midlandfall2024

2 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

3 hometown living at its best

4 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 14 Contents 28 58 14 PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE The Career and Technical Education department at Midland ISD is helping students plan for life after high school. 28 STRENGTH THROUGH STRUGGLE Adrianne Thompson and her husband Kenny share their four very different birth stories and how, with the presence of the Lord, they were able to experience His sustaining power and the sweetest of loves. 44 PROVIDING SOLUTIONS FOR OVER 65 YEARS Spectrum of Solutions offers a variety of programs and therapies to support those with Intellectual and Development Disabilities in our community. 58 FROM THE KITCHEN OF KATIE AUDAS Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Banana Bread 68 GROWTH AND GRIT Ashley Colquitt is continuously looking to empower both herself and those around her. She is changing the way Midland partners with educators to create a better community for all of us. 80 HOMETOWN BUNDLES Welcome some of Midland’s newest, tiny bundles of joy. On the Cover

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Contents 6 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 88 HULA BRINGS THE ISLAND TO THE PERMIAN BASIN A Midland family is embracing the Polynesian culture. 100 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Cattle Baron’s Ball 108 SALT, STYLE AND THE PURSUIT OF CHRIST Lauren Wall has lived in the desert and the mountains on two different continents, but her life has had one constant. She relentlessly, passionately, unwaveringly pursues Christ where He sends her. 118 HOMETOWN SPIRIT Don’t miss out on MISD Friday Night Lights! 124 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Goodnight Spirits Grand Opening Event 128 FABULOUS When Shonna Garcia, founded Fabulous Women of Midland in 2016, she never imagined the organization would grow by leaps and bounds. 134 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ CAMPING EDITION Campfire Peach Cobbler 88 128

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10 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group W Midland Living Magazine© is published semi-annually by Hometown Media Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 N Main Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. WRITERS Sabrina Forse Avery Pullin Haley Ragsdale Ellen Slater PHOTOGRAPHERS Angela Gonzales Photography Lucero Molina Photography (bundles) Crystal Rodriguez Photography (bundles) Sydney Tolifson Photography (bundles) With the Summer season coming to an end, the kids back in school, routine is now back in place (hopefully!), we can now focus on what Texans truly care about, football!! As we cross our fingers that cooler weather is in our foreseeable future, for me that means it’s time to pull out all things pumpkin and soak up the memories that were made this Summer. Did you spend your time having quality time with your family, enjoying slow summer nights, or did you live in the fast lane filled with vacations on the beach? Hopefully you have got to enjoy a little bit of it all! This Summer my daughters and I slowed it down a little and I have to say, it was so enjoyable. We took a trip to the JW Marriott in San Antonio and created memories that I will never forget and plan on making it a new summer tradition. We spent weekends swimming with our neighbors and taking daily walks together. God took good care of us during a new season of life, and I am eternally grateful for His timing and work. His blessings in our lives are abundant. Fall is on the horizon along with the busyness of holiday after holiday until, before we know it, the New Year is here. I encourage you to meet your family in the quiet of the hustle and bustle and truly soak in the quality time. For my daughters and I, that is through baking. I truly feel food brings people together and, in this issue, I have given you my cinnamon sugar swirl banana loaf recipe to make for your family and loved ones. I love nothing more than to be in my kitchen with the girls, hearing their laughter and just smiling as I watch over them. I hope that my girls can look back and remember these memories with as much joy as I do. It is amazing how much we miss until we slow down and take in all of God’s goodness and glory. Hello Midland! ON THE COVER Photo by Brooklynn Nicole Photography Katie Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6 Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Lindsey Kruger Marketing & Client Relations lindsey@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Katie Audas Sales Account Executive katie@hometownmedia.group Haley Ragsdale Social Media Editor Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group

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14 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group PREPARING WRITTEN BY HALEY RAGSDALE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MIDLAND ISD The Career and Technical Education department at Midland ISD is helping students plan for life after high school. for the Future

TThe age-old question, “What will you do after high school?” can be a difficult and often stressful question to answer. However, that is where the Career and Technical Education department at Midland ISD steps in to help. “Our goal for our kids is to be productive citizens and be ready for a career as opposed to just a job,” explained Jeff Horner, Executive Director of Career and Technical Education. But even knowing what types of careers are available can be daunting to students and their parents. Career and Technical Education or CTE creates connections by bringing in industry partners to help give insight to careers that might interest students. Lori Mosely, a CTE coordinator, explained how her own son, Amon, was struggling with what to do after high school. “We couldn’t quite figure out what he wanted to do. We knew he wanted to do something related to engineering. We had an oil and gas company come talk to the students and Amon learned about being an I&E Technician and it was just a lightbulb moment; that’s what he wanted to do! It was so eye opening. I am so grateful that companies like that can come talk to students,” Mosley said. The CTE program is not short on options to pique students’ interest. There are currently 27 programs of study ranging from animal science, culinary arts, health care and oil in gas just to name a few. “Twelve years ago, we had 180 students enrolled in dual credit CTE, now we have 1200 kids in dual credit CTE.” Horner said. Horner explained a mindset change is needed to understand the workforce now compared to years ago. Today, many careers are technology driven and require more intensive on the job training.

