FROM THE EDITOR Agritourism Adventures
Did you know there’s an adventure right here in your own backyard?
If you didn’t, now you do, and The Banner staff is going to prove it to you with this magazine.
Stephens County has 10 different locations the State of Oklahoma has identified as part of Oklahoma’s Agritouism Destinations.
With a goal of drawing people into not only Stephens County but also Oklahoma, Stephens County has a lot to offer.
Some of these gems include Think Ability Garden Market and Hub and the Garden Cafe. Others include Chisholm Trail Heritage Center and LNJ Ranch, which focuses on all things equestrian. Then of course, there’s Cotton Blossom Winery of Marlow and Kochendorfer Brewing Company in Duncan. Hot Top Ranch, Crossed Arrows LLC and DT Ranch Country also make the list. Then, there’s Bluff Creek Lodge. Phew. That’s a lot of things right here in Stephens County to keep us entertained, involved in
agriculture, learning and bringing new people to the area to live, to work and to play –or just to visit along the way.
But when you think about it at a deeper level, the economic impact these places have on our economy – especially when it comes to bringing people to the area to spend outside money inside our community – it’s substantial. Take Kochendorfer for example. Since opening six and a half years ago, the brewery has expanded its offerings, added numerous events, developed its own beer can which is now carried in multiple liquor stores and convenience stores, as well as set down the foundation to opening a new taproom in a different part of Oklahoma (you’ll get to find out where when you read the story). All of that comes right back here to Duncan and Stephens County, where the family planted down their roots and decided to grow a brand that has
become recognized state-wide but focuses on family first.
Another example is the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. More than a museum, the Heritage Center offers everything a history lover could want, especially in terms of the Chisholm Trail and life at the time. In this magazine, you’ll read about how the center draws people to the area from all across the nation and what it offers, including a new exhibit and the new bird attraction.
Finally, another one I have to mention is Crossed Arrows. The fiber mill brings in materials from across the United States to handle and turn into fiber right here in Velma, Oklahoma.
If after this book, you’re still wanting more adventure and you’ve visited all of these places, your next stop is the rest of Oklahoma, which boasts over 400 agritourism adventures that are just waiting for you.
Enjoy readers! Your adventure awaits!
–Charlie Managing Editor
CHARLENE BELEW
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS
EDITOR CHARLENE BELEW
Charlene, also known in the community as Charlie, is the Managing Editor for The Duncan Banner and Duncan Magazine. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Cameron University, where she also held multiple positions with The Cameron Collegian, which ended with her serving as the Managing Editor in 2014-2015. Charlie has served two tenures with The Banner. Her first began in 2014 with an internship through Oklahoma Press Association and culminated in 2017 as News Editor. Her second began in 2018 when she returned as a staff writer and she resumed her editorship in 2020.
Although she has spent much of her life growing up in Lawton, Charlie has always felt a special call to the Duncan and Stephens County community. She adopted a dog from Stephens County Humane Society’s Take Out Tuesday program with The Banner in 2019 and was a member of the Duncan Rotary Club. In 2021, Charlie led The Banner to the first Sequoyah Award from the Oklahoma Press Association since its last in 2012. She has taken home multiple awards for editorial writing, news writing and design. She had her first child, Anja, in January 2024, and her second, Astraea, in September 2025.
PUBLISHER CRYSTAL CHILDERS
Crystal joined The Banner staff in 2013 as an advertising executive. She was promoted to Advertising Manager in 2017 before becoming General Manager in 2020 and then Publisher in August 2023.
Crystal has won numerous awards from the Oklahoma Press Association in ad design, most recently a first and third place win for large ad space design along with second place for small ad space design.
Born and raised in Duncan, Crystal graduated from Duncan High School in 2001, joining a long line of Duncan graduates in her family. Crystal is an active member of Faith Church along with several community groups, including the Duncan Noon Lions Club.
She is a proud supporter of the Stephens County Humane Society and all Duncan Demons sports from the many years her children participated.
Crystal has three children, Alyssa and her husband Tyler, Jacob and Jordan and one gorgeous newborn granddaughter. She enjoys spending time with family and her many dogs.
Born and raised in California, Tamara joined the staff at The Duncan Banner in March 2020.
As an award winning journalist, Tamara has placed for her feature, education, business and news stories, as well as her photography and column writing over the past five years. Tamara previously gathered her experience by interning at the South Gibson Star Times in Fort Branch, Indiana, as well as working as the editor for her college newspaper, The Collegian in Oakland City, Indiana. Her experiences continued while writing and publishing a magazine, Evoke, with a group of friends in Turlock, California.
With family local to Stephens County as well in the surrounding areas of Oklahoma, Tamara moved to Duncan from Stanislaus County, jumping right into community events as a reporter. She loves to connect and engage with the community members to tell their heartfelt stories each day.
Duncan Magazine’s goal is to create a publication local to Stephens County that’s fun to read and view and created entirely by the hands of people you know. Here are the creators who use their time and talent to tell your stories.
JASON HODGES
A Comanche resident since the age of 10, Jason graduated from Comanche High School in 1991. His wife, Jennifer, followed a year behind, and the family has strong roots in the area. They have raised three daughters here, each of whom graduated from Comanche. They also have grandchildren attending school there. Jason began his career with The Banner in 2016 as a freelance photographer. Later, he accepted a full-time position in the advertising department, but he still enjoys taking photos, both for The Banner and his personal business, Hodges Photography. Jason loves his connection to the community he has now working at The Banner. He can be contacted for photography work on Facebook at Hodges Photography.
Toni has been a contract writer with The Banner since July 2024, and enjoys sharing the stories of people and history of Stephens County. Her own history with The Banner began in February 2000 as education editor. She continued in various roles, including news editor in 2013. She also was managing editor from 2003-05, at The Waurika News-Democrat. She worked at The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in late 2013 until June 2020.
