By Gary Lee Webb
I have been in Waco 21 years. Before that, I had never heard about Toastmasters International; although, I did participate in some speaking organizations back in high school (Model UN while in California and the Arizona Model Legislature) and thought I was a great speaker.
It was not until a demonstration of Toastmasters at my work in 2007 that I learned about the organization. It reminded me of the fun I had in high school, and one can always improve their communication skills, so I joined.
I quickly learned that I was only good, not great. I had a long way to go. But Toastmasters has taken me from being a good speaker to extremely good, top decile in the world. I learned to use my voice to its full capacity — pitch and intonation, speed and cadence, how to moderate to best effect, when to stage whisper across a room. I improved my use of gestures and movement across the speaking area. I learned rhetorical devices, assonance and alliteration, and even the use of unusual techniques such as the paraprosdokian twist. After all, the voice is the sharpest scalpel within the surgeon’s kit of speaking. If you use it well, people will be intrigued and you can paint pictures.
I also went from being a horrible humorist to someone who can occasionally win a humor contest. That is something I must still improve, but at least people do not stampede the door, exiting when I tell a joke.
I learned to think quickly on my feet, replying in one to two minutes to off-the-wall questions. In Toastmasters, we not only practice prepared speaking but also impromptu speaking at every meeting. We call it “Table Topics.” A predesignated Table Topics Master queries random people with questions he prepared earlier. Getting good at answering is a very useful skill for job interviews or a quick proposal to one’s boss.
Something else we practice at meetings is the art of constructive criticism: nicely telling a speaker where they can improve and how to do so, in a way that encourages him to take your advice. After all, our goal is to help every speaker to become better. Leaders should know how to evaluate others, whether they supervise paid employees or a group of volunteers.
We also teach leadership skills, much to my personal benefit. When I joined Toastmasters, I was happy to take a supportive role, assisting the leadership team, but never the lead role. Now I have learned to take the reins, if necessary. Thrice within the last 12 years, I have taken on one-year terms as Area or Division Governor or Director (titles have changed).
Finally, we learn to guide, teach, and train. Every new member gets a mentor to guide them, and when they have become experienced we hope they will do the same. I have mentored three-dozen new members, assisting them to become better speakers and leaders. Some of them have hit heights I have never reached – what better result can any teacher expect? I have also taught the speechcraft seminar sixteen times: eleven weeks on speaking basics. More advanced skills as well. And I have led officer training for multiple leaders and even organized the event held at Baylor University, August 2014: ten trainers, twelve classes, training sixty chapter officers.
In short, Toastmasters International has enriched my life and improved my skills. What can it do for you?
Gary Lee Webb is the grandfather of two (age 9 and 7), a long-time member of Toastmasters International and the National Storytelling Network, and the author of 17 published short stories. He is also a world traveler (having lived on three continents), an astronomer, and a software engineer. Currently, he is vice president of education for three Waco public Toastmaster chapters and can be reached at [email protected].
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Ferrell Foster
First, I should confess that I have a problem. I tend to get a bit aggressive when driving, especially regarding people who speed up to get ahead and pull in front of me and then break because they were going too fast. It’s especially irritating when there is plenty of space behind me.
I don’t mean to get aggressive, but I do. I think it’s part of getting older. I can no longer take out my competitiveness on a sporting field. My two human wheels no longer work so well, so I need to give my four automotive wheels a workout.
You’re probably wondering if I have an aggression problem in general. No. It’s really odd that the only time I really get wound up is when I drive around stupid people. And then I get stupid right along with them. (Forgive me, Mom; I know I’m not supposed to call anyone stupid, including myself. Moms haunt us even when we are 65.)
Now, for a public safety warning. It’s not a warning about me. I’ve only had one wreck in my 50 years of driving. Even when dealing with road rage, I tend to obey the laws.
Many of you know that I only moved to Waco last year and didn’t drive much in the early months because of the need to hide from other people due to COIVD. As things have gotten closer to normal, one thing has stood out vividly.
People in Waco like to run red lights. I don’t know if the yellow lights are shorter than in most places or if Wacoans are more impatient or more distracted by their phones. Maybe it’s just peer pressure; when everyone seems to be running red lights you feel a certain cultural pressure to conform and speed up on red. Check your rearview mirror if you are stopping under a yellow light; you may have to let off your brake.
Is this my imagination? Or is it just the traffic corridor that connects my office with my house — roughly the Extraco Events Center to near Hewitt?
Last year I wrote several pieces under the heading of being “New to Waco,” at the request of Ashley Thornton. I still feel new in some ways and thought I should warn those who are newer than me.
