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4 odessa living magazine Contents 16, 44 HOMETOWNHAPPENINGS TRANSFORMATION Permian Basin Fellowship of Christian Athletes equips students and adults to glorify God in the race set before them. 32 GROWING OUR OWN With colleges and universities from coast to coast, Hannah Gore chose to pursue her education at home in Odessa where she receives the benefits of both family support and professional experience. 8 THE DECLUTTER DETOX Get organized this summer with local tips from the professional organizers at Purposely Pretty. 28 20 ECISD TURNS 100 The School District has commemorated its 100-Year Anniversary in various ways this year. UN-FORE-GETABLE LIFE From the fairway to the faraway; James McAfee has written a life full of adventure. 54 46 BELLE OF THE BALL The Odessa Symphony Guild is celebrating the arts and instilling a sense of community in a new generation. TRAVEL GUIDE This year, take a drive to some surrounding towns and don’t be surprised if you feel a world away. 40 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ 26 HOMETOWN BUNDLES 63
FUND YOUR PASSION WITH A HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC) No closing costs3 1.99% APR 6-month1 introductory rate Adjusts to a minimum as low as 4.25% APR with auto pay2 FirstBankTexas.com/heloc 0202-22 ¹Annual Percentage Rate (APR) shown above is variable after 6-month introductory rate and subject to change without notice. Maximum LTV is 80%. After the introductory rate, the index used to determine the interest rate is the Wall St. Journal Prime Rate. Index as of 04/11/2022 was 3.50%, plus a margin of 0.75%. Your margin and APR will be based on credit history, eligible deposit account balance with First Bank & Trust, and automatic monthly payments. The minimum APR for plans with an 80% or less LTV is 3.25%. Maximum APR is 10.00% on all plans. No annual fee. ²Automatic payment from First Bank & Trust checking account is required or 0.25% will be added to the APR. ³No closing costs. Hazard insurance is required and flood insurance may be required. The offer is available on new lines only, owner occupied homes. In order to qualify as a new line, you may not have had a line using the same owneroccupied home as collateral with First Bank & Trust within the past 30 days. Not available on piggyback loans to purchase property, homes that are for sale and/or listed for sale, purchase money HELOCs and refinancing existing bank mortgage or HELOC debt even if new money. Subject to credit approval and normal underwriting guidelines. Contact lender for details. Apply by 6/30/2022. MIDLAND 1111 W. Wall Street | 432.617.4567 ODESSA 7281 Tres Hermanas Blvd. | 432.617.8133 5 hometown living at its best
6 odessa living magazine Matt Martin Have you ever felt stuck in a rut and you didn’t know how to get out? Is it possible that the answer could be simplified through one word? It has been my experience that success doesn’t just happen on its own. Success follows growth! There is no substitute for growth and the importance of continuously pursuing it with intentionality. Whether it’s personal, professional, or financial, growth is imperative to achieve maximum results. James Penny said, “Growth does not happen by mere chance, but only by intentional forces working together.” We are fast at work here at Hometown Media Group/Odessa Living pursuing growth and stress testing our systems for efficiency by looking for ways to improve. Specifically, with the help of our new Digital Branch. Have you ever considered digital or print marketing? Both have proven results we would love to discuss. We are looking to grow our Odessa Living team and have openings for Sales Executives in the Permian Basin region. Give us a call to learn more 325-668-6662. Do you want to see your name in print? As always we want to use local writers and photographers so reach out today to learn more. Focusing on pushing yourself to lean into resistance and pursue the best possible outcome in your circumstance is a great way to ensure your success. I like to think of my growth plan as buckets. Each bucket represents an area in my life that is important to me. Things like family, finance, work, physical fitness and spirituality are all “buckets” that I want to make sure I add to every day! The world is taking from our buckets all the time through distractions that are inevitable. The only true way to circumvent your bucket from becoming empty is by pouring into each one on a consistent basis. We truly thank you for reading this issue of Odessa Living and thank our advertisers for their contined support. Matt, Heather, Gatlyn (10), Georgia Lee (7) & Guy David (3) Martin Wishing you lots of laughs this summer. Publisher’s Note Odessa Living Magazine© is published semi-annually by hometown-living.com 502 NMain 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 Ellen Slater Haley Ragsdale Susan Turner Rebecca Sanchez PHOTOGRAPHERS Crystal Rodriguez Photography * bundles Chase Cochran Photography Angela Gonzales Photography CREATIVE | DESIGN Susan Avery, Lead Robin Harrison, CG2 MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS Lindsey Kruger content@hometown-living.com Taylor Grimm PUBLISHERS Matt&Heather Martin heather@hometown-living.com Casey & Trisha Perkins DIGITALMARKETING Laurie Blackwell laurie@hometownmedia.group ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Bobbie Fulks OPERATIONS LEADER Amy Shippy ON THE COVER Hannah Gore photo by Abraham Franco WE ARE HIRING PRINT & DIGITAL SALES REPRESENTIVES IN THE PERMIAN BASIN Please send your resume to: heather@hometown-living.com or call 325-668-6662 to learn more.
