Pick us up at Long John Silver, Drug Emporium & Los Arcos Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 3
September is actually one of the busiest months for many families, especially if you have children. SEPTEMBER 2018
Volume 9, Issue 5
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
You are trying to juggle so many things: the new school routine, the pick up & drop off line (don’t get us started on that one), the after school practice schedules, the weekend sport event times, the Friday night lights kick-off time, NFL schedule, church, life groups, grocery list and the list goes on and on. So many different things taking up so much of our time, time we won’t get back once it’s gone. We aren’t saying all these things are bad, we are just saying chose your time wisely, make the best decisions for your family on what is most important. Don’t get caught up in all the busyness of the world just cause everyone else is doing “it”. Our time on this earth is precious and tomorrow isn’t promised, don’t take for granted the time you do have. Enjoy all that you can while you can, just don’t forget what is most important while you are doing it all. Honor God in all you do, be an example of excellence to others, especially if you are a parent, our kids are watching and listening. We as parents have the biggest influence on our kiddos, we need to make sure to spend time showing them what’s important in life. 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
Michael Jackson Thriller Spectacular Concert Abilene Danny Dash Andrews Entertainment®
Thursday, 25 October 2018 • 7:00pm - 9:00 pm Meet & Greet Front Seating Rows 1-8 : Get up close and personal with the King of Pop. Priority VIP meet & greet after the show. (1) Autograph 8x10 poster. Includes a photo with Michael Jackson from your personal device. - $50.00 Floor Seating | ROWS 8 AND UP - $25.00 | Balcony, Upper Level - $20.00
COMMUNITY
LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS
New TSTC Building Predicted to Generate Industry Interest in Abilene By Daniel Perry | TSTC Communications
Total average savings of
Texas State Technical College’s expansion on Abilene’s east side is expected to be a magnet for growth.
act as a bit of a catalyst for increasing activity over there and will help us in developing and marketing that area.”
“I think anytime you have a new building, it is going to generate interest,” said Rick Denbow, provost of TSTC in Abilene. “People start thinking about relocating or bringing in their company. If they see activity going on, they think this is the place to be.”
Imperial Construction Inc. of Weatherford is using local subcontractors where possible to construct the building. The construction and design costs total $12 million, with an additional $3.4 million in equipment and furniture.
Construction on the 56,000-square-foot Industrial Technology Center on Loop 322 next to Abilene Regional Airport began in June 2017 and is scheduled to be completed in time for the first day of the fall semester on Monday, Aug. 27. The building is the first on what is planned to be a 51-acre campus.
COME GROW WITH US New building + new programs = more training for great jobs. Be the first to start training for jobs in: • Electrical Power & Controls • Emergency Medical Services • Industrial Maintenance Technology • Welding Technology Enrollment for Fall 2018 is underway. Get started today at tstc.edu/apply.
The ITC will have new technical programs for Electrical Power and Controls, Industrial Maintenance and Welding. The Emergency Medical Services program will move to the new building from its current location on East Highway 80.
And, the foundation is developing the 21-acre Access Business Park at the intersection of Farm Road 18 and Texas Highway 36 near the airport.
Justin Jaworski, executive director of the Abilene Industrial Foundation, said TSTC is a fundamental The new programs factor into Abilene’s desire piece of the city’s economic development plan. to build its workforce. Jobs in nursing, physical therapy, equipment service and maintenance, “The eventuality will be that TSTC provides a reliand computer numerically controlled (CNC) able and dynamic pipeline for a trained workforce machining were some of the hardest to fill, that will be able to -- on-demand -- meet whatever according to a March 2016 economic devel- needs are requested in Abilene,” he said. opment strategic plan created for the DevelopThe campus is being included in the airport’s revised ment Corporation of Abilene. master plan, which looks ahead up to 20 years. “I think as we get that building built, it is going to help the economic development folks in “We are envisioning commercial development on that side of the airport,” said Don Green, director of Abilene recruit industry,” Denbow said. The Abilene Industrial Foundation is market- transportation services for the city of Abilene. “We ing a 35-acre, shovel-ready plot on Maple were already working toward that before the TSTC Street less than five minutes from the airport project came about a little over a year and a half ago. and TSTC’s Industrial Technology Center. This project fits in with it. We hope the campus will
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Call my office for a quote 24/7. Risha Sanders, Agent 3228 North 10th Abilene, TX 79603 Bus: 325-673-4229 risha.sanders.nv0v@statefarm.com
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6 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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A New Location to Dispose of Unneeded Medication
By Nathaniel Ellsworth | Abilene Reporter-News
The Taylor Alliance for Prevention has announced that a new MedReturn safe medication disposal collection unit is open at Taylor County Pharmacy, 1640 Highway 351. The box is open to the public for the disposal of unused, unwanted or expired medications, and accepts both over-the-counter and prescription medication in patch, pill or liquid forms. Needles, EpiPens and other sharp objects cannot be accepted. This is the second disposal unit available in Taylor County. The first unit, at the Law Enforcement Center, collected more than 500 pounds of prescription drugs for disposal its first year of operation.
Sept. 22, 2018 at 8 AM
at ASI Motorcycle Riding/Safety School 6750 US Highway 277 S, Abilene, Texas 79606
Call 325-672-3484 or visit abilenesafety.com
Frontier Texas is a history museum, gift shop and the official visitor center for Abilene and the Texas Forts Trail Region. Now Showing “Blood & Treasure on the Frontier� Monday-Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm (last showing at 4:30pm) Sunday 1:00pm-5:00pm (last showing at 4:00)
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.
Abilene Animal Services Changes Hours For Pet Dropoffs By Jamie Burch | KTXS
SPOTLIGHT
Abilene Animal Services will have new hours and a new intake policy starting August 21.. “Shelter policies have made it very easy for both residents and non-residents to surrender animals to the shelter,” according to a report from Best Friends Animal Society. Beginning Tuesday, animals can only be dropped off from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and owners must have an appointment.
Firefighter Philip Crockett
joined the Abilene Fire Department in October of 1995. He is certified as a intermediate firefighter, instructor I and EMT-Intermediate. He is currently assigned to Station 6 on B shift.
“It is often a difficult decision to surrender a pet to the shelter and by limiting those surrendered each day, it will give your pet a better chance of a positive outcome,” said Animal Services Director Mirenda Walden. The shelter will be open Monday – Friday from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. They’ll be close an hour for cleaning from 2-3 p.m.
Firefighter Jay Richardson
joined the Abilene Fire Department in March of 2009. He is certified as a basic firefighter and EMT-Paramedic. He is currently assigned to Station 2 on A shift.
8 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Pick us up at Alfonso Hernandez Bakery, Mr. Jiffy & Daniela’s Tex-Mex Rest | COMMUNITY | 9
West Texas Fair & Rodeo 2018 Daily Schedule of Events | September 6th - 15th
By TaylorCountyExpoCenter.com • Limited details (visit their website for a complete schedule)
Gates open 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily Gate admission fee begins @ 2:30 p.m. Monday – Friday and 8:00 a.m. Saturday and Sunday Gate Admission $8 adults, $4 student’s K – College (Weekdays) $11 adult, $4 student’s K – College (Weekends) Rodeo – Reserved Box Seats $15.00 for Tuesday – Thursday $20.00 for Friday and Saturday Carnival Ride Tickets Midway Open 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. – Monday – Friday 1 p.m. – 11 p.m. – Saturday – Sunday Single Tickets - $1 each Kiddie rides require 2-4 tickets All other rides require 3-5 tickets Daily Carnival Armband - $30 Military Heroes & their family receive FREE GATE ADMISSION all week long to anyone with a valid military I.D. (active and retired) Discounted armbands for the carnival may be purchase at ITT office base. YOUR GATE ADMISSION GAINS YOU ACCESS TO THE TRACTOR PULLS, RODEO AND ALL EXHIBITS. CARNIVAL TICKETS ARE EXTRA. Creative Arts • Are found in the Round Building and Modern Living Mall. These buildings are open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, with the exception of Sunday – open from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00p.m. and Wednesday – open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Commercial Vendors • Are in the Display Building daily from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. except for Saturday, Sept. 8 & Saturday, Sept. 15 when hours are 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
MONDAY, Sept. 10th ◘ SCHOOL DAY School day tickets good today and $1 GATE ADMISSION - Gate admission is $1 for adults and for students without a school day ticket. 3:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 5:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 6:00 – 10:00 PM 4-H Petting Zoo – East Grounds 7:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 7:30 – 10:30 PM Kelby Hodges and the Moonlight Bandits 8:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds
3:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 5:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 6:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 8:00 – 10:00 PM Second Hand Prophets 8:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds WEDNESDAY, Sept. 12th ◘ Senior Citizens Day • Free admission to all senior citizens 60 years or older: must show proof of age. 6:00 – 8:00 PM Kelby Hodges and the Moonlight Bandits 6:00 – 10:00 PM 4-H Petting Zoo – East Grounds T H U R S D AY, Sept. 13th ◘ C A N TA S T I C NIGHT - Free admission to the fairgrounds for 6 empty soda cans. Armbands may be purchased for $30.00. The armbands provide admission to all the carnival rides desired that night. Sponsored by Coca-Cola. 3:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 5:00 PM Cantastic Night Begins 5:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 6:00 – 10:00 PM 4-H Petting Zoo – East Grounds 6:30 – 10:30 PM Will Banister and the Modern Day Ramblers 7:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 9:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds FRIDAY, Sept. 14th ◘ 1:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 3:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 5:30 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 6:00 – 8:30 PM The Phantom Hill Band 6:00 – 10:00 PM 4-H Petting Zoo – East Grounds 7:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 9:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 9:00 – 10:30 PM Wade Hayes- HEB Entertainment Pavilion
SATURDAY, Sept. 15th ◘ 1:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 1:00 – 10:00 PM 4-H Petting Zoo – East Grounds 3:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 5:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds 6:00 – 8:30 PM Kelby Hodges and the Moonlight Bandits 7:00 PM Pig Races – East Grounds TUESDAY, Sept. 11th ◘ SCHOOL DAY – 9:00 – 10:30 PM Jake Gill RIDES $2 each - School day tickets good today
TOGETHER WE CAN DO MORE
10 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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Donations Need for New Vietnam Veterans Memorial By Jimmy DeFoor | TVLB Representative, State Veterans Cemetery
A committtee has been formed to take on the task of designing and fund raising for a Vietnam Era Veterans Memorial Monument to be placed at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene. It is designed to Honor all veterans that served during the Vietnam Era. The concept drawing of the Memorial shows black granite with the seals of the branches of the service etched into the granite. The Memorial will be approximately 8 feet tall and consist of 7 panels set in V shape and about 26 feet wide. The approximate cost to build and install the Monument is about $70,000.00. Don’t miss the chance of a lifetime opportunity to have ownership in this unique project. The Texas State Veterans Cem-
etery at Abilene was chosen as the site of the Monument. The cemetery is located at 7457 West Lake Road in Abilene. The Community Foundation of Abilene will handle all the funds that are donated. The Foundation’s 501(C)3 status makes your donation tax deductible. Please make your tax deductible check out to The Community Foundation of Abilene and note that it is for the Vietnam Memorial and mail it to: The Community Foundation of Abilene, P.O. Box 1001, Abilene, TX 79604. You can also go to the Foundation’s website and make your donation online at www. cfabilene.org. For more information contact Jimmy DeFoor • TVLB Representa-
September 14th • (7:30pm) September 15th • (2pm & 7:30pm) DOWNTOWN ABILENE
Saturday, September 15 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM • Hosted by Eller Hall 201 Mesquite St. • Abilene, TX Tickets: www.ellerhall.com
Live music, food trucks, and good ol’ country and western music to dance to with a family friendly atmosphere. No alcohol served or allowed during pop-up dances please.
BOOT SCOOTIN’ DOWNTOWN ABILENE
Advanced tickets: $8-Adult, $4-Youth; At the Door: $10-Adult, $5-Youth; Free-Children 12 & younger
tive at the State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene at (325) 670-9828.
Missing Dog From New Mexico Found 2 Years Later at Abilene’s Animal Shelter By Travis Ruiz, Katie Garcia BigCountryHomePage.com
Thanks to a microchip, a dog lost in New Mexico was found at Abilene’s Animal Shelter. The Howell family from Hobbs, New Mexico, said they got a call from Abilene Animal Services saying their dog was at its shelter. “They said there was was a microchip with my name,” said Krisana Howell. “I said ‘That’s her!’ You know? ‘That’s her.’” The dog, Scappy, was adopted three years ago. The Howell’s said they believe she was stolen from their home two years ago. Scrappy was found only because of a microchip. “The microchip is very powerful, especially when you keep it updated,” said Abilene Animal Services Director Mirenda Walden. “It’s most powerful when you move or change your phone number [and] you make sure you update the microchip.” The Howell family was surprised but happy that their dog was found more than 200 miles away. “You don’t get a phone call of a dog, especially missing for two years. And especially from Hobbs, New Mexico and end up in Abilene, Texas.” “Hopefully in the future that someone that happens to lose their dog will happen to find the same path like my mom found her dog.”
