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June 2015

Volume 6, Issue 2

Office Park West 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Abilene, Texas 79605 (325) 701-9505 www.HispanicLifeMedia.com [currently under construction]

PUBLISHER David A. Hernandez EDITOR HispanicLife Magazine editorial@hispaniclifemedia.com ADVISING EDITOR AND ACCEPTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Amy Hernández info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 701-9505 Office

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Carlos Peña / cpena@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 701-9505 Office

ADVERTISING SALES Melissa Sharlett (325) 201-6303 melissa@hispaniclifemedia.com

David Hernandez (325) 518-7091 sales@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.

2015 HispanicLIfe Media All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without permission from the publisher. www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine

This is the time of new beginnings……June is the first month of our 6th year in publication and we want to thank each and every one of you for being a part of the success of HispanicLife Magazine. Without you, our valued readers and advertisers, we wouldn’t exist. Thank you for your faithful support over the last 5 years.

June also begins summertime fun and vacations. A time we look forward to and work towards all year long. We pray that this year is an especially blessed one for you making fond memories with friends and family.

Make sure you are a part of our facebook page. We will be giving away tons of tickets to various waterparks and themeparks! It’s our simple way of saying thank you and for being a part of ‘our family’.

May you all have joy in your hearts, and be intentional about spending time with loved ones. But we encourage you to take time for the Lord first and foremost. Church attendance declines drastically this time of year, and your church body needs you there to worship.

And lastly, in all things, be safe! If you’re going to party drink responsibly, use safety precautions in and around the water, and use sunscreen. You must take care of YOU. We have some awesome stories to share with you this month: • Mi Ranchito Tortilla & Burrito Factory, pg 5 • Barrio del Sancudo Reunion, pg 8 • Early Headstart/Headstart, pg 17 • Q & A: Summer Feeding Program - AISD, pg 18 • Q & A with Carlos & Kirsten Peña, pg 25 • The Involved Father, pg 35 • Transform Yourself - Becky Spargo, pg 39 • DJ’s 5 Star Auto, pg 47 • Car Give-A-Way - Abilene Used Car Sales, pg 55 Have a great month and as always….First God, then Family and finally Friends….

Respectfully, David & Amy Hernández & the girls & all the staff here at HispanicLife

Happy 5th Birthday to HispanicLife Magazine!

Thank you Abilene & the Big Country for five great years!

4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Pick us up at First Financial Bank inside both WalMart’s | COMMUNITY | 5

CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505

Family Traditions, Recipes and Business

209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

Q & A with Virginia Berumen of Mi Ranchito Burrito & Tortilla Factory HispanicLife Magazine

1) Please tell us about yourself and your family.

My name is Virginia Berumen. I’m from a small town called Panuco De Coronado in Durango, Mexico. I am married and have 3 children. I am the youngest of 5 children and am the only girl. My parents, Salvador Y Maria Isabel Aguilar continued the legacy that my grandparents started with the business of making fresh corn and flour tortillas and the meat market. Being around fresh tortillas and fresh meat since the day I was born, and knowing that this business would be in my life, I learned to love and continue the family’s legacy.

2) Tell us about the business.

Mi Ranchito Burrito and Tortilla Factory is located at 102 Ambler Avenue in Abilene, Texas. We offer the public authentic Mexican food, corn and flour tortillas free of preservatives made daily with that homemade taste we all love to have when we taste our country’s delicious food.

3) Why did you decide to go into business? Tell us about your recipes, where did they originate from?

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Oscar Avila, a successful entrepreneur here in Abilene, and told him my story and ideas of opening a tortilla factory here in Abilene. He was excited about my proposition and decided to help me open Mi Ranchito, the first tortilla factory that we are aware of in Abilene.

All of my recipes come from my family, especially both of my grandmothers names Juanita; they taught me how to cook all the delicious foods cooked and served daily at Mi Ranchito.

The moment you arrived through our doors, you are greeted with a smile and the delightful smell of our food displayed in the front of our store. Then you are assisted with your order and guided to the place of seating where you would like to enjoy your meal.

ily all the time and to treat the client the way your particular business?

I always wanted to be treated.

5) What drives you personally and keeps you motivated on a daily basis? The only difference I can point out is the fresh The desire to make the business grown along with my family, getting people to know the real taste of authentic Mexican food, the beauty of our culture and the many achievements a person can attain if they put their heart and soul into it like we have. And the enjoyment of serving our customers and making new friends.

flavors of the food made here, as well as our corn and flour tortillas. We focus on this because it is really important for us to like the product that we make and the experience the client gets when they come in.

8) As a business partner, what would you say is the most satisfying part of your business?

Being able to make a living of what I love to do, and sharing the amazing flavors of the 7) What is the best piece of advice authentic Mexican food with the public that you have ever been given in regards to visits the business.

business?

4) What type of experience should 6) What would you say sets you apart The best advice I ever got was from my father. one expect, when visiting or contact- from other businesses, and why are He told me to never be afraid to do what I Continued on page 7....... those things so important or valued in loved; to cook like I was cooking for my faming your business?

6 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

A-Teens All Access Pass to Awesomeness Summer Camp

By Whitney Herrington | A-Teens Program Director | Alliance for Women and Children The Alliance for Women and Children summer camp provides teen girls a safe, age appropriate environment to learn, grow and develop character. There is a balance of time to just “hang out” as well as participate in structured activities and field trips.

During the summer participants will learn a variety of life skills including hygiene, health, skin care, personal finance, internet and social media safety, cultural cooking, art, and even become babysitter certified. Along with learning these important life skills, A-Teens will participate in various recreational activities such as swimming, bowling, skating, Zumba, and more. There will also be a number of fun and educational field trips throughout the summer.

All incoming 6th through 9th grade girls can join us starting June 8 through August 14 from 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. The cost of attending is $25 per week or $225 for the entire summer. If you have any questions regarding the A-Teens Summer Camp, call Whitney Herrington at 325-677-5321 or email whitney@afwconline.org.

About Alliance for Women and Children In addition to the A-Teens Program, the Alliance for Women & Children also provides a nurturing and safe environment for school-aged children at After School Care. For more information about this program, visit www.allianceforwomenandchildren.org.

For more information on the A-Teens Program at the Alliance for Women and Children, please call Whitney Herrington at 325-677-5321 or visit their website at allianceforwomenandchildren.org

• Sign up for Safety City’s Summer Safety Camp • It’s time to sign up for Safety City’s Summer Safety Camp. The camp, located at Safety City will begin Monday, July 27, and run through Thursday, July 30. The camp will be held in the morning, from 8:30 a.m. until noon.

Summer Safety Camp will offer activities and lessons about various safety topics in a hands-on learning environment. Each day will feature a special guest and topics such as water, bicycle and bus safety, sports and fitness safety, fire safety and making good choices.

Registration is taking place now through Friday, July 17. The camp is open to students entering the 2nd through 4th grade in the coming school year. Cost is $50 per person which includes a T-shirt if registered by the July 17 deadline.

Space is limited so register soon. To download a registration form, visit www.safetycityabilene.net/safetycamp. For more information call 325-676-6096 or e-mail safetycity@abilenetx.com.

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“Mi Ranchito Q & A” - continued from page 5

9) Please tell us in your opinion, the importance of multi-cultural marketing. Why is it so important in this day and age, and for that matter, in this particular market?

Multicultural marketing is really important these days especially when it comes to the Hispanic community. There are more of us here in the United States every day and we need to raise our voice and let the people know we are here. Let them know about our countries and the amazing culture we were raised in, and give them a taste of the delicious food we got to eat when we were little as a reminder that we might be away from home, but we will never forget where we came from.

10)What are your goals for the business? Growing? Expanding? Where do you see it in five years?

To keep serving the public our authentic Mexican food and to be known for the fresh flavors of it; to expand our clientele and be able to sell our fresh corn and flour tortillas in the Big Country. I see the business supplying different Mexican restaurants around the Big Country with our chips, tortillas and burrito sized tortillas.

11) What is the best way to make contact with your business, whether it is by your website, facebook or twitter address. Where are you located?

What are your hours of operation?

What is a best contact phone number?

Mi Ranchito Burrito and Tortilla Factory is located at 102 Ambler Avenue in Abilene, TX 79601. We are open 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Our phone number is 325670-9400 and for more information you can LIKE us on FaceBook “Mi Ranchito Burritos and Tortilla Factory”.

The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra “Instrument Petting Zoo”

The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra is bringing back its popular educational program the “instrument petting zoo.” Children can try out instruments from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 12-13 at The Hotel Wooten.

The entrance to the petting zoo will be located at 1102 N. 3rd St. There will be special performances at 11:30 a.m. both days by a woodwind chamber ensemble of the Philharmonic.

Children will have an opportunity to interact with the musicians and ask questions.

For more information: (325) 677-6710

8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Neighborhood Reunion for Remembering “Times were tough but those who lived in the Barrio del Sancudo still want to remember. ”

By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Susie Alvarez Lozano has great memories of visiting her grandparents, Ramon and Juanita Alvarez at their home on Bois D’Arc Street. “My grandmother was diabetic,” Susie says. “She had her leg amputated and had a heavy wooden leg. She had to do everything sitting down, making tortillas, cooking supper. One of my favorite things to do was put my foot in her leg and walk around in it.”

Remembering those who’ve gone before and the struggles they’ve overcome is the purpose of the annual Barrio del Sancudo Reunion. On June 12 and 13 families will gather at Reyes Flores Park for the eleventh reunion. About 200 people come from Dallas, Houston, Midland, Arizona, Laredo, San Antonio and California.

is bringing watermelons for all to enjoy and hosting a hayride. The basketball and volleyball courts will also be available for games.

“Except at nighttime the basketball court is only for dancing,” Melinda says.

“Back when I was younger,” says Melinda Stone, “everybody knew everybody. Everybody cared about everybody.”

Melinda is chairing the planning committee for the first time this year and Susie offered to help. Melinda had helped with planning and preparation for several years and took on the chairperson role when Esther Flores decided cookout, which will be hamburgers and hot to step down after ten years of successfully dogs this year. Everyone brings side dishes leading the group. and desserts. Many set up tents in the park.

The event kicks off with a blessing and prayer “Money leftover is used for the following from the Reverend Father Bhaskar Morugudi year,” Melinda says, “but we didn’t have with St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. much.” Funds came in from numerous donors Melinda is still an active member of St. Franwhen she started asking. cis and works with the Guadalupanas Society, visiting the sick and raising funds for the The planning committee provides food for the church.

Melinda’s roots are deep in the Barrio del Secundo neighborhood. Her mother’s parents raised thirteen children there. “I have four brothers all born there and one sister,” she says. “I’m the youngest. Two brothers have passed away. Our parents, Willie and Lucia Carrillo, were raised there too.

“St. Francis was our church,” Melinda says. Mom’s parents lived on Ash Street.”

“Everybody went there.”

Susie still owns the property where her grandEating and music go on all day. Willie Car- parents’ house once stood. “My grandmother rillo Jr., Melinda’s oldest brother, will be the planted a pecan tree and it’s still there,” she DJ for Friday night. Saturday the DJ will be says. “Dad said it survived a lot. That’s where Danny Ortiz and Fito Ortiz will provide the music for the Saturday night dance. Kids can enjoy a water slide and sno-cones. Joe Estrada

Meals On Wheels Plus, Inc.

Rose Shirmer (and her daughters: Nicole, Rachel & Lorelei) Rose and her oldest daughter Nicole started delivering pet food for Meals on Wheels in March 2010. Nicole needed volunteer hours for college scholarship applications, and they chose to deliver pet food because it would fit into both their schedules. Many times Rose would pick up the orders while Nicole was still in school, and then they would deliver the pet food in the evenings.

Now that Nicole has graduated from high school and is off to college, Rachel has started delivering! Eventually the youngest, Lorelei, will follow in her two older sisters footsteps and deliver for Meals on Wheels. Their family delivering pet food helps ease the load on the other volunteers that deliver meals.

