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For generations the Herm Family has planted their roots just south of Big Spring. Over time, they have planted and harvested many crops, but their best crop so farm seems to be the creativity behind Allred Farms. The ability to capture history, deep roots, and a unique story in each piece is taking the herm’s to new places and enhanging the legacy that is being planted.
11 rocky roads, eight seconds, a saving grace have led Bull/bronc rider Misty Studley to an unconventional avenue to inspiring others. NO matter how far you’ve gone, how many times you’ve fallen, you just have to get back on the bull and hold on for eight seconds.
14 Choosing to serve your country is a sacrifice few make - less than 1 percent actually in our nation - and then there are those who return home and choose to continue that service on the homefront. three local first responders were recently honored for their service to our country and our community.
18 On the cover:
Bruce Schooler captures the beauty and inspiration from a Texas church. The beauty of the great outdoors and peace surrounding the church can be seen in the picture captured by Big Spring photographer Bruce Schooler.
The local big spring masonic lodge chooses four recipients each year and recognizes their contributions to the community. This year, Dr. Reid, Nicole Doose, Joe Bright and Eric Escamilla were chosen. SEe the works they have begun in our community and hear a piece of their story, motivation behind their drive.
Allred Farms By AMANDA DUFORAT n organic cotton farmer and creative spirit joined together and the vision they created together has launched into a story that highlights not only their own history, but the deep roots of the working man and displays the working class of America. Eric Herm’s mind starting working, along with his wife Jennie’s creative spirit, and the two found a way to take the product that was being produced in their own backyard - organic cotton - and make something beautiful that told a story ... their story. A common dream and a desire to make a difference while utilizing the creativity that is running through their veins led the Herm’s to a vision that has been evolving for five years - Allred Farms. Through the utilization of local resources, determination, and creative abilities, creations that now stock AllredFarms.com were able to be produced at a local level for reasonable prices. “We are both stubborn. She (Jennie) has been the driving force and creative vision behind the whole project,” Eric said. “She had the vision of what we wanted to produce; she hasn’t veered from that and she refuses to settle.” He continued, “We are both creative people and wanted to do something that would utilize our creative abilities, in the same token, as a farmer I was really frustrated with where things were in the cotton industry and commodities market in general. Here we are bustin’ our butts every year, blood, sweat and tears trying
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to make our payments, provide a living for our family and yet we ship our cotton off to people who make far more money than we ever will.” While in North Carolina on one of his book tours, Mr. Herm connected with a T-shirt company owner, Eric Henry who runs a T-shirt company based off of North Carolina cotton. Just as in Texas, cotton has strong roots in North Carolina. North Carolina State University is one of the last colleges in the United States that does textiles. “We began to conceive all these people who were about to be out of jobs. And when we took this journey to North Carolina we realized there is such a rich history of cotton and textile in this country,” Jennie said. “In fact it’s really the backbone of the United States and how much of that has diminished because of the local economy.” With the connections and information gained, a new idea began to form in the Herm’s minds. The original vision loomed around making western wear and has since changed course a time or two, to a vision that makes up the Herm’s new business of producing quilts, pillows, home decor and more. “We had no idea this is where it was going to go, but that’s how it goes. You have this idea and then what really is meant to be has occurred,” Eric said. With a plan formed to see their vision turned into reality the
Herm’s began making progress, but an unexpected tragedy occurred and the Herm’s lost their farmhouse- originally Eric’s great-grandparent’s - in a fire. His great-grandparents purchased the home in 1919 with 160 acres, and planted their family roots in Howard County. As the couple focused on rebuilding their home, the progress of the vision stalled, but didn’t die. While years of history was lost, it served as a rebirth and a gathering moment for the vision and offered the opportunity for a new history to be made. As the Herm’s rebuilt their home, their vision began to rebuild itself through local connections. Through a little bit of research and outreach, Jennie was able to find local talent that fit into the vision and recruited the help. “We were having a hard time finding someone who would do small batch clothing lines,” Jennie said. “If they were willing to take on small batch lines then they were going to charge a high amount which would mean we would have been producing $300, $400 shirts and that just didn’t seem feasible at the time.” With the expenses totalling beyond what the Herm’s were looking at, what could have served as an ending point, instead served as the catalyst for a new avenue of research. Just as the foundation of the vision, the beginning product was being produced in their own backyard; through a little bit of research Jennie was able to bring the creative process to the local market as well. “We were turned on to this idea that within our own community there are these amazing seamstresses ...” she said. “They are kind of unseen in our area, but they are part of our community.” The Mennonite community while it tends to stay silently hidden in the Big Spring area, crosses paths with the community on a fairly routine bases, whether it be at the grocery store or in passing throughout town. According to Jennie, the Mennonite community has a good presence in the Ackerly area.
