May 2019 by HispanicLife Media

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MAY 2019

Volume 10, Issue 1

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

May has become the “new” December to many families nowadays. It is such a crazy busy time with graduations, end of the school year parties, teacher appreciation week, Mother’s Day, finals at school, and end of the school award ceremonies and the list goes on. Many have “summer fever” and are ready for the kiddos to be out of school to enjoy a little rest & relaxation. We here at Hispanic Life, want to give a BIG SHOUTOUT to all of our EDUCATORS here in the Big Country, for all you do throughout the school year. We appreciate your hard work, your early morning duties and your late nights grading papers. We hope you all know that you really DO

ADVISING EDITOR AND ACCEPTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Amy Hernández info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 701-9505 Office

ADVERTISING SALES • Terri Collum (325) 439-1214 terri@hispaniclifemedia.com

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

GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Debbie Heep info@hispaniclifemedia.com

About Us

We are dedicated to serving the Abilene and the Big Country by providing up-to-date information and resources that promote healthy families and homes. We also promote our clients businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images within the Hispanic community. HispanicLife Magazine is published on a monthly basis and is owned & operated locally. Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. HispanicLife and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. HispanicLife does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. 2019 HispanicLIfe Media

make a difference in each child’s life that you come in contact with. If you are a parents with kids in school, before the school year is over, take a quick moment and just write a note saying thank you to their teachers. Many educators feel like all their hard work goes unnoticed, so brighten their day by thanking them for being with your kiddos for 9 months out of the year. Happy Graduation to all the graduating classes of 2019 and Happy Mother’s Day to all the beautiful Mother’s.

Amy Hernández & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife Magazine

4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

WEST TEXAS HOMELESS NETWORK

FREE Coffee & Conversations! Do you know someone who may need housing, food, clothing or support? Come to the Downtown Library to find out what help is available. Enjoy free coffee & snacks while talking with us! We are here to listen.

DATE: 2nd Monday of each month starting May 13th, 2019 LOCATION: Abilene Public Library 202 Cedar St, Abilene, TX Time: 9 AM - 10 AM

COMMUNITY

LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS

A New Family Endeavor

As years pass, families change. Sometimes they change with no warning at all. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Yoli Grimes can tell you there’s more than one way to build a family.

YOLI GRIMES

Born in Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, Yoli came to Texas with her parents at age two. Her seventy-year-old dad, Greg, still works for Prater Equipment Company in Comanche. Her mom, Armandina, cared for the family.

Air

Force. They live in Dover, Delaware but their duty station will soon change to Hawaii. Yoli and James are already planning a visit.

Trey enjoys working for Hudman Plumbing in Merkel. He has given his parents two grandchildren also: Kayden, age three and McKinley, nine months.

Yoli has lived in Merkel since 1985. One week after high school graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, James. She works as Billing Supervisor for Taylor County Electric Cooperative. James also works for the Coop as Transportation Manager, overseeing the fleet of 133 trucks. On May 28 they will celebrate their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary.

Brittany, age twenty-one, recently moved to Oklahoma with her boyfriend, Jaime. They are becoming familiar with the area and deciding what they want to do there. Yoli tells her children jokingly that if she could she would have skipped having kids and gone straight to grandkids.

Yoli has two favorite things about her job. “The members,” she says. “With us being local you get to know members who call in or want to ask questions. Several ask for me because that’s who they’re used to.”

“The two oldest we only get to see about twice a year,” she says. “That’s not enough, but Face Time is amazing. At least you can see them. We’re able to see the younger two often since they live here.”

Her second favorite thing is her co-workers. She calls the eighty plus employees “a big family.”

Yoli’s favorite way to unwind is watching crime dramas like Law and Order: SVU and Blue Bloods with a glass of wine.

When you ask Yoli about her children, she has a story to tell. Their son Gregory James, known as Trey, was eight years old, when they received a chilling call. Yoli’s mom, her sister Gracie, an aunt and Gracie’s mother-in-law had been involved in an auto accident. They were told all four had died but discovered later that Yoli’s mom survived, although her health was never the same.

Trey also had a hard time understanding why two cousins were now his sisters.

Gracie had two daughters, Monica, then fifteen and Brittany, then seven. It wasn’t long before Yoli and James knew the girls needed to join their family in spite of the challenges.

She says what kept her going was the support she and James gave each other. “He just knew this is what God had planned for us,” she says.

“His world changed dramatically,” Yoli says. “That was probably the hardest thing.”

“We lived in a two-bedroom, one bath house,” Yoli says. “It was 1,400 square feet. We con- Monica, now twenty-nine, cares at home for her verted our garage into a bedroom for James and two children Gracie, age nine, and Conner, age four. Her husband Kevin Hontz serves in the me. The girls took our bedroom.”

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The way Yoli built her family may be unusual, but she is always willing to share what she’s learned.

“Talk to the child who was there first,” she says. “You’ve got to talk to them and make sure they understand. It’s important. You have to show them it’s the right thing to do.” Doing the right thing has brought Yoli through plenty of struggles. She’s still doing the right thing but she’s also reaping the benefits.

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Abilene Church Celebrates 133 Years By Jessica Ranck BigCountryHomePage.com

Nestled on the corner of north 8th and Plum is a church rich full of history. 133 years of Sundays for Antioch CME Church and Board of Trustees President Edwin McGee says he’s been lucky enough to be there for nearly 40 of them. “My wife Linda, she was born and raised in this church and we married in 73 and so after about eight or nine years, I came over here,” said McGee. McGee getting to witness the church grow into what it is today.

Rev. Williams says she is just beginning her journey at Antioch CME Church, instantly stepping into what she calls a community “If you just stop and you just think about it, you can feel it through the whole entire church,” said Williams.

Save Your Seat Join us for an all-in-one registration event designed to make the process easy. tstc.edu/rally

Rev. Williams says when it comes down to it their success can only be attributed to one thing. “It is their faith,” said Rev. Williams. “There are times each church regardless of denomination goes through, membership may go up or it may go down but when you have people that love the lord from there heart, from there spirit, and from there soul, things will get done.” As the choir sings its final song on its 133rd year it’s the younger generation that congregation says gives them hope for another 133 years. “When you see these kids come up and follow in your footsteps and continue our church growths and continue our church history, that’s good for the heart,” said McGee.

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“If you think about it we started in the basement and God said ‘No I need them to move up a little higher’ and so now we have this sanctuary,” said Rev. Sheila Williams.

REGISTRATION FALL 2019

On Saturday April 13th, Station 8 on Buffalo Gap Road put Ladder 8 in service changing this station into a two company station. There are now eight personnel on shift full time and the station has gone through an extensive remodel to accommodate these additions. We will be holding a open house on May 2nd from 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m to celebrate this monumental event in AFD history.

8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

A two-day Food Protection Management training for food service managers in the Big Country area will be held May20 and May 21, 2019. It will be held at the Taylor County Extension Office located on the Taylor County Expo grounds in Abilene from 8:15 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:00 p.m. both days. The training will allow food establishments to meet their certification requirements if they pass the exam. The exam being used is the Prometric exam. The class covers twelve food safety concepts related to personal hygiene, cross contamination, time and temperature, sanitation, pest management, foodborne illness and related areas. The course is sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Taylor, Nolan and Haskell Counties.

Cost for the class is $125, which includes the course book and exam. Registration information is available by calling the Taylor County Extension Office at 325-672-6048. You may also access a downloadable registration form at http://taylor.agrilife.org.

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Anthony Treviño Confirms His ‘Journey’ Ends as Member of The Hometown Boys By Tejano Nation

Accordionist Anthony Treviño announced his “journey” has ended with The Hometown Boys after over a decade with the legendary Conjunto group.

unrelenting conjunto beat and accentuated by the sharp, edgy, but smooth accordion of Joe Martinez, who passed away in 1998 of a heart attack at age 34.

The accordionist confirmed the news via social media on Sunday.

Many fans believe Treviño did justice to that sound as an accordionist for the Grammy-winning group.

“I would like to thank my family, friends, promoters, DJs and most of all THE FANS for over a decade of memories,” Treviño posted on Facebook. “Unfortunately, my journey with The Hometown Boys has come to an end. You guys have made my life the greatest, everything I had ever set out to do, all my goals, my achievements, and my awards have all been because of you all and I’m forever grateful.” The Hometown Boys are a family band from Lubbock, Texas, and rose to fame in the 1990s, enjoying success unheard of for most conjuntos. They built their trademark sound on beautifully blended vocal harmonies, which were supported by a strong, steady,

“I have never been let go from a job before so I’m not sure how to handle all this but I know the Lord above has a plan for me,” Treviño added. “I’m a firm believer in that. Thank you all again for all of the great memories. I’m just as hurt and saddened by all this as you are but new management seems to think I’m no longer a good fit for the band. I love you all and just maybe I will see you all again someday.” Like Tejano Nation on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our playlists on Spotify and Soundcloud.

MY PARKS & Recreation • CITY of ABILENE SUMMER CAMPS

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out at our 2019 summer camps! We have 24 camps happening throughout the summer, with 20 of those camps themed, along with games, activities, field trips, snacks, Adventure Cove visits, and so much more! Boys and girls from ages 6-13 are welcome to participate, and you can register your child at www.abilenetx.gov/ signup. It’s $85 per child for Camp Sessions 1-5, and $50 per child for Camp Session 6! We hope you join us for one epic summer! Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out at our 2019 summer camps! We have 24 camps happening throughout the summer, with 20 of those camps themed, along with games, activities, field trips, snacks, Adventure Cove visits, and so much more! Boys and girls from ages 6-13 are welcome to participate, and you can register your child at www.abilenetx.gov/signup. It’s $85 per child for Camp Sessions 1-5, and $50 per child for Camp Session 6! We hope you join us for one epic summer!

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10 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Abilene’s Biggest Family

The Abilene State Supported Living Center provides many services. But most of all, it’s home. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

ily Fam is not an

IMPORTANT thing, it is

Everything Abilenians know about the annual Christmas Lane display at the Abilene State Supported Living Center. Thousands drive through to see more than 100 displays set up by local organizations and businesses. Many make it a holiday tradition. It’s not unusual for a mom to add a teen’s photo with Santa to a collection taken every year of his life. But what those working at AbSSLC really want you to know is that when you visit, you’re visiting a family.

They also built the Center’s chapel and the Oakwood Trails Lodge. One of the Council’s projects is raising funds for a new ADAcompliant swimming pool for the Center. The current pool was built in the 1960s and has many problems.

Linda Hinshaw Director

In 1899 the City of Abilene deeded a full section of land to the State of Texas to establish an epileptic colony. The community supported itself by raising cattle and pigs, growing produce, even making shoes.

Jolene Willis Assistant Director of Programs

Jeff Goza Assistant Director of Administration

rector of Programs, has been with the Center forty years. Assistant Director of Administration, Jeff Goza, is the newcomer with only 29 years.

“The VSC has been very good to us over the years,” Jeff says.

Glenda’s Second Edition Resale Shop (open to the public every Wednesday from 9:30am to 2:30pm) takes donations of clothing, home décor, toys, games and jewelry to sell in the shop. The Lone Star Coffee and Tea House (also open to the public) sells a number of amazing drinks as well as jewelry made by residents of the Center.