Her first newspaper job was as photo chief of The Ag Journal in La Junta, Colorado. A neighboring newspaper extended an offer as general reporter for two papers they owned.
In 1997, she moved to Marlow and worked at The Marlow Review for two years. She also was managing editor of The Review (Sept. 2022-May 2024).
Toni and her husband Rex, live in Duncan. They have two sons, several grandsons, and a granddaughter. Her work has been published in The Dallas Morning News, The Native American Times, Cowboys & Indians, and Oklahoma Today (while working at The Heritage Center). She published a book, Riding The Chisholm Trail ‘Once in a Lifetime’ in 2009. Awards range from education to sports, photography, and tourism. She is a member of Chisholm Trail Arts Council and enjoys pursuing her landscape and fine art photography.
TAMARA GREGOR
TONI HOPPER
Agritourism Adventures
D T R anch Count ry
Oklahoma offers getaway experiences close to home
STORY BY TONI HOPPER
Sitting on the porch of a cabin with a fishing pond nearby is closer to your weekend vacation dream than you know.
A country overnight stay, or a trail ride on horses across flowing creeks or picking tulips on a farm are just a few options easily found thanks to the team at Oklahoma Agritourism. Its website describes the department’s mission: “Oklahoma’s Growing Adventure.” They have done the work to round up the best of what Oklahoma has to offer, simplifying your day trip and weekend vacation planning. What might be the hardest part is deciding which of the many places to visit. Or maybe you have a farm and are thinking about joining the ranks of the agritourism industry.
Whitney Hinrichsen has been promoting the Oklahoma Agritourism industry for nearly seven years after being hired as Agritourism Coordinator in 2019. During that time, one thing she has learned is there is always the need for more agritourism venues. She says it seems that once people get involved in it from the business side, they are in it for the long haul.
“Turnover isn’t really common,” she says. “Typically, farms are there for a long time.”
Agritourism is more than farms. It’s vendors, ranches, venues, farmer’s markets, wineries, breweries, museums and so much more.
“We hold steady at 400 vendors and have even survived a world pandemic,” she said. “We have a steady inflow, usually there is the same amount of people who quit, we have people to fill those spots. Most of our farms have off-season income.”
In talking about farms, ranches and venues, Hinrichsen said those terms are interchangeable.
“The popularity of our activities are usually fall venues, pumpkin patches and corn mazes,” she said. “We have 47 which are active and it’s only a
six-week season. Farmer’s Markets and hubs fluctuate around 40 to 60 every year and there is a growth in the markets.”
Because of the short seasons, those producers are also maintaining their farms and ranches on a daily basis. Many have expanded to offer spring and summer season related activities. Some producers offer flowers, mostly tulips, which are popular for picking and photography.
Even so, tulip season is short-lived and there are not many tulip producers in the state of Oklahoma. Visiting those places can mean a two to three hour drive, especially from Stephens County.
“There is a pumpkin patch in Altus that had been open for a couple of years and they called and added a tulip farm,” Hinrichsen said. “We are seeing more and more flower farms pop up. They have less infrastructure (to maintain).”
Being able to offer diversity benefits not only the farm or producer, but also encourages more tourism across the state.
Oklahoma’s agritourism industry organized in 2008, under the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry division. Hinrichsen said the term or idea of “agritourism” is really catching on.
“It is a fairly established brand now,” she said. “There are specific rules on how to get into the program.”
That’s where the state-funded office comes into play.
“We do a site visit and inspection. There is a set of rules we are looking for and every farm that gets added gets a visit from myself,” Hinrichsen said, with the exception of one area of interest – vineyards, wineries and breweries. One person handles that niche division.
What might be surprising is that even museums and overnight stay farms, much like an Airbnb, can be
Cros s ed Arrow s , LLC
considered for agritourism certification. Hinrichsen said, for example, a museum would just have to offer some type of educational component or provide an experience that is agriculture related.
Hat T op R anch
Garden Café (by T hink Abilit y I nc.)
She says the overnight farm stays are gaining attention. She says if someone has a home out in the country, that could serve as an overnight stay. Working ranches offer western heritage experiences. There are also historical destinations and museums, like Duncan’s own Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, which tell the stories of cowboy and Native American history.
T he Garden Mark et (by T hink Abilit y I nc )
LNJ R anch E ques t rian
If someone is hesitant to consider getting approved for the agritourism list, Hinrichsen offers this bit of information.
Bluff Creek Lodge
“We don’t do any sort of data (collecting),” she said. “We don’t ask the farmers for those financial things.”
Chis holm T rail Herit age Cent er & Garis Gallery of t he American Wes t
It’s all about promoting Oklahoma’s growing industry of agritourism.
Kochendorfer Brew ing Company
There are a few items of importance to think about when considering joining the list for agritourism, such as parking, signage, dates of availability and filling out paperwork, it’s not any different than any business and most places are already established.
“Then they are in the program, and once in, we add them to our website and brochures,” Hinrichsen said.
Connecting with potential visitors is another added benefit that the program offers using social media. Hinrichsen says the coordinators post at least three times a week on the official Facebook page, facebook.com/OKAgritourism. As of mid-March, the page has more than 26,000 followers, and its Instagram page is growing with more than 10,000 followers.
In March, visitors could plan several day trips just by reading a few posts which included everything from forestry history to wildlife conservation, to farm and ranch attractions and tulip farms.
Cot t on Blos s om Winery
From the ground up
Think Ability serves the community with nutrition and education
STORY TAMARA GREGOR | PHOTOS BY TAMARA GREGOR AND JASON HODGES
Acycle of nutritional development continues to grow as one nonprofit organization works from soil to serving along the Chisholm Trail.
