Pick us up at Long John Silver, Drug Emporium & Los Arcos Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 3
Happy New Year to you and yours!
JANUARY 2019
Volume 9, Issue 9
Office Park West 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Abilene, Texas 79605 (325) 701-9505 www.HispanicLifeMedia.com
So much happened back in 2018, but as we look forward as we should, let us focus on the positive. God, family and finally friends! Being thankful for every gift we have received, whether big or small.
[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
80years of
(325) 701-9505 Office
member service .
ADVERTISING SALES 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
Have you every noticed that the smaller, simpler gifts seem to go further and make a lasting impression? Either way, allow your heart to fill with gratitude and give thanks to your Heavenly Father for all He has provided. We are excited for what 2019 has in store for us, as we make wise decisions and create meaningful relationships this year! Take time to impact others with your God-given gifts and talents; whether you think they are important or not. You just never know how a smile, a hug, or even a simple word of encouragment can go a long way. Build yourself up, physicall, mentally and spiritually. We can’t share what we don’t posssess. Spread the love this year! And always remember, positive thoughts! Discard the negative and focus on the important things in life. You are important, significant, have the ability to do whatever your heart desires! It’s a choice. Here’s wishing you a prosperous new year to you, your family, your business, your studies and more! We David & Amy Hernández & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife
Join Us! Come celebrate our 80th annual meeting April 18, 2019 at the Abilene Convention Center. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Educational booths, health fair
11:00 AM - Noon Prize drawings, business meeting, lunch
Members will have the chance to vote for their representative on the Taylor Electric Board of Directors. taylorelectric.com | 793-8500
4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Symphonic Renegades Coming to Town By Panissa Williams | Oddly Natural
The Abilene Philharmonic is proud to present, Symphonic Renegades, our January Masterworks concert has arrived! Come join us on January 26, 2019 at 7:30 for an outstanding show! We could not be more excited for the incredible line up that we have prepared for you. The best winter date in Abilene is the Abilene Philharmonic, and this one is going to be extra special. We made plans for you on the last weekend of January, so mark your calendar and buy tickets now! Symphonic Renegades guest stars violinist William Hagen. Hagen is 24 years old and was the third-prize winner of the 2015 Queen Elisabeth International Music Competition, making him the highest-ranking American since 1985. Hagen is from Salt Lake City, Utah and began taking violin lessons at age 4. He performed his debut with the Utah Symphony at age 9 and has not stopped since. William has been hailed as a “brilliant virtuoso… a standout” (The Dallas Morning News) with “an intellectual command of line and score, and just the right amount of power” (violinist.com). Hagen is currently enrolled at the Kronberg Academy in Germany, where he is a student of Christian Tetzlaff. He has spent his life traveling, learning, and
cause. Both composers were born into harsh situations when it comes to art. Brahms was born in Germany and Shostakovich was born in Russia, and both received harsh feedback to their compositions, and were even threatened with death. Their music prevailed and so did they, and now these masterpieces have become world renown. The beauty in the January show will come from these pieces, and we hope the music will bring our community together, as it did theirs. You really won’t want to miss this concert, and we want to spend our Saturday night with you! If you haven’t already, make plans to be at the Abilene Convention Center on Saturday, January 26 at 7:30 PM. The Abilene Philharmonic would be honored to share the night with you, and for you to have the privilege of hearing performing all over the world, and we are honored William Hagen accompany the talented Abilene to have William Hagen perform with the Abilene Philharmonic. Symphonic Renegades will be filled with outstanding music and we plan to blow you Philharmonic. away with the show! To accompany Hagen, the Abilene Philharmonic presents works by Brahms and Shostakovich. These masterpieces are revolutionary in both the compoCALL US TO ADVERTISE sitional and in the historical sense. They expanded (325) 701-9505 what could be communicated by an orchestra and showed how music can unite people for a certain
Dont Give Up On Life You’re Absolutely Worth It!
COMMUNITY
LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS
The Lessons of the Game There’s a lot more to learn about sports than how to throw a ball. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
Brandon Osborne believes that there’s no better place to teach than a gym full of kids. And he doesn’t just teach the skills of the game. In fact, his priorities are much higher. Brandon recently joined the staff of the Abilene Youth Sports Authority (AYSA) as its Executive Director. He has three overall goals for the program. First, to increase character in the student athlete; second, to put the athletes in a competitive environment that allows them to learn the attributes of sports including team work, problem solving and decision making, and third, to teach the core values of Jesus Christ. “He was the most successful person who ever lived,” Brandon says. “Success requires sacrifice, faithfulness and obedience.” AYSA teaches these concepts through progressive basketball and volleyball camps for ages five through eighteen called “Firm Foundations” that build on the athletes’ skills over a six-week period. Brandon grew up in Fort Worth and graduated from Brewer High School, where he played football and ran track, but basketball was his favorite. After earning a degree from Abilene Christian University in Exercise and Sports Science he coached basketball at Hardin-Simmons University and went on to teach Physical Education at Lee Elementary.
“I love kids,” he says. “Everybody’s with their participation,” Brandon says. a big kid. If you can talk to a fifth grader, you can talk to a seventy- Sadly, Jon passed away recently, and Brandon five-year-old. You get old because stepped up to fill the gap. you stop playing.” He is also leading the organization’s building There’s no danger of Brandon and of the 55.5 thousand square foot Dodge Jones his family growing old anytime Sports Center near the Abilene Zoo. More than soon. He’s been married to Kim, a 126 individuals, businesses and organizations freelance internet marketing consul- have pledged $11.3 million for the structure. tant, for thirteen years. He says she When it is complete at the end of 2019, AYSA “did everything” as will offer league play as well as training camps. far as sports is con- The building will house four basketball courts, cerned and is a bet- eight volleyball courts and space for concester athlete than he sions, a pro shop, officials’ lounge and offices. is. Their son, who is eleven, plays AYSA is currently located in offices provided by basketball and their Funeral Directors Life. Kris Seale, President of six-year-old daugh- the company, also serves as AYSA Board Chair. ter is already play- Seale co-founded AYSA with Jon Smith in 2004. ing soccer. The AYSA staff includes Michelle Ludwig, OpWhile he was teaching school, Brandon also erations Coordinator and Aaron Kovah, Informacreated his own basketball training and devel- tion Coordinator. AYSA also sponsors the West Texas Sports and Fitness Expo scheduled for Saturday, February 2 at the Abilene Convention Center from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. About fifty vendors that offer programs for student athletes will be there. Student athletes and their parents can learn about all the opportunities available opment program for young players all over the to them. About 4,000 are expected to attend. United States. Jon Smith, the previous Executive Director, asked him to lead AYSA’s Firm Brandon recommends that young athletes not Foundation basketball program. specialize too early. “Don’t get sports specific,” he says. “Play whatever you can and learn some“We got to know each other. Our passions were thing. Each sport reveals something different the same: kids, Christ, competition. We both about you.” wanted to help kids and parents do a better job That advice reveals a great deal about Brandon’s goals and the goals of AYSA. Play. Play better and better. But keep your eye on what matters most: learning about yourself and becoming the best person you can be.
6 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
HispanicLife Media
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091
San Antonio’s Barbacoa & Big Red Festival Finds New Home for 2019 Installment By Madalyn Mendoza | mySanAntonio.com
One of San Antonio’s largest foodie festivals is moving. The ninth edition of the Barbacoa & Big Red Festival will be hosted at The Greenline at Live Brooks (formerly known as Brooks City Base) on the South Side, event organizers announced online Friday. R&J Music Pavilion previously hosted the festival. The Greenline is a 43-acre park, at 2532 Sidney Brooks, that connects the South Side to the San Antonio River, according to the website. One of San Antonio’s largest foodie festivals is moving. The ninth edition of the Barbacoa & Big Red Festival will be hosted at The Greenline at Live Brooks (formerly known as Brooks City Base) on the South Side, event organizers announced online Friday. R&J Music Pavilion previously hosted the festival.
Congratulations
Lee Fuqua
on your retirement after 35 years of service at 911 dispatch
Robert Morris said he and co-founders Tony Villarreal and William Latham decided they needed a
space that would grow with the event’s popularity. “We held dearly to R&J Music Pavilion, however we grew at a fast rate and needed a venue that can handle the growth for the years to come,” Morris said in a message to mySA.com. He said organizers now have “more property to work with” and will be able to accommodate “a lot” more guests. With more space, comes more stages. Villarreal said the festival will now feature four stages and his team is working on locking down a “big headliner.” He said he and his team listened to feedback from last year’s event, much of which included requests for public transportation. With a new VIA bus transit center being built in “walking distance” from The Greenline, Villarreal says the transportation request will be fulfilled. “It’s a huge plus,” he added. The Barbacoa & Big Red Festival asked fans to “stay tuned” for an official date.
Pick us up at Law Enforcement Office & Cisco College | COMMUNITY | 7
Meet
Stacie Lopez
Hondo Henderson. Firefighter Henderson joined the Abilene Fire Department in December of 1999. He is certifed as an EMT-Paramedic, Master Firefighter, Fire Instructor I, and Hazardous Materials Technician. He is currently assigned to Engine 6, A shift. Congratulations to Firefighter Henderson.
KTAB Anchor
By BigCountryHomePage.com
SPOTLIGHT
Stacie is a true Texas native, born and raised in Iowa Park, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas Tech University where she earned a bachelors in broadcast journalism. From a young age, Stacie was always curious and it’s what led her to a career in journalism. Stacie got her start here in Abilene as an investigative and crime reporter for KTAB. She eventually moved her way up to host of KTAB 4U and coanchor for the 5pm and 10pm newscasts. While working in the Key City, Stacie met her now husband, John Mark. Stacie also became a stepmom in the process to her stepson, John Mark Jr.
Firefighter Brayden Quick
City Names New Director of Health Services By Nathaniel Ellsworth Abilene Reporter-News
The city of Abilene has named Annette Lerma director of health services. Lerma started working for the city in 2001 as a nutritionist in the Women Infants and Children program, becoming assistant health services director in 2016. She has served as the interim director since July. Lerma, a native of Abilene, holds a bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian University and a certificate of public health from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
joined the Abilene Fire Department in May of 2013. He is certified as a intermediate firefighter and a EMTParamedic. He is currently assigned to Station 4 on C shift.
Stacie is also an animal lover and she and her boys have a cat named Cornelius, a Boxer named Xena and several saltwater fish. TOGETHER WE CAN DO MORE
Stacie and her family are big on volunteering and are currently involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters. When not at work, you can find Stacie in the kitchen cooking for her family, at the gym or spending time with her boys and animals. Even as a full time anchor, she still loves the thrill of finding a good story.
Firefighter Latham Roden
joined the Abilene Fire Department in April of 2017. He is certified as a basic firefighter and a EMT-Basic. He is close to completing Paramedic training provided by the Abilene Fire Department training staff. He is currently assigned to Station 8 on B shift.
Stacie’s Fact File: Favorite food: Seafood or anything Red Velvet Favorite Sports Teams: Texas Tech Red Raiders, Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Cowboys Favorite musician: Matthew West and the Josh Abbott Band Favorite Vacation Destination: New York City Dream Job: Investigative reporter for Dateline NBC
Saturday, January 26, 2019 at 9 AM Life Church Men’s Ministry 2465 Old Anson Rd, Abilene, TX Life Church Men’s group will be having there monthly breakfast meeting January 26, 2019 and we hope you can join us. It’s start @9a.m and will be located here at Life Church gym. For more info please contact the office
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8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Do You Want to Become a Certified Nurse Aide? By Abilene Adult Education
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
“ BROADWAY’S FUNNIEST
MUSICAL COMEDY IN AT LEAST 400 YEARS!” - TIME OUT New York
The CNA plays a crucial role in many medical facilities. It is also a perfect entrylevel position to get you started on your way to other medical careers. Abilene Adult Education is collaborating with the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing to help you get your nursing assistant certification, and day and evening classes start monthly! The Adult Education program will: • Help to determine your readiness for CNA coursework • Assist with the enrollment procedure • Offer classes centered around CNA material to help you succeed • Provide some tuition assistance for those who qualify
A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA OR GED IS NOT REQUIRED! Contact Hilary Gwilt atAbilene Adult Education
PHOTO © JEREMY DANIEL
325-671-4419, extension 3372, or hilary.gwilt@abileneisd.org
First Saturday Fitness Hike By Big Country Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist
Hosted by Big Country Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist
Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 9 AM – 11 AM Abilene State Park, 150 Park Road 32, Tuscola, Texas On the first Saturday of each month, join us at Abilene State Park for a 5 mile hike around Lake Abilene. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water. We will be meeting at the lake parking lot to start the hike. You will need to pay admission at the park headquarter office ($5 adult or free with Texas State Park pass, children 12 and under are free) and ask for the gate code to get into the lake area (across the road from the rest of the park). Please arrive a little early to get situated and over to the lake area before the hike begins. Admission gives you access to the park all day! This is a kid friendly event.
“ SOMETHING
ROTTEN! is
The Producers PLUS Spamalot PLUS The Book of Mormon . SQ UARED ! ” - NEW YORK MAGAZINE
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
FEBRUARY 22
ABILENE CONVENTION CENTER CelebrityAttractions.com • 800.869.1451 Groups of 10+ call 800.869.1451 x220
/BwayAbilene
Pick us up at Alfonso Hernandez Bakery, Mr. Jiffy & Daniela’s Tex-Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 9
Light up a life:
Remembering
JON SMITH By BigCountryHomePage.com
Most remember Jon Smith for his work with youth sports in Abilene but his family remember him for being so much more; a husband, a father, and a brother. His daughter Tucker Smith says her and her father had a special relationship, almost as if they were best friends. “When I would introduce him to people,before hand, I would be like, ‘You’re about to meet the male version of me,” said Tucker Smith. Jon’s wife Nadene Smith says Jon had a great love for his family, never missing a single event of his daughter Tucker’s life.
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Jan 26th - Feb 2nd & 9nd
at ASI Motorcycle Riding/Safety School 6750 US Highway 277 S, Abilene, Texas 79606
Call 325-672-3484 or visit abilenesafety.com To attend the Basic Rider (licensing requirement) Course: Participants UNDER 25 years of age MUST have either a learner’s permit or a license to operate a motor vehicle, per Texas State Law! Also, any participant under 18 years of age must have a parent or legal guardian sign their paperwork the first day of class, or make arrangements to sign it prior to class.
Jon Smith was diagnosed with cancer in 2012, but was determined to keep living his life to the fullest.
Completion of the Basic Rider Course (BRC) or the Experienced Rider Course (ERC) will earn you big discounts on your motorcycle insurance. Other benefits: Completion of the BRC will waive the driver’s test for a motorcycle endorsement, either course qualifies the graduate for the Texas helmet law exemption (although helmet usage is highly recommended anytime on a motorcycle….. It’s all about staying alive!), and the courses can be used for ticket dismissal.
“It helped us figure out the meaning of life a little bit sooner than we would have,” said Nadene Smith.
This is THE driving school for motorcyclists. Come learn to ride on our bikes.
Jon Smith lived for six years following his diagnosis, the few days spent at Hendrick Hospice.
Call 325-672-3484 or visit abilenesafety.com Seats fill quickly, so call early for your class!
“Jon Smith was the best father I had ever seen, I don’t think he missed a piano recital, a softball, basketball, volleyball, any kind of sporting game,” said Nadene Smith. “Jon Smith was involved in every area of Tucker’s life.”
“The facility was just so peaceful and so welcoming,” said Nadene Smith. “The nurses, the administrators, the heart of the organization was exactly aligned with what john and I believed in and that was serve and be a servant to people so there was no other option for Hendrick Hospice care for us.” Nadene Smith spent several years working for Hendrick Hospice and says she knew exactly where she wanted Jon to spend his last few days, describing the center and the people there as family and a place they could call home.
10 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Mark Your Calendar for the Abilene Go Red Luncheon
HispanicLife Media
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 701-9505
By American Heart Association
We can do this together!
