Introducing Connecting People Through Stories Subscribe to PCM+ by visiting PoncaCityMonthly.com/subscribe Join Ponca City Monthly+ to support local journalism, and get full access to all our content and publication archives. Subscribers also get access to new, exclusive articles, videos, and podcasts that we produce monthly plus audio versions of all our feature stories!
Articles in the magazine that have online extras available will now include a QR code that links PCM+ subscribers directly to the online content.
2
FEBRUARY 2024
Never miss an update — get every article sent directly to your email inbox. For a seamless digital reading experience, plus audio and community features, you can also view our content via the Substack app.
SWEET FEBRUARY DEAL FINANCE WITH NO INTEREST FOR 24 MOS. MINIMUM MONTHLY PAYMENTS
Easy application on our website. Click on “finance your floor” to finance most products we sell. With approved credit, offer ends 2-29-2024.
509 N. 1st St. • Ponca City • 580-762-1736 SHOWROOM HOURS:
Mon. - Fri. 10 am - 5:30 pm • Sat. 9 am - 2 pm
Scan QR code wth phone
FEBRUARY 2024
3
FEBRUARY 2024 VOL 5 / ISSUE 2 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 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Father Daughter Dance: More Than Just Fun Page 17
Food Crush: Arthur’s Page 34
COVER STORY
Pioneer Genealogical Society Preserving Historical Treasures Page 23
12-Month Healthy Challenge: It’s Time to Love Your Heart Page 38
Community Wide Smiles Page 7
10 Things to Love About Ponca City Page 10
First Lutheran’s Salad Luncheon Page 28
Backyard Gardener “We’re Gardeners...” 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 Challenge.....................20/54 Chamber Buzz................................. 30 Cocktail of the Month..................... 33 Get Fit With Kera Kester................. 41 Crossword.................................. 42/54 Stew On That................................... 44 Stream It........................................... 45 Book Reviews.................................. 50 Learning with Leaming................... 53 Kids Say The Darnedest Things.... 54
ABOUT THE COVER
4
FEBRUARY 2024
Cover design by Andrew Hicks
Contributing Writers Kat Long Rachel Stewart Steve Scott Tara Anson Scott Cloud Shelley Arrott Lorrie Layton Kelli Northcutt Circulation Carol Murphy
© MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2024. For permission to reproduce any article in this magazine, contact editor@poncacitymonthly.com. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or by other electronic means without written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Ponca City Monthly is a Member of the Society of Professional Journalists. We believe that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy. We strive to ensure a free exchange of information that is accurate, fair and thorough. We pledge to: Seek the Truth, and Report It; Minimize Harm; Act Independently; and to Be Accountable and Transparent. To read our full pledge, visit: spj.org/ethicscode.asp
Letter from the Editor
If you are active on Facebook, you probably saw all the posts on the pop-up warming station during the severe cold snap in early January. The group behind the warming station is called “A Winter Less Cold,” which is a collection of volunteers and local organizations including United Way, Survivor’s Resource Network and GRAND Mental Health. The group has been meeting since October to lay the groundwork to make opening a warming station possible. Still, at their meeting just before the cold snap, they did not have any venues to host a warming station yet (You can read some background on the “A Winter Less Cold” group on PoncaCityMonthly.com.) The group was at an impasse. But after the meeting, something incredible started to happen. As the cold descended on our city, a citizen stepped up to offer a space, and then volunteers began to show up with supplies. Then, more volunteers and supplies came, and people all over the community started to communicate and work together to make sure that those who needed a space in the severe cold had a
way to get there. The next day, volunteers relocated the warming station somewhere with more space offered up by another citizen. More volunteers and supplies showed up, and the warming station was operating, keeping those in need warm. The warming station moved one more time to a third location with better heat and more space, and again, volunteers from all over came to help move everything, all with one thought in mind - helping those most in need in our community. And so it was that on a cold winter day in January, a group of Ponca City citizens came together in an hour of need to feed, clothe, and shelter the unhoused in our community. It reminded me of a quote I heard once by Margaret Mead. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
editor@poncacitymonthly.com
FEBRUARY 2024
5
Ponca City's Hidden Gem for Memorable Celebrations
Reserve Now and Save 15% Off Your First Rental!
4,000 sq. ft. space Mezzanine overlook Stage with sound equipment 4k projector ADA handicap-accessible bathrooms Ideal for gatherings ranging from 50-150 adults The perfect setting for ceremonies, corporate events, birthday parties, special occasions, receptions, and more. Let us set the stage for your next event!
www.TheAlleyPC.com
. 580-761-7849
Get your Valentine’s orders in early for the best selection! 111 E. Grand Ave. Downtown Ponca City
580-762-3388
Monday-Friday 9 am to 4 pm
AT THE scan me!
THEATRE poncantheatre.org
tickets & schedule 6
FEBRUARY 2024
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Pictured (l-r): Dr. Phillip Tyndall, Amy Wagner, Crystal Backhaus, Brittany Hager, Jamie Turner, Erin Nichols, and Nancy Tyndall holding Hercules.
TYNDALL FAMILY DENTISTRY
Community Wide Smiles Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer
S
ome things are just meant to be, fated, as it were. Some stories just make sense – and so it came to be that Phillip and Nancy Tyndall moved to Ponca City in the year 2000. Their story doesn’t start there though, so we must go back a little bit further.
Phillip and Nancy met in a Physics class in summer school as they were each on their respective journeys through their education in dentistry. They began as lab partners and eventually became life partners. The couple got engaged during Phillip’s second year of dental school and Nancy’s final year of hygiene school. They were married in 1995 and lived in Oklahoma City and then Tulsa. They had planned to buy a dental practice in Tulsa, but when the owner decided it wasn’t quite time to retire, they began to look elsewhere. Their broker reached out to them about a practice in Ponca City. Nancy was skeptical. Their oldest daughter Sydney was a newborn at the time and Nancy did not want to move. Phillip wanted to visit the practice in question and see what Ponca City had to offer. Phillip made the initial visit on a Saturday to meet Dr. Walker and learn about his practice. He
called Nancy on the way back to Tulsa to tell her to pack her bags. They were moving to Ponca City. Nancy admits that it was very hard in the beginning getting acclimated to a new community, particularly as an outsider. This is where fate comes into play; well, fate and a few lovely humans. A few weeks before moving to Ponca City, Nancy met Barry and Lois Bickle in Tulsa. Barry and Lois were checking the progress on a home one of their kids was building. Nancy and her sister were checking the progress on the home her sister and brother-in-law were building, and the new homes just so happened to be in the same neighborhood. As they say, “of all the gin joints … .” The groups started talking and Nancy shared that she’d soon be moving to Ponca City. This was the meet cute of a friendship between the couples that continues to this day. Barry and Lois were in Phillip and
FEBRUARY 2024
7
staff, set aside time on a regular basis for the care and sterilization of tools. They also triple check the safety of their water on a regular basis. Additionally, they have a consultant that comes into their facility to check things as well. Safety has been an important standard of theirs from the beginning of their careers.
Nancy’s driveway right behind the moving truck when they got to town. They brought dinner and even offered to watch Sydney so the two could get some unpacking done without a little one underfoot. The couples bonded over good wine and their love for the Oklahoma State Cowboys and still do today. Another fated meeting for the couple was their introduction to the late Phil Bandy. Phil took Phillip and Nancy under his wing as soon as they moved to town. The day they took over their practice, Phil was there. Nancy remembers, “The first person in the door was Phil Bandy, and he had Fred Boettcher with him. So, we got to know Fred. Then about two hours later, Phil comes back and he has Jerry Evans with him, so we got to know Jerry Evans. And then Phil comes back in the afternoon and he has Danny Head with him. So that was our first day. They all decided that they were going to make sure we got real involved in Ponca City.” Nancy adds this about her friendship with Phil, “He was just such a sounding board. He was such a mentor. After we moved here, he didn’t do anything or get involved in anything that he didn’t try to include us. He was like that. He was just an absolute angel.” And get involved they did! Over the years the couple has served on boards and volunteered with many local organizations, including Ponca City Main Street, the Ponca City Chamber, the
8
FEBRUARY 2024
Marland Estate Commission, CASA, Friends of Education and more. Phillip and Nancy initially practiced in Dr. Walker’s old offices while building the office they’re in now. They moved to their new location in 2003 at 415 E. Hartford and have been there ever since. They have a staff of five, with two working the front office and three assistants working in the back with Phillip and Nancy as they handle patients. Phillip and Nancy have high standards for the care of their patients and make sure that one of them sees each and every patient that comes into their practice. Phillip and Nancy also go above and beyond to make sure they’re keeping their patients as safe as possible. They, along with their
The couple also values learning and growing their practice, their personal education and the training of their team. They all pursue Continuing Education in various areas depending on their positions. This may look like a crash course in nationwide insurance changes for front-office staff or a class about teeth polishing for back-office staff. In 2018, Phillip went back to school for an oral surgery implant residency. Their practice now has a surgical suite, and they do surgeries along with general dentistry. Nancy is passionate about education and pursed a degree in dental education after dental hygiene school. She makes a point to discuss overall health with all her patients including things like diet, exercise, blood pressure and disease prevention. Nancy believes everyone needs a champion, and she aims to be that champion when she can. There are so many things that make the Tyndalls excellent at what they do – their love of improvement and continual education, their five-star standard of care and the team of staff they’ve grown. Possibly most important though is their love for their patients and community. The couple agrees that the people they are privileged to work with, and the people they are privileged to work on, are the absolute best part of their job. You can find out more about Tyndall Family Dentistry on their website at tyndallfamilydentistry.com or by calling their office to set up an appointment at (580) 762-7857. They are open Monday through Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Thursday from 8:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. They are closed on Friday.
Quality cancer care close to home, so you can focus on the good stuff. We understand that cancer is a life-changing event, and there is no distance too great to access the best care. But you owe it to yourself to explore the innovative cancer care available in Stillwater. Some of the cancer field’s finest physicians and specialists choose to serve here – and we’d be happy to introduce you to our highly specialized staff to discuss your cancer treatment options, including advanced therapies like the MR-LINAC.
MR-LINAC
State-of-the-art Facility
Linear Accelerator
The world’s most advanced radiation therapy is available in Stillwater, Oklahoma! Diagnosis & Consultation
Radiation Therapy & Chemotherapy Treatments
Consults with Top Cancer Treatment Centers
Access to Nationwide Clinical Trials
Nutritional Support
Educational Resources for Coping Skills
Support Groups
Scott Cole, MD | Byron Jennings, MD Akin Ogundipe, MD | Christopher Puckett, MD Nathan Uy, MD | Kevin Weibel, DO Julie Spears, APRN-CNS, DNP
405.742.4930 | stillwatercancercenter.com
FEBRUARY 2024
9
10
e v o L o t s g n i Th y t i C a c n o P t u Abo Story by Kelsey
ief
Wagner | Editor-In-Ch
in the lds a special place ho at th ity un m m its Ponca City is a co ity’s rich history to C a nc Po m o Fr . ts rs a hearts of its residen uty, Ponca City offe ea b l ra tu na d an e d vibrant cultural scen it a truly unique an e ak m at th es nc ie per diverse array of ex things to love about n te e ar e er H e. m ll ho lovable place to ca : our wonderful city
1 Pioneer Woman Statue
and Museum
Standing tall as a sym bol of strength and res iliency, the Pioneer W Statue and Museum or oman iginally paid homage to the “pioneering wome who shaped the Ameri n” can West. The awe-ins piring statue and the exhibits provided a gli museum’s mpse into the frontier spirit that helped build Over the last several de the nation. cades new exhibits ha ve been added dedic Pioneering Women of ated to Oklahoma. The Pione er Woman Museum, as their website, is “dedica stated on ted to preserving wome n’s history and showca historical and continu sing the ed influence of wome n on the development and the United States of Oklahoma .” Bryant Baker, sculpt or of the statue, stated Gareth Muchmore, “I in a letter to have frequently been asked who posed for the Pioneer Woman, my statue, and I have to tell them no one did,” said Bake continued, summarizin r. He g his inspiration behin d the strong, female sta “She is the abstract, be tue, autiful, ideal woman of the spirit of great faith hope.” and
Lake Ponca
In his book, The Immense Journey “The Flow of the River” (1957) Loren Eiseley wrote that, “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” I tend to agree. If I am having a bad day, or need a break from the daily grind, a drive out by Lake Ponca is a healing drive. When the weather is nice, a walk by the lake is even better. On any given nice day there are dozens, if not hundreds of people out by, near or on Lake Ponca, enjoying it in one way or another. Originally constructed in 1926 as a water reservoir, Lake Ponca has evolved over the decades to become not only a vital water source, but also a recreational haven for residents and visitors alike. Lake Ponca provides a picturesque backdrop for local outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and picnicking. Its wellmaintained parks, walking trails and swimming beach offer those seeking tranquility and natural beauty a miniature escape from the great, wheat-covered plains of Oklahoma. Lake Ponca is a true asset to Ponca City, where generations have created lasting memories against the backdrop of its serene waters.
