1 hometown living at its best
2 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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4 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group On the Cover 14 TWO TEAMS ONE KINGDOM The second annual Permian Basin FCA Marks Family Classic engages coaches and athletes with the Gospel through the ministry of sports. 26 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Hillander School Service Project 32 MAKING A SPLASH COM Aquatics programming offers more than physical health benefits, it offers COMmunity. 44 HOMETOWN SPIRIT Friday night lights with the backdrop of a West Texas sunset can’t be beat! 52 FIGHTING CRIME ONE TIP AT A TIME Midlander Phillip Maxwell makes it his mission to fight crime. 60 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Christmas Blessing Event Contents 26 32 44 52 60
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6 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 64 BOOTS ON THE GROUND Permian Warrior Partnership finds creative ways to engage veterans in the community and provide resources to them and their families in times of need. 72 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Septemberfest 76 FAITH AND THE FINER THINGS After facing single-motherhood unexpectedly, French pastry chef Priscilla Ruiz has persevered through her faith and through support from the community. 86 HOMETOWN HAPPENING ReinBeer at Museum of the Southwest 90 SHARING WEST TEXAS WITH THE WORLD For more than 40 years, the SHARE! Student Exchange Program has been facilitating an exchange of culture in two very influential environments, home and school. 100 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Debutante Luncheon and Ball 104 LESSONS FROM LINUS: IT’S COOL TO BE KIND Midland children’s author, Rosie Talley, shares the backstory of her book entitled Linus the Troll. 112 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Texas 432 Volleyball 116 FIXING WEST TEXAS Hand in hand, paw in paw, Fix West Texas is making a difference one pet at a time. 128 FROM THE KITCHEN OF AMBER TRENT Four easy Honey Chipotle Chicken meals you can cook once and enjoy all week. Who says leftovers have to be boring? 141 POWERFUL PARENTING As parents, we are called to train up our children in the way they should go. Contents 76 116 100 90
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8 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Y Midland Living Magazine© is published semi-annually by Hometown Media Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 N Main Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. WRITERS Sabrina Forse Avery Pullin Haley Ragsdale Rebecca Sanchez Ellen Slater Hannah Turner PHOTOGRAPHERS Angela Gonzales Photography H&H Designs Photography Matt & Heather Martin Executive Publishers You can feel it in the air, the subtle change of seasons as spring is upon us. The green blades of grass peeking out beneath the dry dead grass, and new buds on plants and trees make me so excited for a new season. We made it through the long cold nights and the sun is shining for so much longer! At my house with four boys, all those extra hours of sunlight are spent at the baseball fields every night of the week. It is a chaotic busy schedule with my husband and I only passing each other in the garage our hands full of bats, bags and cleats. We are embracing this season of busy, with gratefulness to watch our kids do what they love. Kick off spring with the newest issue of Midland Living Magazine and enjoy reading about the wonderful people and organizations in our community. Check out our inspiring story of a local French pastry chef who followed her faith to open her own business. Read about Fix West Texas and the dramatic impact they are making on pets and people, and our story on The Permian Warrior Partnership that engages veterans in our area. Praying God blesses you and fills you with joy during the longer sunny days of spring. Hello Midland! Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Lindsey Kruger Marketing & Client Relations content@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Katie Audas Sales Account Executive katie@hometownmedia.group ON THE COVER Mr. Ken Marks Photo by The Oilfied Photographer, LLC Amber Trent Sales Account Executive amber@hometownmedia.group Haley Ragsdale Social Media Editor Haley Ragsdale Social Media Editor Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. -Psalm 85:11-13
9 hometown living at its best 1 0% intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for the first 12 months from the date of account opening. After first 12 months, the APR will be 18.00%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. THIS OFFER SUPERSEDES ALL PRIOR OFFERS. Rates and fees are accurate as of 01/18/2024 and are subject to change. Balance Transfers: Total balance transfers may not exceed the credit limit assigned. Balance transfers do not qualify for the Rewards Program. You may not transfer an existing balance on any account issued by HTLF Card Services or any of its affiliates. Contact banker for full Small Business Credit Card disclosures. Normal underwriting guidelines apply. Credit cards are issued and serviced by HTLF Bank d/b/a HTLF Card Services. Geographic restrictions may apply. HTLF Bank is Member FDIC From vision to victory, we have solutions to help you unlock your full potential. Small Business Credit Card Cash Back Rewards | No Annual Fee | 0% APR1 Take advantage of 0% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for the first 12 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers2 with no annual fee! Scan here to get started or stop by one of our banking centers. firstbanktexas.com
10 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group utpb.edu/50 Join us in commemorating a remarkable milestone as The University of Texas Permian Basin proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary! Visit the UTPB 50th website for upcoming events, news, history, and more!
