January 2021 by HispanicLife Media

STATE CHAMPS

in UIL One-Act Play by AHS and CHS

OUTSTANDING. EXCITING. AISD. AISD STUDENTS IN ART, BAND, CHOIR, ORCHESTRA, THEATRE BENEFIT FROM FUNDS FROM BOND ELECTION. The arts are important to Abilene, its residents and our students in public schools. Eighty-two percent of AISD students were involved in art, dance, music or theatre last year. And our enhancements with funds from the 2018 bond election reflect that importance with new facilities for the arts at Abilene and Cooper high schools and Madison and Mann middle schools!

www.getexcitedaisd.org

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Happy New Year! JANUARY 2021 Volume 10.1, Issue 9 3900 N. 1st Street, Suite #2 Abilene, Texas 79603 (325) 673-4521 www.HispanicLifeMedia.com [currently under construction]

PUBLISHER David A. Hernandez EDITOR HispanicLife Magazine editorial@hispaniclifemedia.com ADVISING EDITOR AND ACCEPTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Amy Hernández Helen Holguin info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 673-4521 Office

ADVERTISING SALES • Donna Lee (325) 518-8994 donna.lee@amclassabilene.com

• David Hernandez (325) 518-7091 sales@hispaniclifemedia.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Debbie Heep Sheila Baccus info@hispaniclifemedia.com

About Us

We are dedicated to serving the Abilene and the Big Country by providing up-to-date information and resources that promote healthy families and homes. We also promote our clients businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images within the Hispanic community. HispanicLife Magazine is published on a monthly basis and is owned & operated locally. Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. HispanicLife and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. HispanicLife does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. 2020 HispanicLIfe Media

It’s been one heck of a year to say the least, but we must proceed on and look forward to the new and not the old. It is vital that we focus in on the good things in life, and not entertain the memories and thoughts of negativity and despair. As we proceed into the new year, we as a people; a community must remain calm, cool and collective. It’s a time for new beginnings and new adventures! We are optimistic that things will eventually get better, knowing that with God, all things are possible. And that He is working in our lives as we allow Him to. Take every opportunity to seek the positive things in life. Bless your enemies, and pray for them. Choose to be kind to your neighbor, regardless of the situation. Always remembering that everything we sow, we will reap. We pray you have a fantastic 2021, and pray for those that are battling Covid-19. We also want to express our sincerest sympathy to those whom have lost a loved one. Stay safe, love on your family and friends. Blessings to you and yours! Amy Hernandez & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife

4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Community Foundation of Abilene Awards More Than $1M to Nonprofits in 2020 By BigCountryHomePage

The 2020 Fall Discretionary grant cycle and the Future Fund grant cycle together awarded $1,019,990 to area nonprofits, a record-breaking amount for the Community Foundation of Abilene. The impact of COVID-19 significantly affected area nonprofits, resulting in an increase of grant requests. This year’s need was met by the generous donors of the Abilene community as well as a substantial gift from Beltway Park Church. “It has been a difficult year for our community and for nonprofits.I am proud of what our Discretionary grant committee and Future Fund committee have worked hard to accomplish,” says Michelle Parrish, Grants Director for the Community Foundation of Abilene. “We could not have reached this tremendous milestone without our donors and the help of Beltway Park Church.”

Beltway Park Church’s contribution of $361,166 toward the Fall Discretionary grant cycle met the need for many area nonprofits. Their gift fully funded several grant requests. The Fall Discretionary grant cycle dispersed $929,231this year. It is an open cycle that 501c3 organizations in the area can apply to on an annual basis. The Future Fund Cycle annually helps nonprofits with a focus on youth and child development and dispersed $90,759 this year. The final list of recipients and their projects for the Fall Discretionary grant cycle and the Future Fund cycle can both be found at https://www.bigcountryhomepage.com/news/ community-foundation-of-abilene-awards-more-than-1mto-nonprofits-in-2020/

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COMMUNITY

LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Everyday Heroes: Jack and Alice Fournier Found a New Calling to Serve By Greg Jaklewicz | Abilene Reporter-News

When the going got tough, Jack and Alice Jack decided to stop by the facility on North They found the “work” meaningful. Fournier got going ... in their car. 10th Street. “Absolutely,” Jack said. “There’s a huge need, About two weeks after COVID-19 began “We needed to fill our hole with something,” and most people we come in contact with, this changing daily routines in Abilene in mid- he said. is their only meal they get every day. March, the Fourniers signed up to deliver for Meals on Wheels Plus Inc. With college Jack and Alice filled their hole by filling holes “This is not about me and Alice,” Jack said. students not returning after spring break and in the weekday delivery schedule. “This is about getting people excited about some older volunteers hesitant to risk their doing this.” health and/or the health of recipients, MOW The couple took a route but got hooked on was short on volunteers. helping. They also deliver pet food as part of MOW’s “Pet Food on Wheels” program. The Fourniers had another reason. Jack said folks on routes are more delighted about someFor several years, they had one helping take care of the taken care of Alice’s mothpets than they are about geter, whom they moved to ting fed themselves. They Abilene. She had dementia. bring treats for dogs and cats, and now they are met by hap“I was her principal carepy pets waiting for a goodie. giver for 18 months,” said Jack, a former Minnesotan “All these dozens of animals and 30-year veteran of the have gotten to know us,” he Air Force, who retired here said. in 2007. Alice, from Missouri, was a civilian emAround Thanksgiving, the ployee. They met at LangFourniers took a week and ley (Va.) AFB; they have half vacation. been married for 19 years. “I missed it,” Jack said of seeThey came to Dyess AFB ing his MOW friends. in 2001. Volunteers such as the FourWhen Alice’s mother broke Jack and Alice Fournier load their car with food for a Meals on Wheels delivery in niers have kept the meal disa hip and was placed in re- early December. (Photo by Ronald W. Erderich, Reporer-News) tribution program going, and hab, she never was able to taken the burden off staff, who get back home. So the couple for the past They soon began delivering two routes Mon- have to take a route if there are not enough three years visited her for at least one hour days, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. On Thurs- volunteers. every afternoon. days, they began delivering groceries, and if a substitute was needed Friday, they offered to She died in February. take another route. “They’re always very willing to help with whatever special need we have,” said long“We had this huge hole to fill,” Jack said. time MOW Director Betty Bradley. “They are One route became nine, and they’ve main- a joy to work with and have been a tremenThey saw a TV report about Meals on tained that routine since. Only one route is dous help as we have dealt with the volunteer Wheels volunteer needs increasing due to the consistent. The others they take as needed. shortage during COVID-19.” pandemic.

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Abilene Planning & Zoning Commission Member Retires to Become Full Time Minister By Dan Booth | BigCountryHomePage

Life comes with many twists and turns, and for one Abilene man retirement is another opportunity to help people. “My life has always been driven by service, the need to help,” said Freddie Famble. Due to this weekend’s snowstorm, many churches around the Big Country have either canceled or postponed their services. Some churches with smaller congregations that have been able to hold in-person services are making some adjustments. “Because of the inclement weather, this will be our first time having a Sunday morning service online,” said Famble. After serving as a member of the Abilene Planning and Zoning Commission for over a decade, Freddie Famble is retiring. When Famble heard the Church of Christ in Trent was having some difficulty finding a new minister, he says that was an opportunity for him to step up and help a community in need. “I don’t care if it’s 5 members or 5,000, no

church should be without a man of God, to be able to speak about God. That should not be the reason that you’ve got to close your doors, or you can’t continue to be a church. Not on my watch,” said Famble. During his time on the P&Z Commission, Famble worked on numerous projects to help bring outside partners into Abilene to help the city grow. “We have to embrace change, and we have to embrace growth and do the things commercially that will foster that kind of growth, and I think Abilene’s making strides,” said Famble. Famble has dedicated his life to helping others, and even though he will not be with the P&Z Commission anymore, he’s looking forward to seeing what this new chapter of his life has to offer. “To be able to serve a community of believers, especially in a town like Trent, and to make a difference, that’s all I want. I just want to serve, I want to help however I can, and at the end of the day I want to be able to say, Lord I made a difference,” said Famble.

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CASA Calls On North Texas to Ensure Foster Kids Have an Advocate in Their Corner By Lupe Zapata | Spectrum News

In 2019 more than 600 children in Tarrant County alone were removed from their homes and placed in the states foster care system. In Texas that number expands to more than 51,000 Texas children displaced. For volunteers with CASA, which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate, those numbers translate into individual circumstances and stories, many of which involve the child being abused and neglected. Those who hold the title of a CASA become a voice for a child who may not be able to advocate for themselves. Typical activities of a CASA include visiting the child they’re supporting monthly, gathering information/research, working with CPS/family members/lawyers, and making appearances in court. The goal is to guide the child to a safe and permanent home, whether that be family reunification or adoption or long-term foster care. For a child ripped away from their families for circumstances they may not understand, while living in an environment around strangers can be a stressful and scary experience. Having a constant someone they can confide in can make all the difference in making a hard situation bearable. According to Jaime Hernandez a child advocacy supervisor with CASA of Tarrant County, a child in the foster care system might go through multiple case workers in a short period of time. “Every time there’s a change. That’s another set of trauma for the child,” said Hernandez. “So, what the difference with CASA is that the advocate is assigned one case, they can stay on track with that child through the length of the case. So that person is going to be a constant in that child’s life.”

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Hernandez supervises four CASA employees, each one of them monitoring around 25 children and the CASAs who represent them. Pre-pandemic, he says CASA of Tarrant County didn’t have enough volunteers to serve all of the children in need of advocates, and they especially need more male, Hispanic/bilingual, and African-American volunteers. Currently there are 450 volunteers and only 64 of those are men. He anticipates this need will only grow, as the stress and isolation of the pandemic con-

tinues to take its toll on families and child abuse incidences continue to rise. Of the 51,000 children in the Texas child welfare system, about 30 percent are White, nearly 42 percent are Hispanic, and 21 percent are Black. In Tarrant County of the 661 children in the system in 2019 about 65 percent were identified as Hispanic or African-American, yet only about 9 percent of CASA of Tarrant County’s volunteers identify as such. The child isn’t the only one who benefits from the relationship, Hernandez says he knows of many positive stories of CASAs feeling fulfilled early-on in their relationship with their child. “One of our sayings is, everyone needs a hero,” he said “But, a child in foster care needs a superhero, because of all the different things that they go through. Hernandez stresses although they need advocates who are passionate and dedicated to helping these children in need those interested don’t need special skills to become a CASA, just a willingness to give your time and a dedication to help kids. CASAs receive extensive training before they’re sworn in to equip them with the knowledge needed to navigate their interaction with the child. According to Hernandez in Tarrant County alone there are about 500 children in the foster care system currently waiting on what he says is the critical voice of a volunteer advocate. “Advocacy is not just something to fill your time, advocacy is something that you do, because you know that when you do it, you’re making a difference in somebody else’s life.” he said. More information about becoming a CASA will be discussed in a series of upcoming virtual volunteer information sessions happening December 11, 15th and 17, either at 6 p.m. or at noon. To register visit speakupforachild.org And if you don’t live or work in Tarrant County, but want to know more about CASA in your area visit, texascasa.org

8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

AEP Foundation Provides $100,000 to Abilene Heritage Square By BigCountryHomePage

The AEP Foundation has provided a $100,000 grant to help fund completion of Abilene Heritage Square. The $44million dollar project is expected to be completed in 2023 and will encompass a variety of uses focused on selfimprovement, education, and bringing the community together.

