Below you will find a multitude of my writing, from reviews to articles to blogs.

By Emma Metcalf

A24's "Hereditary," directed by Ari Aster and released in 2018, is often hailed as a modern masterpiece in horror cinema, challenging the genre with its disturbing narrative and striking imagery. The movie generated about 82 million in box office sales. While many viewers and critics have praised the film for its slow-burning tension and psychological horror, I am not convinced that "Hereditary" lives up to the immense hype that surrounds it.

The film follows the Graham family, primarily focusing on Annie (Toni Collette), who has recently lost her secretive and estranged mother. As the family grapples with grief and loss, they begin to unravel the sinister and deeply unsettling secrets lurking in their ancestry. The narrative is undoubtedly complex, offering a unique and intricate storyline that is unfortunately not easily forgotten.

Toni Collette's performance as Annie is undoubtedly a highlight of the film. Her portrayal of a mother descending into madness is nothing short of astonishing, as she captures the raw emotion and inner turmoil of her character. Her acting is a driving force that holds the movie together and keeps the audience engaged even in its most chaotic moments.

However, for all its potential, "Hereditary" is not without its flaws. One of the most common criticisms directed at the film is its pacing. The film's slow build-up is tediously long, with the first half relying heavily on creating a sense of unease and foreshadowing the horrors to come. While this approach is often lauded in horror cinema, "Hereditary" definitely tests patience, especially if you’re seeking more immediate scares.

Brendan McGinley, a blogger, said “Hereditary is a film so laborious, so tedious, so consummately PONDEROUS, I was writhing in my seat with frustration for at least eight hours of this 127-minute movie.”

Leo Holman, another blogger, concurs what McGinley said.

“Whoever edited this movie seems to have forgotten to take out about 35 minutes of emptiness. The first half of the movie is one incredibly long and pointless cruise through these people’s lives,” said Holman.

The film's descent into “chaos” in its second half, although undeniably intense, pushes the boundaries of believability and veers into the territory of supernatural horror. The climax is more bizarre than genuinely terrifying, which can be polarizing.

"Hereditary" is also known for its dark and gruesome imagery, which has the potential to be deeply disturbing for some viewers. The graphic scenes, combined with the film's overall sense of hopelessness, left me emotionally drained and unsatisfied.

In conclusion, "Hereditary" is a film that, while celebrated for its exceptional performances and atmospheric tension, is not without its divisive aspects. Its deliberately slow pace and unconventional storytelling alienates viewers like me that long for a more traditional horror experience. The film's intensity and graphic content are not for the faint of heart, making it a polarizing experience in the genre.

Whether "Hereditary" is a brilliant and groundbreaking entry in the horror genre or a disappointing misstep is a matter of personal preference. It is undoubtedly a film that leaves a lasting impression, whether for its artistic merits or its ability to divide audiences.

Toni Collette's Performance

Toni Collette's portrayal of Annie, the tormented mother at the heart of "Hereditary," stands as one of the film's most compelling elements. Her ability to convey a complex range of emotions, from the grief of a mother who has lost a child to the creeping madness that takes hold, is nothing short of masterful. Collette's performance earned her critical acclaim and established her as a force in the horror genre.

The film's initial premise revolves around the Graham family coming to terms with the death of Annie's secretive and estranged mother. As the narrative unfolds, Annie's mental state deteriorates, and she grapples with her family's sinister history. Collette's performance brings a haunting and raw intensity to the character, making Annie a deeply memorable and sympathetic figure despite her growing instability.

Throughout the film, Collette captures the intricate and often conflicting emotions that torment Annie. Her ability to convey the desperation and anguish of a mother who has lost a child is gut-wrenching. She skillfully navigates the transition from grief to fear and paranoia, adding layers to her character that are essential to the film's success.

One of the most memorable moments in "Hereditary" comes during a dinner table confrontation, where Collette's character unravels, unleashing a torrent of emotions that leaves you in awe of her acting prowess. This scene, in particular, showcases Collette's ability to convey a profound sense of dread and hopelessness, and it remains etched in the minds of those who have seen the film.

