October/November 2014

Etown • 227 W. Broadway • Enid, OK 73701 Permit No. 2000 Oklahoma City, OK

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Haiti

for the love of running

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Gini Zaloudek

For decades, Gini Zaloudek has been bettering the Enid, Kremlin and surrounding communities with her extensive volunteer work, enriching the lives of our youth. Twenty-three years ago, she had a 5-gallon bucket of golf balls stolen from her backyard by a group of kids that were also involved in other small crimes in the Kremlin community. This lit a spark inside Gini that is still burning strong today. She realized that something had to be done to direct these kids on the right path so she started up the WildHorse Gang. “I thought it was time these kids learned about volunteer work and giving back to the community,” says Zaloudek. “I had a van at the time and hauled them around to everything. It didn’t make a difference if it was a ribbon cutting or an open house, I made them dress up and go with me.”

The WildHorse Gang is involved with a variety of volunteer activities, including roadside clean-up, serving dinners, ushering for the Enid Symphony Orchestra, and most recently, providing homemade cookies for Tour de Trykes participants. One of their re-occurring year-round programs is the WildHorse Aluminum Can Roundup. “This is our 17th year doing this program. We collect cans all year long and do the roundup each June.” This past year, WildHorse Gang collected almost 2,000 pounds of cans. Proceeds from the Aluminum Can Roundup and other fundraisers are used for the upkeep of the Kremlin community, as well as a scholarship for a graduating senior involved in charity work and Kremlin’s education foundation. “Right now, we have about 25 members. The youngest member is two years old and the oldest around 15,” says Zaouladek.

Zaloudek’s volunteer background includes being on the YMCA board since

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1984 and a chairman for the United Way. With all of her volunteer work and community service, you would think Zaloudek doesn’t have room for anything else on her schedule. This doesn’t stop her from making time for her passions, which are travel planning and golf. Zaloudek started working in the travel industry in the early 90’s and shortly after started her own agency, WildHorse Enterprise Travel Agency in Kremlin. “It has been really

good to me,” says Zaloudek. “I love making people happy.” Zaloudek will even deliver tickets to customers personally as an extra benefit. If you happen to be planning a trip soon, don’t hesitate to ask this successful lady for assistance.

Zaloudek is also an avid golfer and tries to play as much as she can. “I spend most of my free time in my yard chipping balls in the mornings or evenings for an hour or so.” She also enjoys spending time with her

11 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and remains in contact with her “other children”, the WildHorse Gang alumni.

“It is fun watching everybody grow since starting this. I think it has turned out to be pretty amazing and I certainly hope I am making a difference in their lives,” says Zaloudek. “I have learned so much from these kids. They have taught me quite a few lessons and it has been a pretty amazing experience.”

1 Enid High School Class of 1984 Reunion Photos by Nancy Killam 1 John Roberts, Wade Cole 2 Donny Ingold, Sarah Murray, Amy Parrish, Krista Dobbs, Lisa Cain, Mickie Reed, Karen Wright, Kelly Killam 3 Doug Wink and Matt Price 4 Group 2

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E contents October/November 2014

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funding classrooms across america: donorschoose.org

Enter DonorsChoose.org. With a headline of “Teachers ask. You Choose,” this teacher-founded organization boasts a remarkable track record of infusing public schools with private dollars.

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Vanhooser & Brownlee to compete in the fireball run

It’s no surprise that Dr. David Vanhooser and Aaron Brownlee were chosen to represent Enid in this year’s Fireball Run. Both heavily involved in the Enid community, the two are taking their hard work and talents on the road for an epic 8-day, 2,000 mile adventure series that will be cast online live for all to see.

28 Let’s Celebrate Food!

Being a mom is really hard work! You’re “on the clock” potentially 24/7. You don’t

even get lunch breaks! Every day moms are teaching language skills, manners, safety, anger management, self-control, potty skills, and empathy just to name a few.

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There’s something about the people of Haiti that refreshes your soul. Though they don’t have much and some have none, there’s a joy that flows out of them that could only come from Jesus Christ himself.

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ETown Fashion week

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Enid spca

E-towns first ever Fashion Week was a blast and I can’t wait for Fashion Week 2015. We have bigger plans . It was more than Fashion it was a way to show off a portion of what Enid has to offer.

Earlier this summer Enid Animal Control officers responded to an emergency call. A little terrier-mix puppy had just been found, rescued by a family who heard her cries from inside a black trash bag left in a dumpster.

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October/November 2014 Volume 8, Number 5 Managing Director Frank Baker Art Director Theotis Pace Project Coordinator Lynne Benkendorf Etown Promotions Director Cathy Nulph Writers Candace Krebs Robert Barron Jacque Hince Cathy Nulph Trina Walker Liz Cady

Elaine Bigge Skylar Osburn Photographers Muncy Photography Nancy Killam Kelly Killam Cammeron Kaiser Dawn Muncy Lori Coonrod Lisa Bland-Selix The Grays

Holly Gannett Account Executive Cathy Nulph Cover Dr. David Vanhooser and Aaron Brownlee Photographer: Wess Gray

SUGGESTIONS Do you have an idea for future stories for Etown? We’re always looking for good ideas of people and places to feature.

If you have a suggestion give us a call at 580-548-8186 or e-mail fbaker@eaglemkt.com.

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1 1st Annual Soiree at the Villa with Country music star Terri Clark Photos by Nancy Killam 1 Nancy Rahm & Terri Clark 2 Cat & the Boys with Terri Clark 3 Cathy Nulph & Nancy Rahm 4 Gaye Toews, Julie Hill 5 Cisi Canady and Nubbin Roggers 6 Terri Clark

7 Connie Bittle & Frank Baker 8 Shannon Perry, David Miller, Leah Miller, Donnie Miller 9 Debbie Owen, JoAnn Grayson 10 Linda Daigle, Dana & Steve Percefull,

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October is customer appreciation month at

Story by Robert Barron Photos by Nancy Killam

Co-owner Jennifer Fug azzi said Para mount celebrates its customers duri ng the month of October.

Anyone curious about his or her hom e’s value is invited to call Paramount during the month and receive a free commercial home analysis. If you have considered selling or buy ing a home, or just want an idea what your home is wor th, give Paramount a call at 237-6200. Dan and Jennifer Fug azzi and their representatives are ready to help you .

Paramount Homes Real Estate was begun in 2008 by Jennifer and Dan Fugazzi.

Because of Dan Fugazzi’s military career, they also enjoy helping military members’ families find and sell homes as they transition into and out of Enid.

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Their goal when establishing Paramount Homes Real Estate Co. was to find a better way to serve the public with competence, integrity, and superior service. Due to dedication to those principles Paramount has become the number one real estate company in Enid, Fugazzi said. They have 15 real estate professionals in their firm who bring hard work and unique experience in helping people find the right home, or sell their home for the best price.

Fall is a good time for home shopping. Next to spring, fall is the busiest season for home buying and selling, according to Realtor.com. The season offers benefits to home buyers including year-end tax breaks, pleasant weather for moving and a wide selection of homes for sale.

In addition, homeowners are buying before the deep winter freeze, which appeals to many home purchasers. The new home owners will be settled in before the holidays, as well.

