bmonthly August 2022

August 2022

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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WHAT’S INSIDE

The pow

what’s inside...

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Financial Advisor Fi

(918) 337-2712 (9

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Upfront

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Election 2022: Frix Seeking Spot in U.S. House

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Profile: Anthem & Cynthia Blanchard Bartlesville’s New Tech Pioneers

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Feature: Hillside Mission A History Trifecta

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Now You Know: Customer Service C.R. Anthony was Oklahoma Proud

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Looking Back : A Top One-Room School Jesse Creek School was Once a Superior School

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From the Heart: Living the Dream Never Give Yourself Permission to Stop Dreaming

24 Feature Sponsor Story: Meet Bartlesville’s New Coaches

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Funny You Should Ask: Micro & Macro

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Election 2022: Brecheen Seeks House Seat

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Community: A Gift to the Community Christmas Gift Brings Inspiration to Many

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A Fresh Perspective: We May Never Pass This Way Again

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Finance: Prepare for Long Retirement

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Out & About: Photos From Around Town

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Kids Calendar

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Local History: Ringing the County School Bell

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Chick-fil-A Events Calendar

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Giving Back: Honoring Families of the Fallen

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Arts & Entertainment: Broadway in Bartlesville!

2022-2023 Season Tickets Now Available

35 Education: State of the Schools Superintendent Chuck McCauley Talks About District 41

Stars in Our Back Yard: Chevalley Roots Run Deep

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A Good Word: Think You’re Bigger than God? You Can’t Break Things Beyond God’s Ability to Fix

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Let Freedom Ring: Albert Einstein On the Road: By the Bootstrap Popsicle Goodness with a Cowgirl Perspective AUGUST 2022

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UPFRONT

upfront

Welcome to August friends, and the start of a new school year. Summer vacations are behind us, and many parents are gearing up for the kids to get back into the classroom. Bartlesville Public Schools will start classes August 11th this year.

In this issue, Debbie Neece from the Bartlesville Area History Museum wrote about the Hillside Quaker Mission School, which was located on the Washington, Osage, and Tulsa County lines. It is a fascinating story, not only about the school, but the church and the cemetery — which you can still visit today. Debbie also wrote about country schools that were scattered throughout Washington County in the early 1900s. Did you know before Oklahoma became a state in 1907 we had over 90 schools in Washington County?

Every August is special to me because in 2017 I began putting the cover together. It is really my favorite part of the magazine. I take great pride in our covers because I really believe it is a piece of art.

When people see the cover, they have to pick it up. When I first saw this picture which was taken in the late 1940s, I wanted to bring it to life. We added colors from this era to the shirts and dresses. We really made this picture appear like you were standing in that classroom yourself.

It reminded me so much of when I was in elementary school in the early 70s, when we stood with our hands over our hearts reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to our beautiful flag. We also prayed for our city, state, and our country, hence the title Remember When. Back then we were not tearing down our flag and country, and we were proud to be Americans.

There are few things I would change in my life, but I can honestly say I wish I would have been a better student. I was more worried about partying and skipping school than being in school. I never graduated high school. I was kicked out three weeks before graduation because I was caught skipping school over 60 times. Mr. Ron Jared (known today for Jared’s Custard) had no choice but to let me go. It was actually emotional for both of us because it was the last thing he wanted to do. I never received my GED,

and I wish I could go back and change that part of my life that I wasted away.

Christy, Grace, and I have been in Florida over the last eight days for vacation and for Gracie’s AAU National Basketball Championship in Orlando. We spent the first five days in New Smyrna Beach on the east coast, just 40 miles south of Daytona and had many moments of relaxing on the beach. It’s a good time for Christy and I to recharge our batteries and prepare for the rest of the year.

Finally, many of you who follow us on our personal Facebook page and, of course all of our friends, know that our 17-month-old granddaughter, Scottie, just received her new liver. For the last four weeks she has been in Houston, and we want to share with all of you that she is doing so good. The surgery went as well as we could have prayed for and her recovery is just unbelievable. We expect her to go home in the next few days. Let me just say that we miss her so much and can not wait to hold her again. We have been Facetiming her a lot, and she looks so healthy and happy. We want to sincerely thank the thousands of people who have prayed and continue to pray for her. We are so grateful and humbled that so many of you take the time to lift her up in prayer and keep her in your thoughts!

Thank you and God bless!

Keith

Volume XIII Issue VIII

Bartlesville Monthly Magazine is published by

ENGEL PUBLISHING

Offices located in Downtown Bartlesville in the historic Price Tower 510 Dewey Ave, Suite 400, Bartlesville, OK 74003 P.O. Box 603, Bartlesville, OK 74005

www.bartlesvillemonthly.com facebook.com/bartlesvillemonthly

Publisher Brian Engel brian@brokenarrowmagazine.net Graphics Copper Cup Images design@coppercupimages.com Director of Sales & Marketing Keith McPhail keith@bartlesvillemonthly.com Community Liaison Christy McPhail christy@bartlesvillemonthly.com Project Manager Andrea Whitchurch andrea@bartlesvillemonthly.com Administration Shelley Greene Stewart Delivery and Distribution Julie Drake Calendar/Social Media calendar@bartlesvillemonthly.com Contributing Writers

Debbie Neece, Kay Little, Kelly Bland, Lori Kroh, Jay Hastings, Sarah Leslie Gagan, Brent Taylor, Lori Just, Keith McPhail, Jay Webster, Chuck McCauley , Abigail Singrey, Steve Lindquist

Contributing Photographers

Bartlesville Area History Museum, Jay Webster, Library of Congress

Kids Calendar Jessica Smith

All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or otherwise, without prior permission of Bartlesville Monthly, Inc. Publisher & Editor of Bartlesville Monthly Magazine reserves the right to reject any content or advertisement in this publication.

ABOUT THE COVER

Remember when schools were much different than they are today? Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Creative concept by Keith and Christy McPhail

Keith & Christy McPhail, managing editors

Design by Copper Cup Images

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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Committed To Bartlesville

FRIX H

REPUBLICAN

CONGRESS Vote August 23 “My values are simple: faith, family, freedom and firearms – in that order. I’m young and fearless, and I don’t owe anyone a thing. As your Congressman, I will fight tirelessly to rebuild America the right way.”

– Avery Frix @voteaveryfrix @averyfrix 6

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

PAID FOR BY FRIX FOR CONGRESS

ELECTION 2022

Frix Seeking Spot in U.S. House Runoff Election Set for August 23 After making the decision to seek an elected position of any kind, the first task one must tackle is to formulate a good answer to the question “Why are you running?” Having successfully run for the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2016, Avery Frix is eager to answer the question of why he is running for the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Everything happening in Washington D.C. right now is just crazy, and if we don’t turn things around, we are going to be in trouble for generations. Having served in public office on the state level and being a small business owner, I can be a strong voice in making the federal government help us rather than harm us.”

Frix is running for Oklahoma’s 2nd congressional district seat previously held by Rep. Markwayne Mullin. A vacancy was created when the congressman decided to run for the U.S. Senate after Sen. Jim Inhofe announced he would be retiring in January 2023. Due to the redrawing of boundary lines, Washington County is now in the second district, which covers about onefourth of the state along the Oklahoma-Arkansas border. After the Republican primary election was held on June 28, Frix found himself atop a crowded field of 14 candidates with 14.7 percent of the vote. A runoff election will be held on August 23.

A native of Muskogee, Frix works for his family’s construction/excavation business, which was started by his great-grandfather in 1940. He is also the owner of Oxford Productions, a tourism and facility management company. His wife, Haley, is the owner and proprietor of Broadway Market in downtown Muskogee.

“My experience as a small business owner, combined with my three terms in the Oklahoma House, allows me to understand both sides when it comes to regulations.

Yes, there is a need for them, but too many times regulations end up crippling small businesses and keep them from growing and expanding.

And that means fewer opportunities for our people to be employed, especially in our rural communities.”

Asked about his work at the state capitol, Frix cited legislation he authored that gave first responders a cost of living increase for the first time in 12 years and being a co-author on several pro-life bills that were passed in anticipation of Roe v.

Wade being overturned.

“I’ve got a track record of getting things done and I’ve got experience fighting for our values. Faith, family, freedom, and firearms … and in that order.”

Other items on Frix’s agenda include batting the national crime wave, supporting law enforcement, rebuilding schools with a curriculum that honors the nation and its history, securing energy independence, and battling inflation “that is ravaging hard-working American families.”

Having been in the same congressional district as Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and Jenks, Bartlesville is now in the same district as Miami, Muskogee, and Durant.

“I’m excited for Bartlesville and Washington County to be part of the second district. I’ve spent a lot of my campaign time there and I will continue to spend a lot of time there. In fact, I’m committed to having an office in Bartlesville because I think it is an important part of the district.”

If Frix wins the runoff election, he will face a Democrat and an Independent in the November general election.

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PROFILE

Anthem & Cynthia Blanchard

Bartlesville’s New Tech Pioneers

by Sarah Leslie Gagan

A global center for high technology and innovation may not be definitions that immediately come to mind when describing Bartlesville, but times they are a-changin’. When husband and wife team Anthem and Cynthia Blanchard were searching locations to headquarter their expanding enterprise cyber security software development company, HeraSoft, Bartlesville, with its unique micro-city atmosphere was a perfect fit.

Anthem and Cynthia see great opportunity for their industry to grow within the community, with the affordable cost of living and centralized location. They also see an opportunity for the community to grow as they continue to expand their client base and become a forerunner for future high-tech companies to settle in Bartlesville.

Settling in Bartlesville is coming home for Cynthia, who is a fourth generation Bartian. Her great-grandparents arrived in Bartlesville in 1894. Cynthia’s great-grandfather was working as an oil driller when they decided to homestead in the area and raise a family. Her grandmother was born in Bartlesville in 1900, and Cynthia’s grandfather was an early Phillips 66 employee,

starting with the company in 1926. Cynthia’s family has deep ties with Bartlesville and Phillips 66, where her father and mother also worked, in addition to aunts and uncles.

Cynthia graduated from Dewey High School then attended Oklahoma State University, where she also pursued her Masters Degree in Arts Administration and fulfilled her graduate internship at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center in Tulsa. After graduating, Cynthia relocated to Los Angeles, California.

Anthem Blanchard was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, the son of James U. Blanchard III and Jacqueline Blanchard. Anthem holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Goizueta Business School at Emory University, with concentrations in Professional Accounting and Finance.

Both Anthem and Cynthia credit Anthem’s father, Jim, as being the greatest inspiration that drives them to do what they do. James U. Blanchard III is legendary for having helped restore the right to own gold to the American people in 1975, 43 years after it had been banned by President Roosevelt in 1933. Jim Blanchard also founded the rare coin and bullion company, James U. Blanchard & Company, which was once the world’s largest company of its kind.

Anthem was named after Ayn Rand’s novella Anthem, as well as Nobel prize-winning economist, Friedrich Hayek, from whom his middle name “Hayek” was derived. Anthem has followed his parents’ entrepreneurial spirit in founding his own business and continues to carry out his late father’s legacy of embracing individual freedom and personal liberty.

Perhaps the greatest aspect of Jim Blanchard’s legacy that inspired Anthem and Cynthia the most was his sheer will and determination to fight for his be-

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PROFILE liefs against all odds.

Tragically, on Halloween night in 1961 at the age of 17, while in his senior year, Jim Blanchard was with schoolmates as a back-seat passenger in a Corvair that crashed at high speed on New Orleans’ Canal Street.

The car split in two, front and back, and he was thrown forcefully onto the streetcar tracks. After spending four months in the hospital in extreme pain, including time in an iron lung to keep him alive, it was discovered that Jim had suffered multiple fractures and a partially severed spine at T-5, and would spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. But Jim was not one to dwell on misfortune and would begin to create an independent life for himself.

times the world is experiencing.

In 2021, their company bought the historic former Washington County Courthouse, on the corner of Delaware and Frank Phillips Boulevard downtown, to house their corporate HeraSoft headquarters.

They love being centered in such a historic piece of our history and have plans to gradually restore it to its original grandeur.

Cynthia has a background in music and singing and continues to enjoy performing, noting that they both enjoy singing karaoke.

They also enjoy traveling for both business and pleasure and have taken recent trips to Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica, Cypress, Switzerland, and Finland. And everywhere they go, they brag on Bartlesville and spark intrigue and interest in the area, inspiring people to visit.

Anthem and Cynthia remain inspired that if Anthem’s father could accomplish, from a “Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. wheelchair, all he did in his 55 Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.” years of life, then there is noth— James U. Blanchard III ing they can’t achieve in life.

Anthem and Cynthia’s love story began in New Orleans, where they met 18 years ago. They have now been married for over 16 years and have truly become a power couple in life and business. They consider their marriage one of the greatest gifts and accomplishments in their lives.

Anthem and Cynthia are earnestly grateful to become part of the Bartlesville community, and the community is grateful to have them. They bring a quality of enthusiasm and experience to Bartlesville that definitely makes us a better place.

Anthem and Cynthia’s path to Bartlesville has had many stops. They have enjoyed making their home in a variety of cities including Santa Monica, Los Angles, Las Vegas, Austin, Puerto Rico, and Montgomery, Texas, but love calling Bartlesville “home” and enjoy the feeling of having roots here.