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8 odessa living magazine oing away to college is often a rite of passage, portrayed as a tearful but joyful paradox of leaving the security of home and entering the wide, unknown world. Attending auniversityor collegeclose tohomeprovides independenceaswell as community and family support. HannahGore, afifthgeneration Odessanative, chose toenroll inherhometownUniversityof Texas Permian Basin after graduating high school, and the benefits are paying off. She is a communications major, with a minor in marketing and a student worker at the UTPB marketing and communications office. Her choice is a big deal for cities like Odessa. To have a rooted native who is already an integral part of the community choose that same community for education is not only honorary but also strengthens hometown ties. Gore is from a long line of Odessa nativeswithfriendsandfamilythroughout theregion. Shecantrace her lineage back to great-grandparentswhomoved to the area. Her motherworks forOdessaCollege, andher father is employed in the oil industry. She is Odessa. OUR OWN With colleges and universities from coast to coast, Hannah Gore chose to pursue her education at home in Odessa where she receives the benefits of both family support and professional experience. WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ PHOTOS BY UTPB PHOTOGRAPHER, ABRAHAM FRANCO AND PROVIDED BY HANNAH GORE
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Soccer had a role inbringing Gore toUTPB. After an injury inher senior year of high school, shewasn’t sure if shewouldplayagain.Odessans taking care of each other changed that. UTPB connectedherwith the athletic directorwho in turn connected her with the new head coach, resulting in an offer to join the teamas a center back. However, itwasn’t soccer alone. “I really do enjoy the small college feel,” Gore says. “When you are on campus, it feels very welcoming. Everyone knows each other and talks to each other.”Friendlinessandsincerity includefaculty. “I like how there is a one-on-one relationship with your teacher. It’s not like they don’t know yourname, or youfeel likeyoucan’t talk to them. They knowyou andwhat you’ve gone through. Your teachers really do care, and they want to see you be successful.” Choosing to go to UTPB allowed Gore to immerseherself incampus lifewhile remaining close to family. “Being a student, an athlete and working, I get toknowdifferent groupsof people, not just onegroupof friends, Goreexplains. A lot of students are foreign, so I get to knowcultural backgrounds, why they chose to be here and what they like about Texas. I get to experience people trying their first American foods. It’s cool to see howdifferent other people’s college 10 odessa living magazine
IN BRINGING GORE TO UTPB. AFTER AN INJURY IN HER SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL, SHE WASN’T SURE IF SHE WOULD PLAY AGAIN. ODESSANS TAKING CARE OF EACH OTHER CHANGED THAT. 11 hometown living at its best
12 odessa living magazine experiencesare.”Getting toknowaglobal culture justa fewmiles away from family, is a great balance of worldly exposure and access to home base support. By remaining inOdessa, Gore is also able to step away from the busy activity of academics, employment and athletics to reenergizeandreplenishmore frequently. Sheenjoys surrounding herself with family and being involved in the community. During COVID-19 closures and restrictions, she and her older sister earned volunteer hours through the Meals on Wheels organization by delivering food to homebound residents. They formed connections by implementing what Gore says she was taught growing up: building and maintaining relationships, helping others and being loyal. Now in her second year, Gore is gaining valuable resume experience in the UTPB marketing and communications office. Social media commands her time and attention with maintenance tasks, file management and weekly postings. Creating online posts during major yearly events such as FalconGivingDayandgraduation is real hands-on involvement. Writing, filming, and producing “What’s Up Wednesdays” is an ongoing project for Gorewithher cohost Vincent Bao. Stepping up to the spotlight solo, she wrote and delivered a speech to an audience of UTPB sponsors. BY REMAINING IN ODESSA, GORE IS ALSO ABLE TO STEP AWAY FROM THE BUSY ACTIVITY OF ACADEMICS, EMPLOYMENT AND ATHLETICS TO RE-ENERGIZE AND REPLENISH MORE FREQUENTLY. Hannah enjoying family time Young Hannah Gore, third from right
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14 odessa living magazine By mentoring and cultivating from within its own classrooms, UTPB is reinvesting in its community and creating Odessa’s skilled and capable professionals. TatumHubbard, chief of staff and executive director of communications andmarketing at UTPB, says. “We hold tightly that we want them to leave this university with the kind of skills thatmakes themthe type of people you want toworkwith. Certainly, for a communicationsmajor like Hannah, I hope that she walks away, because of her work in our office and because of her academic studies, with great communication skills. I hope she has learned to be a team player.” Gore’s perspective as anOdessa native adds another layer tohermarketing and communications capabilities. Athletes, native Odessans and graduates of Odessa and Midland schools are her listening audience. She chose to stay home to go to college, showing that it’s a desirable andachievable thing to stayhome, toattendschool locally and in turn invest in the community that raised her. “Wetalkasacommunityhereaboutgrowingourown,” Hubbard says. “We are not Dallas, Austin, Houston, Fort Worth, sowe know that for us to be able to fill workforce needs, we want students to graduate from high school, then pick a local university or college and become really productive parts of our community. Growing our own is a big theme here in the Permian Basin. Hannah brings that. She understands the unique needs of students who are in the Odessa school system. She brings a fresh perspectiveof helpingusunderstandwhy studentsmight be choosing not to go to college, and why they would consider going into the workforce first.” Gore is an aggregate piece as she connects with her hometown roots, reaches out to her peers and receives support fromher university. She is a product of Odessa’s tight-knit community that takes care of eachother and is willing towork hard to start something new. A career in marketing andcommunicationsmakesher instrumental in the development of Odessa’s future. † GORE CHOSE TO STAY HOME TO GO TO COLLEGE, SHOWING THAT IT’S A DESIRABLE AND ACHIEVABLE THING TO STAY HOME, TO ATTEND SCHOOL LOCALLY
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16 odessa living magazine hometown | happenings Lissa Noël Wagner & Lorraine Perryman JoAnn Davenport-Littleton & Lorraine Perryman Dr Aaron Hawley & Dr Lilia Nanez Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design Cindy Graham & Ray Perryman Amy Kim Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design
17 hometown living at its best he Odessa Arts’ Black &White Ball – The Art of Fashion was held on April 2, 2022 at Odessa Marriott Hotel and ConferenceCenter. 2022 Friendof theArts recipients Lissa NoëlWagner, JoAnnDavenport-Littleton, andECISD’s Fine Arts Department were celebrated for their contributions to the arts. The awards were given out by Lorraine Perryman, the Honorary Chair of the event and emcee. The evening was presented by Sewell Permian Basin and Cindy Graham did a wonderful job serving as the event chair. Entertainment includedaRunwayShowshowcasingProject Runway Designer Daniel Esquivel’s black and white collection designed especially for the evening worn by local models. Attendees also enjoyed wonderful food and cocktails, a silent auction, ECISD students harp performance, and a disco themed dance party! Proceeds from the event benefitted Odessa Arts. The most important activity of the Odessa Arts is the Cultural Tourism Grant Program, which includes both Annual and Mini-grants. In 2020-21, Odessa Arts granted $295,000 to organizations and individuals promoting Art and tourism in the Odessa area. ODESSA ARTS’ Black &White Ball Photos by DEBORAH BROWN Daniel Esquivel & Randy Ham Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design Runway model wearing Daniel Esquivel design
18 odessa living magazine www.utpb.edu/FalconFree 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. Earn Your Degree, DEBT-FREE.