Red For Women movement in local communities. This empowering event focuses on preventing heart disease and stroke by promoting healthy lifestyles, building awareness and raising critically-needed funds to support research and education initiatives. Cardiovascular diseases, which include stroke, claim the life of a woman about every 80 seconds. We hope you will join us on our mission because about 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases may be prevented.
Fifteen years ago, Go Red For Women was born as a campaign to raise awareness among women about their great health threat – heart disease. Slowly, the campaign grew into a movement – one that not only brought together thousands of women annually but became the trusted, passionate, relevant force for change to eradicate heart disease and stroke all over the world. Go Red For Women provides a platform for women and their families to lead healthier lives, and drive collective action for community Abilene Go Red Luncheon transformation. It’s not Wednesday, February 6, 2019 just about wearing red; it’s not just about sharAbilene Convention Center ing heart health facts. It’s Abilene, Texas about: • Providing women with opportunities to prioritize and take charge of their own health; • Building communities that support and provide access to healthy choices; • Demanding equal access to healthcare for all women and their families; • Increasing women in STEM in upcoming generations. The Go Red for Women luncheon continues to serve as the cornerstone event of the Go
The time is now. Women are leaning into the idea that when we take a stand, commit, and work together, real change is possible.
God 1st, Then Family, and Finally Friends!
Texas Issues February SNAP Food Benefits Early By Carrie Williams | Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Texas announced today it is providing February food benefits early to thousands of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients. The early benefits will give recipients an extended period of time to manage their resources, given the ongoing federal government shutdown and uncertainty about future federal program funding.
they can issue benefits until federal funds are no longer available; it is unclear from the federal government when that will occur.
Texas will continue to accept and process applications. However, any benefits approved after federal funding runs out will be in a suspended status until states receive more information from the federal government about the Texas and other states received guidance from shutdown’s impact on program funding. the U.S. Department of Agriculture instructing them to issue benefits early because of the SNAP is the federal Supplemental Nutrition shutdown. Benefits are being issued early to Assistance Program that provides food ascarry clients throughout the month of Febru- sistance to millions of eligible low-income ary. individuals and families. In Texas, the federal SNAP program is administered by Texas Current SNAP recipients will see their Febru- HHSC. ary benefits automatically loaded onto their Lone Star Cards by Jan. 20. Normally benefits Recipients are encouraged to use YourTexasBenefits.com or the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage and view benefit information and to update HHSC of any address changes. Recipients also are encouraged to sign up for electronic notices to stay informed about their cases. For general updates about this federally funded program, people can go to hhs.texas.gov. To check benefit amounts, recipients can visit YourTexasBenefits.com or call the Lone Star Help Desk (800-777-7EBT). For questions about benefits, dial 2-1-1.
are staggered among recipients throughout the first half of the month. With this change, Texas Texas will continue to monitor federal action will issue benefits early to approximately 3.5 and its impact on SNAP and other assistance million people across the state. programs administered through states, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Recipients are encouraged to space their food Program for Women, Infants and Children purchases out throughout the month of Febru- (commonly known as WIC), and Temporary ary, rather than making mass purchases. Assistance for Needy Families (commonly Guidance for individuals: known as TANF). • Current clients who have already been determined eligible for February do not need to take any action to receive their benefits. • Current clients who are in the process of renewing their benefits are encouraged to submit their verification documents as soon as possible. • People who have applied for benefits are encouraged to submit their verification documents as soon as possible.
WIC and TANF benefits for clients in Texas are unaffected by the federal shutdown until further notice.
Texas administers these benefit programs based on federal guidelines and income parameters. Texas has controls in place to ensure benefits are provided to people who meet the requirements outlined by the federal program. People who purposely provide wrong information to receive benefits may be denied benefits, and The federal government has alerted states that legal action may be taken against them.
Pick us up at Taqueria Riojas & Texas Workforce Center | COMMUNITY | 11
12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Online Survey Available For Feedback On After-School Care Program
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Our Abilene Brother Eddie Jordan Needs a Kidney By Greg Jaklewicz | Abilene Reporter-News
My brother, Eddie Jordan, needs a kidney.
By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD
Eddie and I are not related. Nor is he related to Ed Patton. They share a first name but more importantly, admiration and respect.
Abilene ISD is seeking public feedback as the district prepares to choose an after-school provider for students. An online survey is now available for parents, guardians and community members to submit their input. The district will take into consideration the feedback as it evaluates proposals from interested service providers. The survey, which primarily asks respondents to identify the priorities the district should consider in making its selection, can be found on the district’s website at https://www.abileneisd.org/ for-parents/after-school-parent-guardian-survey/.
Ed and I consider Eddie Jordan our brother. And our friend Eddie calls us his brothers.
We encourage all those interested in after-school care services to participate in the survey so that your feedback can be used in identifying a provider. Deadline to submit responses is January 25.
A blessing in our lives
When I close my eyes and picture the Rev. Eddie Jordan, who has pastored the New Light Baptist Church congregation for 20 years, I see him cradling and then holding high our baby daughter the Sunday we brought her to his church — our church, because we’re always welcome there — for a blessing of a new life. His predecessor, the late Rev. Leo F. Scott, had Church members applaud after the Rev. Eddie Jordan cuts a ribbon signifying the re-opening of the New done the same with our son four years previLight Baptist Church sanctuary in 2016. A storm blew the roof off in December 2015. Jordan, who has ously. The Rev. Scott married us after playing a pastored New Light for 20 years, is seeking a kidney transplant.(Photo: Ronald W. Erdrich) role in our courtship, so it just seemed right that he start the family chapter of our lives, and our That leaves Rev. Jordan still searching. son on a righteous path. message, he said. “You have to do research. I want to deliver a sermon that is correct.” But he’s used to persevering. After he retired, our next request went to the Rev. Jordan. You preachers know what he’s talking about.
Still in the pulpit
Fifteen years later, our friend — my brother, is not in good health. Truth be known, his kidney problems started even before our daughter was born in 2003. Those escalated in 2015.
He needs a kidney
I could hear the weariness in Eddie’s voice. A pastor’s role His treatment in Fort Worth must have sapped This kidney stuff is difficult for a man who him. My heart broke as he spoke; yet, as good starred in football 45 years ago at J.Z. George preachers do, he lifted me up with his words High School in Carrollton, Mississippi, and of hope. then served his country in the Air Force. He has worked for the Abilene ISD, where his wife, “It had been a hard journey, my brother,” he adCasandra, was employed until her retirement. mitted. “I’m doing OK.”
I called him Tuesday after I received an email from the other Ed, who had a newspaper deliv- For the past three years, he has undergone ery issue. peritoneal dialysis at home. That’s eight hours, overnight. “Every night,” he said. At the end of his note, Patton added: He goes to bed early Saturday nights so the di“PS: I know you once attended services at New alysis ends by 6 or 6:30 a.m. That gives him Light Baptist Church, and may continue to do time to revive and be ready to go to New Light so. If you know how Rev. Eddie Jordan is do- for the Sunday service. “It takes a couple of ing, please let me know. He is a friend. The last hours,” he said of his recovery. time I checked he was still waiting on a donor kidney. Is that still the case?” If you’ve been to New Light, you don’t see the preacher sleepwalking to the pulpit. It means Yes, that’s still the case. Eddie Jordan this week full-on church, preaching that gets men to was in Fort Worth, where he had just finished stand, women to wave fans and children to liswhat he hopes was a final blood test. This ten up. It’s singing with the choir and working should be the last hurdle to clear his path to a up an appetite when a potluck lunch is schedgetting a kidney. “Then I can get on the list” for uled in the fellowship hall next door. a donor, he said. “Haven’t missed but a couple of Sundays,” he The questions are when, and from whom. said, proudly.
The call to full-time ministry came later, with Eddie serving for nine years as assistant to Pastor Scott, then taking his place. An almost impossible task, but Eddie Jordan became the face of New Light. He has sparked community outreach that has included his choir singing at the spring Key City Rhythm & Blues Festival and at First Baptist Church. Forty-five years ago, that would not have happened. He has extended the bridge that Pastor Scott, the city’s first black City Council member, built. Being a minister doesn’t protect Eddie from pain. In fact, it challenges him because he must remain a light for others dealing with health and other issues.
He found strength in a six-week sermon series A pastor friend, Houston McClendon of King Need inspiration in your life? There you have it. about faith, he told me. The theme was a gift Solomon Baptist Church, offered the gift of And it’s not like he cruises the rest of the week. from God he believes. life. But it wasn’t a match. “I learned so much givingContinued on page 13 “It’s a whole week’s work” to prepare a Sunday
Pick us up at Drug Emporium, Monterrey Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 13
Continued from page 12
those messages,” he said. Those included the story of the woman who bled for 12 years before she was cured by Jesus. “I learned faith makes life better,” he said. So, there is a blessing in his illness? “Oh, my man. I’m telling you, you look around,” he said. “I don’t have many needs and problems.” Preach on, Pastor Jordan. “Has it been tough? Absolutely. But it could be much worse,” he said. He has the support of friends, and he has been able to have dialysis at home, instead of spending four or so hours at a clinic.
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“That is tough,” he said.
Lovin’ on Eddie
His spirits were lifted earlier this fall, when he traveled back to Mississippi. He was inducted into his high school’s hall of fame. “That was really neat, being honored for what I did 45 years ago,” he said. He paused, and I could hear him smiling like Eddie Jordan can do. “I was pretty good at football.” Other encouragement has been found right here. “There have been so many people encouraging me. ‘Eddie, hang in there’ and such,” he said. Ed Patton tried to see him once in Fort Worth, thinking the transplant was happening. Eddie ironically was back in Abilene. “Still waiting,” Ed said. The two met, Ed told me, in the mid-1990s when both were on a library task force. “Eddie was so solid and had so much backbone, he became the go-to guy. I am proud to call him a friend since that time,” Ed said. “Our friendship has grown through the years,” Eddie said. Eddie’s going to come out on top of this, even the insurance battles that have added to the challenge. “Through it all,” he said, “I’ve never quit. I know the Lord is working it out.” Amen, Brother Jordan.
14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
HispanicLife Media
Everyday Hero
Lydia Gonzales Makes a Difference in The Lives of Troubled Youth By Larry Zelisko | Abilene Reporter-News
Inscribed inside Lydia Gonzales’ senior ring from Hardin-Simmons University are the words “All My Children.” The inscription refers not only to her three children but also her children’s friends – and all the children she works with as a juvenile
sible for the supervision of juvenile offenders on court-ordered probation who are volatile, have serious mental health issues, and many who are addicted to drugs and alcohol.” Despite the barriers and often limited resources, Stafford said Gonzales’ “leadership, compassion, and willingness to assist others and genuine desire to make a difference and mentor misguided and misunderstood youth is without a doubt heroic.” Gonzales said helping juvenile offenders means also helping their families. “If family is struggling with stress, mental health issues, drug addiction, I want to be able to seek out any resource we have here to provide them with the help they need,” she said, explaining the children and parents can be empowered and grow together to be successful. In her job, she supervises 24 children between ages 13 and 16. She has worked in the juvenile probation office since graduating from Cisco College in 2012. She worked as a juvenile supervision officer and then was promoted to overnight supervisor. While working nights, she attended HSU, earning her bachelor’s degree in behavioral science in 2017. “I know some people think a job is from 8 to 5, but every morning when I wake up I think I’m going to change something,” she said. “Something is going to get better for a child. I’m hoping to make a difference in somebody’s life.”
Juvenile probation officer Lydia Gonzales sees her work as a calling not a job. (Photo: Larry Zelisko/Reporter-News)
probation officer and through the juvenile justice alternative education program. “This isn’t just a job, it’s like my life, my second family,” Gonzales said. “Basically. I see these children as my children. I would do anything to take care of them and make sure they stay out of our facility. “I want to guide them in any way I can, to motivate them to be successful.” Chief Juvenile Probation Officer Allison Stafford, who nominated Gonzales as a Reporter-News Everyday Hero, said Gonzales doesn’t see her work as a job, “but rather as a calling and an opportunity to serve our community and those less fortunate.” Stafford pointed out that Gonzales “is respon-
She carries her hopes of making a difference in children’s life into her free time, volunteering with the youth group at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Her supervisor Stafford agrees. Gonzales, Stafford said, “is a remarkable woman, parent, and public servant who works tirelessly every single day to make a difference.”
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Get Your Cookie On:
Abilene-Area Girl Scouts Line Up For the Good Stuff By Carl Kieke | Special to the Reporter-News
Morgan Medlin was busy Saturday, rolling loaded dollies to waiting cars beside the Abilene Girl Scout office. Every dolly was loaded with 12 cases of Girl Scout cookies (12 boxes per case). The cars were driven by parents of Girl Scouts who were picking up their supplies to begin this year’s sales. “They come in, fill out a paper and get their cookies,” is how Medlin, a 15-year-old freshman ATEMS, explained the process. She is helping with the distribution for the second consecutive year. Last year, the girls had to endure chilly temperatures to get the cookies out the door and into vehicles. “It was freezing!”, Medlin said. “We would run in, warm up, then run back out and switch with somebody.
“I love this troop so much,” Medlin said. “It’s really active to do stuff for the community. They really work well together. Among helpful activities are trash pickups, visiting Wisteria Place and a donation drive for victims of Hurricane Harvey. The troop takes a major trip each year and the girls always select a service project to do during the trip. But back to the cookies. All your favorites should be available again this year – Caramel deLites, Thin Mints, Shortbread and the recently added S’mores. There is also a new addition: Chocolate Chip and Caramel, which is gluten-free. These are slightly more expensive than other varieties — $5, while all others are $4 per box.
Sales calls
Once the Scouts get their cookies, they begin selling door to door, at tables set up in front Morgan is a member of Troop 7200 in of stores and whatever venue will accept their Abilene, a troop of approximately 40 girls of presence. various ages.
Loves cookie time
Some longtime fans of the product can be counted on each year. Occasionally someone will simply buy the entire stock of their favorite variety. That sale is nice, but it can also create a challenge for the girls. “If we have two hours left and run out of Caramel deLites, that’s not going to work,” Medlin said. “People will say, well, where’s another booth?” But they are prepared. Mothers are available to shuttle more stock to a booth that runs short. So, what are people’s favorites? Medlin said Caramel deLites and Thin Mints usually are the first to go. On the other extreme, apparently the Peanut Butter Sandwiches are an acquired taste. One of her favorite facets to talk about is the Troop to Troops feature. People can donate to send Girl Scout cookies to military personnel overseas. A marked container allows customers to drop in their donation. “One guy gave us $100 and bought only three boxes,” she said. “When we tried to give him his change back, he said ‘Just keep it.’ So
we put it in the jar.”
Where are the cookies?
There are a couple of ways to find cookie sales. A free telephone app, Girl Scout Cookie Finder, is one way. Customers also can go to the council website, www.gs-top.org, to find sales sites.
