Testimonies

A Good Tree Bears Good Fruit

I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit... - John 15:5

John Flippen

“My mom left my father because he became an alcoholic and was abusive physically and verbally. My mom started going to Blinn and was excelling until she was introduced to drugs and alcohol. She switched from being a caring, loving mother who volunteered at school, fed, clothed and bathed us to a woman completely taken by alcohol and drugs. She would leave my sister, brother, and I home alone to go party with her friends, and often became a scary, violent person when using drugs and alcohol. One time she got mad at my sister and started punching her in the face, then ran after me because I tried to make her stop. My brother was just an infant, so my sister and I took care of him and ourselves. We were often starving. When we didn’t have food, I felt forced to steal money just so we could eat. We didn’t have clean clothes and I didn’t even have shoes for a while.

After years of abuse and neglect by our mom, my father somehow got custody of us. But this just landed us in another horrible situation. On Christmas Eve in 1994, my dad dropped us off at Still Creek Ranch (SCR). I was 10 years old, my sister was 11 and my little brother was 6.

At first, I did not want to be at SCR. Although my family was a shattered, dangerous place, I still wanted to be with my dad. I wanted to be loved by him. I did not know what SCR was about, but after a while I grew to love my life there. SCR gave me everything I didn’t get from my family: love and security. The staff adored each one of us as if we were their own. These people and their hearts of gold transformed our lives; they restored our childhood.

I am now a graduate of Texas A&M and have been married to my wife, Amber, for 10 years. We have four children and own and operate a business in BCS called Locksmith Technologies. I am without a doubt a blessed man. I know I would not be where I am or who I am today if not for Still Creek Ranch.”

Evan Schwend

In 1987, I was placed at Still Creek Ranch. At that time, it was a loosely put together faith-based program with very little discipline or structure. I was 14 years old and, like many teens, you couldn’t tell me anything. I knew it all. Or so I thought. In 1988, Danny and Margaret O’Quinn took over the ranch and began to work toward a different vision, which led to what Still Creek Ranch is today.

After they arrived, it wasn’t long before a new routine was put into place and Still Creek became a working ranch. To say the changes were an unwelcome addition to our lazy lifestyle is an understatement. We would now wake up before the sun and be responsible for a litany of chores. “Great,” I thought, “Who do these people think they are?” Oh, and church. We had to go to church. If I had only known how all of this would eventually help develop me into the person I am today, which is a good thing. Without knowing it, we were being taught responsibility and the value of hard work. We were being taught citizenship and humbleness. We would be taught that there are people in the world who will be there to kick you in the butt when you need it, and give you a hug.

There are so many awesome memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. My time at Still Creek was only two years, but the discipline, lessons, and love I received set a life-long example for me and have enabled me to become a pretty good guy. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech, I served my country honorably for twelve years in the Marine Corps, I have a smart and beautiful wife (with a Master’s Degree in Special Education), two amazing kids, and two dumb dogs. I owe a lot of this to what I learned from Still Creek during those very vulnerable and awkward first few teen years. Their love for me and belief in me that I could and would be a success, when a lot of people thought otherwise, still makes me smile. Still Creek’s complete dedication to improving the lives of the children who live there can’t be measured.

Evan Hannon

I came to Still Creek as a broken, angry, confused, and misunderstood boy. I remember fighting with my father and an abusive step mom almost every day. I would get suspended from school for violence, and in return run away from home knowing I would be punished with violence. I was upset at my mother for choosing drugs over me, so my father finally sent me to Still Creek. Here I would meet people who showed me unconditional love, prayed over my life and future, taught me to have a great work ethic and how to release my anger in healthy ways. My house-father, Wes Priest, was my number one fan who motivated me to accomplish all the goals I set out.

