January 2008 Prison - Now Magazines...Sales Assistant, Jessica Vasquez Midlothian Editor, Betty Tryon Contributing Writers, Alex Allred .Dia Catalani Nancy Fenton .Tim Tobey Photography,

January 2008

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE PAID

FT. WORTH, TXPERMIT NO. 711

ClassicallyUnique

ClassicallyUnique Leading

the Way

TakingControl

Where Faith andFamily Meet

Where Faith andFamily Meet

PrisonBreak

PrisonBreak

At Home With

Stony and Kim Halbrook

At Home With

Stony and Kim Halbrook

TakingControl

Leadingthe Way

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www.nowmagazines.com 1 MidlothianNOW January 2008

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Publisher, Connie Poirier

General Manager, Rick Hensley

Managing Editor, Becky Walker

Editorial Coordinator, Sandra McIntosh

Creative Director, Jami Navarro

Art Director, Chris McCalla

Sales Assistant, Jessica Vasquez

Midlothian Editor, Betty Tryon

Contributing Writers, Alex Allred . Dia Catalani

Nancy Fenton . Tim Tobey

Photography, Rod Cordsen . Ivey Photography

Sandra McIntosh . Terri Ozymy

Contributing Editors/Proofreaders, Pamela Parisi

Jamie Ruark . Beverly Shay

Advertising Representatives, Carolyn Mixon

Will Epps . Lacy Hightower . Linda Moffett

Terri Ozymy . Steve Randle . Terri Yates

Graphic Designers, Julie Carpenter

Allee Brand . Dale Frie . Marshall Hinsley

Arlene Honza . Steve Koldjeski . Brande Morgan

MidlothianNOW is a NOW Magazines, L.L.C. publication. Copyright © 2008. All rights reserved. MidlothianNOW ispublished monthly and individually mailed free of charge to homes and businesses in the Midlothian zip codes.

Subscriptions are available at the rate of $35 per year or $3.50 per issue. Subscription and editorial correspondence shouldbe sent to: MidlothianNOW, P.O. Box 1071, Waxahachie, TX 75168. For advertising rates and other information, call(972) 937-8447 or e-mail us at: [email protected].

On the Cover:Jill Guerber and Charlie Boy train fora horsemanship program.

Photo by Ivey Photography.

ContentsJanuary 2008, Volume 4, Issue 1

36 Around TownNOW

38 Who’s CookingNOW

40 FinanceNOW

42 HealthNOW

44 OutdoorsNOW

45 Community Calendar

ArtsNOWClassically Unique

6

22SportsNOW Taking Control

26BusinessNOWWhere Faith and Friends Meet

30EducationNOW Leading the Way

32

14

Prison Break Fromthe Inside Out

Blessed Beyond MeasureAt Home With Stony and Kim Halbrook


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Editor’s Note

Happy New Year, Midlothian!

Well, did you keep last year’s resolutions? Yeah … meneither. If you did, I want to hear from you. Maybe youcan inspire the rest of us this year! Some people take very seriously the prospect of new beginnings. Bill Curry, a prison ministry volunteer, teaches inmates how to re-integrate into society when they leave prison. Enjoy hisstory in this issue. Jill Guerber clearly recognizes the valueof a new beginning. Read and be inspired in SportsNow.

Congratulations to students Lydia Morris, Kevin Ellis, Paige Horton and GarrettCornett, who placed first in the National FFA Poultry Evaluation Career DevelopmentEvent held in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 26, 2007! They competed against topcontenders from all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Well done!

As always, I look forward to bringing you more interesting stories about theaccomplishments of your neighbors, their beautiful and unique homes and thosewonderful cooks who make everyone’s dinner hour special! If you know of someone Ishould contact, you can reach me at (972) 775-5095 or [email protected].

Betty TryonMidlothianNOW Editor




M

— By Betty Tryon

into the prisons began at DominguezState Jail in San Antonio, Texas. Heexplained, “Bill Brashear kept naggingme to go with him on his visits toDominguez Jail in San Antonio. Whenwe got there, an inmate came up to usand started talking to me. BillBrashear took off and left me therewith the inmate and I was terrified. Itjust so happened this guy was theinmate version of a chaplain, and helooked at me and said, ‘God told me totalk to you today.’ I thought, Yeah right,God talks to you? He then asked how hecould pray for me and I mumbledsomething like, ‘Help me be a better

husband and person.’ The inmate said,‘That’s not what you need prayerabout; you need prayer about you andyour relationship with your son.’”

That remark got Bill’s attention in ahuge way, because he had never metthat man before, yet the man had pinpointed one of Bill’s greatest concerns. Returning home from SanAntonio, he passed the Sanders EstesUnit in Venus, Texas and decided tocheck the possibility of ministeringthere. After he filled out an application,had a background check and completed10 hours of training, he was given permission to volunteer at the prison


Men in orange suits entered thecafeteria that still carried the lingeringleftover smells of dinner. Their spiritswere high and they were unfailinglypolite and very appreciative for thevisitors. Bill Curry, a volunteer withPrison Ministry, has been ministeringat the Sanders Estes Unit in Venus, Texasfor 13 years. Members of his church,Midlothian Bible Church, joined himto encourage and entertain the inmatesfor the evening. As the musicians withtheir amplifiers and instruments eruptedinto song, the prisoners responded withgreat enthusiasm.

The beginning of Bill’s volunteerism

Prison Break From the

Inside Out

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teaching a 12-16 week series called“Preparing for Success on the Outside”by John Leonardson.

Bill said, “This is a program puttogether by the Coalition of PrisonEvangelists (COPE). One of the lessonsis a numbers game where we startwith 100 percent, go to 80 percent,then 20 percent and lastly, the word,

you. The 100 percent represents theprison population now. Eighty percentis the percentage of inmates who willreturn to prison after they have beenreleased. Twenty percent is the percentage of Christian inmates whowill return, and then there is you. Weask them which one are they? Howwill they fit in the numbers game?”

