bmonthly september 2016

Profile

SHELBY BRAMMER

Business

BARTLESVILLE TREE SERVICE

THIS MONTH: 100 MILE HIGHWAY SALE

Feature

PHILANTHROPY BARTLESVILLE

SEPTEMBER 2016

YEARS OF bMONTHLY

N

MEET ARTIST KEVIN BOX

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COMPREHENSIVE SEPTEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR

what’s inside...

8.

10.

26.

33.

29.

5 Upfront

23

Out & About

8

Business: Bartlesville Tree Service

26

The Arts: Bartlesville Visual Arts Commission

10

Feature: Benefiting Bartlesville

29

Profile: Shelby Brammer

17

September Calendar

33

Community: Kan-Okla 100 Mile Highway Sale

How local non-profits are making a difference Find out what’s happening this month!

34

Last Call: Center Stage

CMT starts school-year program

September 2016

upfront

upfront For as long as I can remember, Bartlesville has been my home.

From the time I was a baby, I was attending First Baptist Church downtown. When I was old enough, I began my schooling career in the Bartlesville Public School District. I graduated from Bartlesville High School in 2009, knowing that the skills I learned as a Bartian could take me anywhere.

I have countless memories of summers spent at Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve -- making arts and crafts with my sister during Kidsfest, picnic lunches with my family at the popular cowboy statue and standing in awe of the ruby and diamond-encrusted saddle on display in the museum that my great-grandfather once used during his rodeo days. I’ve been to Frank Phillips’ Lodge more times than I can count, and I find something new to explore every time I’m there. One day, I hope to finally visit the second floor!

Bartlesville Monthly Turns Five!

to swim. We’d pack sandwiches, chips and soda to take with us and eat when we were tired from swimming. You could see the Cherokee in our skin at the pool -we were always tan from spending the whole day outside.

Living in Bartlesville taught me to always appreciate where you came from. As a teenager, I’d dream of getting out and moving on to bigger and better things. Now that I’m an adult, I see the beauty in a smaller city, where you know so many of your neighbors, and you’re always close to family and friends.

Though I am now married and living outside of the city, Bartlesville will always be my home. It’s where I grew up, where I got my first dog, where I learned how to drive. I will always be a better person because of the lessons I learned while living in Bartlesville, and I will always remain a Bartian.

I remember warm nights spent at the Kiddie Park, riding the train, the roller coaster, and the spinning cages that I never knew the name for. We didn’t get cotton candy often, so when we went to the Kiddie Park, it was a special treat. When I got a little older, I even remember volunteering with my youth group at the concession stand.

When the pools would open each year, my mother would take my sister and I to Sooner Pool

Volume VI Issue IX P.O. Box 44 / Bartlesville, OK 74005

www.bartlesvillemonthly.com facebook.com/bartlesvillemonthly Publisher/Owner

Jemme Hennessey jemme@bartlesvillemonthly.com Art Direction

PDG+creative andrew@pdgcreative.com Advertising/Sales

Peg Wilson

saleslady1@bartlesvillemonthly.com 918.914.2965 Copyeditor/Social Media Manager

Katy Holland

katy.m.holland@gmail.com Contributing Writers

Kelcey Nobles, Mike Wilt, Abigail Singrey, Linda Keller, Lori Esser Official Photographer

Tony Lehmer

www.lehmerphotography.com Contributing Photographers

Kate Russell

Calendar Manager

Mark Walker

mark@bartlesvillemonthly.com Distribution Manager

Sarah Cranmer

Visit us online at www.bartlesvillemonthly.com

All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or otherwise, without prior permission of Bartlesville Monthly, Inc.

ABOUT THE COVER: Kelcey Nobles freelance writer

This month marks bMonthly’s 5th year!

Images of volunteers and non profit event attendees adorn the cover.

Bartlesville’s deep culture of giving enriches our lives in a way that goes unnoticed by many. With each decade, our city adapts and continues to thrive.

Cover design by PDG+creative

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

5

OKLAHOMA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY INVITES YOU TO:

Friday, October 7, 2016 C e l e b r at i n g L i b e r t y b y h o n o r i n g t h o s e w h o

PROTECT & SERVE Join OKWU for this special event as we celebrate, thank, and encourage local firefighters and law enforcement who Protect & Serve our community.

The evening will honor the brave men and women who put on a uniform every day to uphold our God-given right to liberty and justice and to keep us safe. These courageous public servants have sacrificed tremendously for our freedom and we look forward to this opportunity to say thank you.

FEATURED SPEAKER: Dinner with Kelvin J. CochraN

Former United States Fire Administrator appointed by President Obama and former Fire Chief of the City of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department.

5:30 6:00 7:00

Private Reception for Corporate & Patron Guests Music & Special Demonstrations Dinner with Kelvin J. Cochran Live Auction

VISIT: OKWU.EDU/LIBERTY FOR INFO AND TICKETS

CORPORATE SPONSORS:

MEET 29 ARTIST SEPTEMBER KEVIN BOX 5:30PM ART EXHIBITION & SALE TO BENEFIT the BARTLESVILLE VISUAL ARTS COMMISSION

TO BE HELD AT THE BARTLESVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER LYON GALLERY RECEPTION WITH LIGHT HORS D’OEUVRES, BEVERAGES AND ARTIST PRESENTATION

ADMISSION IS FREE

FOR MORE INFO CONTACT 918.337.2787 www.bartlesvillecommunitycenter.com

SPONSORS

business

ABartlesville CutTreeAbove the Rest Service

by Kenzie Froebe

Oklahoma is not unfamiliar to erratic weather and storms that oftentimes call for a cleanup in their wake. Robert Luton’s local company is on hand to help.

Bartlesville Tree Service LLC has been serving the area for over fifteen years, having taken their current name and incorporation in 2003.

Robert Luton, along with his wife, Christina and their three children, moved from Tulsa to Bartlesville in 1993. Luton began working as a firefighter for the city in 1995.

Starting up a business that further supported the community was an easy decision for him.

Luton started his business with a friend out of the back of a pickup truck in 2000. The work began as a side job, but like many small businesses do, grew into a full-time job. He is now the sole owner of the quickly-growing Bartlesville Tree Service.

