McAlester Living December 2017

WINTER 2017

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Local Christmas Tree Farm Prepares for the Holidays

It 's a wonderful life being Claus A couple of high school sweethearts

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McAlester living NEWS-CAPITAL NEWS EDITOR

Adrian O’Hanlon iii EDITORIAL DESIGNER

Marsha Erwin STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Kevin Harvison MANAGING EDITOR

James Beaty EDITORIAL STAFF

Lacey Sudderth SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Amy Johns Heather Scott Becky Sells, D.V.M .

ADVERTISING STAFF

Reina Owens Connie Poole Jana Weddle K atina Legg

Photo provided by Heather Scott LaMon Photography

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CONTENTS

2017

6

happy 22

BEING CLAUS

HOMELESS HOLIDAYS

38

46

HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS

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holid PETS IN COLD WEATHER

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ppy 29

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

Mc ALESTER’S

2016

50

idays

1ST PLACE VETERINARIAN

FOODIE AT HEART

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F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

It’'s a wonderful life being Claus

By James Beaty | Managing Editor

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F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

‘Zat you, Santa Claus?

Some people have a hard time telling where Richard Askew ends and Santa Claus begins.

He, however, has no doubt when the transformation occurs. It has a lot to do with donning a pair of polished black boots a red-andwhite suit, a big black belt and a bright red hat with a snow-white tip on the end. The hair and the long beard are his own.

“I get into that suit and I’m not Richard, anymore,” he said. “I’m Santa.”

When he’s donning his full Santa regalia, he’s in popular demand this time of year. His bright blue eyes behind that fluffy white beard has convinced many a kid that he or she is beholding Santa Claus himself, up close and personal.

Even one skeptical mom had to prove something for herself while her children were visiting with Santa.

“I had one mother come over and pull on my beard one year,” he recalled. She gave it a pretty firm tug, too.

The man donned in red said “Ouch!”

The embarrassed mom quickly tried to explain herself.

She said “I’m so sorry. I didn’t know that was real.” Our Santa let her know he felt a little indignant that she felt it necessary to test him.

“I said ‘Of course it’s real. I’m Santa Claus.”

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Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

W

hat happens when a child requests a particular gift from Santa?

“A lot of times, they’ll tell me about a toy,” our Santa related. “I always ask about their family.

‘Do they know what you want? Tell them, so they can write me a letter.’”

He typically tells children that whatever Santa brings must have the approval of their parents or other caregivers.

“I only bring presents they agree with,” he said. That why a child may learn not to expect a pony under the tree at Christmastime.

He remembers one boy who questioned him closely. It seems he had just visited another Santa at a place down the street. Two Santas? What’s up with that?

First, he needed to learn which Santa had the best credentials. Leaning down, he told the boy to pull on his beard. No fake beards here, the boy learned for himself. He then was told the explanation for the other Santa Claus.

“Santa can’t be everywhere,” our Santa told him. “Sometimes I bring along some of the taller elves to help me.”

Alas, he needed some help in 2011 and 2016, when he didn’t get to do his Santa in McAlester bit because of health issues and injuries, which are now ghosts of Christmases past.

While it no doubt takes a lot of energy to circle the globe on Christmas Eve, our Santa acknowledges he sometimes feels some pains and aches. It seems to dissipate when he’s listening to children tell him of their Christmas dreams.

“I get to sit down in that chair and it all goes away,” he said.

N

Memories ow, he’s even up to doing all-day sessions at the McAlester Public Library. At the library, he’s brought joy not only to children, but some adults as well. One of his

most poignant encounters occurred after a local nursing home brought one of its residents

to see him. She lived in a world where about the only thing she looked forward to each year was the Christmas season, he was told. As soon as one Christmas ended, she started looking to the next one.

Her caregivers thought it would do her a lot of good to get to meet Santa Claus in person.

“They brought her to the library,” he recalled. “She saw me and said ‘Santa!’ and came and flung herself in my lap,” he said, remembering the big smile she had on her face.

It not only seemed to make her happy, but it touched the object of her affection as well.

Even ole Saint Nick can get a little misty-eyed at the memory.

“Those are the things that make it worthwhile,” he said. “That’s what keeps me coming back, year after year.”

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Santa sightings nce in awhile, when dressed in his civilian clothing, he will be spotted by a youngster who recognizes him.

One particular boy seemed downright incredulous to see Mr. Claus walking down the street in McAlester

like a regular person. The tyke accosted our friend and demanded answers.

“You’re Santa Claus. What are you doing here?,” the lad asked.

“I live in Tannehill,” he told the surprised youngster, who felt sure that Santa lived at the North Pole year-round — until he heard the explanation. It takes a lot of food to feed all those elves and reindeer and it’s impossible to grow enough tomatoes and corn in the frozen north to keep everyone fed while waiting on the Christmas season to arrive.

“I live in Tannehill so I can grow my tomatoes and corn down here,” he said.

The explanation satisfied the curious youngster, who no doubt could not wait to tell all his buddies that he had learned the whereabouts of Santa’s summer home.

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The Pause of Mr. Claus

W

hile he has a lot of great memories connected with his

experiences as Santa, our subject recalls one moment when he inadvertently brought a scare to every tyke in sight.

When walking down Adams Avenue during the children’s parade included in the Christmas on the Hill community event, he slipped and fell to the street.

He fell hard so he didn’t immediately

We need a little Christmas

M

spring back up. Many of the children gasped. Did they just witness the last act

any children are sure Santa Claus has

of Santa Claus?

help each year from Mrs. Claus. Richard

Not to worry. Santa was down, but

Askew has help from his spouse, Karen Askew. She’s

not out. He got up and completed the

helped track down every bit of clothing that an

parade, much to the children’s collective

aspiring Santa Claus needs to wear and helps make

relief. The parents along the parade were

sure the beard, hair and the elements of the suit are

no doubt were relieved as well. Who

exactly right before any public appearances. She also

knew how a child would be affected by

has an alter ego, the ever-faithful Mrs. Claus.

witnessing the demise of Santa Claus?

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Kevin Harvison/staff photo

His favorite things Kevin Harvison/staff photo

So what’s the best thing about being Santa?

“The joy I feel from it,” he said — and the joy he’s brought to countless boys and girls, along with their older siblings, parents, grandparents and friends.

