Ponca City Monthly January 2022

Serving Northern Oklahoma

JANUARY 2022

FREE PUBLICATION

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January 2022

Inspired by the glitz and glamour of New York’s Met Gala which is “fashion’s biggest night out,” but with a little Oklahoma twist you can unleash your alter egos at this gala!

A COSTUME PARTY THAT SUPPORTS HOMELESS PETS AND SAVES LIVES. Costumes Optional

Crooner Wade Towers DJ Dancing Free Wine and Beer

Unleash Your Heart at The Mutt Gala February 12 Marland Mansion

Scan the code to buy your tickets today!

January 2022

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JANUARY 2022

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VOL. 3 NO. 1

Publishing Company MyMediaMatters Creative Agency Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner Associate Editor & Advertising Director Robyn Ryan

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FRIENDS OF THE PC LIBRARY

Staff Writers Carey Head Jay Wagner Andy Hicks Chelsea McConnell Kayley Spielbusch Laina Smith Jill Rowe Ad Designer Robyn Ryan

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Magazine Designer Andy Hicks

SOUNDING OFF

Story Editor Sherry Cable

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FEATURE STORIES Time to Get Organized

National Blood Donor Month Friends of the PC Library COVER STORY

Local Family’s Fight Inspires Change

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U.S. Army Reserve Makes Policy Change for Handling Memorabilia

University Center at Ponca City Resolutions and Faith

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Proud Member of the Chambers of Commerce of: Ponca City, Newkirk, Tonkawa, Blackwell, Arkansas City

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January 2022

MONTHLY FAVORITES Book Reviews Sounding Off

Crossword Puzzle

Cocktail of the Month

Story by Carey Head/Staff Writer

A Place For Children to Grow

Copy Editor Patrick Jordan

FOOD CRUSH

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Sudoku

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Stew on That

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Food Crush: Jim’s Jumbo Burger

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Backyard Gardener Health and Beauty

Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Learning with Leaming

Contributing Writers Marlys Cervantes Patrick Jordan Amy Geurin Lorrie Layton Adam Leaming Kat Long Paul Muehlberg Steve Scott Rachel Stewart Carson Cunningham

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© MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2021.

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

I’ve had a very complicated relationship with plants in my life. I’ve always been drawn to plants. My mother would talk about her grandfather, who had, according to her, “the BIGGEST garden in town!” He would till up a massive plot of land and spend every moment when he wasn’t at work tending the garden, and he grew the biggest, most luscious vegetables in northern Oklahoma and shared them with the town. His wife, my greatgrandmother, was equally talented, but her passions were in flowers. She had bulbs collected from across the United States, and each year they would bloom the most beautiful, colorful flowers. She knew precisely where each bulb was and when it should be dug up, moved, or left alone. They were both obviously naturally gifted people.

So, I inevitably knew that I must also be born with a green thumb. It was in my genes.

I was newly married when I received my first houseplant, and if there is a record for killing houseplants quickly, I’m almost sure I beat it. In fact, my mother-in-law was overzealous and had given me about seven new houseplants, and they all paid dearly for her overconfidence in my botanical abilities. I later found that over watering and not enough direct sunlight were two problems. I also moved them outside in direct sunlight on a hot sunny day, left them out overnight, and brought them back in the next day. Plants love sunlight, right?

Fast forward fifteen years and many, many plant failures later, and I now have indoor and outdoor plants that all have a special place and their own watering routine. I have a fertilizer schedule, and some plants even have their own special plant food. I love watching each of my plants as their vines, leaves, and stems grow and change slowly each day. Many days you can’t even tell much of a difference, but when you are there every day watching closely, you can see tiny changes that add up to big changes.

In fifteen years of trial and error, I’ve learned a lot about caring for plants.

I’ve failed a lot. I never took a class on caring for plants; maybe that would have been easier. Instead, I just tried and failed, and when I failed, I googled what I did to learn why I failed. I learned slowly, and the knowledge and experience have slowly come. Where I once viewed my great-grandpa and great-grandma as naturally gifted, I now understand that they spent fifty years digging in the dirt to attain their wisdom and knowledge of plants.

Growth is an inevitable part of life. If you are in an environment where you can grow, growth will happen. But it may not happen quickly. As you look at your New Year’s Resolutions and plan to make big changes in your life, remember that big change takes a long time. But those big changes come from tiny changes each day. That’s how long-term sustainable growth happens. Focus on your environment, make sure it’s conducive to growth, and then be patient. Time and patience are the secret ingredients to success.

Happy New Year to everyone and may you all be blessed in 2022!

editor@poncacitymonthly.com

ON THE COVER

Young family members are finally reunited with Uncle Tracy’s World War II honors and memorabilia after a three-year fight with the U.S. Army Reserve.

Read the full story starting on page 19 Photo by Carey Head Design by Andy Hicks

January 2022

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Time To Get Organized Professional Organizer Launches ‘Organize Wise’ Business, Brings Her Organizational Skills to the Community Story by Kayley Spielbusch/Staff Writer Earlier this year, Ponca City resident Brooke Dyer kick-started her second business, Organize Wise. Dyer enjoys organizing in her free time, and she realized that North Central Oklahoma needed a professional organization service.

Using her expertise from owning her other business, Brooke’s Branding, Dyer decided to use her organizational skills professionally.

“I have always had a strong desire to organize spaces to make them cleaner and more functional,” Dyer recalls.

“I have been making my home and my loved ones’ homes more organized for years. After some soul searching, I decided to work doing something I love and became certified through the International Organization of Professional Organizers.”

Certified professional organizers enhance clients’ lives by designing systems and processes

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January 2022

using organizing principles and transferring organization skills. A professional organizer also educates the public on organizing solutions and the resulting benefits. They help individuals and businesses take control of their surroundings, time, paper and systems for life.

Dyer works alongside a team of other local professional organizers with Organize Wise. It is a full-service professional organizing company.

