1 hometown living at its best
2 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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4 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Contents 12 CHAMPIONS ON THE FIELD AND IN THE COMMUNITY Hall of Famer John Norman brings character and integrity to coaching. 22 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Ellen Noël Art Museum’s Senior Art Outreach 28 MAHJONG! Midland Mahj is helping spread the love of Mahjong with lessons and socials so you can get your Mahjong on. 40 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Teen Challenge Annual Golf Tournament 44 KEEPING HISTORY IN THE AIR Bill Coombes has a passion for sharing history and the important role the Midland Army Airfield played during WWII. 52 LOVING SCIENCE, LOVING LEARNING Midland seventh grader Eva Estrada wins state science fair. 64 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Midland Symphony Guild Gala Weekend 70 FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM AND FITNESS Katy MacDonald is setting lofty goals and impacting the community on the business, fitness, and outreach fronts. On the Cover 12 28 52
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Contents 6 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 80 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Pickleball Tournament 86 WHERE TWO OR MORE GATHER A Midland non-profit is providing financial support to underfunded local charities to advance their mission. 96 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ Peach Raspberry Crumble Bars 102 BUILDING CHAMPIONS Midland is home to COM Aquatics, a one-of-a-kind, first-class facility that is producing high-caliber athletes and shaping future generations of leaders. 112 PICTURE PERFECT Want to make the most out of your next family photoshoot? We’ve got you covered with tips from a top Midland Photographer! 118 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Aviation Poker Run 120 A NEW ERA FOR AREA ART In the heart of West Texas, a cultural gem shines brightly against the landscape of the Permian Basin’s rich regional art scene. 80 102 86 120
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8 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Your home (and everyone in it) - In good hands. 432.312.6337 We get it: Inviting a complete stranger into your family’s home can be a little unsettling. That’s why when you’re expecting a visit from Billy Black HVAC, you’ll receive a dispatch notification via text, which includes your technician’s name and photo, along with their customer satisfaction score and a short bio. Rest assured, as you walk to your door, a fully vetted, highly-skilled and NATEcertified technician will be waiting on the other side. TACLB72497E
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Sales Account Executive 10 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group T 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 Sara Hook Seth Marsicano Haley Ragsdale Ellen Slater Hannah Turner PHOTOGRAPHERS Angela Gonzales Photography “The days are long, but the years are short.” This is exactly how I felt about this Summer. One minute I was planning trips to the beach for myself and my daughters, the next I was scurrying around gatherings back to school supplies. There is something so innocent and light about Summer. Being able to see your children come out of their bedrooms in the morning with the wildest bedhead, the endless giggles while playing in the sprinklers, lemonade stands, last minutes weekend getaways, popsicles, followed by winding down with a movie night and popcorn (don’t forget the M&M’s!). As my daughters get older, I can’t help but look at them and remember my own childhood and smile that I am fortunate enough to recreate those memories for my girls. With fall right around the corner, I must admit that I am guilty of already pulling out all my fall decorations and I may or may not have already baked an endless amount of fall goodies. With fall comes every true Texans’ favorite past time, college football and what some may say is the best part of college football, BBQing and all things snacks! Before we know it, the busyness of the holidays will be knocking at our door, which can make life a little challenging. I encourage you to meet your family in the quiet of the hustle and bustle and soak up quality time making memories. As I have mentioned before, for myself and my daughters, it is through baking as I feel food truly brings people together (and movie nights). In this issue I have given you my raspberry peach crumble bars to bake for your family and loved ones. As life’s seasons pass, take the time to stop and soak in the memories, laughs, tears, miracles, for it is amazing how much we miss until we slow down and take in all of God’s goodness and glory. Lastly, our hearts, thoughts and continuous prayers go out to everyone affected by the devastating tragedy in Kerr County that took place on July 4th. It is truly breathtaking to witness the way our community as well as the entire state of Texas has rallied together for Camp Mystic as well as every precious soul torn by the floods. We will continue to pray reverently. Hello Midland ON THE COVER Photo provided by Hillary Lovell Katie Audas So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10 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 Receivable accounting@hometownmedia.group If you would like to donate, please scan the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country QR Code.
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12 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by SABRINA FORSE | Photos provided by P5SL & THE NORMAN FAMILY CHAMPIONS ON THE FIELD and in the Community
13 hometown living at its best Hall of Famer John Norman brings character and integrity to coaching. WWhen John Norman graduated Robert E. Lee High School (now, known as Legacy High) as a three-sport athlete and AllAmerican football recruit, his long-term plans didn’t include moving back to Midland. He headed to Texas Tech University, where his performance impressed the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagles picked Norman up as a free agent for training camp but later released him. After that, Norman traveled across the country playing seven years of arena football including a stint for the Odessa Roughnecks. He was coaching football at a college in Arizona when he was called home. “In 2008, Midland-Odessa was experiencing an oil boom. My dad had a business in the oil field and needed some help. My dad raised my two brothers and me mostly on his own after my parents divorced, so we’re pretty close. I left Arizona and came home.”
