Moore Monthly - December 2020

8 SW 89th St., Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73139

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is the nation’s most popular FDA approved method of permanently reducing fat without surgery.

The procedure has been approved to address 12 different areas of the body, each with a specific applicator: Abdomen, Back, Hips, Thighs, Buttocks, Pelvis, Waistline, Breasts, Bra Area, Chin and Jawline, Upper Arms, Inner Thighs.

CoolTone

CoolTone is a noninvasive body contouring treatment that uses Magnetic Muscle Stimulation (MMS) technology to strenthen, tone, and firm the muscles of the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.

Emsculpt

Hacks your body’s ability to build toned muscle in targeted areas in a way that only the most dedicated exercise otherwise could. Emsculpt is one of the newest technologies in the medical aesthetic world and is earning tremendous buzz as something akin to doing 20,000 situps in one half hour session. The perfect compliment and follow up treatment to a successful CoolSculpting course of treatments and an incredible way to achieve a youthful lift.

Sciton BBL

BBL treatment is a faster, safer, adn more comfortable alternative to traditional laser hair removal. Thanks to the cutting edge broad band pulsed light technology, permanent hair reduction is now available for darker skin types as well.

Botox/Jeuveau

Prescription medications injected in safe amounts into the muscles under the skin that are responsible for fine lines such as crows feet and brow furrows. It works by blocking nerve impulses to the muscles, relaxing them so that the skin over them doesn’t wrinkle.

Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers (or facial fillers) are a safe, nonsurgical way to add volume to highly targeted areas of the face, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin and creating a healthly, youthful appearance.

They can also be used to plump thin lips and reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles.

SkinPen

SkinPen is recognized as one of the best, most technologically advanced skin rejuvenation treatments. It’s a type of collagen-induced therapy that treats all sorts of skin imperfections. SkinPen is minimally invasive, quick working, and recommended by a great number of skincare professionals. Moreover, the treatment is the first of its kind to have FDA approval and to be suitable for anyone over 22 years of age. SkinPen uses micro-needling to penetrate the depressions on your skin and help your body smooth them out with collagen.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a quick and effective deep exfoliation procedure that can life away dull skin, revealing a dewy and youthful complexion, and since it requires nothing more than a surgical grade dermaplaning razor, it’s much more affordable than other skin rejuvenation methods. When done as a standalone treatment, it takes around 30 minutes to complete. The process is completely pain-free and there is no downtime.

HydraFacial

HydraFacial is a unique, patented treatment that exfoliates, cleanses, and hydrates the skin. It is a non-invasive, non-surgical, painless procedure with no side effects or downtime. A HydraFacial treatment has all the benefits of a chimcal peel without any redness or sorenes. It includes three steps: 1. Cleanse & Peel; 2. Extract & Hydrate; 3. Fuse & Protect

Photofacial

A method of skin rejuvenation, photofacial treatments, referring to the intense pulsed light used, are sometimes called photo-rejuvenation. There is no abrasion used in the resurfacing process. Like some of our other professional skin rejuvenation treatments, this treatment addresses aging, sun damage, wrinkles, unwanted freckles, spots, uneven skin tone and texture.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are one of the fastest ways to remove dead skin cells and encourage cell renewal. The process consists of applying a glycolic and/or salicylic acid solution on the skin, stripping away dull, dead skin cells and revealing youthful new skin.

Permanent Makeup

Permanent makeup for eyes, eyebrows, lips, and others facial features.

(405) 679 2260

belleamemedspa.com

2 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 3

4 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 5

Annual Enrollment is Here

VOL. 15 • NO. 12 • DECEMBER 2020

OK KIDS KORRAL

10 18 38

After a tragedy hit close to home, Toby Keith and his wife, Tricia Covel, were determined to make sure Oklahoma's pediatric cancer patients have a special place where they could find comfort while undergoing treatment.

EVERYONE MUST GET DRONED Interest in drones is exploding, but there are some pitfalls you'll want to avoid before launching into space. Darren Hensley knows more about drones than pretty much anyone else in the region, and he has some suggestions for you.

•

Medicare Supplements

•

Advantage Plans

•

Part D Prescription Plans

•

Special Needs Plans

• • •

Ability to compare over 100 Plans in Cleveland County Talk to Us — Not another Automated System Local, Dependable Service

October 15th—December 7th We never charge a client for our services

PRISONER OF WAR Moore's Charles Selby survived 33 months as a POW during the Korean Conflict. He shared what it was like in a Chinese POW camp at this year's Veterans Day ceremony.

AXE TO GRIND

43

Although it's only been in existence for barely a year, Moore's local axe throwing venue is sending three competitors to this year's World Axe Throwing Championships.

8 Letter from the Editor 12 Chamber Spotlight

Your "Shop Small" Contribution Makes a Huge Difference

13 Entrepreneur’n Moore

Managing Remote Employees Amidst a Crisis

16 Best of Moore & South OKC 2021 Nominations Now Open!

18 Business Spotlight American Drones

24 Taste Local

Buttersweet Cupcakes

22 Business Building Blocks

Dr. Amanda Ward asks questions of MNTC's Henry Dumas

25 Heroes of Moore

First Responder Spotlight: Emily MacDougall, EMSSTAT

26 Senior Living

The Holidays During COVID-19

28 Calendar of Events 31 Healthy Moore

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

32 Healthy Moore

How to Keep My Christmas or Holiday Dinner Lower Calorie?

34 Brand Senior Center Calendar 36 Book Review

(405) 793-0893 www.doylecrow.com

Phone Appointments Available

Britt-Marie Was Here

36 Crossword Puzzle Moore Street Map

37 Pioneer Library System Calendar 38 The Station Schedule 44 Sports Photos/Parting Shots

6 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

We can help . . . it’s what we do.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 7

Letter from the Editor 2020. Oy. What a year!

As we head into the Christmas season, we wanted to take time to recognize the work being done by Moore's own Toby Keith and his wife, especially in the face of challenges presented by the pandemic. Keith talked with us about his passion for helping children with pediatric cancer that has led to the creation of the Toby Keith Foundation and the opening of the OK Kids Korral.

You'll also find some great direction for the holidays whether it be ways to control your eating, taking those first steps in the world of flying drones, or important principles for small business owners.

NOMINATIONS OPEN UNTIL DECEMBER 22

Whether you celebate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Festivus, know that we here at the Moore Monthly appreciate you and all you do to make Moore a great place to work, play, and live!

Editor Moore Monthly

Happy Holidays!

- From the Staff of the Moore Monthly Publisher Brent Wheelbarger Writer/Editor Rob Morris Designer April Burgess For ad placement, specifications and rates, call or email Aleta Wheelbarger 405-659-7224 | aleta@mooremonthly.com

28 NE 28th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73105 • trifectacomm.net

Moore Monthly is a monthly publication by Trifecta Communications, serving Moore, South OKC & Norman. Moore Monthly is free to the public. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Moore Monthly is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, photography, books, or any other material that is submitted for possible publication.

8 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

Chelsea Harper, DDS - General Dentist 711 SW 19th St. | Moore, OK 73160 ost cept m !

We ac insurances l denta s atient New P elcome!

W s Alway

Located across from Dicks Sporting Goods and Target on SW 19th St.

Comprehensive lifetime dental care in a caring & friendly environment!

• Invisalign® Treatment • Emergency Care • Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide • Crowns • Gum Disease Treatment • Root Canal Therapy • Mouth / Night Guards • Dentures • Natural Tooth-Colored Fillings • Dental Implants • Extractions • Wisdom Teeth Extractions • Oral Cancer Screenings • Botox® Cosmetic

Call Today! 405-703-6737 | MooreCompleteDental.com

79

$

Cleaning, Exam & X-rays

(Reg. $231) Offer expires in 30 days.

Includes exam, cleaning (prophylaxis) & x-rays. New Patients Only.

Advertised fee is the minimum fee, subject to clinical need. One or more of the following ADA codes may reflect the treatment rendered under this offer. D0150, D0330, D0272, D0210, D1110.Offers not to be applied toward account balances or dental services already delivered and not in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans. ADV44542MA

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 9

BY ROB MORRIS

Toby Keith & Co Round Up Hope for the Holidays

T

oby Keith remembers 2003 as an Keith. “Then came Ally’s loss. My faith has excruciating year for the family of always shown me the way.”

Scott Webb, the first guitar player in his band.

In the wake of the Webb family’s struggle, Keith and his wife, Tricia Covel, locked “I watched how he and his wife, Linda, went in on ways to help Oklahoma families with through their child’s cancer process,” said children facing the same medical strugKeith. “They had so much pain but pushed on gles. The inaugural Toby Keith & Friends with so much dignity.”

Golf Classic raised $250,000 for the Ally’s House Foundation, a nonprofit orThe Webb’s 2-year-old daughter, Allison, ganization that assists families of pediatric lost her battle with cancer in August of that cancer patients in Oklahoma. But as Keith year. Keith has often talked about the impact thought about how he could do more, he of the Webb’s battle and how it has impact- was struck by Linda Webb’s accounts of ed his own generosity toward various causes the family’s experience at St. Jude Chilthroughout his life. dren’s Hospital, where Ally was treated.

“My charity donations were really scattered “She said it was amazing how everything with no sense of purpose or focus,” said was provided for her,” said Keith. “She 10 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

Photo Courtesy The Toby Keith Foundation

Photo Courtesy The Toby Keith Foundation

showed up with very little and was taken care of.”