19 hometown living at its best 500 West 4th Street • Odessa, Texas 79761 • (432) 640-4000 • mchodessa.com Your SOURCE for HEALTH
20 odessa living magazine Ector County ISD Celebrates Wr i t t e n b y E L L E N S L AT E R P h o t o s p r o v i d e d b y E C I S D THE SCHOOL DISTRICT HAS COMMEMORATED ITS 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN VARIOUS WAYS THIS YEAR. CENTE
21 hometown living at its best NNIAL Anniversary In 1921 therewas one school inEctor County, a red-brick building that educated children of all ages. Today, the spot where the two-story school house once stood is now home to Austin Montessori Elementary School. "We thought it was only fitting to hold our birthday party/press event here one August 18th, 2021," saidMichaelAdkins, ChiefCommunications Officer for Ector County ISD. "We decided to live stream the event rather thangather abig crowd." The celebration featured Superintendent Dr. Scott Muri as well as other local dignitaries who've contributed to the school district. Dr. Muri noted that the school district was created 100 years ago during the Spanish flu pandemic. Muri said, "There are some interesting ironies, aswe think about what's happening today in our own world 100 years later." Odessa city officials in attendance at the celebration announced their plans to commemorate the district's Anniversary. According to Randy Ham, Director of Odessa Arts, a new centennial mural is being painted on the north wall of the school district's development office on 10th Street. Odessa Arts partnered with the school district and the Education Foundation for the mural's commission. Artists from across the country submitted ideas for the mural. Once an artist was selected, they worked inconjunctionwith thedistrict's visual arts students to create the painting. Additionally, Odessa Parks and Recreation Director, Steve Patton, announced the renovation of aparkandplayground to commemorate thedistrict's Centennial Anniversary. "We're going topartnerwith Gatlin Brothers
22 odessa living magazine Burnet and Dowling Elementary Schools to design a new playground for Casa Bella Park at University and Maple," he said. "The students will help us in picking the new playground equipment as well as help us come up with the design." As part of the renovation, new trees will also be planted at the park. Director of Odessa's Education Foundation, Celeste Potter, announced plans to provide $100,000 in funds to install bookvendingmachines inall schools inthedistrict thatdon't currentlyhaveone.According toPotter, students use tokens that they receive for good behavior, perfect attendance, ormeeting a reading goal, to 'purchase' paper -back books fromthe vendingmachines. The district will use themonies donated to install newvendingmachines at schools, as well as to keep the dispensers stocked with books. Anotherbigevent thatcommemoratedtheCentennial Anniversarywas theCommunityTailgatePartyheldprior to the Odessa/Permian football game on October 8th, 2021. The Gaitlin Brothers, who are Odessa High School graduates, entertained the large crowdwith a live concert during the tailgate party. Andhowhas the district changedduring the past 100 years?According toAdkins, it'sgrownby leapsandbounds both in size and population. "We had one red brick school thenandnowthe district is stretchedout over 900 square miles and 43 campuses, and employees more than 4,000 people" he said. "Our budget that first year was $2,200 and According to Potter, students use tokens that they receive for good behavior, perfect attendance, or meeting a reading goal, to 'purchase' paper -back books from the vending machines. Bookworms vending machine at CrockettMS Gatlin Brothers
23 hometown living at its best history CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY TOP LEFT: School Building at 9th and Lee 1915 TOP RIGHT: School Playground in 1915 MIDDLE LEFT: School building 9th and Lee Mrs. Fletcher's 4th grade class 1922 MIDDLE RIGHT: Cora Goodwin - first ECISD superintendent IMMEDIATE RIGHT: Blackshear HS cheerleaders 1961
24 odessa living magazine CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY TOP RIGHT: 1925 OHS Yellowjackets District Champs MIDDLE LEFT: CrockettMS majorettes 1950 MIDDLE RIGHT: OHS Cheerleaders FAR RIGHT: Teacher turns pilot history
25 hometown living at its best our current budget is more than 350 million dollars." However, Adkins does see similarities between how things were in 1921 as compared to now. "The biggest similarity is that the district was created to help kids learn and create better lives for themselves and that's still our goal today," he said. AndDr.Muri agreesthedistricthaschangedinsize, but also in how it educates students. "We've learned a lot abouthowachild'sbraindevelopsandhowstudents learn in the past 100 years," he said. "Teaching has evolved so much- students now have access to many different learning tools such as technology, research tools, and manipulatives. Teachers have access to teaching workshops and resources which help them better educate our students." Dr. Muri says he's proud of both student and teacher accomplishment here in Ector County ISD. "Of course, student academic achievement is apoint of pride for us as a district. We want graduates who are able to attend their universityof choice," hesaid. "Also, I'mproudof ourRegion 18Teacherof theYear, SarahHawkinswhoteachesScience at Travis Elementary School." Dr. Muri says he knows the next 100 years will hold evenmore challenges for the district. "Our goal is tomeet the ever-changing needs of our students who live in a changing society. As Odessa gains more businesses and enterprise, we have to be responsive to our community and its needs as we educate our children." † Dr. Muri agrees the district has changed in size, but also in how it educates students. "We've learned a lot about how a child's brain develops and how students learn in the past 100 years," he said. CTE 100th float