105 N. Grand Enid, Oklahoma 73701

www.ParamountHomesRE.com Etown Sponsor Content

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: a c i r e m A s s o r c A s m o o r s s a l C g Fundin g r o . e s o o h C s r o Don ings and budget ere statistics, rank wh a om ah kl O In

blic school classhighlight what pu tly en ist ns co lls lebrate a creative shortfa not have, we can ce do s nt de stu d an rooms nts. e funding for stude way of getting mor

Enter DonorsChoose.org. With a headline of “Teachers ask. You Choose,” this teacher-founded organization boasts a remarkable track record of infusing public schools with private dollars. Of the nearly $245 million they sent to classrooms in all 50 states since 2000, only $5.2 million has come to Oklahoma, with a tiny portion benefitting children in the Enid area.

The online charity concept, driven by

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teacher requests, is simple. DonorsChoose. org explains, “We make it easy to help classrooms in need. Public school teachers post classroom project requests which range from pencils for poetry to microscopes for mitochondria.” Then, anyone can give-individuals, companies, foundations. Donations from $1 up go directly to the project that donors choose by “shopping” for their favorite on the website.

A few remarkable statistics: Teachers participate at no cost. The average funded project is $652, and most projects are funded in less than a month. Seventy percent of all requests are funded, with many dollars coming from outside the community in which the request was written. Enid has 9 requests posted of the 16,525 posted as of June 24.

Molly Helm, former Enid Public School board president, hopes our community will embrace DonorsChoose.org.

“Other districts train and encourage teachers to use this tool, with amazing results.

Community members can give to support a particular school, teacher or subject area.

I have been giving through DonorsChoose. org for three years, and I love getting thank you notes from the kids. Let’s improve our education by encouraging teachers to ask, and then voting for their projects with local dollars.”

Donations are tax-deductible, and DonorsChoose.org runs a lean operation with little overhead. Teachers can sign up and set up a request in less than 30 minutes, and donors can sign in and give in minutes. DonorsChoose.org aspires to give $100 million to 100% of the country’s high-poverty public schools within 5 years.

Charity Ball 2014 Photos by Holly Gannett 1 April & Tom Davis 2 Ryan & Kristi Fossett 3 Dr. Kevin Shimanek and Mindi Shimanek 4 Todd & Cindi Earl 5 Joe Jackson & Brooke Potter 6 Hallie & Chad Caldwell 7 Michaela Goulart Barbara Ann Depriest Stephanie Vanhooser 8 Janet Cordell, John Hodgden, Tina Ruding, Jennifer & Dan Fugazzi 1

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ALS United Way Ice Bucket Challenge Photos by Lisa Bland-Selix Ken Helms, Pamela Ballard, Corey Groendyke, April Danahy, Jessica Andrew, Aaron Brownlee and Alan Clepper

1 Mason, 1 ½, and Nicole Winfield take a rest from playing and volunteering at the Farmer’s Market.

2 Caroline, Clara and Holden Caldwell pose Farmer’s Mkt Dog Days Of Summer with their puppy.

3 Cashion, grandson of Delena and John Photos by Lisa Bland-Selix Hardaway, plays in the barn playhouse.

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4 Isabell Groendyke gets in the Dog Days spirit with her face paint.

5 Ashley Swansiger , Volunteer at Enid SPCA, shows off one of the adoptees.

6 Terri Walters and Ken Kelsey of Longwood Farms show off some of the produce from their Oklahoma Centennial Farm.

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e e t t e e p p m m oo C C o o t t e e e e ll n n w w o o r r BB & & r r e e s s o VVaannhhooo e Big ge d

By Elain Lori Coonro y b s Photo

It’s no surprise that Dr. David Vanhooser and Aaron Brownlee were chosen to represent Enid in this year’s Fireball Run. Both heavily involved in the Enid community, the two are taking their hard work and talents on the road for an epic 8-day, 2,000 mile adventure series that will be cast online live for all to see. Now on its 8th sea-

Aaron Brownlee and Family

son, Fireball Run turns the Midwest into an interactive game board with Vanhooser and Brownlee as one of the forty teams in this lifesized trivia game aiding in the recovery of missing children.

Vanhooser has been living in Enid since 2001 and is currently Ward 6 City Commissioner as well as Chief of Cardiovascular Sur-

Donna Vieth, Sheila Goering, Stephanie Vanhooser

Phoenix Albright, Hennessey Chism, Alexis Yoha, Alexis Casion, Katie Zuech, Regan Wagner, Alanna Brehm, Heather Wilkinson

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Aaron Brownlee and Dr. David Vanhooser

Alan and Karen Clepper

Dr. Vanhooser, Aaron Brownlee and Wess Gray Photo by Wess Gray gery at the Integris Heart and Vascular Institute of Northwest Oklahoma. He has been a part of the racing scene for years and will be lead driver behind the wheel of his swanky 2009 Aston Martin DBS when he hits the road with Brownlee on September 27. “The other contestants consist of elected officials, celebrities and important business leaders,” says Vanhooser. “I’m excited we get the chance to bring them to Enid and show them what we are all about.”

Co-driver Aaron Brownlee is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Wymer Brownlee, a financial, tax and accounting firm headquartered in Enid. “To be asked to participate was a big honor for me,” says Brownlee. “I’m looking forward to spending some time on the road with Dr. Vanhooser. I think this is going to be a time in our lives we will never forget.”

The event’s organizers describe Fireball Run as Trivial Pursuit

coming to life. Teams compete in a variety of challenges based on local history, culture, geography and attractions along their route from Frisco, Texas to Independence, Missouri. “One of the most important things about Fireball Run is participating in the recovery of missing children,” says Vanhooser. “Each team is assigned a missing child and given about 1,000 posters to hand out in each of the towns.”

Since 2007, there have been 42 recovered children following the Fireball Run promotion, making it the largest and longest active child recovery program in the country. “The things we get to do along the way are pretty special and I can’t wait to participate in this once-ina-lifetime opportunity,” says Brownlee. “If we can find some kids along the way, then that would be the cherry on top.”

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Katie Good Story Provided by the Good Family Photo by Dawn Muncy

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Katie is is the youngest of four children.

She has two older brothers and an older sister.

She loves to play and be outside.

She enjoys swinging and going down the slide. She loves to be in water and she got to swim in the lake and build sand castles for the very first time this year. When she is at home, Katie likes to play babies with her sister. She does gymnastics and enjoys being in a “mommy and me” class with kids her own age. She goes to church and likes to play with her many friends there. A favorite trip is to the local coffeehouse where Katie gets her favorite pink princess drink, sits on “her” barstool and jabbers with the barista! Katie is the biggest girly girl and loves to play dressup and wear a bow in her hair. Katie enjoys life and lives each day to the fullest. She loves to run and play is a joy to everyone she meets!

On November 1, 2011, Katie was born premature by emergency c-section. She weighed 4 pounds, 15 ounces. She was tiny but did not have any other problems.