Of course, every town has its red-light runners, but they seem to have multiplied here. It seems with each light change it is more likely that someone will run a red light than that no one will. And I’m not talking about the light turning red while the car is already in the box; I’m talking about blatant red running.
So, for all of my love for this community, this is one thing that’s a little scary. When entering an intersection, be sure to look both left and right. There are people out there who are either color blind or cavalier about the meaning of a bright red light hanging from a pole in the middle of the street.
Let’s be careful out there so we can enjoy one another. And I promise I’m working on my driving. I’m seeking to make driving a moment of Zen so I can pretend the goings on around me are peripheral to reality. Of course, the truth is that Zen or no Zen, we can kill each other out there in a blink of the eye or a glance at a phone.
I’m loving Waco, even on the road.
Ferrell Foster is acting executive director of Act Locally Waco and senior content specialist for care and communication with Prosper Waco.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
Editor’s Note: McLennan Community College will host an ExpressPath Open House Saturday, June 12, 10 a.m.-noon, in the China Spring High School cafeteria highlighting an extensive list of certificate and occupational skills award options that can be completed in one year or less at MCC. Representatives will be available to help new students complete the application and enrollment process. Interested individuals are encouraged to schedule an appointment for the Open House at www.mclennan.edu/expresspath/<http://www.mclennan.edu/expresspath/> to ensure proper physical distancing. Face coverings will also be required. For more information about the Open House, contact Highlander Central at 254-299-8622 or [email protected].
By Madison Schick
Waiting on the return of “normal” has become a commonplace reference to describe the millions of people nationwide who are hoping for brighter, mask-free days filled with hugs and handshakes. However, even in less abnormal times that don’t involve a pandemic, it’s clear that lots of people are waiting on something.
Some are waiting for the perfect time to start their new health goals, others for the courage to go back to school. Many are guilty of commemorating the holiday-season countdown by buying decorations beginning mid-July. Whether one wants to start their career or win the neighborhood yard competition, there’s no time like the present.
To start sooner rather than later, to save money and time, and to increase earning potential through education: these are the founding principles of MCC’s ExpressPath program.
Vocational degrees and certificates are not new to higher education, but an upsurge in salaries and employment opportunities have made these programs recent topics of conversation – and a major reason why both traditional and non-traditional learners choose community colleges.
Quality training for in-demand jobs, affordable tuition and a swift timeline allow students to learn skills faster to earn money sooner. Certificates may be complementary to prior skills learned on the job, supplemental to other degrees, or qualify students to perform their job immediately upon completion.
In an earlier blog post, MCC President Johnette McKown reflected that students can go anywhere after MCC. This is true with ExpressPath certificates and skills awards, as these certificates can get students started in their professions sooner, allowing them to acquire additional skills, certificates, and degrees within a shorter timeframe while earning money.
ExpressPath at MCC further destigmatizes the notion that technical certificates are only applicable to those who wish to work in healthcare or industry, such as plumbing or electrical services. Accounting, firefighting, child development, paramedicine, and interpreter training certificates are only a few of the certificates available that advance working professionals and aspiring students alike.
MCC aims to help people take a step, possibly even a jump, towards their future with ExpressPath programs. To learn more about ExpressPath and our upcoming Open Houses, visit https://www.mclennan.edu/expresspath/.
Madison Schick is social media and communications specialist at McLennan Community College. A literature enthusiast and graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, Madison studied environmental science, English, and history, and still loves all things related to reading and writing.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Josh Wucher
Hillcrest PDS Elementary School is welcoming Haley Dean as its newest principal. Dean is currently an assistant principal at Lake Air Montessori Magnet School, a position she has served in for the previous three years.
“It’s been my joy and honor to call Lake Air home for over a decade,” Dean said. “I’m very excited to continue my journey as the next leader of Hillcrest’s amazing campus. My wish is to lead with the heart of a mother, mind of an educator and spirit of a servant leader.”
Dean holds nearly 20 years of experience as an educator, more than half of which at Lake Air as a teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal. She began her career in Conroe ISD as a fifth- and sixth-grade math and science teacher at Travis Intermediate School and then began teaching seventh- and eighth-grade math at Peet Junior High. She joined Waco ISD in 2009 as a sixth-grade math teacher at Lake Air Intermediate School.
“Haley has done a superb job as assistant principal at Lake Air, and I am confident she’ll continue empowering our staff to meet the needs of students and families in her new role at Hillcrest,” Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Susan Kincannon said. “She is well versed in supporting the professional growth and development of our teachers. And I’m excited to see the dynamic leadership that she’ll bring to Hillcrest.”
