Intensive Care Unit provides critical support for our smallest patients – in partnership with Oklahoma Children's Hospital. Together with a dedicated neonatologist and 24/7 neonatal nurse practitioners, we're advancing care for generations to come.
Letter from the Editor
As kids, we attended a big “family reunion” for my mom’s side of the family every Easter. Over four generations of family members would attend from all over the region and country. I remember asking my mom who “that person” was during the reunions or how we were related to them, pointing to the guy in the tan jacket with long gray hair.
My mom would tell me they were my grandma’s cousin’s husband (cousin-in-law) or my great aunt’s daughter (first cousin once removed) who lives in Texas, and this would give her time to fill me in on the oral histories of our large, very eclectic family. I learned so much about family history and lore during these events. Reunions were always a great time to connect with family and build new memories.
I loved watching kids grow up and eventually get married, and we would welcome new babies into the family. It was sobering to meet at funerals to say goodbye to our loved ones, and I watched as the dynamics of the “matriarchs” and the “patriarchs” began to change over time. At some point in the last twenty years, I can’t even remember exactly when our family reunions stopped happening.
And I get it. People get busy, and sometimes, when that one person who has served as the anchor is no longer around, things fall through the cracks.
I’m happy to say that, for the first time in a long time, we are holding another family reunion. It will be nice to see faces I haven’t seen in a long time, distant relatives, and cousins from long ago.
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In conversations I’ve had with friends, it seems we aren’t alone in not having held reunions in a while. For many, COVID appeared to be the harbinger of doom for large-scale events and traditions like family reunions. For others, the rise of social media may have lessened the need to get together in person, instead allowing distant relations to stay in touch online.
Whatever the reason, it’s no secret that social interaction between families has dramatically changed in the last twenty years. However, despite the changing social culture, it also seems like families are hoping to reconnect. According to Airbnb, there was a “90% increase in searches for large group accommodations” compared to pre-pandemic years, with “family reunion” being one of the top search terms. They said, “In 2024, Airbnb observed a notable 15% increase in bookings for groups larger than five in North America compared to the first quarter of 2023, marking it as the fastest-growing booking category over the past four quarters.”
I am very much looking forward to reconnecting with my family at our upcoming reunion, and I can’t wait for my kids to ask me who each person is and how we are related to them so I can fill them in on our family history.
I hope you spend your spring outdoors in the sunshine, enjoying this beautiful weather. And if you decide to invite 150 or so of your family members over to enjoy the outdoors with you, well, I believe that would be time well spent.
Happy April, everyone.
editor@poncacitymonthly.com
Leadership Alumni Makes a Comeback
Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer (Leadership Class 3)
The Ponca City Leadership program, hosted through the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce, has been going strong and is in the midst of Leadership Class 38 as it strives to develop committed, wellinformed leaders who actively participate in the community. After having a slow start in 2019 that went into hiatus with the pandemic, they are now reviving Leadership Ponca City Alumni, and it is off to a tremendous beginning with an initial kickoff meeting last October with over 65 of the around 600 graduates of the program able to attend.
Chamber CEO/President Shelley Arrott gathered a steering committee to work with her that includes members from various LPC classes: Don Bohon, City of Ponca City; Luke Garrison, Speak Now Productions; Brian Hermanson, 8th District Attorney; Brook Lindsay, Pioneer Technology Center; Erin Liberton, Phillips 66; and Jeff MacKinnon, Cherokee Strip Credit Union. Arrott, Garrison and others had also been through Leadership Oklahoma, which has an active alumni organization, so they were able to look at that program to compare what might be good for the local program and community.
When the call came out to the alumni of LPC, it was clear this group is to be considered more than just a time for reunion. The plans are to look toward dynamic learning opportunities, networking and collaboration, and
opportunities to continue leading our city to a prosperous future. Many alumni are Chamber members through their work or other groups, but those who weren’t were then encouraged to become individual members again. Part of this type of leadership is building a strong and active chamber representation, and the community built through the Leadership program is one way to make this happen.
The first activity for the group was a tour of Chilocco Indian Agricultural School in November with hosts Jim and Charmaine
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”
~ Helen Keller, American Author who became deaf and blind at 19 months old
Baker and Michael Littlevoice, all alumni of the school. Jim returned to serve as superintendent of the school after completing his doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Charmaine now serves as president of the Chilocco Alumni Association. The three hosts provided much history and many stories of the school over the years, as well as relating numerous dignitaries from history who had gone there when they were young. Now, the alumni group still provides history to groups such as this one and to schools, as well as upkeep of the grounds, especially the cemetery, where they continue to name the individuals, their tribes and the years they were there for those buried on the grounds. The group caring for the area is
Historic Chilocco buildings
active, knowledgeable and involved, and they provided much information to the LPC Alumni group and Chamber guests.
“The mission of Ponca City Leadership Alumni isn’t too much different than the mission of Ponca City Leadership,” says steering team member Luke Garrison. “Our desire is to further educate our alumni and, more importantly, empower them to engage the community.” Garrison credits Arrott for her determination to bring together the steering committee and revive the alumni group in Ponca City. Garrison says, “We are a network of business owners and leaders who will continue to work on effective ways to engage the community we have grown to love through the Leadership Program.”
It seems many agree. The Alumni group is already at 94, with the current LPC group able to join after their sessions end in May. Some alumni have joined even though they live far from Ponca City now. It’s a good way
to stay updated with what is happening in Ponca City and be part of the community they miss. As news of the revitalization continues, many expect the alumni group will grow even more.
In March session was held with U.S. Marshall Clayton Johnson at a federal courthouse in Tulsa to look at the role of the Marshall and its history in Oklahoma. Johnson is a past Ponca City Chief of Police and was in Leadership Class 10.
Plans are to have an activity or meeting quarterly, so that will keep engagement current for those wanting involvement. If you are a Leadership Ponca City alumnus, it is certainly not too late to reach out and join the organization. Just contact the local Chamber at info@poncacitychamber.com and the right person will respond to answer the questions
you have! Membership in the Alumni group is $50/year, and individual membership in the Chamber is $100, if you are not a member and are interested.
Arrott says, “Look around local committees and boardrooms, and you’ll see many alumni of the Leadership Ponca City program serving their community.” There is much to be said for reaching out to learn more and serve the community, and this is certainly a wonderful avenue to do so with a group of leaders who have like-minded goals. Together, we really can do so much. PCM
Chilocco Host Michael Littlevoice
Initial Meeting at Ponca City Country Club
Dr. Trent Tipple, Chief of Neonatology at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, showcases the nurseries. The OnCue NICU will have 10 total, including a C-section procedure room, a lactation room, family spaces, and state-of-the-art technology to provide critical care for the community’s most vulnerable patients.