14 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group However, after a couple of years in the oil industry, Norman missed coaching and wanted to work with kids. John’s brother, Josh, is a Robert E. Lee High School athlete as well who went on to play football at Oklahoma University when the Sooners won the 2000 National Championship In 2017, the Norman brothers won the Midland Entrepreneurial Challenge and some seed funding to turn their pitch into a business. The idea was to create Norman Elite, an athletic training organization that trains kids ages 8-18 with a focus on mentorship and character development. The pandemic halted the work in the schools for a while and Josh moved back to Oklahoma. As John’s son was playing youth sports, he started thinking about running his own sports league. He started working with the YMCA with a couple of flag football teams and later evolved to tackle football. Now, Pow5R Sports League, (P5SL) trains 3,500 kids per year in football, cheerleading, track and field, volleyball, baseball, basketball, soccer and lacrosse. “We’ve grown tremendously. We have ten organizations in Midland and Odessa and have expanded to Amarillo and New Mexico. We would like to add more sports like softball in the future.” Athletes in the P5SL train to learn skills for their chosen sports but they also learn character building. “The three C’s is something we’ve brought over from Norman Elite Training. The Three C’s are Character Building, Community outreach and becoming life and academic champions,” explained Norman. “The reality is that not all of these kids will go on to play professional sports but all of them can be good citizens. I believe this is what sets us apart from other leagues. We want to make sure they can learn skills they can use on and off the field.” Through the Round Up, Inc program, Norman hopes to create scholarship funding for all kids to be able to participate in the sports leagues and the three C’s program. “Sports are very expensive. Round Up is non- profit that we’ve been blessed to have donors and sponsors help kids who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play.” Seeing the
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17 hometown living at its best community of Midland embrace this program reminds Norman of the support he felt growing up in the Permian Basin. “My dad always taught us about integrity and accountability but we were normal kids running around causing havoc so it really took a village to help us learn all those foundational principles as we were growing up.” In May, that same community was able to see their impact as Norman was inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025. “It was a humbling experience to be honored for being one of the best at your craft at the time you played. I was honored for being one of the players of the 1990s along with Patrick Mahomes and RG3. (Robert Grifffin III)” John Norman may be a Hall of Famer who has played in arenas and stadiums across the country but he knows he’s found his purpose and passion right here in Midland, Texas. “You know they say tell God your plans and He will laugh. He’s always redirected my plans and has shown me His goodness. I never dreamed of being on City Council but six years later here I am serving, and I love it. It allows me to be an advocate for not only the kids I coach but for all people in our community. “ Norman and his business partner Antwan Alexander also host a podcast called P5SL Proverbs where they hope to reach an even wider audience in regard to coaching with integrity and faith. “I’m convinced this life is about building relationships. There may be people that I don’t talk to anymore, but I hope that something I did or said impacted them. I received a text from a kid that was struggling and he told me he made the team. I was so proud of him. As long as I make an impact in a child’s life, I’m grateful.” † JOHN NORMAN MAY BE A HALL OF FAMER WHO HAS PLAYED IN ARENAS AND STADIUMS ACROSS THE COUNTRY BUT HE KNOWS HE’S FOUND HIS PURPOSE AND PASSION RIGHT HERE IN MIDLAND, TEXAS.
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20 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group We manage residential and commercial properties- including, single and multi-family properties, apartment complexes, industrial warehouses and commercial storage facilities—with a focus on responsive service and personalized care. As a full-service firm, we offer buyer/seller representation, investment expertise, and 1031 exchange support. Our management approach is hands-on, communication-focused, and tailored to each property’s needs. 432.312.8890 | 4SREALTYPM.COM | f Let us be the key to unlocking your real estate potential.
21 hometown living at its best Locally owned and family-oriented, our name reflects the four children of founder Mason Sparacino. With deep West Texas roots, we’re committed to treating every property like it’s our own.
HOMETOWN Happenings
At the Ellen Noël Art Museum, they believe art is for everyone—not just those who walk through their doors. That’s why their Community Engagement program brings hands-on, joyfilled art experiences directly to senior centers and assisted living facilities across Midland and Odessa. What began in 2017 with visits to one Ector County senior facility and two assisted living homes has grown into a vibrant and meaningful outreach initiative. Revitalized after the COVID-19 pandemic—with a boost from the Midland Arts Council—this program now reaches three senior centers in Midland County and one assisted living facility in Odessa, continuing to grow each year. Led by Community Engagement Coordinator, Fay Batch, each activity is thoughtfully designed with all in mind, including those in memory care or with physical limitations. From whimsical “butterfly brains” to prayer flags, holiday collages, and colorful mixed media pieces, the projects encourage creative expression, social connection, and plenty of smiles. “What we strive to do is start a conversation and build a relationship with our community,” Fay shares. “Art is available to everyone. It’s not just something inside our museum—it travels to community centers and into people’s homes. We welcome our neighbors into the Museum, too, reminding them it’s always free to visit and that they belong here. We want them to see themselves reflected in the work of artists—and to know they’re part of that creative story.” At its heart, this program is about more than making art—it’s about making people feel seen, inspired, and connected. SENIOR ART Outreach Provided by Ellen Noël Art Museum
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28 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by HALEY RAGSDALE | Photos provided by ABBY HULEN PHOTOGRAPHY Midland Mahj is helping spread the love of Mahjong with lessons and socials so you can get your Mahjong on. Mahjong!