Rose and her husband Rodney were stationed at Dyess AFB, which is what brought them to Abilene. When asked why she volunteers with Meals on Wheels, she said “I receive a lot of personal satisfaction… I am very blessed, and appreciate the opportunity to share my blessings with others.” In their free time the Shimer’s enjoy kayaking and camping.

Pick us up at Hernandez Bakery, Mr. Jiffy & Daniela’s Tex-Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 9

Continued from page 8....

we spent last Easter. It has great memories for me.”

Melinda also has fond memories of Houston School. “That place was full of people,” she says. “We had a big fiesta every year on that same basketball court. It was wonderful. It makes me very emotional. That’s what we want when we get together. It reminds us of our parents. A lot of us don’t have our parents anymore. That’s why we get together, to remember our loved ones.”

Barrio del Sancudo Reunion 2015 June 1th & 13th

Festivities begin on Friday evening and continue on Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. with an opening prayer and salute to veterans!

POTLUCK: Please bring your covered dish and desserts to share in our Feast of Friends and Family throughout the day! This year we will have hamburgers and hot dogs.

• Music and entertainment will be ongoing. Activities for young and old, including water slide.

• Remember to bring your pictures to share, as well as your camera to capture new memories.

• BYOC: Bring Your Own Chair/Coolers Remember first come/first served to reserve a place in the park.

Formore information, please contact: Melinda Carrillo-Stone: (325) 660-7587 Susie Alvarez-Lozano: (325) 668-5172

10 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

HispanicLife Media

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Paskell family named Dyess Military Family of the Year Abilene ISD is proud to announce that one of our own families is the recipient of a major hon-or in our community.

The Paskell family was presented the 2014 Military Family of the Year Award for Dyess Air Force Base’s 317th Airlift Group on May 2-3 at the Dyess Big Country Airfest.

Angela is the Science Content Specialist for the district and her husband, Mark, is a Staff Ser-geant.

The award is given annually by the Abilene Chamber of Commerce to recognize those military families who have contributed to the military and local community through volunteer ser-vice and community involvement.

The Paskells have been stationed at Dyess Air Force since August 2010.

Before becoming Science Content Specialist in 2013, Angela taught Physics at Abilene High.

Pick us up at Taqueria Riojas & Texas Workforce Center | COMMUNITY | 11

Cougar Band Marches In Disney Festival

By Abilene ISD

A total of 110 members of the Cooper High School Band traveled to Orlando, Fla. to march in the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade during spring break.

The CHS Band was one of three high school bands from North America in the parade.

Other bands participating in the parade were from Miami and Canada.

CHS was the largest band at the festival and was the final band featured in the parade. Many families The students were surprised by how many and friends of band members traveled sepa- people from the Abilene community came to rately to Orlando to support the students. support them. It was a very memorable moment and another When the band rounded the final turn in the reason to be Proud to be in AISD. pa-rade, a sea of red CHS Disney T-Shirts worn by all the supporters were lining both sides of the street.

12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Meet Mr. Robert Hanna Mosquito Prevention

Rose Park Pool is now open to the general public. The pool will be open from 1 to 6 p.m.

Tuesday through Sunday, through August 16. Those interested in renting the pool for private functions should contact the Community Services Department at 325-676-6217.

Debbie Staggs

Abilene’s new City Manager

Remember the 5 D’s

Mr. Robert Hanna was appointed Abilene’s City Manager on April 10, 2015 and starts his new role on May 18. Hanna has more than 15 years of local government experience. Before coming to Abilene, Hanna served as the City Manager of Denison, Texas. He was born and raised in Ft. Worth, Texas and received both his bachelor’s degree in Applied Arts and Sciences and his master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of North Texas. Before working in Denison, Hanna served as the assistant City Manager in Weatherford, Texas, the city administrator for the City of Hudson Oaks, Texas, and has held various positions with the City of Denton, Texas.

The recent rain is wonderful, but it can create a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can carry many harmful diseases, including West Nile Virus. The City has some tips on how you can protect yourself from mosquitoes, and prevent the development of mosquito larvae:

Hanna and his wife Cindy enjoy hiking traveling and spending time with friends and family. They are looking forward to this new chapter in their lives.

325-518-6612

“Hablo la idioma de casas”

Mr. Hanna can be reached directly at 325676-6201 or robert.hanna@abilenetx.com. ____________________________________

Animal Dumping

Help Prevent this Illegal Activity Animal Services is seeking the public’s help in preventing illegal animal dumping inside the City limits. There have been numerous cases of animal dumping over the past few weeks, including instances at Camp Barkeley Dog Park, outside the Animal Shelter, and in Abilene neighborhoods. This is considered Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals in Texas and is considered a Class A Misdemeanor.

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Citizen’s of Abilene can help combat the issue of animal dumping by working with Animal Services and the Abilene Police Department to identify those responsible. By writing down the make, model and license plate number of vehicles, as well as taking photos or videos of anyone caught dumping an animal, City of Abilene residents can help make sure those responsible are held accountable.

Please report dumped animals to Animal Services at 325-698-0085 or the Abilene Police Department at 325-673-8331.

• Stay indoors at Dusk and Dawn; when mosquitoes are most active.

• Dress in long sleeves/pants when outdoors.

• Defend yourself with an insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Drain all standing water in your yard or neighborhood. This includes flower pots, water dishes, bird baths and wading pools.

To help drain standing water and prevent the development of mosquitoes, you may call the City’s mosquito hotline at 325-437-4999. ____________________________________

City Basketball Leagues Register Now

Registration is now open for City of Abilene Recreation Division Men’s and Women’s Basketball Leagues. Games will be held Monday and Thursday nights. The cost is $300 per team. The women’s league will start games on June 16. The men’s league is scheduled to start June 18. The registration deadline is May 29. Teams can register at the Community Services Office, 633 Walnut St. For more information and a registration form visit www.abilenetx.com/recreation. ____________________________________

Late Night Basketball Mentoring Youth through Sports

The City of Abilene Recreation Division Late Night Basketball Program is now accepting registrants for the 2015 Youth Summer League. Games will be held at G.V. Daniels Recreation Center, beginning June 12 at 6 p.m. There program is for boys ages 13 to 19.

There is no cost for the program and uniforms are provided to all participants. If you have any questions about the Late Night Basketball Program contact Dylon Hernandez at 325437-4904, Bobby Brown at 325-676-6445, or visit www.abilenetx.com/reacreation.

CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Sign up for costume contest on festival home page Free entry and prizes for all winners

Get ready to strut your stuff on the red carpet for the 2015 Children’s Art & Literacy Festival costume contest! The judging starts at 4 p.m. in the Elks Arts Center, 1174 N. 1st St. Costumes must be based on a David Shannon book character. All contestants can walk in the Storybook Parade at 5:30 p.m. Register for free at: http://www.abilenecac.org/calf Prizes for 8 and younger: 1st Place receives four party level season tickets from the Children’s Performing Arts Series and a David Shannon Book; 2nd Place receives a family membership to The Grace Museum and a David Shannon book; 3rd Place receives a David Shannon book.

Prizes for 9-12: 1st Place receives two Best of Broadway in Abilene tickets and a David Shannon book; 2nd Place receives a general membership to the Abilene Zoo and a David Shannon book; 3rd place receives a David Shannon book.

Prizes for 13 and up: 1st Place receives a family membership and gift basket to Frontier Texas! and a David Shannon book; 2nd place receives six Paramount passes and a David Shannon book; 3rd Place and Honorable Mention each receive a David Shannon book.

Earn a Storybook Capital button by completing scavenger hunt Earn a bonus button by completing a scavenger hunt on your mobile phone! Starting at 5 p.m.

June 11, you can download the GooseChase app for Android or iPhones and sign up and select a user name. Join the game by searching for Storybook Sculpture Scavenger Hunt. Complete at least 10 missions to earn a Storybook Capital of Texas button. Missions are completed by submitting creative photos from within the app. Whoever earns the most points and completes the most missions receives 5 signed David Shannon books. The most creative photo submitted earns a Fergus plush toy.

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The 2015 Abilene Art Awards Are Presented to Outstanding Volunteers & Contributors to Local & Cultural Groups

Pick us up at Primetime Family Entertainment, Sears Rec Center & Kentucky Fried Chicken | COMMUNITY | 15

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By Sidney Levesque | Marketing Director | Abilene Cultural Affairs Council

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The 2015 Outstanding Individual in the Arts Award goes to Randy Piersall, a former ACAC board president and current board member whose commitment to the arts reflects his belief in the important role the arts play in the quality of life in Abilene and the economic boost the arts provide. Piersall is owner of Piersall Funeral Directors.

Rosie Esparza, Abilene Star Chorus David G. Dodge, Abilene Writers Guild Keith Garner, Abilene Zoo Brenda Overton, Celebration Singers Jill Teague, Children’s Performing Arts Series Mary Helen Rodriguez, Historic Paramount Theatre Melody Hunt, The Grace Museum Beverly Priddy, Mesquite Storytellers of Abilene Phyllis Baum, Young Audiences of Abilene Libby Rankin, Friends of the Abilene Public Library Ken Poynor, Memory Men Chorus of Abilene JoAnn Wilson, Center for Contemporary Arts Carol Wilson, Chorus Abilene Grace Boyd, Buffalo Gap Historic Village Janet Payne, Abilene Philharmonic Association Karen Camp, Abilene Preservation League

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The 2015 Abilene Art Awards will be pre- The recipient for the 2015 Outstanding Busisented June 26 to outstanding volunteers and ness Award goes to the Junior League of contributors to local arts and cultural groups. Abilene for its tremendous support of the arts in Abilene. The Junior League partners each The evening begins with a wine and cheese year with the ACAC on the Children’s Art & reception from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Center for Literacy Festival not only helping with grants, Contemporary Arts, 220 Cypress St. The but with volunteer hours in numerous capaci22 awards will be presented on the Historic ties. This year Junior League is helping with Paramount Theatre stage immediately prior the art activities at one of the six dramatic to the performance of “Les Miserables” at readings.

7:30 p.m.

The 2015 Abilene Art Awards recipients for The Abilene Art Awards are sponsored by each organization are: the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council. The program started in 1984. In addition to Leslie Andrews, Abilene Ballet Theatre the awards presented on behalf of the arts Joe Cook, Abilene Community Band groups, the ACAC also gives an overall indi- Judy Godfrey, Abilene Education Foundation vidual and business award.

Amanda Bourland, Abilene Performing Arts Company

16 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Pick us up at Communities of Abilene FCU, SBDC & Lytle Land & Cattle | EDUCATION | 17

Spotlight on Region 14 Education Center

Head Start / Early Head Start “50 Years of Headstart History”

By Angie Mendoza | Head Start Associate Director Center For Young Learners | Education Service Center - Region X1V Project Head Start was launched on May 18, 1965, with the goal of providing vulnerable preschool children and their families with comprehensive services to help them be ready for school.

Head Start promotes the school readiness of young children from lowincome families through agencies in their local community. (Administration for Children & Families)

Those services are also provides through the school districts of Brownwood, Coleman, Brady, Ballinger, and Winters.

Head Start and Early Head Start programs support the mental, social, and emotional development of children from birth to age 5. In addition to education services, programs provide children and their families with health, nutrition, social, and other services. Head Start services are responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

Head Start encourages the role of parents as their child’s first and most important teachers. Programs build relationships with families that support positive parent-child relationships, family well-being, and connections to peers and community. Head Start began as a program for preschoolers.

Region 14 Education Service Center – Center for Young Learners -Head Start/Early Head Start has been providing children and families services since 1999. Region 14 Head Start/ Early Head Start serves the counties of of Callahan, Eastland, Comanche, Fisher, Jones, Haskell, Mitchell, Nolan, Shackelford, Stephens, and Taylor (outside of Abilene). The children and families are provided services in collaboration with the local school districts of Clyde, Cisco, Eastland, Ranger, Comanche, DeLeon, Rotan, Anson, Hamlin, Stamford, Haskell, Colorado City, Sweetwater, Albany, Breckenridge, and Merkel. Region 14 ESC also collaborates with Region 15 ESC in San Angelo to provide services in the counties of Early Head Start serves pregnant women, inBrown, Coleman, McCulloch, and Runnels. fants, and toddlers. Early Head Start programs

are available to the family until the child turns 3 years old and is ready to transition into Head Start or another pre-K program. Early Head Start helps families care for their infants and toddlers through early, continuous, intensive, and comprehensive services.