Toni Collette's exceptional performance in "Hereditary" elevates the film beyond its genre constraints. Her portrayal of Annie is a force in horror cinema and one of the primary reasons the film has garnered such a strong following. Despite the film's divisive nature, Collette's acting stands as an undisputed triumph.

The Pacing Predicament

While "Hereditary" boasts an intricately woven narrative and a powerhouse performance from Toni Collette, the film's deliberate pacing is a source of contention. The movie's slow-burning approach, aimed at building a pervasive sense of unease, will undoubtedly test your patience.

The first half of the film is characterized by its methodical pacing, with an emphasis on atmospheric tension and foreshadowing. This approach is in line with modern horror's inclination toward psychological horror yet alienates those who anticipate more immediate scares. The film demands commitment as it slowly unravels its mysteries.

In the second half, "Hereditary" takes a dramatic and intense turn as it delves into the supernatural. While this shift propels the narrative forward, it also pushes the boundaries of believability. The film's climax, characterized by bizarre and nightmarish events, may be perceived as more perplexing than genuinely terrifying, leaving you bewildered.

Graphic Imagery and Emotional Drainage

"Hereditary" is known for its dark and gruesome imagery, which can be deeply disturbing to some viewers. The film's willingness to confront visceral horrors and taboo subjects is a hallmark of its style. However, this graphic content, combined with the film's overall sense of hopelessness, leaves you emotionally drained and unsatisfied.

Alissa Wilkinson, a Vox writer, says “If you’re going into Hereditary looking for a “scary movie,” you’re doing it wrong. Better descriptors might be “uncanny,” or “unnerving,” or “vexing,” or “devilish.” It’s half supernatural horror film, half startlingly realistic drama about a family dealing with grief.”

The film's dedication to depicting disturbing and violent imagery, including decapitations and supernatural rituals, is polarizing. While some appreciate the film's commitment to pushing boundaries and unsettling the audience, I find the content excessively gratuitous and hard to digest.

In summary, "Hereditary" is a film that pushes the boundaries of the horror genre and dares to explore the darker aspects of human nature. While it is celebrated for its exceptional performances and masterful storytelling, it is not without its divisive elements. The film's pacing, graphic content, and descent into the supernatural alienates you, leaving you with mixed feelings about its overall impact.

"Hereditary" remains a polarizing force in contemporary horror cinema, leaving audiences divided between those who hail it as a masterpiece and those who find it an unsatisfying descent into darkness. Ultimately, the film's enduring impact will depend on individual preferences and one's appetite for a brand of horror that challenges the norm.

By: Emma Metcalf
Persistent drought conditions in West Texas, and Texas overall, have emerged as a significant cause for concern, reminiscent of the challenging period from 2011 to 2015, known as the drought of record. While the region has seen fluctuations in drought severity over the years, available data can provide an oversight of the current situation.

The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) provides crucial insights into the extent and severity of drought in Texas. According to the USDM, as of August 2023, West Texas has been experiencing drought conditions since late 2021, reaching an exceptional drought level by May 2022. Despite a temporary reprieve towards the end of 2022, particularly in the Panhandle Region, the return of drought conditions this summer, especially south of New Mexico, highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region. The USDM has been a vital tool in tracking these fluctuations, offering real-time assessments of the evolving drought scenario.

A primary driver of the current drought conditions in West Texas is the persistent and record-breaking heat experienced during the summer months. Joel Lisonbee, the Drought Early Warning System Coordinator for the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), said that temperature anomalies for the past 90 days have consistently shown temperatures 90% higher than the average, exacerbating the situation.

“At least a quarter to a third of Texas has had the warmest summer on record – this was a really crazy hot summer with several record temperatures set,” said Lisonbee.