Ingredients: • 3 cups cold milk • 2 pkg. (4-serving size each) banana cream instant pudding mix • 1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed, divided • 30 NILLA Wafers • 3 medium bananas, sliced Directions: 1. Pour milk into large bowl. Add dry pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk for 2 minutes. or until well blended. Let stand 3 minutes. Gently stir in 1-1/2 cups of the whipped topping. 2. Place 15 of the wafers on bottom of 2-qt. serving bowl. Top with layers of half each of the bananas and pudding mixture. Repeat layers ending with pudding mixture. Cover with remaining whipped topping. 3. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Store leftover dessert in refrigerator. PREP 15min | TOTAL TIME 1hr15min | SERVINGS 14 Banana Pudding hometown cookin’ 26 odessa living magazine
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THE DECLUTTER DETOX Get organized this summer with local tips from the professional organizers at PURPOSELY PRETTY. 28 odessa living magazine Photos provided by HMG
29 hometown living at its best When assessing a space ask, “WHAT ACTIVITY IN MY EVERYDAY LIFE COULD BE MADE MORE ENJOYABLE IN THIS ROOM?” That’s your starting point! Make quick decisions when purging. A quick “STAY” or “GO” will get the ball rolling. When purging or editing ask, “DO I HAVE MULTIPLES OF THIS ITEM?” If so, would someone else benefit from receiving this item? Set deadlines for your “MAYBE” items. Put your items into a box, tape it up, and write a future date on it. If you haven’t needed to open the box by that date, donate without opening the box. QUESTIONS TOASK YOURSELF IF THE PROCESS SEEMS OVERWHELMING. The first space tackled should be the space that will improve your day to day the most!
30 odessa living magazine If you have an emotional attachment, be easy on yourself! Some things are irreplaceable, ASK SOMEONE YOU LOVE THEIR OPINION! When zoning, consider what are the most used items and where is the most convenient, time efficient place to put them? Be sure to only PUT LIKE ITEMS TOGETHER so that your mind can automatically know where to go! Take the time to COLOR CODE your closet, you will wear more of your wardrobe! If you just can’t decide, video chat someone you love that will shoot it to ya straight! TAKE BREAKS, but no longer than 15 minutes. Good intentions can easily turn daunting if you don’t stay moving with the right mindset. Keep a DONATION BOX in your home and add to it regularly. When it fills up, take it to the charity of your choice and repeat. Stuff comes into your home more than once a year, so it makes sense to donate continuously instead of annually. TAKE THOSE TRASH BAGS ALL THE WAY TO THE DONATION CENTER! Follow Purposely Pretty on Facebook @purposelyprettyorganize and Instagram @purposelypretty2 for more tips and inspiring before and afters!
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32 odessa living magazine ThePermianBasinofWest Texas isknown for vast pools of oil that transformedadesert into the largest petroleumreserve in the United States. It is also known for its legacy as a powerhouse among young Texas athletes. When a Permian Basin chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athleteswasorganized inthe late 1990s, founders recognizedaseismicopportunity to tapavast reserve of interconnected relationships that could transform lives for Jesus Christ. The Permian Basin FCA ministers to public and private junior high and high school students and coaches, colleges and universities from70West Texas schools covering 14 counties. Despite the organization’s name, membership is not limited to athletes. “Our programs are for all students,” says FCAArea Representative BobHighley, “but athletes and coaches are usually the leaders on a school T R A N S F O R Permian Basin Fellowship of Christian Athletes equips students and adults to glorify God in the race set before them. Written by SUSAN TURNER Photos provided by THE PERMIAN BASIN FCA
M A I O N . . . 33 hometown living at its best
34 odessa living magazine campus. Kids naturally look up to them, listen to them and want to be like them. That credential gives Believers a very effective witness for Christ.” Bob Highley first became a part of FCA in 1977. He grewup inBigSpringandhas livedmost ofhis life inthe Midland/Odessa area. “I beganmy affiliationwithFCA asayoungChristiancoachatKermit,”Bobrecalls. “Ihad amentor coach involvedwith FCA, and he encouraged me to join.” Bob clearly has a heart for athletics. He played football for the Sul Ross University Lobos. His passion, though, is baseball, even playing semi-pro at one point. He has refined the God-given desires of his heart into a life focusedonministry, including a role as pastor of a small churchand as anAreaRepresentative of FCA. “My love for students and coaches is definitely a calling,” he says. “FCA is theway the Lordhas allowed me to express that call.” JocelynKennedybecamepartofFCAasastudentat Texas TechUniversity. A former FrenshipHigh School varsity tennis player, she earned her degree at Tech in Nutritional Sciences with minors in Kinesiology and AddictionDrugRehabilitationServices. “Asastudent at Tech, Iwas amember of the SouthPlains FCAchapter,” says Jocelyn. “I interned with FCA, and now I am in my fifth year as a full-time FCA employee. I love being involved in sportsministry.” Feeding the hearts and souls of young Believers takes energy, creativity, and meeting at a point of commonunderstanding. Christ struckupconversation with a woman drawing water from a well and called fishermen as He walked along the shore of Galilee. So, too, FCA seeks to reach young Believers in the rhythm of their everyday lives. Bob, Jocelyn and their FCA colleagues engage inministryas opportunities present themselves. “Every day you have to keep working on it,” says Jocelyn. “If you let up, you lose momentum.” This often means taking 6am breakfasts to morning huddles as students and coaches arrive for practice or competitions. Their route runs the gamut from organizing fundraisers to just beinga friend. “Weareon Feeding the hearts and souls of young Believers takes energy, creativity, and meeting at a point of common understanding.