He

recalls when he rode in the extended

“We don’t want then scarred for life,” he said. “Give

basket of a firetruck during a

them a year, or two or three, and most of them

McAlester Christmas Parade several years ago.

will someday be ready to meet Santa on their own

“When I was up in the basket, doing this number, I

terms. He recalls one lad, who as a toddler became

can’t even describe the feeling I got from that,” he said, as he demonstrated the way he waved to the

nearly hysterical when his parents tried to force a

throngs of children lining the street.

meeting with jolly old dude. A couple of years later,

“It’s a natural high,” he said. “It sometimes takes days

a youngster dressed in full cowboy regalia boldly

to come down off the cloud.”

strode up to him and extended his tiny hand for a

He speaks of the looks he’s received from children

hearty handshake greeting.

ranging from infants handed to him by parents, to grade-schoolers standing behind their mother’s

Yep. His mom confided that the bold little cowboy

skirts from 10 feet way, a few of whom are

was indeed the toddler who had been nearly

somewhat apprehensive about approaching the

hysterical at the sight of Santa a few years before.

legendary Santa Claus now that’s he right there in

Bringing all that joy to children is what Christmas is

front of them.

all about to this Santa Claus.

He tells those with children who have developed a sudden case of Santa-fright not to try and force a

“It’s not about me — it’s that look on a child’s face,”

meeting between them.

he said.

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Season’s Greetings During this holiday season, we wish you all the best.

David S Lerblance Financial Advisor .

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www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

H O L ID A Y

A L U BU MS

Top five left-ofcenter, off-thewall, Christmas albums

By James Beaty | Managing Editor

Christmas

certainly is the most wonderful time of the year for many people and what would it be without the holiday’s wonderful music?

While musical libraries abound with a plethora of wondrous melodies and magical lyrics by artists ranging from Mariah Carey to Frank Sinatra, and everyone in-between, I’ve always felt a fondness for those artists whose holiday music offerings are a little off-the-wall, a little left-of-center if you will.

With countless Muzak-friendly versions of the season’s songs filling the airwaves and personal listening devices each year, here’s an offering of albums that hit the mark — and are downright unique, each in their own way. If you get a chance, check them out.

Merry Christmas and happy listening!

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H O L ID A Y

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A L BU M S

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Very Kacey Christmas/Kacey Musgraves

H O L ID A Y

A L BU M S

1. “Christmas Island” — Leon Redbone Ah, Leon. I’ve always liked the stylized ramblings

of

the

laid-back

Leon

Redbone ever since I got his first album, “On the Tracks” — which immediately became one of my all-time favorites.

Anybody who puts tunes by Jimmie Rodgers, Hoagy Carmichael, Fats Waller

Leon doesn’t write songs himself, but

and Irving Berlin on the same album has my attention — which is exactly

he’s excellent at picking the best of jazz, blues, country and gleanings from the Great American Songbook.

what our man Redbone did with songs such as “Lazy Bones,” “Big Chief Buffalo Nickel,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and “Marie” on his Warner Brothers debut.

The cover even featured the fabled singing frog from one of Warner Brothers animated shorts, with Chuck Jones himself creating the cover art!

Naturally, when I saw Redbone had recorded a Christmas album, I bought it on the spot. As usual, Leon didn’t disappoint.

Redbone sings in laid-back baritone, reminiscent of a hipster Bing Crosby. He’s backed by musicians playing a variety of instruments — a tuba here, a clarinet or a fiddle there — which gives many of his renditions a jazzy take. He opens the album with “White Christmas” and follows it with “Winter Wonderland,” giving each of the songs his own spin, but staying true to the melodies.

Things really start jumping on “Frosty the Snowman,” where Redbone’s joined by Mac Rebennack, better known as Dr. John.

They deliver a swinging rendition of the tune, switching verses back and forth until they join their jazzy voices on the song’s ending lines “Thumpity, thump, thump, look at Frosty go!”

Redbone can do more than swing. He delivers a heartfelt version of “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays,” which can also be used as a Thanksgiving song.

He begins by singing each of the opening

down to Dixie’s sunny shore, from Atlantic

ever. Redbone extolls the joys of childhood

lines

to Pacific, the traffic is terrific.”

with an emotion-drenched baritone as he

strummed banjo chords, with a fiddle

Redbone’s take on “Blue Christmas” is

sings the lyrics “Toyland, Toyland, little girl

and Dobro kicking in on the full chorus.

closer to the Ernest Tubb version than the

and boy land. While you dwell within it, you

I love the way he sings the lines in the

well-known rock ‘n roll rendition by Elvis

are ever happy there.” But his voice is also

song’s refrain: “I met a man who lives

Presley. Redbone encapsulates the song’s

tinged with a bit of childhood nostalgia

in Tennessee and he was heading for,

poignancy in a way that’s missing from

as he sings the song’s final lines: “Once

Pennsylvania and so homemade pumpkin

Presley’s more raucous version.

you pass its borders, you can ne’er return

pie. From Pennsylvania folks are traveling

His version of “Toyland” is my favorite-

again.”

while

accompanied

by

single

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H O L ID A Y

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2. “Christmas in the Heart” — Bob Dylan This is one of those albums which people either love or ... don’t love.

It’s filled with traditional Christmas I’d never heard the song

songs that Dylan grew up hearing in

“Christmas Island,” until I heard

the frozen environs of the north in

Redbone’s recording, which poses musical questions such

Minnesota.

as “How’d you like to spend Christmas

on

Christmas

While Redbone opted for a small-band

unconventional numbers, such as “It Must

Island?” and “How’d you like to

sound on his Christmas album, Dylan’s band,

Be Santa,” “Christmas Blues” and “Christmas

hang your stocking on a great

along with a few guest musicians, does an

Island,” but Dylan keeps it reverent for most

big coconut tree?” After first

outstanding job of emulating orchestral

of the album.

hearing Redbone sing the song,

backings with the use of a steel guitar, violin

Although he hadn’t quite mastered the Great

I’ve since heard numerous

and other instruments.

American Songbook style of singing, he’s

versions, with artists such

Don’t look for lots of blues, folk or rock

been recording and performing for the past

as Jimmy Buffett giving their

versions of Christmas songs on this album.

few years, he still delivers sincere versions of

take on it — but Redbone’s

Dylan’s musicians pretty much play it

songs such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little

remains the best. I have to love

straight throughout. What makes this album

Christmas” and “Silver Bells.” Whether one

a song with the lines “How’d

different is the feeling Dylan’s gravelly voice

likes to hear Dylan’s so-called sandpaper

you like to stay up late, like the

brings to songs such as “I’ll Be Home for

and gravel voice adorning Christmas songs

islanders do? Wait for Santa to

Christmas.” While the song often conjures

is a matter of personal taste. Mark me down

sail in with your presents in a

visions of a loved family member making it

with the “yeas.”

canoe?”

home for the holidays, Dylan’s version might

He also brings a sincerity to his versions

Redbone brings his unique

give the family second thoughts. Who’s that

of traditional Christmas carols. Upon the

stylings to a couple of lesser-

crumpled character knocking on the door?

album’s release in 2015, Dylan sat down for

known but fine songs, “That

Uh-oh! It’s Uncle Ned! Hide the cooking

an interview with Bill Flanagan. Referring

Old Christmas Moon” and

sherry!

to the album closer, “O’ Little Town of

“Christmas Ball Blues” and

I prefer to envision it more like a prodigal

Bethlehem,” Flanagan told Dylan “You sound

more

son returning home for the holidays, though.

like a true believer.”

standards, “I’ll Be Home for

After all, even the most wizened of holiday

Christmas” and “Let it Snow!”

travelers have people at home who love

Dylan has donated all his royalties from the

The whole album is infused

them.

album to the “Feed America” organization

with an old-time Christmas

Dylan packs the album with 15 Christmas

which works to alleviate hunger in the

feeling,

a

songs, ranging from the album opener,

United States. It’s already resulting in

wonderful thing. Redbone’s

“Here Comes Santa Claus,” to traditional

millions of meals fed to the hungry in the

“Christmas Island” has become

Christmas carols, such as “O’ Come All

U.S. “Christmas in the Heart” shows where

the first album I reach for when

Ye Faithful” and “Hark! The Herald Angels

Dylan’s heart lies.