Although Luton did not have a background in tree work when beginning his company, he has since endlessly researched and studied

8

b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

the craft. His self-taught skills have gained him an exceptional reputation of being a safe, knowledgeable and honest worker.

The Bartlesville Tree Service offers many services with the help of multiskilled staff, including tree trimming, removal, large shrub removal, stump grinding, storm clean up, brush removal and more. Luton has acquired a large stock of equipment that allows his team to handle any job.

“I’m not one to shy away from investing in my company. I think good equipment helps build a good company,” Luton said.

He currently has two full-time employees with occasional part-time help. Johnny Castro, the company’s lead climber, has been with them for eight years. Luton spoke highly of Castro, explaining, “I’m the owner and he’s the operator.”

Castro has been working in the tree business for the entirety of his adult life. His friendly demeanor and strong customer service skills seem to come naturally. Both Luton and

Castro pride themselves on being knowledgeable, safety-minded and respectful of their customers’ needs and expectations. A credit to their quality service, repeat customers and referrals are a large part of their business.

Having such a solid client base in Bartlesville has allowed Luton to begin his next adventure. Bartlesville Tree Service will soon be expanding to provide for the Owasso area as well. Recently, Luton’s son set up a website for this expansion, owassotreeservice.com.

Walt Gasior, a repeat Bartlesville Tree Service client, recently posted on their social media site, “Robert and his team are responsive to each and every request and always provide professional advice and service for your trees and related landscaping issues.”

Another client, Sherri Wilt had nothing but positive things to say about her experiences with Bartlesville Tree Service. She said, “We’ve used Bartlesville Tree Service for several projects and have been completely satisfied with the work every time. And, as an aside, watching the workers do their job is quite fascinating.”

Luton has several other noteworthy clients in Bartlesville, including Phillips 66, Hillcrest Country Club, The Grove neighborhood and many more. His company has also been a member of the Bartlesville Chamber of Commerce since 2010.

“I treat everyone’s yard as if it were my own,” Luton explained. “We pride ourselves on clean, efficient cuts and always leaving the yard in better condition than before. We don’t cut corners to get the job done.”

To schedule a service with Bartlesville Tree Service LLC, call 918- 440-9198 or visit bartlesvilletreeservice. com. Check out facebook. com/bartlesvilletreeservice for announcements and more information. v

2016 Adult & Youth T-shirt

Miles for Mammograms 5k and Western Heritage Weekend

Sat. Sept. 24, 2016 | Dewey, OK

t o o B rams og o m m a Miless for M t o scseo 5k ptember 2016

Register at: MilesforMammograms.org 5K and 2K Fun Run

Top 4 Things You Need to Know: •

We’ve been doing this a long time - since 1999! Some might say we’re trend-setters.

•

We give custom medals to all participants!

•

We have youth shirts - the same super soft & comfy shirts as the adults!

•

When you run M4M - your money saves lives right here in Washington county!

ARE YOU SOMEONE’S HERO? “A hero provides a meal to someone who is hungry.”

-Lisa Lytle

BE A HERO AND GIVE AT BARTLESVILLEUW.ORG SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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BENEFITING BARTLESVILLE: How local non-profits are making a difference

by Kelcey Nobles

September marks the fifth anniversary of Bartlesville Monthly. Over the past five years, it has become evident that Bartlesville is a city of giving. From its first club to lesser-known benefactors, the city is one with a history rich in philanthropy.

Bartlesville was incorporated as a city in 1897.

One year later, its first club, the Tuesday Club, was founded. Consisting of scholarly and sophisticated 10

b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

women, the group focused on education, literacy and community improvement. They laid the foundation for the city’s public library system, helping to open the Bartlesville Public Library in March of 1913. Other wellknown landmarks such as Johnstone Park were born of programs originally sponsored by Tuesday Club.

Today, the Tuesday Club is still a prominent feature of the Bartlesville community. You can see their

feature

Photo courtesy of the Bartlesville Area History Museum

members in action through various local charitable organizations, such as Mary Martha Outreach, the Bartlesville League of Women Voters and the Salvation Army, among others.

One philanthropist somewhat unknown to the community was H.V. Foster. An oilman, he and his family moved to Bartlesville in 1904 to live a quiet life. With the help of his wife Marie, Foster became a leader in the early development of Bartlesville. The family is known for its construction of two homes: La Quinta, which currently houses Oklahoma Wesleyan University, and El Rancho de la Codomiz, now Foster Ranch. Historians say that Foster used the construction of these homes to provide jobs for those in the community who were, at the time, without work.

Because of his quiet lifestyle, it is unknown just how much Foster gave of his wealth and that’s how he wanted it.

Today, a number of organizations still carry on Bartlesville’s tradition of giving.

Here are just a few examples of some of the community’s present-day philanthropic organizations.

H.V. Foster

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | FEATURE

shopping and health screening; teen pregnancy prevention education in Bartlesville and surrounding communities; and scouting groups for boys and girls.

Supporters are invited to sponsor workplace campaigns or volunteer for programs and events. To get involved, contact Kirsten Ergenbright at kirsten@ bartlesvilleuw.org or visit bartlesvilleuw.org.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF OKLAHOMA BARTLESVILLE REGIONAL UNITED WAY The Bartlesville Regional United Way kicks off its annual campaign on Sept. 1. Its theme, “The Hero in U,” begs the question: “What is a hero?” According to BRUW officials, a hero is someone who helps others, whether by providing a meal to someone who’s hungry, offering support in times of crisis or natural disaster, or teaching a child to read.

Individuals and businesses can donate their time, money and resources by partnering with United Way. Monetary donations help provide clients with shampoo and conditioner, clothing, infant supplies, medical lab work, rent assistance and more. Donations of time can be spent volunteering with BRUW’s Food 4 Kids program which provides at-risk students with a sack of healthy food for the weekend, ensuring those children can count on a meal outside of school.