“There is a saying that if you don’tknow where you are going to go, youwill get there every time. Men arereleased with nowhere to go, with noplan of what to do.” One of the picturedillustrations Bill likes to use is of aninmate digging underground towardhis freedom. He does not know it, buta few feet in front of him is the sewageholding tank. The caption reads: “Hedidn’t plan to fail; he only failed toplan.” Bill helps the inmates plan theright way.

“We teach them how to re-integrateinto society. You have someone herewho gets out and returns to a home


“Men are released with nowhere to

go, with no plan of what to do.”





where the wife has been taking care ofeverything. They can’t just return andtake over. We help prepare them forwhat they may face. While they are inhere, they are encouraged to keep intouch with their families, with theirkids. If they have the money for astamp, then write a letter to let kidsknow they are thinking about them.”

Of course, not every child willrespond with warm, welcoming

thoughts to a parent in prison. Billsaid, “There was one guy who prayedand prayed for his child to send him aletter. He finally got one, but when heshowed up for the next session, he wassad. When asked what happened, heresponded with, ‘The first page was hiand how are you, and then she wrotesix pages about what a lousy person Iam.’” Bill, in his inimitable way, said,“Well, you got your letter.”

One characteristic of Bill’s personalityis his ability to be honest in nouncertain terms. This has not escapedthe attention of the inmates. Some ofthem tell others not to take a certainclass, rather take Bill’s class. “I haveheard guys say I tell it like it is. Theycan spot a phony,” he said. “I have hadguys repeat the class several times,because they get something out of it. Itry to add different things or presentthings in a different way to keep theminterested and learning. They watch alot of TV here, and that is their reality.TV tells them, ‘You deserve this.’ I tellthem, ‘You deserve nothing; you’veearned nothing, and no one owes you





anything.’ I have guys complainingthat the system sets them up to fail. Itell them, ‘Then don’t help the systemout.’ For example, a guy gets out onparole and part of his parole is not togo where alcohol is served. He takeshis girlfriend to a dance where liquoris served, a fight breaks out. He is notinvolved, but he gets arrested becausehe violated his parole by being in thewrong place.”

Bill meets with prisoners once aweek and sometimes he has assistancefrom other Prison Ministry teammembers. He said, “Ron Lunt helpswith the financial instruction, such ashow to keep a checkbook and how to

manage your finances. Some of themlook like a deer caught in the headlights;they don’t understand any of it. Weteach them how to budget their moneyfor food, gas, insurance, clothing andother basic necessities. We tell them ifthey don’t have a car, then the moneythat would’ve gone for gas and insuranceshould be put aside for savings. PaulHarris, another member of the team,helps with interviewing skills. Hegives practical help, such as assistingthem with a resumé, teaching themhow to fill out an application, how todress and behave for the interview.”

Bill has been asked why he botherswith prisoners, and he responded, “MyBible has a verse that says, ‘When Iwas in prison, you visited me.’ Also,Christ died for everyone.” Bill Curry andother members of the prison ministryare helping inmates break free fromthe pattern of irresponsible behavior.Their success helps them and makesthe world safer for all of us, by helpingprisoners procure a second chance onthe outside.




WWhen building their new four-bedroom, three-

and-one-half-bath home, Stony and Kim Halbrookhad specific ideas in mind from the very beginning.The builder, John Houston of J. Houston Homes, wasable to successfully take Kim’s ideas and incorporatethem into the beautiful abode the couple shares todaywith their three daughters, Lauren, Brittany andLindsey, ages 18, 16 and 11, respectively. “It’s amazingwhat he and his crew were able to do,” Stony said.“The attention to detail throughout the house truly isa work of art.”

Stony will be the first to admit that he had very littleto do with the decisions made during the constructionprocess of the single-story, traditional-style home.Leaving it with Kim meant he had left it in very capablehands. “I was here every day, nonstop throughout theprocess,” Kim said. “John was unbelievable to dealwith and incredible to work with.” Customer service

BlessedBeyond Measure

At Home With

Stony and KimHalbrook

— By Sandra McIntosh


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is one of the most important aspects ina venture of this magnitude, and Johndid not let the Halbrooks down. In fact,his work ethic rendered the experience,in retrospect, easy and pain-free. “Thecustomer service was second to none,”Stony said, referring to how they weretreated before, during and followingthe completion of the home. “We’vebeen in the house for 18 months, andif there are any problems or concerns,we still get the same great service.”

The first home Stony and Kimdesigned, contracted out and had builtwas located in Ovilla. Stony wouldcommute, as he still does, to and fromhis job in Arlington, while Kim, abusy, stay-at-home mom, spent herdays running to and from school. Themain reason they decided to relocate toMidlothian was so the girls would becloser to their schools, as well as their


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merely skilled with a hammer and a bagof nails. “They are artists,” Kim said,agreeing wholeheartedly with herhusband of 19 years. “I had a specificidea for the entryway. One of the guysgrabbed a piece of 12” x 12” MDF andstarted drawing on it.” As a visitor sitting on the leather sofa in the familyroom, you can see in all its granderwhat that guy drew according toKim’s description.

Wood barreling is the focal point ofthe ceiling, which measures 15 feetabove the floor. An oversized floral

arrangement takes its rightful place atopthe lighted art niche. The Scriptureverse directly above the niche was handpainted by Julie Law, better known inthese parts as the Painted Lady. Thehand-scraped hardwood floors, resemblingsalvaged barn wood with years of character, are found in the entryway, aswell as the study, the kitchen and thefamily room. “The dents and scrapesadd personality to the floor,” Kim said,“while removing the stress of droppingsomething and marring the floors.”

