independent consultant. Williams and Lopez were some of Barone’s first customers; both enjoyed the jewelry so much and saw the business potential in sharing the jewelry with others, so they also decided to become independent consultants and work their businesses from home.
One of the things the ownlove about Paparazzi is they are able to contently offer new styles of jewelry to their custombecause there are new pieces released from Paparazzi five days a week, with 20-30 new products up for grabs for consultants daily.
e r s that sis-
for 2 hours,” Williams said. Abilene Bling Boutique will have a monthly vendor event in their event room. The first vendor event will be a “Back to School Bash” on Saturday, September 7 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Vendors will include Scentsy, Mary Kay, Avon, and more! “We wanted to offer a fun afternoon out for women, so we host a monthly Bunco event and would love to see Hispanic Life readers at our next event!” adds Lopez.
ers
“It’s a mad dash for everybody, all the consultants, to order those pieces,” Barone said.
Abilene Bling Boutique’s main focus is their line of Paparazzi Accessories and offering the life-changing opportunity to become a Paparazzi Independent Consultant and work your own business from home. “Most consultants work a full-time job and have a Paparazzi business; we love helping people start their own home boutique!” said Barone. Contact one of the owners or call the store for more information.
Just a few weeks ago, Paparazzi announced the addition of a men’s line of jewelry, which will be released this fall. “The men’s line opens up a whole new market for consultants and is going to be a game changer!” said Williams. “Paparazzi has very successful male consultants—this opens up that demographic even more!” added Barone.
The three owners have worked together as Paparazzi Accessories consultants over the past year and a half. The ladies have had many customers ask them if they have a store, which inspired them to open a store that focuses on bringing Paparazzi’s five-dollar jewelry to Abilene and its surrounding areas. Across America, Paparazzi’s $5 jewelry is quickly becoming one of women’s favorite brands in accessorizing, making women look like a million “It’s so much fun to watch new custombucks without breaking the bank! ers discover Paparazzi jewelry! They almost always turn to me and ask how The jewelry is sold in a range of styles from much certain pieces cost, even with the metallics to bright colors, urban-style leather sign that says, ‘All jewelry $5,’” Wiland suede, acrylics, fringe earrings, pieces liams added with a smile. “The quality adorned with inspirational quotes and Bible of the jewelry is department-store quality verses, and an amazing upcoming fall line that and it’s so pretty; it truly is hard to believe it’s was just unveiled at the company’s annual con- only $5!” added Lopez. vention in Las Vegas this August. In addition to offering Paparazzi Accessories, “It’s fun to be able to wear something different Abilene Bling Boutique carries beautiful and afevery day,” says Lopez. fordable clothes, sunglasses, shoes, and purses. “We wanted to add a little more to the boutique, Abilene Bling Boutique also features Paparaz- so we also offer a great line of Coca-Cola colzi’s $1 pieces of children’s jewelry, the Starlet lectibles like salt shakers, comforters, dinnerShimmer line. “It’s great to be able to offer ware, etc,” said Barone. Due to Paparazzi Acsome “bling” to little girls when they come in cessories’ policies and procedures, we have a to shop with their moms,” added Williams. separate Facebook page for our non-Paparazzi
You can check the event schedule on Abilene Bling Boutique’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AbileneBlingBoutique
products. That part of the boutique is called “The And More Store.” The boutique also offers something new to the Abilene area: an event room! The event room is brightly decorated with a sofa, comfy chair, and colorful coffee table which was hand-painted by Barone’s daughter, Bobbie Barone. There are card tables and folding chairs available for no extra cost. “We wanted to make the event room affordable for parties, meetings, and other direct-sales consultants, so we priced it at $25
Barone, Lopez, and Williams frequently hold Facebook Lives on both of the boutique’s Facebook pages: www.facebook.com/AbileneBlingBoutique/ and www.facebook.com/ TheAndMoreStore/ Abilene Bling Boutique is located at 709 S. Leggett and is open Tuesday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Phone #: 325-232-8582 Sylvia, Daniela, and Dee are part of a nationwide team, Blinging Beauties, which is led by Premier Producer Sylvia Barone.