16 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group With a strong partnership with Midland College, industry partners and community engagement, CTE is ready to meet the ever-changing needs of the Permian Basin. “We redesigned our health science dual credit, now starting in 9th grade, then by 11th grade they can achieve their certificated nursing aide. Then they can go on to phlebotomy, EMT or pharmacy tech or continue their education towards being an RN. There is such a huge demand for health care, and we are changing our curriculum to meet that demand,” Horner said. Horner went on to explain that Midland ISD is making huge gains compared to the state average. “There are 14 different level 1 certifications through Midland College. That is 325 plus hours of free college tuition. Here in Midland 8.5 percent of graduates are leaving with a level one certification. The state average is one percent," he said. A great example of how CTE is helping create career opportunities for Midland students is the fire academy. Horner explained a three-way partnership with Midland ISD, Midland College and Midland Fire Department created a path for students to become fire fighters. “We worked with the city and Midland College and half a day their junior year; they go to the fire academy. We just had a student that was hired by Midland Fire Department at 18 years old, fully certified with all of his state tests.” he said.

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21 hometown living at its best CTE provides real opportunities for students to put their skills to the test. The culinary arts students prepare a meal for board members at all school board meetings. “We really want to grow our own and allow these industry partners to come in and make connections with our kids. You don’t think about all the options at HEB besides a checker, but you could be a store manager, a produce manager, a chef etc. We want to help set them up with internships and summer jobs.” Mosely explained. CTE will continue to expand with the help of the recently passed school bond. Horner explained they will not have to bus 9th graders to high school campuses to take courses. Construction trades, graphic design, health science and culinary arts will also be able to grow and add more seats to these high demand industries in the Permian Basin. Mosely explained that students are much less frustrated when planning for their future when they are shown all the different opportunities available. For her son, Amon, CTE has helped him create a clear path for life after high school. For hundreds of students, the answer to the question “What will you do after high school?” is CTE and all the programs it offers to bridge the gap into a career. †

WWW.MEEKDESIGNSGROUP.COM Colored Marquee Letters 432-202-8807 Welcome to Meek Designs! We specialize in creating unforgettable event experiences with our customizable marquee letters, featuring our own custom software for endless color options and effects. Expanding beyond marquees, we also offer a sparkling Disco Ball wall and unique tulle walls. Discover how we bring innovation and style to every celebration, with options ranging from simple and elegant to crazy and fun-whatever your event calls for! 22 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

WWW.SEALYWHEELS.COM Snow Cone Bus 432-202-8807 We are thrilled to announce the launch of our pink snow cone bus! Sealy Wheels offers a wide range of unique and classic snow cone flavors, ensuring there's a tasty option for every palate. The bus's vibrant pink color makes it a mobile Landmark that draws attention wherever it goes, perfect for photo ops and attracting crowds. Find us around town or book Sealy Wheels for your private events, parties, and special occasions. Follow our social media for daily locations or contact us to make your next gathering extra sweet! 23 hometown living at its best

DDoctors Rohith Saravanan and Sara Safarzadeh Amiri have found a home to fit their family’s needs now and into the future. Whether the kids have friends over, distant family comes for an extended stay, or they host a gathering of their colleagues, their new space is designed for the occasion. “We had reached a point in our lives where we wanted a home that our kids could truly enjoy at their age,” Rohith said. “With our children now in middle school, we have about five or six more years before they head off to college. We felt this was the perfect time to invest in a home that we could all cherish together. It was essential for us to have a house that our kids would be proud of, where they could bring their friends. Additionally, both of us host When the time was right for their family, physicians Rohith Saravanan & Sara Safarzadeh Amiri reached out to THE SALES TEAM REALTORS to search for their next home. Along with finding the GRACE & EXCELLENCE they remembered from their first SALES TEAM experience, they also found a new home that they and their children could be proud to share with family and friends. READY TO SHARE A DREAM HOME 24 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