The dark, clear, alder wood cabinetryfound in the study, located to the leftof the entry, blends warmly with walls

friends and their extracurricular activity— cheerleading, both at school and atthe competitive level. When it cametime to find a builder to take the ideas,which Kim had secured in a binderknown simply as “the book,” Stonylooked to John, whom he had metthrough the lumber business he is in.“I just can’t say enough good thingsabout John and his staff of workers,”Stony added. “They are a special groupof guys.”

The crew of eight to 10 constructionworkers, of whom Stony referred, is not





treated in a soft shade of gold. The formal dining area, on the opposite sideof the entry, is bathed in a deep, brickred. A curio cabinet in one corner ishome to some very special memorabilia.“The old violin belonged to my great-great-grandfather,” Kim said.Lindsey pointed to a large, clear glassvase on the bottom shelf. “That’s amemory jar the kids made me,” Kimadded, with a smile.

The family room, kitchen andbreakfast nook are open to one another,giving the area the appearance of agreat room. Kim loves the kitchenbecause of the magnetic pull it has onfamily and friends. “Everyone seems toend up at the bar,” she said, “or in thekitchen.” Ideas Kim had for thekitchen were incorporated, and havesince become conversation starters. Therefrigerator is hard to locate since itblends in beautifully with the cabinetsreaching from floor to ceiling. The clueis to look for the antique handle.Learning from their first home, Stony





and Kim decided to do somethingdifferent with the cabinets. “The old house had open space above thecabinets,” Kim said. “The top shelfwith its lights and glass doors is theperfect place for my collection ofSilvercrest Fenton China that datesback to the1940s.”

Another ofKim’s collectionsis displayed onone full wall inthe breakfastnook. “I’ve beencollecting crossesfor about sevenyears,” sheexplained. “The cross I made Mom atMosaic Madness started it all,” Lindseysaid, smiling. Austin stone was usedfreely in the kitchen, as well as on thebar and the fireplace. “The wood mantletook four full days to construct,” Stonysaid. “They installed it piece by piece.”

The master bedroom has a great viewof the backyard. As a family, they lookforward to the colder temperatureswinter provides. “It’s the best time ofyear to jump in the hot tub,” Kimsaid, adding that Stony will light thesee-through fireplace to add ambianceand a bit more warmth. No fewer thansix girls will spend the night at theHalbrook home on Friday night. “It’s



a place where everyone is welcome,”Brittany said. “Everyone loves our parents, because they are willing to doanything for anyone.” Sunday afternoonwill find Stony in the media roomwatching sports.

Stony and Kim are not only well-likedparents; they are also unique individuals,who strongly believe in the power ofprayer, and feel as if they have beenblessed beyond measure. Lauren,Brittany and Lindsey are learning valuesthe best way — by watching their parents lead by example. “All the bedrooms and the media room are carpeted,” Kim said. “We took permanent markers and wroteScriptures that meant something to usas a family on the concrete.”

Building a home upon a firm foundation is key to the long life ofany structure, including a new home.Adding faith, prayer and a few Scripturescan only make the staying power thatmuch stronger. The Scripture —Philippians 4:13 — found under thecarpet in Brittany’s room may say it bestfor the whole family, “I can do everythingthrough Him who gives me strength.”


TThe cacophony of sound from the

instruments filled the room with theauditions for the Ft. Worth YouthOrchestra in full swing. First-timer,Kerri Allred, a freshman at MidlothianHigh School, was there with the samegoal as the other youths — acceptanceinto the orchestra. While listening tothe other musicians fine-tuning theirskill with classical pieces, 14-year-oldKerri began to doubt herself. Hermom, Alex, encouraged her to dowhat she does best. So Kerri steppedon the stage; instead of playing a classical tune on her violin, she playeda foot-stomping fiddle song. The dissonance of instruments playing different tunes in the room began tosubside as kids stopped practicing andturned to look at the young girl playingthe fiddle, trying out for the orchestra.

Kerri recounted her experience, “Itwas a huge yellow room; the judgeswere on opposite sides of the room, andwe auditioned on the orchestra stage.It was very noisy in there, becausethose who had not [yet] auditionedwere practicing, and those who hadfinished were leaving. When I was listening to the others practice, I wasvery impressed with everyone. I wasreally nervous and my voice was


shaking when I gave my name. I wasvery excited a week later when I foundout I made it.”

Kerri’s journey began longbefore her first lesson at age10. Her mom said, “She startedbegging us to play violinbefore she was 8. We didn’tthink she was serious about it,but now, we wish we hadgiven in sooner. For the firstmonth she felt frustratedplaying and wanted to quit.We encouraged her to continuefor a few more months.” Therest, as they say, is history.

Kerri’s first introduction to theworld of fiddling was through hergrandfather John Allred. He gave her

— By Betty Tryon

the 94-year-old violin/fiddle she uses.As a country singer with four albumsto his name, he belonged to the Old

Time Fiddlers Association. Because ofhis influence, Kerri and her cousinColette Boyette have joined the group.The Old Time Fiddle Association

Classically

Unique

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wants to preserve music of the pastand the art of fiddling. They are eagerto have kids join, so they, too, canlearn and enjoy the old tunes. Duringher tryout, Kerri played “Money Musk,”a song written in the 1800s and nowvery popular at fiddle festivals.