35 hometown living at its best Christ struck up conversation with a woman drawing water from a well and called fishermen as He walked along the shore of Galilee. So, too, FCA seeks to reach young Believers in the rhythm of their everyday lives.
36 odessa living magazine We prayerfully focused on nurturing kids at OHS, and for the first time in a long time fifty or sixty kids are attending morning huddles prior to school.”
campuses every day,” says Bob. “We interact with kids in campus huddles which can run from just a fewkids up to a fewhundred. College students often lead these and act as counselors and mentors. Often our greatest impact is during practices, games, and campus visits. These are perfect opportunities to visit with parents. As a former coach I have a great relationship with fellow coaches, and I have the opportunity to interact in a unique capacity. Once that rapport is established, relationships andconversationsmore easily transition to the spiritual side of their lives.” Even in an area of our country, with a strong Christian foundation, mentoring young students is a daunting task. Fortunately, FCA fields a deep bench of multi-faceted living testimony. Jocelyn relates a story of redemption flowing from the power of personal testimony. “There is anamazing coaching staff inplace at Odessa High School that genuinely wants to help kids,” she says. “OdessaHigh is a placewhere students seemtohave aharder timefinding their place. Positive character building faces offwith extreme competition from gangs and drugs. We prayerfully focused on nurturing kids at OHS, and for the first time in a long time fifty or sixty kids are attending morning huddles prior to school.” Bobgives further exampleof thebroad impact that FCA is having on school campuses in the story of the father of a Permian High School student who nowwants to host a baseball huddle in his home. “This reminds me,” says Jocelyn, “that our job is more than just work. We have a purpose.” FCA structures part of its programs on three ‘C’s: Campus, Camps and Community. Campus huddles are a time to teach, to listen and to fellowship on local campuses. Camps emphasizing sports or leadership are organized for college, high school and junior high. One particular camp at Texas Tech sparked a spiritual wildfire through the small West Texas community of McCamey. “All of these kids went home fromLubbock and greatly influenced everyone in their hometown,” recalls Bob. “One result was a young man’s mother becoming involved with FCA, and she has become an amazing witness. I am proud to be associated with her.” The final ‘C’ is Community whereby FCA leaders strengthen connections. Service projects are away for students to show up in support of their community. Coaches work through Bible studies to learn and to engage inoutreach forChrist and forFCAprogramsand activities, all of which are funded by donations. As iron sharpens iron, Christian athletes are sharpenedby the example of Believerswho are setting the pace. “This past Octoberwe had twoUSOlympians attend a fund-raising event at the Bush Convention Center,” says Jocelyn. “US Olympic Track competitor BryceHoppell andUSOlympic swimmerNatalieHinds spoke to our kids and generously provided us with Olympic gear for our silent auction. FCA Olympics featurescompetitions,mealsandmotivational speakers that deepen positive relationships. Our Fields of Faith program allows youth ministers to bring kids to an athletic field to generate excitement and start As iron sharpens iron, Christian athletes are sharpened by the example of Believers who are setting the pace. 37 hometown living at its best
38 odessa living magazine discussions for having a spiritual walk. It is a powerful testimony when kids close to their age boldly share scripture and tell their personal stories of what Christ has done in their lives.” FCA recognizes that young Believers need a wellspring of encouragement to stay on course. Each year pastors, youth ministers and coaches throughout the region nominate graduating senior athletes who are active in church, youth groups and huddle involvement and who reflect FCA core values to receive Impact Awards. These include scholarships, but in pressing toward this goal, students condition themselves for success as they leavehome for the challenges of college. Drawing on the concept of teamwork that these studentsunderstand, FCAencourages youngChristians to become part of a body of believers in a local church. “We always point kids to a local church to continue the discipleship process but without pushing a denominational doctrine. The faithbuildingmentorship of FCA is rooted inGod’sword.” As Bob says, “FCA is one hundred percent based on the Bible.” Godhas alwaysdoneexceedingly, abundantlymore, and for the young people of the Permian Basin, the small but dedicated staff of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes is holding the line. “We are always in need of volunteers in many capacities,” says Bob. If you would like to be part of thismission, theywelcome volunteers and donor support. † Drawing on the concept of teamwork that these students understand, FCA encourages young Christians to become part of a body of believers in a local church. For more information or to learn how you can contribute, contact Bob Highley at bhighley@fca.org or Jocelyn Kennedy at jkennedy@fca.org.