16 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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
Manuela Garcia Ovalle, 65, passed away Sunday, January 6th, 2019. Mrs. Ovalle was born March 23, 1953, in Baird, Texas to Elmer and Valentine Cisneros. She graduated from Wylie High School in 1972, she worked for the Care Inn for numerous years as well as in home health caring for numerous people throughout her lifetime. She was very active and outgoing, a certified cake decorator and making elaborate cakes for every occasions. She won numerous awards. Our mother had a smile that out shined the sun and laugh that was contagious. She was stubborn , set in her ways but simply beautiful. Her grand kids made her smile the brightest. She was loved, adored and care for by her husband of 32 years Baudilio Ovalle. You will be greatly missed and thank you for dedicating your life to us. Teaching us to be strong and humble and your legacy will continue on. We love you! Survivors include her husband of 32 years Baudilio Ovalle of Abilene, sons: John Hernandez, Baudilio Ovalle Jr., and Ambrosio and wife Faye, all of Abilene, Daughter Julia Hernandez of Abilene, brothers: Fidel and wife Lisa Ramos, Salvador and wife Donna Ramos, Elmer Ramos, Vince Ramos, Zeke Ramos, all of Abilene, and sister Sophia and husband Martin Suarez of Andrews, Texas, and three grandchildren Amariss Ovalle, Josiah “J.J” Hernandez, and Lilly Hernandez, all of Abilene. Mrs. Ovalle was preceded in death by both parents Elmer and Valentine Ramos and brother Daniel Ramos. George Jarmon, Jr., 86, of Abilene, Texas, passed December 24, 2018. George was born to George Jarmon Sr. and Willie Mae Hargrove-Jarmon, August 4, 1932, in Columbus, Texas. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1950. George was very athletic which earned him a track scholarship to Prairie View A&M University. He then was drafted into The United States Army. George was a Korean War Combat Veteran where he served with the 2nd Infantry Division Field Artillery Battalion as a Cannoneer. He also was a member of the Presidential Honor Guard. During his military tenured he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. He married Ruby Faye Ghant in 1959 and they lived together in Abilene. Together they raised a lot of children (nephews, nieces, cousins, etc). He was affectionately known as Uncle George, Paw Paw, Chicken Man, Boo,
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Rascal, and Youngsta. George was a truck driver until he retired in 2011 and was passionate about affecting the most positive change in people. George was a member of King Solomon Baptist Church where he served on the Sr. Usher board. He leaves as his legacy, Son: Thomas Ghant (Luciana) of Hutto, Tx. Daughter: Jocelyn Jackson (James) of Dallas, TX. Grandchildren: Alexander Ghant and Essence Ghant of Hutto, TX, Corvin Ghant and Gabriel Pierson of Abilene, TX. He also leaves to cherish his memory his Sister-in-Laws, Exia Ghant-Walker of Abilene, TX., Stella Hughes (Albert) of Demopolis, AL. Brother-in-Law: George Ghant, Jr. of Abilene, TX. Exia was with him to the end. Everyone remembered him as an extreme lover of sports. Whether it was football, basketball, baseball, etc. As he would always call it “the ball game”. He was preceded in death by his wife of 43 yrs Ruby. His parents George Sr. and Willie Mae. Son: Michael Thomas. Granddaughter Asia Renee Ghant. The family would also like to give a special thank you to Exia Ghant-Walker, Cassandra Phillips, Yolanda Bell and Sandra Ghant-Carson for the extra care they provided to George. Maria G. Garcia, 89 of Abilene, passed away on Sunday, January 6, 2019. Maria was born on December 22, 1929 in Lagarto, Texas to Bruno and Julia Gutierrez. She was raised on a ranch, which left her with a lifelong love of horses. She was proud of her upbringing. Being raised a rancher’s daughter she learned to work hard, which helped her to provide for her family when she got older. She was a very active member of St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church, where she was a part of the Creative Ladies and helped prepare meals for families attending funerals. Maria also worked as a supervisor for Hendrick Medical Center for 20+ years. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Manuel Garcia; grandson, Danny Martinez; brothers, Lino and Sam Gutierrez; and sisters Dora Amador, Lenora Moreno and Adela Gutierrez. Maria is survived by her daughters, Lina Castillo and Eva Martinez; son, Richard Garcia; sisters, Elsa Herrera and Lydia Almaraz; brother, Bruno Gutierrez Jr.; 14 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.
a Moment in our arms... a Lifetime
in our hearts...
La Familia es Importante!
Pick us up at Communities of Abilene FCU, SBDC & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 17
A Third Generation Keeps Handcrafted Bajo Sexto Tradition Alive in SA By NICHOLAS FRANK | The Rivard Report
After his father, Alberto, died of cancer in 2009, bajo sexto maker George Macias said he began to feel alone. For years, the two had worked together in the workshop in southwest San Antonio that Alberto had built, painstakingly crafting precision instruments one at a time. Third in a line of bajo sexto makers renowned throughout the world of Tex-Mex music, George continued to carry on the family legacy without his father’s quiet guidance.
only include well-known conjunto musicians like Max Baca of Los Texmaniacs and the Hernandez brothers of Los Tigres Del Norte, but also pop stars like Cesar Rosas of Los Lobos or San Antonio legend Doug Sahm, who played his Macias bajo sexto during a 1990 appearance on “Austin City Limits” with the Texas Tornados.
The bench might speak of the many musicians who visited the shop in search of the best bajo sexto they could find. That parade would not
son and grandson. “The original still to this day commands respect because of how it is so well-manufactured,” Enriquez said. “It had a sign inside, a little label that said ‘Built With Exactitude.’ Everywhere you put your finger, it will be right on the money,” he said. Though he uses a regular acoustic guitar for playing each Sunday in the Macdona church where he worships, Enriquez still plays his 1961 medium jumbo bajo sexto two or three times per month, mostly with Mambito Ybarra y los Conjunto Champs.
Why so many musicians seek out Macias-made instruments is a matter of quality in sound, design, and construction, according to those who play them.
One day, while dining down the street at what had been Alberto’s favorite restaurant, a waitress delivered a somewhat mysterious message to George. “Your father wants something moved back where it belongs,” he says she told him. San Antonio conjunto musician Armando Tejeda George had hired a cleaning person to help plays an original 1971 out at the shop, and his father’s chair had been bajo sexto made by Martín moved from its usual perch behind the coun- Macias. He inherited the ter, where it had remained since he’d passed instrument from his father, on. George moved it back, with assurances Rogelio, who would bring that it wouldn’t be moved again. it out to play once a while, Tejeda said. “It does have a Having received that message, as comforting unique sound compared to as it was enigmatic, George eyed the brown other bajos that I hear,” he wooden chair and said, “I felt alone, but all said. along he’s always been here.” Somehow, he said, the A Family Tradition 47-year-old instrument has The Macias family legacy has never been far only gotten lighter over from George. He grew up watching his grand- time. “It has a resonance father Martín Macias (1895-1983) make bajo that’s unique,” he said of sextos, 12-string acoustic bass guitars, and its rosewood body, with a grew to eventually assist his father in the shop, sound that can be recogfulfilling orders that came in from all over the nized as a Macias by other knowledgeable world. Today, even as George completes two bajo players. to three bajos per week, along with the same number of restorations on older models, there ‘Toca Por Mi’ is still a six- to eight-month wait on orders for Another original Macias bajo sexto owner, new custom-made instruments. whom Tejeda calls “the best bajo player in history,” is Lupe Enriquez. “He’s like the Jimi Alberto’s workbench, where George’s sister Hendrix of the bajo sexto. He’s unequaled,” Martha can sometimes be found working, is Tejeda said, assuring that a YouTube search still in place in the shop, as is the seemingly will reveal Enriquez’s distinctive style. ancient workbench of the family patriarch “When I first heard him it was like, ‘What Martín Macias, who started the family busi- planet did this guy come from?’” Tejeda said, ness back in 1925. citing Enriquez’s unusual use of jazz chords in Conjunto music. “If this bench could talk,” George said, “it would tell you all about the bajos” built there, he said. A fresh bajo lay atop the bench, awaiting its finishing touches.
Now an inductee of the Conjunto Hall of Fame at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, Enriquez said he used to visit the Macias family as a young kid. “Martín Macias would come in and tell me to sit down. He’d go to the back and get a beautiful rosewood bajo sexto. ‘Toca por mi,’ [play for me] he’d ask, and have me play for two to three hours.”
“To us old guys who knew what a bajo sexto is, there’s no better bajo sexto in the world than Macias,” Enriquez said. “It became the state of the art way back in the early ‘50s, and in my opinion it still is.”
At that time in the late 1950s and early ‘60s, Martín did not have his own shop and sold his wares through the Acuña Furniture store nearby, Enriquez said. He’d originally heard about Macias’ instruments from fellow musicians and quickly grew to appreciate their distinctive qualities. “I liked the body, the contours, and how he made them,” he said. “He perfected that shape.”
Martín handed down his original molds for shaping the guitars to Alberto, who then passed them along to George. “All my molds, all the patterns and everything, are original,” George said. The only difference, he said, Normally, the bajo sexto acts as a low, rhyth- would be “my two working hands.” mic, and chordal accompaniment to the melodic accordion and voice of conjunto music, Nowadays, many competitors may try to copy and the wider array of instrumentation in Te- the famous Macias bajo sexto, which also jano and Norteño music styles. Over time, the comes with custom-made strings, but to Enrole of the bajo evolved, with Enriquez as one riquez, Tejeda, and George Macias himself, of its leading innovators. none has yet matched the level of quality first achieved by Martín and now carried on by his
Because of the Macias reputation built over three generations, demand continues. “I start early, and I’m busy until 8 p.m. every day,” George said. According to the Macias bajo sexto webpage, production time for each instrument is six to eight months, and “they have more orders than they can handle.” Macias’ only regret, he said, is that his busy schedule does not allow him more time with his family. His sons sometimes help out in the shop, though. “So you test them yourself, right?” George asked 7-year-old Caleb. “Yeah, I tested those two,” Caleb said, pointing toward finished bajos in the back room. “I’m still working on the others, waiting for you to put the strings on.” George smiled. Reminded that one day, the family legacy could be in his hands, Caleb said, “Yeah, but that’ll take a long time.” He then asked his father if he could go outside to play.
18 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
MENTORING MAKES A DIFFERENCE After Mayor Anthony Williams shared a proclamation on January as National Mentoring Month, Mark Rogers of Big Brothers Big Sisters Abilene shared how easily folks can get involved with BBBS and make a difference in the life of a local kidddo
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EDUCATION
LOCAL SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS
In AISD’S Early Childhood Classrooms, Kindness is Fundamental By Abilene Independent School District
It was purely accidental. We were looking for a specific event on the yearly calendar. As we searched, we found an unexpected holiday in November. World Kindness Day…an entire international day dedicated to acts of kindness. The Random Acts of Kindness website stated, “On World Kindness Day participants attempt to make the world a better place by celebrating and promoting good deeds and pledging acts of kindness, either as individuals or as organizations.” The Wikipedia’s site said, “World Kindness Day is to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power Early Childhood has implemented Conscious and the common thread of kindness which Discipline structures and strategies to teach self-regulation and conbinds us. Kindness is a fundamental part flict resolution skills. of the human condition which bridges Staff are intentional in the divides of race religion, politics, the attention given to gender and zip codes.”
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In Someones Life Today!
The setting aside of a day to purposefully be kind to others gives one pause. Why aren’t we simply kind every day to all people? Because we simply aren’t is the best explanation that can be given. children Kindness is an important life skill and it is hard because, for most of us, it requires and their behaviors. The philosophy of “what you intentionality of thought and action. focus on, you will get At the beginning of the each year in Early more of” is the basis for Childhood, students walk into the classroom interactions. Kindness and take a deep breath. Their eyes light up and structures are present their self-talk might sound like, “Look at all of in all classrooms, in the this stuff. All of this stuff is awesome!” Ten- hallway and cafeteria. sions arise because the perceptions of kindness When a helpful or kind and sharing differ from one student to another. act is noticed, it is celSharing and kindness might sound like, “What ebrated. I have in my hand is mine. What you have in your hand is mine because I had it yesterday. Celebrating with indiWhat that kid has is also mine because I might vidual students or the want it in a little bit. All of this great stuff is class as a whole brings mine because I saw it first. If you are kind, you about a feeling of unity will give it all to me.” Tensions quickly turn and school family. The idea of a classroom faminto conflict!
ily encourages connections between students and creates feelings of safety and belonging. When students – and adults – have a place to fit in, they feel accepted, respected and loved. It is through these lenses that students learn to see the best in others. Seeing the best in others leads to kindness. After much teaching and learning, a student’s self-talk might now sound like, “Look at all of this awesome stuff. I wish it was all mine. But my friend likes it, too. I’ll play with it for a while and then share with my friend because sharing is kind and that is what we do in our school family.” Conflicts are fewer because students know they belong in their school family. They own a spot in the classroom. Their place is important, and they are accepted. They feel safe to love, share and be kind to friends. So, participating in World Kindness Day didn’t take much thought. The Long Cubs bought into the day. Adults and students wore the shirts. The district’s youngest students read books about friendship and wrote thank-you letters to community partners. Paper hearts were sent home to record random acts of kindness and returned to school to be placed on Kindness Trees in classrooms and hallways. Maybe the life skill of kindness isn’t so hard after all.
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20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
A Library Card for Every Student! By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD
Abilene Public Library and Abilene Independent School District have a new, exciting initiative and partnership! The Library Express program allows all registered students of AISD to use their student ID number as their library card with their parent’s permission - obtained at registration. This partnership between AISD and APL maximizes resources and services for the benefit of AISD students and the City of Abilene.
10,507 students have opted in to the service, out of 15,000 in the district. 1,165 books have been checked out by students during this period, while digital resources have been utilized 116 times.
Once parents have given their permission for the student’s participation, they have access to all of the public library’s resources - both print and digital. Students may request physical materials from any APL location to be brought to their campus for convenience, and they may be returned in the same way, via AISD’s Pony Express courier and the Abilene Library Consortium’s courier. Privacy for the student is paramount, and the service is entirely free.
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During the first three months of the program,
Abilene Public Library director Lori Grumet is very pleased with the initial stages of the initiative, saying “We are so pleased that the young people of Abilene have easier access to library materials. This new partnership with AISD is an exciting enhancement for us.” Kristy Compton, AISD Head Cataloger and Secondary Lead Librarian, says ”It is so rewarding to see AISD students taking advantage of this new partnership, whether they’re choosing to have traditional APL library materials delivered directly to them at school or using their AISD ID credentials to access the public library’s digital resources. This initiative is one that serves our students well, and I imagine we’ll see big increases in both traditional and digital access in the future.”
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ACU’s CEO Named 2018 Global Chapter of the Year By Alyssa High | ACU Today
Abilene Christian University’s chapter of Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization was named 2018 Global Chapter of the Year for the fourth year in a row at the CEO Global Conference and Pitch Competition in Kansas City, Missouri. The Global Chapter of the Year award is given to a CEO chapter that demonstrates excellence in organizational development and the ways in which the chapter offers a meaningful entrepreneurship experience for students. ACU took home the honor and a $250 cash award, outperforming larger universities such as Texas A&M University, Florida State University and Iowa State University. ACU’s CEO president Meredith Orr, a senior business marketing and management student from North Richland Hills, Texas, said she is proud of the work the members have done to provide the best content and opportunities for students. “I was especially excited about the win because I have been in the organization every year we have won, but this was my chance
LEE ANNE WHEELER TITLE: Teacher YEARS WITH AISD: This year is my 15th year with AISD, 16th year to teach.
as president to prove that we are continually getting better,” Orr said. ACU’s CEO chapter has had a hand in developing numerous programs and opportunities to spread awareness and instill practical skills of entrepreneurship in students, among them Wildcat Ventures, Entrepreneur Speaker Series, Springboard Ideas Challenge and Startup Week.
IF YOU GRAVITATE TO SALES... CAN YOU ANSWER THESE? Are you the type of person who needs to be busy & productive every waking hour? Are you the type that maintains momentum despite setbacks or disappointments? Even without trying, do you typically control the conversation? Of all the “sales people” you know, are you the best at nailing down commitments from Customers? Do you genuinely like people and people seem to really like you too? Are you happiest when you get to figure out for yourself how to get your work done?
