Big Spring Issues

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson visits with Jean Hector of Circle H Auto Sales to talk about classic cars, restoration work, and the growing automotive business he’s built just outside Big Spring in Coahoma. Jean shares how his shop has become more than a car lot—offering restoration, mechanical work, custom interiors, upholstery, and full classic car builds for enthusiasts who want to bring their dream vehicles back to life.The conversation also highlights the strong community spirit of Big Spring. Jean discusses his involvement in Payday Big Spring, a unique local giving program where members contribute monthly funds that go directly to people in need within the community. The discussion reflects how local generosity and neighbor-helping-neighbor values continue to shape the town.From stories about drag racing and classic car culture to the importance of community support, this episode blends automotive passion with heartfelt appreciation for the people who make Big Spring a special place to live.Key Discussion Points: • How Payday Big Spring works and the impact it has already made in helping local residents in need • The services offered by Circle H Auto Sales, including classic car restoration, upholstery, and mechanical work • The growing interest in classic vehicles and modern upgrades like fuel injection and resto-mods • Big Spring’s deep racing and car culture history tied to Webb Air Force Base and local events • Jean Hector’s reflections on the generosity and community spirit of Big Spring residents 

This episode of Big Spring Issues highlights the upcoming Stars & Cars fundraiser, a longtime Big Spring tradition supporting the Volunteer Service Council of the Big Spring State Hospital. Host Scott Emerson sits down with Dana Johnson and Amy Vandergriff to talk about the event’s 20-year history, how the unique reverse raffle works, and what attendees can expect during a night filled with casino games, food trucks, live music, and auctions.The event raises funds for projects that directly benefit residents at the state hospital and people in need throughout the Big Spring community. The Volunteer Service Council helps provide clothing, hygiene items, emergency assistance, and improvements around the hospital campus—along with running the community thrift store known as The Chalet. Dana and Amy also share how local businesses and volunteers can support the fundraiser through donations, auction items, and participation in the event.From reverse raffles and silent auctions to stories about how the organization helps local families in times of crisis, this conversation showcases the community spirit behind one of Big Spring’s biggest annual fundraisers.Key Discussion Points: • How the Stars & Cars reverse raffle works and why it’s become a Big Spring favorite fundraiser • The 20-year history of the event and its growth into one of the community’s largest gatherings • How funds from the event support the Big Spring State Hospital and community needs • The role of the Volunteer Service Council and the services offered through The Chalet thrift store • Opportunities for local businesses and volunteers to donate auction items or help with the event

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson speaks with Jim Womack, Director of Safety and Security for Big Spring ISD, about the systems and strategies in place to protect students across the district. Following recent incidents in the community, including a weapon discovered at the high school, the conversation focuses on how quickly school officials responded and how proactive safety planning helps prevent larger problems.Womack explains the layers of security in place throughout the district, including controlled entry vestibules, monitored doors, hundreds of cameras, anonymous reporting tools, and a narcotics detection canine. He also highlights the importance of students speaking up through anonymous alerts and emphasizes how community involvement plays a key role in maintaining a safe environment for more than 3,500 students.The discussion also touches on the broader challenge of student safety—addressing fear, bullying, and misinformation that spreads quickly on social media. Womack encourages parents and community members to communicate directly with school officials and use the district’s reporting tools to ensure concerns are handled quickly and accurately.Key Discussion Points: • How Big Spring ISD responded quickly to a weapon discovered on campus • Security measures including access control doors, reinforced glass, and over 600 cameras • The anonymous reporting system that allows students and parents to share safety concerns • The role of parents and community members in maintaining safe schools • Future safety improvements including potential AI-assisted camera monitoring

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down with Charlie Minnick of Bailey Toliver RV and Ford in Stanton, Texas. Charlie shares the story of how the dealership was established in the region, how the company grew from an RV dealership into a thriving Ford dealership, and why building long-term relationships with customers has been the key to their success.The conversation also highlights the close connection between local businesses and the Big Spring community. Charlie discusses how events, sponsorships, and local partnerships help support scholarships, community programs, and economic growth across West Texas. From fleet vehicle sales to RV customers traveling across the country to buy from Bailey Toliver, the dealership has built a reputation for service and personal relationships.Scott and Charlie also reflect on the future of Big Spring, discussing new economic development, downtown revitalization projects, and major investments like the Shannon Medical System taking over the local hospital. The episode offers a mix of business insight, community pride, and the personal stories that make West Texas unique.Key Discussion Points: • The growth of Bailey Toliver RV and Ford and their focus on customer relationships • Community involvement through sponsorships, events, and scholarships • Economic growth and development projects happening in Big Spring • The importance of supporting local businesses and workforce pride in West Texas • Personal stories about life, business, and building roots in the region

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down with Dr. Thaddeus McAllister, superintendent of Pathway Academy, to discuss the charter school’s first year serving students in Big Spring. With around 110 students enrolled, Pathway is already helping teenagers accelerate their education through early college coursework, career-focused learning, and hands-on community experiences—from courtroom visits to medical training opportunities.Dr. McAllister explains how the charter school model allows students to progress at their own pace while gaining real-world skills like public speaking, leadership, and career exploration. The conversation highlights Pathway’s partnerships with Howard College and local businesses, as well as student success stories that show how the school is helping young people discover their future paths.The episode also focuses on community involvement. Because charter schools receive less funding than traditional public schools, Pathway Academy relies on local support for initiatives like athletic programs, teacher sponsorships, and parent engagement projects. Dr. McAllister shares several opportunities for Big Spring residents and businesses to help invest in the next generation of local leaders.Key Discussion Points: • Pathway Academy’s first year serving about 110 students with a mastery-based learning model • Students earning early college credit and career certifications, including CNA training • Real-world learning opportunities through community partnerships and internships • The difference between charter school funding and traditional public schools • Community support needs including track uniforms, teacher green card sponsorship, and parent book studies

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down with Chelsea Merkel of the Steer Stampede Booster Club to talk about a unique and growing extracurricular activity in the community — high school barbecue competition teams. Chelsea shares how the team operates, what students learn from competing, and how the booster club helps fund travel, supplies, and competition costs for local students pursuing this hands-on culinary skill.The conversation also highlights an upcoming community fundraiser on March 28 at Hangar 25, featuring a cornhole tournament, a motorcycle-style booster run, student-cooked barbecue meals, vendors, and a silent auction. Chelsea explains how local businesses and residents can get involved through sponsorships, donations, or simply by attending and supporting the students.Scott and Chelsea also discuss the life skills students gain from the program—teamwork, cooking, competition, and confidence—and why community backing is essential to help these young pitmasters succeed both at competitions and beyond high school.Key Discussion Points: • How high school barbecue teams operate and compete across Texas • The role of the Steer Stampede Booster Club in funding travel, supplies, and competitions • Details about the March 28 fundraiser at Hangar 25 including a cornhole tournament and booster run • How local businesses and community members can sponsor or support the team • The life skills students gain through competitive barbecue and culinary experience