April 2024

IN FRONT IN FRONT FRONTCAPE CAPE of the of the

EVERY CAPE HAS A HERO, BUT NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

STACY BOESE

Years ago, Stacy Boese never imagined that she would own and operate a craft store. But there she is, right there on Owen K. Garriott, welcoming folks to the brandnew storefront for Cozy Corner Knits, Enid’s only yarn shop. Originally from Kansas, Stacy used to work at the sheriff’s office near her hometown of Hayesville. She was good at her job, but fate had other plans. One day her husband Clay went up to Kansas on business. The two met and hit it off, and the rest, as they say, is history. Stacy and Clay have been married for over three decades. Their children include Christina, John, Alessia,

and Nickolas, and they have been blessed with five grandchildren.

Cozy Corner Knits didn’t happen overnight. Before settling in Enid, the family lived all over the country, moving with the demands of Clay’s job. During that time, between raising a family and making a home wherever they lived, Stacy fell in love with knitting. According to Clay, Stacy got into knitting “through some friends in a couple of the different communities that we lived in,” but she really got into it when they lived in Tulsa. And then when they moved to Enid, Stacy said, “There’s no yarn. What are we going to do?”

So, she started Cozy Corner in the Heritage Hills shopping plaza on Willow, but when the opportunity came to move to Owen K. Garriott this past winter, they took it. Clay good-naturedly claimed that it was “the girls in the shop saying, ‘We need a bigger shop!’” But the increased visibility has had a terrific impact on the shop, and Clay reports that “her classes are way up now since we moved over there.”

For Stacy, one of the most important parts of the yarn shop is creating a sense of community. According to Autumn White, a local knitter, Stacy has created “a very welcoming environment,” one where you don’t have to be an expert. Autumn didn’t know how to knit when she first found the yarn shop, but that was no barrier. Stacy said, “What do you want to make? If you can knit and

purl, you can make a sweater.” Under Stacy’s wing, Autumn learned the basics, and for the past two years has been knitting up a storm. The shop has a variety of classes, but Autumn says one of the best parts is “Therapy Thursday, where we all just kind of sit, eat, and knit.”

Clay says that from the beginning, Stacy “wanted a place for women to be able to go and feel safe and be able to express themselves and enjoy themselves and create a community.” It’s safe to say that Stacy has accomplished that and more, and for that reason, she is definitely a local legend.

BLAK E REESE LETTER COEDITOR from the

It’s officially April, and no, that was not an April Fool’s joke – it really is April. The first few months of 2024 have flown by, which means summer is right around the corner. With summer comes the Best of Enid 2024. Voting is now open, so be sure to vote for your favorites because the competition was very close last year, in more than one category. There will only be 50 winners, but every business in Enid is truly the best of the best, which goes hand in hand with this month’s cover story. April 28th is National Superhero Day, and in honor of Superhero Day, we sat down with a few of our heroes here in Enid. Our community heroes may not wear capes, but they’re heroes, nonetheless. Whether they’re a nurse who gives their all or a teacher who pours into future generations, the people who show up in your life daily are your unsung heroes. Think about it – what would life be like without them? With those thoughts in mind, carry them with you throughout the month as you come across everyday heroes because who doesn’t like a little bit of appreciation or recognition here and there? So, thank you, heroes, for all that you do and are. Enid wouldn’t be what it is without each of you! Blake

STORY&PHOTO S

BY AITAFEEK

IN FRONT CAPE of the

EVERY CAPE HAS A HERO, BUT NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

Have you ever wished you could meet a real superhero? Do your kids love Iron Man, Wonder Woman, or Spider Man? These days, it seems like superheroes are everywhere: the movies, tv and streaming shows, and endless rows of toys. From brightly-colored costumes that may or may not involve a cape to special powers and abilities, superheroes are downright fun. And they might have the occasional setback, but they always end up saving the day.

Well, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that we have some real superheroes right here in Enid, too. They don’t wear capes — and as far as we know, none of them can fly — but they are heroes, nonetheless. In fact, every single day, they are making a difference and having a positive impact on the people in our community — our friends, neighbors, and families. We had the privilege of sitting down with a few of these superheroes, and these are their stories.

According to recent headlines, former President Jimmy Carter has officially marked one year in hospice care. Frankly, these reports were a bit surprising because not many people realize that a person can even be in hospice for a year. Many assume that hospice care means the end is near, but when we sat down to chat with Enid nurses Donna Hicks and Stevie Powell, they stated that this is a common misconception.

HOSPICE NURSES: NOT JUST A JOB, BUT A CALLING

Local superheroes Donna Hicks, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and Stevie Powell, a registered nurse (RN), both work at Hospice Circle of Love in Enid. They are knowledgeable and friendly, and they radiate the warmth and compassion that you would expect of hospice workers. They kindly sat down for a recent interview, and it was downright eye-opening.

Each woman took a different path to Circle of Love. Donna went to Autry Tech after raising her kids, eventually becoming a nurse in her fifties. After working at a dialysis center and then a nursing home, a colleague noticed her skills and abilities with dying patients and encouraged her to apply for a job with hospice. On the other hand, Stevie knew from childhood that she wanted to be a nurse. Recalling her grandfather’s hospice experience, she says that looking back, “He would just light up, and I thought if I could do that for somebody at the end of their life, what a rewarding experience that would be.” After earning her nursing degree at Northern Oklahoma College nine years ago, she worked as an ER nurse before landing at Circle of Love.