Region 14 Education Service Center – Center for Young Learners Head Start/Early Head Start is accepting applications for 2015-2016 school enrollment year. If you or anyone you know is interested in obtaining a wonderful,

2015-16 Children’s Performing Art Series Season Ticket Infomation The Children’s Performing Arts Series has announced its new season of shows and is currently taking season ticket renewals. The deadline to renew is Monday, May 18.

learning enriched opportunity, please contact the local elementary school district or Region 14 ESC at 325-675-8685.

The new season lineup is “Fly Guy and Other Stories” at 2 p.m. Oct. 4, “Mark Nizer 4D ... A New Dimension in Entertainment” at 2 p.m. Jan. 31 and “The Jungle Book” at 2 p.m. March 6. New this year is a bonus show available at two times on Saturday, April 2: “Pinkalicious the Musical.” The show was sold out when CPAS brought it to the Paramount Theatre a few years ago and is back by popular demand.

Four-show and three-show season passes are available as well as an option to buy the party passes. There will be parties after “Fly Guy” and “The Jungle Book.”

For Ticket Info, please visit: www.AbileneCAC.org (325) 677-1161 Email: hollye@abilenecac.org Offices in the T&P Depot 1101 North 1st St., Abilene

18 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Q & A with Melissa Nesmith Make Your Mark about The Summer Feeding Program with Abilene Independent School District McMurry University is the place to begin pursuing your dreams, surrounded by an environment that encourages and empowers you to excel. Here you will make life-changing connections with students, faculty and staff.

Your McMurry experience will provide you with the knowledge and skills to make your mark in the world through service, leadership and success.

Kim Martinez ’15 800-460-2392 | admissions@mcm.edu | mcm.edu

By HispanicLife Magazine

1) Please tell us about yourself and 5) Is there a cost to the participants your position with AISD and the up- for the program? There is no cost for parcoming Summer Feeding Program. ticipants- it’s a FREE breakfast and lunch for I am Melissa Nesmith the Nutrition and Summer Feeding Coordinator. During the school year I focus on modifying our regular school menus to meet dietary needs of students with life-threatening food allergies, I also write a monthly nutrition newsletter and teach handson nutrition education on our “Fuel Up & Move Bus Tour”. During the Summer I am responsible for planning, coordinating, and administering the Summer Feeding Program.

AISD partners with city recreation centers and community sites such as, the YMCA and Boys & Girls Club to provide a free breakfast and lunch to kids and teens during the summer months of June & July.

anyone ages 1-18.

1-18 can participate in our Summer Feeding Program. Texas has one of the highest rates of food insecurity. 1 in 4 children in the state of Texas is food insecure. This isn’t just a state issue, this is seen is our community as well.

Parents struggle with grocery costs during the summer months paying for extra meals that their children usually receive free or reduced during the school year through our school lunch program. The student nutrition department of AISD loves having the opportunity to feed our community a healthy breakfast and lunch for free. During the summer, anyone can participate even if you do not need the assistance. It’s free, nutritious, and delicious breakfasts and lunches that are served for anyone that is 1-18, all you have to do is find a participating site, show up, and eat!

325.677.1444 ext 4717. ____________________________________

6) What type of food is served?

Students can look forward to popular breakfast entrees, fresh fruits, and low fat milk. For lunch, hot entrees, fresh vegetables and fruit, and low fat milk.

7) Is this program only for students in AISD or other school districts as well?

It is for anyone in the community that is ages 1-18, even if you do not live in the Abilene city limits, you are still welcome to join!

8) What is a good contact phone number if parents are wanting to speak to 2) Who is eligible for the program and someone in regards to the program? why should parents and students take If you would like more information about advantage of it? Any child or teen ages our program, please visit our website or call

3) How many locations (schools) are participating in the program? This year

we have 13 sites around the city of Abilene

4) Where does one go to get more information about serving times and locations? You can find more information

about our program on our website www.abileneisd.org or find a participating site near you by calling 211

For those that are interested in helping, we ask that you become an advocate for our Summer Feeding program and spread the word to your friends, neighbors, or church groups! Children also need assistance getting to sites, most are within walking distance of AISD schools.

We ask our community and neighbors to start a neighborhood carpool to local sites.

We also have our “Fuel Up & Move” Tour Bus that visits participating feeding sites and teaches fun nutrition lessons to the kids!

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or

:

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HEALTHY SUMMER

MEALS FOR KIDS

No Cost For Kids 18 and Younger

The following sites are open from June 8th - July 30th. All sites closed July 3rd.

Sites ACR-Cobb Park ACR-G.V. Daniels ACR-Jackson ACR-Rose Park ACR-Sears Park Thomas Elementary Abilene High School Martinez Boys & Girls Club YMCA-State Street YMCA-Redbud Park Long Elementary Craig Middle School Hardin-Simmons University

Address Breakfast Time 2301 State St 8:00 - 9:00 541 N. 8th 8:00 - 9:00 2650 S. 32nd 8:00 - 9:00 2601 S 7th 8:00 - 9:00 2250 Ambler 8:00 - 9:00 1240 Lakeside Dr. 8:00 - 9:00 2800 N. 6th.

7:30 - 9:00 1301 Clinton Street 8:00 - 9:00 3250 State 8:00 - 9:00 3125 S. 32nd 8:00 - 9:00 The following site is open June 2nd-July 30th. Closed July 3rd.

3600 Sherry Lane 7:30 - 9:00 The following site is open June 8th – July 23rd. Closed each Friday and July 3rd.

702 S. Judge Ely 7:30 - 9:00 The following site is open June15th - 25th. Closed each Friday.

2200 Hickory Street No Breakfast

Lunch Time 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:00 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:30 - 12:30 11:00 - 12:30 No Lunch 11:30 - 12:30

June 8th - July 30th.

www.Summerfood.org

The Summer Food Program is sponsored by Abilene ISD Student Nutrition Department

Non-Discrimination Statement: In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call, toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). TDD users can contact USDA through local relay or the Federal Relay at (800) 877-8339 (TDD) or (866)377-8642 (relay voice users). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

If you need further assistance please call 211 or 677-1444 ext. 4717

ARN520734

20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Abilene Christian University News:

Haitian struggle pushes ACU grad Pierre forward

By Timothy Chipp | Abilene Reporter News Life has never been easy for Megeste Pierre, even before a monstrous earthquake destroyed his country in 2010. In fact, the Haitian may find walking Abilene Christian University’s stage during commencement Saturday one of the easier things he’s ever done.

He’s been homeless. Starving is nothing new to him, even in the United States. He’s suffered through numerous family deaths. Still, Pierre is one of those people who is encouraged by the next breath he takes and joyous from his relationship with his Lord.

few pieces he already had in play back home, what successful, he said, but then Jan. 12, might help him accomplish his goals.

2010, came. Everything changed.

An earthquake ripped the country, one of the In 2005, when he was only 17, he and his fa- poorest in the world, to a new low. At least ther, Merilus Pierre, cofounded a school. In 100,000 people died, though those numbers are considered low by many, including Pierre.

Hundreds of thousands of residences were destroyed, including the Pierre’s.

money Pierre earns working jobs on campus sent home to support them. It has led to some hard times for him, but there’s no complaining, even when his electricity is turned off because he can’t pay the bill and he’s charging his cellphone in a restaurant.

Always willing to help people, though, especially in the country’s largest crisis, the two Pierres made a new home for themselves and invited strangers to join them.

Joining Pierre for the 3 p.m. graduation ceremony Saturday will be a special guest. His father will be flying to Abilene from Haiti on Thursday to see his son walk across the stage and earn his diploma. The school said someone purchased the plane ticket for the family to allow him to attend.

The 27-year-old Bible student, who plans to return to ACU to earn a pair of master’s degrees, hopes to one day return to Haiti to help others who suffer as he did. And those who suffer worse.

“My goal is to go back to Haiti,” he said. “In Haiti, they don’t pay preachers, so you have to do something to help yourself survive. But my plan is to use my MD (master’s in divinity) to help the people spiritually and my MBA (master’s in business administration) to help them grow financially.”

Part of the problem, he said, is Haiti’s culture has a collective mindset of task-oriented thinking. People as collectively poor and devastated as Haitians are focus on simple tasks Haiti, education isn’t provided by the governlike finding food to eat and shelter for safety, ment, he said, so only those with money could he said. learn with books and teachers.

It’s anything but easy.

After a bit of time, the focus of the school changed and instead of handing out knowlBut his education at ACU, combined with a edge, the pair distributed food. It was some-

“One thing we have left as a country is pride,” he said. “I’m glad God gave us strength as a nation. We could wake up one day and hear everyone has killed themselves because they were tired of struggling. But we don’t.”

Pierre said he’s excited to have his father among the audience, especially since he can’t “It was a normal have the rest of his family. Pierre’s mother day and people were died when he was 7. Two months after that, taking care of busi- his 2-year-old sister died, too. ness,” Pierre said.

“Then out of no- Unsure of what to do, his father considered where — sending him to an orphanage, he said. Instead, he went to live with his grandmother for 10 “When the earth- years. In 2002, he went to live with his faquake happened, there were all these children ther and attend high school. Months later, his with nowhere to go. We thought we needed grandmother died. to do something. So we changed our business from feeding people to an orphanage.”

“From that point, life took a very different direction,” he said.

Currently, the Goodness of God Orphanage cares for about 60 children, with much of the

Pick us up at Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, H.E.B. & CISCO College | EDUCATION | 21

22 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

McMurry Hosts TCU Energy Institute Training Program for Mineral and Royalty Owners

By Gary Ellison | McMurry University

McMurry University has formed an alliance with the Energy Institute at Texas Christian University (TCU) to offer a training program for mineral and royalty owners in Abilene and West Central Texas. The program will be offered on the McMurry campus June 23-25.

The ROP instructor is Glen Webb, an experienced attorney and mineral owner who lives in the Abilene area.

Early registration for this event is encouraged.

The cost is $525 per day or $1425 for all three days. This cost includes all program materials (binder, workbook, and exercises) as well as all snacks, lunches, and refreshments. Continuing Education credits are offered for qualified participants.

The non-degreed, adult education program is aimed at mineral owners who want to level the playing field and get everything that they are entitled to when they interact with oil and gas companies. The Royalty Owner Program is open to new or prospective royalty owners, For more information about the Royalty who want to master the basics of mineral own- Owner Program in Abilene, visit https://www. ership. cerenergyinstitute.com. To speak to a representative and to register in person, please “We have been offering the Royalty Owner call the help desk number at (800) 255-1261.

Program for more than a year, and it has been Questions may be directed to info@cerenergya huge success in Texas and around the coun- institute.com. try,� Dr. Ken Morgan, Director of the TCU Energy Institute.

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Pick us up at H.E.B., CISCO College & China Star | EDUCATION | 23

Spotlight on Austin Elementary:

Junior Lighthouse Team’s leadership evident on Austin

By Abilene Independent School District

T he Austin Elementary Junior Lighthouse Team Mission Statement: We pledge to encourage other students, model being a leader, and positively represent Austin Elementary in the community. We WILL light the way!

Austin’s staff and student body.

Recently, the JLT met with the Light-house Team to voice ideas on new and different leadership roles for students and the application process for those positions. As a new team on The kids are taking over, and the teachers campus, they will continue to shape and mold are glad to hand over the reins. Austin students make decisions for their campus and older students mentor younger students. They keep the environment beautiful and inviting, greet new guests in the building, lead tour groups, and help with classroom management.

Their leadership is evident everywhere.

One of the engines on our campus driving these changes among Austin’s student body is the Junior Lighthouse Team. The JLT is a 12-member student organization with representation from each grade level, K-5.