Christmas rolls around.

Sing.” He and the band have fun on a few

includes

a

which

couple

can

be

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“Well,” Dylan replied, “I am a true believer.”

H O L ID A Y

3. “A Very Kacey Christmas” — Kacey Musgraves

A L BU M S

4. “Boogie-Woogie Christmas” — The Brian Seltzer Orchestra

I’ve collected Christmas music for years. One of the first albums I ever owned as a kid was a Christmas album.

Seltzer first shot to fame as the fleet-fingered guitarist with

After hearing countless recordings of Christmas songs, it

the 1980s group, The Stray Cats, known for their bouncy

sometimes takes something a little different to grab my

“Stray Cut Strut” and a few other hits. With the demise of the

attention, but that’s exactly what Kacey Musgraves did

rockabilly-infused Stray Cats — who, it turned out, did not

with her 2016 album, “A Very Kacey Christmas.”

have nine lives after all — Seltzer moved on to become the

I’m not a big fan

leader of a big band orchestra, more of a throwback to the

of

1940s instead of the 1950s.

much

so-called

of

the

country

music coming from Music

City

these

days — preferring to call it Nashville pop —

but

Musgraves,

who is a Texas girl, has always struck me as the real deal, filling her albums “Same Trailer Different Park” and “Pageant Material” with her often quirky, but still outstanding original songs.

He opens the album with

He hoists those big, red

a version of “Jingle Bells,”

electric Gibson and Gretsch

I figured her Christmas album might be interesting

reminiscent of the 1940s

guitars like a true maestro,

and upon first listen, I determined that had been an

swinging duet by Bing Crosby

leading the band with the

accurate call. She even included her own fine version

and the Andrews Sisters and

guitar neck when he needs

of the Chipmunk’s holiday classic “Christmas Don’t Be

works his way to “Boogie

to during the Orchestra’s live

Late.” Throw in some 1950s pop sensibilities on the

Woogie Santa Claus” with

performances.

ubiquitous “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

echoes of the kind of music

It seems there’s nothing the

and a breezy Hawaiian sound on “Mele Kalikimaka”

delivered

Oklahoma’s

band can’t play, including a

and Musgraves delivers an album covering a wide

own Jimmy Rushing while

galloping version of “Sleigh

area of Christmas music. She also includes a jaunty

performing with the fabled

Ride,” complete with vocals.

version of “Feliz Navidad.”

Count Basie Orchestra.

Seltzer and Orchestra deliver

The punchline of her and Willie’s duet, “A Willie Nice

Seltzer also duets with the

just the right amount of

Christmas,” falls flat, but not the singing. Musgaves

enduring Ann Margaret on the

sizzle needed to satisfy both

also includes the animal kingdom in her album with

ever-popular duet number,

proponents of the modernist

the novelty “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and

big band music movement

and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

who better to deliver another

as well as those rockabilly

She even manages to slide in a song for the following

take on Chuck Berry’s “Run

loyalists with “Boogie Woogie

holiday with “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”

Rudolph Run” than Seltzer?

Christmas.”

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H O L ID A Y

A L BU M S

5. “Christmas at the Oasis” — Maria Muldaur Maria is known to many for her enduring 1970s hit, “Midnight at the Oasis,” but she’s also justifiably known today as an able interpreter of blues and jazz standards. Muldaur has said she long resisted releasing a Christmas album, determined to be, as she said, the last artist to do so. However, she credited the release of her longtime friend Bob Dylan’s “Christmas in the Heart,” with inspiring her to release a Christmas album of her own.

Muldaur has been known for surrounding herself with great musicians, as she did with artists such as Ry Cooder and Dr. John on her self-tiled debut album. For her Christmas album, Muldaur once again surrounded herself with outstanding accompanists for a live performance at the Razz Room in San Francisco.

Being so well-versed in jazz and blue standards. Muldaur chose to interpret songs from some of her musical heroes, such as “’Zat You Santa Claus” by jazz great Louis Armstrong and “Merry Christmas Baby” by bluesman Charles Brown. Maria also delivers her own sultry take on Eartha Kitt’s “Santa Baby.”

She also performs a version of the jazz standard, “Gee, Baby Ain’t I Good For You?” to fit her holiday stylings and fit into the album’s motif.

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H O M E L E S S

H O L ID A Y S

Homeless holidays:

Local organizations strive to help homeless, hungry during holiday season

By Adrian O’Hanlon III | News Editor

KEVIN HARVISON | Staff photo Rachel Michael, left, and Tammy Randazzo tie a scarf to a tree in McAlester for a program raising awareness of homelessness and hunger in the area.

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H O M E L E S S

C

H O L ID A Y S

ollege students, seldom-seen relatives and newlyweds hosting for the first time will gather around dinner tables for family gatherings.

They will eat turkey and ham, play cards and share laughs, open presents and hug as they celebrate being home for the holidays.

But local agencies know there are hundreds of people in Pittsburg County still living without a home and want to help.

“I think a lot of times, especially in rural areas, homelessness isn’t as visual as it is in metro or urban areas,” said Tammy Randazzo, Ki Bois program director for Supportive Services for Veteran Families. “It’s kind of out of sight, out of mind. So we’re raising awareness awareness for our community members that we do have families, children every day that struggle with just meeting their basic needs — housing, food, safety, those types of things.”

Homelessness outlook Oklahoma saw an 8.7 percent increase in total homelessness across the state from 2015 to 2016, according to a report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The HUD report states chronic substance abuse was an underlying cause for 1,135 of homeless Oklahomans and severe mental illness was an underlying cause for 974.

Reynada Wall, CREOKS Projects for Assistance in Transitioning from Homelessness (PATH) Case Manager, said she sees many underlying issues with clients.

“The ones that we’ve seen and we work with, if they’re homeless, there’s usually an underlying mental health issue and/or substance abuse issue,” she added.