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13 hometown living at its best The food truck will extend the food bank’s reach and be able to take fresh produce across their 34,000 square miles and 19 counties to communities that do not have easy access to these commodities. The food truck will also be used for food demonstrations with a WTFB dietitian, produce drops at senior living apartments, at the Kid's Farmers Market event attended by 2,000 children, and their Earth Day Event. The Oxy Farmer's Market Mobile Pantry Truck made its debut at Pecos Middle School. The Food Bank served 800 students before they went on to a week-long break and were able to give out 16,000 pounds of produce. The different produce the children took home were apples, zucchini, oranges, grapes, onions, carrots, a head of lettuce, strawberries, and potatoes! 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. Introducing West Texas Food Bank’s Oxy Farmer’s Market Mobile Pantry Truck! WTXFOODBANK.ORG
14 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY AVERY PULLIN | PHOTOS BY THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC Two Teams One Kingdom
15 hometown living at its best THE SECOND ANNUAL PERMIAN BASIN FCA MARKS FAMILY CLASSIC ENGAGES COACHES AND ATHLETES WITH THE GOSPEL THROUGH THE MINISTRY OF SPORTS. Over the past several years, FCA in the Permian Basin has watched other areas develop All-Star weeks. As our local FCA chapter began to consider what that could look like for studentathletes in Midland and surrounding towns, they felt an increasingly strong desire to bring that to families here in the Permian Basin. By keeping in mind their four core values, Permian Basin Fellowship of Christian Athletes has set aside a camp-like week where select graduated seniors grow in their commitment to Jesus though integrity, serving, teamwork, and excellence. Area Director Dustin Pearce said, “This week is like a church camp meets a college bowl week. It is an exciting time where we get to see coaches and athletes experience the transforming power of Jesus Christ through the platform of sports. This four day all-star event will be the catalyst for seeing our Region transformed, FCA grow, and student athletes be trained to advance God’s Kingdom and live out their faith in the day to day stuff of life.” This summer these chosen student-athletes from across the Permian Basin will take part in the second annual Permian Basin FCA AllStar week. Adding to the football, volleyball, and cheerleading aspects of the week, this year golf will also be included. In addition, student athletic trainers participate in the week’s festivities. While teams will be matched up in their respective sports, athletes will also be involved in team competitions outside of the games to develop leadership skills while having fun. Time is also set aside for coaches and players to engage in worship and Bible study. When athletes check in on Wednesday, they will participate in orientation and media day where they get to meet the other players. Throughout the week they will continue to develop these relationships during worship services and evening meals which are provided by area churches and organizations. TEEING OFF
16 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group To be selected, head coaches must first nominate athletes from their teams. Players must be seniors, leaders on their campus, and receptive to the mission of FCA. The FCA coaches, who are area head coaches and voted on by FCA staff, meet in the spring for a draft. During the draft, FCA coaches can see both the names of the athletes along with the comments the player’s high school coach made in the nomination process. The coaches have a lot of fun with the draft process, often going back and forth with the other coaches and selecting players they once coached against. For many students, this will be their last time to don a uniform and play this sport competitively. The teamwork developed in a few days’ time will piggyback off the teamwork they displayed in high school. For All-Star week, however, they will likely be playing with former adversaries and coached by those who once drafted plays to stop them. In a blue versus white showdown at the end of the week, athletes will have been part of an intense Christcentered event while working hard to receive the ultimate bragging rights for their squad. DRAFT DAY
17 hometown living at its best At the heart of the games is the central mission of FCA which is to enrich the lives of students and coaches with the gospel of Christ. While the week is meant to be fun and competitive, all athletes will come together nightly for worship time at partner churches in Midland and Odessa. Tori Martinez, Executive Administrative Assistant, says of the week’s varied activities and worship times, “This was a good way for kids to get to know the Lord and advance his Kingdom.” With mentors the groups will also take part in nightly Huddle groups as they dive deeper into the Word. These groups have a ratio of 5 athletes to 1 mentor ensuring an environment prepped to engage relationships on a deeper level. An interesting twist in the week is the tertiary competitions that take place before the main games. Blue vs. White compete all week in activities such as who best cleaned up after breakfast, who is keeping their rooms clean, being the most respectful, and more. The winner of these games receives home court advantage. In football, especially, this is a victory in and of itself as the home side of the stadium is also the shaded side. To encourage athletes of other sports to cheer each other on, the football players attend the volleyball game which is played first. Whichever football team cheers on their volleyball counterparts with the most spirit gets an advantage in the competitions. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the athletes during the games. Golf will play two HUDDLE UP FOR ALL THE GLORY