After getting to know a few of them, the vision gained the new spark it needed to ignite. “I got to know a few of the ladies, and I came to find out they are amazingly talented,” she said. “They are incredibly talented in Americana craft ... the quilting, making things by hand. They make all their family’s clothing. I am able to give them an idea, which is a really modern take on quilting and they are able to produce it.” As Jeannie gained a bigger understanding for the talent the Mennonite women contained and the beauty they were able to produce through their products, she began to see that the vision her and her husband shared was expanding. What once was
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intended to be a locally produced clothing line was turning into more; it was a sense of community and an opportunity to highlight the quality, the talent, and the uniqueness of what can be found right here in Howard County. “A sense of community came out of this newfound perspective. There are people right here in our community who may not be able to get a job, due to lack of ability to speak English or whatever other reason and we made a commitment to them,” she said. “We are giving back to our community and highlighting local talents while making sure that people in our area who normally wouldn’t have a way to make a living are.” The Herm’s collection encompasses a variety of products with the opportunity to expand. The plan is eventually to expand and get back to the original vision in the future and create a western clothing line. “Things in the U.S. are starting to take a turn here. More small batch companies are starting to come up and we are excited about that,” she said. With the items in the line being produced by hand, there is a uniqueness to them and a touch of heart in each piece. According to Jennie a queen size quilt can be produced in a couple of weeks, a bag can be created in about a day. The pillows included in the line can be produced in a few hours unless quilted. The online store has been up and running for a few months now, with orders coming in consistently. A storefront will soon be opening up in Marfa, Texas, according to Eric Herm. “When we first got into this we thought we knew what we were doing, but one of the reasons it has taken so long is that we realized we didn’t know what we were doing,” Eric said. “Even as a cotton farmer - four generations deep - growing up on a cotton farm you would think I knew all this stuff. It was like going to school all over again.” He continued, “The beautiful part of our story is that it tells from the seed in the ground, cultivating and harvesting the crop to getting it to and from the gin, and transporting the cotton to North Carolina and then what it takes to go to yarn, to denim to a finished product.” Uniqueness through local creativity and resources is the foundation of Allred Farms, and part of that uniqueness ties into the
dedication Eric has put into being an organic cotton farmer. Sustainability - a buzzword in the farming community in recent years - is at the top of the chain. In order for a product to be classified as sustainable means following it from field to finished product; to be sustainable along that process is tricky and it’s a real big part of the Herm’s mission. While the Allred Farm’s line is producing modern pieces to be enjoyed for years to come, it’s truly based on so much more than that. The couple is not only creating products that last, but they are capturing a deep rooted history that tells not only of the their lineage, but of American heritage that still exists in Howard County.
“Using old work wear tells a story about how much work went into these products in this area,” she said. “In our pieces we try and incorporate old denim, which helps tell the story of hard work, sustainability, and history.” Eric added, “Part of our inspiration is the old Americana feel from our grandparents, our great -grandparents ... what she learned from her grandmothers as a seamstress, what I learned from my father and grandfather as cotton farmers. Back in the day when everyone wore denim, whether they worked in the coal mine, steel industry, or as a farmer. All these old classic photos you see where people are wearing denim, shows this American staple that is part of our roots and our history.” Denim lasts and so much of the fashion industry today involves going out and purchasing the cheapest thing on the rack. While fashion, creativity, and a desirable product are part of the creative design process, what the Herm’s are looking for runs deeper than that.
“We want our designs to be very thoughtful and create products that will last people. We hope someone will buy this and it will be passed down for generations,” Eric said. For generations community, hard work and sustainability have been the founding roots of our country. While big business may have taken some of that away, there are those farmers, small town communities and individuals doing their part to keep it alive. The Allred Farms’ line is one of those. “Where are we headed? Look at where jobs are in America. We have lost a huge part of what I think made this country so great; when all else failed hard work was still valuable currency,” Eric said. “Look at the Great Depression ... how did people make it through those hard times? They grew everything, they made everything. They were self-sufficient and independent. That’s what we pride ourselves on is trying to be self-sufficient and creative.” If you look at the fabric of Big Spring, there are old buildings scattered around. Those buildings were at one time home to shops that contain stories of craftsmen. “Craftsmen, makers, real American craft has been taken over by the global economy and technology,” Jennie said. “People don’t have the drive or ability to do these things anymore. We are losing a piece of what made America so great. In our modern times we have lost that sense of knowing a skill or trade, knowing how to make things anymore; everything has gotten to be about convenience.” Convenience, just like technology, can be a wonderful thing, but it can also be destructive to a certain extent because when you become so dependent from cheap things coming from the other side of the planet or take for granted all the things you do have and unless you hear these stories from older generations about Living Magazine
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how things used to be you really don’t get true understanding of how important it is being self-sufficient and independent. “I’ve worked my butt off and lost money before, but with this we are working hard but we have a definitive direction of where we want to go and what we are trying to tell people” Eric said. “You can still create things, you can still work hard and be different, be unique and be bold and that’s really what we are doing with these designs is being bold.” He continued, “Intention ... that is what it’s about. We made a theme, slogan, saying, whatever you want to call it ... Blue collar consciousness, working hard with a purpose, that’s our intention.” The clothing line isn’t the only bold statement that is being made by the Herms. With Eric having chosen to embrace the organic farming style, he has chosen this in an area heavy laden with chemicals. “A big part of my life and organic farming is to try and be a beacon, a shining light rather than saying how wrong things are just do something wonderful and do it to the best of your ability and keep doing it so others can see that and not be afraid to pursue that path as well,” Eric said. The statement that Allred Farms is making - one product at a time - is something that can be garnered by anyone. Those wanting to view the uniqueness or the delicate and intricate designs of the product line, can do so by viewing the website or keeping an eye out for Pop-up shows in the area. A store front will soon be coming up in the region near Marfa which offers a unique population that supports the creative and artistic minded, those who think outside the box. The traffic that flows through the area - from LA, New York, Europe - provides a quick way to draw attention to the Allred Farms name and get the products seen across the
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globe. “Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, don’t be afraid to think original thoughts that you take all the way through. There is a lot of life in Big Spring and a lot of people doing really neat things,” she said. “West Texas people are resilient, but we are slow to adapt to change,” Eric said. “We are living in incredibly unique times in that the world is changing so fast and as a farmer and business owner you have to adapt and evolve to keep up with the times and I think that consumer demands are dictating things in a positive direction; people want less chemicals, less toxic products,to live healthier, but they just don’t know where to begin. It can be overwhelming at times, and if local people understand that while the products may cost a little more it’s not about making lots of money, but it’s about making a product with integrity and keep it local. Everything is grown in Texas and made in the U.S.A, which was the original intent, but unfortunately that way of production costs more which in turn causes a bigger loss, which is why many of the things that were created here have been moved oversees. “Nothing is more American than denim really, denim and hard work; it’s part of the American dream to start from a small idea to grow into anything you want,” she said. “We are trying to be about quality over quantity.” Whether you are looking to create a clothing line, launch a new design company or venture onto an uncommonly traveled path like organic farming, the opportunity is there and the possibilities are endless. Resources to aide in the pursuit of your passion exist throughout Howard County; it’s all about finding the courage to follow those visions, just like the Herms did with Allred Farms.