Individuals who are physically or intellectually challenged, or both, make their home at the Center. Twenty homes house from six to twenty-two individuals. Over 260 people live at the Center. When it is fully staffed, more than 1,400 people work there in nursing, direct care, maintenance, food services, laundry and more.

“Staffing is our greatest challenge,” Jeff says. “We could hire 270 people today. You’re not going to get rich working for the state, but we You can reach the Volunteer Services Council have great insurance, retirement and benefits. at 325-795-3547 or fill out the contact form on We’re looking for people who have a love for their website at www.abilenevsc.org. others.” The Abilene State Supported Living Center Jeff tells the story of one individual who has falls in the top five employers in the city. It lived at the Center more than sixty years. takes a lot of people to make sure this family thrives. The work is challenging but comes “He is very attached to our maintenance de- with great rewards. partment,” Jeff says. “He goes there for every break time. And when he has to go to the “Trying to teach someone to pick up a wash hospital, one of them goes with him.” He, in cloth and wipe their face with it can be hard,” turn, is very important to the guys - not only Jeff says. “But when they do it, you know as someone that lives at the facility but as a you’ve been a part of a huge thing.” true friend.

The current senior administrators at the facility have a total of over 115 years of service. Linda Hinshaw, Director, will mark forty-seven years in July. Jolene Willis, Assistant Di-

The Center’s Volunteer Services Council (VSC) handles a number of projects to support the Center. The Volunteer Council recently donated fifty hospital beds at a cost of $250,000.

In the 1920s, the colony added care for those with mental illness and became the Abilene State Hospital. “Abilene State School,” the most familiar name for the facility, came into use in 1957, even though it was never actually a school. The Center is one of thirteen around the State of Texas.

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The History of the Abilene State Supported Living Center By Abilene State Supported Living Center

Abilene State School’s history began in 1897 when Governor Joseph D. Sayer appointed a commission of experienced men to select the site for an Epileptic Colony. The plans called for an institution large enough to provide for five hundred “afflicted”, the largest in the world. It was to be patterned after the Craig Colony in New York, which cared for three hundred patients.

paid $5.00 a week for board, medication and treatment.

Two weeks prior to opening day, some difficulties were encountered. The water tower collapsed which left the colony without water. A temporary water tower was erected but it would only supply enough water for one third of the original number of patients. It was replaced with the water standpipe you see today six years afLocal residents were hoping the state would ter the facility opened. By August of 1904, the build the Colony in Abilene to help boost the Colony was full to capacity with 201 patients. local economy. Two of the people instrumental in securing the epileptic colony were Henry A. Growth in the facility continTillet, a state senator from Abilene and one of ued under the leadership of Dr. the early builders of the city, and John Tucker, T.B.Bass, superintendent from 1909 to 1943. Dr. Bass endured a confederate soldier and early Indian fighter. an extraordinary number of chalTillet realized that Abilene was not in the run- lenges during his tenure. ning for the colony due to its poor water supply. In an effort to overcome this shortfall a group Droughts caused serious water of residents helped the city purchase land and shortages and hurt crop producbuild Lytle Lake. In addition, citizens donated tion. Attendants and doctors $3,200 so the city could purchase 640 acres of land from Judge Fred Cockrell and J.G. Lowdon. The land was then given to the state for the colony. A committee researching the best place for an asylum picked Abilene because it was “by far the most suitable for asylum purposes”. The Legislature unanimously approved Abilene as the site in February 1899. Construction of the facility, coordinated by Dr. John Preston, was a massive undertaking costing $200,000.00, which equaled four-fifths of the combined capital stock in the three banks in Abilene at that time. The original physical plant consisted of an Administration building, a power plant, a women’s hospital, a men’s hospital, four epileptic cottages and a superintendent’s residence. Many people wrote to Dr. Preston, who had served as the superintendent of the Asylum for the Insane at Terrell, requesting employment and admission. Early in 1904, the three-story buildings were opened for public inspection and the people of Abilene proudly viewed the finest buildings in Texas outside the state’s capitol. The doors of the State Epileptic Colony opened formally on March 26, 1904, taking in 104 “patients” the first day. Dr. Preston admitted patients and classified them into two categories: (1) those who were given free treatment and (2) those who

Dr. Bass was also recognized during this time for his research in epilepsy. Still, he and other physicians only had Luminal and Bromide as medications to control seizures. Some of Dr. Bass’ earliest documented research consisted of using injections of rattlesnake venom which did help some people. He also believed that treatment should include a proper diet, light work,

regular working and sleeping hours.

were lost to the military during World War I and war time inflation made it difficult to live within the budget. Some male patients ran away to pick cotton for higher wages. There were periodic outbreaks of la grippe (flu), small pox and measles at the colony. By 1925, the state of Texas saw the need for the State Epileptic Colony to include care for those who suffered from mental illness too. To better reflect the nature of its care the name of the colony was changed to the Abilene State Hospital. However, the “hospital” still served as an asylum for epileptics and was the only such institution in the south and southwestern United States.

The campus grew from six buildings in 1904 to sixty-three in 1943 . This included officer’s quarters, physician’s cottages, two hospitals, twenty eight wards(homes) and barns. The number of patients grew from around 300 in 1909 to 1,324 in 1943. As the hospital’s population doubled and tripled, providing care for the patients became increasingly difficult. Trained personnel were almost impossible to find. There were not enough attendants to care for the patients because of a lack of funds to pay decent wages. Pleas were repeatedly sent to the Texas legislature for appropriations needed for salary raises, equipment, and new buildings. Dr. Bass continued to struggle under difficult circumstances until 1943, when he retired. Through the years, other superintendents came and went while the hospital continued to grow. All in all the hospital was a good place to be

since the medical treatment was considered state-of-the-art and the facility was self-sufficient. “Everybody who lived and worked here had a job to do” according to Mrs. May Corley, the hospital’s first sociologist. By the 1950’s the facility witnessed landmark changes. African-Americans, first admitted in 1949, were represented in increasing numbers during this decade. In 1957, the facility saw its third name change to Abilene State School. This meant that the purpose of the facility was now to care for people with mental retardation. This decision also allowed for children to be admitted. During this period, public awareness of problematic conditions in some institutions around the country increased. Calls for increased funding of state institutions became increasingly strident. M.J. Kelly, director for the State Board of Hospitals and Special Schools, put the demands of the public into words: “Instead of making these institutions places to retain patients, we intend to make them centers for curing patients and putting them on the road to recovery. We want all those children who can learn to receive the best of instruction.” On October 31, 1963, John F. Kennedy signed those recommendations into law. The last bill he ever signed provided federal aid for research, training, and rehabilitation for the mentally retarded throughout the country. The turning point for Texas came in 1965 when professionals shifted to a policy of comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation. Steady increases in funding during the 1970s and 1980s resulted in improved ratios of staff to residents. The funding increase also greatly enhanced living environments and led to increasingly sophisticated professional and medical services. Today, Abilene State Supported Living Center continues to serve a vital role in the increasingly broad range of services offered to Texans with developmental disabilities. In many ways, the struggles of the past reflect the struggles of the future, namely how to provide people who live on campus with increased independence and dignity while maintaining their safety and optimum health.

12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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YMCA of Abilene Redbud Project Calls The Community To “Give With Your Heart” By David Hendricks | YMCA of Abilene

The Redbud YMCA Project has pledges for close to 3.6 million towards the 4 million dollar goal to enhance the facility, which will allow the Y to better serve the community. The goal deadline is June as required by some of the matching funds.

continue to give with their heart. Abilene is a wonderful community and their support of the Y for over 70 years reflects that belief. The YMCA of Abilene calls community partners to Give With Your Heart by supporting the efforts to reach the target funds. The YMCA of Abilene is over 87% complete with their fundraising goal thanks to numerous donations from community members. Those who would like to YMCA of Abilene CEO David Hendricks help achieve to remainder of the 4 million may would like to thank the foundations, individuals contribute by visiting www.abileneymca.org or and the following businesses that have pledged by visiting the Y. to make this dream a reality: Chick-fil-A, First Financial Bank, Perry Hunter Hall, H-E-B, and About the Y Batjer & Associates. He also asks that Abilene The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofIn the past year the Abilene Y has impacted the community by providing over $217,000 in free and discounted services. The services range from childcare to sports to membership which all promote a healthy mind, body and spirit. The YMCA is proud to make programs available for everyone, regardless of income.

its strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 22 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and wellbeing, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. ymca.net

14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

APD Warns Public of IRS and Social Security Office Phone Scams By Nicholas Teresky | KTXS

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The Abilene Police Department is warning the public of a phone scam that has been going around lately. Con artists are calling civilians up while claiming to be from the IRS or Social Security office seeking peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal information. Anybody who receives one of the suspicious phone calls is advised to not give out any of their personal information to the caller and should then immediately hang up on the fraudster.

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16 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Courtesy of: HispanicLife Magazine

To place your loved ones obituary or to honor them with a special message, please contact our offices at: (325) 701-9505 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

Jimmy Reyes, 74, of Abilene, Texas, passed away April 21, 2019. Mr. Reyes was born March 12, 1945, in Runge, Texas to Jose and Angelita Reyes. Mr. Jimmy Reyes resided in Wingate, Texas for most of his life. His favorite sport was baseball and was known for being an excellent pitcher, striking everyone out. He enjoyed watching football, playing pool and sitting on the back porch enjoying the weather and company. Survivors include his son Venicio Reyes from Winters, Texas, daughters Jamie Hernandez and husband Toribio from Abilene, Texas and Amanda Reyes and husband David from Abilene, Texas, brother Juan Reyes and wife Rachel from Wingate, Texas and sister Esperanza Moreno and husband Isaac from Winters, Texas. As well as 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mr. Reyes was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Nick Reyes, Jose Reyes, and Primitivo Reyes. Guadalupe Garza, 77, formerly a long-time resident of Abilene, Texas passed away April 21, 2019 with her family at her side. Mrs. Garza was born December 12, 1941, in Alice, Texas to Encarnacion and Margarita Perez. Guadalupe married the love of her life Armando N. Garza June 30, 1962. They were inseparable and celebrated 54 years of marriage until his passing in 2016. Guadalupe worked several years for Sacred Heart Church Mothers Day Out. Guadalupe was known as Ama or Lupita to her family and friends. She was a devoted, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She enjoyed listening to music and dancing. She will be remembered for her feistiness and unconditional love. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Delia G Vincent (Alfonso Jr) and a son Armando Garza Jr (Leticia) both from Abilene, sisters Viola Valadez of Mesquite, Rosa Ramirez of Garland, Tina Garcia (Frank) of California, Esmeralda Hernandez (Fernando) of Abilene, Alicia Lopez (Robert) of Sugar Land. Grandchildren A.J Vincent of Missouri, Jessica Yeatts (Robert), Crystal Vincent, Trini Vincent, Armando O Garza III, Eliseo Garza, Joey Garza all of Abilene. GreatGrandchildren Javen Colbert, Kyleigh and Arianna Yeatts, Emery Garza, Aliana and Jasmine Garza. Guadalupe was preceded in death by her husband

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Armando N. Garza, her parents Encarnacion and Margarita Perez, her brothers: Cosme Perez, Santos Perez and Encarnacion Jr. Pallbearers are Armando Garza Jr, Armando O Garza III, A.J Vincent, Robert Yeatts, Rudy Ramirez Jr, Cosme Perez Jr. and honorary pallbearer Javen Colbert. Sylvia Gamez De La Cruz, 64, passed away April 28, 2019. Mrs. De La Cruz was born December 26, 1954, in Yorktown, Texas to Joe and Aurora Gamez. Survivors include her loving husband Pedro De La Cruz of Abilene, her children: Angie De La Cruz, Adam De La Cruz, Alice Gamez De La Cruz, and Amanda De La Cruz and her husband Edward Beaver, all of Abilene, her brothers: Juan Gamez, Raul Gamez, Joe Gamez and wife Jennifer Mills, all of Abilene, Daniel and wife Becky Gamez of Amarillo, sisters: Elena Gamez Hernandez of Abilene, Mary and husband Mike Gonzales of Amarillo and Elaine Gamez Serrano of Amarillo, and six grandchildren. Mrs. De La Cruz was preceded in death by both her parents and a sister Rosa Ortiz.