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19 hometown living at its best rounds at the Andrews County Golf Course: one on Thursday, June 12, and the final round on Friday, June 13. Volleyball and football will be played on Saturday, June 15. While football will be played at Ratliff Stadium in Odessa, volleyball will be played at Midland Christian McGraw Event Center that morning. Cheerleaders will cheer at both games. In addition to the athletes, trainers will be on hand at both the football and volleyball games. On Friday night athletes in all sports as well as their families will gather at Bush Convention Center for a banquet. Area churches who are interested in hosting worship services or in some way being part of the FCA week are asked to contact Tori Martinez at (432) 688-7858 or ToriMartinez@ fca.org. Community members and businesses alike are invited to be part of the action all week as fans and even mentors. Come and cheer on these athletes June 12-15 as FCA speaks into their lives with the Gospel through the ministry of sports. Pearce said, “We believe the Lord is at work in this generation of young people and moving amid a changing cultural landscape. We want to join Him where he is at work. The intertwining of sports, the Gospel of Jesus, and discipleship is an amazing opportunity for people to see how Jesus is truly Lord over everything.” †
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21 hometown living at its best 432.683.1000 | 432.553.7443 4400 N BIG SPRING STREET, STE 124 | MIDLAND, TX 79705 Midland’s Top Concierge Real Estate Team
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25 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
HOMETOWN Happenings
27 hometown living at its best The Hillander 6th graders recently delivered 966 pounds of food to the West Texas Food Bank. The school wide food drive is an annual service project for the Hillander School. While visiting the food bank in February, sixth graders packed four pallets of food to create 960 bags for Food 2 Kids. The West Texas Food Bank’s Backpack Program feeds hungry children who may not eat a regular meal between their school lunch on Friday and their breakfast at school on Monday morning. Students are identified by teachers, counselors, or other school staff as exhibiting the signs of hunger. On Friday, each student receives a sack of ready-to-eat food items to take home which provides roughly four meals. The West Texas Food Bank serves 19 counties in West Texas and served close to 60 thousand individuals last year. To help volunteer, donate or host your own food drive visit wtxfoodbank.org HILLANDER SCHOOL at West Texas Food Bank
28 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group T If you are in the market in the Midland or Odessa area, trust The Sales Team Realtors to guide you. The Aguirre Family The Aguirre family is now living in what they hope will be their forever home. Carlos D. Aguirre is the owner of Midtown Plumbing Co. in Midland. As a plumber, he has worked with multiple great realtors in the area but there was one couple that he has built a strong relationship with. “I have done a lot of work with Laura and Brian Sales throughout the Permian Basin. I always liked the professional way they handled themselves. We’ve also become close friends. I always told Brian, the day I buy a house, I will call you,” said Carlos. Carlos kept his promise and chose The Sales Team Realtors to represent his family as they searched for their dream home. “We bought our first house when it was just the two of us as a couple. Then we had four boys so we outgrew that house quite some time ago,” explained Ruth. “We sacrificed a lot for the business and had been renting an office but then bought a property so after twenty-three years in the same house it was time to buy.”
29 hometown living at its best Brian and teammate Robin Reed showed the Aguirres about twenty houses before they chose the right one. “I am the picky one,” admitted Carlos. “In my business, I have heard nightmares and horror stories. Ruth would say this house has been remodeled and I would say, we don’t know what’s underground, it’s only a cosmetic remodel.” Ruth says the Sales Team Realtors were very patient during their search. “I would look at the space and size of a room and love it but my husband would say no. They knew I would sign off on a house if it had the room but they had to answer a lot of questions with Carlos.” That patience continued throughout the home buying process. “They were very professional and patient in paying attention to what our needs were. We felt comfortable with the Sales Team Realtors. There is so much information thrown at you when buying a house but Brian stopped and explained everything in detail. I really appreciated that,” said Carlos. The Aguirres are now living in their dream home on two acres. It’s a new home without the remodel nightmares that Carlos was worried about. With a total of 2,700 square feet, it has the large kitchen that Ruth wanted. “I love that we have enough room for all of our family and friends,” said Ruth. While they won’t need to sell or buy for quite some time, the Aguirre’s say if and when they do, they will choose The Sales Team Realtors. “My experience with them has always been good,” said Carlos. “They are really easy to work with and make the experience an easy one.” 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. Brian and Laura Sales Call the office at 432.618.1818 or visit their website at salesteamrealtors.com
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32 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group C COM Aquatics programming offers more than physical health benefits, it offers COMmunity. “CREATING LIFE-CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS WHERE SUCCESS IS CERTAIN” is the motto of COM Aquatics, and in the heart of Midland, this non-profit organization is doing just that. With roots dating back to 1967 when a group of community members rallied to provide a place for competitive youth swimming and diving, the impressive COM Aquatics campus has grown and expanded to meet the community’s needs and now encompasses seven pools as well as a state-ofthe-art gym. Here they have achieved their original goal of establishing a center for training competitive swimmers and divers while also offering everything from learn to swim classes for children, a wide range of adult fitness classes in and out of the water, and even physical therapy. WRITTEN BY HANNAH TURNER | PHOTOS BY COM AQUATICS