BRUW works in a number of ways to help the community, including in-home care for the elderly through housekeeping, meal planning and preparation,

From the very beginning, Bartlesville’s founders valued philanthropy. This has led to the establishment of a giving and caring community. United Way has benefited from this over the years, from the very first campaign in 1943 that exceeded its goal to today. Local legends such as K.S. “Boots” Adams and Phil Phillips, Frank Phillips’ nephew, have lent their name to our campaign, and today’s new generation of volunteers and donors still show that they care. Bartlesville truly is a community that looks out for everyone. It’s a community I’m proud to call my own.

- Abigail Singrey, Marketing Manager Bartlesville Regional United Way 12

b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

Facilitating one-on-one relationships between role models and children ages 6 through 18, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma pairs up volunteer mentors with children in the community that need it most, including those living in single-parent families, those whose parents are incarcerated, or those living in poverty.

BBBSOK matches mentors with children based on personality, common interests, the volunteer’s preferences and the child’s needs. The application process to become a mentor includes an in-person interview with an enrollment specialist, background check and references. Once accepted by BBBSOK, individuals meet with the child’s parent, the child, and the match support specialist for a match introduction.

Mentors meet with their “Littles” on a regular basis – weekly or semi-monthly, depending on the program chosen. The assigned Match Support Specialist contacts the mentor, parent and child monthly for the first year of the match to make sure things are running smoothly between the mentor and the Little. A volunteer orientation aids in the preparation for mentoring.

To find out more about becoming a mentor visit bbbsok.org. Monetary donations can also be made on the BBBSOK website.

The Bartlesville Office is located at 320 SE Delaware, Suite 7 * 918.213.4524

THE FRANK PHILLIPS FOUNDATION SUPPORTING WOOLAROC MUSEUM AND WILDLIFE PRESERVE Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve’s annual Cow Thieves and Outlaws Reunion began as a party in 1927, hosted by local celebrity and oilman Frank Phillips who invited a number of cowboys, thieves, bankers and debutantes to his estate. Guests had to follow two rules – all guns must be checked at the front gate, and law enforcement must leave outlaws alone at the party.

Today, the party continues as the biggest fundraising event for the Frank Phillips Foundation, the nonprofit which owns and maintains the wildlife preserve. The event is held yearly during the fall at the Clyde Lake

FEATURE | b Monthly

From the earliest days of statehood, Bartlesville has been blessed with a philanthropic culture of “giving and support.” While it has been led by people such as Frank Phillips, K.S. Adams, the Price family and others, it has also filtered throughout the town to where most people in Bartlesville sense an obligation to give back. An added benefit of that type of giving spirit is a feeling of “buy in” and ownership from a majority of people...and that is called “community”.

provides support to cancer patients, survivors and their families through education, exercise, the arts, and more. The center offers a variety of wigs, hats, scarves, walkers and wheelchairs, exercise classes, support groups, art programs and events at no charge to those affected by cancer. The center recently purchased a new location, located at 206 SE Frank Phillips Blvd., with a grand opening planned for Jan. 8, 2017.

Businesses and individuals alike can provide support to Hopestone through the purchase of ceramic stones as part of the organization’s “Pathway of Hope” project.

Each stone is engraved with the names of those businesses and individuals – past and present – who have helped in the creation of the facility.

-Bob Fraser, CEO Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve

Pavilion and features food, drink, live music, dancing and more. Funds raised from the event have gone toward a number of projects and programs at Woolaroc, including the restoration of the Woolaroc Lodge ranch house; museum renovation; the addition of walking trails and a children’s playground; and improvements to Woolaroc’s Heritage Theater and facilities at Clyde Lake.

This year, the party will be held Sept. 24. To get involved by becoming a sponsor, call 918-336-0307.

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S PRICE TOWER Those with a passion for the arts may be interested in volunteering as a docent at Price Tower. Docents work as teachers, sharing the history of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower with all guests who visit.

Those wishing to volunteer aren’t required to have a background in art history or architecture – just a love of the arts and learning. Training is provided to all prospective docents. No age restrictions or education requirements are necessary to participate and docents of all walks of life are needed and wanted.

Not interested in becoming a docent, but still want to support the local arts? Price Tower is also always looking for volunteers to help out with special events, educational events and administrative support.

For more information on how to become a volunteer or docent, contact Judy DuVall, Group Tour and Volunteer Coordinator, at 918-336-4949 ext. 117 or by email at jduvall@pricetower.org.

HOPESTONE CANCER SUPPORT CENTER OF BARTLESVILLE Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jennifer McKissick, Hopestone Cancer Support Center of Bartlesville

Bartlesville has a tradition of generosity that has always responded to the needs and opportunities facing the community.

This culture of giving makes Bartlesville a unique and exciting place to live.

-Shawn Crawford, Ph.D. Executive Director Bartlesville Community Foundation

The center also accepts monetary donations through its dropbox inside the center, by mail or online at hopestonecenter.org. Donations can be made anonymously or to honor the memory of a loved one.

Donations go to support a variety of projects at the center, including renovations to the facility, programs for cancer patients and survivors, and more.

For more information on purchasing a stone for the pathway or to make a donation, call 918-766-4673 or email info@hopestonecenter.org. v

find your inspiration...

www.volunteerbartlesville.com SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

13

Dreaming of starting your own business?

The Strategy Center offers short courses designed for entrepreneurs serious about starting a business or for small business owners who are looking to re-energize their operations.

We can customize any of the following services and trainings to fit your needs:

• • • •

Business Management and Organizational Development Entrepreneurial Assistance Training Support for New Technologies Safety and Compliance (including Hearing Conservation, OSHA10-30, Basic First Aid, CPR/AED, Hazard Communication, Fork Lift Certification, and more!)

Contact Abel Stose, Coordinator of Business Training, at abel.stose@tricountytech.edu or 918.331.3240.

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b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

Passport to the

Performing Arts

Want a season subscription that works for you?

This season you can design your perfect season with the Bartlesville Community Center’s 20162017 PASSPORT. Pick your own season to fit your schedule by selecting one concert or show from these participating Arts group line-ups: Bartlesville Choral Society; Bartlesville Community Concert Association; Bartlesville Civic Ballet; Bartlesville Symphony Orchestra and Broadway in Bartlesville!

The best part is that each passport is only $99!

PASSPORTS go on sale September 1, 2016. For more information call the BCC Box Office at 918-337-ARTS.