While hospice work can take place in hospitals or nursing homes, Donna and Stevie said that their work is frequently performed at people’s homes. While no two days are ever the same, the basic procedures are consistent. When conducting patient visits, Donna says, “We check their vitals, their medications, their safety—anything that they might need or anything the family’s needing.” She said they also do “medication teaching for the family,” so that the family members are equipped to handle basic medicine needs.

According to Donna, hospice requires “a terminal diagnosis of six months or less, but with that being said, we’ve had patients for days and we’ve had patients for years.” With each patient being visited anywhere from two times a week to everyday, depending on their needs, the goal is always quality of life. And far from the bedridden stereotype, some hospice patients are able to enjoy a variety of things outside the home. Stevie pointed out that “They get to enjoy life more.

This isn’t a job. It’s a calling.

They’re not homebound, so they get to see their families. They get to go out to dinner or go on trips to see their family members. We bring everything to them so they can have that quality of life.”

One thing that is important is how hospice nurses are able to practice self-care, since such work requires a great deal of empathy from its workers. When asked about strategies for nourishing

the emotional and spiritual facets of the job, Stevie and Donna were happy to share that Circle of Love has several things that address this very concern. First, Stevie said, “We have two chaplains that are available to us 24/7, as well as to the families.” Hailing from local churches, Chaplains Gary and Shelby offer much-needed support and care.

In addition to chaplain support, Circle of Love makes sure that staff are taken care of in other ways, too. There are quarterly reflections, where they remember patients who have died that quarter. “It gives the nurses a chance to talk and reminisce about the good things,” said Donna. In general, the Circle of Love environment is like a family. “If someone’s having a problem, we’re all here,” according to Donna. Staff also do dinners, Bible studies, and basically just have each other’s backs as needed.

Donna wants the Enid community to know that “This isn’t a job. It’s a calling.” And Stevie stated that “Everyone has a preconceived notion that hospice is just straight, end-of-life care, that they have X days to live, and that’s truly not the case.”

What is the case is that for Enid families with loved ones who may be needing hospice care, there are some terrific options right here at home. With Donna, Stevie, and their colleagues providing top-notch care, they truly qualify as superheroes without capes.

CHAPLAIN: JUST A JOB? NOPE!

Jerred Unruh may be the chaplain at the YMCA, but he swears that he’s not going to try and preach a sermon at you while you’re bench pressing. In fact, in his role as chaplain at the Denny Price YMCA, Jerred doesn’t do any preaching at all. Jerred actually has two roles: not only does he serve as chaplain, but he is also the property manager. He describes it as “taking care of the physical needs of the building and also the spiritual needs.”

Born and raised in Enid, Jerred earned a business degree at OSU and attended seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He and his wife, Kerrie, have two children. Jerred has had several pastoral jobs in Enid, including at First Baptist Church, which is a literal stone’s throw from the YMCA. Being a pastor is something that is fairly easy to understand, but fewer people are familiar with what a gym chaplain actually does.

SOYouarewelcome here!

When asked about this, Jerred kind of laughed and sighed gently. “It’s still a discovering kind of a question for me.” He explained that historically, YMCA facilities have had chaplains (the ‘C’ in the acronym stands for Christian) and that here in Enid, the Denny Price Y has always had a Christian influence. Jerred sees his evolving role as trying to see how they can best weave the Christian mission into all areas of the YMCA. Part of that is ministering to the staff; Jerred said, “I’ve had members come and ask, hey, could you come pray with me?” And they hold weekly staff Bible studies, as well. But part of the effort is also offering opportunities to people. “It’s not me being pushy,” Jerred said, but rather giving people the chance to experience the Christian message. For example, he does outreach with local youth sports organizations and also hosts brief talks with the afterschool children’s groups. However, he emphasizes that it’s not about “beating people over the head,” but sharing the gospel with people and just being able to “love on them where they are.”

In his efforts to care for the YMCA’s physical and spiritual needs, Jerred goes the extra mile. One minute he might be helping a colleague with a scripture question, and that might be immediately followed by a meeting with a contractor working on an electrical issue. The day to day managing of the chaplain side of things combined with “managing our maintenance staff” definitely requires bal-

Photo provided by Jerred Unruh

You never know whenyou’regoingto bethelight in the middle of something.

ance, but Jerred insists that “it’s not any different than what we’re asking our other staff or CEO to do.”

The main thing that Jerred wants people to know is that as a Christian organization, there is definitely a goal of “highlighting the ‘C’ part of the YMCA…but if you’re not a Christian, that doesn’t mean you’re not welcome here. Matter of fact, you are SO welcome here!”

TEACHING: ALSO NOT JUST A JOB

When Emily Cordova, who teaches kindergarten at Monroe Elementary School, was asked if there was anything she wanted the public to know, she didn’t hesitate: “You never know when you’re going to be the light in the middle of something…it’s such a great joy that you get when you see that kid going through something coming out of that…” Emily may be in her first year of

teaching, but without a doubt, she is having a positive impact on the kids in her class.