By BRUCE SCHOOLER
he two major components of creating a great photograph are the technical and the artistic aspects. I love the technical component as I am basically a nerd. I actually used to wear a pocket protector back in the 1970’s. It is something I’m not proud of and I am so glad there was no Facebook back in those days. But I also have a creative side. I enjoy creating photographs that are artistic in nature, not only landscapes but portraits as well. We are going to delve into the artistic side of photography this month so everyone put away your smart phones and tablets. There are several things to consider when you want to create a photograph that you would be proud to print and put on your wall. The first of course is to find a subject that would be suitable. You don’t need to go to Yellowstone National Park and photograph Old Faithful. There are scenes or items in your own neighborhood that would be great works of art. The main thing is keep your eyes open and be very observant of your surroundings. Try to switch from the right side of your brain which is the logical / technical side to the left side which is your artistic side. I know that sounds weird but just try to focus on the world around you and look for interesting scenes or objects while you are driving to work that you think would make an interesting photograph. After you have found your subject you need to come back when the lighting is best. Depending on which direction your subject is facing will determine when to capture the image. The best light is early in the morning or late in the day. When the sun is low in the sky you will get more texture and the shadows will be more pleasing. I very seldom take photos at midday. The light is harsh and is usually not very flattering. You noticed I said usually. I have created some images during the middle of the day that I really like. Again it depends on your subject. If the sky is overcast any time
of the day will work. The clouds act like a giant soft box and the light is very soft. So how does one know whether to take the photo early in the morning or an hour before sunset? Sometimes you can visualize how the shadows will fall. Also if the subject is facing east go in the morning and go late in the day if it faces west. If the subject is fairly close I will go at both times just to see how the light changes the shape and texture of the object or scene. I have been to some locations many times just to get different cloud formations or sunsets in my creation. That is part of the creative process. Being at the right place at the right time with good light is critical. Oh, and you should also bring your camera. Speaking of equipment, if you don’t have a tripod you should get one if you are serious about landscape photography. Not only will your images be sharper but the composition of your image will be better. You have to slow down and actually think about how you want to frame your subject. Composition is one of the most important components of a great photo. I would estimate that most people use their camera to create horizontal images. How many times do you turn your camera ninety degrees to the left or right to take your photo? How many of you out there are not aware that you can do that? If you have a subject that is taller than it is wide you can rotate the camera to the vertical position and create a great image. If you are creating a full length image of a person it is usually better to take a vertical photograph, unless you want to include the surroundings in the photo. The same is true if you have a tall object such as a building or a tree. But remember you are being creative and if you want to experiment go right ahead. I usually capture the image in both the horizontal and vertical formats. That is one of the beauties of digital photography. We are only limited by the size of our memory cards and batteries as to how many photos we can create. So part of being creative is trying something different. Don’t just take one or two photos of the subject and drive off. Really Living Magazine 9
study your subject and visualize the possibilities. I usually start with the wide angle lens to capture the subject in its environment. I will walk all around the subject observing how the shadows change and how the light affects the texture of the materials that were used to construct the subject. After the wide angle images I will put my telephoto zoom lens on my camera and get the detail images. I love the texture of old wood and rusted metal. You can create some great images by walking up to the subject and looking for these fine details in the wood and rusted metal. This is where your creativity can run wild. Use your viewfinder as your canvas and create your work of art. I do want to clarify something. I don’t encourage you to use the word “texture” when creating a portrait of your grandmother. I don’t think it would go over well. Even though it is winter I will drive around Howard County and explore the back roads. I try to do this often as the seasons change. It’s amazing how the scenery varies throughout the year. Keep your eyes open for that subject you want to photograph to express your artistic talents. Be sure to pull over if you see something that catches your eye. Safety is always the number one concern when we are exploring. Also be sure to have permission if you venture onto private property. After you have captured that great image, I encourage everyone to print it or have it printed so that you can hang it on your wall. If you have any questions or comments please email me at bruce@theredbarnstudios.com or call me at 432-466-4250. Our website it www.theredbarnstudios.com.
