It’s that time of year to think about New Year’s Resolutions. As a county commissioner, I have the pleasure of working with many members of our community. I want to applaud Jamie Dominguez for his work to help our community this past year. He is an example of someone who is making a difference in our community.

Jamie is the owner of Ef’s Restaurant and DGZ Contracting. Jamie is on the Alamosa Prevention Coalition and the Alamosa Alumni Association. He founded the Five Star Riders’ Car Club with his friend Ray Garcia. This Car Club has raised money for toy drives (2018 is the sixth year for this); Thanksgiving meals for needy families (one year they provided Thanksgiving meals to over 100 families); donations to La Puente (helping families whose home have burned down and others in need); ice skates for the Alamosa Recreation Center ($1,500 in 2018); and many other worthy causes.

At the age of 14, no one would have guessed that Jamie would be so involved in so many community projects. He was raised by a single mom, working two jobs, with help from his grandmother. He grew up in public housing and has broken the cycle through his own determination. He started running with a gang and drinking at the age of 14. He dropped out of school in the ninth grade. He was 17 when his first daughter was born. While having a child made him realize that he needed to change his ways, it was not until Jamie was in his early 30’s and sitting in jail for his fourth DUI that he truly woke up to his reality. His grandmother had passed away and the judge denied him a furlough to attend her funeral. Jamie was faced with the consequences of his poor choices. He thought about his children, and their future. Jamie decided to make a difference.

Several people helped Jamie along the way. Mr. Reed gave Jamie confidence by discussing community needs with him. Mr. Reed always told Jamie that if there is a need, everybody brings something to the table. Jamie realized he had something to bring to the table. Creed from Ascension Counseling also helped Jamie understand that he had the ability to change his own life.  His wife, Cristal Ray, also supported Jamie through many difficult times. Jamie and Cristal Ray are currently involved in Family Leadership Institute Training so that they can continue to make a difference in our community.

Resolve to make a difference in 2019. There are many ways to serve our community. It does not matter who you are, how educated you are or how much money you have. Each one of us can make difference. Think about Jamie and what he has accomplished. Jamie is certainly an inspiration to me.

Helen Sigmond

Alamosa county commissioner