Pick us up at Long John Silver, Drug Emporium & Los Arcos Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 3
MAY 2018
Volume 9, 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 ADVISING EDITOR AND ACCEPTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Amy Hernández info@hispaniclifemedia.com (325) 701-9505 Office
ADVERTISING SALES David Hernandez (325) 518-7091 sales@hispaniclifemedia.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Debbie Heep info@hispaniclifemedia.com
About Us
We are dedicated to serving the Abilene and the Big Country by providing up-to-date information and resources that promote healthy families and homes. We also promote our clients businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images within the Hispanic community. HispanicLife Magazine is published on a monthly basis and is owned & operated locally. Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. HispanicLife and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. HispanicLife does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. 2018 HispanicLIfe Media
All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without permission from the publisher. www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine
Well folks, we’re excited to say that we just turned 8 years old! Yes, eight long years have passed, and we are still at it for the wonderful folks of Abilene and The Big Country! Wonderful stories, by wonderful people, community events, ads that support our efforts on a monthly basis. We say a big ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone for the continued support of this monthly publication. Without any of you, this would not be possible. So as the month of May is upon us, we are busy on a constant basis, as I’m sure you are as well. School is about to be done, Summer trips are already being planned, graduation parties are almost here and the list goes on and on. Make it a great Summer amongst your families and friends; memories to be cherished forever! Head to the park, go on a hike, take a quick trip somewhere random, take some pottery classes, learn to two-step, start swimming again like you used to, clean out the garage, help your neighbor, etc. But bottom line, make some good memories. You won’t regret it if you act today! Remember to stay blessed and to be a blessing! Every season we are going through, we are going through for a reason. Tomorrow is a new day, and it is never too late to be better and to do better! Have a great month and as always….First God, then Family and finally Friends….
David & Amy Hernández & the girls and all the staff here at HispanicLife
4 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
New Storybook Sculpture Will Be Unveiled June 7th
The friendship between Marcel the moose and his beloved “owner” Wilfred was captured in bronze by local artist Steve Neves. The sculpture is based on the Oliver Jeffers book “This Moose Belongs to Me.” The newest addition to the Storybook Sculpture Project will be unveiled Thursday night, June 7, following the Storybook Parade. The sculpture will be located in the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden at the Abilene Convention Center. Additional benches will also be installed with new quotes. The sponsors who made it possible for the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council to commission the sculpture are the Abilene Arts Alliance, Bob & Peggy Beckham, Ralph & Jill Heaven, Phil & Jane Guitar, BJ & Lale Estes and the T & T Family Foundation and Bill & Alice Wright. The addition of Marcel and Wilfred brings the total number of storybook sculpture vignettes downtown to 24! Counted individually, there will be 34 sculptures. This is the largest public collection of storybook sculptures in America if not the world.
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COMMUNITY
LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS
Feeding Friends and Neighbors COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT
Christian Ministries of Abilene is more than a food pantry. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
701 Walnut may look quiet on the outside, but looks can be deceiving. Inside refrigerators and freezers hum, a Cross Fit program grows and neighbors experience acceptance and fulfillment. The main activity on site is a food panty supported by Highland Church of Christ. Becky Almanza, the only staff member, directs the collection and distribution of food as well as several other programs. “It started at Highland in 1986 upstairs in a little closet,” she says. “When people asked for food a box was packed for them. Then this building was donated and the food offers a Faith and Finance class pantry moved here. It officially opened in for a $10.00 book fee. For eight ’97.” to ten weeks students discuss where their money goes, develThe food at Christian Ministries of Abilene op a spending plan and set savis arranged much like a grocery store and ings goals. Childcare and a meal neighbors in need choose the items they pre- are provided. fer. Fresh meats, fruits and vegetables are often available. Three to five hundred people a “The volunteers who teach the month are served. class are certified by the Chalmers Institute in Tennessee,” “When a family comes in, you can tell when Becky says. “We’d like to offer the children are hungry,” Becky says. Chil- a class in the fall also and we’re looking for dren at Highland stuff small bags with snacks volunteers for that.” and toys to give out. “When the children receive those bags, their behavior changes.” A team of twenty to thirty volunteers makes it possible for Christian Ministries to offer The food pantry is open from 9:00 am to 2:00 its many programs and services. Some interpm, except the lunch hour, on Mondays and view those seeking assistance, some restock Fridays as well as Thursday evenings from shelves, some help neighbors shop, some 6:00 to 7:00 pm. convert bulk groceries to smaller packages. “We are one of the few food pantries in town Preparations for the Christmas Store start in open in the evenings,” Becky says. September. Neighbors agree to do community service at local nonprofits during SeptemOn Tuesday mornings neighbors can apply ber, October and November. The hours they for Community Care, primarily help with work are converted into “credit dollars” they utilities, at the Highland church, 425 High- can use in the Christmas Store to purchase land Avenue. Those same services are avail- gifts for their families. able at the Walnut site on Thursday mornings. The food pantry is supported by Highland In January and February Christian Ministries Church of Christ and most of those funds
go to purchase food from the West Central Texas Food Bank and through the USDA program, sometimes even from local grocery stores. Food donations come from McKay’s Bakery. Through Feeding America Olive Garden, Chick Fil A and Chipotle also provide their excess food. Donations are gratefully accepted from hunters, gardeners, “pantry cleaners” and “backyard chicken farmers.” Becky shows off greens from the Community Garden at Grace Church, also a ministry of Highland. Fresh vegetables also come from the Community Garden at Freedom Fellowship. Becky’s greatest joy is to see neighbors who have been helped and return to serve as volunteers. “They truly have thankfulness,” she says. “They want to help and we’re empowering them to give back.” And that Cross Fit gym? It’s tucked into a corner of Christian Ministries’ warehouse and used by everyone from college students to volunteers. Christian Ministries’ greatest need is for food donations. Their second greatest need is volunteers. With the resources at hand, they are already meeting our neighbors’ greatest needs: food and fellowship.
Summer Exercise Classes Offered at McMurry University By Gary Ellison, Associate Director
Communications, McMurry University Low Impact Aerobics workouts will be available at McMurry University from May 7 through August 8. Classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in room 200 of Hunt PE Center. Cost is $40 per person with a family discount rate of $60 for two participants. Drop in fee is $3 per session. For more information, call 325-7934634.
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Big Hearts: Random
Act of Kindness Leads To Abilene Friendship By Brittany Pelletz | BigCountryHomePage.com Family Flix -TOY STORY May 12 at 11:00AM South Branch Saturday Matinee - LEGEND May 12 at 2:00PM South Branch Weekend Walk-In Flix -
WINCHESTER
May 13 at 3:00PM South Branch Mockingbird Movies - THOR May 14 at 6:30PM Mockingbird Branch Family Flix -
THE WIZARD OF OZ May 17 at 6:30PM South Branch
Family Flix - CLOUDY WITH A
CHANCE OF MEATBALLS May 19 at 3:00PM Main Library
Tween Flix & Crafts - HAIRSPRAY May 24 at 5:00PM South Branch Family Flix -
When two strangers went into an Abilene Dollar Tree, they never imagined leaving with anything more than the merchandise they went in for.
ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE May 26 at 11:00AM South Branch
Tammye Smith is a cafeteria monitor at Austin Elementary School. She stopped in for some supplies to reward and remind students about good behavior.
Saturday Matinee -
BLACK PANTHER May 26 at 2:00PM South Branch
“I was going to check out. I usually mess with my phone. I put it away,” says Tammye Smith, an Abilene resident.
Family Films - TANGLED May 26 at 2:30PM Mockingbird Branch Weekend Walk-In Flix - THE 33 May 27 at 3:00PM South Branch Disney Flix & More - BRAVE June 4 at 11:30AM Main Library
It was in the checkout line when Smith started making small talk with the man behind her, “Where you’re from, where you live.”
Teen Flix - DISNEY ZOMBIES June 6 at 2:00PM Main Library
The man offered to pay for her purchases. It took some convincing before Smith agreed to let him pay for the purchase for school supplies. Smith adds, “He tried to pay for my purchase and I was like, woah. What are you doing? He’s like I want to get this.” The man, who she would later learn is named Joseph Norman says, “That’s the way I was born and raised. You do it and you go about your business. You don’t expect anything in return.”
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Thanks to comments, Smith learned how to find Joseph. She wanted to thank him again and show her appreciation by giving him an Austin Elementary School t-shirt. Norman remembers, “I didn’t even tell my wife about it. She didn’t know about it until Tammye showed up at my house.” Smith also convinced him to speak at Austin Elementary during a pep rally. Some classes were learning all about attitude and gratitude. “I’m just pretty overwhelmed by the whole thing. I love kids. I love people in general,” says Norman.
take in.
It made for a valuable lesson for students and adults to
“I’m hoping that maybe one or more of these children will do something someday to pay it forward one day. You never know who you might meet,” adds Smith. Once strangers, these two have the Dollar Tree to thank for a newfound friendship.
Norman says he just wanted to help, “Just another teacher spending her own money to buy stuff for these kids.”
“I loved meeting her actually. I could use some young friends,” laughed Norman.
“It’s a kind gesture that I will never forget,” says Smith.
Norman has also volunteered at various soup kitchens in the community and has helped the homeless population in many ways.
Smith wanted to preserve the memory so she snapped a picture with her new friend, Joseph and shared it on Facebook, “I made a post on Facebook which has since gotten 350ish likes. I’ve never gotten that many likes on a picture before.” She wanted the community to know about his random act of kindness. Norman adds, “Kindness is a learned experience. It’s learned and then it becomes secondary to you.”
Smith has invited Norman back to school for a party with the students in the near future.
Pick us up at Law Enforcement Office & Cisco College | COMMUNITY | 7
Hondo Henderson. Firefighter Henderson joined the Abilene Fire Department in December of 1999. He is certifed as an EMT-Paramedic, Master Firefighter, Fire Instructor I, and Hazardous Materials Technician. He is currently assigned to Engine 6, A shift. Congratulations to Firefighter Henderson.
SPOTLIGHT
Firefighter Daniel Moore joined the
Abilene Fire Department in March of 1994. He is certified as a Master Firefighter, Hazardous Materials Technician and EMT-Basic. He currently is assigned to Station 8 on A shift.
Take It From Me: Take Care of Your Heart By Joe Alcorta | Executive Director for Human Resources, Abilene ISD
Spring is here! I have always loved this time of the year. Baseball season has begun. It is time to dust off the golf clubs and get in a round or two. Plus, I have an April birthday. In the school business, we have ONE six weeks left until the summer time. Well, I am extremely thankful for this spring since many of you may know that I had a heart attack and a stroke on January 23. (I knew I should have studied for that stress test!) The doctor has told me that I had two indicators: my age and gender. However, thankfully with all the thoughts and prayers, I am doing extremely well. So I want to share with you what I have read and learned to help prevent you from having a heart attack and stroke. Number 1: Don’t smoke or expose yourself to second-hand smoke. I know that it sounds like I am preaching, but the evidence is overwhelming. Smoking increases the risks for heart disease, lung disease and stroke.
Firefighter Robert (Buddy) Pope joined the Abilene Fire Department in March of 2005. He is certified as a Intermediate Firefighter and EMT-Paramedic. He currently is assigned to Station 6 on B shift.
Number 2: Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol. High blood pressure is the “silent killer” as it goes without symptoms in most people. The higher your blood pressure the greater your risk. You also need to monitor your “lipids”. I did not know what a lipid was before all this happened, but blood lipids include LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol) and triglycerides. The lower your LDL and the higher your HDL, the better your health. Number 3: Lower your calories. The obesity rate is alarming, contributing to dia-
betes, which is a cardiovascular disease. Obesity is caused by eating more calories than your body burns. We need to do smaller portion sizes, do not “super size”, and drink water, unsweet tea or coffee at mealtime. The doctor told me to eat more turkey, chicken, and fish. In fact, he said “no red meat” or fried food. After I reminded him that I was a “TEXAN,” he stated that I could have lean red meat twice a month the size and thickness of a deck of cards. Number 4: Exercise daily. The lack of exercise contributes to obesity. Studies indicate that walking two miles a day is ideal for overall health, and those two miles of walking do not have to be done all at once! Exercise does more than burn calories; it improves your cholesterol. I even read that exercise is one of the best treatments for depression and anxiety. However, exercise alone cannot control or reduce your weight—–you have to modify your diet. Number 5: Reduce stress. Stress contributes to cardiovascular disease and, if severe, can cause a heart attack. Here are some activities that aid in reducing stress: regular exercise, adequate sleep, laughing, volunteering or attending religious services. Also, try to avoid situations and people who make you anxious or angry, but you still need to come to work. I hope what I have learned will benefit you. I know that we often push ourselves to limit and spend a lot of time taking care of our students. I encourage you to take a few of these suggestions and apply them to your life. I was reminded that life is precious and we need to take better care of ourselves.
8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Cougar AFJROTC Drill Team Earns Grand Champion Trophy By Abilene Independent School District
Cooper High School’s AFJROTC Drill • The Sabre Team under the command of Cadet Team was named Grand Champion out of 22 First Lieutenant Rachel Merritt won 1st schools at the Tiger Invitational Drill Meet in Corsicana on April 14. • Both the male color guard commanded by Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Mark Mahar and female Numerous teams and cadets captured team Color Guard commanded by Cadet Captain and individual awards: Haliegh Pacatte placed 2nd.
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• The Unarmed Team under the command of Cadet Second Lieutenant Danyel Franco took 2nd in Exhibition and 3rd in Regulation.
• Cadet Captain Ben Kish placed second in the solo exhibition category.
• Cadet Pacatte teamed with Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Jose Vega to place 2nd in the tandem • The Armed Team under the command of exhibition. At the end of the day, the Cooper Cadet Colonel Anthony Garcia placed first in Team was named Grand Champion out of 22 Exhibition and 3rd in Regulation. schools.
the Mayor with HikByeAbilene Parks and Recreation Join us and #walkwithmayor for the 2018 Mayor’s Spring Hike along Cedar Creek. It will take place Saturday, May 19th beginning at 9:30 A.M. This is a FREE, family friendly event that is open to the public and leashed dogs are welcome to join. Due to the terrain of the trail, strollers and bikes are not allowed.