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BY: ANNA GUTIERREZ isty Studley rides bulls, and sometimes broncs. She’s also the 2019 Women’s National Professional Bull Riding World Champion, and she lives right here in Big Spring. “I don’t know how I did it, but I won the first round,” says Studley. “I got third the next night, but I got the high point average with a 78, I believe, and won a buckle. Then I won the world championship by one point against the fourtime world champion Mandy Shipskey.” Studley says this is the first year for this organization, and she’s been riding with women from Canada, Mexico, Australia, and other parts of the world. Other organizations are composed mainly of women from surrounding states, and Studley enjoys riding against women from
other parts of the world. “The finals competition spanned three days, and the pot was $2,000,” states Studley. “Pots are getting bigger. We’ll never have the recognition the men receive, but a lot more people are wanting to put shows on where females are involved.” Studley continued, “I go to San Angelo almost every weekend that I don’t rodeo, to an arena to practice. I’ve also been training a couple of kids I’ve taken under my wing, those kids really teach me a lot, as well.” While rodeo is something she enjoys, Studley stresses that competing at rodeo can be quite costly. She has been lucky to pick up a few sponsors, which are local businesses in the area that help with expenses of traveling, attire, entrance fees, and even feed for the animals. Since the payouts for the women are not as big as they are for the men, expenses can add up quickly once you factor in gas, meals, lodging and entrance fees. Studley is a native of Big Spring, but graduated from Lamesa High School. She moved to Central Texas when she was younger, and that’s where she got started bull riding. As many do, after venturing out, she found her way back to her roots and moved back
and not hidden as she travels. While she may not have family here in town, as most know, family is more than blood relation and Studley has found a family who supports her here. “I’m very proud to be from Big Spring. I don’t have any family here, but I have people who have become my family. Rodeo is a small town thing, and the businesses in town who have helped me, I want to give them recognition and thanks for everything “God they’ve helped me with.” h The new rodeo season for want as done s ome r peop Studley began a ter le t ea
lw wh ok darke at you’ve now that ork in me it st spo d .. t, God one. Whe doesn’t m . I back n you if you a has a ’re in tjust k way me a e o e f p bring your secon your in d cha f nce a aith. ...Go g you nd he d re I a gave few weeks m.”
ago. According to Studley, there are currently about 13 shows scheduled for this year, but that number can grow. Studley also sometimes competes with the senior bull riders, which is a predominantly male organization. In her last competition with the seniors, she came in seventh out of 30 competitors. Studley is the first to admit that due to the difference in men’s and women’s bodies, bull riding is different for the two genders. Being a female, and now being a little older, the bulls in the senior
to Big Spring a couple of years ago. When she’s not competing in rodeo, she’s a farm hand working with alpacas because when she’s not winning, she doesn’t earn money from the rodeo. “I don’t do it for the money,” Studley said. “I don’t know, I do it because I like the buckles. I’m almost 35-years-old, and I’m competing against girls who are much younger, some of them teenagers. When you’re at a rodeo and see the kids, they look up to you. Every time I think I want to quit, the kids will do something to make me stay.” She continued, “God has done some real work in me. I started riding bulls in 2007, and in 2009, I got in trouble again, after having gotten in trouble in 2003. I spent 10 years in prison, and look where I am now. I don’t want fame and recognition. I want people to know that it doesn’t matter what you’ve done. When you’re in your darkest spot, God has a way of bringing you back if you just keep your faith. I could be bitter, but I’m not because I’ve learned so much. God gave me a second chance and here I am.” Her pride for her hometown is evident 12 Living Magazine
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competitions can be a bit more accommodating. “People don’t realize what it takes,” Studley said. “My mother told me at Thanksgiving that she wished I would just grow up one day. Just like a professional basketball player, if I’m not rodeoing, I’m out at a practice pen, or I’m watching bull riding videos. If we get hurt, we don’t keep getting paid. So I see my mom’s point, but rodeo is one of those things that your either have a passion for it, or you don’t like it. Once you compete in rodeo, you’re hooked. It’s
in your blood.” Studley has taken a couple of younger children under her wing, as she has traveled down this journey. She says these kids really look up to her, but she learns a lot from them, as well. Recently, a seven-year old who got bucked off a calf told Studley “Thank You.” When she asked why he was thanking her, his response was that she always has faith in him. These are the moments that touch Studley deeply. Studley states she hopes her children do not become bull riders, but how can she tell them no when it’s what she does? Unfortunately, Studley doesn’t get to compete in Big Spring, but there are other rodeos all over the country. You can follow her Facebook page named Misty Studley Female Roughstock Rider for more information. “It’s like a really tight-knit family spread out all over the world,” says Studley. “Daily, I talk to people from all over the country, and they’re all like sisters to me. It’s like every rodeo is a family reunion.”
