2 midland living magazine 432.203.3661 | 201 SPRING PARK DR | ALLYOUTDOORS.COM THE LARGEST GUN RANGE IN TEXAS f@allyoutdoors @allyoutdoors_range @allycafe i fi
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6 midland living magazine 12 Contents BRAXTONS BROWN BEARS Baryn Brown is using her community platforms tominister to kids grieving deceased siblings. 46 A POP-UP SIT-DOWN Midlander, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Stacy Grosse, believes in supporting local businesses, giving back, and having fun. 60 FIGHTING FOR A BETTER FUTURE Coach Orosco is doing more for Midland youth than just teaching themhow to box. PAINTING AND PRAYERS A look into the life of artist, M. Walker Nelson 30 On the Cover Photo by Heather Zak Designs 42 MEET KATIE AUDAS Get to know our newest Marketing Specialist with deep Midland roots.
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8 midland living magazine Contents MIDLAND PROFILE: STAN JACOBS From the plains of Kansas, across the globe, and all the way back toMidland, Stan Jacobs has devoted his life to art, building relationships, and serving God. 82 100 AMBASSADOROF KINDNESS Megan Jacoby is often the first face patients and visitors see at the hospital and one theywill not forget. She was born for her role: to treat everyone like a VIP. 72 TRAVEL GUIDE This year, take a drive to some surrounding towns and don’t be surprised if you feel a world away. 22, 56, 78, 94 HOWBIG IS TEXAS? A lifelong quest to explore the Lone Star State. 110 HOMETOWNHAPPENINGS See who has been out and about around town these past fewmonths. And don’t forget to share YOUR EVENT’S and happenings with us for the next addition of MLM.
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Midland Living Magazine© is published semi-annually by HometownMedia Group hometownmedia.group 502 NMain Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED INTHE 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. NEED DIGITAL ADVERTISING? HometownMedia Group brings local businesses the ability to reach their audience, and track actual results with the same capacity as national brands. We have DIGITAL & PRINT advertising options for any budget. Give us a call at 817.599.6167 hometownmediagroup.com new season is on the horizon, with spring just around the corner. However, two years plus into the pandemic and we are still facing many of the same challenges and uncertainties. And if you feel anything like I do, it is all emotionally exhausting. But with so much out of our control, being intentional on what we can control makes me feel much happier and grounded. We can control how we treat others. We are all going through something, and kindness goes a long way. Check out our story on a true earth angel, Megan Jacoby, at MidlandMemorial Hospital. Armed with kindness and sincerity, she helps patients navigate their health care journey. Wecancontrol howwe react toadversityand turnabadsituation into something positive. We have a heartwarming story about two siblings that started their own nonprofit for sibling loss, Braxton’s Brown Bears. We can control whatmakes us happy and find our passion to create. Perhaps youwill find inspiration after reading our story on Stan Jacobs who has devoted his life to the arts. Through art he has found a way to connect with others no matter the language difference. We can control our outlook on life. Instead of saying “I have to” try an “I get to” state of mind. One changemy family made is spending more time outside. I am inspired by the 1000 hours outside challenge. The average American child spends 1200 hours on screens. This challenge aims to replace those screen time hours with time spent in the great outdoors. Fresh air does wonders for my state of mind and the sunsets in Midland are truly hard to beat. I hope this season lets you reflect on all the good there is in Midland. Our strong sense of community makes Midland such a great place to live. Haley Ragsdale Midland Social Media Coordinator *Subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter, visit midlandlivingmagazine.com WRITERS Haley Ragsdale Connie Lewis Leonard Avery Pullin Hunter Hester OPERATIONSMANAGER AshlyCaffee CREATIVE|DESIGN SusanAvery,Lead RobinHarrison,CG2 CLIENTRELATIONS COORDINATOR LindseyKruger content@hometown-living.com PUBLISHERS Matt&Heather Martin matt@hometown-living.com Casey & Trisha Perkins casey@hometown-living.com “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” - Isaiah 26:3 DIGITALMARKETING TiaMinzoni, VPofDigitalMarketing ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Bobbie Fulks PHOTOGRAPHERS Angela Gonzales Photography Chase Cochran Photography A Note From Our Team 10 midland living magazine
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Eventually, in all our lives, we must face the tragedy of the loss of a loved one. Often times, the loss of a sibling is not the traditional sequence of life, but one thatmany have faced. The devastating effects of prematurely losing a sibling, at a young age, are out of the cultural normandnot a commonly discussed topic. “Braden, was threewhen Braxton died, and I was born after my family lost Braxton. I amwhat you call a ‘Rainbow Baby’! I think it affectedmyparents inanegativewayat first, as theywere sobrokenhearted, but theyhave lived their life trying tofind thepositive in their story, and it hasbeen instilled in us to celebrate Braxton as a part of our family,” said Baryn Brown. The family celebrates Braxton’sbirthdayeveryyear, andhewill alwayshaveastockingonthemantleatChristmas. Darby, Braxton’smother, became anopenbook about his loss tohelpotherswhohave been through the same thing. Barynsharedher andBradenchoose toemmulateher positivity in a negative situation. “This loss has shaped and driven our passion in serving others by being a beacon of light in everyone’s dark times of loss and grief of a sibling,” said Baryn. WhenDarbyBrownreturned fromthehospital after giving birth to stillborn baby Braxton, a friend “loaned” the family a Berevement Bear. About seventy-five percent of couples who suffer the loss of a child end up divorcing. Darby, Chad and Braden attended counseling to help them cope with the trauma, but thepainof losswill always remain in their hearts. When Baryn was nine years old, she was a Lone Star Princess in theMissTexasOrganization forMiss Plano andMiss Written By CONNIE LEWIS LEONARD Photos provided by THE BROWN FAMILY Brown BEARS BARYN BROWN I S US ING HER COMMUNITY PLATFORMS TO MINI STER TO KIDS GRIEVING DECEASED S IBLINGS . 12 midland living magazine