Abilene Regional Medical Center is helping you beat breast cancer with the region’s first 3D mammography. The clarity of images it produces can reduce stressful callbacks. Our 3D mammography allows physicians to examine breast tissue in great detail, in millimeter increments with fine details no longer hidden by dense breast tissue – resulting in improved accuracy and a better chance at early detection. To schedule your 3D screening mammogram, call 325-428-1225.
3D mammography • Clearer images Greater accuracy • Earlier detection
3D MAMMOGRAM TECHNOLOGY.
A NEW DIMENSION.
The hike will begin at the grassy area on South 11th Street (across from Joe Allen’s). ParticiCreek to Stevenson Park then return by Cedar of bank the pants will travel north along will direct hikers to the same trail. The hike route is approximately 3 miles long. Signage area. parking the designated and sunscreen Some recommendations to ensure a fun-filled and safe hike: Bring water . weather the for dress sandals, or flops flip along. Wear comfortable shoes; no ilenetx.gov. For more information visit www.abilenetx.gov/recreation or parksandrec@ab
AbileneRegional.com Not all insurance providers cover 3D mammograms. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. An order from a physician or qualified healthcare provider is not required, but the patient must provide a physician/provider name when an appointment is made. If the patient does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for the patient’s selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider and follow-ups are the responsibility of the patient. • Abilene Regional Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.
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Pick us up at Alfonso Hernandez Bakery, Mr. Jiffy & Daniela’s Tex-Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 9
10 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Veterans Benefit Fair May 19th By Sherry Byard | Texas Veterans Commission
The Military Partnership of West Central Texas is pleased to partner with the Abilene Zoo again this year during Zoolute to Dyess which will include a free “come and go� benefits fair for Texas veterans. The event will be held from 9a.m. to 4p.m. Saturday, May 19th, on Armed Forces Day, at the Abilene Zoo. The fair, targeting all area Veterans, Active Duty military and their families, is one of many planned throughout the state in 2018. The benefits fair will provide Veterans and military members with access to representatives from more than 20 service agencies who can discuss pending claims, health care needs, supportive services, legal services, education and training benefits, employment and other benefits in addition to low-interest land, home, home improvement loans as well as Texas State Veterans Cemeteries and nursing homes for veterans. A limited number of premium attraction tokens will be available and provided on a first come basis to veterans who visit with all 20 service providers. There will also be several door prize drawings throughout the day. Veterans are encouraged to drop in to learn more about their benefits any time between 9a.m. and 4p.m. and are not required to stay for the duration of the event. For more information on the benefits fair, please call Sherry Byard at (325) 7954314.
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Pick us up at Taqueria Riojas & Texas Workforce Center | COMMUNITY | 11
Abilene Public Library Receives Statewide Award By Lori Grumet | Library Director
Friends of The Abilene Public LibraryAnnual Book Sale By Janis Test | Abilene Public Library
It’s time once again for the much anticipated Friends of the Abilene Public Library Book Sale at the Abilene Convention Center, June 14-17. Our 29th annual sale will have more than one hundred thousand books, DVDs, CDs, records and other unique items. Library Friends members get first crack at the goodies during a preview sale on Thursday, June 14 from 5 until 8 p.m. Memberships to the Friends starting at $15.00 will be available at the door. On Friday, June 15 the doors open to the general public at 10 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 16, the sale begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. Prices on most general sale items, including hardbound books, will be $2, while most paperbacks will be $1 each. Children’s books are sold by the inch, for $2. Admission is free. On Sunday, the famous “Bag-o-Books” sale begins at 1 p.m. Until 4 p.m., $6.00 will get you an entire bag of great reading (bags furnished at the sale). Cash, checks, and credit/debit cards will be accepted for purchases, with proper picture ID. The
Abilene Public Library
Friends will be able to accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and Diner’s Club.
Abilene Public Library has been recognized by the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association with the 2017 Texas Achievement in Library Excellence Award.
A featured area of the sale is the ‘Antiques and Uniques’ section. Antiques and Uniques contains rare, hard-to-
Libraries awarded this honor are required to meet a high level of excellence in their programming and services. To be considered, recipients are required to demonstrate quality services across ten criteria. This year, only 52 libraries out of 548 Texas public library systems have been awarded this honor. This means Abilene Public Library is in the top 10% of public libraries in the entire state of Texas. APL last received this honor in 2012.
find and collectible books. It also includes special interest fiction and nonfiction titles. The Friends of the Abilene Public Library Book sale is an annual event. Proceeds from the sale fund library materials, equipment, activities and staff training opportunities. For more information, call your Abilene Public Library at 676-6025, or check the Friend’s Book Sale information online at www.abilenetx.com/apl/BookSale.
City Library Director Lori Grumet says “This is indeed an honor that reflects on the entire staff of APL, and the city which values and provides quality library services and programs for the continued education and personal enrichment of its residents.” Grumet accepted the award on behalf of the Library and the city in April at the annual Texas Library Association Annual Conference in Dallas. The award will be presented to the City Council this Thursday during the regularly scheduled Council meeting.
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Come To The Country 12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
If you’re planning an event with a little country charm, here’s the perfect place. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
DeeDee Scott has been in the hospitality business for much of her life. After her dad, David C. Self, opened the Clyde Pizza House in 1990, she ran it for twenty-eight years. “He always wanted a pizza place,” DeeDee says. “He went to a pizza making class in Dallas and even learned to make his own sauce.” The restaurant moved from a trailer house to a bigger space, then across the street where they built the current building. But it was hosting parties at home that got her into the event venue trade. First they hosted her husband Tabb’s best friend, Chris Howe’s wedding re-
ties after that. I was ready for people to stop coming into my house to use the bathroom.”
ception in the barn on their farm and ranch. “It turned out to be a party for 200 people,” DeeDee says. “Everybody loved the concept of a party in a barn. We hosted four more par-
They were already in the process of purchasing a parcel of land from Tabb’s aunt, Ann Pittman,that had been in the family for at least four generations. In fact Tabb and DeeDee had lived on the property early in their marriage, twenty-three years ago. Tabb did all the planning and design for the new party barn. He and his Dad, Barton, did most of the work
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Pick us up at Drug Emporium, Monterrey Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 13
with the help of lots of family and friends. Tabb’s mom, Elnora, contributed the stained glass window of the family’s Staple 6 brand and the Staple 6 Barn was born. “We started building in February of 2015,” DeeDee says. “It was wet and cold and nasty. It was so muddy we could hardly get up the driveway.” But things grew from there. They hosted an eightieth birthday party in June and their first wedding that September. The bride dressed in the barn’s restroom, which is small. And since the barn is “open air” it was also warm. When Tabb and DeeDee saw the challenges they decided to build a Bridal Cabin. Again Tabb did the hands-on work. The space is charmingly decorated and holds its own restrooms, a television and plenty of outlets and mirrors. The Bridal Cabin is also air conditioned and heated. Tabb and DeeDee were both born and raised in Clyde, which is about eight miles from the Barn. Both graduated from Clyde High School. His dad and her step-dad were good friends, but Tabb and DeeDee didn’t meet until they were both registering for Cisco Junior College. They have a twenty-year-old son, Seth, who graduated from Eula High School. Seth works as a bartender at the Denton Valley Backyard restaurant and helps in the family’s farm and ranch business. The Barn hosts about fifteen events per year and can hold a crowd of about 200. So far the most unusual event has been the first gay wedding in Callahan County. Tabb and DeeDee don’t usually attend the events. Since their home is the nearest neighbor to the barn, they can check in when needed. DeeDee’s favorite part of the Staple 6 Barn is seeing the brides’ excitement. “It’s great when they keep calling and want to bring out their mom or their aunt just to show it to them. I like seeing their ideas. After they decorate I take pictures because everybody’s style is so different.” You can find more information about the Staple 6 Barn on Facebook, Instragram Twitter and their website at www.staple6barn.com But the best part is seeing for yourself. Towering oak trees, green grass, cattle nearby and calls from Tabb and DeeDee’s twenty-eight peacocks and hens create a pasture perfect setting. It makes for gorgeous wedding pictures and even more beautiful memories.
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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
Our wonderful dad, grandfather, and great grandfather, Juan “Chore” Lopez, 71, passed from this earth on Thursday, April 19th, 2018 after battling a long illness at Abilene Regional Medical Center. He was born on April 15th, 1947 to his parents, Felix Lopez and Maria Louisa Lopez Garcia in Monterrey, Mexico. Chore came to the United States at an early age. He met Guadalupe Martinez in 1980 and married soon after that. At that time they became a beautiful and big blended family. Chore, as he was known to his close friends and family was a great mechanic and handyman working side jobs until his health would not allow him to. You would never have known that Chore only had a second grade education because he read automotive books, and spoke to every Auto parts store in Abilene, even with his limited English, everyone knew him. One of his proudest moments was becoming a U.S. Citizen in 1991. He alongside with his wife worked many years at Horizon homes as the maintenance team. After that he went on to spend the next 12 years as the groundskeeper for Holy Family Catholic Church until he was diagnosed with cancer. Chore may have been sidelined for a little bit but he was never idle, he was always busy and was his wife’s chauffeur up until his final day. Chore is survived by his loving wife Guadalupe Lopez, his sons Marc Lopez (Jessica), Esiquio Muniz Jr. (Tricia), his daughters, Ashley Lopez and fiance Timothy Wright, Joanna Muniz (Joe), his special granddaughter Meghan Muniz, who he helped raise as his own, all of Abilene, and Julie Desemar (Wade) of Coleman, Texas. He is survived by 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his aunt Anita and uncle Andres. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the American Heart Association. Finally, the family would like to thank Dr.’s Larry Lin and Robert Striegler for their continued care of our sweet little man. Ermelinda Aguirre Urbina, 66, passed away Tuesday, April 03, 2018. Mrs. Urbina was born March 08, 1952, in Hamlin, Texas to Eulalio and Maria Louisa Aguirre. She lived in Anson until 1991 until moving to Abilene. Ermelinda loved Bingo, dancing, ladybugs and the colors aqua and peach. She was a women of strong character when it came to family. Survivors include her husband, Pedro A. Urbina; two sons, Andrew Urbina (Michelle) and Pete Urbina Jr. (Shelly) all of Abilene; two daughters, Lisa Guerra (John) and Marissa Gallardo (Roy Gonzalez) all of Abilene; two brothers, Raymond Aguirre (Lupe) of Abilene and Robert Aguirre
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(Irene) of Anson; a sister, Anita Aguirre of Abilene; nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Mrs. Urbina was preceded in death by her parents. Guadalupe Zermeno, 51, of Abilene passed away Monday, April 17, 2018 at a local hospital. Mrs. Zermeno was born December 20, 1966, in San Antonio De Maguey, San Felipe, Guanajuato, Mexico to Encarnacion Arzola Reboyoso and Maria De Carmen Martinez. She was a strong, loving and caring person that would do anything for her family. Guadalupe loved her husband of 31 years, Jose Luis. Her big heart and great cooking was always enough to go around. She was a very reserved person, but not when it came to her Chevy Camaro, that was her baby. We will miss her special quality of making everyone feel good about themselves and that beautiful smile that brightened up the room when she walked in. Rest in peace loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Left to cherish her memories include her loving husband Jose Luis Zermeno of Abilene; four sons, Sergio Zermeno, Jose Luis Zermeno-Arzola, Rodrigo Zermeno and wife, Elsa, and Fernando Zermeno, all of Abilene; a daughter, Adela Zermeno of Abilene; four brothers, Elias Arzola (Inez) of Junction, Texas, Martin Arzola (Patricia) of Mexico, Manuel Arzola of Junction, Texas and Rodrigo Arzola of Merkel, Texas; two sisters, Ignacia Calvillo (Pedro) of Houston, Texas and Maria De Jesus Arzola Martinez (Antonio Ortiz) of Mexico; eleven grandchildren, Isaiah, Tony, Sergio Jr., Noah, Carmen, Eli, Jose, Jo’vani, Eloy, Gracie and Aria; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Guadalupe was preceded in death by her father, Encarnacion A. Reboyoso and two sisters, Esperia and Antonia. Proud to be her pallbearers will be her sons and grandsons.
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
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Pick us up at Alfredo’s, Gloria’s Grill and Kentucky Fried Chicken | COMMUNITY | 15
Viral Post Turns into Writing Career for ACU Grad By Loretta Fulton | ACU Today
In one month, from August to September 2015, Jami (McKelvie ’96) Amerine saw her blog readership jump from an average of 69 views per month to 690,000.
That is not a misprint. It is a an increase of 689,931 views. And it all happened thanks to one entry titled, “An Open Letter to My Children: You’re Not That Great.” A friend shared it on Facebook and it went viral, to the tune of 690,000 viewers.
Jami Amerine
The first book, Stolen Jesus: An Unconventional Search for the Real Savior, was published in October 2017 and the next, Sacred Ground, Sticky Floors: How Less-Than-Perfect Parents Can Raise Kids Who are (Kind of) Great, is scheduled for release in October 2018.
Those first two books led to a contract for a third, Sacred Temple, Lumpy By October 2015, that number had jumped to Thighs, that Jami is working on now. One thing 1 million and today, Jami has 1.5 million faith- Jami has going for her, besides a talent for ful fans. She credits the catchy title for catch- catchy titles, is plenty of material to work with, ing people’s attention. both from a spiritual perspective and a wife/ mother perspective. “I think if I was given a superpower, it was naming things,” she said. Her dad’s career caused the family to move a lot while she was growing up. They settled in You can name Jami “successful.” Those im- Abilene and Jami graduated from Wylie High pressive numbers led to landing an agent and School and then ACU in 1996. Her parents getting a two-book contract with Harvest moved to Houston and Jami and the rest of her House, a Christian publishing house in Eu- family moved there, too, in 2017 from a large gene, Oregon. ranch near Merkel.
The “rest of her family” is a story in itself. Jami’s husband, Justin, grew up near Merkel and graduated from Angelo State University. His father owned a heating and air conditioning company, and Justin expanded it statewide, making it easy for the family to relocate to Houston. The move also put the family closer to her parents and closer to a major airport, a necessity with all the speaking engagements Jami has attracted.
to write and just started her blog on a whim, squeezing in a few minutes here and there to type it on her phone. But her parents saw something in her writing and agreed to send her to a conference for writers of Christian materials.