Bringing Newborn Intensive Care to Stillwater: A Community Milestone
Story by Abby Fox | Public Relations & Marketing Manager, Stillwater Medical Center
For families in north-central Oklahoma, the birth of a newborn in need of specialized care often meant an uncertain journey—sometimes miles away from home. But that reality is changing. With the opening of the OnCue Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Stillwater Medical, parents now have access to high-quality neonatal care closer to home. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in partnership with Oklahoma Children's Hospital OU Health, marked a significant milestone in regional healthcare.
This state-of-the-art Level II NICU, a $2.5 million investment, is the only one of its kind in the area with a dedicated neonatologist and 24-hour neonatal nurse practitioner coverage. The facility ensures that premature and at-risk newborns receive immediate, specialized attention without the stress of longdistance transfers.
“This is a testament to the power of community,” said Michal Shaw, Vice President of Foundation and Community Relations at Stillwater Medical. “Together, we’ve created a space where families will
Stillwater Medical and Oklahoma Children’s Hospital OU Health leadership cut the ribbon to open the OnCue NICU. Left to right: Dr. Richard Lofgren, President and CEO of OU Health; Lucas Grounds, Stillwater Medical Foundation Board; Denise Webber, CEO of Stillwater Medical; Michal Shaw, VP of Foundation and Community Relations; Laura Aufleger, President of OnCue Marketing; Jim Griffith, Owner of OnCue: Dan Duncan, Stillwater Medical Board; Dr. Trent Tipple, Chief Neonatologist at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital
WORK LA HOMA Job
WHY INVEST IN THE CHAMBER? PONCA CITY
Investing in the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce brings benefits far beyond a simple membership. As a Chamber investor, you belong to a network of like-minded business leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals focused on supporting and growing Ponca City’s vibrant community. Here are five compelling reasons to consider becoming a Chamber investor:
N - Networking: It’s not who you know, but who you know knows! Investment in the Chamber opens doors to valuable connections and strengthens relationships with local business owners, increasing opportunities for collaboration, referrals, and partnerships.
A - Advocacy: The Chamber actively supports initiatives that foster community
well-being. We advocate for policies and programs that help our local businesses, schools, and the entire Ponca City area thrive.
M - Marketing: Investors benefit from numerous promotional opportunities. The Chamber helps showcase your business or organization through targeted campaigns and visibility in our events, directories, and digital platforms.
E - Educate: The Chamber hosts workshops, seminars, and forums tailored to help investors improve their business practices and deepen their knowledge of the community.
S - Sales: Through the “Shop Ponca First” campaigns, the Chamber encourages residents to support local businesses, creating a direct, positive impact on sales for Chamber investors and strengthening the Ponca City economy.
Build NAMES with the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce! Being a part of the Chamber means investing in Ponca City’s future. Join us as we work together to make our community a better place to live, work, and grow.
Need
Stillwater Medical has been named one of the World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek for the fifth year in a row, ranking No. 1 in Oklahoma for patient experience in 2025. The hospital achieved its highest national ranking yet at No. 221, standing out among six recognized Oklahoma hospitals. This distinction is based on hospital performance, patient experience data, and surveys from medical experts. President Denise Webber credits the award to the hospital’s dedicated staff and commitment to excellence. Stillwater Medical has also earned accolades from Press Ganey, Healthgrades, and Modern Healthcare, which has named it a Best Place to Work for 13 consecutive years.
be held in care, compassion, and community, right here in Stillwater.”
The event brought together healthcare professionals, community leaders, and generous donors who contributed to making this NICU a reality. Among them was OnCue President Laura Aufleger, who shared her personal experience of navigating neonatal care when her family lived in Dallas. Her story underscored the importance of bringing this level of care to the region.
With 10 nurseries, the NICU offers advanced care in a comforting environment. The facility is equipped to monitor and treat conditions such as jaundice, feeding difficulties, and mild respiratory complications for babies born at or after 32 weeks gestation. The highly trained team of neonatologists and nurses will provide around-the-clock care tailored to each newborn’s needs.
Dr. Trent Tipple, Chief of Neonatology at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, emphasized how vital this NICU is for the region. “This
facility ensures that even when higher levels of care are needed, the transition will be seamless, minimizing the disruption to families and their support systems,” he said.
The need for enhanced neonatal care in Oklahoma is urgent. Prematurity remains the leading cause of neonatal death and disability, with nearly 12% of babies in the state born preterm—higher than the national average. Existing Level III and IV NICUs, which provide the highest levels of newborn care, often operate at full capacity. The OnCue NICU will bridge this gap, ensuring more babies can stay close to home, where research shows they recover faster and experience improved bonding and breastfeeding rates.
Denise Webber, CEO of Stillwater Medical, concluded the ceremony by highlighting the hospital’s mission: “The OnCue NICU represents our commitment to improving lives through excellent, quality care. This facility allows us to serve our neighbors—and the state—like never before.”
The opening of the OnCue NICU is more than an expansion of medical services; it’s a promise to families that their newborns will receive the best possible care without leaving their community. This milestone reaffirms the power of collaboration and compassion in advancing healthcare for Stillwater and beyond.PCM
The highly-trained team of neonatologists and nurses from Stillwater Medical and Oklahoma Children’s Hospital will work together to care for newborns in this new $2.5 million facility.
5Under 40 Ponca City Main Street’s
What contributions have you made to community, civic, or charitable organizations?
Chelsi Hendrickson
Employer
Phillips 66
Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Management from Oklahoma State University
How Long Have You Lived in Ponca City? 11 Years
Spouse/ Partner
Thomas Hendrickson
Children
Hudson Hendrickson
Ponca City Main Street: Board Member from 2018-2021, Chair from 20212023, Past Chair, Board Member from 2023-2024. Throughout my time as a board member, chair and committee member, I have volunteered at each major event Ponca City Main Street has been involved in the planning. Upon becoming Chair, I helped navigate and lead our program through a time where Covid restrictions were being lifted so we could get back on track with fundraising, event planning, etc. During my first few months as Chair, I helped train the new Executive Board Director for Ponca City Main Street and I hired the new Assistant Board Director. Under my tenure, we produced new events and projects to help our program. These include Grand Casino Fundraiser in 2022, Social Media Takeover (this is where investors are able to take over Main Street’s social media for a day to market and advertise for their business), and our large annual fundraiser Ice on the Plaza in 2022, which Ponca City Main Street worked hard on securing a grant from T-Mobile and executing fundraising efforts to bring the Glice Rink to our downtown. This created a six week-long event for Ponca City and surrounding communities, which will last for years and years, and be our major annual fundraiser for Ponca City Main Street.
