Ponca City Monthly August 2024

Serving Northern Oklahoma

AUGUST 2024

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‘ManQuest’ Coming of Age Journey Offers

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AUGUST 2024 VOL 5 / ISSUE 8 Publishing Company MyMediaMatters Creative Agency Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner Associate Editors Robyn Ryan Hayley Harrison Advertising Director Robyn Ryan 580-761-1295 robyn@poncacitymonthly.com

Where are they Now? Kevin Kem: A Path His Own Page 19

Round Up to Save Lives Page 6 Po-Hi Wrestling Takedown Club Page 11

PHOTO SPREAD

DXDT Page 34

Coming Together for Community Page 39

COVER STORY

‘ManQuest’ Coming of Age Journey Offers Lessons to All Page 26

Mr. Ponca City Page 14

NOC Honors Outgoing Regent Page 46

Staff Writers Carey Head Andy Hicks Chelsea McConnell Jill Rowe Hayley Harrison Patrick Jordan Marlys Cervantes Ad Designer Robyn Ryan Magazine Designer Andy Hicks Story Editor Sherry Cable Copy Editor Patrick Jordan

In Every Issue

Sudoku ...................................... 45/59 Stew On That .................................. 47 Crossword.................................. 47/59 Backyard Gardener....................... 49 Well-Bee with Shannon NP............ 50 Recipe.............................................. 52 Chamber Buzz................................. 55 12 Month Healthy Challenge........ 56 Stream It........................................... 59 Book Reviews.................................. 60 Learning with Leaming................... 62 Kids Say The Darnedest................ 63

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Cover photo

by Carey Head

Serving Northern Oklahoma

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Contributing Writers Kat Long Tara Anson Shelley Arrott Lorrie Layton Kelli Northcutt Adam Leaming Shannon Somers Scott Cloud Circulation Pierce & Noah Wagner

‘ManQuest’ Coming of Age Journey Offers

Lessons to All

Intern Morgan Murphy © MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2024.

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Letter from the Editor

As a child, I had a fearless streak that absolutely terrified my mother.

I rode the Challenger at Sun N Fun when I was at least 3 inches shorter than I should have been. The tallest roller coaster or most death-defying rides at a theme park? Sign me up.

The following summer, I changed my game plan - I walked to the pool, stepped onto the diving board, and dove in headfirst. Different experience, same rush of adrenaline, very low risk of danger. The lesson stuck with me.

In fact, one of my fondest memories as a child was the very first swim of the summer because I had a tradition of running at absolute full speed and jumping directly into my grandma’s freezing cold swimming pool.

The adrenaline rush of running through the grass, launching myself into the air, and then being instantly submerged in freezing cold water made me feel so alive. Let’s just say I’m not a “dip my toe in kind of gal.”

I learned to swim at a very young age, and this tradition continued well into my early teens.

I didn’t need to change who I was and stop jumping into the pool; I just had to change my approach. What I learned in those early years of my youth is that you can be fearless, but also careful.

But my fearlessness began to transform as I got older. It only took one time to trip at the edge of the pool, skin my leg, bang my elbow, and then fall upside down into a freezing cold pool, to decide I needed to rethink my approach.

Being fearless is a good thing, but it can backfire.

I realized that my carelessness at that moment had created an unnecessarily dangerous situation for myself. Yes, my mother had told me for years not to run and jump into the pool; no, I didn’t listen. But, of course, she was right. However, it took the pain of falling to learn the lesson for myself. Though I was passionate about my “jumping in headfirst” tradition, my carelessness had led to unintentional consequences.

I was fearless and hard-headed, but I’ll tell you what I wasn’t - I wasn’t stupid. And that was a mistake I didn’t intend to make twice.

But aren’t those things opposites? I don’t think so. I think they both can co-exist simultaneously. I learned that this balance of fearlessness and carefulness was something different entirely, a new skill set that can be unlocked with a little wisdom and some self-control. When you combine these traits, it turns into something called “grit.”

A person with grit has passion and perseverance; but they are also methodical and strategic in setting goals. The dictionary defines grit as “firmness of mind or spirit, unyielding courage in the face of hardship or danger.” Grit is the ability to overcome weakness, to be strong and courageous, but to do it in a way that ensures long-term success.

So, if you catch me at a pool this summer and see me diving head-first into the pool from the diving board, now you know why.

If you ask me, life is too short to just dip a toe in.

editor@poncacitymonthly.com

AUGUST 2024

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Round Up to Save Lives

By Andy Hicks | Staff Writer and Morgan Murphy | Intern

In the heart of Kay County, the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society (NOKHS) stands as a sanctuary for abandoned animals, offering them a glimmer of hope and a chance for a new beginning. The organization lovingly takes in countless cats and dogs, finds them safe foster homes, and helps them find forever families. Their dedication to the well-being of our community's animals can be seen through their annual free spay and neuter clinics and various low-cost vaccine clinics.

In 2020, NOKHS undertook a significant transformation, not just in physical space but in its identity. The organization built a new facility to expand its services and embraced a new name.

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“Originally, it was the Ponca City Humane Society, but now it’s the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society,” shared Karlissa Archibeque, the executive director of NOKHS. She explained that this name change reflects their deepened mission to extend their care and compassion across northern Oklahoma, reaching out to even more needy animals.

And if something happens in Newkirk and they contact me and I’m able to help, if we’re able to, we will. The same goes for Blackwell and Fairfax. We’ve been doing some Tag and Release (TNR) cats in the Fairfax area.”

Foster families play a crucial role in their mission. “A lot of times, our numbers are higher than our maximum capacity within the facility. And that’s because we have a lot of people who have animals in their homes that they’re caring for. But we still provide

Despite their best efforts, Archibeque acknowledges the ongoing challenge of capacity.

“We’re still in a little bit of a struggle with being able to reach out too much regarding actually taking in animals from other areas, and that’s just because right now, we Karlissa Archibeque, the executive director of NOKHS. stay so full.

But we do.

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“One thing that didn’t pause was the homeless pet crisis and the community’s expectation that we do something about it.” all the financial assistance, medical assistance, food, supplies, all those things.”

Funding these vital programs is a challenge. Justin Mathews, President of NOKHS board, emphasizes the critical need for public support. “The most common misconception is that we are part of an umbrella organization or that the City of Ponca City assists with funding our operations.”

The reality is that running the shelter costs $279,000 annually, with $23,000 in monthly expenses alone. “This includes $2,000 allocated for our in-house veterinary services, $300 to bring the Oklahoma Humane Society’s Statewide Mobile Clinic to provide low-cost spay/neuter and other veterinary wellness services to our community, and approximately $1,300 for insurance coverage,” Mathews detailed.

Even with their local management, public support has declined 37% since their renovation in 2020. Like many nonprofits, they felt the sting of reduced donations during and after the pandemic.

“One thing that didn’t pause was the homeless pet crisis and the community’s expectation that we do something about it. I believe the perception that the City’s resources supplement such a drastic decline has led people to think the lifesaving work we do is secure without their support.”

Fundraising efforts are vital to their survival.

Mathews explained that they host three major fundraisers each year and smaller corporatesponsored events to support their mission.

Grants have also been instrumental, including a recent $28,000 award from Best Friends Animal Society to fund a part-time Foster Coordinator.

This position will help reduce the length of stay for pets and amplify NOKHS’s impact in northern Oklahoma.

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Over the past two years, NOKHS has touched the lives of over 1,300 animals, with 54% of these rescues coming from Ponca City Animal Control.

This remarkable achievement underscores their unwavering commitment to preventing unnecessary euthanasia and highlights the financial dedication required to make this difference. As they work in partnership with the City of Ponca City toward becoming a No-Kill community by 2025, Archibeque reflects on their mission: “We continue to be the driving force in sustaining the progress we’ve made together. If we can recover the public support we enjoyed before the pandemic, we would be able to expand our programs to include more behavior training and rehabilitation, enhance pet retention services and invest in youth education. This is the next crucial step in the evolution of our organization, and it will only be possible with the generous support of our compassionate community.”

Donor Dashboard. It’s a small change for you but life-changing for homeless pets in our community.

If a large one-time donation isn’t feasible, you can provide consistent support with a monthly contribution.”

Unlike traditional round-up programs at the register, this round-up happens seamlessly “in the

Their latest initiative, the Round-Up Program, offers an innovative way for people to contribute. Powered

by Harness, this program allows supporters to round up their everyday purchases to the nearest dollar, with the spare change donated to NOKHS. This easy, secure giving method ensures that even small contributions can collectively make a significant difference in the lives of animals.

Mathews reassures supporters of the program’s security: “Harness uses bank-level security protocols to protect your information, and you can track your donations through your personal

Justin Mathews, President of NOKHS.

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cloud.” When you log in and select the account or card you wish to connect, it authorizes Harness to receive transaction updates for your Round-Ups. “We do not handle any of your login credentials; they are encrypted and protected by your bank’s security protocols,” assured Mathews. Each time a new transaction is posted to your bank account, the spare change is added to your Round-Ups page on your personal Donor Dashboard, which you can access anytime. Multiple transactions might be posted at once, and the total change from each is added to your Round-Ups page.

Throughout the month, your spare change from various purchases—whether online, in-person, or bills—is rounded up to the nearest dollar.

Signing up for the Round-Up program is quick and simple. You can set a monthly donation cap after creating an account and entering credit card information. The spare change from your

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purchases is accumulated and charged as a single lump sum at the end of each month, ensuring maximum support for NOKHS with minimal processing fees.

NOKHS is also thrilled to bring back its beloved Mutt Gala on Oct. 12, 2024, at MLZ Ranch.