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

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY Monday, May 27th â&#x20AC;˘ 11 AM Texas State Veterans Cemetery 7457 W Lake Rd. | Abilene, TX The Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene will host a Memorial Day Ceremony sponsored by the Chiefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Group from Dyess Air Force Base. The Community Band of Abilene will play a medley of patriotic songs, the Guest Speaker will be Congressman Jodey Arrington and the Dyess AFB Honor Guard will present the colors.

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

Camp Able in Buffalo Gap is Changing Lives for Humans and Horses By Will Jensen | KTXS

Camp Able in Buffalo Gap is expanding in 2019, and changing lives for humans and horses. There is plenty of room for both children and horses to run at Camp Able, and 7-year-old Conrad Smith enjoys taking advantage of the open space. Camp Able is an equine therapy non-profit, and a horse sanctuary in Buffalo Gap. It has proven to be a perfect fit for kids like Conrad, and the 50 or so horses here. “It has opened up his world,” said Pamela Nelson, Conrad’s biological grandmother. Nelson has raised Conrad since he was 6 weeks old. He calls her mom. Nelson explained that Conrad was diagnosed with nonverbal autism, DOCK1 -- a rare chromosome deletion and other conditions. He only spoke five words before he came to Camp Able two and a half years ago. “We were told that Conrad would never be able to attend public school, talk, ride a bicycle, and he does all that, and he does more,” Nelson said. “He is thriving.” Conrad now speaks more than 300 words. He is able to express his wants, his needs, and his feelings. He even made the honor roll at school. When someone comes to Camp Able for therapy, the horses will typically choose who they want to work with. It is the unique motion horses make when they walk that can be calming and healing.

“It’s that ambulatory movement,” said Renee Hicks, Camp Able’s founder and lead instructor. “There’s a little lateral sway with it as well. It’s very much like when a child crawls.” Hicks said the horses are the therapists here -their movement stimulating the brain. In addition to conditions like autism. they are able to help treat post-traumatic stress disorder. “The horses do have a gift,” said Hicks. “They are given something mighty special, and they seem to know what to do for each child.” As of now, Camp Able has 25 acres and 4 defined Zoth said. “That is absolutely the best compentrails with sensory enhancing stops along the way, sation i have ever gotten.” Zoth is one of Camp Able’s 200 volunteers. but they are expanding. They recently purchased about 80 acres three miles away for the horses to graze. They are also going to build a covered arena so that therapy sessions can be held year-round on a regular basis.

“This is family,” Nelson said. “This is his safe haven.” For Conrad and his family, the bond with the horses and the people at Camp Able is is a gift that they say is priceless.

“For these children consistency and schedule and something being a constant is really important to them,” said Lota Zoth, Camp Able’s volunteer executive director. “It would be really great if we didn’t have to lop off two and a half months of winter time and two months of summertime just because of the weather.”

“It is answered prayers,” Nelson said. “It says that your never stop. You never give up. You always encourage. If we believe in these special needs children they can absolutely believe in themselves.”

If anyone is interested in donating, volunteering, or receiving therapy at Camp Able, “The best pay I have ever gotten is on Friday mornings when these little kiddos come out here please visit www.camp-able.org. to ride with us and they line up to give me a hug,”

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EDUCATION

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A Mom Finds Her Inspiration g Workin with Children Margie Medina enjoys a rewarding career at Day Nursery of Abilene. By HispanicLife Magazine

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MOM? I have been blessed to be a MOM to two beautiful daughters named Staci and Josephine Medina. Staci is thirtyone years of age and Josephine is twentyseven years of age. They have both blessed my life abundantly.

MARGIE MEDINA

HOW ARE YOU ABLE TO JUGGLE W O R K AND A FAMILY? I juggle work and family by putting GOD first in everything I do. I balance work and family by prioritizing, multitasking, and setting goals for myself each day.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I was born in Loraine Texas in 1968 to my parents John and Simona Valdez. I have a total of six siblings, my two brothers are Johnny and Jerry. My sisters are Dolores, Rosie and Denise. My brothers and sisters and I are very close. We often get together to celebrate and spend quality time together. I am also married to my high school sweetheart. His name is Richard Medina, he is my best friend…and we just celebrated our 32nd wedding anniversary in January.

HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION EACH DAY? I find inspiration each day by knowing that the start of each day I get to spend a day around children, hearing them sing and play is so rewarding. I also know that what we do at Day Nursery makes a big difference for families as well as children and positively impacts our entire community!

WHEN YOU WERE A LITTLE GIRL, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? I have always waned to be a “mommy” just like my mother. My mother was a homemaker and took care of all six of us. She was my role model because sistant director to be ready for a leadership she taught us all about life, and how to respect position. I’ve been the center’s director since 2015. others and how to work hard each day. WHERE DO YOU WORK AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE PROFESSION YOU ARE IN? I work for Day Nursery of Abilene, at the Cedar Street location. I am currently the director of the center and it is rewarding to come to work each day and see those precious children give hugs, high fives and call me by name. I have been employed with Day Nursery for 22 years and have worked in more than one center and in several capacities. When the opportunity came up for a director’s position, I knew that I wanted to have it. So, I got my Child development associate (CDA) credential while I was an as-

best that they can be in this critically important field

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE QUOTE?“A person’s a person no matter how small” -Dr. Seuss WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NEW MOTHERS? Advice I would give to

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The Cedar Street Center is the first center that Day Nursery of Abilene built from the ground up. It was opened in 1993 and we just celebrated its 25th anniversary in the fall of 2018. Day Nursery of Abilene has been addressing the child care needs of families in our community for 45 years. It is a privilege to be a part of Day Nursery where I make a difference in the lives of chil- new mothers is to be patient and take a breath. dren, their families, our staff and the commu- The love a child gives is unconditional and so nity every single day. Although often the days rewarding. are challenging, I can’t think of a better, more positive way to spend my time and influence helping others and molding my staff to be the CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com

20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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TSTC Alumna Recognized For Outstanding Service as TSTC Employee By Sarah Trocolli | TSTC Communications The journey from student to employee has come full circle for a Texas State Technical College alumna, who has been honored for her dedication and skills as an employee at TSTC.

tion in Information Processing. Starting as a student switchboard operator in a work-study program, Aguirre has been employed by TSTC for over 34 years.

Maria Aguirre, statewide senior ex- “I have dedicated my adult life to ecutive director of Communication TSTC, and I believe in it. I have seen and Creative Services, is a recipient how it changes individuals and famiof TSTC’s Chanlies and generations of cellor’s Excellence families -- how it can Award. have a positive impact. It’s been my life, and I “The Chancellor’s am honored to be a reExcellence Award cipient,” Aguirre said. is a yearly recognition for teammates She was the first in who consistently go her family to attend above and beyond college and has since their normal job duearned her bachelor’s ties to improve our and master’s degrees students’, and/or our while moving up withCollege’s, success. in TSTC. She is also a Maria displays, on recipient of the Avery a daily basis, these Maria Aguirre, from Texas State Award of Excellence lofty attributes,” Technical College in Sweetwa- for TSTC staff. Rick Denbow, pro- ter, is the statewide senior exdirector of Communicavost at TSTC in West ecutive tion and Creative Services. She Aguirre is a member Texas, said. was awarded the Chancellor’s of multiple educational organizations and has Excellence Award. The Chancellor’s held several leadership Excellence Award positions as well. She began in 2001 and is currently treasurer of has been given to the Texas Association more than 300 TSTC of Community College employees stateMarketers. wide. Recipients are nominated by their Aguirre will join 34 peers for their work other TSTC employees toward advancing statewide who will be the technical colhonored at the National lege’s mission. Institute for Staff and Organizational Devel“The teammates opment’s Excellence who win this award Awards Dinner and model excellence for us all and are Celebration in May in Austin. recognized for both their sound character and for advancing TSTC’s new For more information on Texas State direction,” said TSTC Chancellor Technical College, log on to tstc.edu. Mike Reeser. “Due to their caring and dedicated efforts, TSTC continues to make a difference in the employment success of our students.” Aguirre graduated from TSTC in Sweetwater in 1986 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in General Office Technology, an Associate of Applied Science degree in Accounting Systems and a Certificate of Comple-

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

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KIMBERLY MANNKE DEPARTMENT/CAMPUS: Student Services, One AISD Center TITLE: Secretary to the Executive Director of Student Services YEARS WITH AISD: In July I will have my 3-year anniversary WHERE ARE YOU FROM? WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND? I grew up in Shallowater, TX, where I graduated in 1990 from Shallowater High School. I moved to Abilene in 2015 from Eastland where I raised my children. TELLS US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY: I am happily married to my husband, Bryan Mannke. I have a daughter, Kelsey, who is a Physical Therapy Assistant in Lubbock. I have a son, Kolton, who will be graduating from Texas Tech in May. I have a step-son, Aaron, who attends the University of Texas at Arlington and another step-son, Luke, who attends Cooper High School. TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOURSELF: I enjoy deer hunting with my husband. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? In Student Services, we deal with upset parents on a daily basis. To be

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able to calm the parent and help get situations resolved is a fulfilling part of this job. WHAT HER BOSS SAYS ABOUT HER: “Kim is one of the very best assistants I have ever seen. She has a joyful spirit in all that she does. She is extremely efficient, detailed, accurate and kind. Kim is truly a huge asset to all of Abilene ISD.” – Dr. Dan Dukes, Executive Director of Student Services

22 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Abilene ISD Announces TopPerforming Students Academically From Graduating Class of 2019 By Will Jensen | KTXS

The Abilene Independent School District recognized their top-performing students academically from the graduating class of 2019 on Monday. Cooper High School and Abilene High School announced their top 25 students according to their grade point averages. The Academy of Technology, Engineering, Math & Science named its eight highest ranking students, which represents the top 10 percent of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduating class. Commencement ceremonies will be on May 25 at the Taylor County Coliseum in Abilene. Abilene High School will honor its graduates first at 9 a.m., followed by Cooper High School at 2 p.m. and ATEMS will round out the slate of commencement ceremonies at 6 p.m.