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34 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group When Cynthia Button, now 70, retired, she noticed that her balance was declining and sought out local options that could help her regain her balance and strength in an encouraging environment. Having always loved the water and seeing that COM Aquatics had classes tailored to her specific needs – balance and arthritis – she joined as a member in 2022 and hasn’t looked back. “If I get up in the morning and I have a bad day, I want to go to the COM center and I want to go do my exercise, because once I’m in that water, I don’t feel any pain,” Cynthia said. “I feel active, I feel young, and I can do anything I want to.” Director of Aquatic Wellness, Rita Simmons, has been a part of the COM Aquatics family for over 20 years. A recreational therapist by trade and self-proclaimed “mermaid,” Rita loves supporting members of COM Aquatics by leading the Aquatic Wellness program that primarily serves older adults by teaching classes and treating clients. She enjoys watching members progress through different wellness and fitness programs as their needs change. “We provide a diverse range of programs and continuum of care for all our members, and I love that! Our members have access to any program depending on where they are with their health,” Rita said. “With that, a community of people is built, and we have a
35 hometown living at its best beautiful community of people.” When she suffered a shoulder injury and endured surgery, Cynthia experienced this continuum of care. She completed her physical therapy regimen at COM Aquatics through the therapy program, got back in the water once cleared, and when she felt ready, got back to her daily group aerobics classes. She accredits her smooth recovery to the time she spent at COM Aquatics before and during her injury, “I recovered because I was strong.” Though she came to COM Aquatics looking to improve her health, Cynthia also found a special, diverse community, which has been especially important post-retirement. “When I come home, I have a different outlook on life,” Cynthia said. When her husband retired last year, Cynthia even convinced him to begin attending classes at COM Aquatics. He now participates in land and water fitness classes regularly. “It is neat to share and watch each other become healthy and stay right on point,” Cynthia said. While fostering a community all its own, COM Aquatics is also tightly connected to the Midland community. The organization is a non-profit corporation generating over 90% of its operational expenses through its programs and fees, and makes up the remainder
36 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group through donations by foundations, corporations, and individuals. Cynthia believes so strongly in the mission of COM Aquatics and the impact it has on the lives of those who participate, she sought further involvement and was elected to the board of directors in mid2023 where she now serves on the public relations committee. “I accepted it because I feel like I’m the voice for the aerobics, wellness, and therapy side of the COM center,” Cynthia said. “There’s quite a few board members and we spend our time trying to make the place better and more welcoming.” “What I love about our facility is that there is something for everyone - no matter what fitness level. It’s neat to see all levels exercising together.” Rita said. Recently, three COM Aquatics members turned 90 within six months. Thanks to COM Aquatics,
37 hometown living at its best these members have been able to stay active and moving due to the water exercise and therapy programs. Incredibly, they all live independently, are in good health, and show no signs of slowing down. “My motto is ‘exercising in the water helps you feel better, move better, live better - longer,’” Rita said. “The staff and I see it every day.” This spring, COM Aquatics will host their 5th annual “Water Walk” in collaboration with the Arthritis Foundation to help bring awareness, education and resources to individuals living with arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation has been a great resource not only for its members, but COM’s staff and instructors too. The training tools provided by the Arthritis Foundation help to educate and train instructors how to conduct exercise classes for people living with arthritis. While success may look different for each person at COM Aquatics – learning to swim unassisted, winning a diving medal, or gaining the strength to make the big trip to see grandkids – community members can be certain that the environment COM Aquatics is creating is changing lives and making strides toward success every day. “It’s not just about the water,” Rita says, though there are many physical benefits, “But as far as our aquatic exercise programs and what we have to offer, it is so much more. It’s mentally stimulating, socially engaging, spiritual fulfilling and it’s a COMmunity.” To stay up to date on upcoming events and offerings from COM Aquatics, visit comaquatics.com and join their email list. †
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HOMETOWNSpirit
45 hometown living at its best FFriday night lights with the backdrop of a West Texas sunset can’t be beat! Cheering, marching, blocking, dancing, scoring. Cloudy or clear skies, record high temps or thermal sweater weather, the stadium is the best spot to kick off the weekend.
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52 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group T WRITTEN BY SABRINA FORSE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MIDLAND CRIME STOPPERS, PHILLIP MAXWELL & BY H&H DESIGNS PHOTOGRAPHY FIGHTING CRIME One Tip at a Time A Midland man makes it his life’s mission to fight crime. The call to serve and protect was never just a job for Phillip Maxwell. It’s been his life mission. “My dad was a police officer in the 1940s. When I was in high school, there was a bug that hit me, and I felt like I needed to be in law enforcement. I was also involved with the Police Explorers Post. We would have meetings and interact with DPS and police officers. At 20 years old, I became a police officer. I was old enough to buy a gun but not bullets.” Maxwell served as an officer and Sergent with the Midland Police Department for fourteen years. He worked patrol, training, and as a detective. He then served twenty-one years as a deputy U.S. Marshal. He retired at the end of 2012 as the supervisor for the Western District of Texas. “After thirty-five years in law enforcement, I’m still that guy. You don’t go through a career in law enforcement and just stop. It’s not a title. It’s who you are.”