When asked, “why Bartlesville?” Anthem replied, “There is a real sense of wanting to help each other in the community here, and I thought that was really special. I’ve only ever lived in big cities. They’re very impersonal, and with Bartlesville being a microcity, everyone can feel like they have a place to fit in. There are people we can really relate to here and form bonds with and experience a significant closeness. I think that is really my favorite thing about being here.”

Cynthia wholeheartedly agrees with Anthem and adds that this is really their first opportunity to live in town with many family members. “We have created true friendships, and that is such an added bonus. This community is so supportive, and we are so grateful.”

Both say they sense the community as a beacon of light, with a semblance of calm among people here, and a real appreciation of living and love of life within the community, despite the chaotic AUGUST AUGUST 20222022 | bmonthly | bmonthly

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SUTTERFIELD FINANCIAL FEATURE

Hillside Mission A History Trifecta: Hillside Quaker Mission School, Hillside Cemetery and Hillside Church

by Debbie Neece, Bartlesville Area History Museum

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As early as 1852, the state of Massachusetts passed a “comOsage’s Kansas reservation where hundreds of Osage children pulsory universal public education law” requiring every town to attended school. After the Osage moved to their present resestablish a grammar school and every parent to send their child ervation in 1872, Osage boarding schools were established in to school. Failure to comply resulted in fines or loss of parenthe Pawhuska area. Two such Catholic Mission schools were tal rights. In 1884, the St. John’s School for According to a 2022 Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative Investigative Osage Tribal Council boys (11 miles west of Report, the total number of Indian boarding schools once existing in the U.S. also passed a comHominy) 1888–1913 has been between 408 and 431, not including orphanages or day schools. pulsory education and St. Louis School law and failure for girls (Pawhusto comply resulted in the loss of survival essential annuika) 1887–1948. Today, the Catholic Church holds a firm standing in the Pawhuska community with the Immaculate ty monies, strictly enforced by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Conception Catholic Church, which was built in 1910 and The Osage were no strangers to missionary education. placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

From 1821-1837, Protestant missions were established throughout Kansas and Indian Territory, but failed because the focus According to the 1852 “Laws of the Cherokee Nation,” the leaned more towards forced Christianity and less towards eduCherokee Tribal Council was required to make common education easily accessible to every citizen and to establish cation. Ten years later, Jesuits opened a Mission School on the throughout the Cherokee Nation eighteen common schools; “three in Delaware District, three in Going Snake District, three in Flint District, one in Canadian District, two in Skin Bayou District, two in Illinois District, two in Tahlequah District and two in Saline District.” In addition, two Seminaries/ High School buildings were to be built near Tahlequah; one for the education and boarding privileges of males, the other for females. Every teacher was required to be a believer in the Christian religion and pay was compensated according to his/her skills and duties. However, the Cherokee Nation’s dedication to tribal education extended well past these schools.

Greenwood and Tyner Families 16

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After the Civil War, subscription and boarding schools were among the first educational opportunities for children of white pioneers, Freedmen and Indian tribes. Often conducted in homes or churches, teaching was compensated by parents,

SUTTERFIELD FINANCIAL FEATURE

Joseph Hardin “Joe“ Bennett and his daughters Roxana “Roxie“ Bennett Abbott (left) and Mary Ellen Bennett Sears (right) the Cherokee Nation or in-kind offerings. The Cherokee Nation supported Indian Territory education by paying the salaries of Cherokee teachers at subscription schools. One of the earliest such schools in this area was located at Silver Lake, south of current Bartlesville. However, even further south, tucked into an unsuspected corner of woods; where country roads intersect Tulsa, Washington and Osage counties; just east of Highway 11; westerly bordered by Tyner Creek before its confluence with Bird Creek and easterly bordered by the Skalall Creek; stood the Hillside Quaker Mission School.

In stories of past, I have shared with you how often the history of Washington County is closely connected to our neighboring counties, Osage and Tulsa. The Civil War battles at Round Mound, Chusto-Talasah and Chustenahlah documented in history as the “Trail of Blood on Ice” were only a fraction of the history we share with these counties. The Oklahoma Historical Society has recognized the historic significance of these Civil War battle sites by placing granite markers at the locations, as well as a Hillside Mission School marker at the entrance of the Hillside Cemetery as a tribute to the school.

Among the earliest and most influential pioneers of the Bird Creek Basin area

Chief William Charles Rogers

were the entangled lives of W.C. Rogers, Solomon Abbott, Dr. George Washington Lloyd and Reverend John Murdock.

William Charles Rogers, last Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation and cousin to Oklahoma’s famed Will Rogers, was educated in tribal schools and engaged in farming and ranching on the south bank of Bird Creek where he built a large trading post in 1872 and added a post office in 1880. When the railroad pushed south from Kansas to Tulsa, two and one-half miles from the Rogers’ trading post, he moved his store to the railroad and founded Skiatook, which currently straddles Osage and Tulsa counties. He was extremely successful at stock-raising and trading. It has been said his store held an inventory of $100,000 and he also operated stores at Vera and Talala. Rogers was elected to the Cherokee Council in 1881 and was re-elected in 1883. He served in the Cherokee tribal government for many years and during the last tribal elections in 1903, he was elected the last tribal chief, serving until the tribal government expired in 1906. He died in 1917 and peacefully rests in the Hillside Cemetery.

Hillside Store & Post Office — 1900

Solomon M. “Sol” Abbott, and his mother, left their Kansas home on the trek to Indian Territory in 1872. After a brief stop at Silver Lake, they settled for a

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Hillside Mission — 1892 time at the Tyner Place, where they erected a “pole tent.” With the assistance of area Indians, Abbott later built his dream house in the shape of a cross called the “Star House” by locals. The hand hewn, wooden pegged home with hand smoothed floors along Tyner Creek consisted of five rooms, one centered with a fireplace and four rooms extended in a four-point star fashion. Once completed, Abbott held a two-day house-warming feast and dance celebration during the October full-moon with Chief W.C. Rogers as the guest of honor. The Tyner Cemetery was across the creek from the Star House where Sol and his mother lived.

However, when she died, she was buried in the Collinsville Cemetery. In later years, the small, secluded, Tyner Cemetery became overgrown and the Star House was repurposed as a hay barn.

Roxanna (Bennett) Abbott and Sol Abbott 18

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Indian Territory was “brutally-doctorless” until Dr. J.W. Bandel arrived. Roxanna “Roxie” Bennett, who married Sol Abbott, trained as a nurse and later became the saving grace for many area ailing patients after Dr. Bandel died in 1915 and was buried in the Hillside Cemetery.

Cherokee, Dr. G.W. Lloyd came to Indian Territory in 1872 with allotment on his mind and that fall he filed for his Cherokee citizenship. With his first wife, he had eleven children, five by the second and three were added after his I.T. arrival. With 19 children, education became his second goal, resulting in the construction of the “Little Red School House,” a subscription school on the Tyner’s land.

Noting the ever-growing educational need in the area, Dr. Lloyd had dreams of enlarging his subscription school. So, in 1882, when the Philadelphia Quaker Friends Society sent Reverend John Murdock to Indian Territory to investigate the establishment of an Indian school, Lloyd shared his dream and invited Murdock to live with the Lloyd family while the two men collaborated. Unfortunate-

Dr. George Washington Lloyd

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Hillside Mission School — Skiatook, Oklahoma ly, Dr. Lloyd never saw his dream materialize; he became ill, died in 1884 and was buried in the Hillside Cemetery.

through sixth grade school welcomed students from as far as fifty miles away and tuition was charged at $1 per month and $8.00 boarding for white children, while Indian children received free tuition but paid $7.00 boarding. Cramped conditions forced Murdock to build a separate larger church building and part of that structure is used today as the Hillside Church at the country corner of 186th Street North and Hillside Road.

Rev. Murdock was described as a man with a soft southern drawl and magnetic blue eyes who resembled Abraham Lincoln. He held his first service in the grove known as “God’s First Tabernacle” located between Tyner and Skalall Creeks, north of their junction with Bird Creek. His first primitive church was a 10x20 foot walnut log In 1886, the Friends building without a floor Society selected Rev“Formal education is the nation’s heart-string. It is the jeweled chord that or door. The winter erend John Watson of binds the people together into a national whole, attaching them to one breezes sparked the Dayton, Ohio, to reanother, to home and to the land in which they were born.” need to seal out “old lieve Murdock who — Walter Adair Duncan, superintendent of the Cherokee Orphan man winter” by filling pushed west to conAsylum between 1872 and 1884 said in praise of the Cherokee the buildings cracks tinue his missionary Nation’s public education system with a plaster of lime work. Watson also and sand chink. Then summer brought relentless malaria carrybrought his wife Eliza, daughters Elma and Eva and a sapling ing mosquitos so the church was moved up the hillside in 1884. from the “William Penn Treaty Elm” in Pennsylvania, which was As the Friends Society received reports of Murdock’s accomplishments, they were so pleased that they sent a bank account to forward Murdock’s work in building the Friend’s Indian Mission and School. And build they did…first the church, then a parsonage and finally a school building with lumber hauled from Coffeyville, the nearest rail service. Murdock served as the first Mission School teacher as well.

Soon, white families moved to the area allowing their children take advantage of the educational opportunities. The first

planted in the east yard. It was at the hands of “Uncle John” and “Aunt Eliza” Watson that the Mission School gained enlargements bringing the majestic structure to four-stories, including a full basement and gymnasium attic. The twenty-four rooms offered plenty of space for separate sleeping quarters for boys and girls, dining and kitchen facilities, and more.

After the death of Aunt Eliza Watson in 1898, she entered eternal rest in the Hillside Cemetery and John then moved to Ohio.

Albert Copeland replaced Watson as Hillside Mission superinten AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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Hillside Mission Dormitory — 1896 the sexton of the Hillside Cemetery for a period of time. After dent for one year. In 1901, Reverend James Addison Griffitts beAbbott’s death in 1940 and burial in the Collinsville Cemetery, came the superintendent and under his supervision, the school the Mission School area became a place for community danctransitioned to be only a grade school. During his short tenure, es and picnics before the school structure was razed in 1946. he was not only a teacher but wrote a textbook used at the Hillside Mission School.

Determined to forAlthough not found in original primary source documents, traditionIn 1902, Griffitts orward the education of ally, William Penn entered into the Treaty of Shackamaxon in 1682 ganized the school area children, in 1908, with Chief Tamanend of the Lenape Turtle Clan under the shade of system at the newa three-room frame an aged American Elm Tree in Pennsylvania.

In March 1810, the elm ly-incorporated town home near the blackfell in a storm and was later replaced with original “Penn Treaty Elm” of Ramona where he smith shop at Hillside descendant saplings. In 1827, the Penn Society erected an obelisk also organized the Rabecame the “Old Dodge where the Great Elm had once stood.

Its inscription read: “Treaty mona Friends Church.

House” school which Ground of William Penn and the Indian Natives 1682; Unbroken Faith.”

Reverend Griffitts was supplied the educaminister at this church tional needs of area residents for one year, replaced by the defor 17 years until health issues required his retirement. velopment of schools in area communities.

Then, in November He also was Washington County Treasurer for four years.

1909, Carter Tyner and Mrs. Willits established the Sequoyah The Hillside Quaker Indian Mission School, School, one mile northeast of Hillside. Classoften referred to as the Skiatook Academy, es continued until 1941 when students was a historic influence on pre-Statehood were transferred to Skiatook. The school education in the Bird Creek Basin. Once building was vacant for many years, fell Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory into ruin and burned to the ground in 1971. became the state of Oklahoma in 1907, the Standing like a castle on the hill, the Hillside Mission School no longer held relHillside Mission School was a stoic eduevance as communities began to establish cational monument that changed lives and public school systems. The Quaker Friends created lifetime memories. Roxie Bennett officially closed the Hillside Mission School Abbott singlehandedly recalled the names in 1907, at which time an auction was held of 295 former students and contacted each to disburse the furnishings, except Aunt with an invitation to the first Hillside MisEliza Watson’s hickory rocking chair, polsion School Alumni Association reunion ished with years of baby rocking wear. In at the Ramona home of Mr. and Mrs. Walhis elder years, Sol Abbott purchased the ter Bivins…50 attended the November 17, acreage and remaining structures from 1957 event. Reportedly, disruptive weaththe trustees of the Friends Society and er, travel distances and deaths preventlived in the dormitory section of the Hilled many from attending. After delightful side Mission School. He also hailed as 20

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

SUTTERFIELD FINANCIAL FEATURE

Hillside Mission — Skiatook, Oklahoma “schools days” conversation, the group vowed to meet annually the second Sunday of each September and did so through 1973.

In remembrance of their education at the mission school, in 1961, the Hillside Mission Alumni Association erected a monument near Eliza Watson’s grave with the inscription, “In Memory of the Teachers and Students of the Hillside Mission.”

Among the notable students, the children of George B. and Josie Gilstrap Keeler of Bartlesville and Joseph and Huldah Ringo Bennett of Silver Lake attended Hillside. And student Tom Sears later became a Washington County Sheriff. During the 1903-1904 school session, 127 Cherokee, Osage, Delaware, Shawnee, Uchee and white children were enrolled at the Hillside Mission School. Living in the area were the Bandels, Haynies, Deshazers, Willits, Mosbys, Barthel, Gifford, Sears, Bivins, Bradshaws, Faulks, Perriers and others.

Although the Hillside Mission School came to a close, the life of the Hillside Mission Church continued. The building was abandoned until the Skiatook Baptists restored the structure and opened usage to all denominations in the early 1920s.