Think Ability, Inc. offers an array of activities and classes to help educate the community of its agricultural impact in Stephens County and beyond.
The entire process literally begins from the ground up, starting with acquiring the proper soil. Once the soil is developed, its time to plant and nurture the seed, weed out the unnecessary and harvest the crop, which will ultimately make it to stores where items are purchased for household use.
What started as a parking lot nine years ago has grown into a flourishing garden full of education and nutrition options to feed the community.
Community Outreach Coordinator
Stacey Weddington said the Farmer’s Hub and garden offer a self serve herb house with around 25-30 different herbs accessible to the community, as well as aeroponics-aquaponics house where lettuce are grown.
During a walking tour of the garden, Garden Manager Kyle McKain explained the process of how the gardens operate from the ground up.
As a living, breathing story, McKain said the first source of the garden comes finding the proper soil.
After consultations from soil companies, McKain said Think Ability gained their jump off point to make their own soil. He said garden crews will breakdown and bag the soil, then mix the organic material.
“We do everything OMRI,” he said, which follows standards by the Or-
KYLE DALEY WORKS WITH THE MICROGREENS THROUGH THINK ABILITY’S JOB PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES. DALEY WORKS WITH THE PLANTS FROM SEED TO HARVEST.
ganics Materials Review Institute. “It’s OMRI certified.”
McKain said the garden crew makes
a seed starting mix and a potting soil mix, as well as bag compost, which are all for sale at the community garden.
The cycle continues with where the microgreens are grown.
After working with the soil, McKain said one of the places the seed starter mix goes is to the microgreens areas.
The endless cycle of growth and development sets out to not only bring fresh food out of the gardens, but also employment skills.
Think Ability provides jobs and vocational services for people with developmental disabilities.
McKain said there’s an array of jobs to do at the gardens.
To date, there are around 14 employees with developmental disabilities who tend to the garden’s growth and development, alongside another handful of employees.
Kyle Daley works with the microgreens through Think Ability’s job program for individuals with developmental disabilities.
McKain said Daley worked with trays and seeding, all the way through the harvest.
Daley said he enjoys his work.
“I really like this job because it’s my favorite job of all time,” Daley said. “I would like everybody in Duncan to know that we can do it.”
Daley said he was trained in vo-tech. He said working with these plants makes him feel great.
He works Monday through Thursday alongside friends.
“This is a good team,” he said.
Weddington said the 14 individuals through the job program work areas like planting seeds to harvesting, fertilizing and more.
The finished product will eventually make its way to areas, like the Gardens Cafe and DRH Health.
Weddington said the
microgreens, along with everything the gardens grow is part of Think Ability’s story.
“The story that we weave through this community and how all parts of Think Ability are all connected,” she said.
While the community may know about the restaurant downtown or the Gardens Market, Weddington said it’s the beginning steps at the community garden which lead to the final delivery of the product to group homes, an adult day center, the café, Farmer’s Market Hub and more.
“No piece of Think Ability is in a silo,” she said. “Everything connects.”
Weddington said the uniforms worn are even made at the Power Print Shop.
“It just really all does have a string and has a heart that weaves through everything,” she said.
McKain said a client handles the plant at every stage.
“Starts out with a seed from our soil in our soil that we make here in house,” he said.
McKain said it then gets passed down for transplanting in different areas. He said everything gets washed and they reuse what they can.
Weddington noted the nutritional value of microgreens.
“It’s like a tablespoon of microgreens — you’d have to eat like two stalks of broccoli to get the same nutritional benefit,” she said. “The health component of micro greens, aside from they’re delicious, they are so good for you.”
In the future, the gardens look to have microgreen tastings, as well as ways to utilize microgreens.
In the next segment of the process, McKain said the product will transition to the retail hoop house to harden.
He said 100% of it is planted by individuals.
“All the soil in here is made by our individuals,” he said.
Aside from making the soil available to the public, McKain said Think Ability also uses the soil throughout Main Street in Duncan for the garden pots.
Think Ability has also transitioned to subscription boxes for the garden beds.
Weddington said in effort to serve more of the community, Think Ability’s Community Garden will offer a limited amount of subscription boxes to bring fresh produce to the table. She said each box will offer fresh and locally grown produce to community members.
“After several seasons of renting individual garden beds, the program is transitioning to a new model that improves sustainability and strengthens community involvement,” she said. “The boxes are grown, tended and harvested by participants supported through Think Ability programs and offer a new way to invest in food access and job development.”
Through the duo program, Weddington said consumers can use SNAP benefits and Chickasaw Nation WIC for the subscription boxes.
“We try to make ourselves accessible to folks to give them nutritious, delicious options for their food,” she said.
Hydroponics is another tool used by the garden. McKain said the garden currently has lettuce growing.
McKain said employees, like Erie, care for the garden, alongside job coaches.
Dusty Gibbs, job coach, said she assists individuals to set them up to do the task. She said the individuals will water the plants, but she will assist with turning on the pump.
In the herb house, Gibbs said the workers move plants around and organize the beds.
“We have a system where people can come in here and pick their own herbs and weigh them out,” she said. “So it’s $5 for an ounce of herbs.”
Gibbs said there’s a station with pruners and alcohol to clean the pruners. She said customers can leave their
cash or take it next door to the Farmer’s Hub. There is also a QR code for payment.
Gibbs said what’s harvested at the herb house goes to the Garden Café as well.
“Every Monday they get rosemary,” she said.
Gibbs said one of their clients will help to cut the herbs for drying.
After the herbs dry, they go into the grinder before getting packaged.
