June 2024

JEFF MOLNAR

It seems that Jeff Molnar is everywhere these days. From his day job slinging drinks at Callahan’s Pub & Grille to a recent feature in the Enid News & Eagle, one of Enid’s most beloved volunteers is certainly out and about. We recently sat down with some of his colleagues to find out what makes Jeff so special, and the bottom line is that Jeff is one of those rare people that literally everyone loves.

One of Jeff’s main volunteer gigs is working with the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center, which has a museum and a liv-

ing history village. The Center hosts a lot of events, and the popular Liquid History series has been an exceptionally fun showcase for Jeff’s talents. As part of the Museum After Dark events series, Liquid History takes visitors back in time to learn about and enjoy beverages from the past. From beers that different immigrants in Oklahoma would have enjoyed to Prohibition-era cocktails, Jeff has been in his element. The Center’s Director of Education, Maddie Wilson, says that Jeff “kind of spearheaded all the research for that” and has just been a tremendous asset in the planning for Liquid History—and of course, helping with the serving.

Jeff makes almost all the History Alive events, where Jeff and other living history reenactors show visitors what pioneer life was like at the Center’s Humphrey Heritage Village. Budy said that Jeff is a star team player, “So if he needs to be in the land office, he can go in there and talk about the land office. He’ll go into the church, tell them about the church…”

In fact, Jeff is just about everywhere. According to Natalie Rapp, Director of Main Street Enid, “Jeff has been known to gamely hopscotch from History Alive to Main Street Enid events. She says that “He’ll have his costume on, and he’ll come straight from there to volunteer for us on the courthouse lawn in his costume.” For his incredible dedication, Jeff was awarded Volunteer of the Year for Main Street Enid in 2021 and 2023.

Both Rapp and Budy sing Jeff’s praises when it comes to pitching in behind the scenes. According to Budy, if Jeff “can’t make it to the event itself, he’s always willing to help at least set up or clean up or something like that.” And Rapp relates that, among the many other things he helps with at Main Street Enid, “he also helps every Christmas, putting up the lights on the courthouse lawn…we probably couldn’t do it without him.” In addition, Jeff also brings his talents with the camera to both organizations, shooting photos for Main Street Enid events and sharing his antique camera and discussing historic photography at Cherokee Strip events.

Jeff has also been known to help with Gaslight Theater and other organizations around Enid. So, whether at Callahan’s or at one of the many community events around town, don’t hesitate to say “Hi!” if you see Jeff—a friend to all and a downright remarkable Local Legend.

BLAK E REESE

As June swiftly makes its entrance, it’s important to realize that all actions, big or small, have impact. Whether donating your time to volunteer organizations or shopping with businesses that give back, what you do in your day to day can make a world’s difference. A lot of the work done by the organizations right here in Enid goes beyond the walls of their facilities. So, whether you’re adopting from an animal rescue or shopping at a non-profit, you might not realize everything that goes into play. For example, when you volunteer at an organization, you probably made a night and day difference in how much help and assistance they were able to offer that day. Or that nonprofit that you shop at; you might think of it as simply going and purchasing a new shirt for work, but behind the scenes your purchase turns into funding, which pours back into the community and allows for events and improvements. The nonprofits and organizations that give back here in Enid create an everyday kind of magic that can be supported by simply continuing to do what you do. So, whether deciding where to shop or debating what to do with your free time, think twice about what you do because it will have an impact. Making a difference isn’t always grand – sometimes the simple daily action of shopping can be what then funds an event and keeps an organization afloat for the next year, which is why you and what you do, matters.

Everyday Magic

Enid’s Thrift Stores Create Magic by Giving Back

Do you like to shop? Do you like to save money? Do you like to help people, especially those in your own neighborhood? Most people can probably answer, “Yes,” to at least two of those questions (or maybe to all three!). We recently sat down with a few organizations in Enid that offer a great combination of shopping, bargain hunting, and most importantly, helping.

4RKids

4Rkids specializes in raising awareness and providing educational and vocational opportunities for clients with special needs. When we sat down with Rachel McVay, Executive Director at 4Rkids, one of the themes running through the conversation was change. Their gift shop, 2nd Story, is the perfect illustration of that. Because the employee-clients at 4Rkids make most of the goods for sale, they are able to pivot and change course as necessary. If something is not selling well, they can try something different. On the other hand, treats from lines such as 4 R Pups are perennial best sellers. McVay said that “Many customers know us for our dog bones!”

Other handmade items include cards and jewelry. In addition to smaller items, they are very proud of their laser-cut wood products and their stock and custom tee shirts. When we visited the shop, there was a lovely array of home décor and kitchen woodcraft items, all delicately designed and cut by the onsite laser. But if someone comes in and doesn’t see what

they want on the shelf, McVay explains “what’s really nice about laser stuff is that it can all be customized. We get a lot of people for graduations, anniversaries, or the birth of a baby where they want something in particular.” Customization is also available for shirts, and they hope to expand their screen-printing business in the future.

