McAlester Living - Summer 2024

Student

YEAR

of the

holistic

medicine treatments

Dancing Rabbit 2024 Season

Remembering James Beaty

To Our Good Friends...Thank You Again!

1 REAL ESTATE

#

In today’s changing world, our family and community are more important than ever to us. Here at First Realty, we value and appreciate the support of our family, friends, neighbors, and community. We’ve been here since 1960 and look forward to many more years of serving you and helping you take care of all your real estate needs.

FIRST PLACE REAL ESTATE COMPANY

We Open More Doors For Buyers & Sellers

FIRST PLACE REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Whether you’re buying or selling, our team can save you time, help you avoid costly mistakes, and ensure you get the best value. Call or visit us online today to start your home search, talk to an agent or request your free home value report!

918-423-3122

“SERVING SOUTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA SINCE 1960”

602 S. 2nd • McAlester

Randy Saunier,President • Cully Stevens, Managing Broker

www.facebook.com/First-Realty-Inc for all our listings.

HEALTHCARE FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

Warren Clinic Pediatrics From well-child checkups and immunizations, to care for acute illnesses and treatment of injuries and more, the physicians and staff of Warren Clinic Pediatrics are here to help keep your kids healthy.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Warren Clinic McAlester, please call 918-426-0240.

Paul Thomas, M.D.

Yan Luo, M.D.

VIDEO VISITS AVAILABLE

1401 East Van Buren Avenue | McAlester, Oklahoma | saintfrancis.com/mcalester

Rebecca Auld, PA-C

Maranda Patterson, APRN-CNP

living

McAlester PUBLISHER

Editor’s

LETTER

Reina Owens

NEWS-CAPITAL EDITOR Derrick James

DESIGNER Dawnyal Hill

EDITORIAL STAFF Derek Hatridge

ADVERTISING STAFF Connie Poole Jessica Banks Phyllis Hurlbut

CIRCULATION STAFF Matt Gunion

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS MJ Brickey David Dishman Brandy Jeffries Madalyn Nix Adrian O’Hanlon III Parker Perry Glen Puit

ON THE COVER: Photo by Madalyn Nix Photography; graphically altered by Dawnyal Hill.

McAlester living | 4 | Summer 2024

elcome to the Summer, McAlester Living’s Summer Edition offers a set of stories and articles from around the community, including one about a local student who recently won a new car.

Pittsburg graduate was recently named the Patriot Auto Group of McAlester and McAlester News-Capital‘s Student of the Year — winning a free 2024 Jeep Compass courtesy of the car dealership.

The Class of 2024 valedictorian tells us about her volunteering and community service, who made a difference in her education, and more.

She also told us about the upgrade from her previous vehicle that was being held together by zip ties and will help her travel safely back and forth from Stillwater, where she plans to pursue a degree in counseling.

Other stories include how two cousins came together to start a holistic medical spa in McAlester after seeing a need for the area. The two women bring five elements together to give clients a natural approach to healing.

Former journalists of the McAlester News-Capital share their stories of the late James Beaty and how working with the Oklahoma Hall of Fame journalist helped them during their time at the MNC. The magazine also tells the story of Donna Parham and how the McAlester business owner’s flower arrangements make area occasions better with her arraignments.

Artists from the remaining Dancing Rabbit Music Festival show in July are also highlighted in this edition.

It also includes spring food recipes from Jessica Banks, while MNC Publisher Reina Owens provides drink recipes.

Also included are About Town photos from MNC Sports Editor Derek Hatridge and a story about students from Oklahoma State University using gardening to help others from the Oklahoma State University’s Extension Office.

An event calendar provides information regarding upcoming events in McAlester.

For a series of in-depth looks at what’s going on in the area this Summer, take a break and check out our McAlester Living Summer Edition.

—Derrick James

NO GIMMICKS, NO GAMES. JUST THE VEHICLES YOU LOVE FROM THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST. YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE THE WAY WE TRADE. THIRD PLACE AUTO DEALER

700 S. GEORGE NIGH EXPRESSWAY

918-423-6200 • www.toliverchevygmc.com

40 DANCING RABBIT

17

REMEMBERING JAMES BEATY

8

STUDENT OF THE YEAR

34

contents

44 C A L E N D A R | 5 2 D R I N K S | 0 4 E D I TO R ’ S N OT E | 3 8 G A R D E N I N G | 56 R E C I P E S

McAlester living | 6 | Summer 2024

49

Thank you for voting us #1 Veterinarian!

FIRST PLACE VETERINARIAN

GROOMING NOW AVAILABLE!

EVERYDAY HERO

HOLISTIC HEALING

Becky Sells, DVM Paul Sells, DVM

Mon. - Fri. 8:30-5:30 Wed. 8:30-1 12 North 14th St. McAlester, OK

(918) 423-3300

McAlester living | 7 | Summer 2024

H

ensley Kidd cried tears of joy when her name was read aloud as the winner of an intense-blue 2024 Jeep Compass.

The recent Pittsburg High School graduate was named the McAlester News-Capital and Patriot Auto Group’s Student of the Year during a banquet held at the McAlester Country Club in May. “I think I was in shock. I could not believe my name had been called,” Kidd said. “There were so many deserving students there standing with me. Once I finally realized it was my name that had been called, I just became very emotional. I have worked so very hard over the last four years, and I think it was just very overwhelming.”

Kidd said the car she won would do wonders for her and take away the stress and expenses she has endured from the car she drove during high school.

“The car would not just be a mode of transportation, it would also symbolize my independence,” Kidd wrote in an essay as part of the nomination process. “Most importantly for me, it would reduce the financial strain on my mother and grant her the peace of mind, knowing that I have a safe and effective vehicle.”

Patriot Auto Group and the McAlester News-Capital continued a partnership to recognize area high school seniors through a Student of the Year program that honors students’ achievements in the classroom and in their communities.

Patriot Auto Group LLC Principal Dealer Tatton Manning and Patriot Auto Chief Operations Officer Seth Knighton presented Kidd with the brand-new vehicle.

Including the estimated tax, title, and license for the vehicle, the total award package was $30,000.

Kidd graduated from PHS as valedictorian with a 4.15 GPA and has several accolades to her name including being named the Beta Iota Junior High Youth 2020, Miss McAlester’s Outstanding Teen 2021, and Miss McAlester

McAlester living | 8 | Summer 2024

By Derrick James STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY Madalyn Nix

Student of the

YEAR

is the definition of resiliency

McAlester living | 9 | Summer 2024

McAlester living | 10 | Summer 2024

2024. Along with being the recipient of several scholarships, Kidd has dedicated more than 400 hours to various community organizations, demonstrating a commitment to giving back and supporting the community.

She plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in counseling.

“When I lost my dad, my mom did the right thing and sent me counseling,” Kidd said in a video essay played at the banquet. “But the counselor didn’t really understand what I was going through and didn’t realize how to help me and I want to be able to come back and help my community and help kids that have gone through stuff like I have.”

When asked what she would say to other teenagers that are going through a loss, she said to give them “something to be proud of.”

“My mother always told me and my brothers that we do not get to use the death of our father as an excuse to make poor decisions. My father would have never wanted his death to have a negative impact on us in that way. I never forgot her telling us that,” Kidd said. “One thing I would tell a teen who is going through something similar is that just because you lose someone, it doesn’t have to derail your life and your future. Just because they are not here does not mean they are not still looking down on you with pride. Give them something to be proud of.

Do it for you and for them.”

Kidd said the car she was driving, the bumper was being held on by zip ties and a screwdriver had to be used to get the vehicle to shift. The car is now being repaired to be given to her brother.

“My brother Grayson is turning 16 in December, and I have decided to pass that car on to him so that my mother does not have to purchase a vehicle for him,” Kidd said. “He is just as excited to get my old car as I was to win the new one.”

Kidd was among Top 6 finalists that included McAlester’s Brooklynn Sumner, Quinton’s Tannah Davison, Kiowa’s Mollie Bain and Jaylee Wills, and Wilburton’s Laney McAlester.

McAlester living | 11 | Summer 2024

She thanked several individuals and organizations for helping her become the woman she is today, but none were more important than the two family members she has lost.

“I want to thank my Papa, who recently passed away unexpectedly.

He was my biggest fan and supported everything I ever did. He always cheered the loudest for me,” Kidd said. “Lastly, I want to thank my father, Shawn Kidd, for instilling in me that importance of hard work and integrity and for being there with me every step of the way.”