Once I left SCR, I entered the public school system where I put my head down and went to work. Academically, I finished in the top 15 percent of my class, and also served as President of various organizations. I earned spots on my 5A High School's Track, Soccer, and Basketball teams. I earned a full-tuition scholarship to Sam Houston State University where I now study International Business, Economics, and German. I am also on the Executive Board for my fraternity chapter, as well as serving as the Interfraternal Council President for the University, overseeing all fraternities and regulating all activities. I would not be in the position I am today if Still Creek did not build my confidence that I can accomplish what I set my heart to do. They taught me that anything is attainable no matter the adversity you've experienced. I am truly blessed to have fallen in the hands of Still Creek Ranch.

Blair Fields

At the age of 11 I was brought to you. You took me in and feed me, clothed me, and held my hand. You showed me what love through God's eyes looked like and guided me through the tough times. I was scared and felt unwanted; you put your arms around me and called me your own. Years passed and I still had hurt and wanted to give up, but you did not give up on me. Instead you told me to look in the mirror every morning and put on my armor of God; to face each day with the expectations of changing something beyond me. You showed me that giving and caring for others is not to seek glory in myself but to let others see the love God has for us as his children. In eight years you gave me a new look on life; eight years you gave me hope to be the best I could be. After my graduation speech Margaret came to me and told me, "Blair you spoke like me when you were up there!" and that she never been more proud. She engraved her name on my heart that day! I am proud to be one of your many children. Thank you, Still Creek, for a chance at a real life and for teaching me all that you did. I will never be the same and I thank God for sending me to Still Creek Ranch.

Since leaving the ranch, I have had many many hard times. But, Still Creek has been there for me time after time as an adult. I have struggled and they have been with me. Wes and Evelyn Priest have been there so many times for me; I can never repay them for being my friends and mentors. Each time I had a baby, they made sure I had everything I needed. I could never have done that on my own. Margaret's daughters Brenda and Mandy have also helped me at really tough times. I am forever thankful and grateful to Still Creek for loving me through good times and bad.

Jody Satsky

Still Creek Ranch saved my life. You see, I was born into a family with a loving father and an addict mother. Turns out, my mother had 5 children before me, 4 of those she lost to the system, then 3 more after me. Mother's, especially in those days, always raised children when there was a separation. So while my dad was away working out of town, thinking we were taken care of, my mom had a life filled with drugs, alcohol and more. I mean who makes their kid steal for them at the ripe age of 8? I finally moved in with an aunt thinking I was going to get out of the horrible world I lived in, but my mom was still around. As things went downhill, I started going down the wrong path. When my dad realized what was going on, he brought me home and did his best to save me. He worked extremely long hours, and all the damage that was done in the past was causing me to make bad decisions. I was headed for prison, just like my brother. I wanted to make the right choices; I just saw the wrong stuff at the wrong age and had no idea how to be a normal kid. Then we were told about Still Creek and my dad saw a chance at saving me. At Still Creek, I was shown love and discipline, hard work and fun, like I had never known. It was the first time I felt part of a family. I caught up in school and learned about compassion and morals. I can quote much of the Bible, and have been blessed to teach it to others. There was no neglect, no adults offering me drugs, no abuse. There was surely no one telling me to steal. The people at Still Creek saved me, and I strive to make them proud (and make up for the turmoil I surely put them through while adjusting to the Ranch). My house brothers and best friends saved me too, and gave me a lifetime of cherished relationships. I could go on and on about what Still Creek taught me, the countless people who made an impact, and the experiences I never would have had otherwise, like Mission Trips and Livestock Shows.

After 6 years at the Ranch, I was a new person and ready to be a man. With Still Creek's help, I went away to trade school and excelled as a welder. It wasn't long before I was working and rising in my company. But after a major welding accident, I came back to Bryan and started working with my dad in his mechanic shop. I couldn't understand how when things were so good, it could all be taken away in a flash. Then I lost my best friend, Alan, in an accident. I was so down. I soon met a local Realtor with Century 21 and things finally started falling into place. I could truly see God's hand putting everything in place for the life He wanted me to have. First, through Still Creek, I was born again. Then meeting my wife, Kristi. We have been happily married for 10 years now and have two beautiful daughters: Natalie (8) and Delaney (5). I am now the owner of Inspections Plus Automotive in Bryan where I do vehicle & DOT inspections and have a full service Mechanic shop. I have the privilege of working with my dad every day. Thanks to him sending me to Still Creek, I have everything I could have ever wanted. I am so grateful to get to spend these years with him after losing so many when I was a child. We are members of FUMC of Bryan and are honored to raise our children in a Christian home. Daily I am able to take what Still Creek gave me and pass it on to my daughters. When we have the opportunity, we visit with the kids at Still Creek. I hope to show them that if they will open themselves up to the Ranch, their life will change for the better. It was not always easy, but its where God wanted me to be, just like he wants them to be right in this place, at this time. We enjoy giving back as much as possible, because without others sacrifices and dedication, we would not be here. I thank everyone that helped make me the man I am today and hope I can make a difference like all of them.