We started to notice some differences in Katie when she did not meet normal developmental milestones. At that time, her doctor thought that it was because she was premature and told us that we should expect some delays. When Katie was 14 months old she still was not walking or talking, we realized there was something wrong. After we shared our concerns with our doctor, he recommended physical therapy and a visit to a developmental specialist. Katie was diagnosed with a loose lax form of cerebral palsy. With the help of physical therapy she started walking at 20 months. Katie started having seizures and the neurologist sent her to have an EEG and an MRI. The EEG came back normal but the MRI showed a mass. We felt like the rug had been pulled out from under our feet. After consultation with the neurosurgeon, he recommended a new removal process for the mass. After many weeks and several treatments, we found out the Wednesday before Easter that Katie was cancer-free!

Because of Katie’s continuing developmental delays, she is undergoing further testing.

We are hoping that the testing will provide the answers we have been searching for.

Despite the obstacles in Katie’s life she is happy and loves to play and spend time with her family!

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1 Oscar Ray, ShIronbutterfly, Bud Reese, Christopher Sneed, Jared McClellan, Malindi Fickle and Liza Politi 2 JC Charley England, Russell Edington and FLY Film Festival Sheri Wise show off their Zombie skills and Photos by Lisa Bland-Selix makeup looks by Nate Bright and Jenna Green.

3 LY Film festival participants gather for a photo at the brunch at Five80 CoffeeHouse. James

Wray, Norman, Bunee Tomlinson, Edmond, Gerald Huckleberry, Valiant, and Bud Reese, Enid.

4 The Marble Hornets pose with a fan. Back row, Joseph DeLage and Troy Wagner, Megan Heald and Tim Sutton 5 Shadowleaf Joyce and her hand-crafted Fly Festival Awards

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Photo by Kellie Scott

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Emmanuel Baptist Church plays an important part in the lives of numerous Enid area citizens. Many families even have their beginnings within the walls of the church.

Such is the case for Emmanuel members Don and Tina Lavicky.

“We met at EBC in divorce care ministry after we experienced failed marriages,” said Tina.

Since that humble beginning the Lavicky family has prospered and grown to include five children. When they married, Don and Tina brought three children to the marriage and have been blessed with two more during the last 14 years of their union.

“We have had challenges with a blended family but have never used the terms ‘step’ or ‘half ’ in our household,” said Lavicky. “One thing that has helped our blended family survive is for me to allow Don to love and discipline my boys as his own.

Church is a big part in the lives of the Lavickys.

“We love Emmanuel and very seldom are away,” said Tina. “We enjoy the praise and worship along with the preaching of the truth, which is one thing that has impressed us about EBC.”

At Emmanuel, the Lavicky family finds themselves surrounded by people who know the Bible and God’s Word and also practice the principles taught in scripture.

“I came to know Christ at a young age,” said Tina. Don came to know Christ when he was in his twenties.

Tina’s family has been in Enid for a great many years and her great-grandfather was a Mennonite preacher in the Enid area before the founding of Enid Mennonite Brethren church. Her grandfather was a deacon at Enid Mennonite Brethren.

Don’s family also has a history in Enid.

His great-grandfather immigrated to the

United States in 1903 and farmed land at the northwest corner of Willow and Garland.

“His grandfather was born there and he also farmed, was in dirt construction business and repaired heavy equipment,” said Tina.

The business was passed down to Don’s father, Charles, and then passed down

to Don. Charles and his wife, Helga, started what became Don’s main business: Lavicky Sand Co. The business is now 36 years old.

“We love Enid, Oklahoma,” said Tina.

“And cannot think of any better place to live.”

Don and Tina’s five children are Elijah, Breydon, Ethan, Noah and Mia.

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Tours de Tyrke Photos by Nancy Killam

1 Start of ride 2 Thomas Shaw, David Marang from Edmond 3 Connor & Danny Maxey 4 AMBUCS Folks 5 Vance Cycling Team 6 Katheryn Gann, Joe Dorman 7 Jesse with Mom Renee and Brian Skaggs

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8 Madeline & Connor Choate, Glenn McDaniel 9 Bikers 10 Matthew Abbey - MaKayla, Brianna, Todd & Jessa Mueller 11 Bikers

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“Continuation of a Legacy”

by Audra W. Harris Photos by Nancy Killam

Jessie Godwin

Meet Jessie Godwin, the newest pharmacist at Scheffe Prescription Shop in downtown Enid. She is just one of the many friendly faces you will see when you visit Scheffe’s to have a prescription filled or have questions about your medication.

Being from Lindsay, Oklahoma and having attending the University of Oklahoma, Godwin has strong ties to Oklahoma. Having recently graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, Godwin was hired to work at Scheffe’s

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after a professor of hers sent in her contact information. This worked out wonderfully for Godwin, as she was highly interested in working for an independent pharmacy. “I was really nervous to come to a town where I didn’t know anybody,” Godwin said, “Now I’m very glad that I decided to accept my job at Scheffe’s. I love working with the people here.”

While there are many pharmacists at Scheffe’s who have a bit of family history with the profession, Godwin happened

into it almost by chance. While discussing possible career paths with her mother in high school, a t.v. commercial aired for the OU College of Pharmacy; “Of all of the jobs I’d looked into, pharmacy sounded the most interesting. From then on, I worked towards becoming a pharmacist” Godwin said.

This profession supported her interests in chemistry and biology and combined them with her desire to work with people.

Pharmacists have a large amount

Jessie Godwin

of responsibilities. Yes, they put together prescriptions, but there is much more to it than that. According to Godwin, pharmacy also include checking prescriptions, compounding medications, counseling patients on their medications (which ones should they take?

Is this medication going to have any negative reactions with something that I’m already taking?) and giving vaccinations.

With all of this, one has to ask what it is that Godwin enjoys most about her job. “My favorite part of the job is working with the patients,” Godwin states, adding, “I like helping them understand their medications better and to help them with any problems or questions they may have. I also enjoy the time I spend with my colleagues. They are a fun bunch of people to be around.”

All of these friendly faces are there to greet you, the customer. Scheffe’s now has several locations: 1925 W. Owen K Garriott, 330 S. 5th Street, and 127 E. Randolph, where you’ll find Godwin!

127 E. Randolph • Enid, OK 73701 • (580) 233-2152 * 1925 W. Owen K Garriott Road • (580) 242-3784 330 South 5th • Enid • (580) 233-2128 Etown Sponsor Content

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Let’s Celeb Downtown Kitchen Store Presents

Let’s Celebrate Food!

By Ebby Stratton

Photos by Nancy Killam

Ivy Epps birthday party at DKS

Ivy Epps

Being a mom is really hard work! You’re “on the clock” potentially 24/7. You don’t even get lunch breaks! Every day moms are teaching language skills, manners, safety, anger management, self-control, potty skills, and empathy just to name a few. If moms are lucky enough for their child to take a nap, then that’s when they pick up all the fun mess-

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es and think about what’s for dinner. There is just no down time in a mom’s world! Whether a ‘working at home’ mom or a ‘working outside the home’ mom, all moms have their hands full. Being a mom really is hard work!!

It’s vital that moms keep their spirit up amidst all the dirty diapers and messy rooms.

Every mom needs a little down time for her-

self. An evening with girlfriends is needed for moms to keep their sanity; mom friends can relate to each other like no other. Recently, Megan Lippard, a friend of Ivy Epps, called Downtown Kitchen Store and asked about having a private birthday party for Ivy. Of course Jessica Andrew, owner of DKS, agreed. Jessica loves to open the demonstra-

brate Food Ivy and Friends tion kitchen at DKS for any kind of cooking adventure.

