It's Everything West Texas: Recent Episodes
KACU
Crystal King and Karen Light two individuals involved in the West Texas Right To Life organization discuss how and why Abilene, Texas was the first city in Texas to get the Safe Haven Baby Box.
Stephanie talks about the night her mother attempted to kill her. The following day Stephanie made the decision to leave her mother. As a former foster youth, she was in and out of the system for over 15 years. In 2002, she began sharing her turbulent story of hope, forgiveness, and the power of education with youth, parents, and educators.
The untold story of a basketball pioneer who broke the color barrier in Texas basketball.Though another athlete who played in the NFL is often credited for being the first Black Texas basketball player, Bubba Ephriam broke the color barrier in his sport in March 1957. He led the Pecos High School Eagles to their first outright district title and the UIL state basketball tournament.Bubba grew up in a migrant farm family during pivotal years of segregation and integration. The Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision was announced on May 17, 1954, two days after his sixteenth birthday. His first game with the Pecos Eagles was on December 1, 1955, the same day Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, launching a historic 381-day bus boycott. Follow this inspirational story as Bubba plays the game he loves through a turbulent period before pursuing a distinguished career in the US Armed Forces.
No matter how hard we try to forgive, we may find ourselves struggling between two powerful and unrelenting forces - forgiving and unforgiving.
No matter how hard we try to forgive, we may find ourselves struggling between two powerful and unrelenting forces - forgiving and unforgiving.
I have held many roles as guardian, nurturer, end-of-life doula, sole-provider, and mother to my now grown children. As an artist, I have found solace in clay, while my humble studio patiently hosted the sacred space for the dreams and visions of my soul to emerge.
Cinco De Mayo will be celebrated in grand style in downtown Abilene. Participants in the parade will line up at 5:30 pm and the parade starts at 6:00 pm.There will be several bands and entertainment. Ballett Folklorico de Alvaro Munoz, , La Nsistencia Nortena, and Alma de Nuestras Raices.
Kneikha Jernigan-Shanahan uses prayer, meditation, and art to help her through some of the most difficult times in her life.In this podcast, we expand the conversation that was started at the 1117 Studios and Gallery.
Kevin and Khristian a father and son share their journey as it centers around autism.Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.
Under the skilled guidance of pitmaster extraordinaire William Crane, Crane's Craft BBQ introduces a new chapter to the Wagon Wheel's legacy. William, with a deep appreciation for Central Texas flavors and a commitment to preserving the essence of barbecue traditions, has crafted a menu that tantalizes the taste buds.From slow-smoked brisket to mouthwatering ribs, the culinary offerings showcase the artistry of barbecue in every bite. Opening its doors in March 2024, Crane's Craft BBQ proudly stands as a veteran-owned and operated establishment, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication.
Henry Flint is a man that talks openly about God probably more than anyone else I know in Abilene. It's always praise the Lord or some phrase similar to that. He is the founder of KVVO 94.1 Abilene's One and Only Black Gospel Station.At one time Flint would have been one of the least likely people to find a Gospel station. God and the gospel were far from his mind.Flint who grew up in the segregated racist south in the state of Georgia wanted nothing to do with God or Georgia. He said that he was "about ready to blow Georgia up". He said his mother encouraged him to leave.
Amber Monroe, is the artist and creator of a coloring book that celebrates the beauty of diversity, body positivity, and the unique features of African-American women. Each page is a representation of the unique beauty found in shared experiences as diverse women. From the intricately drawn hairstyles to the carefully crafted features and nuances, to the inspiring affirmations, her intentions were to showcase the immense versatility and richness that lies within each person.
Church members and friends over the years have been asking me to pull together some of the prayers that I’ve been led to write and pray during worship services, Wednesday night dinners, Bible studies, and other times when God’s people have gathered. I confess that I questioned how seriously to take this request. Would people really be interested in reading a book of prayers? Would it be presumptuous to share my prayers as if anyone needs words other than their own to pray?My hope is that this collection will prompt you to reflect on your own journey, and by so doing, you’ll recognize, or be reminded, of God’s invisible footsteps alongside your own as you continue the journey. I also hope that the next time it occurs to you to pray, you will imagine God tapping you on the shoulder and saying, “Talk to me,” and you’ll consider this your invitation to pray.