The education of Kerri was notlimited to fiddle music but includedclassical, as well. Currently, she hasthree instructors, who each play a partin teaching her classical and fiddle

music. Kerri said, “I learned how tofiddle from my grandfather, but I hadto get other teachers for the classicalinstruction. If you can play classical onthe violin, you can play anything.Fiddlers can’t necessarily play classical.My grandfather taught my cousinColette and me how to trick fiddle.Colette holds the fiddle and bow, and Ido the fingering. I haven’t seen anyoneelse do this. We play the Canadianwaltz in a higher version when wetwin fiddle together. It sounds as if weare harmonizing. It’s the same melody,but different keys.”

Kerri’s passion for the violininvolves not just her grandfather, butalso her whole family. Her enthusiasmfor the music inspired younger brotherTommy and sister Katie to ventureinto the world of music. Katie summedher sister up in one word — unique.Kerri appreciates her parents’ presenceand support in the audience. Shesmiled and said, “It is very reassuringto have them there. I like to look out


Kerri with her grandfather, John Allred.

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at the audience and see them. When Itried out, my mom thought I wouldbe nervous having her there, so shewent where I couldn’t see her. She wastrying to help, but it made me evenmore nervous!”

Performing in the orchestra withconductor Dr. Jesús Castro-Balbi, is a

great achievement for Kerri, but shehas learned from the experience, aswell. “I learned that we had to playtogether — every bow has to go upand down at the same time. I was ableto get the perfect wrist action, which Ihad been having trouble with. When Ifirst joined the orchestra, it took awhileto learn the music, but after a couple ofsongs it got easier. At first, I felt out ofplace, because all the kids knew eachother, and they were talking and pokingeach other in the back with their bows.After I made some friends, I finally gotpoked in the back with a bow. Onceyou get poked, you know you’re in!”she said laughing.

Unlike many teenagers today, herfavorite music is not the latest hip-hopor pop artist; Kerri prefers to listen toher CDs of Sarah Chang and Mozart. “Ilike listening to classical music. I wouldfeel very depressed if I could not playthe violin anymore. I want others whohear my music — for it to be satisfyingand pleasant for them. I want them tohave a warm feeling.” After listeningto Kerri play, you would have to agreewith her sister. She is unique!


Kerri learns classical music withinstructor Bernhard Kainerstorser.




The typically vibrant, outgoing Jillwas suddenly depressed and feelingvery out of control. It was then thatJill received her most precious gift.Fred, her husband of 20 years, gave hera gym membership. “I’ll never forgethow he gave it to me,” Jill laughed.Slowly, he extended an arm, inchingtoward her as though he might be bitten. Jokingly but lovingly, he lether know that he just wanted her to behappy again.

Once she began working with atrainer, she regained energy and betterself-esteem. Still, it was not until shebegan keeping a food journal that theweight dropped off. She looked at herjournal as a checklist, slowly taking thejunk foods off the list and out of herlife. Pizza bagels were the first to go.Her successes, both emotionally andphysically, were so profound, she said,“I realized I needed to be a trainer.This is what I want to do in life.”

Control— By Alex Allred

I


It all really came together when theking-sized Milky Way bars went away.Jill Guerber had been training formonths with her personal trainer,building muscle and stamina, workingout six days a week, but she was notgetting the results she wanted. Ashard as she was working in the gym,she continued to eat the candy barsand pizza bagels. When her trainerchallenged her to deal with the realproblems, Jill realized she had to change.

While food was certainly an issue, thereal problem was control. Control ofher happiness, her health, her self-esteem and her energy had everything to do with

control of her diet and exercise regime. Jill had always been athletic and

active. Growing up with two brothers,she was the consummate tomboy.Genetically, she was blessed. In fact,after gaining 45 pounds while pregnantwith her son, Brendon, she not onlylost the weight she had gained, but anadditional 15 pounds, as well. Sheremained very active, working as a PEcoach in her son’s elementary school. “Iwas always running around,” she said.“I just needed to move, and the kidswere a perfect outlet.” She also coachedboy’s soccer at both the recreationaland select level, but when Jill accepteda desk job in administration, everythingchanged. “I really didn’t see it happening,”Jill said. Slowly, the weight began topile on. “I just didn’t do anythingabout it,” she added. “I was stressedout about my job and unhappy, so itwas just easier to do nothing.”

Taking

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Within months of that realization,Jill studied and trained to become apersonal trainer; she was soon buildingup her own clientele, but a move fromCalifornia to Texas changed the gameplan. Suddenly, Jill was back on the

couch, not training and feeling lousy.“I didn’t know anyone, didn’t have any friends here,” Jill said. Instead, shekept calling a friend and former clientback home. Just as her former trainerhad challenged her, so did her friend.“She said, ‘We’re having the same conversations. Are you still sitting on thecouch? Why aren’t you working out?’”

Jill joined a gym and was quicklyapproached by another trainer whocommented on her form. “He said Imust have had a very good trainerbecause of my form,” she explained. “Itold him, ‘Well, actually, I am a trainer.’”She was promptly hired.

Indeed, her form is excellent, butwhat Jill brings to her clients is so muchmore than technique. Undeniablewarmth and understanding comes fromthis woman, who truly understands howit feels to struggle both emotionally andphysically. Her training method stemsfrom this empathy. Jill is described byclients as tough and demanding, butalso as very loving and caring.

So much so that when a client once


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mentioned she did not or could not eatbreakfast — the most important mealof the day — Jill could not stand it.She called the woman every day fortwo weeks at 6 a.m. to remind her tohave breakfast. “I’ll do whatever ittakes,” Jill said.

Today, Jill’s clients at the Main StreetGym in Midlothian range from young

adults to senior citizens. Whether theirgoal is weight loss, toning, overcominga physical challenge or injury or buildingmuscle and stamina, her motto is thesame: “I want people to understand thatit’s never too late,” she said. “Just get up!Get fueled and have fun. Find somethingyou love to do and go for it.”