Contrary to what may be expected, the droughts' primary driver in West Texas has been excessive heat - rather than a significant precipitation deficit. The region typically experiences lower rainfall during the colder months, such as January, February and March, with only a few inches on average. The summer months, particularly May, are crucial for rainfall.

Justin Weaver, Meteorologist-in-Charge at the National Weather Service in Lubbock, said this year there was excessive rainfall in May and early June, but it was followed by an extreme dry spell.

“In Lubbock, we’ve only had around 13 to 14 inches of rain this year, which is below normal,” said Weaver.

This puts into perspective how high temperatures were this summer.

“We had 46 days over 100 degrees – the average is 11,” said Weaver. “The record was 48 in 2011, so it was a very hot and dry summer, and that exacerbated drought conditions.”

The impact of this prolonged drought on agriculture in West Texas has been profound, particularly for crops without irrigation. Cotton farmers, in particular, have faced substantial losses. While exact figures for this year’s crop losses are not yet available, the situation is alarming, especially considering that the harvest season has just gotten started. Farmers have adapted by diversifying water sources and considering the diminishing aquifer levels, showcasing resilience in the face of challenging conditions.

In 2011, the first year of the drought of record, in hopes of saving their crops, farmers tried using irrigation systems and pumping water from the aquifer to save their crops.

“They found out that, you know, the levels of the aquifer are so low now that they can’t pump enough water out of the aquifer to save their crops, so they might as well take the insurance loss,” said Weaver.

Weaver said although a large number of crops failed during the drought in 2011, this was a silver lining. Since farmers found out that using the irrigation system was not going to work, they evidently ended up saving some of the aquifer’s water supply this way.

West Texas heavily depends on reservoirs for water supply, and these reservoirs require consistent and substantial rainfall to maintain healthy water levels. Extended periods of drought, coupled with high evaporation rates during hot summers, strain water resources in the region.

Municipalities like Lubbock often implement water conservation measures, including watering restrictions and incentives for using water-efficient fixtures and landscaping. However, managing water resources remains a critical challenge, especially in times of prolonged drought.

Moreover, drought conditions significantly increase the risk of wildfires in West Texas. The combination of dry fuels, low relative humidity, and high winds creates the ideal conditions for wildfires to spread, said Weaver. Recent years have seen an increase in both the frequency and severity of wildfires in the region, posing a severe threat to both property and human lives.

The parched conditions have led to an active wildfire season having over 1,000 fires that burnt more than 120,000 acres just this year, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. These wildfires underscore the seriousness of the situation.

Lisonbee said the drought conditions in West Texas are the worst in Midland and Odessa recently and that is also where the most fires have been throughout September. It’s important to note that wildfires can be a severe threat to both property and human lives.

In a notable record, September 2023 set a new benchmark for West Texas, registering the hottest day at a scorching 107 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). This record highlights the intensifying impact of climate change on the region, contributing to prolonged drought conditions and posing additional challenges to water resources and agriculture.

The current drought conditions in West Texas are a complex issue driven by a combination of meteorological factors, including excessive heat and erratic precipitation patterns. Agriculture and water resources are particularly vulnerable, and the added risk of wildfires intensifies the overall challenge. Effectively managing water resources and implementing water conservation measures are crucial steps to mitigate the far-reaching consequences of drought on the region’s economy and communities.

In the realm of legislative responses, Senate Bill 28 (SB 28) has emerged as a pivotal initiative aimed at addressing the water challenges in West Texas. SB 28 focuses on allocating resources for drought mitigation, water conservation efforts, and enhancing infrastructure to secure a sustainable water supply for the region. The bill, currently under consideration, reflects the recognition of the urgent need for legislative measures to safeguard West Texas, and Texas generally, against the impacts of prolonged drought and water scarcity.

While acknowledging that climate change may play a role in the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, including droughts, definitively attributing a single event to larger climate patterns is challenging. Nonetheless, a data-driven analysis underscores the urgency of proactive measures to address West Texas’ vulnerability to drought and its broader implications.

