KESTON COOK
Keston Cook was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and he graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Aviation Management and Aerospace Security. He later moved to Enid for the opportunity to work at Enid Woodring Regional Airport.
He started as the Airport Operations Manager, and he held that position for three years before taking on the role of Interim Airport Director in 2020. In March of 2021, at just 25 years old, he was officially named the Airport Director of Woodring Airport. But his reach and work don’t stop there; he also serves as the Vice President of the execu-
tive committee of the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, where he was a speaker at their 2023 Annual Conference. In his role at Woodring Airport, he’s given tours to local schools, civic organizations, and clubs. Keston is passionate about what he does and his community, and that’s evident in the work he does. He gives his time and collaborates with local organizations and businesses, such as Vance and local high schools, in efforts to give back to the community. His mom, Pauletta Cook, states, “Keston is deeply involved in his community. He gives engaging speeches, he represented Enid at the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, and he also promoted Enid at the Air Venture in Oshkosh, WI, showcasing his dedication to aviation and his community.”
Keston is also involved with the Enid Young Professionals, so whether he’s volunteering, participating in local organizations, advocating for Enid throughout his many ventures, or organizing events for those right here in his community, his support for Enid is unwavering, and his commitment to his community is beyond evident. His mom continues with, “When presented with a challenge, he jumps in with both feet.” His willingness to dive into everything he does with full force and his dedication to Enid, in addition to the many things he does personally and professionally, are exactly what make Keston a Local Legend.
BLAK E REESE
For February, we chose to dive into a topic that centers around a day of observation many may not know of. On the second Saturday of every February, Global Movie Day is recognized, and in honor of that day of observation, we wanted to discuss Enid’s own history with movies and productions. Did you know Enid’s a movie star? Okay, maybe not literally, but throughout time, Enid has been a location for filming for quite a few different projects, so by no means are we a stranger to a movie set or a production company. From Jake Gyllenhaal to Martin Sheen, we’ve seen some big wigs and familiar faces! With a few movies already out, and having been out for some time, we also have new ones that are in the works. And with a production company and a studio with sets right here in Enid, this definitely won’t be the last time Enid makes an appearance on the big screen. As you get into this month’s cover story, you’ll read about some of the movies past and present, and you’ll hear about some of the people involved in bringing these films to life!
Blake Reese Editor, Enid Monthly
BY ALI TA FEEK
LIGHTS, CAMERA,
This past December and January, locals may have noticed a lot of buzz about “The One,” a holiday film that has been filming in and around Enid. “The One” is the latest of several Hollywood films to be shot, at least partially, in our own backyard. Others have included “Wildlife” (2018), “To the Stars” (2019), “The Killer Inside Me” (2010), and “Dillinger” (1973).
Besides the fact that we have The Christ Tree, how did such a movie come to be made in Enid? The answer is a fun dive into Oklahoma’s Film +Music Office (OF+MO). The office serves as a focus point for Oklahoma’s efforts to attract entertainment producers, and a large part of that is an attractive slate of financial incentives. Participating locations can be certified as especially hospitable and helpful to film producers, and in fact, Enid was certified as a “Film Friendly Community” in 2021.
If a producer is interested in filming in Enid, their first step is contacting OF+MO. The state then contacts the City of Enid, and that is where Rob Houston, Director of Visit Enid, comes in. The filmmaker fills out a form on the City of Enid’s website, and there they list all dates, locations, and any other relevant details. Rob spends a lot of time discussing everything with them, saying, “I typically will meet the directors,” in order to get everything hammered out. If any city locations or resources are required, such as street closures or a city park, Rob reaches out to Karen Haggard-Perez, who “reaches out to police or whoever is required to set up those things.”
Karen is the Events Coordinator at Enid Public Works—Parks and Recreation, and she works hard to ensure that any city-related details happen smoothly. “Like if they’re doing something with firearms or fire, the police department and fire department get involved. As far as road closures go, the parks department handles all of that,” Karen explained. Anything on city property goes through Karen, and she coordinates with the proper departments to make sure that things go off without a hitch.
In addition to hosting bigger budget fares, Enid is also home to some delightfully hardworking homegrown film producers. Have you ever passed Simpson’s Old Time Western Museum on Randolph Street? You probably didn’t know it, but the museum also serves as home to Skeleton Creek Productions, which has produced commercials, documentaries, and a slate of western movies.
The Old Time Western Museum was not always home to movies, but it was always home to Rick Simpson and his late brother, Larry. Situated on the outskirts of downtown Enid, the large building used to house a mercantile store owned and operated by Larry and Rick’s father, Ken. The business started as a war surplus but soon focused on western wear, eventually stocking a variety of things, including up to 3,000 pairs of boots. Ken passed in 2000, and in 2006, the brothers decided to close the business portion and focus on operating as a muse um. “People would come in when it was still a mercantile and say, ‘this is just about as much of a museum as it is a mercantile.’ We had a lot of stuff. Larry suggested that what we ought to do is just make this a free museum, so that’s what we did,” said Rick, reflecting on how they made the transition from mercantile to museum. “The people have been very good to us. It’s been a great town.”
a saloon. They have used the sets in the filming of their own movies, which includes titles such as “Cactus Creek” and “Showdown at Devil’s Butte.” But the sets can also be rented. In fact, Rick reports that “We’ve had 56 weddings in that church,” and apparently it is the most popular set. Coming at a close second is “The saloon. Definitely. Birthdays, family reunions, anniversaries… we had a guy’s 100th’ birthday party there one time. He died before his birthday, so we had his funeral.” Rick hastened to assure that he was kidding—the elderly gentleman celebrated his birthday without mishap—but he did state that the chapel has hosted two real-life funerals.