It's an impact that she almost didn’t have the chance to make. Originally a nursing major at Northwestern Oklahoma State here in Enid, Emily was on track for a career in healthcare. But after a tragic incident, her trajectory was forever changed. One day, Emily witnessed a motorcycle accident, and she tried to help the victim, saying, “I stopped to do CPR, and when I tried to, he died… So, I couldn’t do it. I was like, maybe this is God telling me, you’re not meant for this.” Emotionally, Emily knew that she had to change careers, and she had always loved the idea of teaching. So, she switched her course of study to education and graduated in December of 2023.

These are kids… just let them have fun experienceand life

Just as Emily is being a positive influence on her students, she also well remembers those teachers who made a difference in her own life. She mentioned several, highlighting for special mention her fourth grade teacher, Ms. Christine Clifton. Emily’s family had recently moved to the United States, and she spoke little English. Emily landed in Ms. Clifton’s class at Enid’s Taft Elementary, and Emily says that “she made the biggest impact,” one that Emily treasures to this day. Special mention was also made of Dr. Steven Mackie at Northwestern, who Emily says, “is really my mentor… if I need anything, I go ask him.”

As a teacher who is bilingual in English and Spanish, Emily really values being able to support children who are English language learners. There are a handful of bilingual children in her class, and Emily em- phasizes how

wonderful it is to help students with the academic content level but also to connect with them on the human level. She explained that “when I was growing up… I felt like an outsider… But when you come and bring someone with the same language, you feel like you’re at home. And that’s what I want to bring to my students, to feel welcome and feel like this is for them and they’re part of this.”

Sitting in on the interview was Emily’s colleague and friend Natasha Stocks, who teaches first grade at Monroe. Natasha also graduated from Northwestern and is in her first year of teaching. She urged people to remember “that these are kids… just let them have fun and experience life while they are young.”

Hopefully you enjoyed meeting some of Enid’s superheroes! As you can see, none of them wear capes and none of them can fly, spin webs, or command magical hammers. And, to the best of our knowledge, none of them have appeared in blockbuster films. No, they do things that are way more cool than that. By simply doing what they do—helping the sick, teaching children, and ministering to the local population—these folks serve as true, genuine heroes to the Enid community. Donna, Stevie, Emily, Natasha, and Jerred are the real deal, folks: the hometown heroes who make a difference each and every day.

So, the next time you see one of them or one of their undercover colleagues who are also making a difference, give them a smile. You could also give them a hearty “Thank you,” to express your appreciation, but none of them do it for the thanks. They do it for the love of their fellow humans, and that is something that can inspire everyone.

Hometown heroes, making a difference!

Children's Book Review

Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six Bookstore

It’s a Numbers Game! Baseball

Author: James Buckley, Jr.

National Geographic produces so many wonderful books for kids, and I recently learned of a particular series from them about sports: It’s a Numbers Game! There are four books so far – for basketball, soccer, football, and baseball – and they each explore different facts and statistics from that sport in a very kid-friendly way.

It’s a Numbers Game! Baseball, for example, was released in 2021 and is divided into different chapters: the basics of the game, hitting, pitching, baserunning, and fielding. Each part has a really neat mix of history, math, and science. There are the historical records, like most career wins for a pitcher (Cy Young, with 511) and most stolen bases in a single season (Rickey Henderson, with 130). Each chapter

also explains multiple mathematical formulas, like how to calculate a batter’s on-base percentage or a fielder’s range factor. And lastly, there is the science of the game, like how baseballs fly further in the thin air at Coors Field and how baserunners going from first base to third run in arcs in order to maintain their speed.

Obviously any interested kiddo can pick the book up, but based on the vocabulary and the level of math, the stated age range of 8-12 years old is probably a pretty good bet. The books are full of fascinating trivia, and there are plenty of tips and applications to apply on the playing field and off. Not to mention the sharp-looking graphics and the cool action photos of players too. If you’ve got a young sports lover, especially one who also enjoys math and science, the It’s a Numbers Game! series would be perfect for them.

Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of It’s a Numbers Game! Baseball today!

Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six

The New York Game: Baseball and the Rise of a New City

Author: Kevin Baker

If anyone was like me, the championship run of the Texas Rangers baseball team last fall reminded you of how fun the game is and made you think back to your younger days. I remember sitting at the breakfast table before school and every morning opening up the newspaper to look at the box score of the Rangers’ game the prior day. Now, right in time for the start of the 2024 season, author and journalist Kevin Baker has a new book out that is perfect for baseball fans, whether you’re a diehard fan or a rollercoaster one like myself.

The New York Game is a fabulous combination of the history of baseball, the history of New York City, and the biographies of everyone involved – from the players and managers to the politicians and gangsters. The book starts in the early 19th century, when it was just kids playing in corner lots, and travels through the dead-ball era, the gambling scandals, the outright racism, and the professionalization of the game, to finish in 1945, with the impacts of World War II. This thoroughness does make The New York Game a little daunting in its thickness – over 500 pages

with the sources and index. But it is not a slog of a read at all. The chapters are short, and the writing is quite lively and enjoyable.