That sparked an idea that led to the creation of The Toby Keith Foundation in 2006 and plans for constructing the OK Kids Corral. Juliet Nees-Bright, Executive Director of The Toby Keith Foundation, said the Foundation’s vision is to provide a cost-free, convenient and comfortable home for pediatric cancer patients receiving treatment at The Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, and other nearby facilities. The OK Kids Korral opened for pediatric cancer patients and their families in 2014.

“All of the kids and families who stay with us live 30 miles or more outside the metro OKC area,” said Nees-Bright.

“We’re two blocks away from the Chil-

dren’s Hospital, and we love that we’re literally walking distance from where the kids are getting their treatment.”

Nees-Bright says you won’t find a lot of facilities around the country like the OK Kids Korral. Everyone involved with the Foundation has worked hard to make the Korral easily accessible to families that come to the Oklahoma City area for pediatric cancer treatment. That ease of access helps offset some of the emotional tolls those families face.

“Often, a child will have five days of chemotherapy, for instance,” said NeesBright. “So, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense physically, emotionally, or financially for them to travel back-and-forth each day. The OK Kids Korral provides a place

continued on Page 14 DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 11

BY KIM BROWN

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Your “Shop Small” Contribution Makes a Huge Difference

S

o, we all have something to “say” about 2020, especially when the unknown of 2021 is just around the corner. Even though this indeed has been a challenging year, we can find something positive to look at.

Schools have been able to adapt quickly to changes in the educational landscape. Businesses, too, have seen a rapid rate of change. Having the ability to adapt and pivot has helped businesses evolve and survive.

As a result of this rapid change, communities have realized the importance of doing business locally. According to a study, small businesses generated 44% of the U.S. economic activity from 1998 to 2014. That is almost half of the gross domestic product (GDP) by small businesses.

Local businesses need our support now more than ever. The coronavirus pandemic has created an existential crisis for America’s small, locally owned businesses, which are the backbone of our local and nation’s economy.

Did you know that most small businesses only have enough cash in reserve to remain open for 27 days? When our nation went on lockdown in March, many small businesses did not survive. Most of them who did, are hanging on by a thread, hoping things turn around soon. But, for now, there is no end to this in the foreseeable future. That is where we can come in and help.

Below are a few things you can do to help play a part to keep our local economy thriving. Doing just one of the items listed below is a small contribution to support the businesses that have supported you in the past. If each of us spends $100 a year or more on local businesses, it will put an extra $3 million a year into our economy. When you buy local, you help the small business owners pay their rent or mortgage, put food on their family’s table, and keep their doors open for their business they have put their hearts and souls into. Many do not recognize that by shopping local, you are in return giving back to your community. Small businesses support local economies, employ residents, and contribute to the vibrancy of their community. These are the people we lean on when asking for a donation to our local club, sport, or organization. They would not have those funds available if we did not support them in return. Now it is more crucial than ever to shop local.

So, what can you do for your part of this equation?

1.

Shop your local stores online. Many are offering curbside pickup or delivery.

12 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

2. Buy gift cards. This holiday season, give a gift to someone’s favorite

store or restaurant.

3. Order carry out for dinner.

4. Tip extra.

5. Leave a review on their Facebook page or website.

6.

Like, comment, or share business Facebook posts. Social media is more crucial than ever for small businesses. Help them reach a larger audience with a click of a button.

Do your part. Help keep Moore thriving. Help keep your favorite restaurant or store open. While we continue to adapt to our new normal, small businesses everywhere are being impacted heavily to support safety measures. Fewer customers can weigh heavily on these businesses who rely heavily on consumer income to keep their doors open. They are doing their part to keep us safe. Let us do our part to help them be safe from a financial disaster.

Put in simple terms, buy local. They need us. We need them.

ENTREPRENEUR’N MOORE

Managing Remote Employees Amidst a Crisis COVID-19 has changed what business leadership looks like, now and for the foreseeable future. Smart leaders are adapting their strategies to this new work environment.

pany. That 'why' statement in your communication as a leader helps people see that individually they are critical, yet part of a team.

displaying violence, stealing money or property, and lying as things that should be addressed immediately. Consequences should follow company policy.

Leading a business in the post-pandemic world means shifting not only your management methods but your mindset about what it means to be a collective business team. Below are some tips to consider while leading remote workers:

Listen and empathize Practicing empathy will be important for the future of work, especially as more employees work remotely. With the future uncertain and knowing how quickly things can change, leaders will need to ensure they practice compassion with employees, despite … their internal fears.

Likewise, a crisis is a time to show some grace and flexibility.

If the performance issue seems minor, a response or a conversation at the moment is the best practice. No matter how small the performance concern is, the leader needs to address it. The leader should share the observations and listen to the employee's response. If the poor performance or behavior becomes a pattern, then the leader should pivot to their organization's formal performance management system.

Sharpen your emotional intelligence Before the pandemic, many leaders touted the benefits of emotional intelligence (EQ) in managing a team. Now, as employees face the daily challenges of living, working, and raising families in the same space, EQ has become an absolute necessity for today's leaders.

Business leaders need to recognize these struggles and exercise empathy and flexibility. For instance, if an employee's child needs help with homework or the dog needs to go outside, employers need to be OK with employees tending to personal matters during traditional "work hours," provided their work does get done.

Leaders can also exercise EQ by being vulnerable and sharing their own struggles and journey during the pandemic.

Focus on enabling communication and trust When teams are removed from one another and interact less, good leaders need to prioritize and model strong communication. Leaders must communicate more than ever for their teams to be on board and trust their guidance.

Remote work has flattened the flow of communications and made managers less of gatekeepers and more communication enablers.

Establish daily check-ins With managers no longer getting daily face time with employees and employees not being able to chat around the proverbial water cooler, creating a daily check-in routine is a meaningful way to set priorities and foster connections. A morning check-in via video chat, phone call, or instant message can create a sense of normalcy. These check-ins can be one-on-one or held among small groups.

Set virtual office hours and be present on instant messaging apps throughout the day to help employees.

Make sure the team understands the 'why' Remote employees must learn to be disciplined and self-motivated to succeed, but they should still hear from the managers about the company's bigger goals and why they are doing their work.

Make sure you and your team are clear on what the priorities are for them and that each of them knows … why what they do is critical to the team, the department, and the com-

Equip your team with tech and productivity tools One of the most important ways to help teams succeed while working remotely is to provide them with the tools to help them stay connected and productive.

How to Handle Employee Performance Issues During a Crisis Business leaders should approach performance issues with empathy and an open mind while following codes of ethics and conduct.

From leading with empathy to creating a measurable performance improvement plan, these tips will help business owners successfully address mid-crisis employee performance issues.

Addressing an employee performance issue is never an easy task. During a crisis, speaking to a team member about low productivity, inappropriate behavior, or a bad attitude can feel even more daunting. Conversations around employee performance are still necessary for a crisis, but your approach should evolve depending on the severity of the issue and the nature of the situation.

Be empathetic. Do not assume the worst right now. In a crisis, everyone is truly 'in this together.' Communicate empathetically with whatever issues need to be worked through and be patient and understanding if improvements are required. These are not normal times and, therefore, normal expectations should go out the window.

Start with an open mind and encourage clear communication. Ask questions with positive intent. The goal is to understand the employee's perspective. Always assume positive intent on the employee's behalf until you are proven otherwise.

Speak to the team member in private to ensure you have the full context for what might be causing the performance issue before you take the next step.

Some performance issues are more severe than others. An employee who shows up late is different than an employee skimming money from the cash register. Your response should be proportional to the issue at hand.

In a crisis, an organization should never ignore any actions or behaviors that could be grounds for immediate termination, listing violating ethics and the code of conduct,

Communicate empathetically with whatever issues need to be worked through and be patient and understanding if improvements are needed.

Every organization should be able to fall back on an HR policy to guide them through a crisis. Your HR policy should outline how and when an employee's performance will be reviewed, as well as performance expectations. If you do not have an employee handbook, get one written and updated for today's environment.

For employee performance issues that are more substantial, establish a plan to set your team member up for success moving forward. Actively listen for the root cause of the performance issue. What is missing? Is it tools? Is it resources? Is it support from you, a team member, or a coworker?

Consider your own expectations in addition to the employee's perspective. In a crisis, things change quickly. Managers should not be focusing on performance issues because of the crisis, but instead, on getting the best performance, they can in the situation. That likely may be less than they were receiving pre-crisis. And that is OK. Work with your employee to develop a performance improvement plan that factors in these extenuating circumstances. Make sure to articulate your expectations for the team member's performance in measurable terms, for instance: Decrease late arrival times from three days (X) to one day (Y) per month.

In summary, this crisis will have a lasting impact on business models and remote employees. A leader's ability to adapt, change while still attracting, engaging, and retaining key employees will largely determine your company's success!

Henry Dumas, Business Coach ICF Credentialed Coach – PCC linkedin.com/in/henrydumas Moore Norman Technology Center 405-801-3540 • mntc.edu

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 13

OK KIDS KORRAL from Page 11 where they can check in on Sunday, start their treatments on Monday morning, stay the week, then check out on Friday and head back home to be with their friends and the rest of their family.”

Those families find at the OK Kids Corral a comfortable “home away from home” living arrangement that helps ease some of the anxiety of treatments by providing for their needs. The OK Kids Korral features small apartments for the families upstairs, while the downstairs area includes common spaces, an oversized kitchen, a movie theater, and indoor and outdoor playgrounds.