Over the years, the Simpsons have produced six western feature films and two documentaries. In addition to Oklahoma, filming has taken place in Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico. Rick said, “There’s nothing more fun than making movies …it’s a long day. You go out there and work your tail off, but it’s a good tired. And you’re with people that grow into a family.” He also shared that one of the main goals with the westerns has been to give today’s children entertainment in the mold of the Westerns of the 1940s and ‘50s, so main characters Texas, Stormy Lane, and Cimarron “…do not use foul language, they do not smoke, and they only drink sarsaparilla.”
Skeleton Creek Productions grew out of the brothers’ love of western movies. Over time, they even built a series of movie sets in the museum, including a church, jail, and of course
Because it is a small, independent company, the actors in the Skeleton Creek movies all have day jobs. Among their ranks is Enid resident Andrew Kunkel, who owns several local businesses. One of the most recent is Froz’n Shakes Mini Golf on East Maine, which is operated by Andrew and several of his hardworking family members. It is a great place to get a double dip chocolate cone and play a few rounds of neon lit-putt
putt golf. Behind the ice cream counter and day glo lights, though, is Andrew, whose entertainment resume is growing slowly but surely. His experience includes a stint as an extra in “Twister” and roles in several TV episodes, including “Web of Spider-Man.” Closer to home, he has also had a supporting role in Skeleton Creek’s most recent western film (currently in production).
Andrew also has experience behind the camera. Most notably, he co-wrote “XIX Nineteen” with Erin Elizabeth Cook, who is one of the producers of “The One.” Like that movie, “XIX” was filmed here in Enid. When describing the filming process, Andrew echoed the sentiments of Rick Simpson, eager to convey how much support they found in Enid. The production ended up bringing about 50 people to Enid for two nights in a local hotel, and “they gave us a great deal,” Andrew recounted. And the hotel wasn’t the only one to get involved. Andrew said, “There’s a lot of businesses that jumped on board. Sandy’s Tacos actually catered for us, and we had other people who donated money just to help out with the film. The City of Enid was a big help as well.”
It wasn’t just closing off a street corner or using park pavilions, either. Andrew and his team were able to get some heavy-duty local players involved, and he related that “Woodring Airport helped us film there…there was a scene where it was a military checkpoint. That was kind of a great deal.” In addition, they se cured special permission from Vance Air Force Base to be able to fly drones. “They said we can fly on these two days and at this time. They were super nice about it, and they stopped air traffic for us to fly those drones,” said Andrew.
From the support of local businesses to that of Woodring and Vance, Andrew said, “It felt amazing that the whole town came together.” And perhaps even more importantly, Andrew’s vision does not end with “XIX.” He said, “I want to bring more films to Enid,” and his hard work and boundless enthusiasm has earned the respect of those with whom he has worked. For example, Karen the Events Coordinator related that “He was extremely passionate…grew up here, wanted to film a movie here, wanted to bring people here. He’s all about bringing stuff to the community in which he grew up, which I think is really great.”
Besides feature films, one of the more unusual things to have been filmed in Enid was a 2019 episode of “Mummies Unwrapped,” a series on the Discovery Channel. In a nutshell, it was about the legend that John Wilkes Booth may have escaped capture and died not in Virginia, but in Enid. According to Rob Houston, the mummies production team “reached out to us, and we got them set up with Russ Frazee, who owned Garfield Furniture.” Rob said they also got the team connected with the Simpson brothers, for extras and western 1800’s-style costumes. The episode filmed their scenes at both the movie sets at Simpsons Museum and at Garfield Furniture. According to Garfield employee Cynthia Unruh, “It was a very interesting show. They filmed everywhere, but there’s a room with that period furniture [that they used].” Rob and the late Larry Simpson even got to be extras in the episode, which can be viewed on the Discovery+ streaming platform.
When asked if they had anything special that they wanted readers to know, everyone we spoke with had slightly different responses. Rob wanted people to know that if you ever see Hollywood types filming in Enid, to “be respectful of the actors and just realize that they’re normal people doing a job.” It isn’t every day that Jake Gyllenhaal is wandering around Enid (he filmed 2018’s “Wildlife” here), but the day may come that you see another famous actor filming here. If that day comes, be supportive and have fun, but just “hold off on posting until afterwards,” suggested Rob. The more that Enid can improve filmmakers’ experiences, the more likely we are to draw similar business in the future, and that is a good thing for all of us.
Andrew wanted young people who are interested in breaking into the industry to understand one thing: “You gotta be strong, and you just gotta hold on because you get a thousand rejections to get one ‘yes.’” And you don’t have to move to California:
Andrew lives in Enid, and Erin Elizabeth Cook lives in Oklahoma City. Andrew suggests that those aspiring to break into acting keep an eye on regional Facebook pages where casting calls are posted. He cautions not to expect anything glamorous. “It might be paid credit, it might be free food, or it might be free in general with credit and your name on it… But it only takes that one. And then that film can lead you to another film,” he said.