tury,” Reyes said. “The AEP Foundation is proud to support a project that will clearly enrich the lives of many in the Abilene community. We have board members present from the Stone Owl Institute and Heritage Square with us today. I applaud their efforts to enrich students’ understanding of this country, and promote a better understanding of our free enThe complex will include a state-of-the-art terprise system.” public library, exhibition space for both local and traveling exhibits, special event spaces Jane Varner Beard, president of the Abilene for both private and public use and a 700-seat Heritage Square board, said, “We want to auditorium. thank the AEP Foundation for this wonderful investment in the future of Abilene. Their The facility will also include classroom space donation will provide a permanent home for for the Stone Owl Institute, an after-school the innovative Stone Owl Institute, which is alprogram where teens will learn the principles ready garnering national attention. With AEP’s of civic service and free-market economics. help, local high school students will have the opportunity to become better citizens while The grant was announced Tuesday afternoon. earning scholarship funds for college or technical training. AEP has been bringing physical Julio Reyes, AEP Texas vice president of Ex- light to our community for many years, with ternal Affairs, presented an enlarged version this gift, they are now bringing the light of of the contribution check on behalf of the AEP knowledge to our area as well.” Foundation. Taylor Sturgis, board member of Abilene Reyes noted that American Electric Power, Heritage Square and board chair for the Stone parent company of AEP Texas, created the Owl Institute, said, “This generous grant will AEP Foundation in 2005 to continue the tradi- make possible classrooms where students will tion of corporate philanthropy of AEP and its continue to gain an understanding of what it regional utilities and to support and to play an means to be an American. The AEP Foundaactive, positive role in the communities where tion’s support will be remembered, not only AEP employees live and work. as an investment in our community today, but also in the lives of those who will one day “This will be an incredible facility and will serve as the leaders of Abilene, Texas.” preserve a storied campus for another cen-

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El Fenix Café in Abilene Closes After 84 Years By BigCountryHomePage

After decades years of serving Mexican cui- “It’s sad, I count Olivia and Robert as family, sine to the Abilene community El Fenix Café I’ve always counted Olivia as like a second is closing down. mom to me,” said Mitchell. Owner Olivia Velez says she took over when The community rushed in to get their last meals her mother retired. which meant a lot to Olivia. “I decided I wanted to continue the business so “I’m just going to miss everyone so much, I I continued it on, so I ran it for 49 years,” said have so many customers who have been with Velez. me for so long, so loyal,” said Velez. And now she is ready to retire too.

And while the restaurant is closing now, Olivia says it may not be forever.

“I was hoping that my son and my daughter in law would take over but they’re ready to go “And who knows, maybe in six months or so too,” said Velez. I’m back, my daughter or someone maybe my son changes his mind, and we’ll be back, it The news broke the hearts of many regular cus- would be wonderful, but right now I just need tomers—like Rick Edington who has been go- to retire,” said Velez. ing for twenty years. Olivia says they will still own the businesses in “Weekly and twice a week sometimes, week- the back that they call Burro Alley, but she is ends breakfast,” said Edington. still hopeful a family member will take over the café that Abilene holds so dearly. It was sad news for former employee Kristin Mitchell.

10 | 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

Joe Treviso Alvarez Jr., 56, went to be with his Heavenly Father on December 06, 2020 in Abilene, TX. Joe was born July 10, 1964, in Cisco, TX to Joe Treviso Alvarez Sr. and Dora (Figueroa) Alvarez. He proudly served our country as a commander in the Army National Guard for 6 years. Joe was a loyal and dedicated employee, and worked in shipping and receiving for Dillard’s for over 30 years. He made many, many friends throughout his time at Dillard’s. Joe was a devoted Christian, Prayer Warrior, and protector for his family who also loved to share the word of God with others. He had recently started studying ministry and was a very humble man whom was dedicated to his Lord and Savior. He enjoyed learning to play the guitar and watching comedies. Joe impacted many lives during his journey, and will be dearly missed by many. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents: Joe Alvarez Sr. and Dora Alvarez; two brothers: Henry De La Rosa and Albert Alvarez, both of Abilene; sisters: Susan Alvarez-Lozano with husband Jesus, and Lisa Alvarez-Ayers with husband Seth, both of Abilene. Nieces and nephews: Stephanie Andrade-Rocha, Jessica Andrade, Matthew Andrade, Krystana Carrasco, Jonathan Alvarez, Brady Shiflett, Daniel Andrade and Selena Mendoza. Great-nieces and great-nephews: Christofer Alvarez, Anthony Alvarez, Isaiah Alvarez, Oscar Angel Rocha, Gabriel Rocha, Daija Alvarez, Destany Alvarez, Xavier Andrade, Velisa Andrade, Mariah Andrade, Brynlee Alvarez, and Nathaniel Pedroza. Joe was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Ramon Alvarez and Juana Alvarez; paternal grandparents: Carlos Figueroa and Maria Figueroa; and one niece Gracie Mendoza. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory can be made to his family’s founding ministry, Beyond Trafficking or the Abilene Meals on Wheels Plus. Frank Villarreal, 93, was called to heaven December 21, 2020. Mr. Villarreal was born March 18, 1927, in Abilene, Texas to Santiago and Delfina Villarreal. Mr. Villarreal was a WWII veteran and will be missed by many family members and friends. He was a very happy, sweet and independent man. He was always on the get go. His favorite place to eat was McDonalds. Everyone knew him as the man who sold cantaloupes and watermelons in the summer and blankets in the winter. Survivors include his daughters: Angelina Villarreal of California and Mary Delfina Oliveros and husband Inocencio of Oregon; 13 grandchildren; 27 great

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grandchildren; 18 great-great grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews and his breakfast companions. Mr. Villarreal was preceded in death by his parents Santiago and Delfina Villarreal; brother Gilbert A. Villarreal and sister Mary V. Cerda. Honored to be pallbearers are: Gilbert Garcia, Gilbert Cisneros, Moises Cisneros, Chris Rangel Jr., Eric Esparza and Andrew Basilio. The family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Hendricks Medical Center ICU Unit for all their help and his comfort care.

Evangelina Losano, 85, passed away December 18, 2020. Mrs. Losano was born January 07, 1935, in Dilley, Texas to Faustino and Maxima Trevino. Survivors include son Oscar T. Lozano and wife Dolores of Abilene; two daughters Yome Soliz and Suzanna T. Losano both of Abilene; three brothers Raymond Trevino and wife Rita of Breckenridge, Matt Trevino of Abilene and Epifanio Trevino and wife Bea of Edinburg; sister Minerva Sanchez of Abilene; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; sister-inlaw Sofia Trevino. Mrs. Losano was preceded in death by her husband Frank Losano; two daughters Yolanda Ledesma and Margarita Losano; her parents; brother Greg Trevino and sister-in-law Maria Trevino. Angela Campos Peralez was a caring mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend. She left this world on January 04, 2021 at age 92. Angela Peralez was born to Francisco Campos and Zeferina Rodriguez on December 9 of 1928 in Bastrop, Texas. In 1949 Angela Campos Peralez married the love of her life Jose Peralez in Abilene, TX. Angela Peralez was one of the last remaining greats from Barrio Sancudo. Angela Peralez will be greatly missed by her sons Adolfo Peralez (Lucy), Johnny Peralez (Terri), Francisco Peralez; daughters Mary Fernandez, Gloria Soto (Ubaldo), Josie Soto (Manuel), Sylvia Vargas (Jose), Olivia Lopez (Phillip), Lupe Hatfield; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren Mrs. Peralez was preceded in death by her husband Jose Peralez; parents Francisco Campos and Zeferina Rodriguez; son Joe Peralez; son in law Manuel Fernandez. To meet Angela, was to be loved by someone special, those who knew her would say she was full of life and always smiling. Angela will always be remembered for being so kindhearted and always being there for everyone, in the neighborhood were Angela raised her 10 independent children and often timeâ€™s grandchildren, she was rarely ever seen without her sunglasses. Angela enjoyed cooking, listening to music, watching Bob Barker and Price is Right in her free time. We will cherish the time we were given to love her, and we mourn, not for her, but for the absence of her in our earthly lives. While her leap to Heaven was hastily made with such surprise to us, it was meant for her to join our Lord and Savior, as she always knew it was to be.

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Taylor County Commissioners Approve First Phase to Remodel 1915 Taylor County Courthouse By Austin Burkes | KTXS

On Tuesday, the Taylor County Commission- estimated to cost around $8-12 Million. The ers Court approved the bidding plans on reno- remaining cost that is not paid by the Texas vating the 1915 Old Historic Courthouse. Historical Commission, will be paid by certificates of obligation. Last summer, Taylor County accepted a $5.9 million grant from the Texas Historical Com- “The primary reason we did that was because mission to restore the building. this building does need to be upgraded,” said Bolls. “That courthouse has a history,” said Taylor County Judge Downing Bolls. “It’s a signifi- Restoring the building is key to persevering cant part of our history as a county.” history. The building has had numerous renovations “When you lose a sense of your past, you lose since it was built in 1915. But Judge Bolls a sense of your future,” said Bolls. “I think tells KTXS it hasn’t been for the good. that I think that building serves as a reminder that this was really kind of what people came “It got to the point that it really started look- and saw when they first got here was the ing like an overloaded electric plug,” said courthouse.” Bolls. The project is hope to be completed within According to Judge Bolls, The project is two to three years.

12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Abilene Idol Auditions Saturday, January 23, 2021

Mall of Abilene, Women’s Dillards Courtyard Calling all singers to bring their best 2 minutes of a song to perform. The top 15 will be chosen to compete in the Abilene Idol Finale. All genres and all ages welcome. Judging will occur in two age groups: contestants age 17 and younger and those age 18 and older.

Visit www.facebook.com/ChorusAbileneTX for more information.

January 24, 7:00 PM

Town & Country Drive-In, 2902 Vogel St, Abilene, TX

Human Trafficking happens and it even happens here...Come watch this powerful film that helps shed light on the harsh realities of human trafficking. Box office opens at 6:30pm and showtime is at 7pm. Admission is free however, registration is required and ticket proof will be necessary for entrance. Donations will be accepted and all proceeds will go to the mission of Beyond Trafficking. www.beyondtrafficking.com/events

Century 12 Abilene ‘Temporarily Closed’ By Brian Bethel | Abilene Reporter-News

In an email sent to theatergoers Monday, Cinemark said Abilene’s Century 12 movie theater near the Mall of Abilene will “temporarily close.”

atres in your area,” the statement says. “During this time, Century 12 Abilene will temporarily close, and we invite you to visit Cinemark Abilene and XD, located at 672 East Overland Trail ... for your next moviegoing experience.”

The decision to close the theater, at 3818 John Knox Drive, is to “better align with your com- The company will update the community on munity’s moviegoing demand in this ever- reopening plans “as soon as we are able,” the changing environment,” the company said. release said. Those with questions may contact Cinemark guest services at cinemark.com/ “Cinemark is consolidating operations for the- contact-us.

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Windbreak Seedlings Are Now Available Thru Middle Clear Fork Soil and Water SWCD By Tammie Belyeu | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Taylor County

Middle Clear Fork Soil & Water Conservation District is now taking orders for evergreen and hardwood seedlings. Landowners are encouraged to purchase these one-year-old seedlings for windbreak plantings before preferred stock is sold out.