25 hometown living at its best THE SALES TEAM CORE VALUES: RELATIONSHIPS: Build lasting relationships while professionally serving people’s real estate needs through life’s transitions. INTEGRITY: Act with integrity and put others above self. EXCELLENCE: Create excellent experiences for all involved. GRACE: Be kind, positive, and respectful in thoughts, words, and actions. If you are in the market in the Midland or Odessa area, trust the Sales Team Realtors to guide you. Call the office at 432.618.1818 or visit their website at salesteamrealtors.com. Brian and Laura Sales gatherings for work and community social events, so we wanted a home that could comfortably accommodate these events.” It’s no coincidence that Rohith and Sara chose Brian Sales to assist in house hunting, after all, they had known each other since he had helped them find their first house when they relocated to the Midland area several years ago. “Brian and Laura have always prioritized relationships,” Rohith said. “They excel at keeping us connected through hosting events, sending thoughtful cards, and even sending a pie for Thanksgiving.” When it was time to search for just the right home and accommodate their family’s needs, Rohith and Sara knew their concerns could be addressed by the same knowledgeable and trustable source. “I felt that if I were to get my dream home, it would be at this stage in our lives,” Sara said. “Brian understood this perfectly and provided us with the time and space we needed to explore and experience each house. We wanted a home that could host family gatherings and accommodate relatives who travel long distances to visit us. When they come, they stay for extended periods, and Brian understood our need for a comfortable and spacious environment.” After viewing nearly a dozen properties, the patient searching was worth it. A beautiful, one-story, brick ranch-style house exceeded their expectations. A primary feature that sold them on their new home was the scenery upon walking in the front door: a refreshing view through a bright wall of glass that reveals a welcoming, three-sided courtyard patio and pool area. Vaulted, wood-beamed ceilings and an open-concept layout with two kitchen islands facing the living area also meant they found the spacious and inviting environment they wanted for gatherings. Moving forward in sharing the blessing of a new home, the next step is to extend an invitation to their family and friends.

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28 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY AVERY PULLIN | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE THOMPSON FAMILY through STRENGTH STRUGGLE Adrianne Thompson and her husband Kenny share their four very different birth stories and how, with the presence of the Lord, they were able to experience His sustaining power and the sweetest of loves.

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30 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group In 2017 Adrianne Thompson was pregnant with her first child, a miracle she and her husband Kenny knew came from God. Adrianne had hopes and a plan for the birth of their first child. She wanted a natural birth, her doula present, and to be surrounded by those who supported her throughout her pregnancy. As her plans developed and her pregnancy continued, in her head she would sing on repeat “Lion and the Lamb” fully trusting that God, the lion of Judah, would fight any battle before her. She went into labor on a Saturday, and all the plans she had crafted with such care slipped out of her control. Her OBGYN was out of town, so Adrianne had to unexpectedly put trust into a new doctor and care team. As a first-time mom, she only knew to do what was being told to her. Unfortunately, this led to an unnecessary C-section. At this point God reminded her that He is the Lion fighting her battles. She recalled this song and clung to the promises found in it during her own battle of her first delivery. Their son Trigger was born that day. Though it was not the delivery they had longed for, it was the miracle of their child for which Adrianne and Kenny gave glory to God. Our God is a Lion

31 hometown living at its best Growing Pains The Thompsons were told they most likely could not have another child. Three months later Adrianne was pregnant again! However, she was traumatized from the experience of her C-section, so Adrianne conveyed to her doctor that she wanted things to be different this time. Her OBGYN listened to her, gave her support, and encouraged her. Though Adrianne shared she may want to do a home birth; she trusted her physician that at this point it was best to be under his care for a VBAC. He was confident that this second delivery would be more in line with her hopes. Sadly, during this second pregnancy, Adrianne tragically lost her mother. She knows it was only God who held her up during this time, allowing her to overflow with grief and all-consuming love at once. She recognized that her mom was reunited with her own parents and that it was okay for Adrianne to focus on her own little girl she was carrying. In 2019 her daughter Sutton was born. Adrianne gives credit to her OBGYN for helping her overcome the physical and emotional difficulties of the birth of her first child. Adrianne and Kenny still longed for more children and were ecstatic to learn Adrianne was pregnant again. Then COVID hit. The birth of their third child, their daughter Collins, was lonely. In addition, Collins was injured by the forceps during delivery. The Thompsons believed God had plans for their family, but three births had come with three different experiences, none of which felt like the hopes they had once had.