Roger Flippen

Most people would not have chosen my life. In fact, I wouldn’t have chosen some of the events from my past. I am, however, thankful for all that I’ve learned and for how my character has been shaped. My past helped mold me into who I am today.

“I love you, son. I am bringing you to live at this boys’ ranch so you will have a better life.” I was six years old and these are the words that I would cling to for years to come. My father left me; I was scared and alone. The only way I knew to survive was to put my feelings on a “shelf”.

The boys’ ranch taught good morals and values. Thanks to the leaders there, I know what it means to be responsible and honest. I learned attitude is everything, and I learned to value myself. I was fortunate to be responsible for training horses, though I did not understand the impact it had on me until later in life. My biological dad trained horses and that is part of the reason I chose this activity, allowing me a connection to a positive aspect of him. It was hard work, but I learned that without me, the horses couldn’t realize their potential. This lesson would be one I’d relate to later in life.

My childhood taught me I had a choice about who I wanted to become. I am a man who is motivated to be successful in relationships, academics, fitness and work. I desire to fulfill my potential, and I know attitude is the most significant determinant of the outcome.

I knew early on that God has His hand on my life, and I am grateful. My loving parents adopted me when I was fourteen, who ironically, had also founded the boys’ ranch. I remember asking my adopted dad why he built the ranch, to which he responded “because I knew you were coming, son”. As I matured, I realized he didn’t know that I, personally, was coming, but rather he saw a need and built a place to meet the need. His response taught me about how important it is to have vision and to act on it.

My parents taught me to be giving and compassionate. I am thankful to be someone who beat the odds, and forever grateful to people who invested in me. Just like those horses; I couldn’t have reached my full potential without others.

Like my brother John, I am a graduate of Texas A&M University; however I went on to study at the San Antonio School of Dentistry, and earned my D.D.S (Doctor of Dental Surgery) in May of 2016. My wife and I have 2 wonderful children and another baby girl on the way! We currently live in Birmingham, AL, where I practice dentistry and involved with an advanced dental training program.

I tell you some of my life story, not just for those who support the ranch or who are thinking about it, but also for those who are going through what my siblings and I experienced. My life at the ranch and where I am now is a testament to the power of positive influence, and staying committed to your dreams. Attitude is everything! I will never regret my past, for if I hadn’t experienced those struggles, I don’t know that I would have the same degree of empathy for others. I want to leave you with a quote I found a few years ago, and one that I believe encompasses the mission of Still Creek Ranch:

“Some want to live within the sound of church or chapel bell; I want to run a rescue shop, within a yard of hell.” – C.T. Studd.

Chris “Coupe” Deville

I arrived at Still Creek at age 12. I was angry at the world and angry at the family I thought was abandoning me. I was wrong. When I first arrived Still Creek was difficult. I thought I was always in trouble and doing every mundane ranch task because Danny O’Quinn and Henry Link hated me. I felt like I was always the one having to push mow, dig holes, haul rocks, or clean stalls because nothing I did was right. Over those first few years I learned that I was not actually hated. I was loved by both my family and my Still Creek family. Those mundane tasks I was assigned and hours in the hot sun were not because Danny loved to make me work. He was teaching me how to work. Danny was teaching me how to be the best person I can be and make the best of what I had.