They specialize in a range of organizational services, including personal, residential and business organization. They work to optimize space, time and money for their clients. Organize Wise also assists its clients in establishing systems for businesses, industries and individuals to improve productivity.

“Our company specializes in making your life easier and more productive by organizing the spaces and areas that may overwhelm you,” states Dyer.

Some of the services Dyer and her staff offer are downsizing and organizing in the moving process. If someone recently lost a loved one, Dyer can help them go through their houses or any other belongings. She is also certified to work alongside mental health providers to aid those who struggle with hoarding.

Dyer works from home and offers her services within a 100-mile radius of Ponca City.

Organize Wise’s clients attest to Dyer and her staff’s skill. “If you want something fast, efficient and done well, call Organize Wise. Brooke can take care of anything, and she is a self-starter.

She is an individual thinker and takes care of things you haven’t even thought about,” said one client.

For further information, Organize Wise can be reached at 580-716-9622 or organizewise1@ yahoo.com. They can also be found on Facebook and Instagram.

Wishing you Good Health and Happiness all year long!

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY

FRANCES COONROD

580-761-1712 Frances.Coonrod@ gmail.com

Time flies when I’m helping buyers and sellers succeed.

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Frances Coonrod 580-761-1712 Frances.Coonrod@gmail.com

I’m always available by text or phone to help you @ 580-761-1712.

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Call or Text Frances Coonrod, 580-761-1712

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January 2022

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Time for a Checkup?

Wishing You a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Carl Renfro President

Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA

Rick Renfro

Secretary, Restaurateur

Cindy Gorrell Vice President, Investments

Directors Brenda Renfro Carol Bouldin

Kay County Master Gardener

Jeff Cowan

Retired Banker

Rich Cantillon

President Ponca City Chamber/Tourism

We are proud to support Ponca City 501c3 organizations through charitable grants.

❄

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Residential and commercial HVAC

Repair, replacement and installation Maintenance agreements

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January 2022

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OBI Seeking Donors To Sustain Blood Supply Through Winter Months

January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to celebrate the lifesaving impact of blood and platelet donors. It has been celebrated each January for nearly 50 years and coincides with one of the most difficult times to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients.

Story Contributed by: Carson Cunningham, Public Relations Manager/Oklahoma Blood Institute

O

klahoma Blood Institute is urging the public to donate blood and plasma to help bolster the state’s blood supply during a worsening pandemic.

The call comes during Blood Donation Month, set for January when weather and post-holiday schedules traditionally reduce donations. That effect is exacerbated this year, due to COVID-19.

“January tends to be a challenging month due to weather and people just getting back to routines after the holidays,” said Jessy Dershem, executive director of Enid OBI Donor Center. “Now, with COVID-19, it’s even more challenging. We would like to encourage all Oklahomans in our area to find a blood drive near you and donate.

You can walk into any blood drive or donor center right now and give blood, give convalescent plasma or get tested for COVID-19 antibodies.”

To help in that effort, Dershem said OBI Donor Center is encouraging donors to raise awareness of the importance of giving blood by using the hashtags: #NationalBloodDonorMonth #ThanktheDonor #ShareThanks #ADRP #NBDM #BandTogether and #GiveBlood.

Dershem said that OBI also needs help from businesses and community partners in hosting and raising awareness of blood drives – especially for those donors who’ve previously had COVID-19 and who could be eligible to donate convalescent plasma.

“In Northwest Oklahoma, we are really trying to encourage our businesses and communities who already have blood drives scheduled to let their donors know that we are actively searching for donors who are eligible to give convalescent plasma,” Dershem said.

See DONORS Continued on page 10

January 2022

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DONORS Continued from page 9

Blood transfusions are the most frequent procedure performed in hospitals, with more than 33,000 daily donations required to meet patient needs in the United States, according to an OBI press release.

It takes nearly 1,200 donors A DAY to meet the blood needs of patients in our regional hospitals.

One blood donation can save up to three lives.

Anyone who’s generally healthy and 16 or older can typically give blood.

Every two seconds someone is in need of blood.

Photo ID required.

You can donate blood every 56 days, so donate as often as you can.

“To ensure blood is available when needed, communities worldwide rely on the commitment of altruistic blood donors who empower blood centers to continue serving their communities through the availability of a safe and robust blood supply,” according to the press release.

John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute, implored the public to keep up the efforts that got OBI through the last couple of years.

“Oklahomans really did their part throughout a tough 2020 and 2021 to ensure the local blood supply, despite the numerous challenges, and we thank them for their selflessness,” Armitage said. “We urge you to make a resolution to take just an hour out of your busy schedule to give the precious gift of life – and offer families hope, healing and comfort this new year.”

Association of Donor Recruitment Professionals Executive Director Carla Peterson said that continued dedication by existing donors, and recruitment of new donors, is needed to get OBI through the winter.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an unprecedented fluctuation in both supply and

10 January 2022

the need for blood,” Peterson said. “We thank all current and future blood and convalescent plasma donors for their commitment to saving lives and encourage those who have previously donated to reconnect with your local blood center as a handful of guidelines have changed, such as travel restrictions, increasing the number of eligible donors.

“Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, which must always be immediately available on the shelf,” Peterson said. “Blood has a very short shelf-life span and must be constantly replenished year-round to ensure availability for all patients.”

Those who have recovered from COVID-19 may be eligible to donate convalescent plasma at this drive. Call (888) 308-3924 or email covid donor@obi.org to make an appointment. Blood drives will be managed according to CDC safety recommendations.

Donation Information: Every other Monday Oklahoma Blood Institute is set up at the Woodlands Christian Church at 14th and Hartford from 2-7 p.m. for our Connecting Community Blood Drive.

Jan. 10

Jan. 24

Feb. 7

Feb. 21

This is the best blood drive for the general community to get involved with if they do not belong to a business or church who hosts drives with us. We are always looking for volunteers to help with our Ponca City Connecting Community Blood Drive, as well. They can call our Enid Center at 580-233-9323 or my cell phone at 580-541-1309 for more information about how to get involved with our Ponca City blood drive programs.