The little country church was then abandoned and ravaged by the elements again, until Reverend Wolford Martin arrived to retire in 1956. Plans changed and under his wing, the building was restored and he pastored the Hillside Assembly of God until his son, Reverend Raymond “Dean” Martin, assumed the pastorate as the Gospel Assembly. After Dean’s wife died in Hillside Cemetery — Present Day

1995, Pastor Gary Caughron and his wife Kathy Martin Caughron assumed the pastorate and have continued the Hillside Church, completing three generations of Hillside Church history.

At the doorstep of the Hillside Church, the Hillside Cemetery is still accepting guests and is cared for by the Hillside Cemetery Association who maintain a Facebook page and annually reach followers with a Memorial Day address detailing the year’s burials, requesting maintenance donations and most of all, inviting all to the annual cemetery business meeting and flag pole gathering of the Skiatook American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard in a special Veterans Memorial Service.

Walking the hallowed Hillside Cemetery grounds, it is easy to feel the mortality of the young and restful sleep of residents who took with them the stories of Indian Territory struggle. The cemetery was established in 1882 with the burial of one-monthold Jessee N. Lloyd, son of George Washington and Mary Lloyd.

Like most cemeteries, the Hillside Cemetery details the history of the area. There are fabled stories like that of Abel Parkhill whose wife, Jennie, refused to let him rest below earth so caretakers placed a cement mound over his grave to permanently entomb him, thus protecting him from her grief.

And, four-year-old Howard Jewitt, whose grave is marked with a “little drummer boy,” buried near his grandfather, G.C. Jewett before his family moved to Washington. And, William Rice Mosby with 51 years of peace office service, including Washington County Sheriff and U.S. Marshall.

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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SUTTERFIELD FINANCIAL FEATURE

Joe Faulk Sr. and Family and Neighbors. Hillside, Oklahoma — About 1909 among the deepest roots rests the connection to the Quaker And, during WWI, when the influenza epidemic swept the naFriends Hillside Mission. Although there is no more pitter-pattion, as many as three funerals per day were held at the Hillside ter of children and the Cemetery, many were Born just moments after midnight on statehood November 16, 1907, school building has infants with lamb clad long disappeared, the grave markers noting Pauline Sears is believed to be the first child born in the State of Oklahoma.

Hillside Church and their existence. In adHillside Cemetery continue to serve the families who attended the dition, Susan Bellieu Fox was the Osage daughter of Thomas school and who will forever hold memories close to their hearts. and Adeline Perrier Bellieu and wife of Edward Fox. When Susan died in 1926, her husband marked her grave with the “MonuWith sincere appreciation to Sherry Smith, Carol Goughler, the ment of Madonna,” called the “Angel of Vision,” a sculpted marble Skiatook Museum and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Caughron, current pastostatue from Carrara, Italy at a cost $1,900 (over $31,000 today). ral staff of the still functional, non-denominational, Hillside Church.

To note all Hillside Cemetery residents would result in an extensive list; however, among the anchors are: Roxanna Bennett Abbott, Dr. J.W. Bandel, Dr. George Washington Lloyd, Joseph Hardin Bennett, Chief William Charles Rogers, Clem Thomas Sears, Captain Henry Patrick Sears, Wade Hampton Sears and George Washington Tyner.

Wade Hampton and Mary Ellen (Bennett) Sears Children: Henrietta, Joseph, Pauline, & Frances 22

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

Much of the history that has defines Tulsa, Osage and Washington Counties is intertwined and

Hillside Mission — Last Photograph Before Demolition

SUTTERFIELD FINANCIAL FEATURE

AUGUST AUGUST 20222022 | bmonthly | bmonthly

23 23

FEATURE SPONSOR STORY

Meet Bartlesville’s New Coaches

BHS Has New Head Football & Girls Soccer Coaches

by Lori Just

Bartlesville High School’s football program has a new head coach this season. Harry Wright is an Oklahoma native from Eufaula and graduated from in Bacone College in Muskogee, where he played offensive line as a four-year starter. After college, he has spent split his professional coaching career in Arkansas and the Sooner state.

“My wife, Lauren, is from this area and her family still lives here,” he said about returning to Oklahoma after being in Lonoke, Arkansas. “I’ve always thought it was a great community to raise a family.”

Harry and Lauren have a 10-year-old son, Evan, that plays football and baseball, and they are excited for the opportunity for family to see him play more often.

“Everything lined up this time around,” he said. “I was in the finals for the last round of vacancy for this role. Although I wasn’t selected then, when I went through the interview process this time I was really impressed with Thad Dilbeck and Chuck McCauley. I saw the improvements that they made and, from the outside looking in, I’ve always respected what Chuck did as the superintendent. I really wanted this position and to move back to this area for my career, but more so for my family.”

Wright has been in the coaching role for 7-12th grade football since February, and the biggest change he wants to make is putting a product on the field that the student-athletes can be proud of and the community can get behind.

“The record hasn’t been what anyone wants it to be,” he explained. “I want to change the mentality with these student-athletes that you have to put in the work to see the change. They need a good work ethic. And by putting in the work, the product on the field will be more successful.”

Another new face this year in the athletics program is Roosevelt Peters, as the new high school girls soccer coach. He’s originally from Nigeria, where he grew up in soccer.

24

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

“Where I’m from, it’s our religion,” he said.

Peters came to the United States in 2015 to attend Northeastern State University and then transferred to Bacone College, where he graduated and played soccer. He also served as the head coach for their men’s & women’s soccer programs. Peters went on to pursue an MBA at Oklahoma Wesleyan University in 2021. While going to school, he was coaching the Muskogee Soccer Club, NEOFC Owasso, and is now also the OKWU’s assistant men’s soccer coach.

“I’m coaching soccer at the high school and the college level,” he said. “I am now a U.S. D-licensed soccer coach.”

When he was hired for Bartlesville High School, he was asked to develop a program starting at the 7th grade level that would include tryouts and practices. He has an assistant coach that is aligning with his philosophy to prepare these middle schoolers to grow and develop into their high school sports careers.

“Overall, I want to see the girls have a fun experience and see the value of what it brings,” he said. “It should bring them unity and discipline, and those are traits that can be carried out into their college career in sports or in the workforce. My goal is for them to bring value wherever they go.”

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SUPPORTING DREAMS TODAY AND TOMORROW Whether you’re just getting started saving for college, or you’ve been saving for a while, we want to help make it smooth and easy. We’re dedicated to planning what’s best for you and your family!

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COMMUNITY

A Gift to the Community Christmas Gift Brings Inspiration to Many

by Abigail Singrey

When Renee Pryce’s family decided to make homemade Christmas gifts, she had no idea that they would end up with a gift to the entire community.

For Christmas, Pryce suggested that her family could make her a light-up cross for the front yard. However, her family decided to do something even bigger and better. While Pryce wasn’t home, they built a 25- by 35-foot cross. Then they mounted it high in the air on an old Internet tower on their property that they had previously discussed chopping up for wood for projects. When Pryce came home on Christmas Eve, they had her plug in an extension cord, and the cross lit up.

“I was so surprised!” Pryce said. “It was amazing.”

Since that moment in 2012, the cross has been lit 24 hours a day, except for some down time to replace the lights. Located a third of a mile off Highway 75 south of Bartlesville, on property that has been in Pryce’s family for around 50 years, the cross is visible from the highway at night. Now, it’s become a community staple.

“When the lights went out the last time, we had a lot of people who missed it,” Pryce said. “It’s become a landmark for a lot of people.”

Previously, the Pryces had replaced the lights with rope lights from a local lawn and garden store. However, in 2021, when the lights went out, a friend and neighbor set up a GoFundMe to help the Pryces with the cost of maintaining the cross. They raised around $1,500 to install LED lights to make the cross brighter. Now, on a clear night, the Pryces have been able to spot the cross five miles away.

The task of changing the lights falls to Pryce and her son.

They climb up the 120foot tower to undo the bolts that hold the cross in place. Then, using a pulley system, they lower it to the ground for the necessary repairs. Then the process repeats again to remount the cross.

“You can’t have a fear of heights,” Pryce said. “Any little bit of wind sways the tower.”

But it’s all worth it to her for the inspiration it brings to the community.

“I hope people who see the cross have renewed hope,” Pryce said. “The world is crazy right now, and horrible things are going on. I hope it reminds them that God is the King of everything, and we can reach out to him in our prayers.”

It’s also important to Pryce that everyone who wants one have access to a Bible. They have used the attention the cross gets to help distribute them. Recently, Pryce also converted an old mailbox to a home for free Bibles at the end of the driveway. They welcome visitors to take a Bible or donate an old Bible that they no longer have use for. They also welcome those who want to get a closer look at the cross or take pictures to drop by the property at 398410 W. 4000 Rd. in Ramona.

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

27

FINANCE

Prepare for Long Retirement What Investors Can – and Can’t – Control

As an investor, you can easily feel frustrated to see short-term drops in your investment statements. But

We all want to live long lives. We all expect to live long lives. up with $460,000. And if you didn’t start saving until 45, you’d end while cannot control the market, you may find it helpful toupreview factors you cangiven control.

Butyou are we financially prepared for this longevity? with justthe over $200,000, again the same 6.5% return.

Many forces affect financial markets, geopolitical events, profits and • Be mindful of debt.corporate You may not want to be interest burdenedrate with Before we get to the issue the of preparation, let’s look atincluding a coucertain debts when you enter retirement.

So, while you’re still ple of interesting findings from a 2022 survey by Age Wave and movements – forces beyond the control of most individual investors. working, try to reduce unwanted debts, particularly those that Edward Jones: In any case, it’s important to focus on the things you can control, such as these: don’t offer the financial benefits of tax-deductible interest pay•The surveyed retirees said, on average, they expect to live to • Your ability to define your goals – One area in which youThe have total is your ability your ments. lower yourcontrol debt load, the more you to candefine save and in89, and they said the ideal length of retirement is 29 years. vest for the future.

goals. Like most people, you probably have short-term goals – such as saving for a new car or a dream vacation – •When asked if they want to live to 100, nearly 70% of the re-

• Keep reviewing your progress.

It’s important to monitor andspondents long-term ones,” such as reason a comfortable retirement.

Once you identify your goals and estimate how much they will said“yes.

The main for this desire for long life? the progress you need to make toward achieving your goal of

Toyou spend more years an withinvestment their family and friends.to help achieve them. Over time, some of your personal circumstances cost, can create strategy a comfortable retirement. Over the short term, your investment balances fluctuate, volatileadjusting financial markets will likely change, soofyou’ll to review your and risk may tolerance on especially a regularinbasis, your Of course, none us canwant see into the future andtime knowhorizon how

such as we’ve seen in the early part of this year. But you’ll get a clearer picture of your situation if you look at long-term results.

For example, have your accounts grown over the past 10 years as muchdrops as youand had the planned? goinginvestments forward, do you think • Your response to market downturns – When the market valueAnd of your declines, However, if you’re going to enjoy a longer lifespan, and the you’re in good shape, or will you need to make some changes to years your loved ones,immediate you need to ensure financyouextra might bewith tempted to take actionyour in an effort toyour stop the losses.

ThisKeep is understandable – after your investment strategy? in mind that, if you’re 50 orall, older, es are also in good shape. How can you make this happen? you canacting make “catch-up” contributions to youryou IRA – and investment results can have a big impact on your future. However, hastily could work against for401(k) that allow you to exceed the regular limits. You may also want to Here are some basic steps to follow: example, you could sell investments that still have solid fundamentals and are still appropriate for your needs. If you adjust your investment mix as you near retirement to potentially • Save and invest early andon often.

This may be the oldest can avoid decisions based short-term events, youpiece may help yourself the long run. lower your riskinexposure. of financial advice, but it’s still valid. The earlier you start sav• Your commitment to investing – The financial markets are almost always flux,years andoftheir movements Hopefully, you will enjoy in many a healthy, happy re-are ing and investing for your retirement, the greater your potential Andor you can help support this vision carefully conhardaccumulation. to predict. Consider If you can investing in all markets good, bad sideways – you will likely by make much this:continue If you began saving just $5,000 per – tirement. sidering your financial moves and making the ones that are right year at age 25, and earned a hypothetical 6.5% annual rate of better progress toward your goals than if you periodically were to take a “time out.” Many people head to the for you. return, and didn’t take any early withdrawals, you’d end up with

long we’ll be around. But with advances in medical care and a strategy when appropriate. And the same is true for your goals – they may evolve over time, requiring new responses greater awareness of healthy lifestyles, these aspirations have a fromreal you in in how you invest. basis reality.

investment sidelines when the market out on the beginnings of the next rally. And by steadily $935,000 by the time you reached 65. But iftumbles, you waitedonly until to 35 miss to ~ This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your

start saving and younumber earned the hypothetical investing, youand willinvesting, increase the ofsame shares you own in your investments – and the larger Advisor your ownership stake, local Edward Jones Financial ~ 6.5% return — again with no early withdrawals — you’d only end

the greater your opportunities for building wealth.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

• Your portfolio’s level of diversification – While diversification itself can’t guarantee profits or protect against

The itpower of personal working for you. all losses, can help greatly reduce the attention impact of market volatility on your portfolio. Just how you diversify your

investments depends on several factors, but the general principle of maintaining a diversified portfolio should govern your approach to investing. It’s a good idea to periodically review your portfolio to ensure it’s still properly diversified.

