Celebrating el Diez y Seis de Septiembre, H&R Block, South 14th. Abilene, TX
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Today we
celebrate 202 years since Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a
village priest, proclaimed his now famous “Grito de Dolores”
on the night of September 15th, 1810. On that evening he rang
the church bells to gather 600 followers to call for the
independence of Mexico. He called for freedom, liberty,
and equality for all the citizens of Mexico. For three
centuries the native born
Mexicanos had been disqualified to hold top positions in the
Spanish rule of New Spain. Father Hidalgo had been moved
by the poverty of his parishioners, who, due to the rigid laws
by the Spaniards could do little to benefit themselves
economically. Defying the laws, Father Hidalgo began to instruct
his people in crafts and agriculture. He also began to
hold meetings at the home of Dona Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez
where Father Hidalgo used the meetings to advocate revolution
against Spain.
The Spanish government heard of Father Hidalgo’s revolutionary
stance and sent soldiers to arrest him. Informants alerted the
priest so he decided to move up his plans for revolt to
September 15th. In the following weeks Father
Hidalgo led this armed revolutionaries to the outskirts of
Mexico City. Realizing that his revolt would only bring
Mexico anarchy rather than actual reform, he ordered his
followers to retreat. In the ensuing battles, Father
Hidalgo was captured and later executed in 1811. But the
spirit for independence never died and continued for the next
ten years. For his bravery Father Hidalgo is known as the
“Father of Mexico”.
It is important to note, that in August 1812 the struggles for
Mexico’s Independence were also fought in Texas.
About 2,000 of Hidalgo’s rebels and Americans in support for
Mexico’s Independence joined forces and captured La Bahia
(Goliad, Texas) and San Antonio. Their victories,
unfortunately, were short lived as the Spanish royal army
crushed the rebels in the battle of the Medina River, west of
San Antonio. In that battle, sons of the American
Revolutionary War and War of 1812 also gave their lives. In
June 1821, Spain finally recognized Mexico’s Independence.
Since the 19th century Mexico has celebrated “el Diez
y Seis de Septiembre” by ringing Father Hidalgo’s church
bell, now located at the presidential palace in Mexico City.
On the night of the 15 de Septiembre, the president of Mexico
reenacts “El Grito de Dolores”. On the following day, el “Diez
y Seis de Septiembre” Mexican Independence is celebrated with
parades, public celebrations with green, white and red banners
as festive decorations.
In the United States, Mexican
citizens and Mexican-Americans celebrate the origins of their
ancestors, much like Irish Americans, German and Chinese
Americans do.
In Abilene, the Hispanics that settled the city in the
early 1910s were, for the most part, from Mexico and the U.S.
Mexico border areas. They came to Abilene and West Texas
in pursuit of a better quality of life. They brought with
them the traditions of their Mexican culture and heritage.
When I talk to people whose families were the first to settle
Abilene, they talk of grand celebrations for the fiestas patrias,
el “Diez y Seis de Septiembre”. They celebrated Mexico’s
Independence with speeches, music, dances and a reina contest.
Today, as we celebrate el “Deiz y Seis de Septiembre” let
us celebrate our rich culture and heritage and remember the
heroic legacy of Father Hidalgo.
Today, we also began the recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Public Law 100-402 was enacted in August 1988 to recognize the
contributions of Hispanics to the United States. President
Lyndon Johnson initially declared a Hispanic Heritage Week.
President Ronald Reagan extended it for 30 days. So now, from
September 15th through October 15th, it is our time as Hispanics
to share our Hispanic culture and heritage. The dates were
chosen because eight Latin American countries celebrate their
declarations of independence from Spain during that timeframe.
Given the majority position of the Mexican/Mexican American
community within the United States' Hispanic population, much
attention focuses on "El Grito," The Cry that launched Mexican
Independence on September 15, 1810. The countries of El
Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica also
commemorate independence during this timeframe
Mike Hernandez
Arroyo Catclaw Digital
Abilene, TX
Dyess AFB "Fiesta In The Park", Aug. 25, 2012
 Dyess 7th EMS Unit food booth |
 Friends of Budweiser Beer |
 Grupo Maldad with (second from left) Col. Kristina M. O'Brien Commander, Mission Support Group |
 Tejano grupo Stampede |
Myra P. Martinez Elementary dedication, North 12th and Merchant,
Aug. 15, 2012
Arroyo Catclaw Digital photo
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Nelson Splash Park, Aug. 4, 2012
(Photo courtesy David Reese)
12th Armored Division Parade, Downtown Abilene, Aug. 4, 2012
(Arroyo Catclaw Photo, copyright)
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DON’T WAIT TO VACCINATE!