Do You Want a New Job in 2022?

Check your windows and screens for needed repairs.

Then call the experts at Hoddy Glass!

CHUCK

HODDY

– Serving Ponca City since 1983 – 580-762-9844 • 727 N. Union • Ponca City www.HoddyGlass.com

ALBERTSONS

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Starting Pay: $1435 - $1455/hour Current Top Pay: $1855 - $1910/hour Now taking applications for warehouse workers at our Ponca City Distribution Center.

We are seeking individuals who possess a desire for long-term employment in a temperature-controlled environment that is fast paced, team oriented with opportunities for advancement.

Albertsons offers excellent pay and benefits including: H Medical, dental, vision, disability & life insurance H Paid vacation H 401K with company contribution H Retention bonuses H Production bonuses

I'm looking forward to another great year in real estate and I would love to put my experience in this market to work for you in the new year!

HERITAGE REALTORS®

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Interested applicants should apply online:

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mbclarkmoore@ yahoo.com January 2022

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Friends of the Ponca City Library Story and Photos by Chelsea McConnell /Staff Writer Most Ponca City citizens are familiar with our beautiful Ponca City Library located at 515 E. Grand Avenue in downtown Ponca City. Built in 1935 in the Renaissance Revival style by architect George J. Cannon, the Library has long been a cornerstone of our community. Far fewer citizens are likely familiar with the wonderful program that helps support the Library. The Friends of the Library organization is a volunteer group that has been an important partner to the Library in hosting programs since the nonprofit’s inception on June 24, 1980. According to the Articles of Incorporation, the purpose of the organization is “to provide assistance and support for the Library, and to serve as a liaison between the Library and the Community.” The Friends help the Library financially with various programs depending on the Library’s needs each year.

The Friends of the Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit made up of a Board of Directors and Library staff.

More important than financial assistance, the work of the Friends helps get people in the Library doors to see all our Library has to offer. They are proud to

help raise awareness of literacy in our community each year. Current officers include President Tamra Wink, Vice President Sharon Kennedy, Treasurer Kelly Dunn, Beverly Bryant, Shirley Jones, Ginny Kehr, John King, Jennifer Schmitt, Susan Seals, Sue Self and Judy Smith. Additional members include Library staff Kathleen Auschwitz, Marcia Hull and Joan Corbin. Kelly Dunn is also on staff at the Library.

According to the organization’s recently elected President Tamra Wink, service on the Board extends to the monthly meeting and a few additional hours helping out in the Book Room. The Board meets on the first Thursday of each month and Board terms last three years, with the option of serving two consecutive terms. “We have an annual business meeting every September and that’s where we invite anybody who’s interested to come. Then if

they express interest in being on the Board, they can be on the Board,” Tamra states. She goes on to say what she enjoys is the “satisfaction of helping the Library, promoting literacy, and it’s just a great way to do community service by being on the Board and helping back there in the Book Room.”

The “Book Room” is the book sale area located in the Library basement. If the Library is open, the Book Room is open. Books are always available for purchase. Library staff at the check-out desks can take payment for books – paperbacks priced at 25 cents and hardbacks priced at 50 cents. Book categories in the book sale area are similar to that of the Library at large, with many offerings available.

Big book sales are held 5-7 times annually, with a coffee table book sale taking place each December.

See LIBRARY Continued on page 14

Photo By Lauren Renee Payne

January 2022

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Friends of The Library President, Tamra Wink

LIBRARY Continued from page 13

During Bag Book Sales, patrons can come in and purchase a whole bag of books for only a few dollars. On average, over 500 books are sold monthly. Book sales support the Friends program and get books into the hands of readers in Ponca City at an excellent price.

“There are tons and tons of books back there and it changes daily. That’s the cool thing, you know, because donations come in daily,” says Library staff member and Friends Treasurer Kelly Dunn.

if they fill a need. The rest of the books go to the Friends program to be sorted and sold as a part of their annual fundraising.

If there’s an event happening that involves the Library, the Friends group is often involved as well. The Library hosts several events each month. When events need prizes, food or drinks, the Friends sponsor those. The Friends sponsor supplies like T-shirts for participants in the annual Touch-a-Truck event and turkeys and pies for Turkey Bingo each November.

See LIBRARY Continued on page 17

Escape Room Winners!

The Friends also sponsor a Book Cart, reminiscent of a Little Free Library, at the RecPlex with free books for community members.

Books can be donated for the Book Room by being brought to one of the Library desks or by being dropped in the book drop off on the north side of the building. The Librarian goes through the books donated several times a week in order to get them to the right location.

Some books get put into the Library’s collection

14 January 2022

The Library is currently creating a Maker Space, and the Friends believe they will partner on that venture as well when it comes to purchasing supplies and other materials. So far, the Maker Space boasts two Cricuts, 3-D printers, a Glow Forge, an X-Carve machine and a sewing machine.

New Year, New Home?

We sincerely want you to leave your estate to your family, not the funeral directors.

I would love to help you!

Give me a call.

Amy Stittsworth Funeral Service and Cremation Directors

BECKY POET 580.763.1871 beckypoet@gmail.com

When you call Amy Stittsworth Funeral Service and Cremation Directors, you have called a family. Amy and I have been married 33 years and have been blessed with five children, five grandchildren and many friends. Our faith in God is what drives us. Our passion for funeral service is evident.

Our family is available for your family 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Please call 580-233-9500 if our family can help your family. I am a licensed funeral director and humbly serve the entire state of Oklahoma.

Bill Stittsworth,

Funeral Director in Charge

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Leadership SUPPORT GREAT

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INVESTOR SPOTLIGHT PONCAN THEATRE

Each month Ponca City Main Street features one of its long time Investors. It is through the support of our valued Investors that we can continuously improve the heart of Ponca City by attracting and promoting merchants and visitors to our downtown.