City Arts: This non-profit organization is dedicated to enriching the cultural life in our community by promoting, teaching and nourishing the creating and appreciation of visual arts. Board member from 2018-2023. Board Chair from 2023- 2024. City Arts (previously Ponca City Arts Association) has held a premier annual Arts Festival every year since 1974. This fine art show brings in around 50 artists from all over to not only show their art and have the opportunity to be awarded in several different judged categories, but it is also a festival where they have the opportunity to sell their pieces. The festival also includes entertainment, food trucks, refreshments and a kid’s area. This past year (2024) I was a Co-Chair for this festival. Pioneer Technology Foundation Board: The Foundation’s goal is to remove the financial barrier that challenges so many individuals while pursuing their education by creating scholarships for qualified and deserving students who attend Pioneer Technology Center. I am the current Vice President for the board and have been a member since 2017. During this time, I have been involved in issuing several scholarships to students and planning our annual fundraiser which includes dinner and a roast, where we select a well-known member in the community and have them roasted by peers of their choosing to make a fun, comedic experience with great food.
Jenna Wells
Employer
Winterrowd Talley
Architects
Education
Oklahoma State University, Bachelor of Science in Design, Housing & Merchandising: Interior Design, 2022. Minor in Art History.
How Long Have You Lived in Ponca City?
25 years (I left for college and came back)
Spouse/ Partner
Bienjamin Wells
What contributions have you made to community, civic, or charitable organizations?
I have served as Secretary on the board of the Ponca City Federated Music Club since Fall of 2022. I joined this organization with a passion for music and minimal knowledge about the organization. I enjoy planning and performing for the various concerts we offer free to the public and plan on doing many more in the years to come! I also serve as President for Ponca Young Employees and have been a board member since Fall of 2022. I was Secretary since January 2024, and recently became President. This organization allows young professionals in Ponca City to network and learn more ways to be involved within our community. Once every month I attend the Community Development Committee which meets at our Chamber of Commerce. I enjoy participating in this committee because it allows me to share updates and happenings of our business, as well as hear what else is taking place in our community. I recently participated in and graduated from the Ponca City Leadership program in May of 2023. This was an eight-month program (beginning in August 2022), designed to shape you as an individual and greatly enhance your leadership skills, specifically within Ponca City. This program encourages community involvement and provides a lasting connection with your fellow classmates. Additionally, I volunteer Wednesday evenings as a youth leader at St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene. I recently began this position in January of 2025. I enjoy interacting with the youth in our wonderful community, and helping lead them toward a relationship with Christ.
5Under
Christopher Radaker-James
Employer
NERA Food & Resource Center
Education
Bachelors from Belmont University in Nashville, TN
How Long Have You Lived in Ponca City?
6 years
Spouse/ Partner
Kyla Radaker-James
Children
Gabriel (14), Rosalee (7), Foster Baby (1)
How does your business contribute to the community?
NERA’s mission is to prevent food scarcity in North Central Oklahoma by providing nutritional and community resources. Our Food and Resource Center offers a dignified monthly shopping experience for qualifying residents of the 11 zip codes closest to Ponca City. Shoppers must live in a household with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Unhoused locals may benefit from NERA’s Day Bag program. The Day bags supply enough consumable products to sustain life for 24 hours, and NERA hands out these supplies 4 days every week. NERA also partners with other organizations to supply nutrition workshops, cooking classes, gardening workshops, and resource fairs. Each of these events aim to reduce food insecurity by providing needed information, community connections, cookware, and ingredients. Additional hygiene products and voucher programs are available upon request. In 2024, NERA offered over 1.3 million meals to our community. Over 2,300 bags of daily supplies were distributed to unhoused locals. Neighbors were served over 28,000 times, and more than 2,500 first-time visitors walked away with food. Our volunteers provided almost 9,000 hours of community service to locals experiencing food insecurity. We also provided a livable wage to 4 full time employees.
Ponca City Main Street’s
5Under 40
Kailye Anderson
Employer
First National Bank of Oklahoma
Education
Ponca City High School - University of Central Oklahoma
How Long Have You Lived in Ponca City?
I have lived in Ponca my whole life outside of my college years I spent in Edmond.
Spouse/ Partner
Case Jenkins
Children
Maya, my 2 year old goldendoodle
How does your business contribute to the community?
With being a community first bank, we truly place our efforts into building relationships in our area and staying connected. FNBOK is proud to support countless organizations with donations, sponsorships and even volunteers when needed. With the community first mindset and growth of Ponca City in mind, we also take action by having many employees spread out as members on local boards. Our team truly enjoys helping others and I believe you can feel that when you walk into the front doors, right when you’re greeted.
In 2023, with my extensive golf background on my side, I had the idea of creating an annual golf tournament fundraiser and in our first year we raised over $13,000 for a local organization and their needs for extreme renovation funds. This year our team worked hard and topped that with over $15,000 helping a completely different organization that will be using their funds to build more restrooms on their site that are also fully ADA compliant. We couldn’t have done it without all of our great sponsors! Efforts like this have allowed us to greatly impact Ponca City organizations in a unique way, all while increasing unity with our bank employees. We have successfully hosted food drives, assisted with Friendship Feast, Stuff the Sleigh and so much more. Anything that helps those in need, supports a local school or club, customer satisfaction and Ponca City, that is our goal. When you hear of FNBOK our desire is that you will feel that warm hug inside and know we’re not just a bank but also a business that truly has your success and care in mind. We want you to walk in our doors, meet our staff and then feel what Ponca City is really about.
Carl Renfro President
Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA
Rick Renfro Secretary, Restaurateur
Cindy Gorrell Vice President, Investments
We are proud to support Ponca City 501c3 organizations through charitable grants.
Directors
Brenda Renfro
Rich Cantillon Ponca City Chamber, Retired
Jeff Cowan RCB Bank, Retired
Jerod Helling RCB Bank, Market President
T.L Walker Executive Director Standing Bear Foundation
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How does your business contribute to the community?
Grand provides needed mental health services to adults and children in our community. Behavioral Health Coaches, Family Support Providers, Care Coordinators, Peer Recovery Support Specialists, Therapists, Infant Mental Health Providers, Medical Providers, Medication, PACT, Court Services, Assisted Outpatient Therapy, Oklahoma Families First Program, Employment Specialists, Housing Specialists are all provided to clients in Kay County. We believe in treating the entire person, from basic needs like housing, clothing, food, to employment, education, and finding healthcare.