CREOKS Behavioral Health Services provides comprehensive mental health services for individual and families.

KEVIN HARVISON | Staff photo Valerie Rogers, left, and Todd Turner pin information cards to scarves Thursday for a program raising awareness of homelessness and hunger in the area.

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H O L ID A Y S

The non-profit human services agency that was founded in 1980 and is certified by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Wall said her program helps people get their feet under them “The PATH program is federally funded and we do both outreach and walkin, so if they’re homeless and have any kind of mental health issues, then they automatically qualify for services regardless of insurance,” Wall said.

“We get them set up with counseling, medication

if

they

need

it,

case

management, and kind of help them take care of the underlying issues that they’ve seen and what caused the homelessness — and looking at how when they’re housed, they’re able to maintain stable housing and stable mental health.

Rachel Michael, CREOKS children and families service provider, said staff members want to help in any way they can.

“We advocate for our clients,” Michael said. “That way they know they can come to us and say ‘I need help with this’ and if we don’t know the answer, we’ll find it

Homelessness awareness

for them.

Several agencies teamed up to tie scarves in various

Of the 4,107 total homeless people in

places in early November throughout the McAlester area

Oklahoma in 2016, 1,110 were people

to raise awareness of homelessness and hunger — and

in families with children, 410 were

hopefully lend a helping hand to those in need.

unaccompanied youth, according to HUD.

“We have a lot of homeless people in the area that sleep

The report found 50 homeless were

in abandoned buildings that have little to no shelter,”

parenting youth and 70 were children of

Randazzo said. “As it gets colder, it gets harder for them

parenting youth.

to be safe and secure when they’re outside or in a partial

HUD also found 358 veterans were

shelter.”

homeless Oklahomans in 2016, while

Randazzo said she primarily works with veterans and

there were 39,471 homeless veterans

believes the scarf program provides a first step toward

that year across the nation.

getting help.

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H O M E L E S S

“Moving them from

bridges, in shelter or in cars,

of helping address issues

homelessness into housing,

and nearly 1 in 5 children

involving hunger and

while case-managing them

lives in poverty, according to

homelessness among

and working on some of the

HHweek.org.

families in the area.

issues — helping with stability,

The site states 795 million

with plans for the future,

people — or 1 in 9 — across

awareness about the issue,”

things like that,” Randazzo

the world do not have enough

Randazzo said. “We know

said. “So it’s a great way to

to eat.

putting scarves out is not

get the information in their

A child dies of a huger-related

going to end homelessness

hands and if they’re interested

disease every 10 seconds and

or end hunger. But it’s a great

in services and to engage

767 million people live on less

way to provide a little comfort

with services.”

than $1.90 per day, the site

and support to families.”

The event came to fruition

says.

Pinned to each scarf is a card

with the teaming up of several

But Wall said homelessness

providing information for

local agencies — including

often goes unnoticed in the

access to resources regarding

CREOKS, Ki Bois, the Health

McAlester area.

homelessness and hunger.

Department, 831 Church,

KEVIN HARVISON | Staff photo Winter clothing is prepared for a McAlester program raising awareness of homelessness and hunger in the area.

H O L ID A Y S

“Probably 85 percent of our

“It’s really just to raise

The cards provided the

DHS, the Food Bank, the

homeless that we work with

numbers to the Good

Youth Emergency Shelter,

are not homeless like you

Samaritan Men’s Shelter

Kiamichi Technology Center,

would think of in metro areas,”

(918-429-7773), Hope House

and several schools, among

Wall said. “They’re not living

(918-423-4673), KiBois

others.

under bridges, they’re not in

Domestic Violence Center

Randazzo said it was the first

shelters, they’re living with

(918-423-0032), and the

wave of a multi-phase event

someone that at any time

Youth Emergency Shelter

if the organizations receive

they can be like ‘I want you

(918-423-8845), as well as

enough donations to continue

out’ and they’ll be back to

the Supportive Services for

providing throughout the

homeless.”

Veterans and Families (918-

winter.

“And it’s families, not just

470-4092) and Projects for

People looking to help can

individual adults — it’s whole

Assistance in Transition from

volunteer at an area food bank

families,” said Michael.

Homelessness (918-420-

or shelter, donate to local

This was the second year

5343).

programs, and educate their

for the scarves program, but

community about the hunger

the first time all the agencies

services listed on the card…

and homelessness issues in

teamed together.

we actually help house them

the area.

The Pittsburg County Local

so we can help bring them

More than 43 million people

Service Coalition and the

into housing and establish a

suffer from hunger, while 3.5

Childhood Security Team led

home for them,” Randazzo

million sleep in parks, under

the way with the intention

said.

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“If they connect with those

State budget cuts But the local agencies might not have a home for long either.

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services announced in October that it would cut all state funding for outpatient services if the Oklahoma Legislature did find a way to replace $75 million in lost revenue.

The Oklahoma Supreme Court struck down last summer a $1.50-per-pack cigarette tax that put the state in a $215 million budget gap.

Agency Commissioner Terri White said during a press conference that the cuts would end all state-funded outpatient services except medication management. Some of the services that would be eliminated include therapy at mental health centers, drug and alcohol courts, payments to children’s psychiatric residential treatment facilities and more, White said.

The looming cuts could leave several mental health centers across the state with no option but to shut down, would increase patients in emergency rooms, deter new businesses from moving to the state if it can’t provide basic services, and more.

Additionally, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority would lose $70 million and the Department of Human Services would lose $69 million due to the state’s budget gap, according to reports.

The Oklahoma House of Representatives had a chance to help fill the budget gap Nov. 8 with a plan to increase taxes on tobacco, alcohol, fuel and energy and help stabilize state spending, but it failed by five votes.

The House voted 71-27 — with a total of 76 votes needed to pass — on the bill that would have produced $140 million and about $450 million annually to help pay for a $3,000 pay raise for teachers, a $1,000 boost for state workers, according to the Associated Press.

With the state’s increase of homelessness and unstable budget situation, Randazzo said community support will be key in addressing the issue.

“We’re never going to effectively impact this issue until the community takes it on as their own issue to address,” Randazzo said. “We need the community working with us, not just the agencies that are funded to do so, but the whole community working together to end homelessness and hunger.”

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McAlester News Capital 500 South Second Street McAlester, OK 74501 918-423-1700

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Local Christmas tree farm offers full holiday preparations

T

Photos and Story By Adrian O’Hanlon III | News editor

ucked among woods comprised of elms, oaks and

people, some from the Dallas area, and have even sold trees

redbuds is one of the best-kept Christmas secrets in

to people from as far as San Antonio, Texas.

southeast Oklahoma.

One Dallas-area family has been buying trees from the

Lush, dense conifers wait in rows just a few miles south of

Bruckners for 18 years.