Pick us up at Taqueria Riojas & Texas Workforce Center | COMMUNITY | 11
Cisco Fire Chief, Firefighter Take Part in 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Dallas By Jamie Burch | KTXS.com
Stair Climb on Saturday.
DALLAS, Texas — Cisco Fire Chief Walter Fairbanks and firefighter Mark McGill honored first responders killed on 9/11 by participating in the Dallas 9/11 Memorial
They, along with hundreds of other firefighters, climbed 110 floors, equivalent to the height of the World Trade Center. Most climbers did so in full protective gear. All climbers wore the name and picture of a hero they were climbing for. Chief Fairbanks climbed for Deputy Chief John Paolillo of FDNY who was killed on 9/11. McGill climbed for current line of duty deaths. At 8:46 a.m., a moment of silence was observed marking the time that the first tower was hit. At 9:59 a.m. and 10:28 a.m., the times each tower fell, every firefighter activated their distress alarms, climbers stopped their ascent and taps was played, followed by a moment of silence. As climbers reached the top, they placed their accountability tag on a board and rang a bell indicating the individual they climbed for made it to the top. In past years, the event has included steel from Ground Zero, helmets worn by New York City firefighters killed on Sept. 11 and flags flown at Ground Zero. The memorial climb took place at the Renaissance Towers in downtown Dallas.
12 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
West Texas Food Truck Festival with 38 Special Saturday, Oct 6th By Stubwire.com
Southern rock legends 38 Special to headline plosive power of the band’s performance. the 1st Annual West Texas Food Truck Festi- Their many Gold and Platinum album awards val on October 6th in Abilene, Texas!! stand in testament to the endurance of a legendary powerhouse. After more than three decades together, 38 SPECIAL continue to bring their signature With sales in excess of 20 million, most asblast of Southern Rock to over 100 cities a sociate the band with their arena-rock pop year. And at each and every show, thousands smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into of audience members are amazed by the ex- the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance,” and more - Timeless hits that remain a staple at radio, immediately recognizable from the first opening chord, and paving the way to their present-day touring regimen. The 1st Annual West Texas Food Truck Festival will be a full day of family-friendly fun at the Back Porch of Texas. We’ll have tons of food trucks from all over the area while enjoying live bands, 2 concert stages, vendors and more! If you are interested in becoming a vendor at the West Texas Food Truck Festival. Please contact VIP Custom Events at 325-676-1199. Special THANK YOU to all of our sponsors who made the West Texas Food Truck Festival possible: •VIP Custom Events •Townsquare Media •Midway Plumbing •Quality Heating & Cooling •Lithia Toyota •Lawrence Hall Chevrolet •MOR Drilling •Betty Rose’s •First National Bank of Abilene
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Pick us up at Drug Emporium, Monterrey Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 13
It’s a Girl! Blue Duiker Calf and Mom on Exhibit at Abilene Zoo By Jennifer Pacheco | Marketing Coordinator, Abilene Zoo
It was a normal morning at the Abilene Zoo when staff were surprised to discover a newborn Blue Duiker calf hidden within the off-exhibit holding stall. Weighing in at 600 grams, the female baby was in excellent condition and the mother was protecting and nurturing her calf. “As one of the smallest species of African antelope, it’s challenging to identify when Blue Duiker are expecting,” said Denise Ibarra, General Curator, “ They gain very little weight and due to their reclusive nature it’s difficult to identify behavioral changes which may indicate a pregnancy.” For the first time, zoo guests will have the opportunity to see the Blue Duiker calf and her mom when they are placed on exhibit in Giraffe Safari on Friday, August 24th. “We’ve prepared the exhibit with piles of bramble creating hiding spaces for the new calf to feel safe and secure” said Ryan King, Animal Care Supervisor, “The mom will most likely find a place to hide her calf within the bramble, making it a challenge for zoo visitors to find the baby.” Zoo staff expect the baby to venture
out from hiding as she becomes more comfortable in the exhibit. Blue Duiker are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP). Female duikers are scarce within the captive population and this birth is a wonderful addition to the SSP program. The SSP program strives to maintain genetic diversity in captive breeding populations and provides educational awareness to prevent the extinction of species. The Abilene Zoo is a proud participant in over 50 SSP programs. Blue Duiker adults stand at about 14 inches tall and weigh in around 8 lbs. They are found throughout Central and Southern Africa and dwell in a variety of forested areas including rainforests. Male duikers have a pair of grooved horns that about 5 cm in height. Their hair is typically brown with a blue tint and they feature scent glands resting on either side of the nose.
14 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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ene, TX 5 South 14th Street, Abil Advance Auto Parts (322Wom en’s Center Hope Fund Program Benefits The Vera West
You Can Help Provide for the First Ever Vet at the City of Abilene Animal Shelter
Pick us up at Alfredo’s, Gloria’s Grill and Kentucky Fried Chicken | COMMUNITY | 15
Help Rescue the Animals Raise $20,000 By Paul Washburn | Rescue the Animals
Several months ago, Rescue the Animals, SPCA asked the City of Abilene to include funding for a full time vet at the Animal Shelter in their next budget. We offered to pay up to $20,000 of the first year’s salary for a vet at the Abilene Animal Shelter. Our offer led the city manager and mayor to include hiring a vet in the council’s budget workshops (the first step in funding). Now the council has indicated that they will fund a full-time vet starting on October 1, 2018. Three other staff positions will be added as well.
ers are given 30 days to have their pets fixed, but the shelter staff have to follow up to make sure this happens. A small percentage of adopted pets are never fixed despite the best efforts of the staff (including filing charges under state law to compel spay/neuter of adopted animals).
This will be the first time ever that a vet has been employed at the Abilene Animal Shelter. It will mean that dogs and cats can be evaluated on arrival to identify medical problems and arrange treatment when needed. Over 30 puppies a day arrived during part of the summer, and others were born at the Shelter.
Your donation will make a tremendous difference in the quality of life for cats and dogs at the Abilene Animal Shelter. Since we contributed $20,000 earlier this year toward the cost of the new adoption/surgery trailer for the Animal Shelter, the vet already has an operating room ready to go!
The Animal Shelter is also hoping to spay/neuter pets before they leave the shelter when adopted. Presently adopt-
Now we need your help to raise $20,000 as our part of the new vet’s first year’s salary. After the first year, the City of Abilene will bear all the cost.
For more information, visit www.rescuetheanimals.org or mail donations to Rescue the Animals, 4620 N. 1st, Abilene, TX 79603.
16 | COMMUNITY | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Courtesy of: HispanicLife Magazine
To place your loved ones obituary or to honor them with a special message, please contact our offices at: (325) 701-9505 Email: info@hispaniclifemedia.com
Esther Borrego Our Beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother Esther “Mama Burr” Borrego was called to Heaven on Sunday August 26, 2018 surrounded by family and friends. She was born March 16, 1943 in Abilene TX to Jesus and Josefina Munoz. In June 24, 1961 Esther married the late Raymond Borrego Sr. and to this union 5 children were born. Esther Borrego loved everyone she loved to see everyone and greeted all with her smile and hugs and maybe a joke or 2. She had a way to make you feel that she really did care for you and your family. Her love for going to Garage sales turned into a variety of knick-knacks all through her home. She loved playing card games, doing puzzles, scrabble, and watching game shows especially Wheel of Fortune. She also loved her cats, dancing and Marilyn Monroe. We want to give a Big Thank you to Dr. Ishmeet Walia and the Hendrick Hospice Care Center for Taking Care of Esther and to all the Family and Friends for the Prayers and support that we have receive. Esther was preceded in death husband Raymond Borrego Sr., Son Raymond Borrego Jr., daughter Debbie Borrego. Parents Jesus and Josefina Munoz, brother Merced Munoz, sisters; Jessie “Chuy Munoz-Rodriguez, and Josefina “Chepa” Munoz-Rosales. Left to cherish her memories are Sons; Freddie Borrego of Abilene, Marty Borrego (Mila) of Abilene, Michael Borrego of Abilene, Brothers Santos Munoz of Temple TX and Richard Munoz of Odessa TX. 7 Grandchildren; Maria Borrego, Josephina Borrego, Isabella Borrego, Jose Meza, Esther Borrego, Elizabeth Cedillo, Micah Mansfield. 8 great-grandchildren: Mya Cisneros, Ma’Raya Borrego, Alina Ramos, Nevaeh Lang, Estrella Lang, Cesario Gonzales, Estrella Solis, Mekenzie Cedillo. Herminia “Minnie” Granado, 55, of Abilene passed away on Sunday, September 2, 2018 at UT Southwestern William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Herminia was born March 11, 1963 in Abilene, Texas to Paul and Maria T. Sigala. Minnie worked as a Special needs paraprofessional at AISD for 28 years and it was her passion in life. She truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures, chatting with friends and family and spending time with her kids and grandkids. She is survived by her husband Armando Granado Sr. of 30 plus years, and three children Anthony Sigala (Beatriz), Adriana Domiguez (Gustavo) and Armando Granado Jr.(Anna). Siblings include Estella Diaz, Mary R. Valdez (Paul), David Sigala Sr. (Delores) and Pat Sigala (Anna). Also her six grandkids Anna, Alex, Amarisa, Jocelyn, Jenni and Armando III. She is also survived by
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
several nieces, nephews, and great- nieces and great- nephews who all loved her dearly. She was proceeded in death by her loving parents, Paul and Maria T. Sigala. Pallbearers will be Michael Ortiz, Danny Diaz, Chris Kissick, P.J. Valdez, Nicolas Orozco and D.J. Sigala. The family request that instead of flowers a donation be made in her name to the Cancer Services Network in Abilene, Texas. A special thanks to Aunt Estella Diaz and cousin Edith Kissick for all of their love and support during our mom’s journey, and also to Jose and Mary Torres for their hospitality. Kathy Yvonne Baldwin, 62, went through the gates of Heaven on Thursday, August 30, 2018 at the Hendrick Medical Center. Ms. Baldwin was born April 07, 1956, in Midland to Elgin and Elberta (Kimbal) Baldwin. Kathy was a sweet, loving daughter and sister with a beautiful soul. Her favorite hobbies included bowling, dancing, crocheting, crossword puzzles as well as watching “Good Times”. She was baptized at the age of 24 before the congregation of Morning Star Baptist Church of Abilene, Texas. Ms. Baldwin was preceded in death by her Grandparents, four Aunts, five Uncles, and two Nephews. She leaves to mourn her memory her parents Elgin and Elberta Baldwin of Abilene, Texas, two sisters Linda (Frankie) Gailes of Abilene, Texas, Virginia (U.L.) McPherson, Abilene, Texas, two brothers, Elgin (Monica) Baldwin,Jr. of Denton, Texas, and Darnell Baldwin, of Abilene, Texas and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins, and other relatives and friends.
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
Pick us up at Communities of Abilene FCU, SBDC & Lytle Land & Cattle | COMMUNITY | 17
Smithsonian Exhibit Coming to the Abilene Public Library By Marianne Vadney | Abilene Public Library, Mockingbird Branch
The Abilene Public Library is proud to be hosting a free traveling Smithsonian exhibit, “Hometown Teams: How Sports Shape America.” The exhibit will be located on the second floor of the Main Library at 202 Cedar St. from September 1st until October 6th. Sports have touched every corner of America and it is not just part of our history but also our future. Sports events are things that can be shared throughout the community for fans and participants of all ages, and this exhibit embraces it, with local sports memories and memorabilia as part of the displays. The exhibit will be a fantastic interactive glimpse into sports moments and memorabilia. The Library will be having many other tie-in events and programs during the month across all locations. One fun way to make your story part of a larger history is to join us in recording Sports Tales. The Main Library will be hosting several sessions where you can come and share your sports related story. Staff will be available to record an audio copy of your story and will provide a copy for you to keep as well. The library will be using the model of StoryCorps, whose vision is to preserve and share humanity’s stories in order to build connections between people and create a more just and compassionate world. The goal is to offer everyone in the community a chance to record their story and save it for posterity. Program dates for Sports Tales are September 6th, September 20th, Sep-
tember 27th, and October 4th from 6PM to 8:30PM at the Main library. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to phone the Information Services Desk at 325-676-6025 to chat with a librarian. Interview questions will be available online and may also be collected at any library service desk. Participants will be asked to sign a legal release prior to participation and after their recording session is complete, will receive an audio file to take home. The library opes to capture stories and memories form a wide range of community members, helping us to encompass all areas of sports in Abilene over many years. So if you’ve got a story to share, give us a call to sign up today. Don’t forget to check the library’s online calendar so that you don’t miss any of the action. Would you like to help out with Hometown Teams? The library is looking for volunteers to be docents for the exhibit, answering questions, helping maintain the exhibit from damage and theft, and leading tour groups. We will also need help with some sports programs throughout the month, which can include craft prepping, set up, and assisting during the program. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering, please contact Librarian & Volunteer Coordinator, Marianne Vadney, at 325-437-7323. Volunteer forms will also be available to pickup at all three locations and also printable from the library’s homepage.