“I didn’t know I even had that in me,” she said. But an agent she met at the conference knew it when she saw the blog numbers Jami was hitting. Now, she has a book endorsement from TV host Kathie Lee Gifford, two completed Jami and Justin are parents of four biological books and one in the works, numerous speakchildren and two adopted sons, ages 6 and 4. ing engagements, and acclaim that astounds Over the years, they have been foster parents her. to several children and most likely will be again. “It was completely organic,” she said, just seeming to come out of nowhere. Jami’s religious background is as diversified as her family. Her family was Mormon until But a quick read of her blog posts shows that Jami was 7 and then they joined an Assemblies she has the knack. Her blog has the same name of God congregation. Jami later was baptized as her upcoming book, “Sacred Ground, Sticky in the Disciples of Christ denomination. She Floors.” The title and the closing sentence in married a Catholic and then joined Highland the “about” section tell readers immediately Church of Christ while living in Abilene. They that Jami has a superpower for naming things currently are searching for a church home in and a gift for getting her thoughts across. Houston. Jami was as surprised as anyone over the success of her writing career, which “May your floors be sticky and your calling orshe didn’t see coming. She never had an urge dained! Love, Jami.”
16 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Building on the Past
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Tim and Pamela Smith are honoring the past and changing the future with rebuilding and revitalization. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
Think there’s nothing to do Abilene? Well, think again. In Abilene, you can purchase a condemned building with a no roof and turn it into a warm, light-filled home. At least if you’re Tim and Pamela Smith you can. Tim is the owner of the two Firehouse Fitness locations here in Abilene, one at 3518 S. 7th Street and one at 8050 Buffalo Gap Road. The South 7th location was Abilene’s Firehouse Number 6 from 1954 to 1978. Abilene Adult Daycare used the space for thirty-nine years. Then Tim bought the property and turned it into a 24-hour fitness center. The Buffalo Gap location did not have the same kind of history as the South 7th property, but it was an old, deserted building that now houses a popular exercise destination. Tim did much of the remodeling
work himself for both locations. About a year and half ago, Tim
look,” Tim says, “It had been boarded up for forty-five years, but I’d always wanted to see the inside.” It took some research to track down and locate the building’s owner, but when Tim saw the inside, it was love at first sight. After a year’s worth of work, Tim and Pamela made the space their home. But that’s not the end of the story.
and his wife Pamela were shopping for a new home. Tim had seen a building in what is known as the SoDA District. SoDA stands for South of Downtown Abilene. “I was attracted to the exterior
The building, which held a Ford Studebaker dealership in the late 1920s and the Boys’ Club of Abilene in the 1950s and 60s, came with a 10,500 square foot courtyard. Someone asked if the Smiths would be willing to host a fund-raiser in the space. “The atmosphere was perfect. The music was great. The lighting was incredible,” Tim says.
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“At that point we knew we had a special place that needed to be shared with the community.” Tim bought the green space south of the courtyard and then the 4,400 square foot building south of the green space. After many months of rebuilding, renovating and remodeling the SoDa District Courtyard is ready to host events. It has already been used for a celebration of the Abilene Philharmonic’s Legacy Society, the Fiesta De Arte fundraiser for the Center for Contemporary Arts and a wedding. The Grand Opening of the space is scheduled for Saturday, May 26 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. The public is welcome and will enjoy donated refreshments from Cakes by Birdie, Chick Fil A and Cold Stone Creamery as well as various food trucks. Abilene Glass and Mirror and other businesses have made donations to the event. There will be live music and Calina Johnson will be painting a mural just outside the courtyard. All these businesses and individuals are strong supporters of the revitalization of the SoDA District. The event is being called the Grand Opening and Protest because of the Taylor County Commissioners Court’s unwillingness to participate in the revitalization. Tim met with the Court recently because the County owns numerous properties in the SoDA District. However the Commissioners expressed no interest in selling the properties or participating in any development. “After college in Virginia and some time in Houston,” Tim says, “I came to really appreciate Abilene. It can be an even better city if we put great ideas into action. That’s what we’ve done here and it’s wonderful to see other people getting excited.” Visit sodadistrictcourtyard.com or ok Soda District Courtyard on Facebo for more information.
Tim hopes that others will move into the area and create an even more vibrant and active neighborhood. He’s already leading the way.
18 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Top Graduates Announced For Abilene & Cooper High Schools
www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine
By Joshua Engard | BigCountryHomePage.com
The top 25 graduates for the classes of 2018, Sarah Sharp - University of Texas including their college of choice, are as follows: Colby Haught - Abilene Christian University Elizabeth McCormick - Hardin-Simmons Abilene High School University Israel Yolou - Yale University Noah Watson - Texas A&M University Matthew Bos - University of North Texas Anelisa Valenzuela - McMurry University Eliana Pigott - Southwestern University, Gavin Chapman - Texas A&M University Trinity (TX) University Kylee Barber - University of North Texas Cooper High School Leslie Filorio - Dallas Baptist University Brady Cluck - Baylor University Hannah Pinson - Abilene Christian University Mikayla Johnson - McMurry University Chloe Batten - Harding University Beau Thompson - Vassar College Tara Duncan - California Baptist University Jonas Sims - Hardin-Simmons University Esther Musonera - Texas A&M University Jayce Jensen - Texas Tech or Iowa State 10. Andrew Ezzell - Texas A&M University James Gumawid - Baylor University Robert Martinez - Texas Tech University Lara Flynn - University of Texas Hope Brown - Texas A&M University Tristan Aguilar - University of Texas Greyson Piersall - Abilene Christian University Tarik Dawson - Texas A&M University Bradley Stevens - Undecided Lettie Raymond - McMurry University Austin Stevenson - Northwestern University Alyssa McLean - Texas Tech University Ashton Cheatham - Pepperdine University Lucas Boldenow - University of Minnesota Michael Lester - Abilene Christian University Lorin Bradshaw - Brigham Young University Kristopher Finch - Abilene Christian University Sammy Guadarrama - University of Houston Adrianne Pruit - Texas A&M UniversityJoshua Graham - Texas A&M University Galveston Rachel Shirmer - Duquesne University
Carly Gillit - Texas A&M University Faith Parsons - Abilene Christian University John Parker Morris - Cisco College/Texas Tech University Melody Matthews - Texas Tech University Jaden Myers - Texas Tech University Alexis Alfaro - Texas Tech University Bridget Miller - Northwestern State (La.) University Theron Holladay - University of the South Allison Pope - Texas Tech University
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ACU Missions Intern Witnesses Physical, Spiritual Healing in Honduras By Haley Remenar | Abilene Christian University
Renique Rodriguez
only had 30 minutes to prepare a devotional. She was the youngest person on her mission team, she couldn’t speak much Spanish and the devotional was for men at a drug and alcohol rehab center in Honduras. “I was just praying and asking God for the words to say to speak to these men,” said Rodriguez, a senior missions major from Georgetown, Texas. Through a translator, she told the men a story from Acts 3 in which the disciples healed a lame man. After the man is healed, he still has to lean on the apostle Peter. “I said, ‘It’s OK to lean on someone,’ ” Rodriguez said. “You’re here to get help. We’re here to help you, so don’t feel like just because you’re healed you don’t need help from other people.” She didn’t expect much of a response, but after she spoke, one man came to her and thanked her. He told her the devotional described exactly what he was going through.
internship with Predisan through ACU’s WorldWide Witness program. “I wanted to be a part of the ministry but also a part of the medical side,” Rodriguez said. “I wanted to see all of it, and Predisan did a great job about being holistic.” Rodriguez first became interested in medical missions when Dr. Kent Brantly (’03), Ebola survivor and medical missionary, spoke on campus during her freshman year. She said his story sparked her interest and she joined WorldWide Witness the next semester. While searching for an internship, she was connected with Lee Fletcher, a 1999 alumnus who worked at Predisan at the time, who helped her secure a spot in Honduras. Rodriguez helped in various ministries through Predisan’s holistic health missions, including home visits with pastors and nurses, pregnancy clinics, Vacation Bible Schools, shadowing physical therapists and much more.
As she watched the men find healing Renique Rodriguez interacts with Honduran childrenesduring her both spiritually and physically, Rodrisummer internship with Predisan Ministri guez realized this was something she could spend the rest of her life doing. The ment and spiritual formation. The name Pre- “Not only are they taking care of a certain aspect, mission she worked with, Predisan Minis- disan comes from a combination of Spanish but they’re taking care of their community in every tries, was the perfect place for her to start words predica which means “to preach” and way they can,” Rodriguez said. “These people are learning about holistic healing. sanar which means “to heal.” The combina- loving their own people and community.” tion of physical and spiritual healing was just Founded in 1986, Predisan ministers to un- what Rodriguez, a missions major with a mi- Rodriguez said she dreams of starting a nonprofit derprivileged populations in Honduras and nor in biology, wanted to learn about, so the with a similar mission to provide health for the focuses on healthcare, community develop- summer after her freshman year she got an whole person: body, soul and spirit.
20 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Letter To The Editor:
To My Mom As She Retires After 39 Years At ACU By Michael Bacon, son of Dr. Cheryl Bacon, retiring chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
For the last 39 years on the ACU campus, Dr. Bacon has also always been there for kids that weren’t biologically her own. Whether it was for advice, a meal, or a place to do laundry, mom always went above and beyond to make sure that her students had a home away from home. She has served on committees, mentored young faculty members, and done everything in her power to make ACU and the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication a better place.
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Mom has worn a lot of hats at ACU over the years. At different points, she’s been a professor, assistant sports information director, Alumni Director, and adviser to both the Prickly Pear and Optimist. In 1998 she moved into her current role as chair of the JMC department. Over the last twenty years, she has
By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD
The JROTC units at Abilene High School and Cooper High School have been selected to receive the 2017-18 Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit Award. In an award letter written to each high school, Col. Paul C. Lips, national director of the Air Force JROTC, wrote, “The Distinguished Unit Award is limited to the very best of the best of our nation’s 900 Air Force JROTC units.”
The word hero gets overused a lot in today’s world. On a given day, the title ‘hero’ might be given to an athlete, movie star, talk show host, or any one of a number of people that make a temporary splash in a particular line of work. In reality, there are few true heroes in today’s world. My mom, Dr. Cheryl Bacon, has always been my hero. For all 28-plus years of my life, she has been there for me. For rides to countless practices, games, and road trips to see the Rangers, Mavericks, and Cowboys. She’s been there when I needed a shoulder to lean on, or if I needed a kick in the butt. (If you see her, ask about when she found out I was on Chapel probation as an undergrad.) She was there when I moved out, graduated, and got married. I’m not the only one she’s always been there for either.
AHS, CHS Junior ROTC Programs Earn Distinguished Unit Awards
Only 276 units were chosen for the highest unit award possible in 2017-18. More than 200 AISD students participate in the JROTC programs. Instructors for the units are Lt. Col. (ret.) Robert Davidson and Chief Master Sgt. (ret.) Thomas Sokolnicki at AHS, and Col. (ret.) Steven Shinkle and Master Sgt. (ret.) Ronald Deos at CHS.
seen her department receive national accreditation and numerous other national honors. No pressure, Dr. Pybus, but you have some big shoes to fill! In addition to her roles at ACU, Mom has worn a lot of other hats at home as well. She’s been mom, dad, caretaker to her parents, taxi driver, referee for arguments between my sister, Kate, and me, driveway rebounder, cook, maid, landlord to my college roommates, and most importantly, hero. A hero to me, my sister, and my grandparents, who have a front row seat with the Man upstairs. Trying to find a way to honor Mom in retirement has been quite a challenge. There was a dinner last night at Perini’s for family and friends, and there’s a reception this afternoon. There will be tickets to see Elton John later this year. We could have dinners and receptions for 39 more years and it wouldn’t be enough. Mom … You’re The Best! ~ Love you... Michael
The Distinguished Unit Award recognizes the personal growth and accomplishments of the cadets, the contributions of the instructors as mentors of the cadets and the support of the school and community. The objectives of the JROTC programs are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and life skills; promote community service, instill responsibility, character and self-discipline through character education, and to provide instruction in air and space fundamentals. The Air Force JROTC programs are located in high schools across the U.S. and at selected schools in Europe, the Pacific and Puerto Rico. Enrollment includes more than 120,000 cadets who do over 1.6 million hours of community service each year.
Pick us up at Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, H.E.B. & CISCO College | EDUCATION | 21
MAKING
A+ DIFFERENCE MEET
EDUARDO JIMENEZ DEPARTMENT/CAMPUS: Austin Elementary School TITLE: Lead Custodian YEARS WITH AISD: 1 year WHERE ARE YOU FROM? WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND? I am from Ciudad Acuna, Coahuila, Mexico. I attended school in Acuna. TELLS US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY : I come from a big family of 12, 8 brothers and 4 sisters. I am the 3rd child in my family. I am married to Maria and have a beautiful daughter, Nastassia. TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOURSELF: I am a very hard working person. I take pride in my work. When time permits, I like to help others. I love to fish and attend church. I love to spend time with my family. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? Everything about my job, I like. I enjoy working with the staff and students. Here at Austin everyone makes me feel like family. My favorite part is lunch time. I enjoy helping the children, especially kindergarten. WHAT THE BOSS SAYS ABOUT
HIM: “Mr. Eduardo is such a dedicated worker. He is servant hearted and always puts others before himself. He completes tasks before he is asked. He greets everyone, from teachers to parents to students, every day with a welcoming smile. His positive attitude and kind spirit are contagious. He leads with enthusiasm and diligence. Our school is ALWAYS spotless. He cleans things we did not even know were dirty. Austin Elementary is a better place with Mr. Eduardo on staff.” – Alison Camp, Principal, Austin Elementary
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22 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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HSU to Offer New Medical and Organismal Illustration Degree
By Kristina Campos | Director of Communications and Content Strategy, Hardin-Simmons University
HSU is offering two new, unique degrees for students with both an artistic and an analytical side. The B. A. in Medical Illustration and the B.A. in Organismal Illustration combine courses from art, math, and science to create interdisciplinary degrees. “We’re looking for ways to expand our offerings in the art department, and there’s interest in this program” said Michael Jones, head of the HSU Art Department. “We think that there will be a good response to these new degrees.” Hardin-Simmons will be one of the only schools in Texas to offer undergraduate degrees in Medical Illustration and Organismal Illustration. “We have a huge medical facility in Abilene and a lot of our students are pursuing degrees in the field of medicine,” said Jones. “It’s a natural progression for us in this town to develop this degree, and it sets us apart from other schools who don’t offer it.”