What contributions have you made to community, civic, or charitable organizations?
Personally, I attended several community events this year and really enjoyed visiting with people and making sure they have a person to call if they have concerns or questions about our services. In 2024, I attended Party at the Palace, Marland’s Place Cocktails for a Cause, the walk for Dearing House Advocacy Center, Phillip 66 Okies Event, Kanza Health Fair, Dearing House Fish Fry, The Purple Affair, spoke to our Ponca City Leadership Class, Goblins on Grand and the Christmas Parade. For the Back To School Event at Marland’s Place we provided the community with 200 backpacks full of school supplies, and recently we provided 50 children with their Christmas Wishlist.
Samantha Goodno
Employer
Grand Mental Health
Education
Read Samantha’s full 5 Under 40 bio online at PoncaCityMonthly.com
Master of Counseling Psychology
How Long Have You Lived in Ponca City?
I have lived in Kay County since 2000.
Spouse/ Partner
Ty Goodno
Children
Hunter Goodno 7 and Holton Goodno 5
Real Self-care for Real Life
Story By Tara Fredrick | Contributing Writer
Spring Cleaning for Your Soul
It’s spring, and you know what that means: decluttering season! While you’re sorting through closets and junk drawers, let’s talk about the emotional clutter you’re carrying – you know, the stuff that’s weighing you down but never makes the donation pile.
When I started focusing on self-care, I realized I was holding onto so much emotional baggage – grief, guilt and the belief that I had to do it all, perfectly, all the time. Sound familiar?
This month, try spring cleaning your soul. Start by identifying what’s draining you. Is it a toxic relationship, overcommitting yourself or that little voice in your head saying you’re not enough? Write it down, and ask yourself, “What am I ready to let go of?”
Decluttering your life isn’t just about cleaning your house; it’s about creating space for peace, joy and growth. You deserve a clean slate – inside and out.
In October 2023, my life changed forever when I lost my daughter, Jolene Rose. JoJo, as we called her, was my everything. Born with physical disabilities, she taught me unconditional love, strength and resilience. Her passing left me shattered, but self-care became my lifeline. It helped me rebuild, heal and honor her memory. Now, through this column, I’m sharing my journey and tools to help others care for themselves, no matter what life throws their way. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s survival, and it’s how we thrive.
by Rachel Stewart / Contributing Writer
You know the saying “go with your gut”… what does that even mean? My gut literally can’t even handle a glass of milk or an ice cream cone, yet I’m supposed to trust it with important decisions and my future like it’s some kind of oracle? This saying wasn’t meant for people with anxiety. If I have an upset tummy, my mind instantly goes to intestinal tumor. My knee hurt the other day and I diagnosed myself with gout. And I don’t even know what gout is. Turns out I had just been sitting criss-cross-applesauce too long. The other day I had a stroke, I think. My symptoms? Just a headache. Nerves before getting on a flight? How do I know if that’s normal or if that means the plane is going to crash and I shouldn’t get on it? I also constantly think I’m going to get trafficked when I’m at Wal-Mart or really any public setting, until a dear friend reminded me that I’m far too old to get trafficked, that they target young girls, not middle-
aged moms. Which hurt to hear, but I do feel slightly more at ease in public now. Anxiety really is no joke. How do I teach my body that “fight or flight” response is for life-or-death situations, not for small-talk with the cashier at the gas station or responding to an email?
My other favorite symptom of my anxiety is the overthinking. If you send me a text that says “Okay”…are you mad at me? If you send me a text that says “Okay.”
A PERIOD?! Why are you furious at me?!! And if you send “K” I will simply pass away. You have to send “Okay!” otherwise I won’t be able to sleep that night. Anyways, I have to go, I have a doctor’s appointment for what I believe to be a pulmonary embolism.
on Page 47
Book Reviews
STARS AND SMOKE
BY MARIE LU
Winter Young: Rookie backup dancer turned global pop phenom. A son whose mother wishes her other son was the one who had lived.
Sydney Cossette: Covert ops organization Panacea Group’s youngest agent. The daughter whose father and brother made her life a living hell.
Penelope Winter: Only daughter of criminal tycoon Eli Morrison. Winter Young’s biggest fan.
With Winter’s life in the spotlight and Sydney’s life in the shadows, their paths should never cross. That changes when Morrison arranges to make his 19-year-old daughter’s dearest birthday wish a reality – a private concert with Winter Young – during her week-long birthday celebration.
Panacea is desperate to stop Morrison’s massive shipment of a nerve agent described as “chemical warfare’s answer to the atomic bomb.” They’ve never been able to get an agent close to the crime boss. Winter is their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to infiltrate Morrison’s inner circle and prevent distribution of the nerve agent.
Winter is recruited by Panacea for this one mission only, then he’ll return to breaking firstweek sales records and selling out stadiums from Los Angeles to London. Panacea pairs Winter with Sydney. She’s placed undercover as his bodyguard. Panacea provides them with super-cool tech gadgets that would make James Bond and Q totally jealous.
These new partners don’t instantly hit it off. In fact, Sydney may be the only person in the world immune to Winter’s charm. Their handlers order them to figure out how to get along with each other. The pair is given one week to learn to work together while Sydney gives Winter a Cliff’s Notes version of Panacea agent training. Once they’re invested in the mission, they’ll need each other to survive – literally.
I found Stars and Smoke to be an unputdownable spy caper, and I’m looking forward to reading its sequel, Icon and Inferno.
Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
WHAT HAPPENED TO RACHEL RILEY?
BY CLAIRE SWINARSKI
Anna Hunt is the new kid at East Middle School in Madison, Wisconsin. Her big sister is a coding genius. Her mom teaches law at the University of Wisconsin. Her dad is also a lawyer and is amazing in the kitchen. Anna misses Chicago, the Polish community in Chicago and her Babcia (grandmother).
Anna’s a die-hard podcast enthusiast. Her favorite podcast is Stories of Our Lives With Mimi Miller Mimi interviews all kinds of people, not just famous ones – although she did interview Kate Middleton about her charity work. She has spoken with janitors, chefs, teachers and stay-at-home parents about who they are and what matters to them. Mimi makes everyone seem real.
At East Middle School, birthdays are announced at lunch each day. Anna’s birthday gains polite applause, even though very few people know her. Anna is shocked when another girl’s birthday is met with complete and utter silence. That girl is Rachel Riley. Anna met Rachel on her first day
at East. Rachel seemed really nice. Anna cannot fathom why all the eighth-graders seem to hate Rachel.