DKS has had many cooking classes, private parties, and recently was the site of Enid’s own Tossed cooking competition. Talk about fun – something is always happening in the kitchen at DKS!! Enid is blessed to have an awesome store full of kitchenware needs, cutlery, pots and pans, kitchen linens, and even a large array of gourmet food items! Seriously, DKS has everything a kitchen could ever dream for!

Ivy’s birthday party at DKS was the perfect opportunity for good friends to share an evening out combined with a cooking demonstration. Good friends and good food – what a delicious combination! Ivy and her friends got to visit and laugh and just enjoy some ‘me’ time. I asked Ivy to share her thoughts on ‘me’ time and how she managed to grab it since she has two adorable little boys under the age of four. This is what Ivy shared with me; “Me’ time- such a rare thing for a mommy. It may consist of a girl’s night out with fellow moms, a pedi and a chance to catch up with a friend, or even just using the restroom alone! It is so important for us moms to take a little time for ourselves. It helps to have a break and gives us a chance to actually MISS our little ones! As a mom I try and give 100% to my family, don’t get me wrong, this is how I feel it should be and wouldn’t have it any other way! That said, always being the last to get dressed, eat and go to sleep can wear you out. Having a “break” gives you something to look forward to. Maybe a reason to wear that new top or paint your nails, and to remember that YOU are important too! So taking a little time for yourself is good, no need to feel guilty, dad can handle it for a little while. Remember, if mommy’s not happyNOBODY is happy!”

I know every mom can relate to exactly what Ivy shared with me!

These women are doing something beautiful and complicated and challenging and joyous and essential. Being a mom is THE most important job in the world!

If you are interested in having a private party at Downtown Kitchen Store, you can reach Keep it up all you moms out there - You’re changing the Jessica Andrew at 580-540-9448. Or you can email Jessica at downtownkitchenstore@gmail. world!! com Do yourself a favor and ‘like’ their Facebook page, it’s full of cooking ideas!!

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INTEGRIS Welcomes New Physician Dr Armstrong

As one of the newest OB/GYN physicians at INTEGRIS, Dr. Armstrong is extremely passionate about his field and is excited to be a part of the INTEGRIS team.

Born and raised in Oklahoma, Dr. Armstrong attended Oklahoma State University where he earned his undergraduate degree. After receiving his Medical Doctorate from Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Tulsa in 2010, he ventured up to Akron, Ohio to complete his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Summa Akron City Hospital.

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If you were to tell Dr. Aaron Armstrong before he went into medical school that he would one day be an OB/GYN, he would tell you that you were crazy. “I had always known I wanted to do something surgical, but this completely surprised me,” says Dr. Armstrong. “It wasn’t until my third year of medical school when I had my OB/GYN rotation that I realized I had a passion for it. I ended up loving the patients I saw and really enjoyed taking care of them through this great time in their lives and their female health later on in life too.”

“I was excited when the position in Enid became available. INTEGRIS is a great facility. I get to work with great people and it is close to family.”

Dr. Armstrong is one of the physicians at INTEGRIS that will be performing surgeries on the da Vinci Si robotic surgical system that was recently added to the hospital. INTEGRIS brings to Enid the only robotic surgery program in Northwest Oklahoma offering tremendous value to the region and surgical staff. The da Vinci Si has several unique features including high-

definition 3D vision and a magnified view, enhancing each surgeon’s capabilities. “It is very state of the art,” says Dr. Armstrong.

“This is a great tool in the minimally invasive side of surgery these days. Recovery is much faster and there is less blood loss and less risk for infection.”

Dr. Armstrong completed his robotic surgery training during his residency program in Ohio and has about 80 cases logged on the robot. His common procedures include hysterectomies, removal of ovarian cysts and fallopian tube removal. “You have a

3-dimensional vision and can zoom in as close as you want. The dissection capabilities are fantastic. You can do minute dissections very easily with the robot where as it would be more difficult with an open case or a straight stick laparoscopic procedure where the visualization isn’t quite as good.”

When talking about INTEGRIS, Dr. Armstrong is extremely passionate and appreciative. “INTEGRIS is really dedicated to serving the community the best they can. They are dedicated to Enid, their patients and their staff and I am very happy to be working here.”

Outside of work, Dr. Armstrong enjoys spending his free time with family. He and his wife Summer are proud parents of two children: Ava, 3, and Smith, 4 months. “We are so excited to be back in this area close to our families,” says Dr. Armstrong.

Since they moved here in July, they have spent more weekends than not visiting relatives in Oklahoma. “This is an exciting time for us right now. We really enjoy Enid and could not be more excited to be here.”

Dr. Armstrong is now seeing patients at INTEGRIS Obstetrics and Gynecology in Enid. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 580-977-1854.

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Haiti Story Provided Photos by Cammeron Kaiser

Lilian playing with a girl in Transforma- Tana Redelsperger with an orphanage girl, she wanttion Village ed her picture with every person there

Some of our girls with the village kids

There’s something about the people of Haiti that refreshes your soul. Though they don’t have much and some have none, there’s a joy that flows out of them that could only come from Jesus Christ himself.

When my friend, Tana Redelsperger, came home from Haiti last summer she called and said, “Cammeron, you have to go with me next year.” Without question I said,

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“I’m in!” I decided to take my oldest daughter. We set off on a journey of fundraising, selling cupcakes (we dubbed Haiti Cakes) cleaning houses and writing letters. About a billion cupcakes later and with the generous donations of some amazing people, we were ready to go.

One of the things that really drew me to this particular organization was that they

weren’t set out to adopt out the children.

Their goal is to give the kids their basic needs, teach them how to be amazing and send them out into Haiti to change it from within. That is a powerful mission. Mission of Hope provides meals for 70,000 children a day all across Haiti. It also provides Christcentered education for 6,000 children yearly, through the aid of sponsorships. Mission of

Ally & Adrian Moore with some village kids after kids club

The girl that lived in the house we painted was so excited, she jumped in to help and was covered in paint when we were done

Giving Pedicures to the “mommies�

Hope has also partnered with the Haitian government to build permanent housing in the village of Leveque for the many people displaced after the January 2010 earthquake in Port-au-Prince.

Our goal on this trip, aside from squeezing babies, was to help these poor people and show them the love of God. What actually happened was, while we did help them with

Shelli Streck, Makayla Kuykendall & Ally Moore holding babies in Transformation Village

Two orphan sisters descovering the selfie cam on Sarah Kuykendall’s phone physical needs, they showed us more love than we could ever imagine. In the midst of painting houses, massaging feet & planting trees, our eyes were opened and our hearts were filled. So many Americans have so much, yet struggle to find happiness. The people of Haiti are on to something. It was an absolute joy to work alongside our translators. They were able to tell us personal

stories, introduce us to family and show us a side of Haiti we would not have seen from the outside looking in. We were told that not many groups bring children. The fact that we had so many with us showed the Hatians we trusted them and could be trusted in return.

I believe having the children with us gave us more opportunities than if we had gone without them. I am ever so grateful for the

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The whole group, 38 in all, 15 were kids

opportunity I was given. We fell in love and left a piece of our hearts in Haiti.