• Contact Derrick James at djames@ mcalesternews.com

McAlester living | 12 | Summer 2024

THE TOP 10 FINALISTS

Mollie Bain of Kiowa Cameryn Brown of McAlester Tannah Davison of Quinton Annie Dawson of Lakewood Hensley Kidd of Pittsburg Samantha Long of Crowder Laney McAlester of Wilburton Anthony Reagan of Savanna Brooklynn Sumner of McAlester Jaylee Wills of Kiowa

TOP 6 FINALISTS

Mollie Bain of Kiowa Tannah Beth Davison of Quinton Hensley Kidd of Pittsburg Laney McAlester of Wilburton Brooklynn Sumner of McAlester Jaylee Wills of Kiowa

McAlester living | 13 | Summer 2024

McAlester living | 14 | Summer 2024

McAlester living | 15 | Summer 2024

FOR ALL YOUR HOME BUYING NEEDS

IV Hydration & Vitamin Therapy Rx Weight Loss Program Permanent Makeup Cosmetic Tattoo Injectibles Laser Hair Removal Tattoo Removal Customized Facials & Peels Procell Microchanneling Medical-grade Skincare Face & Body Waxing Lamination Lash & Brow Tint Lift

17 East Carl Albert Parkway | 918-429-6031 McAlester living | 16 | Summer 2024

By DERRICK JAMES STAFF WRITER

Former coworkers remember James Beaty

Over his nearly 40-year career as a journalist for the McAlester News-Capital, the late James Beaty was a mentor for several journalists.

Beaty died unexpectedly on May 12 following a medical emergency.

The award-winning journalist started his career in 1985 after graduating from East Central University in Ada. Beaty was also a graduate of Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton and Hartshorne High School.

Beaty’s writing over his career helped expose several issues related to corruption and nepotism in local governments that led to dismissals, resignations, and even criminal charges

By PAR K against several individuals — FORMER M ER PERRY N-C STAFF WRITER earning him several state and national awards for his reporthank yo u, James Beaty, fo everyth ing. r ing His weekly Ramblin’ Round “He was a friend of mine music column was a favorite, He was a friend Every tim o f mine e I think with his writings making about h Lord I ju im st can’t now their way onto music forums keep fro ‘Cause h m c r y e in’ was a fr across the globe. iend of m -Bob Dy ine” lan His reporting lauded him I must a dmit wh into the Oklahoma Journalen I dro McAlest ve into e r, Oklahom ism Hall of Fame in 2017. of 2014, a in the summe I didn’t The McAlester r know to about B o m u o ch b Dylan News-Capital contacted .

I had pr obably h several journalists who eard the before. B Dylan b name ut I wou y sitting worked with James over ld n’t have across fr to tell yo B e a b t om Jam u anyth een able y in the the years. es in n e g w about th er-song sroom a e s t e e w r t N s t riter fro h in e e w g M s The following short cAlCapital. m Minn rose to p James w fan of B esota wh rominen o a b s o stories are written by a D big y ce in the lan, and has a wh numero h 1 9 e 6 o w 0 le r ’s o u c a t enter de s stories e nd those who had the Oklahom voted to about h column im a h — im s in o a in ver the y nd a few his opportunity to work my pers ears. songs n But you onal pla o w c o o and learn from James n y uld also list, too.

You cou lot of ot say I lea ld say I le h rned a e r t during their time in h ings by s arned a itting ac lot abou ross t McAlester.

James B eaty Remembe ring

Parker P James B erry’s memorie eaty s of

T

See Perry PA

G E 24

McAlester living | 17 | Summer 2024

y t a e B s e lane Jam g n i r e b m Reme

A walk

y r o m e down m

N PUIT

By GLE NAGING EDITOR

N-C MA FORMER M

sa hen I wa ew, brand n ly extreme ed motivat apital, News-C e h t t a r were edito ided we c e d I d n James a a story work on o t g in o e first g is was th Th r. e h toget a story worked e w e ll right tim could te I d n a r g togethe ere goin w I d n a es ar he away Jam t was cle I . ff o it to hit ng his e how lo r a c ’t n . be. He did his desk going to o t s k a c w a y b r a went workd ch labo e day, ignhow mu nd of th s e e s r a e a h e c t t h s t t ’t A into ju didn y part of as ake. He es came t m ll m t o e t a a J w g h t s r, in a e ry going howev y. it was go asked ve t wasn’t to d the stor n g t n e e a in g m e o c o g t me s my offi wanted ed. It wa uddled. ld talk to n h u I n to c c d la e e p n p a h x ’d s I if old than e politely So, Jame issue. I t plan for e longer lt a u m s t c a e u k o w iffi a I t d d e at, ecords s, you about a We work get the r to do wh se, Jame r o g t u in o d c o e f g s e him, ‘O who wa to me.’ H we were g n in t io h u r. t t o e a y b aft an rm mes a the can say what info how we ll me in telling Ja e d s t f n a o o a t w t k I d n e e e se mom is s, proceed going to t it for th hen, in a ourteou s e c s w g , u o c is le t t h a t g n d e in ay re most g were go s-like w n, I utte e days e io t m Th . a a J r e y t , r h s t n o ke r st ibing out fru soft-spo E 25 particula ile descr went ab h h w c s Puit PAG d a e r e o e m e e a w S J w . , g n o in went n beas fac and elays I w nd it soo a d , s k erstood s t a d t n n e u r a e our p h p told me came a

W

McAlester living | 18 | Summer 2024

James B eaty Remembe ring

The life and tim es

J

By ADR IAN O’H ANLON FORMER M III N-C ST AFF EDITO R

ames Be aty alwa ys aime accurate d to be and fair in every covered thing he during h is nearly cade car four-deeer. Tho his indu se attrib ction in u tes led t to the O o klahom a Journa l-

of Jame s

Beaty

ism Hall of Fame and ma newspa de him a per man beloved in Pittsb I saw Jam urg Cou es’ dilig n t y. ence in age in m election y first ye coverar as ed News-C itor at th apital in e 2017 — MN-C te and the am knew entire the imp ortance of edu-

See O’Hanlo

n PAGE

26

McAlester living | 19 | Summer 2024

The Agency on Your Side...And in Your Neighborhood Since 1900.

Customize Your Coverage for personalized protection We’re here to help you bundle the insurance options that make the most sense for your current needs and future.

Call today to review your existing policy or get a rate quote, with no cost or obligation.

JORDAN BARNETT INSURANCE & BONDS Ryan Owens

Serving Oklahoma Since 1900

918-423-4045 Toll Free 1-800-395-4045 • 212 E. Cherokee Ave. McAlester, OK

WWW.JORDANBARNETT.COM McAlester living | 20 | Summer 2024

FIRST PLACE INSURANCE AGENCY

er News-Cap est ita Al

2023

l

Mc

We Offer Full-Service

C B

E S VOTED T T of the B ES

FIRST PLACE CARPET & FLOOR CENTER

Thank You again McAlester for Voting Us #1

er News-Cap est ita Al

2023

l

Mc

Commercial • Residential • Mowing Trimming Edging • Bush & Leaf Removal

C B

E S VOTED T T of the B ES

FIRST PLACE LANDSCAPING

Carpet & Floor Center

Renew Every Room With Fashion Flooring Great prices on wall-to-wall carpet, hardwood, laminate and tile flooring options for every room in your home!

See us for the latest trends and styles in flooring!

Installation always available and done right the first time!

918-470-4048 Monte Joe Glenn, owner

1316 E. Carl Albert McAlester 918-426-6443 MON.-FRI. 8AM-5PM SAT.9AM-12 NOON

CARPET & TILE

www.MillCreekCarpet.com

There’s more for you here

PLUMBING SUPPLIES HEATING & AIR

1900 E. Electric Ave., McAlester (918)423-4194

McALESTER CAMPUS

301 Kiamichi Drive, McAlester. OK 74501 (918) 426-0940 I KTC.EDU/McAlester Facebaak & lnstagram: @KTCMcAlester McAlester living | 21 | Summer 2024

y t a e B s e eaty Jam g n i r e b m Reme

B s e m a J f o d n e g e l e Th MAN ID DISH RITER V A D y W B N-C STAFF FORMER M

e a sly, own to b n k is x A fo en perture, oft a e r c r us e clev ischievo m e b o t t it sonified nd to pu a y k a e has and sn County g r u b s t Pit bluntly, foxes. share of ir fa s it arachad those ch f o y n a r But m st jobs o lo , e im t ed s in ters serv their sin o t p u n w they had to o because e y e c li ames the pub xed by J fo t u o ll were a gethBeaty. orked to w I d n a s at family James ree year ored his h t d a ly e r a H e . s often. er for n tty wa ut them eer. I’d r e o r a b p c a y d ’m e m I of nd talk t want ecause the start ster site stick,” b sting a u did no u o le ig y b A b , c n y e o M e or b o b But moved t eive him mes had ause I’d c a c e J e d e b r o t t n u r t r s a p in p theaste to attem ury unseen, s in sou ith the k w o ’s d o y r e . Try to b d c s c s d li e e b r T u p e p c r im e expose it th a sin leste ’d A been e m c h o h M d e n la Ok ing a ip at th someth rthing tration. leadersh ding is lu in c at, unea m in e d e l, b a h t a t r it a d p e e a al in a h learn News-C h surgic it s w a I quickly n y t io t es Bea hI informa James. nd of Jam ow muc y e h it g n a le e u n. id m ns, one precisio the com I had no man. in e is n H le o . p f surgeo k o r m o e o o g p fr w in n k is s r a h a r Spe es storie could le gine m d him fo a a e J r e e im e v it I b e r r o o wh my fav at the ns were He was as referme of mal day ic colum w r s ld o lt u o n e t v m a s e y s n oo eak le alwa came o Teddy R said, “Sp ed. Peop ate he v e r e h lo n id s e n h d and co d carry a ring to w how kin softly an