Each teacher on campus nominated two homeroom students who exhibit leadership skills, practice the 7 Habits, and receive peer respect. The Lighthouse Team (comprised of Austin staff), parents, and community members interviewed the nominees. All the students chosen through the process agreed to serve on their purpose, set goals for the new school the first Junior Lighthouse Team. year, and establish jobs within the group. The JLT will continue working with the LightNot long after the team met for the first time, house Team to reach Austin’s leadership goal: the JLT immediately spun into action by par- Lighthouse Status in 2016. ticipating in Austin’s first 7 Hab-its pep rally.

The JLT had leadership and speaking roles Through its leadership, the JLT will pave the during Family Night and were key compo- way for future leaders and help “make great nents in the success of Austin’s 2015 Leader- happen” at Austin. ship Day. Soon, the JLT will pilot a campus fundraiser where they will be responsible for advertising and selling “spirit” products to

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gher Education, Friendship and Love Hi Q & A: Carlos P. Peña III & Kirsten Peña

Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | EDUCATION | 25

By HispanicLife Magazine

Carlos & Kirsten met in the 1st grade at Dyess Elementary. They were classmates all through elementary school and middle school. They started dating their freshmen year of high school and throughout high school. At the end of high school they decided to go to separate colleges in order to get the educations they both deserved and wanted, so four years of a long distance relationship began. After four years of a long-distance relationship, they are still together and are enjoying seeing each other more frequently. Seven and a half years later, they are planning for a July 2015 wedding and are extremely excited to start their next chapter of lives together!

1) Please tell us about yourself. Where were you born? What are some of your favorite interest, hobbies and/ or sports? Tell us about your family.

How many brothers and sisters? Who important are is family life to you?

K: I was born in Fort Worth, Texas. Raised mostly in Abilene. I have two older brothers. I’m very crafty, I like to create things and paint. I played volleyball in high school and am still very active – I work out a few times a week and enjoy running. Family has played a key role in my development and success not only as a student but also as just a human being in general. Family has and always will be important to me.

C: I graduated from Cooper High School in 2011 and attended the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, Oklahoma. I majored in both computer science and forensic science, graduating in 4 four years, 2015 at the age of 22.

3) What subjects attract you the most and the ones that you most excel in?

K: Science has always attracted me, anything from physics to chemistry to biology and anatomy and physiology. I always excelled in science courses; however, I also enjoy English courses and History courses.

K: Throughout school we pushed each other.

Being two and a half hours away from each other was not easy but it always gave us some motivation and gave us something to work for.

So I would say Carlos drives or pushes me in a big way, everything I’ve done in my educa6) Where do you see yourself in 5-10 tional career is that so we can have a comfortyears? able and happy life together. Other than that, my family pushes me and keeps me motivated.

C: We motivate each other, especially throughout school.

And now that we are done with school we motivated each other to keep our heads up as we search for jobs. We push each other so that we can have a good, comfortable life with each other. My family pushes me as well, helping me to strive to do better.

C: While I enjoyed my computer science classes, my forensic science classes really interested me. Those were the classes I really excelled in too.

4) Do you read a lot? If so, what type of books (authors, etc).

K: I mostly read scientific journals and journals related to Dental Hygiene in order to keep up with the most current technology and advances in the dental industry. The concept of lifelong learning is important to C: I was born in Alamogordo, New Mexico, me. but was raised mainly in Abilene. I like to work on computers, play video games, and C: I don’t read too much to play soccer. I have played soccer since I was be honest, I like to read ara little kid and I still try to play when I can. ticles and journals in forensic Family is very important to me; my family is and computer science. When I what helped me get to the point that I am at do read books, I like to either today. Family will always be important to me. read mystery/crime novels as well as fantasy books like the I have one younger sister.

Eragon series.

2) Tell us about your education. Where did you attend school and your gradu- 5) What are your aspirations? ation date? How long where you in K: I ultimately would like to end up teachschool? What age?

K: I graduated from Cooper High School in 2011. I attended Midwestern State University (MSU) in Wichita Falls, TX with a major in Dental Hygiene. My first two years at MSU were pre-reqs and the last two years were strictly in the hygiene program. I served as class president while in hygiene school. I graduated from MSU in 2015, at the age of 22.

unit. I have to have at least 3 years experience in the computer or law enforcement field. At the same time I’m not in a rush to join the FBI, I want to enjoy time with family and friends here in Abilene for a while.

ing in a dental hygiene program, I’m already looking into Master’s programs. My professors and instructors played such an integral role in my development as a clinician that I would love to give that back to an aspiring student someday. Until then I would like to enjoy my clinical career in a private or corporate office for at least 20 or 25 years.

C: I would like to join the FBI’s cyber crimes

8) What advice would you offer to other students currently attending college? Maybe some do’s and don’ts.

K: My advice would be a little oxy-moronic.

Don’t forget to have fun, but don’t forget to work hard at the same time. All of your hard work at this time in your life will pay off, so continue to work hard.

However, don’t forget to celebrate; even if it’s the smallest things you K: In five-ten years I hope to still be a full-time are celebrating, make sure it means something hygienist with children. Balancing mother- to you. Lastly, it’s always good to know where hood and having a career (hopefully success- your library is on campus! ful). I see myself still married to Carlos and just enjoying that chapter of our lives!

C: I would say its okay to have a good time, college is a once in a lifetime experience, but C: I hope to be well into a career in either the at the same time you have to be focused on computer science, or forensic science field. I your schoolwork. You can’t let your schoolhope to have kids as well, and still married to work suffer because you want to party or just Kirsten.

7) What drives you personally and keeps you motivated on a daily basis?

Continued on page 26......

26 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

hang out with friends. Lastly, enjoy the free wifi!

9) Can you recall a piece of advice that a counselor or teacher has given you recently or in the past that has always stuck with you and helped you to succeed?

K: With how stressful dental hygiene school was, one piece of advice that stuck with me the last two years was from Mrs. Crump, a dental hygiene professor at MSU, she would always tell us, “There is life after hygiene school, and it is GOOD!” Now that I’m out of hygiene school, those words have proven to be true. Life is good right now and I wouldn’t change it for anything.

10) Whom do you admire the most at home and/or at school and why? Who has taught you the most during your school years?

K: I admire both of my parents equally. My mother because she’s a dental hygienist as well, and also because she laid that foundation

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cational mentor and “advisor” and he’s always seen the value in a solid educational foundation.

C: At school, I had an internship with Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, I admired Donald Rains; he was a digital forensics examiner who I worked under. He was a very dedicated worker. I really learned a lot about the field from him. I also admired my mom and my dad. My dad was a dedicated worker who devoted his career in the Air Force to serving his country. My mom got a bachelor’s degree while my dad was deployed, that was amazing to me because she was taking care of me and my sister at the same time.

11) Which teacher has made the biggest impression on you and why?

K: I would say all of my hygiene instructors at MSU made a biggest impression on me. They all played instrumental roles in my education and they all molded me into the clinician that I am today. They taught me life lessons while of dentistry for me. She showed me that den- also building up for a career that I will spend the rest of my life in. tistry is a unique way to help people and that you see people from all different walks of life C: I would say my digital forensics professor; Dr. McCoy made the bigwho just want one thing – to smile. I admire gest impression on me. He brought me into the digital forensics world, my father because he has a never-ending love and helped me to develop my skills for it. and devotion to education, he’s been my edu-

Pick us up at La Familia Mexican Restaurant & YMCA on State St. | FAITH & FAMILY | 27

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Filling the 4 Chambers of Your Husband’s Heart

By Mark Merrill | Helping Famlies Love Well

Over 17,000 of you read my post, Filling the 4 lights some more ways you can affirm your Chambers of Your Wife’s Heart. So, I thought husband.

I’d now give the men some screen time by writing this blog. Ladies, please listen up.

We also want our wives to validate our manliness. A man wants to be a hero to his wife. A Let’s start by answering this question: What is husband really does want his wife to see him the heart? Yes, your physical heart is a muscle as her superman, a man who can “leap tall that pumps life-giving blood throughout your buildings in a single bound.” Husbands also body. But the word heart has been used for want to be wanted as well. That’s an importhousands and thousands of years to describe tant form of validation for a man. Sure, we all the core of who you are, the “real you.”

It’s the central command for all your thoughts, beliefs, desires, affections, conscience, convictions, emotions ,and motives.

ment. A man needs his woman to value and trust his opinions and decisions, even if they prove to be wrong sometimes. That means not constantly questioning his knowledge with an, “Are you sure that’s right?” Or “Why do you say that?” Or often challenging his decisions by asking things like, “Why don’t you just stop and get directions?” By the way, this doesn’t mean that you just ignore a foolish decision he might make; he may need to be

Every man wants to be validated by his father. He wants his dad to bless him and put his stamp of approval upon him and value him for who he is, not for what he does or doesn’t do. He wants to be valued for his person, not his performance. He wants to know that he’s “got what it takes.”

We want validation from our wives as well.

When we use our God-given talents and gifts and do something well, we want our wives to take notice and affirm us. [Tweet This] Breathe life into your husband by saying things like, “You did a great job coaching our child on how to handle that issue” or “I was so impressed by the leadership you showed at work today.” These 10 More Things Husbands Want to Hear from their Wives high-

know that husbands want sex…but men also want to be wanted. Sex with an emotionally uninvolved or reluctant wife, who only accommodates her husband to keep him “satisfied,” is not enough. A man wants to know that his wife wants and desires him. When a man knows he is wanted in this way, it’s like his wife saying to him, “You are the man! There is no one like you.” And, “You are more important to me than anything in the world.”

This confidence building in the marriage relationship also spills over to a confident man in other areas of life.

A husband wants the same. He wants to know that you are on his team. When he fumbles, you won’t penalize him, but will pick the ball up and run with him. He wants to know you are with him all the way, that you’ll walk with him through the good times and the difficult times, and that you’ve always got his back.

He needs to know that you will be loyal to him, above all others, and will make him and your marriage relationship a top priority.

Chamber 4: Trust—Trust him and show him he can always trust you

Just like your physical heart has four chambers that need to be consistently filled with life-giving blood, there are four emotional chambers of every man’s heart that need to be filled as well. Those four chambers are validation, respect, loyalty, and trust. And when you selflessly and sacrificially start to fill each of those chambers, you will be loving your husband well.

Chamber 1: Validation—Validate his value, his gifts, his worthiness, and his manliness.

anything to come between me and my family.

Nothing can separate them from my love.

gently questioned and corrected sometimes.

We also want our wives to respect our abilities. A man doesn’t want to hear something like, “You’re not a handyman, I’ll call the plumber” or “Sports isn’t your thing. I’ll ask John to teach him how to throw the football.”

A guy doesn’t want to be shot down before he even gives it a chance.

As I shared in How to Rebuild Trust in a Relationship, trust must be earned. One has to be trustworthy to receive trust. And, if over time, a husband has earned his wife’s trust, then she should fully trust him unless and until there is a breach of that trust. When a wife trusts her husband, she should have confidence that he is who he says he is; he’s the real deal; he will be honest; he will do what he says he’ll do; he will be faithful; and, that he has her best interests at heart. That means, for example, that a wife should not be suspicious of him or interrogate him all the time about what he’s doing, where he’s going or who he’s doing it with.

A husband not only needs for his wife to trust him, but also he needs to trust her as well. He needs to know that she’s the real deal too; that she’ll always be honest with him and keep no secrets; she’ll be faithful; she won’t play the “D” (divorce) card just because she doesn’t feel emotionally fulfilled; and, she will do what’s in his best interests.

Chamber 3: Loyalty—Be loyal to him and support him at all times Just like the human heart, a husband needs

I am fiercely loyal in relationships and will do Chamber 2: Respect—Respect his anything to protect and provide for my family judgment, decisions, and abilities. and friends. If my wife or children’s physical or emotional well-being is threatened, I will As I shared in 5 Things Husbands Wish Wives aggressively seek to conquer the threat. If Knew, we want our wives to respect our judg- they need help, I will be there. I will not allow

all four chambers to be filled and pumping for everything to be right. And when they are filled, life-giving love will flow through your relationship.