48 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Food Protection Management Training Course Available to Food Service Establishments
By Tammie Belyeu | Administrative Assistant Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Taylor County I grew up on a farm and ranch in Snyder, TX where we grew cotton and raised Hereford cattle. As life on a farm and ranch goes, I grew up seeing the sun rise and set the same day many times, either on a tractor or horseback, hoeing weeds or fixing water gaps, tromping cotton or the tail end of the loading chute. I graduated from Snyder High School and attended the United States Coast Guard Academy for 2 years. A football injury ended my Coastie days and I returned to West Texas and finished college and football at Hardin-Simmons University with an Accounting degree. Since college I have stayed true to my roots and remained for the most part in an agriculture field. I have worked for John Deere out of Big Springs, Frontier Hybrids out of Abernathy, a welding shop in Lubbock, and Mitsubishi Wind Turbines in Roscoe and Fluvanna.
A two-day Food Protection Management training for food service managers in the Big Country area will be held August 19 & 20, 2019. It will be held at the Taylor County Extension Office located on the Taylor County Expo grounds in Abilene from 8:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. both days. The training will allow food establishments to meet their certification requirements if they pass the exam. The exam being used is the Prometric exam. The class covers twelve food safety concepts related to personal hygiene, cross contamination, time and temperature, sanitation, pest management, foodborne illness and related areas. The course is sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Taylor, Nolan and Haskell Counties. Cost for the class is $125, which includes the course book and exam. Registration deadline is August 9th and registration information is available by calling the Taylor County Extension Office at 325-672-6048. You may also access a downloadable registration form at http://taylor.agrilife.org.
My banking career started in July 2014 back in Snyder at Community Bank of Snyder as their Ag Loan Officer. From there I was Branch Manager for First Financial Bank in Merkel and Trent and now President at First Bank Texas in Baird and Clyde. I have two children, Jess (girl) who will soon be 11 and Braedyn (boy) who is 16. My free time is spent attending many of their extra circular events, from baseball/softball to stock shows to basketball. We enjoy getting away to the lake to ski, family tank to float/fish, and hunting. The best part of my job is meeting new people and hearing their stories of where they have been and goals of where they are headed. I would love to hear yours and be a part in your financial success!
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50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
The Simple Secret To Becoming a Master Networker
Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau Has Been Awarded Accreditation From The Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP)
By Susan Solovic | THE Small Business Expert
By Nanci Liles | ACVB Executive Director The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACVB) was awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) seal by Destinations International in recognition of the organization’s commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world. The Abilene CVB was one of 15 CVB’s to receive the accreditation at the annual conference in St. Louis.
For nearly a decade, I taught an entrepreneurial course for a community college. Part of the course included a Saturday workshop once a month. Each semester I used one of the workshops to cover networking strategies and the homework assignment was to attend at least four networking events before the next workshop and report on the experience.
Launch of Work Again West Texas
Why? Because—she explained—she’d attended more than four events, handed out tons of business cards, and she hadn’t gotten any business.
DMAP is an international accreditation program developed by Washington, D.C.based Destinations International , with accreditation standards covering a wide variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, sales, communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/ market intelligence, innovation and stakeholder relationships. “Achieving accreditation was an intensive, yet productive process. We examined everything we do as an organization. Our entire staff played a role in the process of gathering information and assessing our compliance with the program’s rigorous industry standards,” said Nanci Liles, ACVB Executive Director.
She obviously hadn’t listened to my lecture. What many people don’t understand, including my student, is that networking isn’t about immediate gratification. Networking is all about building relationships, and with one simple statement you can become a master networker. “Tell me about yourself.” That’s it! Nearly everyone enjoys the opportunity to talk about themselves.
Grand Opening for The Other Antique Shop 5-3-19
So with this magic statement, you can encourage someone to share their story. All you have to do is listen. The more you learn about someone and their business, the better equipped you are to make important connections and build rapport. You may discover you have common interests. Perhaps you know some of the same people. Maybe you’re dealing with similar business challenges. When you’re starting and growing a small business, a strong, diverse network is a significant asset. It’s a source of knowledge and expertise. Your network may be able to open doors for you. And yes, there may be business opportunities as well. The real value, however, is the strength of the relationships.
Having earned the DMAP accreditation, the Abilene CVB can confidently communicate to its stakeholders, the community and potential visitors a commitment to best practices and quality programs and services across 16 domains, including those above. Meeting planners working with an accredited DMO know they can expect consistent products and services.
Remember, people do business with people they know, like, and trust. Equipped with the magic question, you’ll find your networking growing—providing you with a competitive advantage.