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Onstead Science Center Marks Completion of Vision in Action By Sarah Carlson | ACU Today, Abilene Christian University
The Anthony Lobby of the Robert R. and Kay Onstead Science Center was packed Friday, Aug. 24, 2018, with members of the Abilene Christian University community to celebrate the facility’s grand opening. The occasion also marked the completion of the university’s Vision in Action initiative. The opening of the Robert R. and Kay Onstead Science Center featured the cutting of a ceremonial ribbon. Pictured from left: Dr. Gregory Straughn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost; April Anthony, chair of the Board of Trustees; Charlie Onstead; Kay Onstead; Ann Hill; Randall Onstead; Mary Onstead; Dr. Phil Schubert, president; Bao Catteau, sophomore; and Dr. Autumn Sutherlin, assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “It is fitting that the final project for Vision in Action is the completion of the Onstead Science Center,” ACU president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91) said at the ceremony. “We can think of no better way to celebrate putting our vision of building ACU’s future into action than opening this facility named for two of the university’s most generous visionaries. It was Kay Onstead’s $10 million commitment in 2012 for a new science center in honor of her late husband, Bob, that ignited an initiative that would transform the campus in a manner not seen in more than 50 years.” Kay and members of her extended family were on hand for the celebration, and her son, Charlie Onstead (’89), spoke on behalf of the family. The grand opening not only represents the conclusion of Vision in Action, he said; it represents the start of a new era at ACU and new life in a facility that will be enjoyed for generations.
opened in August 2015, and the Halbert-Walling Research Center was dedicated in February 2017. The projects bring ACU’s science facilities into the 21st century. “Transforming the 8 6 , 0 0 0 - s q u are-foot Foster Science Building into the Onstead Science Center has been no easy feat,” said Dr. Autumn Sutherlin, assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and director of academic construction
here, and our upgraded facilities allow us to train our students in techniques and methods they will encounter when they leave ACU to enter the workforce or continue their education.”
Kay Onstead poses with Bao Catteau, a sophomore biochemistry major from Denison, Texas, who is a recipient of an endowed scholarship Onstead has funded.
for the facility. “As a professor of biochemistry, I never imagined I would spend so much time wearing a hard hat and reviewing floor plans. But contributing to this space has been an invaluable opportunity and has reminded The Onstead Science Center is the third of me of the importance of collaboration, probthree science facilities built or renovated as lem-solving and innovation. part of Vision in Action; the Engineering and Physics Laboratories at Bennett Gymnasium “We like to focus on those aspects of education
The Onstead Center is filled with collaboration and consultation spaces where students can work together and with faculty, Sutherlin said, and bigger labs and classrooms accommodate ACU’s growing science programs, with set-ups that can be reconfigured and encourage interaction. Updated equipment in the facility, she added, will keep the university’s programs and research competitive. Sophomore biochemistry major Bao Catteau, from Denison, Texas, spoke on behalf of students. ACU graduates’ acceptance rate to medical school, which is consistently twice the national average, attracted him to the university, as did the opportunities to participate in missions. “That partnership of science and faith is important to me,” he said.
He concluded by thanking the facility’s donors, especially Kay Onstead. “Thank you again for investing in students like me,” he said. “Thank you for believing in me. You are truly a visionary, and I hope to one day follow in your footsteps and help make a real difference in the world.”
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Career Move Fulfills Promise Johnson Made to Himself While at ACU By Tahj Mayes | ACU Today
“Following your passion and being committed to your passion will be challenging, but it will be more rewarding than you can ever believe.” These words are what present-day Terry Johnson (’02) would tell college-age Terry, as he navigated his career path and ultimately discovered God’s calling on his life. Terry knew he wanted to be involved in ministry so he transferred from Midland College to Abilene Christian University as a biblical text major. He switched to youth and family ministry and earned his bachelor’s degree in 2002. Terry knew he wanted to do advanced studies, but wasn’t sure which area he would pursue. “I began to understand and discover that ministry in a broader context – like community organizing and community development – was increasingly interesting to me,” he said. Dr. Bill Culp, director of the social work program at the time and now professor emeritus, became a mentor to him, and Terry “fell in love with the idea of running a nonprofit.” So in 2007, Terry earned his M.A. in Organizational Development with an emphasis on non-profit management. For the duration of his master’s work, Terry worked as the operations manager for a local non-profit, Community Action Program of Taylor County. When you sum up seven or eight years of decisions in a few paragraphs, they make a certain sense – you can see the linear progression. But the heart driving Terry’s decisions had to do with his own story. Propelling these decisions was a promise Terry made to himself, one born of gratitude. Terry could have been labeled an at-risk youth. At 16 years old, while still in high school, a youth minister entered his life. This minister helped him through community college and helped him get into ACU. When Terry got to Abilene Christian, he told himself, “If I graduate from here, I’m indebted to help others the way he helped me.” During his undergraduate years, Terry was involved with the Students’ Association, the Black Student Association, then called Essence of Ebony, and student productions, among other activities. It was this work in particular that helped him realize he had serious skills in
networking, raising money and building relationships. This was the catalyst for his interest in non-profits, and he began to envision ways he might positively affect communities. After earning his master’s degree, Terry continued to work in Abilene nonprofits. He founded NEXT Ventures Inc. and developed an online game that would raise money for scholarships. The company was awarded a grant and operated independently for three years before merging with the non-profit Communities in Schools of the Big Country. Terry was executive director at Communities in Schools until September 2017, when he and his family moved to Portland, Oregon, to join Open School NW. “I never thought I’d leave Abilene,” Terry said. He wasn’t searching for a new job, much less a new state. Open School was changing its model and looking for an executive director and found Terry on LinkedIn. Open School’s proactive model in helping youth make decisions about their future impressed Terry. “It isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. It is culturally inclusive and responsive – deep intentional work to move students from being marginalized to motivating them forward to prepping for college,” he said. The students he helps are “amazing kids who need something different than traditional school,” he explained. “We know which kids are most likely to drop out. We find them and surround them with what they need to graduate, go to college and succeed in life: academics, equity, and advocacy.” Helping these students brings Terry full circle in fulfilling the promise he made to himself, a source of great satisfaction to a man whose life path could have been far different.
Pick us up at Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, H.E.B. & CISCO College | EDUCATION | 21
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Q&A: Alliance for Women & Children
After School Care Program By HispanicLife Magazine
1.How many children do you expect to serve in this coming school year’s after school program? Alliance After School Care serves children Pre-K through 5th grade on 15 elementary campuses in Abilene ISD, Clyde, and Buffalo ve approximately 550-600 children on a daily basis and more than 1,200 throughout the school year as some children will move or their needs will change and new children enroll up through the last month of school. We accept new enrollments all year long. 2. What are the locations that the after school program are available and how do parents sign their children up for the program? We are located at most Abilene elementary schools including Long Early Learning Center, Clyde Elementary and Intermediate Schools, and Buffalo Gap Elementary. Children can be enrolled by coming to our office at 1350 North 10th Street in Abilene and completing an enrollment form or doing so online at www.AllianceForWomenAndChildren.org. For enrollment to be complete, enrollment forms must be completed and a $25 enrollment fee per child (up to a maximum $50) must be submitted. This can be paid in the office or online. Our regular monthly rate is $188 per child, and if the fees are paid on time each month, there is an automatic $38 discount making the rate $150. We provide discounts for multiple children, school district employees, military, financial aid, scholarship, and we accept CCS which is a government subsidy for childcare through the Texas Workforce Center. We are the largest, most affordable, licensed after school program in the Big Country and our mission is that no child goes home alone. We work very diligently to ensure that a child can participate in the program no matter the family’s income. 3. What activities are offered in the program after school? Alliance After School Care is a structured program designed for the children to have fun, be safe, learn and be nurtured in a posi-
tive environment. We offer homework assistance and are working alongside our schools to help encourage our children through the Accelerated Reader (AR) program to meet their literacy goals. We offer a healthy snack, outdoor play, structured gym play, and enhancement programs. Our program is the first Leader in Me after school program, and we are a Texas Rising Star certified program. During our enhancement time, we will bring in outside programs such as Abilene Martial Arts, the Public Library, sports programs, art programs, and much more.
6. When can parents enroll their children? We are accepting enrollments now! And, we have some incentive programs for those families who enroll early. We will have some drawings for backpacks filled with school supplies and some other prizes that are in the works. So, the earlier, the better! But, we do accept enrollments all year long. Jobs and situations change, and we are aware of that need. We have had enrollments as late as the last week of school, and we are happy to accept them. 7. What is the cost of the program? For enrollment to be complete, enrollment forms must be completed and a $25 enrollment fee per child (up to a maximum $50) must be submitted. This can be paid in the office or online. Our regular monthly rate is $188 per child, and if the fees are paid on time each month, there is an automatic $38 discount making the rate $150. We provide discounts for multiple children, school district employees, military, financial aid, scholarship, and we accept CCS which is a government subsidy for childcare through the Texas Workforce Center. We are the largest, most affordable, licensed after school program in the Big Country and our mission is that no child goes home alone.
We work very diligently to ensure that a child can participate in the program no matter the family’s 4.What time do children have to be picked up? income. And is there child care offered when school is out for holidays or teacher work days? We So, please do call and ask us if you are concerned are located on the child’s campus from the time about your ability to pay. We want all children to school releases until 6:00pm every school day. be in a safe environment after school. We have We do offer camps at an additional rate for most scholarships available and want to help. breaks (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break). We typically send out a survey to our families to This October is Alliance After School Care’s 30th determine the need for a holiday camp for holi- birthday! We were founded in partnership with days such as Columbus Day or Presidents Day, the Junior League of Abilene and Abilene ISD at and we make a determination based on need. Valley View Elementary on October 17, 1988. We 5. What are the age requirements for students to participate? Our program is licensed for PreK through 5th grade. The Pre-K children must be at least 4 years old and potty-trained to enroll in the program.
are grateful to be celebrating 30 years of providing quality after school care in our community. We will be having birthday parties at all of our schools in October and hope to have a community birthday party as well. Watch for details!
. Advertise Today! Call (325) 518-7091
Pick us up at H.E.B., CISCO College & China Star | EDUCATION | 23
Abilene Community Theatre Announces Center for Theatre Education Fall 2018 Term Begins September 11th
By Mike Stephens | Vice President of Production Support & Media Representative, Abilene Comm.Theatre
Abilene Community Theatre’s Center for Theatre Education is pleased to invite children ages 8 to 15 and their parents and guardians to Registration Night and First Class in Abilene Community Theatre’s ACT 2 Building on Tuesday, September 11th at 6PM. During the evening, attendees will meet CTE’s Faculty, Andrea Robison and Amber Jordan. Then join us this fall for another fun semester of learning and creative theatre education. Fall Classes will be held Tuesday nights from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM in ACT 2, and are open to students ages 8 to 15. The fee for a complete semester of classes is $150, and includes: • 3 months of classes • Student t-shirts • End of semester party This fee can be paid In full on September 11th or paid out in three payments of $50. Scholarships are also available. Registration forms will be made available that evening (September 11th). Registration will end September 18th.Any questions, please email CTEbigcountry@gmail.com. CTE’s classes are held in Abilene Community Theatre’s ACT 2 Building (the old Fair Park Museum building) just south of Abilene Community Theatre at 809 Barrow. For more information about this event, and to arrange interviews or appearances, please contact Mike Stephens, ACT Vice President of Production Support and Media Contact at stephens.michael@ mcm.edu or at 325-513-2706. Abilene Community Theatre is a 100% volunteerdriven, non-profit theater (501c3) established to share and promote theatre arts in Abilene and the Big Country. Involvement in Abilene Community Theatre has been spearheaded by those who feel strongly about creating a space to develop art in the community. ACT was formed in 1954, and the 2018-19 Season is our 64th year of operation. Abilene Community Theatre is located at 809 Barrow, Abilene, Texas 79605.