McKain said everything works because of the individuals doing their jobs.
“If one of these guys are out it makes a big difference,” he said. “It’s hard to replace them.”
While every job has a purpose, McKain said he looks forward to seeing everything going from start to finish.
With a plethora of activities for families to take part in, the garden will continue its annual release of ladybugs near the end of June.
Weddington said the ladybug release gives the community a reason visit the garden.
“This fun activity where everybody gets to be a part of it and help make our garden better,” she said. “The impact of the release goes for a square mile around us.”
McKain said the ladybugs eat all the bad bugs in the garden.
“We don’t spray anything here unless it’s organic,” he said.
He said the ladybugs eat aphids, spider mites and more.
Weddington said the community activity at the lady bug release spurs a lot of field trips to the garden for students to gain education and handson learning.
Additional garden visits come from OSU extension, Gabriel’s House, the middle school’s STEM program and more.
The garden also brought Wine in the Vines in the fall were community members engaged in painting and conversation.
Another event coming to the gardens is Salsa at Sunset during which the community can enjoy a variety of
salsas and pick their favorites.
Weddington said the Farmer’s Market Hub was one of the first three certified Farmer’s Market Hubs in Oklahoma.
In year’s prior, the Farmer’s Market would host events in the summer to go through market stands, but now as a certified Farmer’s Market Hub customers have a greater access to market for items year-round.
“Our vendors have their products with us every day,” she said.
With produce from around 30 vendors, the Farmer’s Hub sells homemade pickles, canned jellies and preserves, sourdough breads and more.
Additionally, the Hub also offers meats, like beef and chicken, with a potential lamb supplier.
Think Ability also occupies several green houses offsite to supplement some of the produce due to space.
Community members can have the option to visit the garden and learn from the garden crew.
Gibbs said workers, like Ernie, can
explain a lot of what the garden offers.
“He’s very proud of the work he’s done,” Gibbs said. “It’s really cool to see him talking with customers.”
McKain said Belinda and Robin have invested in people and the community to make everything come together.
Gibbs said Think Ability creates new jobs as much as they can to create new opportunities. She said she loves to come in and see the individuals have fun with each other.
“It’s a wonderful group to be around,” she said.
The community garden operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Farmer’s Hub operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
The Garden Café is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The Gardens is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
For more information about the garden or Farmer’s Hub, email Kyle@ thinkabilityfirst.com, call 580-252-8000 or stop by the community garden.
Brewed from family roots
STORY BY CHARLENE BELEW | PHOTOS BY JASON HODGES AND SUBMITTED
Duncan’s KBC continues to grow footprint in Oklahoma
There’s nothing better than a cold beer after a long day. Or while you’re on vacation. Or when you’re looking for a night out with the family or friends.
Thankfully, there’s the perfect destination for that right in Stephens County –Kochendorfer Brewing Company.
KBC owners Laura and Chris Kochendorfer opened their doors to the community six and a half years ago. Since then, they’ve left an unforgettable mark on Duncan and are now expanding their footprint across Oklahoma.
“Kochendorfer Brewing Company was born from a vision to build something truly special here,” Laura said. “We opened our doors as a small family-owned brewery, and what started as a local gathering place has grown into a state-wide brand.”
That expansion now will include a distribution partnership and more offerings
CHEERS! BREWS ARE ON THE MENU AT KOCHENDORFER, DUNCAN’S LOCALLY OWNED BREWERY.
inside the taproom beyond beer with the addition of seltzers, slushies and mocktails.
“We’ve built an experience that welcomes everyone, from craft beer enthusiasts to families with kids and dogs in tow,” Laura said.
Laura said picking the location between Duncan and Marlow as the heart of KBC was a decision that came easy to her because of her family ties.
“Growing up in Marlow with generations of family from this area, Stephens County has always been
near and dear to my heart,” Laura said. “We started planning this brewery over a decade ago, and seeing it come to life — and the way people have embraced it — has been incredible.”
Because of all that KBC is — a brewery and a tap room, complete with a family friendly environment and tours — the brewery has earned the designation of an agritourism destination in Oklahoma.
“To be recognized as an agritourism destination feels like a natural fit,” Laura said.
“We’re so proud
to have built a gathering place not just for Stephens County but for surrounding communities too, and we hope this recognition brings even more visitors through the door to experience what makes this area so special.”
When you go to KBC, you’ll notice the feeling is cozy, inviting and friendly for any age. The brewery features a few pinball machines inside, but outside on the patio is where a lot of the community gathers.
“When we envisioned the brewery all those years ago, our main goal was to build
a true destination — and I believe we delivered on that,” Chris said. “The brewery sits on over five acres of wooded land with walking trails, a bandstand, a playground, rotating food trucks and multiple seating areas, so there’s genuinely something for everyone. On the drink side, along with our phenomenal beer, we make our own seltzers, adult and kid slushies, and mocktails, and we carry local wine — plus a full range of non-alcoholic options. We’re also dog and kid friendly. The brewery is a place you can spend an entire day enjoying with family and friends, and that’s exactly what we always hoped it would be.”
Laura said the goal to build this environment
comes from her and Chris being parents themselves.
“We know how important it is for families to have a space where everyone can go and truly enjoy themselves — because when the kids are happy, the whole experience is better for everyone,” Laura said. “The fenced playground has been a huge hit, and we love watching kids take advantage of the wide-open spaces for games of tag and hide and seek. The board games give families a chance to sit and play together, and the walking trails are a personal favorite of our own kids. We’re committed to continuing to invest in experiences that make every member of the family feel welcome, because at the end of the day,
when families leave here with smiles on their faces, that’s what it’s all about.”