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By AMANDA DUFORAT whether serving the nation or serving one’s community, that first responders walk deserve double honor. I extend my heartfelt the heart of a servant shines through. While many have appreciation on behalf of the County.” taken the oath to protect and serve their community and Representing the Big Spring Fire Department, Justin McCullough, their country. With less than one percent of our nation Marine veteran; Big Spring Police Department, Christopher Dominstepping up to to take the call of serving our country placing them on quez, Army veteran; and Howard County Sheriffs Department, Blake a higher pedestal, even fewer have chosen to continue that call to service upon returning home. “The heart of a servant … it tells you a lot about the person who gives their heart and soul to their country,” Howard County Pct. 3 Is Upon Us! Commissioner Jimmie Long, said. “They are depended on every time they get up; they don’t know what lies ahead and they serve our country well but then they come back and make a choice to step off that road for a time and step We have what you need for Springtime! right back into another servantship in the dayto-day life threatening situation, never knowing what they are going to get. It’s a lifelong commitment and you are being recognized for that servanthood.” A short ceremony was held at the Dora Roberts Community Center where friends and family members, colleagues, supervisors, city leaders and community gathered to honor three local first responders for the service they have provided to our nation and to our local community. “All of our law enforcement wakes up everyday, and they give their all. They put their lives on the line for us,” Commissioner Long said. “They run into the fires, they answer when they are called upon; first responders are to be honored and our veterans who carry on
Spring
From Gardening Tools to Lawn Mowers,
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Jones, Marine veteran. “Our veterans deserve recognition, our first responders deserve recognition and this is an opportunity to do both,” Mike Tarpley, Quilt of Valor presenter and DAV Chapter 46 Senior Vice Commander, said. “These three men have done both; they’ve served their country and now they are serving their community.” Each of the first responders were nominated by their supervisors and then final selections were confirmed by the DAV. “They have my thanks and the thanks of this community not just for their service in our military, but for
their service in our community,” Mayor Shannon Thomason, said. “As Long stated these gentleman were America’s first responders. They heard the call of our nation to stand up and protect freedom no matter where that took them, and they came home and accepted the call of their community, to protect our families. On behalf of the City of Big Spring, we honor the city’s recipients of the Quilts of Valor.” Firefighter McCullough was sent to San Diego for Marine Boot Camp after graduation in 2006. After a year, he was deployed with his unit to Al Anbar Province in Iraq, where his unit conducted convoy security and foot patrols. “It means a lot that the community comes together; I didn’t know what to expect and it’s really nice to have the support of the community,” McCullough said. Cpl. Dominguez joined the Army in 2008. He was assigned to Fort Hood with the 57th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, but shortly after was deployed to Afghanistan in the summer of 2009. After his deployment and upon his arrival home, Dominguez sought out the avenue to becoming a police officer. He completed his field
training in 2014 and has been working his way up through the ranks since then. “I feel very grateful for everyone who came out; I am forever in their debt,” Cpl. Dominguez said. Deputy Jones joined the Marine Corp in 2001, during his senior year, on Oct. 26, 2001. After spending only a couple of weeks in MOS School, Jones and his unit were fast tracked and deployed to Kuwait in preparation for the upcoming war. “Words can’t explain how honored I am to be nominated for this award,” Deputy Jones said. “It’s an overwhelming feeling.” Quilts of Valor Foundation is a national organization founded in 2003 by a “Blue Star” mom, Catherine Roberts. The idea of finding a way to provide comfort for veterans came to her while her son was deployed in Iraq. While he was deployed, she constantly felt 10 seconds away from panic and those feelings turned into quilt making. “I received my quilt one day in the mail and I was lucky to have my wife and my mother around me when I opened it,” Quilts of Valor local presenter Mike Tarpley, said. “Since then I guess you could say I have been honored with many quilts that I have been able to present to our veterans.” Since the founding of the organization, more than 140,000 quilts have been awarded in the United States, Germany, Iraq and Afghanistan. With each quilt the mission to honor service members and veterans is fulfilled - one human-being reaching out and touching another without judgement, reaching out with acceptance and with acknowledgement of service to our nation in very trying circumstances. The quilts are made up of three layers: the top with its many colors, shapes and fabrics represents the community and the many individuals we are; the batting - filler - is the center of the quilt, its warmth. “This second layer represents the hope that this quilt will bring warmth, comfort, peace and healing to the individual who receives it,” Tarpley said during the presentation. Living Magazine
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The backing is the final layer and it represents strength that supports the other layers. It represents the strength of the recipient, the support of his or her family, communities and nation. Each of the stitches holding the layers together represents love, gratitude and sometimes the tears of the maker. Each quilt represents the three-part message from the givers to the recipient. “We honor you for your service. We honor you for leaving all you hold dear and to stand in harm’s way in a time of crisis, protecting us from the effects of war,” Tarpley said. “Next, we know that freedom is not free. The cost of freedom is the dedication of lives of men and women like you, and this quilt is meant to say thank you for your sacrifice.” He continued, “Finally, this quilt is meant to offer comfort to you and to remind you that although your family and friends cannot be with you at all times, you are forever in our thoughts and hearts.” As the ceremony concluded, those in attendance were encouraged to say Thank You to each nominee and touch the quilt as they exited the evening. It’s easy to read the news on the go with our newly renovated Each day, these brave men – and women – give their all to their community, and choose website. Simply go to www.bigspringherald.com to see the to step out daily for friends, neighbors, and daily news updates and featured stories. With the recent complete strangers. They have heard the call to protect and serve, on the homefield and for upgrade to our website, it’s even easier to browse on your that we say Thank You and extend our sincere mobile device, too! gratitude.