Within a year or so, Enid residents should be able to watch these upcoming films, and regardless of what platforms these works are eventually distributed on, it will be a chance to see a bit of our hometown onscreen. Through movie magic, their stories will take viewers on adventures (heartwarming in the case of “The One,” thrilling in the case of “XIX”) and introduce them to new people. In particular, “The One” with its holiday theme and family story will showcase Enid and northern Oklahoma to a whole new audience. For local viewers, though, it will be particularly special, bringing to light what Rick Simpson said when asked about living in Enid: “We’ve always loved it, or we’d have moved. We go travel, go see the world, do what we want. But it’s always good to come home to Enid.”
Adult Book Review
The Familiar
Author: Leigh Bardugo | Rating:
STARSTARSTARStarStar
Leigh Bardugo is a very well-known author in the fantasy space, and a few years back, I read her book Ninth House. Considering that fantasy is not my favorite genre, I surprised myself at the time at how much I enjoyed it. Bardugo’s latest book, The Familiar, has its paperback release next month, so I decided to pick it up and see if I liked it as much. It’s still fantasy, but it is also historical fiction with a dash of romance too.
The Familiar is set in the late 16th century in Madrid, during the Spanish Golden Age, and focuses on Luzia, a lowly servant for the Ordoño family. She secretly uses magic to get through the days – making the firewood less heavy to carry, for example, or fixing burnt bread – until her mistress discovers. Next thing Luzia knows is that she is being entered into a tournament to gain the King of Spain’s favor. A victory would mean great wealth for the Ordoños, a promotion for Luzia’s patron,
freedom for her tutor Santángel, and obviously no more dreadful servant tasks for herself. Things at the tournament, though, are not as they seem, and Luzia is given over right into the hands of the Inquisition, who see her as a heretic going against the Catholic faith. Can Luzia and Santángel find a way to make it out alive, or will they be burned at the stake?
Overall I do feel a little disappointed with The Familiar, even though I can’t exactly put my finger on why that is. The pacing of the book was certainly slow, and I also found it difficult to keep track of the characters. There are some positives that help redeem the book a little: the dialogue has some great wit, the ending is fantastic, and remarkably, the book is inspired in part by the author’s own family history. I don’t think The Familiar quite matches up with Ninth House and Bardugo’s other popular books, so I look forward to seeing if she can get back in her groove with her next book.
Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of The Familiar today!
Young Adult Book Review
Heartless Hunter
Author: Kristen Ciccarelli | Rating: STARSTARSTARSTARStar
If you’re the type of reader who a) hates waiting for the next book in a series to come out, and b) hates having to wait for the conclusion of a series, I have the perfect duology for you. The first book in the Crimson Moth series, called Heartless Hunter, came out in February 2024, and the second – and final – book comes out this month, February 2025. The books are part fantasy, part enemies-to-lovers romance, and are written by author Kristen Ciccarelli.
In Heartless Hunter, we meet Gideon and Rune. Gideon is a member of the Blood Guards, a powerful group tasked with capturing witches and witch sympathizers. By day, Rune is an innocent socialite who enjoys hosting parties and having fun. By night, though, she, a witch herself, is the Crimson Moth, a vigilante who sets captured witches free. Gideon and Rune form a relationship, unaware that they are both just using each other for information. Gideon has been trying to identify the Crimson Moth for years, so he wants to know if Rune has any witch marks on her body. For Rune, she hopes that Gideon will spill the location of a captured witch. What the two adversaries don’t plan on, though, is develop-
ing feelings for each other. What will happen then when their love comes head to head with their own missions?
The story is told in alternating perspectives between Gideon and Rune, and it really adds to the cat-and-mouse feel. I think the romance probably pushes the book to an upper-teens level, but nothing was too explicit. The book did have some repetitive parts, but even so, I found myself pretty quickly hooked, and I was eager to keep reading. The best part, though, is that there was a great twist at the end of this Heartless Hunter that will carry the action and excitement right into the second book. I can’t wait to get my hands on it!
Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of Heartless Hunter today!
EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU
FOCUS ON Wellness News from
Keeping Score: Cholesterol and Your Heart
Keeping your cholesterol levels in check is important for your heart and your overall health. If that’s a challenge, don’t give up. Cardiologist John J Bartolozzi, MD, discusses this important health topic and ways to stay on track.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood and cells that is essential for the body's normal functioning. High cholesterol means you have too much of it in your bloodstream. This can be caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, genetic factors or a combination of these. High cholesterol has been associated with increased risk of complications like heart attacks and strokes. Controlling cholesterol levels lowers your risk of these conditions.
How does someone find out about their cholesterol levels?
The American Heart Association® (AHA) recommends all adults age 20 or older should have their cholesterol (and other traditional risk factors) checked every four to six years through a blood test. If certain factors put you at high risk, or if you already have heart disease, your doctor may ask you to check it more often. Work with your doctor to determine your risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke and create a plan to reduce your risk.
What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?
There are two kinds of cholesterol, HDL (“good”) and LDL (“bad”), and testing provides a measurement of how much of both is circulating in your blood. According to the AHA, you want your HDL number to be high (ideally above 70), as it protects against heart attack and stroke. LDL is one factor among many to consider when evaluating cardiovascular risk. Your LDL should be below 100 and your total cholesterol should be below 200.