COOPER HIGH SCHOOL

1. David Seo, Emory College of Arts & Sciences 2. Michael Thomlinson, University of Texas 3. Gracie Granados, Abilene Christian University 4. Bryan Taylor, Baylor University 5. Benjamin Tollison, Texas A&M University 6. Gabriella Crespo, Abilene Christian University 7. Michael Schultz, Hardin-Simmons University 8. Baylee Schroedter, Abilene Christian University 9. Honna Turner, University of Texas 10. Rachel Belch, Tarleton State University 11. Estrellita Palacios, Hardin-Simmons University 12. Zachry Valentine, Hardin-Simmons University 13. Jacob Rose, Texas Tech University 14. Katlyn Payne, Texas A&M University 15. Silva Uwimana, Hardin-Simmons University 16. Marco Marquez, University of Texas 17. Kallie Morin, Abilene Christian University 18. Brianna Beasley, Texas A&M University 19. Candace Foster-Johnson, Texas A&M University 20. Esha Abbas, Abilene Christian University or Hardin-Simmons University 21. Madelynne Mansker, Missions or Weber State University 22. Kendra Collins, Texas Tech University

23. Venessa Varner, Hardin-Simmons University/ Air Force Reserve 24. Skyler Joyce, University of Texas 25. Kaya Johnson, Texas State University or University of Houston

ABILENE HIGH SCHOOL

1. Lauren Hampton, Rice University 2. Brian Patton, Abilene Christian University 3. Clark Sullivan, ACU 4. James Melson, Texas A&M University 5. Bethany Sergeant, University of Tulsa 6. Miriam Dawson, Western Kentucky University 7. Rachel Pettijohn, Harding University 8. Abigail Griffith, University of North Texas 9. Marissa Neie, Undecided 10. Jourdin Campbell, ACU 11. Lauren Schaeffer, HardinSimmons University 12. Elizabeth Young, ACU 13. Victoria Rodriguez, Angelo State University 14. Lyric Kinkade, ACU 15. Bailey Aulerich, Texas A&M University 16. Rachel Tebow, Harding University 17. Hannah Vermillion, HardinSimmons University 18. Jaime Scudder, Abilene Christian University 19. J.D. Dugger, Texas A&M University 20. Lara Pliml, Kilgore College 21. Ryan Johnson, Abilene Christian University 22. Holly Hutton, Cisco College 23. Tina Manirambona, Hardin-Simmons University 24. Deja Hardy, Baylor University 25. Mackenzie Stevens, Abilene Christian University

ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATH & SCIENCE 1. Faith Fang, Southern Methodist University 2. Savannah Goza, Texas Tech University 3. Elisabeth Dantzler, Angelo State University 4. Mary Dantzler, Angelo State University 5. Hale Sweetser, University of Texas-Dallas 6. Journai Lancaster, Texas A&M University 7. Emma Voss, Angelo State University

24 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Spurs Dance Team ranked Division I at UNT Conference

By Dr. Kristina Campos-Davis | Director of Communications, Hardin-Simmons University

The Spurs Dance Team can be spotted cheering for the Cowboys at almost every sporting event at HSU, but when they get a break from performing, they focus on improving, practicing their choreography, and coming up with new routines. This year, the Spurs achieved great success while competing at the American National/International Championship and Collegiate Championship held at the University of North Texas two weeks ago. The HSU dance team got an overall ranking of Division I (the top division), ranking behind Dallas Baptist University in 5th place.

and directed the solo performance herself. The Spurs increased their 2017 score by 18 total points, taking their team from a Division II rating to a Division I rating. The team looks forward to another year of growth and hopes to increase their score similarly again next March. “Our expectations for next year are to keep im-

Their coach, Bailey LeRoux, explained that the conference is held every year, and is international, as teams from Japan come and compete. HSU’s last attendance at the conferThe Spurs dance team poses with coach Bailey LeRoux. ence was in 2017, where they got a slightly lower score than they received in 2019. The Spurs participated in the Jazz and Solo category, focusing mainly on their jazz routine. Three judges determined the final score and competing in the highest division against 11 other teams, the Spurs earned 3rd runner up in the jazz category. “I am very proud of the girls and how the dancing looked. Our main goal was to improve our last score, and we significantly did. We had stiff competition this year, but it was really satisfying to finish behind DBU because it was the team to beat,” says LeRoux. The Spurs took their first ever solo competitor, Kelsey Sanders, who earned a Division II rating against soloists from TCU, UT-Austin, Texas Wesleyan and more. Sanders choreographed

proving our score. I am satisfied with this year, and we will challenge ourselves with tougher routines, but also improving our score and ourselves,” says LeRoux.

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

Eagles Team with Kent’s Harley Davidson to Create Street Bike By Abilene Independent School District

On April 17, the campus of Abilene High School had a special visitor in the form of a Harley Davidson motor bike….Carbon Betty. She is vision created between Kent’s Harley Davidson staff and Abilene High’s Automotive Technology students as their entry into the Battle of the Kings – the ultimate customization bike contest. She is a sleek street bike with a satin black shine that automatically draws a crowd. On this day, Carbon Betty was revealed to the Eagles of AHS along with bike enthusiast as she prepares to enter dents worked together,” said Steve Hood, ownthe nationwide competition. er of Kent’s. “I didn’t know what to expect, but it was amazing to see how they came together.” Beginning in the spring semester 2019, a crew of 10 Eagles, automotive teacher, Mr. Will So, how does the competition work? Kirby and Kent’s Harley Davidson staff began the journey of designing blueprints leading to The public can vote to determine the People’s the birth of Carbon Betty. The partnership is Choice Winners. There will be up to 25 Peothe first of the kind between both parties. All ple’s Choice winners chosen by online voting. involved agreed the outcome was a success. There will be six winners per category selected by an H-D judging panel and 18 total. “I was impressed by how my staff and the stu-

There will be three category finalists, and one winner will be selected by an H-D judging panel in each of the three categories as the National Winners. One U.S. Battle of the Kings Champion Winner will be selected from among the National Winners. The U.S. Champion will then go on to compete at a global level against other country winners for the chance of being crowned the Global Battle of the Kings Champion in Milan, Italy, at the EICMA International Motorcycle Exhibition. YOU can help the Eagles and Carbon Betty race to the title of U. S. Battle of the Kings Champion Winner! Vote at https://customkings.harley-davidson.com/en_US/bike_detail/199

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26 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Cooper High School Names New Principal By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD

Associate principal Lyndsey Williamson has been promoted to become the next principal of Cooper High School beginning in the 2019-2020 school year. The promotion of Williamson follows the April announcement that Dr. Karen Munoz, principal at CHS for the past eight years, would become executive director of secondary education. Williamson has served as Munoz’s associate principal for the past two school years. “Lyndsey Williamson has been an outstanding leader in the Abilene Independent School District for many years,” Superintendent Dr. David Young said. “I am both confident and excited that the students, staff and all of Cougar Nation will rise to even greater

heights under her leadership as principal.” Prior to arriving at Cooper, Williams was the principal at Holland Medical High School from 2015-2017. She also has worked in Abilene ISD as a guidance counselor at Abilene High School, a geometry and algebra teacher at AHS, and a Pre-AP algebra teacher at Mann Middle School. Williamson, whose career with the district began in 2005, has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Angelo State University.

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“Its been an awesome opportunity to work for KACU this school year,” Simpson says, “and I look forward to getting up early for every shift. It’s a great environment for college students, and a fantastic way to work yourself into public radio at a young age.” Owen has a good work ethic, natural talent and shows a lot of potential. His hard work has paid off with expanded opportunities at ACUTV. He will conclude his role with KACU at the end of this semester. We will miss his talents and great attitude. And we know he’ll enjoy success as he pursues his passion in sports broadcasting. www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine

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28 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Nursing, Premed Students Find Inspiration in Helping with Medical Missions By Loretta Fulton | ACU Today

Sometimes students get more than they bar- and/or Guatemala. The nursing program also gained for when participating in medical mistakes trips to both locations at different times, sion trips to other countries. Powell said. In Haiti, the students work with either Promise for Haiti or LiveBeyond. In In fact, the experience may be so profound Guatemala, they work with Health Talents Inthat they end up changing their major or be- ternational and Adonai Ministries. come committed to making medical missions a part of their future. Dr. Cynthia Powell (’81), Powell said the university is careful to choose associate professor of chemistry and director ministries that are excellent models of partnerof the Prehealth Professions Program at ACU, ship with local communities. accompanied 10 students on a trip to Haiti in January. She saw again how important the ex- “Our hope,” Powell said, “is that the students perience is to students. will be inspired to see how they might serve in underserved areas when they have completed their medical training.” She needn’t look any further than Sabrina Zeiler for confirmation that the students are, indeed, inspired. Zeiler, a senior nursing major from Carrollton, was fortunate to get to help in the operating room, with pediatrics, and with labor and delivery during A group of students prepare to assist at a hospital in Haiti. From the Haiti trip. Zeiler left are MaKenna Long, Brian Switzenberg, Aleksander Cook, Sabrina was happy to share the knowledge she Zeiler and Ashley Baca. has accumulated at ACU, but she was just “Seeing the opportunias pleased with what she ties and the great need experienced – an awarecan be life changing,” ness that the people being Powell said. served had something to offer, too. The most recent trip was to work with Promise for “It was awesome to Haiti over the Christmas learn from them,” Zeiler break. Powell said stusaid, instead of being the dents have been taking teacher. similar trips for several years during breaks at The students often find Christmas, in the spring, themselves doing the and in the summer. Powbasic essentials such as ell normally accomparestocking shelves, foldnies students on one of ing gauze, or entertaining the trips, while other children while parents are faculty, staff, or alumni, seen by a physician. If a go on the others. visiting surgical team is Cooper Bomar (left) and MaKenna

Most recently, ACU has Long pose with a friend they met sponsored trips to Haiti through Promise for Haiti.

Continued on page 29

-Pick us up at Central Finance, Mr. Gatti’s & La Popular Bakery | EDUCATION | 29

Continued from page 28

one site, the students may get to shadow the team or help in patient recovery areas.

before we leave,” Powell said. “We pray for the humility to be open to the things we need to learn during our time with the ministry.”

Whether performing menial tasks or watching trained doctors in action, the students are learning, Powell noted. They learn about other cultures and about how medicine is practiced in other cultures.

Synniah Preston is one of several students who worked with patients in Haiti. When the group returns, Powell said, they talk about what they learned, how they were changed, and what they wish to remember to help with their spiritual formation.

“And,” Powell said, “they learn about the challenges that many face due to lack of medical care and lack of resources.”

Aleksander Cook is a sophomore biochemistry major from Flower Mound. He is in the pre-med track and no stranger to mission trips. Before the Haiti experience, he had been on three trips to India to work in an orphanage. He loves the opportunity to serve.

Before leaving the ACU campus, the students learn about the culture they will be Cook, inspired by his grandworking in. They learn mother’s death due to cancer, the importance of replans a career in surgical oncolspectful interactions Synniah Preston is one of several stu- ogy. But, thanks to trips like the and they learn about dents who worked with patients in Haiti. one working with Promise for customs that might be Haiti, Cook will take his love of different from what they know. And, of course, missions with him, wherever he practices. prayer is part of the experience. “I would love to make that a priority,” he said. “We pray for those with whom we will interact

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30 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

3 Students Advance to UIL State Contests By Abilene Independent School District

Abilene ISD is sending three students to the 2019 UIL Academic and Speech State Meets. For the first time in the school’s history, the Academy of Technology, Engineering, Math & Science (ATEMS) will be represented at

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Competing in Class 6A, ATEMS will be represented by Levi Del Vecchio, who captured the Region 1 crown in Ready Writing, and Seth Fry, who qualifed with a third-place finish in Ready Writing. The academic state competition will take place on May 3. Lock, who placed second in the Class 5A Region 1 contest for CHS, will compete in the UIL Speech State Meet in Austin on May 29-30. Cooper’s Kaitlyn Payne also placed sixth in Ready Writing at the 5A regional meet.