Christopher This month we met with Christopher Radaker-James, es am Radaker-J executive director of the Poncan Theatre, to discuss his experience overseeing one of Ponca City’s historic gems.

Christopher and his wife Kyla moved to Ponca City in 2019 and are foster parents with Marland’s Place. They currently have two children living with them but have fostered 10 children since moving to Ponca City.

Born in Little Rock, Ark., and moving around to Pennsylvania, Nebraska, and landing in Morrison, Okla. during his teen years, Christopher developed his talent and fondness for the performing arts.

Early on, Christopher’s passion for the arts was obvious and he dreamed of being a singer when he grew up. He studied classical voice at Northern Oklahoma College and graduated in 2009 from Belmont University in Nashville with a degree in musical theatre. Prior to his career at the Poncan Theatre, Christopher worked at many theatres as an actor, singer, dancer, and guide, and most recently worked at the acclaimed Sight and Sound Theatre in Branson, Mo. Christopher joined the Poncan Theatre in the summer of 2019. He immediately fell in love with the beauty, history, and community support of the theatre. The Poncan Theatre was open to the public in 1927, and unlike many theatres of its time, it was privately owned which allowed for flexibility on the types of shows and performances it offered. The Poncan Theatre operated throughout the Kyla and Christopher decades until the mid-1980s when the theatre fell into

disrepair. However, our community rallied behind restoration efforts in the late 1980s and early 1990s helping bring the theatre back to life.

Today, the Poncan Theatre operates as a successful non-profit organization. They do this by focusing on educating and inspiring performing artists, bringing quality entertainment to Ponca City while preserving the treasured historic venue. Although the Poncan Theatre has encountered challenges recently with the ongoing pandemic and leaky roof, Christopher and the board of directors have been innovative and able to pivot to remain open The Historic Poncan Theatre and successful.

Despite these challenges, Christopher sees a promising future. He’s excited for the work of the Evans Children Academy and believes that it will continue to grow and showcase the performing arts to children for years to come. He’s also excited to introduce new technology into the theatre experience while always honoring its historical greatness.

Christopher loves downtown Ponca City and works with Ponca City Main Street not only as an Investor but also as a volunteer serving on various Main Street committees. Being a part of the downtown community makes the continued growth and revitalization of the area even more special and important to him.

City Central • 400 E. Central • Suite 201G • 580-763-8082

16 January 2022

Murder Mystery Dinner Front: Kelly Dunn, Tamra Wink; Back: Jennifer Schmitt, Judy Smith, Shirley Jones, Susan Seals, Ginny Kehr

LIBRARY Continued from page 14 They sponsor the float and candy in the City’s Lighted Christmas Parade.

They pay performers for various children’s programs and sponsor prizes for scavenger hunts within the Library. The Friends purchase props for Murder Mystery events and Escape Rooms. In December, the Library hosted Harry Potter-themed Escape Rooms.

The Friends also help with Library beautification each season in order to make the Library a warm and inviting place for patrons in our community.

The Library is currently creating a Maker Space, and the Friends believe they will partner on that venture as well when it comes to purchasing supplies and other materials. So far, the Maker Space boasts two Cricuts, 3-D printers, a Glow Forge, an X-Carve machine and a sewing machine. The Friends of the Library also sponsor prizes for the various reading challenges that happen throughout the year.

If you’ve been pondering a good New Year’s resolution, now would be a great time to commit to reading more books!

Sign-ups begin for the 2022 Winter Read Challenge for Adults on Jan. 3, with the deadline on Sat., April 2. Winner drawings and the grand prize winner will be announced on April 5. All reading participants receive a reusable Friends of the Library tote upon sign-up and a custom Friends of the Library beanie when they finish reading all the books in the designated categories. Categories are thoughtfully chosen and broad

enough that any reader should be able to find books for each category. And, if you need help, just ask a Librarian!

Categories for this winter include books with a one word title, a color in the title, a Native American author, a memoir or biography, a book about space travel (nonfictional or sci-fi) and a book set in a place where it typically snows.

Each summer, the Library hosts a Summer Reading Program for children, and the Friends sponsor prizes for that as well.

They also sponsor smaller prizes for a random selection of books. Truly, based on a computer-generated program, a handful of books are earmarked to earn the person who checks them out small prizes like candy and hot cocoa.

The Friends also raise funds through their Friends of the Library Membership program. Memberships are incredibly reasonable and range from $1-$50 annually. Anyone can become a Friend of the Library anytime! They currently have over 100 members and are always looking for more. If you want to be a Friend of the Library, and a better friend to our community, consider supporting our local Library today. As an individual, you can become a Friend for just $5 a year; Family memberships start at $10; Organizations at $25; and Lifetime memberships are $50. With the many programs the Friends support each year, you can be sure your donation is making a valuable impact on our local community.

January 2022

17

Read obituaries online

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MEET OUR TEAM! Give us a call if we can help with your dental needs in the new year!

Left to right: Dr. Phillip Tyndall, Nancy Tyndall, Lauren, Crystal, Amy, Jamie and Jonnette. Not picture, Hercules.

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18 January 2022

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Young family members are finally reunited with Uncle Tracy’s World War II honors and memorabilia after a three-year fight with the U.S. Army Reserve to have the items located, inventoried and returned to next of kin. From left, Tracy Young and his brother Spencer Young, both of Ponca City, Fred Cleaver, cousin, of Yukon; Wes Young, Ponca City; John Cleaver, also of Ponca City; and 63rd Readiness Historian Joshua Baucon, Helena, Ala. (Photo by Carey Head)

Local Family’s Fight Inspires Change

U.S. Army Reserve Makes Policy Change for Handling Memorabilia Story by Carey Head/Staff Writer

Tracy William “Curly” Young knew something about combat long before he joined the military.