McAlester living | 22 | Summer 2024

James B eaty Remembe ring

Ramblin ’ throug h the Be aty yea rs

By M

FORMER M J BRICKEY N-C STAFF DIGITAL E DITOR

or so be fore. Ou r conver The new tion had sas of Jam r e v o lv es Beaty ed arou passing s o m n ’s d e hit me h film pro ard, esp jects I w cially co working eas nsiderin o n , all of wh g I had spoken w ic e h re music with him -related just a we . James ek was thrille d about

them ; h is enthu siasm w infectio as us. Our s hared passion for mus ic was o ne of

See Brickey

PAGE 27

McAlester living | 23 | Summer 2024

kind aty e B es being m a s J r e e emb nse Jam g n i ces, I rem ring inte r n u e d ie b r n e e m p v x e E e Rem torney sionate. fense at compas

and n a de was like whe , s t n face, he e is m h mo in d d and and crie ed to fin d e in m m a r e e r t fes- sc and de OM 17 UED FR be a pro ssertive o a t , w lm o a CONTIN h c gs like deeds ts. thy, es. Thin t the fac rustwor rous mis r t m e a o e J p m b e u m r o n t o portfr d w ily and gh his re ncovere alist, ho m u u n o r fa s r u e h d t jo n m l a a J siona friends held loyal to e b ing and o . t s u s e J how o t ountfaithful ople acc e e b p o t w ho their as the able for James w g his tor ns durin n io e t c m a t c perfe he ar-old eer. And r e a y c 2 2 a t of for do it ou id ’t k n d e id y d e bright e did it ve from spite. H who dro his cAlester cause of e M b o t io Oh nt to mmitme t the o a c k r o w to t and mes buil the truth paper. Ja ight. nd what’s r y me up a end of m e o h t t t e A m wanted the . He enure at t d e e c c u s l, after s-Capita o be t w e e N m t h taug ns he h the lesso it ll w a l fu e car e while who aught m t s e c r u o s in the to lead working to o h wanted p less Courtesy n thank “the e n ft ts w o r a o H d still the me dustry, I rming at road” in fo k r s e ic w p r e b n eyes be heard yellow e bright aty could estival. paper h e t e B h d s t e a e h m s Ja and u Times F orld a n ve the w orne Hard w a h o le ir o t e h n ue for t also rminatio e part d e g e t r h e t la d u e in b h , and t hat was interest e to e. And t ries that m c o d t la s e p g r n a e r w t bet mes. encou ack do . round Ja e and tr a iv g . s s e in e d family g e r n n g b a a o h s t c d e n be ag w iv sit tervie his frie ine ad to po pray for s while in I e m a would le J a iend of m h fr in it a g w s a in g y w ein ine tor, sta “James I recall b .S. Sena iend of m for a U fr g w e a in b s it a o a t w es onht w t him no m u ig a o J n b id a k m ing a so ast ials in in’ e I thin m well p very tim city offic from cry E s p s e g o e r k in c courtroo a n ’t n e” ing win I just ca d of minOfficer for d brating dict, sitt n r r le o e ie e v L fr c y , a d r s ju ation rview am an es was trivia te ious inte use Jam ntly Public Inform District of Ohio.. e a m ‘C a s e content curre on th uthern playing • Perry is l court in the So a awards, r e the fed all these church.

During going to

Perry...

McAlester living | 24 | Summer 2024

Puit...

C

ONTINU ED FRO M

Remembe ring Jam es

Beaty

(althoug h he ma that he w y have.) m ostly jus as a man Instead, t wrote d of faith a he saying t own in h pad wha nd that hat cuss is t n p w o e t o o e rd in ou ple were convers someho r prior ation, ev saying a w mana nd en out o made h g e d f fr t accurate o get it p ustratio im unco n e t im m r , fectly fortable e after tim no need . There w I also re e. for it. I a a m s g e r mber sh eed and gized. started a ortly aft apoloer I t the job I told Ja J a m he could es askin mes I w g me if continu ould ma not doin e to writ ke a poin reviews g that ag e music and colu t of ain.

I went h mns. Of could, I ome tha c o urse he t old him t night a on what . He was writer a nd refle a man o a writer nd I rea cted f integrit ’s characte lly admir y and him. r James e d t h is w a bout as. I was concern initially The oth ed I’d le e ft r a J ames w spect of impress thought ith a bad James th ion, but a at I have b w o u e t b more aft a onded e lo t in how mu recent w er that. ven ch Jame eeks is s loved O I learne and tha d a lot a k la t he was homa bout Jam I learne truly a “ er. Jame es that d d just as lo c a l” s ay. had the reportmuch ab and how talent to out mys where a I needed g e o n lf a d nymake a to chang manage lot more yet he h e as a r. To this m a d o ney, n d o intere ay, I thin that con st in doin One tim k about versatio e he and g so. n a lot. I thankfu I rode to am very Oklahom l for it. g e t h a er to the Press As It is a cli sociatio During ché use n t h a a w t ards. d too oft ride, we pose, bu en, I sup talking a spent ho t the firs b u o r t s u t t hing tha Oklahom mind fo talked a t comes r me wh a (he m n t d o e ostly I n li I s think ab t James is e n e d stories. .) He wa out that he w S s o fu m ll of as “olde were h throwba school.” were tra ilarious ck. In a A . g S ic o w . m o Some w rld of co e journali ere just about p rporate sm and s e t o o p s r u ie le it s . s and tie I knew a wore a t in the p s, James ee shirt t the tim resence and jean e I was had a ha o f a s s t H pecial p o work. e cared irstyle th H e m r e s on. at remin ore abou Jerry Ga ded me he serve t the com rcia of th o d f m t h e u a G nity n he did rateful D don’t ev recognit about p er reme e a d .

I io restige, mber him n and m tape rec oney. It honor to using a order du w a s s a an y I knew ring inte rviews and wor James. ked with • Puit is c 18

u commu rrently a corpo nication r s manag ate er in La s Ve

gas.

McAlester living | 25 | Summer 2024

aty e B s e Jam g n i r e b m e Rem ... n o l n a O’H M 19

tion ajor elec m a f o ite ahead with Ign e public d h t e r g e n in t t r a c we pa s for 018. So o forum w t t e s year in 2 8 to ates er in 201 t candid u o b a McAlest e r ats in o tative se learn m n o e t s s e r r e p t e vo tate r ounty for the s tsburg C it running P for ; 8 1 a runoff and n’t take ; 7 1 ld 1 t u s o t ic r h ic t s r Dist use we ard 6; at in Dis ose uncil W ers beca ioner se e to cho t o s v o C a is v h y m s it m r n m C co info lester r citize estion ember for McA local qu he powe t n a d io n t e t c o ays rem n le n a e lw r io a g t n l a o ’l I m n aper t. io re infor e newsp ernmen te quest v h a t o t r s g e r a ft plus mo u d a at o n h James category l sales, a it o w ip h h g o s r in lc r e a on se stions chee na. ity lead n for tho the que marijua ommun r l io c t a fo e ia ic h d c t d e o e n k s m wo es as ant in ress As andidat homa P ays adam la k lw a O When c t s e a o h t n ind w rums. olicy of , James uinely k e p n fo c e ’s e n g r t a t e a v s p d id o a in a cand ewsp the m s him ith the n s one of ce. Jame a w n w g a s v s seeing in e d k is a m ic a m e J in st l k s ’l li I n . g earing n in e questio ad and h someth ’ve know p I h e t it le o w p n o d e giving th p spon yellow andiling a lways re with his e other c m wrest h d o t n fr o u t o — would a r ir s a fa , to the test country ldn’t be ing storie t u o e s t o e h s t r w r e r t e t e a v w “th his in g all o the ans in the rare itchhikin elieved you got h b if o s ly t e t ison, to r, m r a r a ip d e fi n b e e u t h r H t ours t o music a hey did.” g at 48 H ame opp g s in e in e b h h t c a m e ibefore t t e o t dida t elim red fr ach can rum tha ts he sha fo e p n n sed. e ip p giving e n o s l be mis Public Informatio te, an il la w s e k H n . e a la h k b t o a t ly , t A ty In ndiis curren er. y bias. ’Hanlon City of McAlest to get ca O s n • io r t s nated an u e e o h u t r q in e s fo ed th issue Officer portant We craft im o t ld s u e o s spon they w dates’ re ade sure m arn d n a nity ters to le u o v m r m fo o s c nitie opportu te. present ming ing to vo o g e r rainstor b fo e e s b o e h r t mo mber ation ys reme determin is h d I’ll alwa n es a te as with Jam candida le g in s sessions ery w that fair to ev mber ho e m e to be as r s all y bring it I’ll alwa . m le a e ib t s e s po eing th ms, the g and se livestrea e h t , s plannin forum oth r — the ade us b m — togethe s proud to storie

O UED FR CONTIN

McAlester living | 26 | Summer 2024

Remembe ring Jam es

Brickey ...