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54 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Maxwell may place the word retired in front of police officer or U.S. deputy Marshal but he’s still fighting crime. Maxwell volunteers as the Board President of Midland Crime Stoppers. “A good friend of mine David Cobos who is now a Justice of the Peace started Crime Stoppers in 1984. I was a police detective then and Crime Stoppers was just getting started. A few years later, when I was an undercover narcotics detective, I worked with Crime Stoppers quite a bit. Then later as a deputy U.S Marshal, we used Crime Stoppers extensively to help us track down fugitives.” Maxwell understood the importance Crime Stoppers played in solving crime and knew he wanted to be a part of it. “When I was a deputy U.S. Marshal, there was a Midland man who had kidnapped his children, a five-yearold boy and a twelve-year-old girl. The kids were later found but we discovered he had been sexually abusing his daughter. He was still on the run when I went to New Mexico for a fugitive conference. While there, I got a Midland Crime Stoppers tip that the suspect was in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I let the U.S. Marshal there know about it and he stopped the conference speaker and said this deputy from West Texas needs our help.” Maxwell and an entire task force of officers went to the fugitive’s location and made an arrest. “It was one of the most important cases I worked and a Crime Stoppers tip and other help from the public led us to the criminal.”
55 hometown living at its best When he retired from the U.S. Marshal Service, Maxwell knew he wanted to be a part of the organization that had helped him with his work for so many years. “I knew a lot of the people involved and knew what a good group of people they were, some law enforcement and some responsible citizens and business owners. All were concerned about the safety of our community and they took volunteering seriously.” Midland Crime Stoppers is comprised of a volunteer Board of Directors, advisory members, and three law enforcement coordinators who represent the Midland County Sheriff’s Office, the Midland Police Department, and the Midland ISD Police Department. The non-profit organization relies on law enforcement, the media, and community engagement to solve crimes. They do so by encouraging the public to report tips or information about criminal activity. Law enforcement will seek Crime Stoppers help when there is any case they feel the public can assist with such as identifying a suspect or providing information that can help build a case. “I am always excited when a tip leads to a positive outcome. It’s a good feeling knowing that Crime Stoppers is a part of the process in holding someone accountable for a crime and getting justice for the victims,” said Angie Valenzuela. Valenzuela has been the Executive Director of Crime Stoppers since 2007.
56 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group The key to the program is that all tipsters remain anonymous “We do not have caller id on our phones. When someone calls, we gather the information and give the caller an id number and a password. If they get more information, they can call and add to the tip with that id number and password. If a reward is available, they will use that same id number and password to claim the reward,” said Valenzuela. Since its inception in 1984, Midland Crime Stoppers has assisted law enforcement in catching 9,633 criminals, solving 12,287 cases and seizing over $9 million in narcotics and stolen property. Valenzuela and Maxwell believe it’s the anonymity that has made the program so successful. “All tips are protected by Texas Law. Our job is to protect the tipster. Once we take the information, we scrub the tip and take out descriptors like he or she said before we submit to law enforcement. If they submit a tip online, we remove any identifying information,” explained Valenzuela. When claiming a reward, the tipster is given a special code to claim the reward at a bank so they don’t have to show personal identification. Those rewards are funded by probation fees which have decreased by 87% over the past five years so donations and fundraising events are still needed. “We wouldn’t have lasted forty years without relying on the Midland community. Donors help us get the word out through advertising and have helped us continue programs like Campus Crime Stoppers,” said Valenzuela. While a cash reward may motivate some, there are many who never claim the reward. Like Maxwell, many volunteer their time or information to help make Midland a safer place. “I think people who call in these tips feel a sense of gratification,” said Maxwell. They are good citizens who want to do the right thing.” † WWW.694TIPS.COM | 432-694-TIPS (8477) 1-800-7LOCKUP (1-800-756-2587) fy
57 hometown living at its best MIDLAND CRIME STOPPERS IS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SERVICE IN 2024. Crime Stoppers hosted its annual awards banquet at the Midland Country Club on January 25th. A number of officers were recognized for their efforts.