Now, if you wholly despise the Yankees, this book might not be your favorite book ever. But really, The New York Game is so much more than just them. It’s a history of the game overall, the Knickerbockers and the Cincinnati Red Stockings and the Boston Braves and the Federal League. It’s about John McGraw and Christy Mathewson and Johnny Evers and, of course, Babe Ruth. It’s about the rise of skyscrapers and the creation of the subway system and the heyday of the newspaper industry. This book is a really, really fun read, and it will certainly get you even more excited to cheer on your favorite team this season.

Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of The New York Game today!

EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU

FOCUS ON Wellness News from

The Ripple Effects of Delaying Elective Surgeries

David Shepherd, MD

If you have decided to put off having an elective surgery, you may find that it can cause more harm than good. Whether it is a gall bladder removal, a hernia repair, or other types of non-urgent procedures, it’s important to understand the consequences of delaying your care.

David Shepherd, MD, general surgeon with St. Mary’s Physician Associates, discusses the risks and dangers of postponing elective surgeries, like gall bladder and hernias.

Can a medical condition worsen if surgery is postponed?

Yes. Delaying elective surgery may allow the underlying medical condition to worsen over time. This can lead to increased pain, discomfort and reduced quality of life for the patient. In some cases, the condition may become more difficult to treat or manage as it progresses.

What are some of the complications?

As medical conditions progress, they may become more complicated to treat surgically. For example, delaying elective joint replacement surgery can lead to increased joint damage and may necessitate more extensive procedures or result in poorer outcomes.

Can postponing result in emergency situations?

Yes. The risk of an emergency is dependent on the type of condition. Some elective surgeries are recommended to prevent the development of serious complications. Delaying these surgeries can increase the risk of unexpected medical emergencies, which may require urgent or emergency intervention. For example, postponing gall bladder removal could result in a rupture, causing an infection. Delaying a hernia repair may result in the twisting of the intestines, cutting off blood supply.

Can postponing cause psychological effects for the patient?

Yes. Patients may experience increased anxiety, stress or depression related to their untreated medical condition or uncertainty about when they will receive treatment. For patients with chronic pain or limited mobility, they may experience ongoing discomfort, difficulty performing daily activities or reduced independence while waiting for surgery.

Overall, while there may be valid reasons for postponing elective surgery, such as prioritizing urgent or emergent cases, or addressing capacity issues within hospitals, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully with your physician, and consider your needs and concerns.

To find a doctor and schedule an appointment online, visit stmarysphysicianassociates.com

For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.

BYSOP H I A FAULK

Spring Has Sprung Teen SCENE

Hey y’all! And welcome back to Teen Scene. Spring has finally sprung, and I don’t know about you, but I am enjoying this beautiful weather and late sunsets. Spring brings lots of fun activities for teens to do in this small town of Enid, so I wanted to share with you my personal favorite activities to do with my best friends during the beautiful month of April. Let's go!!

To start a great activity, if you like to watch sports, go to the local high school baseball games!! Me and a few of my girls enjoy sitting and tanning in the beautiful weather, gossiping, watching cute boys play, and hanging out in general at a baseball game. Enid has an amazing facility for our high school boys, so that helps with the all-around environment as well!!

If you have the $$$ to spend on just wasting gas, driving around at sunset with the windows and sunroof down, and listening to your favorite songs, is another one of my personal favorites. Mallie and I love to do this, and it sets a bonding and positive aesthetic overall. Now I know when I get my license, I will be having to pay for my gas, so I don't know how much this activity will take place in my car, but only time will tell!!

Taking cute Instagram photos is a great way to get out in the beautiful weather and bless your followers' feeds!! I’ve seen some of my gorgeous friends post these, and I get so jelly and wish I had my own camera. After you're done taking pics, you also get to sit and watch the sunset right in front of you, which as you know Oklahoma has some of the best, and it is truly amazing.

Playing tennis with my girlfriends is my overall favorite. Only Mallie and Aspen know how to play, but it is still so fun teaching new friends and hitting the ball around. You not only get to wear cute outfits, but it is also very inexpensive if you know someone who already has rackets and tennis balls!! Just don’t be too competitive, and it will be a GREAT time for you and the girls.

If you live in Enid, we have a long path of sidewalks through a couple of different neighborhoods that are about 6 miles long called “The Trails.” The Trails are a great opportunity to go ride bikes, walk your pets, walk yourself, and go on easy-paced jogs. As a runner, it is a great place for me and my friends to run, talk, and listen to music!!

Thank you for reading this month's article!! I hope you have some great ideas. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for upcoming articles, email me at  tweensceneenid@gmail.com. I would also love to hear what you do in the springtime, and I will maybe try it out, so email me for that too!! I hope you have an amazing Easter and Spring. Get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather!! See you next month <33333

We are excited to announce the 3rd annual “Best of Enid” awards! We will be giving out awards to 50 of the best businesses and service providers in town to honor their hard work and dedication to the people of Enid! Voting begins on April 1st!

VOTING

THERE WILL BE ONE ROUND OF VOTING

Voting will begin on April 1, 2024, and end at 5:00 p.m. May 24, 2024 (subject to change). You may vote multiple times each day, but our voting system will not allow you to cast consecutive votes within a short time span. The top five vote-getters will be announced (in alphabetical order) the week of May 27th. While we love our advertisers and sponsors, no preference or consideration will be given as it pertains to voting. Winners are who they are, so good luck to advertisers and non-advertisers alike!