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The Art and Biology curriculum is designed to give students training in advanced perceptual skills, technical studio skills (traditional and digital media), visualization of biological information, and working knowledge of biological processes.
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Students who complete either degree will be prepared to enter the field medical or organismal illustration or apply to masters programs in medical illustration.
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“Our goal is to prepare student to find entrylevel jobs right out of school or build a strong portfolio to help them get into grad schools,” said Linda Fawcett, professor of art and program administrator. Career opportunities in medical and organismal illustration are diverse, including jobs in the areas of education, medical and life
science research, patient care, patient education, and public relations/marketing. Students can find jobs at medical schools, hospitals and clinics, research institutions, medical publishers, law firms, advertising agencies, web/animation firms, and other creative service businesses. “I think that this field is definitely going to grow,” said Jones. “Illustrations are moving to online animation and 3-D modeling. We believe that technologically, we’ll be keeping up with the changes.” Beyond General Biology and Chemistry, the Medical Illustration track teaches courses in cellular and molecular biology and advanced human physiology and anatomy. The Organismal Illustration track will also include advanced human physiology and anatomy, but will add courses in vertebrate biology, botany and entomology. The art courses will help students demonstrate working knowledge of instructional design and color theory and develop skill in drawn, painted and sculpted rendering from life, photograph, human dissection and microscope. Students will also develop digital skills in photo-rendering and 3D modeling. Through guided art electives they can also further develop skills in interactive media, animation and web design. The biology classes will teach students to recognize core biological principles, identify the steps of a given biological process, analyze data, identify key results, and visually explain such information in a variety of printed and digital platforms. Students will also apply ethics to the daily practice of medical and organismal research and illustration. For more information on the Medical Illustration and Organismal Illustration degrees, visit the academic program at www.hsutx.edu/academics/cofa/artdepartment/artbiology/
Pick us up at H.E.B., CISCO College & China Star | EDUCATION | 23
The God of the Mundane and the Miracle By Steven Furtick | Waking Faith
“When the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ Then he said, ‘Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.’” (Exodus 3:4-5, ESV) Most of the time when we imagine how God wants to use us, we imagine it being in miraculous ways. We think big. We dream big. And we expect big. Not that God won’t ever use us in those ways, but if you look at some of the great miracles in the Bible, they didn’t start that way. In fact, most of them began in mundane, ordinary circumstances. The surprising truth is that great moves of God are usually preceded by simple acts of obedience. Take Moses for example. God used him to part a large body of water and deliver an entire nation from slavery. But that isn’t where it all started. It actually began in a remote field. Moses was tending a flock of animals when God appeared as a burning bush and instructed him to return to Egypt. It was an ordinary moment, interrupted by the beginnings of a miracle. That’s often how God works. Whatever you find yourself doing today, remember that God can meet you in it.
24 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Teachers Honored at Limelight Celebration
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
By Abilene Independent School District
The Abilene Education Foundation’s 6th Annual Teachers in the Limelight Celebration was held April 25 at the Abilene Country Club.
TLC Science Teacher of the Year – Larry Haney, ATEMS TLC Math Teacher of the Year – Carol Footer, Cooper High
Thiry-seven teachers were recognized and The Teachers in the Limelight Celebration received monetary awards thanks to a grant (TLC) honors the dedicated work of teachers from Edwin and Agnes Jennings, who wished in AISD with campus recognition, a formal
McMurry University now offers online degrees in business, nursing and criminal justice that fit your life and goals. The online degree programs are transfer-friendly, convenient and affordable. Carol Footer
Rachel Carlisle
Col. Steve Shinkle
to honor teachers by funding the Edwin and dinner, and a monetary award. A TLC teacher Agnes Jennings Teaching Excellence Awards. possesses integrity and a love for teaching that spills into the classroom. The dinner is Teachers of the year from each campus and underwritten by Abilene Teachers Federal nominees for science and math teachers of the Credit Union, with additional sponsorship year were presented checks, and four overall by the Abilene Reporter News. Monetary winners were announced at the conclusion of awards are funded by an endowment established by Mr. Edwin Jennings, Jr., in honor the evening. of his parents Edwin and Agnes Jennings, Sr. Mr. Jennings’ desire for this event is to recogTLC Elementary Teacher of the Year – nize, honor, and award monetary gifts to outRachel Carlisle, Lee Elementary standing teachers in the Abilene Independent TLC Secondary Teacher of the Year – School District. Col. Steve Shinkle, Cooper High
McMurry University is your community to flourish academically, personally and professionally.
For more information contact your online enrollment counselor Caroline Park at 325-793-4710 or park.caroline@mcm.edu and begin your path to success.
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Larry Haney
John and Debra Hill, husband and wife, are recognized by the Mayor and City Council on April 26, 2018 for 20 and 25 years of service to the City of Abilene! Thank you both for your dedication to our City.
Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | EDUCATION | 25
SPRING CLEANING Hardin-Simmons Abilene Inventor Looking To Opens New Facility U O T W O L Save Time For Firefighters in San Antonio SALE Hardin-Simmons University (HSU), in partnership with Logsdon Seminary, announced Friday the opening of a new extension campus in the San Antonio area, according to a HSU press release. The new campus will provide HSU with largest location away from its Abilene campus for our seminary students to take courses, according to the release. Logsdon, a partner in opening the facility, specializes in distance Seminary education, according to the release. “These new facilities will allow students the space necessary for the most important aspect of a seminary education: relationship building.” Director of Seminary Programs in San Antonio Dr. Wally Goodman said in the release. The grand opening was attended by HSU President Eric Bruntmyer, Logsdon Dean Dr. Robert Ellis and many other administrators, staff and students from both the Abilene and San Antonio campuses.
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26 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
AISD Handbell Choir:
Ringing In 40 Years By Abilene Independent School District
It is difficult to believe that our nationally known handbell choir turned 40 this year. Where were you in 1978? Throughout the years, the group has had three names and three directors: The Woodson Handbell Choir directed by Letha McGrew, Abilene Gold directed by Cathy Taylor, and Soundwave directed by Eric Logan.
names in various colors on a large scroll. In recent times, Eric Logan has developed a way to bring the traditional scrolls into the digital age by incorporating a laptop, a large screen TV and Microsoft Excel.
On May 15, the choir will celebrate their 40th anniversary with a special end of the year concert at First Baptist Church at 7 p.m. Former members of the choir are encouraged to contact eric.logan@abileneisd.org for information about joining the alumni choir, who will also perform that evening. All three directors will take part in the celebration.
years, including performances for President George H.W. Bush in Washington D.C., the Texas State Capitol and a Texas Rangers baseball game.
Handbell ChoirThis organization serves an important role in the lives of our special education students – to offer the joy of music making to this very special population of students and their audiences. Comprised of both Cooper and Abilene High students, Soundwave features two handbell ensembles, a training choir and the performance choir. Choir DirectorIn recent years we’ve seen an interest in handbells at Madison Middle School. Candi Ice, the orchestra director at Madison, felt a calling to offer a similar musical group at her campus. They are going on two years and love getting a head start in learning the unique music reading method developed by Letha McGrew in 1978. Instead of traditional note reading on a musical staff, this method employs a system of note letter
Concert Handbell ChoirThe handbell choir has taken its show on the road over the
In addition to countless local functions around the Big Country, they have performed at state and national conferences such as the Texas Classroom Teachers Association, Texas Association of Special Education Administrators, Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Secondary School Principal Association, National Organization of American Kodaly Educators, the International Council for Exceptional Children Convention, and the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. I urge you to attend the upcoming 40th anniversary concert on May 15. Seeing and hearing these students gives me goosebumps every time I attend one of their events.
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Jon Kraemer Takes Helm of Eagle Band By Abilene Independent School District Dr. Jon Kraemer has been named as Head Band Director at Abilene High School, succeeding Paul Walker, who is retiring after serving as the the band’s director for the past 21 years. Dr. Kraemer has served as assistant band director at AHS during the 2017-18 school year and will be the tenth band director to lead the Eagle Band since 1926. The AHS band is considered the oldest marching band in the state. Dr. Raymond Bynum, the founding director, taught at Abilene High for 20 years before moving to McMurry College where he also
taught band for 26 years before retiring. The band hall at AHS is named in his honor. Kraemer earned his undergraduate degee in music from East Texas Baptist University and also owns a Master of Music and Doctor of Philosophy in Fine Arts from Texas Tech University. Prior to his time at AHS, Dr. Kraemer taught band for 11 years as head band director in Pampa and at Lubbock Roosevelt. He is married to Michelle, a stay at home mom who is currently pursuing her Master of Music degree. They have a 15-month-old son named Jackson.
Sign Up Today For Exciting Summer Technology Camps By Phil Ashby | Director for Communications, AISD
Animation. Robotics. Gaming. Legos. Digital Arts. The Abilene ISD Summer Technology Camps have them – and more. Registration for 2018 AISD Summer Technology Camps is now open for students who will be entering grades 2nd through 9th grade for the 2018-19 school year. Enrollment in the camps is accepted on a first-come, first-paid basis, and registration ends May 31. Half-day camps in the mornings and afternoons are being held from June 18-21 and June 25-28 at the Academy of Technology, Engineering, Math and Science (ATEMS) on the campus of Texas State Technical College on East Highway 80. Cost is $95 for each camp and enrollment is open to students from any district, not just AISD. All camps are taught by certified AISD teachers, integrating technology with theme-related instruction. Registration and payment can be made online or in cash payment at One AISD Center, 241 Pine St. For more information, please find the Summer Technology Camps link at www.abileneisd.org or call 325.794.3840.
Here is the lineup of camps scheduled for this June: Students entering grades 2-3 – Logo Story Starters, Kids Can Code, Survivor: Extreme Environments. Students entering grades 4-5 – Animation Creation, Maker Madness, Lego WeDo Constructors: An Introduction to Robotics. Students entering grades 6-7 – Minecraft: Beyond the Game, Robotics Using Lego Mindstorms, Digital Arts.
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28 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Bowie Elementary’s “Writing Buddies” Make a Special Connection with Military By Abilene Independent School District
On any Thursday afternoon at Bowie Elementary, you can expect to see students from different grade levels working together to create stories and letters. They call this activity “Writing Buddies,” and its fruits have been more fluent writing and excitement about the writing process. On one special Thursday at the beginning of February, a Writing Buddy activity yielded more than the students could have imagined. The fourth grade students from Cynthia Simmons’ class and the second grade students from Darla Smith’s class collaborated to create Valentine cards that would be sent to deployed military personnel.
Students from Bowie received the gift of a folded flag accompanied by a Certificate of Au-
“We were giving them kindness because they could be upset that they missed their families,” explained second grader Kenzli Griffin.
The flag and certificate now hold a special place at Bowie Elementary, and the remembrance of the exchange will hold a special place in the hearts of the students and teachers involved.
The students “saw it as a chance to give back to members of the military whose job it is to protect us,” according to Miss Smith. The result was around 40 Valentine cards sent to the care of Technical Sergeant Aaron G. Garten, AC130W Crew Chief, and his airmen from Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico. The soldiers were nearing the end of a six-month deployment in an active combat zone. According to TSgt Garten, the cards gave the men and women needed encouragement to complete the mission and remember their purpose. The students were gratified to support those who defend our freedom, but a surprise awaited them in return.
“We weren’t expecting to get a flag back!” exclaimed fourth grader Jasmine Ituarte. “It was really exciting.”
“Our students made a connection with the military community, and they learned that a small act of kindness can make a big difference,” Mrs. Smith said.
thenticity. The certificate describes that the flag “was flown in support of Operation Inherent Resolve on 14 February 2018 by an AC-130W ‘Stinger II’ Gunship in honor of Darla Smith and the Students of Bowie Elementary.”
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Food Protection Management Training Course Available to Food Service Establishments
Creative Writing Students Win Awards By Abilene Independent School District
By Tammie Belyeu | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
A two-day Food Protection Management training for food service managers in the Big Country area will be held May 21 and May 22, 2018. It will be held at the Taylor County Extension Office located on the Taylor County Expo grounds in Abilene from 8:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. both days. The training will allow food establishments to meet their certification requirements if they pass the exam. The exam being used is the Prometric exam. The class covers twelve food safety concepts related to personal hygiene, cross contamination, time and temperature, sanitation, pest management, foodborne illness and related areas. The course is sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Taylor, Jones 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.
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.
Abilene Girl Scout Troops Send Cookies to Troops Overseas By Jamie Burch | KTXS
The brave men and women fighting for our freedom overseas are about to get one heck of a care package back from the Big Country. The Abilene Girl Scouts are sending 400 cases of girl scout cookies to troops in Afghanistan as part of the “Troops to Troops” campaign. Airmen at Dyess Air Force Base wrapped the cases Tuesday, loaded them onto pallets and then onto a C-130J cargo plane. Scout mom Kristen Robertson-Weber told KTXS that people donated $20,000 to cover the cost of the cookies.
In February, three editors for the Gallimaufry, the literary and art journal of AISD, won prizes in the high school division of Angelo State University Writer’s Conference.
ern Nostalgia,” and Lauren Schaeffer was given an honorable mention in Unrhymed Poetry with her poem, “Fireflies.” Both of
Aubrey Embers was awarded second place for poetry, Lyric Kinkade won second place in the fiction category, and Lauren Schaeffer won first place for her story, “Mother Monster.” In addition, Creative Writing students won awards in the Abilene Writer’s Guild annual contest. Amanda Cooper won second place in the Memoir/Nostalgia category with her piece “A Guide to Mod-
these students were competing in the adult level competition against writers from across the United States.