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30 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group DDo words like BAMS, DOTS, and CRAKS sound like your love language? Well, you are not alone, the game of Mahjong is spreading like the wind across the nation and globe. “It is very good for your brain. It is also the social aspect and to get that time to unplug and connect with your friends and refuel yourself. We have such busy days with our kids, this is an opportunity to connect,” Melanie Shackelford explained. Melanie Shackelford is the founder of Midland Mahj. She started the group to help spread the love of Mahjong in Midland with socials and lessons. “People move in and out of Midland and this is a great way to meet new friends and be part of the community. I have met so many people that I would never have met before Midland Mahj,” Shackelford said. Mahjong is quickly becoming this generation’s social game for moms like bridge or bunco in years past. But Mahjong is certainly not just for moms or women. It spans all generations with children picking up the game very quickly and even couples playing together.
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32 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Shackelford explained it well with this quote from Julia Roberts, yes that Julia Roberts. “Roberts was heard saying the concept of Mahjong is making order out of chaos based on the random drawing of tiles. It is a game of strategy and luck based on the tiles that are drawn,” she said. Mahjong originated in 19th Century China and spread throughout the world. It gained popularity in The United States in the 1920’s. It is usually played with four players. The tile-based game uses 152 tiles. Players try to create a specific sequence from the official card from the National Mah Jongg League. The tiles feature different suits, flowers, dragons and winds. “New cards come out every year on April 1, so just when you think you learn the card a new one comes out. Changing the card every year evens it out for everyone because you do learn to memorize a card if you play a lot,” she said. Midland Mahj started in 2023 with a group of five ladies that met on Mondays to play Mahjong. Melanie, a Mahji Mentor, and fellow teachers Alli Moore and Kelly Popino teach lessons one on one or in a group of four. “I teach National Mah Jongg rules which are the official rules. This gives the player a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere,” She explained. Midland Mahj, has grown with hundreds of members playing Mahjong with fun themed socials like Christmas, PJ’s and even Aqua Mahjong in the So, what exactly is Mahjong?
pool, with a floating mat. Last year, Merry Mahj raised funds for the Junior League of Midland’s community programs. Melanie has also taught lessons at corporate events for ProPetro and Diamondback. “All levels are invited. We will have some tables with more experienced players and other tables with newer players that might need more guidance. We want everyone to have fun and come back. We are all inclusive,” she said. It also doesn’t hurt that everything with Mahjong is beautiful! The tile sets are gorgeous and can even be themed from Texas, Nantucket to Taylor Swift. Many sets are hand painted, and colorful mats are also available. There are even fun accessories in popular lines like Oh My Mahjong and My Fair Mahjong that make hosting even more fun. Melanie is all in on Mahjong. She has attended conferences in Dallas and is a member of the Mahjong Guild and is certified to teach. She uses those skills to help new players feel less overwhelmed. 33 hometown living at its best
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35 hometown living at its best “It is just such a great community. Everyone needs to belong to something,” she said. A few other tips to elevate your Mahjong game is to play online and not to give up the first few times you play, because it can be overwhelming when you begin. Before you know it, you will be daydreaming of flowers and dragons and maybe even yelling Mahjong! † For more information on Midland Mahj follow them on Instagram.