CONTIN U

Beat

ED FRO respond M 23 ed, “Oh the man yeah?” Th y bonds what wo at day, I w u e ld becom had form years. wrote e ed over s t e h r e io N us colum NA’s 201 the When I n 2 . best His beli first join with his ef in me ed the M infectio News-C , c o u u pled c s enthus Alester apital in to aim h iasm, in June 201 ig h through e r s and ach pired m 0, I was a tough ieve mo James w e going period. r a e this and s . n o J ames re t ju s reached t w a collea ho inspir cognize out, kno gue but someth d ed me to wing I n a friend ing to lift b b e e a t t e e b e r e d jo t e m t er perso d urnalist y spirits to help h , and th n, a . He inv im sift th myself. e best ve ited me Our sha rough n stories t r s io red love ewspap n of o submit corners ers for for mus to comp tone of o began a ic w a e ur friend sa titions. W s a profe bond th ship, cre hat ssional t at transc into a de a t a in s e k ga n soon tur ded the lightful realm. O ritual. W ned p r u o r fe hours la d s is s ional cussion e spent ughing a rich and s about countle nd unea v m s a pieces, fo s r u ie s ic d , r were thing th covering rming a the clas e best everyth sics to c tradition cherishe in g o fr n t hat we b o tempora d. James convers oth ry hits. Th m often to ations w pating in ld e e s r m e e a refuge these co e that pa we could , a space mpetitio rticiboth esc fun and ns kept where a invigora p e M a n t y d h r e job dream. elations ting, a s resonate h e n ip timent t with Jam d with m Kevin H hat truly es, alon e. arvison, From th g with fo rmed a at first s pure an trio of th ummer d whole March 2 e most to my de some frie 016, Jam — I am parture ndships es taugh better b lessons in I ’v t e e had me inva cause I k about in presenc luable n tegrity, e o w e w t importa h a e s a sour m. Jame thics, an nce of p ce of str his wisd s’s d the ouring o e o n m g work. H t h a guiding and joy, ne’s hea is mento light.

As I refl rt into rship wa ect on th In those s transfo e momen y M ears spe cAlester rmative ts, he jo nt at the “Babe R Capital, . kingly d uth” bec I r J a e m u a li b e z b s e e a g d h use I ha ave me. ow muc me predictin d a knac His men h g which and the k t o fo r s r a h le r ip, frien ticles wo ssons he playful n dship, uld win imparte ickname indelible . This d have le was a te m and cam a r k o ft s n my life tament an araderie that in s to the fu . I can o we shar ome sm One par n n ly e a h d ll o . pe way, I ga back to ticularly ve some him. Wh memora pointed t h e ble day, in t h out that g er throu laughs, James we need gh our s the succ submit, e h esses we d a colu ared but we d simple a mn to celebrat idn’t ha ct of wo make th e d v , e r o k one that r the ing toge e deadli enriche would ther, I h ne unles d his life diately. o s we wro p e a s I With a m much as James B te it imm ix of det he did m eaty was humor, eerminat ine.

I pointe a h r e is m io le a n r g d at Jam kable pe and acy will “James, e c r s s o o a ntinue t n, and nd decla today I’m had the o inspir red, privileg going to Place, N e t h o e w s o e rite you ational a f knowin who passion a 1st ward-w g him. H for journ laughed inning c is a s li p , perhap s irit, will live m, and lo olumn.” s a bit sk on in th ve for m He eptically e h u e s ic a t o r ts of all uched , and who we • Bricke by his life. re y is

produce

r

currently

a Nashv

ille publi

cist and

film

McAlester living | 27 | Summer 2024

MCALESTER NEWS-CAPITAL

Former Managing Editor James Beaty died suddenly at the age of 72 following a May 12 medical emergency. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame in 2017.

McAlester living | 28 | Summer 2024

aty e B s e Jam g n i r e b m e Rem n... a m h s i D 22 D FROM

ctor that a do ip t a d e eceiv rgery hen I’d r up to su g in w o office w h it s proving fired for in n r e e fa b y r d ha get ve cAlalls to M couldn’t c I . le k n ip u lt r u d ll. M getting hit a wa er were t n e C and had h do. lt nal Hea what to io w g o e n R k r ’t e est ceedd I didn and pro here an e w n o o n h p e m the O at the icked up r the CE fo e James p n o ph l the cell ed to dia ed to of one ays seem repancy t ‘em. c lw o is a G d time. ic e e d iv e h t t r dmit in a p he day is execu rced to a as stuck . ay and t Now, th o w s d F t e t u a m b h a , t J t e tip, straigh between call from nfirm th n e o o c h t e o g s t d r e e shoot us u le s m eld break tell Ja was ab hen he fi outright tory and e, James s r ld e fo u h e ament w t o b e c e s it e to wr becau ’t feel h ere able surgeon w He didn a e d w e r t fi est of a h ital had for the r s. ter like t e t v w a o e m n m l l t e e a the hosp a h t onn rted out th able leg g a pers think ab kind hea l , question il n e e w k I m disclosin o o o t p s it a g s The soft iew like d him in omethin v n s r. r e s e la t e e r ld in a m u c a n J co my er and time, e told cting a g, and h t condu e entire his answ s t h t li d l a e o t n r r c t e u n standin jo exp tell him s in co nt. I had o. He wa him and r t k liant. s n e a a h that exte t m tely bril s to e lu o t of m s a J b a r s wa p on a lo it u d d waited fo n e r . a e d n o nd ate t ndersto lester, a nd I par u A a c e s h e M t , m a in y a h J t y time mes sa Mexiheard Ja favorite during m I r s , e u ie c o Wrong. r n t o e t a a e s li an you agr rellenos e of bril more th k e t ld o il u r lo h t o s c a w f t a , o u In total a lot ed to ed abo you this privileg mploy in . We talk o e t me ask s s t u le o in ll ’m y I e jo ff d W n “ ca of sta ars, an number er the ye ?” v d r o o k c r e o that the r w c friend. wn of publi e on the him my r iv d e t t e t u ll s you do a c a e is c m x e e m v r e a is a e h f h v t ore to ed while in Oklah e will fo ome sor y s w c , a d s g e e u le s m He paus Ja , “So ave is quite a e must h en asked you left h t t u s b e , e m r a e other lin h se J er Reto write nt becau McAlest ruption r s e o . c o a d agreeme h c s m on be mu oirs of ny surge r the ch ploy?” re won’t a e m e e h Th how ma r I e t t u n an’t ber was eaven, b ealth Ce , and I c h m H g u l in in a n t ll n a u e o io e p g ab hil veryty com pause w re migh ibbled e r a c s ls e o Another g h n iews. a at the ,w your rev Executive editor o James d. t d a a d p e e e r t id o o v t n pro ospital wait man is currently s. yellow id the h wn in a d o s d n g • Dish rt Collin o e in th surg an in Fo y o n d a a r m lo w Co “And ho y?” a d r e t s e y employ

UE CONTIN

McAlester living | 29 | Summer 2024

Lean On Us In-home care, trusted and reliable when you need it most.

We provide care wherever you call home...

In your house, a skilled nursing center, an assisted living facility or independent living facility.

Providing compassionate and dignified in-home end-of-life care, comfort and support to patients and their families.

Micah Windham,BSN/RN/Administrator

FAST, FRIENDLY LOANS W e a r e p r ou d t o c o n t i nu o u s l y s u p p o r t ou r c o m mu n it y .

W a ll a c e F i n a n c e p r ov i d es p e r s o n a l l oa n s f o r w h a t ev e r li f e br i ng s y o u r w a y .

T o a pp l y , t ex t L O AN t o 5 6 9 9 8 o r v i s i t w w w . w a l l a c e f i n a nc e . c o m

Kristy Montray RN, Director of Professional Services

500 Village Boulevard, Suite C McAlester,OK 74501

918-302-0700

www.heartlandhospice.com

207 S 5th Street McAlester, OK 74501

2 2 0 E a s t C h o c ta w M c Al e s t e r , O K 7 4 5 0 1

( 9 1 8 ) 4 2 3 - 00 1 3

(918) 423-3810

PAT LAYDEN and DANIELLE LAYDEN LAW FIRM, P.C.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE BEST TEAM ON YOUR SIDE.