HOME TOUR

Sunday October 9, 1pm-4pm Pawhuska, OK Tickets are $10 at the door, $8 in advance

Join the Pawhuska Epsilon Sigma Alpha International (ESA) home tour. Since it’s beginning, the Pawhuska ESA chapter has donated more than $250,000 to the Pawhuska community. The home tour is to help fund ESA sponsored projects in Pawhuska, statewide and on an international level.

There will be items to purchase (from local businesses) and drawings for free items in each home. You can start your tour and purchase your tickets at any of the following locations on the day of the event, or call any of the ESA members listed for advance tickets.

108 West Oak Road, Pawhuska, OK 1805 Leahy Road, Pawhuska, OK 870 County Road 5990, Pawhuska, OK 410 East Highland, Pawhuska, OK Contact ESA members for tickets and more information: Barbara Strahan: 918-331-6958 Tracy Easley: 918-630-0821 Marilyn Atterberry: 918-440-0002 Callie Susmilch: 918-336-3441

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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Presenting the 2016-2017 Concert Season BCCA launches the 2016-2017 season with its inaugural concert featuring Wylie & the Wild West on Saturday, the 24th of September, 2016.

Singer, songwriter, rancher, horseman, and the world-famous Yahoo!® yodeler Wylie Gustafson leads the musical outfit known as Wylie & the Wild West. As one music writer sums it up: “Forget everything you hate about modern country, this guy is all old school cool without being a tired period piece.”

Tuesday, the 15th of November, BCCA presents Snap, Sizzle, Pop! featuring Steve March-Tormé, son of the legendary Mel Tormé.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2017 with BCCA and Shades of Bublé, a trio of crooners honoring, but not imitating Michael Bublé.

Make Tuesday, February 14th an unforgettably romantic soirée!

A Band Called Honalee, a modern-day folk trio inspired by the music and legacy of Peter, Paul and Mary, mount a lively and interactive performance on Sunday, the 5th of March, 2017

BCCA’s 2016-2017 Season finale, on Thursday, the 4th of May, will present Travis DeLoyt’s Tribute to the King, the world’s best tribute artist to young Elvis

Visit bccamusic.org for more details!

Know of an upcoming event that should be listed here?

Visit us at www.bartlesvillemonthly.com to submit a listing! It’s free!

All listings are by reader submission. Not responsible for errors. Bartlesville Monthly reserves the right to remove inappropriate content.

Thursday, Sept 1

Sunday, Sept 4

10:00 AM

2:00 PM

Are Family”

Frank Phillips Park

Fairgrounds – Dewey

Come out and listen to some great music, purchase

5:00 PM

Price Tower Arts Center presents Peanuts… Naturally

Open Studio Sunday The Art Center – Johnstone Park

Business After Hours

Price Tower – 501 S Dewey

Bring your own art and supplies and work in creative

Price Tower Art Center

Exhibit to be on display through October 9th, and is

surroundings. See what others are doing and let them

organized by the Charles M. Shulz Museum, Santa

see your project as well. We invite you to join our

Rosa, CA.

groups for painting, drawing, sketching, etc. Great

6:00 PM

practice, great companionship, wonderful time with creating and friendship. A modest fee of $5 for use

Easy to Grow Perenials

of model. Visit www.bartlesvilleartassociation.org for

Tri County Tech

more info.

items from the many vendors! See friends, connect with neighbors and enjoy the beauty of Bartlesville.

For more info visit www.bartlesvillefarmersmarket.com

10:00 AM

Friday, Sept 9 8:00 AM KanOkla 100 Mile Highway Sale NE Oklahoma & SE Kansas

Woolaroc Fall Trail Ride The country retreat of oilman Frank Phillips, Woolaroc is hidden away in the beauty of the rolling Osage Hills.

The trail ride covers approximately 15 miles of terrain that is rarely, if ever, seen by the general public. Get all the info at www.woolaroc.org

Individuals set up garage sales along the highways.

Learn about the tried-and-true must-have perennials

Participating towns in NE Oklahoma and SE Kansas

12:00 PM

Cost $5

Tuesday, Sept 6

will hold city wide garage sales.

7:00 PM

9:00 AM

12:00 PM

Washington County Free Fair, “We Are Family”

Lady Warriors Meeting

Senior Strategies Seminars

Humble Road Church – 304 Seminole

Elder Care

Come and grow in Christ! All ladies are welcome as

The seminar series will provide useful information

we go deeper in the Word, discovering our true identity

every Tues in September. This week Arvest Asset

in the Beloved.

Management will present “Reevaluating Your

for your garden that require only a minimum of care.

Washington County Free Fair, “We Are Family”

Retirement Fund.”

Fairgrounds – Dewey

6:00 PM

sunset with step-by-step instructions from our artist. $40/ person. Reservations required 918-876-1709

8:00 AM

Washington County Free Fair, “We Are Family”

1709 to reserve your child’s canvas.

Come out and listen to some great music, purchase items from the many vendors! See friends, connect with neighbors and enjoy the beauty of Bartlesville.

For more info visit www.bartlesvillefarmersmarket.com

instructions from our artist. $20/child. Call 918-876-

6:30 PM

7:00 PM The Kingdoms of Democracy Preview Premiere

Wednesday, Sept 7

Go Mod fundraiser for ARC and EmployAbility Hillcrest Country Club

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

12:00 PM

This event is going TROPICAL and will be held at

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender to

Washington County Free Fair, “We Are Family”

Hillcrest Country Club. Start the evening with a

laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity resembles

cocktail buffet and silent auction with a live auction

our modern day reality. See more at: http://www.

and dancing to the groove of DJ Terry Miller to

theaterbartlesville.com

Fairgrounds – Dewey

Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

follow. For more info contact ARC Group Homes @

8:30 PM

918.336.5928

Live Music with Tucker Mcintire Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Hopestone Cancer Support Center Let your creative juices flow while recreating a beautiful

A pizza & paint party for kids 6+, with step by step

Frank Phillips Park

Paint & Pour

Hopestone Cancer Support Center

12:00 PM

Fairgrounds – Dewey

6:00 PM

Kids Pizza, Pop & Paint

Saturday, Sept 3 Bartlesville Farmers Market

Fairgrounds – Dewey

Thursday, Sept 8

Saturday, Sept 10

12:00 PM

8:00 AM

8:00 AM KARAOKE & Dance Party Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Washington County Free Fair, “We

Bartlesville Farmers Market

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Enrolling Now! Call for details 918-335-6861 SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

17

SUN, NOV 13 7:30 PM

WED, JAN 25 7:30 PM

2016-2017 Season

Dates & shows subject to change.