This year’s event, themed “The Great CATsby,” promises a glamorous celebration of the 1920s filled with fun, festivity and fundraising. Additionally, NOKHS is partnering with the Ponca City Fire Department to create a 2025 calendar featuring local first responders with adorable puppies and kittens. “This long-discussed fundraiser is finally becoming a reality,” said Mathews.

To learn more about how you can support NOKHS, purchase tickets to the Mutt Gala or get a calendar, visit NOKHS.com or follow them on social media at nokhumane.

Use this QR Code to go directly to the RoundUp giving page It takes less than five minutes: 1. Create an account or log in if you already have one.

2. Authorize the Debit/Credit card you make purchases with and click CONTINUE. 3. Set a monthly cap (minimum $9.99, this can always be adjusted later) & click SUBMIT.

Coach Steven Moore, Kenny Wheeler, Kenny Bellmard, Rick Hancock, Brett Kinkaid.

Po-Hi Wrestling

Takedown Club Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer Former Po-Hi wrestler and Olympian Shelby Wilson once said, “Without a goal, an athlete isn’t really going to struggle to achieve. Whether or not he wins a victory – the struggle, the discipline, the battle with adversity give him the championship qualities he needs for success in life.” This quote speaks to the heart of the sport of wrestling, which is a physical battle as well as a mental one.

The new Board members of the Takedown Club wholeheartedly agree with Shelby’s statement. President Rick Hancock, Vice President Kenny Bellmard, Secretary Brett Kinkaid and Treasurer Kenny Wheeler each attribute their successes in life and business to what they learned and overcame during their time as wrestlers.

These four are uniquely suited to lead the Takedown Club. Each of them wrestled at Po-Hi and have many fond memories of their time on the mats. Historically, the Takedown Club has been a group of community members and wrestling parents who work to raise funds to support high school wrestling, as well as help create cohesion between the high school and youth wrestling programs. The new leadership team in place is looking to reinvigorate the program. They want to see a resurgence in community pride for wrestlers of all ages.

The Ponca City Wrestling Program has an incredibly rich history steeped in hard work, commitment and tradition. Ponca City boasts two wrestlers who won Gold Medals at the 1960 Olympics in Rome

Former Po-Hi wrestler and Olympian Shelby Wilson

AUGUST 2024 11

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“From my opinion, there’s not a sport out there that can better prepare you – if you treat it as such – for what you’re going to experience in life.”

gets that new things must be tried if they’re going to reinvigorate the program.

Camp Photo courtesy of Steven Moore from OSU Wrestling Camp attended by 11 members of the team in June. Blake Parker and Gavin Wehr both finished the individual tournament in 3rd place.

– Shelby Wilson and Douglas Blubaugh. Both Wilson and Blubaugh beat the current world champions in their weight class at the Olympics that year. As of this year, both have been inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame.

The members of the Takedown Club Board talk about those Olympians as heroes. They remember entering the wrestling room and seeing their photographs on the wall, photos that are still there today. Those photos meant something to them. They represented a benchmark that had been set for members of the team to work toward.

They were also a beacon of possibility for young wrestlers. They proved that greatness could be achieved if one worked hard enough and was mentally tough.

Mental toughness is one of the values the Takedown Club is looking to bring back to Ponca City Wrestling in a big way. The new Wrestling Coach Steven Moore speaks to the importance of being mentally tough. “I can show all the techniques in the world, but if you don’t have the mental toughness to go complete it, if you’re scared when you step on a mat, it doesn’t matter what I showed you.”

Moore is 41 years old and admittedly a lifelong lover of the sport. He wrestled from the time he was a young boy and enjoys the sport so much he has helped with programs all over the state for years. He took a break for a few years to get his own business up and running. Now that it’s well established, he’s excited to be the Head Coach at Ponca City. Moore took his first official coaching

job a few years ago. He believes starting as a coach later in life has given him a unique lens through which to reach the kids he works with.

His passion about the sport is evident in the way he talks about it. Moore says, “From my opinion, there’s not a sport out there that can better prepare you – if you treat it as such – for what you’re going to experience in life.”

Moore started in Ponca City a few months ago and has been going full speed from the drop. He brought in some wrestlers from UCO for a twoday clinic earlier this summer. He’s also been having a wrestler from OSU come up for the high school practices once a week. Moore gets that the wrestlers at Po-Hi can be motivated by training with wrestlers who’ve qualified at State and have National Titles.

He is showing Coach Steven Moore our kids today’s role models. He

Summer practices take place two days per week with wrestlers attending Summer Pride practices Monday through Thursday as well. Moore took 11 wrestlers to the OSU Wrestling Camp in June.

He shared that every wrestler that attended got at least 12 matches, and some wrestled up to 16.

This is significant because in a normal season, wrestlers get no more than 30 matches. Wrestlers who attended camp gained a lot of experience through their time on the mat during those four days.

Get ready to see the new Takedown Club out and about in our community. They’ll be knocking on your doors to rally the community’s support for our young wrestlers. On Saturday, Sept. 28, they’re hosting their annual Takedown Club Golf Tournament at Wentz. They hope to host 30 teams that day and will be out seeking sponsors for the event soon.

Both Coach Moore and the members of the Takedown Club know that great change takes time.

The members of the Club were each a part of the program during periods of great success. They are excited about the future of wrestling in Ponca City and the work they will do to build it up again for our kids. For more information about the Po-Hi Wrestling Program, you can contact Steven Moore at Po-Hi. For more information about the Takedown Club, contact President Rick Hancock.

AUGUST 2024 13

Leadership Ponca City Class 37 hosted Mr. Ponca City on May 9, 2024, at the Poncan Theatre. The event was far more than a pageant. The tagline for the event, “Benefitting Ponca City Nonprofits” speaks to the hearts of the members of the 37th LPC class. Mr. Ponca City himself, Relo Adams, shares details of how the event came to fruition.

Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer Leadership Ponca City is a program hosted by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. Each year community members apply and interview for the program and around 20 class members are chosen. Sessions are held each month that focus on aspects of our community like history, government, arts & culture, etc. It was during Civic & Nonprofit Day that members of Class 37 learned about the large number of nonprofits in our area and their vast needs across the board.

Collectively the group knew they wanted to do a project benefitting a nonprofit, but after learning about them all, they felt compelled to try to help them all. As it goes with each class, there are always many conversations regarding what the class project will look like. Adams says his classmate Riley Calhoun was the one to come up with the idea of having a pageant where each participant would represent and raise money for a different local nonprofit. He admits to initially being unsure if the project would work for our community, but adds, “I’m so glad I was wrong. It was such a hit, and I just had to catch Calhoun’s vision.”

His classmates were confident though and the group began to

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plan. As a member of the Dearing House Child Advocacy Center Board of Directors, Adams approached them about entering a candidate in the pageant, and it was suggested that he enter on their behalf. It took him awhile to come around to this idea, but eventually he was convinced when one of his classmates reminded him it was less about the pageant and more about supporting the nonprofits.

Class members broke into committees to plan the event. They focused on things like Marketing, Contestants, Finance and Logistics.

Adams sat on the Marketing Committee. Class member Hayley Harrison has this to say about her role in the planning, “I was in charge of all social media marketing for the event. I created the Mr. Ponca City logo and all graphics that were posted/shared on Facebook. I loved that each member of our LPC class contributed in his/her own unique way to the overall success of the event. It was a team effort, and I am still in awe of what my classmates were able to accomplish in the time we were given. Their collective heart for the community inspires me!”

Each potential contestant had to submit an application and go before the Contestants Committee for an interview. Adams admits to being

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nervous about being interviewed by his fellow classmates, along with the likes of Ponca Citians like Bob Banta, Jerome Orange and Jeff MacKinnon.

Adams was chosen as a contestant, along with nine other notable locals to enter the pageant.

Class member James Devinney emceed the event.

Contestants were interviewed and asked various questions by Devinney. Each contestant also did some type of performance. For his performance, Adams chose to sing “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake. He also created a video to go along with his piece. He explains, “I made a music video. It was all things Dearing House, all things child advocacy, all things highlighting kids and community involvement with kids and some of the events I’ve been involved with that provide opportunities to build resilience for kids.”

The class recruited local and out-of-town judges to score participants. A scoring matrix with multiple categories was used to make things as fair as possible. Adams admits to being shocked by his win but says from what he was told, all the contestants were neck and neck. There was also a “People’s Choice” award, which went to Bob Banta.

community making the event and the overall effort a huge success. Harrison adds, “I love that we were able to raise money for each nonprofit involved in the pageant. Our event benefitted all, and I think that is part of what set it apart and made it so unique. It was by far the most successful fundraising event I’ve ever been a part of, and I hope to see the event carried on for many more years!”

Class member Karly Fagg goes on to say, “I have a great appreciation to our community for supporting this project in all aspects, and I am so very proud of my fellow Leadership classmates for turning this idea into reality bringing awareness to 10 of Ponca City’s nonprofits. Relo Adams has been doing a wonderful job representing Dearing House Child Advocacy Center as Mr. Ponca City; he and his crown are everywhere!

I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Mr. Ponca City.”

When asked about the future of the event, Adams says the class is possibly looking at hosting the event every other year, so he gets to be Mr. Ponca City for at least two years. He adds, “The competition is over, but the Mr. Ponca City, Relo Adams initiative doesn’t stop. We all with his wife Ashely Adams have this platform. We’re all still pushing for our agencies When asked why he chose we represented. We’re all to represent Dearing House, trying to move Ponca City forward. It’s a fun little Adams shares this, “I’m really passionate about thing to compete, but it’s all about raising awareness investing in the next generation of kids.” While and being used for something bigger than getting his master’s, Adams dug into research on ourselves.” the various negative effects of childhood trauma.