Located off Overland Trail, the store opened in November of 2008 and was originally conceived “to provide employee clients with meaningful work, sell their items, and be open to the public to interact with,”

relayed McVay. Through years of growth, the retail store (which also houses a thriving mini golf business) now represents a significant source of support for the operations of 4RKids.

In addition to providing work for employee clients, 4RKids does a host of other things. McVay explained that “we do a high school transitional program for students with developmental disabilities who are looking into vocational training.” They also host a sensory-friendly event once a month. Sports are included, too, with McVay informing us that “In 2010, we joined forces with Enid Noon Ambucs…and we worked closely together to make Miracle League happen. It’s a wonderful event.” Anyone age five and up can participate, and there are both children’s and adults’ teams. McVay wants everyone to know that “It’s a really great event, and it’s open to the public. So, if you ever want to come out on a Saturday during the summer, we play at ABC park!” McVay also wants the Enid community to know that visitors are always welcome, saying that “We are open to the public and are happy to have people come!”

Hope Outreach

That roadside furniture is just one of “five distinct ministries and is probably the most well-known…engine that helps the ministries run,” said Lohman. In addition to the retail store, they have the Transitional House, which assists formerly incarcerated individuals with societal reintegration, and the Parenting Outreach, which helps local parents. There is also the Refuge Ministry, which is an out reach to homeless individuals in Enid, and Waypoints, a community care ministry. The Van Buren storefront is by far the most visible, but there is a lot of work happening outside the store walls. None of it could happen without the store, though, and Lohman reported that “80% of our funding comes from the sale of goods.”

Through it all, a consistent theme is “to minister the love of Jesus, of empowering people toward responsible living,” said Lohman. “It’s the idea of teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime…helping people help themselves.” And HOPE Outreach doesn’t just talk the talk – they walk the walk. Lohman reports that “we hire most of our people coming out of incarceration, drug addiction, homelessness, poor work history… our goal is to get them started here so they can either work their way up or get a good reference from us. We’ve hired a lot of folks who’ve come in and didn’t have a place to stay. They were staying at Salvation Army, and we’ve hired them.” And the Refuge Ministry provides clients with job seeking resources, including the ability to use the Refuge address and phone for contact information (a critical but often overlooked part of being able to find a job). When Enid shoppers’ shop at HOPE Outreach, they can be assured that their purchase, whether large or small, is truly helping to share a message of faith, hope, and empowerment for those in need.

Return Engagement

Anyone who has ever driven down Van Buren has seen the furniture, bikes, and occasional pieces of exercise equipment in front of HOPE Outreach. The secondhand goods are put out nearly every day, and while they may be a bit dusty, they are getting a chance at a second life. And even more importantly, they are helping to provide a second chance for many of the folks at HOPE Outreach. Sitting down with HOPE Outreach CEO, Matt Lohman, we learned more about how exactly used furniture could help give someone a second lease on life.

Nestled on a quiet corner in historic downtown, Return Engagement is the retail operation of Enid’s Junior Welfare League (JWL). Although their emphasis is on upscale women’s fashion, Return Engagement carries a bit of everything, from shoes to home decor. We recently sat down with the store’s general manager, Alicen Campbell, to learn more about this remarkable organization.

According to Campbell, all of the store’s “proceeds go back into the community in some way or another, whether that’s through Care Share or another committee that they’ve got going on.” Care Share is one of JWL’s major outreach efforts, providing local schoolchildren with confidential and caring support. JWL members work directly with school counselors in order to provide children with shoes, clothes, and other

items as needed. Occasionally, Care to Share is able to assist older students, with Campbell relating that last year, JWL was able to fill a request for “an NOC stu dent who needed specific pants for science labs.”

JWL’s best-known fundraiser is the annual charity gala, an always-swanky affair held in De cember. The 2023 gala raised over $180,000 - a truly spectacular achievement and one that helped countless local individuals. It was a magical night full of generosity that truly shone a light on the compassion and generosity of the Enid community. And through Return Engagement, the JWL is able to create a different kind of magic—the ordinary kind that everyday people can support. Whether look ing for children’s clothes or designer handbags (and Campbell assured me that “the handbags sell pret ty well”), Enid shoppers can be con fident that their purchases are going right back into the community. Camp bell said, “You might not always see when JWL is doing something…but know that everything is still bene fitting someone else in one way or another!”