The destination organization is accredited through 2023 by the DMAP of Destinations International. CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505
One of the students returned to the following workshop and reported that she’d concluded networking simply doesn’t work.
Grand Opening for Shipley Do-Nuts - Abilene 5-2-19
Pick us up at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wal-Mart, Lytle Land & Cattle | BUSINESS | 51
Home Instead Senior Care Hires and Promotions By Nathaniel Ellsworth | Abilene Reporter-News
Home Instead Senior Care recently announced the hiring of Becky Guernsey and Julie Blair to its Abilene location, as well as the promotion of Acacia Abshire. Paul and Lori Hogan have owned the Abilene franchise since November 2015 as a corporate owned franchise. Guernsey, who was hired as recruiting engagement supervisor, originally started with Home Instead in the Abilene office in June 2015, and recently assisted new offices in the Dallas area. Blair, who joins the company as home care consultant, was a business development professional in the telecommunications industry for 13 years. She has been an Abilene resident for 21 years. Abshire, who has been promoted to franchise manager, joined Home Instead in December 2015 as recruiting engagement coordinator. Before her latest promotion, she most recently worked as operations manager.
Leonardo “Leo” Robb Leo immigrated to the United States from Guatemala in 2001. Since arriving in America, he found his wife, learned how to become an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, and raised his children along the way.
Becky Guernsey
Julie Blair
Acacia Abshire
Congratulations Andrea Harden Midway Plumbing would like to recognize and congratulate Andrea Harden for passing the Texas State Board of Plumbing Exam. With this accomplishment, this makes Andrea the first female licensed Journeyman here at Midway Plumbing, and possibly the first female licensed journeyman plumber in Abilene. The preparation for this exam required time and dedication in order to have the knowledge needed to pass and Andrea was able to complete the extra work while working full time and attending to her family. Andrea started her career at Midway Plumbing 7 years ago as our dispatcher and is currently the manager of our office. She will continue her training in order to get her Master Plumbing Licensed and become General Manager at Midway Plumbing. We are thankful for Andrea’s hard work and dedication to the staff and customers of Midway!
Leo was hired by Abilene Aero as a Line Service Technician in June of 2018. In one short year, he has developed into one of our most popular and dependable employees. Sometime in the next two months, Leo will leave line service and become an A&P Mechanic at Abilene Aero. His work ethic and his accomplishments are a credit to him, his family, and Abilene Aero. We are so proud of him and we are honored to name him as the Employee of the Quarter for 2Q 2019! Most importantly, In November of 2018, Leonardo Robb became a Citizen of these United States of America.
52 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Time to Shine SoDA District Sign Lighting & Unveiling August 17th By Palette of Purpose Inc.
Join Palette of Purpose Inc. in celebrating the evolution of the S.o.D.A. District and the exclusive opportunity to be a part of an illuminating, iconic and artistic installation. Transformation of 833 S.1st St. to Matera Gardens, and the new location for Sockdolager
Brewing Co. is underway by Tim and Pamela Smith, also of the S.o.D.A. District Courtyard. They are putting their hearts and attention to artistic detail in revitalizing this treasured piece of downtown for all to enjoy! In 2018, they partnered with Palette of Purpose Inc., for The Sign of the Times: Sculptural Wayfinding Sign Project, and along with the support of the business community, generous sponsors, and local artists created an iconic and treasured piece that will light the way for all!
incredible sculpture and symbol not only for the continued revitalization efforts in our city, but a portrayal for what Abilene has, is and will be! Sculptor and Artist Michael Christopher Matson has infused industrial contemporary design with traditional elements, married with modern neon lighting by Master Electrician Brad Bardin, and the Neon Shop, and top off with a sleek powder coating by Abilene Powder Coating. Scooter Hall with Hall and Associates is installing the sign a top of the old vault in this exciting new event center for Abilene, and corridor for the S.o.D.A District! This event is FREE to the Public! Celebrate with us August 17th, 2019 from 8PM-11PM at Matera Gardens, 833 South 1st St. as we light the S.o.D.A District Way Finding Sign, and shine a spotlight on downtown revitalization efforts! Food Trucks, Drink, and Festivities! It’s Abilene’s Time to Shine!!! Thanks to the dedicated local businesses that made the creation of this sign possible: Black Plumbing, Maverick Saw Cutting and Core Drilling, Hanna Law Firm, Dodge Jones Foundation, JAR Land and Investments, First Bank Texas, Abilene Glass and Mirror, Cypress St. Station, Silverthorne Insurance Co., Silverthorne Properties, & Sockdolager Brewing Co.!