24 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
The Performance Lab is Offering FREE Training for First Rresponders By Noel Rehm | Big Country Homepage
First responders have a demanding job that requires a certain level of physical strength. The Performance Lab is offering a free three week training for the men and women who serve our city daily. It’s coming close to physical training tests (PFT’s) for some of our first responders and coach Joshua Jones want sto make sure that they are taken care of. “It’s something that I thought I would would never be in the position to do. I’ve always loved cops and firemen. This is just a good time for me to be able to give back to those guy’s,” say’s Jones. Josh New, K-9 Officer with the Abilene Police Department already happens to have a membership with The Performance Lab. He shares his thoughts on being able to pump iron with other first responders. “It’s pretty awesome that they would extend a free session for us first responders to come in and give it a try. I speak from experience if you come in and give it a try, you are going to be hooked.” Captain Ben Cotton, with the Abilene Fire Department, say’s “this is a place that many of us go to because they treat us so well. Although our training tests aren’t until April it’s a great opportunity to stay in shape.” The Performance Lab intends on pushing first responders to the limit, so that their physical fit-
ness tests are easily passed. “When you come in here someone got’s something structured for you. You’ve got 3 or 4 coaches following you around to make sure you are doing it right, and pushing you,” say’s New. This program that has offered for free to first responders every year. Jones mentions that he will accommodate anyone who is willing to sign up. The two areas of interest he wants to focus on the most is endurance and strength. “They put their lives on the line everyday and they don’t really get enough thank you’s,” states Jones. Saying it’s the least he could do for those who protect and serve us while we are asleep. The training session begins on Monday, September 10th and goes until Friday, September 28th. First responders who sign up within the free three week training period get a discount on a membership. The Performance Lab offers training classes up to seven times a day and five day’s a week. “We don’t do it for the thanks, but it’s nice to hear it every now and then. It’s nice for people to reach out and hook us up when it comes to physical fitness,” say’s New.
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Former Abilene Biomedical Research Lab Gets New Life Housing HSU Physical Therapy Program
Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | EDUCATION | 25
By Brian Bethel | Abilene Reporter-News
Officials and guests thronged the former AbLabs location at 1325 Pine St. Thursday on a big day for Hardin-Simmons University, celebrating a physical therapy building in the remodeled former biomedical research lab.
weaknesses jog or walk.
“This is a huge blessing from the city of Abilene to Hardin-Simmons,” said HSU President Eric Bruntmyer of the 22,000-square-foot facility. “... My hope and my prayer is that we return it a hundredfold back to the city. It’s a city with a huge heart, and we want to be there and provide students with positions and jobs that can cure the community and make a huge difference.”
Second-year student Shelby Richeson said that the new facility was “fantastic.”
After being first discussed in 1993, Hardin-Simmons’ first class of master of physical therapy students met in 1996, graduating the next year. The program has continued to grow, eventually in 2013 offering a doctorate in physical therapy.
Originally called the Abilene Life Sciences Accelerator, the building was completed in 2010 at a cost of more than $10 million. The Development Corporation of Abilene hoped to use the facility to lure biotech companies with high-paying jobs to Abilene. Despite marketing attempts, the facility failed to live up to expectations and sat vacant since the fall of 2015.
At present, the PT doctorate program admits 28 students each fall. The school has nine full-time PT faculty and “two outstanding adjuncts,” said Dr. Janelle O’Connell, director of HSU’s PT program. In 2017, the program’s was reaffirmed for another 10 years by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association. In 2018, HSU asked the accreditation commission to allow it to expand its yearly admissions to 40, something that the additional space would allow.
“There are three cameras around the device,” he said, which therapists can use to monitor patients and make adjustments to their plan of care
“Not only does it allow us more space to be able to service more individuals at one time but it allows more equipment that is advanced so that when we go out onto our clinicals, we are able to know and contribute more,” she said.
Different Destiny
The DCOA in April 2016 spent about $185,000 to transfer ownership of the AbLabs facility back to the DCOA from the Abilene Life Sciences Foundation. The DCOA board voted in October 2017 to sell AbLabs to Hardin-Simmons University. HSU paid $1.5 million in cash for the building and parking lot, which were appraised at $2.25 million. The university also received an interest-free, three-year $725,000 loan from the DCOA, which won’t have to be paid back if HSU keeps an average of 75 students and five instructors.
“We’ll hear that decision in April 2019,” O’Connell said.
Mayor Anthony Williams said that the building “did not yield” the results initially desired. “It became an obstacle,” Williams said.
Andrea Jensen, interim dean of the Holland School of Science and Mathematics, said that the new facility will allow faculty to increase program offerings, including research opportunities.
But the structure represented an opportunity to work toward the “common good,” advancing the mission of Hardin-Simmons in healthcare education.
“And, it’s going to allow our school of physical therapy to increase what (it) can do in the Abilene community, which is very exciting for us,” she said.
“You continue to strive for excellence,” he said of the school’s program, which was the first in the state to offer a doctorate-level physical therapy degree.
Rooms throughout the facility are filled with various teaching elements and equipment for hands-on instruction, including some relatively new and innovative things.
State Rep. Stan Lambert said that one of his closest friends became one of the program’s first graduates 23 years ago.
Mark D’Arezzo, a first-year student, was showing off a device called an anti-gravity treadmill, used to reduce the weight patients fresh out of surgery are bearing on their bodies or to help those with various
“You’re going to leave here with a skill that is so needed, not just in our city but in the Big Country as rural healthcare programs need to continue to expand to serve all of those Texans living in smaller communities and communities like Abilene,” he said.
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Steve Brudniak’s Exhibition to Appear in HSU Art Gallery
Pick us up at La Familia Mexican Restaurant & YMCA on State St. | EDUCATION | 27
By Dr. Kristina Campos Davis | Director of Communications, Hardin-Simmons University
Abilene, Texas - American contemporary artist, actor, and filmmaker, Steve Brudniak, will hold a solo gallery sculpture exhibition at the Ira M Taylor Art Gallery August 27-September 21. This exhibit will be in conjunction with the Biennial Abilene Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition and will conclude on Sept. 21 with an artist talk and book-signing is at 3 p.m. in Frost Center 103 and a closing reception 6-7 p.m. in the Frost Center for Visual Arts Room 103. Steve Brudniak is known for his highly crafted, surreal assemblages invested with science elements and unusual characteristics. Brudniak pioneered the use of many unconventional mediums including Tesla coil lightning, magnetic fluid, gyro mechanics, and biological preservations. Pieces generate ideas and themes of spirituality and psychological function. His work appears in the collections of the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, the San Antonio Museum of Art, The El Paso Museum of Art and The Art Museum of South Texas. In
2008 his Astrogeneris Mementos became the first assemblage sculptures exhibited in outer space. The monograph, The Science of Surrealism - Assemblage Sculpture of Steve Brudniak documents thirty years of the artist’s career, with a foreword by Guillermo Del Toro. Brudniak is also an accomplished actor, director, and producer in film and television, notably, for “The pieces in this his acting roles in Richard Linexhibit are bound klater Waking Life, Robert Rotogether by the murdriguez upcoming Red 11, The mur resonating from Reels Channels Murder Made Me Famous the dig into the rabbit hole to the unknown; series, and dozens of other feature and short the physical entrances into those rabbit holes: films, commercials and voice-overs. portals, mirrors, lenses, and doors. What you see here is meant to take you out of the world In his exhibition statement, Brudniak explained to that state where there are no words, no the significance of his work. thoughts,” he said.
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Giving Families a Head Start 28 | EDUCATION | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Head Start provides a “head start” to help families learn and succeed. By Sandy Lowe | HispanicLife Magazine
It’s a joy when our children start kindergarten with enthusiasm, learn what they need and carry that process all the way through to high school graduation. But not all children are ready for that bright future. Some need a boost to have a successful start, a successful education and a successful life.
classroom work focuses on preparing that child for kindergarten. That includes work on language, literacy, math, science, technology skills and self-esteem. Then there’s parent engagement. “Preparing a child for school is more than just learning your letters and numbers,” Angie says. “It’s about preparing the child and family for what comes after Head Start. We prepare them in whatever they need and educate them in life.” Head Start staff, which includes the teacher,
Head Start was created in 1964 as part of President Johnson’s War on Poverty. Angie Mendoza has been with the Region 14 Education Service Center Head Start program since its beginning in 1999. Today she leads Head Start and Early Head Start across fifteen school districts as Director for the Center for Young Learners. “We help change people’s lives,” she says, “through services that we provide and having committed staff who believe in the program and philosophy of Head Start, which is to help children and families.” While the program started to give economically disadvantaged children a “head start” to begin their education, any child, birth through age five, can apply at any time. As long as there is an opening, the child can start school. Requirements include meeting income guidelines and showing other need such as homelessness, living in foster care or a disability. Proof of income and birth, an immunization record and proof of residency are all required.
aide and Family Service worker, stay in the contact with parents and visit the home. They share information about education, nutrition, social and emotional development, exercise expectations and general normal development for the child’s age level. Head Start staff often discover the family does not have the resources to meet daily needs. Then they become advocates and encouragers, referring the family to available services for help.
When the child enters the Head Start program, “We have helped families by assisting them
to obtain services or by just showing them some compassion, care and understanding,” Angie says. “We do not pay for services but show them the resources and encourage them to go and get them.” Head Start staff helped one mother learn English, achieve citizenship, get her driver’s license and buy a car. Another family needed tires for their car. They didn’t want to ask for help, but their Family Service Worker had built a strong relationship with them. They felt comfortable expressing their needs and the FSW worker called several local organizations for help. By the end of the day, the family had new tires. Head Start helps many parents find financial assistance to go back to school or get their high school equivalent GED certification. About one-third of the Head Start staff across the fifteen counties are or have been Head Start parents. They see the value of the program, are able to achieve their goals and want to use that success to help other families. Head Start also invites volunteers into the classroom to spend time with the children, read to them or go along on field trips. Local first responders volunteer by bringing their patrol cars, ambulances and fire trucks to teach the children about safety. If you’d like to volunteer, contact your local Head Start in Albany, Anson, Breckenridge, Colorado City, Hamlin, Haskell, Merkel, Stamford, Sweetwater or call Region 14 ESC Head Start for more information about Head Start or Early Head Start, 325-675-8685. Region 14 ESC Head Start also collaborates with Region 15 ESC Head Start, who is their delegate. They serve Brady, Ballinger, Brownwood, Coleman and Winters. All of the Head Starts in these communities are with the local school district. But even if you can’t volunteer, you can know that over 800 children in twenty-one school districts in fifteen counties are learning, growing and preparing. Those children and their families are finding a path to success led by people who care.
Hardin-Simmons Named a Top Online MBA Program in Texas
By Grace Mitchell | Hardin-Simmons University
Hardin-Simmons was recognized as the HSU’s MBA prepares Christian leaders to 18th Top Online MBA Programs in Texas manage successfully in a dynamic business by Online MBA Today. environment. The program provides advanced study in all functional areas of busi“The Kelley College of ness: accounting, management Business at Hardin-Siminformation systems, econommons University features ics, finance, marketing, and one of Texas’ best online management. Master’s of Business Administration degrees,” the The MBA is designed to help site read. “This nationalstudents further develop and rely-recognized, high qualfine such important broad skills ity program balances solid and abilities as analytical thinkbusiness theory with a reling, problem-solving, computer evant application model.” applications, communications, and teamwork. Through lectures, The online MBA program was papers, simulations, seminars, and given a high affordability score as HSU re- case studies, graduate students will enhance duced its online tuition by a third last year. critical thinking and problem-solving skills It was also recognized for its Sport Business while solving real-world managerial probconcentration. lems.
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AISD Music Program Receives National Honor By Abilene Independent School District
Abilene ISD has been honored with the 2018 Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.
standing Performer designation. As recently as 2016, the Craig Middle School girls’ choir was chosen as a TMEA Honor Choir and performed at the state convention.
The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
“Our secondary students would not be able to perform at such a high level without the foundation laid at the elementary campuses,” Lester said. “It is there that students receive a sequential music education based in the Kodaly and Orff methods.”
“This designation validates the strength of the fine arts programs in AISD,” said Jay Lester, AISD’s Executive Director of Fine Arts. “It is also reflective of the commitment to excellence as displayed by our students and their dedicated teachers.” To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Mr. Lester answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
Sunday, September 16 7 PM – 9:30 PM
Abilene Convention Center 1100 N 6th St, Abilene, Texas 79601 For tickets visit www.lesandleslie.com
AISD has been vested in music education throughout its history, Lester said. Abilene High School fielded the first high school marching band in Texas, and since that time, both AHS and Cooper High School have participated in the UIL State Marching Band Contest. Countless band, choir, and orchestra students have earned TMEA All-State honors as well as the UIL State Solo Out-
According to the NAMM Foundation, this award recognizes that AISD is leading the way with learning opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). ESSA recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its approximately 10,300 members around the world.
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FAITH&FAMILY
SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE
Let’s Celebrate Working By Not Working! By Ray Vinson, Ph.D.