Anna asks a few students, including Rachel, why the whole eighth-grade class seems to hate Rachel. No one wants to talk about it. Anna reasons, “Not every eighth-grade girl will stop and help a new kid, about to burst into tears, find their homeroom. And if they do, they deserve some applause on their birthday.” Anna decides to research the Rachel Riley situation, just like Mimi Miller would.
Anna continues to ask questions and researches any small lead she can find. Of course, her choice to pursue this matter means she ends up sitting by herself at lunch – just like Rachel. Anna doesn’t give up; she is persistent. She’s shocked when she finally learns the truth. This book ends amazingly!
Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
No more excuses for not knowing how your finances and investments line up with your life goals and retirement expectations.
Now is the time for a fiscal check-up
Call today for a free consultation, and we’ll explore investment strategies designed to help you protect yourself today, tomorrow and into the
No
excuses for not knowing how your finances and investments line up with your life goals and retirement expectations.
Call today for a free consultation, and we’ll explore investment strategies designed to help you protect yourself today, tomorrow and into the future.
Insights on Higher Learning:
A Center for Learning
“What is the University Center?” This question comes up frequently in conversation. Since the University Center is a unique organization, the question is legitimate. The University Center at Ponca City partners with accredited colleges and universities to make college courses, programs and degrees accessible to the residents of Ponca City and Northern Oklahoma.
Here are a few facts to help you get acquainted with the University Center.
The UC at Ponca City is the only university center in Oklahoma. At one time there were four UCs in Oklahoma, including Ardmore, Enid and Tulsa. Those three have since been absorbed by colleges and universities in their areas. Ponca City is fortunate the UC is alive and well.
Our current partner schools are Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) and Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU). Our state charter states that NOC provides all lower division courses and programs. Upper division courses, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees can be provided by any qualifying, accredited university in Oklahoma. Currently, all those programs are through NWOSU.
The University Center does not award college degrees. All coursework and degrees are provided by our partner schools. For example, I earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from NWOSU in 2014. I took all the classes at the UC, but my diploma is from NWOSU. The University Center is not an independent university. We provide access to accredited colleges and universities.
A wide range of programs and degrees are available through our partner schools. The UC provides access
to concurrent classes, as well as associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Majors and degrees include business administration, accounting, arts & sciences, computer science, criminal justice, education, nursing (Pre-RN, Pre-BSN, BSN) and psychology. Call or visit our website for a complete list.
Most classes are offered by ITV/Zoom. Our technology allows us to easily connect to classes from our partner schools. Our partner schools have multiple campuses, so this is a perfect fit for their models of course delivery. For example, a psychology professor teaching from the NWOSU Alva campus may have students in the classroom and also connect to classrooms at NWOSU Enid, NWOSU Woodward and the UC. Our two-screen format in most classrooms allows students to easily see and interact with instructors and other participants, as well as view and share presentations.
We love it when instructors teach on-site. The UC is fully equipped for instructors to teach from the University Center. NWOSU nursing instructor Sarah Martin offices and teaches at the UC, supervises local clinicals and leads labs in the UC nursing lab. Professors visit the UC on a regular basis to see their students in person and teach from one of our studios.
The best way to find out what the University Center is all about is to drop by for a visit. You can also call us at (580) 718-5600, visit UCPoncaCity.com or follow our social media pages. Hope to see you soon!
Keep learning!
Coldwell Banker is the #1 most visited Real Estate site online, and I'm proud to be part of the local team. I can answer your questions about the home buying and selling processes with knowledge and pride.
Story by Tim Williams/ University Center at Ponca City / Contributing Writer
Story by Jeff MacKinnon / Contributing Writer
Ah, work fridge drama, always a classic! It’s one of those things that can sneak up on you, right? From mysteriously disappearing lunches to half-empty containers that no one claims, it’s like its own little world of office politics. Feast your eyes upon this masterpiece of a snack-fueled disaster.
Imagine your co-worker raging when they realized their Pringles had been opened and half-eaten. Storming around the office, blaming co-workers and muttering under their breath, they were disappointed that someone could be so disrespectful. The tables turned, revealing an embarrassing treat after messaging their spouse. Apparently, the Pringles had belonged to the
APRIL22ISEARTHDAY
by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS
1. Moves like a frog
5. Finished a parachute jump
9. A stop sign has eight of them
14. Legendary jazz singer Fitzgerald 15. Catherine ___-Jones
16. Demonstrate the truth of 17. "Rome wasn't built in ___" (2 wds.)
18. Classic cosmetics company
19. Material for some balloons and paints
20. Earth-friendly container for aluminum cans or paper (2 wds.)
23. Hollywood star Witherspoon
24. "So near, and ___ so far"
25. "Snow White" dwarf with glasses
28. Mates of does
31. Italy's continent
33. "Aw, Mom, ___ HAVE to?" (2 wds.)
36. Earth-friendly roof installation (2 wds.)
38. Certain arm bones
41. Baby's wear during meals
42. Containing no additives
43. Earth-friendly vehicle (2 wds.)
47. Computer key for indenting
48. Sneaky way to walk
49. Infamous 1950s Ford model
51. Backdrop for a movie or play scene
52. Remind constantly
54. Ginger-flavored cookies
57. Earth-friendly illumination source (3 wds.)
61. ___ Louis-Dreyfus of "Seinfeld"
64. Norway's capital
65. Creme-filled Nabisco treat
66. In the midst of
closed it to eat it the next day. Unaware to your co-worker, did he know that he’d picked up an open Pringles can for an afternoon snack. A classic case of foot-in-mouth syndrome closed!
To maintain a harmonious and functional shared fridge at work, it’s important to establish some simple ground rules. Everyone should label their food with their name and date to avoid confusion and prevent accidental consumption. Leftovers should be kept to a reasonable timeframe, with
67. Far from fast
68. Fishing line holder
69. What haste makes, in an old phrase
70. Created with needle and thread
71. Aug. follower
DOWN
1. Detect with one's ears
2. Born earlier
3. Word before mat or kick
4. Give a verbal consent (2 wds.)
5. Funnel-shaped garden flowers
6. Jeans company founder Strauss
7. Lay ___ the line (gamble: 2 wds.)
8. Like the flavor of BBQ sauce
9. End a romantic relationship (2 wds.)
10. Neighbor of Turkey and Pakistan
11. Little circle above an i or j
12. Biblical fig leaf wearer
13. Gender
21. Ponca City hrs. in Apr. (Abbr.)
22. Keg party beverage
25. Homer Simpson's favorite pastry
26. "The Phantom of the ___"
27. Famous person, briefly
29. Large Asian desert
30. Serving of cake
32. Kendrick Lamar's music
33. Songs for two
34. Skateboarding trick
35. Clumsily unskilled
37. First four alphabet letters
39. Share the profession of 23-Across
40. Time period in "The Flintstones" (2 wds.)
44. Enjoy a novel
45. In the manner illustrated (2 wds.)
46. Apartment dweller's payment
50. Works very hard
(shiny
fridge doesn’t get cluttered or filled with expired items. Respecting each other’s space is key, so try not to overcrowd the fridge, and be mindful of strong-smelling foods that could be unpleasant for others. Clean up after yourself, whether it’s wiping spills or tossing out old food, and ensure the fridge stays organized. Clear communication is also crucial – if something is off or food goes missing, addressing it calmly and directly helps avoid tension. Following these simple guidelines can make sharing the fridge a lot less stressful for everyone.