After all, he was one of six kids born to Fred and Millie Young. The gritty world of the family’s service station was his second home. And as soon as local athletic boosters heard about the three “strapping

Young boys from Silverdale (Kansas),” the family was recruited to move to Ponca City and get those boys playing Wildcat football. Fred accepted an offer to work for the Ponca City refinery and the family loaded their belongings into a wagon and moved to a home on South Ninth Street.

See FAMILY Continued on page 20

January 2022

19

FAMILY Continued from page 19 Tracy quickly fit into the action both on and off the field.

He was elected president of his Junior class at Po-Hi. He played football three years, including for Coach Earl Sullins’ first year as Wildcat football coach in 1940. As a Wildcat wrestler, he helped the team win the 1940 State Wrestling Championship and, according to his family, was named an alternate for the United States wrestling team training for the 1940 Summer Olympic Games (which were canceled due to World War II).

Tracy graduated Po-Hi in 1940 and went to Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University). Tracy was a member of Reserve Officers Training Corps and graduated. In the fall of 1943, Tracy received commission from Officer Candidate School, Fort

The Young family, circa 1930s, gather for a photo on a bright summer day.

Pictured, first row, from left, are siblings Calvin, Bonnie, Ellen and Tracy.

Second row, parents Fred and Tillie; and the oldest siblings, Marie and Frank.

(Photo courtesy Wesley Young)

Benning, Georgia. Second Lieutenant Young sailed for duty overseas in February 1944.

He served with the 306th Infantry Regiment in the Philippines. The Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 gave Supreme Commander Gen. Douglas MacArthur the opportunity to make good on his promise to the Philippine people, “I shall return.”

But Japanese forces were not going to give up their hold on the strategically crucial Philippine Islands, and the island of Leyte was especially important for both sides of the conflict. The fierce fighting continued with the occupying Japanese forces using Philippine homes to hide and inflict casualties.

General Douglas MacArthur, center, wades ashore during initial landings at Leyte, Philippine Islands, October 1944. MacArthur served as Supreme Commander, Southwest Pacific Area, during World War II. (Source: Records of the Office of the Chief Signal Officer, Record Group 111, National Archives)

20 January 2022

On Dec. 11, 1944, Young led his platoon in an attack against a company of Japanese dug in at a ridge top bamboo thicket near the Leyte port city of Ormoc.

In his book, “Leyte 1944, The Soldiers’ Battle,” Nathan N. Prefer writes, “Despite intense machine-gun fire and exploding enemy grenades, See FAMILY Continued on page 23

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Shown are Lieutenant Tracy W. Young’s Purple Heart and Distinguished Service Cross, both awarded posthumously to the 1940 Ponca City High School graduate. He was killed December 11, 1944 in a fierce fight on the Philippine Island of Leyte. Author Nathan Prefer recounted Young’s actions in his book “Leyte 1944, The Soldiers’ Battle.” (Photo by Carey Head)

FAMILY Continued from page 20 he moved ahead of his platoon, killing seven of the enemy with his rifle at point-blank range. His platoon followed and eliminated 80 Japanese soldiers holding the bamboo thicket position.”

Enemy reinforcements arrived and attacked from behind the ridge. Prefer writes, “Young moved from squad to squad shouting encouragement and leading the defense. But now ammunition was running low, and the Japanese were still attacking.

Rather than losing the gain his men had made at considerable cost, Young ordered his men to fix bayonets and led a charge against the oncoming Japanese.”

Young led the attack from the front and, just as his men secured the ridge, he suffered a mortal wound.

“For his dauntless leadership and personal courage in capturing the vital ridge, 2nd Lieutenant Tracy W. Young was awarded a posthumous Distinguished Service Cross.”

The dedication of Tracy W. Young Army Reserve Center took place in a 7:30 p.m. ceremony on Feb. 12, 1959. Major Melvin Chicazola, Senior Unit Advisor, hosted the ceremony. Col. Robert

G. Johnson, Chief, U.S. Army Military Division, Oklahoma, addressed the assemblage and presented the new center to the community.

Mayor Roy Grantham gave the dedication and Tracy’s mother Millie cut the ribbon.

For the next 58 years, 2nd Lt. Young’s photographs, military honors, historic newspaper articles and more were on display at the ARC. The building supported the 2nd Platoon, 883rd Quartermaster Company (Petroleum Support) until an Army Reserve Command Permanent Order relocated the company to the Broken Arrow Armed Forces Reserve Center.

With the local Center now decommissioned, the Young family’s prized collection was boxed up and shipped out. The memorialization plaque went east to Alabama. The private collection disappeared, rumored to be somewhere languishing in a closet.

Such could have been the fate for the memorabilia on loan from families of the 116 named Army Reserve Centers now decommissioned by the U.S. Army. They can thank this generation of Youngs for putting an end to the military’s haphazard removal and storage of these priceless pieces of family history.

See FAMILY Continued on page 25

Second Lieutenant Tracy W. Young, Company K, 306 Infantry Regiment. On Dec. 11, 1944, during fierce fighting with the Japanese for control of the Philippine Islands, 2nd Lt. Tracy Young, Ponca City, would be killed in action on Leyte. His heroism would posthumously earn him the Distinguished Service Cross, the country’s second highest military medal awarded for valor. (Photo courtesy Wesley Young)

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War Department The Adjutant General’s Office Washington 25, D.C.

5 February, 1946 AGPD-R 201 Young, Tracy W. 0 527 888 Mr. Fred F. Young 917 South 9th Street Ponca City, Oklahoma Dear Mr. Young: I have the honor to inform you that, by direction of the President, the Distinguished Service Cross has been posthumously awarded to your son, Second Lieutenant Tracy W. Young, Infantry. The citation is as follows:

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS

Original Distinguished Service Cross letter

FAMILY Continued from page 23 But it took a fight: Tracy’s kin spent several years writing letters, making phone calls and hosting meetings to locate and recover the artifacts removed from the Tracy Young ARC. Then the Youngs deployed their most effective weapon: the office of U.S. Senator James Lankford. Earlier this year, Wesley Young (Tracy’s nephew) asked Sen. Lankford’s office to make inquiries of the United States Army Reserve.