+ PERSONAL INJURY + ACCIDENTS + CRIMINAL + FELONY+ DUI+ DIVORCE· FAMILY LAW + CUSTODY + PROBATE + GUARDIANSHIP + ADOPTIOn

FREE CONSULTATION call 918-423-7211 today

PAT LAYDEN and DANIELLE LAYDEN LAW FIRM P.C. 23 E. CARL ALBERT, McALESTER WWW.PATLAYDENLAW.COM

McAlester living | 30 | Summer 2024

Mc

2023

l

er News-Cap est ita Al

C B

E S VOTED T T of the B ES

FIRST PLACE NURSING HOME

Serving McAlester for 30 Years

WALNUT GROVE LIVING CENTER Our services include...

• Skilled Nursing Unit • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy • Hospice Services • Whirlpool Baths • Therapeutic Diets • Security Systems

918.423.7373

1001 S. GEORGE NIGH EXPWY., McALESTER, OKLAHOMA WAYNETTA BENNETT, ADMINISTRATOR

WAYNETTA BENNETT, ADMINISTRATOR AUBRIE TRAMMELL, RN, BSN-DIRECTOR OF NURSES

Quality & Value in Every Aisle er News-Cap est ita Al

2023

l

Mc

Take Advantage of our 30 Year Mortgages!

C B

E S VOTED T T of the B ES

HONORABLE MENTION GROCERY STORE

Contact Mandy Horn, VP at First Bank Kiowa for more financing details.

Our goal is to make the home buying process a great experience!

FirstBank Since 1901 100 Harper Valley Rd. | Kiowa, Ok 918-432-3400 | www.firstbank-ok.com

Roy’s Choice Select Meats

Variety of Fruits

Fresh Vegetables

Load up on family favorites... meats,vegetables, fruits,chips,pop,etc.

Our service is second to none.

ROY’S CARDINAL FOOD STORE 621 HWY. 2 NORTH •WILBURTON, OK • 918.465.2452 Joe & B.J. Coy and the Team

McAlester living | 31 | Summer 2024

Shop now for the best selection of new vehicle values!

SHOP 24/7 AT SamSFreedomFord.com

MAKE IT HAPPEN Freedom Ford McAlester.com

Su

upport

Hundreds of Hot Pre-owned Deals

Browse inventory online or stop in for a test drive!

the Com

ty! i n u m e Com

th s t r o p p ealer that su

munity D

NOW TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! McALESTER

720 S. George Nigh Expressway, McAlester, OK 918.423.2800 • 800.725.3673

EUFAULA

590 Selman Road, Eufaula, OK 918.689.7767 • 800.545.5358

Medical spa new

treatments c i t s i l ho McAlester medicine

brings

W

By DERRICK JAMES STAFF WRITER

to

endy Ragan and Katie Rings said they opened The Element Theory in 2023 after realizing there was not a lot of options for holistic healing available in the

McAlester area.

“We would have to go to Tulsa or Oklahoma City or Dallas to get any of these treatment options,” Rings said.

“And especially working with more holistic minded patients over there, I was like, ‘we need to bring something like this to McAlester.’”

McAlester living | 34 | Summer 2024

The medical spa features five modalities — metal, water, wood, fire, and Earth, and is recommended to be done in the specific order for optimum healing.

Ragan explained the duo, who are also cousins, wanted a place where all their favorite holistic modalities could be accessed under one roof.

“You can go do halotherapy or red-light therapy, but it’s not all in one area,” Ragan said. “That’s kind of how we came about.”

The medical spa features five modalities — metal, water, wood, fire, and Earth, and is recommended to be done in the specific order for optimum healing.

“We researched the best way to stack the modalities, it’s called bio stacking,” Rings said. “It’s just the best way to experience each of these modalities.”

Clients start with metal, which features the VIBE bed, which is a frequency, vibrational, and sound therapy mat.

“It’s good for any anxiety, stress, inflammation,” Ragan said. “It gets down to the cellular level. It’s really like you’re thinking relaxing, but it’s also doing some more healing that you don’t know about. It has lots of different albums, different vibrations, different sounds that go with each

Halo therapy is a part of the Earth modality at The Element Theory.

McAlester living | 35 | Summer 2024

The Element Theory is located at 500 E. Cherokee in McAlester.

album.”

After the 20-minute session with the VIBE bed is complete, the client will head into the water room, where a state-of-the-art cryo chamber awaits.

The eCabin cryo chamber exposes the body to extreme cold temperatures for a short period of time. That time is anywhere from one to three minutes but never exceeding three minutes. The neck and head are outside the cryo chamber. Once the client is inside the cryochamber, with the correct height, they can begin the session. Once the client reaches certain temperatures, the fans slowly turn off. If the client gets all of their checkmarks, then the session is over. There are three different levels they can do which include mild, default, and intense.

“Good for muscles, migraines, any tension,” Ragan said. “Think of it kind of like an ice bath. It’s just a full body ice pack.”

The next session is the wood room and McAlester living | 36 | Summer 2024

contains an infrared sauna.

“It heats up with you, which is way more healthier than if you were just to walk in to like, 180 degrees,” Rings said.

From the wood room, the client will then go into the fire room.

“So, it’s red light, near infrared light, that is pretty much good for just about anything,” Rings explained. “It basically increases your healing time by four times the normal amount. So if you tore a ligament or broke a bone or sprained an ankle or anything, it can heal the body quickly because it goes down to the mitochondria of the cell. It goes down deep and repairs the cells from the inside out.”

The final modality is Earth.

“So, our Halo therapy, which is our salt cave/booth,” Ragan said.

She explained the client will have the choice between sitting in the larger salt cave, or a smaller concentrated booth depending on the relief that is sought.

“So, we have a booth that you would go in

Clients start with metal, which features the VIBE bed, which is a frequency, vibrational, and sound therapy mat and get to choose their soundtrack.

Katie Rings and Wendy Ragan opened The Element Theory in 2023 after realizing there was not a lot of options for holistic healing available in the McAlester area.

if you’re stopped up in the midst of like a sinus flare up, or cold, anything like that.

That’s where you want to be. It’s about 10 minutes because it’s more concentrated.

It breaks up all that mucus so you can get it out of there. It’s like a toothbrush for your lungs, basically,” Ragan said. “The salt cave, you’re in there for 25 minutes just because it’s a bigger room but it’s a more relaxing environment.”

The total cost for all five elements is $150 and takes approximately an hour and a half depending on which treatments are chosen at each modality.

Clients also have the choice to do one room at a time for $40.

“If you’re new to us, your first time is $1 for one room,” Ragan said. “So, if you want to try out any room, it’s just $1.”

The Element Theory is also having a summer special on Tuesdays through August where a person can buy one room for $40 and a second for $5.

Each room does have a list of contraindications, but a lot of them are a “check with your physician first” before using, according to Ring.

“There’s really not a lot of contraindications, but there are some,” Ring said “So we just say, check with your physician.”

Gift cards and packages are also available for purchase.

Those who are interested in making an appointment or have any questions can contact Rings and Ragan by calling 918-916-3062 or by visiting their website at www.theelementtheoryok.com.

• Contact Derrick James at djames@ mcalesternews.com

McAlester living | 37 | Summer 2024

OSU Student Farm doubles acreage to serve Oklahoma food banks

By GAIL ELLIS OSU AG COMMUNICATIONS

The Oklahoma State University Student Farm is in its second year of operation and has harvested over 7,000 pounds of cool-season crops in 2024.

The idea was sparked by First Cowboy Darren Shrum, husband of OSU President Kayse Shrum, and is facilitated by the OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture.

Department head Justin Quetone Moss leads the project and secured a partnership with Rachael Condley, director of Stillwater’s Our Daily Bread Food and Resource Center, to deliver fruits and vegetables to the food center and serve Payne County residents. Fresh produce is also supplied to Pete’s Pantry, the food bank located on campus.

Co-managers Matt Beartrack and Lynda Carrier work alongside a small group of OSU Extension assistants and student employees to harvest a variety of cool- and warm-season crops. Located on the west side of campus on Highway 51 in Stillwater, the site’s initial 2 1/2 acres produced more than 54,000 pounds of food for residents in 2023. This spring, the team doubled its planted acreage with seasonal favorites featuring cabbage, Swiss chard, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, sweet corn, spinach, potatoes and onions. New additions this year include sweet potatoes and Irish potatoes.

The OSU Student Farm is a hands-on living classroom for employees and volunteers involved in all aspects of vegetable production from planting, irrigating and fence building to weeding and harvesting. Beartrack said the team has improved the logistics of its daily deliveries to Our Daily Bread Food and Resource Center in Stillwater.

“This year, we’re more streamlined and communicating better about how much space we have for cold storage and what can be McAlester living | 38 | Summer 2024

MITCHELL ALCALA | OSU Ag Communications

Employees at the OSU Student Farm plant onions and potatoes at the student farm at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater in February.

delivered,” he said.