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Each year thousands of regionally adapted seedlings are grown from seed by West Texas Nursery - Texas A&M Forest Service in Idalou. The agency’s primary objective is to produce and sell quality seedlings at an affordable price for landowners, allowing them to plant large quantities of trees for windbreaks. You may be asking yourself, “What is a windbreak”? A windbreak consists of trees and shrubs systematically planted adjacent to fields, homesteads, or feedlots as a barrier to reduce or redirect the wind. They create protection and habitat for wildlife, reduce erosion, and increase land value and aesthetics. They are established where production ends and homesteads begin and they also act as protection for a residence, which increases the heating and cooling efficiency of a homestead. Farmstead windbreaks block the hot, dry winds of summer and the cold gusts of winter. Multiple row windbreaks add natural beauty, privacy and value to a homestead and act as a sound barrier to highway or farm road traffic,

as well as protect the soil, increase land value and enhance crop yields. Livestock windbreaks are very beneficial during the winter and summer months. Cattle hidden in an “L” or “U” shaped multiple row windbreak are allowed to utilize their energy to continue gaining weight rather than use it to keep warm, as a result, the amount of feed afforded by the producer is reduced. These windbreaks also reduce the risk of mortality during the harsh winter months, such as Winter Storm Goliath in 2015. They also provide shade during the hot summer months and help keep the dust down when used around dairies and feedlots. Afghanistan Pine, Austrian Pine and Pinyon Pine evergreen container seedlings will be available at the price of $4.00 each: The following hardwood bareroot seedlings are available at the price of $3.00 each: Sand Plum, Bur Oak, Pecan, Chinkapin Oak and Shumard Red Oak. For more information on purchasing seedlings, please contact the Middle Clear Fork Soil and Water Conservation District at 325672-1781 or Gary Bomar at 325-665-5137. Final Orders must be received by February 10, 2020.

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Mindfulness On and Off The Job 14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

By HealthAdvocateBlog

These days, when normal routines continue to be disrupted, it’s easy to get distracted by the news, surrounding activities and your own thoughts and worries, making you feel anxious. Practicing mindfulness—learning to pay full attention to the moment–can help you feel more focused, calmer, in control and productive, no matter what job or task you’re doing. Try these tips: Avoid starting your day on autopilot. Even if your “commute” is to your laptop at home to browse job opportunities, before you begin your day, take a few minutes to take a few breaths and clear your mind. Figure out how to reduce your exposure to distractions. For example, set aside a time to check your calls, texts and other notifications rather than checking them as they come through. Or, disable pop-up notifications for emails.

•Take some breaths. Focus on your breath and the sensations it produces to bring you back to the present. •Observe. Acknowledge the stressors and the thoughts and feelings they produce without judgment. •Proceed. When you feel re-centered, continue with what you were doing. Did you know? The many physical and mental benefits of adopting a mindfulness practice is nothing short of amazing! Mindfulness has been shown to help increase relaxation and stress reduction, improve tolerance and relief from physical pain, improve quality of sleep, relieve muscular tension, lower blood pressure and help improve circulation and heart health.

As for the mental and emotional benefits, pracGive up multitasking. Finish one task as much ticing mindfulness can improve your relationas you can before moving to the next. ships and listening skills, concentration and capacity for memory, and ability to make comAvoid working through breaks and lunch. petent and wise decisions, while decreasing levStep away to refresh yourself. Close your eyes, els of anxiety, depression and worry. turn your attention to each slow inhalation and exhalation. Let any anxious thoughts just drift Want more guidance about mindfulness? like passing clouds. There are many meditation apps, audiobooks, and programs available. Start by checking the Is your mind wandering? Worrying derail- resources on mindful.org/audio-resources-foring you? Practice STOP. mindfulness-meditation/ •Stop. Pause for a minute or two, close your eyes and just be.

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EDUCATION

LOCAL SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS

TSTC Student Reaches Goal of Completing Nursing Program By Ben Barkley | Communication Specialist, Texas State Technical College

Gabrianna Pena had her goal in sight, only it took longer than she expected to reach it. The 2014 graduate of Winter High School is a candidate for graduation from Texas State Technical College’s Nursing program. She expects to receive a certificate in vocational nursing this month. “After I graduated high school, I did not go straight to college,” she said. “I had to work in order to pay for my classes.” After starting a nursing program, Pena hit another roadblock. “I got discouraged when I failed. I knew that at some point I would go back to school,” she said. “I didn’t want to be able to tell myself that I did not succeed.”

decision,” she said. “I got the acceptance letter inspiration for going into the health care field.” and started classes.” Pena has also seen the effects of COVID-19 while Pena said attending TSTC allowed her to con- working in the nursing home. tinue to work at a nursing home. That helped “All the residents see on a daily basis is you. There pay the bills, and her is no visitation,” she said. “I like working there befamily helped by watch- cause you may not feel that what you are doing is ing her daughter while important, but you are making a big difference to the she was in school. residents.” “Going to TSTC really Pena said she is proud of her journey in becoming a worked well with my licensed vocational nurse, but it may not end there. schedule,” she said. “I do have plans to someday go back and study to bePena’s goal was to work come a registered nurse,” she said. “It takes a lot for in a field where she people to go through bad situations, but you eventucould help others. ally bounce back. I want to show people they do not need to give up on their dreams.” “My mom worked as a CNA (certified nurs- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas ing assistant) for a long leads the country in the number of LVNs employed, time,” she said. “I al- with more than 70,000. Of that total, more than ways was interested in 1,600 are employed in the West Texas region. what she was doing. I wanted to help others.” For more information on TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

In 2019, a friend offered Pena Gabrianna Pena is a candidate to gradsome advice and an applica- uate from TSTC’s Nursing program this In 2012, Pena’s grandtion packet for TSTC’s nurs- fall. She had a goal to become a nurse father needed medical ing program. That was two and plans to return to school one day attention, and Pena and days prior to the registration to become a registered nurse. (Photo: her mother helped watch deadline. Pena scrambled to Gabrianna Pena) him and take him to doccomplete the paperwork and tor’s appointments. was accepted into the program. “Having to take my grandfather to the doctor “I was iffy if I really wanted to go back to each week, I was able to see the nurses working school. Having to choose between going to with him,” she said. “That gave me the motischool and working to pay the bills was a hard vation to help people. My grandfather was my

16 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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McMurry University Physics Students Win National Recognition for Second Year By Alaisha Montanez | McMurry University

The McMurry University chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS) has been awarded a Distinguished Chapter Award from the SPS National Office. This is the second time in two years the chapter has been recognized for its excellence as a top-tier studentled physical sciences organization, a designation given to fewer than 15 percent of all SPS chapters at colleges and universities in the United States and internationally. “We at the SPS National Office want to take this opportunity to commend and applaud you for your tireless efforts to enrich the SPS community. It is because of your dedication and commitment to the SPS mission and vision that we are able to foster such a strong SPS community. The National Council has reviewed all chapter reports and has awarded the McMurry University SPS Chapter as a 2019-2020 Distinguished Chapter,” stated an email from the SPS earlier this week. The SPS is a professional association designed for students and membership is open to anyone interested in physics and related fields. SPS operates within the American Institute of Physics (AIP), an umbrella organization for professional physical science societies. Dr. Tikhon Bykov advises McMurry’s SPS chapter. “I would like to recognize our chapter’s student leadership team Joseph Watson, SPS president; Jonathan Samudio, SPS vice-president; Austin Bridwell, SPS treasurer; Jessy Villagomez, SPS secretary for all their hard work in making this recognition possible. I am also grateful to the physics faculty Dr. Wayne Keith and Dr. Timothy Renfro for their continuous support of our students,” said Bykov. This recognition is a high honor for McMurry and for science achievement at the higher education level in the state of Texas. SPS chapters are evaluated on their level of interaction with the campus community, the professional physics community, the public, and with SPS national programs. The Outstanding Chapter Award recognizes high levels of outreach as well as unique approaches to fulfilling the mission of SPS to “help students trans-

form themselves into contributing members of the professional community. This is the second year that the McMurry University SPS chapter was honored with an award, receiving an “Outstanding Chapter” last year. In 2018, McMurry was recognized for its outstanding efforts in a number of areas, including student trips and academic conference participation, student-alumni interactions, and the student-led Cassini Memorial project. McMurry University is committed to excellence in STEM education and continues to support and encourage students through club activities. In 2022, the University will offer a new degree in Physics Engineering as the result of a second Title V grant. “I’m proud that McMurry physics continues to distinguish our program through academic excellence in action,” said Dr. Matthew Draud, Ph.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty. About McMurry University Founded in 1923, McMurry University is guided by our core values: Christian Faith as the foundation of life; Personal Relationships as the catalyst for life; Learning as the journey of life; Excellence as the goal of life; and Service as the measure of life. As a vibrant, comprehensive institution of higher education, we offer a student-centered, relationship-based learning environment. McMurry’s intentional one-on-one focus allows students to build meaningful relationships with their professors and fellow students. The University provides students REAL discovery experiences throughout their college careers. Our diverse academic curriculum includes over 55 majors in the arts, business, education, and the sciences, as well as pre-professional programs in medicine, dentistry, engineering, law, pharmacy, and physical therapy. Enrollment at McMurry is at 1,100 students. A member of the American Southwest Conference, McMurry has 20 intercollegiate sports, as well as an evolving Esports team. Students engage with the community and average 24,000 hours of annual service. For our students, the pathway to REALize dreams, careers, and goals starts at McMurry. McMurry University…Where REAL Happens.

Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Zookini’s | EDUCATION | 17

TSTC Student Wants To Travel Country as Welder By Ben Barkley | Communication Specialist, Texas State Technical College

Texas State Technical College student Quincy Butler has set a goal for himself.

Butler said a friend talked to him about taking welding classes at TSTC.

Butler, who completed his first semester in Welding Technology this fall, wants to be a traveling welder. He is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in order to achieve his goal.

“He graduated from the welding program last year and has given me a lot of advice,” he said. “He is working in the field right now, and I know I can always call him.”

“I have seen most of Texas and decided I wanted to see the rest of the country,” he said. “I wanted to do that by doing something I liked, which is welding.” Instructor Anthony Lewis is encouraged by his story, saying Butler has shown promising welding skills. “I was very intrigued by his story and know he will do a good job,” Lewis said.

Butler said he is using some of the techniques he learned during his first semester on outside projects. “I knew the TSTC instructors would be able to help. The program is laid out great for people to learn,” he said. When it comes to traveling the country to work, Butler said he did not have a preference on what type of work he wants to do. “Whether it is an oil pipeline, wind turbines or the big buildings in larger cities, I want to be able to see the rest of the country and make this my career,” he said.