IIf you’ve been looking for a fun, feel-good way to give back to your community, the West Texas Food Bank has the perfect opportunity. Our Volunteer Center in Odessa is open and full of opportunities to do some good. Whether you’re sorting donations, packing pantry boxes, or helping prepare Food2Kids bags, every hour you give helps feed neighbors across 19 counties in West Texas. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people, listen to good music, and be part of something meaningful. We like to say volunteering with us is equal parts impact and fun. Shifts are available throughout the week, including mornings, afternoons, and even a few evenings for those with busy schedules. No special skills are needed—just closed-toe shoes and a good attitude. So grab a friend, bring your co-workers, or come solo and make new connections. We’d love to have you come hang out with us and help fight hunger, one box at a time! Check us out at WTXFOODBANK.ORG [ Photos by Gaeb Ramirez Photography ] 36 midland living magazine
The West Texas Food Bank (WTFB) is a nonprofit hunger-relief 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 37 hometown living at its best
Brian and Laura Sales
432.683.1000 | 432.553.7443 | 4400 N BIG SPRING STREET, STE 124 | MIDLAND, TX 79705 Midland’s Top Concierge Real Estate Team
HOMETOWN Happenings
41 hometown living at its best Teen Challenge Adult Centers of Texas, located in Midland Texas held its annual golf tournament fundraiser on April 28, 2025 at Ratliff Golf Links in Odessa. Thirty-two four-man teams participated in a scramble format and helped raised over $40k in profits for the Teen Challenge ministry. Teen Challenge has been operating in the Permian Basin since 1971 serving those with life-controlling issues and presenting Jesus Christ as the solution to those issues. We meet their physical needs by providing housing, food, clothing and meet their spiritual needs by teaching them to live centered on Biblical principles and provide a place for men and women to come into a personal relationship with Jesus. “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30 ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Teen Challenge Photos by Vincent Bao Photography
fi 3500 W. Wadley Avenue, Midland, Texas 432.697.3281 visit us at trinitymidland.org EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
43 hometown living at its best MISSION: Trinity School is a college preparatory community that provides a nurturing environment to enrich the mind, strengthen the body, enliven the soul, and inspire servant leadership. Inquire Now
Written by SETH MARSICANO | Photos by ANGELA GONZALES Bill Coombes has a passion for sharing history & the important role the Midland Army Airfield played during WWII. HISTORY in the Air Keeping 44 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
45 hometown living at its best MMidland, Texas has a rich military history, playing a significant role during the World War II era. One way the city is preserving that history is through the Midland Army Airfield Museum, specifically the High Sky Wing. The museum’s purpose is to house historic aircraft, along with many other relics and pieces of history. It’s dedicated to recognizing the importance the Midland Army Airfield played during the war. One of the people working to keep the museum going is history teacher and enthusiast, Bill Coombes. “If you don’t know where you’ve been, you don’t know where you’re going,” Coombes said, when asked about the importance of knowing history. Coombes is the Wing Leader of the High Sky Wing where the Midland Army Airfield Museum is located. For the past five years, Coombes has served on the board of the Midland Army Airfield Foundation, but he’s been a member of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) since 1980.
46 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group While Coombes himself didn’t serve in the military, his father did as a naval pilot. He said he grew up around planes and military life which helped fuel his passion for understanding history. “Not understanding the importance of World War II is criminal,” Coombes stated. Not only does history allow a person to look back on the past, Coombes said it also helps those in the present to avoid repeating mistakes. Coombes majored in history in college and went on to teach it for 50 years. According to Coombes, the Midland Army Airfield was the largest training facility for bombardiers during that time. He said out of the approximate 8,200 bombardiers trained by the United States Military, around 6,500 came from Midland. This role shows Midland is more than just the Oil & Gas Industry, and that’s the story Coombes wants to tell. “If you’re going to live here, you ought to know some history about the place,” Coombes said. In addition to the static displays at the Museum, there are air shows in which Coombes himself takes part in flying. “It’s not something you do every day, fly an 80-year-old airplane,” Coombes exclaimed. “Every day that I flew that airplane, I thought of it as Memorial Day. I was flying with the memory of the people who flew the airplanes when the skies weren’t so friendly.” Currently, the High Sky Wing is working to restore a plane that was used during the War and get it back in the air where it belongs. Coombes said this plane, the Beech AT-11, is the most significant piece of history being housed in the Museum. It’s important to note, the Midland Airfield Army Museum was created in an effort to keep the city’s military history when the original museum closed and the CAF left. This resulted in a lot of heartache in the
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49 hometown living at its best City of Midland after the amount of support that was given from the community. So, in response, the board was created around 2015 as a way for local businesses and other foundations to still support the military history in the area without being attributed to the CAF. Coombes dedicates a lot of his time to the maintenance and development of the museum, saying it’s become more than just passion. “It’s also the desire to understand and to understand the world in which we live and why we have what we have.” Having lived in Midland since 1957, Coombes said he was drawn to the board through his community connections which helped with fundraising. Sitting on the board also allows Coombes to help drive the direction of the Museum. Midland is a growing city, and Coombes noted a lot of the people moving in just know the city for its Oil & Gas Industry. In an effort to bridge this gap of knowledge and history, Coombes said the museum is working on an exhibit which explores the relationship with the energy industry and the rich military history behind the airfield. “I think that’ll be important,” Coombes said. “It’s more than just the Oil and Gas industry.” While Coombes doesn’t think the majority of people share the same enthusiasm he does when it comes to history, he hopes these exhibits along with the air shows and every other “blasts from the past” will inspire the children of today to preserve the memories of the past. †