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Plano’s Outstanding Teen. For her, it was merely a fun week in Richardson with another friend and theirmoms. Realizing theopportunities for serving others, Barynbecame a contestant in the 2020Miss Texas’ OutstandingTeenOrganization. Inaddition tobeing aVarsityCheerleader atMidlandChristian and aMidlandSymphonyBelle, Baryn is a life-long Girl Scout. Shehas already receivedher Bronze and Silver Awards by helping in the community with non-profits such as 3:11 Ministries. Baryn is applying for her Girl Scout Gold Star Award Project, which will center on Braxton’s BrownBEARS—BlessingEmptyArmstoRemember a Sibling. Most grief support groups focus on parents who have lost a child. BBB’s focus is on the siblings, the forgotten sufferers in the loss of a child. DarbyandBarynmetwithSarahLauritzenat theNon-ProfitManagement Center of thePermian Basin,whoofferedguidanceonwhat andhowtofile for non-profit status. They received their 501(c)3 status in February 2021. Baryn said her mom found a company to produce the bears, and they had a mock-up made. The mock-up evolved as the family each shared their input for the project. While Braden wanted awire-curled hair bear, Barynwantedwhitewings so that each child that receives a bear, couldmake it their own with fabric markers. It took them about six months to produce the bears, tag them with their labels and package them for shipping. Barynhas attained several avenues of distribution inMidland, such as funeral homes, hospitals and
FOCUS ONPARENTSWHO HAVE LOST A CHILD. BBB’S FOCUS IS ONTHE SIBLINGS, THE FORGOTTEN SUFFERERS INTHE LOSS OF A CHILD. Baryn&Braden celebrating their brother’s birthday by holding a benefit at Kendra Scott 15 hometown living at its best
16 midland living magazine child grief centers that have agreed to assist in distributing Braxton’s Brown BEARS to children in need and successfully helped raise $12,000 for the initial order of 1200 bears. “Throughmy longterm efforts with the Miss Texas Organization, I foresee touchingmanyyoung children’s liveswho have suffered the loss of a sibling,” Baryn said. Baryn anticipates many opportunities to meet with young children and openly discuss feelings of loss that are too often kept bottled up. Braxton’s Brown BEARS can help fill a void and remindkids to celebrate their sibling’s life inall of His glory.With the assistance of socialmedia and friends of friendswho commonlyknowsomeone who has suffered a loss, Braxton’s Brown BEARS has become an organization to touch the lives of friends inMidland, across Texas and throughout theMiss Texas Organization. With the generosity of family and friends, Braxton’sBrownBEARShas been fully funded for the first 1200 angel bears. Baryn will continue to receivedonations inmemoryof others’ lovedones as the organization continues. She would love to create new concepts for those who have suffered the loss of a sibling. † TOMEETWITHYOUNG CHILDRENAND OPENLY DISCUSS FEELINGS OF LOSS THAT ARE TOOOFTENKEPT BOTTLEDUP. BRAXTON’S BROWNBEARS CANHELP FILL A VOIDANDREMINDKIDS TO CELEBRATE THEIR SIBLING’S LIFE INALL OF HIS GLORY. Braden, Baryn, Darby, and Chad Brown
17 hometown living at its best Baryn Brown PHOTO COURTESY OF KHLOE SCOTT
the Kerri Payne James Real Estate Team KPJ 4400 N BIG SPRING STREET, STE 124 | MIDLAND, TX 79705 432.683.1000 | 432.553.7443 18 midland living magazine
MEET KERRI PAYNE JAMES, a well-tenured and reputable Midland Broker & Owner of The Agency, Kerri Payne James Real Estate Team. Formerly known as The Victoria Printz Team Realtors, Kerri purchased the company in 2020 and has turned a new leaf in naming it her own. Working alongside Victoria Printz for over 10 years, Kerri is honored to endure with a new face while keeping its original roots. A proud Midlander, wife, mother, daughter, friend and business owner, Kerri Payne James is full hearted and an absolute inspiration to every person who crosses her path. Real Estate has always been natural for Kerri, but her dedication and commitment has led her to becoming a top producing Real Estate Broker in Midland for many years. Now leading her own pack, Kerri strives to make it possible for her team to build success through education, teamwork, creativity & empowerment. Here at The Agency, Kerri has created a healthy family-like business full of driven entrepreneurs, encouraging teammates and passionate individuals all focused on achieving the same goals in providing Midland’s finest concierge Real Estate services. With core values always top of mind, Kerri ensures that her team will always take care of our clients as they make one of the biggest decisions in their lives, real estate. Kerri Payne James makes the home buying or selling process as simple as possible. She is devoted to her client’s wants and needs and ensures lots of laughter throughout the process. Kerri prides herself in her referrals and repeat business as her clients are for life. Outside of the office, Kerri enjoys spending time with her best friend and husband, Eddie James, her family and dog, Mattie. She enjoys living a healthy lifestyle, attending Stonegate Fellowship, and traveling to new places. Kerri is excited to start this new chapter in her favorite city and home. She looks forward to her next years as the Owner & Broker of The Agency. INTRODUCING THE AGENCY the Kerri Payne James Real Estate Team KPJ 19 hometown living at its best