Genetic factors, type 2 diabetes, smoking, being overweight and not exercising can all lower HDL cholesterol. Also, women tend to have higher levels of HDL cholesterol than men do, but this can change after menopause.
What are the main things I can do to control/ lower my cholesterol?
• Limit saturated and trans fats
• Eat more foods high in soluble fiber, such as beans, barley, oats, fruits and vegetables
• Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, such as salmon, herring, mackerel, walnuts, ground flaxseeds and almonds
• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, starting slowly and working up gradually
• Lose weight
• Drink alcohol in moderation
• Quit smoking
What should I know about medications?
There are multiple medications that can be used to lower your cholesterol. The choice is typically based on your individual risk factors
and goal cholesterol levels. There is really no one-size-fits-all approach. Medications may be needed when lifestyle modifications alone are not enough or if your risk is high enough to warrant starting medications immediately. I recommend talking to your physician about your risk factors and goal cholesterol levels.
What other heart health numbers should I know?
Blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, blood sugar and tobacco use can largely impact heart health. These are all interrelated and can affect each other, so it is important to consider the complete picture. There are other things that can be checked if symptoms prompt further evaluation, such as the structure and function of the heart.
To find a doctor and schedule an appointment online, visit stmarysphysicianassociates.com.
For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.
John J Bartolozzi, MD
Teen SCENE
BYSOP H I A FAULK Valentine Love
Hey, Y’all, and welcome back to Teen Scene in Enid Monthly. For the month of February, I wanted to write about my very first Valentine's Day with a special person. Let’s talk about it!!!!
For the past few years, my dad has always told me to write about boys in my article, especially for February. I would always respond with, “Ew, no!! That’s so cringy, Dad!” But this year I am so excited to write about my boyfriend. You may or may not know him as he’s an impressive basketball player at Enid High, but I know him as one of the kindest, smartest, most loving people I have ever met. Not to sound cringy or whatever, but I have never been happier, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us. Let me give you a little backstory.
It all started in my sophomore year AP Language & Composition class. I became really good friends with one of the boys in there who was on the basketball team. One day, I saw him walking with this other boy, and I was starstruck!! He was one of the most attractive boys I have ever seen. The next day in class I told my friend that I thought he was so hot. He later texted him in our class (basically ratting me out!). From then on, we both had secret little crushes on each other. We never really talked during school; maybe said 200 words to each other, but that’s it. Fast forward to graduation, I saw him and asked if we could take a picture, and of course he said yes. After that, nothing happened until one day
after my Cross-Country practice in September. Me and my besties were helping our team set up for the Great Land Run. I volunteered to drive us all through the dirt roads that the half marathon course consisted of to put out signs for the runners. My car was freshly washed, so I was upset when I saw the dirt all over it. After we were done, I asked the girls if they wanted to come with me to get a car wash, so we packed up and drove over to the one closest to my house. As I’m pulling up, I see a familiar face - it was Branden!! I was so excited. I was going to the pay area and obviously said hi to him (extra flirty of course), and he gave me a free wash!! I texted him later that day saying thank you and everything. We started texting more and more every day, and we eventually went shopping, hung out, etc. Fast forward to February, we have been together for 4 months, and hopefully many more are to come.
I am so excited to celebrate this special holiday with him and can’t wait for the special memories of our first Valentine’s Day together. I have no clue what he has planned for us to do, but I know it’s going to be perfect!! He has no clue I am writing this (it’s a surprise) for everyone to see, so I am incredibly grateful for you reading this to be a part of a memory that will be forever. I love you lots B, and thank you for making me feel like a princess every day. -XOXO Sophia.
Thank you for reading this month's article! I know it was a bit different, and by now you might be cringed out, but I thought this would be a perfect surprise, and I hope you enjoyed it. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for upcoming articles, email me at tweensceneenid@gmail.com. I hope you have a beautiful February and an enjoyable Valentine’s Day. See you next month!
For the Love of Entrepreneurship
A common misconception is that entrepreneurs must be doing alright and have lots of money because they were able to successfully build their own business. While this is possible and generally an eventual goal for every ambitious entrepreneur, it’s not always the case. Most business owners choose to go out on their own for the many benefits of running their own business, in spite of not earning as much as they could working elsewhere. Things like “making my own schedule” and “the ability to have a flexible home life” and "prioritizing what I want to do for work instead of being told what to do” are all exciting and very strong points that motivate people to start a business. It is important to weigh options if you’re thinking about going out on your own. It is hard to start a business and build a client base to succeed. And with growth comes additional expenses, which leads to steady planning and adequate financial oversight to ensure that success continues. This isn’t to say that it’s too difficult for someone to go out on their own without fail, it’s just a reality that should be kept in mind.
The good news: momentumHQ is a community of entrepreneurs that support like-minded people and offers affordable office space, learning events, and networking opportunities if you’re planning on taking the plunge to be your own boss. Take advantage of our Sweet Deal by signing up for a coworking membership this month and get your first 3 months of membership 50% off. The mHQ Crew is here to help you build your business at affordable rates!
mHQ Member Highlights
Ron Manning: Hometown Insurance Agency
Our newest member feels right at home in our shared office. He enjoys providing home, auto, and commercial insurance services to his clients in a professional atmosphere. The mHQ Network has allowed him to transition into the momentumHQ space comfortably. He especially loves the location. If you’re in the market to compare coverage rates, you can find Ron at 1909 W. Owen K. Garriott or at www.hometowninsurancemanningagency.com
Indian Hills Plaza Business Spotlight
Bell Finance
Tax time is here, and Bell Finance is geared up to help you complete your return. Swing by their office and see what they can do for you this tax season or call 580-237-6521.