He learned having one safe person and one safe To find more information about Leadership Ponca place can help build resiliency in children. He’s been City, contact the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce. working and serving in the mental health field ever Stay tuned for more information about the potential since finishing school. for future Mr. Ponca City events.

The class raised over $40,000 for nonprofits in our

Contestants and the Nonprofits They Represented: Richard Winterrowd Grace Episcopal Church Winston Henry Veterans Landing Relo Adams Dearing House James Benitez III Living Hope Pregnancy Center Jerome Orange Ponca City Noon Ambucs Jeff MacKinnon Northern Oklahoma Humane Society Bob Banta Opportunity Center Caleb Sharon Survivor Resource Network Richard Broome Next One Up Charles Yundt Okie Special Olympics

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Kevin Kem: A Path His Own Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

Having grown up in Ponca City, with a great amount of time spent at the gym—Kem’s Gym and Dance—Kevin Kem was primed for the physical work offered by the world of entertainment.

Kem’s first stunt show was in Texas, and he remembers the help he received from Banzai Vitali, who now teaches and has a school for stunt work in California. Kem said at the time Vitali was in Texas and worked with him, trading the training in stunts for work with his dad, the late Bill Kem, in gymnastics. It was a wonderful give-and-take opportunity that created a professional friendship for the men that has continued through their careers, and it certainly indicated right from the beginning how fruitful Kem’s longtime gymnastics’ work would benefit his career in the entertainment field.

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re!

The students at the gym were lucky to have him with them for their Ninja Warrior Workout.

I asked Kem about it, and he said it was like a “very fun, structured recess.”

Kem has worked with numerous live productions including Frontier City, Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farms and The Hanging, which was the largest outdoor stunt show in Los Angeles (where he not only performed but served as stunt coordinator and script writer), and he’s worked on television and film, including Black Panther II, Breach, Suicide Squad and many more. He says one of his favorites to work on was Bruce Willis’ lowbudget sci-fi movie Breach since “the smaller the film, the more you get to do.”

Kem has recently done film work on many short films that emphasize the military and the importance of the issues they and veterans may deal with. One of the short films he has worked with is the powerful, “Gone the Sun,” which deals with veterans and suicide.

Kem did camera work and editing on this film.

harmful. To move to situations that are re-enactments is an easy one for them, so many of those he works with have come out of active service into this line of work. He considers it an honor to shoot some films representing them, their service or issues they may deal with in their lives.

Kem says, “The internet has generally anything you need to find, so there’s a way to get information on anything you want to know! Had I not run into the right person, I might not be here now.

Remember, you may not always be the smartest person in the room, but you can always be the hardest working!”

When talking about his interest in the military, Kem mentions the overlap of those who are in the military or are veterans who work in stunts in the film industry. He mentioned that it’s a natural move since they are trained for real-life battle and taking care of themselves in situations that are

Today, homebase for Kem is Atlanta. He says a lot of production has moved to that area of the country, and he has changed much of his work to being behind the camera now. He shoots scenes and does editing work rather than just performing in front of the camera. It’s another type of creativity that he enjoys.

Much of the filming work he and others had enjoyed slowed down quite a lot between the pandemic and then the strike, so he’s taking work as he finds it now. It takes a bit for the economy to rebuild and filming projects to take off again. Luckily, he has a solid group of colleagues with various projects he works on. As a matter of fact, he was headed to Norman to work with a

Photos Above Left to right: Filming in Lake Tahoe. : Kevin Kem with students in the recent Ninja Warrior Workout class (June 2024)

AUGUST 2024

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friend on another project when he left Ponca City before he went on to California.

I was lucky to catch up with him when he had come to visit his family, mom Suzanne and sis Cara, and help with a recital for the studio. The students at the gym were lucky to have him with them for their Ninja Warrior Workout.

I asked Kem about it, and he said it was like a “very fun, structured recess.” I can imagine the students in the class had quite a fun time with him at the helm.

Kem remembers growing up in Ponca City, practically living at the gym since that’s where his folks spent their time. However, he also remembers being in Po-Hi Chorale in high school and Mr. Robert Moore being so passionate about the students doing well. He sees Mr. Moore and his “tough-love statements” as some of the most influential lessons from teachers, and he’s always

appreciated Moore’s passion.

Kem plans to keep producing work, both behind and in front of the camera. He will be heading to shoot some work with a faith-based company in California soon. His training and experiences have taken him on many paths that still seem to be diverging in different directions. He says it was harder to get started and to learn back when he began than it is now, but hard work will always matter.

To those interested in getting started in any field, Kem says, “The internet has generally anything you need to find, so there’s a way to get information on anything you want to know!

Had I not run into the right person, I might not be here now. Remember, you may not always be the smartest person in the room, but you can always be the hardest working!”

Kevin Kem at Knott’s Berry Farm.

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Joshua White, 42, inspired his sons' ManQuest journey by telling stories from his 2014 participation in the horseback relay known as Grass MarchCowboy Express. (Photo by Carey Head)

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It began as a homeschool homework assignment. Terra White, 41, and husband Josh, 42, were casting about for a project to help their teen sons develop into worthy men.

Two years and well over 2,000 miles later, the assignment’s “grade” has gone beyond A+ to epic.

Ponca City Monthly caught up with the family on May 30 as they were enjoying a several-day stay at the 101 Wild West Rodeo grounds. The horses helped with mowing the grounds, while the guys helped the rodeo committee with repairs and preparations.

Levi, now 17, and Lucus, 15, had been homeschooled at their Elko, Nevada, ranch since fifth grade.

With graduation on the horizon, the Whites wanted something to make a serious impression on the boys. Terra explains, “I said, ‘What do you want to do for Home School then if you don’t like my idea?’ and they said, ‘well, let’s ride across the country.’”

26 AUGUST 2024

The idea wasn’t completely out of the blue. Eight years before, Josh had taken part in a grassroots campaign, Grass March-Cowboy Express, to protest federal land management.

The 3,000-mile horseback relay ride began at Bodega Bay, California. Along the way, other grassroot petitions were gathered and delivered via horseback up Pennsylvania Avenue to the U.S. Congress. Josh was one of just a handful of riders that participated in the entire Cowboy Express. He describes it as “a completely political experience to bear an urgent message. I was asked to help carry it.”

Lucus White, 15, and his brother Levi have honed their skills as horse trainers, farriers, and outfitters while on this horseback journey which began April 1 or 15, 2022 (no one remembers exactly which), in Susanville, Calif. (Photo by Carey Head)

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I can still ride in it. Just have to replace more stitching.”

Why Not Just Drive?

Terra explains one of the project’s goals was to slow down time and get to know each other. “We chose horses to slow down time.” ManQuest horses are rescues or former kill pen (unwanted or neglected) horses. Unused to car horns, unleashed dogs, blowing plastic bags and snapping flags, each horse had to be trained to do the road work without killing himself or anyone else.

Susanville, California, at the edge of the Sierra Nevadas, was chosen as the journey’s starting point so they could make the full trek from California to the Carolinas. The first week was chaos. “Horses were geekin’, buckin’, biting,” says Levi. “And those first eight miles just about killed us.”

Levi White, 17, is the more outgoing of the two teens.

He happily shares stories and answers questions about the family’s journey. (Photo by Carey Head)

The Grass March-Cowboy Express accomplished the ride using horse trailers, fresh horses every five miles and a pace equal to the Pony Express.

He explains, “We rode 26 horses and two mules, 150 miles a day, from 4:30 in the morning to midnight every night, across America, and finished in 22 days in Washington, D.C.” Terra remembers Josh came back from the trip a different man. “It gave me this perspective,” Josh says, “I don’t know how to explain it …,” his voice and gaze trailing away.

Levi jumps in, “He never stops talking about it, still talks about it to this day.”

As a result, Josh’s many stories from that 2014 experience had the family dreaming of making their own ride and creating their own stories.

Josh explains, “Happiness is best shared. And, for the boys, I knew that (a similar experience) would give them the sense of accomplishment that I had except they were doing it the real way, the actual way.”

“The Greatest Gift We Can Give Two of the World’s Best Boys.”

Dubbed “L & L Manquest,” the curriculum began with preparation. Levi and Lucus were to design the entire trip, from number of horses needed and supplies required, to routes and rest stops.

As the parents boxed up their home’s contents for storage, enlisted a renter, sold the cattle, rehomed the goats, pigs and chickens, and found

28 AUGUST 2024

pastures with friends for what Josh describes as their “better” horses, the boys busied themselves with research and supply procurement.

“The boys completely designed the trip,” Terra says. “They had to distinguish between ‘pleasantry’ and ‘necessity.’ And we let them do that themselves. They had Xboxes and PlayStations, so we did the whole pawning experience. And, in return, they got survival stuff for the trip. Now, instead of sitting at home playing the video game, they became real players in their own action.”

It took an unusual milestone to create a team.

Humans and horses learned to work together once the familiar was left behind.

Terra explains, “Once you get to that point when you yourself realize you have no idea where you are, and the horse realizes the same: they have no idea which way the barn is. Once you get to that point, then you start working together.”

Josh acknowledges there was more to working things out than just saddle sores and geeky horses. “We had a lot to learn about ourselves.

And we were healing. Traveling, fighting, crying, you know.”

Just like 99.9% of the traveling public, the Whites overpacked.