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21 hometown living at its best NEAPOLITAN PIZZA AND COCKTAIL BAR IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN MIDLAND 432.247.1711 | 203 West Wall Street, Ste 107D | Midland @Pisocialmidland | @pi_social_midland f i Owners, Patrick & Kate Carrasco
22 midland living magazine hometown | happenings Officer of the Year, Officer David Lopez Midland ISD Police Department Officer of the Year, CID Sgt. John Henry Midland County Sheriff’s Office Officer of the Year, Corporal Jeff Robinson Department of Public Safety COBOS Award, Detective Rosie Rodriguez Midland Police Department Gary Painter Award: Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and Citizens on Patrol
23 hometown living at its best idlandCrime Stoppers held its 38thAnnual Awards Banquet at the Midland Country Club on January 27, 2022. Each January, the banquet is held during Crime Stoppers Month to honor and recognize local law enforcement. This year, there were 115 attendees, which included department heads from the Midland Police Department, the Midland County Sheriff ’s Office, the U.S. Marshals, the Midland Fire Department , Midland ISD Pol ice Department and the Department of Public Safety. Also in attendance were the family of Sheriff Gary Painter, Midland City Council, and several Judges. Those shown here were awarded The Midland Crime Stoppers ‘Officer of the Year’ award from their respective agencies for their outstanding achievements the previous year. The Board also presented two special awards, the COBOS Award and the inaugural Sheriff Gary Painter Award. Mayor Patrick Paytonwas the keynote speaker and master of ceremonies was Jay Hendricks/CBS7. Colors were presented by the Midland Police Department and Midland County Sheriff ’s Office Color Guard. Thank you to the generous banquet sponsors: Conoco Phi l l i ps , Pl at inum Sponsor and Apache Corporation, Silver Sponsor. Follow upcoming events by visiting midlandcrimestoppers.com or their Facebook page @MidlandTxCS Midland Crime Stoppers awards banqu t [Photos by CHASE COCHRAN] Officer of the Year, Detective Tyler Thompson Midland Police Department Officer of the Year, Assistant Chief Michael Cota Midland Fire Department Mayor Patrick Payton Mayor Patrick Payton delivers keynote speech
24 midland living magazine hometown | happenings Officer of the Year, Deputy U.S. Marshal Michael Sykes, Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremy Waechter, and USMS Task Force Officer Chet Thatcher – U.S. Marshal Service
25 hometown living at its best OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS: Detective Tyler Thompson – Midland Police Department CID Sgt. John Henry - Midland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy U.S. Marshal JeremyWaechter, Deputy U.S. Marshal Michael Sykes, and USMS Task Force Officer Chet Thatcher – U.S. Marshal Service Corporal Jeff Robinson – Department of Public Safety Assistant Chief Michael Cota – Midland Fire Department Officer David Lopez – Midland ISD Police Department COBOS AWARD RECIPIENT: Detective Rosie Rodriguez – Midland Police Department SHERIFF GARY PAINTER AWARD RECIPIENT: Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and Citizens on Patrol
BBuying a house can be a big step for a young family, but for Kassi and AndrewBell it was an absolute need. The couple has children, and for about two weeks out of every month, Andrew’s job selling casing was taking him from their former home in Houston to his duties in West Texas. The young parents resolved that, for the sake of creating a sense of stability and normalcy for their children, they had to make the move to Midland. And while they were at it; they were going to purchase their first house, a house that their family could continue to grow into. After about three-to-four months of searching, Andrew decided to turn to a realtor he could trust: Nancy Bergman with The Sales TeamRealtors. “My business partner had used Nancy Bergman as his realtor, and I had actually met Nancy socially a few times over the last couple of years.” I asked Andrew his best advice for those currently househunting, he said, “It’s all about finding a realtor who knows your personality and what you want.” Nancy Bergman definitely fit that bill! Many times it seemed that Nancy’s judgment was so superb, that it seemed she knew what the Bells wanted better than they did. “We went and looked at a house in another area that we saw on Zillow, and before we went Nancy had said ‘Well, I don’t think you’re going to like it’, but we went anyway and of course she was right,” Andrew said.
27 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. Nancy Bergman being recognized by Brian and Laura Sales. If you are in the market in the Midland or Odessa area, trust the Sales TeamRealtors to guide you. Call the office at 432.618.1818 or visit their website at salesteamrealtors.com. Now the family is very happy in their new home in Old Midland which they say reminds them of the part of Houston they came from. They are settling inwell to their new environment and are nowproud to call themselves Midlanders! “We really like it here, people have been really welcoming. It’s a good place to raise a family. So far we’ve got nothing but good things to say about being here.” Meanwhile, the family keeps in touch with Nancy Bergman. The Bells value their relationship with Nancy. Kassi says of Nancy: “She’s not just our realtor, she’s our friend.”
