Same family — same location — 75 years

In 1934, It Happened One Night opened and became a smash hit, the first of many such "feel good" movies directed by Frank Capra. During troubled times, folks responded to messages of optimism and hope.
 That same year, Tom Ervin acted with optimism by establishing Ervin Plumbing in the 900 block of Grant Street. The company was based on fairness and honesty and "getting people out of the fix they're in."
  At that time, Grant was a dirt road within shouting distance of the three school buildings, Odessa High School, Crockett and Austin.
 "People can remember hunting for rattlesnakes and rabbits over by the Parker House on Maple back in those days," says co-owner Norlene McBride, granddaughter of Tom. Norlene and her brother, co-owner Tommy Ervin, occasionally see customers from the old days like R. C. (Dick) Waddell and Euel Hammet.
 Tom passed away in 1954, and Tommy and Norlene's dad Jerry took over the business along with their uncle Joe. Their mom, Connie, later came on board. Joe retired in 1974, and Jerry and Connie in 1983, leaving Tommy and Norlene to carry on.
 "We recognize that we're fortunate to have the customer base we do," Norlene says. "We work hard to be fair and honest so that whenever our customers need us, they will know that they can rely on us to do the best job."
 The plumbing business has changed considerably since 1934. Nowadays, pipes are more likely to be plastic rather than galvanized, though copper pipes still have their place, according to Norlene. Technology has changed and enabled Ervin's workers to diagnose plumbing problems more quickly with devices such as digital cameras that can be sent down drain lines to help assess the situation.
 Ervin Plumbing keeps a well-stocked retail store, which Norlene refers to as a "handyman's warehouse." They also offer expert advice to help "do-it-yourselfers" out of their fix. Ervin technicians keep their trucks fully stocked, saving customers time and money.
 Ervin Plumbing has a tradition of generosity in their support of local schools and organizations. They continue that tradition with their involvement in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Meals On Wheels, LINKS, Permian Basin Rehab and many others. In addition, they offer substantial discounts to all non-profits and faith-based organizations.
 In 2007, Ervin Plumbing expanded by purchasing Greers Plumbing in Midland. Having retail stores and service technicians in both Odessa and Midland has greatly helped them to better serve all their customers throughout the Permian Basin. Come by 900 N Grant in Odessa or 432 Andrews Hwy in Midland and let their friendly staff assist you with all your plumbing, heating and air conditioning needs.
 Ervin is available 24/7 with a full line of plumbing, heating and air conditioning services. Their office hours are 8 to 5, Monday through Friday. For more information, call (432) 580-6777.