By: Emma Metcalf

In a quaint town born from the rails in 1911, Slaton's Harvey House, as remembered by Tony Privett, stands as a testament to an era where travel and dining intertwined. The Harvey House, a division point in the expansive Santa Fe Railways operations, played a pivotal role in shaping the early days of Slaton, offering a unique dining experience for travelers on the iconic railway.

Established in 1912, the Harvey House in Slaton thrived as a bustling hub. Serving as a strategic division point, the Harvey House provided respite for travelers every 100 miles, accommodating the limited range of steam engines in the early 1900s.

"This was a real marketing advantage for the Santa Fe Railroad," notes Tony Privett, emphasizing the significance of the Harvey House in providing quality dining for passengers.

This historic establishment, conceived by entrepreneur Fred Harvey, pioneered high-quality dining for railway passengers. Acting as America's first "fast food chain," the Harvey Houses ensured that passengers could enjoy well-prepared, upscale meals during their journeys. The efficient system involved passengers placing orders in advance via announcements on the trains, allowing the Harvey House staff to receive a telegraph with the orders ahead for swift service during the brief 20-minute stops.

"The Harvey Houses were America's first fast food chain," Privett remarks, highlighting the revolutionary nature of the service provided by Fred Harvey's establishments.

Fred Harvey's emphasis on quality service and hospitality left an indelible mark on the culture of the Harvey Houses. In small towns like Slaton, where reliable dining options were scarce, the Harvey House became a symbol of luxury, offering hot meals with china and silverware – a far cry from the rustic dining experiences of the time.

As the years progressed, the Harvey House in Slaton faced challenges, closing its doors in 1942 as steam engines gave way to diesel, altering the landscape of railway travel. Over the years, the building changed, but its exterior retained its historical integrity.

In 1990, a group of dedicated citizens took on the task of preserving and restoring the Harvey House in Slaton. Challenges arose as they transformed the space to accommodate modern needs while maintaining its historical essence. Today, the first-floor dining room serves as an event center, hosting reunions, weddings, and other gatherings, contributing to the ongoing efforts to keep the Harvey House alive.

Adding a new chapter to its storied history, the Harvey House in Slaton has transformed into a bed and breakfast. The upstairs bedrooms, once occupied by the Harvey Girls, now offer charming accommodations for visitors. These cozy rooms, although larger than their historic counterparts, maintain the spirit of the Harvey House era, providing a unique and nostalgic stay for guests.

Despite its closure in 1942, the Harvey House's legacy lives on, with local residents and those from far away, cherishing the memories and stories passed down through generations. As Slaton's Harvey House continues to offer a glimpse into the past, the town remains connected to its railway roots, celebrating the enduring spirit of hospitality and service that defined an era gone by.

By: Emma Metcalf

Lubbock, Texas, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine, but the region boasts a fascinating history and a growing wine culture that’s leaving its mark on the industry.

The story of Lubbock’s wine culture traces back to the late 1960s when a visionary individual planted the seeds for what would become a flourishing industry. In 1968, a pioneer, Dr. Clinton (Doc) McPherson, planted the first vineyard in the area, setting the stage for the growth of the wine scene. By 1976, the first winery, Llano Estacado Winery, emerged, marking the beginning of Lubbock’s journey into winemaking.

The budding wine industry faced challenges, with some wineries faltering along the way. However, persistence and passion prevailed. By the mid-2000s, Lubbock was on the map as a significant player in the Texas wine scene. Notably, the region’s climate, characterized by warm days and cool evenings, provided an ideal environment for grape cultivation.

John Osbourn, President of Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA), said Lubbock’s terroir sets it apart from other wine regions; “The higher elevation contributes to cool evenings, while warm days create an optimal environment for grape growing.”

Kim McPherson, owner of McPherson Cellars and son of Doc McPherson, said the region primarily cultivates Spanish, Italian, and Southern French varieties. This unique selection reflects the region’s affinity for varieties that thrive in the West Texas heat.