10 FEBRUARY 2024
2
Searching for Ways to Build Your Business? Our Treasury Management platform consists of scalable products and services that make managing your business easier and more secure! • Positive Pay • Digital Lockbox • ACH Origination • Merchant Card Services • Remote Deposit Capture • IntraFi® Network Deposits
Saturday, February 17th
PunCHLINES
FOR Paws BENEFITTING
TWO SHOWTIMES Sponsor Show: $1500 TABLE OF 10
Josh Firestine n
WITH DINNER INCLUDED AND 10 TICKETS TO THE DIAMOND RAFFLE
Mart y Johnso
(VALUE $5000 FROM HER MAJESTY'S GEMS) EMAIL KARLISSA@NOKHS.COM ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS
MORE INFO!
DOORS OPEN 5PM General Show: DINNER 6PM $60 PER PERSON SHOW STARTS 7PM COMPLIMENTARY APPETIZERS,
CASH BAR AND PRIZES FOR RAFFLE. PURCHASE TICKETS NOKHS.COM/PUNCHLINEFORPAWS
Contact W. Troy Campbell at (316) 613-2350, visit us online at www.MyUnionState.Bank, or scan the QR code to get started!
BUILD RENOVATE MAINTAIN
Jon Wallen
DOORS OPEN 8:30PM
(TO REDBUD ROOM)
SHOW STARTS 9:30PM.
Osage Casino & Hotel 64464 Highway 60 Ponca City
18 to enter | 21 to drink
Offering Let Us Earn Your Business! Insurance Bill Wetzel President and Risk Management Solutions since 580-765-5566 • 410 E. Grand • Ponca City 1931. www.loftiswetzel.com • billwetzel@loftiswetzel.com MARY BETH MOORE 580-401-3456
601 S. 3rd Street • Ponca City • 580.767.1095 kylerconstructiongroup.com
It's not always love at first sight, we will look until you fall in love with your new home.
mbclarkmoore@ yahoo.com HERITAGE REALTORS® 3216 N. 14th • 580.765.8888
FEBRUARY 2024 11
Home is where your story begins, I can help you get there. BECKY POET 580.763.1871 beckypoet@gmail.com HERITAGE REALTORS®
3216 N. 14th • 580.765.8888
Busy Bees FLOWERS & GIFTS
912 E. Highland • Ponca City • 580-761-6787 HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8-5 Sat. 10-2
12 FEBRUARY 2024
For your Valentine
Flowers & Plants Chocolates & Cards Plush, all sizes Gifts & more!
Thank you for trusting us with your vehicles.
14th & Lake Road • Ponca City • 580-762-3716
Owned and Operated by Larry & Stephanie Klinger Foreign and Domestic Repair • Exclusive asTech™ Technology Genesis Laser-Guided Frame Equipment • Guaranteed Repairs
3
4 Historic Marland Mansion
The Marland Mansion, once the home of oil baron E.W. Marland, is a marvel of architecture and history. Take a guided tour to explore the magnificent rooms, intricate artwork, and gardens that surround this iconic mansion. Originally built in the 1920s by E.W. Marland, the mansion is a symbol of Ponca City’s historic oil boom era and the opulence it brought to the community. Its stunning architecture, a blend of Italian Renaissance and Mediterranean Revival styles, stands as a testament to the grandeur of a treasured time in Ponca City’s history and is enjoyed by tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.
Ponca City Development Authority
5
Most communities have some sort of Economic Development organization that either operates with the city structure or perhaps within the Chamber. Ponca City is particularly lucky to have a stand-alone economic development organization that is funded by a dedicated sales tax. Ponca City Development Authority (“PCDA”) has an entire team of creative professionals whose primary job is to look for ways to create new economic opportunities for businesses that will bring in jobs and prosperity to our community. PCDA routinely wins state and national awards for their innovative and forward-thinking programs.
l rb Festiva e H y it C a lebration c n al o P is an annu ce ity C a nc Po in dents al
si iv arts of both re The Herb Fest l place in the he ia sitors, ec vi sp of a s s nd ld that ho by thousa ly al nu an ed nd d most and visitors. Atte of the largest an e on be to n ahoma. grow this event has the state of Okl in ts en ev l ra tu icul its unique successful hort exceptional is y ul tr al iv st fe e es, and What makes th e, culinary dish is rt pe ex l ra tu rs ul This event offe blend of hortic ity atmosphere. ty of un m rie m va e co t id w an a vibr explore a to ity un rt po op ndors far attendees the décor from ve g in en rd ga d thusiasts. herbs, plants, an r gardening en fo le ap st a it g in ors, and and wide, mak music, art vend e liv es ur at fe lebrate The festival also . It’s a day to ce ce an bi am g in m ening to a warm, welco the unofficial op is f el its t en ev nature, and the r community. summer for ou
6
101 Wild West Rodeo
The 101 Wild West Ro deo is one of Ponca Ci ty’s most cherished an events, drawing in cro d largest annual wds from near and far , and for good reason. Rodeo gets its name an The 101 Wild West d inspiration from the 101 Ranch Wild West entertainment spectac Show, a legendary le that showcased cowb oy skills, daring stunts American culture that , and Native captured the spirit of the Old West in Ponc late 19th and early 20 a City, during the th centuries. The 101 Wild West Rodeo has Wild West show alive kept the spirit of the for over 60 years. Beyo nd its entertainment va West Rodeo plays a piv lue, the 101 Wild otal role in preserving Ponca City’s cowboy In essence, the 101 W culture and history. ild West Rodeo is a be loved tradition that co pumping rodeo actio mbines adrenalinen with a celebration of Ponca City’s heritage, most eagerly anticipa ma king it one of the ted and biggest even ts on the city’s calenda r.
FEBRUARY 2024 13
7
Education Excellence
Ponca City takes pride in its top-no tch education system. The city is home to exceptional schools that provide quality learning experiences and fost er the growth of young minds. Ponca City Public Schools passed a 60 million dollar bond issue in 2022, and that inve stment marks a significant mileston e in the district’s commitment to providi ng excellent educational and ath letic facilities. With a new cutting-edge STEM bui lding currently underway, PCPS is poised to have some of the best learning environments in the state. The upg rades and improvements include state-o f-the-art classrooms, enhanced safe ty measures, and expanded educati onal resources.
OD ith a variety of The FlinO ary scene w es.
9
it WildcastagSo,pPoir ols nca City Public Scho
Several year hool to by rebranding all sc united the district hool sc gh re this, only hi the “Wildcats.” Befo e th all Wildcats, while students were the s were dle school student id elementary and m g the vin gi ts, r own masco represented by thei ding an br re d feeling. The district a fragmente w no d signed to do, an did what it was de here. n be found everyw the Wildcat logo ca mbol, sy g in come a unify The log has truly be unity. m m co e Ponca City bringing pride to th
iverse cu preferenc boasts a d t tastes and y’s BBQ Head n re fe if d Ponca City that cater to fare, Dann orites, American restaurants ic ss la c th local fav g o in b k e re a se r e se For tho mbo Burg that never nd Jim’s Ju can dishes ri e m eing “The A g Quarters a n wateri nown for b k th u is o b m lu p C u r ppe perfectly serving y Barrell Su oma,” specializing in st u R t. in o of the lah disapp with some ouse in Ok h re k e a h e st sp o le atm and El best litt an elegant Restaurant n in a s ic k x a e e M st ue’s xican cooked und. Enriq thentic Me u ro a a r s il fo ta ts k o c ritas take o sp best co and marga e best go-t s, th a d th a il o h b c n re anese os, e Patio a shi and Jap e menu avorful tac fl su r re e fo h d w o , o cuisine extensiv in the m e. If you’re offering an akfast or center stag ra is the place to be, lightful bre e d u a k a r S o , F ts s. Ponca City roll deligh ative sushi ouse or the orite H re c e e d ff n o a C of fresh visions r fan fav erience, Pro al choices, but othe ins. For an e brunch exp id r and Perk re both le a g b an n lu ra C W y tr tt rre apoli’s Itali Coun include Ga option – N ts e o n o sp ly st n fa o break there’s alian meal, authentic It here: Restaurant. al eateries c lo to s e Crush Guid erin’s Food rushOK.com u G y m A View FoodC on theVisit Ponca City to e id u G /foodie ie’s caCity.com imate Food n lt o U P e it is th V : w re Vie website he Ponca City
8
10
ings, and arks, build m d n la c ri isto Our local preserve h nd future. a to t n s rt se o ff re E p ays fixed ge. h its and herita focus is alw es to enric n ry u e n e to ti k ister is n h a o c s re it st ake su ue pa values ational Reg . m y iq N it n e to u C th ts a ’s c c y n n it o je c o d P the d Mansion ently on pro ies and districts liste nsure that and Marlan l works dilig ert e e p it rd traditions e n S a ro h p p c n 8 n o 3 a ti on in rega 01 R serva ere are rks – The 1 Mount Vern a d Historic Pre se historic assets. Th m n d a n d a e se L st u c li o g en Histori e White H ve anythin on our imm including 2 National e level as th tillwater ha m S r te of sa o a e , st y id th it n re n E C ti o s are the en neither rk , in Ponca in a e v d m ti e d c n st e a li p L 2 rs istoric are only 2 t this in pe National H nce. To pu r, and there ng. a te ic is if g n g re si s c rk to histori c Landma truly amazi onal Histori y has two is These ten things to love about Ponca City are just a glimpse of what makes this city a it C a c n o P on the Nati ct that fa e h T . cherished and welcoming home for its residents. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a Oklahom a first-time visitor, there’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with Ponca City.
story i H g n i v r P rese
14 FEBRUARY 2024
NOW SERVING MEMBERS IN NEWKIRK Business Equipment, Inc. Serving our community for over 50 years! Copiers/MFP Sales and Service • Office Furniture Document Management Solutions • Network Support Office Supplies • Paper Delivery
NEW LOCATION 122 N. 1st St. Ponca City
www.gbeinc.com ● (580)763-5400
Gary Scott
Allison Bliss
Cherokee Strip Credit Union is humbled and thankful to announce the opening of our Newkirk credit union branch! We are grateful to be able to invest in our local community and provide Kay County with 108 South Main Street another state-of-the-art banking location, Newkirk (580) 718-4044 conveniently located in the county seat.
Don’t Settle without consulting us. No Fees Until Your Claim Is Successful.
◆ Trucking Accidents ◆ Catastrophic Injuries ◆ Motor Vehicle Accidents ◆ Workers’ Compensation ◆ Social Security Disability
Free Consultation Law firm of
580-765-9660
Brad W. Wicker
James G. Devinney
Law firm of
Boettcher | Devinney | Ingle | Wicker
Boettcher | Devinney | Ing
115 East Grand • Downtown Ponca City
boettcherlawoffice.com
J. Derek Ingle
FEBRUARY 2024 15
We Would 3501 North 14th • Ponca City skywaycdjrponcacity.com 580-765-2511
To Earn Your Business! Join the SKYWAY CDJR family today!
16 FEBRUARY 2024
Father Daughter Dance: More Than Just Fun Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ~ Maya Angelou, author February is the month of sweethearts and love, a time to let those you care about know they are special. Since 2005 the Father Daughter Dance has given dads, grandfathers, uncles, older brothers or other important men the opportunity to provide girls from baby to 13 years of age a very special evening. For many, the bond of a father and daughter can be very special. American actress and technology inventor Hedy Lamarr once said, “I am not
ashamed to say that no man I ever met was my father’s equal, and I never loved any other man as much.” Singer Lady Gaga has expressed the hope to meet someone who treats her as well as her dad. Strong and nurturing male role models are important. British Actress Dawn French says, “It was my father who taught me to value myself.” There are so many reasons to build strong relationships between fathers, or other males who may play that role, and daughters, and this event is one way to give time and show love during a very focused, special occasion. We can give “thanks” in a couple of places for this event. First might be to the Leadership Ponca City program through Ponca City’s Chamber of Commerce, which requires a class project for those going through the program. In 2004, the class decided to take on this event after having heard about a similar one in another state. The Leadership class organized the event with Natalie
Fraser as leader (her dad was on the Opportunity Center board at the time), and Fraser has continued it every year since (missing only one year due to COVID-19 when they couldn’t have the dance). She has a small team of her sister-inlaw Brook Lindsay and Emily Helling providing the work that needs to be done organizing, as well as numerous volunteers who have helped over the 19 years the dance has continued. Of her ongoing interest in this event, Fraser
FEBRUARY 2024 17
with frills while trying to take care of business; however, even older girls may need help with fancy dresses when they take restroom breaks. Session 2 is 1st-3rd grade, and Session 3 is 4th-7th grade. Various sessions are needed to accommodate the large number of girls interested in this special night. They will likely sell 1300-1500 tickets, a huge increase from that first goal of 300. The tickets are now online and not printed, which has helped streamline the process significantly. says, “The money raises funds for the Opportunity Center, and it has helped families in the neighborhood where I grew up. Clients have jobs and access to resources.” Looking at the exciting night out, there’s no surprise about the growth of the event over the years, and it’s impressive to see what all has been added to make it fit the needs of the girls, the community and the event itself to keep it so beautiful and yet affordable for those desiring to attend. The first year they only reserved one floor of the Marland Mansion and started out selling 300 tickets. They sold out fast and added 50 more
The committee used to send flyers home from school with the girls, but now they rely on Facebook, radio and the news, as well as word of mouth to get the word around. Since the event continues to be so well received, this communication seems to be working just fine. The number of volunteers and those who donate have helped the committee keep the cost of the event down for those who attend. The event has only changed from a mere $10/session to $20 in all these years,
tickets. However, there were so many disappointed girls that year, they reserved two floors the next year. Some people have suggested moving to a different venue, but Fraser knows there’s no better place to feel like a princess than at the Mansion, and she doesn’t want to give up that locale for the girls. They grew to two sessions and now have three sessions. Session 1 is Kindergarten and below (5 years and under). There is a diaper bag and coat check at the door, and there are Potty Mamas in the bathrooms to help girls needing assistance. This is especially important at this first session for the younger girls who may be navigating dresses Father Daughter dance volunteers, (l-r) Natalie Fraser, Brook Lindsay and Julie Grigsba
18 FEBRUARY 2024
PC
CONCRETE CO., INC. READY-MIXED CONCRETE
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
• Concrete Products • Computerized Batching • Quality Materials • Material Hauling • Personal Service • Radio Dispatched
CONSTRUCTION CO.