WINNERS

The finalists (top 3 finishers) will be invited to our festive “Best of Enid Awards Show” that will be held in June. All finalists will be recognized at the show, so everyone goes home a winner! A complete list of winners and runners-up will be featured in the July edition of the Enid Monthly along with a photo gallery from the gala event.

HERE ARE THE

FOR BEST OF ENID 2024

Enid Monthly's "Best of Enid" Awards 2024

6.

3.

5.

APRIL 1 – APRIL 20

10 am – 5 pm, Tuesday – Saturday

Discover Greatness: An Illustrated History of Negro Leagues Baseball Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)

APRIL 2

6:30 pm

Trivia Night

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

APRIL 3

3:15 – 4:15 pm

Sensory-Friendly

Family Day

Spirit Express (3104 N. Van Buren, Bldg. B)

7:30 pm

Trivia

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 4 – 6

Gladys Winters Tournament

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

APRIL 4

11 am – 12 pm

Veterans Coffee Social

OK Military History Exhibit (4125 W Garriott)

12pm – 11pm

Thirsty Thursday Tasting Rock Island Liquor & Wine (2705 Rock Island Blvd)

Enid's Enid's E-vents E-ventsE-vents

April Events

12 pm

EBC 5th Anniversary w/ Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

6 pm Trivia Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7 pm

Monthly Planetarium Show

NOC Mackie Planetarium (NOC-Enid campus)

7:30 pm

Singo Settlers Brewing Co. (203 E. Randolph)

APRIL 5 – 6

Friday 9 am – 7 pm; Saturday 9 am – 5 pm

Hospice Circle of Love Book Sale

Hospice Circle of Love (314 S 3rd St.)

6:30 pm

Live Theater: The Ghost of Mystery Manor Garber Dinner Theatre (402 Main, Garber, OK)

APRIL 5

5 – 9 pm

Garfield County Firefighter Games W. Broadway between the Post Office and Courthouse

6 – 9 pm

First Friday

Downtown Enid

6 pm

Live Music: Stacey Sanders

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7 pm

Live Music: Hairball Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

Homage to 80’s arena acts!

9 pm

Live Music: Chad Todd Band

The Alibi Bar (224 W. Broadway)

APRIL 6

8 am

2nd Annual Tulips for Tatas 5K/Walk Tea and Country Estate (406 E. Robertson Rd.)

9 am – 4 pm

Corvette Expo XXXII Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)

11 am & 3 pm

Art Quest

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

1 – 4 pm

Spring Skate Jam

Jerry Allen Memorial Skate Park (124 N. 5th St.)

6 – 11 pm

Youth & Family Services

13th Annual Charity Gala Oakwood Country Club (1601 N. Oakwood)

7:30 pm

Auto Racing: Sooner Late Model Series

Enid Speedway (312 E. Oxford)

8 pm

Live Music: Lost River Band

Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)

APRIL 7

3 pm

Live Music: Josh Davidson and Legend McGuare

The Alibi Bar (224 W. Broadway)

APRIL 8

10:30 am & 12 pm

Baseball: NOC-Enid Jets vs. NWOSU JV

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

APRIL 9

4 – 6 pm

Sensory-Friendly Family Nights

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

6:30 pm

Trivia Night Enid Axe (104 N Independence)

7 pm

Baseball, Hot Dogs & Apple Pie: NWOSU vs. Southern Nazarene

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

APRIL 10

7:30 pm

Trivia

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E Randolph)

APRIL 11 – 13

Baseball: Merrifield Tournament

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

6:30 pm

Live Theater: The Ghost of Mystery Manor

Garber Dinner Theatre (402 Main, Garber, OK)

APRIL 11

12pm – 11pm

Thirsty Thursday Tasting

Rock Island Liquor & Wine (2705 Rock Island Blvd)

6 – 8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7:30 pm

Singo

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 12 – 14

Soccer: Jiffy Trip Invitational

Advance Soccer Complex (1526 S. Garland)

APRIL 12 6 pm

Live Music: Charlie Ingraham

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

6:30 – 9 pm

Enid Arts Council Annual Fundraiser Dinner: Art that Inspires with Will Rosenburg

Oakwood Country Club (1601 N. Oakwood)

7 – 9 pm

Museum After Dark: Liquid History

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 S. 4th St.)

9 pm

Live Music: Jack Waters The Alibi Bar (224 W. Broadway)

APRIL 13

8 am – 5 pm

Cimarron Council Boy Scouts of America Car Show

Garfield County Fairgrounds (111 W. Purdue)

10 am – 3 pm

Shepherds Show N’ Shine Custom & Classic Car Show

St Paul’s Lutheran Church (126 E. Broadway)

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

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.

11 am & 3 pm

Weekend Wonders

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

6 pm

Vance Spouses Club

Charity Auction

81 Ranch (5220 N. US HWY 81)

6 pm

Enid Outlaws

Watch Party

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7 pm

Live Music: Diablo Sammich

Chicarro’s Happy’s Place (117 W. Oxford)

7 pm

Scriptless in Seattle

Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

Improv comedy show like “Whose Line Is It Anyway.”