Ahhhh, September! A promise of the changing of the seasons, a reminder of Fall to come. Cooler temperatures, the changing of color in the leaves, holidays to celebrate, and to kick it all off, Labor Day! Ironic isn’t it, Labor Day? A day to celebrate work by not working. It seems to coincide with a promise from Scripture. The writer of the book of Hebrews speaks of a Sabbath rest for those who by faith, enter into it. (Hebrews 4:10) Much of religion today is defined and driven by good works. When people want to “get their life right”, they first think of cleaning themselves up, going “back” to church, ect. So, is the gospel “works” defined and driven? The Biblical New Testament gospel is not! Don’t get me wrong, if you are responding to the New Testament gospel, you will produce right living with ease. Why, because the right gospel produces its own results! It is only when we are living in a works defined and driven gospel that we must be preached at to “do this or don’t do that.”
if we are branches of the tree of life. Do we see the gospel as rules, finished by our works? If so, we are probably living by the wrong gospel. Are we living by a gospel that was finished by the works of Jesus, that invites us to rest? (Heb. 4) Then we are probably responding to the Biblical gospel! After believing and responding to who Christ said he is, we are admonished to labor in only one area. The writer of Hebrews charges us in chapter 4 verse 11 to labor to enter the rest of God through Christ! Why, because everything around us, including religion wants to rob our focus of Jesus and drive us to do “good” things! Let’s keep our focus on Jesus and let the fruit take care of itself! Always remember, you are unique, you are incredible, you are incomparable and you are passionately loved! Hope you had an amazing Labor Day! 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.
The gospel is about the tree of life. The tree of life is not simply a tree as we know trees. It is a person, Jesus Christ. Ironically, when we visit a peach farm, we do not watch peach trees, straining and groaning in effort to produce peaches, do we? No! Why, it is because peach producing is a natural response to the trees relationship with its own identity, soil, sun and rain! Maybe we should take inventory of the gospel we live by and study
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10 Ways to Monitor Media in Your Child’s Life By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Live Well
A hammer can be used to build, but also to destroy. Likewise, the tool of media can encourage positive behavior by inspiring and entertaining us. Unfortunately, media can also act to confuse, harm, or distract us. What makes the difference for children is having a parent who enforces the guidelines they need to have a clean bill of media health. Here are ten ways for approaching online media monitoring in your child’s life.
1. Be proactive; take a look. Your children’s iPod and iTunes library and Pandora or Spotify accounts tell a huge story; check out what they listen to. Make yourself familiar with the software and make yourself the program administrator.
7. Timing is everything. There are so many
messages coming at children—and in many forms. Make sure that your children are not spending their life away in media. Encourage them to spend time with their friends and family or have quality “me time” without a screen in front of them.
8. Make their bedroom a sanctuary, not a theater. “I can’t control what they’re watching” is no longer an issue when screen time doesn’t happen behind closed doors. Leave the TV watching for the living room and the peace and relaxation for their bedrooms.
9. Maintain a responsible mindset. You are the
2. Listen for what is popular. If you
know what’s in (music, movies, games, or TV), it is easier to set a standard on what your children should or shouldn’t be filling their time with.
3. Make friends with your child. “Friend” your child on
Facebook and “follow” them on Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. There is no privacy on the information superhighway, so it is important to see what your children are putting out there. If anyone should have access to your child’s online activity, it’s you.
4. Consider all electronics. The boom of
iPads, laptops, smartphones, and the like have made it hard to monitor the content of media on all devices. Talk with your service provider for cable and internet parental restrictions. Also, talk with your cell phone provider to see if you can place a filter on smartphone internet use.
5. Be open about your own media habits.
Make sure your children can see what you’re up to— what you watch, what you listen to, who you chat with, where you browse, what magazines you read, and what movies you rent. Lead by example.
6. Get to know your children’s friends and their friends’ parents. Make sure your
children’s friend’s parents know your family’s media standards. Communication with other parents is key if you want to have your standards met even when your child isn’t in your home.
your rules.
parent, and you are responsible to help your children stay on track. If you communicate the importance of why you do what you do and consistently follow through, they will be less likely to contest
10. The word OPEN is the most important word in this list. Open communication,
open door, open for conversation, open for questions, open for respect, open for review.
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Help Your Step-Children Feel Secure in Your Love for Them On our first vacation together, the girls were playing games and singing songs in the back seat of our van during the long drive. Sara, then 8, and my biological daughter, Jennifer, then 15, broke out into a cheerful duet. My husband, Harvey, glanced back and exclaimed, “My daughters can really sing!” Then he turned around to see what Jennifer’s reaction would be because it was the first time he’d ever referred to her as his daughter. Harvey wanted Jennifer to feel that daddy-daughter relationship that she never experienced with her bio father. Unfortunately, Sara didn’t hear the “s” on daughters, and because he looked at Jennifer after the compliment, she thought her dad was complimenting only her stepsister. Sara’s feelings of rejection and jealousy began at that moment and plagued her for several years. The fear of losing her daddy’s love was real to Sara, even though there was no change in Harvey’s affection. Consequently, Sara’s perceived loss motivated her to compete for attention by trying to sabotage Harvey’s relationship with Jennifer and me. In Sara’s young mind, Jennifer and I became threats to her daddy’s love. Stepsibling jealousy can be subtle, volatile and destructive, but detecting it isn’t difficult if you know what to look for. Be on the lookout for these red flags that you might see in a jealous child:
Left unchecked, jealousy can drive wedges deep into family relationships, particularly between stepsiblings. The key to dispelling this kind of jealousy is to help your children feel secure in your love for them. Here are a few ideas to guide you in bringing harmony and stability to your family:
Refrain from comparing your children’s behavior. Your child can easily interpret “Why can’t you keep your room clean like Jennifer?” as “You think she’s better than me.”
Listen to all sides of a dispute. After you
listen to the first child without allowing interruptions, say something like, “Thank you. Now I want to hear your brother’s side.” This is a powerful way to convey that you respect each child.
Nurture unique strengths in each sibling. Children need to be affirmed by their par-
ents and hear from their bio mom or dad what makes them unique. What does the child love — books, sports, music, art, animals? Once you’ve identified the strengths or talents, find opportunities to cultivate and validate them so each child can be acknowledged individually.
Find special time alone with each child.
Spending “just us” time with a child will help him or her feel treasured and secure in your love. Capitalize on the times when the other children may be at a friend’s house, doing a school activity or napping. Invite your child to play a video game, shoot some hoops, paint fingernails or bake cookies — just the two of you.
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My stepdaughter, Sara, recently revealed a secret she had kept for years. It had to do with some jealousy that began when we were a new blended family.
• Being overly clingy with his or her bio mom or dad. • Displaying resentment by sulking or frequently fighting over little things. • Trying to outperform or upstage a stepsibling. • Attempting to turn the bio parent and siblings against a stepsibling by tattling or saying negative things about him or her. • Accusing the bio parent of playing favorites.
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By Terri Clark | Focus on the Family
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KETO DIET 101:
Everything You Need To Know About This Eating Plan By Dr. Josh Axe
Many different versions of low-carb diets have come and gone over the past several decades, but one carb-restrictive diet that’s been around for generations and is garnering significant attention today is the ketogenic diet. Far from a fad diet, the keto diet has actually been practiced safely since the 1920s, when it was first used by clinicians treating ill, obese, and epileptic patients.
1. GET YOUR FAT FROM UNPROCESSED WHOLE FOODS In order to prevent or reverse symptoms tied to poor health, I recommend a holistic approach to the ketogenic diet. This means that the bulk of your calories on the keto diet should come from healthy, whole ketogenic foods that are high in fat, including olive or coconut oil, ghee, grass-fed butter, pastured eggs, grass-fed meat, avocado, nuts and fatty WHAT IS THE KETOGENIC DIET? fish. The ketogenic diet is a very low-carb, very high-fat diet that has been shown to promote steady weight loss, increase energy, support cognitive health and hormonal balance, and help reduce risk factors for chronic diseases like high blood sugar, high blood pressure and high triglycerides. When you follow a ketogenic diet your body goes into the metabolic state of ketosis: The quick energy source – glucose from carbohydrate foods – gets drastically reduced. The body has to look for alternative sources of energy. It starts to burn more fat and produce higher amounts of ketones – small molecules that contribute to energy metabolism. In order to push your body into the metabolic state of ketosis – and then keep it there while your body produces ketone bodies that are used for steady energy – you need to get about 75% or more of your daily calories from dietary sources of fat. In the absence of carbs and glucose, your body relies on fat from your diet, along with your own stored body fat, to keep itself running, which means that weight loss can happen quickly and reliably.
success, as these types of veggies provide important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Try to include a handful or two with each meal. Just be sure to minimize or avoid starchy veggies like potatoes, beets and squash, which may make it harder to stay in ketosis.
3. DON’T OVERDO THE PROTEIN • One factor that makes the ketogenic diet very different from other low-carb diets is the fact that it incorporates less protein and more fat. The keto diet includes moderate, but not high, amounts of protein (about 15% of daily calories). Carbohydrates, meanwhile, are limited to just 5-10% of daily calories (or about 25-35 net grams per day).
GOOD TO KNOW: Eating the right amount of macronutrients is important because this ensures you’ll get into a state of ketosis and actually produce ketone bodies, which are key for making you feel great physically and mentally, even as you severely restrict carbohydrate intake. Eating too much protein can cause some of the protein to be converted to glucose, which is counterproductive on the keto diet and can inhibit your ability to move into ketosis.
4. TRY INTERMITTENT FASTING
Foods like processed meats (bacon or salami), poor-quality meats from factory farm-raised animals, processed cheeses, farm-raised fish, foods with lots of synthetic additives and refined vegetable oils (canola, sunflower, safflower, etc.) should definitely be avoided. While they may be high in fat, they can also lead to adverse health effects.
Thanks to the positive impact that fasting has on hormones, blood sugar regulation, inflammation levels and detoxification, intermittent fasting is a strategy that can help take your keto diet results to the next level. The keto diet and fasting pair together so well because ketone bodies actually have an appetite-reducing effect, making it easier to go longer periods without eating.
HERE ARE SOME KETOGENIC DIET TIPS FOR ACHIEVING 2. DON’T FORGET TO EAT YOUR Fasting has been shown to help regulate the MAXIMUM IMPACT: VEGGIES! • Eating plenty of non-starchy, hunger hormones ghrelin and leptin, while green vegetables will also be key to your also supporting insulin sensitivity and aiding
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in weight loss. You can practice intermittent fasting by limiting the amount of time you eat each day to a 4-9 hour window (meaning you’ll fast for 1520 hours), or by trying alternate-day fasting, in which you reduce calorie intake by 75% 1-2 days per week.
5. STAY HYDRATED & CONSUME ENOUGH ELECTROLYTES • While on the keto diet,
be sure to drink plenty of water and hydrating liquids throughout the day, including herbal tea, fresh-squeezed vegetable juice, organic coffee, green tea and bone broth. You’ll also want to consume some salt – by using sea salt or Himalayan pink salt to flavor foods or by drinking salted broth – in order to get enough potassium, magnesium and other electrolytes. Electrolytes can help with digestion and cellular and muscular functions, while also supporting good quality sleep, energy and mood. BE AWARE: While the keto diet is very different from most standard low-fat diets that are recommended for weight loss, it’s still generally considered to be safe and health-promoting for most people. That being said, people who should not start the ketogenic diet (especially without first talking to a doctor) include anyone with a history of diabetes, liver or kidney disease, eating disorder(s) and any genetic defects that interfere with fat absorption, as well as women who are pregnant or nursing.
TEMPORARY SIDE EFFECTS OF THE KETO DIET • Some people will temporarily experience keto diet side effects while they transition into ketosis, but those symptoms typically subside within 1-2 weeks. Potential side effects (sometimes called the “keto flu”) can include headaches, low energy, cravings, weakness and brain fog.
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Get a High-Voltage Career Electrical Power & Controls is among the new programs offered at TSTC’s new Industrial Technology Center. As demand for electricity grows, so does the need for skilled technicians. Your success in this program is assured through TSTC’s Money-Back Guarantee. New programs and new opportunities coming Fall 2018. Learn more at: tstc.edu/abileneITC #TSTCSaveYourSeat
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10 Guidelines When a Young Adult Child Moves Home By Mark Merrill | Helping Families Love Well
Several months ago, a millennial wrote an open letter to the CEO of Yelp who just so happened to employ her. She laid out her inability to afford the cost of living in San Francisco and the changes he should make to help not only her situation but the other employees. Even those who agreed with her arguments had to admit that the tone of her letter was unwise and, not surprisingly, she was fired the next day. The story went viral, prompting both critics and sympathizers. One thing is undeniable; the job prospects for millennials and housing affordability is difficult. As a result, more and more young adults are moving back with their parents. We need to be prepared for the potential of that day. It’s good to be thinking about creating guidelines before your adolescent leaves the nest for the first time. Here are the 10 guidelines for the millennials living at home.