Savanna High School at the Red Barn Christmas Tree Farm,

The farm has three ponds to supply water through drip

operated by Steve and Betty Bruckner.

irrigation to the tree plots.

With the selection period opening at Thanksgiving each year,

The couple also trims and maintains the trees throughout

Betty said she usually lets customers walk through the plots

the summer when the heat can reach triple digits.

to select their own trees — but she offers a few words of advice.

“It’s a lot of work,” Betty said. “But then at Christmas, it’s a lot of fun.”

“Just remember, the tree is going to look smaller in the field than it does in your house,” Betty said. “You don’t want to

Types of trees

move all the furniture out just to put the tree in.”

The Bruckners primarily grow and sell Virginia pine trees after a recent drought took a toll on the white pines.

How it started

“We used to have white pines, but they don’t like dry weather

Steve is a retired attorney, but found a passion for growing

at all,” Betty said. “When we hit that really dry spell about 5

things when he grew a batch of pumpkins at just 5 years old.

years ago, it was devastating for them.”

“I had lots of pumpkins to put in my little red flyer wagon and pulled through the neighborhood,” Steve said.

Virginia pine “is a native, medium-sized, two-needle pine” that averages 50-75 feet tall at maturity (50 years) and

The Bruckners opened the Red Barn Christmas Tree Farm in

“several thousand acres of land are planted in Virginia pine

1983, but started growing the trees about five years before

annually,” according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture

opening the shop.

Forest Service.

Steve said the idea for the Christmas tree farm stemmed

The Forest Service states the Virginia pine native range

from the fun he had as a child during large family holiday

“extends from southern New Jersey west to Pennsylvania

gatherings.

and southern Ohio; south to South Carolina, northern Georgia,

Betty said the farm sells 300-350 trees per year to local

northern Alabama, and northern Mississippi.”

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C H R IS T M A S

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Virginia pine plantation trials “in the Cross Timbers

and have nearly-smooth bark, according to the

area of Oklahoma varied with moisture availability”

Forest Service.

and “survival rates are mostly very high,” according

The Forest Service states the trees populate “at

to the Forestry Service.

higher elevations in the southern Appalachian

But that isn’t the only type of tree offered at the Red

Mountains of southwestern Virginia, western North

Barn Christmas Tree Farm.

Carolina, and eastern Tennessee,” but are grown for

“We order in Fraser firs from North Carolina and they

Christmas trees and planted as an ornamental.

will be here that Thanksgiving weekend or the week

Betty said the trees are not usually fire hazards until

before,” Betty said. “They’re awfully pretty.”

they’re dead and dry, but warned customers to not

The Bruckners have a building to protect Fraser firs

place trees next to the fireplace or under a heat vent.

from any inclement weather.

She said Thanksgiving is usually the best time to

Fraser firs are native, evergreen coniferous trees

get a tree and the timeframe to get one usually

that usually range from 50-60 feet tall at maturity

goes up to Dec. 21.

Decorations The shop also offers decorations, children’s books and some toys for the holiday season.

Also available are greenery, centerpieces, gifts and decorations — including Old World and Christopher Radko ornaments and designer ribbons.

Betty also makes live wreaths and garlands in the upstairs portion of the shop, while artificial options are also available.

She also offers decoration services — “I always say artificial inside, live outside — except for your Christmas tree,” she said.

Betty said she makes suggestions along the way, but mostly leaves the customers to make their own selections.

The Bruckners also do decorating of their own as they usually bring in a 13-foot tree to the gift shop in a stand that holds five gallons of water.

“The third day that it’s been in here, I might add another two gallons because it drinks water,” Betty said.

“Fresh trees drink water — and of course, it’s a tall tree too, not a small one.”

Directions The shop is tucked away in Blanco just a few miles from Savanna High School at 2552 S. Brewer Road.

Customers can take U.S. Highway 69 to Savanna High School, turn on Brewer Road and travel about 2.6 miles south.

Signs will be placed along the way as long as the shop is open.

The shop is open from Thanksgiving day until Dec. 21 each year. Its hours are 12-5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays; and 12:30-5p.m. on Sundays.

The Red Barn Christmas Tree Farm can be reached at 918-548-3347.

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V IS IT

H IS T O R IC A L

W IL BU R T O N

Wi lburton From Your Friends In

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V IS IT

H IS T O R IC A L

W IL BU R T O N

WILBURTON’S ...

GROCERY STORE!

Premium Products & Value can be found at Roy’s Cardinal Food Your Neighborhood Grocery Store!

B.J. Coy and Joe Coy Load up on family favorites... meats, vegetables, fruits, chips, pop, etc.

Our service is second to none.

We believe that quality truly counts.

ROY’S CARDINAL FOOD... STORE

621 HWY. 2 NORTH • WILBURTON, OK • 918-465-2452 Joe & B.J. Coy and The Team

Prescriptions filled.

Satisfaction guaranteed.

We go the extra mile to ensure you receive the friendly service, low prices and pharmacy expertise you deserve.

LATIMER COUNTY

GENERAL HOSPITAL 806 Highway 2 North Wilburton, OK 918-465-2391

Pharmacy Hours Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-2pm

Emergency Services Available MCALESTER LIVING

ROY’S Discount Pharmacy 33

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621 HWY. 2 North Wilburton, OK 74578 (918)-465-0111 Fax: (918) 465-0015

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BU S IN E S S E S

Old and new businesses: Here is a look at old, new businesses in the area

By Connie Poole/Senior Advertising Representative

Foster's Flowers

(1896)

Foster’s Flowers offers the finest floral arrangements and

gifts, backed by service that is friendly and prompt. All of their customers are important, and their professional staff is dedicated to making your experience a pleasant one.

Foster’s Flowers is located at 417 S. 6th Street and they always go the extra mile to make your floral gift perfect for any occasions and during the holidays.

Foster’s Flowers (1896)

J.J. McAlester Antiques

(est. 2010)

J. J. McAlester Antiques is located in the historical J. J. McAlester Mercantile building at 2701 N. Main Street in McAlester. With over 40 vendors, J. J. McAlester Antiques has a great variety of antiques, collectibles, furniture, glassware. Stop by, search the largest antique store in southeast Oklahoma and find your treasure.

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Main Street Junction

(2016)

Main Street Junction is ready to help you with your holiday shopping. Stop by and see them and don’t forget your tickets for the $10,000 drawing! They also have gift certificates and gift bags! Located at 1301 N. Main in McAlester.

OK Tire & Auto (1994)

OK Tire & Auto guarantees all his work. Harold Hackler Jr. is the owner and operator of OK Tire & Auto located at 801 North 1st Street in McAlester. Harold specializes in brakes, alignment, farm tires, shocks, struts, batteries, oil changes. While making your purchases don’t forget your $10,000 drawing tickets!

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BU S IN E S S E S

Buffalo Gals Antiques

(2013)

Buffalo Gals Antiques located at 2645 N. Main, located in Historic Old McAlester where the Wild West began!