Maintains Healthy Blood Pressure Levels*+
Supports Healthy Triglyceride Levels*+ Improves Good HDL Cholesterol by 14%*
• Asphaltic Concrete • Excavating • Stabilization • Streets
• Roads • Driveways • Parking Lots • Free Estimates
580-765-6693
www.evans-assoc.com
www.evans-assoc.com
TOLL FREE (800) 324-6693 3320 N. 14th • Ponca City
Nitric Oxide Production for Healthy Blood Flow and Circulation*
+Supports healthy levels already within normal range; *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL!
580-762-1302 3320 Lake Road Ponca City
IF YOU LOVE YOUR HEART, PROVE IT.
◆
53 YEARS ◆ 202
ch M
o re t h a n a V i t a m i n St o
1 197 Mu
4
re!
2906 North 14th • Ponca City • 762-1854 Next to Hobby Lobby • Open Mon. - Sat. 9 am - 7 pm
So much to rediscover on a
GUIDED TOUR of the Mansion!
Guided Tours Monday thru Saturday at 1:30
MARLAND MANSION
901 Monument • Ponca City • 580-767-0420 FEBRUARY 2024 19
even with all they have included. It is important to the team that everyone who wants to attend can do so. There are T-shirts screened by Whimsy, of course, available for purchase when you buy tickets. Our Opportunity Center truly is successful and innovative. The volunteers for the event are many. For instance, Teresa Beard, with the Opportunity Center, makes all 4200 cookies for the dance. She also makes the nine gingerbread houses that are raffled off that evening. Photography by Jess will be at the event with three different backdrops available, and one free photo will be provided to everyone attending. Princess portrait packages are available for purchase.
volunteer for years is Undersheriff Sean Grigsba, husband of the Opportunity Center’s Executive Director Julie Grigsba, who says,
“This fundraiser is very important to our agency. The proceeds from this dance help pay for the upkeep, repairs and maintenance of all our group homes, businesses and vehicles.” Since Sean and Julie raised three sons, last year was Sean’s first year to attend a session as a participant, and he will bring his granddaughter Emelia to the first session again this year and then return as a volunteer the rest of the night.
There will be two police officers onsite, and the sheriff sends volunteers as well. One of those from the Kay County Sheriff’s office who has been an active
Although I can’t possibly list all the volunteers, some of the other ongoing ones include the Po-Hi Steppers, Extra Eyes volunteers and the Bohons
25 - Medium Sudoku Puzzle Answer on Page 54
8 6 7 7 6 2 8 1 4 3
20 FEBRUARY 2024
2
2
4
4
5 6 9 2 1 6 4
7 1
taking care of parking. A more complete list of donors and volunteers can be found online. Fraser stresses that although her committee does the prep work throughout the year, when it comes down to the event, numerous volunteers come through to make it a success. Even Fraser’s own daughter Harper, who first went to the dance with her dad at six months old, joined in as a volunteer the last two years when she decided to scan tickets at the door. The event is a family affair for the Frasers, with everyone onboard ensuring success.
While the funds raised for the Opportunity Center are the reason the event was first organized, it has grown to mean more to the community. As Fraser looks back at her reason for carrying with the event, she sees 26 on - Medium her continuance as being more for the actual dance. With a smile she stresses, “It’s the night of the dance itself – to see the looks of the girls as they feel like they are true princesses in their dads’ lives.”
Even though the 19th Annual Ponca City Father Daughter Dance is coming up quickly on Feb. 3, it’s not too late. They will still take your reservation as long as a ticket is available right up to the night! You can find tickets online at poncacitydance.com or in-store at
So, as Fraser and her team stress, you can dress up in satin and lace, get your hair and nails done at a shop, or you can come in leather, jeans and boots. Anything goes. The point is, come on out and make that girl in your life feel special – because she is!
9 6
6
9
3 7
6
6 9
5 4
Whimsy at 318 E. Grand Avenue. You can also find information and some past photos on the Ponca City Father Daughter Dance Facebook page.
7 3 2
4
6
9
9 6 5
7
5
1
3 9 8
2
6
PONCA
CHAMBER OF
CITY
COMMERCE
PONCA CITY Ponca City Chamber FEBRUARY RECEIPT CAMPAIGN 6 opportunities to WIN Chamber Bucks! 1 - $500 Winner 5 - $100 Winners
Shop any PONCA CITY Business DURING FEBRUARY and collect your receipts. Bring your receipts to the Chamber Office, located at 5th and Grand Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Print your name and phone number on each receipt.
AD SPONSOR
We will draw for prizes at 5:00 pm on Thursday, February 29, 2024. If you have any questions, call the Chamber Office at 765-4400. FEBRUARY 2024
21
SPRAY’S
3202 N. 14th • Ponca City
580-765-2491 NapolisPoncaCity.com
SPECIAL DEAL PIZZA SPECIAL
SENIOR SPECIAL $
3 OFF
your purchase of 1 entrée
Seniors 65 & older, Tues. thru Sun. With coupon. One coupon per table. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Expires 2/29/2024.
JEWELRY•GIFTS TUXEDO RENTAL
Tuesday thru Saturday 11 am - 9:30 pm Sunday 11 am - 9 pm napolis2020@hotmail.com
$
5 OFF 2
your purchase of 2 entrées Restrictions apply. One coupon per table. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Expires 2/29/2024.
for $
20
Up to 4 toppings, any size!
Restrictions apply. One coupon per table. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Expires 2/29/2024.
211 E. Grand Ponca City 580-762-1604
For your Valentine
Fine Jewelry • Thomas Blonde Kendra Scott Jewelry Fossil Leather & Watches Hobo Handbags • Capri Blue Consuela Handbags and Brighton Jewelry are on the way!
ALL FOSSIL LEATHER 25% OFF Great Selection of Ladies’ Handbags and Men’s Wallets
96%
PTC Boasts Positive Placement. Career Tech Education
WORKS!
pioneertech.edu 580.762.8336
FEBRUARY IS CTE MONTH!
Pioneer Technology Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex/gender, age, religion, disability or veteran status.
SPECIALIZING IN TIME-CRITICAL FREIGHT!
580-767-0000 • Fax: 888-892-2016 1379 N. Prentice Road • Ponca City Freightsharks.com 22 FEBRUARY 2024
• Hotshots, Flatbeds, Stepdecks, Vans & Power Only • Air-Ride Tractors and Trailers • Insured, including General Liability & Cargo • Licensed and Bonded Freight Broker
• Locally Owned, Minority Woman-Owned • Real-Time Satellite Tracking • 48-State Authority • Available 24/7
The Pioneer Genealogical Society
(PGS) was formed in April 1971. They are a group of like-minded citizens
from Ponca City and the surrounding area who value history and their
ancestry. According to their website,
PIONEER GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
Preserving Historical Treasures Chelsea McConnell, Staff Writer Photos from the archives of MyMediaMatters
they welcome anyone interested in the
discussion and exchange of information about genealogy. Their purpose is “to study methods available to members for genealogical research and to
develop and maintain ancestral records and family charts.” They achieve their
purpose through “informative programs, workshops and other events presented for the genealogist. PGS collects and
preserves both genealogical and related historical materials for public use. These
materials are available in the Genealogy Room of the Ponca City Library.”
PGS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and currently has between 80-100 members. Annual dues are only $15, and members receive a monthly newsletter to keep them apprised of club happenings. The Society maintains their website at pgskaycntyok.org/about-us, which contains reference information including lists of interments at local and area cemeteries. Nancy Stevenson is a longtime member of the Pioneer Genealogical Society and currently serves as Recording Secretary of the Board. She is a treasure trove of information when it comes to the Society and genealogy in general. The Society is often presented with queries from the public. These queries come from folks who have begun to dig into their family history but have hit what members of the Society call a “genealogy brick wall.” When stumped, it’s best to go to the experts. Stevenson
FEBRUARY 2024 23
says the group uses everything available to them to solve these genealogy mysteries. The Society has a dedicated room in the basement of the Ponca City Library where books and information are stored pertaining to genealogy. Stevenson says, “We have censuses on microfilm and a microfilm reader. There are a lot of local books. We have all the city directories before there were phone directories and all kinds of old records.” She goes on to share about the various online tools people can use to do research mentioning Find a Grave, Wikitree and more. (See reference list on Page 27). PGS has a member dedicated to handle such queries. The Society also prides itself on
24 FEBRUARY 2024
the programs they hold each month, which vary in topics both historical and genealogical in nature. A recent program was on the relative of a PGS member named Charlotte Cooley. Cooley trained as a nurse, joined the Air Force and spent two years nursing wounded soldiers on flights out of Tokyo during the Korean War. Another program covered the history of Arlington National Cemetery and
its past life as a plantation owned by Robert E. Lee’s wife, Mary Curtis Lee. The Society often brings in area experts on various aspects of Oklahoma history to speak at their programs. Past speakers have been on topics like the prisoner of war camps in Oklahoma during WWII and the Orphan Train Movement began by the government in 1854, relocating orphaned children from the East to the Midwest United
States. The Society recently hosted the director of the Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie, as well as a records expert from the Oklahoma Historical Society. As evidenced above, the programs are not just genealogy related, but also teach attendees about Oklahoma and United States history. These events are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend. Another fun event hosted by the Pioneer Genealogical Society is their annual Christmas party that was held on December 4, 2023. Each year members are encouraged to bring a historical item belonging to one of their ancestors for a sort of history show and tell. They also host Ancestor Fairs. Members are encouraged to make a poster about,
CHEVROLET • BUICK • GMC
AT F I R S T D R I V E When was the last time you drove a Buick? 2024 Buick Envista
3330 N. 14th • Ponca City 580-765-5595 • StutevillePonca.com FEBRUARY 2024 25
FEB. 25 at
What can we do for you?
OSAGE CASINO Cocktails at 6 pm Fashion Show at 7 pm
▲
s are available online @ urcenetwork.org via PayPal
▲
SAT., MARCH 2 at OSAGE CASINO
▲
Doors Open at 6 pm for Cocktails & Heavy Hors d’ Oeuvres Fashion Show at 7 pm
30 tickets available online @ survivorresourcenetwork.org
$
website design social media advertising in Ponca City Monthly Magazine
Don’t miss this fun event benefiting Survivor Resource Network!
fun ng rce
580-789-6640
Expert specialty care, just minutes away. • EAR, NOSE, & THROAT • ENDOCRINOLOGY • OB/GYN • OPHTHALMOLOGY • SLEEP MEDICINE
• CARDIOLOGY • GENERAL SURGERY • NONOPERATIVE ORTHOPEDICS • ONCOLOGY • HEMATOLOGY • UROLOGY
580.440.4110
580.765.0128
400 Fairview Ave.
- LAB SERVICES -
417 Fairview Ave.
See all of our locations and providers at stillwatermedical.com 26 FEBRUARY 2024
Online Resources Pioneer Genealogical Society pgskaycntyok.org
Find a Grave or bring items from, an ancestor to share with everyone in attendance. Both events foster sharing and preserving our history. When asked why she’s passionate about genealogy, Stevenson says, “I think genealogy is important. I think it would be a great school topic because of the research skills you learn. You have to distinguish between good and bad information. I think we need that these days. Plus, it’s making history relevant to you. My motto is ‘Life isn’t a candle shining briefly and gone; life is a torch that you pass on and on and on’.” The PGS meets on the first Monday
of each month at 7 p.m. in the program room in the basement of the Ponca City Library. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to attend the interesting programs hosted each month. There are no meetings in January or February. Current Board members are President, Jerry Cathey; Vice President, Norris Frederick; Treasurer, Colleen Fleming; Recording Secretary, Nancy Stevenson; Corresponding Secretary, Marvis Soucek; and Archivist, Karen Hunter. For more information about the Pioneer Genealogical Society, you can reach them via email at
pioneergenealogicalsociety@gmail.com
or visit their website at www.pgskaycntyok.org.
wikitree.com
Family Bibles biblerecords.com
Oklahoma Historical Society okhistory.org/research/genealogy and gateway.okhistory.org
Ancestry
ancestry.com
Family Search
familysearch.org/en/
WINTER IS HERE!