TUE, FEB 7 7:30 PM

FRI, MAR 3 7:30 PM SAT, APR 22 7:30 PM

Buy Tickets at: 918-336-2787 • 800-618-2787 www.bartlevillecommunitycenter.com

b Monthly | EVENTS CALENDAR

Sunday, Sept 11

Thursday, Sept 15

10:00 AM

2:00 PM

7:00 PM

Bartlesville Community Center

Paint and Barrel

The Kingdoms of Democracy

In celebration of 29 years, this annual festival is a

The Art Center – Johnstone Park

Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

cultural exchange which combines award-winning

Come enjoy your artistic abilities with artist Valerie Jones.

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

American Indian and Western art throughout the

Register at www.paintandbarrel.com

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender

festival, a competition pow wow, entertainment and

to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

cultural demonstrations as well as many other special

resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http://

events in a family-oriented atmosphere. Visit www.

www.theaterbartlesville.com

okindiansummer.org for all the latest

Monday, Sept 12 10:00 AM Open House

Friday, Sept 16

Elder Care

Oklahoma Indian Summer Festival

The Kingdoms of Democracy Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

10:00 AM

about the different programs we offer while enjoying

Oklahoma Indian Summer Festival

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender

coffee and a pastry. No RSVP is required.

Bartlesville Community Center

to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

In celebration of 29 years, this annual festival is a

resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http://

cultural exchange which combines award-winning

www.theaterbartlesville.com

Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma presents Pearls & Pinot Bartlesville Community Center, Outdoor Balcony This year’s proceeds benefit Camp Wah-Shah-She pool renovations, as well as other camp needs.

Guests will enjoy wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres and the music of Something Steel. Reserve your seats by visiting www.gseok.org

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

festival, a competition pow wow, entertainment and cultural demonstrations as well as many other special

8:30 PM

events in a family-oriented atmosphere. Visit www.

Live Music with Signal 29

okindiansummer.org for all the latest

Painted Horse Bar & Grille

7:00 PM The Kingdoms of Democracy Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

9:00 AM

resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http://

Come enjoy a morning of Worship with the Word and

www.theaterbartlesville.com

Water Baptisms! This event is open to the public.

If you ride a bike feel free to Motor UP and join the

Elder Care

Pinterest Craft Party: Camper or Leaf Tri County Tech Learn how to make some of the cutest door hangers and projects on Pinterest! Cost $5, $25 supply cost due the night of class.

Saturday, Sept 17

6:00 PM Perogies

Tri County Tech These Eastern European “pot stickers” are scrumptious as an entrée or as a side dish. Cost $39.

Free social evening for anyone 60 or older. Evening includes live entertainment, food and giveaways. No RSVP required. Entertainment: Lighter Side Band.

Friday, Sept 23 7:00 PM The Kingdoms of Democracy

celebration! Lunch will be served after service.

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http:// www.theaterbartlesville.com

Saturday, Sept 24 8:00 AM Bartlesville Farmers Market Frank Phillips Park

Frank Phillips Park

9:00 AM

items from the many vendors! See friends, connect

Come out and listen to some great music, purchase

Senior Strategies Seminar Series

items from the many vendors! See friends, connect

Elder Care

with neighbors and enjoy the beauty of Bartlesville.

The seminar series will provide useful information

For more info visit www.bartlesvillefarmersmarket.com

every Tues in Sept. This week Janice Dreiling presents

Bartlesville Farmers Market

“Protect Yourself with a Durable Power of Attorney.”

Race for Education 5K & 10K Runs Johnstone Park Pavillion so expect your best times! Register: https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/race-for-education-5k10ktickets-25171395321

9:00 AM How to Photograph Your Pets Tri County Tech

6:00 PM Two Girls and a Brush with Elaine Wilson

Come out and listen to some great music, purchase with neighbors and enjoy the beauty of Bartlesville.

For more info visit www.bartlesvillefarmersmarket.com

FAMILY HEALTHCARE CLINIC’S – Miles for Mammograms – BOOT SCOOT Downtown Dewey Help us provide Free Mammograms to OUR community. Stay for street vendors, beer coral, live

The Art Center – Johnstone Park

music & western parade. For fees & info: www.

Show up ready to paint!! All materials provided for

milesformammograms.org

only $35 per participant. If interested, contact Elaine Wilson 918-630-7098. You can also see more info on

9:00 AM

Facebook, Two Girls and a Brush

Bazaar & Craft Festival Fairgrounds – Dewey

Learn how to take beautiful photos of your fur babies Cost $19

Wednesday, Sept 21 12:00 PM Green Country Republican Women’s Club Bambino’s

b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

Elder Care

Tuesday, Sept 20

from award-winning pet photographer, Sherry Stinson.

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Golden Hour

8:00 AM

CERTIFIED COURSES! Course is flat and fast,

Wednesday, Sept 14

5:30 PM

to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

6:00 PM

Adams Golf Course

10:30 AM

Humble Road Church – 304 Seminole

Diabetes.”

Jane Phillips Medical Center Foundation Golf Tournament

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

Tuesday, Sept 13

Oklahoma Healthy Aging will present “Understanding

8:30 AM

Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

Biker Sunday & Water Baptisms

every Tues in Sept. This week Devon Murray of

Thursday, Sept 22

Sunday, Sept 18

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender

The seminar series will provide useful information

For reservations for lunch, call 918-336-0222.

American Indian and Western art throughout the

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

Senior Strategies Seminar Series

for the District 29 Senate seat. danielsoksenate.com.