While Jill would love to see everyonejoin a gym and work with a trainer tolearn proper technique and form, shedoes not accept any excuses if a personcannot afford a gym membership. “Youcan afford a friend,” she said. Whileshe joked, “Friends are free!”

Jill recognizes the true value of buddytraining. “It’s amazing how much abuddy can help you with training.”Buddies bring new challenges, excitementand accountability to training. Jill shouldknow. She has one of the best trainingbuddies in the world. Always willingto take a new challenge, Jill and herequine pal, Charlie Boy, are trainingfor their first level of certificationthrough the renowned Pat Parellihorsemanship program. Never has Jillbeen so in control of her life, and neverhas she been so happy.


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IIf you have settled in the Midlothian

area and are ready to make this community your home, there is a familynearby waiting to extend a heartfeltwelcome to you. The First BaptistChurch, one of this area’s largest housesof worship, is big on family values andgood living. Their vision, “Transformingour community one changed life at atime,” encompasses their desire to helptheir neighbors, friends and you.

Associate Pastor Kenny Lowman hasbeen with First Baptist Church for 17years, the first 10 of those as a youthminister. Kenny’s wife, Tami, also volunteers at the church. Midlothianstudents know her as Mrs. Lowman, areading specialist at J.A. VitovskyElementary School. Wholesome familytogetherness, reflected in their messagesand insightful programs, is an importantfocus of First Baptist Church. “It is neatthat we have been here as long as we have.A lot of my ‘kids’ that I worked withback then are here now and teaching,which is great to see,” Kenny said. “Wehave a great group of people here, andthis really is a neat time in our lives.”

About 2,000 people belong to FirstBaptist Church of Midlothian, with anaverage of 900 of them attending aSunday morning service. The sizableattendance can be attributed to the factthat anyone can find acceptance hereand a challenge to grow along withtheir children. The pastor noted thatmany families who are new to this areaprefer to attend a church within thesame community where their childattends school, which fosters the abilityto forge positive relationships.

“We’ve found a good variety of folks:People who have been Baptists all theirlives, people who have never been tochurch or read a verse of Scripture orever read a story about Jesus,” Kennysaid. “So, we’re reaching some of thosefolks through the kind of church that

we’ve become. People who have beenfar from God are finding they areaccepted here and given a secondchance. They have found grace andacceptance here.”

First Baptist Church has a relaxed,come-as-you-are atmosphere. Itsmembers are approachable, friendlyand willing to help. For anyone whodoes not have family nearby, a churchcan be a good place to find support —in good times and bad times alike. FirstBaptist Church provides many wayspeople can meet other individuals theirown age and gender, or simply meetsomeone who will become a good friend.

Ben Condray, an on-staff licensedprofessional counselor, leads peer groupsfor families who are experiencingdivorce or separation. Another class

W H E R E

Faith Friends


— By Dia Catalani

Associate Pastor KennyLowman greets familieswith a welcoming smile.

and

M E E T

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deals with ways to successfully blendfamilies; church membership is notrequired to participate in these forums.No age group is left without fantasticways to feel welcome here. With programsgeared toward the interests and abilities

of toddlers, “tweens,” teenagers andyoung adults, there is plenty to keepyoung minds creatively busy. Amongthe activities available to youth arethe worship choir, praise team, dramateam and technology team, all ofwhich provide wonderful, hands-onlearning experiences, too.

As anticipated, First Baptist Churchis growing, right alongside its membership. Plans to expand and putcurrent buildings to other uses are inthe works. For more information,check out their comprehensive Website, www.fbcmidlothian.org, whereyou can also browse through activities,schedules and listen to a church service.Visitors are invited to stop by at anytime. The church is located at 1651South Midlothian Parkway, next toBaylor Medical Center. The phonenumber is (972) 723-6415.


Above: Happy children are a commonsight at First Baptist Church.

Below: Praise and fellowship are whatbond the church’s membership.

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DDr. Al Hemmle received a rude awakening on his first day as a schoolteacher.

“Teaching was nothing like I thought it would be,” he said smiling. “Ithought the students would be sitting quietly in their seats, brimmingwith enthusiasm and ready to learn.” He did not get that perfect classroom.The imagined, bright, shining faces were instead sleepy-looking imposters,ready to do anything except pay attention to their teacher.

Looking back on his early experience as an educator, Al disclosed, “Ilearned more in my first two years of teaching than at any other time inmy teaching career. You have to get on their level and draw them in tohelp them learn.” Al prepared himself diligently for his teaching profession.Following high school, he attended Texas Wesleyan University on a baseballscholarship. He graduated with a bachelor’s in science degree in physicaleducation and a minor in biology. He pursued his master’s degree ineducation at A&M University-Commerce, and earned his doctorate ineducational leadership at Nova Southeastern University in 2003.

During the years of his quest for education, Al worked in variousdepartments within the Midlothian ISD. “Midlothian school district is theonly place I have worked. I have driven the bus, taught here, coached andwas an assistant principal, assistant superintendent and now principal. Ican better understand the reality of all the employees, because I haveexperienced many of those jobs first-hand. Each employee has their ownreality; they see problems in a different way.”


Leading the Way

— By Betty Tryon

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Al taught in the classroom for sevenyears. He said, “What I’ve enjoyedabout education is investing in otherpeople. Truly good educators are thosewho help kids reach beyond themselves.Being a part of that is rewarding. Thatis what fuels me as an educator. I’veenjoyed the relationships I have builtwith the students in the classroom.That relationship is different from the

relationship I developed with studentsas an assistant principal. It shouldn’t bethat way, but it does change because ofthe position.”

After serving as assistant superintendentin the Midlothian school district, Aldecided to pursue being principal atthe high school. “It is unusual to gofrom being assistant superintendentback to principal. I liked that job asassistant superintendent; but I missedthe kids.” Al continued, “All of us havea purpose in life. I have lived most ofmy adult life by faith. Faith compelsme, and I felt the Lord laid it on myheart to be a principal.”