If buying or selling residential or commercial property is in your plans, I would
to assist you. Give me a call…
RUSS DIDLAKE 580.763.2760
findagrave.com
Wikitree
Call now for a complete furnace inspection!
580-762-9513
• Planned Maintenance Agreements • Residential & Commercial Service • Family-Owned & Operated • Duct Cleaning • Installation & Replacement • Free In-Home Estimates
russdidlake@kw.com
777 Legacy Trail Ponca City 580-765-0825 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
info@wardsac.com FEBRUARY 2024 27
First Lutheran’s Salad Luncheon The Women’s Guild of the First Lutheran Church of Ponca City was organized in 1925 and they held their first annual Valentine’s Luncheon in the early 1990’s. It has become so popular that it’s now held not only in the Fellowship Hall but also in the narthex of the church to accommodate all the attendees who come and go over the two-hour period. They even offer carry-out. The event is decorated in hearts and flowers with tables set up with pretty red and white tablecloths. There’s always a great variety of foods available - pasta, vegetables, gelatin, fruit, slaws, tossed and dessert salads. Kathy Brockhoff, a retired UPS driver, is the coordinator for this year’s luncheon. Kathy says church members are asked to help an antechamber, porch, or distinct area at the western entrance of some early Christian churches, separated off by a railing and used by catechumens, penitents, etc. an antechamber or large porch in a modern church.
bring salads with over 150 salads served to approximately 400 people. With the dedicated help from many (around 150) volunteers who spend approximately 680 hours, including eighth graders who help set up tables, the FLS Valentine’s Luncheon has become a truly successful annual fundraiser for the Guild. Proceeds from this year’s luncheon will be used for fellowship hall and kitchen items. THE SIGNATURE Hot Chicken Salad served at the annual Valentine Luncheon is shown nestled with a selection of salads from the delightful day. This year’s luncheon will be held Saturday, February 10.
Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
The following recipe is First Lutheran Church’s signature salad for their annual Valentine luncheon. Hot and crunchy – a delicious start on your way through their glorious smorgasbord of salad sensations.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
½ cup Slivered or Sliced Almonds ¼ cup chopped Onion ½ cup chopped Celery 1 (8-ounce) can sliced Water Chestnuts, drained 1 can Cream of Celery Soup (undiluted) 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (undiluted) 1 cup Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice 1 teaspoon Salt ¼ heaping teaspoon Pepper 4 cups cooked White Rice ¼ cup Chicken Broth (add to cooked rice, add more if too dry) 4 cups diced Cooked Chicken 2 cups crushed Potato Chips
1. In a large bowl, stir together almonds, onion, celery, chestnuts,
undiluted soups, mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in rice and broth mixture until well combined; gently stir in chicken. Pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap, then with foil and refrigerate overnight.
2. The next day, remove foil and plastic wrap. If the chicken salad looks moist, do not add more chicken broth; if it looks dry, heat leftover broth from stewing chicken and pour some overall, lightly stirring.
3. Top with potato chips. Bake at 400 degrees for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Cut in squares or dish up with an ice cream scoop. Yields 12 to 15 servings.
28 FEBRUARY 2024
VALENTINE’S SALAD LUNCHEON
SHOW SOME LOVE
to our local nonprofits.
February events include the Father-Daughter Dance, benefitting the Opportunity Center on Feb. 3rd and Punchlines for Paws, benefitting Northern Oklahoma Humane Society on Feb. 17th.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 11 AM -1 PM First Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall 1101 N. 4th, Ponca City
Featuring a variety of salads including Hot Chicken Salad, coffee and tea. Adults - $10 • School-age children - $5
Carl Renfro
Directors Brenda Renfro
President
Rich Cantillon
Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA
Ponca City Chamber, Retired
Rick Renfro
Jeff Cowan
Secretary, Restaurateur
RCB Bank, Retired
Cindy Gorrell
Jerod Helling
Vice President, Investments
Get smart about your discounts! Call me at 580-762-4461
KENNY WHEELER
RCB Bank, Market President
215 S. 14th Street Ponca City, OK 74601 Lic: #3000167216
T.L Walker
We are proud to support Ponca City 501c3 organizations through charitable grants.
Executive Director Standing Bear Foundation
Love our Residents!
Every spring the University Center helps dozens of individuals graduate with a degree.
We
LET US HELP YOU!
Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled • FREE Wi-Fi throughout building • Beautiful grounds and gardens • Friendly and caring staff • Rent based on income • 1 bedroom and efficiencies • Carpet and mini-blinds • Handicap-accessible units • Friendship Feast transportation • Meals on Wheels • Movie and game night • Potluck lunch
Visit www.ucponcacity.com to get started on your degree!
We take housing applications for the elderly and disabled. You must be at least 50 years of age or receiving disability benefits.
We do proctor online exams for students that take classes with other Universities.
Call for information or apply in person. 201 E. Broadway • Ponca City
580-762-4445
Office hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 3 pm
(Closed 12:30 pm - 1 pm)
2800 N. 14th Street • Ponca City • 580-718-5600 FEBRUARY 2024 29
CHAMBER BUZZ
Story by Shelley Arrott, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce CEO | Contributing Writer
As quickly as 2024 arrived, we are bidding farewell to the swift wings of January! Let’s reflect on the progress of the goals we established for the new year and allow February to check our compass and the pace of our journey so that it unfolds with promise!
N – Networking: It is not just who you know; it’s who others know! Networking is a powerful tool for building your business and connections.
With the vision of our 2024 Chamber Chair, Kelsey Wagner, we are striving to create a new Chamber experience with ideas from her “Invest in Success” campaign as we journey toward meeting our new goals. Embracing a dynamic shift, our Chamber is redefining relationships and amplifying engagement by transforming our valued Ponca City Area Chamber Members into strategic Ponca City Area Chamber Investors. Our goal is to forge a path where collective success is brought about by the investment of time, resources and knowledge to lead Ponca City to a future of growth and prosperity. We are elevating your Ponca City Chamber status from member to investor because success is not joined … it’s invested. Your investment in the Chamber is an investment in our community and sets the standard for excellence.
M – Marketing: Our Chamber provides numerous ways to showcase an investor’s business or organization.
Along with the “Invest for Success” campaign, we are thrilled to roll out the acronym NAMES, which serves as the rallying call for the collaborative spirit that redefines our Chamber community. Build NAMES for your business and our community with the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce!
30 FEBRUARY 2024
A – Advocacy: The Chamber publicly advocates for everyone!
E – Educate: The Chamber offers workshops, seminar and other resources to help investors improve their business and our community. S – Sales: Sales in Ponca City are promoted and impacted through the Chamber’s Shop Ponca First Campaigns. By the time of this publication, EVERY household in Ponca City has either received, or will be receiving shortly, our 2024 Ponca City Chamber of Commerce Directory, which details our revised 2024 Chamber Business Plan and the specifics of what it means to build NAMES by investing in the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce. Every new resident in Ponca City receives a copy of the directory as well through the utility department of the city. This amazing and beautifully designed resource provides the Ponca City Information Guide, our Chamber Investor Directory, highlights our attractions and offers a host of other wonderful resources and information about Ponca City to everyone. The
Front row (l-r): Rick Hancock, Immediate Past Chair; Kelsey Wagner, Chair; Ashley Miller, Vice Chair; back row (l-r) Brad Fox, Treasurer; J Berry Harrison, Chair-Elect.
Chamber Directory is not just a map for Chamber investors; it is for all community stakeholders to unlock connectivity and unite Ponca City. Another Chamber activity that is abuzz in February, is our February
Receipt Campaign, which is a piece of our Shop Ponca First initiative. The February Receipt Campaign promotes shopping locally for ALL Ponca City retail businesses, whether they are Chamber investors or not. Consumers shopping at any retail business in Ponca City during February simply collect their receipts and bring them to the Chamber Office for drawings for one $500 and five $100 Chamber Bucks prizes. Be sure to write your name and phone number on the receipt, drop it off at the Chamber office and we will draw for prizes at 5 p.m. on Thurs., Feb. 29, 2024. You don’t have to listen to or watch anything; we will call you! As you are reflecting on your 2024 goals this month, consider joining the journey of investing in the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce. Your investment in the Chamber isn’t just a contribution; it’s a commitment to working together, because building a vibrant community requires each of us to work in tandem. #InvestinSuccess
WIN WW
ROCKIN’ DUET! Valentine’s Day W W Limitoffer one (1) per month. tooffer Players Club. See Players Club for details.
$20 Free Play + Street Nachos
Valentine’s Day W W February 14th | 3pm-9pm February 14th ❘ 3pm-9pm Valid for up to two (2) guests. Each guest receives a $20 Free Play plus one (1) FREE appetizer to share at the restaurant. Must present offer to Players Club.
Dinner for Two! Juicy 8 oz. ribeye with two snow crab clusters. Served with baked potato, salad and New York $ Dinner for ❘Two! 60 Juicy 8oz. ribeye with cheesecake. two snow crab clusters. Served with potato, salad and New York cheesecake. | $60
EAT. play. win. PRESIDENTS BRAMAN
I-35, EXIT 231
February 19thDAY | 10a PRESIDENTS’ February 19th 10am-10pm
Rock this Presidents’ Day with ❘ Bluetooth p RockSantana this Presidents’ Day with our Speakers Earn & Earn 30 points to score your sp Get Santana Bluetooth Speakers promotion. Earnsupplies 30 points to score speaker. While Club last.your See Players *With Harves Hosts membership. Some restrictions apply.
Earn a Santana Bluetooth Speaker.
*With Harves Hosts membership. Some restrictions apply.
supplies last. See Players Club for details.
* FREE! Dog Park FREE! RV Boondocking I-3 Y Y * FREE! Dog Park Y FREE! RV Boondocking Y I-35 at Exit 231 FREE! Dog Park Y FREE! RV Boondocking* Y I-3 *With Harvest
*With Harvest Hosts membership. Some restrictions apply.
FEBRUARY 2024 31
*With Harvest
1974-2024
CUSTOM ENGRAVED PRODUCTS ON WOOD, METAL, LEATHER, GLASS, AND ACRYLICS EMAIL PAIGE@PONCAAPLUS.COM OR CALL 580-765-7752 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 119 N. 3RD ST | PONCA CITY, OK 74604 a niche product of a plus printing
Ponca City, OK
STOP BREEDING SPAY & NEUTER
Treat your Valentine to lunch or dinner and a piece of original art on display and for sale in our lounge, by local artist, Chelsea McConnell.
Reservations online @ RustyBarrellSupperClub.com or by calling 580-765-6689
Fall in Love with a New Honda this February!
Serving with
Affordable and Dignified Services.
Ridgeline
We feel you should pay respect, not your life savings.
0.9%* Accord - 2.9%* CR-V and Civic
3.9%*
*APR with approved credit
INVEST YOUR TAX REFUND IN A NEW HONDA TODAY!
Amy Stittsworth Funeral Service and Cremation Directors
Attractive financing options with rates starting at 0.9%. W.A.C.
Stop by soon!
580-233-9500
Cremations starting at $945 00 Funerals starting at $3,295 00 32 FEBRUARY 2024
Bill Stittsworth, FDIC & Amy Stittsworth, Owner
Honda
3415 N. 14th St. • Ponca City 580-762-6636 www.cannonhonda.com WE ARE STILL BUYING CARS!
Cocktail
OF THE MONTH
LOVE Mixed
R E D R & MU
by J
r
ff Write
e/Sta ill Row
My love for the finer things occasionally clashes with the reality of my bank account. But mark my words, when it comes to cocktails, I draw the line at boring. Under no circumstances will I willingly endure the torture of a mundane cocktail. After doing some research on Valentine’s Day cocktails I stumbled across an interesting creation, lured in solely by its name – the Love and Murder. Conjured up by the masterful Nick Bennett, at Porchlight in New York City in 2021, the Love and Murder is a delightful deviation from the ordinary. The unlikely pairing of Campari and green Chartreuse takes center stage, defying the conventional roles they usually play in the cocktail world. Instead of supporting actors, they become the dynamic duo, crafting a drink that’s both classic and modern. The intriguing blend of ingredients piqued my curiosity, and there was no way I could resist giving it a shot. I armed myself with locally sourced ingredients and returned home on a determined mission. I followed the original recipe diligently, mixing equal parts Campari, green Chartreuse and lime juice. After a vigorous shake, strained it into a coupe glass, took a bold sip, and well, let’s just say the initial reaction was a resounding “BLEH!”