Purveyors of Exquisite Treasure and Plain Good Junk-antiques, vintage, collectibles. An experience for the senses! #ROAM! Shop for the unique Christmas gifts!

89er Dry Cleaners

(1971)

89er Dry Cleaners has been in the dry cleaning business for 46 years. Established in 1971, they are a full service dry cleaning facility.Bring in your garments at their location at 115 S. 6th Street for all your dry cleaning for the holidays and all year long.

Also when picking up your dry cleaning, don’t forget to ask for your $10,000 drawing ticket!

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H IG H

S C H O O L

S W E E T H E A R T S

A couple of high school sweethearts

By Lacey Sudderth | Staff writer

Adam and Rachel Gronwald

Adam and Rachel Gronwald, May 2006.

that we really started hanging

Adam and Rachel Gronwald, of

out during cast parties and

McAlester, met and fell in love in

rehearsals,” Rachel said.

the fall of 2005 when they were in

Adam joked that he didn’t think

high school.

Rachel would give him a chance.

“She fell in love with me first,”

“It was a surprise to everyone

Adam joked.

because she was cool, and I was

Rachel couldn’t deny that it was

a band nerd,” Adam laughed.

love at first sight when Adam

“It was a surprise to all our

came to visit her church youth

friends,” Rachel joked.

group

night

After performing in the musical

when she was senior and he was

together, Adam and Rachel began

a junior at McAlester High School.

to date and they married three

“He came to fill in for the bass

years.

player and I thought he was so

Adam and Rachel have now been

cute,” Rachel said. “He was sitting

married for eight and a half years

all alone and I went and sat beside

and have three children; Emma, 7,

him, so he would feel welcomed.”

Olivia, 4, and Charlie, 2.

Rachel said later that night, she

“We like to always be on an

went home and told her parents

adventure together,” Rachel said.

she had met the man she was

Adam spoke of the couple’s first

going to marry.

few years as newlyweds living in

“I just knew it was going to be

Fayetteville, Arkansas, with little

him,” she said.

money and no jobs.

But it wasn’t for a few more

“We

months that Adam and Rachel’s

honeymoon from Guatemala with

love began to form.

$17 dollars and no plan,” Adam

“It wasn’t until that spring when

said laughing. “It really was an

we were both in the high school

adventure.”

one

Wednesday

musical ‘Beauty and the Beast’ MCALESTER LIVING

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came

home

from

our

H IG H

S C H O O L

S W E E T H E A R T S

After Adam graduated from the University

located in downtown McAlester.

“When you start dating so young, you are

of Arkansas with a degree in International

“We got really interested in downtown

with someone through the most insecure

Relations, the couple decided moved

revitalization,” Adam said. “I tell friends

and formative years of your life,” Adam

back home to McAlester to raise a family.

that McAlester is a frontier, you can create

said. “You are a kid still, but because of

“There are a lot of things I like about raising

things here that don’t exist.”

that, you get to watch each other grow up

our family here in McAlester,” Rachel said.

For example, Rachel and group of ladies

and become a unit.

“Here you can make a difference.”

that homeschool their children started

Our marriage has been an adventure,”

Adam began to work at Lakewood

talking to each other through Facebook

Adam said. “We like to just jump in and

Christian

and decided to form a homeschool co-op

learn how to swim together.”

ministry for three years before deciding to

group to help support each other.

Adam said the most spontaneous years

start his own business.

“You really can start anything you want

may be behind them, but their adventures

“I have always had ideas for businesses,”

here,” Rachel said.

together are far from over.

Adam said. “I learned to roast coffee in

Rachel and Adam said their favorite

“We have two girls,” Adam said. “We have

Fayetteville from Mark Bray at Airship

thing about their relationship has been

a lot of adventures ahead of us.”

Coffee and really loved roasting and the

watching each other grow.

coffee world.”

“I like that we have known each other in

Adam said he then decided to open his

such different seasons and have watched

own regional roasting business, which is

each other go through some really

now known as Spaceship Earth Coffee

awkward phases,” Rachel joked.

Church

doing

community

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Rachel and Adam Gronwald and their three children Charlie, 2, Olivia, 4 and Emma, 7.

H IG H

S C H O O L

S W E E T H E A R T S

Austin and Lin Anderson in July 1956.

Austin and Lin Anderson

a pie supper at Degan County School when they were 13 and 15 years old.

Austin and Linda (Lin) Vee Anderson,

“We got married two years later,” she

of Wilburton, have been married for 61

said.

years.

The

“They have been the most amazing

courthouse in Poteau on Aug. 18, 1956.

years,” Lin said.

“Everyone said we were too young,” Lin

The couple first met when Austin was 9

said. “We made it work all on our own, I

years old and Lin was 11.

learned how to cook and he learned to

“Austin said he felt like he knew me

eat burnt offerings.”

in another life,” Lin said. “I was so

Lin said the couple would also go

impressed by him, I told my mother I

squirrel and rabbit hunting and grew

was going to marry him.”

a garden together to keep food on the

Lin said her mother laughed and said it

table.

was ‘puppy love,’ but Lin said she knew

Austin worked on the weekends while

it was more than that.

finishing school and Lin would babysit

Austin and Lin spent all their time

when she could to make extra money.

together playing with their group of

“It was fun,” Lin said. “Always an

Wilburton friends.

adventure.”

“We would play in the creek together

Austin and Lin had a total of six children

and we rode horses,” Lin said. “We were

together; Mary Lynn, 60, Lynn Austin, 59,

all best friends.”

LylaLyn, 55, Johnnie Lynn, 49, Franklyn

Lin said the couple’s first date was at

Turner, 44; and Benjamin Lyn, 43.

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couple

were

married

at

the

H IG H

S C H O O L

S W E E T H E A R T S

Austin and Lin Anderson have been married for 61 years.

They have 16 grandchildren, a great-grandchild due in

“When we lay down we discuss everything,” Lin said.

April and a great-great grandchild due in July.

“You really have to marry your best friend.”

“We never have let ourselves hurt each other,” Lin said

Lin said the world today thinks you can’t make a marriage

about the secret of a long and happy marriage. “He

work, but you have to keep trying.

makes me laugh, I could never get mad.”

“Be with your best friend forever,” Lin said.

Lin said Austin has supported her always and they talk about everything.

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D A T E

L O C A L

Treat your sweetheart, locally

By Lacey Sudderth | Staff writer Photos By Kevin Harvison

H

aving trouble deciding what to do this Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart? To

help make your night special and easy, I have put together a list of fun and unique things to do with your valentine, right here in McAlester.