Please contact me to schedule as appointments vary. 432.967.5177 angelagonzales.com angela@angelagonzales.com
PAINTING AND PRAYERS Written by AVERY PULLIN Photos provided by M. WALKER NELSON A l ook i nt o the l i fe of ar t i s t M. Wa l ker Nel son Blue Venus
T Thoughchallenging itmaybe, those whothriveinWestTexasdosoduringthe most unlikely times: in long droughts, a downturned economy, an unforeseen hardship. his rang true for local artist Maggie Nelson, professionally known asM.WalkerNelson, who founda future in her paintbrushes when the effects of negative oil and COVID-19 plagued her day job. A Blank Canvas To step into conversation with Maggie Nelson is stepping into a place where comfort and peace meet you at the doorstep. Her calm spirit and joy for those in her presence is obvious. Perhaps it was in those quiet, shy days of her childhoodas she sat observing the world around her that this joy began to stir. Growing up in theMidwest, Maggie often saw her mother paint, a hobby she had taken up once her kids were in school. Maggie found that she too was drawn to the allure of art and would often desire time to be expressive. Many days she would have to stay inside from recess as she had not done her worksheets. This, she says, in turn made her extremely shy. Eat in a Gallery 31 hometown living at its best
32 midland living magazine Her grandparents lived inTexas andMaggie always lovedvisiting them. Her grandfatherwas aBaptist preacher, and through their livesher grandparents sharedwithherwho Jesus is andHis love forher.Onone triptoTexas, sheaskedhergrandfather tobaptizehernotknowinghowpivotal that would be for her life. He proceeded to lead her to salvation and baptized her the next day. From there Maggie found solace in the youth group at church, a place she could go and be unequivocally herself. Still a shy young lady, shewould often draw. Art was always simply a part of who she is. Adding Jesus into her life only amplified her understanding of art. The World Came to Me As Maggie continued her faith journey, she went forward in church to acknowledge her willingness to goonamission trip. Faithfully, shewaited. However, the tripnever came and those doors never opened. FAR LEFT: Maggie’s late maternal grandparents, John and Eulis Denton of Borger Texas John and Charley
On one trip to Texas, she asked her grandfather to baptize her not knowing how pivotal that would be for her life. He proceeded to lead her to salvation and baptized her the next day. Artist Maggie Walker Nelson 33 hometown living at its best
In collegeMaggiemajored in art. She had always enjoyedwatercolor, but in a particular course on the topic the professor told her that her watercolors actually looked more like acrylic or oil painting. “Thanks!” she replied. However, he nevermeant it as a compliment. He explained the art formshould look like the art form it was intended to be. It was then that her future in oil painting began. After graduationMaggieultimately foundherself teaching international students inan inner-city high school. It was there, teaching students in varying difficult situations, that she realized why she was never sent into the world for amission trip. “The world,” she says, “came tome.” Maggie explains that working with economically disadvantaged students, many of whomwere refugees, gave her a front row view to watch them make art for the first time. She saw them use pastels, create art ona computer, hold a paintbrush—all for thefirst time. That time inher life became foundational for her as an artist and as a human. She foundher voice and relished the chance to teach these students they too have a voice and can use art to share it. ABOVE LEFT: Magnoli Solo ABOVE RIGHT: Lettuce Truck RIGHT: Blue Agave on aWall
35 hometown living at its best Maggie explains that working with economically disadvantaged students, many of whom were refugees, gave her a front row view to watch them make art for the first time. She saw them use pastels, create art on a computer, hold a paintbrush—all for the first time. Santa Fe on aWall Watermelon Bay 2
36 midland living magazine Every day, before she paints, she begins in prayer. With her belief in God as the ultimate creator, she says all of us are made to worship and to create, “Nothing else on the planet makes something to just enjoy it. Everything else just survives. We have a creative spirit because we were created. That’s why I pray before I paint.” Silo
37 hometown living at its best A New Expression After nearly a decade in the classroom, Maggie began carving a new path for herself. She went back to school at Texas Tech and received a Master’s in BusinessAdministration. Thereshemetherhusband, and ultimately, they moved to Midland. After they arrived, she went to work in the oil and gas industry. But after her second childwas born, COVID-19 hit the world. Oilwentnegative. Supplychainswere strained. Formula was hard to find. And she lost her job. Out of determination she began painting vigorously. She would pile canvases into the trunk of her car and try to sell them. Emailswent unanswered. With theworld shut down, she got downonher knees and prayed. Shebegansearching for opportunities andfinally chose to have her own show in Dallas. Maggie recalls calling hermother crying as peoplewere offering her money on the spot for her work. What she had once done to withdraw from the world was now on full display, and the world couldn’t get enough. The same act of prayer she took in that time of desperation is thesameact shecontinues today. Every day, before she paints, she begins in prayer. With her belief inGod as the ultimate creator, she says all of us aremadetoworshipandtocreate, “Nothingelseonthe planet makes something to just enjoy it. Everything else just survives.Wehaveacreativespirit becausewe were created. That’s why I pray before I paint.” In early 2022, she will have a solo show, West (of Eden), at theMarfaOpenGallery. Locatedat 102 South PlateauStreet. Director Seph Itz runsTheMarfaOpen Gallery which is known for “showing a diverse range ofmultimediaartworks andart performances around Texas and internationally.” The theme Nelson has createdforWest (ofEden) sharesa look intothebeauty and heartache of West Texas. There she will once again bring theworld to her, as she seeks to share the stories of the people and places too often overlooked. With the success she has found, Maggie now opens her studio by appointment. To contact the artist, visit mwalkernelson.com. Additionally, Ethan and Associates LLC in Dallas (2050 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 1009) carries her work. If you are local toMidland, youcanfindsignedandnumbered limited reproductions at Carter’s Fine Furniture (Plaza Oaks Shopping Center). Original work retails for around $7 a square inch. In addition to the various galleries and website mentioned, you can follow M. Walker Nelson on Instagramand Facebook @artsourcetx. † RIGHT: Maggie and husband , Gage BOTTOM: Abstract blue and greens