Aging Matters Beating the Winter Blues
Winter can be a tough time for many, especially for older adults. The shorter days and colder temperatures can lead to feelings of isolation and sadness, commonly referred to as the “winter blues”. Here are some ideas to help lessen the seasonal doldrums while waiting for signs of spring.
1. Let there be light! Try using warm-toned lamps, light-colored curtains, or even string lights to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Light therapy lamps are also an excellent option for individuals dealing with the winter blues. These lamps mimic sunlight and help regulate your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce feelings of sadness or fatigue. Vitamin D from natural light can help improve your mood. Open your drapes or blinds, or when the weather permits, dress warmly and take a quick walk outside or just sit in the sunshine for a few minutes.
2. Plan social time with family and friends. Even if you can’t get out of the house, you can stay connected to others by phone or video chat. Schedule phone or virtual “dates” once each week to catch up. If you are a reader, suggest a book or article and discuss it when finished.
Agree to watch a movie or program and then call to compare thoughts. Find a phone or video “pen pal” through a church, senior living community, or by asking friends and family for suggestions and set a regular chat time.
3. Take advantage of local and online resources. Many local libraries, senior centers, churches, and other organizations offer opportunities to meet, socialize, and stay connected through a variety of programs and events. Some even provide transportation or at-home deliveries of meals or resources. Call or search the internet for community options. The internet is a powerful tool that can help you stay mentally engaged and connected to others. Online classes, clubs, or discussion groups provide an opportunity for lifelong learning and social interaction, both of which are great for mental well-being.
4. Just keep moving! Even in the winter, it’s important to stay active. While outdoor walks may be less inviting in cold weather, you can still find ways to stay physically active inside. Indoor exercises such as chair exercises, stretching, or gentle workouts can help maintain your mobility and boost your mood. Regular exercise is known to release endorphins, which are chemicals that help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. This can be particularly beneficial when you’re feeling down during the winter months. Whether it’s a few minutes of stretching or a complete sit-and-be-fit workout, staying active helps you keep your body and mind in top shape.
5. “Staycation” programs. Some senior living communities offer opportunities to join their independent living or assisted living communities on a temporary basis. This can provide the availability of socialization and engagement regardless of the weather outside. Many older adults appreciate the ability to enjoy their private personal space while having friends and activities available just outside their door. This option can help a senior decide if community living might be a good fit for them either now or in the future.
Greenbrier Assisted Living offers a “Staycation” program for qualifying older adults who may not be ready for a permanent move. Call 580-233-1331 for details.
BYDALE N MCVAY
THE LAW OF THE Land E-Collars
HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS! I genuinely hope each of you has an upcoming year full of fins, feathers and fellowship.
I’m going to start with a story. A short while ago, my father and I took my dog “Rowdy” to a relatively new hunting lease. Being relatively new, I was quite unfamiliar with it. While it holds a ton of birds, there are portions of the half-section that are nearly impassable. Rowdy is a male Brittany Spaniel, but he’s not a large dog. Even in the shorter section of the CRP grass he was hard to see. While he doesn’t typically range too far, it’s concerning when time goes by and you haven’t seen your hunting companion. I suppose the same would be for your human hunting partner too (my dad), but I digress.
We arrived shortly after daybreak and got ourselves ready for the hunt. I made sure Rowdy had eaten and gave him some water after we arrived. While he was drinking, I slipped on his shock collar that he’s worn many times. And off we go.
About 30 minutes into the hunt, about half a dozen deer sprint out of some tall grass. While he typically doesn’t seemingly care, Rowdy takes off in pursuit. No problem, pull out the shock collar to stop him and remind him that’s a no-no. It’s not working. I panic as he takes off hundreds of yards away. “What in the world” I think to myself. Dagnabbit, I forgot to turn it on (first time, I promise). Rowdy is gone in a field he too was unfamiliar with. The biggest problem I had was that since I haven’t mastered my new Garmin Pro 550 (it has GPS with a handheld device that tracks the dog to a “t”), I had on an old one with no such feature. This one doesn’t even have the locator beep button to help ascertain the dog’s location. Regardless, we press on in his direction. After about 45 minutes, my dad stood on the corner of two intersecting roads watching while I hightailed it back to the pickup. How they do this I’ll never understand, but Rowdy was there just hanging out waiting for me. I turned on the collar and back we went without issue the rest of the day.
I’ve now mastered the Garmin and won’t go out with him without it being worn (and turned on!) again. There is no fun in hunting with a pit in your stomach wondering whether you’ll ever see your best friend again. I reckon the lesson for today is to make sure your collar is charged and turned on, and get the best one you can afford. My Garmin comes with a watch that you can look down on and see the exact direction and distance of your dog, and it alerts you if the dog is on point. Money well spent.