1. Respect their adulthood and don’t try to reestablish “the good old days.”
The kids didn’t come home because they wanted to recreate the idyllic, blissful days of yore! It’s important to remember that time only moves forward, so plan accordingly.
2. Write a contract. Such a contract should
honor both your values and the fact that your child is now an adult. The contract should be a realistic agreement about what it means to live at home and one that makes sure everyone is on the same page.
3. The contract should be drawn up together. Meaning the adult child helps to set the terms. This is a critically important step because a contract that is agreed upon has more strength than a contract that is imposed.
4. House rules. The contract should include
specifics regarding what can or cannot occur on the property and should address, but not be limited to: •Drugs and Alcohol •Curfew •Sleepovers •Parties •Number(s) of guests and appropriate visiting times •Messing with the settings on the air-conditioning •Home security
5. Responsibilities. What responsibilities are now shared? Yard work, routine maintenance, cleaning the kitchen, care of pets. Best to define these ahead of time and not to assume that it’s just understood.
6. Expectations. What are the expectations
regarding meals together? Attending church as a family? This needs to be clear to avoid drama.
7. Financials. As a young adult, the returning
child should contribute to family income. Will they pay rent? Who covers insurance (health and liability)? Are their belongings covered under your homeowners’ policy? All these issues must be clear and reviewable on a regular basis.
8. Enforceable provisions. Con-
tracts only work if enforceable provisions are actually enforced. It needs to be clear exactly what and how consequences come into play for violations. If you are unwilling to ask your young adult child to leave your home in the event that the contract is violated, you should not let them move back in the first place.
9. Timeline. It’s important not to welcome
adult children home with no provisions or plans. Initial contracts should be reviewable after, say, three months, then at regular intervals thereafter. Such an arrangement must begin with the end in mind—getting them to finally leave.
10. Remember, this is still your house.
Adult children who move home are guests or they are paying lodgers. Either way, they are in your home.
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Things Are Not Always as They Seem By Kristie Carpenter | Blended Mom Moments Chapter 11 of the book of John, is a story of death - the story of Lazarus. Lazarus was loved by Jesus. It even says in verse 35 that Jesus shed tears over his friend and the situation. So, let’s go back for just a bit. Lazarus had been sick. It must have been severe because his two sisters from Lazarus’ village, Mary and Martha, sent word to Jesus that “the one you love is sick.” Their message not only does this implied their belief in Jesus’ healing powers, but as women, they used an emotional plea, because Lazarus was not just a friend - but more like family. Jesus does get the word that Lazarus is sick. At this point, you think Jesus will head straight to Lazarus and heal him. But, Jesus doesn’t go. Instead, he says, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” So, Jesus stayed for two more days. When Jesus finally arrives on the scene, Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days. Many people from their village and surrounding villages were there weeping and grieving. Both Mary and Martha lament over the belief that their brother would still be alive if Jesus would have been there. The story moves on to the place where Lazarus was in a tomb. Jesus tells them to take away the stone sealing the tomb. Martha tells Jesus there will be a bad odor for Lazarus had been dead four days. Jesus then says, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” So the stone was moved and Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of
the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” Jesus then called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” And … he did. What in the world does this have to do with being a step mom in a blended family? Well, let’s look at a few points. First off, Jesus loved Lazarus. Jesus loves you. Jesus wants you to have a wonderful personal relationship with Him. He wants to sing over you - and even weep over you as He did Lazarus. He will even work around time and tribulations that want to keep us dead and down. Secondly, things are not always as they seem. Lazarus was the earthly vessel used by God to help strengthen the disciples’ belief. Lazarus’s death was used to show others the power, glory and majesty of God through His Son, Jesus. If you are in a season of trial and struggle, send word to Jesus. He may not answer right at the second, but you can believe that there is more going on than meets our human eyes. Thirdly, this was a very smelly situation. Decay. Decomposition. Death. And yet, this was not the final answer. The ending to this story is a miracle - a beautiful miracle to remind us that nothing is outside God’s power and plan for our lives. I’ve been through some very smelly situations in my blended family. In fact, everyone on this planet goes through the ugliness of life, the stench of disappointment, and the heartache of unmet dreams. Jesus will be right on time to act and work in your life and situation. Wait for Him. Watch for Him. Welcome Him. If you have been dead in your marriage or family, He will come. You will breathe again. Blessings in Your Blending! ___________________ Editor’s note: Women’s author, speaker and mentor Kristie Carpenter, aka The Blended Family Mom, has been a blended family/step mom since 2004; her blended family currently includes four children and four grandchildren. Follow Kristie on Facebook (facebook.com/theblendedfamilymom), Twitter (@BlendedFamilyM), and Instagram (theblendedfamilymom). Her books - “The Blended Family Mom,” and “Blended Mom Moments,” are both available on her website at www.theblendedfamilymom. com).
HEALTH&FITNESS
Dyess Airman Defeats Cancer, Prepares For Deployment By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Porter | 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
“When the results came back I was very shocked to learn that I had breast cancer,” said Danielle. “I had no knowledge of anyone in my family having cancer.” Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of breast cells which develop into a malignant tumor. Although it develops in primarily women, men also have a slight risk since they have a small amount of breast tissue. There are many types of treatment options available such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and targeted therapies.
wasn’t the cancer everyday so that she could one day go only part of back to doing what she loved. Danielle’s treatment plan consisted of six dif- her body that was effected by the treatment. ferent rounds of chemotherapy, surgery to reAs Danielle went through a very tough time in move the tumor, 33 rounds of radiation therapy “Eventually towards the end of the chemo- her life many people supported her during her and hormonal therapy afterwards. Each che- therapy, my nails began to blacken to the point treatments. This comforted her and showed her motherapy round lasted between six and nine where I had to wrap Band-Aids around them that she wasn’t alone. hours. so that they wouldn’t fall off,” explained Danielle. “My family drove down to see me, which One of the most noticeable side effects of chemade me really happy,” she said. “Squadron motherapy is hair loss, so some of her friends Danielle mentioned that she helped herself get members, my friends and community were helped cut her hair short prior to the treatment through each day by telling herself the next also very supportive. They would sit with me day would be better. She also imagined the during treatments, keep me company at my “It was very shocking when I started to lose times she was able to fly and kept fighting the house and send me cards.”
Patricia Galich, Danielle’s mother, said when she was informed of Danielle’s newly diagnosed aggressive stage three breast cancer, her initial thought was fear of Danielle’s prognosis. “Over the year I watched Danielle rise and conquer the illness while growing strength everyday as she learned from these experiences,” said Patricia. Danielle entered remission in March 2017. Her medical records were reviewed to determine whether or not she could continue serving. Danielle celebrated one year of being cancer free this year. Shortly after, she was approved by a medical evaluation board to fly again and is now preparing for a deployment. “I absolutely feel like I came back stronger after my experience,” said Danielle. “I have even more respect for those who have cancer now after going through what they are experiencing.” During the middle of her battle, Danielle was told a quote by a friend that helped her through tough times, ‘the same boiling water that softens a potato, hardens an egg. It’s about what you’re made of, not the circumstances. “I took that to heart because it’s true, and it doesn’t have to be cancer you are going through, it can be a hard day or a few hard years,” said Danielle. “There are things you can’t control, but how you react to it and overcome it, is what you can control. I chose to come out stronger.”
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Imagine waking up to a typical day, only to my hair in large find out your entire life was about to change clumps,” said Daniafter one simple doctor’s appointment. elle. “I used to have very long hair so For Staff Sgt. Danielle Galich, 40th Airlift when I lost my hair Squadron C-130J Super Hercules loadmaster, like that, I felt like I this became a reality upon learning she was di- was losing a part of agnosed with breast cancer at 34 years old in myself.” September 2016. Because chemo At first, Danielle thought nothing of the small attacks fast growlump she noticed forming on her left breast. ing cells, her hair When she decided to finally be seen by a doctor she received dreadful news.
42 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Alliance for Women & Children’s After School Program Creating Escape for College Students
HispanicLife Media
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By Katie Garcia | Big Country Homepage
The Alliance for Women and Children after- 11:30, and that was really hard to get school school program is re-introducing college stu- work done.” Turner said. “But here, you can dents to life on the playground. balance work and school and friendship. Landon Turner, who works for the program It is also a time for kids to learn and explore said it is an opportunity to have some fun. outside of the classroom. “As a college student it’s often serious-’alright I gotta sit down and study, I gotta do this,’” Turner said. “And so this is the time to let out your fun side. I’ve been playing four square for five straight days outside, and it’s the best.”
“They’re not just lying on the floor and watching a movie five days a week,” said Turner. “We’re just here to love on these kids and to help them with homework, talk with them about what’s going on in their family, mentor them kind of.”
Rocio Rodriguez, another employee, said the interactions with the children let them express themselves.
The program promotes mentorship, enabling the workers to watch kids grow up before their eyes.
“You ask a simple a question like, ‘what did you do today?” You know?” said Rodriguez. And, they just start talking about their day and they talk about their friends and their teachers and little things that went on.”
“I work with the preschoolers and so right now at this time of year half of them can’t open their own milk, can’t open their own snacks, when they color it’s just scribbles,” said Rodriguez. And then, by the It doubles as a temporary escape from mid- end of the year, they’re drawing me pictures terms and campus life. and making me hearts. they can open their own snacks and open their own milks. they “I worked another job and i didn’t get off until don’t even want you to help them any more.”
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Abilene Mother in Kidney Failure is Not Backing Down Despite Her Illness By Olivia DiVenti | KTXS
A mother of two small children in Abilene said that she is not backing down while she feels like she has been given a death sentence at times. Life for Abilene mom Virdi Crawford is anything but easy. Crawford’s bedroom is stacked with medication for her nightly dialysis and bags of medication are within arm’s reach of her in her kitchen. “It’s really heartbreaking,” Crawford said. “When we found out about this in November, it honestly felt like this was my death sentence.”
Pick us up at Abilene ISD, La Familia Mex Rest & Lytle Land & Cattle | HEALTH | 43
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“You start thinking, I have a 3-year-old, I have a 5-year-old, they have so much more life to live,” said Crawford. “I want to be there for them and I try not to think that way.” Crawford has been on the transplant list since January. Doctors have told Crawford that her medical and travel expenses will be around $20,000. “I’m just a mother and honestly, I feel if this can’t go anywhere else than this, I just want to bring awareness to those who are suffering through kidney failure,” said Crawford.
Crawford’s family Crawford’s health strughas created a fundgles started at the age of raiser on Red Basket, asking for the seven, when she was diagnosed with type 1 community to help them out in their time of diabetes, and now at the age of 31, pregnancy need. complications have brought on other health troubles. “I don’t give up, and that’s the one thing that’s special about me,” said Crawford. “I’ve never “I am in kidney failure. I have been on dialy- been known to back down, so to me, this is just sis since July 11 of this year,” said Crawford. life. It’s been one struggle after another since I’ve been little and you just grow and you live The mother of two now needs a kidney trans- with it and you take it on and you are like how.” plant and a pancreas transplant.
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44 | HEALTH | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
How To Recognize Symptoms of Gallstones Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder.
Mayo mentions some potential symptoms of gallstones:
The gallbladder contains a fluid called bile that is released in the small intestine to aid digestion.
• Sudden and intense pain in the upperright abdomen, or in the center of the abdomen just below the breastbone. • Back pain between the shoulder blades. • Pain in the right shoulder. • Nausea or vomiting. • Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. • High fever with chills.
Gallstones can vary from the size of a grain of sand to that of a golf ball, the Mayo Clinic says. Some gallstones are small enough to be passed without symptoms. However, if there’s significant pain or discomfort, surgery may be needed.
Pick us up at China Star, Abilene Public Library & Martinez Barber Shop | HEALTH | 45
Staying healthy in school:
Kid-friendly tips
Do you know why school kids get sick so often? The best ways to keep your child healthy in school? By Mayo Clinic Staff
Does it seem as if your child is sick all the time? In the early school years, your child’s immune system is put to the test. After all, young children in large groups tend to easily spread organisms that cause illness. Here’s why infectious illness is so common — and what your child can do to stay healthy in school. How infections spread Many childhood illnesses are caused by viruses. All it takes is a single child to bring a virus to school for the spread to begin. Consider this common scenario — a child who has a cold coughs or sneezes in the classroom. The children sitting nearby inhale the infected respiratory droplets and the cold spreads.
shared computer, pencil sharpener, water fountain or other community objects. You might also donate disinfecting wipes to the classroom for general use. • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Give your child a package of tissues to keep in his or her desk or backpack. Encourage your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue — then put the tissue in the trash, and wash his or her hands or use hand sanitizer. If it isn’t possible to reach a tissue in time, remind your child to cough or sneeze into the crook of his or her elbow. • Keep your hands away from your eyes and out of your mouth. Remind your child that hands are often covered in germs. • Don’t share water bottles, food or other personal items. Offer your child this simple rule — if you put the item in your mouth, keep it to yourself.