7:00 PM

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Elder Care. Learn

5:30 PM

Guest speaker is Julie Daniels, Republican candidate

This event benefits “The Amani Children’s Rescue Project” and will include a variety of vendors with commercial products and handmade craft items. Info at www.btbim.org

EVENTS CALENDAR | b Monthly

Sunday, Sept 25

Thursday, Sept 29

10:00 AM

5:30 PM

Western Heritage Weekend Fest Downtown Dewey

Kevin Box Sculpture Exhibition and Sale

Attend Dewey’s Western Heritage Weekend to

Bartlesville Community Center- Lyon Gallery

celebrate Oklahoma’s early beginnings with lots of

Meet the artist Kevin Box who grew up in Bartlesville.

activities including the Tom Mix Festival, a parade

Kevin is a museum quality sculptor with hundreds

and a Wild West show. Keep a look-out for Tom

of placements around the world. This event is an

10:00 AM

7:00 PM

Cow Thieves and Outlaws Reunion

The Kingdoms of Democracy

Woolaroc

Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey

Mix, Pawnee Bill and Rooster Cogburn look-a- likes

opportunity to see Kevin’s work in person, hear a talk

What began as a party in 1927, when Bartlesville

You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by

roaming the streets.

by the artist, and to support the Bartlesville Visual Arts

oilman Frank Phillips played host to cowboys,

local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender

socialites, thieves, bankers, and lawmen at his country

to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

estate, is now an annual tradition that preserves the

resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http://

history and heritage of the American West. Visit www.

www.theaterbartlesville.com

woolaroc.org for more info

Western Heritage Weekend Fest Downtown Dewey Attend Dewey’s Western Heritage Weekend to celebrate Oklahoma’s early beginnings with lots of activities including the Tom Mix Festival, a parade and a Wild West show. Keep a look-out for Tom Mix, Pawnee Bill and Rooster Cogburn look-a- likes

7:30 PM Wylie & the Wild West

Monument” in the roundabout at Silverlake and Price Road. Food and beverages provided. Admission is free.

Theater Bartlesville – 312 S Dewey You won’t want to miss this zany political comedy by local playwright Dan Gordon. Come and surrender to laughter as it becomes clear that this absurdity

Since 1989, Wylie & the Wild West has become

www.theaterbartlesville.com

6:00 PM How to Prepare Your Car for Winter Tri County Tech Learn the basic car maintenance needed to keep

internationally known for their captivating presentation

your car running smooth during the winter months.

of original and traditional music of America and its

Cost $19

colorful West.

12:00 PM

Painted Horse Bar & Grille

A free fun filled day for children living with cancer and

The Kingdoms of Democracy

resembles our modern day reality. See more at: http://

8:30 PM

Hopestone Cancer Support Center

2:00 PM

Bartlesville Community Center

roaming the streets.

3rd Annual Kids Kamp

Commission efforts to place Kevin’s “Folding Planes

Live Music with Hi-Fi Hillbillies

Tuesday, Sept 27 9:00 AM Senior Strategies Seminar Series Elder Care The seminar series will provide useful information every Tues in September. This week Lisa Roll, LPC, BC-DMT, will present “Keys for a Mindful Vibrant Life.”

Friday, Sept 30 10:00 AM Fall Traders Encampment Woolaroc Authentic 1840’s trader camps set up at our Mountain Man Camp. The public is welcome at no additional

their siblings. Laser tag, arts & crafts, games, etc. Call

charge to view the customs and lifestyles of the early

918-766-4673 to register your child(ren).

day trader’s. Visit www.woolaroc.org for more info

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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SAVE THE DATE FOR PEARLS AND PINOT!

pearls & pinot Honorary Chairs Heather and Jason Van Eman, and Girl Scout Board Member, Pam Crawford, invite you to attend

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. BARTLESVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER 300 SE ADAMS BLVD. Enjoy an evening of wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres, and the music of Something Steel.

Proceeds will benefit Camp Wah-Shah-She pool repairs and renovations.

Reserve your seats by calling Cassie Morrill at 800-707-9914, ext 202. or visiting www.gseok.org/jlls

Proceeds will aid in the pool repairs at Camp Wah Shah She.

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b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

JULIETTE L W

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY

out & about peanuts movie night at price tower

empty bowls

leadership bartlesville

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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out & about paul benjamin at frank & lola’s

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b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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Artist rendering of “Folding Planes Monument” at Silver Lake and Price Road

Bartlesville Visual Arts Commission

Public Art Serves to Inspire

by Linda Keller

The Bartlesville Visual Arts Commission is moving closer to its goal of placing inspiring artwork in public places throughout the community. This involves pieces of outdoor art that enhance the daily lives of citizens.

As the project develops, the dream of seeing the first sculpture called “Folding Planes Monument” is becoming a foreseeable reality. The piece, standing 16 feet tall, depicts a piece of paper that leaves the ground partially folded and gradually becomes a curving row of paper formed into an airplane as it ascends to the sky.

education in Georgia, New York City and Texas.” As a boy, he grew up beneath Frank Lloyd Wright’s “tree that escaped the crowed forest,” the only skyscraper of his design ever to have been built. At Bartlesville High School and Tri County Tech, Box studied graphic arts and spent summers as an apprentice at his uncle’s design firm in Atlanta. There, he formed a relationship with design and paper.

For the past year the Bartlesville Visual Arts Commission (BVAC) has been working to obtain grants and donations for the “Folding Planes Monument” piece by noted American artist Kevin Box. It has been earmarked for the roundabout at Price Road and Silver Lake Road. The piece is exciting because of its symbolistic design as well as the fact its creator has deep ties to Bartlesville.

The years that followed led Box to study at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, then Greece, where he had an opportunity to see some of the great antiquities of the world. That was a life-changing experience that stirred a new passion: focusing on sculpture and art in public places. For the next three years he labored under a self-imposed apprenticeship in metal casting and fabricating. When he helped build one of the largest fine art foundries in Texas he began to develop his own voice.

Box says he was “conceived in New Mexico, born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Bartlesville, received higher

“I worked there from dawn to dusk,” he recalls. His work is based on origami, the art of paper folding which

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b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

the arts

“What inspires me about origami is its simple metaphor for life. We all begin with a blank page, what we choose to do with it is up to us, and the possibilities are endless.”