Dean received a bachelor of science in interdisciplinary studies at Lamar University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington.
“Waco ISD has tremendous, hardworking staff who all want what is best for our students,”
Dean said. “I look forward to furthering our commitment to provide spaces where students know they belong and will have challenging learning experiences.”
Dean, who is succeeding Jennifer Lundquist, will begin her role in July.
Joshua Wucher is Waco ISD’s executive director for communications.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Lindsey Breunig-Rodriguez
It has been several months since I last wrote an article for Act Locally Waco. I am happy to be back and ready to continue featuring different fruits and vegetables each month.
Bell peppers might be one of my favorite vegetables (be warned I will say this for four or five other veggies) due to their versatility, bright colors, and packed flavors. If you enjoy gardening, bell peppers are at the start of their season, (summer and fall) so be on the lookout for great deals at the grocery store or farmers market because buying vegetables in-season results in a fresher, tastier, and a lowest cost product.
Nutrition:
Per USDA dietary guidelines it is recommended we consume 3 cups of vegetables daily. Vegetables may be fresh, canned, frozen, or dried, and may be whole, cut-up, or pureed; it all counts. For bell peppers (all colors), a 1 cup serving is equal to 1 cup of chopped, raw, or cooked pepper or 1 large pepper (3″ diameter, 3¾” long). One small pepper is equal to ½ cup.
Bell peppers are a great source of Vitamin C, which keeps our immune system strong and helps our bodies heal quickly. Red bell peppers are higher in both Vitamin C and A compared to green bell peppers. Additionally, bell peppers are fat free, saturated-fat free, sodium free, cholesterol free, and low in calories.
Shopping, Storage, and Preparation:
In the summer we might see deals on fresh bell peppers, but we can also enjoy them in other forms like frozen and canned for good nutrition and convenience. If selecting fresh, choose firm, brightly colored peppers with tight skin that are heavy for their size. Avoid dull, shriveled, or bumpy peppers. Store fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days.
The skin of a bell pepper is fairly soft so little pressure is needed when cutting. This may be a great veggie to cut with children who want to work on knife skills; however, the shape can be intimidating. University of Maryland’s Extension program created a quick video on how to buy, store, and prepare bell peppers, watch here.
Enjoy:
Bell peppers are a staple in a variety of ethnic cuisines, including Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Korean), African, Latino, and Mediterranean. Enjoy bell peppers in a variety of different ways:
- Raw: A tasty addition for a veggie tray and are delicious with many kinds of dip or for extra crunch add to sandwiches and wraps.
- Grilled/Roasted/Sauteed: Indoor or outdoor, peppers will taste great with simply some oil and salt or other seasoning. A great addition to pasta sauce, a pizza topping, breakfast eggs, soups, or chili.
- Stuffed: Stuff with whatever you have available at home. A mixture of beans/meat, brown rice/grains, veggies, and spices can go such a long way and has endless combinations. Stuff the pepper and bake!
- Added to salads and casseroles.
Check out these other tasty recipes too: Simple Stuffed Peppers (a household favorite!), BBQ Chicken Pizza, and Mac and Beans Medley.
I hope you enjoy!
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. This material was funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — SNAP. To learn more about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or to apply for benefits, visit www.yourtexasbenefits.com.
Lindsey Breunig-Rodriguez is an Extension Agent for the Better Living for Texans program with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. She is originally from Grapevine but now calls Waco home. A graduate from Baylor University, she loves to venture out to Cameron Park, visit the local Farmers Market, and try out the awesome eateries in Waco. If you see her and hear a loud bark, that’s her pup Lucy Ann just saying hello.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
Kendrick Elementary’s Isabel Lozano also announced as Principal of the Year.
By Joshua Wucher
Waco ISD celebrated top educators in May during a special virtual Outstanding Teacher ceremony. The annual event honors all of the district’s teachers of the year for their deep commitment to student success.
“Our outstanding teachers exemplify excellence in the classroom,” said Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Susan Kincannon. “They create unique, hands-on experiences that make instruction engaging for students and help them grow. They are shining examples of what it means to meet our mission to provide an educational foundation that empowers and values all.”
Among the educators recognized, were Bell’s Hill Elementary School first-grade teacher Lindsey Melancon and University High School ninth-grade Pre-AP biology teacher Lacey Merrifield, the district’s outstanding elementary and secondary teachers of the year, respectively.
“A successful teacher has to display a level of enthusiasm and passion for what is being taught,” said Melancon, who has taught at Bell’s Hill for eight years. “I strongly believe if we can motivate young minds, then we have created life-long learners.”