The S.o.D.A. District Way Finding Sign is an
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DCOA Announces New President and CEO By Charlie Dromgoole | Development Corporation of Abilene
After an extensive search, the Development Corporation of Abilene has named Misty Mayo as the new President and CEO, who will begin August 19, 2019. Mayo brings over 25 years of economic development and corporate experience to Abilene. Most recently she served over four years as CEO at the Boerne Kendal County Economic Development Corporation (BKCEDC). DCOA CEO Search Committee Chair, Paul Cannon said, “It has been my privilege over the past six months to work with a talented committee of community leaders through an efficient selection process. I can’t say that I have ever been more excited about recommending a candidate, and the committee is so very pleased that the DCOA has made it official. Misty Mayo has the education, experience and poise to be a great and effective leader of economic development in our community. The future is bright!” Paul continued by saying, “Mayo has worked in Texas throughout her career. Before Boerne, she served nearly a decade in San Antonio as Executive Vice President at the Economic Development Foundation and has demonstrated success recruiting high paying jobs and increasing economic opportunity to Texas towns. “We are thrilled to have someone of Misty’s stature and economic development experience leading DCOA,” said Mayor Anthony Williams. “She will bring innovative and strategic direction that will be a true asset in developing the Abilene economy,” he continued. During her tenure at BKCEDC, Mayo led efforts for the attraction of a large number of new companies, including a medical and retail office center, high end mixed-use development, a new national hotel facility and Buc-ees. She raised the national profile of the Texas Hill Country region to attract investments in healthcare, multiuse commercial and retail space and information technology. Operationally, she reorganized the organization’s structure and updated their branding, website and communications strategy.
While in San Antonio, she led the effort to recruit large healthcare and biosciences companies, as well as manufacturing, information technology, cybersecurity, datacenters and corporate headquarters to the Alamo city. She has led varied projects for companies such as: Becton Dickinson, Medtronic, Allstate, Petco, CST Brands, Security Service and HVHC Vision Works. Mayo was also responsible for developing the local business retention and expansion efforts that focused on supporting existing company growth. “The DCOA could not be more excited to welcome Misty Mayo as our CEO. We are very grateful to Charlie Dromgoole for so ably filling in as Interim CEO and to Paul Cannon and the search committee for the excellent work in locating Misty. She brings exceptional talents and experience to fill the position as leader of economic development for our community. With Misty at the helm of the DCOA and working with our economic development partners at the Abilene Industrial Foundation, Abilene Chamber of Commerce and the City, the DCOA Board is confident Abilene is poised for great things ahead,” said John Beckham, DCOA Board Chairman. Mayo holds certifications from a variety of economic development organizations, including International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC), as well as Business Retention and Expansion International (BREI). She holds a B.A. from West Texas A&M University and a non-profit management certification from Texas Tech University. She is a current Board Member of the Texas Economic Development Council. She was active in the Kendall County community including serving as a Board Member of the Bandera Electric Cooperative Charitable Trust Foundation; Board Member of the Boerne Education Foundation; and as a Board Member of the Boerne Chamber of Commerce. A native of Texas, Misty has lived in a variety of states, and cities in Texas growing-up as an Army Brat. She and her husband, Ted, have three children and are excited about moving to Abilene.