All completely free.

“It’s a place where they can feel the comfort of home,” said Nees-Bright.

“It doesn’t feel like a hospital where they’re confronted with the difficulty of the situation. They’re able to rest, relax, get away from everything without having to worry about finding a hotel or meals.”

Photo Courtesy The Toby Keith Foundation

Funding for the OK Kids Korral comes from donations and various fundraisers. The Toby Keith Foundation sponsors three major fundraising events: the Fish Bowl Bass Fishing Tournament, the Toby Keith & Friends Golf Classic, and the Schooner Fall Golf Classic. Nees-Bright says the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the Foundation’s fundraising events this year.

“Regardless of COVID existing or not, kids still get cancer and need treatment every year,” said Nees-Bright. “The need is always there, and we’ve been open every single day.

We appreciate those donors who have stepped up and are continuing to step up, and we want to encourage people to continue to give.”

The easiest way to support The Toby Keith Foundation and the OK Kids Korral is to simply visit the foundation’s website at this link: tobykeithfoundation.org/ways-give/gifts-cash. But Nees-Bright says folks can help in more practical ways as well.

Photo Courtesy The Toby Keith Foundation 14 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

“If you think about the things you use at home in your daily life, remember that we need those things as well,” said Nees-Bright.

“So, if you’re at the grocery store and you can grab some extra cleaning supplies or toilet paper, we’d love to have those. We also have an Amazon Wish List that has a lot of household and cleaning items that you can purchase and have sent to us.”

have to deal with immune systems that have been compromised by treatment, putting them at greater risk.

“So many of our families are already familiar with having to be careful about their child’s health and immune systems,” said NeesBright. “We’ve addressed so many of those things already, so it’s a more natural transition for us to include enhanced safety proceThe current pandemic has been challenging for the OK Kids Korral dures. That’s also why we put a movie theater and playgrounds in staff on a practical level, but Nees-Bright says everyone has been the house so that these families have a safe place to go.” working hard to elevate the standard of safety at the Korral. This has been particularly important for pediatric cancer patients who The OK Kids Korral staff also got creative for the recent Halloween holiday. They knew that some kids wouldn’t be able to go trickor-treating this year, so they wanted to do something to benefit Photo Courtesy The Toby Keith Foundation those kids in the area. The staff came up with big bags of candy that were passed out.

“Our volunteers and supporters filled up these huge bags of candy,” said Nees-Bright. “We gave a full bag of candy to all the kids who drove by, and they almost certainly ended up with more candy than they would have gotten had they actually gone out trick-or-treating.”

Even though 2020 had been monumentally challenging, the Toby Keith Foundation and the OK Kids Korral have been able to hang in there and keep providing support for families facing the challenges of pediatric cancer. Keith says he has wonderful memories of growing up in Moore and is privileged to be able to help other Oklahomans.

“Moore was a great town for a kid to grow up in,” said Keith. “I’ve ridden my bicycle down those streets a thousand times. I have great memories of playing sports and all my school days, even the tornadoes. I’m so blessed that I feel it’s my place to give back when I can.”

For more information on how you can help support the OK Kids Korral and the Toby Keith Foundation, visit tobykeithfoundation.org, email info@tobykeithfoundation.org, or call 405-271-6552.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 15

C

OVID-19 can't stop the Best of Moore Awards‌but it has certainly presented us with some challenges as we consider how to move forward in these most unique of circumstances. With that in mind, here are the rules for this year's awards: NOMINATIONS The nomination period runs from November 22nd to December 22nd. Anyone can submit a nomination in any category. You can check out the categories below.

Businesses must be within the immediate area of Moore and South OKC to be eligible (for the purposes of these awards, South OKC is considered to begin along the I-240 corridor and extend south into Moore).

Nominations can be submitted by email (rob@ mooremonthly.com or aleta@mooremonthly.com) or by posting the business's name on the Moore Monthly Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages.

ANY business that is nominated will be eligible for votes. There will only be one round of voting.

There will be no limit to the number of nominations in each category. If you're nominated – you're in.

VOTING THERE WILL BE ONLY ONE ROUND OF VOTING. Voting will begin at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2021, and end at midnight on February 28, 2021. You may vote multiple times each day, but our voting system will not allow you to cast consecutive votes within a short timespan.

16 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

2021

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN! WINNERS The top three finishers in each category will be invited to our festive Best of Moore Awards Show in March, where the winner will be revealed. The runners-up will also be recognized at the "Bommie's" so that everyone goes home a winner. A complete list of winners and runners-up will be featured in the April edition of the Moore Monthly along with a photo gallery from the gala event. As of today, we're planning to host our usual night of fun and celebration for 2021 Best of Moore Awards, but we do recognize the possibility that the continued presence of COVID-19 may force us to come up with something a bit more creative.

HERE ARE THE 2021 BEST OF MOORE & SOUTH OKC CATEGORIES 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

Best Antique Shop Best Apartments Best Asian Dining Best Auto Maintenance Best Bank Best Bakery & Cupcakes Best BBQ Best Breakfast/Brunch Spot Best Burger Best Chicken-Fried Steak Best Coffee Shop Best Car Dealer Best Children's Clothing Store Best Childcare Provider Best Children's Party Spot Best Chiropractor Best Credit Union Best CBD/Cannabis Store Best Dental Care Best Doggie Daycare/Boarding Best Donuts

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

49.

50.

51.

52.

53.

54.

55.

56.

57.

58.

59.

60.

Best Entertainment Best Eye Care Best Financial Planner Best Gym/Fitness Center Best Florist Best Funeral Services Best Grocery Store Best Hair Salon Best Heat & Air Best Home Builder Best Home Furnishings Best Home Maintenance & Remodeling Best Insurance Agency Best Italian Dining Best Jewelry Store Best Landscaper Best Liquor Store Best Local Restaurant Best Lunch Spot Best Massage Therapy Best Medical Spa/Skin Care Clinic Best Mexican Dining Best Orthodontist Best Physical Therapy Best Pizza Best Place to Watch the Game Best Plumber Best Realtor Best Roofer Best Sandwich/Sub Shop Best Senior Living Best Special Occasion Spot Best Specialty Store Best Storm Shelter Best Undiscovered Restaurant Best Urgent Care Best Veterinarian Best Wings Best Women's Clothing Store

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 17

BY ROB MORRIS

American Drones

ADDRESS: 1000 SW 4th Street PHONE: 405-308-0866 WEBSITE: american-drones.com HOURS: 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Tuesday – Friday

10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Saturday

Closed Sunday & Monday unreliable or missing essential features.”

Hensley says a great example of that is a recent customer who brought in a $200 dollar drone he had purchased online. The advertisement promised a GPS satellite feature which wasn’t working properly.

“He brought the drone in and when we took it apart, it didn’t even have a GPS antenna,” said Hensley.

You’ll find refurbished drones for sale at American Drones, which come with flight lessons, the free app, and a 90-day warranty. Hensley says those are just a few of the advantages that come with buying a drone from his business.

D

rones have exploded in popularity over the past few years. Thousands of first-time drone flyers have taken advantage of cheaper drones to join more experience pilots and their more expensive drones in the air. Darren Hensley, owner of American Drones in Moore, has been working with remote-controlled aircraft since the 1980s. He says the current level of interest in drones comes from a range of motivations.

“You’ve got a lot of people, like real estate folks, who want to do their own drone photograpy,” said Hensley. “Then you’ve got those folks that just want to fly the First-Person View (FPV) racing drones at 60-miles-an-hour with their hair on fire.”

While a lot of folks might think the easiest way to get into the world of drones is to simply buy one online, American Drones offers some great reasons why you should rethink that strategy.

“First of all, every drone you buy from us comes with training,” said Hensley.

“So whether you’re buying it for yourself, we’re going to teach you all the important things you need to know. That includes more than just how to fly the drone itself.”

When you buy a drone at American Drones, it also comes with a free app that will provide all kinds of critical information for drone pilots like what kind of airspace you’re in and weather information that can help you know if it’s safe to fly.

Another important aspect of buying a drone is making sure you’re paying the right price for a drone that can deliver everything it advertises.

“Drones are getting less and less expensive,” said Hensley, “But I tell people that $300 is pretty much the bottom price where I would draw the line. If you’re spending less than that you’re probably getting something that’s going to be 18 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

“Obviously, we know the drone well because we’ve already worked on it and refurbished it,” said Hensley. “Our business slogan is ‘We Fix That.’ Plus, that 90-day warranty shows we stand behind our products. But the other great advantage is that when you’re ready to move up to a better drone, we’ll let you trade-in that drone.”

American Drones range of offerings also includes repairs and service, training, along with 3D printing and design. In addition to having worked with remote aircraft for nearly 40-years, Hensley has also built and maintained highend drones for various companies and organizations across Oklahoma.

“The Oklahoma Department of Corrections purchased a drone from us last year that cost in excess of $20,000,” said Hensley. “Their drone can fly in the rain, can fly in 35-mile-per-hour winds, and carries two cameras. One is a thermal camera and the other has a 300x zoom. We’re also working on getting into aerial services ourselves, like mapping, surveying, crop management, and oil field inspection.”

Having that kind of experience at your disposal at a local business is a huge plus for anyone looking to explore the world of drones.