On Feb. 23, 2021, bless his heart, Sen. Lankford wrote the Army Reserve Command Headquarters in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, requesting the answer as to where 2nd Lt. Young’s Distinguished Service Cross citation and medal, Purple Heart medal, Presidential Certificate, Facility commemorating literature and historical newspaper articles were physically located.

“For extraordinary heroism in action in the Southwest Pacific Area on 11 December 1944. In the face of sweeping enemy machine gun and rifle fire from a series of camouflaged foxholes, Lieutenant Young led the third platoon, Company K, 306th Infantry Regiment, in the vanguard of a battalion attack against an estimated company of Japanese entrenched in a bamboo thicket atop a steep ridge near Ormoc, Leyte, Philippine Islands.

During the assault he advanced in the forefront of the troops despite the intense fire and exploding enemy grenades, killing seven of the enemy with his rifle at point blank range, while his men, inspired by his example, killed more than 80 of the hostile force. Enemy reinforcements from the reverse slope launched a number of furious bayonet counterattack assaults which were bloodily repulsed as Lieutenant Young, moving from squad to squad, reorganized his men and exhorted them to greater efforts. Undaunted by an ammunition shortage and determined to capture the ridge at all costs, he finally ordered his men to fix bayonets and charged at the foe, in the spearhead of the attack. Although he suffered a mortal wound, his men, inspired by his intrepid spirit, pressed home the assault and inflicted tremendous casualties upon the enemy. Through his fearless battlefield leadership and eagerness to destroy the foe, Lieutenant Young, at the cost of his life, provided a lasting inspiration to his men and upheld the finest traditions of the Military Service.”

(Authority: G.O. No. 382, USAF-Pac., 7 Dec. 1945, 2nd Lt., Inf.).

Not “reported to be.”

See FAMILY Continued on page 27

January 2022

25

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Joshua Baucon (far right) delivers letter from Major General Alberto C. Rosende, Commanding General to Wes Young and family regarding the return of memorabilia of Lieutenant Tracy W. Young. (Photo by Carey Head)

FAMILY Continued from page 25 Not “supposed to be.”

But open-the-box-and-make-an-inventory.

(Please.)

Three weeks later, in a letter dated March 15, 2021, Col. Richard Corner replied the missing articles were located at the Norman (Oklahoma) Armed Forces Reserve Center. The memorialization plaque was at an Army depot in Anniston, Alabama.

Col. Corner wrote, “The 63rd Readiness Division Public Affairs Officer will contact Mr. Young to verify the next of kin. The 63rd Readiness Division Historian will schedule an inventory of the personal items, facility commemorating literature and historical newspaper articles currently stored … for return to the next of kin.”

Historian Joshua Baucom, 63rd Readiness Division, made the journey from his home in Alabama to Ponca City to return Tracy’s artifacts to the Young family.

Baucom understands that the physical representations of (the soldier’s) sacrifice is loaned by family to the U.S. Army when their loved one is selected for a reserve center memorialization.

He describes the commitment of his commanding officer, Commander General Alberto Rosende, to returning these artifacts, often decades later, to the families of decommissioned ARCs.

“I was notified by Commander General — get it done and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

— Joshua T. Baucom 63rd Readiness Historian

“Identify the next of kin. And, if you can’t find them? Look harder,” Baucom says in paraphrasing his commanding officer’s order. “Get it done and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Reflecting on the odyssey of finding the late Tracy Young’s medals, Baucom continues, “Now my mission is to make sure (similar items) don’t end up in a closet somewhere.”

Tracy William Young is interred in the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines. The 152-acre park is on a prominent plateau shaded by tropical trees. The largest number of graves of American military dead of World War II are carefully tended there. The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial offers the same majesty of place while inspiring solemn gratitude as all National Cemeteries caring for America’s war dead.

Major General Alberto C. Rosende, Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve. Rosende has ordered all military memorabilia on loan from service member families be promptly returned to those families upon the closing of a named Army Reserve Center.

(Photo courtesy U.S. Army Reserve Public Information Office)

Wesley and his family hope to visit their uncle’s final resting place soon. With the MAC partially reopened to the public, the journey may soon come full circle and the news of the family’s victory be celebrated with their hero.

January 2022

27

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A Place for Children to Grow

The Story of the Child Development Center Story and Photos by Chelsea McConnell/Staff Writer

M

argaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

This sentiment certainly holds true for Ponca City and the generations of committed citizens who have affected so much change and progress in our community with our very own Child Development Center.

This story of thoughtfulness and commitment goes back to 1966 when members of the United Church Women organization did a survey in Ponca City and surrounding communities to determine if there was a need for income-based childcare in our area. Of the many families surveyed, 78 reported that they could indeed utilize childcare that was based on a sliding pay scale. Because of the care of those women, the Child Development Center opened on Monday, Jan. 16, 1967. They had five students enrolled on the first

day and quickly grew to serve 30 children.

One of the goals of the United Church Women was to create a daycare for children with working parents.

From the outset, their hours were 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in order to accommodate working schedules.

The women wanted a place where the kids could spend the day receiving care and instruction in order to prepare them for the school years ahead.

Today, the mission of the Child Development Center is “to provide affordable, high-quality

preschool childcare in a nurturing, secure environment. This program emphasizes life skills and school readiness through creative ‘hands and minds’ on learning experiences and development of language skills that encourage spiritual, physical, emotional and social growth.” The Center is

licensed to serve up to 110 children. They currently have 85 children enrolled, from infant age to four years old. Prior to COVID-19, enrollment was a bit higher at 103 children.

Originally, the CDC was housed in the First Christian Church Activity Center and moved to various sites See CHILDREN Continued on page 33

30 January 2022

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32 January 2022

Playground equipment similar to what will be installed.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~Margaret ~M argaret Mead~ CHILDREN Continued from page 30 over the years. They moved to their current location at 702 E. Grand Avenue in 2012, another act that took thoughtfulness, care and commitment from our community. This final move was spearheaded

by Fred Boettcher and involved the City of Ponca City gifting the former YMCA property to the Child Development Center. Many individuals helped with the fundraising, planning and organization of the move in order to make the property what it is today.