“We started out with the horses and just the things we had around the house and things we thought we needed,” Terra says. “We left with way too much, of course. We were so overprepared. We actually ended up ditching a lot of it right away.”

Levi adds, “Actually, I think the only thing we have left from when we very first started is a saddle.” Broken saddles, worn out bridles, bits, hobbles and ropes are part of the trip’s many milestones. Even Lucus’ beloved R.T. Frazier saddle, 125 years old, had to be relinquished at Westcliffe, Colorado. Terra says, “we had to pry him out of that saddle,” as Lucus protests, “It’s still good!

Terra White, 41, and husband Josh celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary on June 15 while on the trail across northern Oklahoma. (Photo by Carey Head)

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AUGUST 2024 29

Taking advantage of a rare Rocky Mountain cell signal are, from left, Lucus, Levi, Terra and Josh. The family reviews the upcoming terrain and trail choices on Levi’s iPad. (Photo provided)

Terra adds with a laugh, “Yep. You learn pretty quick to get over being mad after galloping a mile ahead in a pout. There’s really no point.”

Benefits of this nomadic life are many. “We meet neighbors every three to 20 miles.

When you stay the night with somebody – we will not trespass, we will ask for permission to enter private land to access water or to cross — we’re trying to make friends,” says Josh.

“We conquer fear of the unknown every day. It’s a strengthening of faith: Can I take a chance on myself?” he reflects. “At the same time, we are also getting peace of mind, blessed moment after blessed moment.”

He adds, “Every person should meet the world grateful for water. Not thinking Republican or Democrat. Just grateful for the person, and for water.”

Each day begins with a predawn assessment of the weather as horses are hobbled and loosed to graze. Morning devotionals over coffee is followed by breakfast. “Start time is 10:30-ish,” Terra says. “Getting eight horses in sync is a lot.”

Terra is the only one wearing a watch. She gives it a glance when asked by her sons for the time. They keep daily journals and want to note the time for each entry.

Life Under the Stars It’s been two years — eight seasons — across the high desert and Rocky Mountains.

They’ve learned to appreciate each season for the advantages it brings, like the ability to deep freeze milk and meat, melt snow for water and watch as the horses perform better in the cold. “I have a vivid, favorite memory of huddling under a cowboy rope, saddles and packs around to protect

“Those first eight miles just about killed us.”

30 AUGUST 2024

and provide windbreak,” Terra says. “Best moment in life. I could never have bought that, ever.”

After days of no cell phone service, the family rode into the former silver mining town of Pioche, Nevada (population 1,000; elevation 6,060), without realizing it was Thanksgiving. “We got so wrapped up in the environment,” Terra explains.

Then the Pioche folks wrapped their arms around the Whites. The town’s Thanksgiving welcome was a feast for body and spirit with their newfound friends.

The Whites are full of heartwarming stories from the trail. One such story is about the surprise vow renewal conducted at a bar in Middlegate, Nevada. Upon learning that June 15 was Josh and Terra’s wedding anniversary (this year was their 22nd), bar patrons joined the volunteer officiant for a celebration that included decorations and a wedding cake.

Along the way, Levi and Lucus have trained some 20 horses belonging to friends they’ve made on the road. Josh explains, “We quickly learned that this journey is not about us. I tried to quit one time, but my son came up to me and said ‘Dad, somebody in the next town needs us.’”

Today they travel with six geldings and two studs. Taking care of the horses is priority

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number one. Every day they check saddles, pads and cinches for stickers and wear. Despite the care, packs on pack saddles shift, weights change and under-skin abscesses lurk.

“Something about three minutes of the bags being on (a certain spot) can cause an abscess or sore under the skin and it will take a month to month and a half to heal. And then your constant awareness of your lack of diligence?

These kind of mistakes? Those are learning experiences,” Josh says.

Terra adds, “You cannot not be lazy. Not even for a second.”

Levi says each of them are constantly checking each horse’s withers. “If any (wounds) start to develop then you cut that spot out of the pad to keep the pressure off. And you redistribute the weight and change the bag, or sometimes the horse and the bag it’s carrying don’t match.

And, despite looking alike, all the pack saddles are different. We know which ones go with each horse.”

If the weather is cooperative and the horses are healthy then a traveling day easily covers 20 miles. And it’s not all covered on horseback.

Everyone walks at least five miles each day at the side of their horse. This gives both horse and human the chance to stretch out.

Two years of traveling through some of

America’s emptiest and wildest places saw the group learning to pack enough food and water to last over two weeks between towns. Since entering north central Oklahoma, Levi says, “It’s actually getting easier because the towns are closer together and food and water are right around the corner. We carry 50 pounds of food versus 200.”

Terra smiles, “We really love Oklahoma. You guys have grass. And a real, pure, calm, real accepting feeling. What we learned about Oklahoma in school was all about the Dust Bowl. In reality, the land is amazing. Storms are beautiful. Armadillos, possums, turtles, so many creatures we don’t see in Elko.”

Next obstacle: Suburbia. Eight horses are a lot to accommodate when rolling pastures turn into housing subdivisions. But Josh isn’t worried.

“We’re not in any hurry,” Josh says even as he admits they have two more years to go to achieve their goal of riding from California to the Atlantic Coast. Then he smiles at his sons.

“I’m missing them already.”

For two years Josh and his family have trusted their faith to find a way. And they deeply appreciate the kindness of strangers. He even gives credit to drivers slowing down when they pass the group on the road, “I appreciate those

people taking the time out of their lives to slow down for my family.”

Terra chimes in, “I think we’ve created a lifestyle.”

She could be right. It’s hard to imagine a day without a deadline when deadline-to-deadline is how we’ve become wired to operate. Some pine for this blissful, stress-free state. But do we really? Without a daily deadline to meet, how often do we invent one to feel accomplished (to-do list, anyone)?

The lifestyle which the White family has created for themselves is complete freedom. Freedom from checking a clock’s face or awaiting an alarm’s ping. Freedom to learn the lessons: Stay vigilant about your horse’s comfort. Be grateful for water. Give thanks for strangers’ friendships. Don’t put the food on the fastest horse.

Most of all: Take each day as it dawns. Tackle each challenge, if presented. And savor each triumph, because it will be achieved.

On your own time. _________________________________________ www.LLManquest.com Facebook.com/LLManquest

In this undated photo, the ManQuest team stops for a much-needed water break while traveling from California, across Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. Donkeys, Thelma and Louise, left, were shipped home to rest after covering some 1,000 miles. (Photo provided)

AUGUST 2024 33

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Coming Together for Community Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

“Innovation is taking two things that already exist and putting them together in a new way.” ~ Tom Freston, American Media Financier Church attendance has been declining even prior to COVID-19, and since then many congregations have found it difficult to bounce back from where they were prepandemic. Nationwide, the struggle is real, with those who desire to continue in their worship and outreach looking for solutions to keep their doors open to serve their current members while they continue to look for ways to meet the needs within their communities.

In Ponca City, Oklahoma, First United

Methodist Church and First Presbyterian Church have recently come together after months of collaboration in a partnership that very well may be a model that could work for other churches as well. But what led to the need for this? What made two previously vibrant churches struggle and led one to come close to the need to close their doors altogether?

In his article “Church Attendance Has Declined in Most U.S. Religious Groups,” Jeffrey M. Jones states that a March 2024

Gallup poll indicates 3 in 10 U.S. adults attend religious services regularly, with 11% attending once a month and 56% seldom attending services. Only two decades ago the U.S. averaged 42% attending every week or nearly every week (instead of the current 30%). One decade ago, the average was 38%.

It appears that the most likely reason is the rise in younger adults (18-29-year-olds) being less likely to belong to or attend church even if they identify with a particular

AUGUST 2024 39

When Gallup first measured U.S. church membership in 1937 it was 73%, which means it remained near 70% for the next six decades before the decline began. religious group, such as Protestant Christian or Catholic, for instance.

However, there are a growing number of Americans with no religious affiliation. In the years 2001-03, there were only 9% who had no affiliation, but in 2021-23, the numbers had grown to 21%.

What is maybe most interesting in all of this, especially since many of us tend to blame much of the decline on the recent pandemic, is to look at an earlier Gallop poll.

In March 2021 Jones reported that U.S. church membership dropped below the majority for the first time since it had been tracked: “In 2020, 47% of U.S. adults belonged to a church, synagogue or mosque.”

However, before that it had been much higher. Membership had been 70% in 1999 and dropped to 50% by 2018. When Gallup first measured U.S. church membership in 1937 it was 73%, which means it remained near 70% for the next six decades before the decline began.

Again, much of this may be from a drop in religious affiliation, often possibly when people move and don’t find new home churches, and due to those younger adults who never establish an affiliation.

This decline is precisely what happened for First Presbyterian Church. Ann Salmons, choir director at FPC, explains what they’ve experienced, “For the past 10 years, we have watched not only our people becoming fewer and the age of our members getting older, but also the growing cost of maintaining and repairing our facility. We tried many different avenues, such as looking for organizations to rent part of the building, shutting off part of the building or downsizing to another building.”

40 AUGUST 2024

Salmons continues, “Our members were not ready to just close the doors to our ministries. We strongly felt God had more for us to do. Our church still had a heartfelt call to reach people through worship and mission.”

First United Methodist Church had made changes due to a decreasing membership as well, moving from two worship services on Sundays to one and decreasing staff positions.

They had moved services during COVID-19 onto a television, and the broadcast helped keep congregants knowledgeable about others who they weren’t seeing regularly. However, as with any decision like this, it was then slow moving people back into the pews once it was time since there were still cautions to be taken. So, both churches were hurting.