Abilene Care Van, Medical Care Mission of Abilene and Texas Medical Association to offer students the opportunity to get vaccinated FREE before the beginning of the school term
August is National Immunization Awareness Month and kids need their shots before heading back to school. The Abilene Care Van, collaborating with the Medical Care Mission of Abilene and Texas Medical Association will be offering vaccinations FREE to VFC eligible students at the Medical Care Mission, 1857 Pine, Abilene, TX 79601 on Thursday, August 2 and Thursday, August 23 from 5pm to 7pm.
As of January 1, 2012 Texas law requires meningococcal vaccination for college admission. Students who have not turned 19 and who are VFC eligible may receive the meningococcal vaccination as well as other highly recommended vaccinations at these clinics.
To receive these free vaccinations a student must be Texas Vaccine for Children eligible. Your child is eligible if he/she:
· Has no insurance or has insurance that does not cover vaccines. Families with insurance are encouraged to check with their insurance company to verify covered vaccines. Specifically HPV for boys may not be covered by insurance.
· CHIP or Medicaid
· American Indian or Alaskan Native
Parents or guardians must bring child’s immunization record. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Contact: Lynda Shirley (800) 258.5437 #4; cell: (214) 673-2410; email: Lynda_Shirley@bcbstx.com.
Second Graduation Ceremony Scheduled for “Fast-Track” Welding
Graduates
Abilene, Texas—
On Thursday, June 7th, 2012, at 6:30 p.m., on the Abilene campus of Cisco College. The Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board, Development Corporation of Abilene and, Cisco College, will participate in the graduation of the second of three scheduled “Fast-Track” Welding Classes. The welding class is a partnership with DCOA, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board, Cisco College and Abilene employers. In an effort to address the labor shortages of qualified welders, Cisco College developed a training curriculum in coordination with local employers. Workforce Solutions assisted with the application, assessments, and screening of potential students. Twelve welders have completed a seven (7) week training program and will receive a Welding Certification and OSHA Safety Certification. The Safety Certification has been taught by Canada and Associates. In addition to these certifications, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas has provided employability skills training, resume writing and job application techniques to all participants. A hiring event, with several local employers will be held on Friday, June 8thth 2012 from 8:30 to 11:00 at the Abilene Workforce Center.Zoolute to Dyess: Free Zoo festivities for military families
ABILENE, TX. – Zoolute to Dyess kicks
off Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free lunch,
entry to the Abilene Zoo and special entertainment for military
families. Active and retired members of the military,
National Guard and Reserves along with their families are
invited to enjoy the day’s festivities. Those attending Zoolute
to Dyess must provide military I.D.
Special Zoolute entertainment
includes the Presentation of the Colors at 9 a.m., Zoo Keeper
talks, local musicians, a children’s bounce house, drawings and
more. A free lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
while supplies last in the concession area. Zoolute to
Dyess is made possible through generous sponsorships and
volunteer efforts.
Cinco de Mayo 2012, St. Vincent Catholic Church, Abilene
See more photos from Carlos Photography, click here Carlos Photos
AirFest, Dyess Air Force Base, 4-28-2012
Spring Clean and Tire Amnesty Days coming April 12- 14
ABILENE, Texas – Clear out unwanted
items from your property and recycle them during the upcoming
Spring Clean and Tire Amnesty Days. During this annual event,
citizens have a chance to spruce up their homes and properties
while conveniently dropping off their cast-off items at the City
of Abilene’s Environmental Recycling Center (ERC) located at
2209 Oak St.
The event will take place Thursday,
April 12 through Saturday, April 14. Hours of operation are from
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Due to safety concerns, Oak Street will turn
into a one way street with vehicles entering from South 25th
Street, on Saturday, April 14.
Typically, the ERC is a drop-off
point for citizens to bring almost any type of recyclable
materials including plastics, glass and cardboard to bulkier
items such as outdated electronics, furniture and old
appliances. However, certain items such as large-scale
remodeling project materials will not be accepted. While most
items may be dropped off free of charge, citizens will be asked
to off-load their own items.
At this year’s Spring Clean, citizens
may bring up to eight passenger tires without rims, free of
charge with proof of residency (current water bill). However,
truck tires without rims are $6 per tire and with rims $8 per
tire. Ag tires will be accepted without rims only for a $35 per
tire service fee. No commercial or business tires will be
accepted.
For more information on recycling or
the Spring Clean event, call 325-672-2209.
TICKETS ON SALE FOR APRIL 15 ALICE IN WONDERLAND MUSICAL IN
ABILENE
Abilene, TEXAS—tickets are now on sale for the upcoming live, professional theatrical performance of “Alice in Wonderland,” presented by the Children’s Performing Arts Series.
The show will be performed on Sunday, April 15 at 2 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre, 352 Cypress Street.