– Kevin Box begins with a single piece of paper. It took two years of experimentation to develop the process of casting paper into bronze, and another seven years to perfect it. What he pioneered was a new method of capturing origami’s delicate detail into museum quality metals utilizing wax casting and fabrication techniques.

Today, Box (who was recognized by Southwest Art Magazine as one of the Top 21 artists in the country under the age of 31) exhibits his work as well as collaborations with his wife, Jennifer, and internationally respected origami artists Dr. Robert J. Land and Te Jui Fu, throughout the country.

Exhibiting his work in Bartlesville is a real coop. But, that first piece is just the beginning. Art in public places is an ambitious undertaking that requires raising a good deal of money. As commission member Jemme Hennessey notes, there are a number of additional developments happening downtown that beg for public art. “As planned green spaces become reality, it will create more opportunity for sculpture placement.”

That’s why the BVAC is planning a public fundraiser on Thursday, September 29 at 5:30 p.m. in Lyon Gallery at the Bartlesville Community Center. The opening will showcase seven pieces of Box’s sculptures and metal wall pieces. There will be an artist’s presentation followed by a beer and wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres.

The show is free and open to the public, although donations of any amount will be welcomed.

Hennessey noted, “There’s power in working together.

If everybody in the community gave just $5, we would quickly realize our goal.” So far some $65,000 has been received toward the goal of $150,000. The commission has also submitted a grant request to the National Endowment of the Arts for an additional $25,000.

Kevin and Jennifer Box at their home in Santa Fe, NM

The show will hang for subsequent weeks at the Price Tower Arts Center, with 50 percent of the proceeds from sale of artwork going to the BVAC. One piece will garner 100 percent.

For more information or to donate to the BVAC project, visit the Bartlesville Community Foundation website at bartlesvillecf.org or call 918.337.2287. The BCF office is located at 208 E Fourth Street. Donations are accepted by check or online. v

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

profile

Shelby Brammer

by Mike Wilt

If laughter is the best medicine, Theater Bartlesville has the perfect prescription for anyone who has taken ill from this year’s presidential campaign. In September, the troupe of talented local thespians will present six shows of The Kingdoms of Democracy by Bartlesville playwright Dan Gordon.

“It’s a little Mel Brooks, a little Monty Python, and a little Game of Thrones,” says Artistic Director Shelby Brammer. “Anyone who walks in is going to have a good time.”

The two-act play is set in the Middle Ages, but sets its sights on today’s culture.

“It’s a political satire that takes place right before an election and is presented right before an election that is ripe for political satire,” she laughs. “Audiences will like it because it doesn’t point fingers in any one direction, but in all directions.”

The cast of characters includes Sorceress Elsie played by Theater Bartlesville Managing Director Joanie Elmore. Her husband Jason Elmore portrays King Rube while board chairman Troy Anthony serves as king aide Gregory Limpwick. Bernie Meadow steps in as King Dupe and Ron Stotts appears as Prince Money.

Timing is everything in politics and the same could be said for play presentations. One would be greatly mistaken to believe Theater Bartlesville is taking advantage of the current political show now playing on the national stage.

“We started laying the groundwork last fall,” Brammer says. “We have to plan a season a year in advance because there are a lot of scripts to read, we have to look around to see what talent is available, think about casting, decide about drama, comedy, or musical, and then secure the performing rights.”

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly |PROFILE

So it’s somewhat serendipitous that Gordon’s script fell into Brammer’s hands long before the curtain rose on today’s political scene. But one senses The Kingdoms of Democracy would have made the cut regardless.

“I enjoy politics and I started laughing out loud on page one.”

The play marks Brammer’s fourth directorial endeavor since she moved from Austin, Texas three years ago.

Her partner Z. Ray Richter is a Bartlesville native whose mom opened up the city’s very first health foods store and whose dad operated The Osage Lunch café.

“He really enjoyed growing up in Bartlesville and we just decided to move back here.”

Prior to her move north of the Red River, Brammer was working as theater department chair at Austin Community College. A native of the Texas capital, Brammer found that as she grew older Austin grew more crowded.

“When Joe decided to leave as artistic director I decided to step into that role.

I’m very grateful to Joe. It’s really worked out well for me.”

“Just too much humanity for me,” she laughs. “If I’m going to be around that many people I want to live in New York City.”

Which is exactly what she did for 14 years. Brammer worked as an actress in television, motion pictures, and live theater. She appeared in the Academy Awardwinning film Kramer vs. Kramer where she played secretary to Dustin Hoffman’s character. She was also a recurring character in the 1980 TV comedy-drama Breaking Away starring Shaun Cassidy.

“It was critically acclaimed, but we were up against The Dukes of Hazzard,” she sighs.

Brammer eventually segued into playwriting and directing.

“If you are an actor and especially a woman, so much is based on your looks. I really enjoyed acting, but was frequently cast as an ingénue standing on the sidelines.

I wanted to be one of the adults in the room and I really enjoyed writing and directing.”

At age 40, she left the Big Apple for the cornfields of the Midwest to attend the University of Iowa where she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree.

Brammer was teaching a theater appreciation class at Rogers State University’s local campus when Bartlesville native and Greater Tuna creator Joe Sears reached out to her to direct Thornton Wilder’s Our Town.

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“I had such a great time. We really have some talented performers. When Joe decided to leave as artistic director I decided to step into that role. I’m very grateful to Joe. It’s really worked out well for me.”

It’s also worked out well that Brammer is the one directing a political satire in a punishing political year. Her father, Billy Lee Brammer, was a political speechwriter for U.S. Senator Lyndon Baines Johnson.

In 1962, Mr. Brammer authored The Gay Place, widely acclaimed as one of the best political novels ever written and one which features a character that is said to have been based on LBJ. Ms. Brammer’s parents divorced in 1961. Her mom later married U.S. Congressman Bob Eckhardt of Houston, which meant living in Washington D.C. during the “riveting” 1960s and 1970s.

“I was very fortunate to grow up in Austin and D.C. and get to see both ends of the country and be exposed to a lot of people and places.”

Brammer and Theater Bartlesville will present two more offerings. Opening in February of 2017 will be John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath.