“I was always interested in welding,” Butler said, adding that he did not pick up a torch much before begin- TSTC Welding Technology student Quincy Butler has His path is just beginning ning classes in Au- a goal to travel the United States after earning an as- at TSTC, and he knows it gust. “Once I picked it sociate degree. (Photo: TSTC) was a good choice. up, I think I took to it like a duck to water.” “I know with an education from TSTC I will be set for the rest of my life,” he said. “This will be He wanted to pursue an associate degree for something that one day I will be able to teach one reason. my children and then to their children.” “Having an associate degree in hand will give me job security,” he said. “It will lead me down a career path as far as employers. I know that will help me when applying for a job.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, welding jobs will increase by nearly 4 percent in the United States by 2028. For more information on TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

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McMurry University’s President Dr. Sandra S. Harper Receives Luthman Meritorious Award By Alaisha Montanez | McMurry University

McMurry University President Sandra S. Harper, PhD, has been awarded the 2020 Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The annual awards honor outstanding service to the SACSCOC, including volunteerism, leadership and commitment to the principles of accreditation. Harper has supported and served SACSCOC as a member of the board of trustees, as well as serving on and as chair of numerous committees for more than 20 years. The award was announced at the SACSCOC Annual Meeting on Dec. 7, 2020. Harper is the only 2020 award winner from Texas. Upon receiving the Luthman Service Award Harper shared, “Working our hearts out to improve education in America is a noble mission. I appreciate this honor and would like to thank all of my colleagues in Abilene, Baton Rouge, and Corpus Christi as well as those at SACSCOC, who are dedicated

to continuously enhancing higher education (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisithrough our accreditation efforts.” ana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia) and in Latin The Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service America for those institutions of higher educaAward is named for a former staff member tion that award associate, baccalaureate, maswho served the Commission for more than 30 ter’s or doctoral degrees. years and was also staff liaison to the SACSCOC board of trustees. Dr. Sandra S. Harper, a native of Dallas, has Awards are presented to individu- served as the president of McMurry University als whose volunteerism and com- since her appointment in 2013. Other adminismitment to the best principles of trative posts include the following: president of the academy and of accreditation Our Lady of the Lake College in Baton Rouge, personify the ideals of the Com- Louisiana, from 2006-2013; provost and vice mission. Luthman Service Award president for academic affairs at Texas A&M winners have demonstrated ex- University-Corpus Christi from 1998-2006; traordinary commitment to the vice president for academic affairs at Oklahoma accreditation processes in various City University from 1995-1998; and dean of volunteer capacities, and they are the College of Arts and Sciences at McMurry respected by their peers for their University from 1990-1995. Harper also serves integrity and the meritorious qual- on the Abilene Chamber of Commerce; Abilene ity of their service over a sustained Industrial Foundation board of directors; Eduperiod of time. SACSCOC names cational and Institutional Insurance Administrano more than five Luthman Ser- tors, Inc. board of directors as chair-elect; North vice Award winners annually. American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges and Universities board of trustees; and SACSCOC is the nation’s largest accrediting the University Senate of The United Methodist body that accredits approximately 800 institu- Church. She currently chairs the Texas United tions. SACSCOC is the recognized regional Methodist College Association. accrediting body in the 11 U.S. Southern states

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Two-Year College Readiness Program Making Its Mark at AHS, Cooper ByAbilene Independent School District

A two-year College Readiness Program from the National Math and Science Initiative has launched at both Abilene High School and Cooper High School, military-connected schools near Dyess Air Force Base. The U.S. Department of Defense funds the program.

NMSI initiative is another great example of this,” Ashby said. “We are only in the first semester of the first year of this initiative and the supports have already paid dividends within our AP Program through professional development, Teacher/NMSI Coach partnerships, digital student supports, technology, and supplies. We look forward to continuing to utilize the tools and support provided by NMSI as we aim to broaden access to STEM-related, postsecondary academic opportunities for all students at CHS.”

After one year in NMSI’s CRP, students at military-impacted schools average a 45-percent increase in mastery of college-level concepts in math and science — compared to the national average increase of 5.6 percent. That increase is 81.5 percent for Black students, 34 percent for Latinos and 38.4 percent for females. As a nonprofit whose mission is to advance STEM education so all students – especially Students with family members serving in the those furthest from opportunity – can reach military move an average of six to nine times their highest potential. NMSI has served more while they’re in elementary and secondary than 250 U.S. high schools that have signifischool. NMSI’s CRP leverages the College cant enrollment among military-connected Board’s proven Advanced Placement frame- students. NMSI is a member of the Defense work, preserving local control and creating STEM Education Consortium, which is comconsistent learning across all schools. That mitted to helping the department improve acmeans students are on pace from their first day cess for all students to pursue STEM careers in a new school – making all those moves a and to consider Defense laboratories as places little easier. of employment. “This program provides our AP teachers with training that is consistent with teachers at other NMSI schools across the country, and that is invaluable to the students in the program,” Abilene High associate principal Patricia Anderson said. “We’ve also received substantial funding to purchase computer software and equipment specifically for this program and that has really helped the hands-on learning experience.” At Cooper, associate principal Jay Ashby said the opportunities in this program have already begun to bear fruit. “The opportunities that partnering with Dyess and its families creates has always been a special part of AISD, especially at CHS, and the

About NMSI: The National Math and Science Initiative is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a presence in 40 states. NMSI has served more than 1,300 U.S. high schools to improve student access and achievement in STEM education through teacher training, collaboration with campus leaders and student-focused resources. Schools that participate in the nonprofit’s College Readiness Program see immediate and dramatic increases in the number of students taking Advanced Placement exams and earning qualified scores. NMSI seeks to give access to high-quality, college-level coursework for all students, particularly those underrepresented in STEM programs, which are often Black, Latino and female students. Learn more at nms.org.

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FAITH&FAMILY

SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE

What Type of Person Are You “Whatever you love the most Becoming? is forming who you are.” By BJ Foster | AllProDad

One day when I was playing with my son in his room, I noticed these interesting soft spots, almost dimples, in his wall. I thought there might be a leak somewhere, so I called a plumber. He confirmed that there wasn’t a leak, but I had subterranean termites eating the drywall. If I filled in the dimples and painted over them without calling an exterminator, it would look fine for a while, but I would have wasted my time. The main problem was below the surface. The wall needed to be opened up and the invaders eliminated before the exterior could be rebuilt. The same is true for us. We focus on behavior modification rather than treating the source below the surface — the heart. One of my beloved mentors passed on what I believe to be an insightful definition of the heart: “The heart is our core, the place where our will, thoughts, and feelings all converge.” What type of person are you becoming? Like Playdough is molded and shaped so are we shaped by the things that influence the heart. In order to be formed into a man of character, integrity, and strength, you need to start confronting and understanding your heart. The answers to the following two questions will reveal the type of person you are becoming.

you are. Those things and images will fill your mind. It will dictate how you spend your time and energy. Take a hard look at what you are producing around you, the character qualities you are modeling, and you will get a picture of what you love most. Who or what are you letting captivate you? Choose and invest wisely. You have given those things or people a powerful influence over who you are becoming.

Experiences – They can be damaging and create deep hurt or positive and bolster our selfWhatever you love the most is forming who image. It might be being bullied, receiving

What do you love the most?

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social affirmation, athletic achievements, or failing in business. Our experiences start early and send us messages about ourselves, who we are and our self-worth. Differentiate the truth from the lies.

Culture – Music, movies, television, media, business, and art spark ideas about ourselves. What do you consistently take in? The images What do you listen to? and ideas that capture your imagination play an Internal important role in who you are from the inside The loud voice that comes from within is the out. one of self-interest. We want to do for ourselves, make our way, have others serve our Relationships – Our wives, friends, parents, interests, and receive attention. How much we and peers. You may have never been affirmed allow this voice to rule the day will determine by your father or are caught up in comparing what we live out. Are we all about us or do we yourself to peers. What messages have you put others first? Fight this voice. The less we been receiving from people in your life? Is it serve it, the quieter it gets. Silence it by serv- healthy? Again, discern fact from fiction. If it is ing others. fiction, don’t give it access to your core. External The outside voices come from experiences, culture, and relationships. They can fill us with fear and feelings of inadequacy when we believe the wrong things. We need to work on getting rid of the negative and untrue messages and replace them with the truth.

I don’t just see a customer. I see you.

What do you love and listen to the most? Make sure they are the right things. Eventually, what is most true about us will come to the surface for all to see.

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5 Easy Ways to Resolve an Argument By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well

In my years as an attorney, I was measured by how effectively I could win arguments and resolve conflicts. I had been taught how to resolve an argument—by winning it. I had to understand legal language and maneuvers that could get complicated. The more complicated the situation, the more valuable my training in law became. But in marriage, I’ve learned that conflict resolution doesn’t need to be complicated. The harder I try to make it, the harder it becomes to solve. Though it takes years to practice, here are 5 easy ways to resolve an argument with your spouse.

1. Apologize.

Offering an apology is a simple start, though it’s more than just saying “I’m sorry.” It’s being humble enough to request forgiveness from another person. And don’t forget that you may need to apologize even if you are “right.” Sometimes we need to apologize for how we argue as much or more than for what we say when we argue.

2. Own your part.

It’s important in any disagreement to stop thinking just about what the other person has done wrong and to consider honestly what you have done to contribute to the conflict. Acknowledging what you have done wrong without being defensive is a big part of how to resolve an argument with your spouse.

3. Ask clarifying questions.

Misunderstandings can be like gasoline on

a fire in an argument. Making assumptions about what the other person is thinking or about his or her motives can lead to greater misunderstandings. Ask questions that assume the best of your spouse and show you are open to understanding him or her.

4. Listen carefully.

It’s great to ask questions, but not if as your husband or wife gives an answer, you’re just waiting for your him or her to stop talking so you can jump in with your next point. Learn to be an intentional listener. who is slow to jump in and who helps defuse a tense situation.

5. Affirm your love.

At the end of the day, your love is a critical foundation. Love alone will not fix the fights, but love is key, and you have to keep reminding each other that it’s there. Don’t ignore it. Don’t keep it a secret, even during the argument. Sometimes you might even have to say something like, “I love you, but I’m having trouble liking you right now.”

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Is Your Partner Gaslighting You? Watch for These Warning Signs

Pick us up at La Familia Mex Rest, Bogies & Abilene ISD | FAITH AND FAMILY | 23

By Ashley Vogt Davids | ShareCare

It’s not uncommon to second guess yourself in a relationship, but if your partner is deliberately making you question your thoughts and actions, they may be engaging in a harmful practice known as gaslighting. “Gaslighting in its simplest definition is manipulation,” says Judi Cinéas, PhD, a psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker in Lake Worth, Florida. “The goal is to destabilize the individual’s sense of reality, self and confidence as this makes the person a prime candidate to receive the abuser as their much needed savior.” The term “gaslighting” comes from the 1944 movie Gaslight, starring Ingrid Bergman. In the movie, Bergman plays a woman named Paula who marries a criminal desperate to find jewels hidden away in her attic. After hearing noises in the attic and noticing the gaslights in her home brightening and dimming for no apparent reason, Paula confronts her husband about her missing valuables. Desperate to find the jewels and keep Paula off his trail, her husband makes her doubt herself by telling her she is imagining things. As with Bergman’s character, it can be your partner who is gaslighting you or someone else like a family member, friend, or coworker.

What gaslighting looks like

It can be difficult to tell whether or not your partner is gaslighting you, especially at first. “Gaslighting may start with subtle little jabs about you, your behaviors, things and people in

your life in a way that makes you question your- Ashley recommends writing down the situation self,” Cinéas says. as an I statement in a personal journal to gain clarity. Oftentimes these comments can seem harmless as if your partner is trying to help you or For example, say you are a stay-at-home mother has your best interest in mind. However, if your of two small toddlers who is tired and exhausted partner’s intention is to manipulate your behav- after a stressful day. You might be gaslighted if ior by making you doubt yourself, as opposed your partner responds to your request for help to helping you resolve an issue or focus on an with something like “I worked hard all day. I area of self-improvement, it may be gaslighting. take care of all the finances and your job is to take care of the house and the kids. I’m tired too. Gaslighting partners are known to deflect blame. I don’t know what you want from me. How can They are skilled at explaining why their way is you not see that it’s unfair to ask me for help?” better than yours and can make you feel grateful for their wisdom, Cinéas explains. However, if In this situation, Ashley says the I statement you challenge them, they may switch from pre- would sound something like, “When I ask you tending to have your best interests in mind to for help after a stressful day and you tell me you playing the victim card. are tired too and don’t acknowledge my feelings, I feel unloved and abandoned. It would How to tell if your partner is gaslight- mean a lot to me if you could share some of the ing you parenting responsibilities.” If interactions with your partner leave you feeling confused and unheard, think about the inter- An I statement has three parts, Ashley explains, action and if they were shifting the blame your the behavior, the feeling and the desired action. way. When writing your I statement, it helps to be as specific as possible. Ask yourself these ques“Gaslighting does not allow for open honest tions: communication and negotiation which is part of a healthy relationship. Instead, it creates discon- -What did your partner do that made you feel nection and confusion,” says Patti Ashley, PhD, like you were being gaslighted? a psychotherapist and licensed professional -How did it make you feel? counselor in Boulder, Colorado. -What would you have preferred to have happened instead? If you feel your partner is gaslighting you, Dr.