The world will always be filledCaiti with unpredictable, uncontrollable events, and many of them will affect the Beau Eden Dustin Hancock Parr Garrett Parr Levi Walker Dean Surface

Randy Bluhm

Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor

financial markets(918) to 337-3602 one degree or another.

But within your(918) own investment world, you always have a great deal of (918) 337-2712 (918) 331-9236 (918) 876-1300 (918) 333-0499 (918) 337-3782 335-8656 control – and with it, you have the power to keep moving toward all your important financial objectives.

28

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

AUGUST

CALENDAR

SPONSORED BY 4

Bruin Softball vs Sperry

6

Aunt Jane’s Ice Cream Social

12 PM; Bruin Softball Fields

19

8 9

Elementary Schools Open House

OKWU Volleyball vs Randall 6 PM; OKWU Gym

Bruin Volleyball vs Noah

6:30 PM; Bruin Fieldhouse

Sizzlin Summer Concert Series

7 PM; Tower Center at Unity Square Weston Horn & the Hush will be the featured guest during Bartlesville’s Sizzlin’ Summer Concert series. Each concert will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on a Friday. Food trucks will be on hand, and the Price Tower Plaza’s outdoor restaurant will offer food and adult beverages that can be taken anywhere throughout the park. Organizers urge people to bring their blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy the party.

2 PM; Bruin Softball Fields

4 PM; District-Wide

11

First Day of School All Day; District-Wide

16

Bruin Volleyball vs Broken Arrow

6:30 PM; Bruin Fieldhouse

Bruin Softball vs Enid 7 PM; Bruin Softball Fields

Bruin Softball vs Sand Springs

5:30; Bruin Softball Fields

1 PM; Frank Phllips Home Enjoy free ice cream and cookies on the lawn of the Frank Phillips Home, presented by the Jane Phillips Society!

Pack a picnic, games, and your lawn chairs for this free family event, and cool down with a sweet treat!

Bruin Softball vs Enid

25

22 23

Bruin Softball vs Jenks

5:30 PM; Bruin Softball Fields

Bruin Volleyball vs Sapulpa

6:30 PM; Bruin Fieldhouse

26

Virtual Learning Day All Day; District-Wide

29

Bruin Softball vs Kellyville

5:30 PM; Bruin Softball Fields

30

OKWU Volleyball vs Seminole 1 PM; OKWU Gym

Saturdays in August Farmers Market

8 AM; Frank Phillips Park

Weekdays in August Food Trucks

11 AM; Tower Center at Unity Square

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

29

Bartlesville

Beat the heat with one of our Frosted Beverages!!

Frosted Coffee

Frosted Lemonade

Try our Seasonal Frosted Sunrise! ONLY available for purchase via our Chick-fil-A App. Available July 18thAugust 6th.

Apply today at cfabartlesville.com | Bartlesville 602 SE Washington Blvd | 918-331-9956

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

AUGUST EVENTS CALENDAR Know of an upcoming event you would like to see on our calendar? Visit us at bartlesvillemonthly.com for a free listing!

Mon, Aug 1

Fri, Aug 5

5:30 PM

Free Spanish Classes

9 AM

Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave. Free Spanish Class every Monday evening at 5:30 p.m. in Meeting Room B on the first floor of the Bartlesville Public Library. This class is free and open to the public. Please contact the Bartlesville Literacy Services office at 918-338-4179 if you have any questions.

8:30 AM

Tue, Aug 2

Special Sports Display

Bartlesville Area History Museum 401 S. Johnstone Ave. The BAHM display “The Sports that Built Us: Pioneering Spirits, Town Rivalries, and the Camaraderie of Competitive Sports in Oklahoma” is showing during normal museum hours through August 26. The exhibit features the Oklahoma History Center of the Oklahoma Historical Society’s traveling exhibit “Oklahoma Sports” enhanced by area sports team memorabilia, photographs, and “Bytes of History” about Washington County’s fabled sports. In addition, little ones may enjoy our history of sports coloring station during their visit. This project is funded through the Oklahoma Department of Libraries with a Federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act.

10:30 AM

Zumba w/Bee

Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave. Zumba w/ Bee is held every Tuesday at 10:30 am in Meeting Room A at the Bartlesville Public Library. This class is free and open to the public.

Richard Greeves Exhibition

Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd. Woolaroc is pleased to announce the exhibition of the works of world-class sculptor artist, Richard Greeves, in the museum this summer. The exhibit is available during normal Woolaroc hours.

Unity Square 300 SE Adams Blvd.

The classes are held every Friday outside at Unity Square.

5 PM

Free Citizenship Class Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave.

Citizenship classes are held on Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m., and Thursdays at 11 a.m. on the second floor of the Bartlesville Public Library in the Literacy Services office. These classes are FREE and open to the public. Please contact the Bartlesville Literacy Services office at 918-338-4179 for additional information.

6 p.m.

Johnstone Irregulars Book Club Meeting Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave.

The book club meets in the Literary Services Office on the 2nd floor of the library on the first Tuesday of every month.

Thu, Aug 4 5 PM

10 AM

Tai Chi with Dixie

Times Vary

ELL Conversation Class

Wee-Cycle Fall/Winter Sale

These classes are held every Tuesday at 5 p.m. and every Thursday at 10 a.m. These classes are FREE and open to the public.

The pre-sale is August 4 from 2:30-8 p.m.

The sale resumes Friday and Saturday for the public. A $10 VIP ticket purchase is required to shop in the pre-sale.

Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave.

12 PM

Bartlesville Artisan Market Washington Park Mall 2350 SE Washington Blvd.

This is an indoor market with fresh baked goods, coffee, home decor, clothing, soaps, live succulents, Unique homemade products, local art, and more! It is held every Friday and Saturday, from 12-4 p.m.

9 PM

Live music with Jake Bowers Solo Club 408 E 2nd St.

Washington County Fairgrounds 1109 n Delaware St., Dewey.

THE MOST-READ MAGAZINE IN BARTLESVILLE Advertising Opportunities: 918-214-4968 • keith@bartlesvillemonthly.com

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

31

EVENTS CALENDAR Sat, Aug 6

Tue, Aug 9

Sat, Aug 13

3 PM

4 PM

Estate Planning: Making decisions for your future

5th Annual Triple 7 Car Show

Elder Care 1223 Swan Drive.

8 AM

Bartlesville Farmers Market Frank Phillips Park 222 SW Frank Phillips Blvd.

Do you have your estate plan developed?

Brandy Robles, ARVEST Wealth Management Trust Officer will discuss important information relating to estate planning.

RSVP to Elder Care by 8/1/22. Call 918336-8500.

6 PM

The Center 300 SE Adams Blvd.

8 PM

Live Music with Audio Crush Cherokee Casino-Ramona 31501 US 75, Ramona 9 PM

Live Music with Copperhead Crossing Cowboys Dancehall 1424 E Tuxedo Blvd.

Fri, Aug 19

13th annual

Knit & Crochet Night

Bartlesville Public Library 600 S Johnstone Ave.

Thu, Aug 11

Bluestem Baptist Church 327 E Durham Ave., Dewey

Dewey Hotel Museum 801 N Delaware St., Dewey

6 PM

Spend an evening with the hosts at the Dewey Hotel. They will go over some of our unique histories and take a lantern guided small group tour. You will go into some of their rooms, usually blocked off access to guests. Each journey will be unique as you can never predict what our fellow specters will do on tour or what you might hear or see. The tours are held every Saturday at 8 p.m.

16th Annual Samaritan Sports Spectacular Hilton Garden Inn 205 SW Frank Phillips Blvd.

9 PM Cherokee Casino - Ramona 31501 US 75

Sun, Aug 7 5 PM

Lady Bruin Soccer Cornhole Tournament Custer Stadium 1700 Hillcrest Dr.

Single elimination tournament, 2-person teams. Prizes available for adult tournament and child tournament winners.

Brackets: Adult (age 12 and up) Youth (age 6-11). Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Proceeds from the tournament will be used for team events, equipment, supplies and meals.

The Center is having a Back to School Bash to round off the Sizzlin’ Summer Series! From 6pm to 9pm they will have food trucks parked at Unity Square, Price Tower will be open for food and beverages, and Weston Horn and the Hush will be playing a concert. They will have a cornhole and volleyball tournament with beach balls. BHS will have a school supply drive with a BHS Football Pass raffle, and there will be a Bruin cutout scavenger hunt for kids. Organizers urge people to bring their blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy the party.

Live Music with Fabulous Blackwood Quartet

History & Haunts

Live Music with Derryl Perry

Unity Square 300 SE Adams Blvd.

7 PM

The free event is held in Meeting Room C on the second Tuesday of each month.

8 PM

6 PM

Sizzlin’ Summer Series Back to School Bash

Times Vary

First Day of School

Bartlesville Public Schools District-wide Bartlesville students return to school for their first day of classes.

The Samaritan Sports Spectacular is a kick off to Fall and Winter sports in our community. It serves as the largest annual fundraising event that seeks to generate funds to support the work of the Samaritan Counseling and Growth Center. Reserve your seat and/or sponsorship now. This has grown to be a soldout event and one of the most popular fundraisers in the community. Grab your friends and family, dress in casual sports attire and plan to have an evening of fun, laughter, and camaraderie as everyone celebrates their favorite sports team.

Fri, Aug 12 9 AM

Seniors Connect - Enjoy Life with an Attitude pf Gratitude Elder Care 1223 Swan Drive.

Mark Blackwood and the Fabulous Blackwood Quartet sing gospel music around the world.

Sat, Aug 20 9:30 AM

Oklahoma Safety Coalition City Church 4222 Rice Creek Rd.

The purpose of the Oklahoma Safety Coalition is to help faith-based organizations increase the level of safety and security relative to their individual congregational activities, and, to promote relationship and networking opportunities within the faith-based community.

Our meetings and sponsored events bring the knowledge and experience of law enforcement, first responders and security industry leaders to the coalition to educate, train and implement ‘best practices’ in our facilities and community.

We share knowledge and lessons learned within the coalition to promote a stronger and safer community so that we may love and lead one another to find and follow JESUS.

Jerry Poppenhouse, world photographer, shares memorable images that will inspire you to live your life to the fullest.

Please RSVP to Elder Care by 8/4/22.

“Friendly dealers, great showroom and vehicles, very accommodating. Really appreciate being called by name.” — Matt from Wichita, KS

Hwy 75 in Bartlesville • (918)333-8010 • gopatriotauto.com

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

Tue, Aug 23

Fri, Aug 26 5 PM

BAA 70th Annual Art Show & Sale The Center Lyon Gallery 300 SE Adams Blvd.

The Bartlesville Art Association cordially invites the community to our 70th Annual Show & Sale at The Center’s Lyon Gallery. The event runs from August 26 through September 23. An opening reception will be held August 26, from 5-7 p.m. and event judge Jude Tolar will announce the award winners at 6:30 p.m.

The display will be on exhibit at the gallery Monday through Friday, from 9 am - 5 p.m. The BAA is a 501c3 non-profit community arts organization.

5 PM

Annual Ducks Unlimited Dinner The Center 300 SE Adams Blvd.

2 PM

Techniques for Pastels Class Bartlesville Art Association 500 S Dewey Ave.

6 PM

Jesus Burger

Get Real Ministries 411 W 14th St. Get Real Ministries is having Jesus Burger every 3rd Saturday of the month.

This three-day workshop, taught by Jude Tolar, focuses on various techniques for painting with hard and soft pastels. We’ll work from life and from photos for our pastel paintings. All levels are welcome, from beginner to advanced pastelists.

Many of the concepts and ideas apply to oil and acrylic as well; so, oil and acrylic artists are welcome, too. Minimum number of students is 3 and maximum is 15. BAA member price is $335, BAA non-member price is $385.

Sat, Aug 27 Time TBA

Live Music with Dax Perrier Constantine Theater 110 W Main St., Pawhuska 8 PM

Live Music with Billy Don Burns & Cason Storey

Weekdays Food Truck at Tower Center at Unity Square Food trucks will be available every weekday in May, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Unity Square.

Every Saturday Bartlesville Farmers Market

Held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at Frank Phillips Park.

Cowboys Dancehall 1424 E Tuxedo Blvd.

We Specialize In Helping Businesses Grow!

Schedule Your Appointment Today coppercupimages.com 918-337-2781

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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ForrestManor Nursing Center “Caring is our Tradition”

N E W M A N A G E M E N T

Don McCaskill Forrest Manor Owner & Long-Term Care Administrator

Janet Wade, LPN Nursing Administration; Don McCaskill, Forrest Manor Owner & Long-Term Care Administrator; Keli Smith, RN Nursing Administration

THERAPY & REHABILITATION

Forrest Manor has a long track record of providing premier, skilled care for its residents. Trusted by individuals and their families to continue recovery when leaving the hospital and to enhance residents’ lives by promoting independence and safety. Forrest Manor provides rehabilitation services by caring, licensed therapists. Forrest Manor offers: • Physical Therapy

• • • • • •

• Occupational Therapy

Personalized Care Social Services Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Planned Activities Skilled Care Respite Care

• • • • • •

• Speech Therapy

SERVICES

Short & Long Term Care Hospice Senior Fitness Center Theater Room Private Party Room Elegant Private Dining Room

• Restorative Therapy

• Meals planned by a Registered Dietician • Complimentary transportation to doctors’ appointments • And much more!