1. Bowling night at Great Balls of Fire, 3003 Elk Rd. McAlester’s Great Balls of Fire is a family entertainment center and offers a perfect

2. Movie night at Epic Cinema, 1116 S.

opportunity to let loose and experience a night

George Nigh Expressway

full of fun activities with your sweetheart. Get competitive and enjoy a night of bowling and

Epic Cinema is McAlester’s only movie theater

with a large selection of family-friendly arcade

and offers a wide-variety of movie choices your

games, you are sure to find a game you both

sweetheart is sure to love. With 10 movie screens

will enjoy. After playing a few games, head over

and newly expanded concessions, this local date

to the Boardroom Lounge, a nice quite cocktail

idea is a sure way to guarantee you get to cuddle

lounge connected inside the bowling alley and

up next to your sweetheart and watch a movie in

enjoy a few drinks and cozy up to your sweetie

a nice quiet atmosphere.

to end the evening.

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italian D A T E

3. Italian night, Krebs

L O C A L

Right outside of McAlester you will find the small town of

Krebs, known locally as “Little Italy.” Krebs has several selections of authentic Italian cuisine for you to treat your

sweetie. Take your valentine to one of the many restaurant choices and show your valentine the culture and lore of Krebs, Oklahoma...

• Roseanna’s, 205 E. Washington: Frank Prichard’s dream for many years was to open an Italian food restaurant. In 1975 Frank’s dream was realized when he and his wife, Rose Ann, along with the help of their children, opened their little restaurant on the west side of Krebs. The restaurant is still family-owned and operated and offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy an authentic Italian dinner with your special valentine.

• Isle of Capri, 150 SW 7th Street: A family-owned and operated restaurant since 1950. Dominic Anthony Giacomo had a dream from the time he was a young boy to have an Italian restaurant. Giacomo’s dream became a reality when he opened the Isle of Capri in 1950. Since Dom’s passing in 1974, the restaurant was continued by his niece Rose Ann, who had dreams of her own. In 1994 the menu was broadened and in 1996 Rose Ann decided to go even further with her dream and added a large banquet room, outside dinning and an extraordinary bar. The Isle has been a family tradition since 1950 and will be for years to come.

• Pete’s Place, 120 SW 8th Street: In 1919 Pietro “Pete” Piegari began selling his now famous Choc Beer, which was brewed right in his own home. Immigrant miners began gathering at Pete’s house to relax and enjoy one of his beers during their breaks. Pete began to fix the men a hearty lunch to go along with their beer by serving up a generous “familystyle” helping of homemade Italian specialties like spaghetti, meatballs, ravioli, and sausage. In 1925, Pete officially opened a restaurant in his home, and called it “Pete’s Place.”

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4. Drinks and dancing at The Okie, 1818 S. Main Street If your date loves country music and dancing, look no further than The Okie. The country and western theme dance club offers a full bar and is a great chance for you and your date to unwind together and do some twostepping. This venue offers live music every weekend and is sure to have your date having a great time bootscooting.

5. Art and wine night, Choctaw Avenue Treat your valentine to a romantic evening stroll in historic downtown McAlester. Begin the evening at one of the two local wineries downtown has to offer, Whispering Meadows and Urban Wineworks, both wineries are family-owned and operated and offer a variety of locally made wines for you and your sweetie to savor. After a few sips, head over to The Art Spot, a family-friendly painting and pottery workshop, also located on Choctaw Avenue where you and your date can create a painting together that will be a forever memory of your perfect Valentine’s Day together.

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McAlester News Capital

500 South Second Street McAlester, OK 74501 918-423-1700

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How to keep our four-legged friends safe and healthy this winter

By Becky Sells, D.V.M. | Guest columnist

“Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful…” Yes, it’s that time of year. The leaves are falling, our days sunlight are shorter, and some parts of the country are already seeing snow. Fortunately, in southeast Oklahoma, our winters are much milder and more tolerable than the rest of the country. But Oklahoma winters are very unpredictable and a cold snap or better yet, an ice stem, could be lurking around the corner.

We think about winterizing our homes, cars, RVs, and boats, but we need to winterize our pets as well.

Your pet’s fur coat doesn’t necessarily mean that he.she can tolerate cold weather. We humans have allowed them to become accustomed to central heat and air by allowing them to live indoors. Furthermore, some of us have outdoor pets that are accustomed to outdoor life. With that said, they may need our help to survive the winter season. It is our responsibility, as pet owners, to keep our pets safe during all four seasons.

With a little common sense and preparedness, hopefully this article will help you keep your pet safe and healthy this winter.

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Cold weather conditions

If your pet has access to your garage, make sure to check under

How cold is too cold? this can vary. Any time you have freezing to

your car for pools of antifreeze. Also, when winterizing your

below-freezing temperatures, your pet is at risk for hypothermia

automobiles, try to clean up any spills immediately. Better yet,

and frostbite. Add wind chills, rain or snow, and the risk goes

winterize your vehicle with pet-friendly antifreeze. This antifreeze

up considerably. If your pet is healthy and has a fur coat similar

contains propylene glycol, which isn’t fatal if swallowed in small

to a husky, they will enjoy their outings of play or exercise

amounts. It also contains a bitter agent making it less appealing

time. But short-haired breeds such as the Chihuahua, boxer, or

to pets. Pet-friendly antifreeze is available at most automotive

greyhound can succumb to hypothermia very quickly. For the

stores and shops.

short-haired breeds, it is recommended that they wear a doggie

Bang on the car hood

sweater or jacket while on potty or exercise breaks. Also, older

Cats are notorious for crawling under the hood of cars to seek

and arthritic pets tend to have less tolerance to winter weather.

warmth or shelter during the winter months. Unfortunately,

During extreme weather conditions, it is recommended that you

when we start up our engines, these kitties usually fall victims

supervise your pet’s outdoor time. You may need to leash-walk

to the fan belt. Try to get into the habit of banging on your hood

your pet so that they don’t wander off. Bottom line, if it’s took

or honking your horn before starting your engine. Better yet,

cold for you to be outside for extended amounts of time, then it’s

just pop the hood and take a look before starting your engine.

probably too cold for your pet.

Keeping your cat indoors at night will keep your pet from seeking

Shelter

a warm dry spot under your hood or your neighbor’s hood.

The best way to keep our pets safe this winter is to bring them

Winter feeding

inside. Unfortunately, some pets do not have this luxury. For

Obesity is becoming a significant health problem with pets. Just

those pets. it is important to provide them with some type of

like us, pets have different nutritional requirements depending

outdoor shelter. Outdoor dogs need a dry, draft-free, well-

on their activity levels. Indoor pets are generally less active

insulated doghouse. The doghouse needs to be large enough to

during the winter months and they typically burn fewer calories.

accommodate your pet’s stature for comfort, but small enough

Therefore, if your pet is already overweight, it is recommended

to hold in his/her body heat. The floor needs to be elevated a few

that you gradually cut back their food consumption during the

inches off the ground and covered with dry comfortable bedding.

winter months. On the other hand, outdoor pets or very active

To keep drafts out, turn the house away from the wind and cover

pets require more calories during the winter months because

the doorway with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric. If you do

they burn extra calories to keep warm. So for the outdoor pet, it

not have a doghouse, then you might want to consider adding

is recommended that you increase their food consumption. Also,

a doggie door to your garage and place a bed in the warmest

winter water can aggravate existing joint problems in our pets.

corner.