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52 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by SARA HOOK | Photos provided by THE ESTRADA FAMILY LOVING SCIENCE, Loving Learning
S MIDLAND SEVENTH GRADER Eva Estrada WINS STATE SCIENCE FAIR. School science fairs are well known for their replica volcanoes, their lemon batteries, and their food coloring experiments. They are places of creativity and ingenuity, as well as last minute poster-boards and pre-presentation stress. For many Midland students, however, the science fair represents much more than that—and one middle schooler especially has taken her talents all the way to a blue ribbon in the state-wide Texas Science and Engineering Fair. Eva Estrada began her journey in fourth grade at Carver Center, an elementary school for gifted and talented students. Growing up in Venezuela she’d never heard of a science fair before and wanted a simple project to test how things worked. Estrada decided to experiment with how different types of liquids made Orbeez grow. 53 hometown living at its best
54 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group “I was just kind of fascinated by Orbeez,” Estrada said. “It was just a genuine question that I had.” Her project won second place in her school’s chemistry category, though the pandemic prevented her from progressing to regionals. Still, Estrada fell in love. “[The science fair] lets kids be passionate about something and find something that they love and that is truly theirs,” Estrada said. “Learning is so cool because the knowledge is yours, nobody can take that away from you.” Science fairs also teach public speaking, which Estrada found she loved, as well as leadership, perseverance, and hard work. Estrada said, “It’s about growing.” In fifth grade, she tested and created recipes for biodegradable plastics, and won first place in her local category and second place in the regional competition— but Sixth grade was where things really got fun. That was the year students could progress past regionals and to the Texas Science and Engineering Fair, held every year at Texas A&M University. Estrada’s project was inspired by research her mother, a doctor, was reading about a red meat allergy known as Alpha-gal syndrome. Estrada investigated different treatments for the allergy—and while she made it to the state competition, she did not place. “Learning is so cool because the knowledge is yours, nobody can take that away from you.” -Eva Estrada
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HOMETOWN
57 hometown living at its best “I won first place in my school science fair, first place in regionals, and then I participated at A&M,” Estrada said. “I think I’m kind of glad that I didn’t win, because I feel like it definitely pushed me further. This year I did way more than I did the year before and it kind of showed me what it would take to get that push was important, because once Estrada graduated from Carver Center she lost a lot of support. Her middle school had no school-wide science fair, so Estrada had to take the initiative to compete. She only got advice via email from her sixth grade science teacher Leesha Seidel, and used Carver’s lab to do her final experiment. “The teachers [at Carver] are with you every step of the way, and they help you so much,” Estrada said. “I think this year was really [a] challenge because I had to do a lot on my own.” Once again inspired by her mother, Estrada researched how the pesticide Glyphosate affects bacteria in the mouth. To refine her project she looked through journals and university newspapers, trying to learn what research was coming out in the microbiology field. “I spent all summer working on what I was going to do, “Estrada said. “There was a lot of pressure of coming up with something that I could do for the next couple of years, and just continuing my project and making it bigger and better—and that’s my plan.” Estrada had high hopes of placing, but getting a first-place ribbon was a dream come true. Her win in the microbiology category let her progress to blue ribbon judging, where she got to spend more time with each of the judges. Those conversations were her favorite part of the experience.
“At state you’re going to have people that have masters degrees and PhDs in your field, so they know what you’re talking about, so you can have a deeper conversation with them,” Estrada said. “They have a lot of questions, but they also have a lot of really good suggestions and they don’t just want to talk about your project. They want to talk about the field as a whole and what you feel and what you think.” She was also the only student from West Texas to get the prize, out of 18 students who were able to attend the state science fair. While she is still young, Estrada has big plans for the future. She has applied for the Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC) competition, a very selective competition that includes students from all fifty states and U.S. Territories. There she hopes to take her project to the national stage. Estrada also successfully passed the Credit By Exam (CBE) for eighth grade, skipping the grade, and wants to go to MIT when she graduates high school. Whether her career takes the path of 58 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