Isaac Lock

Levi Del Vecchio

the academic state meet held each year at the University of Texas in Austin. Two students from ATEMS will be joined in Austin by Cooper High’s Isaac Lock, who advanced to state in debate.

Abilene High had two students earn ribbons at the Class 6A regional contest – Bridgette Wright, fourth in News Writing; and Makayne Favor, fifth in Persuasive Speaking.In all, 19 AISD students competed in regional academic contests.

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Teachers in the Limelight Celebrates AISD’s Best By Abilene Independent School District

The Abilene Education Foundation honored 38 outstanding teachers at its 7th Annual Teachers in the Limelight Celebration on April 24 at the SoDA District Ballroom. The teachers were recognized and received monetary awards thanks to a grant from Edwin and Agnes Jennings, who wished to honor teachers by funding the Edwin and Agnes Jennings Teaching Excellence Awards. Five overall winners were announced at the conclusion of the evening, and teachers of the year from each campus and nominees for science and math teachers of the year were presented checks. A new honor introduced this year was the Future Shapers Award, a $2,000 travel gift given by a local business, Uniqu3 Solutions. The award is provided to reward an outstanding, up-and-coming teacher in the district. The top five award winners for 2019 are: • TLC Elementary Teacher of the Year – Molly Harless, Lee Elementary • TLC Secondary Teacher of the Year – Kathy Ellison, Abilene High • TLC Science Teacher of the Year – Jessi Spitler, Cooper High • TLC Math Teacher of the Year – Allison Stanley, ATEMS Future Shapers Award – Nicole Flores, Ortiz Elementary

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Here is the complete list of campus, math and science nominees: Elementary: Alisa Anderson, Jackson; Patti Bryan, Thomas; Sheri Daniell, Martinez; Nicole Flores, Ortiz; Mark Graham, Taylor; Kelli Grigsby, Reagan; Molly Harless, Lee; Debra Letz, Bonham; Brittny Lomax, Ward; Cristen Macke, Dyess; Stephanie McKnight, Bassetti; Kelly Roberts, Johnston; Cynthia Simmons, Bowie; Susie Vandever, Austin; Blair Wallace, Jane Long Early Learning Center. Secondary: Chrissy Adkins, Abilene High; Cheryl Barber, Cooper High; Marcia Daniels, Mann Middle School; Robin Dennis, Cooper High; Kathy Ellison, Abilene High; Patricia Gonzalez, Woodson Center for Excellence; Jill Monroe, Madison Middle School; Nathan Monroe, ATEMS; Jeanette Rodriguez, Craig Middle School; Lorry Spears, Clack Middle School. Science: Debra Borchert, Holland Medical High School; Julee Isenhower, ATEMS; Tracy Long, ATEMS; Amie Miller, Cooper; Ryan Owens, ATEMS; Jessi Spitler, Cooper High. Math: Stephanie Angell, ATEMS; Katie Davenport, Cooper High; Scott (Jeff) Findley, Abilene High; Laurie Harris, Abilene High; Allison Stanley, ATEMS; Angela Walker, Abilene High; Tiffany Woodard, ATEMS. For more information about the AEF and the Teachers in the Limelight Celebration, go to www.aaeeff.org.

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FAITH&FAMILY

SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE

Minister’s Wife Inspired to Live on Purpose for a Greater Purpose Carolyn Pecina juggles the demands of life with faith and focus. By HispanicLife Magazine

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MOM? For the last 33 years, I’ve been so blessed to be a mother to our two amazing daughters, Lyndsey and Leandra. Being the youngest child of a large family, I was able to watch my own nieces and nephews who were not much older than I, grow up, so children were always a part of my life.

CAROLYN PECINA

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. Growing up, our Christian faith was what kept our family together. While Church life was most important to me, marrying a minister, however, was something completely new. The joys and triumphs of ministry life have far outweighed the many challenges and trials we have faced in thirty-five years of ministry. We have moved seven times, to three different states. One interesting fact about our story is that my husband first came to Abilene as a single, youth pastor. A few months later, we married, and I joined him. Only the Lord knew that twelve years later we would return as Senior pastors to the same church where we had originally begun. We are truly blessed with a wonderful congregation at Life Church, whom we have pastored for twenty-three years. HOW ARE YOU ABLE TO JUGGLE WORK AND A FAMILY? Our oldest daughter was in 3rd grade and our youngest was three years old when we came to Abilene, so this is home to them. Raising two young daughters who were very much involved in sports, orchestra, piano lessons, and church activities, while working full-time outside the home, and fulfilling all of a pastor’s wife duties was many times very stressful and difficult.

WHEN YOU WERE A LITTLE GIRL, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? I loved to read as a young girl, especially about far away lands. My dream was to become an airline stewardess so that I could travel to those places. Back then the women in this profession looked so glamorous in their commercials and that intrigued me. I am so blessed to be married to the most wonderful man and visionary, my husband Ezequiel. We are empty nesters now, but our grandchildren, Abigaile, three years old, and Myles, 4 months old, bring us so much joy and we cherish every moment we spend with them. HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION EACH DAY? I wake up everyday giving thanks to our God for His faithfulness and continual blessings Throughout my life’s journey, I have been inspired by the lives of so many women ‘to live on purpose for a greater purpose.’ My mom, Valentina, and mother-in-law, Irene, my greatest examples,

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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NEW MOTHERS? My advice to young moms is when the demands of life seem to overwhelm you, you must intentionally and continually focus on God’s purpose and plan for your life. Only then will fulfilling life’s responsibilities become a joy rather than a duty.

taught me that despite life’s hardships, obstacles, sorrow, illness, personal limitations, flaws, and mistakes, we must hold on to this amazing faith and instill this incredible hope to those around us that “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26. Happy Mother’s Day!

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Power of Having a Positive Attitude By Madison Bloker | boundblessings

You oversleep. You get a flat tire. You spill your coffee. You get a parking ticket. You lose your keys. Your list of to-dos is a mile long. You’re tired, frustrated, and a little bit hangry. …I’ve been there.

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Stay POSITIVE and keep the faith! Don’t Ever Give Up!

There was a day when I woke up two hours late for my job… don’t ask me how I managed that. And when I was ONE turn away from work, I saw the lights behind me.

People don’t make you angry - you allow the anger to dwell within you. Circumstances don’t upset you - you allow yourself to get upset. You choose to worry, you choose to criticize, you choose to blame, and you choose to complain. No one else decides this for you. You can’t be moving up if your thoughts are bringing you down. If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your way of thinking about it. Redirect your attitude. Remember that life is a gift - don’t ruin the contents. Choosing positive thinking provides you with confidence, vibrant health, and true beauty.

Your last day could be tomorrow - choose to live to the fullest each day and live with the attitude you’d want to be remembered for. ReSo I pulled over and began to tear up as the main fixed on the good. See your problems as officer came up and asked me where I was opportunities. When you keep your face to the headed. I looked to my right and pointed sunshine you can’t see the shadows. towards work. I was so close. So, so close. Count your blessings ◘ There are so I almost let those emotions determine my many good things in your life. Look at the blue day. I was frustrated and flustered at first, sky, watch the sunset, go for a good run, have and I allowed my feelings to flood my some ice cream. Be thankful for your family. mind. That day could have been horrible Be thankful for a home. Be thankful for food. from that point on if I allowed it to be. I There are people worse off than you. could’ve been moping and wallowing in frustration even longer as I explained to See the good ◘ Bring out the best in people. my boss what happened and continued to Bring out the best in situations. Don’t assume. carry out all my tasks for the day. Don’t judge. You can’t control people or circumstances, but you can control your attitude. But I didn’t. You can think positively and be light to others. A copper.

Yes, those things happened, but they didn’t View setbacks as stepping stones ◘ define me. My attitude allowed me Don’t get frustrated when things don’t go your to enjoy the day and smile and laugh way. God knows what He’s doing, and He’s and joke even more than usual. placing the right things in your life. When something doesn’t go according to plan, trust Your attitude is what determines that there’s a better one. You are being moved. your day. Life is 10% what happens Believe in that. to you and 90% how you react to it. The small things in life don’t need Pray ◘ Pray for a positive attitude each day. to be worried and stressed about so Pray to recognize your blessings and see the much. The alarm can be fixed. The good. Pray for others. Pray to have faith. tire can be replaced. The coffee can be refilled. The parking ticket can Smile ◘ Such a simple thing. Smiles are conbe paid. The keys can be found. The tagious, so shine those pearly whites. Smile at to-dos can get to-done. You can get strangers, smile at your friends, smile at your sleep. You can get some food. Maybe a dog. It could make someone’s day. Snickers to satisfy. Having the right attitude will fill you with enYour life is great. You just have to allow ergy and peace. Be a light to those around you. it to be. Redirect your mind. Today is your day if you allow it to be.

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Living in Reality By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments

Life is hard. Step mom life can be really hard. have the power of Christ in us to let Him take However, I think we need a reminder about our inabilities and fears and watch Him work life. through these parts of our lives. I pretty much believed that at a certain age, I would arrive at a place in life where things would be simpler. I would be wiser. Challenges would be easier. Yes, I have gained maturity, wisdom, a “bigger picture mentality,” but the insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties still seem to be a part of daily life. Why? Haven’t I been a good wife, mom, and stepmom? I have been reading my Bible, praying, helping others, being patient and all the other things we women do to keep a home and marriage and motherhood intact. Second Corinthians 12:9-10 gives us a shot of reality. Paul says, “I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

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I think I just answered my own question. Paul reminds us that when we think we are doing all we can – that everything relies on our abilities and strength – that is where we miss the mark. If I were to go through this life on my own, I would miss out on the power available to me through the cross of Christ. Christ endured the cross – was victorious over the cross – so that we could come to the Father. We come in brokenness, sin, disillusion, pride, and even ignorance. That same wooden cross was the bridge for us to accept the price Christ paid for us – our salvation, redemption, and eternal life. The weakness of man brought through to victory in Christ. Not only these amazing gifts, but to know that in our everyday weaknesses, we

We are weak. We are human. We are selfish. We figure that if we are kind and nice, patient and forgiving, everyone will accept us, work with us, love us and fight for us. That would be great -- except we live on an earth that is fallen. Therefore, we need to open our eyes to reality. Living in reality means doing your best and knowing that others may not always do their best. Things will happen. Your stepkids will turn against you. Your husband will prioritize his bio kids over you. You may have friends desert you. Strangers will cheat you. But, in all these things, there is a God who loves you and will work through the insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties. When you have Christ, your weaknesses can be used. You are not left alone and with nothing. You just have not seen fully what God is doing through your life. Blessings in your Blending! (Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/step mom since 2004; her blended family currently includes four children and four grandchildren. Follow Kristie on Facebook (facebook.com/ theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram (theblendedfamilymom). Her books - “The Blended Family Mom,” and “Blended Mom Moments,” are both available on her website at www.theblendedfamilymom.com).