Park Avenue Thrift

It is almost impossible to miss Park Avenue Thrift. Its enormous mural is an explosion of bright, cheerful colors that greet anyone who is driving into Enid from the east: Park Avenue is literally one of Enid’s most visible thrift stores. It is also one of Enid’s largest charitable operations,

distributing thousands in grants to local organizations each year. To learn more about how Park Avenue Thrift supports the community, we recently sat down with Executive Director, Stela Jantzen, and Operations Manager, Malvin Arter.

According to their website, Park Avenue distributed $520,895.88 in grants for the year 2023. By any standard, that is an incredible amount, and every penny went to improve life in Enid. When asked about the major areas that the store supports, Jantzen said, “What we like to fund is arts, education, environmental sustainability…anything that’s quality of life but that impacts a lot of people.”

When asked if there is such a thing as a typical day at the store, Arter laughed. “Yes and no,” he said. “We have phenomenal, amazing donors. They never stop coming…It’s a constant process of just getting things in, processing them, and getting them on the floor. And that’s what enables us to do our grants.” The store is a constant hub of activity, with a total of 32 employees and a lot of regular customers. “We know them by name, and they know our employees by name,” Malvin said with a laugh.

Vance Air Force Base Thrift Store

Conclusion

By themselves, actions such as buying home décor objects, dog biscuits, a used treadmill, or perhaps some secondhand blouses do not seem life changing. Everyday shopping inherently lacks the literal sparkle and shine of 4Rkids’ annual “Champagne & Diamonds Gala” or the JWL’s annual gala. Even the Vance Spouses’ Club has an annual charity auction, which raises thousands each year. Such large events grab headlines and—rightly so—demand attention, shined shoes, and the right outfit. They make a splash, and they let all of these organizations do what they do. But flying somewhat under the radar, the retail operations of these organizations provide an incredible, almost mind-boggling amount of funding, all of which flows directly back into the Enid community. With every single purchase at these mission-driven stores, Enid shoppers are helping their own friends and neighbors.

At the smaller end of the spectrum is the thrift store at Vance Air Force Base. It is open to anyone with base access—retired military, DoD, and other civilian employees, and of course active duty. Sandwiched between the Vance Fitness Center and the pool, the thrift store is tiny, but it has a mighty mission: to help fund scholarships and other charitable efforts of the Vance Spouses Club. The store is staffed entirely by volunteers from the spouses’ club and has limited hours. Even so, it is very successful and contributes a significant amount to the club’s scholarship and charity efforts each year. “I love that these thrift stores put money back into the community,” said volunteer Samantha Philips. “Knowing that some of the thrift store earnings helped support the YWCA is heartwarming.” Shoppers at the Vance thrift store can be confident that every single purchase helps local individuals. It is a win-win situation for everyone, or as club historian Ashley Riley said with a smile, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure!”

During our conversations, one thing that stood out was everyone’s commitment to working with their fellow organizations here in Enid. Park Avenue makes sure that nothing is wasted, for example, by recycling cardboard with 4Rkids or donating unsellable blankets to the Enid SPCA. The staff at Return Engagement and Vance Thrift Store make sure that any clothing they can’t use gets passed onto other charities in Enid. 4Rkids partners with Ambucs to ensure that Miracle League is a success for kids and kids at heart. And HOPE Outreach works with Salvation Army and other local folks, such as Catholic Charities, in order to help those experiencing homelessness. They are all separate organizations, with their own distinct viewpoints and missions. When viewed together, though, they create a very compelling picture of the phenomenal generosity of those in the Enid community. Perhaps Park Avenue’s Stela Jantzen summed it up best when she said, “That’s what I love about Enid—I feel like it’s ingrained in us to want to help each other…that’s what I love about all the other thrift stores here in town…I love that we all have our different missions, but I think it’s really cool that we can also help each other.”

Children's Book Review

Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six Bookstore

The Mystery of Locked Rooms

Author: Lindsay Currie

Continuing the puzzle theme, the latest children’s chapter book from author Lindsay Currie is perfect for escape room aficionados. Released in April 2024, The Mystery of Locked Rooms tells the story of a trio of seventh graders who take on their toughest challenge to date: an abandoned funhouse outside of town that is rumored to have a hidden treasure inside.

Sarah and her two best friends, Hannah and West, are so inseparable that they call themselves the Deltas, symbolized in the Greek alphabet by a triangle, one side for each person. Their favorite hobby is escape rooms, and because each member of the group offers their own unique skillset, the three are really great at solving the puzzles. They

are riding the high of their latest success when Sarah learns her house is being foreclosed. Even though it is dangerous and scary, the legendary funhouse is quickly looking like the only option for her to help her parents. And of course if she goes, Hannah and West will be right there with her. The trio is soon encountering a flying trapeze, a room of Roman sculptures, a twisty mirror maze, and more! Just when they think they’ve failed, when they’re ready to admit there isn’t a treasure after all, they find one more clue…

Although I think the editing of the writing could have been a little sharper, overall The Mystery of Locked Rooms is an excellent adventure book for middle-grade readers. It’s quite the page-turner, complete with beautiful friendships, great humor, and a fantastically wacky cover to boot. If a kiddo loves puzzles, loves remembering fine details and using creativity and connecting the dots, this book would be perfect for them.

Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of The Mystery of Locked Rooms today!

Adult Book Review

Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six Bookstore

The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers

Author: Samuel Burr

If your idea of a beach read involves a lot of sun, sand, and steaminess, this month’s book –a group of pensioners, at a crumbling house, in rainy England – won’t exactly be what you’re after. But if you want a beautiful, unique book to make your heart happy, you can certainly take The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers along with you on vacation. It was released in April 2024, and it is actually the debut novel for author Samuel Burr – though you surely wouldn’t guess that. The writing and the cleverness of the story are very impressive for a first-timer.

The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers is told in two timelines: Pippa in the 1980s to 1990s and Clayton in present day. Pippa is a legendary designer of crossword puzzles who steps out from behind her pseudonym to form a group of puzzle lovers, whether that be with codes or mazes or jigsaws or trivia. Readers follow the Fellowship as they come to live together and operate out of Creighton Hall, through the ups and downs of profitable Spring Fayres and expensive home maintenance disasters. For Clayton, he was dropped off at the Fellowship’s doorstep as a baby and has never known who his actual

parents are. Now, in his mid-twenties, he is determined to find some answers. But in a way only Pippa could have arranged, Clayton must solve a series of puzzles to do so – while stepping out of his shell and making new friends every step of the way.

My one tip for this book, if you want the complete experience, is that you have to read the physical book, not listen to the audiobook – because there are actual puzzles printed throughout! I love everything about this book. I love the message of connection and chosen family. I love the quirky characters and their banter. I love the cover jacket and the blurb. I love just the overall pure nerdiness of this book. It’s one of a kind, and it’ll certainly have you smiling the next time you sit down to complete a puzzle of your own.

Visit us in Sunset Plaza or call 580-297-5089 to get your copy of The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers today!

EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU

FOCUS ON Wellness News from

Should I Go to the ER?

Knowing when to go to the emergency room is important for getting timely medical attention for urgent or life-threatening situations.

Dr. Renah Gibson, DO, family medicine physician with St. Mary’s Physician Associates, provides you with seven medical situations that warrant a trip to the ER.

1. Pain or Pressure, accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, sweating or pain radiating to the arm, neck or jaw, which could be a heart attack.

2. Severe Abdominal Pain, especially if accompanied by vomiting, fever or inability to pass stool or gas, which could indicate appendicitis, pancreatitis or intestinal blockage.

3. Severe Headache, especially if it's sudden and intense, along with other symptoms like confusion, weakness, vision changes or neck stiffness, which could be a stroke, meningitis or other serious condition.

4. Sudden Weakness or Numbness, especially if it's on one side of the body, which could mean a stroke or transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke).

5. Severe Trauma or Injury, including head injuries, deep wounds, severe burns or fractures that require immediate medical attention.

6. High Fever with Confusion , especially in infants, young children or elderly individuals, as it could be a serious infection or other condition.

7. Drug Overdose , particularly if you or someone you know has ingested a potentially toxic amount of medication or other substances.

If you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

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

Summer! Teen SCENE

Hey Y’all, and welcome back to Teen Scene in ENID MONTHLY. For the month of June, I wanted to share my top 5 things I am most excited about for summer. Let’s go!!!

To start, the one thing I am most excited about over anything else is going to the lake!!

We recently bought a new jet ski, and I am so excited to ride it all summer. The speakers are HUGE, which makes the ride even more fun. I am also looking forward to it because I will have my license, so I can drive to our lake house whenever I am free and allowed. When my friends come with me, we always play football or ride on the boat and tube and wrestle on our Lilypad.

Coaching tennis camp is another thing I look forward to. I love making the little kids' bracelets and teaching them something I love. They always have so much fun, and this year it’s at the new High School Tennis Courts, so they will get to experience what high school and middle school will be like. I also look forward to snack time halfway through lol.

MY BIRTHDAY is on July 18th, and it is my favorite day of the year. If you know me personally, you know that I love not only my birthday but other people’s as well. Either my dad or mom takes me to the city, and we spend the day there shopping, exploring, and grubbing. I look forward to it every new year.

VACATION!!! This month we are going to Italy, and I am SOOOOOO excited. We are going to visit lots of different cities and islands, try new foods and much more. I love going on vacation because you don’t have to worry about a whole lot besides having fun, especially when you are a kid. The only thing I miss is my comfy bed and always having food and water that I can just go grab from the fridge. Other than that, vacation is amazing.