59 hometown living at its best biochemistry, microbiology, space, or some other realm, she wants to go into a science field—as well as help other students flourish. “I really want to do more leadership roles as I get into high school,” Estrada said. “I really want to help other students like me. I think with this year being in middle school it’s been a little bit frustrating trying to do all the things that I do and feeling like I don’t have a lot of support.” One of her passion projects is a website full of resources for students, resources that Estrada has created or used over the years to practice for things like science fairs and her eighth grade CBE exam. “There’s so many students out there who have so much potential, but they just don’t really know what to do,” Estrada said. “If I can help other people to do something that they like and unleash that potential that would be great... here in MISD we have Carver, we have the best charter school in the state, and so I think we really need to give our students more opportunities to shine and to be passionate about different things.” † “There’s so many students out there who have so much potential, but they just don’t really know what to do. If I can help other people to do something that they like and unleash that potential that would be great." -Eva Estrada
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HOMETOWN Happenings
65 hometown living at its best The Midland Symphony Guild recently celebrated its 62nd annual Gala Weekend. On Friday night, 216 guests were entertained by the MainStream Jazz Quartet and 36 beautiful senior belles who have contributed 540 volunteer hours to the arts in Midland were honored. The black-tie event included dinner and dancing as they celebrated the contributions of these young women. Each belle was given a white calla lily as they walked down the runway and their accomplishments were announced. On Saturday morning, the guild held a brunch to welcome 44 new freshmen belles and introduce them to the membership. Almost 200 friends and relatives were in attendance to honor the commitment these new belles have made to serve the community. Those in attendance were delighted by the vocal and instrumental talents of Emily and Eric Baker before the presentation began. Executive Director of the West Texas Symphony, Ethan Willis, shared the goals and accomplishments of the many facets that the Symphony provides. Saturday evening was a formal celebration for the belles, who along with their parents, have donated over 1,000 hours this year! Almost 400 high school students attended the "Belle Ball" where they enjoyed a wonderful evening and danced until midnight. The weekend was packed full of celebration of the arts in Midland and the young women who are making good use of their time for a positive impact. WEEKEND Gala Photos provided by Hillary Lovell
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68 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 432-687-6500 LegacyRealEstate.com Our Legacy is You Call us today
70 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by HANNAH TURNER | Photos provided by KATY MACDONALD KATY MACDONALD IS SETTING LOFTY GOALS AND IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY ON THE BUSINESS, FITNESS, AND OUTREACH FRONTS.
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Arizonian Katy MacDonald moved from the desert to the Permian Basin to make her home in Midland nearly ten years ago. Today she strives to make others feel at home as well, in the fitness studio and in the community. Raised by her father, a military veteran, MacDonald grew up with a reverence for military service and was inspired to start her own journey in the U.S. Army beginning during her high school years. Leaving for basic training two weeks after high school graduation, MacDonald began eight years of military service that would impact the rest of her life. After basic training MacDonald started army school training where she learned to fuel Blackhawk helicopters and ground vehicles, continuing to shape her military career. Soon after her training, MacDonald’s father moved to Texas from Arizona to become a business owner. Eager for a new adventure, MacDonald packed her bags as well and settled in Midland. Little did she know, she would soon meet her future husband and become an integral part of the community she never initially planned to call home. MacDonald’s military experience continues to shape her life today, inspiring her discipline and leadership in life and in work. 72 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
73 hometown living at its best “A lot of what I do requires discipline,” MacDonald said. “Motivation will only get you so far, but discipline is always going to be there. How you hold yourself, the pride you carry in how you do what you do and the integrity that you have will get you far. And that’s just living the Army values that were instilled in me.” MacDonald has always had a fitness background and after her years of service was leading one-on-one coaching as a certified personal trainer. She was approached by leaders of a new fitness studio being established in Midland, F45–a functional training style gym. After researching and discovering that their mission aligned with her values, she came on as a trainer approximately eight years ago and recently had the opportunity to further her leadership, becoming owner of the F45 Odessa location in July 2025. “It’s really come full circle,” MacDonald said. “I got to climb the ranks in Midland and really be an impact to our community, not only using the studio to help better people’s lives but to help make connections and create a community where people feel safe to be in and just to come and meet new friends.”
74 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Though part of a larger chain, F45 is locally owned and operated and MacDonald is proud to be part of the local small business community. Supporting other local business around the Permian Basin is something she strongly values, and just as she encourages her gym staff to “practice what they preach,” MacDonald shows up for other small businesses in the community from having local products available for purchase at the gym, to hosting small business spotlights and even hosting vendor fairs with small business coming into the studio. “We’re big about helping out and partnering with the community as well,” MacDonald said. One way MacDonald partners with the community is working through the F45 studio to support local charitable causes. They have put on a school supplies drive for Mission AGAPE, raised funds and supplies for the local animal shelter and are working to put on an event in conjunction with the Lonestar Animal Sanctuary, just to name a few.