Lubbock’s wine culture has become a draw for tourists seeking a unique experience. With a growing number of wineries, the region has witnessed an uptick in wine-related tourism.

“Visitors explore vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and savor the local flavors in restaurants that proudly feature Lubbock wines,” said Osbourn.

The marriage of wine culture and hospitality has transformed the dining scene, offering patrons a chance to indulge in the region’s finest.

As the wine industry flourishes, local businesses reap the benefits. Restaurants proudly showcase Lubbock wines, creating a symbiotic relationship between the culinary and viticulture worlds. The demand for local wines has opened doors for entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive ecosystem for businesses related to viticulture, enology, and tourism.

From its modest beginnings, Lubbock’s wine industry has evolved into a dynamic force, with numerous wineries making a mark on the national stage. Award-winning wines produced, such as some at McPherson Cellars, in Lubbock have garnered recognition, even surpassing renowned wine regions in France and California. The journey from a single vineyard to a thriving industry showcases the resilience and dedication of Lubbock’s winemakers.

Lubbock’s wine culture is a testament to the indomitable spirit of its winemakers such as Kim McPherson and the unique characteristics of the region. As the industry continues to evolve, it brings economic growth, tourism, and a distinct flavor to Lubbock’s culinary landscape. So, the next time you reach for a glass of wine, consider exploring the hidden gem that is Lubbock, where each sip tells a story of passion, perseverance, and the rich history of winemaking in West Texas. Cheers to Lubbock’s vibrant wine culture!

By: Emma Metcalf

As January unfolds, the nation comes together to recognize National Blood Donor Month, a time dedicated to honoring the selfless individuals who contribute to the lifeline of our healthcare system – blood donation.

In the midst of winter, when inclement weather often disrupts routine blood drives, National Blood Donor Month serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for blood donations. Hospitals across the country rely on these donations to maintain an adequate and stable blood supply to treat patients facing surgeries, traumas, and chronic illnesses.

The month-long observance not only pays tribute to the donors but also seeks to raise awareness about the constant demand for blood. According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. This simple act of giving can make a profound difference in someone's life.

Throughout January, blood donation organizations, local communities, and healthcare providers join forces to encourage more people to roll up their sleeves and donate. Numerous events, mobile blood drives, and outreach programs are organized to make the process accessible and convenient for potential donors.

Individuals from all walks of life are urged to participate, as blood knows no color, ethnicity, or gender. By fostering a culture of regular blood donation, communities can ensure a stable blood supply that reflects the diversity of the population it serves.

Local blood banks often host special events, recognizing and thanking frequent donors for their commitment. Additionally, educational programs highlight the impact of blood donation on saving lives, emphasizing that a single donation can help multiple people in need.

This National Blood Donor Month consider becoming part of this life-saving mission. Check with local blood donation centers, community organizations, or mobile blood drives to find opportunities to donate. Whether you're a first-time donor or a regular contributor, your contribution plays a vital role in sustaining the health and wellbeing of our communities.

Let January not only mark the beginning of a new year but also a time when communities unite to make a collective impact on the lives of those in need. Join the movement, donate blood, and be a hero in someone's story.

By: Emma Metcalf

An old disease is making its comeback and it’s bad in California.

Silicosis, an incurable disease that dates back centuries, is a lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of silica. For California workers who cut countertops, this could be their fate.

Anyone who works with and around stone is at risk for silicosis, but recently, as the popularity of countertops made of engineered stone has been on the uprise – so has the disease.

Engineered stone, unlike traditional natural stone, contains significantly higher levels of silica making it more hazardous to work with. This stone contains high levels of crystalline silica, making it even more hazardous.

When workers are cutting or grinding stone, tiny parts of silica dust fly around everywhere. The more you breathe in this dust it will build up around your lungs leaving you out of breath, weak and ultimately suffering from lung failure.

Research conducted by UCLA and UCSF found that nearly one-fifth of California workers who contracted silicosis from grinding countertops had died, with a median death age of just 46.