We are hoping to return for years to come.

Haiti Cakes is back in business!! If you would like more information on Mission of Hope you can visit www. Two little village boys that chased the bus all the way down the road to wave goodbye mohhaiti.org.

Cammeron Kaiser

When my mom told me we were going to Haiti I was excited. I didn’t know what we were going to be doing, but I knew I wanted to go. Seeing the way they lived made me more grateful for everything I have at home. My favorite part was painting the Mommy’s toenails at the orphanage. I also loved playing with all of the kids. I am very excited to go back.

Lilian Kaiser - 11

One experience I really enjoyed was kids club. We went to a tiny church Reagan Redelsperger holding a baby in Trans- I found a 3 month old that needed a cuddle while taking a break from painting.. that was packed with kids and just had formation Village a lot of fun with them. We did skits about Bible stories and sang songs.

Even though we were all really hot and sweaty we were having an amazing time because we were praising God with the kids. One Haitian girl with a beautiful voice sang worship songs in Creole and then in English. All the kids were having so much fun it was hard to say goodbye.

Ashyln Beagley - 13 Jay Redelsperger playing with a girl from the orphanage

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Lil & I with 4 of our translators. Doc, George, Joseph & Elephet.

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Fashion

Stylist works her magic on one of the models.

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W Week

E-towns first ever Fashion Week was a blast and I can’t wait for Fashion week 2015. We have bigger plans. It was more than Fashion, it was a way to show off a portion of what Enid has to offer. We have cool cars, lighting , bridal gowns, clothing, hairStylist’s, makeup artist, even Kitchen attire, and of course our local photographers that will blow your socks off.

Thanks to Grand Ave lighting Curtwright Honda, The Enid Event Center for your support.

Cathy

Nancy Killam and Norma Kaiser get ready for their turn on the runway.

Bobbie Miller of News 9, OKC, and Cathy Nulph

Janet Guerrero puts some curls in Rebecca Ralstin’s hair.

Corey Groendyke and Chris Anderson

Jessica Pawelek, Ian Coppersmith and Becky Kroeker

Shannon Armstrong, Sydni Classen Wearing Carli Wakens Dress

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7 “Shoe Dance” Models

2 LeeAnn Hallman mdeling a

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DKS Apron

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Nulph & Models

JWL’s Return Engagement

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5 Jill Lasiter

12 Ellie Fuksa

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13 “Honda” Models

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E-towns Style Savvy contest winner

During Fashion Week stylists were assigned a store where they put together their version of a style savvy outfit. The public voted on the winner. Pictured is the winning outfit and Jeanice Manning was the winner. Her outfit was from Posh by Haylee in Hertitage Hills Shopping Center.

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By: Elaine Bigge Photos by Dawn Muncy

Stepping through the doors of Pearl Junkie in downtown Enid will immediately bring out your inner princess. Decorated with crowns and pearls, the chic atmosphere is full of trendy and affordable clothing and accessories for ladies aging 15 to 70 and beyond.

Inspired by Jada Cecil and her obsession with crowns, along with her mother-in-law Sharon Scott, and her love of pearls, the Pearl Junkie brand is making a name for itself in Enid and surrounding areas. “I’m the original Pearl Junkie, because I just love pearls, even

a mixed print. We love stripes, floral, cheetah and we love mixed prints,” says Jada. The two have also started a collegiate line with Miss Poke and Miss Boomer styles in orange and crimson with black and white stripes.

Currently Jada and Pearl have three stores, one in downtown Enid and the other two in Mangum and Stillwater with a fourth store location in the works. “We really believe in our stores and want to keep growing them,” says Jada. “We are also wholesaling to about 14 other stores throughout Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana and Utah.” The two are also working to go to market soon so they

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more than diamonds,” says Sharon, who is nicknamed Pearl. “We decided to use pearl in the name and incorporate the crown logo to make it a part of both of us,” says Jada.

This past June, Jada and Pearl flew to Los Angeles to start the creation of their very own Pearl Junkie mixed prints clothing line.

There are currently around 11 styles available, each style having its own powerful, feminine name. One of the most popular styles is Sophia, a leopard print with coral stripes. “Everything in our line is

can hopefully reach more of a department store network as well as more boutiques.

Along with being on the hunt for a fourth store location, the duo is also searching for a mobile boutique that they can drive around to different cities to sell their clothing. “We have been looking for the right vehicle that we won’t tip over,” says Jada. “Because we are not good drivers,” laughs Pearl. “We want it to be called the Pearl Mobile.”

When asking Jada what advice she has for young designers, she responds, “I think that you have to believe in your products. So many people try to sell us a product for our

stores. If we don’t like it and wouldn’t wear it ourselves we will not sell it. Some people may tell you differently, but we feel that we should stick with our style so we believe in what we are selling 100 percent.”

When shopping for a night out on the town, casual afternoon attire or the infamous leopard cardigan, which is the one item every woman should own in Jada’s opinion, stop into 209 N. Independence and treat yourself to the fashionable attire of Pearl Junkie to bring out the princess in you.

MEGAN WHEELER

By: Elaine Bigge Photos by Dawn Muncy

From Buddha heads to butterflies and nature scenes to skulls, INKnBURN athletic apparel line will have you standing out in the crowd, whether it is at a race, in your local gym, or even just a trip to the store.

Founded in 2009 by Enid native Megan Wheeler and her husband Rob Tsuyuki, INKnBURN brings you an athletic apparel that is edgy, vibrant, colorful and one of a kind. The company’s apparel is created by artists and that makes art the focus. Instead of coming in your basic solid colors, the apparel is covered in eye-catching designs with a variety of dazzling patterns that will capture the attention of everyone around.

Unlike most athletic brands, INKnBURN is made by a process called dye sublimation. The designs are pressed onto each and every section of the shirt, shorts, or whatever the piece may be. “By creating our piece this way, it allows us to control the art on every sleeve, front, back and wherever the art hits,” says Megan. “We are able to make the art proportional to each garment and make a much higherquality piece of clothing by doing this.” Everything is manufactured in the USA in Costa Mesa, California, and tested by a number of athletes to ensure it is the best it can be.

To make sure that the clothing is comfortable for long-wear and intense athletic activities, Megan and Rob have ultra-runners test their clothing. These ultra-runners will run as much as 100 miles at a time and report back to INKnBURN anything that needs to be changed to make the piece 100 percent. “Our apparel is super comfortable, easy to wear and performs great. They work great for ultra-runners, but also to go to the gym, run, walk, do yoga, or even to sit and watch television,” says Megan. The company also has a large number of athlete ambassadors that wear the product and spread the word on how amazing it is. These ambassadors are located all over the United States, from California to North Carolina, as well as Thailand, British Columbia and the Netherlands. The variations of terrain and weather that the ambassadors train in are even more proof to why this product is perfect for any athlete out there.

INKnBURN started off as just an online brand but is now making its way into stores, including Enid’s For You! Boutique. “I’m really excited to have a store in my hometown carrying our products. That makes me really happy,” says Megan. “We have created something really unique out in the marketplace and our goal is to spread the word and get people to know us and find us through stores and online.