39 hometown living at its best EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY ADVERTISEMENT. EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225. © 2021. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information, rates, & programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All products are subject to credit & property approval. Supreme Lending is not affiliated with any government agency. Intended for Texas consumers, Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Registration. Residential Mortgage Loan Originator. YOUR HOMETOWN LENDER Purchase, Re nance, Conventional, Government and First Time Home Buyer USDA1 and VA2 100% Financing with No Mortgage Insurance (VA funding fee and USDA Guarantee fee will apply) 203k and HomeStyle® Renovation Loans Available Down Payment Assistance Programs 1Property must qualify for USDA program. 2Must be Veterans, Active Duty Personnel, Reservist, National Guard and some surviving spouses. Leigh-Anne Price Sr. Loan Officer NMLS #1531656 Cell: 432.210.8894 LeighAnne.Price@SupremeLending.com www.LeighAnnePrice.SupremeLending.com 4410 N Midkiff Rd, Ste D-2 | Midland, TX 79705
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44 odessa living magazine hometown | happenings n March 15 UTPB held a pep rally to announce their new tuition assistance program, Falcon Free. 400 students, faculty, staff, and communitymembers were greeted by the UTPB band, cheer, and dance teams. They then enjoyed performances by UTPB Ballet Folklorico Team, UTPB Mariachi Band, and UTPB Step Team. Speakers included UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken, UT System Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife, UT Permian Basin President Dr. Sandra Woodley, and UTPB student Brand Lippert. So what is Falcon Free? Thanks to a generous endowment from UT System, UTPB can now cover tuition and fees for any Texas resident, pursuing an undergraduate degree, whose family (or individual) has an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $100,000 a year or less! Visit their website for more information, utpb.edu. PEP RALLY Falcon Free Photos provided by UTPB
45 hometown living at its best
Belle Ball OF THE THE ODESSA SYMPHONY GUILD IS CELEBRATING THE ARTS AND INSTILLING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN A NEWGENERATION OF LEADERS. Written by HALEY RAGSDALE Photos provided by THE ODESSA SYMPHONY GUILD Junior Belle Haley Stillwell, Sophomore Belle Paige Jones, Junior Belle Kyra Ayres Senior Beaux Jake Glasman, Hayden Abbot, GarrettWatkins 46 odessa living magazine
47 hometown living at its best A ANIGHTTODANCEANDTOCELEBRATE a jobwell done for theBelles andBeaux, theOdessaSymphony Ball is a yearly tradition and a rite of passage for many high school students. These hard-working high school students serve in a program that helps promote a love for the arts andhelps giveback to the community. Kelli Stone president of the Odessa Symphony Guild explained, “We have Odessa high school students that are freshman through seniors. They serve at concerts andother community events. This year we did a coat drive and helped bag lunches for cancer patients at Hope House.” For more than six decades, the Odessa Symphony Guild has supported the MidlandOdessa Symphony & Chorale (MOSC). In 1958, a group of women passionate about bringing fine arts and culture to West Texas were able to form an organization to provide financial and volunteer support to local music programs. There is both a Midland and Odessa guild, that operate separately in their communities, but both organizations serve the MOSC. Over the decades, the Odessa Symphony Guild has grown into a non-profit organization that supports MOSC by funding chorale, ensemble, and full orchestra performances. They also help distribute programs at concerts, serve breakfast to musicians, set up Soundbite Suppers, and help promote concerts. “The Odessa Symphony Ball is a celebration for our Belles and Beaux and is also our big fundraiser. Last year the guild contributed forty thousand dollars to theMOSC,” Stone explained. It’s not onlydollars they raise, but the guild also facilitatesvolunteerhours for theirBelles andBeaux programwhile instilling a love of the arts. MOSC includes a symphony orchestra, a chorale, and a youth choir alongwith three resident instrumental ensembles. Under the baton ofMusic Director & Conductor Gary Lewis, the symphony orchestra currently has over 70 professional musicians. Ranked by the League of American Senior Belle Emily Berryhill is escorted by her father Darren Berryhill.
Sophomore Belles and Beaux Freshmen Belles and Beaux Left to Right: Aubrey Dunn, Evyn Berridge, Ella Veretto, Karys Ulate, Abrielle Urias , Mandy Dobbs, Gilbert Ramirez, Tanner Gahr, Tate Stell, Dahlia Velasquez, Halynn Hewitt, Rachel Halford, Taylor Weaver, Paige Jones, Emma Coleman, Alaina House PHOTO BY GALA WHITLOW PHOTOGRAPHY Top Row Left to Right: Avery Dunn, Aubrey Moler, Ellyson Wright, Sydney Hickerson, Noah Wilson, Braydon Bridges, Kollin Absher, David White, Gabriel Duran, Delcan Henderson , Miley Minyard, Hannah Drager, Ava Bowen, Olivia Fulbright Bottom Row Left to Right: Aubree Ford, Amry Rivera , Olivia Lopez, Tynley Walker, Sloan Henderson , Georgia Comstock , Brokelynn Bland, Karli Roman, Havyn Holguin, Amery Ruiz, Marissa Pando, Emilie Vanderford Not Pictured: Sophia Castillo, Jaiden Fisher, Adrian Rodriguez PHOTO BY GALA WHITLOW PHOTOGRAPHY 48 odessa living magazine
Orchestras as a metropolitan orchestra, MOSC proudly holds the distinction of being one of the largest professionals performing arts organizations inWest Texas. “Whatwe do a little bit different thanMidland is inour programwehaveboys andgirls, theBelles and Beaux. We start each year with a newmember tea to come check out the program and what the service requirements will be,” says Stone. Every student is required to do two community shifts. These shifts can vary from greeting and directing guests to their seats at a performance to serving lunch to musicians at a luncheon. She also explained that they want the parents to be involved aswell and commit to chaperoning at least one shift. “Thehourscount asTexasScholarhours, so they candoubledip for thosehours, and they lookgreat on a college resume. A lot of our Belles and Beaux are involved in orchestra or choir so they will pick the concerts to work, and they canwatch the concert as well.” Stone said. Stone’s daughter, Aubrey Stone, is a junior at Compass Academy andwas a Belle this year. “She really enjoys the program. Her favorite volunteer hours are those with kids. She loved working the carnival and helping kids. She wants to be involved with as much as she can for her college resume,” Stone said. At the ball, freshman, sophomores, and juniors are presented in small groups, but for the Belle and Beaux seniors it is an extra special evening. The seniors are presented one by one with their mom or dad. Mom and son or dad and daughter. Senior Belles JayleeWeaver and Emma Bavousett Erin Berridge(President Elect), Britni Veretto(Ball Co-Chair), Kelli Stone(President), KimWatkins Ball Chair) PHOTO BY GALA WHITLOW PHOTOGRAPHY 49 hometown living at its best