As this drink falls under the category of a sour cocktail, I revisited the tried-and-true sour ratio: 3/4 oz sour, 3/4 oz sugar, 2 oz spirit. After shaking up the updated version and straining it into a glass, the result was considerably more enjoyable. Although still slightly sweet, I sensed the need for a little extra oomph. A quick fix? Adding 1/2 oz of gin, and voilà, problem solved! Crafting your own drink comes with some classic guidelines. Here’s a pro move: blend equal amounts of citrus and sugar to create a sip that’s harmoniously delicious. Get too heavy-handed with one, and your drink becomes a chooseyour-own-taste adventure! The Love and Murder is an interesting mix of sweet, tart, bitter and herbal notes. It’s a paradox—I both love and hate it simultaneously. Once, while I was bar tending, I offered a customer a tasting flight of various beers on tap to help him find what he liked. After sipping one, the customer remarked (in a thick Oklahoma accent), “Well ... it’s not for me, but I’m glad it exists in the world.” His insight struck a chord. Not every flavor is everyone’s cup of tea, but if it’s yours, I’m genuinely thrilled. Cheers to embracing the unique tastes that make the world of cocktails so wonderfully diverse!
OF VERSION JILL’S SION OF L’S VER JIL
urder Murder ove & M LLove
Campari oz Cam 3/4 oz pari 3/4 Chartreuse Green oz 3/4 rtreuse Cha en Gre oz 3/4 Vodka Gin oz 1/2 ka Vod or Gin oz 1/2 Syrup Simple 3/4 up ple Syr oz Sim 3/4 oz Juice Lime oz 3/4 ce Jui e Lim oz 3/4 Pinch Salt of Salt Pinch of and ice and with ice shaker with Add into aa shaker ingredients into all ingredients Add all glass. pe cou a into Strain into a coupe glass. shake chilled.Strain wellchilled. untilwell shakeuntil
FEBRUARY 2024 33
For more tasty food fun, check out @foodcrushok on IG and Facebook. pics than about how they taste. It’s always a treat to find a place that puts flavor first, where it belongs. The beauty of a burger is its flexibility, and Arthur’s is successfully using that advantage to its full potential. Arthur’s, named after Brandon’s grandfather, is comfortable, friendly and the red dirt music and rodeo on the TVs take me back to growing up. There are loads of great bars that do burgers and tons of great burger joints that know a thing or two about serving up good drinks. Arthur’s does both and does them both well. Happy Eating!! ________________________ Arthur’s
is located at 402 W. Dewey Ave., Blackwell 580.262.2400
Arthur’s
Story & Photos By Amy Dewitt Geurin | Contributing Writer The allure of a warm, casual, neighborhood joint lovingly run by hometown folks is hard to resist. Throwing in a small, but well executed, menu of burgers and bar food makes staying away impossible. Our love affair with burgers started long ago and thanks to places like Arthur’s that won’t change anytime soon. Tucked away on the corner of 3rd Street and Dewey in Blackwell is a cozy bar and grill that can be missed if you’re not looking for it. Housed in the former Harvey’s Meat Market, Brandon and Sabrina Ward are dishing out a simple, yet delicious, menu of burgers, wings, fries and snacks since opening in September of 2023, and they aren’t slowing down. The Ray’s Rattler is a bang of a burger. Locally sourced beef that is mixed specifically for Arthur’s is cooked on a flat top and squeezed between two slices of grilled Texas toast.
34 FEBRUARY 2024
This quarter-pound patty is loaded with pepperjack cheese, a secret, spicy sauce and a relish that I order on the side (fair warning, there are pickles in the relish). Not afraid of a little spice, this burger has a tasty kick without blowing your head off. Go wild and order your fries dirty. Speaking of dirty fries. Seasoned and smothered with pepperjack and Colby jack cheeses, grilled onions and crispy bacon, these fries are the ultimate potato comfort food. I’m not 100% sure exactly what they’re doing with these fries, but I know I’m here for it. Don’t look past the Arthur’s burger, two patties sandwiched in a grilled beer pub bun and topped with smoked gouda, garlic aioli mayo and house-made balsamic bacon jam. Read that again, bacon jam. Jam of bacon. Seems as though burgers have become more about how they look for social media
Top Three For Me The Lucas Diablo. A smoked sausage, split, grilled and topped with grilled onions, the same spicy sauce that’s on the Rattler, and encased in a pretzel hoagie roll. Clean restrooms with Burt Reynolds prominently displayed on the ladies’ room walls. Denise’s soon-to-befamous Bloody Mary. Order it.
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Monday & Tuesday Check out Arthur’s menu on Facebook and Instagram and at ArthursBar.net
If You Find Yourself In …
Pickles – After expressing my disdain for pickles in last month’s article (see “If you find yourself in Denver…”), let’s talk about it. I get that pickles are a very lovable and popular food. They’re the wingman to lots of tasty foods. They’re super overpowering and they smell terrible, probably because they swim in their own vinegary juice and that’s disgusting. The worst? Those ginormous, whole dill pickles that are room temperature at sporting events. Stop. Bread and butter pickles? Lies. These are neither bread nor butter. This pickle is masquerading as one of the best foods of all time just to grab your attention. Delicious food does not need to do that. Regardless of how much hell I catch, I will not waiver. Pickles are atrocious. Every briny last one of them.
J.W. COBB’S Family RESTAURANT
3200 N. 14th • Ponca City • 580-762-8525 Hours: Monday thru Saturday 7 am - 9 pm
Serving “Made-From-Scratch” Meals Since 1987!
B Baker Material & Supply M • Manufactured Stone/Natural Stone S • Segmental Retaining Wall Blocks/Pavers
RETAINING WALLS
Bring your Valentine in for a great homemade meal anytime. ❤❤❤❤❤
• Installation available • Local references • Free consultation/ estimates • Residential/ commercial
Follow us on Facebook for Valentine’s Specials!
DAILY SPECIALS SERVED ALL DAY
in addition to our menu!
MONDAY Ham & Beans Chicken & Noodles
TUESDAY Liver & Onions Salisbury Steak
WEDNESDAY
Burrito Supreme Hot Beef Sandwich Taco Salad Beef Nachos
THURSDAY
Bone-In Fried Chicken Meatloaf Smothered Chicken
LLC
FRIDAY
Fried Catfish Salmon Patties Popcorn Shrimp
THURS: All-American Buffet 10:30 am - 2 pm FRI: BBQ Buffet 4-9 pm • Salad Bar 4-9 pm SATURDAY: Breakfast Buffet 7-11 am • Baked Potato Bar 4-9 pm • Salad Bar 4-9 pm
• Stone veneer • Indoor/outdoor fireplace veneer • Outdoor kitchens • Patios and firepits • Home accents
Call today! Kevin Baker - Ponca City
580-762-7834 405-627-0739
baker6325@sbcglobal.net
Benefits of Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV)…
Less expensive product, adds instant value & curb appeal to your home More fire-resistant than most products • Consistent quality & versatile Long-lasting and durable • Low maintenance • Range of colors & styles
Representing Quality Products and Service!
445 Fairview Avenue • Ponca City • (580) 762-9102
Our patients mean the world to us, and we are committed to providing quality, compassionate care. That’s why we are so honored to be the area’s ONLY 5-star quality rated hospice provider. If you’re looking for the very best care for your loved one, look no further than your community-owned nonprofit hospice – Hospice of North Central Oklahoma. FEBRUARY 2024 35
Need a primary care provider? Give us a call.
TRIAD COMPLETE HEALTHCARE
2703 N. 14th • Ponca City
Serving your
PRIMARY CARE needs!
Call 580-765-9451 to schedule your appointment! 36 FEBRUARY 2024
WOMEN’S COMPLETE HEALTHCARE
Offering Gynecology & Obstetrics
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Dr. Reid Habla Español.
We would love to have you as a patient! 119 PATTON DR. PONCA CITY Across from the hospital
CALL 580-749-7845 TODAY!
Full-Time OBGYN SEAN REID
4D ULTRASOUND available exclusively to our patients.
Let us take care of your pediatric needs.
117 Patton Drive • Ponca City Across from the hospital
– Ages newborn thru 18 years –
KARI ELLIOT, DNP
CALL 580-382-9465 TODAY! FEBRUARY 2024 37
12-Month Healthy Challenge |
IT’s T
mi e To Love
Story by Kelli Northcutt| Contributing Writer
Every 34 seconds in the United States an adult dies from cardiovascular disease and, surprising or not, it’s
largely preventable. Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States, equaling about the same number of deaths from cancer, respiratory diseases and accidents COMBINED. Men are at a higher risk of dying from heart disease when they are younger, but after menopause, the risk for women’s heart disease increases considerably. There is a combination of risk factors that can lead to heart disease. Some of the factors are unchangeable for you – like your sex, age or genetics. Many of the risk factors, though, have to do with your lifestyle and can be modified by you to decrease your risk!
• Cholesterol Levels – According to the American Heart
Association, cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. Your liver makes all of the cholesterol your body needs, but you also consume cholesterol when you eat food from animals, like meat and dairy products. There are two kinds of cholesterol, LDL considered “bad cholesterol” and HDL, or good cholesterol. You can remember the two because you want your LDL to be LOW and your HDL to be HIGH. You need to have your cholesterol checked periodically, and based on your results, you can change your diet to improve your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for heart disease.
• Blood Pressure – high blood pressure often has no symptoms
and is often called the “silent killer.” Your blood pressure needs to be routinely monitored.
• Smoking – One of the best things you can do for your heart
health is not to use any form of tobacco. Smoking causes inflammation in your arteries so it is easier for plaque to build up and it can also lead to more blood clots which create blockages in your arteries.
• Diabetes – This is a condition of high blood sugar. People who have diabetes are twice as likely to have a heart attack as those without diabetes.
38 FEBRUARY 2024
A science lesson: cardiovascular disease is essentially the process of plaque (deposits of cholesterol and other substances) building up in an artery, especially those around the heart. These build-ups can cause blockages in these crucial arteries causing a decrease of blood flow to the muscle of the heart. These blockages are what cause heart attacks. Adults, ages 40-79, are encouraged to determine their risk for cardiovascular disease to help prevent a heart attack. There is a simple online tool you can use to calculate your risk for a heart attack, stroke or dying from cardiovascular disease in the next 10 years. If the calculator determines you have less than a 5% risk, you are considered low risk; a 5-20% risk is considered intermediate risk; and greater than 20% is considered high risk. You will need to know your blood pressure, HDL, LDL and total cholesterol levels to complete the online calculator which can be found at: mplsheart.org/risk-estimator or scan the QR code here.
Small improvements in your lifestyle can help to control the risk factors above and will decrease your risk for heart disease.
1. Eating Heart Healthy - by increasing your intake of plant-
based foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains and decreasing your intake of sodium, sugars and meat, especially red or processed meats.
2. Be Active – strive for 150 minutes of physical activity every week (this is 30 minutes on five days). If 30 minutes of activity is too difficult, start with three ten-minute periods of physical activity spread throughout the day.
3. Manage Stress – taking action to decrease your stress can lower your blood pressure, improve your sleep and increase your healthy behaviors.
4. Focus On Positive Social Connections – connecting with others regularly decreases anxiety, depression and heart disease.
Up to 80% of heart disease can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Small changes, kept consistently over time, can change your heart and save your life!
Here’s an Idea…
Put the Valentine’s flowers in the front seat of the new car you know she deserves.
Best Valentine’s gift ever!
2415 N. 14th • Ponca City • 580-765-5533 StutevilleFordPonca.com • StutevilleLincoln.com FEBRUARY 2024 39
time for a fiscal check-up check-up check-up Now is the time for a fiscal check-up Markets fluctuate. Markets fluctuate. finances and investments line up with your life goals and retirement expectations.
Best Selection of Gifts for Your Valentine!
Call todayexcuses for a free consultation, and we’ll No for not how your Nomore more excuses for notknowing knowing how your explore investment strategies designed to life finances and investments line up with your finances andexcuses investments line up with No more for not knowing howyour yourlife help you protect yourself today, tomorrow and goals and retirement expectations. goals and retirement expectations. and investments line up with your life intofinances the future. goals and retirement expectations. Call and we’ll Calltoday todayfor foraafree freeconsultation, consultation, and we’ll explore strategies for protecting yourself and explore investment strategies designed to Call today for a free consultation, and we’ll helping you prosper today, tomorrow help you protect yourself today, tomorrow and explore investment strategies designed to and into the future. No more excuses for not knowing how your intohelp theyou future. protect yourself today, tomorrow and finances and investments up with your life We’re with you every step of theline way. into the future. We’re We’re with with you you every step of the way.
20% OFF
Russell Stover Candy
Relationships Relationshipsshouldn’t. shouldn’t.
Cash (or check) and Carry
goals and retirement expectations.
FA Name Call today for aAdvisors free consultation, Wells Fargo ,Title LLC and we’ll Compliance-Approved Ferguson, Mulligan & Poet, LLC explore investment strategies designed to Address and Suite Number (580) 762-6890 • 1926 Lake Road • Ponca City, OK 74604 help you protect yourself City Name, State Zip today, tomorrow and XXX-XXX-XXXX • 8XX-XXX-XXXX into the future.