Happy snacking!
Having the Conversation:
Providing Support In A Health Crisis
Story by Stephanie Krenn | Contributing Writer
I could see the twist of emotion in their faces and hear the hesitation in their voices as friends and family began to learn of my diagnosis. Reactions were a grab bag of shock and surprise, confusion and concern. It took everyone by surprise. Since I did not know an adult under the age of 40 who had been diagnosed with any cancer, let alone breast cancer, I was naive in my understanding of what was ahead. Though I appreciated the thought, I had no precedence to direct them when I was bombarded with questions about what I needed or how they could help.
Once I had my feet under me and gained support of other young women diagnosed with breast cancer, I finally had some answers for myself and others. Many years, surgeries and treatments later, I can now take stock of the helpful words and actions toward me during my journey and offer some advice on how to encourage loved ones during an uncertain time of a medical crisis. It is important to remember that support can look different for each person, but here are some ideas to get you started.
Give a Care Package or Personalized Gift
Receiving a care package can let your loved one know you are by their side and make them feel loved and seen. These can be ordered from various organizations or homemade. My office put together a hand-painted box full of my favorite snacks, a filtered water bottle, lotion, ChapStick and medicines I would need to help with side effects of treatment. I still have that box and remember their kindness each time I see it in my home. You can also get creative with sending gifts or flowers. I had someone secretly plant tulips in my yard in the fall during my treatment so they would bloom the next spring (and for years after that), reminding me of their love and support.
Help Out With Daily Tasks
Medical diagnoses interrupt the lives of patients and their families, often making it hard for them to complete routine tasks and focus on their healing. It helped me the most when people offered a specific task to be completed instead of asking me to let them know if I needed anything. Preparing a meal for my family, giving gift cards to order out, taking my son to the park or a fun event or cleaning my home were things that eased my stress the most.
Be Present
Cancer patients often feel lonely during their treatments. Plan to be involved in their journey as much as you can by calling, texting, sending a card or getting their permission for an inperson visit. Do not have an expectation of their interaction with you, but let them know they are on your mind. I have cards sent to me during that first year, and remember fondly those who reached out. I also appreciated friends who were intentional to speak to me about anything other than cancer and my treatment. The updates on their families, jobs and daily moments reminded me that there was still life outside of my current season, and it gave me hope.
decide to open up to you, let them disclose details about their treatment, or even vent about the process, without judgment. Actively listen and do not offer up solutions to their emotions. Talking about their experiences with you can be comforting and will let them know you care.
Recommend a Support Group
Patients often feel misunderstood, even with a strong community behind them. Ask them if they are already involved with a support group. If they are interested, help them find local or online groups to try. You can also offer to attend the first one with them. I loved my friends and family for their encouragement, but it was the women at Project31 who allowed me to truly feel seen and understood.
Let Them Speak When They Are Ready
There are so many emotions that your loved one may feel throughout their journey. If they
A combination of these ideas put into practice helped bring me through the most difficult season of my life so far. Be patient with your loved one, and yourself, as you navigate the situation. There is not one right way to deal with the emotions and demands of a health crisis, but you can get through it by supporting each other.
Inspired by my own experiences, with guidance from 7 Ways to Provide Breast Cancer Emotional Support – Project31.com blog November 21, 2023.
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The Sunny Side
by Liz Threlkeld / Contributing Writer
Welcome to “The Sunny Side” where we’ll chat about all things homesteading! My name is Liz Threlkeld and I have been homesteading with my family in small forms or large fashions for most of my life. From growing gardens to DIY projects, to cooking and preserving, to raising and processing our own meat animals, we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. I’m excited to get to share some of this life with you. Ready? Let’s grow!
Spring Into Action for Earth Day! How to Plant Trees and Shrubs
Happy spring, Y’all!
Let’s jump right in! Spring and fall are ideal for planting larger flora, as summer's heat requires established roots for water uptake, and winter's freeze makes soil water inaccessible. Moderate temperatures benefit both the planter and the planted.
Ponder…
Begin with the end in mind. Consider things like:
1. How tall and wide will this end up being above and below ground - think overhead and underground power/utility lines, in-ground gardens, etc.
2. Does this plant produce an allelopathic compound, produced by a plant to stunt the growth of another plant?
3. Does it drop seeds, fruit, leaves, or shade?
4. How much sunlight/drainage does it require?
PAUSE!
Don’t forget this next critical step! Dial 811 from any phone, or go online, and put in a FREE utility line locate request. It is required by law in every state before digging, even on privately owned property. Digging without contacting 811 can create a dangerous, life-threatening situation, result in personal fines from the utility companies and/or neighbors, or cause an outage to essential utility services for yourself and/or others.
Dig…
Dig the hole 2½ – 3 times wider than, and to the depth of, your root ball (the roots plus all the dirt they’re clinging to). If your soil is very dry, fill the hole with water and let the earth absorb it all. Place the plant into the hole with the place where the roots meet the stem being just above the ground by an inch. Backfill the hole with the original soil that was taken out of the hole. Now isn’t the time to fertilize because it can actually discourage the roots from branching out into the surrounding soil, causing root burn on the tender new root shoots.
You will likely have excess dirt. Use that to build a levee around it. This creates a barrier that holds water until it can be absorbed directly on top of the root system.
Mulch…
Mulching is a great way to bump up the probability of success for your plant. It will prevent water loss by preventing evaporation and prevent nutrition competition from weeds. Pile mulch 2-4 inches high and the same width or a smidge bigger than your hole was.
Stake…
Staking’s main purpose is to stabilize the root ball from being jarred by the wind. Drive it into the ground about 1 – 1.5 ft. You can use more stakes for bigger plants. Place the stakes equidistant on the outside of the hole. Use something thick that has some give to it to loosely tie around the stake and the trunk. The tie should be slack at all times unless being stretched by the plant from the wind. Stakes last for up to 1-3 years. If left too long, they can hinder growth and weaken the tree’s ability to protect itself against the winds.