We are a non-denominational Bible church that believes that God’s love for us is the foundation for abundant life today and for eternity. In accordance with Romans 12, JOIN US SUNDAY AT 10:15 visit midlandbible.org for more information A PLACE TO CALL HOME. MIDLAND BIBLE CHURCH We are a non-denominational Bible church that believes that God’s love for us is the foundation for abundant life today and for eternity. In accordance with Romans 12, J I S S T 10:15 visit idlandbible.org for ore infor ation . I L BIBLE UR
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Your Plan. Our Promise. Our students’ plans? Pursue their passion. Graduate debt-free. Land their dream job. Our promise? Make it happen. As the academic heart of this thriving region, we deliver smart, savvy leaders into communities across the U.S. every year. With over 50 degree and certificate programs available, a diploma from UT Permian Basin, part of the world-renowned University of Texas System, is recognized by employers in every industry. Students who want to have a successful future know that UTPB is the best option – an affordable, modern school that thinks large and lives local. www.utpb.edu/FalconFree 41 hometown living at its best
42 midland living magazine Favorite Hometown Memory of Midland: Halloween on “L” Street! About 17 years ago, my parents, along with a group of neighbors who also lived on “L” Street, began what it is today. My mom and dad dressed up as the Queen and Prince Phillip, Becky Yarborough, the witch, the Starnes had a popcorn machine and Halloween movies playing, the Davises handed out giant candy bars out of the trunk of classic cars and the list goes on. It began what has now become a real experience. Families come from surrounding towns to trick-or-treating on “L” Street. It brings me such joy to have come full circle and now take my daughters Trick or Treating and experience such fun for the whole family! Favorite memory from working with the magazine: The day I joined the Hometown Media Group family I knew I had hit the working jackpot. I instantly felt truly welcomed and valued. This is, without a doubt, an outstanding, caring, generous and encouraging company. My favorite memory thus far happened about two weeks into my new role as Marketing Manager where I attended a Pop Spot charity dinner for the West Texas Food Bank. It was such an intimate and elegant setting with such great people, and it was then I knew this was the start of an amazing journey with Hometown Media Group. Where will we find you when you’re not working on the magazine: Two years ago, I started a baking business out of my home called The Basin’s Baker, so I love to spend as much time as I can in the kitchen. My daughters absolutely love to be Mommy’s little souschefs! In my free time, I enjoy working out, reading, playing dress up with my daughters and shooting with my husband, Jeremy. Other than that, you will most likely find me wandering the aisles of Target with a coffee in hand! Share some childhood memories of Midland: I was born and raised in Midland and couldn’t be prouder to continue calling this town my home. Raising two daughters in my hometown brings me such joy, as well as nostalgia. I attended Hi l lander Elementary School and then graduated on to San Jacinto Jr. High and Midland High School where I played tennis. I was a member of my high school student council and Young Life. During high school you could find me working at Julian Gold and The Canopy and spending weekend nights at the T&T Donuts on Garfield & Wadley! HOMETOWN MEDIA GROUP’S NEWEST MARKETING SPECIALIST FOR MIDLAND AND ODESSA Meet Katie Audas
We exist today as the “people helping people”. result of the principle of Proudly serving the Permian Basin since 1949. 5507 WWadley Ave. I 2001 N Big Spring St. I www.heritage-usa.net 432-681-1050 This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration. 43 hometown living at its best
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46 midland living magazine Q What are your many titles? Wife to the perfectman and biggest cheerleader, Brian.We have beenmarried for 12 years and together 14. Mom to Crawford, who is in kindergarten and Kelli Carlisle (KK), who is in the prime of terrible twos! I also wear the hats of CEO of Pop Spot, full time lazy cook andmaid, daughter, sister, and full-time referee ofmy kid’s fights. Q What is Pop Spot and how was it born? I started Pop Spot because I was struggling with postpartum and an infant with colic. I knew I needed an outlet for myself to keep my sanity and be a good mom.Withabackground inretail,wholesaling, andevent planning I thought a little smarter, not harder and decided to host monthly trunk shows inMidland. I saw a need inWest Texas for curated shopping and this is howPopSpotwas born in 2016. What initially started as a hobby quickly turned into a passion. I wanted to create a space for small businesses to showcase their products in front of a newmarket. I love small businesses and have a heart to work hard for them to be successful, we are all in this together! PHOTOS PROV I DED BY STACY GROS S E Pop-Up A Stacy Grosse with Sit- Down
MIDLANDER, ENTREPRENEUR AND PHILANTHROPIST, STACYGROSSE, BELIEVES IN SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES, GIVING BACK, AND HAVING FUN. 47 hometown living at its best
Q Tell us about your childhood. I grew up in a non-profit family. My dad was involved with TbarM in New Braunfels and later founded WorldviewAcademy, a summer camp that “poppedup” across the country at colleges anduniversities and taught high school age kids biblical worldviews and how to defend their faith. I grew up a “camp kid” and loved every minuteof it. Iwatchedmyparentspour everything theyowned intogetting this start-up, non-profit off the ground which included a lot of sacrifice as a family unit. I didn’t know it at the time, but for 12 years, I got to see a “pop up” production thanks to my dad and his team. It laid the groundwork and work ethic inme, which I never realized until college. As a believer, I have God to thank for the transformation He did in my life. My family moved from New Braunfels to Midland in 2005 and, like many, I came kicking and screaming! In high school, I chose “myself” as a priority and chose an eating disorder and alcohol to fill a hole in my soul. After a stint in treatment my senior year, God began to turnmy life around. Q How did your past influence your present? My dad, Randy, set the example of what it takes to start something from nothing and work at it until you have nothing left. Our family had to get on government assistance in the very early stages whenmy dad started WorldviewAcademy.Now, after startingabusiness, I knowyouwill doanythingyoucanto “make thedreamwork.” My family relied on financial support froma generous community. God has used that example of generosity to instill inme the desire to be a generous person. I love giving back to a variety of charities. STACY AND PARENTS, AMY AND RANDY SIMS Mydad, Randy, set the example ofwhat it takes to start something fromnothing andworkat it until youhave nothing left. 48 midland living magazine