58 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group 11999 EAST HIGHWAY 158 GARDENDALE, TX 79758 432-563-0727 JACAMCATALYST.COM A leading manufacturer and full-service provider of oilfield chemicals. MIDLAND WINK CARLSBAD HOBBSPOST SEMINOLE BIG SPRING MERTZON OZONA SONORA KNOX CITY KILGORE CARRIZO SPRINGS LAFAYETTE FRANKLIN HOUSTON ALVIN FLORESVILLE BORGER PERRYTON BAKERSFIELD ROMANCE FAIRFIELD STERLING ALDERSON WYNNEWOOD LINDSAY EDMOND HENNESSEY WOODWARD HUGOTON GARDEN CITY MEDICINE LODGE COLBY MCPHERSON GREAT BEND RUSSELL HAYS PLAINVILLE AZTEC DENVER GRAND JUNCTION ROOSEVELT ROCK SPRINGS CASPER THERMOPOLIS GILLETTE CHINOOK MINOT WILLISTON SIDNEY BAKER BOWMAN DICKINSON JOHNSTOWN EVANSTON BAIROIL ARTESIA DENTON
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HOMETOWN Happenings
61 hometown living at its best Christmas Photos provided by THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC. Stacy Baccus, executive director and founder of Mission Agape welcomed volunteers of the Mission Agape Christmas Blessing event that was held on December 16, 2023, at Golf Course Road Church. Families were able to shop at no cost for items perfectly suited for their loved ones. The toys, clothes, and books were collected during toy drives and purchased with donations from the community. Diamondback Energy partnered with The Literacy Coalition of the Permian Basin to provide age and language-appropriate books to families at the event. Since 2012, Mission Agape has worked tirelessly to fight food insecurity. They operate under 3 principles: Love People, Meet Needs, and Build Lasting Relationships. They demonstrate God’s love through action and help those enduring difficult times by offering hope and relief. For information on joining Mission Agape’s incredible volunteer family who serve throughout the month contact Stacy Baccus at 432-599-9123. BLESSING EVENT
62 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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64 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group BOOTS ON THE GROUND
65 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY AVERY PULLIN | PHOTOS BY PERMIAN WARRIOR PARTNERSHIP PERMIAN WARRIOR PARTNERSHIP FINDS CREATIVE WAYS TO ENGAGE VETERANS IN THE COMMUNITY AND PROVIDE RESOURCES TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES IN TIMES OF NEED. Sacrifice is no stranger to Roy Dobbins. Not only did he serve 14 years in the United States Army, but his family also served in varying military roles: his dad (Army), grandfather (Navy), son (Army), and sister (Army). When he exited the Army, Roy landed back in Midland where he began working as an IT Director. In the decade he spent in this field, the tug of connection to the military and other veterans grew. In 2019 the Permian Strategic Partnership contacted America Warrior Partnership (AWP) about a possible need for a veteran-focused advocacy group in the area. AWP conducted a community survey analysis which led to their desire to team up with Permian Strategic Partnership to have a locally-based arm of AWP. By August 2021 Permian Warrior Partnership officially launched with Roy at the helm. BEHIND THE LINES
66 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group The Permian Warrior Partnership has a 4-step plan as they seek to help veterans in a multitude of ways: connect, educate, collaborate, and advocate. They believe that one size merely fits one person. With this mindset they open their doors to veterans or their family members with any number of needs and make individualized recommendations. Whether a veteran needs housing assistance, help gaining disability, educational transportation, spiritual needs, or recreational needs, Permian Warrior Partnership aims to find the way to fill each individual gap. Dobbins says of their framework, “No two people are the same. Whatever the need is in their life, we address that proactively to end veteran suicide by improving their quality of life.” One unique aspect of the Permian Warrior Partnership is their openness with all types of veterans. Any veteran from any theater of service and any year of service, discharged honorably or dishonorably, is eligible for help. PWP looks to open doors for veterans in all walks of life. While those third-party services ONE SIZE FITS ONE
67 hometown living at its best may have criterion that must be met, PWP seeks to connect all veterans in need with resources that best fit their unique situations. In the Permian Basin, Dobbins has found that recreation is the broadest need. The goal is to get veterans connected with others in ways that matter to that veteran, strengthening their sense of community and helping them find purpose after service. Recreation may look different depending on interests, but Permian Warrior Partnership has access to over 100 community partners in the Permian Basin as well as national partners. Through Veteran Recreational Therapy in Alaska, veterans can go salmon fishing, snowmobiling, and more. With partners in Missouri, they can send veterans to go fly fishing. Truly the sky is the limit, and PWP works tirelessly to ensure veterans get plugged in. Of course, recreation is not the only avenue to help veterans in need. PWP assists veterans daily with financial needs, such as back payments on rent to keep them from being evicted. They have helped others receive greater disability payments and even helped break down barriers to accessing services through the local VA hospital.