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The One You Need By Chris DeLuna | Pastor at Church of Grace Robstown, TX

I was listening to this song through my headphones today while I was out working. So many emotions flooded my soul. I was brought to tears as I was thinking about my own role as a father examining myself in light of scripture. I also thought about other fathers who are going through some bad times right now and how it’s affecting their ability to father their children. It was all too much at one time. But here’s what came to mind concerning myself. I was reminded how the author of the book of Hebrews makes the case concerning the weakness of a religious system where mere men interceded as priests on behalf of others. The weakness was that these priests were themselves sinners (as are all people). A priest is “beset with weakness. Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people” (Hebrews 5:2-3) not to mention that “they were prevented by death from continuing in office” (7:23). Now you understand why the Bible says, “the [Mosaic] law appoints men in their weakness as high priests” (v. 28). It wasn’t the system that was weak per se, but they who served in it. You see, there is a sense in which a father serves his family as priest. The Bible tells us that “the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts” (Malachi 2:7). Our families should look to us for these very things, but sadly we too are beset with our own sins. I’ll spare you of the many ways I fail daily to exhibit Christlike character. So when the Shane and Shane song reached the chorus, “I wish that I could be your everything” what immediately followed in my head was “what a wretched man that I am!” (Romans 7:24). The songs says, “Sometimes I’m gonna let you down,” and my conscience bore testimony, “I’m beset with weakness.” Thankfully, the song is redemptive. We are just like the priests beset with their own sins and death ultimately prevents us from always being there for our daughters, we are to point them to Christ. Point them to the Priest “who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 8:1) for “he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. Consequently he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he has no need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for those of the people; this he did once for all when he offered himself. For the law appoints as high priests those who are subject to weakness, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever.” (Hebrews 7:24–28, NRSV)

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What To Do When Things Don’t Turn Out the Way You Thought By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Live Well

I had a hard phone call with a friend recently. He was reviewing his life and shared with me how “things haven’t turned out like I thought they would.” In my experience, this sort of comment usually means that the person believes their life should be better than it is, not just different. In this case, he had recently been looking back with disappointment after seeing other men he knows who have made a ton of money and a past girlfriend on social media who has a “perfect” family, causing him to wonder what might have been. It begged the question: What do you do when things don’t turn out as you thought they would?

especially your spouse can be bitter cancer in your soul and marriage. It’s one thing to identify that someone is responsible for something that has altered your goals or plans, it’s another to let that determination consume your heart and your relationship. That does not end well. The real “blame” can often be a complex web of circumstances and decisions. Forgiveness is crucial to progress.

Don’t keep blaming yourself.

Maybe you look back and realize that something you did or didn’t do lies at the crux of your disappointment. It can be hard to forgive yourself. Again, identifying that possibility is different than obsessing over it. You may need to forgive yourself as much as anyone else.

Accept what you cannot change.

A widely known prayer attributed to American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr says, “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” It’s hard to change what we can when we haven’t figured out or accepted what can’t be changed. Letting go of what’s over and done is critical to embracing what can be possible in the future.

Then there other examples of this such as the woman who “always thought she and her husband would adopt children” but it turned out her husband did not want to. Or perhaps you’ll relate to couples I’ve heard commenting that one or both of them has a radically changed personality from the fun, loving early years. Accept the lack of control of most They thought that was the way it would always things in our lives. Much of our disapbe, yet now one or both are chronically cranky pointments stem from a false sense of control. When we can understand and accept that there or have lost enthusiasm for life. is far less under our control than we probably Maybe the job isn’t what you thought it would wish, it becomes easier to own what little we be. Maybe you’ve not met your financial goals. can control. Maybe your spouse has been profoundly changed by a radical diagnosis like Parkin- Share your disappointments with son’s. Maybe you never expected or wanted to your spouse. Real and honest conversation move away from where you used to live, much with your spouse about your disappointments and theirs can revolutionize your marriage…but less be where you are now. it must be done without blaming them. When Whatever the what-if is that vexes you, for the you develop listening skills, broaden your emsake of your soul and your marriage, it is criti- pathy skills, and deepen your understanding of cal that you address this kind of circumstantial your wife or husband, you tear down walls you disappointment as soon as possible. Here are didn’t even realize you were building. some important tips for you to consider when Be open to counseling. Sometimes we things don’t turn out as you thought. need extra help. It’s hard to resolve complex Give yourself an opportunity to emotions and circumstances that overwhelm us. grieve. Grief is not just for death. There are Consider getting some external, objective help times when we grieve the loss of friendships, to sort through these issues. And don’t ignore love, health, dreams, expectations…many the possibility that perhaps you both need some things can be grieved. Giving yourself, and counseling. your spouse, permission to grieve is often an important step to healthy progress and growth. CALL US

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40 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

HEALTH&FITNESS

Success Comes By Sticking To It

Challenges come in every area of life, but Melinda Jimenez has met them all with perseverance. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Melinda Jimenez has worked at the Abilene State Supported Living Center since 1987. She’s good at perseverance. She’s done a lot of it.

MELINDA JIMENEZ

when she can’t make it to the gym. “It’s really intense. It’s not just cardio. I have a lot of fun with it,” she says. “And you can see results more quickly than with other programs.”

Born and raised in Abilene, Melinda had three children when she started at the Center, the youngest still a newborn. She started in Housekeeping but discovered quickly that she had the heart for direct care of the Center’s residents.

Melinda also keeps hanging in there with her resident relationships. She has bonded with the families of many residents she has worked with over the years. Even though she may not be responsible for their direct care anymore, their families still reach out to her.

“I’ve been here as long as I have because I like caring for our residents,” she says. “It’s very important for them to have someone they know and can bond with. For a whole lot of them, we’re the closest thing to family they’ve got.”

“They know I’m going to make sure they’re all right and they tell me that gives them comfort,” she says.

For all the perseverance and strength she has She transferred to a position as a Direct shown throughout her life, Melinda doesn’t Care Support Professional (DSP) I. A promind telling you she majors in spoiling her motion to DSP II gave her more respontwo-year-old grandson, Josiah. sibility for making sure individuals at the Center received the care they need. Next “He can do no wrong with me,” she says. she stepped up to DSP III, the leader of the “My daughter fusses because I gave them team for a cottage. As Assistant Unit Direc‘take it or leave it’ at meals. She says I give tor for Unit IV she now helps oversee seven him 500 choices. cottages and about seventy-five residents. But it’s not my job “You have to set to raise him.” boundaries and exSponsored by Melinda’s oldest daughter, Valarie, lives in pectations for them,” Austin and works as an underwriter for Am- she says. “And if you As a mom, Melinda plify Credit Union. Her son, Bobby, is an in- don’t cave, they’ll reset high standards spector for Cintas Facility Service. Her young- spect you for it. My for herself and her est child, Heather, works for Blue Cross Blue kids told me I was children. She’s Shield. Two years ago, she gave Melinda her mean, but now they done the same youngest grandchild, Josiah. on her job. Even have come back and though she was elisaid ‘I don’t know Except that when Melinda married Peter Ji- how you did it, but gible to retire two menez, a rig supervisor for PetroSmith, in I’m glad you did.’” years ago, you can 2003, he already had two children, Isaac and expect her to be at the State Supported Living PJ, and a grandchild. Between them they are Melinda is also glad to gather her family to- Center for a while. Keeping at it, for her, has grandparents to eleven grandchildren. But dur- gether. She and Peter host Easter and Thanks- been a great way to live. ing her child raising years, Melinda handled giving at their home on five acres. everything on her own. “I can hide eggs really well,” she says. “They’ve “The hardest part was trying to juggle every- got to work hard for thing, including finances,” she says. “What re- them.” ally helped is that we have good benefits out here. And I learned patience from working She has recently takhere. It was pretty hard but you just keep go- en on a Cross Fit ex* ing.” ercise program and installed her own exMelinda’s philosophy about raising children is ercise equipment in another good example of her ability to hang in her garage for times there.

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May is Hepatitis Awareness Month

Learn the ABCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Viral Hepatitis By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are three types of viral hepatitis. While each can produce similar symptoms, each hepatitis virus affects the liver differently, has different routes of transmission, and has different populations that are commonly affected.

Are You At Risk?

CDC developed an online Hepatitis Risk Assessment to help people find out if they should get tested or vaccinated for viral hepatitis. The assessment, which takes only five minutes, will provide personalized testing and vaccination recommendations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and/or hepatitis C.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. People who get hepatitis A may feel sick for a few weeks to several months but usually recover completely and do not have lasting liver damage. The hepatitis A virus is found in the stool and blood of people who are infected and can be spread when someone ingests the virus, usually through eating contaminated food or drink or close personal contact with an infected person. Hepatitis A is very contagious and people can even spread the virus before they get symptoms. However, hepatitis A is easily prevented with a safe and effective vaccine, which is recommended for all children at one year of age and for adults who may be at risk, including travelers to certain international countries. Since the hepatitis A vaccine was first recommended in 1996, cases of hepatitis A in the United States have declined dramatically. Unfortunately, in recent years the number of people infected has been increasing because there have been multiple outbreaks of hepatitis A in many jurisdictions across the United States. These outbreaks have primarily been from person-to-person contact, especially among people who use drugs, people experiencing homelessness, and men who have sex with men.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. Some people who become infected, especially young children, can go on to develop a chronic or lifelong infection. Over time, chronic hepatitis B virus infection can cause serious liver damage, and even liver

cancer. Hepatitis B is common in many parts of the world, including Asia, the Pacific Islands and Africa. Hepatitis B is preventable with a vaccine. The hepatitis B virus can be passed from an infected woman to her baby at birth, if her baby does not receive the hepatitis B vaccine. As a result, the hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants at birth and adults at risk. Unfortunately, many people were infected before the hepatitis B vaccine was widely available. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why CDC recommends anyone born in areas where hepatitis B is common, or whose parents were born in these regions, get tested for hepatitis B. Treatments are available that can delay or reduce the risk of developing liver cancer.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. Most people who get infected will

develop a chronic, or lifelong, infection. Left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can cause serious health problems including liver disease, liver failure, and even liver cancer. The hepatitis C virus is usually spread when someone comes into contact with blood from an infected person. In the past, hepatitis C was spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants. However, widespread screening of the blood supply began in 1990 and the hepatitis C virus was virtually eliminated from the blood supply by 1992. Today, most people become infected with hepatitis C by sharing needles, syringes, or any other equipment to inject drugs. In fact, rates of new infections have been on the rise, due in part to the increase in injection drug use. While more rare, hepatitis C can also spread through healthcare exposures, sex with an infected person, birth to an infected mother, and tattoos and body piercings from unlicensed facilities or informal settings. People with hepatitis C often have no symptoms so testing is the only way to know if you are infected. CDC recommends anyone born from 1945-1965, as well as anyone else at risk, get tested for hepatitis C.There is currently no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. Fortunately, new treatments offer a cure for most people. Once diagnosed, most people with hepatitis C can be cured in just 8 to 12 weeks, reducing liver cancer risk by 75%.

44 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country

Coping During Times of Extreme Stress By Health Advocate Blog

Life is full of stressors, big and small, and if not properly managed they can affect you both emotionally and physically. Unfortunately, it is near impossible to get through life without some sort of life-changing or extremely stressful event, such as losing a job, the death of a loved one, or a serious diagnosis. If you often have difficulty handling life’s ups and downs, it is possible to transform your reactions, build up your resiliency, and feel better, too. Try these tips.