Salmons mentions FPC felt God tugging them to investigate working with another church. So, with continuing low numbers, leaders from FPC approached Pastor Leon Veazey about possible solutions and leaders from both congregations began discussions and brainstorming. In the discussions, Pastors Leon Veazey and Mark Southard, along with leaders from the churches, believed the two churches would be good for one another. They suggested joining in partnership with each keeping their own identity. Two denominations joining together in their worship and missions. It had never been done before and, while it seemed a stretch, it felt like the perfect idea.

Gay Norris, member of FPC and Clerk of the Session says, “I’d have to say that the sadness and trepidation of ‘leaving’ our longtime home has been replaced tenfold by the incredible welcome we have received from our new church

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family. So many of us walked in being greeted by long-time friends and neighbors, and at the same time were embraced by total strangers that instantly are becoming new friends. I think FPC has found a vibrant, passionate church family. The union is truly a ‘road less travelled’ but is taking us on a healing journey for our congregation. I am beyond happy and hopeful!”

Norris’ counterpart from FUMC in formally signing the partnership once it was finally polished was Teri Harris, FUMC member and Chair of Church Council. Of the process and looking forward, Harris says, “As a leader and long-term member of the church, I have truly enjoyed this opportunity to worship together. I believe each church had strengths that the other did not, and our partnership will allow us together to reach more people in our community than ever before.

From a theological perspective, I believe we’ve just started to scratch the surface of what we can learn from one another.”

There are many areas where the two churches come together, and none are so obvious as in music. Director of Music Ministry at FUMC, Marta Sullivan, expresses her joy at the added fullness of the choirs: “The coming together of voices and bells has been a profound blessing. The additional talent has grown the Chancel choir from an average number of 15 singers to an average of 25 and the Carillon handbell choir, struggling with enough ringers to play three octaves of bells, now has a surplus of ringers allowing the group to play five octaves of bells

42 AUGUST 2024

with a couple positions duplicated. This surplus of seasoned talent has not only extended the choir's range, but has also sparked the creation of a handbell ensemble.”

For a church that had such a depth in its music program in the past, this growth has been welcomed by all. Sullivan says, “In addition to simply having a fuller and more robust sound with additional voices and bells, having more participants opens opportunities for offering more intricate and challenging musical pieces. This is especially true when the participants from both churches are highly talented with a wealth of experience.

Directing these choirs has been a joy, and I am truly overwhelmed with gratitude for the limitless worship opportunities that lie ahead.”

Pastor Leon Veazey, FUMC Sr. Pastor and the pastor with oversight for worship and other ministry elements as the churches work together in the joint ministry, expresses the beauty of the ecumenical partnership between the two, saying, “The worship experience has been wonderful with the merger of two great choirs and handbell

ensembles, and an additional choir director who has already filled in for one service and served jointly with the choir director of FUMC on a couple of occasions. We also gained a soloist who is well-known in our community as a gifted vocalist. We have incorporated liturgy from the Presbyterian Church USA and utilized liturgists from their church in some of our worship services in order to honor both traditions.”

It would seem both congregations understand the joy and blessings of joining in this ministry and the beauty of diversity in worship. Volunteers from both congregations have joined in providing for the children’s and youth ministries, with both expected to grow as they move forward.

Possibly some of the most excitement has been the converging of mission ministries of the two congregations. Volunteers from both churches have come together in support of one another’s previous missions and helped ensure that all can continue. This is how service to God continues in great richness.

Salmons expresses this new ministry style as one

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in which God will do something wonderful. She says, “From the beginning, the congregation at First United Methodist Church has made us feel more than welcome, they have worked hard to help us feel at home. They have been wonderful to let us bring our mission opportunities and activities into their church life. We have joined our youth and our music departments, both congregations are supporting our Coryell Cupboard, our baskets with supplies for nursing homes and The Mission, and our Czech Camp Mission. They have opened their arms to us. It is sort of like relatives who have lived apart getting back together again. It is a joy!”

The partnership is not a merger. Each church retains its identity but enters into a “Memorandum of Understanding” of Partnership instead with the purpose expressed as an agreement “for these two congregations to support each other in the fulfillment of their shared vision to effectively witness to the grace of Jesus Christ to make disciples for the transformation of the world,” and it specifically states the agreement is “in a spirit of mutual trust, respect and shared commitment to Christian doctrine as each entity understands it.” No one is trying to change anyone else; both congregations are in support of the other.

The details of the agreement are specific and cover Mission, Responsibilities and Obligations (Intent of Agreement; Location and Property;

General Pastoral Responsibilities; Worship, Sacraments and Pastoral Rites; Financial Management; Governance), Supervision, Terms of Understanding and Ratification of MOU. There was an Advisory Team that met and fleshed out the details of the Memorandum, with consultants including one leader each from the greater organizations of Methodist and Presbyterian Churches to oversee it.

Now, the key is continued growth for all. In Gallup’s poll several points were mentioned that were key to what congregants want in their church. The primary reason they attended church was for a sermon that inspires them (no pressure, Pastor!). Other reasons were “spiritual programs geared toward children and teenagers, community outreach and volunteer opportunities, and dynamic leaders.”

This is no small feat, and while the details and time coming to them was extensive, the coming together of people came with great ease. It felt like friends coming together since so many had been friends for years, or served on community organizations together already, or worked together. The Advisory Committee still meets regularly, with two lay members from each church, the pastor of FUMC and the presiding elder of FPC Session to work on details as the partnership moves forward.

If we are involved in our churches, we need to ensure the community around us knows what we offer—both internally for our members and externally for the community. Also, many young adults want a church that reaches out to the community. The togetherness in this partnership has helped these two churches do just that. FUMC and FPC have embraced one another and their missions in the community, and this will help them be vibrant in their worship services, as well as throughout their service to their community!

However, most importantly, the commitment is there. Pastor Veazey says, “The body of Presbyterian parishioners who have been so committed to this enterprise express great character in their acceptance of this new chapter in their church life and have been so inspiring to us at First United Methodist Church! We are honored and pleased to call them part of our worship family!”

“Two are better than one, Because they have a good return for their hard work.”

31 - Medium Sudoku Puzzle Answer on Page 59

~ Ecclesiastes 4:9

32 - Medium

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NOC Honors Outgoing Regent Michael Martin Story by Scott Cloud

Director of Public Information, Northern Oklahoma College After five years as a Northern Oklahoma College regent, Stillwater’s Michael Martin attended his final meeting Wednesday in Tonkawa.

At Martin’s final meeting, NOC President Diana Watkins read a proclamation honoring his service.

Martin was praised for his dedication to “Northern’s Mission which helped cultivate and promote student growth and success by creating life-changing experiences, which includes the transition of NJCAA Division I men’s and women’s Soccer program from Tonkawa to Enid, as well as adding a new NJCAA men’s and women’s Wrestling program to the Tonkawa campus.”

Highlights of his regent career include the collaborative partnership between NOC and

OSU that has proven beneficial as the two celebrated the 20-year anniversary of working together to promote college access and degree completion, ultimately increasing the number of Cowboys who graduate from OSU, thus strengthening the state’s workforce and economy.

“I want to thank everyone who sits on this board of regents,” Martin said. “NOC has a solid team, and I believe the future for NOC is very bright.”

“Regent Martin was sworn in the same year I became the Vice President for NOC Stillwater, so I have relied on and appreciated his guidance throughout my administrative career,” said NOC President Diana Watkins. “We will all miss his unique perspective, legal expertise and passion for providing high-quality experiences for Oklahoma’s college students.”

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ACROSS 1. Web programming language 5. Jazz great ___ Fitzgerald 9. Expressed in words 13. Corporate chief, for short 14. "Doctor" who created the Grinch 16. ___ colada (rum-based drink) 17. Typed smartphone message 18. "Stop talking!" (2 wds.)

19. Flightless Australian birds 20. LETTUCE (3 wds.)

23. Former "Wheel" host Sajak 26. "Life has its ___ and downs" 27. Glue 28. Pass, as time does 30. Engage in roulette 32. SQUASH (2 wds.)

34. Head-and-neck sculpture 38. Irritate 39. Have a debt to 40. City with a twice-weekly farmers market 41. Butterfly and minnow catchers 42. CORN (2 wds.)

44. Fuse with a blowtorch 45. Jerry's gal pal, on "Seinfeld" 46. Get into, as clothing (2 wds.)

49. Respond correctly on "Jeopardy!"

50. TV soccer coach Lasso 51. BEAN (4 wds.)

55. Ocean water's color 56. "___ nice day!" (2 wds.)

57. Brand of round crackers 61. Cottage cheese piece 62. Commit burglary 63. Sweden-based furniture company

64. Companions for Barbies 65. Terminates 66. Marshmallowy Easter treat DOWN 1. Part of an airline's fleet 2. Item thrown in some bars 3. See 38-Across 4. Performs in a playhouse 5. Sneaks out of prison 6. Imitates Pisa's famous tower 7. Breath-taking organ 8. "Like that would happen!" (2 wds.)

9. Eyeglasses, informally 10. Use as a target (2 wds.)

11. Occupied restroom's sign (2 wds.)

12. Brief footrace 15. "Quit doing that!" (2 wds.)

21. Filled with passion 22. Took part in a marathon 23. Nut in a Thanksgiving pie 24. Not with anybody else 25. Tease with mean comments 29. Paid athletes, briefly 30. Planted 31. ___ school (college readiness institution) 33. Swimming spot 34. Kind of tea with bubbles 35. Not glowing yet, as a candle 36. Movie segment 37. Made less wild 40. Traditional Oktoberfest dance 42. Dimes, to dollars, fractionally speaking 43. Closes again, as a Ziploc bag 44. Took the top prize 46. Arouse, as one's interest 47. 180-degree driving maneuver (Hyph.)