1410 North Choctaw, Dewey, Oklahoma 74029

(918) 534-3355 • ForrestManorDewey.com 34

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

EDUCATION

State of the Schools Superintendent Chuck McCauley Talks About District The Bartlesville Public School District has again been recognized as a Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished District for its outstanding STEM program at every district school.

This meant all six of the district’s elementary schools, both of its middle schools, and its high school each earned Distinguished School status for 2021-22. Bartlesville is one of just 13 districts across the U.S. to receive this honor, and the only district with that status in Oklahoma.

The safety of Bartlesville Public Schools has long been a priority in the district. The district’s Safe and Healthy Schools Coordinator, Kerry Ickleberry, works around the clock to ensure the district and its response teams are prepared and organized for any event. The district’s Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan is updated and reviewed annually by a committee made up of staff, community members, and first responders. Parents are also included on every school’s Safe School Committee.

The district has many preventative safety measures in place in every building such as secure entryways, a monitored visitor check-in system, visitor background checks, always-locked exterior doors, security cameras and alarm systems, emergency “call” buttons, safety radios with direct communication to first responders, and an anonymous tip app called P3 Tips.

The district currently employs three School Resource Officers and through a collaboration with the City of Bartlesville will be adding six more, so that the district will have one in every building.

Many projects will be completed over this summer while the buildings are empty. Some of the highlights include elevator modernization at Bartlesville High School and Madison Middle School, Gifted and Talented classroom renovation at Jane Phillips Elementary, and Central and Madison Middle School broadcasting room renovation. Districtwide, there is new flooring, concrete, restrooms, painting, safety window film, HVAC, and more.

Bartlesville High School junior and basketball guard David Castillo represented Bartlesville on the world stage this month. He is now a two-time gold medalist as Team USA beat Spain for FIBA U17 World Cup title.

The front exteriors of both Richard Kane and Wilson elementary schools may currently be less recognizable, as construction is underway on expanded and improved front office areas, lobbies, and entryways. The softball/golf and baseball hit-

ting facilities are ready and have been turned over to the district. The new Ag Facility will go out to bid soon with construction beginning in the fall.

Tiffany Holmes has been named the next principal of Hoover Elementary School. Tiffany has 14 years of teaching experience in both the elementary and middle school levels and was the assistant principal at Ranch Heights Elementary for the 2021-2022 academic year. Her husband, Bobby, teaches at Central Middle School and coaches several sports and their son, Landry, attends Madison Middle School.

Caleb Rovenstine has been hired as the new Sodexo Director of Facilities.

Caleb is a Bartlesville High School and Oklahoma State University graduate with a degree in Construction Management Technology and a minor in business. He has 14 years of experience with Nabholz Construction. Caleb and his wife, Lindsey, have two sons, Chet and Cal, that attend Wayside Elementary.

Go Bruins!

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SWIM’N HOLES CHLORINE $ SAVE MONEY $ Better Health Add Only 2 Times A Month

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swimnholesinc.com

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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JEFF HALL REAL ESTATE “My commitment to service is my commitment to you!”

36 Years of Real Estate Knowledge Jeff Hall, Broker/Associate (Licensed Broker in OK and NC)

124 SE Frank Phillips Boulevard, Bartlesville, OK 74003 918.440.9199 jhall@mcgrawrealtors.com

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

Choose the team that provides physical, emotional, and spiritual support to you and your loved ones.

Locally owned and operated.

Serving the Bartlesville area for 15 years. www.comfortinghandshospice.com 918-331-0003

Sandra Brown, Administrator

Affordable apartments where you can enjoy new friends and feel right at home!

We have independent living apartments available to rent for those ages 55 or older.

All apartments are unfurnished, 1 bedroom, $850 per month and include: • • • • • • •

All utilities paid; including basic cable 24-hour emergency response Fully equipped kitchen Patio with sliding glass door Restaurant-style dining or you can have meals delivered directly to your apartment Planned activities; to include regularly scheduled happy hour Scheduled transportation for shopping

• • • • • • •

Housekeeping On-site laundry On-site beauty shop Daily exercise classes offered Year-round building & grounds maintenance Interior maintenance Pet-friendly

3434 Kentucky Place • 918-333-9545 • www.bartlesvillehealthandrehab.com AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

STARS IN OUR BACK YARD

Chevalley Roots Run Deep Swiss Immigrant Left a Lasting Mark on Dewey

by Debbie Neece, Bartlesville Area History Museum The struggles were REAL in a foreign country, with a different language and no skills to survive. But perseverance prevailed and the Chevalley Mayflower Moving and Storage Company left a three generation legacy in Dewey.

Not all Swiss immigrants are watchmakers, some are movers and shakers. Gustave “Gus” Chevalley came to America from the French speaking section of Switzerland at just 16 years of age.

He also spoke German, but no English. His first stop was Maramec, OK, where his uncle operated a grocery store. Gus was no stranger to hard work so when employment opportunities lead him to the Cleveland area in 1912, he joined the Barnsdall Oil Company who was actively drilling and producing oil in Washington and Osage Counties. In 1916, the Chevalley’s moved to Dewey where Gus continued with Barnsdall Oil. After WWI, economic turmoil brought the United States to a depression and oil dropped to 35 cents per barrel. Gus lost his oilfield job and turned to cutting wood to support his family with deliveries made with a borrowed two-wheeled trailer until they could save enough to purchase their own. From that small trailer grew a business as the Chevalley’s were called upon to move a broad range of items. Soon the two-wheeled trailer was replaced with a four-wheeled style trailer expanding their business. Then came a 1928 Chevrolet truck, followed by a 1929 and then a 1945…never new…always used.

sounded like a large boast but a claim the Chevalley Mayflower Moving and Storage Company exemplified.

The Chevalley men came from a hefty stock. Robert Chevalley, recognized for his incredible strength, once strapped a refrigerator upon his back and carried it up two flights of stairs, to the amazement of spectators. No job was too big or too small and their moving skills were often put to the test by relocating houses, carnival animals and oil field equipment.

They even had a contract to haul the freight from arriving trains, including the dirty job of transporting heavy Portland cement sacks to the Dewey Cement plant.

In 1955, Gus Chevalley retired, passing the company reigns to his sons, Robert and Donald, who had worked with their father since 1933. Gus died in 1961. Robert retired in 1983 and passed away in 1987. Don retired in 1982 and passed away in 1994. In 1981, Robert’s daughter Roberta “Pink” Ambarian, and her husband Ed, returned to the Bartlesville/Dewey area to operate the family business. “Pink” retired in 2008 and died in 2013. Her husband then continued the business at 323 North Osage Avenue, completing three generations of local service.

In addition, the Chevalley’s held charter membership at the Town and Country Church in Bartlesville.

In 1933, Gus and sons, Robert and Donald, began their transfer business at 108 S. Wyandotte in Dewey. This address had its own history…this was the original office of the Lucinda Oil Company, started by Frank and L.E. Phillips, brothers and co-founders of Phillips Petroleum Company.

With competitive rates, the company proudly claimed “We can move you anyplace in the United States, Canada, Mexico and 58 foreign countries.” Perhaps that AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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Steven & Jana Russell welcome Caleb Barnum!

srussell@mcgrawrealtors.com

918-213-5943

Green Country Pet Cremation Service offers private pet cremation with timely return of ashes in your choice of a decorative wooden urn with an engraved nameplate. If no return of ashes is requested, the ashes will be gently scattered on a beautiful pastoral/garden property.

We are located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma and gratefully serve pet owners from a wide area surrounding Bartlesville, Dewey, and Northeast Oklahoma.

For our fee schedule, please feel free to call us at any time.

918-766-3812 GCPetCremation@aol.com

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

Like us on

A GOOD WORD

Think You’re Bigger than God? You Can’t Break Things Beyond God’s Ability to Fix Them

by Steve Lindquist

“So, you think you’re bigger than God?” That’s the question Dr. David Eaton asked me in the spring of 2004.

In my mid-forties, after years of delays and excuses, we made the move to Bartlesville so I could go back to school at Oklahoma Wesleyan University to prepare to work in vocational Christian ministry. I was enrolled in a “traditional” program, but I definitely wasn’t a “traditional” student.

For 20 years I had pursued a career in daily newspapers that had taken us to four newspapers in four States. We knew God was calling us into ministry, but I knew there were some things that I would have to deal with if I was going to be obedient. So, before stepping into ministry, I confessed that I had taken advantage of my knowledge of company policies and procedures for my own benefit and committed to accepting the consequences. As I sat in Dr. Eaton’s office, I knew I had significant experience and knowledge, but I also had two felony convictions. I understood my ministry options would be limited, but was willing to serve wherever I could.

Dr. Eaton knew my situation, so it seemed unnecessary for him to ask where I thought we would be going when I had finished at OKWU. But I acknowledged the challenges that would limit our ministry options, and responded we would go wherever was offered.

And then he sat back in his chair, crossed his arms, and in his deep, resonate voice asked THE question. “So, you think you’re bigger than God?” I had surrendered to whatever and wherever God was leading us. How could anyone, especially me, think they were “bigger than God?” I remember making some weak, confused response and then being told “but you just said you were capable of breaking things beyond God’s ability to fix them.”

Fast-forward to 2022…

This October will be the 20-year anniversary of our surrender to enter vocational ministry. In that time, I’ve met with Representatives and Senators in Washington D.C. I’ve discussed religious freedom issues while sitting in foreign embassies. I’ve had the privilege of working with the leaders of significant religious organizations. I’ve now taught or preached in more than 30 states and on five continents. I have had some amazing experiences and met some brilliant people, but I believe the most significant thing I’ve heard was sitting in Dr. Eaton’s office.

Over the years, I’ve thought about those words a lot. It doesn’t matter how big, or how many times I make the wrong decisions. I can’t break things beyond God’s ability to fix them.

Neither can you.

There were consequences for my actions, and one of the hardest things to realize is that those closest to me were forced to deal with those consequences as well. I wish I hadn’t caused that pain, but it wasn’t bigger than God in their lives either.

Maybe that is one of the most important lessons. We all have things in our lives that are broken. Sometimes we’re responsible, sometimes they are the consequences of others’ actions. Sometimes the result of a single event or decision, sometimes a long history of repeated wrongs. Sometimes they are new, sometimes they are the result of generations of bad decisions. When we look, all we see are huge problems, things that block us from moving forward. That’s not what God sees. So, the Good Word for today is “I’m not, you’re not, we’re not, bigger than God.” We can’t break things beyond His ability to fix them. The people around us aren’t bigger than God. They can’t break things beyond His ability to fix them. Those who came before us weren’t bigger than God. They couldn’t break things beyond His ability to fix them.

As I think about that reality, it seems so obvious. But sometimes we trip over the things that are the most obvious because we just aren’t looking. So, let’s open our eyes to see the truth and start letting God fix what only He can. When, not if, we fail and we think it is too big to get past, let’s remember God is BIGGER. He does some of His best work in the most impossible situations, with the most improbable people. ~ Steve Lindquist is Executive Director of Stormwalker Ranch, a local 501c3 Non-profit that provides HALOs (Horse Assisted Learning Opportunities) to help people walk through the storms of their lives. ~ AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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NOW YOU KNOW

Customer Service C.R. Anthony was Oklahoma Proud

by Debbie Neece, Bartlesville Area History Museum

In 1874, four-year-old Charles “Charley” Ross disappeared and became the first ransom kidnapping case in America. For years his parents and authorities searched in vain. As a fundraising effort and to secure public attention, Charley’s merchant father, Christian Ross, published a book titled “The Father’s Story of Charley Ross, the Kidnapped Child” in 1876.

The case was indeed still in the public eye when Charles Ross Anthony was born in 1885 to a Tennessee sharecropping family and was named after the missing child. He became orphaned as a young teen and survival became his keen focus. He labored as a farmhand, teamster and rail splitter to save the money necessary to board the “Home Seekers Special Train” to Indian Territory. His first stop was Holdenville, I.T. where he gained retail experience at the Scales General Store; and then attended the Indianola Business College near Tecumseh, where he was valedictorian of his class.

working with J.P. Martin in Cleveland was more attractive, so Anthony declined. In 1910, he met and married Miss Lutie Mauldin and they began their family. In 1916, Anthony cashed out his Martin store shares and moved to Grace, Idaho to gain knowledge of department store operations under the wing of merchandising magnate J.C. Penney. As an Assistant Manager, this humble man from humble beginnings learned the retail business and how to apply J.C. Penney’s “Golden Rule” management training manuals. Lutie did not like Idaho winters, so Anthony resigned and returned to Oklahoma.

Building a business from the ground up takes moral fiber and C.R. Anthony was core deep in such integrity. In 1922, he established his first store at Cushing, Oklahoma under the Dixie Store name. The following year, he added Dixie Stores at Pawhuska, Hominy and Barnsdall and C.R. Anthony stores at Anadarko and Chickasha. His first out-of-state stores opened in Kansas (1924), Texas (1925), followed by multiple stores in New Mexico and Arkansas by 1950.

With thirty-three stores established between 1922-1926 and sales of over $2.5 million, the C.R. Anthony Company incorporated Anthony first met J.C. Penney at St. Louis in 1904, during a and, in 1934, began merchandising trip… offering stock shares an encounter that C.R. Anthony served Bartlesville at 320 S. Johnstone (1926-1933); 119 E. Third to employees. C.R. lead to Penney atStreet/Frank Phillips Blvd. with the first-floor in 1933 and a second-floor exbelieved in and valtempting to hire Anpansion in 1938 for ladies ready-to-wear, foundation garments and children’s ued his employees, thony; however, the wear (1933-1979); and Eastland Shopping Center (1967-1999); which was takconsidering them pay and benefits of en over by Stage (1999-2017).