Last but not least, summer pride and running. Summer pride is the summer workouts Enid High holds for all of the Student-Athletes. We get to do lots of fun workouts, and I love doing them with my best friends because they make it so much easier. We all motivate each other to do our best.

Thank you for reading this month's article. I hope you enjoyed it!! If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for upcoming articles, email me at tweensceneenid@gmail.com

I would love to hear about what you are looking forward to this summer, so email me for that too! I hope you have an amazing summer, June, and a happy Father’s Day! See you next month!

Simple Business is Good Business

You know how you can get a membership to a gym for an affordable monthly payment? How it allows you access to the facility anytime you want to utilize equipment or attend workout classes whenever it is convenient for you. The dedicated health enthusiasts generally have a set daily routine while someone else may frequent once or twice a week at various times. Group classes help people feel motivated and encouraged with other like-minded exercisers. There are staff available to assist with equipment adjustment, basic tips, and connecting to other options the gym has to offer. The idea behind this structure is to allow the flexibility for all members to utilize the space to meet their health needs. Well, guess what? momentumHQ functions the same way for your business needs!

Through affordable membership rates, you can have access to a professional office building equipped with WiFi, printing and scanning capabilities, office supplies, and the ever important coffee machine. Whether you’re a traditional 9-5 worker in need of a private office or a remote worker that needs to pop in every week to use the large conference room, momentumHQ offers the flexibility to utilize different spaces that help your business thrive. We coordinate events each month with our members and others in the community to provide networking and learning for all types of businesses. Like a gym membership provides flexibility for your health, we can tailor your office membership to meet your business needs.

mHQ Member Highlights

Innovative Sales Advisors: Vince Trotta

Vince found himself in Enid a few years ago working for GEFCO as a sales advisor. He wasn’t here long when the plant shut down. He realized he enjoyed living in Enid and needed to create a way for him to have a job that would allow him to stay in his newfound hometown. He created his business, Innovative Sales Advisors, where he contracts with large companies in OKC, Tulsa, and Wichita. He helps create effective sales strategies, provides training and recruiting tools, advises management teams, and more through Sales Xceleration. Being a member at momentumHQ has allowed him the freedom and flexibility for his business to succeed.

“When I first learned about momentumHQ, I knew I would use it, but I had no idea how much I would enjoy having a private office outside of my home. I feel productive, and I enjoy networking with the other members.”

Forrest Bookkeeping: Cari Forrest

— Vince Trotta

Cari has years of experience under her belt as a professional bookkeeper for companies across the nation, including many in Enid. Her business allows her the flexibility to work from home and she enjoys her office set up, however, she occasionally finds herself needing a place to meet with clients to go over their books. She has utilized coffee houses or restaurants as a place to conduct these meetings, which have been great, but there are times that she needs a little less public and a little more quiet for focused financial discussions. momentumHQ provides this space whenever she needs it by booking the conference room for a meeting or utilizing a day pass when she feels like getting out of the house for a few hours.

“The atmosphere at mHQ is very relaxing. I felt comfortable, which made my clients feel comfortable. I think because of the great vibe, we had a productive time. The price is the equivalent to hosting coffee or lunch.”

— Cari Forrest

The mHQ Crew is on site to connect you to others and guide you to success. Visit www.momentumHQ.org to book a tour today.

JUNE 1–30

10 am–5 pm

Tuesday–Saturday

From Our Hands Special Exhibit

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

Artwork from four Oklahoma Native American artists.

JUNE 1

Baseball: NJCAA

Division II World Series

Championship

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

8 am–12 pm

Farmers Market

Rowdy Stickhorse (626 S. Hoover)

1–4 pm

Movie at Champlin Pool

Champlin Swimming Pool (400 W. Cherokee)

6:30 – 10 pm

Crown of Enid Pride

Turpin at Gaslight (221 N. Independence)

7 pm

Auto Racing: OCRS

Sprint Series

Enid Speedway (312 E Oxford)

8 pm

Live Music: Country Vault Band

Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)

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

April

Events

9:30 pm

Karaoke

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 2

Baseball: All State

Baseball Game

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 3–7

8:30 am–11:30 1:30–4:30 pm

Leonardo’s Summer Discovery Camp: Discover the Weather

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

JUNE 4

6:30 pm

Trivia

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 5

3:15–4:15

Sensory-Friendly

Family Day

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

7:30 pm

Trivia

Setters Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 6

11 am–12 pm

Veterans Coffee Social

OK Military

History Exhibit (4125 W. Owen K Garriott)

6–8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

6–9 pm

Bingo Night

PJ Champagne Bar (212 W. Randolph)

7:30 pm

SINGO

Setters Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

JUNE 7

FREE Friday (Free Coworking Day)

momentumHQ (1909 W. Garriott)