The farm appreciates the generosity of P&K Equipment for donating the lease of two John Deere tractors. Great Plains Kubota also has provided the use of a Kubota tractor.

Installation of a post-harvest wash station is expected by August to prepare fruits and vegetables for distribution to food banks in Oklahoma’s metropolitan areas. This new feature is made possible through a partnership with the OSU Innovation Foundation and support from OSU’s Human Performance and Nutrition Research Institute.

As the original site of the OSU Swine Research and Education Center, the land, swine barn and caretaker’s house sat vacant for over a decade before OSU began transforming the space. The house now serves as the farm’s headquarters and has undergone minor renovations, such as painting, cleaning and repairs on the home’s water and central heat and air systems.

Beartrack said additional expansion with an organic focus is planned for later this fall; an OSU doctorate student will oversee the production of an acre of certified natural-grown produce.

“We’re about to plant summer crops on it and finish the fence,” he said. “The irrigation is in, the pipe poles are set and we’ll be ready to grow strawberries on it this fall.”

Even the most experienced gardeners face challenges with growing vegetables, and the Student Farm is no exception.

Despite the team’s attempt to rotate the planting location of its cool and warm season crops, squash bugs and other common insects keep the gardening crew on alert. Although some of the produce is smaller this year compared to 2023, abundant rainfall has required less irrigation, and the farm’s crop is thriving.

“The quality of the produce — like our cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli — is awesome this year, and we’ve received a lot of positive feedback from the public on watching the season’s progress as they drive by the farm,” Carrier said.

McAlester living | 39 | Summer 2024

Dirt d e R a a m o h r a l t Ok i

By BRANDY JEFFRIES FOR THE NEWS-CAPITAL

DANCING RABBIT MUSIC FESTIVAL | Courtesy Photo

Jake Smith performs May 11 at the Dancing Rabbit Music Festival on Choctaw Avenue in McAlester.

McAlester living | 40 | Summer 2024

DRMF 2024 season ts se out s to clo

PHOTOS BY Derrick James AND Derek Hatridge

The Dancing Rabbit Music Festival returned in May with classic country music vibes to then take a vibe roller coaster experiencing a loop and twist into rock and soul.

The lineup on May 11, 2024, began with Okie-native, Autumn Ragland, with her Americana sound.

Followed by 90s country singer Wade Hayes.

Headlining the 2024 season was Grammy Award-Winning Producer of the Year, Jake Smith.

Smith is better known as The White Buffalo.

The free festival takes over a portion of Choctaw Avenue about a block long with a large stage on one end and food trucks parked at the other end.

Activities start around 5 pm and a few local businesses stay open to cater to the foot traffic.

A Battle of the Bands kicked off the June lineup, which was dubbed as “a vibe” by Dancing Rabbit Music Festival coordinators. Bruiser Force is a local band with McAlester natives who planned to attend and entertain during the Battle of Bands.

Headlining the June show, Grammy-nominated Amythyst Kiah. She studied Tennessee-musicality from Bluegrass to Honky-tonk that gracefully pairs well with her exquisitely-trained voice. Her song “Black Myself” is fresh and soulful.

Leading up to Kiah, EG Vines and Eddie 9V were expected to create the energy. Eddie 9V gives electric soul with country vibes. Starting with EG Vines to send us back into the 90s not to reminisce with classic country, but with alternative rock embracing an inner-anarchist vibe.

Yes, “a vibe” rollercoaster settling back on track where the festival season started, country roots.

The summer portion of the festival season ends July 27 with red-dirt vibes. Two Okie-based groups lead the lineup mix – Five Year Gap and Roz, the band. Also, before the headliner, the festival is bringing back Good Looks with new songs from their new album.

And the summer festival ends with the last artist, Cody Canada and the Departed.

McAlester living | 41 | Summer 2024

Songs by the Artists The White Buffalo “Wish It Was True” “Don’t You Want It”

Wade Hayes

“Old Enough To Know Better” “On a Good Night” Autumn Ragland “Better To Be Loneyly” “Love, Liquor, and a Place to Die”

McAlester living | 42 | Summer 2024

Amythyst Kiah “Black Myself” “Hitchin’ a Ride”

Eddie 9V

“Beg, Borrow, and Steal” “Little Black Flies”

EG Vines

“Over the Sun” “The Swim”

Cody Canada and the Departed Five Year Gap “Unglued” “Inbetweener” Good Looks “Almost Automatic” Can You See Me Tonight?”

“Chalk Houses” “Loop de Loop”

Roz the Band “Don’t Need U” “Alright”

Cody Canada made his mark with Cross Canadian Ragweed from 1994-2010 before developing the Departed.

Bring your favorite lawn chairs and wear your comfy shoes. The July forecast of vibes looks like the evening will begin with a 90-percent chance of girl rock with Roz followed by a strong influence of alternative country by Five Year Gap. Later into

the night, expect Good Looks with calm chords with possible slow dancing followed by red-dirt vibes by Cody Canada and the Departed.

And if it’s red-dirt country that suits your vibe, be prepared for a fall return of the festival November 9 with The Great Divide, The Damn Quails, Red Dirt Rangers, and Noah Bowman.

McAlester living | 43 | Summer 2024

JUL July 4 McAlester Freedom Fest LOCATION: Southeast Expo center McAlester Oklahoma The event includes musicians giving our gift to celebrate our Freedom with a July 4th concert, fireworks show, resources rally,

July 4-July 6 Carlton Landing Freedom Fest LOCATION: Carlton Landing, OK Freedom Fest in Carlton Landing is a three-day celebration from July 4th to July 6th, filled with fun and patriotic activities for the whole family.

Join us as we celebrate our nation’s independence with a lineup of exciting events, including live music, fireworks,

delicious food vendors, and engaging community activities.

Bring your friends and family to enjoy the festivities and create lasting memories in the heart of our beautiful lake community.

July 5 Eufaula 4th of July Celebration LOCATION: Lake Eufaula, OK Cove around Xtreme

TIME: Festivities begin at dusk.

Eufaula’s Annual Fourth of July Fireworks is Friday, July.

They will celebrate Independence Day with a fireworks display.

The show will light up the sky over Lake Eufaula, providing a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable night.

This is a family-friendly event.

Free Written Estimates

We Are Working Hard To Meet Your Needs.

To

Fast • Reliable • Affordable

Quality in For Your Support & Business!

HARTSHORNE & HAILEYVILLE AND SURROUNDING TOWNS...

WE ARE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD GROCERY STORE!

401 Highway 270 West, Hartshorne, OK • 918-297-3543 Open 7 days a week! Mon.-Sat. 8am-9pm • Sun. 8am-8pm

McAlester living | 44 | Summer 2024

Collision Repair We specialize in collision repair, so you can count on us for quality work at a great price.

900 North Main • McAlester

918-429-0887

July 5-July 7

vinyl, and a complimentary beverage of your choice.

Purchase your tickets now to secure a spot.

Paracon Oklahoma LOCATION: McAlester They have a weekend planned with speakers, vendors, ghost hunts, and a wild west themed Masquerade Ball.

The speakers will be focusing on all things paranormal and metaphysical. Meet various authors and investigators from multiple states as well as TV personalities Dave Schrader (Holzer files), and Mike Goncalves and Chris Smith (The Wraith Chasers).

The vendor area will feature psychic readers, Oddities, authors and book signings, and various other specialty items including items from the Haunted Oklahoma Route 66 Museum! Vendor area is FREE to the public.

Register using the ticket link for one or all the festivities.

July 12-July 13 Founder’s Day Rodeo LOCATION: Pittsburg, OK For a great time in a small town, head to Pittsburg for the Founders Day Rodeo this July.

July 25-July 27 Whole Hawg Days & Poker Run

Located near McAlester, the town of Pittsburg puts on a fun and exciting weekend of festivities. Celebrate with the community and visitors from surrounding areas with family-friendly entertainment including exciting rodeo events like bronc riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, mutton busting and more. From ladies break-away roping to bull riding for all ages and a nightly calf scramble for the kids, this wild west event is something the whole family will enjoy, so don’t miss it.

Aldridge Apartments Two Bedroom Apartments Available

Applicants must be 62 years of age or older, handicap/disabled regardless of age. If interested call (918) 423-4567.

200 E. Carl Albert Parkway, McAlester (918) 423-4567 • TDD 1-800-722-0353

We are centrally located downtown and offer: • New Appliances • Granite Countertops • Dishwasher & Garbage Disposal • CH&A/New Windows • Security/FEMA Shelter

July 23 Vino & Vinyls LOCATION: Spaceship Earth Coffee.

McAlester Veni, vidi, vino, & vinyls or whatever Caesar said.

Join Kayla for another paint night. This time the canvas is old vinyl records. Participants can create their own design on used vinyls or follow along with the “Let it Be” theme as an homage to Kayla’s favorite band, The Beatles.