Or perhaps a child who has diarrhea uses the toilet and returns to the classroom without washing his or her Also help your child hands. Illness-causing avoid anyone who germs might spread has a communicable from anything the sick infection. Close conchild touches to other tact with a friend children who touch the same object and who’s contagious — such as at play dates then put their fingers in their mouths. or sleepovers — could lead to your child’s own illness. Why hand-washing counts Frequent hand-washing is one of the Of course, it’s also important for your simplest — and most effective — ways child to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of to stay healthy in school.) Remind your sleep, and stay current on his or her vaccichild to wash his or her hands before eat- nations — including a yearly flu vaccine. ing and after using the toilet, blowing his To prevent spreading illness at home, use or her nose, or playing outside. Suggest the same tips for the entire family. soaping up for as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Other school health tips Common sense can go a long way toward staying healthy in school. In addition to frequent hand-washing, encourage your child to follow these tips: • Use hand sanitizer. Give your child alcohol-based hand sanitizer to keep in his or her desk or backpack. Remind your child to use the sanitizer before eating snacks or lunch and after using a
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Leadership is Everyone’s Job By Erica Pangburn | Director of Community Engagement, Abilene Chamber of Commerce
“I start with the premise that the function of with stretching commitments, and build sup- • Identify and motivate potential leaders leadership is to produce more leaders, not portive relationships with the community of • Acquaint them with community needs • Provide insight into techniques, opporleaders in Abilene. more followers.” -Ralph Nader tunities and challenges of leadership This quote accurately describes the vision Chaired by Chief Larry Bell (retired) and • Explore alternate perspectives for comand the essence of the Chamber’s Leader- Evan Simmons (United Way) participants in munity challenges ship Abilene program and its ALL NEW the Leadership Abilene programs meet one •Encourage new leaders to community Young Leadership Abilene (YLA) program day a month for nine months and dive into involvement With both of these programs launching for the the inner workings of what makes Abilene, year in the first two weeks of September, and Abilene. Program days include City/County What do Chamber Leadership programs produce? A group of people who are pasRISE (Relationships, Insight, Service and sionate about living and working here. A Engagement) kicking off in October, we group of people who are newly commithave been busy wrapping up last minute ted to rolling up their sleeves and getting a details. It is our annual reminder that we little dirty for the cause of helping to shape are at the beginning of another season of Abilene into a community in which they engaging with folks as they embark on a want to stay and thrive. new and more personal Abilene experience. This is an especially impactful exIf you think you may be interested in beperience for participants who have been ing a part of Leadership Abilene or RISE, here their whole lives, and inevitably learn or if you are the parent of a student who something about their beloved Abilene for Government, Healthcare, Education, Servant would benefit from participation in the the first time. Leadership (which focuses on non-profit or- Youth Leadership Abilene program, call the Chaired by Jessi Bailey from West Texas Re- ganizations), Economic Development, Arts Chamber or email Erica at erica@abilenehabilitation Center, RISE is an eight-month, & Quality of Life, and Dyess Air Force Base. chamber.com. intensive and participant interactive leader- Class members bond quickly through experiship training program designed and conducted ences that are designed to challenge them both by a proven and respected leadership trainer. personally and professionally and through opParticipants discuss with other emerging and portunities to examine the inner-workings of key leaders in Abilene, apply the learning their community at the micro-level. www.facebook.com/hispaniclifemagazine through their current role in his or her organization, develop and grow as a professional The purpose of Leadership Abilene is this:
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48 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
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8 Rules To Live By If You Want To Be Successful In Life By Career Girl Daily
Ask a group of people what success means to them and the definition differs slightly every time. Success, like love, is a word so charged with emotion and meaning that it takes on so many different forms. To some, success lies in family, to others in business, some measure success by wealth, others measure it by wellness. You’re never going to find one rounded definition of success because it’s something that you set for yourself. We all have our own definitions of success and what makes us successful, but no matter what the end game is, the path we take is mostly the same. It starts with a dream, which will only become reality with a plan. And most of us need to work on our self-improvement, developing yourself and pushing yourself to stick to the goals you’ve set yourself. No matter what a successful life looks like to you, there are a few rules you need to live by to make it happen.
1. Keep things simple - The mind has a habit of overcomplicating things. From the things you keep on your desk to the mental habits, you preoccupy yourself with. De-clutter your life every single week and think about the things you need to cut out. Communicate clearly and don’t complicate things by overthinking. If you want to be successful, you need to make your journey as simple as possible.
2. Whatever you say, do - Don’t be
one of those people who always say they will do something and never do it. If you’re going to set goals, deadlines, targets make sure you achieve them. If you want to take the next step, take it, if you want to start a business, start it. You want to be known as someone who sticks to her word.
3. Let go - Sometimes in life, we let certain
things hold us back. Most of the time it’s our past. And if there’s one thing the past creates is excuses. Don’t blame your past for where you are right now, recognize that you have the power to change it, to make your own choices and create your own path. Your past may be a part of you, but it doesn’t define you. You’ll never be able to move forward if you don’t let go. You will feel AMAZING once you realize it doesn’t affect you anymore.
4. Eliminate the fear - Everybody has a
fear about something. Whether we admit it to ourselves or not, fear can hold us back. Successful people don’t let their heads rule their hearts, and often embrace fear. Fear of something usually means you should go for it. Launch into it and see where it takes you.
5. Make time work for you - Time man-
agement is everything. And if it’s something you’re struggling with then it’s something you need to restrategize and plan better for. First, you need to spend one week assessing your time and how you spend it. Record exactly what you do and when you do it, including things like time on your phone. At the end of the week add up your time spent – what did you get done? Where can you improve?
6. Reprogram your mind - They say our
brains work just like computers, and I have to agree. You can reprogram your mind to achieve anything you want, by tricking yourself into new habits and reinforcing them with rewards. Start by planting new messages in your brain, telling yourself about the things you want to achieve and rewarding yourself when you make steps towards them. Create your own mini-vision board of how you will feel once you achieve the things you’ve put your mind to. This will act as a compass, guiding you when you’re likely to feel distracted or unmotivated.
7. Break The Predictability - Yes, in life,
a lot of our days begin and end the same. In some ways, having a routine is a beautiful thing. But every so often you should want to break it. Answer me this, what makes you, you? What’s the love of your life? Connect with that more, connect with you more. Do the things you love because you love to do them. Sometimes, it’s OK to break up your routine. Be spontaneous, even if that means doing things you wouldn’t usually do.
8. Attract the positive - In order to be more
positive, you have to attract the positive into yourself. And I’m not just talking about putting it out in the universe (which you should do too), but attracting it into your life. You can do this in numerous ways and it depends on you as a person. Ask yourself what makes you happy? What was your answer? Ok, fill your life with that thing. One thing that makes me feel happy and whole is life itself, how special it can be and how precious it can feel. It has its ups and downs, but when it’s good there’s so much to be happy for.
Pick us up at Abilene I.S.D., China Star, A & M Donuts | BUSINESS | 49
Job Time:
Application Assistance (EVERY WEDNESDAY in SEPTEMBER)
Abilene Public Library - Mockingbird Branch
If you need help applying for a job or creating a resume or cover letter, stop by the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library every Wednesday from 4-6pm and let us get you started on the road to success. We will cover: how to search for jobs, how to create a resume, share advice on how to dress for and succeed in an interview and much more. Phone us 325-437-7323 as spots are limited and you do not want to miss out! Free.
50 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
Abilene Industrial Foundation Fundraiser To Cast Wider Net By Brian Bethel | Abilene Reporter-News
The Abilene Industrial Foundation is casting a wider net in its 2018 fund drive, which is underway now, Abilene Chamber of Commerce President Doug Peters said, largely because of an intensive economic development strategy first rolled out in 2016. “It really calls for the community to focus on 10 specific pieces of economic development in order to be successful, and workforce is chief among them,” Peters said. Thus, the AIF is “sort of leading” the effort to pursue that plan with partners across the community, he said. “And we realized it’s going to take more resources and a little bit heavier lift to get that plan done at the level of satisfaction that provides return on the investment for the community,” Peters said. Rather than putting more burden on taxpayers that support the Development Corporation of Abilene, he said, “we’ve had so many people approach us and tell us I’d like to be part of this economic development effort.” This year’s fundraising campaign is the first time that it has been more than just a staff-driven initiative, said Peters, who is also president of the AIF. “It’s always been a letter from me going to the same folks and saying it’s that time of year, we’d love to have you continue to support the effort,” he said. The broadened campaign is headed by Abilene Realtor Scott Senter, with a goal of “encouraging everyone” who wants to support such efforts to do so, Peters said. The Abilene Industrial Foundation is an arm of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. “This community does economic development through a public-private partnership, and the AIF is the private side of that public-private partnership,” Peters said.
Lofty Goals
The AIF serves as the official industrial recruiting and retention arm of Abilene. In partnership with the DCOA, it goes out to recruit new employers to come here, particularly in industrial and manufacturing spaces. Money that the AIF receives from the DCOA is targeted toward marketing the community and to develop the community’s No. 1 economic challenge, workforce, Peters said. The group’s board is made up of beneficiaries and community supporters that try to “invest in the effort privately in addition to the funding that comes from the DCOA.” In past years, a group of about 50 or so have collectively invested about $65,000 a year, Peters said. “We have a consultant in Austin who looks after our interest as a business community,” Peters said. “The
chamber is very deeply involved in government affairs work. We work with our legislators at all level of government to ensure that we’re creating an environment here that is pro-business for companies to flourish and thrive and ultimately broaden our tax base.” Peters said, that “there are a lot of folks in the community that either want to be a part of the industrial recruitment process, the building up of our city.” “They want to support it in some way,” he said.” So we’ve broadened this annual funding initiative that we do.” Since 2015, the AIF has created a vision document to help the city of Abilene attract a downtown hotel, Peters said. “We’ve created that vision that we call the Festival District, that really caused some hotel developers to take notice of our community after sort of coming up empty on that,” he said. “We also have, along with other partners in the community, used private resources from the AIF to build an overall strategic plan for the downtown area.” More than 1,000 people participated in focus groups, workshops, etc. to “help us get our arms around what downtown ought to look like,” Peters said. Most recently, a full-time downtown development manager has been hired to look after the interests of downtown and “working with developers specific to that particular geography that we call that central business district,” he said. The current effort is also designed with an eye toward asking participants for more suggestions on how to attract new companies to town, Peters said. “We want them to be a meaningful part of the process,” he said. “... To be able to do more because the business community and government is at the same table really is a competitive advantage for Abilene.” The AIF has also helped support keeping the Abilene State Supported Living Center open. The facility represents 1,200 jobs and indirectly creates 625 more, collectively generating $67 million for the local economy. Senter said Friday that he would ideally like to see funds collected over time for a future endowment so the AIF has a fall-back position to level out “ebbs and flows.” “I think it adds permanency,” he said. For more information on the campaign, contact 325-673-7349, or www.developabilene.com.
CALL US TO ADV TISE (325) 701-95ER 05 209 S. Danville, Suite B-1 Email: info@his paniclifemedia03 .com
Pick us up at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wal-Mart, Lytle Land & Cattle | BUSINESS | 51
7 Tried-And-True Strategies for Generating More Customer Leads By Kelly Spors | The Hartford - Small Biz Ahead
For a small business owner, acquiring new customers can be expensive, and many traditional “leadgeneration” strategies — such as cold-calling lists of potential customers or door-knocking — simply don’t work anymore. People have more ways than ever to check a business’s reputation before they spend money at it, and they care about their overall customer experience. The most successful companies know that the secret to acquiring customers today is to create the most customer-friendly business — one that outshines the competition, so that customers would be crazy to go anywhere else. That said, there are a variety of ways to improve your company’s lead gen so that more people gain exposure to your business in the first place. Here are seven proven ways that successful companies acquire new customers:
ful information, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Many large corporations use event marketing as a way to captivate new customers: Chipotle’s Cultivate Festival, for example, offers free music concerts as well as food samples and education on sustainable farming as a way to reel in more diners. But small businesses can use event marketing as well. Consider a marketing firm that invites its key clients to join them in box seats for a local baseball playoff game — and encourages them to bring a friend along (read: hopefully a prospective client). Or consider the bookstore that hosts well-known authors reading and signing their books. Make sure to capture your attendees’ contact information, perhaps through an email sign-up, so you can reach out and thank them for attending the event later on.