6–9 pm

First Friday –Downtown Dogfest

Downtown Enid

JUNE 8

8 am–12 pm

Farmers Market

Rowdy Stickhorse (626 S. Hoover)

8 am–12 pm

Mo’s Market (121 S Main, Waukomis)

10 am–2 pm

Sunset Plaza Second Saturday

Sunset Plaza (620 S. Cleveland)

10 am–2 pm

Book Signing: Dr. Lynn Phillips (Maggie) momentumHQ (1909 W. Garriott)

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

2 pm–9:30 pm

Live Music: “This Better Be Good” Celebrating the Life of Dallas Morris

Government Springs Park (399 S. 5th)

5 pm

4RKids Mini Golf

Fundraiser

4RKids (710 Overland Trail)

7 pm

Live Music: All Town RED (302 E. Maple)

8 pm

Live Music: Northwest Passage Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue) 9:30 pm

Karaoke Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 10–15

8:30 am–11:30 1:30–4:30 pm

Leonardo’s Summer

Discovery Camp: Discover Dinosaurs

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

JUNE 11–15

10:30 am, 12 pm, 6:30 pm

Summer Chautauqua

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

60 Years Since the

Civil Rights Act: Lift Every Voice. Workshops at 10:30 am & 12 pm, Feature presentation at 6:30 pm

JUNE 11

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)

JUNE 12

8:30 am–1:30 pm

Women’s Business Summit of Northwest Oklahoma Autry Technology Center (1201 W. Willow)

7:30 pm

Trivia

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 13–16

Baseball: Connie Mack

State Tournament

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

JUNE 13

6–8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. (126 S. Independence)

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.

6–9 pm

Bingo Night

PJ Champagne Bar (212 W. Randolph)

6–9 pm

The Cottage Market:

Night Market

Champlin Park (1198 Sequoyah Dr.)

Homemade goods, herbs, plants & produce

7:30 pm

SINGO

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

JUNE 14–15

Friday: 7–11:30 pm

Saturday: 7–11 pm

Van Buren Cruisers (Van Buren)

JUNE 14

8:30 am

Working Women

Breakfast Club momentumHQ (1909 W. Garriott)

JUNE 15

7:30–10 am

Woodring Regional Airport Breakfast Fly-In

Woodring Regional Airport (1026 S. 66th)

8 am–12 pm

Farmers Market

Rowdy Stickhorse (626 S. Hoover)

9 am–12 pm

Enid Cars & Coffee

Blazes BBQ (1002 W. Willow)

9 am–5 pm

Girls Day Out Enid

Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

9 am

Breakfast with the Blue Dog Gathered (225 S. 30th)

4–7 pm

Van Buren Cruisers Car Show

Chisholm Trail

Professional Building (102 S Van Buren)

7 pm

Live Music: Borrowed Time

RED (302 E. Maple

JUNE 17

5–8 pm

Sensory-Friendly

Family Night

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 18

6:30 pm

Trivia

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

7 pm

DJ Dance w/Dale

Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)

9:30 pm

Karaoke

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 16

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 17–21

8:30 am–11:30

1:30–4:30 pm

Leonardo’s Summer Discovery Camp: Time Travel

(Art & Science of the Past)

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

6–8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. & Eatery (126 S. Independence)

6–9 pm

Bingo Night

PJ Champagne Bar (212 W. Randolph)

7:30 pm

SINGO

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

JUNE 22

8 am–12 pm

Farmers Market

Rowdy Stickhorse (626 S. Hoover)

8 am–1 pm

Plaza Market

Stride Bank Center (302 S. Grand)

Monthly farmers market

JUNE 19–23

Oklahoma’s Best

Baseball Tournament

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

JUNE 19

7:30 pm

Trivia

Setters Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 20

11 am–12 pm

Veterans Coffee Social

OK Military Exhibit (4125 W. Owen K Garriott)

6 pm

Tipsy Artist Class

SpringHill Suites (5815 KL Dr.)

8 pm

Dustbowl Dolls

Burlesque Show

RED (302 E. Maple)

8 pm

Live Music: Bobby

Bennett Band

Moose Lodge (302 E. Purdue)

9:30 pm

Karaoke

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 24–25

Oklahoma State Games

David Allen Memorial Ballpark (301 S. Grand)

JUNE 24

8:30 am–11:30 1:30–4:30 pm

Leonardo’s Summer

Discovery Camp:

Discover Space

10 am–4 pm

Petals and Prosecco

Bridal Event

The Bridal Shop (228 W. Randolph)

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

6:30 pm & 8:30 pm

Comedy Show:

Headliner Trever Carreon

Gaslight Theatre (221 N. Independence)

6–9 pm

Bingo Night

PJ Champagne Bar (212 W. Randolph)