While Stephens County has been the jumping point for KBC, the brewery and taproom has since developed its own beer line, which means KBC fans and those who want to try it but don’t have a way to get there can find the cans in certain stores.
“Over the past six and a half years, we’ve built not only a gathering place but a brand that is now recognizable throughout the state — and that recognition translates directly back to Stephens County,” Chris said. “Our recent distribution partnership with Handcrafted Wine & Spirits has been an exciting milestone, and the demand we’re already seeing has us looking at scaling up our equipment to keep pace.”
The Kochendorfers also have new walls going up in another Oklahoma location.
“We also have a new taproom in Bixby in the works, which will bring even more attention and loyal customers back to the brand and, ultimately, back to where it all started,” Chris said.
“As a single family-owned small business, the road hasn’t always been straight — there have been obstacles and pivots along the way — but every step has been taken with the intention of growing here and keeping our production rooted in Stephens County. Before we ever opened our doors, we made a commitment to grow in this community. The overwhelming support we’ve received from the people of Stephens County has made honoring that commitment not just easy, but something we’re genuinely proud of.”
Laura said being family
first is paramount to the culture of KBC. She also said the brewery wouldn’t be what it is without its customers.
“More than anything, we just want people to know that when you walk through our doors, you are family,” Laura said. “We have been so incredibly blessed by the loyal customers and regulars who have made this place their home away from home.
Chris added:“We also wouldn’t be what we are without the amazing employees who have been part of the KBC family over the years. They bring this place to life every single day, and we are so grateful for each and every one of them.”
Kochendorfer offers many get togethers. Upcoming is a crawfish boil April 25, KBC’s second annual Brewstock June 13 and of course, Oktoberfest comes the last part of September and Nov. 14 marks the brewery’s seven year anniversary.
But special events aren’t all the brewery offers. Community staples like bingo every Thursday, free live music most weekend, SINGO with Dream Team Prosthetics once a month and monthly karaoke with Duncan Little Theatre also keep the brewery busy.
Visit the brewery at 1155 McCurdy Rd, Duncan. Hours are 2-8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 2-10 p.m. Thursday, 2 to midnight Friday and Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.
OWNER CHRIS KOCHENDORFER STANDS BEHIND THE BAR WITH A FRESH BEER FROM THE TAP BEHIND HIM.
THE COMPLETE EXPERIENCE
Marlow’s Cotton Blossom part of Oklahoma’s Wild, Wild Wine Trail
STORY BY CHARLENE BELEW PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY RYAN BELL
Just off of Broadway Street in Marlow, Cotton Blossom Winery pours up small batch of handcrafted wines all while working to build a community hub for all of Stephens County and a must stop destination for tourists frequenting the area.
Ryan and Meagan Bell officially opened the doors to Cotton Blossom Winery April 27, 2019. Ryan said since the very beginning, the goal was to “create something unique” for Stephens County.
“A place where people can gather, relax, and experience something different right here at home,” Ryan said.
Since opening, the local winery is now considered one of Oklahoma’s official agritourism destinations.
That designation, Ryan said, is a huge honor.
“It reinforces what we’ve believed from the beginning — that Cotton Blossom is more than just a winery, it’s an experience,” Ryan said.
The designation is much more than a star on a map. It means “bringing people to Stephens County, giving them a reason to stay, explore and enjoy what our community has to offer,” Ryan said.
“It’s about showcasing local pride, supporting other businesses and proving that rural
Oklahoma can be a destination — not just a stop along the way,” Ryan said. “Cotton Blossom Winery is built around one simple idea: make it fun, welcoming, and memorable.”
As soon as guests enter the venue, they’ll feel comfortable. The environment is a laid-back, small-town atmosphere with a modern and energetic vibe. Cotton Blossom offers local specialities, 27 to be exact, and is sure to pour up a glass to everyone’s liking.
The atmosphere also serves as a hub for interaction. The winery works to put on a calendar of events to keep customers coming back and the community interacting with one another. This includes live music, sip n’ shop events, wine and cigar pairing nights, trivia nights, Bingo and other themed events.
“Whether you’re a local regular or visiting from out of town, Cotton Blossom is a place to unwind, laugh and connect,” Ryan said. “We pride ourselves on always having something going on.”
More than the environment are the tone setters. Ryan said the team is the heartbeat of Cotton Blossom. They’ll greet all that walk through the doors with friendly, welcoming faces and provide a fun, yet laid back atmosphere to truly create an experience that makes all wine drinkers — enthusiasts and
new comers — comfortable as they peruse the selection and enjoy the venue.
Now that the winery has become the community hub The Bells set out to make it, the goal now is to continue expanding so more people can taste the variety of wine offered.
Ryan said he and Meagan will now work to expand into new restaurants, bars and liquor stores across the area and work to brew new and creative wines. They’ll also look to up their events and keep adding to the experience that is Cotton Blossom.
Since 2019, Cotton Blossom has played an active role in supporting the local economy.
“We bring visitors into Stephens County who often spend time at other local businesses, restaurants and shops,” Ryan
said. “We create local jobs, partner with local vendors, and drive consistent traffic into the area through our events. About 65% of our business is from outside the county. As we continue to grow, so does our impact — and we’re proud to contribute to the success of our community.”
So whether you’re looking for a girls’ night out, a bottle of wine for dinner with your honey or a new place to hang out and connect, Cotton Blossom offers all of that and more.
“Cotton Blossom Winery is more than a place to grab a glass of wine,” Ryan said. “It’s a place to gather, celebrate, and make memories.”
For more information, call 580-721-7077 or visit the winery, located at 605 S. Broadway St., Marlow. DM
MEET THE BELLS
PAINT AND SIP AT COTTON BLOSSOM
A LocAL FAvorite
MORE THAN A MUSEUM Chisholm Trail Heritage Center a premier agritourism destination
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TONI HOPPER
In the heart of Duncan, on the historic Chisholm Trail is a place that some locals take for granted and newcomers have yet to discover.