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NOW YOU KNOW part of the Anthony family. Employees enjoyed company picnics and sharing the wealth through Christmas bonuses and profit sharing.

During a time in history when women entered the workforce to become income support for their families, C.R. Anthony’s profit sharing program offered retirement accounts solely in their name. And, the business model and bonus incentive programs for store managers and assistant managers drew top managerial staff from other companies.

Radio, television and constant, colorful newspaper advertising made the C.R. Anthony stores a household name and services like “Back to School” layaway and free alterations were serious business boosters.

Anthony’s fiftieth anniversary was celebrated in 1972 with 325 stores in twenty-one states west of the Mississippi River. And, Oklahoma Governor David Hall proclaimed September 15, 1973 as C.R. Anthony Day, celebrating the exceptional growth of the family-owned and operated Oklahoma business. In spite of fierce competition, Anthony’s sales grew from $100 million dollars in 1973 to over $200 million in 1978; additionally, at its peak, Anthony’s annual sales was over $411 million and the company was recognized as the largest privately held company in Oklahoma.

According to grandson, Bob Anthony, “The retail business was very competitive and the only way that you could make money was by keeping your costs under control and giving people a fair and honest value every day with employees who knew their merchandise and how to promote.” Anthony’s sold name brand and private label merchandise. Shoppers expected the best-ofthe-best and they received things like reverse blends and seven button shirts under the Anthony’s brand name. If a shirt was normally 60% polyester and 40% cotton blend, Anthony’s delivered private label 40/60, presenting better quality shirts. If the standard was a six-button-front shirt, Anthony’s private label was a more professional looking seven-button shirt.

to continue the business. Guy was president from 1972-1980 and Ray was Chairman of the Board and Treasurer for 12 years. Guy’s son, Bob Anthony accepted the companies presidential reigns from 1980-1987, during the time of the Oklahoma oil-boom. The company was at its highest in prosperity…then bank failures gripped America. Anthony’s stockholders were heavily invested but not diversified and many lost their fortunes. At that time, the company sold to Citicorp Venture Capital and in June 1997, Houston-based Stage Stores purchased the Anthony’s stores, ending the seventy-five retail reign of C.R. Anthony’s.

Mr. Anthony was more than an entrepreneur; he was a generous social icon. He established and was the first President of the Oklahoma City United Fund; served as an Oklahoma City University trustee; served on the board of the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce; heavily involved in the Y.M.C.A, National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center; and much more. In 1959, C.R. Anthony was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum.

C.R. Anthony’s children were born at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, where he was a large investor in the St. Anthony coronary care unit. He entered St. Anthony’s with kidney issues, passed away June 16, 1976 and was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City.

However, Anthony’s rags-toriches story did not end with his last breath. His family carried the Anthony vision forward. After C.R. Anthony retired in 1972, the company remained family-operated with sons Guy and Ray stepping forward

Did You Know?

Bob Anthony, grandson of C.R. Anthony, began working at the Anthony’s store sorting mail and sweeping at the age of 15-16 and he later became the third president of the Company. Bob has served the family business and Oklahoma City in many capacities; he served the State of Oklahoma for six, six-year terms as a member of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission; and he, and the Anthony family, generously continues the legacy of C.R. Anthony through supporting the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

Now You Know *

AUGUST AUGUST 20222022 | bmonthly | bmonthly

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Platinum Wedding Package Thursday: The staff at The Room at The Top set up your wedding on our second floor and your reception on our third floor and give the pillows a fluff in The Bridal Suite.

Up to 300 gold Chivari Chairs are available and up to 250 in mahogany, all of your chairs, tables and basic linens, black or ivory, are included in your package.

Friday: You decorate, possibly with props from our props room, bring in your own items, rehearse, relax, and have rehearsal dinner with friends. 8:00 am to midnight.

Saturday: Your vendors arrive and further decoration takes place; flowers are put out, food beautifully laid, and you are getting makeup and hair in our Bridal Suite, then your wedding on our second floor, your guests go up to three, while your photographer takes your group and individual photos, before you proceed to your formal en-

trance and announcement as a couple on the 3rd floor, greeting your waiting guests. 8:00 am to midnight under the happy gaze of friends and family.

Saturday or Friday night over night in our Bridal suite included, an extra night is $250.00.

Sunday: Pick up your own decor and minor cleaning, no big messes left, and you are leisurely out of the space, 8:00 am to noon. Some prefer to do this Saturday evening. Let us know.

Total Price: $5,000.00 Additional guest rooms available on-site through your AirBnB App destination Bartlesville, The Jewel Box Hotel Apartments 1-4. Approximately $140.00 per night. Additional party space available for showers, Bridesmaids luncheons, Anniversaries and other celebrations.

CALL OR TEXT FOR A TOUR!

Johnstone-Sare Building Events And Jewel Box Hotel 918.440.6773 • www.johnstone-sare-theroomatthetop.com Located in the heart of Downtown Bartlesville 100 SW Frank Phillips Blvd | Bartlesville, OK 74003 46

bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

As seen on: The Knot and Wedding Wire, “The Room At The Top”

LOOKING BACK

A Top One-Room School

Jesse Creek School was Once a Superior Small School

by Kay Little, Little History Adventures

At the base of Circle Mountain sits a former 1-room school from the early 1900s. It was originally named Jesse Creek School, as the original building was located beside Jesse Creek. Many of the teachers were young Cherokee graduates from the Cherokee Seminary in Tahlequah.

The creek, school, and eventually the cemetery were named for a Cherokee, Jesse Thompson, who had settled near Circle Mountain shortly before the Civil War. He was one of the first settlers in the area. He played an important role in the Underground Railroad in the area and also in Cherokee affairs.

The cemetery was established on the other side of the creek and is still there. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in Washington County. You can read more about it in the October 2019 issue of bmonthly.

Jesse Creek School was originally on the North side of Circle Mountain in 1903. It was a one-room log cabin. After the railroad came through the area, the school was moved to east of Circle Mountain in 1909 and renamed Circle Mountain School. Classes were held in a tent during the move.

On April 19, 1911, a large cyclone damaged the school. The hand of God was on the teacher, Miss Weatherholt, that day

because she saw the storm coming and sent the entire student body home, so no lives were lost. A new frame building was built just south of the former one. In 1912, Miss Weatherholt’s sister taught at the school.

Circle Mountain School was known as a top superior school in the state ratings for several years. Unfortunately, by 1957, there were not enough students and the district voted to annex the school into the Ochelata Schools. After this, the students rode the school bus instead of walking to school.

The first teacher of Jesse Creek was John Gray, who I wrote about in the February 2020 issue of bmonthly. His wife taught one term in the Garfield one-room school.

The second teacher was Mrs. Addie Wagon-Lowen, 1897-1900. A couple of years after her husband, Joe Wagon, died, she married Noah Lowen and continued to teach at Jesse Creek until 1903.

AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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EXPLORE HAN DS- ON LEARN I NG

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6101 Nowata Road, Bartlesville, OK 74006 | 918.331.3333 | EnrichingLives@TriCountyTech.edu There will be no discrimination in the technology center because of race, color, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender expression or identity, national origin, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, age, or genetic information in its programs, services, activities and employment. The following individual is designated to handle inquiries regarding the technology center’s non-discrimination policies, including Title IX: Tara Stevens, Director of HR & Compliance Officer | 6101 Nowata Road, Bartlesville, OK 74006 | 918-331-3248 | Tara.Stevens@TriCountyTech.edu. According to the State of Oklahoma Sex Offenders Registration Act, registered sex offenders must self-disclose their status before admissions. View our privacy policy: TriCountyTech.edu/Privacy-Policy.

View our full non-discrimination policy: Bit.ly/NonDiscrimination-Policy. Title IX Training provided by: OSSBA Workshop Resources: Bit.ly/TitleIX-Policy.

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

FROM THE HEART

Living the Dream

Never Give Yourself Permission to Stop Dreaming

by Lori Kroh

I have enjoyed going to the pool so much this year to escape the heat. I often end up chatting with others as we float in the water, basking in the sun. The other evening, I found myself in the shallow end having a deep conversation. As I was sharing my dreams for the near future, I got excited and shared some of my bigger dreams. She smiled and it became quiet.

She stared at the water and then looked up at me. Her eyes had a few tears and she said, “I don’t have any dreams. All of my dreams are gone.” And with that we let the water lapping be the only noise for a minute.

I watched her, wondering if a tear would drip into the pool. Water is water, right?

I instantly thought of the comparison of water and how her one teardrop was so tiny compared to the massive amounts of water the swimming pool was holding. It was just one tiny tear to one big pool. I splashed myself with cool water and wondered about the irony of comparing. Dreams are dreams and they all seem impossible at first, until one chooses and then the pursuit of the dream becomes a part of the bigger whole. I wondered if mine were too big or was it that I just was more open to share? Was it that her dreams were really gone or that she just did not know what they were? I couldn’t let curiosity keep me quiet.

I had absorbed what she was saying and then asked, “When did you give yourself permission to stop dreaming?”

She pondered ... then replied, “I guess I was so busy with the day to day ... I just never thought of tomorrow.” She went on to tell me how she never really gave herself time to sit and think and even act on what she really wanted to do. As I listened to her, the thought came to me. She never made the time to DREAM. Her days were filled with life, yet was she truly living? It seemed to me like her dreams were bottled up.

She had put a stopper on them and they were aging and untouched. I smiled back. I felt I was there at that moment for a reason, because there is nothing more that I love to do than discover the dreams of others.

I had to know and so I asked: “If you could do anything in the next 30 days ... where do you want to go? Who do you want to meet, if you could choose a friend to go see? What have you always wanted to do, yet never allowed yourself to try?

You have to pick a place to go visit and bring back a souvenir ... where is it?” I listened in between the questions and her answers poured out. She did know. We all usually do.

All of sudden she started telling me how much she always wanted a camper of her own and to take her dog to South Dakota. Her quest to see all the landmarks along the way and how she had never pulled a camper yet, she thinks she could learn. I watched as her face lit up and she started opening up about the types of campers, what she would pack, and ideas she had for her destination. She even had three more places she added, and although she had never used a camper and wasn’t sure how it would happen — she became ecstatic over the idea that maybe, just maybe, she could go this fall. She opened up even more to share that she might even record it daily to show her friends and she would use an old-fashioned atlas so she could put stickers on all the places she had been. We chatted for another hour and her tears were no more. She looked at me and I saw the belief in her eyes. She became a dreamer again. It starts with asking the questions and giving the honest answers. The reason I love to start with those questions is because to go on a trip will require a few steps of forward thinking and also action. Every dream requires action to come true. Making time to dream is really sitting long enough to answer a few questions with your heart & soul and start the process of dreaming for yourself. There is no right or wrong answer. Only possibilities.

I bought her an old atlas that I saw when out thrifting and I painted on it and added some stickers. I added a little brown tag and wrote her a note which read … “Follow your Dreams to wanderlust and enjoy every moment! May the road rise up to meet you as you pursue the things that matter most. Oh, and if you see a bumper sticker that reads Living the Dream … feel free to grab me one, too.”

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FUNNY YOU SHOULD ASK

by Jay Webster When I was studying at the University of Oklahoma, I took a lot of courses outside of my degree plan: History of Capitalism, Political Science, Study of Language in the Non-Western World, Film Studies, etc. (Fortunately for me I had not yet discovered a deep, unfading affection for beer yet …s o I had plenty of free time.) Several of these classes ended up being the highlight of my time in school.

Speaking of education, did you know our forefathers (the very ones who gave us the Constitution and all

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those wonderful numbered Amendments: 1, 2, 3…) also proposed that we should make universities across the country free, subsidized by the government and open to all. The idea was that an educated country was a better country and that by breaking down socioeconomic walls we would truly appreciate that all men are created equal. Can you even imagine?

Meanwhile, back in Norman, two of my favorite courses at OU were Micro and “…maybe we should better take care of our thoughts and what we let Macroeconomics. And live in our minds. Maybe we should each do a better job of plucking out not to brag, but the judgments and suspicions and self-loathing like weeds so they don’t take Teaching Assistant for over the landscape of our lives.“ our 100+ class did tell

FUNNY YOU SHOULD ASK me that I had the “highest non-Asian score in the class…” So I’ve got that going for me.

If you don’t remember, microeconomics is the study of individual economic factors and macroeconomics is the study of large-scale economic factors, such as interest rates and national productivity. Essentially personal or individual vs large scale, public. What is fascinating is the relationship between the two — how microeconomic choices impact macroeconomic factors (and vice versa).

The more life I live, the more I see this micro/macro relationship in nearly every arena of our lives. We recently had a client project that took us to Cleveland, Ohio; home of (among many other things) the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. As we took four hours reading, watching, reminiscing, and listening, I was struck by the idea that most artwork — and especially music — is conceived or born in highly intimate moments. For example, on display in the “Rock Hall” was a very small, very simple black piano relocated from a dank basement in Liverpool, England. Side by side, two teens squeezed onto one piano bench, playing notes and hashing out songs that we are still singing a lifetime later. John Lennon described he and McCartney as being “eyeball to eyeball”. That micro genesis of those songs is very far away from the macro revolution that became the Beatles.