Single tickets are only $8.
“Alice in Wonderland” is the last of three productions in the CPAS 2011-2012 season.
Audiences will enjoy this exciting, full scale musical production from American Family Theater featuring colorful sets, inventive costumes, creative staging and iconic characters like the Mad Hatter, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, the White Rabbit, and of course, Alice herself.
Leslie Bennett of the N. Y. Times says this about American Family Theater productions:
“Their shows burst with energy, song, and special effects. Again and again, American Family Theater proves how strong it is in creating original contemporary theater. Their engaging productions wonderfully command the attention of young audiences and their sprit is contagious.”
Season tickets for next year’s 2012-2013 season will go on sale in late March. The lineup of new shows includes “Sleeping Beauty,” scheduled for Oct. 14, 2012, “ImaginOcean,” to be performed on Feb. 17, 2013 and “Pinkalicious,” scheduled for April 21. 2013.”
2011-2012 Season tickets are $25 and $40 for all three shows. The $40 VIP level includes admission to two after parties, where children and their families can enjoy refreshments, craft activities and meet the cast of the shows.
The first 50 people purchasing new season tickets for next season will receive an invitation to the special “Mad Hatter’s tea party” following the Alice in Wonderland show.
Military and group discounts are also available. Tickets may be purchased online at abilenecac.org or by calling 677-1161. On the day of the show, tickets will be available at the Paramount Theatre box office beginning at 12:30 p.m.
The Children’s Performing Arts Series is a division of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, a non profit organization.
CPAS brings live professional theater productions to Abilene for the benefit and enjoyment of the area’s youngest audiences and their families. Ticket prices are made affordable though the generous underwriting of individuals and businesses in the community.
Tickets may be purchased online at abilenecac.org. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone by calling 677-1161 or in person by visiting the CPAS office in the T&P Depot at 1101 North 1st Street, Monday – Friday between 8:30 – 5 p.m.
For more information, call CPAS director Hollye Jaklewicz at 677-1161 or send an email to cpas@abilene.com.
10th Annual Youth Job Fair Assists Youth & Employers
With Summer Employment Opportunities
Abilene, Texas--In an effort to assist young job seekers in finding summer and part-time employment, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas, and the Abilene Chamber of Commerce will sponsor "Hot Dog--I Got a Job!" Area Youth Job Fair on Friday, March 9th, 2012 from 1:00-5:00p.m. at the Abilene Civic Center, 1100 N. 6th Street. Job seekers, age 16-21, are invited to meet representatives from businesses and to complete applications for employment. Over 35 businesses have registered to attend, with multiple job openings. Job opportunities include sales, customer service, cooks, and wait staff at the afternoon event. Registration is FREE to all job seekers and employers seeking to hire for summer job openings. In addition, this years event will promote job training through volunteer opportunities. Applicants will receive assistance from professional staff in completing applications and marketing themselves to potential employers. In preparation for meeting employers and completing applications, job seekers should bring a pen, their social security number, and dress appropriately for an interview.
Job seekers will receive a coupon for a hot dog, courtesy of Sonic Drive-In.. "This event allows us to assist local employers in obtaining summer help and provides applicants the convenience of applying for a number of jobs in one location. It's a win-win opportunity for employers and applicants," states Mary Ross, Executive Director of the Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas. Job seekers may complete pre-registration forms by visiting the Workforce Solutions website at www.workforcesystem.org. or by e-mail youthjobfair@workforcesystem.org For more information about the job fair or other services for job seekers, contact Workforce Solutions at (325)795-4397.
The Workforce Solutions of West Central
Texas Board is an equal opportunity employer. Auxiliary
aids and services are available upon request to
individuals with disabilities (1-800-735-2989 TDD or
1-800-735-2988 voice) for accessible communication.
Workshop Offers
Assistance to Entrepreneurs and New Business Start-ups
ABILENE, TEXAS---The West Texas Innovation Network is
sponsoring a “Mentor Forum” on Thursday, March 8th
from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Small Business Development
Center, Conference Room, 6th Floor of the Enterprise
Building, 500 Chestnut, Abilene, Texas. There is no registration
fee for this event
Local, successful business owners will provide guidance, advice and encouragement for those who are considering and/or have taken steps to start a business. The business owners offer their expertise and perspectives as a gesture of appreciation for those who have mentored them in their own entrepreneurship development. Bring your questions and become involved in a new business dialogue.
The WEST TEXAS INNOVATION NETWORK (WTIN) provides access to training opportunities for entrepreneurs aspiring to start their own businesses. Mike Mikeworth, Project Manager states “We work with a variety of community partners, small business owners and other entrepreneurship interests in the Big Country in order to make available quality training, consulting and events to local entrepreneurs.” Most of these services are at NO COST to the attendees, but require registration. For more information and to register online, visit www.wtin.org All Big Country residents are invited to attend this forum. Funding for the West Texas Innovation Network was provided through a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission.