Bell’s Hill Principal Rebekah Mechell describes Melancon as an educator that “goes above and beyond to serve her students, their parents and other staff” and creates a warm and positive culture.
“I believe in immersive learning that places students in local cultures, landscapes, opportunities and experiences that can create cross-curricular connections,” said Merrifield, who coaches junior varsity softball and freshman volleyball and has been teaching for 13 years.
“Coach Merrifield continues to challenge her students daily,” said University High School Principal Dr. Ricky Edison. “She routinely engages the students in rigorous coursework and hands-on projects. She has so much passion and energy that students just gravitate to her.”
At the ceremony, the district also honored Kelly Miah, a third-grade teacher at Hillcrest PDS, and David Gerada, an assistant band director at Cesar Chavez Middle School, as the Virginia DuPuy First Year Teachers of the Year.
Like the district’s outstanding teacher awards, the recipients of the Virginia DuPuy First Year Teacher of the Year awards are nominated by their respective campuses. Named for the former mayor and advocate for public education, the awards recognize one elementary and one secondary teacher, who are starting their careers in education.
Jennifer Lundquist, principal at Hillcrest PDS, describes Miah as having “a passion to motivate students to learn and a drive to give 110% to everything she does.”
Similarly, Cesar Chavez Principal Alonzo McAdoo, says Gerada “is an incredible teacher whose actions, level of commitment and ability to be here consistently for our students encourages us all to be anchored in student success.”
Another exciting celebration happened this month at the district’s principal leadership meeting where Kendrick Elementary School’s Isabel Lozano was surprised with the announcement that she was selected as the 2020-2021 Waco ISD Principal of the Year.
“My parents instilled in me that hard work plus determination equals success,” Lozano said. “This is a humbling experience, and I feel blessed to live and work in a community that puts our kids first.”
Lozano is in her third year as principal of Kendrick Elementary School. She has previously served as a classroom teacher, instructional specialist, academic advising coordinator, middle school assistant principal, and high school assistant principal.
Kincannon said: “With a heart for children and their families, Mrs. Lozano represents the best
kind of leader in Waco ISD. I have no doubt that many of our students can see themselves and
find inspiration in Isabel’s journey to the principalship.”
A recording of the full ceremony is available here.
Joshua Wucher is Waco ISD’s executive director for communications.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Kelly Craine
The Texas Healthy Communities program recognizes Waco-McLennan County Public Health District for conducting a community assessment designed to evaluate current policy, systems, and environmental strategies and public health practices proven to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases.
The THC program assists communities to assess their existing environments, implement changes in local environmental and policy infrastructure, and adopt priority public health practices to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Based on outcomes of the community assessments, The THC program recognizes best practices being advanced within a community’s local jurisdiction.
The following communities were recognized at the Gold, Silver, Bronze, or Honorable Mention levels in fiscal year 2021:
• Gold Level: N/A
• Silver Level: Harris County, McLennan County, Travis County
• Bronze Level: El Paso County, City of Houston, Victoria County, Wichita County
• Honorable Mention Level: Brazos County, Lamar County, Taylor County
Communities are assessed on eight indicators to determine recognition as a Texas Healthy Community. Environmental indicators include designated areas for physical activity, healthy eating options, mother-friendly worksites, and evidence-based community supports for healthy aging. Policy indicators include smoke free ordinances, EMS systems with appropriate acute stroke treatment protocols, and an emergency response action plan.
More information about the THC program can be found on the Texas Department of State Health Services website or by contacting THC Program Coordinator Nneka Shoulds by email at [email protected].
Kelly Craine is communications lead for the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
Title: Chief Program Officer Reports To: Executive Director / CEO
Summary
The Chief Program Officer is a proven non-profit manager with experience implementing school and community-based programming. Chief Program Officer will be a collaborator with the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Impact Officer, and Senior Director of Human Resources and Administration in advancing organizational excellence and working to develop and improve core campus-based programming. This position will maintain all school district partnerships for CISHOT. The Chief Program Officer is responsible for the supervision of a 25-person team of management and direct service staff.
Duties and responsibilities
- Lead and manage core programmatic operations of the organization and ensure that expectations of funders, partners, constituents, clients and community stakeholders are met with fidelity
- Maintain stakeholder partnerships, including those with local school districts and the Texas Education Agency
- Manage all Texas Education Agency grant activities, budgeting, reporting, data, and outcomes
- Collaborate with the CEO in shaping the strategic direction for campus-based programming and community impact
- Work as a collaborator with the CEO and CIO in leading the organization through impact and outcome focused growth and innovation
- Assist the CEO in conducting growth and asset-based planning and evaluation activities for the programs of CIS
- Assist the CEO and CIO in the development and implementation of community needs assessments and responding programming adjustments
- Responsible for the management of volunteer programs, training activities, and developing community partnerships.