7 pm

Indoor Football: Oklahoma Flying Aces v. Omaha Beef

Chisholm Trail Expo Center (111 W. Purdue)

7 pm

Live Music: Rich Rodriquez

Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)

APRIL 14

1 & 3 pm

Baseball: NOC vs. Redlands Community College

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

APRIL 16

10 & 12 pm

Baseball: NOC-Enid vs. DFW Post Grad

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

6:30 pm

Trivia Night Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

APRIL 17

7:30 pm Trivia Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 18

11 am – 12 pm

Veterans Coffee Social OK Military History Exhibit (4125 W. Garriott)

12pm – 11pm Thirsty Thursday Tasting Rock Island Liquor & Wine (2705 Rock Island Blvd)

11:30 am – 1 pm United Way of Northwest Oklahoma Annual Meeting and Report Stride Bank Center (301 S. Independence)

6 – 8 pm Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7:30 pm

Singo

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 19 7 pm

Basketball: Enid Outlaws vs. Shreveport Mavericks

Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

7 pm

6th Annual Silent Movie for Hedges Speech & Hearing

Gaslight Theatre (221 N. Independence)

8 pm

Auto Racing: URSS Sprints

Enid Speedway (312 E. Oxford)

9 pm

Live Music: BC & The Big Rig

The Alibi Bar (224 W. Broadway)

APRIL 20 – 21

10 am – 4 pm

Kites over Enid

Richard Dermer Memorial Flying Field at Autry Technology Center (1201 W. Willow)

APRIL 20

7:30 – 10 am

Woodring Regional Airport Breakfast Fly-In Woodring Regional Airport (1026 S. 66th)

9 am – 12 pm

Enid Cars & Coffee Blazes BBQ (1002 W. Willow)

10 am

Princess Party Meet and Greet Gathered Event Rentals (223 S. 30th)

$30 per child, Limited availability

10 am – 5 pm

The Market Neighborhood Shops Spring Craft Show

Stride Bank Center

Grand Ballroom (301 S. Independence)

11 am & 3 pm

Art Quest

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

1 – 4 pm

Enid Author Fest Enid Public Library (120 W. Maine)

7 pm

Basketball: Enid Outlaws vs. Little Rock Lightning Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

7 pm

Live Comedy: The Laughing Grass Comedy Show RED (302 E. Maple)

APRIL 21

6 pm

Mark Lowry & Friends Tour (With Jim & Melissa Brady)

Emmanuel Enid (2505 W. Garriott)

APRIL 23

6:30 pm

Trivia Night

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

APRIL 24

7:30 pm

Trivia

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 25

12pm – 11pm

Thirsty Thursday Tasting Rock Island Liquor & Wine (2705 Rock Island Blvd)

6 – 8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

7:30 pm

Singo

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

APRIL 26

6 – 8:30 pm

Parents Night Out

Emmanuel Enid (2505 W. Garriott)

7 pm

Basketball: Enid Outlaws vs. Santa Ana Thunder Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

APRIL 27 – 28

Saturday: 1 & 3 pm

Sunday: 1 pm

NOC-Enid Jets Baseball vs. Western Oklahoma

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

APRIL 27

10 am – 5 pm

Bug Invasion –Ladybugs!

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

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

11 am & 3 pm Weekend Wonders

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum (200 E. Maple)

5 pm

Live Symphony: Silver Celebration Enid Symphony Center (301 W. Broadway)

6 pm

Garfield Country Ducks Unlimited Dinner Stride Bank Center (301 S. Independence)

7 pm

Live Music: Robert Allen Band Chicarro’s Happy’s Place (117 W. Oxford)

APRIL 29

8 am

United Way of NW OK 37th Annual Golf Tournament & Ronna Richards Memorial Oakwood Country Club (1601 N. Oakwood)

APRIL 30

6:30 pm

Trivia Night Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FOUND ON PAGE 11

PUZZLE ANSWERS

EASY SUDOKU

FOUND ON PAGE 12

HARD SUDOKU

FOUND ON PAGE 12

BYMOLLY NICHOLAS

RE al Life

Happily Ever After!!??!!

First and foremost, it is essential to contact a lender because when a couple purchases a home together, lenders will assess the couple’s ability to purchase jointly or separately. One person’s credit or income can affect the couple’s ability to qualify for a mortgage at all. So, before you start looking, make sure to ask these questions to help you size up the person you love like a lender would.

How much debt do you have? If you two are serious, odds are you’ve talked about each other’s incomes, but if you’ve never talked about debt, brace for some surprises—the bad kind. You should also both come clean about your student loans and credit card debt. It’s going to come out anyway: Any debt you’re carrying will show up once you undergo the process for a mortgage: car loans, personal loans, and even child support obligations if incurred. All this matters because of your debt-to-income ratio—that’s a number your lender will look at to decide if you can afford to pay back a loan. If you’re not sure, check online for an ESTIMATE idea of how much home you can afford. This ESTIMATE in no way replaces the expertise of a mortgage lender. Their help is vital to explain options and determine the best loan product for individuals. Each scenario is different.