Like so many of my brothers and sisters at Still Creek, I didn’t have the best upbringing and had my own share of tragedy. Instead of letting it rule my life, I overcame. I left Still Creek at 18 and worked for Hwy 30 Vet Clinic for five years. I was given the opportunity at 21 to work for a local A/C company. I was taught a trade skill and became a Certified A/C Tech. That same year, one of the best things in my life happened as well. I met a woman named Meghaen who would six years later become my wife, and eight years later give me a son, Jensen. Meghaen and I were married by Danny at the Glory Inn. I was proud to have the O’Quinns there to see me get married and grow one step further into the man I am today.

I now work for a company that is great for someone with my skill set. A job where I hope to learn and grow just as much as I did in the ten years I spent in AC. My wife is a Business Manager at a local hospital and my son is attending preschool where he excels at everything he’s learning.

If I can give any advice from my experiences at Still Creek its this: you may be put into a situation where you think the world is against you and nothing seems to ever go your way. But it's these situations that define who you are and who you will become. Learn from them. Cherish them. You can find family in people that are not of the same blood, but who can love you and help you down the right path.

P.S. One of my fondest memories of Still Creek happened years after I left: my wedding day. Meghaen and I were married at the Glory Inn. Danny officiated. I was proud to have Danny and Margaret there to see me get married and grow one step further into the man I am today.

Christopher & Valeria Vasquez

“I was born in Lufkin, TX in 1994. In 1998 my family was torn when my father walked out. Raised by my sister and grandparents, I felt unloved. That same year my uncle sexually assaulted me and my sister. For the next 3 years we both lived in fear. I finally came forward and did something to save my sister, who was 5 years older than me. The situation crippled me emotionally and confused me. I became addicted to porn. My mother still worked thinking psychology could fix everything instead of giving me love herself. She remarried a man who constantly beat, choked, and smothered me with pillows. My mother ignored the bruises and me begging for it to stop. A few years after I witnessed a friend’s death, I decided to end it. A revolver in in my hand, I pulled the trigger. I know I checked the cylinders, but the gun didn’t go off. It was in that moment that I started believing God was real and must have a plan to save me. My stepfather took a job in Bryan, TX. He didn’t want me and begged my mother to drop me off at Still Creek. While at Still Creek, Danny and Margaret O'Quinn made the biggest impact in my life. I was away from the abuse and neglect and I realized happiness is what you make it, not what the people around you make it. God is with all of us even if we don’t believe. The O’Quinns were good at taking a personal interest in everyone. I saw them as the family I never had. Without them I wouldn’t be the man I am today. I was at Still Creek 2 1/2 years. When we first met the girls, a special one caught my eye. I was afraid and so confused in life that I didn’t know how to tell what was real and what wasn’t. Afraid of rejection, I never said anything. As we traded stories, I knew I loved her. I remember taking every opportunity to be together and ride horses. Then, just like that, she was gone. I searched many years for her and prayed and prayed. Then I finally found her. I’m here to tell you that God is good. Today is the 7th week into our 4th pregnancy. In March we will have been married a year. My wife Valeria and our children have been the best blessing God has ever given me. Without Still Creek I wouldn’t be here. God has financially blessed us always with everything we need. Margaret and Danny and their family continued to help and support us whenever we were in need. I'm here today to tell you to never be afraid. If you see a chance, take it. Most importantly trust in God and never give up on life.”

I was born in Partizansk, Russia, me and my brother both. We grew up in a very poor family, most days we didn't have food. One winter we lived off of onions (I still love onions). My mom was a druggy, so she was never home, so my aunt watched us. I was abused in every way possible...but God had other plans. We were put in an orphanage when I was almost 7. After being in the orphanage for almost 4 years, we were adopted and brought to America!! I was 11. At age 13, me and my brother were put in Still Creek. I never knew it would be such a blessing! Not only did I meet my husband there but Mrs. Margaret and Mr. Danny became like parents to me! I could never ask for better people in my life. Still Creek blessed me beyond anything I could imagine!! I made so many friends and my spiritual side grew. I am now 22, I am married to a wonderful man! We have 2 children and yet another on the way (yay!)! We will always be grateful for our family at Still Creek!!