He didn’t know it at the time, of course, but the first book that Al Pickett wrote set a pattern for the ones to follow. It came at someone else’s request, just like his subsequent four books. Al was the sports editor at the Abilene Reporter-News for 15 years before leaving in November 2001. He started a freelance career in 2002 that continues today. He got a call in 2003 … [Read more...]
The Little EnGen That Could
Genifer Heath is affectionately known as Little EnGen on the roller derby track, and it’s a name she has rightfully earned. Despite adversity, Heath is an overcomer with her no-quit attitude, her grit and determination, her hard work and positivity. Heath fell in love with the idea of roller derby early on. As a teenager, she remembers watching her cousin take the track and … [Read more...]
Julie Denny: From Big Dreams to the Big Screen
Julie Denny loves a good story. So, when she ran into soon-to-be published author, Cole Thompson, at a party in 1995, she saw an opportunity to put her storytelling chops to good use. “Julie mentioned that she was interested in screenwriting, and I told her I had just written a novel,” said Cole. “It was still in manuscript form, but she read it and asked if she could … [Read more...]
Abilene Influencer: George Levesque
Everywhere George Levesque looks, he sees a construction project. But that’s OK with him because it’s a sign of progress. As executive director of the historic Paramount Theatre, he has to navigate his way through the downtown street construction just to get to work. Once inside, he sees more construction as the Paramount is making room for the added crowds that live … [Read more...]
David Phillips: The Thrill of the Checkered Flag
Motors roar, dirt blows, and cars zip around including race car driver, David Phillips. Fans and family watch and cheer with nervous anticipation. A wife films the race and holds her breath as she watches her husband weave in and out of the chaos. It’s thrilling and nerve-wracking. It’s exhilarating and sometimes, exhausting. It’s the life of a race car driver and his family as … [Read more...]