Educational experiences, historic art, interactive exhibits and events are just a few elements that make the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center a premier attraction. Having amassed numerous awards in several fields, including education and tourism, it is also certified as an Oklahoma Agritourism destination.
Recent improvements and additions have enhanced the museum as an agritourism attraction. This includes a walking trail, a new bird blind and events like kite flying. April is National Kite Month and local kite maker Dave Young will host a kite making and flying day April 18.
This year, the facility also became an official Harvest Hosts member, and RV travelers can park their campers in the parking lot overnight for free, according to Executive Director Leah Mulkey.
“They enjoy the trails and the bird blind,” Mulkey said.
A visit to Palo Duro Can-
yon in Texas inspired the staff and board of directors to pursue a bird blind.
“There were a lot of people just watching the birds, but also several taking photos,” Mulkey says. “We knew it would be a great addition to our property to include it in our education programs and for the walkers on the Heritage Trails.”
Mulkey wrote a grant to the Kirkpatrick Foundation, and with their help, the blind was built. She also wrote grants to Summit Cares Grant and Walmart to gain additional funding for the bird houses, feeders and foods. Pictures that Mulkey had taken while at Palo Duro Canyon provided local contractor Chase Rowe a starting point to build the blind. It was officially ready for visitors in fall 2025.
“We have incorporated it into our field trip lessons, ‘Birds on the Chisholm Trail,’” Mulkey said. “The lesson includes a trip to the bird blind.”
Oklahoma Agritourism Coordinator Whitney Hinrichsen said the Heritage Center offers many educational components that make it an agritourism
friendly attraction.
Mulkey, the staff and board of directors, are constantly discovering ideas to incorporate into the facility to keep visitors returning. More than 10,000 of those visitors annually are school-age children.
Another tourist interest for Oklahoma is its diversified weather. A recent addition to the interactive exhibit space is a magnetic board, featuring moveable cows, horses, sun, rain, clouds and tornadoes.
“All things Oklahoma weather,” Mulkey said.
“This was designed as a STEM exhibit (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) for children to use their imagination and create their own scenes on the Chisholm Trail.”
Kenedy Noble joined the CTHC team in August 2024, and is the resident
A MAGNETIC WEATHER BOARD FEATURING COWS, HORSES, TREES, TORNADOES AND LIGHTNING ALLOWS FOR SOME INTERACTIVE LESSONS AT THE CHISHOLM TRAIL HERITAGE CENTER. JUST ANOTHER COMPONENT OF WHAT THE AGRITOURISM-DESIGNATED FACILITY HAS TO OFFER GUESTS OF ALL AGES.
KENEDY NOBLE AND FLAT JESSE PREPARE FOR A ROAD TRIP IN THE BRUSH RUNABOUT (CA. 1912). JESSE CHISHOLM IS THE 2026 THEME FOR THE CHISHOLM TRAIL HERITAGE CENTER.
artist. She created the art for the magnetic board pieces. She also hosts a new free art program “3rd Saturday Studio” where adults and children can come and create art. A come and go session is 1-3 p.m. on the, you guessed it, third Saturday of each month.
Assistant Executive Director Kristy Rochell says one of the best new features is Jesse Chisholm.
“We are calling 2026 the year of Jesse because of our new interactive exhibit,” Rochell said.
That interactive exhibit gives guests a chance to have a real conversation with Jesse and ask him questions about life on the Chisholm Trail in the 1880s. It was unveiled in December. Additionally, a Flat Jesse was designed by Noble.
“We’ve been giving Flat Jesse to teachers, students, guests and even international visitors, and the response has been wonderful,” Rochell says. “People are genuinely excited to take him along on their adventures. We’ve already seen Flat Jesse enjoying ice cream, attending pig and livestock shows, posing with pets, and even traveling out of the country. One guest told us, ‘Oh, this is going to be so fun — he’ll drink my morning coffee with me at our lake house,’ and teachers have said, ‘We’ll make sure he’s involved with our classes.’
“Flat Jesse is a way to send Jesse Chisholm around the world with our visitors,” Rochell said. “If people want to share their photos, they can post on social media using #FlatJesse - they just need to make sure the post is public so we can see and share it.”
Rochell says if someone doesn’t have social media, they can email their Flat Jesse photos directly to info@onthechisholmtrail.com to share. And if you are 55 and older, you can visit the Heritage Center for free on the second Sunday of each month. DM
‘Birders
Delight’
Bird watching is more than just a hobby for more than 96 million birders in the United States. That’s the estimated number of dedicated birders according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
At the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, they recognize that birdwatching sparks adventure, curiosity and inspires a deep connection with the natural world. The new Bird Blind was possible because of generous support from the Kirkpatrick Foundation, Summit Cares Grant, and Walmart Spark Good Community Grant. The Bird Blind is attracting feathered friends from near and far, according to the
Center’s social media.
“Not only do our students benefit from the bird blind, but walkers on the Heritage Trails also enjoy stopping to watch the birds in their natural habitat,” Mulkey said.
The Heritage Center’s gift shop also offers some bird-related items for nature lovers of all ages. Wildlife photographers and birders are welcome anytime to the outdoor Bird Blind, visible from the parking lot. It is hailed as a peaceful spot to connect with nature.
“Come take a peek, bring your binoculars and enjoy this outdoor addition,” Mulkey said.
W o v e n a n d S p u n
Meet the animals, tour the mill at Crossed Arrows
Acaptivating and educational opportunity to immerse one’s mind and explore the process of weaving natural fibers lies within one Stephens County town. This hidden gem is located in Velma, Oklahoma and provides tourists, and clients, across the nation
with facility tours, field trips and fiber woven products.