Q Why is giving back so important to you? Ibelieve thatnothingweownisoursanyway.God gives toeachofusgifts indifferentwaysand trustswe use them to His glory. My goal is to bless others and reflect Christ through Pop Spot. Q Tell us about your community involvement in Midland. Local politics intrigued me at a young age. My grandfather was the County Commissioner in Brazos County and it always intrigued me when others would say that he loved his county and community. I currently sit on the Planning and Zoning commission for the City ofMidland; which is anadvisoryboard to the city council. I amalso on the Board of Directors for theWest Texas Food Bank and theWest Texas council forMake aWish. I joinedboth boards because of their community outreach aswell as thembeing beneficiaries on Pop Spot ticket sales. WearemembersofRedeemerChurch.BrianandIalso volunteered for Young Life for several years. STACY AND HER DAD, RANDY SIMS 49 hometown living at its best
50 midland living magazine Q Share with us a lesson you learned the hard way. Where to start?! Being an entrepreneur is trial and error…andmore trial and error, thena success. I have learned in business to not let emotions get in the way of making a sound decision. I have also learned to let God fight my battles instead of me! Q What advice would you give to entrepreneurs starting out? You HAVE to have THICK SKIN in this game! No matter what is said about you, good or bad, walk in confidence. You can’t make everyone happy. Q To date, what is your favorite thing about Pop Spot? I could fill up awhole page naming things I love about this business. But the two that come tomind first are: creating a community of like-minded business owners and seeing thembecome friends because of Pop Spot! Secondly, workingwith smartwomen innewPop Spot locations and the lifetime friendships that have evolved. Q If you were a superhero, who would you be? I would be a combination of the mom and the daughter on the Incredibles. I would love to be able to stretch an armall the way to the back seat while I’mdriving and keep a toddler happy and then be able to be invisible and hide frommy kids when I’m on a business call. Periodically they have been known to find me inmy car or under a pile of clothes inmy closet. † I couldfill upawhole pagenaming things I love about this business.
51 hometown living at its best I have learned in business tonot let emotions get in theway ofmaking a sounddecision. I have also learned to let Godfightmy battles insteadof me! STACY, BRIAN, CRAWFORD, KK, AND POPPY GROSSE
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hometown | happenings Sarah Mouton, Grace Theriot, and Shauntae Centers Taylor Sass, Lilac Guzman, Brittany Hebert Franklin, Walt Sass, and Michael Arispe Anthony Uchytil, Lacy Sperry, Josh Sperry, and Eric Dowden Brooke Smith, Keysha Kidd, Heather Garvin, Leah Hyde, and Cassidy Remley Micah Herr and Maria Contreras donate their hair during the banquet Mindi Drennan was the high bidder for a pure-bred chocolate Labrador retriever auctioned at the banquet 56 midland living magazine
ky High Permian Basin banquet benefitting pediatriccancerresearchandaidprogramswas held September 17, 2021 at Odessa-Schlemeyer Field. Attendees enjoyed a live auction and dinner. The following day, participants enjoyed a clay shoot at Jake’s Clays in Midland. The banquet coupled with the clay shoot raised more than $460,000. SkyHighprograms benefitmore than180families inthePermianBasinwhoarebattling pediatric cancer. Photos provided by THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC. Sky High Permian Basin DINNER AND CLAY SHOOT Sky High staff and volunteers Sky High staff and event volunteers Brittany Hebert Franklin, CEO and Founder of Sky High, and Major Williams 57 hometown living at its best
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60 midland living magazine Carlos and Esteban Orosco
61 hometown living at its best “Plant a seed of greatness in your children. Speak a word of encouragement to someone who needs to hear it. Inspire someone to be a better person. One day you'll reap a harvest, and your world will become a better place to live.” -“Big” George Foreman 6:30 PM and the sun is setting ona fall evening at a small boxing gym. On a weeknight like this, when one approaches the old building located on Florida Avenue, theywill see the door is open. This open door is an invitation sent fromCoachCarlos Orosco to the youngmen ofMidland to find the passion and purpose they’ve been desperately searching for. When they accept that invitation and they put on a pair of official USA boxing gloves; they have an opportunity to embrace discipline, release frustrations, and find comradery. CoachOrosco is veryproudof his “Pound4PoundBoxingAcademy.” Five years ago, this gymwasn’t even a dream in Orosco’s head. In the last four years- thanks to a combination of good teaching, community support, and God’s grace- Carlos had an operation that very quickly grew from just a few kids training in his garage to a full-fledged boxing gym filled with trainees. But, to understand howPound 4 Pound Boxing Academy came to be, we need to go back to where it started. Carlos grewup inLovington, NewMexicowhere therewas a small, privateboxing gymthere he, and his older brother, first gained a love and an aptitude for pugilism. “Growing up, we did a lot of boxing around in our neighborhood and stuff like that, so I always had an interest in it.” Carlos went onto have three sons, so naturally hemade it a priority to impart what he knew on them, so they would have the means to defend themselves should they have to. “I started teachingmy sons froman early age because I knew the importance of self-defense. Around the age of six to eight, I started to train my kids at home.” As it turned out, Orosco had a knack for building fighters. His sons started finding success in amateur boxing, and as word of this success got out, more kids wanted in. Coach Orosco is doing more for Midland youth than just teaching them how to box.