30 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
‘READ DOWN YOUR FINES’ May 21st - 26th Reading Program at your Abilene Public Library designed to offer programming to help lower fines on minors’ library cards. How Does It Work? If you’re a minor (ages 17 or younger) with late fees on your library card, this is the program for you. Visit any Abilene Public Library location to attend one of our regular READ DOWN YOUR FINES events and sign in at the circulation desk to participate. For every 15 minutes you spend reading in a designated Read Down Your Fines reading area, you’ll earn $0.50 in vouchers. These can then be used to reduce late fees on your Abilene Public Library account.
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Burlington Stores Donates $10,000 to Reagan Elementary By Abilene Independent School District
Burlington Stores, Inc., through its partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, surprised the students and staff of Reagan Elementary School on Friday with a donation of $10,000 in celebration of its new store in Abilene.
Burlington“On behalf of Abilene ISD, I would like to thank Burlington and AdoptAClassroom.org for adopting Reagan Elementary,” Halifax said. “Teachers go above and beyond quietly spending their
Representatives from Burlington Stores presented the check to Reagan principal Chris Halifax during an all-school assembly.
time and money with little recognition or acclaim. Ultimately, teachers invest their lives to shape future leaders and produce an educated citizenry thus making a positive impact on society. I am constantly in awe of the dedication of these TRUE heroes. Our teachers look forward to using the funds to enhance learning in our school and in their classrooms. We are thankful for the support we received from Burlington and AdoptAClassroom.org.”
What are the Rules?
• For library cards of minors only (up to age 17). • Applies to overdue and lost card fees. • Every 15 minutes = $0.50 off fines. • Participant reads/attends programs to earn vouchers. • Use vouchers on the day they are earned. • Vouchers are not transferable and have no cash value. • Minimum reading time of 15 minutes. • Only print/audio materials; no devices (i.e. e-Books, digital audiobooks, etc). • You must read in the designated Read Down Your Fines area. • Reading must take place during a Read Down Your Fine event. • Children who are non-readers can earn vouchers by attending special programs or listening to someone reading to them.
There will several Read Down Your Fines events throughout the year at all Abilene Public Library branches. Call 325-677-2474 or check out our calendar at www.abilenetx.gov/apl.
A representative from AdoptAClassroom.org contacted Reagan Elementary administrators and helped to secure the donation, which will provide new supplies for each teacher’s classroom for the upcoming 2018-19 school year. The Reagan campus is a close neighbor to the new Burlington store, which will open May 11 at 3526 S. Clack St.
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Why I Love Working with Students
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Dr. Allen B. Withers, Dean of Students and Campus Life By McMurry University | Around Campus
My initial weeks at McMurry University as the new Dean of Students and Campus Life have coincided with the beginning of the spring semester 2017. I have felt a warm, friendly welcome by so many students, faculty and staff. In the evenings, I have taken the opportunity to walk the campus and explore - partly to learn building names, athletic facilities and the like, but also to get a sense of the campus culture and history. What a rich history it is! I’ve noted the various campus building names and walked through campus spots that McMurry alums will recognize such as the T.I.P. Anchor Garden and the Ko Sari Oak Grove. This helps me to understand the history and heritage of the place similar to my own alma mater, Alderson Broaddus University, in my home state of West Virginia. As I get settled here, I am enjoying the opportunity to learn about my new home in Texas. One thing I know already about McMurry students is that they are involved! In my short
time here, I have been able to take advantage of attending men’s and women’s basketball games and a tennis match. I even had a chance to meet the swim team at poolside in the Phillips Activity Center and at-
tend an art exhibition opening in the Ryan Fine Arts Center. That’s not all. I’ve met the Resident Assistants, students involved in Campus Activities Board, McMurry Student Government, social clubs and other campus groups. I can’t wait to see students in McMurry’s choral and instrumental groups and theater productions! These “involvements” build leadership skills, life skills and require students to make decisions in one way or another that impacts their lives and the lives of those around them. They learn to work effectively with others, weigh alternatives and
work toward consensus – all skills that build their character, personal skills and insight into how to get along in our diverse world. I have always been passionate about students’ growth and success. I enjoy the opportunities to get to know their personal stories – where they are from, their majors, their passions and interests. The work we do in the student affairs area is focused on the development of our students – academically, socially, spiritually, emotionally and in many other ways. At McMurry, we are focused on this development of students as individuals – in the classroom, in the recital hall, the fine arts, on the athletic field and court, in the admissions and financial aid offices, in the dining hall, and other places – it is incredibly valuable work, perhaps even sacred. Working with our students is a calling for our faculty and staff and certainly inspires me to do my best in helping our students focus on developing their best selves – one student at a time. It is an honor to be here and I look forward to the days ahead in this important work!
32 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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What’s Big DealDay About The Happythe Mother’s Mom! Resurrection Anyway? By Ray Vinson, Ph.D.
woman at the well. She had been married five times, and the man she was living with was not her husband. As I read the story, I realized my mother had been married five times, and was then living with a man in whom she was not married. At that moment, I began to see her life from God’s perspective, the perspective of GRACE.
NOT SO, for me, at the age of 16, Christ changed it all! When I discovered how much I was loved by God, everything inside me began to change. Shortly after my conversion, I was reading the book of John about the
Honor is as much in the giving, as the receiving. If you are struggling with honoring “momma”, let me invite you to honor yourself this Mother’s Day. How? By giving mom what she may not have to give you. Why should YOU do this? Because YOU are unique, YOU are incredible and YOU are incomparable! YOU are passionately loved! My mother has since passed. However, I am blessed with the gift to say, Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
This month, millions of mothers will receive recognition at their place of worship, and receive gifts and visits from their children on Mother’s Day. All of which is beautifully appropriate and rewarding. However, I must ask, what about those mothers who may not have been the best mothers because of their own dysfunction. Maybe, because of a lack of training or role models, or possibly opportunity? Is the recognition of Mother’s Day in the doing, or the trying? I guess it depends on who you ask. Some mothers will struggle with guilt this special day and some children will wrestle with resentment and unforgiveness. I was one of these children. My biological mother abandoned me at ten weeks of age and I was passed back and forth between her and a foster family until I was eleven years old. Fractured, abandoned, rejected, I was filled with self-loathing. If my own mother couldn’t love me, how could I love myself. I must be unlovable!
mother I wanted or needed, because she could not give me what she did not have! However, I had something now to give her, grace, love, and compassion! Eventually, my healing in Christ, healed her.
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Dr. Ray Vinson is the President and a Senior Fellow of The Institute for Biblical Leadership and Presiding Bishop of Dominion International Network of Ministries and Churches. Dr. Vinson is a Theologian, Formation Coach and Therapist of the Soul. He offers opportunities for church leaders to come together for support, healing, and understanding.
My mother was not the propagator of my pain and brokenness. Yes, she made some poor choices that affected me, however, for the first time, I saw her as a victim of her own reality. I began to break, weep and cleanse, releasing my resentment and unforgiveness. Yes, we reconciled! She was not a different mother, but I became a different son. She could not be the
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By Ray Vinson, Ph.D As I sat with my lovely wife Melissa last night on the couch, I asked her opinion about what to write in this article. As a mother of three boys, one of which she lost to an ameba contraction during a swimming event on a hot summer day, and a daughter who had been emotionally disconnected from her own mother for years because of her mother’s dysfunction, the theme of this article is her idea, and genius.
34 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Lessons From Cows By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments
you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.’” Eve crossed that cattle guard, and Adam followed right along with her. They were out of God’s boundaries and into consequences The first lesson we can learn from cows is that have lived on ever since that time. when they are owned, they are branded with the ranch’s unique symbol. This makes it easy The last livestock lesson is the cattle drive. This to tell who belongs in the herd and who does is an event of rounding up the cattle and pushnot. Now, don’t go out and tattoo your chil- ing them toward another place. What captures me dren to show they belong in your herd. The about this description is the term pushed. You and point is to help your family have a sense of your husband are going to be the ones to “push” belonging. I met a stepmom that called her your family - to move them from just tolerating blended family The Martin 6. This was to each other - to a genuine care and compassion symbolize that all the kids and stepkids with for each other. You will be the ones to create the this dad and this mom made up the team of teamwork so the kids will take the steps forward to be “blended.” Another important aspect to the The Martin 6. cattle drive is that the ranchers (you and your In 2 Corinthians 1:22, it says, “God anointed husband) are driving the family in the same direcus, set His seal of ownership on us, and put tion. If the two of you don’t work together, you His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaran- are going to have chaos. teeing what is to come.” Hallelujah! If you are a child of God, you have been branded Make sure you spend time deciding how to par- God’s seal of ownership has been placed on ent, how to discipline, how to prioritize your you. You are a part of His herd - His team. marriage, and how to work with other parents That sense of belonging brings security, peace involved. In other words, drive your family in the and even unity. Maybe you and your blended same direction. God will guide. He says in Isafamily could come up with a team name and iah 43:18-19, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! I logo -- maybe even a mascot?! am making a way in the desert and streams in the A second lesson to be learned from cows is wasteland.” that ranchers keep them from wandering off by using cattle guards. A cattle guard is basi- Yes, God can teach us about blending our famically a deep rut in a road along a fence line lies through many different things. I think you are that has metal bars extending over the rut so going to be looking at cows in a whole new way! that the cattle will not cross it. Your blended family needs cattle guards - boundaries set up Blessings in Your Blending! ______ in advance that protect your family from wan- ______________________________________ dering astray. Dan and I had family council meetings to help each child know our expec- Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor tations and boundaries. Trust me, though, we Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/step mom had all the kids testing our “cattle guards” in since 2004; her blended family cursome way or another, but for the most part, it rently includes four children and was a good and healthy way for our family to four grandchildren. Follow Krisstay closer and within our boundaries. I’ve got cows on my mind today. Yes, God uses many different things in life to get a point across to me. So hopefully, you’ll find a lesson on this cattle trail!
tie on Facebook (facebook.com/
theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@ Genesis 2:15-17 is an example of God’s BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram boundary to Adam and Eve. It says, “The (theblendedfamilymom). Her books Lord God took the man and put him in the - “The Blended Family Mom,” and Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, ‘You “Blended Mom Moments,” are both available on her are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but website at www.theblendedfamilymom.com).
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4 Ways Parents Discourage Their Kids By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well
Most parents want to encourage their kids and motivate them to be the best they can be. But, in attempting to do so, well-intentioned parents sometimes end up discouraging their kids instead. Here are 4 ways you can discourage your child.
hard test, it is not the time to say, “That’s great. Do you think you can make an A next time?”
Our children want us to praise them for their hard work and success without having us always look for how to make their performance even better. So if your son tells you his coach thinks he’s really coming along with his football training, don’t jump in and suggest ways he can do even 1. You offer too better. Let your child bask in the praise, minus much help. So, any ideas for improvement you might have. your child wants to learn how to roller- 4. You minimize their victories. This blade. You wisely bun- can happen in a couple of ways. First, you just dle him up in a helmet don’t realize what a big deal it is to them so you and pads and walk with him outside. At that offer half-hearted comments. To prevent this point, he wants to try on his own. But you from happening, really tune in. If your child is start shouting suggestions, walking along be- soft-spoken, you might need to really listen to side him and instinctively reach for him ev- see if something is important to him. If it is, lavery time he falters. To you, this is just safety ish him with praise. 101. To him, it’s you showing that you don’t think he can do it on his own. The same thing can happen when your child is working on a paper for school, trying a new hairstyle or learning a new skill. You see all of the ways to make their task easier and more efficient and you tell them all of your ideas. Unfortunately, your offer of help sends the message that you don’t believe in them. Your child will either say something like, “I can do it myself!” Or, they’ll give in to your suggestions, do it your way, and miss an opportunity to grow.
2. You compare them to others.
Sure, you’re just trying to motivate them by pointing out the successes or failures of others. “Josh, I noticed that Caden stands with his feet a little further apart when he’s batting. You should try it, too.” Or, “Sophia, your sister had that project when she was in second grade. Let me find her old project for you to review.” Again, your intentions are noble, but by comparing your child to someone else, you’re telling them that they are not good enough.
3. You always expect more. There is a time and place for everything. But, when your child tells you they got a B on a really
The other way parents minimize their children’s victories is by being too busy or distracted to fully join in the celebration. This one can be tough. You’ve just walked in the door when your daughter wants to show you her 10-page project with a million details. As much as you want to put her on hold, give her the praise she’s craving.
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36 | FAITH & FAMILY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
7 Skills Dads Use at Work that They Should Use at Home By AllProDad.com
How would you feel if someone called you a mom’s assistant? You know, a dad who doesn’t function like a dad, but functions more like mom’s assistant. We are not being a male chauvinist. We are being real! Many men display amazing talents, skills, and abilities in the workplace, but when they come home they don’t just leave work at work, they leave all those attributes as well.
2. Creativity. This is me here. I always say this is my weak point when it is time to be creative at home. Yet, I make my living from creating, with writing. I’m sure I’m not the only one.
3. Communication. When you are successful at work, your communication is usually the foundation. Use these skills with your kids, your wife—to lead conver“Be a dad. Don’t be ‘Mom’s assistant.’ That’s sation among them. depressing, just waiting for her to write you a list, walk around a store staring at it, calling 4. Operations. her from the cereal aisle to make sure you got Maybe you are responsible for how your departthe right thing. Be a man. Make your own list. ment operates at work. Yet when you are home, Fathers have skills that they never use at home. you are perfectly content to let your wife run the You run a landscaping business and you can’t operations. Tag teaming this, or at least not leavdress and feed a 4-year-old? Take it on. Spend ing it up to her 100% of the time, can be benefitime with your kids and have your own ideas cial. about what they need. It won’t take away your manhood; it will give it to you. I did that. I 5. Finance. spent more time with my kids. And I found If this is your thing at work, use the skills at out that I’m a pretty bad father. I make a lot home. Take the same care and concern for your of mistakes and I don’t know what I’m doing. family’s plan as you do for your company’s But my kids love me. Go figure.” – checkbook and financial plan. Louis C.K. 6. Training. The quote above doesn’t hold any punches Are you responsible for employee training? Use does it? If you felt offended or upset at the the same skills to help train your kids. Train them quote in any way, then maybe you have been in doing the dishes, mowing the lawn, doing functioning like a mom’s assistant instead of laundry, managing finances, and anything else the great family leader you can be. We want age-appropriate. you to assume that role wholeheartedly. Here are 7 skills you are using at work that you 7. Problem resolution. should use more at home. I’m certain you are one of your company’s best problem solvers. When problems arise, you jump 1. Organization. into problem solving mode. You get the necesEvery professional role is going to require sary feedback and then move forward with sugsome form of organization to be successful. gestions followed by actions. Do the same at Many times dads rely on mom to organize home. Make sure you listen first though! things around the house. Your skills here could be beneficial.