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March House Call Rezum Therapy
T
visual imaging. Once the apparatus is in he Shannon Clinic Urology place, a small, curved needle penetrates Department is excited to the skin of the prostate to begin the steam provide a new treatment for therapy. Benign Prostatic HyperWe use the convective energy of steam plasia, a common problem for men over to inject the prostate for 9 seconds at 50. Shannon Clinic is the first facility in a time. This allows the water vapor to this area of West Texas to offer Rezum go into the prostate tissue and causes Therapy—a procedure that uses the the cells inside to die. The number of natural energy stored in water vapor, or injections a patient needs are determined steam, to shrink hyperplastic tissue. It is based on the size of their prostate—usutypically done under local anesthesia in ally between 6 to 12. the office in less than 30 minutes. After completion, patients are sent home Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, with a catheter that will be used for a is an enlargement of the prostate gland. short period of time to help with irritating This enlargement can compress the ureurine symptoms. They will also be set thra, which reduces flow of urine from the up with a follow-up appointment in 6-8 bladder, sometimes blocking it entirely. weeks to check the improvement of their BPH generally affects men over the symptoms. It takes around 2-3 months to age of 50, with increasing frequency see the full benefit, as the tissue dies and with age. The most common treatment recedes. in the past has been either medications Bradley McIver, MD: While the majority of men at their sixor a day surgery procedure to open the Urologist at week appointment say their urine stream prostate called transurethral resection of Shannon Clinic has improved, some still have irritating the prostate, or TURP. While TURP works symptoms that take longer to resolve. However, generally as time well, it does involve a hospital visit and anesthesia, and is more passes, they will be very pleased with their outcome. Once the paexpensive. tient gets to where they’d like to be, we’re able to stop medications Symptoms of BPH include urinary frequency, irregular flow, and just be available if they do develop symptoms again. urgency to urinate, slow or weak stream, straining, and getting up Before Rezum, patients are initially asked to rate the severity of multiple times during the night to urinate. their symptoms on an AUA symptom scale from 0-35, with 0-12 These types of symptoms are very common occurrences in men being minor, 13-20 moderate, and over 20 severely bothersome. of a certain age. Men who are experiencing these types of symptoms should make an appointment with their physician or urologist. Upon completion of a follow-up exam, this treatment has shown to cause an average decline of 9-10 points as well as an expectation A treatment assessment will determine if Rezum Therapy or other of about 30% reduction in the size of their prostate. For instance, if treatments are the best option for them. they come in and report their symptoms are a 20—which would be For a long time, we’ve been looking for something that we could considered moderately-severe bothered—they’re likely eventudo for patients who would like to be off their medications or those ally expected to improve to around a 10 after the procedure. Their that aren’t quite ready to have surgery. Rezum is a great alterbody’s natural healing response will remove the dead cells, which native for men looking for a safe and effective Benign Prostatic will decrease the prostate by one-third of the original size. Hyperplasia treatment experience. With Rezum, patients can usually be in and out of the office For more information on Rezum Therapy, to schedule a treatment within approximately a half-hour appointment. After the prostate is numbed and the patient is placed under a local anesthetic, a small assessment, or to learn more about Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, apparatus is inserted into the bladder through the urethra for direct call the Shannon Clinic Urology Department at 325-481-2231. Living Magazine
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By COLONEL ALLEN MORRIS
BIG SPRING
COMING SOON!! * Opening March 2, 2020 * All Ages Welcome * Local Healthcare Providers
1700 W. FM 700 18 Living Magazine
ecently the Order of the Eastern Star recognized and celebrated four area Stars in our community. The Eastern Star is the oldest organization in Howard County for women; it’s been around since 1888 and is a part of the Freemasons, which has been in Big Spring since 1884. The Order of the Easter Star sought nominations for those who are doing good things in our community. The committee narrowed the field to four, and an awards dinner was held on the north-east corner of the court square at the Masonic Lodge. The recipients were celebrated by nearly 100 people; this year the honorees are Dr. Jody Reid, Eric Escamilla, Nicole Doose, and Joseph Bright. Dr. Reid was recognized as a Risen Star though he is a long way from being a Retired Star. Reid is a lifelong resident of Howard County and a major contributor to the health and well being of the community and its residents. “He’s always doing something good for people whom he doesn’t even know,” Barbara Russell, long-time OES member, said. Jody Reid and his wife Tessa, have invested in the Big Spring community with his
practice, Back in Motion, its equipment, and personnel. “We are a team. We just think up stuff that would be good for the community, and then we do it,” Dr. Reid said. Eric Escamilla originally grew up in Mexico and moved to Big Spring a few years ago. Eric operates a Farmer’s Insurance office on 15th Street. “Eric is a police chaplain, has been his own city clean up crew, and I believe that he was head of Keep Big Spring Beautiful; he set up all the Blessing Boxes around town, among other things. I believe he is very worthy of recognition,” Dr. David Ward, DDS, said. The third recipient for this year’s Rising Star was Joseph Bright most known for his basketball program aimed at today’s youth. “Joseph Bright is a kid magnet!” George Bancroft, Assistant Superintendent at BSISD, said. Another community member and parent, Becca Feaster, added, “He’s the sort of fellow whom you want influencing your children. I prayed for someone like Joseph Bright to come to our community and give our children something to look forward to and help them to know there is hope for a brighter future.” According to the principal at Goliad Elementary, Rosey Lain, “Coach Joseph has a passion for kids whether it be teaching them or coaching them with hard work in life and sports. He is committed to our youth!” All of those who spoke on behalf of Mr. Bright agreed, it is obvious to anyone who meets Joseph Bright that he loves helping students learn, grow, and mature. The final recipient of this year’s recognition was Nicole Doose. Ms. Doose is from San Angelo, but got here as quickly as she could. Nicole has the unique and rare ability to smile with her eyes too. “It’s so important to me to help be the positive development in our community, because there are so many possibilities for our up and coming generations,” Doose said.