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DEPARTMENT/CAMPUS: Woodson Center for Excellence
NOW HIRING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
MAKING
WHERE ARE YOU FROM? WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND? I grew up and currently live in Clyde. I have been to several colleges and have committed myself to life-long learning. I attended the following: Tarleton State University – BS in Animal Science, McMurry University – Teaching Certification, University of Texas at Arlington – MS Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Stephen F. Austin – Principal Certification, Walden University – EdS – Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development TELLS US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY: I am married to the most wonderful man, Jason Wheeler. We have four beautiful children, Jasmine – 16, Lillian – 14, Violet – 13, and Bryan – 10. Life is never dull in our home. We enjoy going to our lake house, fishing, hunting and shooting guns. My family is very involved with the Masonic Fraternity. My husband is a member of the Masons and the Order of the Eastern Star, I am a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and my daughters are very active members of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOURSELF: When I graduated high school, my parents told me I should be a teacher. I told them “I would never be a teacher.” I went to college wanting to be a Wildlife Biologist. I graduated with a degree in Animal Science. I worked for the National Parks Service and The US Fish and Wildlife Department. I received a job interview with an Outdoor Education Center from Houston ISD. I took the position and my parents said, “See, we told you to become a teacher…” It turns out they were right. I received my teaching certification about two years later and I am
so glad I did. I love what I do! WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? The school atmosphere at Woodson Center for Excellence is unlike any other place I have worked. As educators, we came into the field to change lives. That is exactly what we do. The kids who attend school here are many times behind on the credits needed to graduate, for whatever reason it may be. They often have the thought in their heads that it is not possible to finish school with a high school diploma. My favorite part of working at WCE is watching the kids come around to teachers when they have completed their credits and have become a graduate. These students didn’t believe it was possible and to see them walk down the hall in a cap and gown during the campus graduation ceremony is priceless. The student and their families have so much pride and so much joy on their faces. It is the best part of my job! WHAT HER BOSS SAYS ABOUT HER: “Mrs. Wheeler is an outstanding teacher who goes above and beyond to help our students be successful both in the classroom and in life. She teaches IPC, Biology and Chemistry as well as remediation classes for Biology. She does an amazing job, and we are fortunate to have her be a part of our campus.” – Jaime Tindall, Principal, Woodson Center for Excellence
22 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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TSTC and Goodwill-West Texas Partnership Helps Students Dress for Success By Sarah Trocolli | TSTC Communications
‘Tis the season for giving, and Goodwill-West ness professional clothing that makes them Texas has partnered with Texas State Techni- feel confident while applying for jobs. cal College in Abilene and Sweetwater to embrace the tradition. “TSTC provides the skills to make sure our students are qualified for the job, but we In collaboration with TSTC Talent Manage- wanted to make sure they have the attire and ment and Career Services, Goodwill has the confidence to get the job when they inagreed to give graduating TSTC students terview,” Julia Humphrey, director of Talent vouchers for a free business professional out- Management and Career Services at TSTC in fit. Abilene, said. For students who need help preparing for interviews, creating resumes or finding a job, the Talent Management and Career Services department welcomes them to visit. “This is just another feature we get to offer students to help them succeed,” Brittany Wilson, Career Services associate at TSTC in Sweetwater, said. “We want the best for these students.” Members of TSTC West Texas Talent Management and Career Services team celebrate with Goodwill WestTexas representatives. From left to right: Jessica Pleimann, Goodwill-West Texas Workforce Develpment/Mission Services Coordinator; Patricia Reid,TSTC West Texas Career Services;Brittany Wilson,TSTC West Texas Career Services; Danielle Robertson, Goodwill-West Texas Communication and Development Director; Julia Humphrey,TSTC West Texas Career Services Director; and Helen Ronksley,TSTC West Texas Career Services.
“Goodwill’s mission has always been to provide opportunities for people to overcome barriers,” Danielle Robertson, director of Communications and Development at Goodwill-West Texas, said. “We understand that going to an interview is stressful enough, and we want this to be one less stress.”
Goodwill encourages the community to donate gently worn professional clothes.
“We are happy to partner with TSTC because they align with our mission to help others overcome barriers,” Robertson said. Goodwill has given over 80 vouchers for TSTC students at its campuses in Abilene and Sweetwater and plans to give more as needed.
The initiative started when TSTC Talent Man- For more information about TSTC, log on to agement and Career Services recognized that tstc.edu. students may struggle financially to find busi-
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McMurry University Announces New Vice President of Marketing and Communications
AISD Announces Administrative Changes for New Year By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD
The end of the first semester of the 2018-2019 school year will bring a few administrative changes in Abilene ISD.
By Alaisha Montanez | Assistant Director of Communications, McMurry University
• Dr. Joseph Waldron, who has spent most of his career in Texas, is coming to AISD from his position as superintendent of schools for Morris Community High School District in Illinois to become the new associate superintendent of human resources. • Roger Thomas, principal at Johnston Elementary School since 2005, is retiring at the end of the first semester. Jeff Brokovich, executive director for instructional support, will serve as interim principal during the process of selecting a leader at Johnston. • Carla Garrett, executive director of elementary education, is retiring at the end of the first semester. Her successor will be selected at a later date.
Robin joins McMurry University after serving as the Vice President for the Methodist Health System Foundation in Dallas, Texas since 2015. Prior to that appointment, she served as the Assistant Vice President of External Relations (20142015) and the Director of Community and Public Relations (2012-2014) at the Methodist Health System. From 1996-2012, Robin served as the President and Creative Director of SONUS, a national public relations and marketing agency that delivered integrated campaigns encompassing advertising, brand management, media relations, crisis communication, community engagement, digital, and promotions and events.
Prior to taking his most recent position in Illinois, Waldron was the superintendent of Lefors ISD in the Texas Panhandle for four years. He was also an assistant superintendent and high school principal in Childress ISD and began his career in 2001 as a teacher in Wichita Falls. Waldron is the first associate superintendent of human resources since Mark Neal resigned in 2016. Dr. Joe Alcorta supervised human resources until last year when he left to become superintendent in Dalhart ISD. Dr. Larry Blair, a retired superintendent, has been working in an interim role as executive director of human resources and will leave his duties at the Christmas break.
Dr. Joseph Waldron
“We are excited to have someone with the caliber of Dr. Waldron to lead our human resources department,” said AISD Superintendent Dr. David Young. “He brings a wealth of experience and energy to this role, and I know the community is going to enjoy getting to know his family.”
Robin received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and her Executive Master of Business Administration degree from Southern Methodist University. “We are very pleased to add an asset such as Robin to our staff,” said McMurry University President Dr. Sandra Harper. “We believe that Robin Daniels’ experience with public relations, branding and advertising will assist in enhancing the visibility of McMurry University and in articulating the quality of the McMurry academic experience.”
Thomas has served AISD for 22 years, the last 13 at Johnston, and has a total of 29 years in education.
Roger Thomas
“His daily presence at Johnston will be missed,” Young said. “I am thankful for the incredible impact he has had on thousands of students throughout his career.”
“My roots are in West Texas, born and raised in Big Spring, and it feels good to be back home,” said Daniels. “McMurry University has a storied history. The marketing team is driven to tell the amazing hidden stories of successes of McMurry. We want people talking about the great things happening here.” CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505
Garrett has been executive director of elementary education for the past two and half years. She previously was the principal at Austin Elementary School and an administrator at Abilene High School, all part of her 34-plus years in education. “Carla has had an immeasurable impact on students that she has been associated with,” Young said. “AISD owes Carla Garrett her a debt of gratitude for her faithful service. Her position will remain vacant throughout the spring semester with Dr. Gustavo Villanueva, Dr. Dan Dukes and Mr. Gail Gregg combining to provide support to elementary campuses in her absence. A selection process for her position will take place in the spring for a July start.”
24 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Mayor Cites MLK Jr. Example By Loretta Fulton | Spirit of Abilene
• Have a deep belief in your own dignity, your “somebodyness” • Have a will to achieve and a determination to achieve excellence
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Martin Luther King Jr. was admired as a great orator, and many of his speeches are well known. But McMurry University students who attended chapel Jan. 15 heard one that most likely was new to them.
It was delivered via YouTube and played on • Develop a commitment to the eternal prinlarge screens at the front ciples of beauty, love, and of the Mabee Room in justice the university’s campus center. Titled “Keep In his chapel talk Jan. 15, Moving,” the speech was Williams focused on King’s delivered by King to an concept of a blueprint for assembly of junior high life. school students in Philadelphia six months be“God provides each one of fore he was assassinated. us with a specific life purBut it proved to be just as pose,” Williams said. appropriate for college students. Working to enhance God’s kingdom adds a sense of You can see MLK vidfulfillment to whatever caeo at https://youtu.be/ reer path is chosen. lsUcKHtcOeM “It is important that you In the video, King urged make a contribution” to the young students to building the kingdom, Wildevelop a blueprint for liams said. their lives. Likewise, the chapel speaker, Anthony Martin Luther King Jr. was Williams, encouraged born Michael King but his the McMurry students father changed his own to ask themselves what name and that of his son in their blueprint is. honor of the leader of the Reformation, Martin Lu“Even more important,” ther. MLK Jr. was born Jan. Williams said, “who’s Mayor Anthony Williams addresses McMurry 15, 1929, in Atlanta and was University students during chapel Jan. 15. your architect?” assasinated April 4, 1968, in Memphis. Williams, a 1993 graduate of McMurry, is Monday, Jan. 21, is Martin Luther King Jr. Abilene’s first African American mayor. Day. Legislation signed in 1983 marked Classes started at McMurry on Monday, Jan. King’s birthday as a federal holiday. In 1994, 14, and the Tuesday chapel was the first of the Congress designated the Martin Luther King spring semester. Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National In the video, King laid out a blueprint for life, and Community Service with leading this efwith three essentials: fort. The day is observed each year on the third Monday of January.
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ATEMS Senior Receives National Hispanic Scholar Recognition By Timothy Chipp | Abilene Reporter-News
Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | EDUCATION | 25
DISCOVER
McMURRY
An Abilene Independent School District student is collecting praise from a national organization for her prolific test-taking ability.
McMurry University offers online degrees in business, criminal justice and nursing that fit your life and goals. Our online degree programs are transfer-friendly, convenient and affordable! The online programs will provide you with the real-world skills employers are demanding. We want you to thrive in today’s complex world. For more information contact Caroline Park at 325-793-4710 or park.caroline@mcm.edu and begin your path to success. Arriana Monsey, a senior at the district’s Academy of Technology, Engineering, Math and Science, was selected recently as one of the nation’s top Hispanic scholars after scoring well on the 2018 PSAT examination. The National Hispanic Recognition Program, which each year recognizes about 5,000 of the 250,000 students who take the exam as juniors, made the selection official.
mcm.edu
The honor does not include scholarship funds, but most colleges use the program to identify academically exceptional Hispanic/Latinx students, the district said in a news release recognizing the accomplishment.
Outside of school, she has participated in mission work in the Philippines and worked as a freelance graphic designer. Monsey said she hopes to study computer science or graphic and website design, and considering the University of Texas-Dallas, Texas A&M University or Abilene Christian University as higher education destinations.
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At both ATEMS and Cooper High School, Monsey is heavily active outside of the classroom. She’s a member of the CHS marching band and varsity cross country team. She participates in the ATEMS National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society and has won a pair of awards in the Scholastic Art & Writing competition.
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TSTC Graduate Honors Instructor By Sarah Trocolli | TSTC Communications
Friendships can be one of the greatest things about a student’s time at college. Recent Texas State Technical College Emergency Medical Services graduate Ricki Coleman found a great friend in his EMS instructor, Ronnie Pitts. So Coleman took time to honor him at TSTC’s Fall 2018 commencement ceremony.
“The new building is beautiful, and I think it helps to teach these skills in a real-life setting,” Coleman said.
“Ronnie is the reason I’m graduating,” Coleman said. “He really listened to me and became a friend and a mentor, and I wouldn’t be here without him.”
Wanting to follow in his mentor’s footsteps, Coleman hopes to become an instructor in TSTC’s EMS program.
Coleman is a member of the academic honor society Phi Theta Kappa, and as a thank-you he gifted Pitts with an honorary Phi Theta Kappa stole. “I had no clue he was going to give me this, and I am so honored,” Pitts said. “We’re both about the same age and have gone through a lot of the same things, so I’m just glad I could offer some advice.”
“Ricki has always been an ideal student: respectful, professional and open to feedback,” Pitts said. “And I think anywhere would be very lucky to have him in their employment.”
Ricki Coleman, left, and Ronnie Pitts, right, pose together after Coleman gifts Pitts with an Honorary Phi Theta Kappa stole.
Coleman served in the U.S Army from 1990 to 2004. After he left, he worked in several kids to do something if I can’t be the example,” fire service and emergency medical service jobs. Coleman said. “I’ve always had a calling to this field and just According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statiswant to help people,” Coleman said. tics, emergency medical technician and paramedic jobs are expected to grow by 15 percent Despite years of experience in the industry, Cole- over the next 10 years. man wanted to be an example for his children and get a degree. With the expected growth in jobs, TSTC in Abilene moved the EMS program to the new “It’s showing that you can be committed and con- Industrial Technology Center that opened at the sistent in the business world, and I can’t tell my beginning of the fall semester.
Before the commencement ceremony, Coleman and Pitts shared a laugh and a hug as they celebrated his achievement.
Get a High-Volta Career
“This was a bucket-list accomplishment, and there have been so many people -- my kids, my wife and of course him (Pitts) -- that helped to get me here,” Coleman said. For more information about TSTC, log on to tstc.edu. ISE CALL US TO ADVERT (325) 701-9505
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26 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
As demand for electricity gr for skilled technicians. Your is assured through TSTC’s M
New programs and new opp coming Fall 2018.
Learn more at: tstc.edu/abil Mayor Anthony Williams visits with AISD Center for Innovation students. #TSTCSaveYourSeat
Pick us up at La Familia Mexican Restaurant & YMCA on State St. | EDUCATION | 27
28 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Grant Provides Ten Digital Microscopes to AISD’s Center of Innovation
By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD Ten brand new digital microscopes were delivered to Abilene ISD’s Center of Innovation on Dec. 21 thanks to a grant from Bayer and Texas Farm Bureau. The Center of Innovation, a mathematics and science magnet school program for Grade 5 students located at McMurry University, is recipient of the “Scoping Out Ag in the Classroom Grant.” The focus of the grant is to encourage classroom projects that teach about food and fiber production and bring the world of agriculture to young minds. Teacher Marsha Hammack became eligible for the grant by attending a Texas Farm Bureau Summer Ag Institute where digital microscopes were used. In her grant application, she wrote, “With the use of the microscopes in the classroom, the students will be able to explore the concept that there are relationships with the environment we live in and these relations occur within cycles and systems.”
GOD TRUSenTDio G anydcon DREAMenBI s! fia grande, Sueña
The hands-on technology will be used in Life Science classwork as well as with the students’ involvement with the Open Door Community Garden and the school’s hydroponic garden.
Students’ Service Projects Help Local Animal Shelters By Abilene Independent School District
Several 5th and 6th graders from Abilene ISD schools will receive an important award for coming to the aid to some local friends – the furry, four-legged variety.
Projects for the Higher Awards recognition, which also includes Silver and Gold awards for older scouts, require members to observe their community, identify a problem that requires a solution, build a personal network of For a Girls Scout leadership and community support, engage their community in the soluservice project, the girls collaborated on a pair of projects to raise donations for the Taylor-Jones Humane Society and Paw Angels Animal Rescue organizations. The eight girls from local troops 7300 and 7234 received the Bronze Awards during a Higher Awards banquet on Dec. 8. Girls representing Troop 7300 who teamed together to help the Taylor-Jones Humane Society, which operates a nokill shelter, are Bella Dennard and Danicka Guzman of Bassetti Elementary, Iliana Dillinger and Sophie Schutter of Dyess Elementary, and Kaitlyn Izworski and Mi’Shell Stewart of Clack Middle School.
tion and summarize the outcomes of their work. The girls helping the Humane Society spent time researching dog and cat treats to find the healthiest products, researched the services animal shelters provide, and visited the shelter twice, including once to help the staff. They completed the project by collecting food, litter and toys to donate to the shelter.
Craig Middle School students Raquel DeLeon and Maggie Stone will earn their For their project, the Craig award for benefitting students generated awarePawAngel.com, a ness through local and social group of local indimedia to collect donations viduals formed to assist the Abilene Animal of food, toys and litter to help the unwanted Shelter to re-home unwanted animals. animals get the treatment they need to become healthy pets.