25% OFF
Best Selection of
Markets fluctuate. Relationships shouldn’t.
Men’s and Women’s Cologne
(580) 762-6890
Toni’s
Web or E-mail Address FA Name 1926 Lake Road FA Name Compliance-Approved Title Investment and Insurance Products:Pat u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Craig Guarantee u MAY Lose Value George Ferguson: Mulligan: Poet: Bryant Ferguson: FA Name Suite #3 Address and Suite Number Compliance-Approved Title Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells & Company. Financial Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells FargoFargo & Company. Managing Senior Financial Senior Financial Compliance-Approved Title ©2010 LLC. All reserved. FargoWellsCity, OK 74604 ©2010Wells WellsFargo FargoAdvisors, Advisors, LLC.Name, Allrights rights reserved. 1010-2902 [74021-v2]A1266 A1266 ~WellsPonca City State Zip1010-2902 Address and Suite Number[74021-v2] Principal Advisor Advisor Advisor Address and Suite Number We’re with you every of way. xxx-xxx-xxxx • 8XX-XXX-XXXX City Name,step State Zipthe (580) 762-6890 City Name, State Zip Web or E-mail Address XXX-XXX-XXXX • 8XX-XXX-XXXX XXX-XXX-XXXX • 8XX-XXX-XXXX Web orSuite E-mail #3, Address 1926 Lake Road, Ponca City, OK 74604 Web or E-mail Address Investmentand andInsurance InsuranceProducts: Products: u NOT Insuredu NOuBank NO Bank Guarantee MAYValue Lose Value Investment u NOT FDICFDIC Insured Guarantee u MAYuLose
Investment and Insurance Products:u NOT u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value Investment and Insurance Products: FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value WellsFargo FargoAdvisors Advisors, LLC, Member isby registered and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Fargo Advisors thetrade trade nameSIPC, used byatwo two separate registered Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and LAdvisors, to R:[Practice Craig Investment Insurance Products: ubroker-dealer NOT FDICbroker-dealers: Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value Wells isisand the name used separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Poet Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered Wells LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo &&Company. Name] ©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 0509-2351 [74021-v1] Investment and Insurance Products: u NOTbroker-dealers: FDIC Insured uFargo NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates ofA1266 Wells Fargo Company. [Practice Name] separate entity WFAFN. ©2010 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, All 0512-3417 A1015 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates ofLLC. Wells Fargo &reserved. Company. [Practice Name] & Patrick Mulligan, Fargo Advisors, LLC,Member Member SIPC, registered broker-dealer and a rights separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Fargo Advisors, LLC, SIPC, isisa aregistered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of[74029-v3] Wells Fargo & Company. isisWells aaseparate entity ofofWFAFN. ©2013 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC. All rightsreserved. 1113-03428 [74029-v4] A1015 Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, registered broker-dealer a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Wells Advisors, Member SIPC, isisa aregistered broker-dealer a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. is a separate entity ofFargo WFAFN. ©2010LLC, Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC. and All and rights reserved. 0512-3417 [74029-v3] A1015 ©2010 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All reserved. 1010-2902 [74021-v2] A1266 ~Wells FargoWells ©2010 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. Allrights rights reserved. 1010-2902 [74021-v2] A1266 Name ©2010 Advisors, LLC. ~Wells FargoWells ©2010Wells WellsFargo FargoFA Advisors, LLC.All Allrights rightsreserved. reserved.1010-2902 1010-2902[74021-v2] [74021-v2]A1266 A1266Financial Advisors;
Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Compliance-Approved Title Member SIPC. Ferguson, Mulligan & Poet, Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), George Ferguson, Address and Suite Number LLC is a separate entity from WFAFN. CAR-0323-03558 AD Branch Manager, City Name, State Zip XXX-XXX-XXXX • 8XX-XXX-XXXX Web or E-mail Address
Vice President
L to R: Craig Poet & Patrick Mulligan, Financial Advisors; Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee George Ferguson, Managing Principal
u MAY Lose Value
Fargo Advisors, Advisors,LLC, LLC,Member MemberSIPC, SIPC,isisa aregistered registered broker-dealer a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells & Company. Wells Fargo broker-dealer andand a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells FargoFargo & Company. ©2010 Wells All 1010-2902 A1266 ~Wells FargoWells ©2010 WellsFargo Fargo Advisors,LLC. LLC. Allrights rightsureserved. reserved. 1010-2902 [74021-v2] A1266 Investment and Advisors, Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured [74021-v2] u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value Advisors is the the trade trade name nameused usedbybytwo twoseparate separateregistered registeredbroker-dealers: broker-dealers: Wells Wells Fargo Fargo Advisors, Advisors, LLC, and and Wells Fargo Wells Fargo Advisors Advisors Financial Network, LLC,Network, MembersLLC, SIPC, non-bank liates of Wells Fargo & Company. Poet, LLC is a Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Members SIPC,affinon-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo &Ferguson, Company.Mulligan [Practice&Name] isseparate a separate entity of WFAFN. ©2013Wells WellsFargo FargoAdvisors AdvisorsFinancial FinancialNetwork, Network,LLC. LLC.AllAllrights rights reserved. 1113-03428[74029-v4] [74029-v4]A1015 A1015 entity of WFAFN. ©2013 reserved. 1113-03428
40 FEBRUARY 2024
Valentine’s Greeting Cards Huge Selection!
❤ Best Selection of Jewelry… Necklaces, Earrings and More ❤
WESTSIDE DRUG & RX
3-Generation Family Tradition
301 W. Grand • Ponca City • (580) 765-4456 Hours: Monday - Friday 8-6 and Saturday 8-2
Get Fit!
WITH
KERA KESTER
Hello friends! I don’t know about you, but what a whirlwind of a time these last couple of months have been. I hope that you have been settling into the new year well! February brings us many important topics to think on, such as Black History Month, President’s Day and Valentine’s Day, of course! However, this month also holds another significant subject – American Heart Month. Our heart pumps life into our bodies. Love songs, romantic novels, and the like express our heart to be the love container that we share from. These are just two of the many reasons why taking good care of it is crucial. It is my absolute joy to leave you with some facts, as well as tips on developing and/or maintaining good physical and internal heart health!
Fact 1: Heart disease is one of the top three leading causes of death in America. Tip: A healthy and balanced diet will do wonders for you! Make sure the bulk of your food consumption is vegetables, fruits and protein. You can eyeball it by fractionating your plate or use apps to log and track your intake. Unsustainably strict restriction of processed or junk foods may not work for you. So, remember that having a not so nutritious food product or meal every once in a while is nothing to beat yourself up over! Fact 2: Heart disease costs the United States billions of dollars each year. Tip: Invest in your health! Put money toward a gym membership or healthy food products instead of possibly giving your money to doctor bills, medicines or other similar services in
Need Valentine’s Cash? Come See Us!
M ak
WIN-CO FINANCE
lity! LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
580-767-1040 www.jfkcpa.net
222 E. Grand Avenue, Ponca City Equity Bank Bldg, Suite 200
International & Domestic Travel
416 W. Grand • Ponca City • 580-767-1200
Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday 9 am - noon
Tamra Newlin, Mgr.•Natosha Barnett, Asst. Mgr.•Diana Almanza, Asst. Mgr.
We offer cash loans starting at $18747 Most approvals in 15 minutes or less!
Bad Credit, No Credit, Previous Bankruptcies, ALL WELCOME!
Don’t prejudge your credit • $20 Referral Bonuses Paid
Julie & Todd Sheffield
580-763-7617 or 580-763-3242 sheffieldtravelagency.com
Suprise your Valentine with a trip to Europe!
TRAVEL AGENCY
• Groups • Cruises • Vacation Packages • Excursions • Destination Weddings • Honeymoons • Guided Tours • Hotels/Resorts/Villas/ Homes/Condos • Travel Insurance • Cars Like us on
Affiliate of Cruises & Tour Unlimited FL ST#ST15578/CA ST#2090937-50
Don’t Judge Your Credit, You’re a WINNER with WIN-CO!ing Your Dreams a Rea
• Consulting Services • Tax Preparation • Payroll Services • Bookkeeping • Monthly Accounting
FEBRUARY 2024 41
the future. You can also invest for free by simply going to a walking trail or outside park to get some movement in! The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week. Add in good nutrition and some weight lifting and you’ve got a beautiful recipe for being sufficiently fit.
Give someone a compliment, a listening ear or a good laugh every 33 seconds. Ambush someone with a fun tickle or loving bear hug every 40 seconds. It is very hard to not crack a smile yourself as you get the good feelings and burst of confidence that come from being generous and kind. It may sound corny but if your love and cheer can be the spark of health that someone needs, then it is definitely worth it!
Fact 3: In the United States, one person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease and someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.
The heart can be an unfathomable dichotomy of things. Strong, but vulnerable. Broken, but physically in one piece. Deceitful, but truth telling. Its complexity necessitates good stewardship. Take care of yourselves and show love to the beautiful humans we share this earth with! As always, I pray nothing but prosperity, growth and love for you all. Happy February!
Tip: Do your part in rewriting the statistics! Share the importance of heart health knowledge. Be an example of how to properly tend to the heart. It is widely known that a joyful heart is good medicine, so spread joy every chance that you get!
by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS 1. Plays a part in a film 5. Trace of smoke or fog 9. They're borrowed from libraries 14. Visit a mall 15. Worship from ___ (adore secretly) 16. Renee's role in "Chicago" 17. Fly out of an airport (3 wds.) 19. Like some gases in the periodic table 20. Rub out a pencil mark 21. They're filled at filling stations (2 wds.) 23. "Oh, yeah? ___ who?" 24. ___ de Janeiro 27. Greek letter that looks like an X 28. Lose quality, as a TV show (3 wds.) 34. Vampire's attack 37. Small green veggie 38. Mandel of "America's Got Talent" 39. Give off, as a radio signal 40. Sarcastic facial expression 43. Brazilian soccer legend 44. Two-person swordfights 46. ___-ray disc (DVD alternative) 47. Adam and Eve's garden 48. Occur suddenly, as an idea (3 wds.) 52. It's pumped into footballs 53. 60 minutes after noon 54. Evil 57. Relating to fatherhood 62. Largest artery in the body 64. Word before rights or opportunity 65. Heavy hinged item in a bank (2 wds.) 68. Hospital staffer 69. Rebounded sound 70. Enjoy the evening meal 71. Unclothed 72. Departed
42 FEBRUARY 2024
73. Toy for a snowy slope
1
DOWN 1. Bonfire remains 2. Task for a child 3. November birthstone 4. Restorative resorts 5. ___mart (Target rival) 6. "...___ woodchuck could chuck wood" (2 wds.) 7. Performed on "The Voice" 8. Offer a sermon 9. England-born 10. ___ Chaplin of "Game of Thrones" 11. Plow-pulling beasts 12. Shatner's "Star Trek" captain 13. Complete collections 18. Its capital is Lima 22. That woman 25. Mischievous fairies 26. Start admitting customers 28. Martial arts star in 2020's "Mulan" (2 wds.) 29. Exercise plan with elements of karate (2 wds.) 30. Wished earnestly (for) 31. Extremely impressed 32. Make mad 33. Sharp, as a knife or razor 34. Cribs and cots, e.g. 35. "Stop trying to wake me" (2 wds.) 36. Wedding cake layer 41. "Sesame Street" giggler 42. Totally destroy 45. Imitated an angry guard dog 49. Martini liquor 50. Go sightseeing 51. Tidy 54. Cook a steak in an oven 55. Make amends (for) 56. Issued a challenge to
14
2
3
4
5
6
9
18
24
25
26
28 35
41
45
48
31
32
33
54
55
56
43 47
50
51
52 59
42
46 49
58
30 38
40
44
13
27
37
39
12
22
29
36
11
19 21
23
10
16
20
57
8
15
17
34
7
53
60
61
62
63
64
65
68
69
70
71
72
73
57. Teller's magic partner 58. Seawater color 59. Resident of Ankara 60. "___ on Down the Road" ("The Wiz" tune)
66
67
61. Bridal gown trim 63. Gambling statistics 66. TV broadcasting band (Abbr.) 67. Parking ___ (valet's workplace)
Answer on page 54
FEB. 29 IS LEAP DAY
ARMOR Against ATM Fees Nationwide VISIT US: Equity Bank - Downtown 222 E Grand Avenue Suite 101 (580) 718-9990
Equity Bank - NorthPark 802 E Prospect Avenue (580) 718-4100
Equity Bank - Plaza 1417 E Hartford Avenue (580) 718-4150
equitybank.com/armor FEBRUARY 2024 43
Stew On That by Rachel Stewart / Contributing Writer
Sometimes I feel sorry for my husband. Not for normal life things, like being stressed at work or when he stubs his toe on the coffee table, but sometimes I feel sorry for him because he’s married to me. I wonder if he thinks back to that poor guy back in 2008 who invited me to drink Natural Light with him at a bonfire and wants to tell him “Don’t do it, man.” He just had to console me the other day because I saw a dead raccoon on the road and I cried. (If you’re wondering if I cried just writing about this, yes, yes, I did. He had a family out there and just never went home to them one day. There is nothing sadder than that.) One time
I made him turn the car around so we could pull over and look at a baby horse and yes, I also cried about that. (He was so little and cute and wobbly, it was the best day of my life, including the birth of my children and my wedding day.) I just never stop crying, really, which is terribly annoying to me so I can imagine how he feels. I regularly give him the container of fries I’ve eaten out of on the way home, and then keep the full container of fries for myself. If he doesn’t want to try a bite of my food that I ordered at a restaurant I get irate and force feed it to him against his will, but I never will try a bite of his food (sorry, I’m better at ordering than he is, that isn’t my fault.) Everyone wants a bite of parmesan-crusted salmon on a bed of fluffy risotto, no one wants a greasy burger made of weird meat. When he’s in the other room I’ll holler at him to come here, and then say “Since you’re
up will you get me a glass of water?” I’ll politely insist he rub my feet after a long day, but if he even takes his socks off near me, I’ll threaten to call the police. I get mad at him when I’m hungry, but he’s not hungry (Why did you eat without me?!) and I also get mad at him when I suggest we do something (go out to eat, remodel a bathroom, take a vacation) and he agrees but he doesn’t EXCITEDLY agree. (FINE THEN, FORGET IT if you aren’t going to be excited about it!!!!) But just about the moment I’m acting crazy and feeling sorry for him, I’ll think back to 2008 to that poor girl who said “I love Natural Light and bonfires!” and tell her “No, ma’am, you don’t!” because he has So. Many. More. annoying habits than I do, and he is so incredibly lucky to be married to me.