Al seeks the challenge of workingwith modern teens. “This job can bedisappointing, in that you pour yourtime and effort into it and still see students struggling and not focused.But, we are here to help all of the kids,not just the ones with supportive parents.Those kids are people who will playsome role in society. I keep a goodattitude and try to be as positive aspossible, knowing I make a difference.”

Because not every child has all thesupport they need at home, it pays forthe educational system to give them as



much encouragement as it can, a factthat Al recognizes and addresses. Heresponded, “We have identified thekids who are having difficulty. Thosekids concern me a lot. For example,the ninth-grader who hasn’t earned sixcredits will continue to fall furtherbehind as time goes on. They getoverwhelmed and hope runs out. Weassign them an adult mentor. Thesementors will meet weekly with thestudent to support them and let themknow that they care about them.Sometimes we will use kids in theNational Honor Society for peer-to-peermentoring. One of my biggest fears isa kid will walk out of our door anddoors will be closed to them. Everyonewants to be affirmed and be successful.”

Being the principal for such a largeand growing population in the community presents its own challenges,but Al is determined to meet them.“We are committed to maintainingsafety and keeping expectations up. Wewant to keep the schools safe so the kidsdon’t fear the hallways or each other andthey respect authority. Midlothian HighSchool has a reputation for producingcapable students after graduation. Iwant to be a part of maintaining thehigh academic standards with thegrowth. I believe administrators shouldbe visible in the hallways wheneverpossible. It says to the teachers: we areright here with you guys. It says to thestudents that we care about them.Sometimes just a smile, a pat on theback, asking about their grades andsaying you are doing a good job saysto the students that they are someoneof value. Many of them are surprisedyou know their name!”

Al said thoughtfully, “To be an educatoris a calling. Only those dedicated to thekids will make a lasting impression. Thereward is when a kid comes up to youand says, ‘I appreciate what you did forme.’ I want the kids to know that I caredand that I invested in them.”




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Ribbon cuttings were held, at left from top to bottom: My Father’s Shop, Catherine Young of North Texas GMAC Real Estate,Growing Ideas Florist and Midway Regional Airport. T.E. Baxter third grade students, top right, recently performed for familyand friends. During a rehearsal for The Lighthouse’s Christmas production, middle left, Jason Watson practiced his part as a pastor sharing the Christmas story. As part of their Christmas party this year, many employees of TXI Midlothian Cement, bottom right, donated toys for the annual Gryphons Motorcycle Toy Run.

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Greg and Ann Artkop of Midlothian, top left, walked the streets of BethlehemRevisited held in Waxahachie during December. Mrs. Eidson’s third gradeclass at T.E. Baxter, top right, recently adopted a soldier named Daniel whois currently serving in Afghanistan. Mrs. Van Amburgh and Mrs. Mach, middle left, approved of the gushing geysers activity. Longbranch students concluded that Diet Dr. Pepper consistently produced the highest eruptions.Midlothian Ambassadors, directly above, smiled for the camera. Vitovskystudents, bottom left, constructed American Indian art.

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2 Tbsp. salt1 Tbsp. peppercrackers

Finely chop all vegetables; mix with cottagecheese, salt and pepper. Serve with crackers.

SUGAR-FREE PINEAPPLE-ORANGE CAKE

BATTER:1 box Pillsbury reduced-sugar,

yellow cake mix1 11-oz. can mandarin oranges4 egg whites1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

TOPPING:1 20-oz. can no-sugar-added

SUGAR-FREE PECAN PIE

1/4 cup butter, melted3/4 tsp. vanilla1 1/2 cups (1 jar) sugar-free honey 3 eggs, beaten1 cup pecans, chopped or halvespie crust

Mix all ingredients; pour into pie crust andbake at 375 F for 40 minutes.

COTTAGE CHEESE SALAD

1 bundle green onions1 green bell pepper1 medium tomato1 cucumber 1 lb. cottage cheese

IN THE KITCHEN WITH CAROLINE FLATH

Look Who’s Cooking

pineapple, undrained1 10-oz. pkg. sugar-free, instant

vanilla pudding1 8-oz. container sugar-free Cool Whip

BATTER: In a large bowl, beat cake mix,oranges, egg whites and applesauce onlow speed for 2 minutes. Pour into a 13 x 9x 2-inch baking dish coated with non-stickcooking spray. Bake at 350 F for 25 - 30minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean.Cool. TOPPING: In a bowl, combine pineappleand pudding mix. Fold in Cool Whip andspread over cake. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

PUMPKIN BARS

BATTER:2 cups sugar

— By Sandra McIntosh

G rowing up, Caroline remembers her parents working hard in their family-owned restaurant business. “I

grew up at the restaurant,” Caroline said. “My mom andgrandma taught me all the basics.” Caroline took thosebasics and began cooking herself at the age of 16. Today,her specialties include chicken and dumplings, meatloaf,chili and chicken spaghetti, as well as yummy desserts.

Over the years, Caroline has accumulated a large collectionof recipes, not only from family members, but from friendsshe has made along the way. “I got a pineapple-orange cakerecipe,” she said, “which I transformed into a sugar-free recipethat anyone can prepare and enjoy.” At home, Caroline enjoyscooking for her family. Some of their favorites include potroast, grilled chicken and burgers.


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1 cup oil2 cups solid pumpkin4 eggs2 tsp. cinnamon1/2 tsp. salt1 tsp. baking soda2 tsp. baking powder2 cups flour

FROSTING:1 3-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened1 tsp. vanilla3/4 stick butter, softened1 Tbsp. cream1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

BATTER: Mix sugar, oil, pumpkin andeggs. Add dry ingredients and mix well.Pour into a greased 10 x 15-inch pan; cookat 350 F for 45 minutes or until toothpickcomes out clean. FROSTING: Mix allingredients together and spread overcooled bars. These freeze very well.