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30 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Clemson’s Dabo Swinney Takes Reporters to Church When Asked About His Faith at Press Conference By Will Maule
“That’s the easiest question I’ve had all day,” the coach responded. “To me, its just the priorities of my life. I made a decision when I was 16. I grew up in a family where I was taught there was a God, but I didn’t really have a relationship with Christ until I was 16. That was a game-changer for me, it has really become a foundation in my life.” That would have been enough to answer the reporter’s question, but the National Championship winner wasn’t done yet. He continued to speak candidly about the “hope and peace” that Jesus has given him through all the trials and tribulations of this life. “It’s hard to survive and thrive in this world if you don’t have a spiritual foundation and something that will give you peace,” Swinney explained. “‘Cause life is hard. And we’re all gonna experience death, failure, setbacks, disappointment, cancer — it’s a really difficult world. For me, my relationship with Christ has given me hope and peace.”
“Appreciate you asking that question,” Swinney laughed after his epic answer. “Didn’t expect that one!” ___________________________________ Dabo Swinney is married to Kathleen Swin-
ney (née Bassett). The couple tied the knot way back in 1994. The friendship between this couple dates back to their first grade at Pelham High School. They took their friendship to the next level when they were old enough. Just like her husband, Kathleen Swinney is also an alumnus of the University of Alabama. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education after which she worked as a school teacher.
that it was his “greatest accomplishment” to tion. see his three sons come to know Jesus Christ.
Kathleen is equally highly dedicated to Alabama University’s Clemson Tigers which has earned her the title “first lady of Clemson football”. The couple were made honorary alumni of the university at the 2017 “All In Ball”, hosted by Dabo’s All In Team Founda-
The couple has 3 children together, sons Will
“Those are personal decisions that people (19), Drew (17) and Clay (14). As expected, all have to make,” he said. “It’s just how I three Swinney sons play football at their various choose to live my life.” schools.
“People that know me know I ain’t perfect, but I do try to live in a way that is hopefully pleasing to my maker,” he added. “Because I know I’m gonna meet him one day and he’s Sweeney then quoted Jeremiah 29:11: not gonna pat me on the back and talk about how many wins I had, how many coach of “For I know the plans I have for you,” de- the year trophies I got or how much money clares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and I made. He’s gonna hold me accountable not to harm you, plans to give you hope and about the impact I had on young people, the a future.” type of men we develop through a game.”
Will Swinney is the oldest of Swinney’s 3 sons. He was born in 1998 in Clemson. He had his high school education at Daniel High School and he was a top receiver for his high school football team. In 2017, Will Swinney joined Clemson University’s football team as a walk-on. Joining the Clemson Tigers is really a dream come true for the young Swinney who has always been a huge fan of the Tigers.
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In a recent press conference with Clemson “I’ve applied that to my life along my jourTigers head football coach Dabo Swinney, a ney,” Swinney explained. “To me, if there’s journalist asked him a question about his faith. really hope in the future, then there’s power in the present to deal with whatever mess “When you hoist a trophy, you spend time you’re dealing with in your life.” talking about God and faith. Can you speak about that a little bit more? ‘Cause it’s impres- “That’s what my relationship with Christ did sive that’s where you are right after hoisting for me,” he said. “It gave me the ability to a trophy.” have a hope and a belief beyond my circumstances.” Swinney’s answer was pretty amazing: The highly successful coach also revealed
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Pick us up at Wal-Mart, Enterprise Bldg. & Armando’s Mexican Restaurant | EDUCATION | 31
AISD Bus Driver Receives State DPS Award for His Heroics By Abilene Independent School District
Reed Tate, a bus driver for Abilene ISD, was honored recently in Austin by the Texas Department of Public Safety for his life-saving action last summer while on vacation. Mr. Tate witnessed a major vehicle accident near Fredericksburg, and his quick and decisive actions contributed to saving the life of the driver. For his heroics, the Texas Public Safety Commission awarded Mr. Tate, a retired fire fighter, with the Director’s Award during a ceremony on Oct. 25 in Austin. He also will be honored by the AISD Board of Trustees at the Dec. 10 Regular Meeting. Below is the accommodation that was provided at the DPS ceremony: Trooper Sharadyn Andrews, Texas Highway Patrol–Fredericksburg, received a Lifesaving Award, and Reed Tate, Retired Fire Fighter from
Abilene, received a Director’s Award. On June 12, 2018, Trooper Andrews was notified by Fredericksburg dispatch of a major vehicle accident with extensive injuries on Highway 87 in Gillespie County. The vehicle had failed to navigate a curve, impacted the guardrail and rolled over before stopping upside down. A witness, later identified as Tate, was on the phone with 911. Tate tried to use a belt as a tourniquet, but the driver was still bleeding from her severely injured arm. Trooper Andrews found the driver suspended by her seatbelt and began applying a tourniquet to the top portion of the driver’s arm in order to control the bleeding. Firefighters arrived shortly thereafter, removed the driver from the vehicle and transported her to an ambulance. She was later taken by air to the San Antonio Military Medical Center for further treatment. The driver and her family joined DPS for Thursday’s PSC meeting to honor the actions of those who helped save her life.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
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32 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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FAITH&FAMILY
SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE
5 Reasons You Don’t Really Want a Divorce By Dr. David Clarke | Focus on the Family
Total average savings of
hances are good someone close to you has gotten divorced and you were caught in the fallout. Perhaps your parents, grandparents, brother or sister got divorced. One of your kids may be divorced. A close friend divorced. Maybe even you are divorced.
In a very real and practical sense, the pain of divorce lasts a lifetime. Why? Because the losses don’t ever stop. Loss of financial security. Loss of time with your kids and grandkids. Loss of ministry and career opportunities. Loss of peace.
As a clinical psychologist who has worked with married couples for more than 30 years, I’ve seen divorce up close and personal. It’s always ugly. Divorce is an awful, painful, destructive, traumatic, life-changing experience.
The guilt - How many times will you sec-
God hates it (Malachi 2:16, NKJV) — it breaks a sacred relationship, a covenant. God created marriage (Genesis 2:24). Marriage is the very picture of Jesus Christ’s relationship to the church (Ephesians 5:25). Jesus plainly states that marriage is to be permanent (Matthew 19:3-9). If you’re reading this article because you’re considering divorce, carefully reconsider that choice. Pray long and hard. There will be serious consequences, even if you choose divorce for a rock-solid biblical reason. And even in those circumstances, God expects you to do your absolute best to save your marriage. (Living with an abusive spouse, however, is not an option. Always seek safety for you and your children.) Couples can succeed at reconciliation — it’s worth the fight. You may not be successful or your spouse may not cooperate, but God will honor you for giving it your best effort.
Come in for a test save.
ond-guess your decision and wonder if ending the marriage was the right choice? Thousands and thousands of times. Figure at least once or twice a day for the rest of your life, and you’ll be close. Guilt and regret are unwelcome companions that won’t leave you alone, especially if you divorced for an unbiblical reason or didn’t work as hard as you could to save your marriage. (Victims of abuse have a responsibility to seek safety — that’s not what I’m talking about here.) You’ll wonder, What if I’d done this? What if I’d not done that? What if I’d just given the marriage one more chance? What if, what if, what if … ?
The harm to those close to you - The
opposite sex and marriage. Their faith and trust in you. Their faith and trust in God. I don’t recommend you stay in a bad marriage. Especially for the sake of your children, I strongly recommend that you work on your marriage and fix it.
The lost opportunity to build a great marriage - The last reason is that a divorce
hurts your character. A strong marriage isn’t built in the good times. A great marriage is built in the bad times. A couple can develop real, lasting intimacy and an unshakeable bond by working through their marriage problems together. By divorcing, that character-building opportunity is lost. Even if your spouse has sinned terribly and deeply hurt you, you can heal and build a brandnew marriage. The process of saving a marriage in crisis is extremely painful and difficult. But it’s worth the effort!
body count after a divorce is incredibly high. You hurt yourself, your spouse, your parents, your spouse’s parents, your siblings, your spouse’s siblings, grandkids, grandparents and family members on both sides, close friends, co-workers, church friends, neighbors and the entire local church body.
I’ve seen people who married a second time encounter significant marital issues — again. Learn to work things out right the first time!
Here are my top five reasons you don’t really The damage to your kids - One of the want a divorce. biggest lies about divorce is “It’s better for the kids, because our bad marriage is hurting The pain- Divorce is the death of a dream them.” Here is the brutal truth: Kids of all ages and the death of a family. It is a series of huge, are deeply, permanently wounded by divorce. devastating losses. The time to recover will not be measured in months or even years. It will Divorce hurts your kids’ self-esteem. Their take decades. confidence. Their security. Their views of the
See a Christian marriage counselor. Talk to your pastor. Invest in a marriage intensive counseling experience. Pray your heart out and get your family and friends to pray.
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These are just five reasons you don’t really want a divorce. I could give you a hundred. Don’t quit until you have done everything possible to You hurt the institution of marriage. Worst of save your marriage. Have faith that God will all, you hurt God. He is grieved when a mar- give you and your spouse the power to build a riage dies. new marriage.
Pull out all the stops to save your marriage. You will have the peace that comes from knowing you did all you could to stay married.
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Every Dad Needs to Connect With His Kids in These 3 Ways By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well
Raising children can be a blur. One minute your child is a year old, and the next thing you know, he’s 21. Thankfully, most moms and playing with your children, reading with them, dads make the most of the childhood years and tucking them in at bedtime, and talking with work hard at being good parents. them. Engagement, like love, requires actions to connect with our children minus distracBut even good parents can get off track, es- tions. pecially dads. Early research in a forthcoming study shows that men are just not as involved 3. Be responsible. in their children’s lives as mothers are. I know A father takes appropriate responsibility when that when Susan and I were raising our five he is involved in parenting decisions for his children I would often lose myself in work and child. These decisions may be significant, such financial responsibilities. It took intentional ef- as where the child will go to school, but they fort to be sure I was taking part in family life, may also be more mundane, such as choosing to connect with kids in a personal way. And what shoes his child will wear. since studies find that fathers have a huge impact on how their children will develop emo- Children without connected fathers can turn tionally and academically, every dad needs to out just fine, but a University of Denver reconnect to his kids in these three ways. search team found that children who grow up alienated from their fathers have higher delin1. Be accessible. quency rates, while children who are close to In research terminology, accessibility refers their fathers and place their trust in them are to the presence of the father in the child’s life less likely to exhibit delinquent activity. both physically and emotionally. The best way to be accessible to your children is to live with So, dads, be there for your children. If you live them. This means working hard on your mar- with them, make the most of that proximity to riage to keep your family intact. your kids. If you don’t live with your children, make even more of an effort to be a part of 2. Be engaging. their lives. Every child longs to have a father Engagement includes direct contact, such as he can depend on, and every child deserves it.
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36 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Happy New Year! By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments I love this time of year. It comes with so much hope for me. I reflect back on the previous year and see how God brought me through some hard times, how He opened doors for me to go through, and how He blessed me with family, friends, and opportunities for ministry. I also critically look at the last year’s resolutions that didn’t get accomplished, such as losing so much weight, spending more time in God’s Word, and getting out of debt; I find these three goals have been on my New Year’s resolution list for years!
You are stronger, smarter, and you can walk into today with those strengths. You can walk into today trusting in God and His Word. Second Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new is here!” So as this New Year begins, I am claiming Psalm 143:8; I am hoping you will too. It says, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”
I’ll beat myself up with thoughts such as, “Ugh! Why am I such a stiff-necked person? God has a plan and a purpose for you this year. Why do I not have any self-control?” Maybe Are you going to trust in that? God has made you can relate to me … a way for you to get there. Are you going to walk in that? However, no matter how disappointed I am in myself, and no matter what goals were not Memorize Jeremiah 29:11 if you are having achieved, I am thankful to have a God who doubts: “For I know the plans I have for you, wipes my slate clean every day. Lamentations declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and 3:19-23 sums this up perfectly: “I remember not to harm you, plans to give you hope and my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness a future.’” and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to Now that’s something to get excited about! mind and therefore I have hope: Because of Happy New Year! the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new evin Your Blending! ery morning; great is your faithfulness.” If this Blessings __________________________________ __ doesn’t lift your spirits, I don’t know what will. Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor
These verses are the gift of new life, a new day, Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/step and new opportunities. My past failures can be mom since 2004; her blended laid to rest and I have the freedom to walk into family currently includes four this day without the shackles of the past holdchildren and four grandchiling me down.
LET GO of what ange You CANNOT ch simpler Life will be much
As a mom, and as you reflect upon this last year, I know you are going to remember things that built up your family, and there will be those memories that bring “bitterness and gall.” However, because of God’s promises, you can lift up your head, and breathe deep and fresh; you are not who you were yesterday.
dren. 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).
Pick us up at Alliance For Women & Children, Mary’s Paleteria & H.E.B. | FAITH & FAMILY | 37
10 Ways to Be Remembered 100 Years From Now By AllProDad
Legacy is a huge buzzword in today’s world. Everyone wants to do something that resonates throughout history. Then, while they’re working on their entry for TIME magazine’s next “Greatest Leaders of the Century” edition, someone catches them in a scandal or a cover-up and, there you have it – legacy by default. Default of the guy acting without integrity. How do you want to be remembered?
day for all they know.
We all want to be remembered – fondly – 100 years from now. But the most promising path to that kind of immortality is via humility, nobility, self-sacrifice, and thinking of others. Have you taken the time to think about your legacy? Here are 10 ways to be remembered 100 years from now.
7. Be authentic
6. Define your life in terms of giving rather than taking
You don’t have to be a rich philanthropist with your name on a wall to be remembered. Do what you can; give with all your heart. Lives defined by generosity make indelible marks on history. Share your real self with your children; talk openly with your spouse; let your friends in. Men who build walls around their hearts and souls are not remembered – because nobody knows them. Tell the stories. How can we be remembered if we won’t allow ourselves to be known?
1. Don’t live for your legacy – live for your family 8. Love your family Legacy building is counterproductive as an end to itself. People who value their family above their own ego tend to be remembered for generations.
2. Find your passion
Philosopher Howard Thurman said this: “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
Does this sound like a no-brainer? Well, a lot of us could use a primer on love. Here’s a quickie definition from the Bible that works – “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
9. Celebrate 3. Defer short-term gratification for Develop a culture of celebration in your famlong-term satisfaction ily. Be like the family observing the 100th We work hard to teach this to our children; then we forget about the principle for ourselves! Is today’s 62-inch TV really as important as your son’s future education? Is the satisfaction of a well-timed volley of sarcasm worth the cost to relationships? Or is this onenight-stand a good substitute for a lifetime of commitment?
anniversary of great-grandparents coming to America, or the couple who exchange cards on the anniversary of their first date, their engagement, their first home closing, etc. Be the family that celebrates achievements, historical markers, memories, and anniversaries.
10. Find a wrong and right it
Maybe your great contribution is in process or yet to come. Become an advocate for what Ask this question, every day, “What can I do you believe in, and then allow your belief to encourage my wife, my kids, my co-work- system to guide you into action. Socrates said ers, my friends…?” that the unexamined life is not worth living. Maybe your legacy will emerge in response 5. Be an honorable person to self-examination and a long-term commitWhat’s better than money? Your reputation. ment to faith. What’s more lasting than fame? Your integrity. What are future generations more likely CALL US TO ADVERTISE to talk about than the coolness of the car you (325) 701-9505 drove? The honor and nobility of the man who may well have taken a bus to work every
4. Build other people up
10 Ways to Bring Joy into Your Life
38 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
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.
simply walk hand in hand with your beautiful wife. Get outside and fill your spirit and lungs with this amazing creation we call earth.