She continued, “Big Spring and west Texas are such unique places; as a whole, I have found the majority of the people here are spiritually blessed, educated in the word and hold value in acting with integrity. I’m so proud to be from west Texas; our grateful demeanor every day keeps us blessed!” According to long-time friend Tabitha Clark, “Nicole is dedicated, loyal, intelligent, a big heart and a big smile, and a personality that can light up any room! My dad told me a long time ago....if you can count your real friends on one hand....you are rich! Having Nicole as my friend is priceless! I am blessed.” “Nicole has been my closest friend for four years. I have watched her grow as a person, parent and influential person in this community. Nicole has a passion for enhancing the lives of people around her,” Kristen Lasater, close friend of Doose, said.”I honestly believe that Nicole wakes up every day hoping to make the lives of people around her better. She is a loving parent and an amazing friend. I’m proud of this accomplishment and recognition for Nicole.” In addition to those who are associated with this year’s recipients, the nominees themselves were able to offer a few words regarding their thoughts on this honor. “This is my home. I grew up here,” Dr. Reid said. “This community has always been a blessing to me. I’ve never felt called to do World Mission although we support them. This community is our mission. In speaking, Dr. Reid referenced one of his inspirations and favorite quotes, by Ghandi: ‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’” One of the employees of Dr. Reid, Amanda Morales offered up insight to a few of the things that will allow an opportunity to give back to the community, at the helm of Dr. Reid’s leadership. “This year we will host three blood drives, the 8th annual school supply drive where we give over 1,000 backpacks away, and the 7th annual Howard County Bowl in which we have given $175,000 Living Magazine
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men and young in scholarladies in our comships. Additionmunity and to give ally, we partner to them an example with other comthat hard work munity related always pays off.” events such as When asked what the Health Fair, drives him, Bright the Salvation said, “My mom Army toy drive, drives me every day, bell ringing, and no matter what. If the Festival of she’s not feeling well Lights.” or having a bad day According to she always finds a Big Spring High way to not only get Principal Mike things done, but Ritchey, “Dr. Jody to also put a smile Reid is an excelon someone’s face lent selection to even when she’s be recognized as not smiling. So if one of several she can find a way, I Rising Stars by know that I can too!” Big Spring’s Bright is described Order of the as a fantastic Eastern Star. encourager, and he Jody Reid is a is always looking selfless person for ways to encourand should be an age courage and to example for all inspire others. of us in modeling Courtesy photo “The change starts service to others. with us,” Bright said, I admire how Dr. The four Rising Stars are pictured above (left to right), front “Nothing will change Reid never hesi- row: Dr. Jody Reid, Eric Escamilla, Nicole Doose, and Joseph tates when taking Bright. Members of the Masonic Lodge are pictured in the back if we don’t work row. together to make the initiative in things better. Even raising money though Big Spring is said to be troubled, it has great people ready for scholarships or school supplies for Howard County students. to make a difference everyday, so always focus on them, the great Between his leadership in organizing his annual Back-to-School people.” Backpack Drive and spearheading the efforts in raising thousands Bright has loads of opportunities elsewhere, but he decides to of dollars for student scholarships for the Howard County Bowl, stay in our community. Jody Reid continues to find time to serve his church, his family, “It is where I am most comfortable, and I want to take on the his patients, and his employees. Big Spring and Howard County challenge to help the youth as much as possible,” Bright said. should be proud to have someone like Dr. Jody Reid making a With regard to future accomplishments, Bright’s focus is on new difference in the lives of many.” facilities. As many stated, it is easy to see why Dr. Reid received several “My next goal is to build a facility for the youth of Big Spring so nominations to be recognized as a Star in our community. they can call it home. It will be somewhere they can go, not only According to Rising Star Joe Bright, “Big Spring is special to me because it is where I grew as a young man. I’m originally from Min- work on sports, but to learn life lessons dealing with sports. Their home will be for education time too; they can do homework, critical nesota. I came to Big spring to play basketball at Howard College thinking and much more.” where I was on the team that won the National Championship. Bright encourages others to step up, do their part, and make an That was really special to me. I saw the impact that my teamimpact in the community as well. He issued the following call to mates and I had on the community.” action, Bright went on to explain why he does things for others, “I was “Others can help too by being supportive and helping however taught growing up that you cannot grow if you, yourself, are not inspiring, if you are not helping to make a difference, what purpose possible,” Bright said. According to Debra Lewis, who has acted as the surrogate are you? So everyday I try my best to be a role model to the young
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mother for the Hawks for nearly 30 years, as she shared her thoughts about Joe: “We first met Joe when he was a freshman at Howard. He worked so hard to be a starter and even though his knees were in really bad shape, bone on bone, he didn’t let that stop him from playing low post,” Lewis said. Bright was a starter as a freshman. He was described as driven, no one would have known he was in pain except that when he fell his teammates would help him up. He kept his grades up and was a role model all four years in college, according to Lewis. “After he graduated he didn’t have a clue what he wanted to do so we invited him to live with us and be a substitute teacher to make some money until he figured it out. He fell in love with the younger kids and really wanted to make an impact on them while they were still young,” Lewis said. “He called it ‘changing the culture’ and that is still his heart’s desire.” Joe Bright currently works with youth to help them learn respect for themselves, each other, and elders. When he was teaching Second Grade he taught his boys to hold the door and always let the girls go first. He taught the girls to always be respectful and thankful. His class always looked out for each other. He helped them learn math while they were lined up in the hallway. Now as a PE teacher, he will find out what is being covered in class, and he will quiz the students while they are lining up before and after his class. “It’s all about learning,” Lewis said. “He is a young man who will always be a part of our family. His mother raised an amazing young man and she knows we love her son.” Bright certainly meets the minimum requirements to be in the position he holds at the school, as many do. He has also mastered the things that matter when helping students grow, according to collegues. These are things that can’t be captured on a résumé. “It is hard to quantify passion, energy, dedication, patience, perseverance and love. In the classroom, these qualities make all of the difference now, tomorrow, and beyond. Coach Joseph is certainly a Bright Spot in Big Spring,” she said. Another Rising Star is Eric Escimilla; he and his wife Guillian are pleased to call Big Spring “home.” When asked what the driving force behind his actions are, Eric answered with the following story: “When I was a child my mother would send me to the store to purchase vegetables for the meal she would cook that day. The store was two blocks away and in the 90s it was still safe for a 5-year-old to walk by himself in Mexico.” He continued, “Typically I would run there and run right back so I could get to
