People tease Donna Albus that she should start a new organization called “Volunteer Anonymous” because of her civic involvement. She can scratch one of her commitments off the list–City Council. After serving six years in Place 3, Albus decided not to run again in the May election. Voters elected Blaise Regan to replace her. Albus cited the new downtown hotel as the … [Read more...]
Abilene Influencer: H.C. Zachry
H.C. Zachry says “outlook” is what makes Abilene unique. But what makes H.C. unique? “Outlook” applies there, too. You won’t meet a more positive, upbeat person than H.C. Zachry. That outlook, combined with know-how and an unsurpassed work ethic, has driven H.C. to do great things for the city of Abilene. He’s behind the establishment of Frontier Texas! It was his vision … [Read more...]
Abilene Influencer: Samantha Baker
College seniors need to listen to what Samantha Baker has to say. “Network!” is her one-word advice for soon-to-be graduates and recent graduates of Abilene’s three universities. Samantha knows what she’s talking about. After graduating from Garland High School in 2006, she enrolled at Hardin-Simmons University and earned a bachelor of business administration degree in … [Read more...]
Abilene Influencer: Gary Grubbs
Scan a list of nonprofits and agencies in Abilene and it’s a safe bet that Gary Grubbs has served on the board of directors. His interests range from the Military Affairs Committee to Crimestoppers, to St. John’s Episcopal School, and the American Cancer Society, plus many more. His service, of course, is in addition to his job of 23 years as manager of marketing and … [Read more...]
Abilene Influencer: Pearl Merritt
Even before May 2022, Pearl Merritt knew Abilene was a special place, but the events that unfolded for 12 days beginning May 17 sealed the deal. Merritt and her husband were among the victims during the 12 days that it took firefighters to contain what became known as the Mesquite Heat Fire in western Taylor County. They lost their house near View in the ordeal but escaped … [Read more...]