Calvin Davis, district director of the Small Business Administration discusses how the Small Business Administration (SBA) works. If you are in business or thinking about starting a business this podcast could be beneficial. Calvin tells the story of his mother, she did not own a business but she did have a strong belief in God and herself.
Floyd Miller visited with Kay Berry along with Beverly and Lou Voit about Doug Montgomery performing at The Paramount to benefit The Abilene Woman Club, Inc.The event is Thursday, November 2nd starting at 7:30 pm. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the Paramount. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
Is there someone you need to forgive and you know it, but yet you have not followed through? Have you ever heard someone talk about a hurt from 50 years ago, and it sounds like something that just happened yesterday? They just don't seem able to let it go.Dr. Gray who is not a neuroscientist but has done some research in neuroscience believes that he has isolated a part of the problem. Dr. Gray takes us on a journey that's easy for the average person to understand. He gets rid of the big words and lays out an amazing story.
Dee Moore, president of the Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce recently attended (TAAACC) Texas Association of African American Chambers of Commerce Convention in Pflugerville, Texas. She discusses what's happening on the local level as well as the state and national level as far as black chambers are concerned. Apart from that discussion is the Business Navigator Program which is administered by the (SBA) Small Business Administration.
This interview with Mr. Robin Calloway Walls is very similar to a conversation that you might have with a friend or neighbor sitting on the back porch or at a coffee shop. It covers several subjects but the theme always centers around positive ideas and solutions. An amazing conversation with a man that used to spend a lot of time "in the streets".Mr. Wall's focus at this time is developing 11 acres of land that he owns in the Pasadena Heights Community. He plans to have 55-plus affordable houses on that property.
Abbey has a passion for working with the youth who live in the Big Country. Abbey has taken her experiences and channeled them in a positive way to help young people. I would encourage you to listen to this interview. I believe it can help individuals no matter where they may be in life.
On Monday, July 10, 2023, 56 strangers boarded a bus in Dallas, TX committed to ensure the nation knew of our commitment to nonviolence and love in a world bent toward division and violence.Two of those individuals were interviewed for this podcast. They are Rev. Amanda Watson, associate director of Community Life at Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, and Dr. Jerry Taylor, founding director of the Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action.
Jessie Davis sees his work as a ministry. He believes that individuals would have a much richer and more fulfilling career if they saw their work as a ministry.
A memorial to the Buffalo Soldiers will open in San Angelo and the celebration will be on July 28th-30th. The memorial team will introduce the community to the one-of-a-kind memorial that gives honor to the four Black regiments who served the country in the U.S. Army after the Civil War.
Mickell and Ava Jones, are a mother-daughter team that created a journal to bring mothers and daughters closer together.
Freddie Collins's purpose in researching this subject is to show the POWER that is behind the visible words of creation.
The Prison System and Re-entryAs of December 31, 2019, the number of prisoners under the jurisdiction of Texas correctional authorities was 158,429 located in 61 state prisons and held in the custody of private prisons or local jails. State-operated facilities had a staff of 35,000 employees and a budget of $3,287,273,079.The Community Corrections SystemAs of December 31, 2019, Texas's community corrections population was 367,753 under probation and 109,159 under parole.The data is from the Texas 2019/National Institute of Corrections.Andre highlights what his program does to help those coming home. Andre is also justice impacted.
The Top 50 Plus banquet honors the top students in Taylor County. Shirley Olson, president of the Southwest Rotary Club discusses the history of the banquet and what to expect this year.The banquet was first held on May 3rd, 1960 at the Windsor Hotel in Abilene, Texas.
Dr. Paul Fabrizio is a professor of political science at McMurry University. Dr. Fabrizio is a much sought out individual when it comes to politics whether it be on a national, state, or local level.
Connie Smith tells her story of having eye surgery. It's something that happens every day somewhere. Connie was so grateful for the results that she received.