Ticket purchase provides all supplies needed including apron, paint, paintbrushes,

LOCATION: Eufaula Whole Hawg Days & Poker Run in Eufaula is a celebration of summer that includes a parade, car show, barbecue cook-off, cruise night and much more. This annual event is brought to a close on Saturday with the much-anticipated Whole Hawg Poker Run, held by boat and motorcycle around Lake Eufaula. Pick up poker chips at participating marinas around the lake, then return to the starting point to see which lucky player has created the best five-card stud poker hand. This poker run features plenty of fun and cash prizes.

Outfit Your Office for Less WE LEASE & SELL

• Copiers • Printers • Computers Proudly Serving • Furniture • Copying/Faxing • Office Supplies Our Customers Since 1975

NEW & USED

• Assigned Parking • Gym • Theater/Game Room • Tot Lot & Resource Center

McAlester • Ada • Antlers (888)332-3431 www.milleroffice.com

McAlester living | 45 | Summer 2024

AUG

July 27

Dancing Rabbit Music Festival LOCATION: downtown McAlester Don’t miss the exciting evenings of live music during the 2024 Dancing Rabbit Music Festival series in downtown McAlester. Enjoy live music, a variety of food trucks, shopping and local beer spread along downtown McAlester. Grab your favorite drink, a bite to eat and prepare for a memorable night of entertainment for all ages.

New office location coming April 15, 2024

Mitchell Manor Skilled Nursing Facility

A variety of sizes of units Computerized limited gate access at most locations Well-lit

Month-to-month rental agreement Three locations to choose from Now offering Packing & Moving Supplies

1900 E. Electric Ave., McAlester, OK 74501 (918) 423-4199 • a1ministorage.com

31 5 West Electric Avenue, McAlester 91 8-423-4661

AUTO • HOME • LIFE “Insuring for Reality”

McALESTER

1420 South Main TOLL FREE 877.425.3980

918.423.3980

FIRST PLACE LUMBERYARD

FIRST PLACE HARDWARE

Helpful, knowledgeable service and a great price, guaranteed. at TH ROGERS LUMBER COMPANY service has been our business since 1901.

Lumber • Pressure-Treated Wood • Decking & Railings Adhesives •Hardware • Molding

Open Monday-Friday, 7:30 am -5 pm • Saturday, 7:30 -noon McAlester living | 46 | Summer 2024

Josh Hass Agent

214 E. Choctaw Ave., McAlester • OK 918-426-1104

Pickle Fest

September 3-7

Sept. 14

Pittsburg County Free Fair

2nd Mac-Town Cruise Night 2024

LOCATION: Southeast Expo Center Pittsburg County’s Annual free fair returns Sept 3rd-7th.

Come out and enjoy arts and crafts, judging contests, vendors, great food and much more! Full schedule of events will be announced in coming months!

LOCATION: McAlester Come on out and cruise the street. Hang out and show your cars off. Please drive safe and be courteous of others.

SEP

August 17

LOCATION: Atwood Join in the Pickle-y Fun during the 2024 Handcrafted & Homegrown Shopping Trail in Hughes County, Oklahoma.

Visit nine shops with all kinds of Homegrown & Handcrafted Pickles including: Okie Trading Post, Wetumka 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lambert’s Farm & Ranch, Holdenville 8 a.m. to noon Sister Act III, Holdenville 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RebelAnn’s Creations, Holdenville 8 a.m. to noon Beautiful & Bronze, Holdenville Durbinshire Farm, Atwood 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

T-Jay’s Diner, Calvin 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Granny’s Garden, Calvin 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rocky Top Winery, Allen noon - 6 p.m.

August 30-September 1 Choctaw Labor Day Festival LOCATION: Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds

September 14

Wine & Art Festival

The Choctaw people have gathered on the grounds of the Choctaw Capitol for many years during the Labor Day weekend to celebrate family, fellowship together and to honor Choctaw traditions.

As in Labor Days past, the weekend schedule is packed full of events to accommodate those who enjoy sporting events, traditional events like gourd dancing, princess pageants, or just family time on the grounds. For more information, visit laborday. choctawnation.com. #ChahtaLaborDay

LOCATION: Eufaula Save the date for the Eufaula Wine & Art Festival this September. Held downtown, this fun event invites everyone out to enjoy food trucks, live music and art. This year’s festival will feature a kid’s area that includes bounce houses, yard games, and an art tent to create unique artwork. Guests 21 and over will also enjoy a variety of wines while browsing vendor booths. Don’t miss all the fun and drinks in Eufaula at the annual Wine & Art Festival.

Sept. 27-28 Oklahoma Homestead Rendezvous LOCATION: McAlester Learn more about sustainable living at the Oklahoma Homestead Rendezvous in McAlester this September. This event will feature guest speakers and demonstrations about a variety of topics including running a self-sustaining homestead and/or farm. Guests are invited to sample delicious prepared foods, enjoy live music and browse vendor booths featuring handcrafted artisan goods.

Citywide Garage Sales LOCATION: McAlester Annual City-Wide Garage sale on Sept. 27th and 28th! No permits will be needed on these days to host a garage sale! More information TBA

r Full-Servi u o Y e r ’ eurrevFiuclol-lSliesion Cente ce e Your Fulel-YSoW r ’rent C e rvice ! e n C o i s i l W l e o n r C o i e s nterDents Colli ! From ! & Dings…

From Dents & Dings…

From DentsTo & Dings…

Everyday Fender Benders Daily,Weekly,Bi-Weekly & Monthly Rates To Everyday Fender Everyday Fender Benders Benders RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

FIRST PLACE CLEANING/JANITORIAL SERVICE

McCULLAR’S

• Property Preservation • Window Cleaning Available • Construction Clean-Up • BONDED 315 PARK, HAILEYVILLE, OK • 918.297.3271 • 918.297.7146 & INSURED 315 PARK, HAILEYVILLE, OK • 918.297.3271 • 918.297.7146

McCULLAR’S McCULLAR’S BODY SHOP BODY SHOP

BODY SHOP

YVILLE, OK • 918.297.3271 • 918.297.7146

918-423-4918, office • 918-424-9503, cell McAlester living | 47 | Summer 2024

BETTER GOLF IT’S TIME TO PLAY

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail boasts 468 holes on 26 exquisite courses throughout the beautiful state of Alabama, and right now, you can save big with remarkable prices on what The New York Times calls “some of the best public golf on earth.” Now that’s better golf!

CUSTOM PACKAGES AVAILABLE » To learn more, visit rtjgolf.com or call 800.949.4444.

RTJ GOLF TRAIL AT CAPITOL HILL // JUDGE COURSE #6

HEROES

Everyday

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Donna Parham of Occasions On The Go by Donna poses in front of one of her creations for a banquet in May, 2024.

Donna

PARHAM

By BRANDY JEFFRIES FOR THE NEWS-CAPITAL

Yes, she’s on the go. She’s even hard to pin down even when seen carrying two phones.

Guaranteed she will get back with you and meet your expectations.

Donna Parham is well known for her behind the scene decorations for local school, business, and city events.

However, don’t forget her dedication to the McAlester Italian Festival. You may have seen her serving spaghetti or walking in the Christmas Parade with the volunteers. Parham served many years as a committee member and even served as chairman. She and her husband Mark, were crowned Rae and Regina at the Italian festival in 2022.

McAlester living | 49 | Summer 2024

Parham, worked as a Cat Scan Technologist at McAlester Regional Health Center starting in 2006. She recently retired, however her heart says “Yes” to returning to help on occasions.

Speaking of “occasions”, since her retirement from radiology, she runs her own business. You can find her booth, Occasions On The Go by Donna, downtown in The Railway District inside a new store called Lady Rustic. Lady Rustic opened a little over a year ago. It was formerly Sanford and Sisters and Wood’s Pharmacy.

The owner of Lady Rustic, Leigh Ann Rubertus says, “She runs circles around me; Donna is a hard worker.

Works seven days a week, sometimes all night. She’s always busy.”

Parham’s business was previously located inside McAlester Grazing Co. down the street for several months. And, she didn’t start there with her floral business either. Parham first started making arrangements at S&D on Chickasaw Avenue.

Parham’s hometown is McAlester, she graduated from McAlester High School, and truly wants to make sure McAlester makes progress. When she heard the Building Foundation needed volunteers to help sort items at the High School Museum, she fit in the time to help. She keeps in contact and continues to help with their efforts.

OKLA Theatre is making another comeback and she will soon hop on board to help revive and restore a local treasure. Her intentions are pure and for the best for everyone.

Currently, dance recital season is about to wrap, and Parham is on hand to help celebrate dancers with their family and friends. She spends hours preparing dozens of arrangements and sets up outside the venue.

There’s something about the gift of flowers that is so powerful and Parham can make the arrangements that foster heartfelt reactions.