“That will be a big event for which we will need a big cast. It is a beautifully-written adaption of great material.”

The season wraps up with The Enchanted April, an adaptation of a 1922 novel that later became an Academy Award-nominated film in 1992 and a Tony Award-nominated Broadway stage play in 2003.

Ongoing work includes enhancing the existing facilities and encouraging more people to join the excitement that is live theater.

“I believe we have many people who have the talent to perform, but just don’t know they have it or are tentative. Come on down and give it a try! Walk around in someone else’s shoes and transcend your own circumstances for a while.”

Brammer says those adept at costuming, set design, and the like can also enjoy the trappings of local theater.

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun.”

One might say it’s just what the director, er, doctor ordered. v Show dates For The Kingdoms of Democracy are September 15, 16, 17, 23, and 24 at 7 p.m. and September 25 at 2 p.m. Theater Bartlesville is located at 312 S. Dewey downtown. For ticket information, call 918-336-1900 or log onto www.theaterbartlesville.com.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | b Monthly

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community

Kan-Okla 100 Mile Highway Sale Junkers’ Delight

by Lori Esser

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure in the Kan-Okla 100 Mile Highway Sale, spanning southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma the weekend of September 9-10.

This square route takes treasureseekers from Bartlesville north on Highway 75 through Dewey, Caney, and Independence, east to Coffeyville on Highway 166 and south again on Highway 169 to Nowata before returning back through some of the best “junking” in the area.

“You’ll find a little bit of everything,” said Sandra Marshall, member of the Kan-Okla committee.

“And you’ll even find the unusual… like caskets. Most shoppers come for the western gear, repurposed furniture, primitives, and high-end and low-end antiques.”

Marshall, owner of Kay’s Antiques in Dewey, said it’s the biggest sale day for the antique stores in downtown Dewey. The Kan-Okla committee members are affiliated with antique store owners in the other major cities along the route.

Each town features a row of boutiques that have huge sales that weekend to push the inventory they have purchased throughout the year just for this event.

“There are five of us on the planning committee, and I’m the last original remaining member that’s been here from the start,” said Marshall. “Each of us rally support in our town to put this together and make it successful. We raise funds for advertisement in larger cities such as Wichita and Dallas. We also have a route map with ad placements available that we distribute to visitor’s centers and other public locations.”

She explained the event easily draws as many as 6,000-8,000 antique hunters that come to the area from as far away as California to fill their own inventory or find that lacking item in their collection.

“Everyone has a collection of something,” she added. “This is a great place to find what you’re looking for. On top of the antique stores we have about 60-100 individual garage sales in each town.

People don’t realize how big this is.”

Although this sale has been mostly shared by word-of-mouth in the past, it was recently numbered in the home improvement magazine, “This Old House” as one of the top 15 flea markets to visit. Marshall said the event has also been featured in “Country Living” magazine and other flea market books.

“Tourism is a huge reason why we do this,” she said. “We are bringing people to our small towns and they are staying overnight in our hotels and eating in our restaurants. We also give them a calendar of events so we see several come back another time throughout the year with their spouse or family.”

“We have people who come in our stores in Dewey during Western Heritage weekend that say they found out about it during our sale.

All of us see what this does for our towns in a bigger picture.”

The sale takes place rain or shine, from dawn to dusk. Following the route using the highway signs will provide the safest way to each destination. Each year the sale committee works with the highway patrol to make sure shoppers arrive safely.

“We get so excited about this sale every year,” Marshall said. “It grows bigger each year. I can’t wait to hear the stories of what people find.”

For updates on the event or to book a sale space at one of the large group sale sites in Dewey or Caney, visit the Kan Okla 100 Mile Highway Sale facebook page or call 918-2142443.v

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last call

Center Stage:

CMT starts school-year program

by Abigail Singrey

Children don’t have to wait for summer to break into song and dance anymore. Children’s Musical Theatre has started a schoolyear program to allow children to develop their skills year-round.

The program debuted in August with a mission of creating an environment where children can chase excellence in performing arts, creating technical excellence in music, dance and drama, which will enable students to continue to professional levels.

Children can take advantage of 20 dance classes per week in jazz and ballet with Michele Hays, who taught at a stage school in Germany. Her students had gone on to have lead roles in musicals such as Cats, Phantom of the Opera and more, and Hays had been looking for an opportunity to recreate that experience. Through CMT, she is looking forward to working with a new generation of students.

CMT is bringing in guest artists to teach weekend workshops in acting and voice while they seek a permanent teacher to allow them to offer regular classes in those disciplines. They want to offer children the opportunity to become what’s called “a triple threat” in the 34

b Monthly | SEPTEMBER 2016

theater world - a performer who can dance, act and sing.

“We’re just getting started, but we have a great big dream to build something wonderful,” CMT Executive Director Jeanette Forman said.

The dream began years ago, but when Forman and others saw kids come to auditions for the summer musical who had raw talent but no training, they knew they had to make it a reality. CMT staff wanted to offer a program for kids who had potential but were not quite ready to be cast in the big show.

“I thought, ‘We have got to get these kids more performing opportunities,’” Forman said.

Founded in 2000, Children’s Musical Theatre has been thriving since launching a “Setting the Stage” campaign to renovate their building, hire additional personnel and add additional programs. Funds raised so far have allowed them to begin slowly renovating their 11,000 square foot building and launch the school-year program.

Hays says the children who thrive in theater also see success in other areas of their life.

“Statistically, children who

participate in the arts are also your overachievers scholastically,” CMT Program Manager Michele Hays said. “They’re better prepared when they graduate from high school.”

Children’s Musical Theatre has some stunning success storiesincluding Caitlyn Caughell, who performed in Newsies on Broadway, Kennedy Caughell, who recently finished touring with Wicked as the understudy for Elphaba, and Brad Gray, who became a professional lighting technician for professional productions. Many others have gone on to success in other arenas as well.

The alumni of CMT are confident, poised, and ready to speak in front of a crowd, Forman said. They often find themselves in leadership roles, whether they are in a board room, participating in community clubs or in the arts world.

“They are sure in themselves and what they want to become,” Hays said. v For more information on CMT’s programs, visit cmtonstage.com or call 918-336-0558.

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