B R I C KT OWN

tobykeithsbar.com

holliesflatirongrill.com

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 19

PHOTOS AND STORY BY ROB MORRIS

I

t began as a small home cake-making business for former Moore resident Tiffany McBride. She was between jobs, and a friend asked her to make a cake for a special occasion. McBride said that she learned to bake in her grandmother’s kitchen and turned to that experience to create an elaborate cake for her friend. That first cake has evolved into Buttersweet Cupcakes, with locations in Yukon, Edmond, and the newest store at Southwest 134th and Western Avenue.

Buttersweet Cupcakes

ADDRESS: 13315 S. Western Avenue HOURS: Monday – Friday: 10:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sunday: CLOSED PHONE: 405-637-9585 WEBSITE: buttersweetcupcakes.com But it is the cupcakes that are the center of attention at Buttersweet. The shop has a wide variety of specialty cupcakes that will undoubtedly satisfy the tastebuds of any connoisseur. That includes mini-cupcakes ($1.50 each or by the dozen for $15) as well as big cupcakes ($3.50 each or by the dozen for $35). Customers can place their orders in advance.

Amy Flesher manages the new store in the Moore area. She says the most important thing people need to know about Buttersweet Cupcakes is that their cupcakes are made fresh every day.

“The Crème Brulee is a vanilla cake cupcake filled with vanilla cream filling, vanilla frosting, topped with sugar, and toasted,” said Flesher. “The Turtle Cheesecake is at the other end of the spectrum.

It’s a chocolate cake cupcake with a cheesecake filling, cream cheese frosting, topped with caramel and pecans.”

“We never really closed,” said Flesher. “And we made those changes that help keep our customers safe, including curbside pickup and delivery through Postmates or Doordash.”

That means folks need to keep in mind that although Buttersweet opens their doors at 7:00 a.m. each day, those freshly made cupcakes don’t come rolling out of the oven until 11:00 a.m. Don’t let that worry you, though. Flesher says Buttersweet Cupcakes has excellent coffee and other sweet treats to meet your needs if you’re an early bird.

20 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

Flesher says the two most popular cupcakes are the Crème Brulee and the Turtle Cheesecake.

The new southside store opened in February and was doing great until the pandemic hit. Flesher says the circumstances have been challenging, but Buttersweet has adapted and managed to stay open.

“All of our products are made fresh and inhouse,” said Flesher. “Our cupcakes, our cookies.

Everything.”

“Our owners have always loved coffee,” said Flesher. “So, they were really excited to open the coffee bars in our stores in 2018. We have our own brand of coffee made from beans that we have roasted locally, so it’s as fresh as you can get.”

hour notice because we do make our cupcakes fresh every day.”

And if you’re looking for some unique holiday cupcakes, you’ve come to the right place.

“We do bake custom-decorated cupcakes anytime you want, including the holidays,” said Flesher.

“You can call in your order or order cupcakes directly from our website,” said Flesher. “We just ask that everyone keep in mind that we need a 24-

“You can pick those up the day before the holidays. Again, we just ask that you give us a 24-hour notice for any custom orders.”

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS, GOOD LUCK! Wishing you a safe, healthy, and successful season.

The PTCentral Team

Call, Click, or Chat to schedule today!

866.866.3893

PTCentral.org DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 21

POWERED BY

Business Building Blocks Dr. Amanda Ward Owner, Norman Pediatric Dentistry

Small Business Management

Dr. Ward is a born and raised Oklahoman. She grew up in Moore before attending Oklahoma State University, where she graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Oklahoma in 2007.

She completed her specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis, Tennessee, in 2009. She is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

MNTC’s Small Business Management program offers professional support and coaching to entrepreneurs who want to stabilize and build their business.

With services like one-on-one business coaching, professional learning opportunities, and a network of MNTC and outside resources, your business can thrive in an environment of support and possibility.

We can help you develop plans and processes to: • Increase sales using effective strategies • Hire and retain the right employees • Work successfully with business partners • Find a work/life balance • Determine how to transition to new leadership Business coaching services include: • One-on-one business coaching • Business assessment • Appropriate goal setting • Identification of key problems • Action plan development & accomplishment of objectives • Individualized coaching to resolve urgent issues and challenges

22 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

What is the number one mistake you see new business owners make?

As the saying goes: "When you fail to plan, you're planning to fail," One of the most common business mistakes is failing to plan, especially when first starting your business. Without a business plan to guide your startup and growth, you'll struggle to make decisions, get loans, or bring investors on board. Monthly cash flow projections are a key part of the planning process.

If you do not know how much money you will need to start your business and how many months of negative cash flow you expect to have before you begin building cash – then you will have no idea how much cash you need to invest, borrow from friends and family, banks or investors. Also, to have accurate cash flow projections, it forces you to do market research, competitor research, identify your ideals customers and how you will best reach them, pricing models.

It is much better to research and plan these activities prior to pushing the "start button" on your new business and hoping for the best!

Is it better to pay down debt early or to have cash?

While it is admirable to wish to pay down business debt early, please know that "Cash is King" reduces future interest expense. Cash is the oxygen that keeps your business alive, and one of the number one reasons businesses fail (i.e., they run out of cash and the ability to borrow and simple perish due to lack of cash)! Therefore, work to establish a cash reserve of 3 to 6 months of your business expenses. Unforeseen circumstances come up, stuff happens – think COVID 19! This cash reserve and borrowing capacity is secured in the form of a line of credit before you need them to allow your business to weather most storms. Suppose you are continuing to build cash after you have achieved a satisfactory cash reserve. In that case, you can consider increasing debt payments or, like the current market, re-financing your existing debt to take advantage of historically low-interest rates. One word of caution: please make sure you keep cash for future reserve and replacement of assets to take advantage of opportunities that arise in any troubled times and marketing efforts to support profitable growth when most companies are slashing their marketing budgets.

What steps can a business owner take to help with their mental or emotional health?

Powered by Moore Norman Technology Center

POWERED BY

Henry Dumas

Franklin Road Campus South Penn Campus

One of the best ways to hire the right people from the start is to identify the Character Traits and the Competency Traits you want in a position early – market aggressively before you need them, and pull the hiring trigger, when

13301 S. Pennsylvania Oklahoma City, OK 73170

How do I hire the right people from the start?

you are ready. Business owners often wait too late to begin the marketing process for a new employee; thus, they end up with a "warm body" and not an "A" player, thinking that someone is better than no one because the work needed to complete is so great. Generally, they are wrong, and they get to go through the process again since their hire does not work out. This is very expensive and disruptive. Other ways to help ensure the right hire is personality testing, creating an employee referral program (i.e., it is money well spent to pay existing employees $500 cash, after their referral has been in the positions for 6 months – they are already vetted in terms of qualifications and culture fit by the referring employee). Take the necessary steps to check references, drug tests, search social media, and the internet to reduce the likelihood of unwelcome surprises. Having dinner with the final candidate and their spouse before extending an offer also gives you some insight into who this person really is, outside the interview arena. Having appropriate team interviews is also helpful when you are the only one involved in the interview process.

The tendency is to hire someone just like you, whom you like – this is often an excellent formula for a new friend but the wrong formula in hiring for a critical position.

4701 12th Avenue NW Norman, OK 73069

One of the best ways to help a business owner's mental and emotional health is to strive towards a better work/life balance. Although, at times, you need to go all-in and treat your business like it is a "sprint," it is in many ways more like running a "marathon." If you do not schedule and adhere to taking care of your emotional and health needs by scheduling time "on your calendar" to spend time with family, exercise, sleep and eat healthily – you will burn out! Also, consider working with someone you trust, who is an active listener, confidential, non-judgmental, and can provide input when asked. This is generally someone like an ICF Credentialed Coach. A consultant is good in that if you ask them a question, they will give you an answer.

However, this typically leaves out the part that supports a business owner's mental and emotional needs. As a business owner, it is often lonely and stressful at the top. It's essential to have an active listener with whom you can share your thoughts, fears, doubts and have them work with you to "coach you to clarity" to make them more difficult decisions is best served by the right fit of an ICF Credentialed Coach.

(405) 801-5000 • mntc.edu

Henry Dumas has over 30 years of private sector experience helping companies succeed in roles such as Sales Manager, Small Business Owner, Agency Manager, Chief Financial Officer, Public Accounting-Audit, and Controller. He has also earned certifications as a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Covey Facilitator, and GrowthWheel Certified Business Advisor, and is well-positioned to engage, enlighten and empower business owners.

Preparing for Success, Changing Lives, Building Better Tomorrows.

Business Development Coordinator Specialty: Small Business Management

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 23

POWERED BY

HEROES

V E T E R A N / A R M E D F O R C E S S P OT L I G H T CHARLES SELBY SHARES POW EXPERIENCE

1530 SW 89th Street Suite A-1, OKC, OK 73159 405-759-3570 • primerealtyluxuryhomes.com

Kathy & Steve Griffith

Prime Realty Luxury Homes

deadly toll on the prisoners.

“Every morning, we’d have to go on burial detail and bury those who had died during the night,” said Selby. “We were digging in that rocky, mountain soil, and it was tough to get a hole deep enough to bury them.”

During the summertime, the prisoners were allowed to swim in the Yellow River. Selby remembers spending as much time as possible exercising in the water.

Ninety-one-year-old Charles Selby of Moore entered the Army as a teenager on July 2, 1948. Two years later, he was found leaving Fort Bliss, Texas, on a train bound for Fort Lewis, Washington, where he joined troops on a ship headed for the Korean War. A short time after his arrival, Selby was wounded and sent to Japan to recover.

After spending two months in Japan, Selby returned to Korea.