This outbreak of silicosis cases is most prevalent within Los Angeles County.

California workplace safety regulators have developed emergency rules to protect workers in this industry. There has also been talks by the county department of banning this popular engineered stone in the state of California.

Workers not adhering to safety measures are obviously most at risk of developing silicosis, but even those that do are still suffering.

In the research conducted by UCLA and UCSF, it was found that nearly half of the workers suffering silicosis said their workplaces were using water to control dust and roughly a quarter said they always had respiratory protection such as face masks.

Better safety measures may not be enough in this case. While this engineered stone may cost less for your countertop, it is costing workers lives.

By: Emma Metcalf

Lubbock County, Texas has been grappling with a startling surge in syphilis cases over the past few years, a concerning trend reflective of the national landscape. While the COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly played a role in exacerbating this issue, experts believe that the roots of this problem reach even further back. Here we delve into the factors contributing to this alarming increase in syphilis cases, the demographics most affected, the challenges faced in addressing the issue and the crucial importance of education, testing and treatment.

The Disturbing Trend

Over the last two to three years, Lubbock County has witnessed a significant uptick in syphilis cases, echoing a nationwide trend. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public health is undeniable, but it is important to recognize that the increase in syphilis cases began before the pandemic. As Katherine Wells points out, “We were probably starting to see an increase prior to COVID.” However, the pandemic disrupted disease investigations and hindered the efforts to control the spread of syphilis effectively.

The rise in syphilis cases in Lubbock County has not occurred in isolation. Across the United States, health officials have been grappling with similar surges, Wells said. This indicates the problem goes beyond regional factors and calls for a broader examination of societal shifts and healthcare preparedness.

Syphilis doesn’t just affect individuals; it can also have far-reaching consequences on communities. The rise in syphilis cases places additional strain on already stretched healthcare resources. It divers resources away from other crucial healthcare needs, potentially affecting the overall health and well-being of the community.

The increase in cases among young women is particularly concerning due to the potential implications for pregnancy, Foster said. Syphilis can lead to severe complications during pregnancy and pose a significant risk to newborns. This underlines the importance of early detection and treatment to protect both individuals and future generations.

The Key Demographics Affected

One noteworthy shift in this troubling trend is the change in demographics. Historically, syphilis was more prevalent amount men who have sex with men, but the landscape has evolved. Wells explains, “Prior to COVID, we tended to see syphilis in men who have sex with men – that has changed, we’re seeing it in a more heterosexual population, with more women testing positive.”

Kaitlyn Foster, a Rehabilitation Aide at Covenant Medical Center, adds, “We are seeing a shift in the demographics to a large percentage of female carriers, which is a concern for pregnancy.”

The increase in cases among young women is particularly concerning due to the potential implications for pregnancy, Foster said. Syphilis can lead to severe complications during pregnancy and pose a significant risk to newborns. This underlines the importance of early detection and treatment to protect both individuals and future generations.

The impact of syphilis is not limited to a specific group, rather it affects a wide range of individuals. Most cases are observed among young adults in the 18 to 38 range, according to Wells. Men still account for a significant majority of cases, approximately 60 to 70%, and the remaining cases are among females. The shift underscores the importance of recognizing that syphilis can affect anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Challenges in Detection and Treatment

One of the major challenges in addressing the surge in syphilis cases is ensuring that healthcare providers are educated about the disease and equipped to identify and treat it promptly. The drastic increase in cases caught many medical professionals off guard, as Wells notes, “The numbers used to be like six or seven years ago, we had 50 cases a year; now we have 600 cases a year.” This rampant growth in cases has strained the healthcare systems capacity to respond effectively.

To tackle this issue, efforts have been made to re-educate physicians, nurse practitioners and clinics about syphilis. Awareness campaigns have been launched to ensure that healthcare providers are vigilant in testing and treating patients when necessary. Raising awareness among medical professionals is crucial in the fight against syphilis.