1. Provide first-time customers with special offers. Getting people to take the
plunge and try your business may be as simple as offering them a deal. Many companies, large and small, have used this strategy. Amazon Prime — the popular $99-a-year service that provides Amazon customers with no-cost shipping and online video streaming, among other perks — has grown its membership considerably by offering 30day free trials to first-time users.
2. Build a “five star” reputation on customer review sites. Consumers increas-
ingly check reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, and Facebook to find businesses they want to buy from. Thus, small businesses that are able to build great reputations on these sites can draw in more new customers. While certain review sites have policies against businesses pressuring customers to leave glowing reviews, you can actively manage your profile on those sites, add a link to your review-site pages in your email signature, and simply mention that you have a profile on review sites and always welcome feedback. A 2016 Harvard Business School working paper found that for a restaurant to receive “a one-star increase in Yelp rating leads to a 5-9 percent increase in revenue.”
3. Host events — and make sure prospective customers are invited. You also can draw new customers to your business by hosting events that provide entertainment, use-
If you run an IT company, you might write a blog on current technology-related issues, such as how to prevent a website from getting hacked. The better able you are to position yourself as a thought leader, the more likely people will turn to you.
6. Time your marketing and offers right. Good timing is more essential to lead generation than you might think.
In its early days, Airbnb made the strategic decision to offer its popular home and room rental service during major events in cities when local hotel rooms would be in short supply. This generated many new “leads” for the company that eventually turned into loyal customers. Consider the best time to unveil offers and to approach your prospective customers, as certain times may be more compelling (and thus lucrative for your business) than others.
7. View your website as a key leadgen tool. You can optimize your business website in many ways:
4. Use social media as an outreach tool.
Your business probably has a social media presence, such as a Facebook profile where you post occasional updates. If so, you may be able to use it more opportunely to connect with prospective clients and customers. First, make sure your social media profiles are robust and include attractive photos, perhaps video, your contact information, and a link to your website. But also think about ways to make more valuable connections through social media. On LinkedIn, for example, you can search for other professionals who might be interested in your services and ask to connect. (You can do the same on Facebook and Twitter, but LinkedIn specializes in being a professional networking site.)
5. Produce and maintain valuable content. Creating and sharing blog posts, articles,
videos, infographics, and other valuable content that showcases your company’s expertise can help you win new clients. Look for ways to use content marketing most effectively.
First, make sure it shows up prominently in search engine results for key terms that prospective customers would use to look for a business like yours. • If you can’t get a good search ranking organically, consider buying paid search ads — which may not be that expensive, depending on what search terms you’re paying for. • Make sure your site loads quickly and that people can easily find your contact info, including business address and/or phone number and email. • Consider ways to draw website visitors into your site, whether it’s through the use of beautiful photography, client testimonials, or informative and timely content. • Whatever you decide, your business website design should be clear to understand and easy to navigate — and not only at the desktop but also on mobile devices. Consumers today prefer to feel that they’ve “discovered” a business on their own — not that they’re being hard-pitched. Thankfully, there are many ways you can help them to discover your business more easily and, over time, to develop a relationship with you.
52 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
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 325-238-7335.
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7/6/18 2:59 PM
11 Secrets of Small Business Success
Pick us up at Dairy Queen, First Financial Bank & Central Finance | BUSINESS | 53
By Rhonda Abrams | USA Today
Over the years, my small business has had its share of ups and downs. The economy tanked. My distributor went bankrupt. I lost valuable employees and lost a lease. In fact, the entire book publishing industry changed in the time I’ve been in it (I’m a publisher).
truck before a restaurant. If you can work on growing businesses. To survive you need to be your business while you still have your day able to embrace change. job, that’s the way to go. No. 6: Keep your customers. This seems obviNo. 3: Line up as much money as you can. ous, but all too often, small businesses spend One of Rhonda’s Rules is “Things take longer a lot of time attracting customers and not very and cost more than anticipated.” The first few much time retaining them. Serve current cliBut 25 years later I’m still here. What’s the years of business you’ll likely face low income ents well. Stay in touch with them. Offer them secret to my small business success? Actually, and high outgo. Clean up your credit before discounts. Recognize that they are your bread I have 11 of them: you launch so you’ll have some credit capacity and butter. Keep your clients if you want to available. keep your business. No. 1: First, have a pretty good idea of what you’re getting into before you start. Running No. 4: Be frugal. Watch every nickel, particu- No. 7: Hire good employees. For a long time, a company is not a 9-to-5 occupation. And larly the first years. During the dot-com era, I I was reluctant to be a boss, but I wish I had much, if not most, of running a business has served on the advisory board of a small startup hired help years earlier. Don’t just hire anyone; little to do with the quality of the product or that spent $15,000 a month for public rela- look for a good attitude and work ethic as well service you sell. You have to work long, hard tions. Yikes. They were out of business in less as needed skills. With good help, you leverage and smart. And learn new things. Fifty percent than 12 months. your time and skills. That’s part of why I’m of new businesses close (not fail) during the not only still here but why my business grew. first five years, often because their owners No. 5: Adapt. Over the years, my business has didn’t realize how much time, expense and evolved. First, I was a consultant developing No. 8: Find someone you can talk to. It’s uncertainty would be involved. business plans, then I was approached to write lonely at the top, especially if you’re at the top a book on business planning, then a column, of a one-person business. Find someone – not No. 2: Line up customers before you open then I launched an internet company. And, fi- an employee or spouse – with whom you can your doors. Sometimes it means starting small nally, I became a publisher, creating and pub- share business problems, ask advice, bounce – being a home chef before a caterer, a food lishing books and software on planning and off ideas. An experienced business colleague
HispanicLife Magazine Finishes Big with their ‘3rd Annual Community Drive’ What a joy to be able to give to others and others have given to us! “For there’s no joy in having or getting, but only in giving”. This year we are excited to announce that we have finished our 3rd Annual Community Drive with much success! So many people came to make their donations in exchange for tickets to waterparks and themepark attractions. We see it as a win-win situation! The whole pass if forward idea work quite well for the Abilene Community and beyond! Our 1st check presentation was made to Hope Haven, where Katherine Bisson is the Program Director. The next check contributions will be made to the following organizations: The Noah Project, Disability Resources of Abilene and Rescue the Animals. Even in the midst of a few rumors going around within the community that this drive could be a scam, we were delighted and overwhelmed with number of stories from families that were able to have great Summer vacations, all the meanwhile knowing that their much needed contributions were going towards these awesome non-profit organizations. Next year we look forward to even more success! Thank you Abilene and The Big Country for all you do! “Porque Somos Familia... Because We’re Family!”
will help you keep your balance during the roller-coaster ride of setbacks and successes.
No. 9: Recharge your own batteries. Work-
ing for yourself is not only exhausting but also sometimes demoralizing. You have to take breaks, re-examine your goals, learn new skills. You are your company; invest in yourself.
No. 10: Hate working for others. OK, I have to
admit this is a major part of why I’m still here. No matter how tough I am on myself as a boss, no matter how stressful it is running a business, I just don’t want to work for anyone else.
No. 11: Finally and most importantly, believe
in what you do. When things get tough, as they inevitably do, it helps to be doing something you feel is important. What keeps me going is the belief that what I do makes a difference to others, and I’m fortunate that so many readers let me know I’ve made a difference to them. And that, in the end, may be the biggest reason of all for why I’m still here.
54 | BUSINESS | HispanicLife l Abilene/BigCountry
Connecting The Community of Abilene & The Big Country
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT BRADY LEMEN Name: Brady Lemen
Professionals class at Pioneer Drive.
Where do you work? Gage & Company, CPAs, What does being an Abilene Young ProfesLLP sional mean to you? While it may not seem like an important “title”, it is crucial for Abilene What’s your job title/what do you do? Staff Ac- to attract and retain a younger demographic to countant ensure our city will continue to grow. Abilene is known for being a hot Where are you from? I’m spot for retiring individua native to Abilene. 2018 is als, however I believe the my 26th year here. Key City has an opportunity through Abilene Young What is your favorite Professionals to show thing about living in the there is a thriving, younger Big Country? It’s diffipopulation in town. Being cult to pick one aspect I a member of AYP means love about the Big Counplaying an integral role in try. Having grown up the future of Abilene. in Abilene, I’ve always loved the slower pace of Do you serve on any boards life. It’s not a rushed, goin the community or particigo-go lifestyle as opposed pate in any other groups? If to some larger cities in so, what do you enjoy about Texas. While I enjoy getyour participation? Starting in ting out of the house and July, I will be serving on the socializing, it’s nice to be Board of Young Associates at able to step back and reHardin-Simmons University. charge my batteries when needed. This board meets and discusses with the main board of directors at HSU to develop What do you do in your free time? As you can ideas and areas of improvement on campus for the see in the picture, my Yorkie, Ollie, is a huge University’s future. My time at HSU was one of aspect of my life. I have an abundance of love the best seasons of my life and I want to share that for animals and cherish time spent with my little experience with prospective students. man. In addition to playing with the pup, I enjoy spending time with friends, swimming, play- What’s something you’re passionate about and ing guitar at high volumes, attending concerts, why? Throughout my whole life, I’ve always bewatching movies, going to the lake and con- lieved in treating others with respect and try to stantly learning about anything which piques show them love regardless of how they act. It can my interest. I’m also very involved in the Young be difficult at times, but we are all human and deserve to be treated as such. I also love speaking with people and discovering what they enjoy. Once you get someone talking about their interests, you can really begin to break down the walls and learn who they really are in order to develop a more meaningful relationship.
8 Ways to Turn Saving Money Into a Game By DaveRamsey.com
So, you might think saving money is a chore you have to do, but who says you can’t make saving money fun while you’re at it? Here are 8 ways to turn the task of saving money into a game—one that you can win!
spouse, sibling or friend and see who can save up $200 first. Or, set a date as a finish line and see how much money you’ve each saved by that point. May the best saver win!
6. Get the kids in on saving money too! Are your kids begging you for a new toy
1. Have a “no spend” month. First of every time you go to the store? Of course they all, we don’t mean that you stop paying your rent or electricity bill. Then you’d be out of a home, in the dark, and have much bigger fish to fry than playing our little saving game. Don’t do that. Remember to take care of the Four Walls (food, clothing, shelter and utilities, and transportation).
Instead, fill in the blank here: This month, we aren’t going to spend any money on _________. That could be entertainment, restaurants, or anything you want. Then, take the budgeted money you saved and drop it in your savings!
2. Put a sticky note in your wallet. In big, bold
letters write “Do I really need this?” on a sticky note, scrap of paper, or index card, and keep it in your wallet. You can even try wrapping it around your debit card. Just make sure you stick it somewhere visible. The idea here is to get you to see it before you make a purchase. We all need that still, small voice in our head (or wallet) to keep us in line.
3. Save all your loose change or dollar bills in a big jar. Is it flashy? Nope.
Is it an ode to the water jug of coins your dad saved in the den back in the 1980s? Maybe. But it doesn’t really matter as long as you’re saving money. Every time you have to break a dollar or find loose change in your pockets, dump those extra coins into your jar. You can even start a competition between your family or friends to see who can save up $20 first!
are. Instead of being quick to buy it for them, encourage them to save up for that big-ticket item they want. This means finding small ways for them to do things around the house and giving them a commission for completing the work. Say you’ll pay them 50 cents for every room they vacuum. Then sit back, relax and watch them save up while you enjoy the fruit of their labor (hello, mess-free carpets). You can make it a full-on sibling competition too! Let the kids save up for a while and offer a small prize at the end of the game for whoever saved the most! Be sure the kids can actually see their savings as it adds up. A clear jar is much better than a cute piggy bank that doesn’t show how much money they’ve saved.
7. How far can you stretch a dollar?
Can you and your spouse go out to eat for under $5? Can you each spend only $10 on your upcoming anniversary? How long can you make that full gas tank last? Make it a challenge to see how far you can stretch your dollar. You might be surprised at how creative you can get!
8. Do a pantry challenge. Ready, set,
don’t buy any more groceries! See how long you can make the food in your pantry last and think outside the box with the meals you make!
Ready, Set, Start Saving Money! 4. Increase your savings by $1 each A word to the wise: don’t get too carried away week. This is a really good one to start at the with the fun and games of saving money that beginning of the year. You can start out slow with $1 on the first week of the year, $2 on the second week of the year, and so on. If you keep that up all year long, by December 31, you’ll have saved $1,378! Happy New Year to you, indeed!
5. Get competitive. Who can resist
a good challenge? Face-off against your
you forget to be intentional with the money you save. And don’t let the money hang out in your bank account and tempt you to spend it! Put the hard-earned money you saved in a separate savings account, sinking fund, or toward your next goal in the Baby Steps! Now get to work saving!
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