32 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group So, when Adrianne found out she was pregnant with baby number four, she was determined the delivery would be different. With the support of her OBGYN, she met with Courtney Luoma, a midwife and owner of The Birth Center. Courtney gave the Thompsons a tour of the birth center and paired Adrianne with a doula, Lindsey. Courtney and Lindsey worked in tandem to support Adrianne and talk to her about any and all of her questions or concerns. Lindsey is highly trained in educating moms about how to prep their body on birth and knowing the signs of labor. Her midwife Courtney consulted with Adrianne at appointments, kept her OBGYN informed at every stage, and even stopped by Adrianne’s house to help find the baby’s heartbeat if necessary. At 41 weeks Adrianne was getting nervous that she was getting too close to the 42-week cutoff for a delivery at The Birth Center. Courtney heard her concerns and gave her encouragement as well as natural ways to induce labor that were successful. After an hour of laboring at home, Lindsey came to her house to help. Adrianne continued laboring at home with Lindsey’s help for a couple of hours. The older children were sent to bed, and Adrianne left for The Birth Center. The Sweetest of Loves

33 hometown living at its best With the song “Holy Spirit (You are Welcome Here)” on repeat, the tireless support of her husband Kenny, the encouragement from her doula Lindsey, the endless care from her midwife Courtney, and the assured presence of God in the room, Adrianne gave birth naturally to her fourth baby, a son Brixton. The Thompsons were home the next morning before the three older kids woke up. For Adrianne, the experience of delivery at The Birth Center gave her a new outlook on herself. She no longer sees her post-partum body in a negative lens, finding areas that aren’t perfect. Instead, she sees her body as beautiful, strong, and accomplished. She and Kenny both are in awe of what her body was able to do in a natural environment with no timeline and no rushing, and they wish all their children could have been born in this way. Adrianne admits, “You will never hear me say it was easy, fun, or pain-free. It was the hardest thing I have ever physically done. However, it was incredible. It was beautiful.” †

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35 hometown living at its best 432.683.1000 | 432.553.7443 4400 N BIG SPRING STREET, STE 124 | MIDLAND, TX 79705 Midland’s Top Concierge Real Estate Team

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38 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group WWest Texas Food Bank recently marked an important milestone in its mission to fight hunger in our area with the grand opening of the Odessa Expansion. This expansion includes additional warehouse space and a separate volunteer center. Over 250 community members gathered to celebrate the occasion. Special guest speaker Claire BabineauxFontenot, CEO of Feeding America, gave an impassioned address highlighting the importance of community-driven initiatives like the West Texas Food Bank to ensure that no one goes hungry. Attendees were also treated to a special video message from Senator John Cornyn, acknowledging the vital role of the Food Bank in West Texas. Food Bank volunteers now have a dedicated center where they can contribute their time and efforts towards sorting, packing, and distributing food to those in need. In addition to the warehouse and volunteer center, the Odessa Food Bank campus now has extended green space that features a butterfly and bee pollinator garden. This innovative space enhances the Food Bank but also serves a practical purpose in promoting educational opportunities for the community to learn more about where food comes from. Overall, the West Texas Food Bank now has more than 25,000 square feet to operate, significantly boosting its ability to combat food insecurity in the region. This expansion not only increases the food bank's storage and distribution capacity but also fosters a supportive and educational environment for the community, ensuring a more effective and sustainable effort in addressing hunger across West Texas.

39 hometown living at its best The West Texas Food Bank (WTFB) is a nonprofit hungerrelief organization that distributes donated and purchased food through a network of over 100 Partner Agencies in 19 counties throughout West Texas. Every five dollars donated helps provide meals to ten hungry West Texans. WTXFOODBANK.ORG THIS EXPANSION NOT ONLY INCREASES THE FOOD BANK'S STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION CAPACITY BUT ALSO FOSTERS A SUPPORTIVE AND EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE COMMUNITY, ENSURING A MORE EFFECTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE EFFORT IN ADDRESSING HUNGER ACROSS WEST TEXAS.

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PROVIDING SOLUTIONS for 65 Years 44 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

45 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY HALEY RAGSDALE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SPECTRUM OF SOLUTIONS AND BY ANGELA GONZALES PHOTOGRAPHY SPECTRUM OF SOLUTIONS OFFERS A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS AND THERAPIES TO SUPPORT THOSE WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENT DISABILITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY.

46 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group FFor 65 Years, Spectrum of Solutions in Midland has supported our community and served both children and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities or (IDD). “We support our clients and meet their need whatever that might be. Some come to us for residential services others for social activities,” Alayne Paulson, Development Director of Spectrum of Solutions explained. Spectrum of Solutions, formally known as MARC, began in 1959 with a group of parents with disabled children banded together to create a daycare for their children. Since then, it has grown into an organization respected for its advocacy and delivery of a wide range of programs for individuals with intellectual, developmental and cognitive disabilities. One of those programs is residential housing. “We have fifteen houses throughout the city of Midland, nestled into neighborhoods for our clients. They are not industrialized; they are a part of the community,” Paulson said. Spectrum serves 90 adult clients each with unique needs. Many of those clients have been with Spectrum since the beginning day care days and are part of their family.