50 odessa living magazine “The seniors arepresentedonebyonewith their momordad.Momandsonordadanddaughter. Their bio of all their high school accomplishments is read during their presentation. It is really special,” Stone said. This year therewere85Belles andBeauxwith20 seniors in the group. To be eligible for the Belles and Beaux program students must attend a high school or be homeschooled in Odessa. Stone explained that they are also trying to grow a program for their former guildmembers. “1958 was when the guild was started and this year, wewere able to bring back the patron tea party. We had about 10-15 patrons along with a former president. They are always so excited to see what is going onwith the guild.” Stone said. This year’s Symphony Ball, held at the Odessa Country Club, incorporated sage green with the designs from Black Tulip Florists. “The band that performed this yearwas CurrentNine andmembers of the band are in the symphony so that was really fun to have themat the ball,” Stone explained. Celebrating the arts and instilling a sense of community the Odessa Symphony Guild helps facilitate both to a new generation of leaders in Odessa. † Celebrating the arts and instilling a sense of community the Odessa Symphony Guild helps facilitate both to a new generation of leaders in Odessa. Rusty Dunn, Freshman Belle Avery Dunn, Sophomore Belle Aubrey Dunn, Heather Dunn (OSG Treasurer) Jeremy House, Angie House, Sophomore Belle Alaina House, Senior Belle AdalynHouse TABLE DECORATIONS BY BLACK TULIP AND FAVORS SPONSORED BY EPIC COLLISIONS
51 hometown living at its best Junior Belles and Beaux Top Row Left to Right: Allie Scott, Carleigh Jones, Haley Stillwell, Gavin Thompson, Keaton Absher, Harris Sewell, Mason Wright, Mason Simmons, Laci Satterwhite, Aubrey Stone, Kyra Ayres PHOTO BY GALA WHITLOW PHOTOGRAPHY Senior Belles and Beaux Top Row Left to Right: Hayden Abbott, Jace Kouba, Drake Womack, Chase Taliaferro, Hagan Berridge, Jake Glassman, Meacham Sewell, Garrett Watkins, Kyler Fife Bottom Row Left to Right: Braylea Stinson, Isabela Velasquez, Abigail George, Jaylee Weaver, Emma Bavousett, Ashtin Thompson, Adalyn House, Brooklyn Wagner, Madelynn Ramirez , Callia Schmohr, Emily Berryhill PHOTO BY GALA WHITLOW PHOTOGRAPHY
52 odessa living magazine EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY ADVERTISEMENT. EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225. © 2021. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information, rates, & programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All products are subject to credit & property approval. Supreme Lending is not affiliated with any government agency. Intended for Texas consumers, Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Registration. Residential Mortgage Loan Originator. The Perfect Loan Fit for YOU! Purchase, Re nance, Conventional, Government and First Time Home Buyer USDA1 and VA2 100% Financing with No Mortgage Insurance (VA funding fee and USDA Guarantee fee will apply) 203k and HomeStyle® Renovation Loans Available Down Payment Assistance Programs 1Property must qualify for USDA program. 2Must be Veterans, Active Duty Personnel, Reservist, National Guard and some surviving spouses. Supreme Lending – Elite Team Leigh-Anne Price Sr. Loan Officer NMLS #1531656 Cell: 432.210.8894 LeighAnne.Price@SupremeLending.com www.LeighAnnePrice.SupremeLending.com Stacy Bridges Sr. Loan Officer NMLS #1611437 Cell: 432.553.4472 Stacy.Bridges@SupremeLending.com www.StacyBridges.SupremeLending.com 4410 N Midkiff Rd, Ste D-2 | Midland, TX 79705
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55 hometown living at its best Golf andwritinghave always beenabig part of the lifeof formerVernonresident James McAfee.GrowingupinVernoninthe1950s, never inhiswildest dreams, couldhehave envisioned that combining the twowould allow him to travel all over the United States, including Hawaii, as well as internationally. Cousin Eldon Tarver introduced James to golfwhenhewas10andhestartedcaddyingat the Hill Crest Country Club in Vernon as a teenager. At the age of 16, he made his first hole-in-one on the eighth hole at Hill Crest. “I still have that scorecard,” he said, “but none from the other 11 I’vemadesince then.” Alongwithbeingoneof the co-captains for football andbasketball, heplayed golf atVernonHighSchoolwherehe teamedwith younger brothers, Robert and Ronald, to win a district title anda runner-upfinish in regional in 1959. As a senior, McAfee first signedup for shop class, but quickly decided there were too many cutting devices there that might cause harm to hisgolf game. So, heswitchedto journalismclass. Itwas here that he startedwriting. In addition, it was in this class that he met the love of his life, Betty Phillips, his wife of 61 years. Un-FORE-getable life An FROM THE FAIRWAY TO THE FARAWAY; JAMES MCAFEE HAS WRITTEN A LIFE FULL OF ADVENTURE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JAMES MCAFEE Golf and writing have always been a big part of the life of former Vernon resident James McAfee.
56 odessa living magazine With a recommendation fromhis English teacher, “Miz B” (Stella Bryant), McAfee decided to attendMidwestern, he accepted a positionas a sportswriter at theWichitaFallsTimes&RecordNews, beginninghis career inwriting. After gettingmarried the following summer, theMcAfees decided tomove as he got a job offer fromThe Odessa-American. “I think it was for $10more a week, but also allowed us to bemore on our own, away from family,” he said. McAfee played regularly at Sunset Golf Club with sports editor, Spec Gammon and JimmyRussell, the coach at Odessa College- whichhad just won a third straight national title. After a good round one day, Russell asked, “Do you have any eligibility left? I have one scholarship left if you are interested.” Of course, hewas interested! James resumed collegewhileworking 48hours at the newspaper andwithBetty at homewith a newbaby. “I found time to earn a spot on the golf teamandwe eventuallywent on towin thenational title again,” he recalled pointing to rounds of 73-76-70-73—29 at the Joliet, Ill. Country Club. ABOVE: James McAfee, Jimmy Patterson, Coach Russell, Benny Parsons, Jerry Dixon Un-FORE-getable life An James resumed college while working 48 hours at the newspaper and with Betty at home with a new baby. “I found time to earn a spot on the golf team and we eventually went on to win the national title again.”