28 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

For the Least of These:

The Del Balsos

By Robin Saylor | ACU Today

The adoption process for LaShanda (Quin ’01) and C.J. Del Balso became an opportunity for soul searching about how they would start a family and what they could offer a child.

ment for the Union Pacific Railroad, and C.J., is director of technology for Prince of Peace Christian School. They live in North Richland Hills, Texas, with their daughter Chassity.

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“The hardest part of the process was being honest with ourselves about what challenges we were willing and able to commit to,” LaShanda says.

The Del Balsos share their story as we continue our series about Abilene Christian University alumni who have followed their hearts to adopt. LaShanda works in risk manage-

Love that Transcends My husband and I met in Abilene in 1999 when I was an ACU sophomore and he was a sophomore at Hardin-Simmons University.

After graduating in 2001, we moved to California. In 2010, our lives changed again, when we returned to Texas. I thought it was a simple job relocation; however, larger divine plans were at work.

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Pick us up at Texas Cosmetology School, Mr. Gatti’s & La Popular Bakery | FAITH & FAMILY | 29

Continued: “The Del Balsos”..... pg 28

After having some very candid conversations, we decided to explore adoption. What initially began as an “exploration” quickly became our first option to start a family. We joined our church’s adoption support group and learned more about the adoption process. Once the decision to adopt was reached, we moved forward by choosing an adoption agency.

The hardest part of the process was being honest with ourselves about what challenges we were willing and able to commit to, in regards to children with mental and physical disabilities. For me, my heart broke every time we declined to move forward with a proposed child.

It was truly a heart-aching time, but a purely genuine and honest reflection on what is in the “best interest of the child.” We even experienced the rejection of not being chosen as the adoption parents.

We also encountered the decision of transracial adoption. Our interracial relationship added the unforeseen hurdle of adopting a

child that will look different from one of his or her parents. If African-American, the child would look different from his or her father but just like his or her mother, and vice-versa.

After 13 years of marriage, race differences had become a nonissue. The adoption process forced us to evaluate our decision based on what we could offer the child by way of unmitigated love that transcends defined racial barriers.

Throughout it all, we learned that children are a blessing uniquely designed for a family. On Nov. 21, 2014 – National Adoption Day – Chassity became a permanent, legally recognized member of our family. We were so delighted to be able to finalize our adoption on such a special day.

30 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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8 Things Every Father Must Teach His Daugh-

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y daughters Megan, Emily, and Hannah know my voice. When they were younger, they climbed into my lap and listened to my voice as I read bedtime stories and prayed with them. They heard my voice as I cheered them on at the soccer game, piano recital, or school play. They heard my voice as I instructed and encouraged them.

As they grew, my daughters began to notice other voices of the world…voices from people and sources who would never love them like I do. In fact, those other voices were telling my daughters things that weren’t good for them and could harm them.

men.” The best way to teach her about the count on me to do what’s in their best interkind of man she should develop a relationship with and ultimately marry is to show her by your example in your marriage and other relationships.

ests. On many occasions, I have sat down with my children and advised them on someone or something they should avoid—a bad relationship, a questionable movie, an inappropriate party…or, someone or something they should embrace—a new opportunity, a good event, or a faithful friend. When I do so, I often preface my comments with something like, “You know that I am saying this because I have your best interests at heart. And, I want you to help you avoid pain and prosper in life.”

So my job was to do my very best to ensure that my voice of truth and love was heard loud and clear, above all others, by my girls. And if you have sons, here are 8 Things Every Father Must Teach His Son. Here are 8 things every father must teach his daughter:

7. “Love Others.” Loving

1. “You are immeasurably valuable.” We need to impress

8. “Love God.” We were

upon our daughters that their immeasurable value rests in who they are, not in what they do, what they wear, what the drive, where they live or how they look.

They are valuable because they are our daughters and were created by God and for God.

2. “You are beautiful.” Every

daughter needs to hear, and here often, from her dad, “You are beautiful.” Our daughters need to hear that they are not only beautiful on the outside, but also on the inside where 5. “I Love You Unconditionally.” Our true beauty finds its source. daughters need to know that we love them no matter what, and that nothing, absolutely 3. “Be a Lady.” Teach her to be a lady nothing, can ever separate them from our love. in the way she dresses. Girls can be modest We need to continually tell them, and show and still be trendy. It means to use lady-like them, that we always love them. language…crassness and cussing are very unattractive. It means to use good manners. 6. “You can Always Count on Me.” No It means to draw physical boundaries and let matter what, my daughters know that they men know that her body is reserved exclu- can count on me to always speak the truth to sively for her future husband. them. If they ask me a question, they will get the truth. They can trust what I say because 4. “Command honor and respect from of my track record over time. They can also

others is our great and eternal duty. Love is all about giving selflessly and sacrificially to others. Remind her how she must take time to look beyond her own world and care for those who are hurting around her. created by God and for God. We are to love him with all of our being—heart, soul, mind, and strength. This is absolutely the most important thing I must teach my daughters.

So let your daughter hear your loving voice on each of these 8 things. What are some other things you’ve taught your daughter over the years?

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32 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Courtesy of: HispanicLife Magazine

Our beloved matriarch, Josephine Aguirre Alvarez, 85, with the love of our Blessed Virgin Mary, entered into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Saturday May 30, 2015, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Mass of Christian burial was at St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church, 2525 Westview Street, with Father Terry Brenon and Deacon Victor Ramirez officiating under the direction of Abilene Funeral Home.

Josephine Aguirre Alvarez was born on March 11, 1930 in Abilene, Texas to the late Alicia and Jesus Aguirre. She was the only sister to four brothers. In 1947, Josephine met and married Fidencio Alvarez Sr. A devoted wife and mother of four, at the young age of 23 she became a widow. It was then that she decided her life would be dedicated to two things: her family and her faith.

Josephine is survived by one brother Vicente Aguirre of San Antonio, a brother-in-law Paul Sanchez of Anchorage, Alaska, and sister-in-law Maria Martinez of Fort Worth. Her legacy includes three daughters, Ra-

a Moment in our arms... a Lifetime in our hearts...

mona Curtis, Ruth Ramirez and husband Victor, Josie Garcia, and one son Fidencio Alvarez Jr. and wife Maria. Josephine cared for and spoiled 11 grandchildren, Richard Garcia Jr., Ann Herrera and husband Leon, Victor A. Ramirez and wife Evette, Robert Ramirez and wife Trinity, Monica Leija and husband Ernie, Fidencio Alvarez III., Heather Jordan, Michael Ramirez and wife Shannon, Teresa Villarreal and husband Jesus, Cody Alvarez, and Johnathen Curtis Jr. Twenty-four greatgrandchildren Briana and husband Austin, Zack, Daisy, Madison, McKinley, Gavin, Dalton, Chloe, Diego, Carlos, Elias, Nicole, Hope, Stormy, Mya, Michael, Savannah, Matt, Josephine, Abram, Zachary, Devin, Tyra, Lilly and one great-great granddaughter Sophia will remember her homemade tortillas, her avena, her beautiful smile, and most of all her love for God and her family.

Josephine also leaves behind many nephews, nieces, cousins, and adopted grandchildren whom she loved dearly.

Josephine is preceded in death by her mother and father Alicia and Jesus Aguirre, her husband Fidencio Alvarez Sr., her brothers Richard, Ramon, and Manuel Aguirre, her brothers-in-law Sato and Salvador Alvarez, her sister-in-law Emilia Guerrero, her mother-in-law whom she loved as a mother Refugio Sanchez, and a grandson she adored, Rustin Matthew Alvarez.

Josephine will be remembered by many as simply, Grandma. When you entered her home, you became the center of her world. She would feed you, laugh with you, cry with you, love you. While the void that we feel in our hearts is great, there is an even greater glory in knowing she is in her heavenly home, seeing her husband for the first time in 62 years.Honored to be

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country 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

pallbearers include Jacob Moreno, Lee Gonzales, Tony Martinez, Michael Zamora, Anthony Cedillo and Stephen Gonzales.

ents; two sons, Raul and Ernesto Jacquez; one daughter, Anita barron; two sisters and two brothers.

Frank Gloria Jacquez, 76, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2015 in Tuscon, Arizona with family at his side. Memorial service were held at the Church of Christ, 1400 Commercial Avenue, in Anson, Texas with Joe Hailey officiating. Arrangements for cremation were under the direction of Abilene Funeral

Lesli Diane Buchanan, 56, of Abilene, passed away Wednesday, May 06, 2015, at her mother’s home after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was born March 31, 1959 in Lubbock, Texas, to Frank and Freddie Nelson Buchanan.

Home.

Frank was born April 07, 1939, in Anson, Texas to Miguel and Simona Gloria Jacquez. He made friends everywhere he went and will be missed by all his family.

Survivors include his loving wife of over 30 years, Carmen O. Jacquez; four sons, Frank Jacquez, Jr. (Janie) of La Pryor, Texas, Oscar Alvarez, Jr. of Abilene, Mike Barron (Priscilla) of Dallas, Rudy Barron of Dallas; four daughters, Lydia Rodea (J.R.) of Tuscon, Arizona, Ruby Moreno ( Elias) of Abilene, Kathy Biera (Manuel) of Abilene and Estella Garza (Don) of Dallas; two sisters, Felipa Jacquez and Luteria Flores, both of Anson; a special granddaughter, who was born on his birthday, Crystal “Choo Choo” Guerra; 21 other grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.

Mr. Jacquez was preceded in death by his par-

She graduated from Permian High School, Odessa, Texas in 1977. She always loved any kind of sports and played tennis, basketball and softball while at Permian. Lesli attended Texas Tech one year and McMurry one year. She worked for Target for several years.

Lesli’s final wishes were to support cancer research and education and training of future physicians by donating her body to Texas Tech School of Medicine.

Lesli is survived by her mother, Freddie Buchanan of Abilene; two brothers, Terry Buchanan of San Antonio and Kelly Buchanan of Odessa; two nephews, Aaron Buchanan in the United States Navy and Josh Buchanan of San Antonio; a niece, Crystal Buchanan of Odessa; an aunt, Effie Lee Ross of Lubbock; an uncle and aunt, Barry and Peggy Boyd of Lubbock as well as cousins and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her father.

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Marriage Builder -

Five Emotional Facts in Life

By Jimmy Evans | Marriage Today

Everyone has unresolved pain from their past.

Humans are excellent at remembering—God hardwired that into us—but not all memories are good. We experience pain, disappointment, sadness, failure, abuse, and rejection. We hold onto those things, even though they devastate us.

are examples of people making bad choices related to their pain.

When there’s pain in our lives, the devil puts fear and shame around it so we’ll keep it in the darkness. We don’t talk about it because it hurts too much. We hide it from God, which is the worst choice.

Lastly, the only way to resolve hurt is to turn it toward God. That’s what Matthew 5:4 means. It says “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” This doesn’t mean anguish is a blessing. It means the blessings arrive when we turn our pain How do we find healing from these hurts? I toward God. wrote my book When Life Hurts to discuss ways to resolve that pain and find freedom and Give your pain to Him. Bring it into the light inner peace. In it, I talk about five emotional and find His healing. Emotional healing befacts of life. These facts are true for all of us. gins with honesty before God. We must open our hearts to Him. When God touches First, life hurts. Period. God never promised our pain, He heals it. It goes away. He gives us a life without pain. He promised He’d be us rest. there to heal us and help us, but He never said we could avoid it.

Then we have to take responsibility for our behaviors. People may have done hurtful We are human, and pain is part of the human things to us, but they do not form us. We are experience. The older we get, the more hurt not victims. We always have a choice in how we will experience in our lives. we respond. Take responsibility and ask God to forgive you for the wrong behaviors that Second, pain accumulates in our hearts. This have resulted from your pain. occurs whenever we don’t deal with our pain properly. There’s a place in our hearts I call Finally, be merciful toward yourself and the “hurt pocket.” When we don’t deal with those who have hurt you. Forgive them. Foremotional wounds in the right way, pain give yourself. Regret is one of the greatest drops into that pocket. things the devil uses to cause misery in our lives. Don’t let that happen with you.