47 hometown living at its best “Some of our clients are higher functioning, some are nonverbal, and others are wheelchair bound and medically fragile. We have nursing care, and direct care workers that take care of them and look at them as an individual person,” she explained. Another program is a day-rehab for clients. “We provide activities for them like exercise, cook simple meals, laundry and grooming and we also do outings like the Sibley Nature Center.” she explained Spectrum of Solutions has 100 full time and 20 part time employees and a small but mighty group of volunteers. Local partnerships with other groups like Midland Christian, Community National Bank, Diamondback, First Methodist and Stonegate have created wonderful opportunities for outings for their clients. Paulson said these parentships allow their clients to go to the movies, Rockhound games, an Olympic themed field day, and even a special Prom at Stonegate that they look forward to all year. “Midland Christian hosted a field day at their school. They had a buddy system with students. It is good for everyone. It is good for the students to see people that are different from neurotypical people. They are people too and a lot of them are just big kids,” Paulson said.

48 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Spectrum of Solutions celebrated the completion of the $7 million Capital Campaign improvements with an Open House celebration on March 5th of this year. The Open House event included two ribbon cutting ceremonies provided by Midland Chamber of Commerce and the Midland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Foundations, donors, prior board members, established volunteers, and the community were welcome to tour the new facilities.

49 hometown living at its best Features of the new 16,000 square-foot Anwar Family Inspiration Center, the hub of daily operations, include security, efficiency and technology upgrades, an expanded clinic for clients, and meeting rooms for staff training and community outreach. The new 2,500 square-foot Day Use Building provides a space for Spectrum of Solutions’ client population with severe autism or other profound disabilities that is more suited to their specialized needs. The community park, “Inspiration Park,” will continue to serve children of all abilities with a completely new design and features, including an inclusive play structure, music area, and pavilion with expansive greenspace.

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Paulson explained that there is a waitlist for much needed children therapy services including speech, musical, physical and applied behaviors therapy. They currently have 157 clients in therapy. A Spectrum speech therapist shared a life changing success story with us. “A 15-year-old non-verbal autistic young man began speech therapy five years ago with no functional communication. When given an app on his tablet, he could only label numbers and letters initially as these were special to him. He now has his own cell phone (very desirable for a teen) customized with his communication app. Using his app expresses his needs independently saying, “I want red green candy,” “I want go home Grandma,” “head hurt,” “Mama sleeping,” “Cousin drinking,” etc. and is learning to use his AAC to TEXT his mother who works outside the home. This progress is only possible through the partnership of therapist and family working toward client-centered goals,” she said. Caring for this community presents challenges, Paulson explained. The State of Texas is facing ongoing issues funding services for IDD individuals and finding and retaining high quality staff in Midland. “It really is a calling to care. Some of our employees sacrifice their own financial well being to make sure our clients are being taken care of. When centers close throughout the state, individuals with IDD may end up on the street if there isn’t someone to care for them. We are here because of community and corporate support that help us bridge the gap and not be in the red.” she said. She went on to explain that many people are unaware of all the services they provide. “We book and transport for doctor appointments, work on health plans, diet, medication, paperwork, and Medicare benefits and lots of logistics. Not all clients have family and are a warden of the state. Many of their parents are no longer alive or have siblings that are not engaged. Everyone’s situation is different,” she said. For 65 years and counting, Spectrum of Solutions has helped support, advocate and care for our IDD community. To learn how you can help, visit their website spectrumofsolutions.org. You can apply to volunteer, help with outings, or donate. † 51 hometown living at its best

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From the Kitchen of Katie Audas “I’ve always had a passion for cooking and baking. I grew up in the kitchen with my grandmother and it is something I have loved sharing with my daughters. When I had my baking business, The Basin’s Baker, the feedback and stories of how they shared my breads with friends, family and loved ones is what brought me the most joy. As Giada De Laurentiis said, ‘Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the body and soul; it’s truly love.’”

