He flips, he jumps, he climbs, he lifts spirits, and sometimes he causes neck-twisting double-takes on the street. He’s Abilene Spidey and he’s on a mission to bring a little happiness into the lives of children, especially those who are hospitalized or have long term illnesses. Abilene Spidey’s alter ego, Chris Craig, knows a thing or two about illness and … [Read more...]
Fighting for Zero: Formerly Homeless Veteran Helps Lower Homeless Veteran Rates
The 30-second commercial begins with a man strolling through a park, an alley, and then downtown, telling a story as he goes. “As a Marine, I learned resiliency,” the man says. “But when I lost my job, my home, and was living out of my car, I felt like a shadow of that person.” Abilenians watching the Rocket Mortgage commercial might lean in closer to the TV to get a … [Read more...]
One Pet at a Time: Fostering Keeps Abilene Animal Shelter Thriving
Michael Bricker has an admirable goal for the Abilene Animal Shelter, and it’s one that everyone can help him meet. On July 1, 2020, Bricker took over as interim animal services director for the city of Abilene. He is employed by Best Friends Animal Society, a national rescue organization with an animal sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Bricker was named interim director of the … [Read more...]
To Bless Others: Breast Cancer Survivor Photo Shoot
“Put your heads together…” “A little to the left…” “OK, now smile real big…” If you’ve ever been in a photo shoot, chances are you’ve heard a photographer guide you through some poses, trying to make you feel comfortable so you can see your best self in the pictures. For many women, a professional photo shoot can be a great way to boost self-confidence. For survivors of … [Read more...]
From Farm to Turbine
Sweetwater woman reflects on leaving the family farm to become a plane mechanic during World War II A smile crosses the face of Jessie Lou McReynolds as she scans the cavernous museum full of vintage airplanes, displays, and other World War II memorabilia, reminding her of some of the happiest years of her life. McReynolds turned 98 on June 8 and still has vivid memories of … [Read more...]