We have a very strong following in the running community but we are starting to grow beyond that and become more of a lifestyle brand.”

The next time you plan on shopping for athletic gear, be sure to stop by For You! Boutique at 212 West Randolph in Enid, or visit www.inknburn.com to check out Megan’s awesome INKnBURN clothing line. You never know, you may even find yourself becoming the next INKnBURN ambassador!

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We would like to thank the following individuals & businesses for making this year’s Tour de Trykes and Criterium possible.

Enid Noon Ambucs

Sponsors / Supporters City of Enid Mitchell & DeClerck PLLC VISIT Enid Chick-fil-A Chisholm Trail Broadcasting Rib Crib St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center Jayla Tuck Cancer Foundation The Bike Shop The Wildhorse Gang Vance AFB / PAE Oakwood Bowl OneSOURCE Managed Services Quiznos Sandwich Restaurant Ward Petroleum Corporation Leadership of Greater Enid AdvancePierre Foods Enid Young Professionals Enid News & Eagle / Eagle Marketing The Marines Parrish Manufacturing Group

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Boy Scouts of America Troop 11 Integris Bass Baptist Health Center Boy Scouts of America Troop 27 Cummins Equipment Enid Roller Girls Advanced Water Solutions Altra Footwear Best Day Studio Coldwell Banker Realty III Houston Promotions Jumbo Foods Pope Distributing Co. United Super Market West OG&E Jerry’s Ace Hardware Angel Delight Bakery and Eatery Jackson Diamond Jewelers Stevens Ford McDonald’s of Enid PaneVino Wine & Steak Keithly Rehab, PLLC

Callahan’s Pub & Grill Atwoods Oxbow Calcining Copper Pot Catering Buffalo Wild Wings Northcutt-Chevrolet, Buick, Toyota Groendyke Transport Encompass Financial Services, Inc. American Red Cross Cimarron Valley Chapter Messer-Bowers Insurance Collins, Butler & Co. Oklahoma Blood Institue Enid Amateur Radio Club Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma Natural Gas Main Street Enid Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home Little Bit of Seattle Garfield County Emergency Mgmt Edward Jones

Wymer Brownlee Olson Animal Hospital Pond Creek Gym and Tanning Cherry Berry Buck’s Party Shop and Sunshine Balloons Southard House Bed and Breakfast Life EMS Chiropractic Center Denny Price YMCA DKS (Downtown Kitchen Store) Napoli’s Italian Restaurant Starks Tree Care David Allen Memorial Ballpark Cheryl Cooksey, Autry Tech Alan Zrust GYM Central National Bank & Trust Scheibers Donuts & Deli Enid Police Department Rig Power Inc.

Enid Fire Department Red Bull Enid Street Department Jack’s Outdoor Power Equipment North Enid Police Department Affinity Fitness and Beauty Spa Waukomis Police Department Huffman Floral Garfield County Sheriff’s Department Lawn Solutions Cummins Construction InterBank Pioneer Fire Department Enid Event Center Senator Patrick Anderson Robert Hitt – City of Enid Eric Milton - 405 Bicycles Chad Hodges – DNA Racing Tobin Vigil - Buchanan Bicycles Schlegel Bicycles Quiznos

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E-town fashion week, according to my leader Frank Baker, “was like Fashion on Steroids”. The Event was designed to show off local clothing, fashion talent, hair and makeup. Enid has a lot to offer, no need to go elsewhere for a fashion fix. Enjoy the pictures and watch out for Fashion Week 2015

Thanks, Grand Ave lighting for the E-town Fashion lights! They really lit up the place.

See ya around E-town!

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Enid SPCA Annual Fundraiser Tickets On Sale Now

Story & Photos By Trina Walker

Regan Walker finds an affectionate cat ready for a new home. From standoffish to super loving and playful, there is a cat at the SPCA with the personality you are looking for.

Earlier this summer Enid Animal Control officers responded to an emergency call. A little terrier-mix puppy had just been found, rescued by a family who heard her cries from inside a black trash bag left in a dumpster.

The puppy, now known as Millie, was missing her back paw and was so young she didn’t have her eyes open.

The Enid Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals took charge of Millie.

Teamed with the Oklahoma State University Vet School’s Shelter Medicine Program the hurt puppy received the necessary medical care. It is likely that Millie will require one more surgery which will be done at the same time as her spay.

“Millie has been nursed to health by SPCA staff members and her foster mom,” said Vickie Grantz, Enid SPCA executive

director. “We will have Millie healthy and ready to go to her forever home as soon as she gets old enough to be spayed.

Millie’s care was paid for through the SPCA budget and the OSU program. The Enid SPCA provides care for many animals like Millie. This puts a strain on the agency’s finances.

However, the SPCA staff and directors work year round to raise funds. The SPCA

Regan Walker gets big kisses from a dog ready for his forever home.

Synthia Semrad snuggles with one of her newly adopted kittens. The family could not bring themselves to separate the sister kittens so both found their forever home.

Duke

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upcoming Food and Wine Festival is its largest fundraiser of the year.

The 15th annual SPCA Food and Wine Festival showcases decadent food and sampling wines, beers and spirits by more than 40 local, state and national vendors. Proceeds from the event help the agency continue its care for animals.

The Festival is set for 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., November 1st at the Chisholm Trail Expo Center. Private invitations are available for a donation of $30.00 and will be available at the Enid SPCA, Cat Clinic and Buck’s Party Shop on October 1st. Invitations are not available at the door.

“We would not be able to keep our doors open and provide all the services we do without the generosity of those who come out to sponsor or attend the Food and Wine Festival each year,” Grantz said.

“We rely on the funds raised from our annual event to cover about onesixth of our operating expenses each year. The rest comes from donations and grants, not from city, state or federal funds.” This year’s Festival will include a 9 p.m. performance by Michael’s Music Makers.

“We have such wonderful, generous vendors from Enid, neighboring communities, and throughout the state who donate their time and products each year to help the SPCA with the Festival. We depend on their generosity and tasty offerings to make our Festival a success,” said Cathy Wiles, a Festival organizer. Karen Hickman, Enid SPCA board president, said the funds help the agency provide a variety of services.

“Money raised during the Wine and Food Festival help us fund a free pet food pantry, low-cost spaying and neutering for pets in the Enid community, food, shelter and excellent health care

for almost 100 dogs and cats in our care every day,” she said.

Our generous community’s support of the SPCA allows for the continued care of abused animals, just like Millie.

For your private invitation, or more information, contact: the Enid SPCA at 580-233-1325.

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Rebeccas’ take on enid Story and Photos by Rebecca McKenny

Once upon a time, a Texas girl traveled up to Enid with her friend for his dad’s birthday. To her delight, the birthday party consisted of a beer tasting, awesome people, and even a job offer!

I, Rebecca McKenny, that Texas girl, had the privilege of meeting Frank Baker, Director of Marketing at Eagle Marketing. Upon hearing his job title, I quickly turned the conversation towards myself and my current studies in Advertising (as well as my minors in Business and Spanish) and lucky for me, my verbal résumé is much more appealing than my written one. Believe it or not, it’s hard to look good on paper. Anywho, I somehow convinced Frank to give me a job for the summer!