59 hometown living at its best Batter • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted • 1 cup granulated sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1–1/2 cups) Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Banana Bread Cinnamon Sugar Swirl • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar • 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon • 6 thin slices of banana, for garnishing

61 hometown living at its best Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and let cool slightly. Whisk in the sugar then the eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour and baking soda. Fold in the mashed bananas until just combined. 3. In a small bowl, use a fork to stir together the cinnamon sugar swirl ingredients until thick and well combined. If your swirl is too thick to swirl, add an additional tablespoon of melted butter until it is thin enough to swirl. Note: if it’s too thin, it will just spread and not hold its swirl as the loaf bakes. 4. Spread 1/4 of the batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Dollop 1/4 of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter in the pan and then make a nice thick swirl through the batter with a table knife or bottom of a wooden spoon. Place 1/3 of the remaining batter evenly over the first layer and swirl with 1/3 of the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Place 1/2 of the remaining batter evenly over the second layer and swirl with 1/2 of the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Spread the remaining batter evenly over the top and dollop with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Make large swirls throughout the entire loaf. Place six thin banana slices down the middle of the batter. 5. Place loaf pan on a baking sheet in the middle rack of the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top of the bread is browned before the center is baked all the way through, tint the loaf with foil and let it continue to bake until the center is baked all the way through. 6. Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

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67 hometown living at its best 75 YEARS HERE WE ARE HERE FOR GOOD MOST SEARCHED CELEBRATING SERVING SINCE 1949. At Heritage USA FCU, we are more than just a financial institution; we are your neighbors and partners in achieving your financial dreams. Whether you need a savings account, a checking account, or a credit card, we are here to meet all your financial needs. www.heritage-usa.net FOR GOOD

68 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY AVERY PULLIN | PHOTOS BY BROOKLYNN NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED BY ASHLEY COLQUITT Ashley Colquitt is continuously looking to empower both herself and those around her. She is changing the way Midland partners with educators to create a better community for all of us. GROWTH & Grit

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TROY HAD HECTOR. SCOTLAND HAD WILLIAM WALLACE. MIDLAND HAS ASHLEY COLQUITT. In college Ashley thought she would pursue a career in law. She majored in political science, minored in Spanish, took the LSAT, and found a law school. So when she switched directions the following year, it is no doubt the field of law lost a warrior. After substituting in a special education classroom, Colquitt fell in love with the opportunity to impact students’ lives. Soon she found herself as a middle school resource teacher with Northwest ISD. It was there that she met her first set of leaders who poured into her and helped her grow professionally and personally. When her husband Kristain got hired in West Texas, she finished up the school year in Northwest. Then she and her daughter Lilly moved to Midland to create roots here. Little did Ashley realize it would not just be roots. She would replenish the dry, desert ground too. Colquitt was hired at Goddard Junior High where she was encouraged by several women to pursue her master’s degree. Despite working full-time and being a mom to a young daughter, Ashley decided no time was the right time. She dove into her graduate program which no doubt set the stage for the grit and determination she would later instill in those around her. Upon completion of her master’s degree, Ashley was hired as Special Education Supervisor, still with MISD. During that time Ashley had the chance to hone her interpersonal skills as she trained administrators and educators over the next several years. Starting Point

71 hometown living at its best But Ashley was not done making herself and those around her better. She began working on her superintendent license to continue her personal growth and development. Though highly qualified for central office positions, Colquitt felt the call to go back to a campus and be hands-on with students, faculty, and staff. As assistant principal at Rusk Elementary, she reformed the approach to education and led the charge in the campus’s 90% growth in English Language Arts in one year. Though the work took extra hours and dedication, Ashley not only believed in the students and teachers. She empowered them. So it was no surprise when Diamondback Energy saw her excellence and sought to utilize her many skills to change the trajectory of Midland for all families. In 2022 she shifted from academia to become a Corporate Affairs Representative at Diamondback, a move that has permanently impacted all of Midland for the better. For those who have been in Midland for any length of time, it is common knowledge that Diamondback has a reputation for its community impact and volunteerism. When she was hired, Colquitt was tasked with these very principles by both Marc Dingler, Senior Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs, and Clint Williamson, Manager of Corporate Affairs. They knew that education ultimately affects the workforce and that Ashley had the connections and know-how to impact education for Midland students. strength and strategy

To date Colquitt has had a hand in implementing 6 programs in Midland. One that is near and dear to her heart is the Rolling Baristas program in which MISD special education, life skills, and VAC students develop skills in teamwork, public speaking, and service. One group takes the cart to offices while another group serves from the ground floor of the Fasken Towers. Ashley has seen students who have speech impairments or learning disabilities gain the skills and confidence to not only serve coffee but to then go on podcasts, talk to employees, and speak at conferences. On Wednesdays Midland High students serve while Legacy High students serve on Thursdays. Trevor Stoltz, who has been served by the Rolling Baristas, commented, “The Rolling Baristas always brighten our mornings with big smiles and hot coffee.” At Legacy High School Ashley, with the support of Diamondback leadership, has been able to implement a STEM Lab with the anatomy and physiology teacher Ashlee Johnson. In the virtual reality program, students are able to learn from professors who teach at universities such as MIT and Cal-Berkely. The THE IMPACT 72 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