7:30 pm

SINGO

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

JUNE 28

11 am

Website Workshop by Wordy Girl Creative momentumHQ (1909 W. Garriott)

JUNE 29

8 am–12 pm

Farmers Market Rowdy Stickhorse (626 S. Hoover)

10 am–5 pm

Leonardo’s 5th

Saturday: Carnival

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

JUNE 25

6:30 pm

Trivia Night

Enid Axe (104 N. Independence)

JUNE 26 7:30 pm

Trivia

Settlers Brewing Co. (202 E. Randolph)

8 pm

Karaoke RED (302 E. Maple)

JUNE 27

6–8 pm

Trivia

Enid Brewing Co. & Eatery (126 S. Independence)

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

11 am–6 pm

Oddfellow Lodge Family Funday

Oddfellows Lodge (2920 E. Cypress) $10 for food, yard games, bounce house

6–8 pm

Cardboard Boat Races

Champlin Swimming Pool (400 W. Cherokee)

7 pm

Live Music: Drakon RED (302 E. Maple)

9:30 pm

Karaoke

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

Great Neutrals (That Aren't White!) for Brick Exteriors

You may have a list of home-improvement projects you've been promising to get to. Maybe you started inside—by repainting the living room a mood-boosting shade or by redecorating the bedroom with comfortable furnishings. On walks around the neighborhood, admiring other houses, inspiration sets in. How can you update the brick on your house to make it the best-looking one on the block?

Paint can instantly refresh a home's exterior without any major renovation. Anyone who lives in a brick house is probably keenly aware of the pressing paint debate. One side is all for painting brick facades, while the other side is fiercely against covering up original red-brick exteriors. Ultimately, it's your personal preference. Once brick is painted, though, it is very difficult to go back!

Although white is very popular, it might not be the right choice for your home. Here is a chance to explore options for equally (if not more) appealing exterior paint colors. For homeowners with their hearts set on repainting their brick exterior, here are some suggestions from Southern Living that are sure to boost your curb appeal.

Benjamin Moore's Shoreline, 1471

This subtle color exudes a gentle neutral calm color. It can be accentuated with a bold pop of color on the front door. Shoreline is a beautiful soft neutral gray that is easy to layer with any of the cooler colors.

Sherwin-Williams' Black Fox, SW 7020

Another subtle brick exterior color that has the slightest hint of lavender mixed into the gray. This almost-black paint with green and gray tones lends itself to a more cottage feel and allows your home to blend seamlessly into a lush garden landscape. Black Fox delivers a cozy look thanks to greige undertones that prevent it from feeling too stark or standoffish.

Benjamin Moore's Northwood Brown, 1000

When it comes to exteriors, beige isn’t boring! This neutral tone is the perfect background for colorful shutter, door, and roof accents. This color also works well on wood siding in addition to brick. This color remains a favorite with timeless appeal and will complement styles from traditional to modern and everything in between.

Pratt & Lambert's Mountain Quail

Add an extra dose of character to your home with a coat of Pratt & Lambert's Mountain Quail. This neutral color pairs nicely with stone features and works well on any type of exterior.

Benjamin Moore's Boothbay Gray, HC-165

This color is part of the Historic Color Collection, which delivers timeless color that can be used in traditional as well as contemporary spaces. It is a classic released in 1976 to celebrate the US bicentennial. This blue-gray color is for whole brick exteriors, too. It feels more subtle when not popping against a bright white exterior. Boothbay Gray is a cool gray with blue undertones, which gives it a calming and serene feel. It's not too dark or too light, making it a great option for almost any interior or exterior space.

EHS - Year in Review PLAINS of the “Live the Creed"

Enid High Athletic Director, Scott Mansfield, has just finished his first year on the job, which made this a great time to chat with him about the 2023-24 school year, and what they are looking forward to in the future.

“I don’t define success by wins and losses, those are for the morning coffee guys” says Mansfield, “I care more about whether the kids are buying into the team culture, team concept, and team philosophy. I want our athletes to strive academically and learn how to be a part of the community. Ultimately, I want them to be solid citizens, which you can’t really track until they maybe graduate college, maybe get married and have kids. I want them to be successful at life, and athletics can play a part in that.”

That’s not to say he isn’t interested in the product on the field or court, but Mansfield believes in the bigger picture. “Wins are great, and our goal is to be competitive in every sport, but we want winners at life too. And I believe our philosophy helps our student athletes achieve just that,” says Mansfield.

And over this last year, there has been a lot to be proud of – the baseball team made the state tournament, Haley Hibbets finished 5th in state at #1 Singles in tennis, Shae Salinas made the state tournament in girls wrestling, swimming qualified 12 events for the state meet, and the 4X400 track team and a high jumper made the state track meet.

But again, Mansfield is quick to point out that the softball team won the Academic State Championship and several other sports programs won OSSAA Academic Achievement Awards, part of his goal to turn out well rounded student athletes.