MARBLE SQUARES

1 8-oz. pkg. cream cheese1/3 cup sugar1 egg1/2 cup margarine3/4 cup water1 1/2 oz. chocolate squares2 cups flour2 cups sugar2 eggs1/2 cup sour cream1 tsp. baking soda1/2 tsp. salt1 12-oz. pkg. semisweet chocolate chips

Combine softened cream cheese, sugarand egg. Blend well. Combine margarine,water and chocolate in saucepan and bringto a boil. Remove from heat and stir incombined flour, sugar, eggs, sour cream,baking soda and salt and mix well. Pourinto greased cake pan. Spoon creamcheese mixture over chocolate batter. Cut through batter for marble effect andsprinkle with chocolate chips. Bake at 350 Ffor 30 minutes or until done.


Reliable Service Begins with

Reliable People

Pool ServicesCleaning

Polaris RepairsRe-Plumbing

Mastic RepairsEquipment Repair

Acid Wash

(214) 577-4843Bob Bauer

[email protected]

MIDNJan08p38-39Cook.qxd 12/21/07 9:37 AM Page 39

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DriversSo, your teenage son or daughter

wants to drive! Suddenly, driving hasbecome one of the most important thingsin your child’s life. Scary, is it not?

Naturally, you may dread the increasein your auto insurance premiums.However, there is a lot more at stakethan higher premiums. As parents, weall share the fear of our childrenbecoming involved in an automobileaccident. These concerns are all toooften confirmed by the reality of teencrash statistics. Although premiumsare derived from the monetary cost ofauto accidents, lives are priceless. Noamount of premium can ever bringback a life or reverse disabilities.

• Teenage passenger deaths occurmore frequently when a 16-year-old isdriving than when a person of anyother age is at the wheel.

— By Tim Tobey

• Thirty-nine percent of all 16-year-olddrivers involved in fatal accidents in2004 were speeding or going too fastfor road conditions. This compareswith only 23 percent of drivers between20 and 49 years old.

• Clearly, the numbers show teenshave more accidents.

Let us look at how to reducethese accidents:

• Drive defensively. Watch out forthe other person.

• Obey the speed limit. Speedincreases the likelihood of an accident.Adjust your speed according to theroad conditions. Drive more slowly onwet or icy pavement.

• As important as your driving skill,or aptitude, is your attitude. Alwaysact responsibly behind the wheel.

Auto insurance is designed to protectour financial well-being, and in manystates, it is required by law. Withoutit, most of us could not afford to drive.Replacing a damaged car and payingan injured person’s medical bills can

cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.So, how do insurance companies

pay for auto accidents? By collecting premiums and investing them. Amongthe factors that determine the price youpay for auto insurance are your vehicle,your age and your driving record. Theprice you pay for the collision andcomprehensive coverages in your policy(which cover damage to your vehicle) isbased on the value of the vehicle andthe claim costs it produces. That iswhy, all things being equal, you paymore to insure a brand new Camarothan a 10-year-old Blazer.

As we have discussed, there is nodoubt your age has a lot to do withyour chance of being in an accident. Astudy by the California Department ofMotor Vehicles, for example, foundthat although teenagers drive only halfas many miles as adults, their accidentrate per mile is four times the adult rate.That is why insurance companies chargemore money to insure younger drivers.They know teens have a much greaterlikelihood of being in an accident. Mostinsurance companies will raise yourrates — or even cancel your insurance— if you have too many accidents ortraffic violations.

T E E N

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We would all like to pay less forauto insurance. Here are a couple waysthat your child can help:

1. Many insurance companies offerlower rates to young, single driverswho are better-than-average students inhigh school or college. They do thatbecause statistics show good studentshave considerably fewer accidents thanstudents whose grades are average orbelow average.

2. Obey all traffic laws. You cannotalways avoid an accident, but you canavoid traffic tickets, which can causeyour insurance premiums to go up.

For more information and/or statistics,you may access the following Websites: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ orhttp://www.hwysafety.org/.

Tim Tobey is a State Farm agent basedin Midlothian.

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Afurther, Wendy said a 140-pound person will burn about four more calories per minute by taking thestairs compared to standing or riding.Over the course of one year, the personmay only lose half a pound, butclimbing stairs will have challengedmore muscles than standing still orwalking on a level surface.1

Are you one of those night owlswho counts sheep instead of getting arestful night’s sleep? Well, guesswhat? Walking can turn a restlessnight into a night filled with restful,rejuvenating sleep. Millions ofAmericans, as stated on the iVillageTotal Health Web site, suffer frompoor sleep. Being active throughoutthe day is a key way to bring about asleep that makes walking worth theextra effort.2 The rewards which comefrom a good night’s sleep include:

clearer thoughts, more energy, a positivemindset, healthy weight maintenance,muscle strength, stress relief, the abilityto make better decisions and a muchstronger immune system.3

As defined in the Webster’s CollegiateDictionary, a resolution is a noun that simply means a firm decision.With a new year fully underway, manyindividuals will be making resolutionsthat pertain to more sound financialplanning, putting family first or gettingtheir lives organized from the home tothe office. Many others will be decidingthe most efficient way in which toshed those unwanted pounds they puton during the holidays. One sure wayto begin the journey to a healthier,happier and thinner you is by walking.