The West Texas Innovation Network is a collaborative
effort of the ACU Griggs Center for Entrepreneurship and
Philanthropy, the Texas Tech Small Business Development Center
and the Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas Board focused
on supporting entrepreneurs by providing networking, training,
mentoring and resources. Additional
information about WTIN may be obtained by visiting our website
at
www.wtin.org. Mike Mikeworth
WTIN Project Manager 325-795-4313 , Workforce Solutions of West
Central Texas
25th annual TET Reunion 2012, Feb.
4th, Taylor County Display Bldg.
Granddaughter holds flag with grandfather,
who served in the Vietnam War
LZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION WORKSHOP
OFFERED FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MEMORY LOSS AND THEIR CARE PARTNERS
The Alzheimer’s Association –North
Central Texas Chapter is offering a workshop, “Partnering
With Your Doctor: A Workshop for Persons with Memory Problems
and Their Care Partners,” on Tuesday, January 17, 2012
from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. at Anson Park Seniors, located at 2249
Vogel St., in
The workshop will provide strategies
to form a doctor/patient/care partner relationship that allows
you to more effectively manage and be a part of your healthcare.
Workshop leaders will discuss communicating with your doctor,
improving how patients and care partners work together, getting
organized and prepared for doctor visits, reducing your stress,
and ways to ensure the best health care possible for the
patient.
There is no charge to attend the workshop; however, reservations are required. For more information or to register, contact the Alzheimer’s Association – North Central Texas Chapter at 325-672-2907 or 1-800-272-3900, or e-mail mbannister@alz.org.
The Alzheimer’s Association is the
leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research,
care and support. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s
disease through the advancement of research; to provide and
enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the
risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s.
Abilene, Texas—Through
a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, Workforce Solutions
of West Central Texas along with four other Texas areas
(totaling 75 counties) has received funding through August 2012
to offer 1,500+ juniors, seniors, and out-of-school youth an
opportunity to earn a National Career Readiness Certificate
(NCRC) which was developed by the internationally
recognized assessment organization American College
Testing (ACT). Testing for this certificate is
being coordinated through schools, organizations, and on an
individual basis. Another important objective of the grant is to
obtain letters of commitment from employers stating they will
recognize and promote the certificate in their interview,
hiring, and/or promotion processes. The services provided
through the grant are focused on creating work-ready
communities and continuing to build regional capacity for
meeting the current and future workforce needs.
The NCRC provides fair and objective measurement of workplace skills and can be accepted nationwide. This credential is also used across all sectors of the economy at all levels. The NCRC is comprised of three assessments in the following areas: math, reading, and locating information which tap into the youth’s problem-solving and communication skills. When ACT profiled 6,000 jobs over five years they found that 77% of the jobs utilized these skills.
In order for youth to earn
a certificate they will be provided with access to a web-based
pre-assessment and remediation tools. Following these
activities, they will take a three and a half hour proctored
assessment which will indicate if they have earned one of the
four certificate levels. Once earned, the certificate is good
for five years. Such testing normally costs $22 per person along
with licensing fees; however, all testing expenses are covered
under the grant. Testing is also coordinated and administered by
Workforce staff at the participating school/organization.
Along with students earning
career readiness certificates, there is also a focus on
educating employers about the certificate and gaining their
support in recognizing applicants/incumbents who obtain this
credential. The certificate is intended to help employers make
informed decisions in the screening and selection process,
training and development, and succession planning. Employers
throughout the region are being asked to sign a letter of
commitment stating they will recognize and promote the NCRC as a
valuable credential and take it into account during their
interview, hiring, and/or promotion processes.
This initiative is designed
to provide youth with an opportunity to identify, develop, and
communicate essential workplace skills as well as gain regional
employer support for a nationally recognized certificate.
Several schools and employers throughout the 19 county region
have committed to participate in this initiative. If you
are affiliated with a school or organization and would like to
offer this assessment, or are an employer and would like to sign
a letter of commitment, please see contact information below.
Contact Garolyn Jergins, Readiness
Navigator for the Workforce Solutions of West
In keeping with "there's always something new at Abilene ZOO"
But
not just any car, a 2011 BMW X3! Autobahn Motorcar Group has
graciously donated a 2011 BMW X3 as the Grand Prize for this local BBBS
fundraiser in celebration of the event’s 13th
anniversary. Since this luxurious vehicle was donated, 100% of the
proceeds will benefit the one-to-one mentoring relationships serving the
children of Abilene.