“Every time I send this lady flowers, she cries.”

Parham tells the story. “Her husband is one of her first customers and every time he knows his wife is having a hard time, he orders her an arrangement.”

Her business offers more than flowers. She creates balloon arches with backgrounds, photo backdrops, table decorations, gift baskets, candy bouquets, memorial sprays, and casket saddles. She provides for weddings, proms, baby showers, and anniversaries. If you have an occasion, she has an arrangement.

“She’s a go-getter, for sure,” Rubertus said. “She can customize anything. She’s amazing.”

McAlester living | 50 | Summer 2024

Submitted Photo

Pam’s Dance backdrop made by Donna Parham.

MCALESTER ITALIAN FESTIVAL | Courtesy Photo

Donna and Mark Parham at the McAlester Italian Festival at the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester, Oklahoma, in 2022.

MCALESTER ITALIAN FESTIVAL | Courtesy Photo

Donna and Mark Parham after their Rae and Regina coronation being served in the food tent at the McAlester Italian Festival at the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester, Oklahoma, in 2022.

McAlester living | 51 | Summer 2024

g n i h

s e r f

e r

By REINA OWENS PUBLISHER

summer

Tito’s Blueberry Vodka Cocktail The perfect summer drink that is also refreshing.

Ingredients: 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka ½ cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish 1 tbsp sugar Juice of 1 lemon Soda water Ice

Instructions: Muddle Blueberries: In a shaker, muddle blueberries with sugar and lemon juice.

Mix: Add vodka and ice, then shake well.

Serve: Strain into a glass filled with ice, top with soda water, and stir gently.

Garnish: Add whole blueberries and a lemon slice.

McAlester living | 52 | Summer 2024

drinks

Malibu Mojito

This zingy lime juice adds a burst of citrusy freshness, complemented by the coolness of mint leaves.

Malibu Original, with its hint of coconut, is like a taste of paradise.

Ingredients: 50 ML Malibu Original 100 ML Soda Water 15 ML Lime Juice 10 Mint Leaves Garnish: Lime wedge Ice Instructions: Prep tie 5 min Add the mint leaves into a highball glass Pour in the lime juice, Muddle Fill with crushed ice Top up with soda water Top up with Malibu original

McAlester living | 53 | Summer 2024

Sun. - Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m-10 p.m.

FIRST PLACE MEXICAN FOOD

119 North 1st Street, McAlester, OK 918-916-8029

FIRST PLACE WINE & SPIRITS

Beat the heat

with a fruity drink

We have all of your favorite brands and selections in stock at great prices!

Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you find your favorite beer, wine and spirits or recommend something new for you!

205 S. 6th Street | McAlester | (918)423-0117 McAlester living | 54 | Summer 2024

m u s n i d

An Authentic Italian Experience

Enjoy lunch or dinner the Italian way with fresh, quality ingredients; relaxed and friendly service; and delicious family recipes that have been passed down through the generations.

Roseanna’s Italian Food

FIRST PLACE ITALIAN FOOD

Serving The Best In Italian Food www.roseannas.com • 918-423-2055

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY 11 AM-8PM • THURSDAY-SATURDAY 11am-9pm • SUNDAY 11:30am -2:30pm • CLOSED MONDAY

HWY.31 EAST (205 E. WASHINGTON) KREBS

1.3 Miles from Krebs sign on Hwy 31 East, Northeast corner of Hwy 31 &Washington, Krebs

r e m

m ing

BEST BREAKFAST IN TOWN! Voted 1st Place!

Juicy Burgers Chicken Fried Steak

Breakfast Served All Day!

What About (918) 424-2150

610 N. Main McAlester

601 E. Wyandotte • McAlester, OK

918-423-9461

www.pruettsfood.com

FIRST PLACE GROCER FIRST PLACE DELI THIRD PLACE MEAT MARKET

VOTED #1 FRIED CHICKEN! 2024

FIRST PLACE FRIED F CHICKEN

DAILY SPECIAL SPECIALS! MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Farm Raised Catfish Dinner, Homemade Chicken & Dressing Homemade Chicken & Meatloaf Dinner and Dinner, Baked Chicken & Rice, Dumplings, Pot Roast Dinner, Pinto Bean Dinner Charlie’s Club Meatloaf Dinner

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Smoked BBQ Chicken Dinner, Baked Chicken & Rice, Italian Sausage Dinner

SATURDAY

Farm Raised Catfish Dinner, Slab of Ribs, 12-pc. Chicken Pinto Bean Dinner, Dinner, Chicken Fried Steak or Meatloaf Dinner Chicken Fried Chicken

CHARLIE’S CHICKEN & BAR-B-QUE DINE-IN, CARRYOUT OR DRIVE-THRU

Open Daily 7AM -2PM

1756 E. Carl Albert Pkwy. | McAlester | 918-426-5011 Mon.-Thurs. 11:00am-8:30pm, Fri. 11:00am-9:00pm, Sat. 11:00am-8:00pm, Closed Sunday

McAlester living | 55 | Summer 2024

summer g n i l recipes

zz i S

By JESSICA BANKS ADVERTISING

Summer is a time for simple, quick and easy meals.

Here are 3 to enjoy on a hot summer day.

Blackened Shrimp Bowls

(delish.com) Yields: 4 Servings Prep Time: 10 Minutes Total TIme: 25 Minutes Ingredients 2 cups cooked brown rice 1 pound shrimp, tails removed, peeled and deveined 1 ½ teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided (1 tablespoon and 1 tablespoon) 1 cup fire roasted corn 1 red pepper, diced 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro Juice on 1 lime, divided 1 avocado, thinly sliced Directions Step 1: Make shrimp: in a large bowl, toss shrimp with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add shrimp and cook until opaque and charred.

Step 2: Make corn salad: in a medium bowl combine corn, pepper, and cilantro.

Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, juice of half a lime, and season with salt and pepper Step 3: Build bowls: divide rice between 4 bowls. Top with shrimp, corn salad, and ¼ avocado each. Garnish with cilantro, squeeze with lime and serve.

McAlester living | 56 | Summer 2024

Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe

(eatingonadime.com) Prep Time: 15 Minutes Cook Time: 20 Minutes Total Time: 35 Minutes Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 2 tablespoons taco seasoning 1 can chili beans 1 can rotel 1 15 oz. can crushed tomatoes 12-16 tortillas, quartered 1 cup sour cream 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Directions Step One: Brown meat in large skillet. Drain.

Step Two: Add taco seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes, and crushed tomato to the skillet.

Step Three: Spray 9x13 casserole dish. Place a layer of tortillas on bottom.

Step Four: Pour half of the meat mixture over the tortillas. Spread tortillas over the meat mixture.

Sprinkle with half of the cheese.

Step Five: Place another layer of tortillas over cheese and meat mixture. Pour the remainder of the meat mixture over the tortillas. Spread sour cream over the top and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Step Six: Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly

McAlester living | 57 | Summer 2024

McAlester living | 58 | Summer 2024

zz i S

summer g n i l recipes

Frozen Margarita Mousse

(tasteofhome.com) Prep TIme: 20 Minutes Freezing Time: Ingredients: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk ½ cup ready-to-drink margarita mix 1 tablespoon sugar 1 ½ teaspoons grated lime zest 1 tablespoon lime juice 5 drops green food coloring (optional) 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed Pretzel Topping: 1/2 cup finely crushed pretzels 4 teaspoons butter, melted 1 tablespoon sugar Lime slices Directions: Step One: Combine first 5 ingredients; mix well. If desired, add green food coloring.

Fold in whipped topping.

Step Two: For pretzel topping, combine pretzels, butter and sugar.

Step Three: Spoon lime mixture into 6 glasses; top each with about 1 tablespoon pretzel topping.

Step Four: Freeze until firm, approximately 4-6 hours. Serve frozen with lime slices.

McAlester living | 59 | Summer 2024

about

ABOUT TOWN

town DEREK HATRIDGE | Staff Photos

See some of the sights and scenes from Hook Eales Stadium as McAlester football participates in spring ball action.

McAlester living | 60 | Summer 2024

McAlester living | 61 | Summer 2024

about

town

McAlester living | 62 | Summer 2024

Portraits, Sports, Weddings, and Events

Accepting 2024 & 2025 bookings Website: madalynnix.mypixieset.com Email: mnixphotography@gmail.com Facebook: Madalyn Nix Photography Instagram: @mnixphotography

McAlester living | 63 | Summer 2024

MAKE YOUR HEALTH A PRIORITY First Family now offers Health Savings Accounts When you contribute to your account, your HSA dollars may be tax free. Visit with your tax advisor for more information.

Your HSA can pay for your health insurance deductibles, co-insurance, prescriptions, as well as dental and vision care, and even for medical care that may not be covered by typical medical insurance plans.

For more information:

918-652-4407 1095 S. George Nigh Expy