62 midland living magazine EstebanOrosco, who inaddition tobeing a student nowalso trains young fighters, recalls when interest in his father’s teachings began to spread, “I had a couple of younger kids start followingme and start trainingwithme, and I felt obligated, in a way, to become a leader and it was something I needed inmy life.” In addition towanting to prove himself as a leader, all the new traineesmotivated Esteban to push himself harder as a fighter. “I kind of just dropped everything and started to focus in on boxing. I mean, I really liked [boxing], but at that point I really started to grow a love for it.” One of the kids inspired by Esteban’s successwas Luke Gonzalez, who has been trainingwithCoachOrosco since hewas operating out of his garage. Luke asked his father to talk to Coach Orosco about lettinghimtrainafterseeingEsteban’srise. “Hewasgoing tonationals, qualifying, he was just doing a lot of great things a young boxer could do in an amateur career.” Luke’s father, Jesus Gonzalez, knew Coach Orosco from church and says his Christian values were a big reason he trusted himto train his son. Luke Gonzalez went on to say that these same Christian values have attracted many other trainees and has possibly changed some lives. LEFT: Luke training with his father, Jesus Gonzalez.
luke’s father, jesus gonzalez, knew coach orosco from church and says his christian values were a big reason he trusted him to train his son. 63 hometown living at its best LUKE’S FATHER, JESUS GONZALEZ, KNEW COACH OROSCO FROM CHURCH AND SAYS HIS CHRISTIAN VALUES WERE A BIG REASON HE TRUSTED HIM TO TRAIN HIS SON.
64 midland living magazine “A lot of themdon’t come inhere just because theywant toget punched in the nose: some of them have frustrations, they come in with differentproblems.We’vehadkidswanting tocommit suicide, sothey comeherewithanger issues, or they’re gettingbullied, or something is going on. To be able to build a relationship with these kids and teach them how to work hard, teach them confidence, and selfvalue. We can take our Christian background and pour into these kids. Not necessarily preaching Jesus to them but SHOWING themJesus.” Another member of Carlos’ church was so impressed by the coach’s work with Midland youth that he dipped into his ownpocket to purchase a building so that Oroscowouldhave more room to take in more trainees. Coach Orosco said he views thebuilding as anansweredprayer. “Before I accepted the building, I just said ‘Hey God, you know what man, if it’s meant to be, open that door for me.’ I had a lot of help
Carlos and Esteban Orosco Training 65 hometown living at its best
66 midland living magazine and support fromthe community, fromfriends, and parents who did volunteer work.” One of the coach’s original students, his son Esteban, will soon be competing in a national tournament. His last amateur tournament. He is planning on going pro after that. When I was in the gym, a young artist was writing a quote above the front door. It is a quote that Jesus Gonzalez tellsme is commonlyused around their church. It was unfinished, but when it is done it will read: That struck me as very appropriate for the Pound 4 Pound Boxing Academy. †
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78 midland living magazine n October 28, 2021 at Midland Shooters As soc i a t i on Sho t gun Range , Pe rmi an Basin Association of Pipeliners held their 3rd Annual Clay Shoot . 75 teams, around 300 people, participated and more than $41,000 was raised. In addi t ion to the Clay Shoot , they host other fundra i s ing events l ike team ropings and golf tournaments that benefit the Permian Pipeliners’ Education Fund (PPEF) which is a 501(c)(3) organization that gives back to students, organizations, and colleges. These scholarship and grant funds help prepare students for future careers in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) program related to the pipeline and oil & gas industries. Themission of the PermianBasinAssociation of Pipe l iners (PBAP) i s to advance pipe l ine engineering, operations, safety practices and education for the mutual benefit of the members andthe industry. Theyareanon-profit organization that provides “peer - to-peer” networking for professionals involved in the pipeline and oil & gas-related industries at monthly meetings. Since inception in 2018, the organization has been able to donate $200,000 in scholarships, grants, and community improvement efforts. PBAP was able to donate $80,000 in scholarships, grants, and community improvement projects for 2022. Please contact PBAP at admin@permianbasinap.org if you can support our efforts to make a difference in our community. [Photos provided by THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC] Shannon Mayberry, Jeff Hallstead, Joe Herrera & Rob Bratcher permian basin association of pipliners Clay Shoot Victor Alaniz, Julia Grossman, Robert Nesloney & Travis Zatopek Jacob Burkett, Clint Webb, Braxton Ward & Shannon Traweek
79 hometown living at its best Loren Holley, Tim Derryberry, Jose Villareal & Richard Onzures Arctest cook team members serve up food Winning team from Focus Construction Emilee Larabee, Kay Clevenger, Shelby Flatt, Josie Melchor, Dakota Corman & Kelly Sutter Winning team from Mulholland Energy Services