1. Use reason, not reaction, when things go wrong. Step back and look

at problems logically. This can help you find a solution and use resources to avoid more problems and frustration.

2. Retrain your “selftalk.” Statements such as “I

can’t do that” or “I’m afraid I’ll fail” can clutter your mind and condition it to expect negative results. Telling yourself that you can handle challenges can help set you up for success. Learn more tips to boost your confidence here.

sation around your eyes or temples. Stress can manifest itself in other ways, too, such as diminishing your focus or productivity, or making you feel less calm.

4. Practice self-care. This includes any ac-

tivities that you intentionally perform to benefit your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Unsure of where to start? Click here or here.

5. Avoid overthinking.

When stressful situations arise, it is common to spiral into a series of “what-if” scenarios as you try to anticipate possible outcomes. These thoughts can be overwhelming and anxiety-provoking.

6. Learn to say, “hmmm, that’s interesting.” Things not going

exactly as planned? Instead of reacting and letting anxiety or anger take over, learn to just observe what you’re feeling, and “greet your emotions with kindness.” This will help you reconnect more with yourself, and by so doing, may help relieve some of the stress.

3. Learn to identify warning signs of If you find that the stress you are experiencing stress. A common sign of holding too much is overwhelming or unmanageable, talk to your www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine

stress can be feeling tightness or soreness around your neck, shoulders and back. Stress can also cause headaches, giving you a pounding sen-

doctor or healthcare provider.

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How To Maintain Your Exercise Momentum By Health Advocate Blog

Getting into a regular exercise routine can be a challenge, but once you’re there the challenge isn’t over! As you start meeting your goals and plateauing in your progress, you may find your motivation begin to wane. Catch yourself before you get too far off track. These tips can help.

workers who would like to stay active, too. Create an exercise “club” of sorts as a way to spend time with each other. 8) Create competition. A little friendly competition can help increase activity and make it more enjoyable.

1) Stick to a schedule. Dedicate a specific time and day to exercise. Allocating the time before 9) Journal your efforts. Even if you’re usyou get caught up in other things leaves you with ing a fitness device or app to track your activlittle room for excuses to skip a session. ity, keeping an exercise journal can help you be more specific and detailed in tracking your 2) Pull your exercise clothes out and keep progress. Plus, you can keep track of the way them where you can see them. This is especial- exercise made you feel and reflect back on it ly helpful if you’re a morning exerciser. should you find yourself unmotivated. 3) Even better, as soon as you begin to approach your normal exercise time, put on your gear. It is easier to follow through with exercise if you’re ready to go, and more regrettable if you skip and are in your workout clothes!

10) Be a good example. Think of exercise as a way of helping your kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews, etc. to see and understand that physical activity is important and necessary.

11) Reward yourself. Set small rewards as you 4) Choose an activity you love. Performing ac- progress in your exercise and maintain your tivities you enjoy helps increase the likelihood routine. For example, if you exercise 5 days you’ll exercise. each week for two weeks, treat yourself to a movie, cup of coffee, ice cream, etc. 5) Think of it as “me time.” If you’re constantly on the go, helping others, or working, exercise is 12) Continuously set goals. If you’ve met your a great way to work on yourself, reduce stress goals and aren’t sure where to go next, or even and boost your mood. Plus, it can give you more if you haven’t quite reached your goal, but are energy to keep moving. struggling, it is helpful to assess your goals and determine what else you’d like to accomplish. 6) Buddy up! Exercising with a friend, family Having something to work towards is helpful member, or coworker can keep you accountable for follow-through. to your goal and make it difficult to ditch the exercise. These creative ways to get yourself back on track can help you stay on pace with your fit7) Make it a social event. Chances are you may ness goals year-round. have a group of friends, family members or co-

It’s Never Too Late to Exercise If you are middle aged and out of shape, it isn’t too late to get active and improve your health, the American Heart Association says. A study in the journal Circulation showed that heart stiffness -- a potential precursor to heart failure -- decreased for middle-aged men who engaged in two years of the right kinds and amount of exercise. Study participants who did high- and moderateintensity exercise up to five times weekly had better heart elasticity and improved the way in which their bodies used oxygen, the research found.

The Heart Association recommends weekly exercise should include: • One high-intensity workout, such as an aerobic interval workout that boosts the heart rate for four minutes at a time in several spurts during the session. • An hour-long moderate-intensity workout doing something you find fun, such as tennis, biking or walking. • Two or three moderate workouts per week that might make you sweat, but still allow you to talk with someone. • A strength training session.

46 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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A Mom Who is Family Oriented and Goal Driven Melissa Coronado is driven by passion and dedication By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine

Melissa Coronado is a strong Hispanic woman who has worked hard for everything her entire life. She is a woman who has had various jobs in different industries, but at each job, she acquired additional skills that have enabled her to be successful. She is very family oriented and goal driven, but she definitely appreciates her time off and her ability to enjoy life. Born in the West Texas town of Iraan between Fort Stockton and Ozona, Melissa grew up in Albany with one sister and four brothers. Her mother cared for the family at home while her father worked in the oil field for Scott and Son Oil Services. Melissa’s willingness to learn and work hard has taken her to many different places. After graduating from high school in Albany and a brief move to Hamlin, she finally settled in Abilene, Texas where she began her own family. Melissa has raised her four children here in Abilene and has always had the sole responsivity of providing for them. This meant that her hard work and determination were a necessity. Initially, she worked at a nursing home in Hamlin and then as a prison guard at the Middleton Unit here in Abilene. As a state employee she was able to transfer from the Middle4ton Unit to the Abilene State Supported Living Center. To further her education, she attended the American Commercial Business School which then allowed her to qualify as a Certified Medical Assistant. As an MA, she worked countless nights at Hendrick Medical Center so she could be off just in time to take her four children to school. While that was a challenging time, she also appreciated the fact that she could be with her children and could handle the “burden” alone. She was truly independent! One of Melissa’s favorite jobs was also working for a doctor named Peter Norton. “If he hadn’t retired, I’d still be working for him, she says. He was/is such a good man. He now works for the Health Department and I still see him every now and then.” Sgt Jaquice Tate, Melissa’s oldest son, joined

MELISSA CORONADO

Farmers Insurance and was later recruited by a State Farm agent for her amazing work ethic and b i l i n g u a l strengths and abilities. This talented Spanish speaking woman currently works as the Office Manager for Tatum Insurance, owned by John Austin Tatum. Tatum Insurance is an independent agency and represents multiple companies. “This is much more challenging than the insurance jobs I have had in the past, but I really like it. There is less staff and yet more responsibility, but I am encouraged by the excellent working environment. It’s peaceful, quiet and I can work at my own pace.”

Zhyrhyla, Melissa’s youngest daughter also works at Tatum Insurance. She handles most of the data entry and policy details and fills in when Melissa is on vacation. Travel is a passion of Melissa’s! She goes to Mexico A LOT to visit aunts, uncles and cousins. She’s been to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Panama City, Florida as well as South Carolina where her sister lives. She also has the Army immediately after high school a part-time job with Marriott that extends many graduation. He has given our country eleven benefits for when she travels. All of this goes hand in hand with years as a Military PoMelissa’s incredlice Officer in the US ible attitude and Army. He is currently Sponsored by love for life! stationed at West Point Military Academy in Melissa is and New York City along should be an inwith his wife Staysha. spiration to all Melissa is looking forHispanic women. ward to surprising him She has overcome by attending the last many obstacles award ceremony with and hardships, but his company before he has a happy spirit ships out to his new that is seen through her beautiful smile. Her duty station in Fairbanks, Alaska. family has been and always will be the most imMarissa, Melissa’s oldest daughter, has fol- portant thing to her. She spends as much time lowed in her mother’s footsteps and works as she can with her children and grandchildren, for Dr. Sunil Patel. She has blessed Melissa often cooking and making tortillas. Melissa’s with three of her five beautiful grandchildren: close family shows that even though Moms Faith, Jerimiah, and Mikah. Briyanni, Melis- make mistakes, they are only human and worksa’s middle daughter, works at Cheddar’s res- ing hard and loving fiercely can make all the taurant and is the mother to her two beautiful difference in the world. Melissa says, “Mom’s aren’t perfect. I know I’ve made mistakes. But grandbabies: Kylee & Emoni you learn from those mistakes and you try to Melissa started her Insurance career with share what you’ve learned with your kids.”

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New Place For Coffee, Cocktails at the Hallows By Dillon Daniel | ACU Optimist

The Hallows, new coffee shop and cocktail bar opened up for full operation on March 11. The brand was created by 2016 ACU graduate Daniel Sotelo and Sam Wolfe.

Grand Opening for the relocation of McGavock Nissan Abilene

Hallows offers a simple selection of coffees during the daytime throughout the week and adult beverages from 5 p.m. until closing time at midnight. They also host live music occasionally with the stage on a balcony overlooking the shop.

The shop has large but few tables, a bar area, and two couches where people can sit in the shop. Unlike other coffee shops, the space is large and open with music that spreads throughout the room. Although the menu is simple, Hallows favors itself on it’s made-in-house ingredients to make up for it. “We care so much about what we use in our coffee, the glass we use, the texture,” Sotelo said. “We want people to envision coffee as a craft, just like we do.”

Sotelo’s vision for the shop is less of a place to study and more to just relax, although patrons have done both. He said, “When we created Hallows, we just wanted a place CALL US TO ADVERTISE where someone can come in and (325) 701-9505 chill. We wanted a vibe where 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 someone wasn’t overloaded Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com when they walked in.” Austin McCoy, graduate student in Theology from Amarillo and barista, believes that the Hallows is bringing a vibe seen in coffee shops from big city areas like DFW and Austin. He said,

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The Hallows’ creative difference is the use of cereal-infused milk in it’s coffee on Wednesdays and Sundays. The milk is made in their iced and hot lattes and is sold in limited quantities.

Cereals that have been used to make this milk are Lucky Charms, Reese’s Puffs, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cookie Crisp, and Cap’n Crunch’s Crunch Berries.

“I think Hallows is bringing something unique to Abilene, something about coffee we haven’t seen before.”

Even though the Hallows is a street away from Monks Coffee Shop and opened around the same time as Maslow Coffee Company, Hallows doesn’t competition, but community.

McCoy believes that Hallows is one of Abilene’s biggest steps towards establishing a big coffee culture like many other big cities and college towns.

Sotelo believes that with Hallows more people will experience new types of coffee and be just as pleased with Hallows as they are with other known shops.

The Hallows is at 258 Pine St in downtown Abilene, Texas.

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50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry

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Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service to Offer Professional Food Manager Certification Training Course By Tammie Belyeu | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Taylor County

Statistics indicate that foodborne illness continues to be a health issue in the United States. Each year, 1 in 6 Americans will become sick, 128,000 will become hospitalized, and 3,000 will die due to a foodborne illness. Texas Food Establishment Rules state that each food establishment is required to have one certified food manager on site. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Taylor, Nolan and Haskell Counties, is offering a professional food manager certification training course. This two day program will be offered for $125.00 on May 20 and May 21 at the Taylor County Extension Office. Cost includes training, materials, and the Prometric food manager certification examination. The food manager’s certification will be valid for five years. Only 50 individuals will be accepted into the course. Registration deadline May 6, 2019.