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material (do they make it in 100% organic cotton?) and I don’t think they offer crop tops, and my hair doesn’t look good in a slicked-back bun. Don’t get me started on if the enemy has a nice jawline and looks like Matt Damon in Saving Private Ryan! I would literally switch sides to be his girlfriend. What if I get a headache?

Or my tummy hurts? And I don’t want to be rude but I really don’t like sharing living quarters, I need a fan, lavender essential oil lightly spritzed on my bedding, a face mask, 4-7 pillows, and my favorite TV show playing in the background to be able to fall asleep, and I can’t share a room with a boy, my husband wouldn’t love that. So, in conclusion, I’ll let you strong, muscular, smart, good looking men handle the wars.

On a serious note, I have never once in my life been as selfless as military members are, and I have the utmost respect for those who are willing to leave their families and give the ultimate sacrifice for our safety and freedoms. They are owed a great debt of gratitude that words can hardly encompass.

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Answer on Page 59

I just saw an article that they are considering making women register for the draft. And to that I say … um … excuse me??? (I don’t know who “they” is. I didn’t read the article, just skimmed the title and immediately panicked.) Listen – I absolutely love everything the suffragettes did for me, and our society as a whole.

Beautiful work, five stars, kudos to each and every one of them. But, respectfully, put me back in the kitchen.

War?! I literally cry at every single inconvenience as minor as having to get gas when it’s windy outside.

I cried because I got jury duty. I don’t do well under pressure, in fact, I crumble. If I was to be caught and questioned about intel, they would just have to say “I’ll let you play with this really cute puppy if you tell us what you guys are planning” DONE. Signed, sealed, delivered. Now, if they needed me to find out the name of the enemy’s ex-girlfriend, his childhood home address, his GPA in high school … then I’m your girl, but anything beyond internet sleuthing, I’m out. Plus, I don’t look good in camo. It washes me out, and the uniform looks like it’s made out of scratchy

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48. Cousins of frogs 49. "Full steam ___!" ("Let's go!")

51. Break into a computer system 52. Detest 53. Like 2 or 4, but not 5 or 7

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54. Slow faucet leak 58. Eisenhower's nickname 59. Golf ball holder 60. Ray gun's sound

AUGUST 2024 47

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Backyard

Gardener

Let’s Talk Fall Food And it’s August already. Time for the kids to get ready for back to school, new clothes, new shoes and maybe, just maybe, new plants and seeds going in for a fall garden.

Just so you can plan accordingly, first frost date for our area is Oct. 22. Check the back of your seed packets for how many days until maturity and subtract from the 84 days left until first frost.

You can extend that growing time with pop-up greenhouses and row covers.

If, like me, half your yard goes back to shade as fall comes in, you need to map out your shade areas. For instance, my north side yard where I grow kale, basil, nasturtiums and other herbs, only gets full sun May through August. The rest of the time is in partial to full shade. And you have to know what plants will grow in those kinds of conditions. I can grow kale, lettuce and basil all summer because I plant them in the mostly shaded part of the yard closest to the house.

As the sun starts to shift in July and August, I can plant more lettuces, radishes, beets, onions and any other less than 90 days to maturity crops by planting in front of the shade shift. The seeds get plenty of sun to start growing, but the growing amount of shade keeps them from burning up in the September heat. Other good growers that are first frost friendly are any brassicas (think kale, cabbage and broccolis) and root crops, fennel and herbs like parsley, dill and sage.

It already may be too late to plant any squashes from seed, as they take 100 plus days to mature.

If you have some pumpkins or sweet potatoes

by Kat Long / Contributing Writer

slips started, you may just have enough time to get a few harvested before that first frost.

Another tip for fall is planting things that will add nutrients back into the soil. If you planted (and hopefully harvested) a lot of potatoes this year, plant some sugar snap peas or beans where the potatoes were to add nitrogen. Up to you whether you pick the beans or peas. To plant as a cover crop for added nutrients, make sure to mow them down before pods/beans put on or you will have beans/peas there forever. Remind me to recount the hairy vetch cover crop from 2000 that just keeps coming back every year.

Pretty purple flowers though.

Favorite Things to Grow for Fall Radishes Even though most of us grow things we don’t eat, I like radishes and love growing them in the fall. Radishes are great to ferment or quick pickle for a tasty relish. From seed to harvest is 60 days or less and if you grate them, they are just a little peppery when added to salads.

Beets

good one pickled. Beets also make some great “ketchup” and can be grated into a salad. Cut up beets with sweet potatoes and baby or fingerling potatoes and roast them. Great for snacks or cut up in a salad.

All the Greens Lettuces, kales and cabbages, but especially tender greens like baby bok choy. There are fewer garden pests to fight off in the fall so the produce is prettier. And the cooler nights really add a nice punch of sweetness to any of the fall greens.

Carrots Who doesn’t love a carrot? Fall is a great time to get carrots into the ground and let them overwinter.

Carrots get sweeter the colder it is while they finish maturing. Lowe’s carries a “straw blanket” that can be used to insulate your carrot patch. It also helps mark where your carrots are planted when all the green and plant markers are gone. And of course, you will have a few early spring carrots as well.

If you don’t think you have time for a garden, no worries. Just throw some seeds out there and try to remember to water once in a while. You might just be surprised with some fall produce. This is what we call “Happy Gardening.”

This underrated red root veggie is also another

AUGUST 2024 49

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by Shannon Puetz / Contributing Writer BIO: Shannon Puetz is a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 10 years nursing experience and 12 years as an entrepreneur. Aesthetic State of Mind is the result of Puetz’s passion for aesthetics, skincare and helping people feel and look their best, and is her reason behind entering the nursing field! In February 2020 after attending Medical Aesthetic Art Institute , Puetz continued her work as an ICU nurse during COVID-19 and was still able to launch Aesthetic State of Mind in July of that year! In addition to being an ICU nurse and owner of three businesses, Puetz attended, graduated from the Medical Aesthetic Art Institute (MAAI) and became a certified NP in 2022.

Why does protein matter?

Words my patients seem to dread ... “How much protein are you eating?”

If you have ever had a health consultation with me, worked for or with me or if you are one of my weight loss patients, then you have heard this question asked time and time again. But why? Why are we so concerned with protein intake? Well, protein is vital for weight loss and the overall general wellbeing of the human body. Intaking the appropriate amount of protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues in the body. This includes muscles, organs, skin, hair and nails. It truly is essential for growth, development and maintaining the structure of the body.

The benefits of a protein-forward diet seem endless. This type of diet has been shown to balance blood sugar, increase energy, improve sleep, decrease body fat percentages, reduce craving, improve satiation and improve overall body composition. I have seen the benefit in my patients when they are taking my nutritional advice versus when they are not. My body composition machine doesn't lie.

There are so many myths out there regarding what Americans should or should not consume. People rarely tend to agree on what is considered healthy and what is not. The fact that cannot be dispelled is that the National Institute of Health reports that the adult obesity rate in America is at 42.4%. This is the first time the national rate has surpassed the 40% mark. It is clear that this has become a true

epidemic in America and is evidence that the country is in an obesity crisis.

The national adult obesity rate has increased by 26% since 2008. It is also a reason why drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are sweeping the nation.

While these medications are great and have had a huge impact on obesity rates, I believe proper nutritional education needs to be provided to anyone prescribed this medication.

As well as function repair of the body, it plays a vital role in the biochemical reactions in the body through enzyme and hormone balancing, while hormones regulate various physiological processes such as metabolism, growth and mood.

A protein-forward diet typically emphasizes foods that are naturally high in protein, such as lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef), fish, eggs, dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), legumes (beans, lentils), nuts, seeds and tofu. In such a diet, a larger proportion of daily calories comes from protein sources compared to a standard balanced diet.

It's important to note that individual protein needs can vary based on factors like metabolic rate, body composition (muscle mass versus fat mass) and overall health status. Some people may thrive on higher protein diets, while others may feel better with a more moderate intake.

If you have specific health goals such as weight loss, muscle gain or managing certain medical conditions, you may need to adjust your protein intake accordingly. Consulting with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate amount of protein for your individual needs.

Disclaimer: The advice provided in this column is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For medical concerns, please consult with your own qualified healthcare professional.

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Recipe: Last year in August for my Editor’s Note, I shared about my pink family cookbook named, “Making Memories.” It was compiled by the forward-thinking matriarchs of my mother’s family, who felt the need not only to preserve family recipes that had been handed down from generation to generation, but also stories of our family. My family heritage stems from both Germany and England, and our family recipe book contains many recipes with roots in those countries. I wanted to share a family favorite recipe that my grandmother Etha Jo made for my mother and her siblings when they were young, and that my mother also made for me as a child. I can’t say that this particular recipe has roots in Germany or England, it wasn’t explicitly noted in the cookbook, but it does say, “This is a big favorite of Etha’s children, the “Green” kids, Rene, Lisa, Dana, Gina and John.” This is also my birthday dinner of request. I hope you enjoy it.

Potato Pizza Making Memories Cookbook Recipe By: Etha Jo Nesselrode Submitted by: Kelsey Wagner

Ingredients • 1 lb. lean ground beef • 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes • 1 medium onion, sliced thin • 1 (10 oz) can cheddar cheese soup sauce • 1 can milk (use soup can) • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce • Salt and pepper to taste • ½ teaspoon oregano • ½ teaspoon sugar • 1 tablespoon butter • 6 oz. sliced mozzarella cheese • ½ cup parmesan cheese Turn beef in frying pan until it loses color. Place potatoes and onion in large (9x13”) baking dish. Add meat to potatoes. Mix cheese soup with milk until smooth and add this to meat and potatoes, mixing together. Combine tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano and sugar.