The Child Development Center differs from most childcare programs in our area in that it was begun as a nonprofit in order to help families that couldn’t afford childcare on their own. In the beginning, families were charged a fee for tuition which was supplemented by fundraisers held by the United Church Women group. Early fundraisers included garage sales, antique shows, food sales and even pageants.

Today, the Center serves 90% low- to moderateincome families with tuitions based on a sliding scale determined by income. The facility is funded by various state and federal programs, annual fundraisers, individual donations and support from several local churches. Due to the generosity of our community, they are able to provide a limited number of scholarships each year as well.

The Center is truly more than just a daycare. They pride themselves on being the only outcomebased facility in Ponca City, according to current Director Mary Beth Hunt. They provide health screenings annually, as well as social, emotional and developmental screenings to children in the program. Various outcome-based activities include the Family Reading program, Character Building, Critter Characters and Bucket Filling. Nutrition is also

important to Center staff. The Child Development Center participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. This federal program reimburses the Center for a portion of their food costs annually as long as guidelines ensuring proper child nutrition are met.

As well as Director Mary Beth Hunt, the Center has 23 additional staff members, including teachers, kitchen staff and administrative staff. The CDC works with NOC to help secure scholarships for any employees who wish to further their education in childcare. Training was important to the founders of the Center as well. Upon opening in 1967, training sessions were held for employees and volunteers alike and taught by an instructor with a Master’s in Child Development and Preschool Education.

Previous Directors of the CDC include Betty Snyder (1967-76), Nina Jean Cox (1976-77), Liz Stewart (1977-80), Diana Porter (1980-91), Kim Jump (19912017) and Mary Beth Hunt (2017-present).

for both age groups. The new equipment is meant to complement the natural play environment already on-site.

The Board has a retreat planned for January when they plan to look at the Center’s goals and discuss ideas and strategies for the future. They will also be discussing current fundraisers and potential new fundraising opportunities for the Center. (Mac and Cheese Festival, anyone?)

While the Center has changed over the years, the overarching values that make the CDC what it is have not. They value quality childcare and education, available at a reasonable price, administered by well-trained individuals. Ensuring a bright future for the children in our community is at the heart of what the Child Development Center does each day at its daycare facility.

The Center is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of community members as well as members from several local churches. Current Board members include President Brook Lindsay, Vice President Amy Swartz, Secretary Jen Miller, Treasurer Laura Peitz, Will Oldfield, Erica Fetters, Caitlyn Cline, Jenny Creech, Brandy Titus, Katie Goss, MaryAnn Holt, Sharla Lambring, Ila McKee, Carol Lynes, Michelle Bailey, Rena Burlie, Brooke Dyer, Casey VanHoesen and Joanna Robison. Board terms are three years in length, and Board members have the option of serving two consecutive terms.

The Center has some exciting things on the horizon under the leadership of current President Brook Lindsay. An important part of the CDC at its location on Grand Avenue has always been the outdoor play area on the west side of the property. Thanks to a grant from Phillips 66, and with Lindsay’s direction, the facility will soon install new playground equipment

January 2022

33

We look forward to serving you in the new year!

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F F

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or many, the proverbial turning of the

calendar page at the end of each year can

leave us pondering the meaning of life and what comes next in our journey here on this little

green and blue speck called Earth. If you find

yourself looking for more, look no further than the University Center at Ponca City. 2022 is a

great time to consider leveling up by earning the

degree you’ve long thought about or adding extra credentials to the end of your name.

Located at 2800 N. 14th Street, the University Center (UC) offers over 60 degree programs from various colleges around the state of Oklahoma, including Associate, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree choices. The UC’s mission is to provide “opportunities for higher education and degrees through partnerships with accredited colleges and universities,” and their vision is “to be an essential higher-education center that promotes a well-educated community and provides a positive economic impact.”

The UC strives to offer a school home that has convenience at heart when it comes

to its students. The UC’s Core Values are Accountability, Collaboration, Customer Service, Innovation, Integrity and Learning.

Nontraditional education has been around for several years, with the UC celebrating 23 years this year. Since 1999, they’ve helped thousands of students earn their degrees.

This semester, there are five senior nursing students in attendance that will graduate in May from Northwestern with their BSN, Bachelor of Science and Nursing. Staff at the UC are incredibly proud of these seniors. The BSN program takes two years, on average, for students to complete. Because the UC See UNIVERSITY Continued on page 36

January 2022

35

UNIVERSITY Continued on page 35 is geared toward nontraditional students, every graduate from their location is a feather in their cap. The UC doesn’t just provide a facility; they provide a home for students while pursuing their education. At 10 staff members, the UC is more like a family than faculty. They are committed to developing quality relationships with their students to ensure each and every one receives a quality education.

BSN Student Cassie Chavez has nothing but kind things to say about the UC. “I am currently a senior in the BSN nursing program with NWOSU though the University Center at Ponca City. The staff at the UC has done an outstanding job in accommodating the nursing students in all stages of the program. They are very knowledgeable with ITV schedules and classes. I am so grateful to be able to come to the UC and have a nice computer lab to use with a printer and quiet study rooms for one or more individuals. I have come to know all of the staff at the UC and am very proud to say I am a nursing student through this program. I wish more students would take advantage of this local facility. They work with not only nursing student programs but other courses and degrees. Overall, this is a great place to come to start or further your career!”

job job outstanding knowledgeable veryvery knowledgeable “The staff at the UC has done an outstanding

in accommodating

the nursing students in all stages of the program. They are with ITV schedules and classes.”

Benefits of enrolling through the University Center are many.