Your veterinarian may recommend placing your pet on a daily

Antifreeze

joint supplement during the winter.

Antifreeze poisoning is one of the top hazards to pets during the

Adequate hydration

winter season. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is a

Make sure that indoor and outdoor pets have an abundant

potent toxin to the kidneys. The challenge here is that antifreeze

source of fresh water at all time. During really cold weather,

has a sweet and pleasant taste to cats and dogs. The ingestion

you may have to check your pet’s water source several times a

of less than a teaspoon is enough to kill your pet. Even a few

day to ensure that it’s not frozen over. A frozen bowl of ice and

licks, depending on the size of the animal, can do irreversible

snow does not equal an adequate source of water. Also, try to

damage to the kidneys. If you suspect that your pet has ingested

use plastic or ceramic bowls instead of metal bowls so that your

any amount of antifreeze, then you need to call tour veterinarian

pet’s tongue doesn’t stick and freeze to the metal. You may want

immediately. Antifreeze can do irreversible damage and even

to invest in a heated water dog bowl.

lead to death if veterinary care is not initiated within the first four house after ingestion.

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Exercise and outdoor play Despite the cold temperatures, dogs need exercise to maintain their well-being during the winter months.

Try to stick to your routine as much as possible, but if the weather turns cold, you may need to decrease the length and frequency of your walks or playtime. Make sure that you and your pet are dressed appropriately for the elements. If there is snow or ice on the ground, you may want to keep your pet on a leash to prevent slips and falls that could result in injury. If you like to walk down sidewalks, be sure to wipe and rinse off your pets’ paws when done exercising. Rock salt used to melt the ice may adhere to and accumulate on your pets’ paws and if ingested, your pet could suffer from salt poisoning. When there is snow on the ground, remove any ice clumps that may have accumulated between your pets’ toes and pads. If not removed, these ice clumps can contribute to frostbite or lacerations to your pets’ paws. Always watch the weather forecast prior to venturing out because the weather in Oklahoma can change quickly.

Wellness exam Just like automobiles, our pets need a check-up prior to the winter season. Your veterinarian will be able to detect any hidden illnesses that will need to be resolved before the cold weather arrives. Oklahoma winters are unpredictable, but for the most part, our

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winters are mild. Therefore, make sure that you keep giving your pet its monthly preventatives for fleas,

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ticks, heart worms and other parasites.

In conclusion, pets have similar needs as we do in the

201 W. CHEROKEE, MCALESTER, OK 74501 TOLL FREE: 888.429.1911

winter. It is our duty as a pet owner to provide them with the love and care that they deserve. Hopefully with the tips above, you and your pets will have a safe and enjoyable winter.

Editor’s note: This guest column ran in a previous edition of the magazine.

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W IN T E R

R E C IPE S

Peppermint Patties Ingredients • ¼ cup of room temperature butter • 1/3 cup light corn syrup • 1 to 2 tsp peppermint extract • 3 cups powdered sugar • 2 cups dark dipping chocolate • Crushed candy canes or chocolate sprinkles for topping

holiday season Foodie at Heart

Home recipes for the

By Amy Johns I Publisher

I love the holidays. As a child, my mother would decorate the house like a Christmas wonderland, all in hopes of making everything seem so magical. She would spend hours and hours baking cookies and making candy. Still today all these years later, many of my friends from high school talk about her famous stained glass candy, peppermint patties and snowball cookies. In the spirt of giving, I am sharing these wonderful recipes with you.

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W IN T E R

R E C IPE S

Snowballs Ingredients • ½ cup room temperature butter • ½ cup powdered sugar • ½ cup pecans chopped • 1 cup flour • ¼ tsp salt • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract – use the good stuff, not imitation • ¼ cup extra powdered sugar for rolling after baking Set oven to 300 degrees. Combine all the ingredients until a nice dough forms. Roll into meatball sized balls. Bake up to 15 minutes – these will not brown. While the cookies are warm roll in the extra powdered sugar.

These cookies are so easy and absolutely

Instructions Combine butter, corn syrup, peppermint extract and powdered sugar

delicious.

in a bowl. Use an electric hand mixer for about 3 minutes until mixture holds together. Roll into quarter sized balls and place on parchment or waxed paper lined cookie sheet. Using a flat bottomed juice glass flatten the balls to about ½ an inch. Put cookie sheet in the freezer for about an hour.

Melt dipping chocolate until it’s shiny and smooth — be patient with this process as the chocolate can burn quickly. This process works best when the patties are really frozen. They will melt quickly in the melted chocolate otherwise. I use the same doubled tined, long stemmed fork my mother used to dip the patties in the melted chocolate. Dip patties into the chocolate and completely cover. Then place back onto the parchment or wax paper. When they are still a little glossy put some crushed candy canes or chocolate sprinkles on top. You can even drizzle some white melting chocolate on top if you want.

These are great as gifts or just to satisfy your sweet tooth with a mug of hot cocoa. Enjoy.

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Miss Izzy’s Stained Glass Christmas Candy Ingredients • 2 cups granulated sugar • 3/4 cup water • 2/3 cups light corn syrup • 1/4 teaspoon food coloring – I use red and green of course!

• 1 teaspoon flavor extract- cinnamon for red, peppermint for green • Candy thermometer

Directions Lightly oil two edged cookie sheets and place to the side. I like to use Calphalon or Magnalite sauce pans for this candy making operation. Combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup and stir over medium heat until everything dissolves. Bring to a boil without stirring.

Using the candy thermometer (the kind that clips to the side of the pan works best) allow the mixture to reach a temperature of 260 degrees and add the food coloring, whichever flavor you’re making first. You don’t need to stir as the rolling boil with mix the color.

Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture reach a temperature of 300 degrees. When the temperature is reached and the mixture has stopped boiling add the flavoring, again which ever flavor you’re working on first and begin to stir.

When nicely stirred pour the mixture into our edged cookie sheet and let cool. Start the entire process over with the second flavor. When completely cooled take a hammer and break into manageable sized pieces.

I love to put this candy in glass jelly jars and tie a pretty ribbon around the top to use as gifts for family and friends.

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Mc ALESTER’S

2016

Mc ALESTER’S

1st Place PHARMACIST

1st Place PHARMACIST

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2016

happy holidays MCALESTER LIVING  

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Christmas in McAlester

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Christmas in McAlester

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happy holidays

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Christmas

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in McAlester

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