When to seek help

In some cases, sharing your I statement with a partner may cause things to escalate, especially if your partner has been gaslighting you for a longer period of time. If you suspect your partner has an underlying mental health condition or their gaslighting behavior has persisted over time, counseling might be a viable option. Couples counseling as well as individual counseling can help address your partner’s troublesome behavior. If counseling does not work or is not an option, it’s up to you to decide whether or not the relationship is worth terminating. If you seek professional counseling and still aren’t seeing positive changes or results in your relationship, then you may want to consider your next options. Bottom line: It’s not okay to be with someone who fundamentally does not treat you with respect.

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5 Key Questions to Ask Yourself Each Year By iMOM

My English comp professor freshman year was an amazing teacher. He was great at asking key questions. Twenty years later, I remember a question he asked in response to an overly simplistic essay I wrote on faith: “Could something as complex as all this really be resolved so quickly and simply?” The question caused me not only to question my essay but also my faith formulations.

think about doing what you are passionate about? Maybe you don’t even know what would make you come alive. It’s hard for women to discover our passions because a lot of our time is spent keeping others fed, active, and healthy. But it’s worth our attention. What do you believe you were made to do? Or, to quote the poet Mary Oliver, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” You aren’t promised tomorrow, let Asking key questions can be transformative. alone next year. So don’t wait to discern your They help us stay open, humble, and inquisi- passions. tive. They are like water for personal growth. This is especially true regarding the questions 4. What do my checkbook and calwe ask ourselves. Here are 5 key questions to endar say about me? Money and time ask yourself each year. are two of our most precious resources. So if you want to know what you really love—what 1. Who is influencing me? Your view of you’re really committed to—check your bank the world doesn’t come completely from with- account and your calendar. They’ll tell you in. The people who surround you help shape it. what’s most important to you. You’ve probaThe key question is not whether you’re being bly heard some version of this before. It’s true. influenced by others. It’s “Who is influencing Our money and time follow our loves. me?” Who are the people who have the most access to you? When you need advice, who do 5. What am I afraid of? We’re all afraid you call? Who do you keep up with on social of something. And your fear will help shape media? These people will play a significant role you and your children. So be honest with in shaping your worldview. Choose wisely. yourself. If you have a hard time identifying a fear, ask your husband or best friend what they 2. Am I being intentional about think it is. Sometimes the people who know spending time with my family? As a us best can see traits in us that we can’t see mom, it’s pretty much impossible not to spend ourselves. Once you know your fear, share it time with your family, but how intentional with someone you trust. When our fears lurk are you? Is your time with them mostly spent somewhere beneath the surface, they can feel checking boxes and getting to the next item on huge and unwieldy. Dragging your fears out the to-do list? Maybe you’re all in the house into the light helps you see them clearly and together, but everyone is focused on devices. helps equip you to conquer them. Quality time doesn’t magically happen. When you look back at this time 20 years from now, What key questions would you add to this list? what would you like to be true about how you spent your time with your family? Do that.

3. What makes me come alive right now? Do you feel selfish or bitter when you

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Happy Blended New Year!

Pick us up at Reyes Law Firm, The Enterprise Building, Martinez Barbershop | FAITH AND FAMILY | 25

By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments

I’ll beat myself up with thoughts such as, “Ugh! Why am I such a stiff-necked person? Why do I not have any self-control?” Maybe you can relate to me … However, no matter how disappointed I am in myself, and no matter what goals were not achieved, I am thankful to have a God who wipes my slate clean every day. Lamentations 3:19-23 sums this up perfectly: “I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” If this doesn’t lift your spirits, I don’t know what will. These verses are the gift of new life, a new day, and new opportunities. My past failures can be laid to rest and I have the freedom to walk into this day without the shackles of the past holding me down. 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.” How-

ever, because of God’s promises, you can lift up your head, and breathe deep and fresh; you are not who you were yesterday. 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.” God has a plan and a purpose for you this year. Are you going to trust in that? God has made a way for you to get there. Are you going to walk in that? Memorize Jeremiah 29:11 if you are having doubts: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Now that’s something to get excited about! Happy – Blended -- New Year! Blessings in Your Blending! (Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/ step mom since 2004; her blended family currently includes four children and four grandchildren. Follow Kristie on Facebook (facebook. com/theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram (theblendedfamilymom). Her books - “The Blended Family Mom,” and “Blended Mom Moments,” are both available on her website at www.theblendedfamilymom.com) www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine

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!

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How to Help Your Child When Life Isn’t Fair By Andrew Linder | AllProDad

All children see unfairness take place and often experience unfairness firsthand in their own lives, whether it’s at home, at school, or in their relationships with friends and authorities. But if not handled properly, children can become very bitter and even calloused to the unfairness in their lives and the world around them. However, when life is unfair, it gives us a perfect opportunity to speak life into our child by bringing a proper balance to the situation. Our job is to help our child see that it’s all about PERSPECTIVE. So the next time life throws an unfair curveball at your child, remind them of these important principles:

1. Life will never be fair.

I like the words of John F. Kennedy… “Life isn’t fair. It never was and never will be.” There’s a lot of truth in that statement, and the sooner we can help our children to understand this, the better. Because so many things in life are out of our control, many of those things will also often be unfair.

2. It’s okay that life is not fair.

that some people are gifted in ways that we will never be. It’s unfair. But it’s not only unfair. It’s okay.

3. Our response to what happens is more important than what actually happens. Surprisingly throughout history,

some of the happiest people who have learned to enjoy life the most are people who have often been treated the most unfairly. Go to a third world country where they have far less, and you’ll be surprised at how little they talk about life being so unfair. In fact, they are often filled with joy, because it’s all they have. When our children get hurt or treated unfairly, it’s important to remind them that life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it.

4. There is a much bigger picture at play. Recently, our teenage daughter was

struggling with some unfairness, and I remember having some in-depth conversations with her to help her navigate through her situations. What was encouraging to me was to hear her later telling me about how God had connected all the dots in His time in ways that didn’t make any sense to her at the time. We had a great discussion about how there is always a bigger picture at play than what we can usually see at the moment. If we are patient, what is unfair now may become understood later.

When what’s unfair happens to our child, our natural tendency is to want to make right what is wrong. But in reality, most of the unfairness our children will experience in life is okay. Let’s be real for a moment… It’s unfair that our children were born in America, while other children suffer daily from hunger. It’s If we can help our children maintain a proper unfair that some people are born into poverty, perspective of whatever life throws at them, while others are born into wealth. It’s unfair there is nothing they can’t face.

Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank, Day Nursery of Abilene | FAITH AND FAMILY | 27

4 Tips on Living the Life You’ve Been Waiting For By Madison Metcalf | boundblessings

I remember waiting as a little girl… just waiting for my body to finally grow into what it was supposed to look like. Waiting for the day it was okay for me to wear makeup. Waiting for the day I’d meet my prince charming. Waiting for the day I’d finally figure my hair out and have straight teeth. I remember waiting as a high school student… just waiting for college and all the adventures. Waiting for high school to be over so I could go out and explore. Waiting for the next best thing. Waiting for all that was to come in the next four years. I remember waiting as a freshman in college… waiting for the man of my dreams. Waiting for me to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Waiting for all the accomplishments and achievements to come. Waiting for the right people to come into my life. Now here I am… a few months away from graduating college. I’ve done about everything I’ve waited for. I’m engaged to the man of my dreams, I’ve accomplished many things, I’ve sort of figured my hair out… yet I still find myself waiting. Waiting for the wedding. Waiting for my own house. Waiting for more achievements. Waiting for the next best thing. Lately I’ve realized that I could continue to live in this season of waiting for forever... but God has been speaking something into my soul lately, and it is this:

Stop waiting. Start being. So I want to encourage you with these words in hopes that you can start living the life you want to live today… so you can start seizing each moment for what it is and loving it. 1. Be where your feet are. Start embracing each day and living it to the fullest. Start being happy with where you’re at. Stop looking towards all you need to do or all you have yet to accomplish. Stop looking back at all the things you didn’t do or things you wish you would’ve accomplished. Start living in this moment now. Start being content with today. Be all in with where your feet are in this moment. 2. Start thinking outwardly. Our lives become worse when we are only focused on ourselves. When we don’t look to those around us and instead only focus on us, we become so fixated on our own life, on our own mistakes made yesterday, on all we have yet to do tomorrow, and we forget to live in the moment with others. We forget to stand beside them and just be. I promise that if you would just start thinking more about what you can do for the people around you today, it’ll become a lot easier to embrace the moment for what it is… to fully live in the love you’re giving. 3. Have faith. I know what it’s like to have doubt. I know what it’s like to question and wonder… to

be stuck in a season where you begin to ask whether or not God is even there… but here’s something else I know: faith won’t fail you. Even in the midst of uncertainty, even in the midst of this doubt, this faith is what can keep you grounded. This faith is what you can build your life upon. This faith is what allows you to feel the greatest sense of love and fulfillment there is. Trust it. Dive in. Ask God to work within you. 4. Have fun. I was super stressed out about school and all my involvements the other day. I was stressing about my business and all the things that I needed to do. I was complaining to my mom one day when she said this, “Stop viewing these things as tasks you have to do. Start having fun.” I’ve been telling myself this over and over this past week, and maybe you need to do the same. Life is as fun as we make it. So enjoy the process. Work to get better. Don’t view failure as a roadblock keeping you from fulfilling your destiny. View it as a stepping stone that’s getting you there. I’m not telling you to not be excited about things, but I am telling you this: be where your feet are. You are on the path to live an abundant, lovely life. Enjoy where your feet are on the path, and start living the life you’ve been waiting for today. Because, my friend, you are exactly where you’re supposed to be.

God’s Cure for Every Broken Heart

28 | FAITH AND FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

By Greg Laurie | Harvest Christian Fellowship

A famous cardiologist wrote in his autobiography, “Hope is the medicine I use more than any other—hope can cure nearly anything.” Here are the hopeful words of Jesus to everyone who has a hurting heart: “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:1–3 NLT). When Jesus gave this statement, the disciples were afraid. One of their own, Judas Iscariot, had just defected. Then Jesus dropped a bombshell: He was going to leave them. They didn’t understand what He meant by that. How could they live in a world without Jesus? They didn’t understand that He was going to a cross to die for their sins and ours. They didn’t understand that He would rise from the dead so that we could have meaning and purpose in life and hope beyond the grave. All they heard was that He was going to leave. And it shattered their world. So Jesus said, “Don’t let your hearts be troubled.” Another translation of this would be, “Don’t let your hearts shudder.” Jesus was saying, “In the light of the imminent cross, it may seem like your world is falling apart and that darkness is going to overtake you. But don’t let your hearts be troubled.” Then He gave them three reasons why they didn’t have to have hearts that were agitated and full of fear. And they’re the same reasons we don’t have to have hearts full of fear, either. First, God has given you His word.

Take God at His word. God will do what he says He will do. You can believe it. Jesus told them, “Trust in God, and trust also in me.” In the original language, this is a command. Essentially, Jesus was saying, “Listen, guys. I know what I’m doing here. My word is true. And you will see that in time.” Do you believe in God, or do you believe in politicians? Or technology? Or money? Or people? All of these ultimately will let you down. But Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying” (John 11:25 NLT).

and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (verse 3). We’re seeing Bible prophecies fulfilled before our very eyes. On any given day in our troubled world, we see and hear things in the news that remind us of the warnings in the Bible about what will happen prior to Christ’s return. Jesus said, “So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” (Luke 21:28 NLT). The rapture of the church is that event when the Lord returns and calls us to be with Him in Heaven.