You really get a sense of that with the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies. These are grandiose celebrations of hundreds of “alone moments” when someone was in their living room or basement running over notes or lyrics again and again and again until they grew into the songs we love and laud today. Then after those private songs have grown into national pop anthems, we sing them in stadiums and place them in the “Hall of Fame”.

think a person can have is, “I’m the only one who feels/thinks this way.” Those who end up harming themselves or others, often start here.

So, what does all this mean? I haven’t got a clue. I didn’t take that course. I ran out of credit hours. But isn’t the connection interesting, the relationship between private and public lives, between our micro world and macro universe? What is undeniable is that one influences the other and vice versa.

We live in constant connection with the outer world and how we live our “private” lives will directly or indirectly impact our “public” community. Our isolationism or involvement both have a ripple effect. What happens in our “thought world” will germinate into our physical world. To that end, maybe we should better take care of our thoughts and what we let live in our minds. Maybe we should each do a better job of plucking out judgments and suspicions and self-loathing like weeds so they don’t take over the landscape of our lives.

On the flip side, the beauty we create (art, music, words, relationships) all this also impacts our world. As Carole King (Rock Hall of Fame Inductee) wrote in a solitary moment that went public in her song “Beautiful”: You’ve got to get up every morning With a smile on your face And show the world all the love in your heart Then people gonna treat you better You’re gonna find, yes you will That you’re beautiful, as you feel I guess that’s about it for this month, my friends. Whether it’s micro or macro, I’m happy to be connected with you.

Cheers.

We live our whole lives in a micro/macro fashion. We have what we call our “private lives” (micro) and our “public lives” (macro). In some cases these lives can have a disconnect. Depending on your job or position, you may have beliefs or values that can’t be expressed freely in your public position. (And for some of you that’s not a bad thing. Not everyone is prepared for your theory on UFO’s and alternate realities.)

We have personal freedoms and liberties that influence and even sometimes overrule our national freedoms. From the beginning of this nation, we’ve watched the struggle between our personal liberty and what’s best for the greater good of a nation we are also responsible for as willing members.

We have our micro world where we live and interact with our neighbors and family and community and then we have our macro world … how we vote. Often we can have a very big disconnect there. We can be “okay” with people on a micro level, but giving them the same voice, same freedoms, same equality as us may not fit our macro vision for America.

And then there’s our inner dialog. How often do we judge our micro (inner) lives by macro (societal) norms. “If people knew what I was thinking … ” Or “I know I’m the only one who feels this way…” That micro/macro conflict can often lead to shame or isolationism. One of the most harmful thoughts I AUGUST 2022 | bmonthly

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ELECTION 2022

Brecheen Seeks House Seat Mentored by Tom Coburn and endorsed by Dr. James Dobson, Jim Bridenstine, Dr. Everett Piper, Senator Julie Daniels, Senator John Ford, and others, Josh Brecheen is a constitutional conservative seeking the open seat for U.S. Congress in OK-CD2. Regarding this endeavor, Josh has released the following statement:

“Winning elections is meaningless if we lose our nation. For 40 years Republicans have won elections yet refused to truly face our nation’s giants.

With a $30 trillion debt crisis, will we continue to sell our children’s future for 30 pieces of silver? Given Medicare is insolvent in just four years, Social Security insolvent in 11 years, and every child now owes $90,000 as their share of the national debt, true leaders must arise. They must be fixated on freedom and not willing to kick the can down the road yet again.

America is desperate for problem solvers who will actually stop waste, fraud and abuse, and not just give meaningless lip service to it. The Constitution and courage beckon Congress to stop doing what is safe and popular and do what is right. I’m not running for Congress, I’m running to reform Congress. We the People must demand virtue in D.C. again. We can restore our nation but only if we elect leaders who practice self-restraint over selfish gain, and value character over careerism.

We need promise keepers not power seekers.”

Josh is a 4th generation rancher, a committed Christian, a husband, father, and has operated a small heavy equipment and trucking business. Josh grew up learning the value of hard work cleaning horse stalls, breaking colts, and hauling square bales. Josh served as state president of the Oklahoma FFA Association and graduated from OSU. Josh served as a term-limited state Senator and came back to live under the laws of the land, as all citizen legislators should do. Josh was fortunate to serve Sen. Tom Coburn as his Field Representative to Southeastern Oklahoma. For additional information about his campaign, please visit www.joshbrecheen.com.

Community leaders supporting Josh Brecheen: Pastor Joe and Dawn Colaw, Bob and Gale Kane, Roger and Angela Box, Joe and Sheryl Kaufman, Mike and Paula Dunlap, Tyler and Amanda Vaclaw, Elizabeth and Todd Cone, Dallas and Chandra Hindman, Jess and Ashley Kane, Wes and Cynthia Hadsell, Jim and Peggy Dau, Dan and Kadilyn Hourigan, and others.

What conservative leaders are saying about Josh Brecheen: “Josh BRECHEEN is the type of courageous conservative we need in Congress.

As a state senator he proved he could be trusted, standing firm against federal overreach and opposing leadership from both parties when they tried to raise taxes. I am confident Josh is a man of integrity, and I am proud to endorse him for the U.S. House. He has my support, and I hope you will support him as well.”

— Jim Bridenstine, former Congressman and Trump NASA Administrator

“If you want a man with integrity, courage and conviction in Washington, you must vote for Josh Brecheen.

He’s the mirror reflection of his mentor, the late Senator Tom Coburn. Brecheen is the best because he learned from the best.”

— ­ Dr. Everett Piper, Former President, Oklahoma Wesleyan University “Josh Brecheen is a man of highest integrity. His standard of truth is based on godly values and principles. The same core values and principles our founding fathers built this great nation on. Our nation needs men of courage and commitment like Josh Brecheen right now.”

— Senator Marty Quinn (and former OKCD2 candidate) “...select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, men who are trustworthy and who hate dishonest gain...”

Exodus 18:21 “Our Nation is hungry for men and women who meet the Biblical criteria of leadership described above. Oklahoma has found such a candidate in Josh Brecheen. Not only is Josh capable, trustworthy, God-fearing, and upright, but he is devoted to the United States Constitution and is a student of its inspired founders. Josh understands the wisdom that established this Nation and his commitment to Biblical and constitutional boundaries make him the distinguished choice for Oklahoma’s Second Congressional District.”

— David Barton, President & Founder of WallBuilders “Josh is a strong conservative who will support legislation which bolsters the institution of the family. During his tenure in the Oklahoma Senate, he was unwaveringly pro-life and can be a voice for the unborn. Josh is also a man of principles, character, ethics, and integrity. For years, I have joined millions of people across America in praying that God would raise-up leaders to restore this great nation. I’m excited that Josh answered that call and has stepped up to offer his services to the people of Oklahoma. As a private individual, I am honored to endorse Josh Brecheen for Congress, and pray that his election will be the start of a new generation of leaders who will return this nation to the constitutional principles upon which it was founded.”

— Dr. James Dobson (Founder of Focus on the Family) Also endorsed by: Carolyn Coburn, wife of Senator Tom Coburn, M.D.; Councilman Wes Nofire; Representative David Derby, Representative John Bennett, and others.

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A FRESH PERSPECTIVE

We May Never Pass This Way Again

by Brent Taylor

My summer of 1977 was bookended by Harry and Elvis.

It began with Harry Whittaker, the president of our senior class at College High School. Harry always had a way of making you feel better than you had the right to feel about yourself. We were talking, just hours removed from walking across the stage to receive our diplomas. We reminisced and shared some parting words and he wished me well in life. As we shook hands, Harry slipped me a five-dollar bill, settling a wager we had made about some game I can’t even remember now. It was his way of saying goodbye with a blessing of goodwill.

I went off to college at the end of that summer, listening to Elvis sing about a river flowing surely to the sea. He was suddenly gone, along with all those innocent summers of youth.

Summer was the time that we tried to make sense of life.

We had the 3 R’s down cold from school. But we learned a fourth R in summer. Rhetoric. We composed and argued and formulated life as rhetoricians each summer, trying to wrap our minds around those ideas we learned in school. In other words, we were trying to validate ourselves. Some of us did so eloquently while others simply played in the woods. Which is a pretty good place to argue about life, especially since there were no adults within earshot.

When my children were young I took them to this place in the woods behind our old home because I wanted to show them where I flipped over the handlebars of my motorcycle and ran my bike over a black snake. This was a kingdom unto itself, where the tough kids went to smoke, where the nerdy kids went to catch crawdads, and where some went just to be alone. It was the wild place my brother visited after he was baptized, just like Jesus when he went into the wilderness for 40 days to contemplate what was to come. My brother went there after the perfunctory baptismal banana split celebration at Braums, filled his banana split boat with sticks, and floated it down the creek as he considered his decision to plunge into the watery depths with Christ.

The paths we trod upon as children in that wood each summer helped form our personalities, careers, and ideas of how we would spend our time one day as taller humans.

School was important, but we needed summer to become ourselves. We were a band of children forming our own body politik with customs and powers and beliefs and ever evolving oral mythologies. We were formulating and persuading and having fun, but eventually, it was time to return to school.

It’s funny the things we think are important when we are in school. Deciding on a college major, improving your G.P.A, or just finding a date on a Friday night. Sometimes what I think is most important are simply the moments I shared with people I loved. People like Harry and Carol Lynn. The summer of 1977 was the last time I saw Carol Lynn. I was awkward and

College High School Class of 1977 at their 40th reunion.

shy while she was unapproachably beautiful, at least to me. I don’t remember speaking to Carol Lynn before I became her “little brother” in Sue Smith’s Family Living class. We became friends despite our differences. Carol Lynn was a Pom girl and I was the golfer with unkempt hair and Sansabelt slacks. That summer, we were alone on a paddle boat in the middle of Sunset lake, drifting aimlessly and talking about things that a boy and girl talk about when they are eighteen and alone and everything is still possible, while Seals and Crofts song, We May Never Pass This Way Again, played on the jukebox in my mind.

These days, Sunset Lake seems small. But that summer, on that paddle boat with Carol Lynn, with our lives stretched out before us like an unwritten poem, it seemed like an endless ocean.

Well, it’s time for the bus to pick us up for school. Welcome back teachers, students, and learners. Have a memorable school year!

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LOCAL HISTORY

Ringing the County School Bell

by Debbie Neece, Bartlesville Area History Museum

Prior to proposing the Curtis Act of 1898, Charles Curtis was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1892 and then served eight terms in addition to serving on the Committee on Indian Affairs and Public Lands. The Curtis Act became the footpath to the organization of towns and schools in Indian Territory.

With passage, towns had legal standing to be surveyed and plotted. Then incorporated towns could self-regulate and levy taxes in order to supply public services like education. Since Bartlesville had become incorporated January 15, 1897, residents went to work almost immediately establishing free public schools.

Way out yonder, past the city lights, pastures away from civilization, early education was difficult to achieve. Prior to statehood, Washington County had as many as 92 country schools, most operated as subscription schools; however, often children were needed to work the farm and not able to attend school leaving their education to a homeschool setting. The children who were released to attend school could only attend when their labor was not needed for crop planting or harvest.

Over the river and through the woods…perhaps the phrase conjures thoughts of grandma’s house but for students in the 1920s, that describes the trek to school. Some students lived within earshot of the country school bell, beaconing their attendance, and they came running to the harkening sound, lunch pail in hand. Some rode horses to school and bed their beast in the school’s barn or corral, or perhaps tied them to the school yard fence to await the return trip home.

Education took a giant leap forward when the “twin territories” of Oklahoma and Indian Territory became the state of Oklahoma in 1907. Washington County was formed as the smallest county in the state, encompassing approximately 480 square 64

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miles, 12 miles wide and 40 miles long. And, with 27 school districts throughout the county and a scarcity of qualified teachers, many one-room country schools were gobbled up by consolidation and eventual annexation.

Such was the demise of the Jesse Creek School, located south of Bartlesville, at the foot of Circle Mountain. Originally established as a subscription school in 1903, the school was moved from the north side of Circle Mountain to the east side and renamed JESSE CREEK SCHOOL the Circle Mountain School in 1909. Then, on April 19, 1911 a tornado damaged the school building and although the building was rebuilt and continued educating students with superior ratings, in March 1957, the school was annexed to the Ochelata school district and the children rode school buses each day.

Ochelata also welcomed Matoka, McIntosh, Kerr and Flannigan schools with open arms.

COLE SCHOOL

The same plight happened to the Cole School (located in the Hogshooter area, south of the Curleyhead Cemetery, off East Highway 60) and

LOCAL HISTORY the Hillsdale School (5 miles east of Bartlesville) which consolidated with the Midway School to become the Middale School.

To further complicate the situation, Middale was later annexed to the Limestone Prairie School, which was even later named Limestone School. And, the Limestone School was annexed into the Bartlesville school district after 1951.

The Oakland School, also called Maltby, and a small country school on the Yellow Jacket Ranch were annexed to Dewey and the students were bussed. In addition, the Scudder School became the Wayside School which was also annexed to Dewey with the Blue Mound School, located east of Dewey. EventuSCUDDER SCHOOL ally the Blue Mound structure was moved into Dewey and occupied by the Assembly of God Church before becoming an antique store at Highway 75 and 9th Street. The Lakeview School served such a hefty class size that it was divided and annexed half to Dewey and half to Bartlesville.

Pleasant Grove and Blackbird Schools became Owen School and were joined by St. Louis, Rockford, Wilson, Antioch, Cotton Valley and Caney Forks in annexation into the Copan School District.