You could get up to
YouYou could could getget up to up to You could get up to within minutes of filing with a Refund Advance loan at H&R Block. Offer available: Jan. 2 – Feb. 29
within within minutes minutes of filing of filing with with a a within minutes of H&R filing with a Refund Refund Advance Advance loan loan at at H&R Block. Block.
No interest. No loan fees. No kidding.
No interest. No interest. No loan No loan fees. fees. No interest. No No kidding. Nokidding. loan fees. Visit us at No kidding.
2120 N 14TH ST, PONCA CITY, OK 74601 580-765-4101
This is an optional tax refund-related loan from Pathward®, N.A.; it is not your tax refund. Loans are offered in amounts of $250, $500, $750, $1,250 or $3,500. Approval and loan amount 2120 N 2120 14TH ST, N 14TH based on expected refund amount, eligibility criteria, and underwriting. If approved, funds will be disbursed as directed to a prepaid card or checking account at Pathward. The loan amountST, will be deducted from your tax refund, reducing the refund amount paid directly to you. Tax returns may be e-filed without applying for this loan. Fees for other optional products or product features PONCA CITY, OK 74601 PONCA CITY, OK 74601 2120 N 14TH ST, may apply. Limited time offer at participating locations. HRB Maine License No. FRA2. OBTP#13696-BR. ©2023 HRB Tax Group, Inc. 580-765-4101 580-765-4101 PONCA CITY, OK 74601 Visit us at
Refund Advance loan at H&R Block.
Offer Offer available: available: Jan.Jan. 2 – Feb. 2 – Feb. 29 29
VisitVisit us atus at
Offer available: Jan. 2 – Feb. 29
580-765-4101
anThis optional is an optional tax refund-related tax refund-related loan fromloan Pathward®, from Pathward®, N.A.; it isN.A.; not your it is not tax your refund. taxLoans refund.are Loans offered areinoffered amounts in amounts of $250,of$500, $250,$750, $500,$1,250 $750,or $1,250 $3,500. or $3,500. ApprovalApproval and loanand amount loan amount is an optional taxamount, refund-related loanand fromunderwriting. Pathward®, N.A.; it is notIfyour tax refund. in amounts $250, $750, $1,250 or $3,500.account loan amount onbased expected onThis expected refund amount, refund eligibility eligibility criteria, criteria, and underwriting. If approved, approved, funds will funds beLoans disbursed willare beoffered disbursed as directed as directed to of a prepaid to $500, a card prepaid or checking card or checking account atApproval Pathward. atand Pathward. The loanThe amount loan amount will w based ontax expected refund amount, criteria, amount and underwriting. If approved, funds will be as directed to a prepaid checking atother Pathward. The products loan amount ducted be deducted from your from your refund, tax reducing refund, reducing the eligibility refund theamount refund paid directly paid to directly you. Tax to you. returns Taxmay returns bedisbursed e-filed may bewithout e-filed applying without applying for thiscard loan. fororthis Fees loan. foraccount Fees otherfor optional optional products or product or will product featuresfeatur be deducted from your tax refund, reducing the refund amount paid directly to you. Tax returns may be e-filed without applying for this loan. Fees for other optional products or product features pply. may Limited apply. time Limited offer time at participating offer at participating locations. locations. HRB Maine HRBLicense Maine No. License FRA2. No.OBTP#13696-BR. FRA2. OBTP#13696-BR. ©2023 ©2023 HRB TaxHRB Group, TaxInc. Group, Inc. may apply. Limited time offer at participating locations. HRB Maine License No. FRA2. OBTP#13696-BR. ©2023 HRB Tax Group, Inc.
You could get up to
44 FEBRUARY 2024
No interest.
STREAM IT
Story by Hayley Harrison | Staff Writer
Deep down in my soul, I am an old lady who loves jigsaw puzzles and being in bed by 9:30 p.m. But for the last few weeks, I have been recklessly living life on the edge by staying up way past my bedtime (1:30 a.m., I know, crazy!) almost every single night of the week, reading a series of books that I cannot put down! I mean I have rearranged my life around these books. I have tried to convince my children that 7 p.m. is the new 9 p.m. (their typical bedtime), I have almost completely outsourced dinner to our local restaurant and my husband is lucky to get full sentence answers from me right now. I. Am. Hooked. And I want you to be too, so it is my absolute pleasure to introduce you to the “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (affectionately known as ACOTAR) series! Book one of ACOTAR begins by introducing us to the heroine and main focus of the books, Feyre, a human girl who lives on the border between the human world and
the faery lands of Prythian. Feyre’s story really begins when her wealthy family loses all of their property, wealth and resources, and are forced to live on the outskirts of society, as complete pariahs. Feyre’s mother passes away and her father and two older sisters contribute nothing to the family’s survival. Feyre quickly realizes that if her family is to avoid death and starvation, she must be the one to shoulder the burden of feeding them. This decision leads her to the woods, where she teaches herself how to hunt, and in doing so keeps her family alive. Her daily, dangerous treks into the frigid woods continue, until one day she finds herself in a precarious situation with a wolf, who seems to be hunting the same game as she. She makes a quick, calculated decision to kill the wolf, not knowing that would change the course of her life forever. The wolf, as it turns out, was really a shape-shifting Prythian faery, and when Feyre killed him, she inadvertently broke a
Stagecoach Catering & BBQ Open Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 8 pm Sunday 8 am - 2 pm
treaty between the two worlds, stating that she must return to Prythian in place of the faery she killed. And the ride that ACOTAR author Sarah J. Maas takes the reader from that point on is nothing short of daring, dazzling and dramatic (in the best way). And though I do want you to run-not-walk, to the library or our favorite local bookstore, Brace Books, to immediately begin flipping through the pages of this epic tale, I am mostly telling you about it because it is currently being developed into a TV series on Hulu! There aren’t many details yet, and no word on casting, but just knowing that it’s coming to the small screen in the somewhat near future, has me ridiculously excited!
Valentine’s Gift Ideas Hadden Small Appliances
Print Both Pages Align Arrow to Verify Correct Orientation
580-362-3082
400 W. South Street Newkirk, OK 74647
Give your kitchen a touch of English charm. Hadden’s retro-inspired toasters and coffee makers are in stock!
The Original Stagecoach BBQ Restaurant
48x24 Vinyl Banners with Hemming with Grommets
Front 50 x 26 trim size
3201 N. 14th • Ponca City The Original Stagecoach BBQ Restaurant
BRANDTS
580-762-2921
Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am - 6 pm Sat. 8 am - 6 pm
FEBRUARY 2024 45
Backyard
Gardener We Are Garden
We are going to er s: buy too many seeds. (T
We
plant
his is so accurate
.)
d and
e groun h t n i t n i m
ck.”
t ba i t u c o t r be I’ll remem
We will
“
: s r e n e d r Are Ga say,
Story by Kat Long / Contributing Writer
A
nd that is where we are today, this blustery January day: contemplating seed catalogs and how much ground can I claim for gardens before the hubby throws up his hands or the neighbors report me to code enforcement. We’re gardeners; aren’t we?
like corn. I have only grown corn successfully one year and that was on fallow ground, and I had chickens. I miss my chickens. Maybe in 2025, I can revisit having some in the yard. I digress.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and welcome to 2024. I had some lovely time off, got some beds ready for spring planting (more on that later) and tried to organize my seeds. Key word is tried. First, I had to collect them from the four corners of the house, garage, office and under the bed (how did those get there?). I am happy to report that I might (just might) spend less on seeds this year because I am re-discovering all my saved and past purchased seeds as I go through the bags, pouches and envelopes. And, there are a lot. Let me count the ways.
I am a no-till gardener. No harm or foul if you till your garden. But, I don’t. I lay down a couple of layers of cardboard, cover with leaves, compost and topsoil, and cover that with straw or hay. I do this in several of the areas I didn’t plant last summer, during the winter or on the nicer days. Why? Because I also won’t cut back last year’s growth until late spring to give the pollinators a fighting chance. I had a banner 2023 summer and fall of praying mantis, ladybugs, walking sticks and a couple of larger orb spiders. I am hoping they left behind babies in the leaves, stalks and stick piles I left alone this fall. Yes, it looks a bit disheveled. I’ll clean it up in June and those places will be for the fall garden planting.
Splitting the seeds up into early, middle and late or fall gardening piles didn’t work well. So, I went back to organizing them into beans, flowers, greens, herbs, tomatoes, etc. … and things I know I probably can’t grow, but maybe I’ll try (biggest pile). You know, things
46 FEBRUARY 2024
Prepping the Ground
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities
“If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.” – Maria Edgeworth Let The Renaissance take care of the moments for you so you can live your best life now. Outstanding services and care delivered with dignity and compassion in a thriving environment. We have newly renovated apartments, with immediate availability.
Come see what sets The Renaissance apart from the rest.
580.765.5900
2616 Turner Road • Ponca City 1400 E. McElroy Road • Stillwater
RenLivingSW.com
Exceptional Senior Living Don’t settle for ordinary! FEBRUARY 2024 47
❄
❆
SAVINGS ❆ ❆ In frigid weather
(and blazing heat) energy-efficient, triple-pane windows have a significant impact on your heating and cooling bills.
1217 E. Prospect • Ponca City • 767-8304 ✄ ✄ COUPON ✄ ✄
CHOPPED BEEF SANDWICH
BUY 2, GET 3RD FREE!
Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires February 29, 2024.
✄ ✄ COUPON ✄ ✄
SLAB RIB SPECIAL
Complete with Side Orders
2 OFF
$
Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires February 29, 2024.
1723 N. 3rd • Ponca City•(580) 762-8122
Are you confused by all you see and hear about Medicare? Give me a call if you would like to talk face to face about your Medicare options.
Medicare Made Easy!
I have been a local agent providing local service since 1990.
JOHN SEALES INSURANCE
I am not affiliated with Medicare or any federal government agency.
205 W. Hartford Avenue • Suite 100 • Ponca City, OK 74601
580.765.1800 • Fax: 580.765.1869 • john@oklahomahealthquotes.com
48 FEBRUARY 2024
www.JohnSeales.com
Growing food is messy, and I have never been a neat gardener. I like the dirt and the leaves and the sticks. Don’t much care for the weeds, but it is very satisfying pulling them up. Starting the Seeds If you want to be able to plant in April, you need to start your plants in mid-February to early March. If you are starting from seeds, that is. Another option is to pay someone else to grow your starts in their greenhouse, and wah-lah, you will have pedigreed plants for your garden come April. It really is the way to grow. Space for starting seeds is always an issue. And those of us with cats, have a whole different set of nibbling problems. Also, we are gardeners: We are going to start too many plants from seed and not have space for all of them. My favorite seed starting medium is a mixture of coconut coir, compost and vermiculite. I just mix that in a big container or bucket and use it in my favorite seed-starting container: cardboard egg cartons. How to Use the Egg Carton Method Rip the egg carton down the middle and place the egg-holding side into the lid side. Fill carton
with the seed-starting medium and put three to five seeds in each little egg cup. Giving you 12 plants (or more) after they start sprouting. Water well (I like to use a spray bottle to saturate the dirt well) and place in a plastic Walmart or take-out bag. Tie the bag loosely and check it every evening to make sure the seeds stay moist. You should have sprouts in five to 10 days depending on the seed germination time. After the sprouts are roughly one inch tall, take them out of the plastic bag and continue to keep them fairly moist until the sprouts have doubled in size. Now, here’s where all those pots you saved from last year come into play. You need to transplant the two-inch-tall babies into larger pots. You can use solo cups, disposable coffee cups or last year’s greenhouse pots you were saving. If you have leftover seedstarting mixture, add more compost and some potting soil to the mix and use that to pot them up. If you can poke holes in the bottom of the containers (or they already have drainage holes) watering the plants from the bottom will help promote excellent root growth.