There are several levels of walkingthat range from a fast, regimentedschedule to just being conscious ofyour surroundings. “How much doesit help to take the stairs, rather thanride the escalator or elevator?” askedWendy Bumgardner, author of “YourGuide to Walking.” Explaining

Walking Into the New Year— By Sandra McIntosh


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Being active during the day helpsrelieve stress and tension, reducing thesymptoms of depression and anxiety.By walking, you not only help relieveinsomnia, but you improve your overallwell-being. Walking helps you sleep,so you do not feel as sluggish withexercise being the least of your concerns.With that in mind, why not break thecycle of negativity that would causeyou to break this year’s resolution?Keep the right balance between sleepand exercise, and walk your way intothe New Year!

Sources:1. Bumgardner, Wendy. “Your Guide to Walking.” www.walking.about.com.2. iVillage Total Health. www.yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com.3. “Forget Counting Sheep, Walk Your Way to Better Sleep.” AARP. aarp.org/health/fitness/walking.4. Ibid.


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14 essential nutrients. When we paveor add soil, it really fouls up theabsorption. Protect the tree from thosebig machines by creating a barrierwith that ugly, but effective, orangefence as far out from the trunk as youcan. A four- to six-inch layer of mulchover the area will protect it from thecompacting of large machinery thatknocks down your fence. Avoid the filldirt around the tree as much as possiblesince it will slowly strangle the treeover a period of several years. Thosepavers with holes in them offer somehelp in getting the moisture and airdown to the roots if you must coverpart of the area.

If you are putting in irrigation orunderground lines, tunnel two to fourfeet below the surface rather thantrenching. It will avoid most of thefeeding roots. Root pruning is a last-gapmeasure, but necessary if you want a

level surface area. It will promote arush of new growth and reduce thechance of root rot.

The tree canopy of the earth isquickly diminishing. We can see it aswe drive down the highway and noticethe dozers knocking down second growthtrees in preparation for yet anothershopping mall or housing addition.When the rains have no place to beabsorbed, they tend to run into ourhomes, etc. Not a pretty thought! Lessnoticeable is the oxygen that thosedestroyed trees were producing andthe CO2 they were taking out of theatmosphere. Let us all do our share byplanting trees, taking care of the oneswe have, and encouraging the buildersto think before bulldozing buildingsites with trees.

Nancy Fenton is a Master Gardener inEllis County.

— By Nancy Fenton

Are you planning some remodelingor new construction for your home thisyear? Let us consider how to do itwhile protecting those big trees youlove. If you are thinking aboutexpanding your home or your drivewaythis year, consider looking at it fromthe tree’s point of view. Our gracious,old trees have had a lifetime to put outthose roots past the edges of their dripline using them to absorb water and

’08 Resolution —

Save a Tree!


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First and Third TuesdaysTraining Academy for Dental Assistants holds freeinformational sessions at 5:30 p.m. For details, call(972) 842-2999.

First and Third ThursdaysMidlothian Lions Club, 7:00 p.m. at Midlothian Civic Center,224 S. 11th Street. For more information, call (972) 775-7118.

Second and Fourth MondaysTexas Ladies Networking meets from 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.at Fire Mountain Grill in Waxahachie. For more information,call (214) 587-1221.

Second and Fourth TuesdaysToastmasters meets at 6:30 p.m. inside Baylorworx, 507N. Hwy. 77 in Waxahachie.

Midlothian City Council, 6:00 p.m. at City Hall in CouncilChambers, 104 West Ave. E.

Every TuesdayMidlothian Rotary Club meets at noon at MidlothianCivic Center, 224 South 11th Street. Call (972) 775-7118for information.

December 20-January 1Midlothian ISD winter break.

January 4Jeremy’s Golf Center Junior Golf Parent/Student Meeting,

2636 Patrick Road, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.January 5Jeremy’s Golf Center, Ladies League Clinic, 2636 PatrickRoad, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.January 7American Business Women's Association (ABWA), GreatVisions Charter Chapter – 6:15 p.m., MidlothianConferenceCenter. $10 for dinner. The January presentation will be “Amazing Face Reading: A Breakthrough inCommunication,” by Ann Marks. The presentation will provide participants with a tool that will give them an accurateand immediate assessment of each person they meet.Face reading creates a deeper empathic connection withothers, better working alliances, better interviews whenhiring employees and better sales and customer service.Members are encouraged to bring co-workers and friends.Guests are welcome! Please RSVP to Amanda Miller at(972) 948-0811. For ABWA membership information go towww.midlothianabwa.com.

Zoning Board of Adjustments Meeting, all times and datesare subject to change or cancellation.

January 8Leadership Midlothian, Education Day, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

January 15Planning and Zoning Commission, all times and dates aresubject to change or cancellation.

January 2008 Community Calendar

January 17Town Hall meetings for the elementary rezoning, 7:00 -8:30 p.m., WGMS Cafeteria.

January 19Jeremy’s Golf Center, Ladies League Clinic, Saturday,2636 Patrick Road.

January 21Midlothian ISD School Board meeting, administration building,6:30 p.m.

January 24Midlothian Community Development Corporation regularmonthly Board meeting, Midlothian Conference Center,6:00 p.m.

January 29Incoming Freshmen Parent Orientation, Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

January 31Town Hall meeting for the elementary rezoning, 7:00 -8:30 p.m., Midlothian High School Auditorium.

February 1-3CASI-sanctioned chili cook-off, Ellis County Expo Center in Waxahachie, benefiting the Ellis County Children’sAdvocacy Center and Gingerbread House. Lots of funactivities. For more information contact Kay Lefler at (972) 646-5159 or Theresa Haskovec at (972) 938-0075.



Documents

January 2008 Prison - Now Magazines...Sales Assistant, Jessica Vasquez Midlothian Editor, Betty Tryon Contributing Writers, Alex Allred .Dia Catalani Nancy Fenton .Tim Tobey Photography,