“We were up above the 30th parallel,” remembers Selby. “The first night, it was as quiet as a mouse, but the second night the biggest noise you ever heard hit us, and we were completely surrounded by Chinese troops.”

Only five soldiers survived the battle. Selby and the other four survivors were locked in a shed overnight. Then the following morning, they joined other prisoners for a long march to China and imprisonment.

“We started north at night and walked until daylight,” said Selby. “We would get a handful of something to eat every three days or so. Usually, it was just corn, soybeans, or millet that they boiled until it was soft enough for us to eat without cutting up our mouths.”

The POW’s finally reached a prison camp on the Yellow River. Selby would end up spending 33 months as a prisoner. He remembers that they finally got something to eat every day, but it was usually a small handful of some type of boiled grain. The extreme circumstances and the cold Chinese winter took a

24 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

He returned to the U.S. after finally being released in a 1953 prisoner exchange. Selby re-enlisted in the Army in 1957, serving two combat tours in Vietnam.

“In Vietnam, I did quality control on five different kinds of aircraft,” said Selby. “It was non-stop for us as we worked on those aircraft. We had crews working almost 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.”

When Selby finally retired from the Army in 1974, he was a Sergeant 1st Class with a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, and many other medals for his faithful and heroic service.

“The medical people told me when I was released in 1953 that I’d be lucky to live five years,” said Selby. “I’m happy to have proved them wrong.”

POWERED BY

EMILY MACDOUGALL would do social work. It didn’t turn out to be a good fit for me, so I started thinking and praying about other options. That’s when I started thinking about being an EMT, which turned out to be a perfect fit.

Education: Putnam City High School, Oklahoma City University BACKGROUND: I grew up in the Putnam City area, went to high school there and college at OCU, where I got my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. I wanted to do something meaningful where I could help people, so I thought I

AWAY FROM WORK: I’m single, and I like to spend as much time with family as I can. That means seeing my mom and my sister often. I also have family in New York, and I like to visit them.

My faith is fundamental to me. I also like to stay active, so I do as much camping and running as I can.

If you see a crime, call or email: (405) 793-5160 moorecrimetips@gmail.com

EMSSTAT

CURRENT FOCUS: My main goal is simply to be the best possible paramedic that I can be. For me, that means always staying up to date on everything that I need to know, field training, and studying whenever we have downtime on our shifts.

When we’re not running calls, I like to focus on the critical things back at the station, like checking and maintaining our trucks. In addition to that, I really enjoy the family atmosphere we have with the people I get to work with. We’re always cooking meals together and bonding at the station.

Crimestoppers of Moore

REASON FOR BECOMING AN EMT: It suits my personality and my desire to help people really well. When you go out on calls and get to make a difference in people’s lives, especially when you see good outcomes on those calls, there’s a sense of making a difference. This can be a tough job because there are those occasions where the outcome is not what you hope for. But you also get to see the best of people in the worst of circumstances, especially when you have those moments where bystanders have stepped in to help in emergencies.

2401 S. Broadway, Moore OK 73160 405-793-1725 • silverstarconst.com

F I R S T R E S P O N D E R S P OT L I G H T

Silver Star Construction

OF MOORE

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 25

SENIOR LIVING BY TAMMY C. VAUGHN, AGING SERVICES INC.

The Holidays During COVID-19

T

he holidays are often filled with sharing, laughter, and memories.

But they can also bring stress, disappointment, sadness – and due to the COVID-19 pandemic – heightened risk for spreading the virus, especially for older adults who tend to have underlying health conditions.

The safest option is to avoid in-person holiday gatherings with people outside of your household, as there are other ways to stay socially connected. A holiday is still a holiday no matter where it is celebrated. Here are some tips and ideas for safely engaging with family and friends during the holidays this year.

Adjust Expectations • It’s more important than ever to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Arrange for a group discussion via telephone, video call, or email for family and friends to discuss holiday celebration in advance.

Ensure that everyone understands the safety precautions you are taking and have realistic expectations about what you can and cannot do.

• Give yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably and safely manage – this likely means much smaller and more casual gatherings, if at all. No one should expect you to maintain every holiday tradition or event, especially during a pandemic.

Celebrate while physical distancing • Continue holiday traditions by dropping of favorite baked goods or a gift in a way that avoids close contact, such as leaving the delivery at the person’s front door.

• Schedule your own “holiday parade” and ask family members and friends to drive by the older adult’s home with homemade signs or other festive decorations.

26 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

• Plan an outdoor visit with hot chocolate and blankets.

• Go outside for a walk in the neighborhood to enjoy holiday lights and decorations.

• Create and send holiday cards.

• Remember to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and any person who is not a member of your household.

Connect through technology • Use video call software like Zoom or Skype to gather virtually. Since it can be challenging to have conversations with larger groups over video, adding some structure to the call can help. Play a trivia game, sing carols, or share pictures from past gatherings.

• Plan a video call to cook or bake a special recipe together.

• Use video to capture and digitally send special moments, such as children opening gifts.

• Schedule a time to watch a favorite holiday movie together from separate homes.

• Text or video chat while you watch.

All of these tips and ideas can still make for a holiday filled with sharing and laughter, and memories that will be talked about (probably a lot) at future holiday gatherings that are not surrounded by a pandemic.

Love each other, be kind, and stay safe.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 27

CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • DECEMBER 2020 Due to positive tests for the coronavirus across the area and the constant changes still taking place as of our press deadline, please confirm the events and services listed in this calendar are still in place before making your plans to attend or participate.

It’s especially important to ensure the safety of your family, loved ones and yourself by practicing safe COVID-19 recommendations.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT YELLOW ROSE THEATER DEAN MARTIN CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Thursdays through Sundays, December 3 – 19 Dean is back in town for a warm and wonderful evening filled with great music, lots of laughter, and special guests for the holiday season. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m. followed by the main show at 7:30 p.m. For information or tickets (dinner and show) call the Yellow Rose box office at 405-793-7779.

THE TWO KINGS New Year's Eve, December 31st There’s no better way to bid goodbye to 2020 and ring in 2021 than to spend New Year’s Eve with Elvis Presley and Dean Martin. It’s the King of Rock & Roll and the King of Cool, together at last! The Yellow Rose Theater stage is just big enough to hold the star power this duo will bring and you can bet tickets will go fast. Seating is at 8 p.m. and we’ll go through midnight.

For information or tickets (dinner and show) call the Yellow Rose box office at 405-793-7779.

FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART OK/LA Through March 7, 2021 This exhibition features the work of six former Oklahomans who left the state in the late 1950s for Los Angeles: Patrick Blackwell, Joe Goode, Jerry McMillan, Ed Ruscha, Paul Ruscha, and Mason Williams. Blackwell, Goode, McMillan, and Ed Ruscha studied at the Chouinard Art Institute and shared a house at 1818 N. New Hampshire. For a brief time, they identified themselves as the “Students Five,” joined at various times by fellow students Wall Batterton and Don Moore, and they sought advertising commissions through a national ad. Each departed Chouinard and the house in the early 1960s to pursue their respective careers.Williams, a lifelong friend of Ed Ruscha’s, came to prominence in the 1960s as an author, comedian, composer, musician, and poet.

Paul Ruscha, Ed’s younger brother, also pursued a career as an artist, relocating permanently to L.A. in 1973.

Their respective contributions in various media suggest the friends held similar sensibilities. The group maintained close relationships that manifested in their work as collaborations, formal or conceptual parallels, and even “inside jokes.” Although each of the artists took a different path, the intersections between their lives and work over the decades, from their youth in Oklahoma to their relocation to and life in Southern California, constitute a shared history evident in their work over six decades.

CHURCH & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION FRESH START COMMUNITY CHURCH FOOD PANTRY open the third Thursday of each month, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., 309 N Eastern Avenue, West Campus-Family Life Center.

Canned and dry goods available. Must be a resident of Moore (please bring an ID).

CITY MEETINGS & EVENTS PARKS BOARD MEETING Tuesday, December 1 at 7:00 p.m.

Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MEETING Tuesday, December 8 at 5:30 p.m Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday, December 8 at 7:00 p.m Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore MOORE URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY MEETING Monday, December 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore MOORE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING Monday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore SANTA’S MAILBOX December 18th through 5 p.m in The Station Lobby (during hours of operation), 700 S. Broadway Avenue. Holiday elves are installing a special mailbox at The Station Recreation Center where children can drop off their letters to San-

28 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

ta. Important things to remember: when writing letters, children must include their first and last name, age, mailing address, and holiday wish list. Parents are encouraged to glance over the letters before bringing to The Station for mailing. Santa especially enjoys hand-drawn holiday pictures on the letters! Place your letter and self-addressed stamped envelope inside Santa’s Mailbox. Make sure a Return Address is included so Santa can answer your letter.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Saturday, December 5 The Station at Central Park, 700 S. Broadway Avenue, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Visit with the jolly old elf, enjoy breakfast and story time as well as holiday crafts. Cost is $8 per person (Children and Adults). Tickets are available online at cityofmoore.com/fun or by calling 405-793-5090. (subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions) CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Saturday, December 5 Central Park Amphitheater, 700 S. Broadway Avenue, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Activities include Christmas music and a Holiday Fireworks Celebration sponsored by local businesses. The Moore Police Department will shut down South Broadway Ave. from 4th Street to 19th Street around 8:20 pm before the Christmas fireworks show starts. The Fireworks show will be approximately 10 minutes and then the Police will reopen South Broadway Ave. around 8:40 pm.