- Collaborate with CEO and CIO in resource development and fundraising efforts for the organization
- Display a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Education
Master’s degree in Social Work, Business, Education, Organizational Development, or related field preferred.
Experience
- At least five (5) years of experience in nonprofit or organizational management
- Experience managing grant funded programs and budgets
- Excellent writing and oral presentation skills required.
- Effective intervention, advocacy, and negotiation skills.
- Must complete and clear Criminal Background Check.
- Spanish speaking preferred
Compensation
$60,000-$65,000 depending on experience/education. Full benefits upon successful completion of probationary period.
Respond by submitting an application, cover letter and résumé at www.cishot.org
By Megan Davis
The City of Waco’s annual “4th on the Brazos” celebration is set to return Sunday, July 4, at Touchdown Alley, next to Baylor University’s McLane Stadium. Admission is free, and the community is invited to enjoy the festivities with food trucks, live music, family fun, and fireworks.
Gates will open at 6 p.m., and the fireworks will kick off at about 9:15 p.m. The fireworks will be shot above the river, between Touchdown Alley and the Ferrell Center. They will be visible from both sides of the river, the Ferrell Center, and areas around Baylor campus.
Bag check stations will be located at all entrances. Coolers with drinks and snacks are allowed, but glass bottles and containers are prohibited. Extra hand washing stations will be located throughout the grounds, and guests are encouraged to practice social distancing.
Additional details, including an event schedule and artist announcement, will be available soon. For updates, visit brazosnightswaco.com or follow Brazos Nights on Facebook or Instagram.
Megan Davis works the City of Waco’s Parks and Recreation Department.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Paula Rivadeneira
Mike Gray, canine behavior and enrichment specialist with the Humane Society of Central Texas, has a big job on his hands making sure every shelter dog gets the exercise and enrichment they need each day. He depends on volunteers who come to the shelter to help run dogs to their daily playgroup activities every morning.
While dogs love playgroup and have shown huge improvements in their behavior and adaptability with regular participation, one-on-one interaction with humans in normal everyday activities is also critical in managing kennel-related stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that when a dog goes on a day trip from a shelter, their stress levels decrease and they sleep better. That’s why HSCTX promotes Doggy Daycations in which volunteers can pick up a shelter dog, take them out on the town, enjoy some snacks, have a walk in the park, or even cuddle at home on the couch. At the end of the day, the dog comes back to the shelter more relaxed.
With so many dogs needing high levels of exercise and enjoying Doggy Daycations, Mike came up with the idea of Alpha Dog Academy. The goal is for people who walk, run, or hike to pick up a shelter dog on their way to their activity, and HSCTX will track their miles for a friendly competition between gyms.
There are four local gyms as well as a local running company, with members now signed up to participate — JR Crossfit, Train Waco, Anytime Fitness, 15:10 Crossfit, and Waco Running Co. Each month the miles will be totaled, and the winning gym will get to hold onto a huge trophy that was generously donated by Warren’s Engraving. Each month, the winning gym’s name will be engraved on the trophy.
Participants will undergo a short training about expectations and dog handling before their first session, and a Pet Matchmaker will pair them with the dog that matches their energy level and goals. Dogs can be picked up 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and they will be returned to the shelter by 5 p.m. This gives dogs an excellent opportunity to get out their energy, socialize, and be exposed to potential adopters while serving as an exercise buddy and motivator to the volunteers.
Plus, there are added benefits to exercising with a dog, including the increased safety it provides and the good feelings that come from working out for a cause.
Sign up for Alpha Dog Academy here. If you are not affiliated with a gym, don’t worry! Individual participants are welcome to join, too.
The Humane Society of Central Texas, 2032 Circle Road, is open 1-6 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The last meet-and-greet is 45 minutes before closing. Staff must accompany guests through the kennels, and COVID precautions are observed. Bring your own dogs and everyone who lives in your household to the meet and greet so your family can be matched with the perfect pet.
The Humane Society of Central Texas advocates for the animals at the City of Waco Animal Shelter; provides adoption, rescue and foster opportunities; and offers community education regarding responsible pet ownership. The partnership between HSCTX and the City of Waco Animal Services, along with the support of the community, has resulted in a current average live-exit rate above 90%, giving the Waco Animal Shelter No-Kill status.
Paula Rivadeneira, Ph.D., is executive director of the Humane Society of Central Texas.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].