Terrance Thomas, spent the early part of his life as a "street hustler" begging for money that mainly went to support his mother's high price drug habit.If he wasn't begging he and his brother were stealing food to survive. In this podcast Terrance said that he was embarrassed and felt like the lowest piece of scum in the United States. Those seedy motels in the rough part of Ft. Worth are now only a memory for Terrance. He has traveled the world and stayed in some of the finest places on earth.Listen to this podcast and find out what changed for Terrance.
If you are looking for a fun weekend on March 3rd and 4th, the Abilene Woman's club could be the destination. They are raising funds but it's got to be Everything Texas from the snacks to the wines and the Entertainment.On March 3rd Boomtwn! By Texas Comedies will perform in an Adult Musical Comedy called Boomtown, which is an engaging , somewhat irreverant act based on local Texas history.On March 4th Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys yu can dance in the Great Hall on the patio if the weather permits.
Taylor County Judge Phil Crowley gives an update on Taylor County and shares how he plans to operate as Taylor County Judge.
WHAT IS DYSLEXIA? In simple terms, dyslexia is a learning disability that makes it difficult for an individual to read, write, and spell. According to the Yale Center for Creativity, one in five people suffer from dyslexia and between 70 to 85% of children who are placed in special education for learning disabilities are dyslexic. Saddest of all, oftentimes dyslexia goes undiagnosed, allowing smart kids to miss out on opportunities to succeed.
As politicians, lobbyists, and advocacy groups head to the state Capitol this to make new laws that affect our community, there is one group that contains millions of Black and Hispanic Texans yet have little to no representation: renters. But we in Texas Tenants For Change are righting that wrong today.We are asking for basic human rights and we need your eyes, ears, and voices to make change at this legislative session.
Dax in his own words. I am a Christian. I am a proud husband, father, friend and counselor at law. You may be thinking, "what the heck is a lawyer doing talking about recovery?" Great Question! I want to bring what I know together in one place for you, your family, and your friends for the purpose of helping you seek recovery and redemption.
Bridget Jordan joined the U.S. Army after 9/11. She's a very patriotic person and felt a call to serve her country. After two tours to Iraq, the ugly under belly of war was beginning to have it's effect on her in the form of PTSD.In addition to that, while working she fell 20 feet and cracked a vertebrate. Her doctors told her that she probably would not walk again. Bridget went into a deep depression and considered suicide as the answer. However she remembered a coloring book that a relative had given her to years earlier, that coloring book and God's amazing grace is at the center of her healing.
Floyd interviews his daughter Amber Monroe. Amber is a wife a mother and she home schools her three children, one of them has autism. Amber is also a business owner. Today's discussion focuses mainly on home schooling and autism.
Join Jessica B for “Celebrate Sooner! Clovis’ First Annual ‘Holiday with Hillcrest’”. Hillcrest Zoo in Clovis, NM is the second largest zoo in New Mexico, and is hosting their first animal holiday festival to raise money for a new and improved enclosure for their Bengal Tiger, Sooner, per guidelines set forth by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). This is two-part festival with something for everyone. Tune in for more information and contact jessicabboisseau@gmail.com if you want to get involved or sponsor!
One Day with God camps began with a vision of having one day inside the prison walls where parents and children could reconcile with one another with God-anointed mentors working beside them. If one child could have a Christ-centered Mom or Dad return home from prison, there would be a joyous change in that home forever, and it could change the path that child takes in life.
Mark is a taphophile (one who enjoys cemeteries, funerals, and gravestones). He was born in Stephenville and grew up in the Panhandle. He attended Amarillo College, West Texas State University, and graduated from ACU. His interest started when he was 14 while rain dropped 8 inches in less than an hour. The Lohn Cemetery had quite a few sunken graves and families were expected to shovel dirt into the holes and bring the grave sites up to ground level. It was his first time to wander around and read the headstones. The iconography of the stones is a hobby in itself, but clever, poignant, and oftentimes just plain heartaches etched on the stones increases the interest as well.
The overall goal of the Young Ladies Success Conference is to expose young ladies in grades 6-12 to collegiate and career opportunities, self-reflection, boost their self-esteem, and empower self-responsibility to create success in school and in life. Childers also recognized the need for a Young Ladies Success Conference after mentoring several young ladies at Tyler Junior College and Blinn College. With the help of family and friends, the summit became a reality February 2013.