The easiest way to transplant to the larger container is to carefully tear or cut each egg depression that has sprouts and plant the whole thing in the new container. Then, if you can, put the newly potted sprouts into a shallow plastic container that can hold water and add an inch of water to the bottom of the container every five to seven days. So don’t throw out that plastic tub that has a broken lid. If it isn’t cracked or has holes in it, you can use it to hold all your juvenile plants until it is time to harden them off. We will go over hardening plants off in March. Promise. Are you ready to start some seeds? I am, but I have to get them all sorted first. It’s like cleaning the kitchen before you start cooking so you can make sure all the spices and supplies are stocked and ready to go. I wish everyone a wonderful, prosperous and happy 2024. Let’s go garden!
FEBRUARY 2024 49
PROVIDED BY BRACE BOOKS & MORE
BUFFALO FLUFFALO by Bess Kalb
This book is rated as age appropriate for 4-8 years old, but is an absolutely fun and encouraging story for any age!
Book Reviews
I first picked up this book because the quote from the publisher says, “I’m the Buffalo Fluffalo – I heave and I huffalo. Leave me alone because I have had enuffalo!” and let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt this way more than once in their life! Especially kiddos, who sometimes have those tough days when they struggle with their emotions and how to express and handle them. We follow Mr. Fluff as he huffs and puffs at each of his prairie friends to leave him alone because he’s not feeling up to being a good friend today. He gruffs at each one to leave him in peace as they try to get him to join in their fun and games. They each, in turn, leave him to be alone as he seems so big and scary. As Mr. Fluff sulks to himself, a rain shower begins to pour right down on top of him, leaving him drenched and, well, much smaller than he appeared before. Much less fluff and gruff! Mr. Fluff
is soon worried that the other creatures will find him silly looking and make fun of him in this less than fluffalo state. After all, he was quite rude to them earlier, why would they be nice now? As the critters gather around him, they let him know that he’s perfect just the way he is and there is no need to cower alone when you can be surrounded by friends! “You’re great how you are, no matter your size!” With beautiful illustrations and a fun rhyming pattern, this book is perfect for reading aloud with your whole family! ___________________________ Reviewed by Tara Anson
CHECK & MATE
By Ali Hazelwood Ali Hazelwood showed up on the bestseller lists in 2021 with The Love Hypothesis. She was back on the bestseller lists in 2022 with Love on the Brain and again in 2023 with Love, Theoretically. After three adult romance bestsellers, she has now written a young adult romance with all the charm and wit of her previous STEM-based romcoms. Mallory Greenleaf used to live and breathe chess, but that ended three years ago when chess destroyed her life. Now, every choice she makes revolves around her mother, whose rheumatoid arthritis has been aggressive lately, and her two younger sisters. She’s done with chess, until her BFF sweet talks her into playing in a charity event. It’s not a big deal until Mallory somehow wins against Nolan Sawyer, the number one ranked player in the world. Oh, wow. And what does Mallory do? She runs away. The next morning, a grandmaster from New York City shows up on her front porch to offer her a year-long fellowship that could
50 FEBRUARY 2024
cover all her financial worries – the mortgage that’s three months behind, her mom’s prescriptions (with no insurance), keeping the electricity on ... But Mallory says, “No, thanks,” to the fellowship – until she has to reconsider after being fired from the job that was keeping the Greenleaf family with a roof over their heads and fed. The fellowship has become her only option. Now she’s studying famous chess games, working with grandmasters, playing in the occasional tournament, but it’s just a job. She’s only playing chess for a paycheck, even though she’s becoming known in chess circles as an unbelievably talented player – and Sawyer just wants her to play chess with him. This novel is flirty, fun, intelligent and charming, with delightful banter and a swoon-worthy romance. I loved it! ___________________________ Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
Delivering a smile for Delivering Delivering every budget. a smile for a smile for every budget. every budget.
Economy Dentures (set)
Extractions
Economy Dentures (set) now starting at
Single Arch Economy Dentures (set)
Extractions now starting at
Extractions now starting at
Dental Implants (each) Dental Implants (each) now starting at
Dental Implants (each) now starting at
89 1095 375 89 1095 $395 $109 $1,250 $ $ $ 89 1095 375 503 N 14th St • Ponca City, OK 74601 $ $ 375 now starting at
now starting at
$$
now starting at (Per Tooth - With Package)
$ $
now starting at
(Per Tooth - With Package)
503 N 14th(Per StTooth • Ponca City, OK 74601 - With Package)
580-749-9370 580-749-9370 503 N 14th St • Ponca City, OK 74601
AFFORDABLEDENTURES.COM Affordable Dentures & Implants - Oklahoma, PLLC - Your Ponca City Location
580-749-9370 AFFORDABLEDENTURES.COM Chris Bugg, DDS • Jake Jakielaszek, DMD
Affordable Dentures & Implants - Oklahoma, PLLC - Your Ponca City Location Chris Bugg, DDS
FEBRUARY 2024 Affordable Dentures & Implants - Oklahoma, PLLC - Your Ponca City Location
51
731 N. 14th Street • Ponca City • (580) 718-0215
300 S. 2nd Street • Ponca City • 580-765-6637
Your table is waiting.
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION
Dining available inside or on our patio!
Save the Dates!
HOURS Monday thru Thursday 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM Friday & Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tool & Filter
SALE EVENT
Stop by for our sale event all week and for our feed Friday, March 8th from 11-2.
March 4-9th
#GETUPANDGO
LARRY MURPHY
insurance agency, inc. We are a FULL-SERVICE Independent Insurance Agency. We provide Commercial, Contract Bonding, Personal, Farm/Ranch and Life Insurance. We represent many outstanding insurance companies.
Larry Murphy 415 E. Hartford Ponca City
580-762-7857 52 FEBRUARY 2024
Joe A. Kelly Theobald Murphy
580-767-1520
113 East Grand • Ponca City larrymurphyinsurance.com
Story by Adam Leaming, Ponca City Public Schools, Superintendent / Contributing Writer How many of us are still committed to making 2024 a year that matters? I was reading a Forbes December article that surveyed Americans and found some interesting statistics. I was surprised to find about 37% (a little over a third) of Americans set a New Year’s resolution. I was also surprised to find those with children in the home are more likely (54%) to set a new year’s resolution than those without children (33%). With having four children at home, I feel this drive to teach my children the importance of setting goals, writing them down and tracking them for their own growth. As a school superintendent, I feel an even stronger urge to set and track our district’s goals each year.
It’s February, this is the time where only 22% of all resolution setters stick with their goals with each subsequent month decreasing in the number of people who remain committed to their New Year’s resolutions. In Ponca City Public Schools, we are a goal-driven district. We set learning goals, construction goals, service goals. We set these goals each year, typically in August, and then again some in January. Our teachers and administrators revisit these goals throughout the school year and evaluate how well we’re progressing in meeting these goals. In our
education field, we refer to our goals as SMART goals. As with many things in education this is an acronym that serves us well. The S (Specific) refers to a goal that is not broad, but very narrow. For example, this could be the goal that we want every 4th grader to be reading at or above a certain score by May. During this step, we ask ourselves a series of questions. What needs to be accomplished? Who’s responsible for it? What steps do we take to achieve it? It’s important we recognize any constraints that are out of our power to influence or assist. The M (Measurable) gives us the tool in which we may measure our success. This can be an assessment like the ACT, or a teacherdesigned assessment. It could even be related to attendance in our student information system. We set benchmarks that can be tracked throughout the year to help us determine if we’re progressing in the right direction or if we need to try new approaches. The A (Achievable) gives us a realistic goal. If we set our goal, we want it to be achievable for our students, staff and families we serve to feel like the goal is possible. We would love to boast 100% perfect attendance among our staff and students, but that’s setting us up for failure when you think about every illness, emergency or appointment our students and staff have. It’s important to set goals that you can achieve!
The R (Relevant) is where we look at the big picture of what we’re trying to do in Ponca City. We want to provide a world-class, top-notch education where every student feels safe, cared for and set up for success when they leave our district. Setting a goal that does not relate to the bigger picture and mission of our district would not be in the best interest of our students or the public we’re serving. Lastly the T (Timely) we set goals that have a time horizon. When will our goals begin and when is the due date? When we set our timelines, it gives every member of the team a designated time frame in which we can work backwards in planning instruction, intervention and assessment. Our school district sets a variety of goals each year. Academic, attendance, performance, are a few of the top areas. Our district is committed to seeing these goals through each school year, and while February can be a difficult month in keeping with goals, rest easy in knowing the professionals of PCPS are committed to student success and tracking our goal progression throughout the year. I wish you well in your personal and professional goals. Every one of us that sets and achieves his/her goals only betters Ponca City. Keep at it and do not get discouraged if you fail to reach a goal; the journey is more important than the destination!
FEBRUARY 2024 53
M Kids A SayD E D O T The Darnedest Things!
A T T A
O L D N E W Y O R K
Half-Ginger S A Y S A H
J
Story by Hayley Harrison | Staff Writer
S A R A
I just want to start by stating that some of my favorite people are redheads. My husband, my motherin-law, my boss, all redheads and all fantastic, fabulous people. So this story is not a knock at all on our fair, SPF carrying friends. This is just one of my all-time favorite memories with my oldest daughter, who had a life-changing realization while on the way to school a few years ago. I hope you get as big of a kick out of it as I did! So here goes:
L I
A G E S
B O A T 3 8 7 6 9 1 5 4 2
54 FEBRUARY 2024
4 6 5 8 2 3 9 7 1
9 2 1 4 7 5 8 3 6
7 3 8 9 1 6 2 5 4
M O A N
S A V E R
E D G E
N E A
8 5 4 3 6 9 1 2 7
2 7 9 1 8 4 3 6 5
6 1 3 2 5 7 4 8 9
D R E
G H O R N
E R O D E
25Page 20 Puzzle on
5 9 2 7 4 8 6 1 3
G A G
A few years ago, my daughter and I were just chatting on the way to school, mostly about the same things we always talk about, wondering what will be served for lunch, what will be played in P.E., etc., etc. We pull into the parking lot, and I begin helping her out of the car when all of a sudden, and out of nowhere she comes to a complete stop and says “Mom, you have black hair and my dad has red hair!?” I respond quizzically with “Yes, that’s true?” She then turns to look me square in the eye and says “Oh my God! I’m a half-ginger aren’t I!?” I just about busted a gut, but could only squeak out “Yes honey, I guess you are.” And from then on she has affectionately been referred to as our “little half-ginger”.
T T L E B I
O K E
1 4 6 5 3 2 7 9 8
Y E A
S E E K
A C T S
Z E S T
26 42 Puzzle on Page
W I
S P
B O O K S
9 8 A3 F 5A R 6 R2 O 4X I 7E 1 I N E R T H O P A P L A N E 6 5 7 1 4 8 3 9 2 G A S T A N K S E R A S E S E 2 Z 4R I1 O 3 C 9H I7 6 5 8 J U M P T H E S H A R K 2 H3 O 8W I 4E 7 A B I 5 T E 1 P6 E 9 S N E E R P E L E E M I T 8 9 2 4 7 6 5 1 3 B L U E D E N D U E L S S P 3 R I 7N G4 T 8 O M5I N1 D 9 2 6 A I R O N E B A D 1 A5 O 2R T 8A 4 P A 7 T E 3R N9 A 6 L V A U L T D O O R E Q U A L 4 2 8 7 3 9 D 1I N 6E 5 E C H O N U R S E N A 1 K E 6D 5 L 2 E F 8T 4 S 7 L E 3D 9 S H O P
Your goals are our priority. Don’t wait to plan your financial strategy. Let us help you reach your goals.
Schedule a comprehensive financial review. No obligation. No hidden fees.
Cathy Sang
Wealth Advisor 580.718.2783 cathy.sang@rcbbank.bank RCBbank.bank/Trust&Wealth Investments not insured by the FDIC or any government agency, Not a deposit, Not a bank guarantee, subject to risks and may lose value.
FEBRUARY 2024 55
Her heart wi skip a beat this Valentine’s Day! ▪ LOOSE DIAMONDS ▪ ENGAGEMENT ▪ BRIDAL ▪ CONTEMPORARY ▪ TRADITIONAL ▪ GOLD ▪ STERLING SILVER ▪ TITANIUM ▪ FINE JEWELRY ▪ WATCHES ▪ FULL SERVICE
Kay County’s Oldest Jewelers 219 E. Grand Avenue Ponca City ▫ 580.765.2636 ▫ Gifts Layaway ▫ Custom Laser Engraving