75 hometown living at its best As a young entrepreneur and leader, MacDonald encourages others looking to follow a similar path to just go for it. “Have your goals set but never meet them. Get close then set a bigger goal. Get close, then set a bigger goal,” MacDonald said. As a mother of two daughters, ages one and four, on top of her goals in business, MacDonald aims to show her girls they can achieve whatever they set out to do. “I’m very goal driven and now that I have two tiny people and my husband who works his tail off, to get to do this to fill my cup is a blessing in itself. And to show my girls that if you have dreams and you want to get them, you don’t just put them on pause because of anything in life that has happened,” MacDonald said. “You could easily say, ‘I have kids now so I’m not going to do this,’ rather than, ‘I have kids now so I’m going to make sure I do this and show them that you can really do anything you put your mind to.’” Looking toward the future, MacDonald is excited to continue serving the community through her training work as well as bringing together members of the Midland and Odessa communities through her new endeavor as business owner. †
76 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
77 hometown living at its best OPEN THE DOOR to a lifestyle you’ll love. Step into the freedom of worry-free living. In our independent living neighborhoods, enjoy spacious single-family homes with seamless access to campus amenities and lifelong care options. At Manor Park, you can truly thrive in the place you call home. Select from more than 40 thoughtfully designed floor plans, including single-family homes, townhomes, cottages, and apartments. Let us handle all the maintenance and home repairs, so you can focus on what matters most to you. Savor meals with friends in the café, let your pup explore the dog park, or embark on new adventures knowing your home will always be well cared for. At Manor Park, your peace of mind and happiness come first. Schedule a tour today. 432.699.3414 | manorparkinc.org 2208 N Loop 250 W, Midland, TX
MIDLAND WINK CARLSBAD HOBBS POST BIG SPRING MERTZON OZONA SONORA KNOX CITY CARRIZO SPRINGS LAFAYETTE FRANKLIN PLEASANTON ALVIN FLORESVILLE BORGER PERRYTON BAKERSFIELD ROMANCE FAIRFIELD STERLING ALDERSON LINDSAY EDMOND HENNESSEY WOODWARD HUGOTON GARDEN CITY MEDICINE LODGE COLBY MCPHERSON GREAT BEND RUSSELL PLAINVILLE AZTEC DENVER GRAND JUNCTION ROOSEVELT ROCK SPRINGS CASPER THERMOPOLIS GILLETTE CHINOOK WILLISTON SIDNEY BAKER BOWMAN DICKINSON JOHNSTOWN EVANSTON BAIROIL ARTESIA GULF OF AMERICA DENTON MOHALL JASPER BROWNFIELD LOVINGTON ANDREWS MCALESTER QUINTER THE WOODLANDS 79 hometown living at its best
HOMETOWN Happenings
81 hometown living at its best Pickleball The Round Up P5SL Rally for Youth Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, June 7 at the Summit Center featured players of all levels—from first-timers to semi-pros, and even a few ESPN Top 40 talents! 36 players enjoyed a full day of fun, friendly competition, and community impact! All proceeds benefit youth programs in the Permian Basin through Round Up Inc. and P5SL. Spectators cheered on their neighbors, enjoy the action at the beautiful Summit Center, and supported a great cause. Thanks to generous registrants and sponsors—including our title sponsor JMR Services—an incredible $30,000 was raised in support of area youth programs! TOURNAMENT Photos provided by Pickleball Pavilion, and Round Up Inc. Sponsors: JMR Services, Watson Packer, Hedloc Investments, Market Street, Dahlia Development, KC Pipe, The Finnish Long Drink, Exxcel Energy Solutions, Shonna Garcia with Maven Real Estate
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Norma Whitsitt CFP®, AWMA® Vice President - Financial Advisor Portfolio Manager – Portfolio Focus What makes you and your business unique from competitors? When working with an existing client or a potential client, my focus is taking the time to truly get to know the person to discover what is most important to them in their financial journey. Once goals and priorities are identified, we can work in concert to meet their specific needs. As a Certified Financial Planner®, I am well versed in wealth planning, estate planning services, retirement planning, and much more. My experience in these areas will help us create the appropriate plan that best suits their goals and priorities. This individualized plan will be reviewed and adjusted accordingly if the client’s priorities and goals change. Why are you passionate about this industry? I love sharing in the client’s experience as they navigate their financial course and working with them to achieve their financial and personal goals. It’s very rewarding to see those relationships through from start to finish. What keeps you motivated when things get hard? Knowing that a detailed wealth plan has been put in place for clients that will get them through difficult times. The initial investment of spending time to create a detailed plan helps anchor future decision making and provides a long-term guidepost for a client’s goals and priorities. What is the best piece of advice you would give/words of wisdom? Do the right thing, for the right reason in the right way. Staying true to your character, working hard and maintaining a strong ethical foundation will carry you through any adversity that may come your way. How do you measure success? How you treat people. The legacy you will leave behind is not always about the money. Sir Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” 550 West Texas Avenue Suite 120, Midland Office: 432.687.8969 Work Cell: 432.813.7740 us.rbcwm.com/norma.whitsitt norma.whitsitt@rbc.com Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. All decisions regarding the tax or legal implications of your investments should be made in connection with your independent tax or legal advisor. No information, including but not limited to written materials, provided by RBC WM should be construed as legal, accounting or tax advice.