I have now completed my first month at Eagle Marketing, and can honestly say that I’ve had a blast so far. I have very much enjoyed getting to know Frank, Cathy, Lynne, and Theo who are each fantastic in his or her own way. I was even lucky enough to have this photo essay featured in E-town!

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I just want to give a big thanks to Eagle Marketing, Debbie Prescott, one of the leaders of the Enid Summer Achievers Program (ESAP), which is providing me and eight other interns with shelter, Aaron Allen for introducing me to this great town of Enid, and his sister Ryan Zaloudek for convincing ESAP to give me shelter in the first place!

Enid is a sweet, slow little town that wears summer beautifully, dressed in colorful sunsets, adorned with wildflowers galore, and complete with smiling faces that have been nothing but nice to me—even being the foreign girl that was born and raised in Texas and bred to be a Sooner (a double whammy in these here parts). Even despite all of that, I have been welcomed as a friend of Enid—made official by the gold coin I received with the Enid name and logo, which I will forever cherish.

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for the love of running Story Liz Cady Photos by Provided

I wasn’t always a runner. My father was the one to introduce me to it. After basketball season had finished my senior year of high school, I needed a way to keep in shape, and so, I would join my dad on runs (my mom also made me go with him to make certain he didn’t have a heart attack). I didn’t learn to love running then. My dad and I were, and still are, on opposite spectrums when it comes to temperature tolerance. He loved to go running at noon in the summer when the Colorado sun was at its full force. I, on the other hand, counted every single heated step it took to get back to the house wondering why my father was trying to kill his only daughter.

I learned to love running when I went to college. The college gym scene to me was like the bar scene: too many people trying to impress everyone else. My only option to stay in shape was running. So, one week, I decided that I would make it a habit; I would get up every morning and run no matter what protests my mind shouted at me. Before long, I wanted to run!

When we moved to Enid, I met some lifelong friends who introduced me to marathon running. Running became our time to talk, to work out problems, discuss family issues, to laugh with one another, and the miles ticked by without notice. Eight years later, I have ran 19 marathons, including the Boston Marathon, a dozen half-marathons, numerous 10k’s and 5k’s, and my husband now well knows that if I seem to be in a mood, he takes our son and says, “Go run.”

Of my 19 marathons, 15 of them have been in different states, and three of them in Japan. I love how I get to experience a city or a town by running through it. There was the Eisenhower Marathon in Kansas, which was truly

Catherine Gann

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a small town affair with every citizen turning out to cheer and make pancakes for the after-marathon meal; the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, which brought strangers together in a moment of silence and respect; and the Tokyo Marathon, which will always be the most colorfully attired marathon I have ever experienced. Each race offers the ability to immerse yourself in a new place while achieving a goal.

The following local runners all have races under their running belts, from 5k’s to the full 26.2 miles. Each one of them trains differently, and each one of them can inspire anyone to hit the trail.

Catherine Gann at Integris Bass Baptist Health Center was inspired to get back into running when coworkers at Integris talked her into forming a relay team for the OKC Memorial Marathon. “Once I committed, there was no getting out of it,” she explains. Catherine found herself running after work and

Sara Dow, Ashley Ewbank, Kendra Hamilton before the race

Liz Cady

Rachel & Dalen McVay

after taking care of her kids, which provided her with some alone time to relax and gave her a personal sense of accomplishment. “[The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon] was my first race since high school. I don’t know if I would have actually shown up if I had signed up individually. Being part of a team made me accountable and to try harder.” Catherine loved knowing that even after years of not running, she could easily get back into it, and she encourages first time runners to start on with a relay.

Dalen and Rachel McVay, who moved to Enid in 2005, both ran the half marathon in the OKC Memorial Marathon to remember those lost and also to celebrate an exciting upcoming change to their family: a baby! To train for the half marathon, both Dalen and Rachel took advantage of the new trail system in Enid, as Rachel says, “It allows me to avoid traffic, and its central location is great.” Training paid off for the two as they both completed the half marathon with smiles.

Dalen recalls, “There were people cheering us on the entire 13 miles. It was a tremendous reminder of the lives that were lost on that day, and gave me a greater appreciation for all of the first responders who assisted.” Rachel adds, “It was a tremendous experience to see participants mute during the moment of silence, to see other runners helping each other and to see the spectators cheering us along the way.”

Ashley Ewbank of Todd Hamilton Insurance Agency has been running on and off for several years, but it was this year that she put her mind to completing her first 5k race. Ashley’s motivation is her family: “I want to stay in shape and have a healthy lifestyle, and I want my kids to be active, so I think it’s important that I stay active.” Like so many parents out there, running gives Ashley a time to escape from the day-today worries and stresses. Even though it is an escape, it doesn’t mean the commitment is easy. “You just have to make [running] a priority. I have a goal of 6 miles a week; some weeks I do more, some weeks I do less. It’s not a lot, but it keeps me active.” Ashley successfully completed the OKC Memorial 5k and has plans to run it again next year.

While Tricity Andrew doesn’t have much free time outside of her studies as a PhD student at Virginia Tech, the little she does, Tricity spends running. “I tend to stress a lot with school and research, and running is a good stress release for me. When I’m running, I just feel healthy,” she says. Running on the cross country team at the University of Tulsa during her undergraduate years, this year has been the first that Tricity has transitioned to running on her own and not on a team. With a Boston Qualifying time at her first marathon, as well as winning the female division in the race, Tricity was able to experience the Boston Marathon the year after the bombing. “There were spectators cheering literally along the whole course. I wore a Tulsa singlet, and it was so encouraging to hear, ‘Go Tulsa!’ along the way.”

Successful running knows no age or experience. Instead, it’s all about getting out there with a goal and feeling the pride that comes from completing whatever distance you have set your mind upon. And who knows? You might just run yourself into a marathoning addiction.

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Life of a Boy, Death of a Priest

This Labor Day weekend, I was able to see two films on the big screen that I had previously thought I wouldn’t be viewing until sometime after their release on home video. I felt very lucky. As both films would attest to, sometimes life just works out that way. But that isn’t to say they focus more on positive circumstance. Yes, sometimes our brightest moments do shine through our darkest of times. Those moments aren’t always easy to see when you are currently facing or have previously battled abuse, however, and the emotions spawned from and spurned by those times of strife always seem to stack heavier against you than a hug or a smile from someone you love. The best takeaway from these two very different, masterfully-executed films, Calvary and Boyhood, is that no matter which way the scales

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tip, life refuses to slow down.

The mother in Boyhood knows this all too well, and I suspect that many of the women who see this film are going to leave holding their children, the memories of their children, and their hopes for their children a little closer to the heart. And at this point, after only one viewing of what is already being called one of the best movies of the decade, I feel like that’s all that can really be said. This is a film that was made, by and large, to leave a viewer mulling over how his or her past has led to the present and will lead to the future. That’s not to say that the film has no thematic resonance beyond its emotional pin-pricking; it does. It asks questions about the quality of parenthood after divorce, infused with post-9/11 politics or alcoholism or religion, and tries to create

a truly modern human being whose childhood has been overseen with these aspects at hand. But sometimes the universal topics and themes just take a backseat to the personal reflection that a piece of artwork instigates, without degrading its artistic merit.