4. Come Down to Your Child’s Level
One thing children are very good at is finding ways to have fun. They can take a simple cardboard box and turn it into Disney World. You still have If this is a personal struggle for you, here are that same ability inside you. It just got stuffed 10 ways to bring joy back into your life: way down inside after too many boardroom meetings and mortgage payments. Unleash 1. Simplify him! Get in there and mix it up with your We all have that closet at home. The one kids. Make funny noises. Laugh at ridiculous that you can barely get the door shut be- things. Smile so big your cheeks hurt. cause it’s so over-stuffed. You can’t possibly fit one more shirt on the rack. We clean that 5. Passion closet out and donate the clothes to charity, Passion equals joy. Always. We are not all forright? The streamlined result brings about tunate enough to make a living doing a job we big smiles. Your life is the same way. Over feel a deep passion for. That’s ok. Find your time we become maxed out in capacity. This passion elsewhere. Anything that will make leaves us stressed and unable to be productive. you come alive and stirs your mind into full Streamline your life on occasion the same as activation. Joy will always follow. This is a you would that closet. Drop the things you family website, but suffice it to say, passion are holding on to that are no longer necessary with your wife is included. Skip paying the or fit who you are. Time is limited and so are bills on a Saturday morning and instead grab you. Simplify your priorities to a level where her and go sneak off somewhere. You get the you shine to the brightest of your abilities. picture.
2. New Perspective
Life is filled with blessings. The sound of your children laughing. The look in your wife’s eyes. The deep feeling of satisfaction that comes with hard work. At times, we tend to only see the negative things around us. 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 thankfulness.
3. Get Outside
The smell of newly cut grass on a summer morning. The exploding blends of color all about as spring arrives. Freshly fallen snow creating a storybook landscape. The rich sights and crisp feelings of autumn. During any season, no matter where you are, nature always leaves an open door. Asking you to enter and experience it. Go hiking, ride a bike, or
6. Lay Your Burdens Down
Worries can be awfully heavy. This new century certainly has no shortage of them. Without warning, they can begin to drag you down as they accumulate. Yes, it is important to be aware of the world around you. To know the issues that are bigger than ourselves. It is equally important to balance that awareness with reality. You are not Superman and you do not own a cape. Do what you can do and let it go. As Mom used to say, “Look on the bright side of things”. Optimism is essential to happiness.
friends old and new. To express who you are as a person. People are ready to love you if you give them the chance. Make time for your friends on a regular basis and connect with them openly. Life is meant to be shared.
8. When The Rain Falls
The world is not out to get you. It only seems that way sometimes. The car broke down on the interstate. You did not get the raise in pay you need. Your teenager just told you he hates you. Life happens. In order for a beautiful flower to reach full glory, it must endure a good amount of rain. When rain falls in your life, realize that it is designed to help you grow. Use those moments to strengthen your character. See them as the challenge they truly are. Soon the rainbow will appear as the sun breaks free from the clouds.
9. Rise Up
You were in the office for ten hours. Drove home in horrible traffic for another hour. All you want to do is crumble in a heap on the couch. That is ok from time to time. Watch a great movie and order take out. Very therapeutic as long as it doesn’t become a habit. The couch potato is rarely a happy soul. Rise up! 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. Get the blood flowing and the pearly whites shining.
10. Seek a Personal Relationship 7. With a Little Help From Your With God - We have a Father in heaven Friends - We are social creatures. It might that loves us. That cares for us. Just as you do seem impossible in this day and age, but some people can feel isolated and alone. There is no need to feel that way. Social opportunities are everywhere. The explosion of online networking sites provides a great way to connect with
with your own children. He is always outside of our door knocking. Open the door. Talk to God about your life. Seek His will on direction and purpose. God desires His joy to permeate your life.
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How to Be a Calm, Cool, and Collected Parent By Andrew Linder | AllProDad.com
Sometimes the daily stress of parenting can be overwhelming, especially with the weird things kids do, the unique way that they think, and the constant barrage of never-ending questions. Kids sometimes just have a way of pushing our buttons, don’t they? My wife and I were recently discussing that we’ve observed how some parents, when faced with these situations, lose it with their kids at the drop of a hat with yelling, threats, etc., while other parents respond to very similar intense situations without it even phasing them or causing them to get their feathers ruffled. So what makes the difference between the reactive parent and the calm parent?
hear parents often who say that they have to raise their voice or get mean because it’s the only way they can get their kids to listen. But that is simply because that is exactly how they have trained them to respond. Our kids may be small, but they are terribly smart. And they figure out the rules to the control game very quickly, and they know who’s in the driver’s seat. This is why many kids take advantage of parents in public places or know how many times they can repeatedly disobey before their parent will actually do anything – whether that be a consequence, a raised voice, or you simply losing it. They know the rules to this game that you’ve chosen to create (yes, you created it), and so they know your tolerance threshold, as Let’s be honest… parenting can be very in- well as your breaking point, and as a result, tense, but that doesn’t mean that we have to they take advantage of it. So maybe it’s time be. Our children deserve parents who know to change the rules to the game. how to balance the emotions associated with parenting without taking those emotions out 3. Remember, self-control is a on their kids. So here’s are a few practical re- choice. - We easily get frustrated with our minders for how to stay calm, cool, and col- children when they fail to demonstrate selflected as a parent. control, and by doing so, we become guilty of the very same thing. How many times have I 1. Remember, your response affects told my child when they are faced with acting your child’s response. - A great parent- on impulse, “You’ve got to stop, think, and ing principle that shows this is found in Prov- then respond by making the right choice.”? erbs 15:1, which says, “A soft answer turneth Yet, sometimes as a parent, I would do well away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” to heed my own advice. As my wife and I reIn other words, when I as a parent stay calm cently observed parents we noticed that the and controlled, it is more likely that my child way they responded to their children was very will as well. But when I lose it, it stirs up more simply a choice – nothing more, nothing less. of the same in them. It’s no secret that louder Regardless of whether or not you were raised voices don’t raise more obedient kids. Yet by calm parents, you have no excuse for not many parents continue with their volume de- being one yourself if you want to be. Because fault on high despite the fact that it rarely pro- self-control really is a choice. duces their desired results. If we desire a calm and respectful response from our children, it’s While these reminders are very pointed, they helpful for that to start with us. are also very honest. Being the calm, cool and collected parent that our kids deserve boils 2. Remember, your kids are play- down not to our circumstances, our past, or ing a game that you’ve created. - I even our personality. It boils down to a choice.
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HEALTH&FITNESS
A Dad’s Guide to Surviving Labor By Joh Helmkamp
It is not pretty, it is not fun, it is not easy, and it is not your battle. Hate to break it to you, pops, but labor has nothing to do with you whatsoever. When it’s time to welcome your little one into the world, you have two jobs – provide encouragement, and stay out of the way. Here are eight ways to support your partner on delivery day.
1. Take care of your own hygiene. Guys, don’t smell. Bring a change of clothes. Bring your deodorant. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and gum. While your partner is going through the hardest thing she has ever done, the last thing she wants is for you to lean over her smelling funky. Get it together.
2. Make sure EVERYTHING is packed. And
I mean clothes, magazines, games, snacks, baby clothes, baby blankets, chargers for all electronic devices, loose change for the vending machines, etc. Have it packed ahead of time, throw it in the back of your car now so you won’t forget it, and double check that it’s there when you leave for the hospital. If you forget that favorite pair of slippers that your partner was banking on, you will die. Plain and simple.
3. Install the car seat ahead of time.
Just get this done. I don’t care if you want to desperately cling to “life before children” and think that putting a car seat base in your car feels like you are being stripped of your
freedom. It’s time to buck up, embrace fatherhood for the wonder that it is, and get that base installed. It’s a big thing – the hospital won’t let you leave without a functioning and current car seat, so don’t wait until the baby arrives to put it in.
6. Don’t be selfish. It’s not about you! Quite
frankly, I don’t care what your needs and fears are, because labor has nothing to do with you. Your partner is going through the biggest moment of her life – a terrifying, painful moment – so focus on her, make sure she is taken care of, make sure she is getting the attention from 4. Shut up during your partner’s con- everyone else, and keep your fears to yourself. tractions. One thing I learned when my I get it, those fears are real. Nobody is saywife was in labor – contractions suck. When ing they aren’t. But the fears your partner is having are much bigger than your own. This is not the time for you to command the attention of friends and family, leaving your partner with nobody to support her.
7. Follow orders. If the
pregnant lady asks for something, you get the pregnant lady what she wants. I don’t care if she asks you to track down a burger at 1 a.m., you figure it out and take care of they start getting bad, no matter what cop- it. At this point, your job is to be the best mariing method your partner decides to use, she’s onette you can be, and she pulls the strings. more than likely not going to want to hear Who’s a good puppet? You are. you jabbering on about nothing. Take a break from the talking and let her squeeze your 8. Stay calm. I left this last for good reason hand until it’s blue. – it’s what I consider to be the most important item on this list. You need to chill out, man. 5. Be an advocate. Your partner is going Take a breath, hold her hand, kiss her foreto need you to step up and communicate with head, but by all means necessary, do not add the doctors on her behalf – labor is frustrat- to the anxiety that she is already feeling. ing, painful and exhausting, so taking that pressure off her will do wonders. Ask ques- Dads, I get it – the delivery room is absolutely tertions on her behalf, know what’s going on, rifying, but your partner has it worse. So man up, and advocate for her needs when they arise. support her, and give her exactly what she needs from you. You got this.
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What’s Best For You Is Also Best For Your Baby By March of Dimes
Each year in the United States, about 1 in 33 babies is born with a birth defect. Birth defects are health conditions that are present at birth. They change the shape or function of one or more parts of the body. Birth defects can cause problems in overall health, how the body develops or how the body works. Not all birth defects can be prevented, but there are things that a woman can do before and during pregnancy to increase her chances of having a healthy baby. January is Birth Defects Prevention Month, and this year’s theme is “Best for You, Best for Baby.” We know that not all birth defects can be prevented. But we also know about things that can help you increase the chances of having a healthy, full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby. What’s best for you is also best for your baby. Here are five things you can do before and during pregnancy that are good for your own health and that can help you have a healthy baby:
1. Take a vitamin supplement containing 400 micrograms of folic acid Taking folic acid before and in the first few weeks of pregnancy can help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine called neural tube defects (also called NTDs).
GOD WILL DO the IMPOSSIBLE osible! Dios Hara Lo Imp
2. Get a preconception checkup.
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This is a medical checkup you get before pregnancy to help make sure you’re healthy when you get pregnant. At your checkup, talk to your health care provider about any medicine you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, supplements and herbal products.
3. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Ask your provider about vaccinations you need before pregnancy, including the flu shot and the pertussis (whooping cough) booster. Vaccinations can help protect you from certain infections that can harm you and your baby during pregnancy.
4. Get to a healthy weight before you
get pregnant. Not being at a healthy
weight can affect pregnancy and your fertility (your ability to get pregnant). Being overweight or obese during pregnancy can cause problems for you and your baby. Talk to your provider about the right weight for you.
5. Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or use harmful drugs, like opioids, during pregnancy. If you need help to quit, talk to your provider. Or contact: gov (800) QUIT-NOW or (800-784-8669) National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, (800) 622-2255. Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator, (800) 6624357
To learn more about how to have a healthy pregnancy and baby, visit marchofdimes.org.
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Everyday Hero
Ann Herrera Sees To The Needs of Abilene SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS Cancer Patients ASK ABOUT
AT OUR FIVE LOCATIONS.
By Timothy Chipp | Abilene Reporter-News
can, from a warm blanket if they’re cold — often a side effect of the radiation and chemotherapy used to treat cancer — to a prayer.
Whether it’s for a checkup or something more serious, you and your family want convenient accessible healthcare. Fortunately, the providers at Abilene Physicians Group are making it easier than ever for adults 18 and older to get primary care. Go to AbileneRegionalOnlineScheduling.com or call 325-428-2727 to schedule a same-day appointment.
“If they wish to pray,” she said. When a patient calls, in need of a treatment, Herrera is there. She’s talking with patients constantly, coordinating their treatments in hope of keeping them out of the hospital.
Most insurance plans are accepted, including Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE. Internal Medicine, Antilley Road 1680 Antilley Road, Suite 200 Gibel Cedeno, M.D.
Family Medicine, Regional Plaza 6300 Regional Plaza, Suite 875 Douglas Fullerton, M.D.
Internal Medicine, Regional Plaza 6250 Regional Plaza, Suite 1060 Victor Hudman, M.D. Katherine Wilson, FNP-C
Family Medicine, Windmill Circle 35 Windmill Circle David Randell, D.O. Sam Salvi, M.D. Belinda Dutton, PA-C
Internal Medicine, Regional Plaza 6250 Regional Plaza, Suite 1000 Ralphie A. Rosario, M.D.
She also helps patients as they’re considering things like living wills, as well as helping them with handling care-based depression, a lack of support and financial issues, she said.
Ann Herrera helps cancer patients every day at her job at Texas Oncology. (Photo: Ronald W. Erdrich/ReporterNews)
She also gets high marks, her mother said, for being respectful of her patients and their priEvery day Ann Herrera goes to work, she vacy. As the Health Insurance Portability and knows it’s going to be a tough day. At Texas Accountability Act (HIPAA) dictates. Oncology, where she is a registered nurse, “Some of my friends that have cancer are pait’s somebody’s “Worst Day Ever.” tients of Texas Oncology and they will tell me It is her job to make sure those worst days that they met my daughter there and are surare a little better than they could otherwise prised to hear that Ann had not mentioned to be. And that, her mother Josie Garcia says, me that they are patients,” Garcia said. “Ann is respectful of the patients and abides by the makes her an Everyday Hero. confidentially laws and this put the patients at “She is my hero because she uses her gifts ease.” and talents that God gives her in the care of these patients,” Garcia said of her daughter. When not at work, Herrera said she’s with her “A hero can bring a smile when you need it family. Her three children, with husband Leon the most and she does this throughout her Herrera, keep her busy, she said. They’re regday. Stop and imagine what it would be like ular attendees at St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic working eight hours a day with people fac- Church. ing cancer and the side effects of the treatments. You have to be a ‘pretty tough cookie’ to work in that kind of environment and Ann proves that daily.” At first, Herrera said, she was confused by her mother’s nomination. As an employee, she gets paid to help those who are going through their worst moments.
Members of the Medical Staff at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
104129_ABIL_PCPdocs_4_9x9_8c.indd 1
11/13/18 4:31 PM
“I also ask them if there’s any needs, like if they’re suffering from any depression,” she said. “If they don’t have a ride, I help the with support. If they can’t pay their electricity bill, then we get them involved with a social worker. If they need help getting treatments, I coordinate all of their care.”
Herrera constantly sees the pain in the eyes of patients. She’s quick to offer whatever she
44 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
10 Ways to Get Rid of a Headache
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
By WebMD
Headaches happen. The good news is there are several simple things you can do to ease the pain without a trip to the doctor or drugstore. Try these tips and get to feeling better fast.
objects like pens. Avoid crunchy and sticky foods, and make sure you take small bites. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a mouth guard. This may curb your early-morning headaches.
1. Try a Cold Pack - If you have a mi-
6. Get Some Caffeine - Have some tea,
2. Use a Heating Pad or Hot Compress - If you have a tension headache,
place a heating pad on your neck or the back of your head. If you have a sinus headache, hold a warm cloth to the area that hurts. A warm shower might also do the trick.
3. Ease Pressure on Your Scalp or Head - If your ponytail is too tight, it could cause a headache. These “external compression headaches” can also be brought on by wearing a hat, headband, or even swimming goggles that are too tight. In one study, women who loosened their hair saw their headache disappear.
4. Dim the Lights - Bright or flickering
light, even from your computer screen, can cause migraine headaches. If you’re prone to them, cover your windows with blackout curtains during the day. Wear sunglasses outdoors. You might also add anti-glare screens to your computer and use daylight-spectrum fluorescent bulbs in your light fixtures.
5. Try Not to Chew - Chewing gum can
hurt not just your jaw, but your head as well. The same is true for chewing your fingernails, lips, the inside or your cheeks, or handy
coffee, or something with a little caffeine in it. If you get it early enough, it could ease your headache pain. It can also help over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, work better. Just don’t drink too much because caffeine withdrawal can cause its own type of headache.