Dr. Jerry Taylor, founding Director of the Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Actions is Hosting "The West Texas Rally For Christians Against Hate." Dr. Taylor has done extensive research on religion and current politics. The purpose of our interview and the rally is to get Christians to stay focused on the way Jesus handled matters of the nature. The rally is on October 23rd, at 3:00 pm at the ACU AMPHITHEATER.
Kevin Staton and Cody Davis are Electric Power Control instructors. They volunteered to be on the podcast not as a part of their job, but for their passion to let individuals know that TSTC can play a role in helping one live the American Dream.
The mission of Houses for Healing is to care for the sick by providing free temporary housing to those are receiving medical treatment away from home. They provide a tiny house free of charge to those in need. While in the house, the Good Samaritans of Abilene express the healing love and grace of Jesus Christ, by serving the guests in other ways.
The best ideas sometimes come from humble beginnings. During his studies at Abilene Christian University’s Graduate School of Theology, Curtis Alexander King wrote a research paper in which he described ways to improve information and resource sharing to persons who were choosing to make a home for themselves in Abilene, Texas, following incarceration. As a minister and as a friend of several returning citizens, King had developed a great appreciation for the challenges that individuals often face attempting to reacclimate to society after their release. For well over a year, no action was taken, but the thought of finding a way to make the “assignment” a reality remained in his heart, and he eventually began reaching out to like-minded people in the Abilene area and beyond who would be interested in collaborating on improving the reentry experience in the Big Country.
The group is made up of families who have lost a loved one while they served in the Armed Forces. Klemen says they strive to allow the flow of grace to increase family members' ability to forgive reality for being what it is and not what they'd like it to be. They work to carry on the legacy of loved ones by incorporating the values and principles they served: Country Loyalty Duty Respect Selfless Service Honor Integrity Personal Courage Sacrifice. Group members work to emulate the Warrior Ethos: I Will Always Place The Mission First I Will Not Accept Defeat I Will Never Quit I Will Never Leave a Fallen Comrade. By supporting each other and the community to honor all past, present, and future military members, they commit to be there for each other in the best and worst of times and say they find they are truly Stronger Together.
Dr. Michael Herbert is a professional licensed pastoral counselor with a bachelor of arts, master of ministries, doctorate of theology, and doctorate of philosophy in clinical Christian psychology and doctorate of philosophy in clinical Christian counseling. He wrote the book What Makes Love True? I believe this interview and the book he wrote could be helpful to improving relationships in marriage or dating.
Kristi Newton and Deborah Williams formed a powerful friendship after the murder of George Floyd. Kristi Newton, a white woman and Deborah Williams a black woman meet for the first time at the MLK Bridge. Newton was compelled to act as she watched George Floyd be choked to death by a police officer as he cried for his mother. Newton and Williams formed Abilene Restorative Community Circle which focuses on bringing people together and fostering positive outcomes.
Abilene's Alisha Taylor has produced a documentary exploring the Black History being preserved at the Curtis House Cultural Center. Taylor, who attended the Abilene Independent School District and graduated from Abilene Christian University with a degree in Musical Theater, is an actress, director, and owner of Taylor Made Studios.
Since 1983, Pregnancy Resources of Abilene has served approximately 60,000 women and their families by providing pregnancy testing, material support and community referrals. In 2004, the organization added ultrasound exams to free services already offered. “Learning 4 Life” education program was launched in 2011, and a Licensed Professional Counselor was added in 2017. Holly Joiner is the executive director of Pregnancy Resources of Abilene. She says the center became a resource for Reproductive Grief Care by providing training and resources to the professional community, and adding in-house grief services for clients. They also offer pregnancy option consultation, pre-natal consultation and education, practical needs assessment, baby supplies, abuse screening, post-partum depression screening and intervention, spiritual support, and peri-natal hospice.