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A Midland non-profit is providing financial support to underfunded local charities to advance their mission. GATHERED Where Two or More are 86 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
87 hometown living at its best W Written by ELLEN SLATER | Photos provided by TINA STRICKLING When the Midland non-profit Two or More began last March, founder, Tina Strickling along with Debbie Scarborough, Karen Coffman and Steven Porterfield chose the organization's name based on the Bible verse Matthew 18:20, "For where two or more are gathered together in my Name then I am in the midst of them." Strickling says the inspiration for Two or More came from God and happened while working with other area non-profits. "I noticed that some of the charities had more funding and resources than others," she said. "I began to research this disparity and found that of the 1,300 non-profits in the Midland area 35 percent are fully funded, while the other 65 percent struggle to stay afloat each year." After much prayer and discussion with family and friends, Strickling decided to help the struggling charities and Two or More was founded. The charity generates funds by holding estate sales, estate liquidation sales and garage sales as well as other special events. Periodically, throughout the year, the money raised is distributed to underfunded local non-profits. To begin learning how to establish and run a non-profit, Strickling reached out to the Women's Non-Profit Alliance W.N.P.A. "The organization is
88 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group based in Plano, and my coach, Terri Burnett, is W.N.P.A.'s founder," said Strickling. "We meet by Zoom once a week and she mentors me in how to run a Christianbased non-profit." Through W.N.P.A., Strickling has learned how to set up a website, how to file the paperwork to receive non-profit status, and when, where and how to hold fundraisers. Two or More currently has 60 volunteers. "We have high school students who help us lift and move heavy furniture, Moms who donate and help run fundraisers, and many retirees who volunteer," she said. "The community support has been incredible." According to Strickling, community members have also been generous in donating estate sale items from their homes. "People hold estate sales for various reasons- often it's the death of a loved one," she said. "We try to accommodate the needs of the family. Sometimes they want to hold the sale at their home and others want us to pick up the items and sell them elsewhere." Two or More's first estate sale held in March exceeded expecatations. "It was a huge success- many people came and shopped, and we raised more than $30,000 that day to benefit the non-profits we serve," said Strickling. In addition to estate sales, Two or More also accepts donations at its store located at 3303 West Illinois Street, in Midland. "We're open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon to accept donations and we hold Thrifty Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. where the public can shop at our store," said Strickling.
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90 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group The charity also holds two annual events to generate funds - a Tea Party held in the spring and a Purse Party held the last week of July at the Petroleum Club. "The Tea Party is a High Tea held around Mother's Day and attended by many mothers and daughters," said Strickling. "Our Purse Party consists of high-end purses, minks and jewelry all donated by Midland residents. Attendees can shop the items and all the money raised goes directly to those we serve." To date, Two or More has donated funds to such charities as Dream Center, a transitional living program which helps homeless youth in the Midland-Odessa area; Kaleidoscope Ministries for their Children's Summer Camp; and Focused Care Nursing Home. "We gave every resident a new Fourth of July T-Shirt, new pajamas and snack bags- we also gave the facility a new set of patio furniture," said Strickling. "We'll distribute more donations to charities at the end of the year." And, Two or More is making a difference in the Midland area as evidenced by its choice as the Best of the Best Award in the Midland Reporter Telegram's annual Reader's Choice Awards. "We were awarded Best of the Best in Area NonProfits, as well as gold awards in Community
91 hometown living at its best Outreach, Religious and Social Welfare," said Strickling. "It was a huge honor for us as we've always felt God has directed our organization to help others." Strickling says the desire to help others was instilled in her as a young child by her father, Don Farr, and her Grandparents, Mona and William Farr. "They raised my brother, Troy, and I to be others-oriented," she said. "They owned a farm in Blair, Oklahoma and a portion of the crops always went to our neighbors in need." Tina met her husband, Joe Strickling, in Oklahoma City when she was attending the University of Central Oklahoma, and he was working for John L. Cox Oil Company. After she received a Master's Degree in Administration, they married and in 2003 Joe was transferred to Midland. Strickling says she's very grateful for all the community support Two or More has received. "Seeing our volunteers have a heart for those in need and knowing we're making a difference in their lives and in our community, is very rewarding," she said. "I'm also proud of the fact that our organization has no paid employees, all of our staff are volunteers." † To learn more about Two or More, to donate or volunteer visit their website at: twoormore.co.
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From the Kitchen of Katie Audas
97 hometown living at its best Fruit Filling • 3 cups fresh raspberries • 3 cups chopped fresh peaches, peeled & seed removed first • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Crust Mixture • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup old-fashioned oats • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1/2 cup light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted & slightly cooled • 1 large egg, lightly beaten • 1 teaspoon vanilla PEACH RASPBERRY CRUMBLE BARS Prep Time: 15 mins // Cook Time: 45 mins // Total Time: 1 hour // Yield: 15 Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. 2. Make the fruit filling: In a large bowl, add the raspberries and chopped peaches. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the fruit and stir until fruit is lightly coated. Set aside. 4. Make the crust mixture: In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, beaten egg and vanilla. Stir until well combined. 5. Press two-thirds of the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the fruit mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining crust mixture evenly over the top of the fruit. 6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the fruit is bubbling and the crumbs on top start to brown. Let cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares. Store in the refrigerator.
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