Finally, and to me most importantly, don’t use these collars for severe punishment. Your dog knows when he/she has upset you, and that’s enough. I use it for a “gentle reminder”, which means having it set to low power. I rarely ever have to use the shock feature, but the peace of mind is worth it for me.
See y’all next month!
Forging Hammers PLAINS of the “Live the Creed"
According to 10th year Head Coach Trent Holland, the Enid High Wrestling Team is team-oriented and hard-working. So hard working, in fact, they have had several injuries, including to some of their top guys. “I don’t think we have wrestled at full strength but for maybe one dual this year. One of our two or three best guys, Andrew Starzman, is out for the season, and we have other guys who have missed for injury and just being sick, so that’s been tough” said Holland, “but we have been able to field a full team except for one spot for most of the duals this year.”
And while the dual record this year isn’t where they want it to be, Coach Holland says they have been fun to coach and have shown improvement as the year has gone on. “I really like that the team has a great attitude this year. They come out, work hard, get better, and act as a cohesive team. We haven’t really had much bickering with each other, and I’ve seen several instances of guys picking each other up, like a couple of our heavyweights going and giving kids fives and telling them good job. Seeing them encourage each other like that, without prompting, is fun to watch.”
For the first time in a while, EHS does not have a returning state qualifier, so it’s up to someone new on the team to step up and show they have what it takes. “Vinny Vandiver (Senior, 126 pounds) has been wrestling well and just took 3rd at Mid America Nationals, and that’s a tough tournament,” said Holland. “If he puts in the work and decides he wants
it, has the right mindset, he can make it. There are a couple of others that could make it too, but they have to have that mentality to put in the extra work and get it done. I’ve been really impressed with Levi Tribble, (Junior, Heavyweight) who hasn’t been wrestling for very long but currently has a winning record, which is hard for a relatively new kid to do in 6A. Brenden Stucky (Junior, 106) is right there as well and has won some matches.”
Girl’s wrestling is a fast-growing sport, and the high school has seven girls competing right now with another seven at the junior high level. While not quite the numbers of some other 6A schools, it is encouraging that there are a few who want to put in the effort. Shae Salinas has turned her time at Enid High into a scholarship at Ottawa University in Kansas where she is a freshman starter for their women’s wrestling team.
Lastly, as any high school wrestling fan knows, your program is only as good as your feeder programs, and Enid has some real hammers at the youth and junior high level who will be moving up in the next few years. Our youth and Jr. High coaches, like Corey Clayton, have some kids who should be really tough if they stick it out and make it to high school. Holland says, “5th grader Beckett Newman just won a tough national tournament in Tulsa called USJOC, and a few others have been medaling across the state. They will be fun to coach.”
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BYMOLLY NICHOLAS
RE al Life
Why You Should Use a Local Realtor….
With a spring market in the forecast, it is important to consider the benefit of staying local. When buying or selling a home, the importance of choosing the right Realtor cannot be overstated. While national or online real estate platforms may seem like an easy option, working with a local Realtor offers several distinct advantages that can make a significant difference in your real estate journey. Here's why enlisting the help of a local real estate agent is a smart move.
In-Depth Local Market Knowledge
One of the most significant benefits of working with a local Realtor is their deep knowledge of the local market. A local agent understands the nuances of the neighborhood, including property values, school districts, local amenities, and even the best spots for dining and recreation. This insider knowledge enables them to offer valuable insights that can help you make informed decisions. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this expertise can be the difference between overpaying for a property or securing a great deal.
Access to Exclusive Listings
Many properties, particularly in competitive markets, are sold before they even hit the broader market. Local agents often have access to "pocket listings"—homes for sale that aren’t publicly listed online. These exclusive opportunities allow buyers to see properties that may not be available to the general public, providing them with an edge in a competitive environment. If you're selling a home, a local realtor can tap into their extensive network to generate interest from potential buyers before even listing it on the open market.
Stronger Negotiation Power
A local realtor often has longstanding relationships with other professionals in the community, including home inspectors, contractors, appraisers, and fellow agents. This network gives them the upper hand when it comes to negotiations. They can leverage local knowledge to help negotiate better deals, whether that means securing a lower sale price, getting more favorable terms, or having access to trusted service providers.
Familiarity with Local Laws and Regulations
Every real estate transaction involves navigating a complex web of local laws, zoning regulations, and codes. A local Realtor is wellversed in the legal intricacies specific to your area. This knowledge helps ensure that the transaction proceeds smoothly, avoiding any
legal pitfalls. From understanding local taxes to handling disclosure requirements, a local agent’s expertise can safeguard you from costly mistakes.
Community Insight and Personalization
Perhaps one of the most underrated aspects of using a local realtor is the personal connection they provide. They’re invested in the community and understand the subtleties of living in your area. Whether you’re buying or selling, a local realtor can give you tailored recommendations and ensure that your needs align with the right property. They have a vested interest in making sure that the outcome benefits you, as their reputation in the community is directly tied to your satisfaction.
Choosing a local Realtor offers unmatched expertise, access to exclusive opportunities, and personalized service. Whether you’re buying or selling, having a professional who understands the local market, laws, and community can streamline the process, save you money, and help you make the most informed decision possible. For the best results, consider working with a local realtor who is dedicated to ensuring your success.
potential
FEBRUARY 1
All Day
Skordle Basketball Festival
Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)
9 am – 12 pm
Improv Games (Youth Only)
Gaslight Theatre (221 N. Independence)
Join master educator
Lindsey Newell for a series of theatre classes to help build confidence in film and theatre performance. Must register at autrytech.edu/gaslight
10 am
Chautauqua Presentation: Andrew Carnegie Public Library of Enid (120 W. Maine)
11 am – 3 pm
History Alive!
Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)
Re-enactment characters portray life at the time of the Cherokee Strip Land Run of 1893
Enid's Enid's E-vents E-ventsE-vents
February
OK Military History Exhibit (4125 W. Owen K. Garriott)
5 – 8 pm
Enid Geeks Game Night
Springhill Suites Marriott (5815 KL Dr.)
6 – 8 pm
Trivia
7 pm
Winter Chautauqua: Ulysses S. Grant
NWOSU-Enid (2929 E. Randolph)
9 pm
Live Music: Dually Noted
The Spot Sports Pub (417 N. Grand)
9:30 pm
Karaoke
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 4
6:30 pm
Trivia
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
7 pm
NOC-Enid Monthly Planetarium Show
NOC-Enid Planetarium (Maine & Hedges)
FEBRUARY 5
7:30 pm
Trivia
Settlers Brewery (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 6
11 am – 12 pm
Veterans Coffee Social
Enid Brewing Co. and Eatery (126 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
Singo
Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 7
5:30 pm
Night to Unite
Oakwood Christian Church (401 N. Oakwood)
An unforgettable prom night experience for ages 14 and up with special needs and disabilities.
7 – 9 pm
Date Night at the Museum
Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)
Valentine’s Day theme “Art from the Heart.”
6 pm
Live Music: Rocky Kanaga
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
FEBRUARY 8 – 9 Friday 9 am – 5 pm, Saturday 10 am – 4 pm Oklahoma Gun Show
Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)
FEBRUARY 8
9 am – 12 pm
Improv Games (Adults Only)
Gaslight Theatre (221 N. Independence)
Join master educator
Lindsey Newell for a series of theatre classes to help build confidence in film and theatre performance. Must register at autrytech.edu/gaslight
10 am
A.M. with the Archivist: Session Three Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)
“The Great Depression in the Cherokee Outlet.”
1:00 pm
T(w)een Creative Writing Club
Public Library of Enid (120 W. Maine)
6:30 pm
Drive in Movie at Crosslin (Inside Out 2) Crosslin Park (1520 W. Oxford)
Events
7 pm
Live Music: Knight Ryder Chicaro’s Happy’s Place (117 W. Oxford)
7:30 pm
Live Comedy: William Lee Martin
Stride Bank Center (301 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
“A Tale of Two Romeos” Enid Symphony Center (301 W. Broadway)
Featuring ESO Principal Flutist Juliana Overmier
8 pm
Live Music: Skeleton Station
Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)
9:30 pm
Karaoke
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 9
12 pm
Super Bowl Party
The Spot Sports Pub (417 N. Grand)
3 pm
Super Bowl Party
Elk’s Lodge (520 W. Oxford)
FEBRUARY 11
4 – 6 pm
Sensory-Friendly
Family Night
If you would like a free listing for your event, please email robert@enidmonthly.com by the 5th of the month PRIOR to your event! Events are as accurate as possible as of print date. Please see VisitEnid.org for any updates/changes, or scan this QR code.
FEBRUARY 13
10 am – 6 pm
Galentine’s Day Event
Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)
6:30 pm
Trivia
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 12
3:15 – 4:15 pm
Sensory-Friendly
Family Day
Spirit Express (3104 N. Van Buren)
5:30
OSU Alumni Association
Meeting
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
Trivia
Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 13 – 15
Thursday 5 – 7 pm, Friday – Saturday 8 am
Garfield County Junior Livestock Show
Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)
FEBRUARY 14
6 pm
Live Music: Steven Harwood
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
9 pm
Live Music: Borrowed Time
The Spot Sports Pub (417 N. Grand)
9 pm
LOVE Rave
RED (302 E. Maple)
The Turquoise Boutique (101 N. Grand)
5 – 8 pm
Enid Geeks Game
Night
Springhill Suites (5815 KL Dr.)
6 pm
Let’s Talk About It: Civil Rights and Equality
Public Library of Enid (120 W. Maine)
6 – 8 pm
Trivia
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
Singo
Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 15
10 am – 12 pm
Valentine’s Day Carnival ($15)
Gathered Events (223 S. 30th)
11 am – 3 pm
History Alive!
Cherokee trip Regional
Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)
7 pm
Live Music: Rich Rodriguez
Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)
9:30 pm
Karaoke
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 16
1 – 5 pm
2025 Wedding Expo
5:30 pm
Art of Alma Thomas
Stride Bank Center (301 S. Independence)
FEBRUARY 17
5 – 8 pm
Sensory-Friendly
Family Night
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 18 – 23
Northwest District
Junior Livestock Show
Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)
FEBRUARY 18
6:30 pm
Trivia
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 19
7:30 pm
Trivia
Re-enactment characters portray life at the time of the Cherokee Strip Land Run of 1893
6:30 pm
Boots & Beads: Enid Symphony Soiree
Enid Symphony Center (301 W. Broadway)
Settlers Brewery (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 20
11 am – 12 pm
Veterans Coffee Social
OK Military History Exhibit (4125 W. Owen K. Garriott)
5 – 8 pm
Enid Geeks Game Night
Springhill Suites (5815 KL Dr.)