Hope to see everyone at Moore Central Park on Saturday, December 5th! For more information call 405-793-5090.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION ADOPT-A-PET Moore Animal Shelter, S-I35 Service Road. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., closed on holidays. For additional information call (405) 793-5190.

BIG TRASH PICK UP Moore residents will be allowed two FREE big trash pick-ups a year and one free voucher to the city landfill for each physical address in Moore. Call (405) 793-5070 to schedule your trash pick-up.

CT CLOTHING CLOSET Last Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m.

- 12:00 p.m.

CrossTimbers United Methodist Church, 3004 S. Sunnylane, Moore. CrossTimbers UMC Clothing Closet is a place where

those in need can find men’s, women’s and children’s clothing along with shoes and accessories. All sizes are available and are free for community members.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM Moore Police Dept. is starting a Neighborhood Watch Program. If you’re interested in helping your neighborhood reduce crime, contact Sgt. Jeremy Lewis, (405) 793-4448.

HEYDAY LIVE TRIVIA NIGHT Thursday nights in December 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

HeyDay Upstairs at Revolutions, 3201 Market Place, Norman. Think you know it all? Prove it at HeyDay trivia night.

Put your knowledge to the test with 1/2 priced domestics and discounted appetizers while you play!

For Moore Chamber of Commerce events – Visit moorechamber.com/events/calendar For South OKC Chamber of Commerce events – Visit business.southokc.com/events

SENIOR CONNECTION P.A.L.S. PROGRAM FOR SENIORS Seniors are assigned to a buddy who will call every day to check on you. Sign up with Sgt. Lewis, Moore Police Dept., (405) 793-4448.

PROJECT RETURN HOME FOR ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS IN MOORE For information about enrolling a loved one, contact Virginia Guild at (405) 793-4478 or Sgt. Jeremy Lewis at (405) 793-4448.

TRANSPORTATION: • Metro Transit will provide van service for age 60 and older on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the Moore area to Oklahoma City for medical appointments. Call Jackie at (405) 297-2583.

• Moore Council on Aging. Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the city of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Call (405) 799-3130 at least one day in advance.

• “Share-A-Fare” for age 60 and over or disabled. Purchase taxi fare at 40% off.

SEE THE FULL CALENDAR AT

MOOREMONTHLY.COM

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 29

30 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

BY RICHIE SPLITT, PRESIDENT & CEO NORMAN REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

This story sponsored by

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season T he holidays are an excellent opportunity to be grateful and reflect on what’s important, especially as we end a historic and challenging year. I’d like to thank the community for its support of our healthcare healers.

Your words of kindness are the best gift we could receive.

I wish you a healthy and happy holiday. Here are some tips to support your efforts for health and safety this season.

Wash Hands Often and Thoroughly Keeping your hands clean is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others – especially as the coronavirus continues to spread in our community. Wash your hands with soap and water, and rub them together for at least 20 seconds. That’s about how long it takes you to sing the “happy birthday” song twice. Also, always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.

Practice Food Safety As you prepare holiday meals, keep yourself and your family safe from food-related illness. Wash hands and surfaces often. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs (including their juices) away from readyto-eat foods and eating surfaces—Cook foods to the proper temperature. Refrigerate promptly. Do not leave perishable foods out for more than two hours.

Protect Your Heart According to a recent study from Sweden, the odds of suffering a heart attack are the greatest on Christmas Eve, specifically at 10 p.m. In fact, research has shown that heart attack-related deaths are 5% more likely during the holiday season. Experts blame the cold weather for constricting blood vessels. People also tend to overeat unhealthy foods, drink too much alcohol, and forego physical activity this time of year.

Avoid Holiday Burnout The holidays are supposed to be an enjoyable time, but shopping, cooking, cleaning, and spending leaves many of us exhausted and stressed out. So don’t overdo it! Figure out your budget and your boundaries and stick to them. Take a break when you need to, and make sure to get plenty of sleep.

Holiday Depression The stress of the holidays triggers sadness and depression for many people. Experts say a big reason for it is loneliness. About 27% of Americans live alone.

Others may be in grief over losing a loved one or are estranged from friends or family. Make plans in advance, so you know who you’ll be spending time with. Reach out to friends and maybe even volunteer. It can be extremely gratifying. If you feel guilty about not having a lot of money for gifts – don’t. Let your loved ones know how much you care about them and would like to but can’t afford it. If your symptoms of depression become severe or last more than a few weeks, seek professional help.

It’s the Most Dangerous Time of the Year?

Our emergency rooms usually get busy around the holidays. Potential hazards include flammable trees, wobbly ladders placed on roofs, slippery sidewalks, and drunk drivers on the roads. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC,) decorations are the number one cause of injury during the holidays. Here are a few holiday safety decoration tips from the CPSC: • Take special care with sharp, weighted, or breakable decorations. Lacerations were among the top reported decoration–related injuries last year.

• Place decorations with small removable parts that can pose a choking hazard to young children out of reach.

• Examine new and old light sets for damage. Discard sets with cracked or broken sockets, frayed or exposed wires, and loose connections.

• Keep burning candles in sight and away from places where kids and pets can knock them over.

• When using ladders, make sure yours extends at least 3 feet over the roofline or working surface.

Place it on level ground, stick to the maximum load rating, and don’t stand on the top three rungs of a straight, single, or extension ladder.

We hope you don’t need us, but if you do, Norman Regional Moore’s Emergency Department includes a trauma area, fast track for minor illnesses and injuries, an isolation room, and onsite lab and diagnostic testing including x-ray, ultrasound, and CT. Happy holidays!

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 31

BY LINDSEY PRESTON, NDTR, FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES COORDINATOR AT NORMAN REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

This story sponsored by

How to keep my Christmas or Holiday dinner lower calorie?

T

here are several ways to help keep your holiday meals lower calorie gathering as the meal. My family at Holiday gatherings will play spoons, chicken or avoid having to figure out how to lose that extra weight. You can foot, Mexican train, dominos, Uno, and many other card games. start with something as simple as avoiding seconds, changing ingredients in foods to lower the calories, limiting additional foods, and Happy Holidays! remembering the holidays are about friends and family, not food.

A simple way to ensure that we aren’t gaining those extra pounds around the holidays is avoiding making a second or even third trip to fill our plates with foods. You can do this by slowing down how fast you eat. Remember, it’s not a race. It is essential to understand that when you are eating to make sure you drink plenty of fluids, water helps you fill up faster. Also, if you are going to drink alcohol, make sure to drink something light or avoid alcohol as a whole as it is considered empty calories. When you are going through to fill your plate, make sure you are picking white meats. White meats contain lower fat content and avoid casseroles as they are usually higher in fats and/or calories compared to steamed or roasted vegetables. For example, if you like green bean casserole, you could think about making steamed green beans with garlic instead. My family does what is called ‘Tangy Green Beans’ instead of the casserole (see recipe). This style of green beans has been eaten by my family since the 1930s. Another suggestion is if you like mashed potatoes with your holiday meals, you could think about switching to mashed cauliflower or even half cauliflower and half potatoes to cut the calories down. If you eat sweet potato casserole, you can switch to cubed roasted sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasonings to avoid added sugars and added calories.

Another suggestion to cooking is when you add ingredients like kinds of milk, use lower fat milk, or use some olive oil, avocado, or Greek yogurt instead of butter if it will work for what you are making. If you are roasting vegetables, lightly drizzle olive oil and/or lemon juice over your vegetables, then roast with whatever dry seasonings you want. However, remember that many store-bought seasonings blends have added sugars to help with flavor, so check your labels. If you are making desserts and want to substitute your butter for a healthier option, you can use applesauce, mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, or olive oil to assist in baking options.

One important thing about the holiday season is to remember the reason we are celebrating. Many times, we gather with our family and friends because it is not about food. It is about the company and fun that comes with the people we are spending it with. Instead of having appetizers and/or small snacks, a meal, then desserts, I would suggest skipping the small appetizers or snacks.

Use that time to play a game, sing songs, remember and share memories of holidays that have passed instead of having the main focus of your holiday 32 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

Featured Holiday Recipe Tangy Green Beans Recipe 3 cans of 16 oz green beans (Cook until boiling) While green beans are cooking, prepare the sauce: • 6 Tbs of prepared mustard • 6 Tbs butter (could be cut in half or omitted if wanted to reduce calories more) • 6 Tbs sugar (monk fruit works well if you want to reduce sugar) • 2 Tbs vinegar • 2 Tbs lemon juice Heat and stir until ingredients make a smooth sauce. It’s okay to simmer, but do not boil. Once the sauce is hot, pour over the hot, cooked, drained green beans.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 33

BRAND SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES

DECEMBER 2020 December 1 Country Music House Singers

Chair Yoga

Brain Games

10:00 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

December 2 Speaker

11:00 a.m.

December 3 Chair Yoga

BINGO with Flora

10:15 a.m.

12:15 p.m.

December 4 MCOA General Meeting

Visit with Moore Police Dept.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

December 7 Classic Movie It’s a Wonderful Life

9:00 a.m.

December 8 Chair Yoga

Brain Games

10:15 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

December 9 Sherry Evans Author of Abandoned

Cobbler provided by Village on the Park

11:00 a.m.

11:45 a.m.

December 10 Chair Yoga

BINGO with Terry and Wanda

10:15 a.m.

12:15 p.m.

December 14 Classic Move The Man Who Saved Christmas 9:00 a.m.