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38 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Defeating My Doubt
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
By Lynn Cowell |P roverbs 31 Ministries
There is this thing inside of me, that as soon as anything goes slightly wrong, or even looks like it could go wrong, I’ve got to fix it before my potential problem blows up. This pressure inside, this force that will not let me go, usually begins small. A thought births a concern. The concern swirls into a worry, the worry morphs into doubt, and before I know it, my entire world has come to a halt until the problem is resolved.
All the elements were there for the perfect storm of doubt. I can tell you the whispers of doubt I would’ve had: Did I do the right thing? Should I have asked more questions? What should I do now? But I don’t see doubt in Rahab. Instead, I see her faith working as each day she waited. The scarlet cord hung in the window, a symbol of her confidence in their God and the sign to the rescuers where she and her family would be found.
Hanging out with Rahab has been changing my life. As I pour God’s truth into my heart, doubt is losing its grip, and I am becoming Sometimes I believe this “fix it fast” desire is more like her: A woman who isn’t driven to from God, but I know it’s not. The rush to re- act and react, but instead can wait to see what vise has its roots deep in fear. Anxiety grows God will do and direct her to do. into panic if I don’t do something. Rahab did the faith-thing right. She took a I have so wanted to be free from this drive step and then, even as the walls of her entire springing from doubt. I long to be released city fell down, she waited for the promise to from this perpetual rush to “come to the res- be fulfilled. Not passively, but with her faith cue.” Last year, I decided to discover what it activated, she expectantly waited for the would look like to stop allowing doubt to push spies’ return. When they did, God spared her, me around so much. I looked in God’s Word “with her family and all who belonged to her” for women who displayed this type of confi- (Joshua 6:25, NIV). dence. It hasn’t been easy or quick, but I am seeing I found one in Rahab, whose story we find in progress in my life. And here, as I seek His Joshua chapter 2. She’s a woman I want to words for the wisdom I need, He’s leading emulate, because Rahab possessed what I des- me to know when to move, when to wait and perately needed: the power to wait. when to get out of His way. Isn’t power usually associated with doing and Lord, I want to be a woman who doesn’t alstrength for creating change? low doubt to stay and make its home in me but instead fuels my heart with faith. EmpowAbsolutely — and that is exactly what Ra- er me to be brave and become a woman who hab’s waiting did; it produced change. trusts in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Decades after the Israelites left Egypt, yet before they entered the Promised Land, they sent spies to check it out. That’s where Rahab stepped in with an act of faith: “But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them …” (Joshua 2:4a). Rahab’s biggest act of trust, though, came after the spies left Jericho, saying they would return. When? Would it be a few days? A few weeks? Day after day she waited. I can only imagine how wondering when they would come back must have gotten to her. They left only one clue to what would happen next: “… when the LORD gives us the land we will deal kindly and faithfully with you” (Joshua 2:14b, ESV). When the Lord gives you the land? What would that look like? When would it happen?
TRUTH FOR TODAY: Psalm 130:5, “I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” (NIV)
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CALL US TO ADVE RT (325) 701-9505 ISE
A Mother’s Job Is Never Done By Amy Jo Hernandez | HispanicLife Magazine The month of May is such a busy time for many. If your area of work is in education, it is probably the busiest season, with the end of school, award assemblies,testing, graduations, and summer fever.
Finally, my job was done for the night. Finally, I could relax. Finally, I️ could be alone. All alone.
As I walk away from their rooms and pull the door close, the latch clicking shut would mean Now, if you are the parent, your calendar is just I️ was officially a free woman. Not a mom, just a as busy with all the end of the school year assem- woman. Then I hear one of my girls say, “Mom, blies, class parties, teacher appreciation week, scratch my back one more time or just come lay
And so that night, as I️ laid in bed, I️ wiped the phrase, “I don’t have time”, completely out of my dictionary. I deleted it from my hard drive. I eliminated it from my vocabulary, because it is such an ugly, ugly lie. We do have time. We have 24 hours. The same 24 hours we have day after day after day. It’s our job to prioritize how we spend those 1440 minutes. It’s our job to schedule and strategize and select how we spend them, where we spend them and who we spend them with. I’m not the perfect mom, I’m not always right. I’m not even usually right. I’m not always the best, but my kids will always know they come first. My kids will always know they come before dishes and laundry and lounging on the couch. My kids will always know they are my number one priority. My kids will always know I have time. For silly stories. For bedtime prayers. For cuddles. For kisses. For hugs. For laughs. For graduation parties, end of the school year pro- with me” and I respond, “Sorry, but I don’t have back scratching. I will have time just for them. grams and the list can go on and on. time”, and I continue to my room. With all that being said, it is also the month to celebrate our Mother’s, the ladies that brought us into this world. Don’t forget to let her know what she means to you and how special she really is. We want to celebrate all the moms out there, the hard-working ones, the single ones, the crafty ones, the stay-at-home ones, and the ones who feel like they are just making it. You all rock and you are doing a great job! No one mom has it all together; you do you and do it well and to the best of your ability!
Then guilt starts calling my name. The honest May this month of May be a month to get truth was, I did have time. I just felt like I had your priorities in order and spend time with more important things to do, and that killed me. the ones who matter most! That was like sticking a knife into my side. That was like the ultimate gut check. How could anything be more important than being with my girls? How could anything be more important than snuggling with them? How could anything be more important than listening to them breathe and and watching them dream? How could anything be more important than being there with them during this fragile time when they are still young, when they still ask for me, when they still want me to hold their hand? And so I walked into her room, laid there and scratched her back and she says, “I thought you didn’t have time.”
We know many moms are worn out and tired, but don’t forget our kiddos still need us and we need them to know no matter how tired we may be, they are important to us and they are a priority. There are times where I can’t wait for my girls to go to bed, just so I can have “quiet, alone time” and to know wow..... “You know, I changed my mind.”
40 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
The Advice That Changed Our Marriage Forever By Dave Willis | Marriage Today
My wife Ashley and I have been working with 5. Remember that a husband and married couples for most of our own married wife must function like two wings on life. One of our favorite parts of our work is the same bird. They must work together in asking other couples their favorite marriage full partnership for the marriage to soar. Face advice. We’ve learned so much from couples every situation and ever struggle as partners. who are doing it right and then we’ve applied these powerful marriage tips to our own rela- 6. Remember that a strong marriage tionship and seen incredible results. rarely has two strong people at the same time. It’s usually a husband and wife Below are my 12 all-time favorite marriage taking turns being strong for each other in the tips. I encourage you to apply these to your moments when the other feels weak. Take turns own relationship. 12 nuggets of marriage wis- being strong for each other. dom that can change YOUR marriage are (in no particular order)… 7. When you’ve made a mistake ad-
mit it and humbly seek forgiveness. 1. Always answer the phone when You should be quick to say, “I was wrong. I’m your husband/wife is calling and sorry. Please forgive me.”
when possible, try to keep your phone off when you’re together with your spouse. Talk- 8. When your spouse breaks your ing with your spouse always better than tex- trust, give them your forgiveness inting with somebody else (or checking Face- stantly which will promote healing and crebook or playing Candy Crush, etc.). ate the opportunity for trust to be rebuilt. You should be quick to say, “I love you. I forgive 2. Make time together a priority. you. Let’s move forward.” Budget for a consistent date night. Time is the “currency of relationships” so consis- 9. Strive to have a “Naked Marriage” tently invest time into your marriage. Strive which prioritizes “nakedness” both to consistently give each other your best; not physically (sexual intimacy) AND also emoyour leftovers. tionally (through complete trust and transparency). This means never keeping secrets from each 3. Make laughter the soundtrack of other and never lying to each other. Secrecy is your marriage. Share moments of joy, the enemy of intimacy. and even in the hard times, find reasons to laugh. 10. Be your spouse’s biggest encourager, not their biggest critic. Be the one who 4. In every argument, remember wipes away their tears, not the one who causes that there won’t be a “winner” and them. a “loser.” You are partners in everything so you’ll either win together or lose together. 11. Never consider divorce as an opWork together to find a solution. tion. Remember that a “perfect marriage” is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other!
sand for each other daily and stay connected in a healthy church. Every marriage is stronger with God in the middle of it.
HEALTH&FITNESS
Abilene Regional Medical Center Offering Highly Advanced Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement Procedures Innovative Robotic Technology Allows Surgeons to Personalize Total Knee, Partial Knee and Total Hip Replacement Procedures to Each Patient By Delores Cox | Director of Marketing, Abilene Regional Medical Center
Abilene Regional Medical Center is the first hospital in the region to offer robotic-arm assisted total knee, partial knee and total hip replacements. This highly advanced robotic technology transforms the way joint replacement surgery is performed, enabling surgeons to have a more predictable surgical experience with increased accuracy. The demand for joint replacements is expected to rise in the next decade. Total knee replacements in the United States are estimated to increase by 673 percent by 2030, while primary total hip replacements are estimated to increase by 174 percent. Yet studies have shown that approximately 30 percent of patients are dissatisfied after conventional surgery. “With this system, we can provide each patient with a personalized surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and anatomy,” said Todd Pitts, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon at Abilene Regional Medical Center. “Using a virtual 3D model, surgeons are able to create each patient’s surgical plan pre-operatively before entering the operating room. During surgery, we can validate that plan and make any necessary adjustments while guiding the robotic-arm to execute that plan. It’s exciting to be able to offer this transformative technology across the joint replacement service line to perform total knee, total
hip and partial knee partments of the knee. Following the personalreplacements.” ized pre-operative plan, the surgeon guides the robotic-arm during bone preparation to execute The Total Knee ap- the pre-determined surgical plan and position the plication is a knee re- implant. By selectively targeting only the part of placement treatment the knee damaged by osteoarthritis, surgeons can option designed to re- resurface the diseased lieve the pain caused by joint degeneration portion of the knee, while helping to spare the due to osteoarthritis. healthy bone and ligaments surrounding the knee Through CT-based joint. Studies have shown robotic-arm assisted 3D modeling of bone partial knee replacement to be two to three times anatomy, surgeons more accurate than manual partial knee replacecan use the system ment procedures. to create a personalized surgical plan and The Total Hip application is a treatment option for identify the implant adults who suffer from degenerative joint disease size, orientation and of the hip. During surgery, the surgeon guides the alignment based on robotic-arm during bone preparation to prepare the hip socket and position the implant according to the pre-determined surgical plan. “We are proud to be the first hospital to offer this highly advanced robotic technology in our area,” said Delores Cox, Director of Marketing for Abilene Regional Medical Center. “The addition of this technology to our orthopedic service line further demonstrates our commitment to provide the community with outstanding healthcare.” each patient’s unique anatomy. It also enables surgeons to virtually modify the surgical plan intra-operatively and assists the surgeon in executing bone resections. The Partial Knee application is a treatment option designed to relieve the pain caused by joint degeneration due to osteoarthritis that has not yet progressed to all three com-
CALL US TO ADVERTISE (325) 701-9505 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com
42 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
• Full Service Medical & Surgical Facilities • State-of-the-Art Laser Surgery & Monitoring Equipment • Small Animal Hospital Facilities • Video Ear Scope • Geriatric Health Screening Available • Dental Care • Full In-House Lab For 1-Hour and 24-Hour Coggins Testing • K Laser Therapy (Laser Treatment) • Pain Management • Wound Healing • Rehabilitation
7550 Hwy. 83-84 South Monday-Friday 8-12:30, 2-6pm
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5 Simple Tips for Fitness Success
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 701-9505
By Kyle Melerski | Active
Congratulations on taking a forward step to get in shape and feel great. Many people are guilty of wishing they could get a sculpted body from eating junk food and watching TV all day. But that is just not going to happen. Even though getting in shape sounds like a long, time-wasting process, the effort put towards being in shape has many positive effects. If you want to start your journey to having a better body to feel great, here are some tips:
1. Exercise Daily - Exercise daily for at least an
hour. You do not have to kill yourself from running, jogging, etc., but you should have some sort of moderate physical activity in your everyday life. If you’re looking to shed a few pounds fast, do a higher-level intensity workout. For example, go on a walk at a brisk pace for an hour. Or, you can jog and set certain intervals to sprint during that hour. Make sure you’re not in severe pain during your workout. Just a warning, your muscles will ache after a high intensity workout. It may be irritating, but that means your body is changing for the better. Be sure to stay hydrated, stretch, and eat foods with a decent amount of protein after each workout. The protein will help keep your muscles, not fat, rebuilding.
2. Eat the Right Foods and Portion Each Meal - No matter how bad your stomach is telling
you to go for candy over healthy food, try to stay away from sweets. Sugar from candy will not help you get in shape. Even if it’s just a single candy bar, one will eventually lead to another. Fruits and vegetables are the best thing to eat when getting into shape. Apples, for example, do a good job at making the stomach feel full for up to 3 to 4 hours. Green vegetables such as green beans and broccoli keep the digestive system clean and running. Also, stick to lean meats like turkey and chicken. Seafood, such as, shrimp, and tilapia are also great alternatives. These foods are full of protein and healthy nutrients to help keep muscles fit and ready for workouts. In addition, be sure to portion what you eat. Having a good metabolism comes from portioning meals.
Try to plan out eating six times a day and setting smaller portions, rather than having three large meals throughout the day. This will also help you find yourself breathing smoother when working out rather than huffing and puffing for air. This is because you will have less food in your digestive system, which means more energy is used toward your exercise.
3. Keep Track of Calories and Food Intake Per Day - Keeping track of how many calo-
ries you eat in a day will be helpful in planning out your physical exercising. Ever wonder why body builders’ body masses are so big? That’s because they plan out their meals and take in more (healthy) calories than the average person. On the other hand, losing weight and striving for a skinnier physique will involve more physical exercise than calories you ingest.