Learning Curve

Being a first year A.D., Mansfield says that he’s had to learn a lot about the less publicized sports. “My whole life I’ve been around sports like football and basketball, so it’s definitely been a learning experience to try to understand sports like cross country, swimming, and track and what we need to do to help them succeed. Even “private” sports like tennis and golf present challenges that we have to be able to meet to be able to succeed.”

Mansfield also worked with new head coaches for swimming, football, and golf, and he will be hiring new head coaches for volleyball, girls cross country, and track and pom over the summer. “We want high character and high-quality coaches that will grow our youth programs and instill those traits in our student athletes,” he said.

And while he has not started developing a wish list for the future of facilities, he is really appreciative of the public/private partnerships the district has developed that have helped develop some of the top facilities in the state for baseball, soccer, and soon-to-be tennis. “The partnerships we have had across multiple sports have given us a smother and greatly expedited timeline to be able to provide great facilities for our kids.”

The Future

Next up: Summer Pride. “Summer pride is the building block of great teams. While we cannot require attendance, it is highly recommended, and the coaches and I have set a goal of 90% participation. The sweat these kids put in in July pays dividends in November (the first championships). It is also a time to see coaches really pouring into these kids, especially in sports other than what they coach. We see these coaches supporting other kids and as that support grows, it really helps encourage and develop these kids as people. I want the community to be proud of our kids and our brand. I want unity in the department to reach those goals, and I want people to be proud of what we are doing here. Those are my future goals. Creating productive members of society is real winning in my book,” says Mansfield.

BYDALE N MCVAY

THE LAW OF THE Land Dumpster Divers Deluxe

Well, howdy again Okies! Today’s topic? Raccoons. Cute little fur ry creatures of the night, you say? Hogwash, these little trash can pandas are in large part responsible for the decimation of pheasant, quail, and turkey. Don’t believe me? I bet y’all don’t see near the numbers of birds as years past. Sure, they ar en’t solely responsible, but I read a recent report that raccoons are re sponsible for about 70% of the decline in game birds (along with opossums).

I’m familiar with two dif ferent programs that will pay $10/tail for a raccoon in an ef fort to revive the game bird population. As an example, as to their num bers, I’ve personally caught 24 raccoons in a month on my own little measly twenty acres in which I live. While they also eat plants, they’ll consume eggs, small ro dents, and insects.

Adults range anywhere from five pounds up to thirty-five pounds. I’m told a large male raccoon can squeeze itself into a hole in a tree that’s barely a few inches in diameter.

Breeding from January to March, females will give birth to up to seven cubs (or “kits”) later in the spring, although the average is generally three to four cubs. Most only live to be a couple years old, although some can last up to six years or so.

Ready for the raccoon trapping secret food? Captain Crunch cereal. I’m not kidding. Grab a Z-trap or a Duke trap (with a heavy, long anchor), put out some cereal, and voila, you’ll catch raccoons. Whether making a raccoon-skin cap or simply trying to help the bird population, raccoons need to be minimized in

BYEMILY L EBARON

Hello friends! June to me means family get-togethers and picnics! The two recipes this month can be made ahead of time for any event! The first is Watermelon Water, and it’s sweet, refreshing, and guaranteed to be a hit! The second is a Fresh Fruit Pizza, which is easier to make than it sounds, and way more delicious! Try these out and experience for yourself the taste of summer!

Watermelon Water & Fresh Fruit Pizza NOW SERVING!

Now serving: Watermelon Water and Fresh Fruit Pizza!

Watermelon Water

Makes up to 1 gallon

• Sugar to taste, if desired Ingredients

• 6 cups of seed free watermelon

• 2 tsp of fresh squeezed lime juice

• 3 cups cold water

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Strain if desired, pouring into a glass full of ice.

Fresh Fruit Pizza

Ingredients

• 1 box refrigerated pie crust, room temperature

• 1.5 cups semi sweet chocolate chips

• 1 banana, thinly sliced

• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting

• 1 cup thinly sliced fresh strawberries

Directions

1. Heat oven to 450. Remove pie crusts from pouches: unroll onto a clean work surface. Place 1 crust onto an ungreased cookie sheet or 12" pizza pan. Place the second crust on top of the first crust. Press edges together with a fork or fingers. Bake 10-14 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool for 25 minutes, or while you slice the fruit and prepare the chocolate.

2. Meanwhile, heat sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan over low heat until warm. Add chocolate chips and cook until melted and smooth, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. To assemble pizza, place cooled, baked crust on a serving platter. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the baked crust. Arrange the sliced bananas and strawberries over the frosting. Drizzle with 1/2 cup of chocolate sauce. Cut into wedges and store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Serves up to 8