As Patsy Rodriguez reads “Goldilocks and The Three Bears” to her Head Start class at Long Early Learning Center, she is doing more than simply sharing a children’s tale. “The word of the week is ‘culture,’” she reminds her young listeners before delving into the story, explaining that the fairy tale is an example of a “traditional tale” that ties generations … [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...]
Abilene Pickers
Abilene Pickers Local antique dealers refurbish items and refine their craft Whoever says antiques are boring hasn’t met Brian Hawkins. The junk enthusiast has, on more than one occasion, nearly risked his life for an interesting find. While trying to cut down an old sign with some friends, Brian had an accident on a ladder. The sign fell, knocking the ladder out from … [Read more...]
Everything’s Coming Up Rosie Evans
Just five days after her fourth birthday, Ivy Rosie Evans was diagnosed with Stage V bilateral Wilms Tumor. Cancer. The word no parent ever wants to hear became a harsh reality for Ted and Allicyn Evans, and they plunged into the nightmare of chemo, hospitals, scans, tests and all the pokes and prodding that come with treatment. Through the journey, Abilene embraced Rosie and … [Read more...]
The Farris Family
Taylor County’s 2019 Agriculture Family of the Year By Wendy Kilmer Photography by Beth Dukes Mary Beth Farris grew up near Chicago and envisioned herself settling down somewhere around Cape Cod. Her husband, Danny, admits to experiencing culture shock when moving from the rolling, piney hills of Northern Louisiana to West Texas. But today both say they can’t imagine … [Read more...]