Water…
Watering is essential for a newly planted tree/ shrub! Your plant should get 2-3 gallons of water/inch of trunk width at a rate of 2-3 times per week for at least the first year or two! You want the soil around your entire root ball to stay moist – not water logged – that first year. This will not only help the plant grow, but it will also keep the soil pliable enough for the roots to spread out and move through.
Wait…
My first gardening mentor told me: “The first year it sleeps. The second year it creeps. The third year it leaps!” Every day is Earth Day, Friends! What will you plant this spring? I’m ROOTing for you!
,Liz Threlkeld
In addition to the Ponca City Annual Seed Swap at 400 E. Central Ave, Sunny Creek Trading Post is selling live plants for the growing season. You can also check out their Plant Cutting Library to give and take rooted plant starts for free!
2025 Beast Feast
Food has been a consistent vehicle for fundraising. Bake sales, cooking competitions, eating contests, the possibilities are endless. To organize and hold a fund-raising event that makes a true impact is difficult and rare for a small community, especially when food is the focus. This type of event is exactly what Spencer and Lindsay Grace envisioned and continue to execute.
Benefiting the DDX3X Foundation, the 2025 Beast Feast provides a lively and communal experience for all attendees. Featuring wild game not typically found prepared for the masses, this event is a joyride for tastebuds. With 12-15 volunteer cooks, the diversity and creativity in recipes is substantial and delicious. Some of the dishes featured in 2024 were Dove Fried Rice, Elk Meatloaf with Huckleberry Sauce, Oryx Osso Bucco, Smoked Wild Hog and Pheasant Skewers.
DDX3X is a rare developmental disease primarily affecting girls due to its location on the X-chromosome. Spencer and Lindsay’s daughter, Emma, is one of only approximately 1,000 individuals the disease has been identified in. With a personal goal to help
For more tasty food fun, check out @foodcrushok on IG and Facebook.
Top 3 for Me
1. 2. 3.
Dessert! Multiple varieties of Stagecoach cobblers are available.
Show your support by wearing purple to the event. Let’s turn this into a sea of purple and come together for a great cause.
This is an opportunity to try some food that you may never try again. Be adventurous!
support DDX3X research, the Graces came up with the Beast Feast idea, and it has taken flight and continues to grow. 2025 Beast Feast will be the third annual event, with the 2023 and 2024 events raising a total of $75,000, with 100% of the proceeds going to the DDX3X Foundation.
The 2025 Beast Feast is scheduled at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 18, at the Stagecoach Event Center in Newkirk. Tickets are $40 each. There is limited availability for table sponsorships as well. The tentative menu includes, but is not limited to, Sweet & Sour Mountain Lion, Fried Quail, Pot Roasted Duck and Elk Enchiladas. Keep in mind, the menu is subject to change. If something more recognizable, yet as delicious, is more your style, Fried Fish, Deer Chili and Crawfish Etouffee are also currently on the menu.
Supporting local fund-raising is important because it fosters lasting community connections, amplifies awareness for the cause and inspires all of us to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. Get involved. Get inspired. Be a part of something special and eat some creative food in the process. Happy Eating!!
Beast Feast will be held on April 18. To purchase tickets or for a dditional information, visit https://events.eventgroove.com/ event/2025beastfeast
If You Find Yourself In ...
Dallas … and you are feeling a little courageous, check out Fearing’s in the Uptown Arts District. Led by Chef Dean Fearing, this is one of my favorite restaurants in the country. It is gorgeous and comfortable, and the flavors are outstanding. Start with the Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras “a la Orange.” Don’t freak out, I know this is duck liver. I’m not a fan of liver, but I love this dish. For the main course, order the Achiote Glazed Nilgai Antelope. This is served with a braised rabbit enchilada. It’s phenomenal. Get a side of the Crispy Duck Fat Tater Tots. If you’re looking for something vegetarian, the Chili Braised Jackfruit Tacos are fabulous. You cannot go wrong with any dish at this place. I will drive to Dallas just to eat here. It’s insanely good.
Story & Photos By Amy Dewitt Geurin | Contributing Writer
CHAMBER BUZZ
Story by Shelley Arrott, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce CEO | Contributing Writer
THE HISTORY OF CHAMBER BUCKS:
Keeping Ponca City Dollars Local Since 1995!
Thirty years ago, the Ponca City Chamber was looking for ways to keep local dollars circulating within the community. So, the Give Ponca the Business Committee, a group of dedicated Chamber investors determined to make shopping local more than just a good idea, went to work!
The spark for what would become Chamber Bucks came from longtime Chamber investor and local business champion Carol Bouldin. Bouldin had heard about a similar program in Muskogee and knew that Ponca City could benefit from something just as impactful. With enthusiasm and a plan, the committee hit the pavement, visiting businesses and encouraging them to jump on board. For $250 in advertising, businesses could be a part of something new and exciting!
Then came a gamechanger: Conoco, now known as Phillips 66 – The Ponca City Refinery. When Chamber Bucks launched in 1995, Conoco decided to use them as employee Christmas bonuses. That move alone supercharged the program and got people talking. By the end of the first year, 67 businesses
had signed up to accept Chamber Bucks – and just like that, a local shopping revolution was born!
Fast forward to today, and the Chamber Bucks program has become a staple of local commerce in Ponca City. Every year, the Chamber sells over $250,000 worth of Chamber Bucks, ensuring that thousands of dollars stay right here in Ponca City. Phillips 66 – The Ponca City Refinery remains one of the biggest supporters, purchasing tens of thousands of dollars in Chamber Bucks annually for their employees for safety, milestone anniversaries and training attendance.
So, how do Chamber Bucks work? Simple! They function just like a check. Any Chamber investor who accepts checks will accept Chamber Bucks. When a customer purchases with Chamber Bucks, the business treats them like a regular check and deposits them at the bank just as they would any other check payment. This system makes it seamless for businesses to participate while ensuring dollars remain in the local economy.
Chamber Bucks may be purchased at the Chamber Office, 420 E. Grand, in increments
of $10 and $25, making them a convenient gift option for any budget.
The Ponca City Chamber does not receive any financial benefit from the program; the Chamber now absorbs the printing costs so all investors can participate. Keeping money in our community is worth every penny!
Of course, as with any successful program, a few updates have been made along the way. One notable change is that Chamber Bucks now have a one-year expiration date to help ensure they’re spent promptly. And coming soon – a QR code printed right on the Chamber Bucks! This will allow consumers to scan and instantly access a list of participating Chamber investors, making it even easier to shop locally.