Very few of us know how to deal with pain when we’re growing up. We hide it, we deny Give your deepest wounds and greatest failit, we pretend it doesn’t exist. The old adage ures to God. He won’t just heal you from says “Time heals all wounds,” but I don’t them. He will use them in a way that brings believe that. Sometimes the pain gets worse. Him glory.

The third emotional fact of life is that pain compromises us. Accumulated pain and unresolved problems impact our mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational health. That’s why we need to empty the hurt pocket on a regular basis. If we don’t, it can make us a very unhealthy person.

Fourth, we all deal with pain in some way.

Some deal with it the right way, and others choose the wrong way. Alcoholism, drug addiction, food addiction, gambling—these

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Fatherly Advice:

The Involved Father

By Glenn Stanton | Focus On The Family

Fathers are just as essential to healthy child development as mothers. Psychology Today explained, “Fatherhood turns out to be a complex and unique phenomenon with huge consequences for the emotional and intellectual growth of children.”1 Erik Erikson, a pioneer in the world of child psychology, asserts that a father’s love and a mother’s love are qualitatively different. Fathers “love more dangerously” because their love is more “expectant, more instrumental” than a mother’s love.2 A father brings unique contributions to the job of parenting a child that no one else can replicate. Following are some of the most compelling ways that a father’s involvement makes a positive difference in a child’s life.

Fathers parent differently.

Fathering expert Dr. Kyle Pruett explains that fathers have a distinct style of communication and interaction with children. By eight weeks of age, infants can tell the difference between their mother’s and father’s interaction with them.

This diversity, in itself, provides children with a broader, richer experience of contrasting relational interactions. Whether they realize it or not, children are learning, by sheer experience, that men and women are different and have different ways of dealing with life, other adults and children. This understanding is critical for their development.

Fathers play differently.

Fathers tickle more, they wrestle, and they throw their children in the air (while mother says . . . “Not so high!”). Fathers chase their children, sometimes as playful, scary “monsters.”

Fathers build confidence.

not get into a good college or secure a desirable job. Fathers help children prepare for the Go to any playground and listen to the parents. reality and harshness of the world.

Who is encouraging kids to swing or climb just a little higher, ride their bike just a little Fathers provide a look at the world of faster, throw just a little harder? Who is en- men. couraging kids to be careful? Mothers protect Men and women are different. They eat difand dads encourage kids to push the limits. ferently. They dress differently. They cope Either of these parenting styles by themselves with life differently. Girls and boys who grow can be unhealthy. One can tend toward en- up with a father are more familiar and secure couraging risk without consideration of conse- with the curious world of men. quences. The other tends to avoid risk, which can fail to build independence and confidence. Girls with involved, married fathers are more Together, they help children remain safe while likely to have healthier relationships with the expanding their experiences and increasing opposite sex because they learn from their fathers how proper men act toward women. their confidence.

They know which behaviors are inappropriate.

Fathers communicate differently.

A major study showed that when speaking to children, mothers and fathers are different.

Mothers will simplify their words and speak on the child’s level. Men are not as inclined to modify their language for the child. The mother’s way facilitates immediate communication; the father’s way challenges the child to expand her vocabulary and linguistic skills — an important building block of academic success.

Fathers discipline differently.

Educational psychologist Carol Gilligan tells us that fathers stress justice, fairness and duty (based on rules), while mothers stress sympathy, care and help (based on relationships).

Fathers tend to observe and enforce rules systematically and sternly, teaching children the consequences of right and wrong. Mothers tend toward grace and sympathy, providing a sense of hopefulness. Again, either of these disciplinary approaches by themselves is not good, but together, they create a healthy, proper balance.

Fathering expert John Snarey explains that Fathers prepare children for the real children who roughhouse with their fathers world. learn that biting, kicking and other forms of physical violence are not acceptable.3 Involved dads help children see that attitudes and behaviors have consequences. For inThey learn self-control by being told when stance, fathers are more likely than mothers to “enough is enough” and when to settle down. tell their children that if they are not nice to Girls and boys both learn a healthy balance others, kids will not want to play with them. between timidity and aggression.

Or, if they don’t do well in school, they will

They also have a healthy familiarity with the world of men — they don’t wonder how a man’s facial stubble feels or what it’s like to be hugged by strong arms. This knowledge builds emotional security and safety from the exploitation of predatory males.

Boys who grow up with dads are less likely to be violent. They have their masculinity affirmed and learn from their fathers how to channel their masculinity and strength in positive ways. Fathers help sons understand proper male sexuality, hygiene and behavior in age-appropriate ways. As noted sociologist David Popenoe explains, “Fathers are far more than just ‘second adults’ in the home. Involved fathers — especially biological fathers — bring positive benefits to their children that no other person is as likely to bring.”4 ____________________________________________

Referrences: 1) “Shuttle Diplomacy,” Psychology Today, July/August 1993, p. 15. • 2) As cited in Kyle D. Pruett, The Nurturing Father, (New York: Warner Books, 1987), p. 49. • 3) John Snarey, How Fathers Care for the Next Generation: A Four Decade Study (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1993), p. 3536. • 4) David Popenoe, Life Without Father (New York: The Free Press, 1996), p. 163.

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36 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Noah... And Your Blended Family

By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments With all the recent rains here in West Texas, I’m reminded of the story of Noah; I love that guy … talk about your one man against the world!

seling. A big tool was my journaling and then sharing that with my husband. It gave him the opportunity to see my heart and my struggles.

Of course, God and His Word were the biggest tools. God required me to use the tools In Genesis 6:5 it tells us that God saw the of love and compassion, understanding and wickedness of man in the earth and that ev- guidance and many others. ery imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. The passage goes Looking back, I can honestly say that it was on to say that God was sorry he created man the hard work that brought about the greatest and so He was going to destroy man along results. It was the tears and sweat that brought with all other living creatures. Then comes the most joy. It was the trials and struggles that these short and beautiful words in verse 8; brought about the sweetest victories. “but Noah found favor in eyes of The Lord”.

So if I had never heard the story of Noah, I God saved Noah and his family for God’s probably would have assumed the fairy tale special purposes. God is going to ‘save’ your version where God waved a magic wand and unique, beautiful family also - for His glory removed all the bad people and Noah and and His purposes. Here’s the challenge though his family lived happily ever after. After all, - you are going to have to start building. Don’t Noah found God’s favor - he was considered give up. It may be the most difficult project special and loved. of your life - but I can guarantee that is will be the most rewarding. Remember, God will Well, God is God and fairy tales are just that supply all the tools you need. You have an ... not real. Instead of making it easy on Noah, opportunity to show the world how a family God requested that Noah build a boat - a gi- of second, third, fourth or more chances can gantic boat. It was about the length of a foot- survive the storms and live. So you better get ball field and almost as wide. I can’t imagine started ... cuz I’m smelling some rain! making something like that from wood - by ____________________________________ hand - with God-given exact specifications.

It doesn’t tell us how long it took Noah and Women’s author, speaker his sons - the point is that he did it. So let’s and mentor Kristie Cartake the sheer enormity of this project and penter, aka The Blended then throw in his neighbors and townspeople Family Mom, has been a teasing and hurling insults at Noah. Again, I blended family/step mom can’t imagine continuing to work day after since 2004; her blended day on something impossible and then also family currently includes have to endure absolutely no support from four children and four those around him. grandchildren.

Follow Can you relate? Does your blended family feel like a huge project that will never see completion? When I married Dan I was expecting the fairy tale version. We were in love and therefore, I thought this newly formed family would just come together in unity and love! But God wanted something more from me. He required me to build this family. He had specifications. It was an impossible project. It took years and years (and we are still building). I had friends who thought I was heading down a wrong path. The marriage statistics were absolutely against us. Yet God provided tools for the project and patted my fanny and told me to get going!

Some of those tools took the form of coun-

Kristie on Facebook (facebook.com/theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram (theblendedfamilymom). Her first book, “The Blended Family Mom: Interactive Devotionals to Help You ‘Stir and Mix’ Your Blended Family,” is available on her website at www.theblendedfamilymom.com

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38 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Summertime, The Best Time to Transform Yourself

By Becky Spargo | Take Shape for Life

School is out! What is your plan this summer? Would you like to use this time to improve yourself physically? I did it, you can too!

for weight loss and maintaining your blood sugar! The weight loss part of the program is amazing, but to me the greater joy has been that I have maintained my college weight for over 3 years now. I know I’ll never be over In 2010, I was heavy, but I thought I was weight again. skinny. I was skinny for what was possible for me, or so I thought. I married a wonderful man that fall, and within one year I had gained 18 more pounds! This was unacceptable to me. I didn’t want to be that person.

I heard about a guy on the radio who lost weight, so I left my info. My health coach called me and explained the program.

I started the Take Shape for Life program Nov 2, 2011.

By the following February, I had reached my goal of 25 lbs lost! (results not typical) This program transformed my life, not just my body.

It changed the way I think about food. It broke my addictions, and changed my desires. I now love the salad table instead of the dessert table.

I finally found something I had prayed for for so long. I used to pray and ask God to take away the desire for the sweets. What I found out was that it wasn’t a character flaw on my part, but what I was eating was causing me to crave I learned how to keep it off by reading “The sugar.

Habits of Health” by Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen, our leader and medical director of TSFL. When I was on the weight loss part of the The program is based on this book. program, I could walk right by the donuts and cake and not even want them. I thought it was My new desire is to live in optimal health and a miracle, but it is actually biology. to show others it is possible for them as well.

Once you’ve been transformed, you may want The program have been medically figured out to pay it forward and help others in their trans-

formations. There are many of us who have decided to pay it forward, but we need more!

Our country is very unhealthy.

The mission of Take Shape for Life is to get America healthy. If you’d like to join us, please contact me!

This transformation can happen to you too! It’s about the daily choices we make.

Quit going down the road that leads to obesity and disease.

Choose health, and you will reap bigger blessings than you ever imagined. Join our optimal health community and find out for yourself.

Take Shape for Life is about predictable transformation of your body, your mind, and your finances!

If you are interested, please go to my website and find out more. You can leave your contact information and I’ll get back with you asap. http:// slenderspargo.tsfl. com _________________ Becky Spargo is a Certified Health Coach from Take Shape for Life and the MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education & Villanova University College of Nursing. She’s been health coaching since 2012 when she started part time, and after moving to Abilene in 2013 she has been a full time health coach. She is married to Gary Spargo and loves her new hometown of Abilene.

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40 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

How Seniors Can Keep Track of Their Prescriptions

By Kimberly Sears | KTAB TV

Getting older may mean needing more medications, and more medicines can be a real headache. Trying to keep track between old and new prescriptions and how they may interact with each other. At Hendrick Medical Center the Hendrick Professional Pharmacy can offer help for seniors.

As we get older and memory fades it can be difficult to remember every little thing about certain prescriptions. When to take them, why you are taking them and what side affects to be aware of. A pharmacist at Hendrick Medical Center, Greg Young, says that seniors make up 40% percent of medications, which is why pharmacists are more likely to see seniors have issues with their prescriptions.

The Medication Reconciliation Process is when pharmacist sits down with a patient and goes through every single medication. Making sure there are no duplications, that the patient understands why they are taking it and that it is appropriate to that person.

Young says that one problem they see, is seniors will have two similar prescriptions treating the same thing. While it may be normal to take two prescriptions for blood pressure, Young says, it’s not good to have two in the same class.

Another problem arises when seniors use multiple pharmacies and specialists. Young believes that it’s important that seniors sit down with their pharmacist to make a list of their Young explains that many seniors take any- medications, to make sure they understand where between five and six medications, and that there are no dangerous drug interacusually have more than one doctor, multiple tions. providers and use different pharmacies. So to helps seniors keep track of everything they Young advises seniors that it is important can simply make a list, which is known as the to update the list whenever you have a new Medication Reconciliation Process. prescription. He also says that young people should also take advantage of this process.