Do you have that hope for yourself and for others? The Bible says that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (see 2 Corinthians 5:8). That’s what happens when a Christian passes from this life to the next one.

The apostle Paul wrote, “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who Second, Heaven is your destination if you have are still alive and remain on the earth will be put your faith in Christ. caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever” (1 Jesus said, “There is more than enough room in Thessalonians 4:16–17 NLT). my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place Paul wrote those words to people who were for you?” (verse 2). worried, believers who thought they’d never again see their loved ones who had died. He Know this: Death is not the end of the road; was saying, “When the Lord comes for His it is only a bend in the road. That road winds people and calls us to Heaven, it’s going to be through the paths where Jesus himself has a great reunion.” gone. The tomb is not the entrance to death but the entrance to life. Death is the great separator, but Jesus Christ is the great reconciler. And if you believe in Jesus, the moment you take your last breath on earth, you’ll take your We need hope for our hurting hearts. You first breath in Heaven. I stake my life on the might be filled with personal pain today. Or truth of what God has said. I’m not in denial. maybe you’re wondering if your heart could I know people die. I know there’s pain. I know ever be changed. Jesus has hope for you. there’s suffering. I’ve had plenty of it in my life and in my upbringing. But Heaven isn’t the default destination of every person. You have to make a decision to go But I also know that I’m not alone. I know that I there. These promises are only for those who don’t have to try to find my own strength to get have put their trust in Jesus. through. I know that God is here with me, no matter what comes my way. God has such a wonderful future for those who have put their faith in Christ. Don’t let your Third, Jesus Christ is coming back again. He heart shudder. Don’t let it be filled with fear. said, “When everything is ready, I will come And if it is broken, then let Jesus touch it.

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HEALTH&FITNESS

What Is Macular Degeneration? By Kristine Thomason | Health

If you’ve been lucky enough to have problemfree vision your entire life, it can be easy to take healthy eyes for granted. However, as we age, our vision starts to change—whether that means suddenly needing reading glasses or becoming more sensitive to light and glare. And as you get older, your eyes also become more and more susceptible to a number of conditions, such as cataracts, diabetic eye disease, low vision, and glaucoma.

protein called “drusen” accumulate under the macula, and over time, the retina may progressively thin or atrophy. While wet AMD is when abnormal blood vessels start growing under the retina, which may leak blood or other fluids, scar the macula ,and cause vision loss. Dry is much more common than wet, and makes up about 80% of AMD cases, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

cially smoking and diet.

Another common age-related condition is macular degeneration, a disease that affects more than 10 million Americans, and, according to the National Eye Institute is the leading cause of vision loss among people over 50. Still, despite its prevalence, there’s still a lot of confusion about macular degeneration. To suss out the facts, we spoke with Yasha Modi, MD, Assistant Clinical Professor in Ophthalmology at NYU Langone New York City, to answer common questions and learn crucial info about the eye condition.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of dry macular degeneration tend to come on gradually, and can vary. They can include: visual distortions, reduced central vision in one or both eyes, the need for brighter light when reading, trouble adapting to low levels of light (like a dim restaurant), blurriness while trying to read, and difficulty recognizing faces.

Dr. Modi says studies have shown that diet can also play a role. He recommends eating a diet low in meats and animal fats, while getting plenty of veggies and dark leafy greens.

What exactly is macular degeneration?

Put simply, when you hear about macular degeneration, people are generally talking about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This refers to the breakdown of the central part of the retina, called the macula, which is responsible for the sharpest vision. “Even though these patients never end up completely blind, they end up with central blind spots which severely limit their vision and daily function as well,” says Dr. Modi. “They have to rely on their peripheral vision, which requires a re-education on how to open bottles, navigate through doorways, and a number of everyday things that we otherwise take for granted.” And people with more advanced AMD often lose the ability to read, drive, see details, and recognize faces and colors. It’s also important to note that macular degeneration includes a spectrum of diseases—generally classified as “early,” “intermediate,” and “late” AMD—that can progress over decades, says Dr. Modi. The earliest forms of AMD are often asymptomatic. However, over time, “patients may notice some distortion or central blurring of the vision, then as this progresses even further to scarring or atrophy of tissue, they end up with complete central blind spots.” There are also two subgroups of AMD: dry and wet. With dry AMD, clumps of lipid and

“We know that patients who smoke have a higher risk of not only progressing to later stages of macular degeneration, but also having significant vision loss from macular degeneration,” says Dr. Modi. That said, even if someone has smoked for a number of years, quitting immediately can reduce the risk of AMD.

Is it curable?

While there still isn’t a definitive cure for macular degeneration, Dr. Modi says there has been a lot of success treating patients with early stages of macular degeneration with “eye vitamins” or “AREDS” vitamins. In fact, the first trial of the Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that taking a combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, betacarotene, zinc, and copper reduced the risk of more advanced forms of AMD by 25%. And researchers tested a new formula that swapped lutein and zeaxanthin for betacarotene (AREDS2) with similar results. For cases of wet macular degeneration, when there is a growth of blood vessels that can quickly compromise the quality of vision, doctors will apply medication directly into the eyes, Dr. Modi explains. This treatment helps preserve existing vision and even recover some lost vision if started early enough.

Is there any way to prevent it?

Are there any risk factors?

While many causes of AMD aren’t preventable, Dr. Yasha points out it certainly doesn’t hurt to avoid smoking, focus on keeping your cholesterol at a healthy level, and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle—especially if you have a family history of macular degeneration.

Since most people are diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, the biggest risk factor “It’s also important for patients to get appropriis being over 50, says Dr. Modi. ate clinical screenings, especially after the age of 50,” he says. In this case, that means an annuThere’s also some evidence that genetics play al eye checkup, in which the pupils are dilated a role. “We know that the majority of patients and the retina is thoroughly examined. This type with macular degeneration derive from Euro- of screening is not only important for detecting pean ancestry,” he says. “And there are more early stages of macular degeneration, he says, very convincing signals that this is a genetical- but also other eye conditions like glaucoma, ly-inherited condition.” That said, there’s still that are often symptomless until they’ve beno conclusive scientific evidence that AMD is come more serious. That way, you can catch the linked to genetics. While age and genetics are condition in the early stages, potentially keep it two things you have no control over, doctors from progressing, and even reverse the effects have found other risk factors for AMD, espe- through treatment.

30 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

7 Signs Your Diet Needs a Change in 2021

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

By Susie Burrell | Body +Soul

following. You may be consuming too few or too many calories, or your carbohydrate into may be too low, or too high but the best way to determine the right calorie and carbohydrate mix for you will be to consult with an accredited practising dietitian who will help you to develop your own A new year, for better or for worse, is synony- personalised nutrition program. mous with diets and health overhauls, a time for us to start over, drop the extra Christmas You are gradually gaining weight pounds and make the dietary changes we have The human body loves stability, which explains why some diets may work effectively initially been meaning to all year. before losing their potency as the body readjusts And while there are always plenty of different to the new calorie load to ultimately keep your diets doing the rounds, ultimately the key to weight stable. This also means that if the diet you achieving weight control long term is to make are following is leading to slow, but incremental dietary changes that are sustainable and to fol- weight gain, it is time to readjust things to get low a diet in which you actually like what you your metabolism pumping again. are eating. So if you have been feeling a little lacklustre, especially in the food space, here are You are eliminating whole food groups some of the signs that your diet could do with a - While there are many people who need to eliminate specific foods for a range of reasons, there makeover as we move into 2021. are also plenty of people who eliminate carbs, You are not enjoying what you are gluten, lactose, dairy and grains when they may eating - If the thought of eating another tuna not need to. salad for lunch, or a protein and veg rich dinner makes you want to instantly order in, it is Over time, eliminating entire groups of food a sign that the meals you default to each week can impact your overall nutritional status, causneed mixing up. One of the many reasons that ing nutrient deficiencies, changes in gut health people seek out new and exciting diets is that and impacting energy levels. So if you eliminate they too get excited by new and exciting meals foods but do not know the exact reason why, it is time to take a closer look at your diet with a and food options. dietitian or food allergy expert to make sure your The good news is that you do not need to in- elimination is not doing more harm than good. vest in a brand new diet to give yourself this rush, rather an hour or two spent with a couple Your tummy is giving you issues of recipe books or websites will help you to When we internalise stress, have been exposed identify some new, healthy staple meals to give to a gut bug or are not absorbing nutrients in the your diet a healthy refresh so you actually look digestive tract, our tummies will let us know very quickly. For this reason, any significant change forward to mealtimes again. in gut function or bowel habits should never be You are feeling tired - Diets that are rela- ignored and if you are experiencing unexplained tively low in carbohydrates, with limited inclu- bloating, gas, diarrhea or general gut discomfort sion of grains, starchy veggies, bread and even it is time to visit your doctor ASAP for a thorfruit may initially support fat loss, but over ough assessment and to help determine if there time, metabolic rate can be reduced to compen- are any dietary changes you also need to make. sate for the lack of readily available fuel. This may explain why you felt great on a lower- You keep getting sick - In recent years we carb diet initially, only to notice feeling more have learnt that our gut health, and as such our fatigued over time. So, if a general feeling of dietary intake plays a significant role in immune fatigue plagues you, it may be time to assess function. For this reason, if you feel that you are that your diet is adequate in carbohydrates for eating well, yet constantly prone to illness and the amount of activity you are doing as well as infection, it may be time for a diet check in to deother key nutrients involved in energy produc- termine if there are any changes that will help to tion including iron, zinc, Vitamin B and the es- support gut health, optimise nutrient intake and ultimately support immune function. sential fats. For many of us, after an especially challenging 2020, we cannot wait for a bright and shiny 2021 to begin. But if your diet is feeling samesamey, dietitian Susie Burrell has some tips to re-energise it.

You are not losing weight - It is safe to

say that if your goal is weight loss, and you are not achieving a weight loss of at least Â˝ - 1 lb.a month, it is time to review the diet you are

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Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | HEALTH | 31

January is National Blood Donor Month 21 Health

By National Today

According to the American Red Cross, winter is “one of the most difficult times of year to collect enough blood products to meet patient needs.” That’s because of, among other things, busy holiday schedules and bad weather often resulting in canceled blood drives. Furthermore, seasonal illnesses such as the flu force potential donors to forgo their blood donations. That’s just one of the reasons that National Blood Donor Month, which has taken place each January since 1970, is such an important observance. Donating blood saves many lives and improves health for many people. According to the World Health Organization, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components — red cells, platelets and plasma.” HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH Not just in honor of National Blood Donor Month, but in the simple spirit of providing the stuff of life to those who need it most. Donate now. Donate again in eight weeks. Repeat. National Blood Donor Month can inspire people to donate. And those donations can in turn inspire others to donate, creating an exponential increase in blood donations when and where they’re needed the most. Learn and remember your blood type What’s your blood type? Some examples: O positive donors are needed more often than other blood types. O negative donors are considered “universal donors.” AB positive donors are “universal recipients.” 5 AMAZING FACTS ABOUT BLOOD DONATIONS Not enough blood for all of us According to the American Red Cross, about 38 percent of the U.S. population can donate blood — but only 10 percent actually do. Fill ‘er up with regular — donations Brookhaven National Laboratory says that people who begin donating blood at age 17 and donate every eight weeks will have donated 48 gallons of blood by age 76.

Donate blood and get medical info When we donate blood, labs examine the donation for multiple infectious diseases, such as HIV and West Nile virus. Dogs can donate, too! Your dog can donate blood, too. Check with your veterinarian and the Humane Society to make sure you know the local rules and regulations for this type of donation.

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About Donating

Our goal at Hendrick Regional Blood Center is to ensure your comfort and safety during the donation process. Most people feel fine after giving blood. A unit of blood is less than a pint, and the average adult body contains 10 – 12 pints of blood. Your body makes new blood constantly, and the fluid you give will be replaced within hours.