doing what I loved doing, which was watching cartoons. Everyday in Mexico, you would watch and hear door-to-door salesmen who would sell anything from food to decorations. One day I saw one of those salesmen carrying handmade baskets and shouting ‘Venta, Venta,’ which means ‘sale, sale.’ The baskets were stacked on this man’s back, one by one so high it looked as if he was carrying a tower. You could tell these baskets were heavy, as the man had to lean forward to be able to balance himself, then just like that he was gone.” “A few moments later my mother asked me to go purchase the fruits and vegetables for that day. This time, she told me I really needed to pay attention since she didn’t have a small bill and that I would get a lot of change back. She told me the items she wanted and she handed me $500 pesos, which was about $166 dollars. This was the 90s and that was a lot of money for a time when a coke only cost $.25 cents. I grabbed the money, and I was off like a bullet. I ran at top speed because that’s what kids do. As I was approaching the store, the same man who had been carrying the tower of baskets was sitting on the curb. The baskets were reclined against the wall, his sandals were off and he was rubbing the bottom of his feet. I was running at full speed when I passed him, but I could still see the large blisters, bruises, and overall bad shape of his feet.” He continued, “I continued into the store, got the items my mother wanted with the total coming to 21 pesos - about $7 dollars. I counted the change, grabbed the items and headed out the door.
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When I was outside the door I was about to take off running when I noticed that the man was still there and in pain. I don’t know what caused me to do it, but something inside me told me to ask the man, ‘How are you?’ He replied “I have been walking all day for miles and miles, my feet hurt and I have not sold a single basket.” When the man said this all I had were the items my mother had asked me to get and the change. I looked at his feet; I saw pain; I looked at his face and I saw defeat.” As Escamilla continued to recall the next part of the story, he said he reached into his pocket and gave the man all the change. At the time, he had $150 dollars he was handing him, and after handing him the money, he walked away. “When I got home my mother asked me for the change and I pretended to have lost it. She did what any mother would have done in the 90s and that was to beat the living daylights out of me for making such a mistake. I took my punishment and never told my mother what had happened,” Escamilla said. Two years later Escamilla lost his mother to breast cancer. He said, he clearly remembers that day. “We all have a weight to carry, either by choice or by circumstance. I always try to strive to be that boy, a person who would sacrifice to help others, but while I noticed the weight the man was carrying, I didn’t notice the mountain my mother was facing,” he said. “That is my story, why I serve the way I do. To my mother, I miss you. I love you, and I will continue to help those in need; even
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if you beat my behind.” The only female Rising Star this year, is Nicole Doose. She is from San Angelo and has two incredible youngsters, a daughter, Cara, 15 and a son, Jace 6. “We have made beautiful Big Spring our home, and my children are attending school in Coahoma,” said Doose. Doose graduated from Howard College’s School of Nursing LVN Program at the San Angelo campus in 2008. She began volunteering for the Depart Department of Aging and Disability Ombudsman program and went to work in the home health field, professionally. Her volunteer volunteering included teaching Sunday School and Wednesday night bible study for her daughters age group. She worked and volunteered in Tom Green, Coke and Sterling Counties until she started her career with Kindred at Home in early 2017. “After working as a Field Home Health Nurse for a few years, I transitioned to be a Clinical Home Health Specialist with Kindred at Home for Big Spring/Midland. My family and I couldn’t be happier where we live. We love the community,” Doose said. “When we made the move to Big Spring, I was able to join Rotary, the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, deliver meals for the elderly through home delivered meals at the Senior Center and lend more time to helping with our community events. My kids are with me every step of the way. We might be ringing the bell for the Salvation Army, working parades, volunteering at the museum, running food drives, but it’s a family effort.”
She continued, “My sweet daughter was afforded the opportunity to work as a board operator with my dear friend Mark Richardson at KBST for about a year now, which has afforded myself and Kindred at Home, an opportunity to team up with some of the biggest names and hearts in Big Spring. I get to meet new faces and learn more about, and interact with some of the most diverse, richly-spiritually blessed gems in west Texas.” While Big Spring offers several highlights, each day, one thing Doose said she would like to change is the too often, overused phrase, ‘But we’ve always done it that way.’ “This is both funny and strikes my curiosity. Our world is always evolving, and we have to be amenable in order to keep growing. I want to see this community continue to grow,” Doose said. In speaking with Doose, she mentioned one of her favorite quotes; ‘Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it,’ which was said by Marian Wright Edelman. These four recipients have truly impacted Howard County and Big Spring in a positive way. Their efforts are those that continue to give back while encouraging others around them to do the same. As we enter into a new year, keep your eyes open and see who in your scope of view is making an impact on our community, take down their names and share those for the next round of nominations. Those wanting to submit nominations for the next round of Rising Stars can reach out to Col. Allen Morris by e-mail at Colonel.Allen.M.Morris@ gmail.com
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