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75 hometown living at its best professors may bring in a heart or brain, and Legacy students are able to analyze it and submit research findings. Recently Ashley was picking up coffee for the Rolling Baristas program, and a young man offered to help load the items into her vehicle. He asked if she was part of the STEM Lab program at Legacy High School. When she said she in fact was part of this program, he replied, “I am your impact.” As all great hero stories go, Ashley Colquitt has indeed made a lasting impact on students and the greater community of Midland. From a Special Education teacher to administration to corporate affairs, using that West Texas grit has given Ashley a chance to impact the world around her. And as if the lasting impact of her work isn’t enough, Ashley still finds time to pour into her family and train her body for elite figure competitions. Strengthening her mind, body, spirit, and community is what makes her see the results in all areas of her life. Whether it is through relationships in local schools, empowering students in one of Diamondback Energy’s programs, or coaching other women in her body building network of the Iron Sisters Coffee Club, Ashley energizes and strengthens every network in which she becomes associated. As she continues cheering for a better Midland, Midland will rally around and cheer for her in her next figure competition in 2025. If you ask Ashley, “Why Midland?” she will humbly tell you that Midland is a “place of grit, the wild west, the land of opportunity.” And she means it. But if you ask those impacted by Ashley, they too would surely tell you because Ashley Colquitt has grit. Ashley Colquitt didn’t tame the wild west—she made the wind blow harder. Ashley Colquitt gave us opportunities. In response, Ashley would reply, “Midland deserves that.” †

76 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group EXPANDING NORTH IN 2025 AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS PICKLEBALL SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FITNESS CLASSES SAFETY AROUND WATER ACTIVE OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS PARENT’S NIGHT OUT FISHING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES COFFEE BAR AND SOCIAL AREA SWEETHEARTS DANCE YOUR OPPORTUNITY. OUR GROWTH. Y IT MATTERS TO JOIN TODAY. DOWNTOWN - 800 N BIG SPRING STREET NORTH EXPANSION - 5152 GOLDEN GATE DRIVE LOCATIONS MIDLANDYMCA.ORG LEARN MORE

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80 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Join us in welcoming Midland's newest residents! Have your photographer share your sweet bundle with us for future issues, lindsey@hometownmedia.group. BUNDLES OF HOMETOWN 2 4 3 1

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84 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 11999 EAST HIGHWAY 158 GARDENDALE, TX 79758 432-563-0727 JACAMCATALYST.COM A leading manufacturer and full-service provider of oilfield chemicals. MIDLAND WINK CARLSBAD HOBBSPOST SEMINOLE BIG SPRING MERTZON OZONA SONORA KNOX CITY KILGORE CARRIZO SPRINGS LAFAYETTE FRANKLIN HOUSTON ALVIN FLORESVILLE BORGER PERRYTON BAKERSFIELD ROMANCE FAIRFIELD STERLING ALDERSON WYNNEWOOD LINDSAY EDMOND HENNESSEY WOODWARD HUGOTON GARDEN CITY MEDICINE LODGE COLBY MCPHERSON GREAT BEND RUSSELL HAYS PLAINVILLE AZTEC DENVER GRAND JUNCTION ROOSEVELT ROCK SPRINGS CASPER THERMOPOLIS GILLETTE CHINOOK MINOT WILLISTON SIDNEY BAKER BOWMAN DICKINSON JOHNSTOWN EVANSTON BAIROIL ARTESIA DENTON 11999 EAST HIGHWAY 158 GARDENDALE, TX 79758 432-563-0727 JACAMCATALYST.COM A leading manufacturer and full-service provider of oilfield chemicals. MIDLAND WINK CARLSBAD HOBBSPOST SEMINOLE BIG SPRING MERTZON OZONA SONORA KNOX CITY KILGORE CARRIZO SPRINGS LAFAYETTE FRANKLIN HOUSTON ALVIN FLORESVILLE BORGER PERRYTON BAKERSFIELD ROMANCE FAIRFIELD STERLING ALDERSON WYNNEWOOD LINDSAY EDMOND HENNESSEY WOODWARD HUGOTON GARDEN CITY MEDICINE LODGE COLBY MCPHERSON GREAT BEND RUSSELL HAYS PLAINVILLE AZTEC DENVER GRAND JUNCTION ROOSEVELT ROCK SPRINGS CASPER THERMOPOLIS GILLETTE CHINOOK MINOT WILLISTON SIDNEY BAKER BOWMAN DICKINSON JOHNSTOWN EVANSTON BAIROIL ARTESIA DENTON