7. Practice Relaxation - Whether it’s
stretches, yoga, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation, learning how to chill out when you’re in the middle of a headache can help with the pain. You might even talk to your doctor about physical therapy if you have muscle spasms in your neck.
Most sore throats among infants, toddlers and ically vary by age, the academy says. Here’s preschoolers are caused by viral infections, a brief list: the American Academy of Pediatrics says. • Infants: May have only a low fever and a No antibiotic should be given to treat this thickened or bloody nasal discharge. type of sore throat, since antibiotics only treat • Toddlers: May also have a thickened or bacterial infections, not those that are trig- bloody nasal discharge with a fever. Toddlers gered by viruses. with strep typically are quite cranky, have no appetite and often have swollen glands in One type of sore throat this is caused by bac- the neck. Sometimes toddlers will complain teria is a strep throat. The culprit is a bac- of stomach pain instead of a sore throat. terium called Streptococcus pyogenes. This • Children over age three: They are typitype of sore throat must be treated with an cally more sick and may have a very painantibiotic. ful throat, fever greater than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius), swollen Symptoms of strep among young children typ- glands in the neck and pus on the tonsils.
8.Try Massage - You can do it yourself. A few minutes massaging your neck and temples can help ease a tension headache, which may result from stress.
9. Take Some Ginger - A small recent
study found that taking ginger, in addition to regular, over-the-counter pain meds, eased pain for people in the ER with migraines. Another found that it worked almost as well as prescription migraine meds. You can try a supplement or maybe brew some tea.
10. Take Meds in Moderation - Phar-
macy shelves are stocked with pain relievers for all kinds of headaches. Choose liquid over pills. Your body absorbs it faster. Take painkillers as soon as you feel pain. You’ll likely beat it with a smaller dose.
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graine, place a cold pack on your forehead. Ice cubes wrapped in a towel, a bag of frozen peas, or even a cold shower may lessen the pain. Keep the compress on your head for 15 minutes, then take a break for 15 minutes.
Strep Isn’t an Ordinary Sore Throat
Keep Stress in Check For a Healthier Heart
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By Health Advocate Blog
Chronic stress, whether it stems from juggling work and life responsibilities, relationship issues or another source, not only harms your mental well-being but can also cause physical changes that can increase your blood cholesterol and blood pressure, key risk factors for heart disease. Experiencing chronic stress can also lead to unhealthy coping behaviors that can increase the risk of heart disease, such as drinking alcohol, overeating, or smoking cigarettes. Whether your chronic stress comes from juggling work and life responsibilities, relationship difficulties, financial worries or another source, the following strategies can help calm your system and decrease the effects of stress, keeping your heart healthy and increasing your well-being. • Practice positive self-talk. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts, remind yourself
that you’re doing enough, you don’t have to be perfect, and that you can do it! • Get enough sleep. If you’re not sleeping soundly, your mood, ability to solve problems and make decisions, energy level, and physical health may all be affected. • Do something creative. Adult coloring books are all the rage right now, and coloring can help you feel calmer. Not into coloring? Try drawing (even if it’s just doodling!), writing in a journal, painting, knitting, or working on a hobby or craft project. These activities can all help take your mind off your stressors. • Try exercising. Physical activity can not only keep you healthy—it can also alleviate stress. Even a simple activity like walking can help you get moving and is a good stress reliever. • Find a relaxation technique that works for you. Things like mindfulness meditation, tai chi, yoga, or deep breathing can all help you feel calmer. Not every activity is a good fit for everyone, so experiment until you find
one you like! • Be prepared. Sometimes feeling stressed is due to not being properly prepared for situations. Make an effort to leave your home with enough time so that you get to work and other destinations on time. Manage your time effectively so that you can meet deadlines. Manage your finances efficiently so you are never “in the red.” • Improve your time management skills. If you’re frequently stressed out due to work and/or family demands, these skills can help you balance your duties better. • Treat yourself. Doing something nice for yourself can help you reduce stress. Try cooking yourself your favorite meal, going to get a massage, buying yourself a new book, or whatever makes you happy! • Don’t let stress build up. If there’s a situation you’re feeling stressed about, confront that stress head-on. Negotiate with others, problem-solve, and brainstorm ideas to make the situation better. • Make time to talk, laugh, and connect with family and friends. Spending time with loved ones can help you feel happier. Having a good support system to talk through issues with, or simply spend time having fun together, can help you stress less. • Avoid multitasking. No matter how demanding of a job you have, doing things one at a time is the best course of action. When you multitask, you don’t always focus well on any of the tasks you’re trying to do, and it can feel more stressful and chaotic. • Breathe deeply. When you are having a stressful moment, turn it into a peaceful, calming moment with some deep breathing. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and focus on your breath. Remember, while you can’t always change the source of your stress or difficulties you endure, by changing how you respond to chronic stress, you can help return your body and mind to a more relaxed state, and therefore help protect your health!
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BUSINESS&CAREER
Abilene Radio Station La Voz Honored as Small Employer By Brian Bethel | Abilene Reporter-News Pete Garcia, owner of La Voz 93.3 FM Radio, was honored Wednesday for his station being recently named a finalist for Small Employer of the Year Texas at the Texas Workforce Commissions’ state conference in Houston. The station was given the Local Employer of Excellence 2018 award by Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas’ board.
ist for the Workforce Commission in the state of Texas,” Samuel Garcia said. “It just goes to show how many great small employers we have out there in this area.” La Voz has been recognized for outstanding community support through awards such as the 2016 Texas Recreation and Park Society Voluntary Service Award – Commercial Business for their use of social media.
Speaking after a recognition ceremony during the local Workforce Solutions’ board meeting Wednesday, Garcia said recognition alone was tremendous.
And in May, the station received the Small Business Community Award from the Abilene Chamber of Commerce for outstanding community service.
“We found out there are over 300,000 small businesses out there, and so that (nomination) was a big honor,” the station being only one of three businesses “out of the entire state of Texas” named as a finalist, he said.
That hope is embedded in the station’s name, La Voz, which literally means “the voice” in Spanish, he said.
According to Texas Workforce Conference news release, Presco Polymers of Sherman won the Small Employer of the Year award at the Texas Workforce Commission’s 22nd Annual Texas Workforce Conference in Houston, while a second finalist, KAT Excavation & Construction Inc., was nominated by Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas.
“Our mission is to live up to our As a radio personality, Garcia said he’s rarely name, literally,” he said. at a loss for words. Garcia’s leadership, and the station’s commu“But it’s just a big honor, to know that the nity work and engagement in helping other things we’re doing in the community are organizations in town, made both him and La making an impact in the positive way that we Voz “stand out,” said Samuel Garcia, chairman hoped that they would,” he said. “So we’re of Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas’ board. thankful for that.” Also honored at the ceremony was the Texas Rising Star Program, administered by Workforce SoProud of its role as a voice for Abilene’s His- The station joins a fine pedigree, he said. lutions of West Central Texas, which received an panic community, the station’s goal is to also award of $75,000 at the state conference. be the voice of the community as a whole, “This is the third year in a row that our board has had the Small Employer of the Year final- A youth program initiative also administered by Garcia said. Workforce Solutions of WCT, “Youth Inspiration & Career Awareness,” was honored with $100,000. Callahan County Judge Roger Corn and Scurry County Judge Ricky Fritz were honored for their many years of service to the executive committee.
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48 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
10 Ways to Lower Your Cell Phone Bill
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By DaveRamsey.com
It’s no secret that cell phone bills are out-ofthis-world expensive. J.D. Power reports the average monthly bill will set you back $157. After your monthly housing, grocery and utility costs, it might just be the next priciest item in your entire budget. But are there actual ways you can lower your cell phone bill? We’re surrounded with a million different cellular providers and too many plans to count. It can be overwhelming when you try to decipher all the options just to save money on your cell phone bill. But guess what—it is possible! If you’re tired of paying a small fortune every month to have cell phone service, try these 10 tips to lower your cell phone bill.
1. Use Wi-Fi When You Can - Try
to stay on a Wi-Fi connection whenever it’s available—especially at home or work. And if you don’t have Wi-Fi access when you’re on the go, be smart about it! Don’t download or stream any movies, podcasts or music unless you’re on Wi-Fi. Data overages can add up quickly, and some providers charge you as much as $15 the instant you go over! Make sure you stay within your monthly limit by only using 4G/LTE when you need it. Some carriers will send you a warning when you’re nearing your limit. Sign up for the alerts!
2. Limit Your Background Data Use
Even if you don’t use 4G/LTE service when you’re out and about, your apps might still be using it in the background! Sneaky, we know. Go into your settings and look over the Cellular Data Usage and Background App Refresh of each app and turn off the ones you don’t really use. Making this quick flip means you’ll know they aren’t running in the background and draining your data (and your battery) while you’re minding your own business. Need to bring up your Starbucks app while you’re waiting in line? No big deal. You can switch back on specific apps cellular data anytime you want.
3. Cut the Insurance - Let’s say you pay
about $11 a month for phone insurance. That adds up to an extra $132 a year you’re shelling out just in case something happens to your phone. Instead, set aside a few extra dollars a month so you can pay for a replacement phone if you ever need one.
If you feel like you truly “need” insurance for your cell phone, stop and ask yourself this question: Have I bought a phone I can’t actually afford? 8. Cut Out the Stuff You Don’t Use If you don’t have the cash on hand to replace Take a look at your monthly bill. This might your phone if something happens to it, your seem like common sense, but you’d be surphone is too expensive for your budget. prised by how many people don’t look at the breakdown of their cell phone bill. Don’t 4. Sign Up for Automated Payments continue to pay for things you never use like or Paperless Billing - This probably won’t too many minutes, unlimited data, emergency save you a huge amount of money. But if you roadside assistance, 411 and “enhanced voicecould save $5 a month just for having your bill mail.” automatically deducted from your account or going paperless, why wouldn’t you? Decide if you really need everything you’re paying for. If not, it could be time to switch 5. Employer Discount - Another thing to your plan. If you don’t talk on your phone a find out is if your work offers team members lot, you might be able to downgrade to a plan a corporate discount. It’s worth a shot to see if with fewer minutes, or one with less data if you they reimburse you for using your phone for never come close to reaching the limit. work (email, calls, etc.). And if you’re using your phone for a home business or side hustle, Some carriers even offer prepaid plans or allow you might be able to deduct some of your cost you to pay for only what you use. See if either when tax time rolls around. of those options could reduce your costs. Look into all the possibilities out there! 6. Buy No-Contract Phones - Cell phone companies know how to make money. 9. Negotiate a Better Price - When Lots and lots of money. One way they do that you’re in the market for a new phone, don’t is through contracts. To buy a phone through just assume you have to pay the sticker price. them, you’ll usually have to sign a two-year Go to the store and talk with a salesperson to contract to use their network. And then they’ll see if you can get the activation or upgrade fee hit you with a ridiculous cancellation charge if waived. If you’ve been a customer for a long you dare attempt to switch carriers. time, be sure to bring that up to see if you can score a loyalty discount. So, what do you do instead? Buy no-contract, gently used phones. These phones are labeled And if you find a great offer from a competi“unlocked” and can take a SIM card. Ask tor, ask your current provider if they can match around and look online for older phone mod- it. Use whatever leverage you have, including els to purchase at a discounted price. No, you fees—or lack of fees—from competitors. It won’t get the hottest or newest smartphone this never hurts to ask for a better deal. Competiway, but you can get a really good smartphone tion with other carriers is stiff, so they might without locking yourself into one expensive just agree! But if they won’t negotiate, move company for years to come. on to point 10.
7. Keep Your Phone Longer - Which 10. Switch Carriers - So, you’ve tried
leads us to the next tip here—hang on to that everything else. We saved the best (and most phone as long as you can! drastic) for last: It’s time to switch your service provider! Shop around and see who can give Does your “old” phone make calls just fine? you what you need for the price that fits your Great. Keep it a little longer. Don’t get tempted budget. You’ll probably discover a better deal by the latest and greatest shiny cell phone on at one of the smaller, lesser-known carriers. the market. A phone is a phone. Most of them have some link to the “big guys” and use their cellular towers for your phone And steer clear of rolling the cost of a brand- signal anyway. So chances are, you’re still gonew phone into your wireless bill. You’d just be ing to get pretty great coverage—but at a fracmaking payments on a new phone (yeah, that tion of the cost. counts as debt) all while it hikes up your phone bill even more. No thanks! Keeping your old Just make sure you do your research. Ask (perfectly fine) phone can save you plenty of around. Read reviews. And don’t sign up with money in the long run. a lousy carrier.
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091
$250,000 in Cash Up for Grabs in 2nd Year of Entrepreneurial Challenge Abilene’s innovative economic development initiative to help fund local entrepreneurs starts 2nd year By Justin Jaworski | Abilene Industrial Foundation
The Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA) is funding the BE in Abilene program for a second year. The program is a collaboration of several organizations all working together to “Build Entrepreneurs in Abilene.” The BE in Abilene program awarded a total of $200,000 in cash last year for two local entrepreneurs and is now taking applications for this year’s competition.
ACU’s Griggs Center for Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy will utilize their center’s Springboard judging competition as a platform for candidates to compete against one another for award monies. In its 11 year history, Springboard has helped many aspiring entrepreneurs across the region and serves to connect, train, encourage and highlight the region’s startups.
These organizations include the Abilene Industrial Foundation (AIF), Abilene Christian University (ACU), and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC); each of which provide a unique resource to these aspiring individuals. Led by the DCOA, the program’s goal is designed to carry out a primary objective of the city’s economic development strategic plan of implementing an innovation ecosystem.
During this process, participants that advance to the second round of judging will meet with the SBDC to utilize their business counseling
services in order to compose a detailed business plan and financial proforma. Once complete, businesses will enter the final judging This objective is based on a need to place stage to determine award winners. greater emphasis on a “homegrown approach” for promoting job creation and business in- Participants that are awarded dollars will be vestment at the local level, thereby enhancing required to complete a compliance agreement income opportunities and quality of life for with the DCOA to ensure each business meets Abilene residents. established post award guidelines and support. This support includes regular meetings with In this process, the Abilene Industrial Founda- the SBDC to ensure each business has the nection works to focus the program’s goals with essary tools and information to succeed. an eye to local investment and job creation. As with any project funded by the DCOA, the Interested individuals can learn more about AIF works with prospective candidates to es- the program and apply online at BEinAbilene. tablish their business in Abilene and demon- com. Deadline for applications is strate their superior capacity to contribute to January 31 at 11:59pm. the local economy.
Pick us up at Abilene I.S.D., China Star, A & M Donuts | BUSINESS | 49
50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Janie’s Record Shop in San Antonio Named One of the Best in America By Andrew Casillas | Vinyl Me Please Magazine
If Texas knows anything, it’s how to sell its own bullshit. Effective marketing has rendered Texas the embodiment of rugged independence. The land where cowboys tamed the west and oil built a new economy — even though, in reality, most cowboys were Mexican or black ranchers more interested in selling cattle than fighting Native Americans and the oil boom mostly enriched ruthless industrialists while pillaging small landowners and the environment. Look beyond marketing and it’s clear that Texas’ singularity needs no hype. Based on environment alone, there is nowhere else on the planet like it: dusty frontiers, rich farming valleys, scenic wetlands and woods, and sprawling urban centers all within one cozy 14-hour drive. This amalgamation extends to the state’s musical flavors. Austin is where under-theradar rock becomes mainstream within a week. Houston transformed southern rap into a boomin’ chopped-and-screwed force. The Rio Grande Valley invented the conjunto sound, which begat Tejano music. And, of course, country-western, honky-tonk and Texas blues litter cities and rural areas all over the state.
meaning “authentic.” This extends to many minor, but important, signifiers: wearing the freshest Spurs gear during playoff season, sharing Instagram posts of outrageous food and behavior during the annual
vive on the thinnest margins, subjected to decades of state legislative budget cuts. San Antonio’s local economy remains vibrant, tracking statewide unemployment rates running below the national average, but housing is at a shortfall as prices continue to outpace incomes. Yet with Houston and Dallas long subsumed by urban sprawl, and Austin’s middle class being priced out by out-of-town technocrats, San Antonio still has the unfortunate distinction of being the most economically segregated city in the U.S. — the legacy of racist post-war housing policies — with its west side the most segregated area of all. Within this statistical curiosity, you’ll find Janie’s Record Shop, situated in the middle of one of San Antonio’s busiest streets. We’re talking the type of road where cars whizz by at 70 miles an hour and median turning lanes are useless, so even getting to Janie’s is its own special adventure. Surrounding the store are ubiquitous west side small businesses — Tex-Mex restaurants, tire and auto repair shops, pawn shops and payday lenders and, of course, Catholic churches.