Age to Donate:

At least 17 years of age (age 16 may donate with written parental consent). There is no upper age limit.

What to Bring:

A photo ID issued by the state, school or U.S. government

The multiplier effect is huge Every time we donate one pint of blood, the potential is there to save three lives. WHY NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH IS IMPORTANT Donating blood save lives Someone needs blood every few seconds in the United States. And more than 4.5 million Americans would die every year without lifesaving blood transfusions. National Blood Donor Month helps us remember these vital statistics. It’s the gift that keeps on giving The American Red Cross needs 13,000 blood donations every single day to maintain an appropriate blood supply. Fortunately, eligible blood donors can donate blood every eight weeks. It’s good for donors, too The American Journal of Epidemiology reports that blood donors are 88 percent less likely to have a heart attack.

Foods and Fluids:

- Eat a low-fat, high protein meal within 2 – 4 hours before your donation. - Drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages, such as water or juice to help your body replenish lost fluids. - Avoid alcohol before and after giving. - Do not fast.

Exercise:

Strenuous activity should be avoided for 12 hours after giving. If you have a hazardous or strenuous job, you should give at the end of your work shift.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO STOP SMOKING IN ONE DAY. START WITH DAY ONE. Quitting smoking isn’t easy. It takes time. And a plan. You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one. Let the Great American Smokeout® event on November 19 be your day to start your journey toward a smoke-free life. The American Cancer Society can help you access the resources and support you need to quit. Quitting starts here.

Learn more at cancer.org/smokeout or call 1-800-227-2345.

Tips for 2021 By ShareCare

Improving your health and well-being doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, great accomplishments are the sum of small steps! Start the new year off on the right foot by trying some or all of these ideas. •Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. •Schedule a preventive care exam such as an annual physical or well-woman exam. •Each day, eat one more serving of a fruit or vegetable than you normally would. •Add 10 minutes of exercise to your day. •Avoid slouching! Keep your back straight, shoulders back and head up. •Prepare one healthy vegetarian recipe for dinner every week. •Find an activity or hobby that helps boost your mood. •Spend at least 10 minutes on stress-relieving activity. •Aim to go to bed at a time that allows you to sleep for 8 hours five days per week. •Try a new exercise. •Mind your manners by saying “please” and “thank you.” •Use a fitness device, app or pedometer to see to track your activity. •At each meal fill half your plate with fruits and veggies, a quarter whole grains and a quarter protein. •Include three days of resistance or strength-building exercises each week. •Write down three things you are grateful for every day. •Try a new whole grain like quinoa, bulgur, amaranth, millet, sorghum, teff or buckwheat. •Get out into nature at least one day per week. •Designate three evenings each week to be screen-free time. •Every time you put yourself down, compliment yourself twice immediately after. •Do some jumping jacks before starting your favorite TV show. •Drink a glass of water before you eat a meal.

32 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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5 Must-Know Facts About Colonoscopies By Michael Roizen, MD, and Mehmet Oz, MD

If you’re over age 50 and haven’t had a co- ing it removed during your colonoscopy is the lon cancer check, you’re not alone. A whop- best thing that can happen to you. ping 23 million Americans have never had a proper test for this killer, a sobering new report Fear#4: Colon cancer runs in my reveals. This is one club you don’t want to be family. I’m afraid I’ll find out I a member of. Here’s how to get out—and save have it, too. Fact: If a close relative (mom, your life. dad, sister, brother, or child) had colon cancer, that boosts your risk by 35 to 70 precent. Your Colorectal cancer claims 50,000 lives annu- doc should advise you to start having colon ally. But 60 percent of these deaths could be checks at age 40. If any close relative were diprevented if tiny growths on the lining of the agnosed before age 44, then you should begin intestines, called polyps, were spotted and re- getting colonoscopies five years before the age moved during a colonoscopy. Most polyps are he or she was diagnosed. Also, ask about haveither non- or precancerous or in early stages ing those earlier checks if more distant relaof gastrointestinal cancer. tives (aunt, uncle, cousin or grandparent) were affected. One new report says waiting until Colonoscopy, the gold-standard gut-check, is age 50 could miss 10 precent of early cancers recommended when in this population. you hit age 45 or 50 If you have colon (or perhaps younger cancer, you want to if this cancer runs in know now, not later your family) and every when it’s harder to 10 years after that if successfully treat. no problems are seen. But a third of you have Fear#5: I never had any kind of can’t afford it. colon cancer screenFact:About one in ing. And we sympafour people who thize—they’re intruskip colon checks sive and scary (both of have no insurus had polyps removed ance. But thanks to at age 50 during a simple colonoscopy)—but changes in federal health laws, more insurance battling advanced colon cancer is a whole lot policies will cover the costs (with no co-pay, more frightening. So, here’s how to get past thanks to the Affordable Care Act) in 2014. In common fears that may be keeping you from addition, the federal Colorectal Cancer Congetting a life-saving colon check. trol Program could help pay for yours. Learn more at www.cdc.gov/cancer/crccp. Fear #1: It’ll hurt. Fact: Most, if not all, colonoscopies are done under mild sedation If you can’t handle the procedure, you do have using the drugs fentanyl and/or midazolam. options even if they aren’t the gold standard. You’ll feel nothing as go into in a light sleep. Your best option is a high-tech, at-home test. Your privacy, modesty and dignity get plenty The latest at-home colon-cancer check, the of respect, too. fecal immunochemical test (FIT), sleuths for blood hidden in stool—a warning sign for polFear#2: “Bowel prep” is a pain in yps. Just take a sample from two bowel movethe… Fact:Your doc needs to see every inch ments and get them to your doc or lab pronto. of your colon, without an obstructed view. At There is no prep, it’s cheap (about $22 per test) best, incomplete prep boosts your odds for a and nearly as accurate as a colonoscopy—but do-do-over; at worst, it ups the risk for unde- you need to do it every year. If blood is found, tected polyps and missed cancers. Sure, the then you’ll need a colonoscopy or sigmoidosprep may keep you home for a while, but try copy (a scan of the large intestine). to schedule your colonoscopy for a Monday morning; then you can spend Sunday around the house.

Fear#3: I’m scared they’ll find something. Fact:Colon polyps are super-

common—30 to 50 precent of adults have at least one; less than 10 precent are precancerous. If you’ve got a polyp, finding it and hav-

Pick us up at La Familia Mex Rest, China Star, Drug Emporium & Burke Law Firm | HEALTH | 33

Improve your Fitness and Improve your Health! By Tim Martin, MD | Total Wellness Spa

I’m not sure I have ever met a patient who was not interested in improving their health. I have cared for some curmudgeons who grumbled at most of my suggestions, but they got their bloodwork done and took their medicines. Safe to say everyone wants to have better health, or maintain the health they have. Today I want to share with you one of the foundations of improving and maintaining your health. Today, I will walk you through how and why to improve your fitness. What are your top two or three health goals? Imagine for a minute that you have achieved them! Is your belly flatter or your waist thinner? Have you been able to stop a medication? Are you sleeping better or have you relieved a stubborn ache or pain? All of these excellent goals are helped or made better by improving your fitness. I’m not necessarily talking about being in peak form or achieving a new personal best, although these are worthy of your effort if that is what you choose. At the simplest level, I’m talking about understanding what you can do, what you want to do, and taking the steps and making the time and effort to get there.

people are not able to walk for very long, and I will give you some options in a bit, however, for the majority of people, walking is the best way to exercise. It is available almost everywhere, for free; with almost any type of walking, hiking or cross training footwear. Simply walking 20-30 minutes 5 days a week or more, a person can stay in excellent physical condition. How can I improve my fitness if I can’t walk or stand very long? Any type of movement that is done regularly for 20-30 minutes will improve your health. Yoga is an example of an exercise anyone can do, and learn to do better, in order to improve their fitness. Other examples are riding a bicycle or stationary bike, pilates, resistance band exercises and chair exercises. Also, most fitness trainers are skilled at adapting exercises and workouts, so if you need more ideas, I suggest meeting with a trainer once a month or so.

One of the best tools for improving your health, your mental wellbeing and your overall fitness is regular exercise. I suggest you start with walking, and make it fun! Use a smartphone and ear buds and walk to your favorite jams, or an interesting podcast or audio First, why is fitness so important to our health? book. Get a jump on your New Year’s resoluRegular physical activity keeps muscles bones tions and get started right now! and joints in their best condition possible. Physical activity is also critical for good heart and lung health. It has also been shown to improve mental wellness and to prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s disease. What exercise is the biggest bang for the buck? The overwhelming evidence from medical science shows that walking is by far the best exercise a person can do. I know many

BUSINESS&CAREER Abilene Industrial Foundation:

Focused, Determined and Staffed By Doug Peters | President & CEO of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce

The Abilene Industrial Foundation (AIF), the Chamber’s private sector arm of the public/ private economic development partnership, jobs that broaden our tax base and create wealth has come a long way over the last five years. among our citizens. The AIF has stood for more than six decades as the private sector’s contribution to Abilene’s By way of contract, the AIF has responsibility economic development effort, bringing both for servicing those businesses who have already private resources, private sector time, leader- invested here, our existing employers. Mainship and expertise in support of our area’s ef- taining communication with those companies fort to attract, retain and grow jobs and capital and helping them to grow has long been in the Chamber’s wheelhouse. In addition to business investment. retention & expansion (BRE), the AIF also has A contracted, independent partner to the De- the role of working with allied partners to help velopment Corporation of Abilene (DCOA), attract and retain a world class workforce. both organizations – together known as “DevelopAbilene,” underwent a thoughtful yet Looking back to the TIP Strategy, which has dramatic evolution in recent months. The been central to the Chamber and AIF focus product of that evolution has positioned our since its adoption, the AIF has also taken on community to maximize its economic devel- supportive roles in entrepreneurial developopment competitiveness and to align its efforts ment, or “economic gardening,” which helps to build the systems within our community to for both efficiency and impact. grow our own jobs. Abilene is positioned well In 2016, Abilene adopted a strategy, known with dynamic resources such as America’s to many as the “TIP Strategy,” that called for Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Abilene to approach economic development in our university partners and many who embody a way that positions Abilene and its residents the entrepreneurial spirit. for long-term growth and prosperity. This role allows our community to advance its But this plan was (is) different: it encourages focus in the area of small business development Abilene to pursue “a bottom-up approach that by linking our resource providers together, equips and supports existing and future busi- streamlining the process of starting and grownesses, students and entrepreneurs.” And ing an emerging enterprise, and growing jobs while progress has been made towards those and opportunity for Abilene from the insideinitial goals, the framework to guide our future out. effort has been solidified. In short, we are all And finally, you know of the Chamber’s passion systems go. for our beloved downtown. Back in 2017, unUnder the realignment, the DCOA has primary der the leadership of the Chamber’s Chair-elect responsibility for the functions that fall natu- Laura Moore (the Grace Museum) and Taylor rally within its wheelhouse – marketing of our Sturgis (Key Appraisal Group), the Chamber community for business attraction and the uti- helped to bring the community together to cast lization of its resources, both financial and real a vision for the future of our central business estate, to leverage the capital investment and district. There was no magic there, only deter-

mination. And that determination was fueled, if you recall, as a means to attract and retain the workforce necessary to help grow our economy. The magic came from those who’ve risked so much to contribute to the vision that was cast by the community (side note: please get out and support them as today’s challenges are immense). And then there’s the driver of two important areas of influence in any community. Quality of life and sales tax. What helps to drive them? Retailers, among others. The AIF, through realignment, now serves as the primary point for retailers interested in the Abilene market. Quality retail adds to the quality of any community. It’s never been more important to support and grow our retailers than it is today. So who does all of this? Great question – I’m glad you asked. The AIF has, in the past, been staffed by 4.3 people. AIF staff, through the realignment, have been reduced to 3.3 led by Dr. Helen Usera (“Usarah”) who will serve as Director, Business Retention & Expansion (BRE). Helen comes to us from Rapid City, South Dakota and is no stranger to Abilene. She’s been engaged as a Civic Leader with Global Strike Command, which oversees the B-1 bomber platform at both Ellsworth and Dyess Air Force Bases and has long-been deeply involved in Chamber and economic development work over the course of her career. Helen has a doctorate in education, and will work alongside AIF veteran Marissa Thompson, who has primary responsibility for Workforce and Talent Development.