Crossed Arrows Alpacas and Fiber Mill, LLC boasts a full service fiber mill, and works to process and produce items out of alpaca and llama fleece and sheep wool to sell in their business and across the
nation. The business began weaving fibers through its processing center in Stephens County in 2019 and expanded when its store opened June 2020.
Brenda Wyler, business owner, said fiber mill workers process raw natural fibers across the United States
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TAMARA GREGOR
ASHLEY HERNANDEZ WORKS WITH THE FIBER AT THE MILL DURING ONE OF ITS STOPS A MACHINE.
from Southern California to North Carolina and as far north as Indiana.
Aside from Oklahoma, she said the mill has suppliers out of Texas.
Recently, Wyler said the mill processed Angora goat fiber out of Vermont. She said one client, who drives in from New Mexico, brings in fiber four times a year, as well as a client in North Carolina who sends fiber in four to five times a year.
Wyler said the fiber mill has moved into manufacturing their own products, like socks, felted insoles and dryer balls. She said the business is moving toward weaving products, like scarves, hats and throws.
The Made in Oklahoma socks are 80% alpaca and 20% wool with a jute center.
Wyler said the socks are good in winter or summer.
“It wicks the moisture away from your feet and in the winter time it keeps your feet warm,” she said.
Wyler said the socks are made from the alpacas at Crossed Arrows.
After getting the fiber from the animals, Wyler said the fur gets spun.
Currently, the alpaca farm has 36 alpacas on the land.
This year, Wyler said the alpaca farm has bred four alpacas. She said there’s also Old English Southdown Sheep, also known as Baby Doll sheep.
Wyler said the mill uses some of the sheep’s wool in the products, as well as to mix in the alpaca fiber to blend it with different types of fiber.
Aside from processing the local fiber from Crossed Arrows, fiber
comes in from all across the United States, with fiber from alpacas, llamas and sheep.
During faculty tours, Fiber Mill Manager Amie Hurst explains the process of the fiber mill. She said when the fiber comes in, the staff weighs the fiber and estimates a plan for the cost.
When the fiber first comes in, Hurst said it goes through the tumbler. She said it holds six pounds of fiber and it will get rid of a lot of the dirt and vegetation, before going to get washed.
The fiber will continue to go through several machines prior to getting turned into yarn.
Once the entire process is completed, the product can get stocked on the store shelves or shipped out to the customer.
While the fiber mill employs several workers, like Ashley Hernandez, the mill also partners with Think Ability, LLC for employees, like Leonard “Wayne” Eubanks who has worked at Crossed Arrows for just over three years.
Eubanks said one of his jobs is to manufacture dryer balls at the fiber mill. He also works with the fiber and explains the process during facility tours.
Eubanks also received a Governor’s award at the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence ceremony.
Wyler, who obtained a mathematics degree, an MBA and a Master’s Degree in strategic studies, also retired out of the Department of Defense.
Growing up in Stephens County, Wyler said she comes from an entrepreneurial family.
CROSSED ARROWS EMPLOYEES WORK TO PRODUCE FIBER AND PRODUCTS AND ALSO EDUCATE VISITORS ABOUT THEIR PROCESS. PICTURED ARE BRENDA WYLER, NANCY CARROLL, LISA CALGER, AMIE HURST, ASHLEY
She said her dad started Sanner Pipe and her youngest brother runs the business. She said it’s been in business over 50 years.
Wyler said she loves the Stephens County community.
“This is where I grew up, went high school in Duncan,” she said. “I actually taught there.”
Wyler said their business started after Russ Wyler and her purchased their first two alpacas. She said the purchase helped her cope with having her only son deployed to Afghanistan when he was 20 years old.
The same year around Christmas
time, Wyler said the couple bought two mothers and two baby alpacas.
From there, Wyler said she moved toward the fiber mill side of the business during her retirement and to be closer to her family.
Since then, Crossed Arrows took home six blue ribbons and judge’s choice from the 2023 AOA National Fleece Show.
The shop has a variety of products available on their website, including toys, yarn, home decor, rugs, soap, socks and more.
Crossed Arrows Alpacas, LLC store hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday and Sunday by appointment.
Crossed Arrows Alpacas and Fiber Mill is located at 178740 N 3000 Rd, Duncan. For more information or for field trips or tours, call 580-507-2011.
HERNANDEZ AND WAYNE EUBANKS.
Come take a tour of the Artisan Fiber Mill and meet our Ranch animals.
You will be amazed to learn the process of producing yarn. Our animals include alpacas, Old English Southdown (Babydoll) Sheep, Red Aberdeen Angus cattle, donkeys, and 2 Great Pyrenees guardian dogs.
Cost is $10 per person and can be scheduled by calling 580-507-2011. Lunch and craft projects are available.
Saddle up
LNJ Ranch teaches horsemanship to community riders on the Oklahoma Territory
BY TAMARA GREGOR
Nestled in the heart of Stephens County, visitors will find a picturesque ranch full of country living and learning along the Oklahoma plains.
Since 1998, LNJ Ranch, known for its riding lessons and teaching good horsemanship, sits on around 92 acres near the Highway 7 and the Highway 81 intersection.
LNJ Ranch owners Lara and Jerry Armstrong work primarily with the horses to educate their clients, as well as provide riding lessons and classes.
Since opening the ranch, Lara said several improvements were made, like adding an arena, installing new roofs and converting grain bins into a patio for exhibitors. She said there’s a lighted outdoor area with a full course of jumps set up, a retirement pasture for aged horses, along with a covered arena.