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82 midland living magazine Quietly he enters a local elementary school inMidland ISD. He retrieves his books, finds the students he will work with today, and captures the attention of young readers. For over 20 years, Stan Jacobs has given thousands of volunteer hours to various MISD campuses. But what these students don’t know yet is the art Stan has practiced all over the world; the art of listening to someone’s story. As a young boy inTopeka, Kansas, Stan spent his days at the very top of the trees inhis front yard.Hewouldclimbashighashecould topeer out over the Kansas River to see the state capitol building. In 1951 that same river would flood andwash awaymemories, including his replica toy of a ’49 blue Packard car. As far back as hismemories serve, Stan always loved cars. They became one of his first art obsessions, a love that has never gone away. As a teen he had the chance to buyhisfirst real car: a ’49Chrysler. It cost $100, andhe recallshanding themanfive $20billshe hadearnedhimself. Later, therewere cars like the ’67GreenMustangHatchback, a ’41 Cadillac coupé, a blue Thunderbird. For an artist like Stan, the experience of the drive and the beauty of it must be equally impressive. ByNovember 1962 Stan knew the CubanMissile Crisis and events unfolding around him were soon tocatchup tohim. Beforebeingdraftedandsent somewhereout of his control, Stan opted to enlist in the United States Navy as a seaman recruit. While he was standing in the recruiter’s office at only 18 years old, he heard President Kennedy come across the radio, “Our surveillance aircraft have found Russianmissiles deployed in Cuba…we have formed a naval blockade aroundCuba. Allmissileswill be removed fromCuba orwill be destroyed.” For the 3 years following that broadcast, he served in the Naval Reserve. From the plains of Kansas, across the globe, and all the way back to Midland, Stan Jacobs has devoted his life to art, building relationships, and serving God. Wr i t t e n B y AVERY PUL L I N Ph o t o s p r o v i d e d b y STAN JACOBS St Jan acobs ABOVE: Caricature of Stan Jacobs, RobinHarrison, 2022 OPPOSITE PAGE: The King’s entrance, English Camp, Volgograd, Russia, 2018
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84 midland living magazine After this time had passed, the Navy approached himabout becoming anofficer. Thinking three years as an officer would be better than 2 more years enlisted, Stanbecame a communications and security officer on anadmiral’s staff. He servedon theUSSEnterprisewith 5,000 men and 100 aircraft. The ship was four blocks long and 20 stories out of the water. He recalls having the chance to steer the ship, an experience he says was “themost memorable of my life.” Driving home after his time in the Navy had been served, Stan listened as Neil Armstrong and crew landed on the moon. Though mankind had taken a giant leap into space, Stanwas taking his next step into a career inart and teaching. Hewent back to college and completed a Master’s of Fine Arts in Art and Sculpture from the University of Kansas. In 1971 he was hired by a small community college inWest Texas to start an art department. At that time, hemade themove toMidland and has now servedMidland College for 50 years. Stan served on theUSS Enterprisewith 5,000men and 100 aircraft. The shipwas four blocks long and 20 stories out of the water. He recalls having the chance to steer the ship, an experience he sayswas… “the most memorable of my life.” ABOVE: U.S.S. Enterprise, 2000 LEFT: Peter’s Denial, bronze, Christ Church OPPOSITE PAGE (TOP LEFT): Jesus carries the cross, clay OPPOSITE PAGE (TOP RIGHT): Thunderbird, colored pencil, artist’s collection OPPOSITE PAGE (BOTTOM): China, Pen and ink, Henry collection
85 hometown living at its best Stan Jacobs
86 midland living magazine By 1983 he had also completed his PhD from Texas Tech. Thoughhis education servedhimwell inhis career, it is that original love of art from childhood that nudged him into his true calling, “I have done art since mud pies and sandcastles!” He has also done art for churches like his Stations of the Cross at Christ Church Anglican, for festivals like caricatures at Septemberfest, and for showings like his Fall 2021 exhibit at Museum of the Southwest commemorating his 50 years of service in the arts inMidland. But it isn’t just the art that motivates him. Stan says, “I could be an artist all alone on a mountain top creating art: but if I had never taught, I would be completely empty.” Perhaps it is this bucket which must be filled that continues to draw Stan back to Midland College as an adjunct instructor or to Santa Rita Elementary where he was the 2019-2020 Volunteer of the Year. Maybe that is whyhehasmentoreddozens of youth inMidland, guiding themthrough some of life’s hardest years. Or perhaps this explains his incredible art history classes at his church that drawpeople into the beauty of the Lord. Though Stan has been in Midland for over 50 years now, he has visited nearly 60 countries. Whether he is in Australia with a group of Aboriginal men, leading VBS in Stan Jacobs
87 hometown living at its best and nationalities and in languages he doesn’t speak, by drawing their caricatures. He says he rarely forgets a face. The Stations of the Cross using hands to tell the story of the crucifixion of Christ is awesome. The “hands” tell the story froman artist’s point of view so beautifully!” –CAROLE JACOBS, SPOUSE “Stan makes friends with people of all ages FAR LEFT (TOP): Alina and the mayor, English Camp, Volgograd, Russia 2018 FAR LEFT (BOTTOM): Kakadu National Park, Australia, 2015 IMMEDIATE LEFT: Cienfuegos, Cuba, 2015 BOTTOM: Casa kids and the Cadillac, Casa de Amigos, 2016
88 midland living magazine the mountains of South America, teaching English in Russia, or touring cathedrals in Europe, Stan likes to engage locals in conversation, his purest form of art, and learn their stories. As oftenas themood strikeshim, hewill ask todrawhisnewfriend. For their timehe gifts themwitha caricature and snaps apicture for his ownmemories. Stan truly believes if you take a disposition of smiling, no matterwhereyouare intheworld,mostpeoplereceiveyou. Speak to them, try to get to know them and likely they will be nice to you too. Stanencouragesus all to slowdown, to listenand tohear someone’s story. And if you can draw their caricature, Stan says, that’s even better. It is no wonder those students in his reading groups are so engaged in their lessons. Because for a moment in their week, someone tookthe time tosit andto listenandtohear their stories. What they don’t know is that this incredible gift toMidlandwas himself molded inmud pies and sandcastles! † You can find some of Stan’s work at Midland College or in private collections. Be sure to followhimon Instagram @stanjacobs700 to catch glimpses of his life and adventures or even to inquire about your most pressing art questions. TOP: The kids fromBarcelona, Florence, Italy, 2009 BOTTOM: Parliament, Budapest on the Danube, 2004
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