What’s your credit score? Your credit score is a number that represents how well you’ve paid off past debts. And it’s really important to lenders because, as they see it, that number shows how likely it is that

you’ll make your mortgage payments in the future. A low credit score could disqualify you from getting a loan, or it could mean you won’t get the best rates. Both you and your partner will have your own credit score; even for married couples, they’re not combined. As for what number passes, a credit score over 700 is ideal. Lenders each have different qualifications and can assist you in determining loan amounts and even credit repair if needed.

How much money do you have for a down payment? Ideally, the two of you will be able to put 20% down on a property. That’s a big chunk of change: On a $300,000 home, a 20% down payment is $60,000. And don’t forget you’ll need to pay closing costs of the purchase price of the home. So, where is all this money going to come from? Your down payment can come from savings, family gifting, or part of a retirement account that you can cash in. (The latter is not ideal and can have tax implications.) Another option is, you can put down less—some mortgages will accept as little as 3% down—but then you’ll be required to pay an extra monthly fee, (private mortgage insurance) which is another reason it is necessary to have guidance throughout the process. Who owns (and is paying for) what? Prior to signing the paperwork, you should talk about who is going to be responsible for how much of the payment. How will you split the payment? How much can each of you afford? Talk about what is going to be comfortable for each of you going forward. You should also talk about whether both of your names will be on the title and deed, which is the legal document proving you own the property. If you’re both contributing to payments, you absolutely want both people on the title. Otherwise, depending on your marriage status and what state you live in, one of you may not legally co-own the home

What happens if we break up? No one wants to think about it. But in case of a split, you should definitely plan ahead. It is a good idea to put together a separate contract specifying what would happen to the equity and who is responsible for the payment if the relationship ends. If one person contributed more to the down payment or pays more of the monthly mortgage payment, will that person retain a bigger share of the equity, or will you split things equally? If you break up, will the house be sold and the proceeds split, or could one partner buy out the other? Nobody likes to talk about breaking up, but having these conversations before something happens will protect both of you in case things don’t work out.

the Creed"

Next Level PLAINS of the “Live

According to Enid High Baseball Coach, Brad Gore, his teams have three goals entering into the season — win district, win regionals, win state. And last year’s Enid High team almost accomplished all three, falling in the state championship game to Bixby. This year’s team is back, led by at least six contributing seniors (McCage Hartling, Cooper Jarnigan, Bennett Percival, Seth Carlson, Dax Goeke, and Karter Simon), but another senior has reached a level that Gore has not seen in his over 30-year career.

“Garrett Shull is just different,” says Gore, “I could tell when he was taking lessons from me in around 5th grade that he just had something extra. He kept working hard, working on his game and when he came out with the high school team before 9th grade, he hit some balls at David Allen where you just knew.”

Shull plays Center Field and Third Base for the Plainsmen, and it’s easy to tell when he’s playing as there might be twenty pro scouts in the stands to watch him play. “He (Shull) is a 5 tool player,” says Gore, “While his power gets a lot of publicity, he’s also a great fielder, can hit for average, is fast and can really throw the ball. He might be the best player I have ever coached. He’s definitely the only one that will likely be drafted in the first few rounds.”

Shull was born in Missouri, but he grew up in Enid as his dad is in the Air Force stationed at Vance Air Force Base. “My dad played football in High School and went on to get a degree in Sports Science,” said Shull, so he’s always been interested in sports. “I had a bat and a ball in my hand since I could walk and have always loved baseball. I tried other sports like basketball, just for fun, but baseball has always been what I did.” Shull played EJRT for the Enid Astros and Plainsmen, where his dad was an assistant coach and has really helped his development. “Since my dad has a sports science degree, he has been my hitting coach my whole life, and he’s put a lot of work into helping me get better.”

Shull knew that baseball might end up being a career option between 8th and 9th grade when he came out and started practicing with the High School team. “I grew up watching these guys play and really looked up to them. I knew that summer I could play with them, and as an incoming freshman, that was pretty cool,” he said.

Clearly Gore did too. Because of COVID, there were not a lot of scouts or college coaches coming out, so he recorded Shull hitting and sent it to his friend Josh Holliday at Oklahoma State. What he saw must have impressed him, because not long after, Shull got a call from Coach Holliday and was offered a scholarship to play baseball at OSU. “I was probably shaking when I called Coach Holliday,” said Shull, “I had been to the new stadium (O’Brate), and it was amazing. I just felt really blessed to be offered a scholarship.”

While many Cowboy fans would love to see Shull in Orange and Black, the dozens of scouts that have been out to watch him play the last couple of years show that he will likely have a big decision to make – college or pro baseball. According to mlb.com he’s the 51st ranked overall (and 15th ranked high school) prospect. Shull has dreamed of playing pro baseball but says that his decision will come down to what makes sense for his future. “Either college at OSU or sign in the draft, I have great options. Really though, I am focused on the (high school) season, and making one last run to try and win state. I know that I’ll succeed if the team succeeds, and I’ve been playing with a lot of these guys for a long time. If I can relax and just have fun, good things will happen.”

And while Shull is one of the most talented players Enid has ever had, he will have a lot of help this year. Almost every senior will be moving on to play at the next level too at colleges and juco’s all over the country. But before that, they are all focused on trying to win districts, win regionals, and win state.