4. Be Sure to Get Sleep - Even though most
of us have eight-hour jobs during the day or night, it is crucial to get enough sleep to recharge the body’s batteries. Six to eight hours of sleep will keep the body going throughout the day, but if you happen to feel tired at any point after coming home from work, by all means take a small nap before exercising. You should only nap for about a half hour. This will prevent you from staying up later in the night.
5. Stay Motivated - An important key to being
in shape is to set goals and keep a positive mindset. If you stay positive, you will be able to push yourself to get that fit body you’ve always wanted.
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Pick us up at Abilene ISD, La Familia Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | BUSINESS | 43
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MAY IS HEPATITIS AWARENESS MONTH
Hepatitis Awareness Without Action Equals Death By Lucinda Porter | HuffPost
Hepatitis Awareness Month is observed the entire month of May. Unlike HIV or breast cancer, hepatitis B and C are the awkward diseases that comedians joke about, but few understand the seriousness of these problems. Viral hepatitis desperately needs every bit of awareness and subsequent intervention and prevention it can muster. Consider hepatitis C, the more prevalent of the two chronic forms of viral hepatitis. Beginning in 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the number of deaths associated with hepatitis C surpassed all 59 other notifiable infectious conditions. Despite the high mortality rate, funding for viral hepatitis-related services is paltry. Currently, there is no money for a nationally coordinated chronic viral hepatitis surveillance system. The CDC conservatively estimates that there are 3.4 to 5.3 million people with chronic hepatitis B and C in the US. Between 2010 and 2013, new hep C infection rates increased by 151 percent, largely because of opioid use. For the first time since 1990, the number of acute hepatitis B cases has increased. The majority of people living with chronic viral hepatitis do not know they have it. Hepatitis Awareness Month isn’t reaching them. Viral hepatitis doesn’t have its own postage stamp or national spokesperson. Hepatitis organizations can’t even agree on the color of its awareness ribbons. Are they red, yellow, red and yellow, or red and blue? What we can agree on is that viral hepatitis is a huge problem and if we don’t act now, the death rate will continue to rise. Although viral hepatitis does have an entire month devoted to awareness, the campaign pales in comparison to an entire month of pink everything in October. Women dying from breast cancer is an awful reality, one that we as a nation can get behind. However, the American public isn’t sympathetic to hepatitis C sufferers, a disease that that is deeply stigmatized because of its sometimes-association with injection drug use.
And while I am comparing diseases, let’s look at HIV. It can be tricky comparing the two, because people living with HIV fought mightily for the services they finally got, and they need every penny of funding they have. AIDS day on December 1 is a powerful reminder of how precious everyone is, and why we need to find a cure for HIV. But more people are dying from hepatitis C than from HIV, and obviously Hepatitis Testing Day on May 19 is not getting the attention it needs. Stigma plays a large part in keeping hepatitis C in the shadows. Between its association with injection drug use and the fact that it is infectious, it makes it hard to walk into the doctor’s office and request a test. The majority of those who are infected do not know it, and baby boomers bear the lion’s share of this silent disease. Nearly 75 percent of Americans with hepatitis C are baby boomers; the CDC recommends testing all people born from 1945 through 1965.
to treat everyone with hepatitis C. Europe also has a plan to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030. The U.S. is not as far along, but experts are considering the notion that we have the tools to eliminate hepatitis B and C.
In the meantime, we must continue to speak up, loudly and often. If a postage stamp, spokesperson, or day without music would help, then bring them on. However, those things seem silly when what we really need is for doctors to test their patients, and for insurance companies to pay for treatment. We need Congress to do the right thing and provide funding for services for prevention and treatment of viral hepatitis. We need a national viral hepatitis surveillance system. And what we need most is to eliminate What if we had a world without baby boom- viral hepatitis so we won’t ever lose anyone else ers? Or a world without musicians and other to these two diseases. remarkable people with hepatitis C? We already know what it feels like to live in a The most common symptoms world without Lou Reed, Natalie Cole, Ken of hepatitis are: Kesey, Etta James, Danny Kaye, and Allen • Loss of appetite Ginsberg. Then there are the ones you don’t • Fatigue know about, the many patients and friends • Mild fever I lost to hepatitis C. This virus could have • Muscle or joint aches also taken David Crosby, Greg Allman, and • Nausea and vomiting Naomi Judd but medicine intervened. Medi- • Pain in your belly cal intervention spared the lives of my friends Karen, Chris, Jack, Lynn, Jane, Mike, Teresa, • Dark urine Rick and others. • Light-colored stools • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin I am also on the spared list. Now cured, I and whites of the eyes) lived with hepatitis C for 25 years. And al- • Itchy feeling though I am grateful to be virus-free, it’s not • Mental changes, such as stupor enough. It’s hard to be a survivor when others (being in a daze) or coma are needlessly dying from a curable and pre- • Bleeding inside your body ventable disease. Hepatitis C is treatable, but many don’t have access to treatment. Therein lays the problem. Only about 6 percent of those with hepatitis C have been treated and cured. In the meantime, Australia is on track
44 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Hendrick Medical Center Receives ‘A’ for Patient Safety in Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade By Lynne Bruton | Public Relations Coordinator, Hendrick Health System
The Leapfrog Group, an organization aiming to improve healthcare quality and safety, announced today that Hendrick Medical Center is one of 750 healthcare facilities awarded an ‘A’ for its efforts in protecting patients from
harm and meeting the highest safety standards in the nation. The Safety Grade assigns a letter grade - A, B, C, D or F - to hospitals across the country based on their performance in preventing medical errors, infections and other harms among patients in their care. “Patient Safety remains top priority at Hendrick,” said Tim Riley, vice president for Hendrick Medical Center. “We are committed to a culture of patient safety and dedicate the necessary resources to assure this occurs. Our mission statement reminds us each day of that commitment – To deliver high quality healthcare emphasizing excellence and compassion consistent with the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”
Developed under the guidance of an expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to approximately 2,500 hospitals across the country two times a year. It is peer reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. “This is the only national rating of how well hospitals protect patients from preventable harm and death, such as medical errors, infections and injuries,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “Receiving an ‘A’ Safety Grade means a hospital is among the best in the country for preventing these terrible problems and putting their patients first, 24 hours a day.” To see Hendrick Medical Center’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit www.hospitalsafetygrade.org.
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | BUSINESS | 45
Employee Spotlight
Saul Delgado Health Educator By The Health Connection | City of Abilene
Q. What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A. The most rewarding part of my Job is en-gaging with the community and being an agent of change for a healthier life. While working in outreach events, or in the commu-nity garden, I notice how people become more aware and empowered for their health when they become actively involved in their process of change. Seeing their enthusiasm motives me to continue the work I do and encourages me to keep working and advocat-ing for healthier neighborhoods.
Q. What is your role at the health department?
A. I am a Health Educator for the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District who works with the Healthy Texas Communities Program. My role is to engage with our community, promote the importance of healthy life choices, and to assist our community with an assessment focused on implementing change to reduce health risk factors.
If joint pain is keeping you from enjoying life the way you used to, turn to Abilene Regional Orthopedic Center. Our comprehensive joint replacement program is based on a national best practices model for hip and knee replacements. We focus on wellness in an environment that maximizes patient recovery. Let our three-step program help you get back to the life you love. For more information, visit AbileneRegional.com.
LESS PAIN.
MORE LIFE.
Q. What are some fun facts about you?
A. I was born in Chicago and raised in Puerto Rico. I was in the Abilene Civic Orchestra as a Violist, and I was also a Salsa instructor in 2016. I love reading, teaching, and making people’s day. Finally, this year I will participate in two mission trips this summer: Baja Califor-nia-Mexico working in construction efforts for low income communities; and Puerto Rico to help my parents and community with the con-tinuous recovery after Hurricane Maria.
Join us for a FREE seminar: Hip Surgery & Total Hip Replacement Presented by Todd Pitts, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon Tuesday, May 22, 5:30 p.m. Women’s Center Classroom 3 RSVP by May 21. Call 325-428-4950.
Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment. Independent Member of the Medical Staff at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Abilene Regional Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.
46 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
www.facebook.com/HispanicLifeMagazine
May 24, 2018
9:30-11:00 a.m. First Baptist Church of Abilene 133 N 3rd Street Abliene, TX 79601 Dining Room
GROWING & DEVELOPING OUR COMMUNITY: ABILENE
Come Learn!
Join Us!
Provide Input!
Hear from Executive Director, Rucker Preston, & Aaron Shaver about Christian Community Development & how we can collaborate together.
Network with others in Abilene who are working to develop their communities while gaining a better understanding of the TxCCDN & No Need Among You.
Share the unique assets & challenges that are present in our community and what macro-level changes that you want to see.
RSVP Online for FREE Questions? Contact director@txccdn.net TEXAS CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NETWORK
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091
BUSINESS&CAREER
The Tasty Truck ◘ ‘Jay’s BBQ Shack’
Jay and Diana Stearns may be newcomers to the barbecue business, but they’re already making their mark. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
Jay Stearns may look like a chef and he certainly cooks like one. But his building skill is what got Jay’s BBQ Shack started. He loves to barbecue so he started building grills for himself and friends. That led to entering cooking competitions all over Texas. Then he built a food truck and trailer where he and his wife Diana now serve barbecue four days a week.
As they won awards for their ribs, brisket, chicken, beans and chili, Jay and Diana began to consider cooking professionally. They started catering events and delivering their home-cooked goodness. Their first big catering gig was a Josh Abbott concert at the Silverado Ranch.
ery now and then. Not everything’s hot but we do have bold flavors.”
“It was a little scary,” she says. “The unknown is always a little scary.”
They also offer homemade sides including Jalapeno Creamed Corn and the most popular, Poblano Mac and Cheese.
But they agree on what sets them apart from the other barbecue joints in Abilene.
Jay especially enjoyed building the equipment they use but he really loves getting to know customers. That’s Diana’s favorite part of their work too. On weekdays they normally sell about 150 plates.
“Today our special was a burger stuffed with chorizo, serranos and cheese,” Jay says. “They call them Juicy Lucys up north, but we do our own version of it. We also have quail poppers ev-
Jay and Diana are both from Abilene originally. He earned an Associates Degree in Electronics from Texas State Technical College and worked for Dell Computers in Austin for ten years. Diana worked in the finance department there also. When the company decided to move his department to Tennessee, Jay and Diana moved back to Abilene. Jay went to work for his dad, John Stearns, who has owned and operated Quail Well Service for fortyfour years. With his technical expertise, Jay helped the company move into the technical side of wire lines. Diana worked for Edward Jones.
But her feelings are a bit different.
“We have people who come two or three times a week,” Jay says. “And even on Diana’s day off she’ll be out here.” One of the greatest values of their schedule is time to spend with their nine-year-old son, Jett. And he loves helping with the business. Even though Jay and Diana work barbecue everyday, they still seek it out when traveling. At the end of the school year they have a trip planned to try out some new barbecue spots in the Austin area. Jay’s current favorite is Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue in Tyler, named One of the Best Barbecue Joints in the World by Texas Monthly magazine.
to 1:30 pm Wednesdays through Fridays and from noon to 2 pm on Saturdays if they’re not catering an event. Diana’s parents Victor and Sharon Lopez help as well as various friends, but Jay and Diana do the primary work. Giving up a regular paycheck to launch a small business didn’t concern Jay much.
In November 2017 they bought property at “Diana handles the finances,” he says, “so I 602 S. 11th Street where they serve their tasty wasn’t too worried.” brand of Texas’s state cooking from 11 am
“It’s just a fun place,” he says. “The flavors are non-traditional. Our goal is to grow into something like that.” You can check their Facebook page at Jay’s BBQ shack to find out when they will be serving, what the specials for the day are and what other events, like cooking demonstrations are planned. Catering information is available at their website: jaysbbqshack.com. But whatever you do, get over to 602 S. 11th and try the smoky, beefy, creamy, tasty food!
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48 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Dyess AFB Selected for B-21 Placement
Pick us up at Abilene I.S.D., China Star, A & M Donuts | BUSINESS | 49
By Travis Ruiz | KTXS
Dyess Air Force Base has been officially selected for the placement of the B-21, according to the U.S. Air Force.
current bomber bases would continue to be bomber bases, pending Congressional approval.
This marks the first time Dyess has been publicly identified as a contender for the new bomber. Dyess was named, along with Ellsworth AFB and Whiteman AFB.
He also said he believed the community support of Dyess played a large role in the selection of Dyess. “The community support from Abilene has been the most significant factor, I think, in putting Abilene and Dyess in a position to base the B-21,” Arrington said.
“The Air Force selected Dyess Air Force Base, Texas; Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota; and Whiteman AFB, Missouri as reasonable alternatives to host the new B-21 aircraft,” read a statement from the Air Force.
The B-21 will replace the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit aircraft. “We are designing the B-21 Raider to replace our aging bombers as a long-range, highlysurvivable aircraft capable of carrying mixed conventional and nuclear payloads, to strike any target worldwide,” said Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David L. Goldfein. Air Force officials said using current bomber bases will minimize operational impact, re-
“Our current bomber bases are best suited for the B-21,” said Secretary of the Air Force Heather A. Wilson. “We expect the first B-21 Raider aircraft to be delivered in the mid2020s.” Dyess is the current home of the B-1 bomber which is facing retirement. “It is imperative that the Air Force continues to modernize its fleet,” said Col. Brandon Parker, 7th Bomb Wing commander. “Air Force leadership has said current bomber bases will remain bomber bases, and we are thrilled that Dyess is still in the running to receive this next generation bomber.”
jewel’ of West Texas.
“The Airmen stationed at Dyess are well-aware of the critical importance of their mission, and their commitment and resolve in carrying it out has long been a point of pride for both their superiors in the Air Force and their neighbors in the city of Abilene. I always call Dyess a ‘crown jewel’ of West Texas, and today’s announcement gets us one step closer to cementing that jewel for the next generation, and beyond.”.
In February, the Air Force announced that
209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com
The Air Force said it has not yet determined which location will receive the aircraft first.
duce overhead, maximize re-use of facilities and minimize cost.
Arrington said he considers Dyess a ‘crown
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Final decisions regarding the basing of the B-21 are expected to be made in 2019, following compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and other regulatory and planning processes.