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Abilene Regional Medical Center boasts the sixth Wound Care Center to open in Texas.

By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine June is National Wound Care Month but Dr. Timothy Bumann is too busy treating wounds to stop for a lengthy celebration. He is the Medical Director of the Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center at Abilene Regional Medical Center.

“It’s the newest specialty in medicine,” Dr. Bumann says of wound care. “Previously people thought they had to put up with wounds. Legs were amputated more often.

There was a big void in medicine for healing different wounds.”

The most important thing to know about wounds is that if you have a wound that has not healed in a month, you need to seek additional care.

“If it hasn’t healed in a month,” Dr. Bumann says, “there’s are reason. It might be diabetes, poor circulation, improperly chosen dressings, poor nutrition or lack of mobility.”

People also wonder if their wound is bad enough to require specialized care.

“Small wounds can lead to bad things,” Dr. Bumann says. “There could be something going on.”

care specialists. We work together with other physicians at Abilene Regional to get wounds healed.”

When Dr. Bumann opened the Wound Care Center in 1999, it was only the sixth in Texas. Dr. Bumann has helped open twelve additional centers across the country. His colleague at the Wound Care Center, Dr. Radley Nichols has been with the Center for five years and Dr. Ed Gates for ten years. The three also staff the Wound Care Center at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Another important fact to know is that patients can be referred to the Wound Care Center by their doctor or they can self-refer by calling (325) 428-2800 and making an appointment. The Center is located on the second floor of the Women’s Center building at Abilene Regional, 6250 Highway 83/84. The Center treats accident wounds, diabetic foot wounds, pressure wounds, swelling in the legs associated with a wound, burns, abscesses, Brown Recluse spider bites and many other types.

The Wound Care center also treats wounds for inpatients of Abilene Regional Medical Center.

The Wound Care Center at ARMC employs three physicians as well as nurses and technicians all certified to treat wounds.

“It’s not just the wound but the whole person,” Dr. Bumann says about the treatment “It’s a big team approach,” Dr. Bumann says, provided. “We try to understand the patient’s “with a group of committed certified wound lifestyle. An enormous amount of education is

given about what we’re doing and how to care for the situation after they leave our care.”

One of the most exciting new treatments for wound care is biological grafts with live human cells and stem (not embryonic) cells.

“It stimulates patients’ cells to fill in and heal the wounds faster,” Dr. Bumann says.

The Wound Center also uses a treatment that is hundreds of years old employing larvae to heal and digest the dead skin.

“What sets us apart is a passion our whole staff has for wound care and an overall caring attitude that is imparted to all our patients,” Dr. Bumann says. “They are treated with the utmost respect and dignity. I like to say that we provide the best quality care with a servant’s mentality.”

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42 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Fatigued? Changes In Your Diet Just Might Be The Answer Are you tired, listless, lacking energy? Do you feel like you need a pick-me-up even though you just had one an hour ago? No, this isn’t an infomercial for some zany new energy drink or power bar. The truth is that what you eat can have a large impact on how you feel and how much energy you have.

could wipe you out. Less food more often is a much better way to go.

Third, drink plenty of liquids. Signs of fatigue precede dehydration, so drinking water can bring your energy level up as well as keep your body healthy and hydrated. And make sure that you don’t consume too much soda, Many people feel tired at different times of which can make you feel thirstier and give the day. Right after lunch or mid-afternoon you an energy burst followed by a crash. are particularly trying times for people who have to power right through naptime and keep working. But feeling fatigued all day long can be an indicator of a bigger problem than just being a little sleepy. Chronic fatigue can be the result of depression, stress, or a disease like underactive thyroid or anemia.

For those who’s fatigue isn’t a sign of some larger problem, minor changes in your diet might be the answer. We all know that eating copious amounts of turkey on Thanksgiving can make staying awake a near-impossible task, but thankfully that’s not a meal we consume on a daily basis. For dayto-day living, there are a few things we should think about when planning our meals.

First, make sure that you’re eating enough.

People get busy and meals sometimes get skipped or something quick and easy – and not filling – replaces a normal meal. While this might seem like a time saving endeavor, the truth is that it can often end up using more time to accomplish tasks because you’re too tired to work effectively. When meals are skipped, blood sugar can drop making you feel lethargic and sleepy. Be sure to eat 3 square meals with healthy snacks in between (or 6 smaller meals if that suits you better) to make sure that your blood sugar stays in a healthy range and your energy level stays up.

Fourth, be sure that your body is getting all of the vitamins and minerals it needs. Many people in America have been found to be lacking iron, magnesium, Vitamin B-12, Vitamin D, and dietary calcium. Supplements can help make up for these deficiencies, and can also help combat fatigue brought on by them (but be sure to check with your doctor to see if more action needs to be taken).

If you watch what you eat, drink plenty of liquids, and make sure you’re getting your vitamins and minerals, you might be able to become a more alert, productive person. It’s good to check with your doctor to make sure that your fatigue is not a symptom of a bigger Second, make sure you’re not eating too problem, but try a few of these ideas as well much! You might get an energy boost, but to see if you can fight your fatigue with food. you’ll also get the crash that comes after and

Pick us up at Abilene ISD, La Familia Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | HEALTH | 43

44 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

FDA advisers back an approval for Sprout’s twice-rejected female libido drug flibanserin

By John Carroll

An FDA advisory committee has given Sprout Pharmaceuticals a thumbs up on its quest to gain the first approval ever for an experimental therapy designed to heighten women’s sexual desire-but the panelists also want some postapproval studies to help clarify the safety issues involved.

Eighteen of the panelists voted in favor of an approval, drawing cheers from the largely proflibanserin crowd, against 6 “no” votes. But all 18 votes cast in favor of flibanserin expressed a need for postapproval risk management provisions beyond simple label warnings. Many of the favorable votes came from practitioners who acknowledged that there are many unanswered questions about this drug, but felt there was enough evidence to support a near-term approval as they wait for more answers.

“It’s clear to me that there were very consistent benefits in measures we understand for some portion of women,” and no benefits for others, noted advisory committee member Kevin Weinfurt. “We’re going to be looking to post-marketing studies” to identify who’s most likely to benefit and who is most likely to be at risk The ball now passes to the regulators, who will consider the adcomm’s position as they make a formal decision on marketing the drug. Sprout wants to market this drug as Addyi.

The FDA has twice rejected flibanserin, sometimes touted as a “female Viagra,” first when Boehringer Ingelheim pitched it in 2010 and then again in 2013 after tiny Sprout landed rights to the drug and then mounted its own campaign for an approval for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women.

The agency has been chilled by the weak efficacy

data available for the drug, especially when weighed against potential side effects. An FDA review prepared in advance of the third review highlighted concerns that women taking the sexual-arousal drug would suffer from fainting episodes and fears that the drug could pose added problems if used during a bout of heavy drinking.

Working off a baseline of two to three satisfying sexual events (SSEs), Sprout offered data to support a median increase of 0.5 to 1.0 SSEs per month. That

there are 26 drugs for male sexual dysfunction.

The speakers included Sally Greenberg of the National Consumers League, who noted that women seeking treatment today frequently turn to the Internet for “what amounts to snake oil.” The choices are costly, ineffective and “downright dangerous,” she added. Others discussed their personal struggles with weakened marriages and constant anxiety, asking the FDA to provide at least one approved therapy.

Cindy Pearson, executive director of the National Women’s Health Network, came out against an approval. When it comes to proving efficacy and safety, she said, “Sprout has fallen short on all of these things.” Data on clinical meaningfulness “is light,” she said.

And she recommended that the FDA keep the drug off the market without further studies.

modest increase also raised questions with the panel about just how good a drug this is. Panelists raised questions about the likelihood that patients would forgo alcohol while taking the drug for a prolonged period, raised questions about mammary tumors seen in mice and wondered how the patient population would likely expand after an approval.

In addition to the company’s defense of the data, though, a long lineup of public speakers--including some sponsored by Sprout, which has struggled to change the agency’s mind and stoked a public petition on its behalf from Even the Score--demanded that the agency provide some parity to women by offering official sanction to a drug for a female sexual disorder that is currently unaddressed at a time when

The company also came under fire for its links to Slate Pharmaceuticals, which was cited by regulators 5 years ago for a misleading advertising campaign for Testopel, a testosterone therapy marketed to improve muscle mass and sexual desire. Cindy Whitehead, the CEO at Sprout, was head of operations at Slate, which was sold in 2011.

“It isn’t ready for prime time,” summed up Sid Wolfe, founder and senior adviser of Public Citizen’s Health Research Group and a frequent pharma critic, and will trigger hundreds of cases of syncope (fainting) as well as deaths.

www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine

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46 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091

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Standing in The Gap

DJ’s 5 Star Auto Service wants to treat you with honesty and do good work on your car.

By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Debra Jones has been running the office at DJ’s 5 Star Auto Service for fifteen years.

Her late husband, David Jones, known as DJ, opened the business in 2000. “He wanted to treat people honestly and do good work,” Debra says. She was working as the Office Manager for MetLife Insurance but left her job to join him. “We wanted to be as transparent with the process as possible,” Debra says.

“He told me when we opened ‘there’s a door between your office and the shop. I want to turn wrenches. I don’t want to have anything to do with your part,” Debra says, “so that made the transition easy for me.”

fice for showing customers to help them understand the work that has been done to their vehicle. “I can show you an oxygen sensor,” she says, “then show you the one we took out of your car and explain why we replaced it.”

DJ’s 5 Star Auto Service offers general auto repair and maintenance, brakes, air conditioning, tune-ups and radiator work. “The only things we don’t do,” Debra says, “are exhaust work, transmission and diesel.

And we’ll refer you to somebody else who does those.”

DJ passed away in February of 2012 but Debra has kept the business open, in spite of a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2013. Their Debra’s long-time mechanic, Doug New, also stayed.

He is DJ’s only full-time employee. “I couldn’t do it without Doug. He’s an incredibly talented person,” Debra says.

“I asked the Lord after DJ died, what am I supposed to do?” Debra says. “I got a clear answer. ‘You’re right where I want you.’ Even through the chemo days, people were depending on me to keep their cars running. It’s amazing the level of trust they put in me, longtime customers and new ones.”

While she didn’t have a background in mechanics when the shop opened, Debra is now certified as a service consultant by Automotive Service Excellence. The certification must be renewed every five years.

Debra keeps a drawer of auto parts in her of-

While she keeps on top of social media, much of DJ’s business comes by word of mouth. “DJ was friends with the pastor of a large church years ago,” Debra says. “The pastor referred his staff to us.

We got a reputation early on that we would be fair and do what we could to help them.”

Much of the business comes from churches and college students, as well as wives of deployed Dyess Air Force Base airmen. “I want to stand in the gap for ladies who bring their cars to me,” Debra says.

favorite

“I know there are lots of shops like us,” Debra says.

“We’re not the only shop in town that cares about our customers and treats people fairly. I’m proud to be part of the automotive industry where shops do treat people fairly. We just want to be here for our customers.” _______________________ DJ’s 5 Star Auto Service 1433 Cherry Street Abilene, Texas (325) 677-9300 • Tune Ups • Air Conditioning • Brakes • Computer Diagnostics and much more!

thing about her work is helping people with their problems. “It meets a need in me to be the solution,” she says. “People aren’t happy when their car won’t start or they’re stranded.

But I know in my heart when they’ve given me money and they walk out the door we’ve given them good service. And if it breaks down again we’re going make it right.”

www.djs5starautorepair.net

A Facebook page helps Debra promote DJ’s 5 Star Auto Service. “I encourage customers to go to Google or Yahoo and write a review,” she says. “That’s very helpful.”

CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

48 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Business Advice:

6 Genuine Ways to Really Stand Work

By Jeff Haden | Influencer

Great employees spend the majority of their time helping other people succeed: Their company, their employees, their customers and vendors and suppliers... the list goes on and on.

come in. Chip away at an ongoing project others ignore.

Say you think a project has gone off the rails; instead of just pointing out its flaws so you Don’t just be the one who turns on or off the can show everyone how smart you are, jump lights – be the one who gets in early or stays in and help fix it. late in order to get things done.