December 15 Chair Yoga

Brain Games

Holiday DĂŠcor & Crafts

10:15 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:15 a.m.

December 17 Chair Yoga

Cheryl Presley- Elder Fraud

10:15 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

December 21 A Christmas Story

9:00 a.m.

December 22 Country Music House Singers

Brain Games

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

December 24 Chair Yoga

Christmas Party

10:15 a.m.

12:15 p.m.

December 25 Closed for Christmas December 28 Classic Movie

9:00 a.m.

December 29 Chair Yoga

Brain Games

10:15 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

December 30 Terry Wulff and Bella Therapy Dog

11:00 a.m.

December 31 Chair Yoga

10:15 a.m.

34 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

All activities may be limited for social distancing reasons & face masks may be required to participate in certain activities, face masks are encouraged in all other areas.

Exercise: Mon, Wed, & Fri 10:15, Arm Chair Travel: 9am Wed. Line Dancing Lessons: Wed 12:15 Dominos, Card games, Jig-Saw puzzles, Pool, Quilting, & Volunteer work to assist the homebound or work is available at the Brand Center Moore Council on Aging Bus Service: 799-3130 Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday Moore Senior Citizen Nutrition Site Brand Center 501 E. Main Reservations for meals: 793-9069.

Donation for a meal for seniors 60 & above: $2.25 Required cost for guests under 60: $5.00

Meals are served drive thru only at this time

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 35

BOOK REVIEW

Britt-Marie Was Here Author: Fredrick Backman

Reviewer: Tanilla McDaniel, Information Services Librarian, Moore Public Library Do you love lists? Then you have something in common with Britt-Marie, who loves lists so much she has a master-list for her lists!

“Britt-Marie Was Here” by Fredrik Backman, the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of “A Man Called Ove,” is the story of a fastidious, socially awkward, 63 yearold woman who walks out on her cheating husband and starts a new life.

On the list for her new life are the following items: visit the unemployment office, cleaning, and shopping. She gains employment in the almost defunct trucking town of Borg, Sweden, as a caretaker of the recreation center. As Britt-Marie gets to know the citizens of Borg, she finds herself becoming more involved in their lives, until she is unofficially adopted as the coach of the local soccer team. Each child on the team has his or her own story, and each story has a role for

Britt-Marie, whether she likes it or not.

As her list gets updated, the day comes when the list is empty. For a woman who thought she only wanted a clean house, a clean balcony, and for someone to know she was there, she allows herself to open up to new experiences, and in the process transforms her spirit and her community.

Britt-Marie demonstrates that resilience leads to second chances in the most unexpected of places. This uplifting story of courage and compassion will leave readers with the same feeling in their hearts as the citizens of Borg, that “Britt-Marie Was Here.”

Fredrik Backman is a Swedish columnist, blogger and writer. He is the author of “A Man Called Ove,” “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry,” “Beartown,” and “The Deal of a Lifetime.”

For more information on this book and other great books, library events, and more please visit www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download our PLS Connect App.

See answers on page 37.

36 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

LIBRARY SCHEDULES

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM PROGRAM VIRTUAL CALENDAR Many programs do require advance registration. Find out more through the library’s website, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org, or the library Facebook page, www.facebook.com/pioneerlibrarysystem Holiday Closings Physical libraries will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 24, and Friday, Dec. 25, as well as Friday, Jan. 1, for the Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day holidays.

Lego Club 4 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 Children ages 8 to 12 have a chance to learn from the Lego Lady in a weekly Zoom presentation.

Story Time 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 7 p.m. Tuesdays Join children’s librarians from around the Pioneer Library System as they present special story times and activities via video. The library will host morning activities twice a week and a bedtime story time on Tuesday evenings.

Penn Avenue Literary Society 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10 The monthly virtual adult book discussion group is led by the Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library and features a look at a book selected by group members in advance. This month’s discussion covers “Small Great Things” by Jodi Picoult. Sign up through the library.

Connect With Customers and Manage Your Business Remotely 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1 Discover Google tools that can help business owners work and manage their business during this time of uncertainty. Advance registration is required.

3rd Saturday Book Group 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 Join in the virtual discussion of “The Boat Runner” by Devin Murphy in this book group. A copy of the book may be downloaded from OverDrive or Hoopla or physical copies are available at local libraries.

Answers to Puzzle from Page 36

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 37

THE STATION SCHEDULE •DECEMBER 2020 ACTIVITIES & CLASSES

Due to positive tests for the coronavirus in Cleveland County this schedule is subject to change at any point in time. Please check with www.cityofmoore.com or call (405) 793-5090 for more information.

This is a partial list of schedules, activities, and classes available through the Moore Parks & Recreation department. You can find something of interest for everyone by visiting The Station website at: centralpark.cityofmoore.com/activities-programs or by calling The Station front desk at (405) 793-5090.

TOTS FITNESS

FIT AS A FIDDLE

When: Through December 22nd Tuesday Mornings

January 5th – May 25th Tuesday Mornings Time: 11:00 A.M -12:00 P.M. Ages: 3 – 4 Years Fee: $25 per Month / *5 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: By the first Tuesday of each month, 20 maximum Description: Toddlers will enjoy getting their exercise by running, jumping, tumbling on mats and dancing to favorite energetic songs.

CREATIVE ARTS ‘LIL KIDS CRAFTS

When: Through December 23rd Thursday mornings

January 7th – May 27th Thursday mornings Time: 11:00am – 12:00 pm Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Ages: 3 – 4 Years Fee: $25 per month / *5 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Registration: By the first Thursday of each month, 20 maximum Description: In this class kids will create, mold and build different things using clay as your base.

PERFORMING ARTS TODDLER DANCE CLASS

When: January 6th -January 27th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes)

February 3rd - February 24th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 5:30 P.M -6:15 P.M. Ages: 3 – 5 Years Fee: $25 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 5th for January Classes

Through February 2nd for February Classes Description: Toddlers will learn the basics of dance while having fun and making new friends in the process. All classes will get practice sessions for a recital included in the cost. Recitals will be the end of February.

COMBO DANCE CLASS

When: January 6th - January 27th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes)

February 3rd - February 24th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 6:30 P.M -7:15 P.M. Ages: 4-6 Years Fee: $25 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 5th for January Classes

Through February 2nd for February Classes Description: This class combines Ballet, Tap and Jazz throughout the session so the student can get an even mix of the 3 styles of dance.

High energy and fun. All classes will then get practice sessions included in the cost for a recital to be held at the end of February.

HIP HOP/JAZZ DANCE CLASS

When: January 7th- January 28th Thursday Nights (4 Classes)

38 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

February 4th - February 25th Thursday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 6:30 P.M -7:15 P.M. Ages: 4-6 Years Fee: $25 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 6th for January Classes

Through February 3rd for February Classes Description: This class uses popular and current music the kids will know and recognize to learn dances and choreography with different elements. Age appropriate music that is energetic and appropriate. All classes will then get practice sessions included in the cost for a recital.

Recitals will be the end of February.

BABY BALLET

When: January 7th - January 28th Thursday Nights (4 Classes)

February 4th - February 25th Thursday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 5:30 P.M -6:15 P.M. Ages: 18 months - 3 Years Fee: $25 per session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 6th for January Classes

Through February 3rd for February Classes Description: Without mom and dad, the child gets to learn the basics of Ballet through music, movement, and balance. Fun, positive, and appropriate for the little ones. All classes will get practice sessions included in the cost for a recital. Recitals will be at the end of February at a date to be determined.

ALL ABOARD KIDS CLUB

When: Through December 31st (except holidays) Time: Monday – Friday 4:00pm – 8:00pm

Saturdays – 9:00am – 3:00pm Where: The Station Recreation Center Ages: 7-12 Fee: Free for Station Passholders & The Station Day Pass Holders Instructor: The Station Staff Description: Designed especially for kids 7-12 years of age.

Depending on the day the kids can, play various sports and games in the gym ranging from basketball, soccer, dodgeball and this is just to name a few. There will also be days and times where the youngsters can expand their mind by participating in arts and crafts as well having fun playing board games. The only requirements are that you are either a passholder or a day passholder and that children are between the ages of 7 and 12. We hope to see your kiddos come out and enjoy the fun. The Station really is a place for everyone!

YOUTH FITNESS

YOUTH SPORTS AND FITNESS

When: December 1 – December 22nd Tuesday afternoons

January 5th – May 25th Tuesday afternoons Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm Ages: 6 – 12 Years Fee: $25/month Where: The Station Recreation Center Gymnasium Registration: By the first Tuesday of each month, 30 maximum Description: All types of sports will be learned and played to increase health and wellness in youth. A fitness regime will be developed for youth of this age to better develop muscles and cardio fitness. This class is perfect for home school health and fitness classes.

CREATIVE ARTS YOUTH ART When:

Time: Where: Ages: Fee: Registration: Description:

December 1 – December 21st Monday afternoons January 4th – May 31st Monday afternoons 1:30pm - 3:00pm The Station Recreation Center Activity Room 6 – 12 Yrs. Old $25/month Check with Front Desk for registration.

In this class kids learn how to draw, paint, sculpt

and build different things using all types of artistic media. Perfect for home school art classes.

PERFORMING ARTS COMBO DANCE CLASS

When: January 6th - January 27th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes)

February 3rd - February 24th Wednesday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 6:30 P.M -7:15 P.M. Ages: 7-8 Years Fee: $25 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 5th for January Classes

Through February 2nd for February Classes Description: This class combines Ballet, Tap and Jazz throughout the session so the student can get an even mix of the 3 styles of dance.