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This program is designed to not only prepare foodservice managers to pass the certification examination; it will provide valuable education regarding the safe handling of food. Almost 50 cents of every dollar Americans spend on food is spent on meals prepared away from home. Therefore, careful attention to food safety will help keep customers safe and satisfied. Foodborne illnesses are estimated to cost thousands of dollars in lost wages, insurance, and medical bills. With these statistics, knowledge of how to prevent foodborne illness is essential. The benefits of improved food safety include: • Increased customer sat-

isfaction • Improved relationships with health officials • Prevention of bad publicity and law suits due to foodborne illness By attending the course, foodservice managers will learn about: • identifying potentially hazardous foods and common errors in food handling • preventing contamination and crosscontamination of food • teaching and encouraging personal hygiene for employees • complying with government regulations • maintaining clean utensils, equipment and surroundings • controlling pests Foodborne illnesses can be prevented by following simple food safety practices. For more information about the Professional Food Manager Certification Training course of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, called “Food Safety: It’s Our Business,” call #325672-6048. You may also access a downloadable registration form at http://taylor.agrilife. org. Educational programs of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

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ALYSSA ALVAREZ Where do you work? Funeral Directors Life Insurance Company (FDLIC)

Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at 11:30 AM – 1 PM Community Foundation of Abilene 850 N. 1st Street, Abilene, Texas

Join AYP for ABICHAT! A luncheon series that occurs once a quarter for Abilene Young Professionals. Hear from community leaders in an intimate setting as they share their stories of how they made their mark and how others can do the same. Tickets available to 60 young professionals and are first come, first served and are nonrefundable. Our third series sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care, will feature three young entrepreneurs and how they use leadership in their small businesses. LUNCH: Provided by The Local

FEES: $25 for AYP Members / $35 for non-members Questions? Email laurin@abilenechamber.com

What’s your job title/what do you do? I am a Software Engineer. I do the “behind the scenes” work needed to implement new features to our many applications. This includes writing code to fix bugs and improve features to help us stay on the cutting edge of our industry. Where are you from? I spent most of my life in Marfa, Texas but moved to Alpine my sophomore year of high school. If you’re not from Abilene, how long have you lived in the area and what brought you here? I came to Abilene in 2011 to attend McMurry University. I ran cross country and track for the Warhawks all four years, met my husband Nic, and graduated with a degree in Information Technology.

What is your favorite thing about living in the Big Country? The Marfa/Alpine area is literally the middle of nowhere. Coming to Abilene was a bit of a culture shock for me because it was much bigger than what I was used to. My husband is from Houston, so he felt the exact opposite! The Big Country has really been a great meet-inthe-middle place for us. It’s not too big and not too small. It has a lot of the amenities of a big city, but still holds that’s small town vibe I’ve grown up around. It really has become home to us. What do you do in your free time? In my free time I enjoy running, working out and being outdoors. I also enjoy sitting down with a good book! Do you serve on any boards in the community or participate in any other groups? FDLIC has given me so many opportunities to give back to others. I volunteer with the Abilene Youth Sports Authority (AYSA) in February with their Sports Expo and then again in September with their annual Mud Run. I am a part of our company Meals on Wheels program and have also had opportunities to volunteer and support other organizations like the Abilene Alzheimer’s Association, Pregnancy Resources of Abilene and Camp Able. What’s your favorite restaurant in Abilene? I am a lover of all foods, but I can be found frequency at Mian Bistro. Their orange chicken is the best in town!

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Pyle Opens Dream Wedding Venue By Lauren Franco | The Optimist, Abilene Christian University

Growing up in Iowa, Ashley Pyle would always pass barns in desperate need of renovation. She has wanted to open her a wedding venue since she planned her own. Though Abilene doesn’t have many deteriorating barnes, Ashley and her husband, Cason, decided to follow that model and build their own.

Ashley said they looked at other venues and talked with people who are knowledgeable about the wedding industry. Because there were so many different designs, it was hard for them decide which aspects they would keep.

west in that it is down-to-earth and has an easy pace of life. “I love going up there when weddings take place because it’s super fun. There’s typically Ashley said her Cason have been through a lot music going and random games.” of steps in their marriage to prepare them for this season. Cason flipped houses for several As she listed her other favorite parts of the venyears while he was going to graduate school ue, she included the reclaimed wood around the and continued to do so in the summers as a top. The two spent an evening digging through school teacher. She organized events at ACU piles of wood to find enough that was all the for the admissions office on campus and off. same style, width and locked together well.

“We tried really hard to make it our own and make it unique also while pulling in pieces from other venues that we felt were really

Sabrina Cedars, Ashley’s venue on the outskirts of south Abilene, housed its first event in Septem- beautiful.” ber of 2018 after a few years of tossing the idea around and only seven months of construction. One of the most difficult parts, Ashley said, was to not second guess whether they missed The two purchased the property in 2015 and something or should have done the design difbuilt their house first, then the venue. ferently. “We did that per the bank’s advice on ways to “Once you’re going, you’re going. You just get loans,” Ashley said. “Hindsight, it’s good have to confidently move forward,” Ashley that they gave us that advice. Living here while said. building has been a must.” The venue is named after Cason’s mother, SaCason served as general contractor of the barn brina, who passed away in a car accident when while also working his full-time job as a school he was 4. teacher. Time was stretched, so I can’t imagine what it would have been like if we weren’t liv- Ashley said though they’ve almost used her ing on the property. February 2017 is when they name at different points in their life, especially poured concrete, and September 2018 is when with three daughters, they felt like the venue they had their first event. was a perfect opportunity to honor her. Through a company called Barn Pros, they Though Cason has no memories of her, Ashley designed the venue to replicate a horse barn. Ashley said the company has standard barn said Sabrina was described as joyful and able to love people well. “We hope that’s what happens here – people have an extremely joyous experience and that they commit to loving each other for a lifetime. It’s special to us in that way, and we feel lucky to get to honor her through.”

floor plans, but dimensions and window placement can be customized. Then, they give you the lumber for the structure based on how it has been designed. “It was a fun process, but it also came with a lot of stresses.”

The duo decided to stay in Abilene because of the community they’ve built up and sup- “Those two things, especially have equipped port they receive. us well,” Ashley said. “When we look back through every single step of the way from when “Neither one of our families live here, but we we found the property to when it all worked out have a great church home; we have tons of financially, just the doors that continued to open friends,” Ashley said. “We love Abilene as for us were pretty incredible. We felt like we far as it being a family-friendly town. With saw the green light of the Lord asking us to trust three universities and junior colleges and an Air him and continue walking.” Force base, there’s a lot of opportunity for people to get married. There’s a lot of good partner- Her favorite part of the venue is the bridal suite ship and places that offer partnerships.” upstairs. Ashley said she put a lot of time and thought into trying to make it the perfect space In addition to the people surrounding them, for a bride to feel super special and share it with Ashley said Abilene reminds her of the Mid- her closest friends and family.

“I didn’t see anything else like that at any of the other venues we looked at,” Ashley said. “Some ant bites later and watching my back for rattlesnakes all night, we came home with it.”

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Ashley said the design of the venue is intended to make families feel comfortable on their wedding day, and allow a space for people to make it their own. So far, she said the upcoming wedding season has been more successful than she could have imagined. “It’s so neat to see the fruits of your labor come to life. I love watching a ceremony take place when I think back to everything we prayed about and prayed over.”

“My middle daughter is always wanting to catch a glimpse of the ‘wedding girl,’” Ashley said. “I look forward to when they’re older and helping me. I feel like they’ll learn a lot of good life skills and responsibility helping me run it.” Looking back at houses they flipped, Ashley said they realized it was finally going to work.

The hardest part for Ashley, was the juggle of building it all with normal everyday life. Because Cason’s time was committed to the venue, Ashley and their three daughters didn’t see him much unless they were helping at the barn. “It was a hard season of them missing their dad and not understanding why I had to make my 10th trip to the barn to give my stamp of approval or make a decision. They had a lovehate relationship with the barn initially.” Now, the girls enjoy visiting the barn and helping their mom when they can. Her middle daughter, 4 years old, enjoys meeting the brides and watching them walk down the aisle.

“It’s really neat to sit in our spot and look back at the things that did truly just open and really ultimately made it possible,” she said.” We felt like the Lord was blessing us through people and doors.”

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5 Things to Do If Your Home Is Impacted By Severe Weather By Matt Smith | Fat Matt Roofing

Spring has officially arrived in the Big Country and I couldn’t be more ready. Over the last few weeks, we’ve started to see longer days, warmer weather, and trees and plants return to life. However, Spring in the Big Country also comes with the threat of severe weather. The mix of warm days and cool nights we love this time of year can combine to form damaging storms capable of producing significant wind, large hail, and flash flooding. If you’ve lived in Abilene for any length of time, you already know exactly what I’m talking about. And chances are, you may have already seen more than your share of storm damage.

age, or water leaking into your home, it’s extremely important to prevent further damage to your home before the problem gets worse. While it’s important to contact your insurance company soon, it’s also important to address the problem immediately to prevent any further damage from occurring.

4. Contact a Licensed Roofing Company – If you believe your home was impact-

ed by severe weather, contact a licensed roofing contractor in your area. I simply cannot stress this enough. Know who is on your roof and know that they have the qualifications, training, equipment, and insurance coverage necessary to do the job safely and accurately. By choosing a licensed roofing contractor, you’re ensuring that your home will be repaired by a company with the tools, training, experience, and expertise to get the job done right.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company – Contact your insurance company

to get the insurance claim process started. If A few years ago, my home was damaged in a you’ve already selected a contractor, ask them hail storm and the proto meet your insurance cess of working with adjuster at the property my insurance compaso that both parties can ny to repair my home assess damage together was confusing. It left and agree on a scope of me with more queswork. tions than answers. What steps do I take? If you’re home or propWho do I call first? erty is impacted by seHow do I ensure my vere weather, give us home is repaired cora call. We offer free rectly? inspections and we’ll work with your insurHere are 5 things to do ance company to make if your home or propthe process of getting erty is impacted by severe weather this Spring: your home repaired as simple as possible. You can reach us at (325) 704-5139 or online at fat1.Practice Safety First – The most mattdoesthat.com. important thing is the safety of you and your ____________________________________ family. In the event of a severe weather event, follow instructions and warnings by provided Matt Smith, aka “Fat Matt”, is the President local media and get somewhere safe until the of Fat Matt Roofing – one of Abilene and the storm has passed. Go to an interior room of Big Country’s top, local roofing contractors. your room, storm shelter, or other safe loca- If your home is impacted by severe weather, tion, and avoid windows and skylights. just remember “Fat Matt Does That.” We offer free inspections, free estimates, and free, 2. Inspect for Visible Property Dam- honest advice. Give us a call at (325) 704age – Look around your property for damage 5139, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ visible from the ground. Common damage in- fatmattdoesthat, or visit us on the web at fatcludes damage to roofs, automobiles, fences, and air conditioning units. We recommend mattdoesthat.com. that you do not attempt to get on your roof. Trust us, that’s a job for professionals. CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 3.Prevent Further Damage – If you have visible damage to your roof, ceiling dam-

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