his areas of responsibility. Brent serves as Director of Emerging Business for the AIF, and works closely with all our partners both public and private to ensure that Abilene remains a top choice for small business formation and growth, downtown revitalization and retail recruitment. Brent has hit the ground running and has already proved himself a valuable asset. We look forward to his long-term contributions. Both Helen and Brent have completed their primary trainings and will continue to learn as they meet and listen to those of you in our community whose efforts they will support. I hope you’ll find a way to introduce yourself to them. After all, they work for you. It’s exciting to be a part of Abilene’s economic development effort, and the AIF is grateful to its all-volunteer board which includes more than 60 area business, education and community leaders. That board, led by Chairman Gary Grubbs (Lawrence Hall Abilene/ABI Advantage Media), is committed to fulfilling its role in the public/private partnership that defines our community. In the end, economic development isn’t solely the role of the AIF, the DCOA, the City of Abilene or the Chamber. Each of us, as citizens, plays a role. Similarly, we look forward to continuing to support the important work of the DCOA, a role the AIF has had since the DCOA’s inception more than 30 years ago. Together, alongside our partners and through the support of our elected officials, the AIF and DCOA as autonomous peer organizations are committed to ensuring that our City and this region thrive for decades to come.

For more information about the AIF, please Joining Helen is Brent Schroeder (SHRO-der), check out www.abilenebusiness.com. who is a graduate of ACU and well-versed in

36 | BUSINESS & CAREER | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Tigé Boats, Peter Bosma is Helping Protect His Coworkers and His Community By Laurin Kocurek | Director of Communications, Abilene Chamber of Commerce Then COVID-19 caused an economic shutdown in Texas, Peter Bosma’s job changed. Suddenly, he and his team weren’t making boats — they were making people safer. “Charlie Pigeon, the owner of the company, called everybody into his office and said, ‘We’ve got all this downtime, we’ve got employees who have the skills and talent and desire to come to work every day, what can we be doing to help our community?’” said Peter, a quality control engineer for Tigé Boats. “So right away, we got on the phones and started checking on what it would take to produce PPE (personal protective equipment).” In the end, the Abilene powerboat manufacturer produced thousands of protective masks and plastic face shields donated to health care providers and first responders. The company’s upholstery and lamination departments converted operations to work with new materials and Peter learned to cut plastic with a razor blade. “It really tested everybody’s ability to adapt quickly,” he explained. “But we all got together and said ‘Hey, if we all pitch in, we can really do something cool.’ We wanted to help and everybody was excited about it.” Today, the company is back to making boats and Peter is back to his normal tasks, which include troubleshooting, preparing CAD (computer-aided design) drawings and finding ways to streamline the manufacturing process. But no matter what he’s doing, his commitment to protecting himself and his coworkers remains strong. I’m a big wakeboarder, so anytime I can go out on a boat and try out a new product with some

of the engineering guys, that’s my favorite thing,” he said. “And I know if I want to keep wakeboarding, traveling and going camping and hiking, I need to make sure I stay healthy. So working safe is definitely important to me.” It’s also important to his employer. As a Texas Mutual Insurance Company policyholder, Tigé Boats understands that accident prevention can lower costs, improve productivity and keep good people on the job. It’s why they’ve implemented COVID-19 protocols, require safety glasses and protective equipment, and have mandatory safety training for everything from proper tool use to forklift operation. “Safety is a core thing,” Peter said. “We need to keep everybody safe and keep our business running.” At Texas Mutual, we’re proud to be on the job with Peter and 1.5 million other hardworking Texans every day. With our safety programs and training tools, we’re changing the way workers’ comp works for you. To learn more about our commitment to safety, take a look at our free safety resources or learn more about the benefits of choosing a safety-focused workers’ comp provider.

Pick us up at Wal-Mart, Enterprise Bldg. & Armando’s Mexican Restaurant | BUSINESS & CAREER | 37

Name: Capt Suveer Shekhawat Where do you work? 40th Airlift Squadron Dyess Air Force Base What’s your job title/what do you do? C-130J Pilot Where are you from? Morgantown, West Virginia If you’re not from Abilene, how long have you lived in the area and what brought you here? I moved to Abilene three years ago in 2017. This is my first flying assignment in the Air Force. What is your favorite thing about living in the Big Country? The people and the community of Abilene. The People here are so friendly and feel like family after just three years. The community is very accepting and supportive of the military, it felt like home immediately. What do you do in your free time? My wife, Allison and I love spending our free time with our friends and playing with our pup! What’s your favorite restaurant in Abilene? The Abilene Country Club! My wife and I are there constantly, but cannot pick a favorite dish because everything is great. What does being an Abilene Young Professional mean to you? Having the opportunity to interact with young professionals in their respected fields and businesses. Share a fun fact about yourself other AYP Members might not know! The most embarrassing fact about myself was that I was the Mascot at the Air Force Academy. It started off as a joke when I tried out and accidentally made it, and ended up loving it. I had the opportunity to mascot football and hockey games. I once had lunch and met Prince Harry (I got in trouble for swatting the football from his hands when they tried to teach him football).

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38 | BUSINESS & CAREER | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

3 Ways to Bounce Back from Stress and Being Overwhelmed By Kelly Wing | Entrepreneur

Do you ever feel like some days as a leader you are in complete flow, where business is easy and enjoyable? Yet other days it feels like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders, feeling as though you are drowning in tasks that you don’t yet have a solution for?

Tune into your bodily signals - When

we are conscious, mindful, and in tune with what our body is trying to tell us, we can transmute the feeling of stress and overwhelm almost immediately.

As business owners, we have a tendency to opNot only might you find myself drowning in erate so much from our minds or heads, rather tasks, but your inbox is also overloaded with than our hearts and souls. people vying for your attention or wanting your support in one way or another. If we ignore what our body is telling us, we store emotions in our bodies which can lead to I’m the type of person who likes to respond to illness if we aren’t paying attention to what is things immediately. Whether it’s a message or happening on an inner-body level. According email, I prefer not to have unread messages in to WebMD, stress can worsen or increase the my inbox, otherwise, I get an uneasy sense that risk of conditions like obesity, heart disease, I’m not on top of things. Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, depression, gastrointestinal problems, and asthma. According to The American Institute of Stress, in 2019, 94% of American workers report ex- Do nothing - While it’s important to relax periencing stress at their workplace. Around by spending time with your family or friends, 23% of them described their stress levels as sometimes what your body often needs is a pehigh, while 6% said their levels of stress were riod where you are doing absolutely nothing. unreasonably high. Sitting on the couch, staring at the ceiling. LayHere are 3 ways to bounce back from stress and ing flat on your bed with your eyes closed. Or overwhelm in business and leadership. on your balcony or porch staring into the blue skies or starry skies.

Set boundaries with others — immediately - As soon as you feel there is any When our minds are not occupied with any-

tension inside your body resulting from any thing, this can be a form of meditation in itself “need” to do anything, observe and understand without feeling like it is meditation — which where it is stemming from and put a boundary some people can find a chore. in place immediately. It is often in the silence, where the most creFor example, because I’m the type of person ative ideas are able to flow through. Something that likes to respond to messages or emails im- can easily click in a way that brings you greater mediately, I had to ask myself “out of all the levels of clarity. messages that come in, which messages are actually worth replying to, right now?” Our never-ending to-do lists and messages to respond to can either push us into over-drive I have learned to let go of the need to respond leading us to burn-out, or it can bring us to a to everyone immediately and have allowed un- standstill completely as we would rather avoid important messages sit there unread for as long the overwhelm, stopping us right in our tracks. as I need to. Either end of the spectrum is an unhealthy and When you are a business owner or leader, it’s unsustaintable way to run a business, and can important to protect your energy and boundar- deeply impact the relationships around us and ies so others don’t leave you feeling any more our quality of life. drained or stressed than necessary. Having people taking up space in your field (online or offline), can be challenging especially when we feel the need to reciprocate that energy when we have more important tasks to direct our energy towards.

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Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Zookini’s | BUSINESS & CAREER | 39

Abilene Industrial Foundation RAM Inc. Named Small Employer of the Year and Launches New Website By Doug Peters | President of the Abilene Industrial Foundation

After many months of hard work from our team, the Chamber’s Abilene Industrial Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of their new website abilenebusiness. com. “Abilene is a one-of-a-kind place in West Texas that is thriving with opportunity,” said Gary Grubbs of Lawrence Hall - Abilene and Chair of the Abilene Industrial Foundation. “This website allows us to showcase our pro-business environment for entrepreneurs, provide resources to existing businesses, and share the storied history of Abilene’s Public Private Partnership.” With the primary goal in mind to create a valuable experience for the user, the website serves as a lunching pad to resources for existing business, entrepreneurs, workforce information, downtown development and more. “Our primary goal at the AIF is to cultivate Abilene’s economic ecosystem by providing businesses links to our partners who can help them along their business journey,” said Doug Peters, President and CEO of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce and President of the Abilene Industrial Foundation. “We’re proud to have a reorganized platform where we can further support the efforts of our community.”

Visit abilenebusiness.com to learn more.

About the Abilene Industrial Foundation: An affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, the AIF is a public private partnership between the Development Corporation of Abilene and the Abilene business community. The AIF works to cultivate Abilene’s economic ecosystem through entrepreneurial services, business retention and expansion and downtown development. The AIF also serves as a liaison between education and business to help shape the future of our Abilene workforce.

Local Employer of Excellence By Alyssa Goodgame | Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board Research Advanced Methods Incorporated (RAM Inc.) was named Small Employer of the Year at the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) 24th Annual Texas Workforce Employer Awards held virtually this year on December 9th. RAM Inc. was nominated by Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas and chosen as the Small Employer of the Year from among three exemplary finalists, out of 21 small employers nominated. RAM is also the West Central Texas Local Employer of Excellence. RAM Inc., a 30-year-old, woman-owned company founded on innovation and excellent customer service, is a sole source manufacturer of critical defense articles and precision components used in energy, healthcare and aerospace industries worldwide. Due to RAM’s leadership, the company’s workforce grew in 2020 by 35% from 46 to 63 employees, creating a $14 million economic impact locally in Cisco. RAM has a strong investment in leadership training of their current workforce and a strong focus on leadership and technical training for

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the emerging workforce. Over the past year, RAM Inc. devoted 150+ hours to presentations encouraging over 400 students in k-12 to pursue STEM careers. RAM invests over $25,000 annually in training and tuition assistance for employees, their families and students at the community college. Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas will honor RAM Inc. during an awards presentation on Wednesday, December 16th at Noon. Media representatives are invited to attend. RAM Inc. CEO Richard Williams will be available for comment prior to the Board Meeting presentation. WHO: Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas WHAT: Awards Presentation for RAM Inc. Small Employer of the Year WHEN: Wednesday, December 16, 2020 12:00 p.m. – Board Meeting WHERE: Enterprise Building 500 Chestnut Street, Suite 1200 (Lonestar Room) Abilene, TX 79602

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