The Ramona Consolidated School District was eight miles long and five miles wide and funded by oil production activity in the area. Annexed into Ramona were Bivins (also known as East Side School), Martin (also known as North Separate), Ringo, Kelly, Carter and Tyner Schools.

The Dewey School District contains one Elementary School, one Middle School and one High School, serving an estimated 1,239 students in grades Pre-K–12.

RAMONA SCHOOL

Vera, Vera Central and Vera View were the Dependent District #18, which the consolidated Caney Valley Independent School District in 1970.

VERA VIEW SCHOOL

located in Ramona serving 6th–8th grades; and the Caney Valley High School is also located in Ramona with the enrollment of 9th–12th grades.

The Copan School District contains one Elementary–Middle School serving Pre-K–8th grades and one High School serving 9th–12th.

The Bartlesville School District supports nine school facilities with Pre-K–12th grades (six Elementary Schools, two Middle Schools and one High School) serving approximately 5,833 students district wide.

Oglesby was the last Independent School District remaining in Washington County containing the Daniels School, Jordan Crossing School, Truskett School and Pleasant Valley School. After nearly a hundred years of service, Oglesby annexed to the Ramona Independent School District in 1978, becoming part of the Caney Valley

District consolidations with Copan, Ramona, Dewey, Ochelata, Oglesby, Limestone and Bartlesville decreased the rural population as families moved closer to the educational opportunities.

School District.

Still thriving with an estimated 838 total enrollment the Caney Valley School District is located in central Washington County. The Caney Valley Elementary School is located in Ochelata educating Pre-K–5th grades; Caney Valley Middle School is

Children in a 1920 school bus.

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GIVING BACK

Honoring Families of the Fallen Ten Seven Honors Families of Fallen Officers

by Sarah Leslie Gagan “In the Bahamas, we discovered a life we didn’t know existed. A life of serenity, peacefulness.

It’s not just the air, the beaches, the sand and the water and sky, it’s also being disconnected from everything going on at home.

DWIGHT & SHELLEY DURANT It gets you away from the news that we all get wrapped up in, and not just our everyday troubles and tribulations of life, but everything that’s going on around us.”

— Dwight Durant In retirement, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lieutenant Dwight L. Durant and wife, Shelley, a registered nurse, took their lifelong passion for boating to the next level. With their four children, Connor, Shae, Bailee, and Caroline grown and out of the nest, Dwight and Shelley set out to traverse “America’s Great Loop” in their boat named “TEN SEVEN,” the police code meaning “off-Duty.”

Together with their two Redbone Coonhounds, Molly and JoJo, The Durants circumnavigated 7,775 miles around the central, south, and east coasts of the United States, crossing the Great Lakes, the upper Mississippi and Ohio rivers, traveling through 15 states in 13 months, and ending their course with a several-month stay in the Bahamas.

After completing the Great Loop, Dwight and Shelley sold their boat, TEN SEVEN, and ordered a 2022 Leopard 42 Sail Catamaran for their future endeavors. While the Leopard 42, named TEN SEVEN FREEDOM, will not be water-ready until the end of the 2022 season, the Durants have been dreaming of how they could share the serenity and healing power of the blue skies, clear water, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets of the Bahamas with others.

Out of this season of dreaming, Ten-Seven Retreat, a Non-Profit 501(c)3 was born. Dwight and Shelley, along with their daughter Caroline Ratliff, wanted to create a unique way to give back by honoring police officers while using their skill and passion for boating. Through donations, Ten-Seven Retreat aims to provide an all-expenses paid, week-long retreat for the spouses and children of Oklahoma Police Officers who gave the

Dwight & Shelley Durant with the Davis family.

ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their goal is to sponsor and host trips for survivor families two to three times per year.

The retreat offers much needed reprieve, reflection, relaxation, and new adventures for the survivors to write a new chapter in their lives. Dwight and Shelley desire to acknowledge the long-term grief these families endure long after the funeral is over.

Shelley shares, “I want other law enforcement officers to know that if something were to happen to them, that hopefully we could reach out and do this for their family. It’s kind of our way of giving them a hug to let them know that everyone across the state really cares about law enforcement and helping their families.”

On Friday, July 1st, Dwight and Shelley were in Bartlesville to award the first Ten Seven Retreat to the family of fallen Washington County Deputy Kyle Davis. Kristin, Seth, and Pearl Davis will be flown to Florida for a few days of fun, then experience five days on the open seas with fishing, swimming, and relaxing, including a stay on a private island.

Ten Seven relies on donations to make the trips possible.

If you would like to donate, buy a t-shirt, or learn more about Dwight and Shelley, visit their website www.tensevenretreat.org.

To follow their at-sea adventures, you may visit their YouTube or Facebook page, both titled Ten Seven Freedom (Retreat.)

Thank you, Dwight and Shelley, for using your passion to heal families of the fallen who gave their lives to serve and protect.

Your love is so appreciated!

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway in Bartlesville!

2022-2023 Season Tickets Now Available The Center for arts, events, and community has unveiled the 20th season of Broadway in Bartlesville! that features a dynamic lineup with something for everyone to enjoy. Season tickets are on sale now, so get yours today!

“Each year, our audiences look forward to the latest traveling Broadway shows coming to the Bartlesville stage, and the anticipation of the new season announcement is always a big day for next year’s ticket buyers,” said Val Callaghan, managing director of the The Center and Unity Square. “Something for everyone is the goal of our five yearly productions, and patrons will find that this year is no exception!”

Here’s a look at the line-up:

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. – Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, Rated PG

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. is the ultimate tribute to the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The elevated concert experience brings a community together with timeless music that speaks to the complicated human condition, honoring the impassioned and transcendent music of one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters. Rejoice while you are taken on an intimate musical odyssey guaranteed to get you up and out of your seat and dancing! The production journeys through Aretha Franklin’s courageous life of love, tragedy, and triumph starring a live band, supreme vocalists, and a night full of music by one of the greatest artists of all time.

On Your Feet! – Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023, Rated PG-13

On Your Feet! Is the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent – and each other – to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan.

Now their story is an all-new exhilarating original musical, winning the hearts of critics and audiences alike. This crowd-pleasing show features songs like “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3” and “Coming Out of the Dark.” Prepare to be on your feet from start to finish!

Chicago – Thursday, March 16, 2023, PG-13+

There’s never been a better time to experience Chicago, Broadway’s razzle-dazzle smash. This triumphant hit musical is the recipient of six Tony Awards®, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy®, thousands of standing ovations and now the #1 longest-running American Musical in Broadway history. Chicago has everything that makes Broadway great: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, one show-stopping song after another, and the most astonishing dancing you have ever seen.

STOMP – Monday, April 3, 2023, Rated PG

STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique —

an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments — matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps — to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Year after year, audiences worldwide keep coming back for more of this pulse-pounding, electrifying show. As the Boston Globe says, “If you haven’t seen STOMP, GO! If you have seen it, take someone and share the pleasure!” STOMP. See what all the noise is about.

Madagascar the Musical – Thursday, June 15, 2023, Rated PG

Join Alex, Marty, Melman, and Gloria as they bound out of the zoo and onto the stage in this live musical spectacular.

This smash hit musical features all your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. This brand-new musical from Dreamworks (Shrek The Musical) will leave audiences with no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” Season tickets range from $115 to $345 for all five shows in the line-up. Reserved seats for current season subscribers will be guaranteed until August 12. Single tickets will be on sale September 6. New orders will be processed after all current subscribers have the opportunity to renew and/or change their current seats. Submitting an order today is the best way to secure your place in line to open seats, once the new subscriptions begin.

For more information or to purchase season tickets, call The Center box office at 918-337-2787. The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

It is only open on the weekends and evenings during concerts and events. The Center is located at 300 SE Adams Blvd., in Bartlesville. You can learn more at www.bartlesvillecommunitycenter.com.

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LET FREEDOM RING

Albert Einstein

Warning Letter to Roosevelt Changed History

by Jay Hastings

Albert Einstein, with the help of Leo Szilard, wrote a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 2, 1939, warning Roosevelt of the dangers posed by nuclear energy. Einstein had written to inform Roosevelt that recent research on fission chain reactions utilizing uranium made it probable that large amounts of power could be produced by a chain reaction and that, by harnessing this power, the construction of “extremely powerful bombs” was conceivable. Einstein believed the German government was actively supporting research in this area and urged the United States government to do likewise. Einstein also pointed out the Germans had stopped the sale of uranium from Czechoslovakia, which Germany had taken over.

Einstein stated in the letter that the United States had very poor ores of uranium in moderate quantities. Einstein claimed good ore could be found in Canada and the former Czechoslovakia; however, the most important source of uranium could be found in the Belgian Congo.

There were a number of European scientists who had fled to the United States in the 1930s to escape Nazi and fascist repression. Leo Szilard was the most vocal among these scientists in advocating for a program to develop bombs based on recent findings in nuclear physics and chemistry. Hungarian refugee physicists Edward Teller and Eugene Wigner regarded it as their responsibility to alert the Americans to the possibility German scientists might win the race to build an atomic bomb, and that Hitler would be more than willing to use such a bomb.

At the time, Roosevelt, preoccupied with events in Europe, took several months to meet and discuss the letter he had received from Einstein. Szilard and his colleagues interpreted the President’s inaction as a failure or refusal to take the threat of nuclear warfare seriously. Then, in October of 1939, a Wall Street economist named Alexander Sachs, an unofficial adviser to Roosevelt, met with the president to discuss the letter Einstein had written. Sachs read from a cover letter he had prepared and briefed the president on the main points contained in Einstein’s letter. After the meeting, Roosevelt was noncommittal and expressed concerns over locating necessary funding. The next morning there was a second meeting over breakfast, and Roosevelt became convinced of the value of exploring atomic energy.

On October 19, 1939, President Roosevelt wrote to Einstein, informing the physicist he had set up a committee of civilians and military personnel to study uranium. In 1942, the endeavor would take on the name “The Manhattan Project.”

It all began on the 18th floor of an office building on Broadway Street in Manhattan, out of which the US Army Corp of Engineers worked. At that time, New York City was peppered with physics laboratories. Over time, much of the United State’s stockpile of uranium ore was in the city in warehouses or on docks, arriving from the Belgian Congo. The Army establishment was known as the Manhattan Engineering District. Soon, the Army decided New York City was too populated and too close to the coast for privacy. The laboratories were relocated to remote locations in Oak Ridge, Tennessee; Hanford, Washington; and the famous Los Alamos, New Mexico. While the Manhattan offices were closed down, the name stuck to the resulting locations as a whole.

We should never overlook and instead remember these men who were persistent in informing President Roosevelt of the impending threat to the United States, and the importance of winning the arms race. Where would our freedom be today if not for physicists Albert Einstein, Leo Szilard, Edward Teller, and Eugene Wigner?

Sources: U.S. Department of Energy & Bradbury Science Museum.

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bmonthly | AUGUST 2022

ON THE ROAD

By the Bootstrap

Popsicle Goodness with a Cowgirl Perspective

by Kelly Bland

They say if the shoe fits, wear it — but what if it doesn’t? I have this old pair of boots — pink tall tops, blue piping, spur ridge, underslung heel. I’ve had ‘em since the 90s. They fit me like a glove and I love wearing them, so much so that I’ve almost worn them out. Almost is the key word there — almost — but not yet!

When the shoe fits, you can get where you’re going. It’s a painless process. I figured that out first hand this week. I wore a pair of cute heels to the office, but by the end of the day, we weren’t getting along too well. I was wishing so much that I had worn my boots. Here I was — cute as could be — limping to my car that afternoon.

Now, having a hitch in your get-along can sure enough hinder a few things — and I don’t just mean heels. It would seem here in America we’re experiencing a few hitches that are founderingly affecting our stride. I won’t go into the particulars of what I think they are, but I will go into the particulars of what I wish could be.

If I could have it my way, I’d let America pull on my old boots. I’m pretty sure my love for them came from what I grew up on — things like having a deep appreciation for working hard, going to church on Sundays, saying Grace, doing what you say you’ll do, living off the land and not just playing on it, washing dishes by hand, wearing homemade clothes and hand-me-downs, hearing slamming wooden screen doors, baking from scratch, brewing sun tea, and enjoying porch swing conversations with a neighbor who felt free to walk on in the back door of the house without knocking. These were all as common as popsicles in rural America back when I was impressionable and young.

Why, believe it or not, we even respected and appreciated the local law enforcement.

At the polls, voter id was a given — and so was citizenship. Getting to vote was also a privilege and an honor. I’ll take it one further, we respected the office of president too — regardless the party or the personality. George Washington’s picture hung on classroom walls and patriotism ran high back in the days when Bonanza at 4 p.m. on CBS was after-school entertainment.

Hank with a popsicle.

Not so long ago, the only shooting in schools was spit wads or free throws. There were guns at school though — in the back window of almost every pickup on the high school parking lot — without incident. Why? Because to those roots and boots, something like that would have been inconceivable. Boots like that were made of moral fiber and stitched together with character and the convictions we learned in Sunday School.

I thought those boots would last forever…

Back to my pink-top dandies — I think I’m going to polish them up, oil them down, and make them last as long as I can, because some things are just worth holding on to … yes, I’m getting it said. ;) Be looking for me out and about. I’ll be the gal with the smile, the style, and something to say that is rural worthwhile!

P.S. If you’d like to hear a little more, check out the latest podcast “Coffee with John & Kelly,” available on most podcast platforms.

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