Owner Janie Esparza’s mission is to bring together the popular sounds of south central Texas. Her shop exists not as a tastemaker, but as the curator of the favorite sounds of its neighborhood. Photos HELEN L. MONTOYA
San Antonio, on the other hand, exists mostly as a bystander to pop music history. Robert Johnson, king of the Delta blues, recorded half of his entire output at the downtown Gunter Hotel, but all that commemorates his considerable legacy is a three-foot-long display in its lobby. This is where country music progenitor Jimmie Rodgers hosted a weekly radio show, of which no copies exist. Randy’s Ballroom is the only venue in the world that’s hosted the Sex Pistols, U2, the Beastie Boys, Selena and Slipknot, but today mostly operates as a bingo hall. San Antonio is also the longtime home of the Tejano Music Awards, which has evolved into a yearly canonization of Lake Jackson’s Selena. This is a city that once enjoyed the title of “Heavy Metal Capital of the World,” yet hasn’t produced any new major label signees in over a decade. That’s not to say that San Antonio lacks a distinctive culture. Young San Antonians strive to live life at its most puro — Spanish for “pure,” but colloquially
Fiesta festival, finding innovative ways to consume Hot Cheetos and Big Red soda, fighting to the death (online) when any city north of the 210 area code dares proclaim breakfast taco superiority. San Antonio’s largely young and Latinx puro populace is representative of the changing face of Texas in general, with Hispanics set to become the state majority by 2022. But this fast-growing segment is forcibly inheriting the debts from decades of political neglect. Public education and social services sur-
Walking into Janie’s Record Shop, you don’t so much absorb the atmosphere as the atmosphere absorbs you. Your senses are completely overwhelmed — whether by the dust emanating from the thousands of 45s in the center of the shop, or the sight of hundreds of posters and autographed pictures lining the wall, or the smell of popcorn radiating from the back of the shop, or the crude boom of the 50-year-old jukebox spinning soul and Tejano classics.
Janie’s mission is to bring together the popular sounds of south central Texas. The bins closest to the front door house classic country. Not a “Who’s Who” of first-name legends like Merle, Willie, Dolly, oh no. Janie’s audience wants the hits — Ronnie Milsap, Conway Twitty, Barbara Mandrell, regional star Johnny Rodriguez. From there, you’ll find modest rows filled with ranchera icons, cumbia and Tejano superstars, American rock and soul FM Continued on page 51
Pick us up at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wal-Mart, Lytle Land & Cattle | BUSINESS | 51
Continued from page 50
mainstays. It’s a living monument to an alternate Billboard sales universe where Vicente Fernandez and the Beach Boys never stopped topping the charts. Janie’s Record Shop exists not as a tastemaker, but as the curator of the favorite sounds of its neighborhood. Its 91-year-old owner, Janie Esparza, has owned the shop since 1985. Her children now manage the shop’s operations and robust online sales, but Janie continues to serve behind the register, smiling and engaging with customers new and old. Photos of her with stars like Norteño crooner Ramon Ayala and Tejano queen Patsy Torres share space with headshots from dozens of would-be Tejano rising stars that have made the pilgrimage to honor Janie since the mid-’90s. Closest to the register, however, are plaques from local journalists, community artists, nonprofits and regional music associations — those who know what this store really means to this area. Janie’s Record Shop serves a resilient community made up of hard-working, God-fearing people, mainly firstor second-generation immigrants. Many older residents embrace the promise and opportunity of America while idealizing their ancestral homeland. Their children and grandchildren, by contrast, are for the most part proud of their heritage, but otherwise unabashedly American. Los Tigres del Norte’s “La Jaula de Oro” distilled this generational conflict over 30 years ago, which plays out every week at Janie’s. Over the years, Janie and her staff have tried new techniques to foster love of its old inventory for a younger generation. On any given weekend, you’ll see kids fumbling with the old jukebox and eating popcorn, teenagers learning how to play an instrument, or college students spinning forgotten Chicano soul cuts. Old heads share stories about defunct local record labels like Dina, Key-Loc’ and Real Records while perusing 45s. A few younger patrons pop in trying to connect the dots from Sunny and the Sunliners and Selena to Cuco and Cardi B. Janie’s family knows that its core audience is aging, but the shop has to adapt because it feels a duty to the next generation of the neighborhood. Ultimately, it’s this reverence for community that’s emblematic of San Antonio as a whole: always striving to move forward while honoring the past. You can see it in the buildings downtown — mostly eschewing modern design for historical preservation. You can see it in the arguments about 20-year-old Spurs games in barbershops and taquerias. And you can see it in the city’s blend of Mexican traditions and modern American flamboyance — the distillation of puro. San Antonio is often referred to as a small town with big city problems, usually a backhanded compliment inferring that its culture lacks the cosmopolitan feel of Austin, Dallas and Houston. Maybe there’s some truth to that — then again, it might just be more Texas bullshit.
52 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Honored for Kirby Park Initiative and as TWC State Conference Award Recipient By Steve Collins | Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board
Inexpensive Advertising 1-325-701-9505 or email
us at: info@hispaniclifemedia.com
On November 27th , 2018, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas received a Texas Rising Star Award for their collaboration with the City of Abilene to create a nature play and educational area for visitors to Kirby Lake Park. Workforces Solutions of WCT was the recipient of an award in the amount of $75,000 for this initiative. The Workforce Board again honored this initiative on December 19th , at the regular scheduled Board meeting held at the Enterprise Bldg. Suite 1200, Abilene.
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7550 Hwy. 83-84 South Monday-Friday 8-12:30, 2-6pm
Mary Ross-Executive Director Workforce Solutions Board, Lisa Colyer WDB Childcare Contract Manager, Samuel Garcia-Workforce Board Chairman, Mindy Ross-WDB Childcare Quality Specialist
Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas has for some time recognized the need to promote the health and well-being of young children through regular connections with nature in a developmentally appropriate outdoor learning environment. The Board partnered with the City of Abilene and Texas Parks and Wildlife to create a destination nature park centrally located in the Board’s 19 county Service Delivery Area that all providers, caregivers, children and families served by the Board could readily access. The nature park has a boardwalk trail, observation areas and signage, and almost 30 TRS staff have received training and curriculum for developmentally appropriate nature-based activities. The City of Abilene and Workforce Solutions officials are hopeful the launching of this project will inspire involvement from other organizations and individuals interested in developing and promoting a natural outdoor education, science and recreation area. The significance of this project is the potential of outdoor learning experiences for all visitors to the park. For more information on this initiative and other workforce programs, please contact Steve Collins, 325.795.4304, steve. collins@workforcesystem.org
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
7 Signs You’ve Outgrown Your Job By Kathryn Vasel | CNN Business
We all have bad days at work. Sometimes, it’s workplace motivation. more like a bad month or even a bad year. “If you can’t really get behind the mission or But how do you know if it’s just a temporary you’re not relating to the people you are workwork rut or a sign you’ve outgrown your job ing with, or you are constantly disagreeing with and it’s time to move on? how senior leadership is running the company, it might not be a great fit for you,” said Stod1. There’s no room dard. for growth- It’s hard to stay motivated and pro5. Your salary ductive when you feel like hasn’t budged - If you’ve hit the top of the you’ve been working career ladder. hard, putting in extra hours and taking on In the early stage of your projects, but haven’t career, aim to get a proseen a meaningful inmotion approximately crease in your pay for every two to three years, a few years, it might said career coach Dana be time to look for anMayer. At mid-career other job. level, promotions tend to Track the current slow down to around evmarket value for your ery three to five years. skills, experience and location to make sure “If not, you’re getting left your compensation is behind,” she said. where it should be.
2. You don’t feel satisfied - If you don’t feel
any attachment or pride in your work, it can be difficult to stay motivated.
“By understanding your market worth, you can determine what a fair salary bump could look like for what you bring to the table at work. For instance, for some industries, a 2% to 3% yearly salary increase may be the status quo, while others may average closer to 5% to 10%,” said Stoddard.
“When you feel like you are contributing to your company and making an impact ... that is one of the main reasons people love working at a company,” said Sarah Stoddard, community expert at job review site Glassdoor. The jobs with the fastest pay growth this year saw increases typically ranging from about a 3. You aren’t getting new opportuni- 4% to 10%, according to Glassdoor. ties to learn - A big part of career fulfillment is learning new skills and tackling new 6. You become a work daydreamer challenges. We should all have big career goals and dreams, but spending a lot of time fantasizing about “You need to be actively managing your own “what-ifs” like what it would be like if you career, no one else will do that for you,” said were the boss or switched careers, could be a Mayer. sign you are ready to find a new role. Don’t be shy about raising your hand to take on Spending your days at work doing non-work added responsibilities or get more training and related activities like playing video games or education to expand your role. having long conversations with colleagues can also be a red flag that you need a new challenge. “If you have a lot of ideas, find another outlet for them at the current company, first look at 7. You watch the clock - Sure, being stuck something you aren’t doing in your current or- in a meeting right before lunch might have you ganization to scratch one of those itches,” said glancing at your watch, but you shouldn’t be Matt Youngquist, founder of career coaching counting down the minutes until it’s time to go firm Career Horizons. home every day.
4. You don’t align with the company “The most reliable sign of whether someone is core values - Believing in the mission and engaged in something is the passage of time,” values of a company is an important part of said Youngquist.
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Central Finance | BUSINESS | 53
54 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
BEN GRANT Name: Ben Grant Where do you work?
Wagstaff LLP
What’s your job title/what do you do? Attorney Where are you from? Pflugerville, Texas If you’re not from Abilene, how long have you lived in the area and what brought you here? Off and on for
18 years. I first moved to Abilene in August 2000 to attend Abilene Christian University. I moved away in May 2005 to attend law school in Georgia before moving back to Abilene in 2009. My wife and I decided to come back to Abilene (she grew up here) after law school because a lot of our family is here and I wanted to practice law at Wagstaff LLP. .
What organizations (non-profit) in town do you choose to support and why? Do you serve on any boards What is your favorite thing about liv- in the community or participate in ing in the Big Country? Living, work- any other groups? If so, what do you ing, and raising a family here is wonderful. I enjoy about your participation. Apart believe Abilene has a very strong local culture which is evidenced by the numerous local restaurants, bars, shops, event venues, and other businesses that are so unique and successful. This strong local culture means there is plenty to do and life never gets boring. The current trend in downtown development is very exciting. Also, I love how easy it is to parent in Abilene. It is very family-friendly here and so easy to get around town not having to fight traffic to get from one activity to another!
What do you do in your free time?
Spend time with my wonderful wife, Holly, our three children Allie, Ava, and Ashton, and other friends and family. I also enjoy running and lifting weights and working on home improvement projects.
from support through my firm, my wife and I have chosen to support Abilene Hope Haven, Meals on Wheels Abilene, and Day Nursery of Abilene at various times over the years. Additionally, I have served on the board for Abilene Hope Haven for about seven years, including serving as the board chair for the last two years. I believe deeply in the work that takes place every day at Abilene Hope Haven. People that are experiencing homelessness are too often marginalized due to the problems associated with homelessness which leads to further barriers and obstacles to improving their situation. What we have learned at Abilene Hope Haven is that if you will just meet these people where they are, love them as neighbors and God’s children, get them housing and supportive services, that their chances of long term success are greatly enhanced. It is very rewarding!
What does being an Abilene Young Professional mean to you? One thing I Share a fun fact about yourself love about Abilene is how easy it is for anyone that other AYP Members might not to get plugged in that wants to be involved. I know! I enjoy working together with my believe a lot of the opportunities and blessings brothers, Daniel and Jon Grant, to grow our real I have experienced have been due to this fact. estate investment company. Abilene Young Professionals is yet another example of an easy and beneficial way someone can get plugged into our community. I love that AYP is building a strong community of young excited professionals, as I believe this means a brighter future for Abilene.
Local Youth Career Initiative Receives $100,000 Incentive Award
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank | BUSINESS | 55
By Steve Collins | Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board
On November 27th , 2018, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas received an award in the amount of $100,00 for the “Red Carpet Premiere Careers in Action” Youth Inspiration & Career Awareness Initiative. The Workforce Board again honored this initiative on December 19th , at the regular scheduled Board meeting held at the Enterprise Bldg. Suite 1200, Abilene. The “Red Carpet Premiere Careers in Action” included 10 regional schools, including Wylie, Ballinger, Breckenridge, Ira, Clyde, Eula, Mann Middle School, money awarded to Pictured L to R…Lindsey Phillips-WF Board Staff, Samuel Garcia-Workschools for “classroom impact” force Board Chairman, Garolyn Jergins-WF Board Staff, Alyssa Goodgametotaling $17,000 and featured WF Board Staff They were exposed to many career-paths. The 10 career clusters. Money was used by the schools to purchase chromebooks, project fostered team work and the need for educational resources, 3-D printer, robotics collaboration. It focused them on project planning, project implementation and overall projsupplies, and drones. ect quality. They learned to see details and the The “Careers in Action” program featured a importance of the small things. It was a great screening of the winning films showcasing ca- learning experience” Dale Robinson TWC reer clusters and occupations and check pre- Representative said “This was a great opporsentations. The Careers in Action video con- tunity to see young people engaged in career test and event were both part of the Careers in exploration by doing something creative, partTexas Industries Week, a statewide initiative nering with local businesses and focusing on connecting youth around the state to high-de- different career fields. mand job fields. Teacher comments included, “Students benefited from participating in this For more information on this initiative and contest in so many ways. It encouraged them other workforce programs, please contact to do research, and see real life results of hard Steve Collins , 325.795.4304, steve.collins@ workforcesystem.org work. It helped them understand deadlines.
National study: H-E-B ranks as consumers’ fourth favorite grocery store By Laura Gutschke | Abilene Reporter-News When it comes to grocery stores, San Antonio- Joe’s, Costco Wholesale based H-E-B is the fourth favorite among con- and Amazon. sumers nationally, according to a new study. In Abilene, H-E-B opFor its second annual Retailer Preference In- erates one store with a dex, consumer data company dunnhumby sur- gas station at South 14th veyed 7,000 households to determine which and Barrow streets. The company also owns of the top 56 largest grocery retailers have property at Buffalo Gap and Antilley roads. the strongest combination of financial perfor- Concrete pads are all that remain of the old mance and consumer emotional sentiment, ac- Lack’s and BBVA Compass Bank buildings at cording to a dunnhumby news release. that site after the buildings were razed in September. In the study, H-E-B finished behind Trader
H-E-B has not publicly company is a “smooth, cost-efficient retail opannounced their future eration.” plans for the property. “The retailers who focus their business on superior value perception – defined by the stronThe study involved gest combination of price and quality – tend to ranking retailers in sev- have the most financial success and the stronen categories: price, quality, digital, operations, gest emotional bond with consumers,” the convenience, discounts/rewards and speed. news release stated. In the study, H-E-B was described as thriving on the quality it offers its customers by focusing on private label and quality in the right places and delivering on retail basics. Over, the
Other Big Country grocery stores included in the study were Albertsons, Brookeshire Grocery Company, Sam’s Club, Target, Walmart and Walmart Neighborhood Market.
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