FEBRUARY 24
6:30 pm
NW District Jr. Livestock Show
Premium Auction
Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)
FEBRUARY 25
6:30 pm
Trivia
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
Workshop
Public Library of Enid (120 W. Maine)
6 – 8 pm
Trivia
Enid Brewing Co. and Eatery (126 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
Singo
Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 21
6 pm
Live Music: Larry
Newsom
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
FEBRUARY 22
7 pm
Fundraiser: 4RKids
Champagne & Diamonds
Gala
Stride Bank Center (301 S. Independence)
9:30 pm
Karaoke
Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)
FEBRUARY 26
3 pm
Black Art Experience
Public Library of Enid (120 W. Maine)
7:30 pm
Trivia
Settlers Brewery (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 27
5 – 8 pm
Enid Geeks Game Night
Springhill Suites Marriott (5815 KL Dr.)
6 – 8 pm
Trivia
Enid Brewing Co. and Eatery (126 S. Independence)
7:30 pm
Singo
Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)
FEBRUARY 28
6 pm
Live Music: Lane Haas
Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)
Coming Attractions
The Champagne & Diamonds Gala
“An Elegant Night –for a Good Cause,” is the slogan of 4RKids annual Champagne & Diamonds Gala this year! The event will take place on February 22nd at the Stride Bank Center. The doors open at 6:00pm, and the event will be held in the Grand Ballroom.
Executive Director Rachel McVay states that the “Champagne and Diamonds Gala is a fundraising event designed to benefit the 4RKids Foundation, which is a non-profit that supports individuals with developmental disabilities by providing them with a job, paycheck, and purpose.” Throughout the night, attendees will be able to enjoy a dinner, cocktail hour, silent auction, dancing, and music.
The Champagne & Diamonds Gala was first brought to life by Mead Jewelers, KOFM, and 4RKids. The Mead’s brought the idea to Enid after attending a similar event; their daughter works at 4RKids, so they knew they wanted to support the organization. With the combined efforts of KOFM, the Meads, and 4RKids, the Gala came to life, and it’s since then become an annual event.
The event helps 4RKids with their day-to-day operations. Rachel states, “This fundraiser typically helps with our general operations. It raises funds to
continue programs, services, and resources needed to support our employees.”
Some examples of the programs the fundraiser benefits are job coaching, Miracle League Baseball, and sensory friendly events. This will be the third year of the annual Champagne & Diamonds Gala, and it's sure to be a night to remember!
For this year’s gala, the theme is inspired by Willy Wonka! Attendees will be provided with a golden ticket, and the ticket grants them a chance at winning a stunning, beautiful one-carat diamond, which is provided by Mead Jewelers. The doors open at 6:00pm, and the cocktail hour will coincide with the silent auction. Dinner will be served at 7:00pm, and it’ll be accompanied by a presentation from 4RKids. This year’s presentation will feature a runway show, which is sure to be a highlight of the night as the 4RKids employees hit the runway to display products. Rachel states, “We are thrilled to have the public interact with our clients as they get to see their enthusiasm for their work on display.” After dinner, guests will get to enjoy music and dance, which will continue into the night. And the night will come to a peak when the diamond winner is announced around 9:30pm! Tickets are on sale online at http://www.4rkids.com/ fundraisers. Tickets will remain available for purchase online until February 20th. If they have any seating left, guests can buy open seating tickets at the door.
Crepes and Apple Crisp NOW SERVING!
February is the month known for love, self-love or love for others, and we all deserve to be spoiled! This month's Now Serving helps with just that! With a recipe for crepes that can be customized in endless ways - from fresh fruit to your choice of jam, peanut butter, or even Nutella - served for breakfast or dessert, it's sure to win over even the toughest food critics or pickiest eaters! The second can also be served interchangeably as breakfast or dessert, or even as the filling for the crepes! With fresh sliced apples and a crumbly brown sugar oatmeal topping baked to perfection, this warm dish starts or finishes the day off right!
Now Serving Crepes and Apple Crisp! Enjoy!
Crepes
makes 9 6" crepes
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 2 tbsp melted butter
Directions
• 2 eggs
• Butter
• Powdered sugar, if desired
• Jam/fruit/cream cheese/ whipped cream if desired
1. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix in wet ingredients - milk, vanilla, melted butter, and eggs. Stir well to combine until smooth.
2. Lightly butter a 6" or 8" frying pan and heat until butter is bubbly.
3. For each crepe, pour a scant 1/4 cup batter into the skillet, just enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Cook until the edges begin to curl away from the pan and gently run a spatula around the edge to loosen; flip the crepe and cook another couple of minutes, until golden brown. Remove from pan and continue with remaining batter.
4. With each crepe, place desired fillings in a small line and roll into tube or spread thinly and stack like pancakes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired, or top with whipped cream or drizzled chocolate.
Serves 6
Ingredients
• 4 cups of sliced apples (or canned pie filling equivalent)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
Directions
• 3/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• Ice cream, if desired
1. Heat oven to 375. Grease bottom and sides of 8X8 pan with cooking spray.
2. Spread apples evenly in pan. Mix the remaining ingredients except for the ice cream and sprinkle over apples.
3. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Serve with ice cream.
Apple Crisp