BYDALE N MCVAY

THE LAW OF THE Land Wile E. Coyote

This month we are privileged to hear from the greatest coyote hunter I’ve ever known, my friend Jeremy Nickel. Let’s jump right into it:

Wolves were once the top predators in Oklahoma, until the early 1900s when the federal government and settlers hunted them almost to extinction while expanding grazing ranges for domesticated livestock. In the absence of wolves, coyotes established themselves as the new apex predators in the territories left vacant by wolves. The US government has tried to control coyote populations with the same methods used to curtail the wolf population, but coyotes are trickier animals than wolves. Despite being subjected to decades of persecution, including traps, poisons, aerial shooting, pursuit by hounds, and hunting, their numbers continue to increase, and their territories are expanding. Coyotes are remarkably resilient and adaptable creatures, displaying cleverness and resourcefulness, and my own experience hunting them has instilled in me an uncanny respect for these animals. Coyotes are simply doing what nature intended them to do, but their survival often comes into conflict with human interests.

How long ago and why did you first get into coyote hunting?

I've always been intrigued by coyotes and their haunting howls, ever since I was a kid. I have been hunting for them for most of my life. Over time, I've witnessed the evolution of hunting technology and regulations, which has led to expanding my hunting range from family property and nearby areas to targeting nuisance coyotes for landowners over a larger area. The equipment I use to hunt has also improved, such as electronic calls and thermal imaging devices. Coyotes are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the night or at dawn and dusk. Taking advantage of this technology gives hunters an edge to be out hunting during these times and remove higher numbers of them.

How many coyotes did you take last year?

In 2023, I harvested 368 coyotes throughout several counties in NW Oklahoma.

Why is predator control important?

Livestock producers in the US face an estimated loss of $232 million annually due to predators. In Oklahoma, more than half of all such losses are caused by coyotes. These animals are intelligent and adaptable, and they tend to become bolder in areas where they can find a reliable food source. Coyotes are primarily carnivorous, but they also consume plant matter. During summer, they can cause significant damage to watermelon fields, and they often associate calving pens and poultry farms with a steady food supply. Furthermore, coyotes can clear 6-foot privacy fences to prey on small pets. In my opinion, targeting and removing coyotes from specific areas can create pressure on the remaining population and discourage them from associating that area with an easy food source.

What are some tips for newly beginning coyote hunters?

If you want to become a successful coyote hunter, it's essential to pay close attention to your scent. Coyotes rely heavily on their sense of smell to hunt, followed by their ability to hear and see. I have personally witnessed them react to my scent from hundreds of yards away across an open field. Therefore, setting up your calling stand in a way that accounts for wind direction is crucial, as coyotes have a natural tendency to circle downwind. It is also important to choose spots with elevation that enable you to cover as much ground as possible without revealing your silhouette. Keep in mind that coyotes have wider peripheral vision than humans and will detect your movements quickly, so avoid sudden movements. Coaxing coyotes into a position for a shot opportunity can be challenging since they are very in tune with their environment. However, don't give up if you're not successful at first. The trickster, as Native Americans referred to them, is one of the most challenging animals to hunt. There is no one way to do it, and you will learn tricks and tactics as you spend more time hunting.

Jeremy Nickel is an experienced coyote hunter helping landowners in NW Oklahoma with coyote problems. If you would like to contact him for his service, he can be reached at 580-484-1194. His service is free of charge.

BYEMILY L EBARON

NOW SERVING!

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Hello everyone! This month's Now Serving is a classic, Loaded Baked Potatoes! These are great because they're so versatile, easy, and delicious! In this recipe, we have all the toppings expected on a loaded baked potato- bacon pieces, cheddar cheese, sour cream, butter, and seasoned beef! With this particular recipe, the potatoes are basted with an olive oil/garlic/melted butter/salt/pepper/onion powder mixture before they're baked, but they can easily be basted and microwaved for when the craving hits but is too hot to turn the oven on (although best results are with baking for that nice, crunchy skin)! Why go spend so much on appetizers when you can have more than your fill for you and your family for the same price!

Now Serving: Loaded Baked Potatoes!

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Ingredients

• 6 large baking potatoes

• 1 cup of butter separated, 4 tbsp melted, 12 tbsp sliced

• Sour cream to top

• Sharp cheddar cheese to top

• Bacon pieces to top

• 2 oz olive oil

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• 1 lb carne picada beef

• Your beef seasoning of choice

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400.

2. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Wash potatoes and poke them three times on each side with a fork, place on lined sheet.

3. In a small bowl, combine 4 tbsp melted butter, 2 oz olive oil, garlic and onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix well to combine - it will become thick. With a basting brush, coat each potato well with the butter/oil mixture.

4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until skins are easily pierced with the tines of a fork. Return to oven to cook until potatoes are soft against the fork.

5. During the last fifteen minutes of the potatoes baking, begin preparing the meat. Season beef with your choice of seasonings, depending on the flavor you're wanting. Cook to your desired doneness. Turn off heat.

6. Remove potatoes from oven and turn oven off. Slice each potato lengthwise. I recommend using a pair of tongs to hold each end, and after the slice is made, gently squeeze the ends of the potato, widening the opening for the toppings.

7. Place the remaining sliced butter and cheese first, for ultimate gooiness. Seasoned meat, bacon pieces, sour cream!