While the morning shift at the ranch typically begins at 5 a.m. with feeding time, the couple heads out to their day jobs before returning for the 5 p.m. feeding time and ranch work.
With riding lessons scheduled for Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Lara said Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays are mostly the times the ranch hosts shows, goes to shows, hosts clinics or Better Opportunities for Single Solders events.
Lara said her family owned large pieces of property across Southwest Oklahoma, which tied horses to everything she does.
Born and raised in Lawton, Lara, head trainer and instructor, received her degree in animal science and biotechnology from Oklahoma State University.
With a goal to become a veterinarian, she worked in the education field as a teacher for 20 years.
“I always had a passion of horses,” she said.
Lara earned her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction and educational leadership from York University.
After spending over 20 years in education, Lara worked as a teacher, certified in Ag Ed, biological sciences, chemistry and special education. She’s taught at Empire, Lawton, Cyril and Duncan.
Lara said she always wanted to teach horsemanship, which is what the riding program is based on. She said the program encompasses English and Western riding lessons.
STORY AND PHOTOS
In effort to focus on horsemanship, Lara said the classes work to teach the proper care of the horse and what’s best for the animal.
Lara, who has shown and bred horses for years, said teaching others is where she shines.
“That’s important to me. It makes me feel good to see adults and young riders just really enjoy the horses and that sort of thing,” she said.
The program is education and foundation based. She said learning the foundation skills is important when riding.
“The United Dressage and Jumping Club helps develop those foundation skills and provides riders with those and gives them standards that they can move up a level,” she said.
Lara said she teaches Western, English, jumping, driving.
“My specialty is in dressage and jumping, whether it be the hunters or the jumpers,” she said.
In partnership with the United Dressage and Jumping Club, Lara said the ranch will host an inaugural foundation show May 1-3 at the farm.
Lara said its a good entry level show that is education focused.
“It’s like a clinic where you go and you compete and you get constructive criticism,” she said.
She said this helps the attendees to know what they can do better in what they are showing.
“It has standards that they produce,” she said.
The show will also bring a judge from Germany, Lara said.
She said the judge will give a type of clinic for how the show is going to go and teach beginner foundational riders what to expect on Saturday and Sunday when they show.
Lara said Saturday afternoon will consist of an exhibitor’s dinner sponsored by Panchitos in Lawton.
“It’s just going to be a very fun educational environment for everybody,” she said.
Lara said there is also another show scheduled for September 2026. She said it’s a series to help qualify the riders for circuit finals.
LNJ Ranch, LLC is located at 119 W. Medcalf Road in Marlow. For more information, visit lnjranchllc.weebly.com or lnjranch.ecpro.us, call 580-591-0500 or email lnjranch@gmail.com.
Riding for a cause
After switching careers nearly five years ago, Lara Armstrong said their family started a 501c3, called National Horse Artillery and Cavalry Conservancy, to offer equine-assisted therapies to military veterans, active duty and their families.
“It’s all about education and agriculture,” Lara said.
Through the nonprofit, Lara said there are a lot of soldiers who come to the ranch and volunteer.
“We do educational and leadership programs for them using the animals,” she said.
Derek Baird, board member, said he works to help to plan for the future of the organization from where it’s been, where they are now and where they want to be 5-15 years from now.
Baird said the nonprofit wants to connect the community together, as well as to connect the community with service-related areas, like equine therapy.
He said communication is one of the biggest goals the nonprofit looks to provide.
“Communicating with people through different filters is difficult as it is in the same species, if you will,” he said. “It’s even more difficult
when you’re trying to do that with another animal, especially as big as a horse.”
While helping the organization make future plans, Baird said he’s always wanted to learn how to ride and take care of horses and do some ranch work.
“This gives me, in a personal sense, an opportunity to do that,” he said. “In like a volunteer sense, I get to help out with this really great ranch here and then help coach, teach and mentor folks that come through here. I think giving back in that regard is one of the best things we can do.”
With the opportunity to give back, Baird said there is an option to bring people in to learn equine therapy, about the ranch, themselves, communication and more.
“It’s a great opportunity to bring people together as a community,” he said.
Jerry Armstrong said the program for combat-related veteran therapy is very structured.
“It’s not just get on a horse and go, it’s a process,” he said.
To learn more about NHACC, visit National Horse Artillery and Cavalry Conservancy on Facebook or www.nationalhorseartilleryandcavalryconservancy.org.
Community Calendar
Photos by Jason Hodges
YOUTH FLOCK TO FAIRGROUNDS FOR JR. LIVESTOCK SHOW
Pigs, cattle, goats and sheep dominated the Stephens County Fair and Expo Center during the 88th Stephens County Junior Livestock Show. The Junior Livestock Show opened Monday, Feb. 16 and went through Friday, Feb. 20.
Photos by Jason Hodges
DUNCAN
PARTING SHOT
THE ANNUAL LADY BUG RELEASE HOSTED BY THINK ABILITY WILL TAKE PLACE IN LATE JUNE THIS YEAR. THE EVENT RELEASES THE POLLINATORS INTO THE GARDEN TO HELP THE CROPS GROWING IN THE GARDEN BEDS.
PHOTO BY CHARLENE BELEW
Rooted in Duncan and the FFA.
Growing up on a cattle ranch in Duncan, Allison Christian learned early on that hard work and community go hand in hand. Her experience as a state FFA o cer instilled a lifelong commitment to local agriculture and leadership that she carries into her work today. Now a successful attorney and real estate developer, Allison brings that same "boots on the ground" work ethic to the Arvest Bank board. She is dedicated to seeing Duncan thrive, using her local roots and leadership experience to support the community that shaped her.
Member FDIC
Allison Christian
Board Member Arvest Bank