50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Governor’s Office Releases Latest Abilene Travel Impact Report
By Kelly Thompson | Communications Director, Abilene Convention and Vistors Buureau The Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism, today released the preliminary data for Texas Travel Impacts by Metro Area, and Abilene’s earnings not only grew across all categories, but outperformed impressive overall growth in the state of Texas. Dean Runyan & Associates reports this good news: Abilene tax revenue collected from travelers during 2017 increased 12 percent to $12.9 million., up from $11.5 million in 2016. These gains were fueled by spending on automobile and air travel, as well as lodging and dining.
Grand Opening for Abilene Fire Department Station #3
”This growth demonstrates the important relationship between group and leisure travelers to local profits,” said Nanci Liles, Executive Director of the ACVB. ”Travelers support our small businesses, fabulous airport, our favorite restaurants, cultural attractions and other infrastructure.” The data show direct spending by travelers contributed $455 million to the Abilene economy, a hefty 9.3 percent increase. Toursim to Abilene supplied $27.9 million to state of Texas tax coffers, an increase of 8 percent over the previous year. The impact report shows slight growth in the number of people employed by tourism in Abilene – 4,000, an increase of 70 jobs. More than half of those jobs are in the hotel and restaurant industry. ”Travel spending affects everyone, even if you work in another industry.” Liles said. ”Without spending from out-of-town guests, each person in Taylor County would pay $690 more annually in taxes to maintain our current level of services.” The Governor’s Office will release final Texas Travel Impact numbers in July.
Grand Opening for Abilene Learning Academy
Grand Opening for Haley Jo on the GO
Located in the T& P Depot landmark downtown, the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau leverages local hotel tax into economic development. The ACVB’s tourism professionals harness the latest travel trends, research and strategies to bring group and leisure visitors to Abilene. Travelers to the Abilene MSA produced more than $12.9 million in local receipts in 2017 bringing happy people to stay in local hotels, shop, dine, and enjoy sports, arts and attractions. Established as an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce in 1970, the bureau has improved the quality of life and enhanced the Abilene visitor experience for nearly 50 years.
Pick us up at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wal-Mart, Lytle Land & Cattle | BUSINESS | 51
15 Ways to Teach Kids About Money By DaveRamsey.com
If you don’t teach your kids how to manage money, somebody else will. And that’s not a risk you want to take! We’ll show you how to give your kids the head start you wish you had and set them up to win with money at any age.
How to Teach Pre-Schoolers and Kindergartners About Money
use their hard-earned commission to pay for it. But encourage your child to wait at least a day before they purchase anything over $15. It will likely still be there tomorrow, and they’ll be able to make that money decision with a level head the next day.
1. Use a clear jar to save. The piggy bank is a great idea, but it doesn’t give kids a visual. When you use a clear jar, they see the money growing. Yesterday, they had a dollar bill and five dimes. Today, they have a dollar bill, five dimes, and a quarter! Talk through this with them and make a big deal about it growing!
7. Stress the importance of giving. Once they start making a little money, be sure you teach them about giving. They can pick a church, charity or even someone they know who needs a little help. Eventually, they’ll see how giving doesn’t just affect the people they give to, but the giver as well.
2. Set an example. A study by the University of Cambridge found that money habits in children are formed by the time they’re 7 years old.(1) Little eyes are watching you. If you’re slapping down plastic every time you go out to dinner or the grocery store, they’ll eventually notice. Or if you and your spouse are arguing about money, they’ll notice that too. Set a healthy example for them and they’ll be much more likely to follow it when they get older.
How to Teach Teenagers About Money
3. Show them that stuff costs money. You’ve got to do more than just say, “That pack of toy cars costs $5, son.” Help them grab a few dollars out of their jar, take it with them to the store, and physically hand the money to the cashier. This simple action will have more impact than a five-minute lecture.
How to Teach Elementary Students and Middle Schoolers About Money
4. Show opportunity cost. That’s just another way of saying, “If you buy this video game, then you won’t have the money to buy that pair of shoes.” At this age, your kids should be able to weigh decisions and understand the possible outcomes.
5. Give commissions, not allowances. Don’t just give your kids money for breathing. Pay them commissions based on chores they do around the house like taking out the trash, cleaning their room, or mowing the grass. Dave and his daughter Rachel Cruze talk a lot about this system in their book, Smart Money Smart Kids. This concept helps your kids understand that money is earned—it’s not just given to them. 6. Avoid impulse buys. “Mom, I just found this cute dress. It’s perfect and I love it! Can we buy it please?” Does this sound familiar? This age group really knows how to capitalize on the impulse buy— especially when it uses someone else’s money Instead of giving in, let your child know they can
8. Teach them contentment.Your teen probably spends a good chunk of their time staring at a screen as they scroll through social media. And every second they’re online, they’re seeing the highlight reel of their friends, family and even total strangers! It’s the quickest way to bring on the comparison trap. You may hear things like: “Dad, Mark’s parents bought him a brand-new car! How come I have to drive this 1993 Subaru?” Contentment starts in the heart. Let your teen know that their Subaru (although not the newest car on the block) is still running well enough to get them from point A to point B. And you can still throw a memorable, milestone birthday party without spending a chunk of your retirement savings funding it! 9. Give them the responsibility of a bank account. By the time your kid’s a teenager, you should be able to set them up with a simple bank account if you’ve been doing some of the above along the way. This takes money management to the next level, and will (hopefully) prepare them for managing a much heftier account when they get older. 10. Get them saving for college. There’s no time like the present to have your teen start saving for college. Do they plan on working a summer job? Perfect! Take a portion of that (or more) and toss it in a college savings account. Your teen will feel like they have skin in the game as they contribute toward their education. 11. Teach them to steer clear of student loans. Before your teen ever applies to college, you need to sit down and have the talk—the “how are we going to pay for college” talk. Let your teen know that student loans aren’t an option to fund their education. Talk through all the alternatives out there,
like going to community college, going to an in-state university, working part-time while in school, and applying for scholarships now. 12. Teach them the danger of credit cards. As soon as your kid turns 18, they’ll get hounded by credit card offers—especially once they’re in college. If you haven’t taught them why debt is a bad idea, they’ll become yet another credit card victim. Remember, it’s up to you to determine the right time you’ll teach them these principles. 13. Get them on a simple budget. Since your teen is glued to their mobile device anyway, get them active on our simple budgeting app, EveryDollar. Now is the time to get your teen in the habit of budgeting their income—no matter how small It is. They should learn the importance of making a plan for their money while they’re still under your roof. 14. Introduce them to the magic of compound interest. We know what you’re thinking. You can barely get your teen to brush their hair—how in the world are they supposed to become investment savvy? The earlier your teen can get started investing, the better. Compound interest is a magical thing! Introduce your teen to it at an early age, and they’ll get a head start on preparing for their future. 15. Help them figure out how to make money. When you think about it, teenagers have plenty of free time—fall break, summer break, winter break, spring break. If your teen wants some money (and what teen doesn’t?), then help them find a job. Better yet, help them become an entrepreneur! These days, it’s easier than ever for your teen to start up their own business and turn a profit.
Change Your Family Tree
Teaching your children about money at any stage is going to take time on your part. It won’t always be easy. But if you want your children to know how to successfully manage their money when they get older, taking the time now will be worth it.
52 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
ACVB Honors Heroes of Tourism: Then and Now By Kelly Thompson, Communications Director | Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau thanked community leaders for bringing travel business to Abilene at its annual Heroes of Tourism Luncheon in the clubhouse at Abilene Christian University Wildcat Stadium today. The annual tradition is a highlight of National Travel and Tourism Week, a time each May when the industry celebrates tourism and educates leaders and the public about its impact on their communities.
A HOT Host is anyone who helped bring Abilene that requires a total of 100 hotel room nights or more, helping fund Abilene’s Hotel Occupancy Tax revenue. The luncheon honored 74 people whose clubs, businesses or organizations brought 151 meetings to town – for an economic impact of $18.5 million. “Abilene would not enjoy the success it without these HOT Hosts,” said Nanci Liles, ACVB executive director. “Their efforts helped bring Abilene half of the 300 meetings and events on the books this year. They are one reason Abilene has a reputation as a hospitable community.” Meetings and events contribute to Abilene’s $455-million tourism industry, which supports more than 4000 jobs and provided $12.9 million in tax revenue last year. The “Community Awareness Award” was presented to the Abilene Tennis Association
for its work hosting this summer’s Texas Slam Championship, the largest youth tennis tournament in the nation. ACVB board member and volunteer Betty Hukill was bestowed with the prestigious “Hats Off Award.” The surprised, soon-to-retire director of the Historic Paramount Theatre also emceed the lunch. The 2018 theme for National Travel & Tourism Week is “Travel: Then and Now,” and the bureau honored some of the industry’s early champions. Dwayne Chitwood, Jack North, H.C. Zachry and former State Rep. Bob Hunter were feted for their longtime advocacy. Chitwood, North and Zachry served on the 1960-1970 Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism Committee, back when Hunter served on the City Council: On June 25, 1970, then City Councilman Bob Hunter proposed that Abilene collect a 2 percent hotel tax from visitors. The motion passed 5-2, launching Abilene’s work to roll out the welcome mat to travelers. Located in the T& P Depot landmark downtown, the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau leverages local hotel tax into economic development. The ACVB’s tourism professionals harness the latest travel trends, research and strategies to bring group and leisure visitors to Abilene. Travelers to the Abilene MSA produced more than $12.9 million in local receipts in 2017 bringing happy people to stay in local hotels, shop, dine, and enjoy sports, arts and attractions. Established as an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce in 1970, the bureau has improved the quality of life and enhanced the Abilene visitor experience for nearly 50 years.
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Goodwill-West Texas Working to Employ Homeless People in Abilene By Pheben Kassahun | BigCountryHomePage.com
A group in the Key City is hoping to help beautification projects and we will partner with people living through homelessness get back organizations that have homeless populations,” on their feet. Favor said. “Work Again West Texas” will put those in the program to work 4-hours a day and two days a week. “We will go and pick them up and It is more of a leg up and a way out, than a they will go and work, doing beautification hand out.The program is called “Work Again projects, using one of these trash grabbers, West Texas.” picking up trash, doing other things,” Favor said. Goodwill-West Texas is expanding in more ways to help homeless people throughout The program is still in its planning phase but the city by employing individuals to keep the foundation is set. Abilene clean. “If you’re interested in donating, please contact Goodwill was kind of a natural fit because us or here at Goodwill-West Texas or you can we already have these contract services of go to any one of our stores and make a mongrounds-keeping and janitorial,” Brennan Fa- etary donation. Just designate that towards the vor said. Work Again West Texas project,” Favor said. Favor is the senior director of mission servic- “Work again West Texas” is part of our local es at Goodwill-West Texas, in Abilene. chapter of Goodwill, which is one of the more than 100 non-profits that benefited from this She explains Goodwill is creating a program year’s Abilene Gives event. that will move homeless people into a more sustainable employment. The organization received about $620 and will be putting that money toward the new work A great first step for individuals experienc- program. ing homelessness, for this to be their first step back into the workforce,” Favor said. In total, the community foundation of Abilene’s 24-day of giving raised $551,892. The first step is employing the individuals through Goodwill, partnering up with city of- Every penny of which will benefit someone in ficials. your community. “They will identify places that need help in
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Central Finance | BUSINESS | 53
54 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
‘Firehouse Subs’ Is More Than Just Subs
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank | BUSINESS | 56
Annual 1st
Firehouse Subs gives back to the community on a daily basis By Caitlin Richards | HispanicLife Magazine
Taking AIM to Better Our Community Saturday, June 9, 2018 Abilene Clay Sports
Firehouse Subs does more than provide hearty and tasty subs to the Abilene community. Giving back to first responders is naturally part of the franchise’s culture with the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.
1102 E Spur 707 • Abilene, TX 79602 REGISTRATION • 8:00am SHOOT • 9:00am • LUNCH • 11:30am Light breakfast snacks served prior to shoot
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After serving in the Air Force as a Weapons System Officer, Chad Fulkerson was drawn to Firehouse Subs charitable culture when he was considering starting a business of his own.
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keepabilenebeautiful.org
“It wasn’t just owning and operating a business with Firehouse Subs,” Fulkerson said. “It was something a little bit more, where you could give back to the community through the Foundation.” After nearly two years of training and planning, Firehouse Subs in Abilene had it’s grand opening on October 10, 2014. They have continued to grow since then. Fulkerson is working on expanding into San Angelo and opening a North Abilene location as well.
These donations are what drive Firehouse Subs ability to give to communities around the nation. “By doing that, and having them as part of our family and the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, we were able to award grants to the Abilene Fire Department and the Potosi Fire Department,” Fulkerson said. “That is what the customer ultimately does.”
“To think that somebody like myself could actually do something like this is exciting,” Fulkerson said. “It is an amazing feeling to actually own and operate your very own business.” Fulkerson credits the success of Firehouse Subs to the community of Abilene and the Firehouse Subs crew, who both have become more like family over the years. “Abilene has been so kind to us, ” Fulkerson said. “But what I think is even bigger is the team members- the crew. It is amazing to have all of us working together, as a team, for a single purpose.” That single purpose is creating a familyfriendly atmosphere for customers to enjoy tasty subs, while giving back. Offering excellent customer service comes naturally when the crew greets every customer as they walk through the door. “They are not only being welcomed into the restaurant but into the family of Fire-
house Subs,” Fulkerson said. “We strive to not only treat them as a patron coming through the door but as part of our family too.” The invitation to be a part of the Firehouse Subs family extends beyond being a patron. Customers are invited to be a part of the way Firehouse Subs gives back through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. With their purchase, customers are able to donate either by rounding up their total bill or through a drop box by the register.
Firehouse Subs is truly more than subs, it is a family with a heart for giving back at the center. “It isn’t just a restaurant where you come in, sit down and eat. You know you are a part of the Firehouse family and Abilene community by giving back to the first responders.”
CALL US TO ADV TISE (325) 701-95ER 05 209 S. Danville, Suite B-103 Email: info@his paniclifemedia.co m
Thank youi to the students who led the City Council in the pledges on April 26, 2018:Thomas Elementary’s Mayor, Eduardo Hernandez and the Lighthouse Team, Samantha Joyce, Grace Kasberg, Ayden McKnight as well as Abilene Christian School’s Emerson Hubbard.
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