Foster emphasizes, “Getting people to get tested and the access to treatment is most important.” However, treatment has been further complicated by a shortage of the most effective medication, penicillin G benzathine. “This is because Pfizer is the sole supplier of this medication, and because of the need for a COVID-19 vaccine, the production of other medication was slowed down.”

As a result of this shortage, individuals with syphilis have had to turn to alternative treatments such as doxycycline, an antibiotic that requires a 14 to 30-day course depending on when the infection was contracted. Foster notes, “This medication has created some challenges because it must be taken over several days, a lot of people will stop taking the medication when they feel better rather than completing the entire series.”

The Lack of Investment in Public Health Infrastructure

Wells emphasized that the surge in syphilis cases in, in part, due to the lack of investment in public health infrastructure. Surveillance programs and disease investigation teams have not seen an increase in resources for a long time, leaving them ill-equipped to handle the current crisis effectively.

The challenges posed by the surge are not insurmountable. Increased investment in public health infrastructure is critical to bolster disease surveillance, investigations and treatment efforts, Wells said.

Changing Social Dynamics and Online Dating

The rise in syphilis cases is also attributed to shifting social dynamics, including the prevalence of online dating and dating apps. These platforms have made it easier for individuals to engage in multiple sexual partners or anonymous encounters, which increase the risk of contracting syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), according to Wells.

Prevention and Awareness

Preventing syphilis involves multiple strategies, including abstinence, monogamous relationships and regular testing for STIs. Abstinence significantly reduces the risk of contracting STIs, while staying in a monogamous relationship with testing at the beginning of the relationship can help identify and address infections early.

To combat the stigma surrounding syphilis and other STIs, Wells said the Lubbock County Health Department has been working to create a more open and accepting environment. They have increased targeted advertising on dating apps and expanded the number of appointments available for testing and treatment at their clinic.

Lubbock County is facing a severe syphilis crisis, with cases increasing by a staggering 500%. The shortage of the most effective treatment, coupled with changing demographics and a lack of investment in public health infrastructure, has created a pressing public health concern. Raising awareness, educating healthcare providers, and promoting safe sexual practice are crucial steps toward controlling the rise of syphilis in Lubbock County. The battle against this alarming trend requires a united effort from the community, healthcare professionals and policymakers to ensure the well-being of all residents.

Additionally, education and awareness campaigns must extend beyond healthcare providers, Foster said. Schools, community organizations and local leaders can play a crucial role in spreading knowledge about syphilis prevention, testing and treatment. Breaking down stigma and promoting open conversations about sexual health are vital steps in this process.

The Human Toll

Beyond the statistics and numbers, it is essential to remember the human toll of the syphilis epidemic. Each case represents an individual with hopes, dreams and loved ones. The physical and emotional impact of syphilis can be devastating. Early detection and treatment are not just about stemming the spread of the disease but also about preserving the health and dignity of those affected.

A Testimony

“I met him on Grindr. We talked for weeks maybe months before we met. We didn’t really talk about sex, we had actual conversations and before I realized it, I had a little crush on the guy. Fast forward, one day after a night out with the girls, he invited me over and to hangout! We hung out a lot, so I didn’t really think anything of it. I get to his place and we are chilling on the couch and he asked me if he could kiss me and things went forward. The next month I have my bi-weekly checkup and I tested positive for syphilis. My only symptom was one lesion, nothing more. I’m glad I caught it early. My treatment was kind of weird. After I tested positive, I went into the Lubbock Health Clinic and the doctor looked at my entire body and then told me there was a shortage of penicillin because the numbers were up 300% compared to the year before. All I cared about was getting treated. They gave me two weeks of pills I had to take, and I couldn’t have sex for four months. I am glad that I was able to get treated quickly and effectively, and hopefully they are able to replenish the penicillin for an easier treatment option. As basic as it sounds, have safe sex, really know who you’re sleeping with, wear a condom and always make sure they know their status.”

Blayne Portman, 22, Lubbock, TX