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89 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY SABRINA FORSE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DIANE FAULKER & THE BRIDGES FAMILY Two siblings are embracing the Polynesian culture while living in Midland. HULA brings the island to the PERMIAN BASIN

MMore than three-thousand miles separate Midland, Texas from Hawaii but a deep respect for the island culture is bridging the gap. The Bridges family vacationed in Hawaii in 2019. That trip left a lasting impression on 18-year-old Eli Bridges and 15-year-old Ava Bridges. “It was a lot different than our everyday life here in Texas,” said Ava. “We really enjoyed learning about the culture and wanted to know more,” said Eli. The siblings were especially drawn to the dancing and entertainment they enjoyed while on the island. Eli and Ava’s mother, Mary Grace Bridges, was already familiar with the traditional dances. “I had seen my mom dancing in videos when she was about my age. She was so natural and beautiful,” said Ava. “It’s surreal that so many years later my mom would get back into dancing and get me into it too.” The Bridges found the Hawaiian experience they were seeking right in their own backyard. Mary Grace enrolled Ava and Eli in the same dance group she was involved with as a teenager. Aloha ‘O’Hawaii is a dance group that embraces Polynesian culture, teaching and performing Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan and Māori dances. Diane “Moanikeala” Faulkner founded Aloha ‘O’Hawaii in 1981. Faulkner first witnessed Polynesian dancing when she was just eight years old while attending a festival with her parents in California. “I just fell in love with it. When I danced, I forgot the rest of the world and it 90 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group

91 hometown living at its best Diane "Moanikeala" Faulkner

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became a spiritual world for me,” said Faulkner. When Faulkner and her husband moved from California to Midland, she experienced a bit of culture shock. “I was told the best way to get over that was to get involved so I did. Midland is a great place to raise kids and try new things. This was just one way to bring a little variety.” Faulkner teaches as a Kumu Hula which is a master teacher in the art of Hula. Since opening the halau (Hawaiian school of dance), Faulkner and her fellow dancers have performed at community functions across the Permian Basin and festivals and competitions across the country. Aloha ‘O’Hawaii has been invited to perform in the Merrie Monarch Festival, Disney World, Sea World, and America’s Got Talent. For Faulkner, the goal is not to win awards but to share the rich traditions and Polynesian culture. “The group is open to many different races and cultures. It really gives us respect for the Hawaiian culture. Before I started, I just thought of Hawaii and the stereotypical hula girl waving her arms on a beach, but it is a lot harder than it looks,” said Ava. Both Ava and Eli are competitive swimmers. Eli is on the swim team at Midland Christian while Ava plays basketball. “I typically go to hula practice right after swim practice. When I tell my friends that I have this dance practice to go to, they are taken aback. It’s not really something you would expect, a kid participating in a culture that is so far away from Texas. I really like that it’s something unique and interesting,” said Eli. 93 hometown living at its best

For Ava, dancing has increased her flexibility on the court. “It really gets my joints loose, and I’ve learned to not stiffen my knees so I’m more flexible.” Aloha ‘O’Hawaii dancers learn not only the movements but the meaning behind the movements. “Each dance tells a story and when you understand that story, it makes the dance so much more meaningful,” said Eli. “There are some dances that are like warrior dances which were essentially these aggressive war chants that would be used to intimidate opponents when going into battle.” The Bridges are just one of several families that are passing the tradition of dancing to each generation. “There are grandmothers that dance with granddaughters. Husbands dance with wives and parents with children,” said Faulkner. Eli and Ava were joined onstage by their parents when dancing at Stanton Trade Days. “My most memorable performance would be the annual performance last summer. There were a lot of people there and it was a big stage. To be able to do that as a family was special,” said Eli. The siblings learned twenty dances and experienced multiple costume changes during the show. “The 2023 show was truly special because it was a memorial show. The proceeds were donated to the victims of the fires in Maui. We had visited Hawaii again that year and just two days after we left, the fires devastated everything that my family and kids had just enjoyed. Being able to raise money to benefit those victims was special,” said Mary Grace. Continuing to dance and pass on the traditions is just one way Eli and Ava hope they can give back to the culture that’s enriched their lives. “I can definitely see us continuing to pass on dancing in our family from generation to generation because the Polynesian culture is built on family heritage. I think it makes sense to continue teaching other generations about the culture, entertainment, and food,” said Eli. Aloha ‘O’Hawaii is helping bring that spirit and heritage to West Texas through every dance. “I feel honored to be able to represent a culture that isn’t native to me,” said Eli. “It’s humbling to have someone willing to teach their culture to me. It gives me a sense of how unique and diverse people and other cultures can be but also shows we value a lot of the same things such as life and death. We just express them differently.” †

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