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Central Finance | BUSINESS | 53
54 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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New Life for Historic Buildings By Bill Minter | Abilene Heritage Square
Thursday evening the Abilene City Council authorized the City Manager to proceed with Abilene Heritage Square to realize the redevelopment of the former Abilene High School/ Lincoln Middle School buildings and campus. In view of that action the organization’s Board of Directors has announced the next stages of the project. The historic 1923 academic building and 1929 gymnasium will be renovated while preserving their historic facades. New construction sensitive to the historic structures will be added to the west side of the academic building, creating a contemporary learning center for Abilene. The $41.5 million project, including $1.5 million of endowment, will take approximately 3½ years to complete and is expected to be open in time for the building’s centennial celebration in 2023-2024. Approximately $32,5000,000 has already been raised from private philanthropic foundation grants, gifts from individuals, families and companies, and governmental grants. Weatherl and Associates will act as project architects based on their experience in restoration architecture and restoring The Grace, the Elks Building and the T&P Depot, Freight Building and Baggage Building as well as Old Main at McMurry. The preliminary concept drawings for Abilene Heritage Square have already won an award from the Texas Society of Architects. The project to bring new life to these historic buildings began as an idea among a group of Abilene residents concerned over the fate of the old school. They began exploring possible uses for the school soon after Lincoln Middle School closed. The volunteers organized a Board of Directors and applied for nonprofit status with the State of Texas and the IRS. The organization is now known as Abilene Heritage Square, Inc. The renovated and new facilities of Abilene Heritage Square will house the following organizations and programs for the benefit of everyone in Abilene and the surrounding area: • A state-of-the-art public library, making use of both the historic structures and newly constructed facilities. • The renovated 700-seat auditorium suitable for meetings, speakers, recitals, concerts and weddings.
• An exhibit hall for both local and touring exhibits from major museums and galleries. • New satellite location for The Grace Museum, including additional programming space and a
the library’s research collections (Texas and Genealogy) in a quiet study or more traditional research environment that will also protect the resources from damage from water, mold, or other infestations.”
While the downtown library will move to Abilene Heritage Square, the branches in the mall and on North Mockingbird will remain open. Abilene Heritage Square will include a new children’s museum under the management of The Grace Museum. This new children’s museum will be different from the children’s museum at The Grace, which will remain open and active. At Abilene Heritage Square’s children’s museum, children will have the added benefit of travsecond Children’s Museum with a science focus. eling exhibits, movies and special events in the au• The renovated and highly versatile Eagle’s Nest ditorium. The lawn at Abilene Heritage Square will gymnasium. It will be able to host events as var- be available to host children’s concerts and special ied as a square dance, civic club luncheon, craft events like the CALF Festival and STEM activities. show, family reunions, yoga classes, industrial exhibits, or wedding dinners. The facility will in- Abilene Heritage Square will also be home to clude a catering kitchen that allows catering ser- the Stone Owl Academy, an educational provice for up to 400 people seated at tables. gram open to area high school students. Long• A coffee shop adjacent to the library that can be time Abilene High School history teacher Jay accessed outside library operating hours. Moore has been tapped to give direction to an • Classrooms for the Stone Owl Academy, a pro- initiative of the Dian Graves Owen Foundation. gram in which high school juniors and seniors can learn of constitutional principles and free-market As Moore says, “The Stone Owl Academy economics while earning the Stone Owl Scholar will help high school students come to a deepdesignation and scholarship. erunderstanding of -- and be inspired by -- the • The “Lawn at the Square” suitable for outdoor ideas that give structure to our nation, the founconcerts, festivals, and special events. dational thoughts, our free enterprise system and our civic values.” One of the biggest beneficiaries of the project will be the Abilene Public Library with a new build- Students who complete the scholar’s program ing. The library opened its current downtown lo- will not only improve their own education cation in 1960 when the city had a population of as they explore American concepts but can earn a 60,000. At the time, it was hoped that the building scholarship to aid them as they then move on to colwould meet the community’s needs for 20 years. lege or a vocational school. It’s now served Abilene for over 60 years and is overcrowded and outdated. “Abilene Heritage Square represents the next step in the community’s continuing efforts to keep our wonThe library is short of space for patrons to meet in derful city moving forward,” said Jane Beard, board small groups or to study in a private study room. president of Abilene Heritage Square. “This can be The library’s present meeting spaces are very the living room of Abilene where groups from all busy and do not always meet user needs. An ex- walks of life are brought together in a hub of activity, panded children’s area and learning center will be complementing the many other excellent education another great feature of the new library. and cultural entities open to all in our city.” The new building will offer specialized activities Anyone wanting more information on Abilene for various ages such as robotics, STEM projects, Heritage Square or wanting to support the redegaming, arts, LEGO building, writing and coding. velopment of the Abilene High property can call or email Bill Minter, 325.829.0617 or bill@mintAnother benefit of a new library, according to Lori ermedia.com. Grumet, Library Director, “is the ability to offer
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FREE Notary Public Services at all three locations, during regular work hours of 8-5. 202 Cedar St. Mall-4310 Buffalo Gap Rd. 1326 N. Mockingbird Ln.