Pour sauce over top but do not stir. Dot with butter. Cover pan with foil on baking sheet (to catch spillage). Bake at 375 degrees for 1 hour. Remove cover and arrange sliced cheese on top. Sprinkle with parmesan. Return to oven, uncovered for about 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

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CHAMBER BUZZ

Story by Shelley Arrott, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce CEO | Contributing Writer

As we move into August, we would love for the citizens of Ponca City and surrounding areas to join us for an unforgettable night at the Marland Mansion for the Chamber’s Party at the Palace on Friday, Aug. 23. As you likely know, every other year the Party at the Palace is the major fundraiser for the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. However, to make the 2024 Party at the Palace, which is a nonsponsorship, nonauction year intriguing, we have decided to add some new twists to this year’s Party at the Palace.

Twist #1: The theme for the 2024 Party at the Place is “Diamonds & Ice.” Add a sparkle to your evening with our unique “Diamonds & Ice” special drinks! We are selling 150 specialty cocktails, and one lucky participant will find a dazzling genuine 1-carat diamond in his/ her glass! The remaining cocktails will contain sparkly CZs. Those who purchase a special drink ticket will have a choice of an Old Fashioned or a fruity Giggle Juice, or a mocktail version of either. Each drink will have one large, square ice cube. The ice cube in one drink will have a genuine 1-carat diamond donated by Spray’s Jewelry & Gifts and the 149 others will have 1-carat CZs. Enjoy your drink, then take your ice cube to Brent Buller and his team who will be onsite with their diamond loupes to determine if you have the genuine diamond. It will be so fun to see who walks away with a beautiful, sparkling 1-carat diamond! Thank you to Spray’s for their partnership to provide a unique opportunity this year!

Twist #2: It is so common to hear people say they wished the Chamber would have auction items on a nonauction year. Typically, we have several incredible live-auction items and over 100 silent auction items donated by our amazing business partners. So, by popular demand, the 2024 Party at the Palace will have ten “Date Night”-themed silent auction packages! A few of the “Date Night” packages include a Rusty Barrell Supper Club and Lounge dinner and music date, a steak dinner at Big Fork Ranch date, a City Arts Mural Alley Crawl date, a Rock & Brews VIP concert pass and dinner date, an Oklahoma City concert, hotel and dinner date, an OSU package consisting of several dates and more! Each package will have extras added, so stay tuned for details. Come explore our exclusive selection of 10 Date Night packages, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your special someone. Bid on romantic dinners, weekend getaways, unique excursions and more! Thank you to several of our incredible business partners who are partnering with us to bring a few silent auction items to our guests!

Twist #3: Rock the night away to 80s music provided by one of our local bands, Band #9. Dance the night away or just enjoy the electrifying sounds of the best 80s hits performed live by this sensational band! You will be transported back to the era of big hair

and neon lights.

Party at the Palace Tickets are $50 each, which include heavy hors d’oeuvres from Danny’s BBQ Headquarters catering and two regular drink tickets. Eight tickets and a reserved picnic table are available for $500 and may be purchased at the Chamber Office, 420 E. Grand.

Special Drink Tickets are $25 each – choice of an Old Fashioned or a Giggle Juice. Remember, Special Drink Tickets are limited, so act fast!

We only have 150 special drink tickets. Once they are gone, they are gone! Do not miss out on a chance to win a genuine 1-carat diamond sparkler for yourself or your special someone.

Date: Friday, Aug. 23, 2024 Time: 6:30-10:00 p.m.

Location: Marland Mansion This is a night you will not want to miss. Gather your friends, and join us for an evening of extraordinary entertainment, delicious drinks and the chance to win a stunning diamond. See you at the Marland Mansion!

Spray’s Jewelry & Gifts will also have merchandise for sale at the event! Many Ponca Citians have grown up with Spray’s Jewelers as they are a long-time, local jewelry store. In fact, they have been Chamber Investors for over 106 years. Spray’s will have many of their lines of gift items available for sale at the Mansion that night, along with some limited pieces of fine jewelry. Spray’s carries Kendra Scott, Hobo, Fossil, Consuela, several home fragrance lines, watches and gorgeous pieces of estate and fine jewelry. The night of the Party at the Palace they will be offering discounts, so consider taking advantage of any shopping you need to do!

AUGUST 2024 55

12-Month Healthy Challenge |

National Immunization Awareness Month Story by Kelli Northcutt, Community Health Foundation Executive Director | Contributing Writer

n 2002, I had the opportunity to travel with the American Red Cross to Ghana, a small country in Western Africa, to view a mass measles vaccination campaign. Because I grew up in the United States, where measles was declared eliminated in 2000, I had no experience with the virus except for seeing the name of it written on my immunization card. Africa was very different though, recording over 450,000 deaths from measles in the year 2000 alone. Measles was a huge issue for children in Africa. If they didn’t die from the disease, many of them experienced the consequences of the virus, including blindness, inflammation and injury to the brain, severe diarrhea and life-threatening breathing difficulties. The difference for the great disparity between our two continents was the availability and widespread use of the measles vaccine. During that trip, I saw firsthand how vaccines prevent widespread disease and death and have been an outspoken advocate for the use of vaccines ever since.

I

August is National Immunization Awareness Month.

It’s a time to highlight the importance of routine vaccinations for people of all ages. After a widely dispersed article falsely linked autism to the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine in the late 1990s and the resurgence of false information surrounding the COVID-19 virus and vaccines, there is a lot of fear and misunderstanding about vaccines and their safety and efficacy. I hope that with this short article, I can dispel a few of the most common myths surrounding vaccines and encourage you to reconsider your stance, or at least encourage you to seek factual information from your healthcare provider.

56 AUGUST 2024

MYTH #1 – Vaccines cause the disease they are meant to prevent.

FACT – Vaccines DO NOT cause disease. Vaccines are made with either an inactive virus or weakened virus that “tricks” your immune system into thinking there is a threat and creating antibodies against the virus. Your body then remembers that virus when in contact with the “real” thing and mounts an immune response to fight it. Your body is usually then able to fight the virus without the dangerous effects of the virus like it might have if seeing the virus for the first time. Some people experience a low fever or soreness at the site of the injection, but this is a result of the immune response and creation

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of antibodies, NOT the result of contracting the virus and illness.

MYTH #2 – Vaccines contain unsafe toxins.

FACT – Trace amounts of additives, like preservatives or stabilizers, are added to vaccines to make the vaccines safer or increase their potency.

Anything, even water, can be toxic if consumed in great amounts. The amount of the additives in vaccines is so small that it is less than what we encounter in the environment of the same substances on a daily basis.

Formaldehyde is one ingredient often cited as a dangerous component of vaccines, but it is actually created in our bodies at a higher rate from our own metabolic system! A mercury-based preservative called Thimerosal is often feared as well. It is used in multidose vials of vaccine, but since 1999 has been eliminated from ALL pediatric vaccines. People are exposed to more mercury than found in vaccines through milk, seafood and even contact lens solution!!

When reading information about vaccines, be sure to identify an author or publisher, make sure the article isn’t trying to sell you something, especially the idea of a miracle cure, and look out for one-sided, outdated or biased information. Researchers check each other’s work and repeat the same type of experiments many times to make sure it is correct. Vaccines are a result of many years of study, many layers of safety and the proof of millions of lives saved throughout the last several decades.

MYTH #3 – Natural immunity is superior to vaccine-induced immunity.

FACT – Contracting a virus and fighting it off without the help of a vaccine can produce immunity, but the risks of doing so can be severe complications, hospitalization or death. Vaccines cause your body to develop the very same immune response without these risks. Some parents believe that the antibodies received in utero or through breastfeeding are enough to protect a child from vaccine-prevented diseases, but these antibodies wane. Just as you help your baby learn to walk, eventually a child has to learn to walk by themselves and their bodies must learn to create their own antibodies and immune response. Vaccines help the body do this without the lifethreatening risks that come from the disease itself.

MYTH #4 – It is better to delay vaccination or to space out vaccines.

FACT – Many of the diseases vaccines prevent are most deadly in the very young. Delaying vaccination puts infants and toddlers at great risk. The established immunization schedule is based on decades of research on how a child’s immune system responds to vaccines at various ages, how likely they will be exposed to certain diseases and the optimal window when the vaccines will be most effective in preventing illness from the disease. There is no data to support spacing out vaccines or that doing so will offer safe or effective protection. Every dose in the schedule is important to build the necessary immunity for the body to recognize and fight off the virus if contracted. An article by the CDC said that you wouldn’t wait until driving down the road to put your baby in a car seat. A child is buckled in way before the chance of a crash and vaccines are a similar idea. Your child needs the vaccine long before exposed to a disease. If you wait until you think they might be exposed to a virus, there may not be enough time for the vaccine to work to stimulate the production of adequate antibodies.

MYTH #5 – Vaccines cause autism.

FACT – As stated earlier, in 1997 a study was published that incorrectly linked autism to the MMR vaccine. It was later determined that the author had a financial incentive for making his claims and that there were significant flaws in his study. The other authors on the study removed their names and the primary author lost his medical license for his deceit and for his mishandling of the children in his care. Since this publication, there have been MANY studies looking at the safety of the MMR vaccine including millions of children and there has been NO ASSOCIATION found between autism and the MMR vaccine.