68 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
69 hometown living at its best Dobbins encourages the community to jump in and be a part of improving the lives of veterans in Midland. He says businesses can help veterans in a number of ways by offering a military discount, sponsoring an event PWP is hosting, having a veteran as a guest speaker, or offering in-kind donations. Veterans, as Dobbins states, bring an immense amount of experience to the community. Most veterans are highly trained and educated and can provide diversity to their local communities with their different types of expertise. Veterans and community members alike are invited to attend Coffee with Sarge the second Wednesday of each month, 6:30-8:30 AM, at Black Rifle Coffee in Midland. Other events are held throughout the year including activities around Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veteran’s Day. One aim of Permian Warrior Partnership is to increase veteran participation in the community by raising awareness of existing events and by hosting events with local partners. Both veterans and community members are encouraged to get involved with Permian Warrior Partnership in a way that they feel truly engaged. You can find PWP on social media: Instagram (@permianwarriorpartnership), Facebook, and LinkedIn. Perhaps the best way to connect, however, is to show up at an event to connect with veterans and other members of the community. † IF YOU ARE A VETERAN OR FAMILY MEMBER OF A VETERAN AND WOULD LIKE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH PERMIAN WARRIOR PARTNERSHIP, YOU CAN VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT PERMIANWARRIORPARTNERSHIP.ORG OR CALL THE CASE COORDINATOR AT (432) 848-5264. SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR A VETERAN OR VETERAN’S FAMILY MEMBER IN NEED. A CALL TO SERVICE
70 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group EXPANDING NORTH IN 2025 AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS PICKLEBALL SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FITNESS CLASSES SAFETY AROUND WATER ACTIVE OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS PARENT’S NIGHT OUT FISHING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES COFFEE BAR AND SOCIAL AREA SWEETHEARTS DANCE YOUR OPPORTUNITY. OUR GROWTH. Y IT MATTERS TO JOIN TODAY. DOWNTOWN - 800 N BIG SPRING STREET NORTH EXPANSION - 5152 GOLDEN GATE DRIVE LOCATIONS MIDLANDYMCA.ORG LEARN MORE
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Septemberfest HOMETOWN Happenings Photos provided by THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC. For over 50 years Septemberfest has brought art and artists from all over the country to the Museum of the Southwest. The two-day annual arts festival was held from September 30 through October 1, 2023 and featured artists of all sorts including glassblowing, painting, ceramics, jewelry, and more. The interactive activities were a family favorite along with live art demonstrations and shopping. Visit museumsw.org/septemberfest for information on the 2024 event.
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74 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
75 hometown living at its best
76 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS BY ANGELA GONZALES PHOTOGRAPHY FAITH & theFiner Things
77 hometown living at its best E After facing single-motherhood unexpectedly, French pastry chef Priscilla Ruiz has persevered through her faith and through support from the community. EVERY FACE WE ENCOUNTER IN OUR DAILY WALK HAS A STORY BEHIND IT AND A FULL LIFE, WITH JOYS AND STRUGGLES. Priscilla Ruiz is one of the faces in the community with her own story of resilience and determination that comes out of difficult, personal circumstances. It’s also a story of strength that comes with the juggling act of single motherhood. She’s growing her French pastry business with talent, grit and faith on her side. With an art degree from Austin College, the Midland native headed to Le Cordon Bleu pastry school in Dallas. Ruiz moved up the ranks, earned the chef title and strove to prove herself professionally in a male dominated industry though she felt stifled creatively in the bulk-production, restaurant environment. It was pâtisserie she longed for.
78 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group Learning profiteroles, practicing pâte à choux, éclairs, macarons, and diving into the science of candy making and chocolate tempering called to her. “I think it’s a lot of fun because chocolate is so versatile,” she says. “You can get different colors. It can make any simple pastry look gourmet just by knowing how to temper it correctly. There’s a big art factor to it. You melt it, put it on a piece of parchment paper, twist and turn it and let it cool that way. It automatically slips off the parchment paper, and the next thing you know… you put it on a cupcake or something, and it looks like you got it from the Ritz.” Pâtisserie wasn’t an option in her restaurant roles, so she started making it at home. Starting a family brought Ruiz back to Midland, and the arrival of her first child changed her life in the wonderful yet challenging ways parenthood does. Born with aortic valve stenosis, a progressive and life-long condition, her son faces a lifetime heart condition and possible surgery. To remain as her son’s primary caregiver, she and her partner Chris transformed the family home into a bakery business, foregoing living and dining rooms for prep-space and swapping couches for cabinets. Word spread of Ruiz’s family story, and orders for banana nut bread and pies escalated.