As a Certified Professional Organizer, JN Purnell LLC formed Adorn Your Space in 2021 to provide quality and professional organizing services to Abilene, TX and surrounding areas for residential and business entities. "Organization is something that has always come natural to me. I work well in spaces, both physical and virtual, that have some type of functional order that is efficient to me," Jamie Purnell says life as a military spouse has also helped her develop her skills. "With two small children, and 2 high-energy boxers, things in my space can get very hectic, very quickly. However, because cluttered space often leads to a cluttered mind, I find myself resetting my home nightly as a way to realign my order and my inner peace."
This is an interview that goes indepth about the things that have shaped Mayor Williams and his thought process. Mayor Williams talks about not having a father in the home and the pivotal role that other men played in his life. Williams talks a little about what the future may look like for him.
Kat as everyone calls her is an adventurous lady. She is the mother of chickens, a certified NRA Instructor, a chess player and a cigar smoking nurse. You just have to listen to the podcast to see what she's up to. She is serious about living life and trying many things. If you have been saying that you ought to do something perhaps this podcast will motivate you.
Abilene Quilters' Guild is a community of enthusiastic and talented quilters of all skill levels! Becoming a member is a great way to make new friends and share your love of quilting! Join us at our next monthly meeting! Visitors are always welcome!
Habitat for Humanity Abilene, Inc is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. It was established in 1990 and has built or rehabbed over 162 homes, helping more than 200 adults and 400 children.
Abilene’s Newest Communication Podcast hosted by Queen Claudine Williams & Bryan Okeei’f aka DJ Draco, Shining a Spotlight on Diversity and Cultural in West Central Texas #AUCPodcast #Urban #Diversity #Culture #AbileneUrbanConnection- CatWalk Media Group production #Abilene #Texas www.abileneurbanconnection.com
The Men of Nehemiah Abilene is a Christian organization designed to rebuild the lives of men and families that have been torn apart by poverty, homelessness, substance abuse, crime, and violence.
Horace Christian, Jr. is the Co-creator, Writer and Animator of a new Christian animated series called “Dex Davis: Child of God!”
This episode is about the power of collaboration. It highlights the joint efforts of the City of Abilene, Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce, the Abilene Chamber of Commerce and other Stakeholders in securing a grant through the SBA Community Navigator Program. There were 847 applications for this program nationwide and only 53 cities received it.
Greg Anderson saw his mother drug by the hair over rocks and grass burrs when he was five years old. In this interview that five year old will show up and he definitely has words for the grownups Particularly the mothers. Men are not quite as simple as ABC but Greg does a great job of breaking things down.
Michael "Mike" Mikeworth discusses why the core values of the owner of a company ought to be reflected in the company. VENTURE CALL LLC is a leading proponent of the entrepreneurial mindset movement that does ENGAGE individuals and organizations with the opportunity to activate the “chosen-ness” of their calling. Understanding the uniqueness of one’s calling is crucial to avoiding the groupthink, collective mindsets that inhibit creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, communication, and other entrepreneurial skills.
Three women involved in Kairos Outside share how this ministry has helped many women and their families. One of the things that was stressed is that when one comes to Kairos they are in a judgement free zone. If you are hurting and need a reset Kairos Outside maybe the starting point for you.
Claudie C Royals was an activist in the City of Abilene. He always fought for those who needed the most help. During his lifetime he helped many people. He made the establishment uncomfortable at times. However since his death he is one of only three individuals that have a day recognized in his honor, he also has a street named after him that leads into the community in which he lived.
Lilly Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designed to enrich, educate and support the military and student theatre and music community. The team consists of a diverse group of people working together to establish a theatre company that opens doors for military veterans and students. They are also artists, creatives, musicians, and community people from many different places and circumstances.
Malcolm and Bridgit Scott, have a Black Santa Claus collection. Listen to this podcast and find out why. You can also hear about their experiences with Santa Claus and Christmas when they were children. Malolm grew up in Baton Rouge, La and Bridgit grew up in San Francisco, Ca. They have created their own vision of who Santa Claus really is. A heart warming story.Malcolm is an Associate Professor in the Social Work Department at ACU and Bridgit is a serial entrepreneur and will be announcing a new business soon.Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!