Mark Twain once said, “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.” In the age of social media and in an environment where people distrust authorities and are more likely to get their medical advice from Aunt Suzie on Facebook, it’s important to use critical thinking and informed skepticism to determine fact from fiction.

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S Expedition A Y S Unknown A H Story by Hayley Harrison | Staff Writer

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I first discovered Expedition Unknown eight years and many, many gray hairs ago. I had just been promoted to the illustrious position of stay-at-home mom, and I was starting to settle into life as a parent, and life as an adult who was no longer out in the work force. Though I will always be grateful, all the way down to my bones, for the time I spent at home with my precious little honey bunny, there were times that staying home felt a little lonely. Being a stay-at-home parent, removes you a bit from all that is going on outside of the little cocoon that you’ve made for yourself and your family. And it was on a day that I was feeling a bit removed, that I stumbled across Expedition Unknown for the first time, and I was immediately enthralled by the history, mystery and pure excitement/ adventure that the show boasts.

that have been immortalized in history. Each expedition varies from show to show, and he has done it all from searching for Amelia Earhart’s lost plane, to trying to find the origins of Stonehenge. If you are a history nerd like I am, you will absolutely love that every single episode is jampacked with so many extremely intriguing historical facts, and Josh Gates’ enthusiasm to find the gold (both proverbial and sometimes literal) is contagious. Each episode is just such a fun watch, and I can say that confidently, as I have probably watched each one at least three times. It is a show that my daughter loves watching with me now, and at the conclusion of every episode, we look at each other and say, “Oh, we’re definitely going there!” and I look so forward to the day that we do!

Each hour-long episode follows archaeologist/ show-host Josh Gates, as he launches his intrepid journeys and tries to solve mysteries

*** You can stream all 13 seasons of Expedition Unknown on the Max, Discovery+, and Discovery GO apps .***

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PROVIDED BY BRACE BOOKS & MORE

THE MYSTERY OF LOCKED ROOMS

by Lindsay Currie

Book Reviews

Best friends Sarah, Hannah and West love beating escape rooms. The three of them make an incredible team. They call themselves the Deltas.

They all love math and numbers, but each brings unique skills to the team. Hannah is courageous and has an amazing sense of balance, West is funny and has an amazing memory and Sarah is a natural at risk and probability.

Sarah’s family is struggling. Her dad has been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome; he can’t do much besides sleep. That means her mom works two jobs, trying to support the family.

Unfortunately, it isn’t enough. They have just received a foreclosure notice. They’re losing their home and will have to move away to stay with her grandparents.

After Sarah shares the bad news with her friends, they brainstorm ideas to save Sarah’s home: A winning lottery ticket. Getting themselves on a game show. The Triplet Treasure.

of triplet brothers built a funhouse designed to be the most epic funhouse ever. Instead of typical mirror mazes, their funhouse had riddles everywhere and complex secret passages … like a complete house of escape rooms before escape rooms were a thing. To top it off, the triplets said they hid a treasure somewhere in the house.

Sadly, one of the brothers died before they were able to open their funhouse.

It turns out the funhouse sits abandoned, just 15 miles away from where the Deltas live. The Deltas are something of an escape room legend, so who better to conquer the funhouse, find the treasure and save Sarah’s home?

The Mystery of Locked Rooms is a heartwarming adventure that I highly recommend. ___________________________ Reviewed by Lorrie Layton

For those of us who’ve never heard of the Triplet Treasure, here’s the scoop: Years ago, a set

Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade

by Janet Skeslien Charles Let’s begin with a quick history lesson: During World War I, Anne Morgan, the youngest daughter of financier J. P. Morgan, helped establish the American Committee for Devastated France. In French, the organization was called Le Comité américain pour les régions dévastées, or CARD. This volunteer civilian relief organization was staffed almost exclusively by wealthy American women who paid their own way. CARD’s mission was to help northern France recover from the destruction of the Great War. CARD’s headquarters were based in Blérancourt, about 80 miles north of Paris and within 40 miles of the front. This agricultural region had recently been liberated by the Allies after three years of German occupation. CARD helped residents of the area by providing food, medical care, household goods and clothing. They hired teachers and opened schools.

One of the members of CARD was Jessie Carson, a children’s librarian from the New York Public Library. She was one of the few CARD volunteers who could not pay her own expenses.

60 AUGUST 2024

Anne Morgan recruited Jessie as the director of CARD’s library department in France.

Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade is Jessie Carson’s story. We meet her as she is traveling from Paris to CARD headquarters, viewing firsthand the devastation of the French countryside and making her first friend in CARD – Lewis, who oversaw the maintenance of CARD’s vehicles.

Another friend was Breckie, a nurse who went on to pioneer in nurse-midwifery in rural America.

Jessie’s new friends were not limited to members of CARD. Two Frenchwomen who played major roles in Jessie’s life were Sidonie, who had lost her husband and child to the war and had defaulted to hating everyone and everything, and Marcelle, a teen who was just beginning to discover who she wanted to be when she grew up.

This was such an excellent book! ___________________________ Reviewed by Lorrie Layton

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Story by Adam Leaming, Ponca City Public Schools, Superintendent / Contributing Writer

Welcome Back to School: Embracing a New Beginning Good day, Ponca City! I can tell we’re getting closer to the start of school as each morning when I wake I can hear across the community the drums from the Big Blue Band.

Each morning in the fresh light of day, our band students and band staff are gearing up for the fall marching season and with each beat of the drum, I can’t help but feel we’re one step closer to the first day of school. As summer’s warmth gives way to the crisp, refreshing air of autumn, we find ourselves on the brink of a new school year in Ponca City! This transition is marked by a blend of excitement and anxiety, a natural human response to starting something new. As the superintendent, I want to take a moment to acknowledge these feelings and share in the anticipation of the journey ahead.

Navigating the Anxieties

A Time of Renewal

These feelings are part of the human experience. They remind us that we care deeply about our roles and responsibilities. As a community, we must support one another, acknowledging these anxieties while encouraging each other to face them with courage and confidence. I always welcome constructive dialogue and ways in which we can better work together or improve on our service. Even if you do not have a child in our school system, or if you’re new to Ponca City, remember, our school district is your school district. Our community is what makes our school district unique and special, and it’s an honor to lead from this position.

The start of a new school year is a time of renewal. In Oklahoma and much of the Midwest, we don’t start school as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow.

We begin to the sounds of marching drums and excited little voices in the late summer heat of the August sun.

However, students, teachers and parents alike feel the pulse of a fresh beginning and a new start. New classes, new faces and new opportunities await us all. It’s an August brimming with potential, where the pages of our academic lives are blank, ready to be filled with knowledge, experiences and memories.

The Joy of New Beginnings There’s an undeniable excitement that accompanies the start of the school year. For students, it’s the thrill of seeing friends again, meeting new classmates and diving into subjects that spark curiosity. Teachers, too, share this enthusiasm, eager to inspire and guide young minds.

Parents, while perhaps relieved to restore some structure to daily life, also share in the joy of watching their children embark on another chapter of their educational journey. I can’t wait for my own children to start back!

This excitement is what drew me to a career in education.

Inside each of us, from our youngest Pre-K Wildcat to our 300+ Seniors, is a desire to grow and improve. It’s a reminder that learning is a lifelong adventure, one that we all participate in, regardless of age. Each new school year presents a chance to set goals, overcome challenges and achieve milestones.

62 AUGUST 2024

However, with excitement often comes a touch of anxiety.

It’s natural to feel apprehensive about the unknown.

Students might worry about fitting in, understanding new material or meeting the expectations set before them.

Where is my classroom? Where is the bathroom? What will I eat for lunch? Each of these questions we aim to answer and put to rest before school begins or on the first morning. We ensure our Teachers know the importance to connect with each student and create an engaging learning environment from moment one. Parents can feel anxious about balancing their roles as supporters, motivators and guardians of their children’s well-being.

Building a Supportive Community Our schools are not just a place of learning; they are communities where everyone plays a vital role. This year, let’s commit to fostering an environment of empathy and support. Let’s listen to each other, offer a helping hand and celebrate our collective successes. Together, we can create a space where everyone feels valued and empowered to achieve their best.

As we step into this new school year, and we hear the echoes from the drums in the mornings and afternoons, let’s embrace the excitement and face our anxieties headon. Let’s remember that it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions and that we are all in this together. The journey ahead is a shared one, and with the support of our community, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

Let me be the first to welcome you and each of our Wildcats back to school! Let’s make this year one of growth, discovery and endless possibilities.

Kids Say The Darnedest Things!

Mother Nature’s Favor Story by Hayley Harrison | Staff Writer A few years ago (thank you Facebook for the memory), my oldest daughter and I were strolling her baby sister around our block on an uncharacteristically nice summer morning. I love walking with her because it gives us a chance to really talk, and she almost always shares something with me that tickles me to no end. And this day was no exception.

We were walking along and somehow the conversation turned to the importance of being kind and how when we’re good to others good things tend to make their way back to us. She was nodding her head in agreement with me, and then got contemplative for a few moments.

When she spoke again, she said, “Mom, do you think Mother Nature is trying to tell me something with all these birthday parties I keep getting invited to?” I said, “Well, I’m not sure. What do you think?” She replied, “I think she’s saying ‘Keep on goin’ girl! You’re doing great!’” I was so tickled and proud all at the same time! Because by golly we could all stand to be a little more kind, and if we were, maybe we’d be invited to more birthday parties too.

I hope you all have had a wonderful summer filled with lots of quality time with your kiddos, and that they all have a great school year ahead!

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