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80 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group “It took a while for me to believe in it, that I was good enough,” she says. “I thought, ‘Well, they’re just trying to be nice.’” While perhaps initially attracting empathetic buyers, her culinary reputation grew a client base on product merits alone. “Then I thought,” says Ruiz, “’I’m selling to people I don’t know. I’m meeting strangers in the street. I’m driving to Big Spring to deliver an order, and she’s never met me.’” Soon she began selling at the Midland Downtown Farmers Market, usually every weekend. Ruiz was on the upswing and even welcomed the family’s second child, which spurred her business name, The Finer Things Bakery. Instagram exposure advertised her pastries, practices, and formal training. Caterers noticed too and reached out. And then life threw her new challenges. Ruiz says she found herself in the role of single-mother after her partner’s long time struggles with anger management culminated in him sabotaging her business equipment and jeopardizing her ability to make a living. She says he bolted her out of their home, so she went to her father’s house with the
81 hometown living at its best kids in diapers and only the clothes she had on. The incident pushed her determination to not fail out on her own; however, without access to her baking supplies for a job in the works, she faced losing a potential client. “This order was everything to me,” Ruiz says. “It depended on whether or not they were going to take me as a vendor for the Marriott Hotel. I stayed up until 5 a.m. finishing it after having climbed through the window and gotten everything that I needed out of the house. I hadn’t slept, and I did it.” She finished the cookies, 600 of them, winning the vendor status and therefore future, reliable income. Ruiz reached out to Safe Place of the Permian Basin in Midland for help. Receiving legal and financial services, domestic violence counseling and housing assistance was the support she needed to begin rebuilding a home and family life. She signed up for classes about the patterns of abuse, staying strong, not going back and self-care. “They gave me resources,” Ruiz says. “They gave me hope. They gave me names and numbers. I called around and looked for apartments, and I didn’t think I’d be able to find one that I could afford on my own with a business, but I had all the paperwork. I found a new complex with an affordable housing option, and they accepted me and gave me the first month free.” Ruiz also credits her faith. “I didn’t have time to break down or be sad. I had to keep going,” she says. “I just hoped that one day I would be seen. But all that really mattered was that God knew that I had faith in Him, that I knew I was protected.” Ruiz says she noticed affirmations that she was making the right choices, was headed in the right direction and above all was heard. “I had the faith and courage to keep going even though I was so tired and sad most mornings. The amount of strength it took to get out of bed some days was excruciating.” Operating an independent business as a single parent in her new apartment meant more changes. She baked when the kids slept and took them with her on her traditional pie deliveries, which had grown in popularity.
82 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group With both little ones in tow, along with pumpkin, pecan and coconut cream pies, Ruiz continues the traditional Thanksgiving deliveries and still makes her famous chocolate bourbon pecan pie. Her son, who was later additionally diagnosed with autism, is on track for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, and things are falling into place. She knows she’s not alone, that everyone faces struggles and needs kindness from others. Business is always appreciated, and while she may be juggling tasks and time, customers will know by her infectious laugh and wonderful pastries that she loves what she does. One day she hopes to have her café on Rodéo Drive, maybe head off to New York or just live in a place with access to more doctors for her son. She says she won’t stop until she gets there. Whichever coast or at home in Midland, people are sure to see fine pastries from Priscilla Ruiz. †
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84 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
85 hometown living at its best
Reinbeer HOMETOWN Happenings Photos provided by THE OILFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER, INC. Live music, delicious food, a variety of beer, and social fun made the ReinBeer annual holiday fundraiser hosted by the Museum of the Southwest a successful event attendees look forward to each Christmas season. Guests enjoyed ice cold shots from the festive ice luge, a large buffet featuring a full roasted pig and a queso fountain, and Asphalt Cowboys brought the tunes to the party. Visit museumsw.org/events for this year’s ReinBeer date and other Museum events. AT MUSEUM OF THE SOUTHWEST
87 hometown living at its best Your Elite Source For Pipe, Valves, Fittings & More! Visit one of our Permian Basin locations ELITESUPPLYPARTNERS.COM
88 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
89 hometown living at its best
WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SHARE! WORLD Sharing West Texas with the 90 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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92 midland living magazine | hometownmedia.group IImmersing oneself in the culture of another country has lifelong, transformative power. Connecting students from France, Germany, Japan, or possibly Norway to the wide-open spaces of West Texas is both an opportunity to warm their hearts with life in Midland and Odessa and to learn about the visiting student’s home country. It’s an experience that neither the student nor the hosting family ever forgets. Families excited about the prospect should know they are more qualified than they may initially think. Host families are those with kids or without, working, retired or single adult homes. Most are in suburban areas, not big cities. Small-town and rural experiences have a rich perspective and offer students from abroad insight into a way of life that is uniquely American. Students come to see what American high school and everyday life is like. They are not expecting a fancy vacation. Cost concerns can be alleviated too since the student’s international travel is covered, as well as spending needs like school clothes, extra-curricular fees, and entertainment. Host families just need to be ready with room and board and a big-hearted, welcoming atmosphere. The SHARE! High School Exchange Program began in 1980, and now FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, THE SHARE! STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM HAS BEEN FACILITATING AN EXCHANGE OF CULTURE IN TWO VERY INFLUENTIAL ENVIRONMENTS, HOME AND SCHOOL. NOT ONLY DO THEY GET A SEAT IN THE CLASSROOM, BUT THEY ALSO GET A SPOT AT THE TABLE WITH A WEST TEXAS FAMILY.
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