Calvary doesn’t invite the same discussion about arbitrary distinctions between storytelling as entertainment and storytelling as art. This is 100% art, meditative start to glorious finish. Just as Boyhood is cloaked by the milieu of the 2000s, Calvary is shrouded by the cynical social temperament following the accusations of pedophilia against certain men of the cloth and their subsequent arrests (or releases). This issue has been fought over by so many people from so many different backgrounds, and it could have easily weighed this film down to the point of

making it yet another story that helps no one involved in these tragic cases. The film soars over those possible problems. It becomes a beautiful connecting piece between the sorrowful confusion of the victims and the believers’ unrelenting faith even in the face of disgust. The best compliment that I can give this film is that it provides the only genuine answer to the question of how something like this can be perpetrated by those who are supposed to be intermediaries between us and an infinite source of benevolence. A simple “I don’t know” is the answer given. However, it comes from a man who knows that such a lack of closure must be followed by a genuinely caring ear and shoulder to cry on, and he holds onto this knowledge with a modern, sinking Sodom to his back and a loaded gun to his face like any true man of God would.

Oscar season has kicked off early with these two works, and what I was thinking might be a relatively lackluster fourth quarter is already completely turning around. Of the large selection of upcoming films, the most likely to be represented at the next Academy Awards are In-

arritu’s magical realist, superhero send-up Birdman, Steve Carrel’s dramatic breakout Foxcatcher, Nolan’s next explosive blockbuster Interstellar starring Best Actor of the previous year Matthew McConaughey, and Paul Thomas Anderson’s Thomas Pynchon adaptation Inherent Vices. Boyhood is not only in the same league, but it is also currently the frontrunner for Best Picture. It’s a shame that Calvary is unlikely to garner any nominations at all, but I am more than happy just to have experienced it. And with other releases like James Gandolfini’s grand finale The Drop, Whiplash, Unbroken (which I have my doubts about, but I try to put my trust in the Coens), and Disney’s adaptation of Sondheim’s Into the Woods, we all have much to look forward to.

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Kurt Elliott Financial Advisor A graduate of Enid High School, Kurt Elliott is an Enid High Plainsmen through and through.

Though Elliott went on to Oklahoma State University and even worked in a number of other cities he says nothing compares to being back home. “The people of Enid are in a class by

themselves,” says Elliott who was raised here and has family in town. “Enid is a part of me and I am very excited for the opportunity to serve not only the community, but the people of Enid.”

Elliott is an Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Unlike others, who search for the right career paths, Elliott always knew he wanted to work in finance and work for Edward Jones. “I have just always been interested in the financial markets,” explains Elliott. “I knew from an early age that I wanted to pursue a career in the financial industry and while in college I had the

opportunity to visit with several Edward Jones advisors. I was awarded an internship with Edward Jones. At that point I realized being a financial advisor was definitely the path I wanted to pursue.”

Elliott was first attracted to Edward Jones because of the company’s culture and their dedication to putting clients first. Elliott’s day consists of sitting down face to face with fellow Enid residents and helping them reach goals such as retiring early, paying for their children’s college, or leaving a legacy for loved ones.

“One of the great aspects of my job is that every day I get the opportunity

to work with great people that have unique specific goals for themselves and their families. So the fact that I get to see families reach their goals in life is very fulfilling and really makes me enjoy coming to work every day,” remarks Elliott.

With degrees in finance and management and a minor in accounting, Elliott loves helping clients reach their 58

financial goals. He says the best part of his job is earning those clients trust to not only join them on their financial

journey, but at times, guide the way. “What I am most proud of is that my clients always know they were

treated with respect and integrity as we worked together to achieve their personal goals,� concludes Elliott.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Etown Sponsor Content

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Benefit tourney keeps softball players on winning streak

By Candace Krebs Photos by Lori Coonrod

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball.

Fourteen years ago, fellow members of Steve Kirk’s softball team found out he had scleroderma, a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, connective tissue and other organs.

“He was told by his doctor to get his life in order,” recalls Troy Goodwin, a close friend.

Word spread fast through the northwest district of the Amateur Softball Association. Under the leadership of Donny Childs and Larry Coonrod, Kirk’s team, the Warriors, organized a benefit tournament to raise funds to help pay some of his medical expenses.

Today, the Warriors benefit tournament is still going strong, and Kirk plays alongside friends and family, raising funds for other members of the “softball family” confronted with unexpected medical challenges. Working quietly behind the scenes and under the radar, organizers have raised an unspecified (but likely hefty) sum.

Proceeds from this year’s tourney were earmarked for Melvin Kimmell, of Covington, who is battling brain cancer. He’s a member of the Noble County Merchants, one of the Warriors’ rival teams.

About ten members of the original Warriors team were there to play.

“We wish we could get to the point where we didn’t need to help anybody,” Goodwin says. “That’s what we pray for. But it seems like there’s always somebody who could use a little bit of help.”

“You’re tired, you’re worn out, but at the end of it when you see the faces of the people you've helped, including the people you helped in the past — and they are still there with you — that makes it worth all of the time and effort,” adds Roddy Terry, who has been involved from the start and is now the tournament board’s president.

“Unfortunately, it just seems like whether it’s cancer, or ALS, or anything else like that, you always know somebody who has gone

Hesston Hedges, Haden Hedges, Dusty Seiger, Cory Williams

Members of the Warrior Softball Team with Melvin Hammel

Dusty Gearhard, Tommy Grace, James Dollarhide, Sean Greeley

through it,” he said. “Unfortunately, that’s the case. But you just hope that one of these days, if it’s you or your family, it all comes back around.”

The Warriors Benefit tournament is organized as a 501c3 nonprofit. Potential recipients from within the close-knit “softball family” are asked to submit an application and be willing to go before the board to present their case. Instead of writing a blank check, the group typically pays off bills, buys gas cards to use for travel or makes similar arrangements.

For this year’s tourney in September, participants played golf rather than softball, due to liability issues and limited ballpark access. (“It’s not as physically demanding, which is good with all the surgeries we’ve all

women.”

For his part, Terry sees no reason the Warriors’ string of benefit tournaments should ever end, especially since it has always been a family affair.

“Our kids have always been involved, so we hope they’ll continue to do it,” he said, adding that after all these years there is one reason in particular he won’t let it die. The heart and soul of the tourney is still his close friend, Steve Kirk.

“We started it for him, and I want him to see it continue,” he said. “It’s not just about the money, it’s about them seeing all the support that’s out there and knowing people care.”

had. We can all hack — let’s just put it that way,” joked Goodwin of the switch.) The event, including a silent auction, door prizes and live music, was held at Pheasant Run golf course. Nearly 200 people participated.

Goodwin was 19 years old back when the Warriors started up in the 1980s, during a time when the men and women’s teams numbered in the dozens.

“It’s nothing now like it was 30 years ago,” he says, acknowledging that only a handful of the original teams remain. He credits the change to busier lifestyles and a generation gap. But his earlier participation in softball still casts a long shadow over his life. “I met some of my best friends during that time,” he says. “It was just a great network of people, young and old, men and

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Oakwood Mall Play it Forward Photos by Tana Garrison 1 Cathy Nulph 2 Donnie Record 3 Rebecca McKinney 4 Those Guys

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