High energy and fun. All classes will then get practice sessions included in the cost for a recital to be held at the end of February.

HIP HOP/JAZZ DANCE CLASS

When: January 7th- January 28th Thursday Nights (4 Classes)

February 4th - February 25th Thursday Nights (4 Classes) Time: 6:30 P.M -7:15 P.M. Ages: 7-8 Years Fee: $25 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or Day Pass for The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 6th for January Classes

Through February 3rd for February Classes Description: This uses popular and current music the kids will know and recognize to learn dances and choreography with different elements. Age appropriate music that is energetic and appropriate. All classes will then get practice sessions included in the cost for a recital.

Recitals will be the end of February.

ADULT FITNESS

PICKLEBALL

When: Coed Through December 29th

Every Tuesday & Thursday Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 18+ Fee: Free to Station Passholders, $20/month for Non-Passholders Where: Moore Community Center Gym Registration: on site Description: Play this nationally trending sport twice a week.

Scoring and rules will be covered.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 39

DECEMBER 2020 • THE STATION SCHEDULE OPEN CORNHOLE

When: January 4th - February 22nd Every Monday (8 Classes) Time: 5:15pm- 6:15pm for January Classes Ages: 18+ Fee: Free to Station Passholders or Day Pass for the The Station Where: The Station Recreation Center Gymnasium Registration: Through January 3rd for Jan/Feb Classes Description: Enjoy family fun while learning one of the easiest games in the gym. League will be set up in the spring.

CREATIVE ARTS

ADULT DRAWING CLASS

When: January 12th-February 2nd Tuesday Nights

(4 Classes) Time: 6:30pm - 8:15pm for January Classes Ages: 15+ Fee: $20 per Session / *3 Station Passholders per session

(No Charge) or The Station Day Pass Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 11th for January Classes Description: Use various drawing media including charcoal, pencil, and ink. Subjects will include still life, landscape, perspective, and portraits. All supplies included. Class taught by certified art instructor.

SPECIAL INTEREST SPANISH 4 ADULTS

When: January 4th - February 22nd Every Monday (8 Classes) Time: 6:15pm - 7:15pm Ages: 15+ Fee: Free to Station Passholders or The Station Day Pass Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 3rd for January Classes Description: Learn Spanish for beginners. Adult classes will teach the basics of understanding and being able to use basic Spanish in the real world.

CONTINUATION SPANISH 4 ADULTS

When: January 7th - February 25th Every Thursday (8 Classes) Time: 6:30pm - 7:30pm Ages: 15+ Fee: Free to Station Passholders or The Station Day Pass Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Registration: Through January 3rd for January Classes Description: For anyone who has completed Spanish 4 Adults at the Station or is interested in refreshing their Spanish. This class is not for beginners but is for those who are past the beginner step but are not quite at the intermediate level. This class will continue to teach the basics of understanding and being able to use basic Spanish in the real world. This class will also use more conversation and further enhance your Spanish vocabulary.

FAMILY FAMILY TEAM CHALLENGE NIGHT

When: One Friday of each month beginning September 25th

(11/20/20, 12/18/21) Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm Ages: All ages - Children 6 & Under must be accompanied by an Adult.

Fee: Free to Station Passholders or The Station Day Pass Where: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room Instructor: The Station Staff Description: Family v. Family! Is your family good at Trivia, or how about Connect 4, Hearts or Backgammon? Tournaments will be set up for the fun and festivities on these great family night gatherings!

TABLE TENNIS LESSONS

When: Time: Ages: Fee: Where: Description:

Through December 11th 7:30pm - 9:30pm 6 & Up, families encouraged Free to Station Passholders or The Station Day Pass The Station Recreation Center Whether you want to play just for fun or have a more

40 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

competitive game, this table tennis activity is for you. Lessons and beginner games will be part of the fun.

CAMPS CHRISTMAS BREAK ART CAMP

When: December 28th – 31st Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm Ages: 6 to 12 Fee: $55 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: November 1st – December 27th Class Minimum: 10 Class Maximum: 2 5 Description: Create colorful paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. You will use watercolors, paint, crayons, beads, strings, and clay. So much fun and the best part is you get to keep and take home what you make. Class taught by a certified art instructor.

CHRISTMAS BREAK GIZMO’S, GADGETS, & THANG’S CAMP PRESENTS: ROBOTS

When: December 28th – December 31st Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm Ages: 7 to 14 Fee: $55 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: November 1st – December 27th Class Minimum: 10 Class Maximum: 25 Description: Science has never been this much fun before. In this camp you will get to build and create your very own robot that will do multiple things. You might get to assemble a robotic car, plane or pendulum machine. This camp will keep you engaged from beginning to end.

CHRISTMAS BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP When: Time:

December 28th – December 31st 9:00am – 12:00pm

Ages: 7 to 14 Fee: $55 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: November 1st – December 27th Instructor: Scott Hodges Class Minimum: 20 Class Maximum: 150 Description: For any young athlete who is looking to improve his or her skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun. What better way than by getting to play basketball for a week and learn some new things in the process.

CHRISTMAS BREAK EXTREME ANIMALS CAMP

When: December 28th – December 29th Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm Ages: 6 to 12 Fee: $80 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: November 1st – December 27th Class Minimum: 10 Class Maximum: 30 Description: Get ready for a wildly entertaining experience! Get up close and personal with endangered species, creepy crawlies and more!

You will also learn about different habits and create different types of arts and crafts that relate to those species and their habits.

CHRISTMAS BREAK VOLLEYBALL CAMP

When: December 28th – December 31st Time: 9:00am – 11:00am Ages: 7 to 14 Fee: $55 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: November 1st – December 27th Class Minimum: 20 Class Maximum: 50 Description: For any young athlete who is looking to improve his or her skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun. What better way than by getting to play basketball for a week and learn some new things in the process.

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 41

SPORTS BY ROB MORRIS

AN AXE TO GRIND I

MOORE TRIO QUALIFIES FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

t was just one year ago that Ben and Jen Gaddy opened the Twisted Axes Throw House in Moore. They’ve considered their first year of existence an unqualified success, even in the shadow of a worldwide pandemic that has brought unexpected challenges. Still, they never thought that their fledging axe throwing venue would end up producing not one, not two, but three throwers who would qualify for the World Axe Throwing Championships.

“It’s such an encouraging thing,” said Ben Gaddy. “To have three people qualify from our facility is remarkable because it is so new.

And two of those have only been throwing for under a year.”

Gaddy is one of the qualifiers. He is joined by Ryan Siegfried and Devon Simpson. Siegfried qualified in the hatchet category, while Gaddy and Simpson qualified in hatchet duals. The three will make their way to Atlanta next month to compete against the world’s best axe throwers, with the finals slotted for broadcast on ESPN. The competition is set for December 4-6.

42 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

“I’m not sure I could be more excited,” said Siegfried. “There are something like four or five thousand people who tried to qualify, so to be one of those to make it in is fantastic.”

Gaddy says 2020’s qualifying was compressed by the COVID-19 pandemic. To qualify, competitors needed to reach a certain level of points and win the final tournament at their local facility. Those winners were considered to be regional champions. The World Axe Throwing league then took the highest scores from all of the regional champions worldwide to determine the qualifiers for the World Championships.

“I’m not sure it’s hit me yet,” said Simpson. “I’ve only been throwing for a few months, so it was a bit of a surprise to get the email from Ben saying we had qualified in duels.”

Though Simpson has only been throwing for a few months, he has filled that time with a lot of practice.

Simpson will face in Atlanta will be daunting.

But he also thinks it would be awesome to have some World Championship trophies to display at Twisted Axes.

“We would love to make it to the finals and be on ESPN,” said Gaddy. “And to make some money while we’re there wouldn’t be a bad thing either.”

With a record $50,000 purse on the line, all three throwers intend to bring their best to the competition.

“I think our best game can beat anybody’s game, even at the World Championships,” said Simpson.

“But the competition will be stiff.”

“My wife and I heard about it, so we came over to try it out,” said Simpson. “We hit it off with Ben and Jen right away, and we stayed up here until about 2 a.m. that first night talking.”

Siegfried said, “Yeah, we’re going to have to bring our very best game to have a chance. But I believe we can do that.”

Simpson was so bitten by the axe throwing bug that he went right out the next day and built a target to practice on.

“I found a pattern on the internet and went to Home Depot and got some yellow pine,” said Simpson.

“I didn’t even paint the target on it. I just started throwing. Turns out yellow pine isn’t good for axe throwing because it splintered pretty quickly.”

Still, Simpson says he would practice each day, sometimes for hours. Siegried says he also caught the axe throwing bug a couple of years ago. He put-up targets in his garage, where he competes against his teenage son and daughter.

“It’s all physics, basically,” said Siegfried. “That and repetition, repetition, repetition. You just have to dial it into your muscle memory.”

Gaddy, who has been throwing for over a year now, says practice has been a vital component of the trio’s success. But he also feels the support and enthusiasm among the axe throwing community play a significant role.

“It’s such a great group of folks,” said Gaddy.

“They’re all very competitive, but they’re also really interested in helping each other out. We have some very experienced throwers who are willing to step up and help the beginners get better. And we really enjoy each other’s company.”

Gaddy says he knows the competition he, Siegfried, and DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 43

SPORTS PHOTOS

46 | MOORE MONTHLY | DECEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020 | MOORE MONTHLY | 47