Great employees also spend some time helpEveryone talks about problems. The people ing themselves succeed, both for “selfish” rea- 3) Create your own side project. who actually help fix them are the people who sons and because their success creates success Excelling at an assigned project is expected. stand out -- and for all the right reasons. for others.

Excelling at a side project helps you stand out.

5) Show a little of your personal side.

Rightly or wrongly, to succeed you can’t just For example, I once decided to create a web- Personal interests help other people to identify do a great job -- you also have to find ways to based employee handbook my then-employer and remember you. That’s a huge advantage get noticed for doing a great for a new employee, or for job. Here are six ways: a company competing in a crowded market.

1) Be known for something specific.

Just make sure your personal interests don’t overshadow your professional accomplishments. Being “the guy who does triathlons” is fine, but being “the guy who is always training and traveling to triathlons so he never seems to be around when we need him” is not.

Meeting standards, however lofty those standards may be, won’t help you stand out.

So go above the norm. Be the leader known for turning around struggling employees. Be the owner who makes a few deliveries a week to personally check in with customers. Be the manager who consistently promotes from within. Be known as the employee who responds quick- could put on the company intranet. (Rememer, acts faster, or always follows up. ber intranets?) I worked on it at home on my own time. Some managers liked it, but the HR In short, be so great at something that you’re manager didn’t, so it died an inglorious death. the first person people turn to when something goes wrong... or needs to go really, really right. I was disappointed, but the company wasn’t “out” anything, and soon after I was selected Pick a worthwhile mission, then excel at that for a high visibility company-wide process mission. People will notice. improvement team because my little project made me “that guy.” (Yep, my side project 2) Be first with a purpose. made me known for something specific.)

Lots of employees, managers, and business owners are the first to arrive each day. Maybe The same applies to business owners. Exyou are too. That’s great, but what do you do periment on a new process or service with a with that time? Organize your thoughts? Get a particular customer in mind. The customer jump on your email? will appreciate how you tried, without being asked, to better meet their needs, and your Instead of taking care of your stuff, do some- business will become “that business.” thing visibly worthwhile for the company.

Take care of unresolved problems from the 4) Put your muscle where your mouth day before. Set things up so it’s easier for em- is. Lots of people take verbal stands. Few take ployees to hit the ground running when they a stand and put effort behind their opinions.

Let people know a little about you; a few personal details add color and depth to your professional image.

6) Work harder than everyone else.

Nothing – nothing – is a substitute for hard work. Look around: how many people are working as hard as they can?

Very few.

The best way to stand out is to outwork everyone else.

It’s also the easiest way to stand out, because you’ll be the only one trying.

CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

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50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Lights, Sound, Action!

Martinez & Sanchez join forces to create a new business - ‘Elite Productions’

By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine Isaiah Martinez and Elvis Sanchez have followed the age-old advice that says, “Don’t quit your day job.” But their new business, Elite Productions, has been successful making Abilene events successful.

erything they needed to offer sound, lighting and DJ services.

David Hernandez, publisher of Hispanic Life, let them know about the West Texas Bridal & Quinceanera Showcase in January, 2015. “We needed to make a decision,” Isaiah says. “We needed to be prepared for the official launch of our business. So we thought and prayed about it.”

The decision was to introduce Elite Productions at the Bridal Showcase.

Elvis and Isaiah met while they were both attending Champions Church here in Abilene helping with media, website and graphics.

“I grew up in church on the worship team,” says Isaiah. “I started playing drums and keyboard when I was ten years old. I was just filling a need and I feel like God has re- “It’s really been taking off,” Isaiah says. “It was ally honored that step of faith.”

God’s timing.” They have advertised in Hispanic Life and through Facebook as well as their webElvis worked for a production company con- page, www.eliteproabilene.com. Most of the nected with a large store in El Paso, where business has been weddings, quinceaneras and he gained sound and lighting experience. birthday parties but Elite Productions can also “I’ve loved lighting since I was a kid,” he provide services for business events, holiday parsays. “I had a couple of bands and had light- ties and live bands. ing, video, the whole show programmed.”

“Our main goal is for our company to provide Elvis still attends Champions Church. Isaiah high quality professional service through sound, is a member at Beltway Park Church where lighting and DJ services,” says Isaiah. “We want he serves on the worship team, but they to set an atmosphere that makes people excited. knew they wanted to do something together We want to stay up with technology and what’s involving music and lighting. going on and offer that at reasonable prices, as affordably as we can.”

Originally from Juarez, Mexico, Elvis moved to Abilene in 2010 to work in the Isaiah and Elvis’ favorite thing about their busiinformation technology field as a contrac- ness is that “it doesn’t feel like work” even tor. “I got into church by accident,” he says. though the evening and weekend hours can take “I sold a drum set to Destiny Family Chris- a toll. “It’s a big deal for a bride to trust us with tian Center in El Paso and ended up with a their reception, their day,” Isaiah says. “We want contract to do their sound. It changed my to earn their trust. We stay in touch with our cliperception about church people. I’ve done ents and meet as many times as they need. Whatsound for T.D. Jakes, Kim Burrell and Jona- ever we can do to make their event what they than Butler.” want it to be.” _____________________________________ Over the years Isaiah purchased sound equipment for youth ministries. “I knew Elite Productions I needed to start using the equipment I in(325) 518-8094 vested in for something,” he says. Elvis also owned lighting equipment so they had evwww.EliteProAbilene.com

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52 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Use A Stretch IRA to Leave a Lasting Legacy

Pick us up at The Whitten Inn, China Star, Wholly Cow Burgers & H.E.B. | BUSINESS | 53

By Jeff Atchison | Saving Financial Lives | KLGD 106.9 FM

There are some little known sections of the IRS code that provide tremendous tax advantages in situations involving an inherited IRA account. When someone inherits an IRA account, the IRS allows that IRA beneficiary to continue growing the IRA account on a tax-deferred basis, as long as certain technical requirements are met. These types of inherited IRA accounts are sometimes referred to as “Multi-Generational IRAs”, but most often are referred to as “Stretch IRAs” in the financial services world.

However, if Billy, who is age 30 when his grandfather dies, takes advantage of the IRS regulations that allow him to “stretch” the distributions over his lifetime and continue to grow the account on a tax-deferred basis, he will receive over $1 million in distributions from the account over his lifetime (assuming a 4% return on his money). That’s right … over a million!

Insurance companies have been in the business of administering lifetime annuity payouts for over a century, and therefore, have more experience and administrative capacity to administer Stretch IRAs than do most brokerage firms and banks. While some brokerage firms and banks are competent at handling these types of accounts, those entities as a whole are still playing catch-up to develop the competence to administer Stretch IRAs.

There is a long list of rules that must be followed in order to take advantage of the Stretch IRA concept. For example, the account must be titled in the name of the decedent “for the benefit of” the beneficiary. The beneficiary must take required minimum annual distributions from the account and such distributions are calculated using a certain IRS life expectancy table. The beneficiary must qualify as a “designated beneficiary”, which is defined in the IRS regulations. Does all this sound a little confusing? These are just a few of the technical requirements in the IRS code that relate to Stretch IRAs. Details on how these requirements must be satisfied are beyond the scope of this article, but that’s an area in which your financial advisor can be of assistance.

Let’s take a look at a simple example of how a Stretch IRA can benefit one’s family. Assume that John Smith dies with an IRA account worth $194,000 and the beneficiary on his account is his grandson Billy Smith.

If Billy immediately withdraws the money or moves the money into an account in his name, he will have to pay income taxes on the entire amount and the money loses its tax-deferred status (it can no longer continue to grow on a tax-deferred basis). Assuming Billy is in the 15% tax bracket, he will be left with about $165,000 after paying taxes on the IRA.

Rather than allowing your heirs to inherit your IRA and spend the money in a short period of time, like most people do who inherit IRAs, the Stretch IRA concept gives you the option to assure that your children or grandchildren receive an annual check from your IRA for the rest of their lives. What better way for them to always remember their grandma or grandpa!

If you have an IRA account and you do not intend to spend all of your IRA money during your lifetime, you should seriously consider the Stretch IRA as way to leave a lasting legacy for your heirs. Since this type of IRA distribution planning is very technical in nature and involves lots of IRS rules that must be closely followed, it is important to consult with your financial advisor before attempting to implement the Stretch IRA.

Big Country Financial and Retirement Services is offering a free hour of consultation services to anyone interested in planning for retirement.

The Stretch IRA concept, if properly implemented, can be a very powerful financial planning tool, but if not done correctly, it won’t work. That’s why is so important for an IRA beneficiary to consult a financial advisor before taking any action upon inheriting the account. If you have an IRA account and are interested in using the Stretch IRA concept to benefit your children or grandchildren, ask your financial advisor about how you can arrange in advance for your IRA to be “stretched” after your death.

Big Country Financial & Retirement Services (325) 201-6644 Email Jeff at jeff@bigcountryfinancial.com Listen to “Saving Financial Lives” hosted by Jeff Atchison, every Saturday at 9:00 a.m. and Sunday at 5:00 p.m, on “The Country Giant” K106.9 FM Investment Advisory Services Provided by Brookstone Capital Management LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine

Car Give-A-Way Gives Back to the Community

Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Daniela’s Tex Mex | BUSINESS | 55

CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

Abilene Used Car Sales wants to give back to the community that has helped their business thrive.”

By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Roger Fulton was understandably excited when he won a 2007 Dodge Nitro from Abilene Used Car Sales on May 16.

“It was something,” he says. “I’ve never won anything like that in my life. We were real surprised.”

This is the second annual vehicle give-away from Abilene Used Car Sales. A 2009 Mazda Tribute was given away in March 2014. This year 211 entrants visited the Abilene Used Car Sales lot at 2150 N. 1st or the new location at 1570 S. Clack to receive a red ticket. The new location opened on May 1.

“We just want to give back to the community,” says General Manager Jason Gregory.

“If it wasn’t’ for them, we wouldn’t be here.”

the car. Spiderman made the actual pick of the winning ticket. The webby superhero joined Batman, Ana and Elsa from “Frozen” and a Minion, all from Queen B Royal Events. La Voz Radio 93.3 broadcast live from the location from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

Paceline Collision Center offered the use of their parking lot at 1580 S Clack to accommodate the crowd.

Entrants had to be present to win. Other prizes included two sets of four Schlitterbahn tickets, four Fiesta Texas tickets, two sets of three Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor tickets and a grill.

The business began more than twenty-five years ago when Jason’s grandRoger’s wife Kimberly father, R.D. Gregory and learned about the give-away father, Tommy, bought from her daughter Amanda, their preacher’s car and who had seen the event profinanced its resale. Jamoted on Facebook. Roger is originally son’s mom Wanda and from Kansas but says he got to Texas, his twin sisters and their “as quick as I could,” moving here in husbands Adam and Jenthe mid-nineties. He drives a truck for nifer Lovelady and Tyler McElroy Metals whose fabrication plant and Amy Simmons all is located in Merkel and is headquartered work for the family busiin Bossier City, Louisiana. Kimberly ness. Abilene Used Car works as the warehouse manager for Sales is among the larg151 Vapes. She is currently driving the est “buy here/pay here” car dealers in Abilene. (AUCS) has also partnered with the Monster Giveaways for that event included Schilitter- Dodge Nitro.

All vehicles come with a twelve month/12,00 X Tour to collect toys for needy children at bahn and NRH20 Water Park tickets as well as ____________________________ Wal-Mart gift cards. Another backpack giveChristmas. mile warranty. away is scheduled for this August and several Pictured above: Anna Contreras, Jason Gregory, Joe Del Rio, Roger Fulton & Adrian Guerrero Abilene Used Car Sales has sponsored Abilene In 2014 the company donated more than 500 other businesses have asked to be part of the High School and Cooper High School athlet- backpacks, filled 252 with school supplies and partnership. ics and the Abilene Fire Department softball distributed them to families who came to their Well over 200 people attended the drawing for team for many years. Abilene Used Car Sales North First location.