With a recommendation from his English teacher, “Miz B” (Stella Bryant), McAfee decided to attend Midwestern, he accepted a position as a sportswriter at theWichita Falls Times &RecordNews, beginning his career inwriting. The following summer, theMcAfees decided to move as he got a job offer from The Odessa-American.
58 odessa living magazine McAfee played in the Odessa Pro-Am later that summer, where he met Byron Nelson during a meal. “Betty was with me, and she started talking with Byron about cousins anduncles {Betty andByronwere related},” McAfee said. “I did regret it a little when I didn’t accept his offer for me to visit and maybe learn more but told himI had to get back towork as therewas a baby at home and I had a full-time job.” McAfee’s partner was Leonard Dodson, who played the PGA Tour in the 1930s and 1940s with Horton Smith and Ben Hogan, beating both in playoffs to win titles. “We missed finishing in the money by a stroke,” he said. The McAfees moved to Abilene later that year to be a little closer to their parents, back in Vernon, when he joined the Abilene Reporter-News sports staff. He returned to school at Hardin-Simmons, even playing on the golf team. Before the second semester was over, his schedule suddenly ended when he was selected as the sports editor. “Iwas the onewith the least experience,” he
59 hometown living at its best ABOVE: James with ByronNelson OPPOSITE PAGE & ABOVE: James and Dodson recalled. “However, all theother fourwritersquit inprotest whenthesportseditorwasfired.”McAfeecontinuedtoplay golf regularlyand in1965he endedupfinishing regulation play ina tie forfirst intheAbileneCityChampionshipwith 75-year-old, FrankBaileyand 19-year-old, JesseRodriguez. “I hitmyfirst driveover into theAbileneCountryCluband had to settle for thirdplace,” he said.McAfee continued as the sports editor at theReporter-Newsuntil 1970whenhe accepted the role of news editor, deciding what national stories were placed onwhich pages. James decided he wanted to work for a larger newspaperandacceptedapositionwiththeTulsaTribune, where he eventually ended up with the assignment to cover golf, writing a weekly “On the Tee with McAfee” column. He was given the assignment of covering the 1973 Masters and it was there he got to meet some of the top golferwriters in the country, including ones fromGolf Digest. “I evengotpickedtoplayAugustaNational thenext Un-FORE-getable life An McAfee played in the Odessa Pro-Am later that summer, where he met Byron Nelson during a meal. “Betty was with me, and she started talking with Byron about cousins and uncles,” McAfee said.
60 odessa living magazine morning, getting to thefinal greenbefore gettingword the newspaper’s planewas leaving to avoidweather,” he said. “All Ineeded todowas getupanddownforpar tobreak80.” That was whenMcAfee set a goal of working for one of the national golfing publications in a few years. “Well, shortly after, I got a freelance assignment to write a story about one of the local club professionals,” he recalled. “A month later, I got a joboffer andwemoved toConnecticut to work for Golf Digest.” One of the perks with the magazinewasgettingtoplay intheGolfWritersofAmerica annual tournament in Myrtle Beach the week before the Masters. In 1975, McAfee won the title with a score of 75. “I had several runner up finishes after that,” he said. “Fast forward 24 years. I won again in 1999, posting 73 in the windy first round to lead by seven strokes and survived despite a closing 83.” McAfee also got the assignment to cover the 1975PGAofAmericameeting inHawaii, nowone of his all-time favorite places toplaygolf. Later in theyear, he ranaseriesof four regional longdrivequalifiersand the national event at Pebble Beach. “I didn’t get to play then, but did later while working with the PGA,” he recalled. “I enjoyed my time with the magazine, but we all missedfamilybackinTexas,” headded. “Whileresearching a story about thePGAopening offices all over the country, I convinced theNorthernTexasPGA tohireme as thefirst executive director. So, we moved back to Texas in 1978.” McAfee spent 17 years in that position, assisting the NTPGA grow the game and start what is now one of the best junior golf programs in the country. In 1992, Nelson presented him with the Byron Nelson Award, given for Un-FORE-getable life An contributions to golf in North Texas. He was one of the founding fathers for the Texas Golf Writers Association and served as editor for North Texas Golfer, and then as publisherofhisownDallas/FortWorthGolfer. Itwashere that he received an invite to a publishers’ conference in CostaRicain1997atSpanish-owned,MeliaPlayaConchal. A fewmonths later after agreeing toassist the resort withmarketing in theU.S. while still working at his own publication, he received a call from the hotel manager, Ricard Pfeiffer. Pfeiffer wanted to discuss a strategy where James would help get other golf writers to visit the resort. “We also need a new golf professional,” the hotel executive said. “You guessed it!” McAfee recalled. “I called back the next day to ask a question. ‘Howmuch is inyour budget for someonewhocanhandlemarketing and the golf operation?’ I had someone in mind, me. After returning to Costa Rica for an interview, I had the assignment.” So, for most of the next three years, the McAfees lived in Costa Rica, right on the Pacific Ocean. “I playeda lot of golf andmanaged to get a lot of stories in U.S.magazines fromvisitingwriters. I evenhelpedstart a golf professional associationtohelpyoungerCostaRican professionals and wrote golf stories for the Tico Times,” he said. “Wemight have stayed longer except therewere familymatters back in Texas.” On returning to Texas in 2001, McAfee took over as the executive director of the Dallas District Golf Association and also served as the sports editor of the Wylie News. Later he was also at Quanah and Copperas Cove newspapers. McAfee also handled some freelance So, for most of the next three years, the McAfees lived in Costa Rica, right on the Pacific Ocean. “I played a lot of golf and managed to get a lot of stories in U.S. magazines from visiting writers. I even helped start a golf professional association to help younger Costa Rican professionals and wrote golf stories for the Tico Times.”
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