The best part? Chamber Bucks are a win-win for everyone involved. Businesses benefit from increased local spending, consumers get to support their hometown shops and restaurants and Ponca City thrives as dollars stay right where they belong – supporting our friends, neighbors and community growth.
Unlike generic gift cards that can be spent anywhere, Chamber Bucks are exclusive to Ponca City Chamber Investors. This means every dollar spent on Chamber Bucks stays within our local businesses, supporting jobs, growth and the unique character of our community. When you choose Chamber Bucks, you’re investing in Ponca City’s future!
So, the next time you’re considering a perfect gift, a reward for employees, or just a way to keep your hard-earned money working for Ponca City, think Chamber Bucks! When we shop local, we all win!
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Come see what a difference compassionate, quality care can make. View our services and providers at stillwatermedical.com.
Berkley
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Navigator Watch Crazy Horse Leather Backpack
TimberBlade Pocketknife
Story by Relo Adams, MS, MCP, LPC-C / Contributing Writer
April is known for various things from honoring fools, volunteers, poetry, raising awareness for stress and the list continues. One of my passions is child safety, and April is National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month in the United States. I have worked in various roles, all centered around child safety, well-being and resilience. From my earlier adult years working at the Marland Children’s home, to all the jobs in between and now a children’s therapist, kids and their safety and well-being have always been a passion I have had and am invested in. I worked for the state of Oklahoma and inpatient for years before walking into the counseling profession and during that time, I learned many things about child safety and prevention. And while I no longer work directly in child safety, I have the honor of serving on the Board of Directors for the Dearing House Child Advocacy Center where I continue to stay apprised on the latest child safety data, trends, education and prevention.
Child abuse prevention is a critical issue that requires a combination of awareness, education and community involvement to ensure children are safe and protected. Preventing child abuse involves multiple strategies that aim to address risk factors, promote positive parenting and provide support to families in need. Here are some key approaches to preventing child abuse: Education and awareness are essential to assisting in preventing child abuse! Dearing House Child Advocacy Center provides parenting education periodically through the year, in addition to other service providers in the area. Teaching parenting skills and assisting in parental resilience and empowerment plays a huge role in child safety by educating and reinforcing positive and evidenced-based practices. Programs that teach parents effective, non-abusive discipline techniques, communication skills and coping strategies can help reduce the risk of abuse. Educating adults about child development can prevent frustration that may lead to abusive behavior. In addition to parenting education, and general education regarding child development, raising awareness can
help communities recognize the signs of abuse and understand the importance of reporting it to authorities. Creating networks of support within communities can help reduce isolation and provide families with resources and help when needed. Encouraging community members to become involved in child advocacy efforts can lead to more active reporting, and more importantly, behavior change in caregivers suspected of abuse! By the community being active and involved, this resets the culture! This resets the assumption that unhealthy parenting habits and forms of discipline are acceptable, because a light is shined on dysfunction and healthy practices.
When I worked at the Department of Human Services as a child welfare worker, one of the mantras was “we listen to the voices of children” and with that being said, I want to highlight the importance of educating children and empowering them to use their voices to speak up because someone will hear and protect them. Educating children about their rights, including their right to feel safe and report abuse, is a powerful prevention tool. Children should be encouraged to tell
a trusted adult if they feel unsafe, and they should be given the tools to recognize when something is wrong. Ensuring that children know there are safe places in their community like school, church or family they can rely on builds resilience and empowers them to be confident in sharing their feelings and experiences. Safe people and safe spaces are the foundation for building resilience in children that are at risk of experiencing harm.
Preventing child abuse requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, support, advocacy and strong community involvement. Everyone plays a role in protecting children, from parents and caregivers to community members, schools and policymakers. As a community, we have to get ahead of the tragedy that is child abuse and take action and prevent adverse childhood experiences from occurring. The more adverse childhood experiences a child has, the more susceptible that child is to developing various medical and mental health challenges. THEE Whitney Houston once sang “I believe the children are our future, Teach them well and let them lead the way” on her 1985 record, The Greatest Love of All; I completely agree. As leaders and bystanders of this community, we can invest in the future of Ponca City, by investing in the next generation, the kids!
Remember, if you or someone you know needs mental health assistance of any kind, please feel free to reach out to your local community mental health agency, call or text 988 – the suicide and crisis lifeline or call 911 for immediate emergencies.
Take care of yourselves, – Relo Adams, Mr. Ponca City
Awith Shannon NP WELL-BEE
Mindful Spring Walks: A Meditation-Inspired Stroll for
the Senses
Story by Shannon Somers / Contributing Writer, Owner Aesthetic State of Mind
s winter fades and spring blossoms, there’s no better time to step outside and embrace the season with a mindful spring walk. More than just a stroll, this meditation-inspired practice invites you to be fully present, focusing on sensory details like blooming flowers, birdsong and fresh air. By doing so, you cultivate peace, clarity and mental relaxation. We live in a GO GO GO world. We cram as much into our day as possible, and self-care is the first to fall to the wayside.
There are so many benefits to taking a mindfully focused walk outdoors. The bilateral movement of walking can help reduce stress and anxiety. The practice of slow, intentional movement can help reduce cortisol levels. Stay with me, I promise this isn't all woo woo stuff. It really does work and making a habit will be so beneficial for physical and mental health. When you are on these walks, there is an enhanced mindfulness, focusing on the present moment reduces overthinking and worry. Not only does low-intensity exercise support heart health, systemic circulation and muscle strength, it also boosts your mood and creativity. Fresh air and natural beauty uplift the mind and spark inspiration.
So how do you start? Well, don’t overthink it. Start by setting an intention. Before stepping outside, pause. Take a deep breath and decide what you want from your walk – relaxation, gratitude or simply being present. Make sure to focus on engaging your senses. This helps you maintain presence in the moment. Notice the vibrant hues of flowers, budding trees or shifting clouds. Listen to chirping birds, rustling leaves or the soft crunch of your footsteps. Breathe in the floral notes of beautiful spring flowers, fresh-cut grass or earthy rain-soaked soil. Feel the sun’s warmth, a cool breeze or the textures of leaves and petals. Move slowly, feeling each step connect with the ground. If your mind drifts, gently return to your breath and surroundings.
Spring symbolizes new beginnings, and a mindful walk helps you sync with this natural cycle. Whether five minutes or an hour, stepping outside with awareness is a simple, yet powerful, way to refresh your mind and spirit.
So, lace up your shoes, take a deep breath and let spring’s beauty guide you toward peace.