The facility itself is in excellent condition. Computer labs and printers are provided to students, and copies can be made free of charge. Rooms are available for students to study in if they need a quiet atmosphere. The lobby boasts comfy chairs and expansive windows for students who need just a little distraction to do their best work. Test proctors are available for a small fee for anyone who needs them. A courier service runs daily between the various campuses allowing students to receive books and turn in assignments, when needed, without having to drive out of town to visit a campus. During the pandemic, they began checking out laptops to students when needed, since not all students have access to necessary technology in their homes. There is also an Academic Advisor on staff to guide students through their educational journey.

The site is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

The UC is governed by a Board of Trustees and relies on the University Center Foundation for its fundraising needs. They are also partially funded by the state. Through the work of the Foundation, the UC is able to offer scholarships each semester to around 50 students. With approximately 100 students attending classes through the UC each semester, supplying scholarships for half is quite impressive. Interim CEO Robyn Armstrong is grateful for the guidance of the Trustees and the fundraising efforts of the Foundation, particularly in today’s See UNIVERSITY Continued on page 38

36 January 2022

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“I wish more students would take advantage of this local facility.”

UNIVERSITY Continued from page 36 climate when state funding is so uncertain.

In addition to their normal classes and degree programs, the UC also offers concurrent enrollment for high school students, specialty classes, STEM afterschool programs and summer camps. A 3D printing class is being offered that takes only one week to complete. This hands-on class goes through the entire 3D printing process from start to finish, and each student gets to leave with their own printed item. Exciting classes for younger students are also offered, like their Introductory Robotics & Programming LEGO Robotics courses.

These classes teach students the basics of computer coding and the mechanics of motors. Destination Space was a STEM experience offered last summer to teach

38 January 2022

students what it means to get out of the Earth’s atmosphere and involved students building their own rockets using 3D printers.

These are just a few of the exciting offerings happening at the UC, along with the more traditional degree programs that can be pursued.

UC Board of Trustees members are Louise Abercrombie; Dr. Kelly Campbell; Rich Cantillon, Chair FY 2022-24; Bruce Evans; Natalie Fraser; Darin Fields, Vice Chair (Chair FY 2024-26); Erin Liberton; Stephen Scott, Secretary; and Tracie Smith. 2021 UC Foundation members are Diane Anderson, Chair; Ken Bellmard; Matt Bintz, Vice Chair; Bill Geubelle; Christopher Mendoza; Marc Labossiere; Mert Martens; Heather Cannon; Erica Fetters; Jerod Helling; and Natalie Prather.

For more information about the University Center at Ponca City, visit their website at www. ucponcacity.com or their University Center at Ponca City Facebook page. It’s never too late to change your future, and UC staff wants to be the first to welcome you to that future today, right here in Ponca City!

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Resolutions, Faith and Church Issues in Times of the Pandemic Story and Photos by Marlys Cervantes/Contributing Writer How do you feel about New Year’s resolutions?

I don’t make them often because I’ve kept them about twice in my life. The first time was out of necessity, and it was the year I needed to complete my Master’s thesis. My resolution was about no television viewing, and there was none (other than the Academy Awards agreed upon between me and God ahead of time) throughout the Lenten season and until the thesis was completed and defended. It worked.

The second time, which wasn’t for such a focus, was when I realized I was posting places we were going out to eat, visiting for vacation and other such fun, and it would be a perfect, low-key way to allow people to see how important faith was in my life if I posted when I attended worship and events at church. That was a successful resolution that I still keep today, several years later. It’s a way to show my faith without pushing anything on anyone. It’s been a beautiful change in how I use social media.

Even in the pandemic, when we weren’t attending worship physically, and did so online, outside, with nature around us and our dogs by our sides, I’d post our attendance, virtual that it was.

It was a long time coming before we were back in the pews, and I’ve wondered how it’s been for other churches, so when I began to think about New Year’s resolutions for this year, I started thinking more about how our local churches were doing in the midst of so many changes and decided to ask a few area pastors about the challenges over the past almost two years, where they are now with their church and congregation and what they see ahead for our

beautiful community.

Even though all data across the country showed church attendance continually dropping off even before the pandemic, local numbers indicate the virus sped this up, with those reporting showing anywhere from 25-40% decrease from prepandemic average attendance on Sundays. However, many are still streaming services and maintaining a different sort of connection with their former (or a new) congregation through that method of worship.

Both First Presbyterian Church and Grace Episcopal Church discussed needing to learn effective use of technology as it relates to worship and their congregations, while First United Methodist had some of these avenues in place but had to figure out how to better serve their congregants who were at home. Churches were in different places, but they all had the same issues in front of them as they tried to serve their members while keeping them safe.

Rev. Linda Sherry, pastor of First Presbyterian, remembers the immediate change in caring for parishioners. “Pastors were no longer allowed to visit hospital rooms, and funerals were put on hold for months,” she says. “Phone calls and letters became our primary form of pastoral care, as well as little care packages left on porches.”

Rev. Sherry and many churchgoers I know expressed how much they have missed the times See FAITH Continued on page 43

January 2022

41

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FAITH Continued from page 41

of fellowship during this time. For most congregations, there’s just nothing like gathering together for a meal.

For Father Caleb Roberts, who was the new rector at Grace Episcopal in June 2020 just as they began to resume meeting, that was part of his dilemma.

How do you get to really know people without those gatherings? There were no meals, no coffee hours, and the congregation were all in masks as he came into the picture, making simple items like remembering names much more difficult.

Across the country, pastors have found similar issues. In the October 27 issue of The Atlantic, Elizabeth Felicetti, rector at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia, explains how it was much easier last year when mandates were the answer. In her article titled “My Church Doesn’t Know What to Do Anymore,” Felicetti explains that now, when it’s up to many of the pastors and congregations to decide what restrictions to keep in place, people are often unhappy with one another and their leaders, which makes it much harder on the pastors. She states,

effects today. Trust me, if I’ve heard you’ve had this virus, you’ve been in my prayers, and I’ve passed your name on to a few others who I think have a more direct prayer line than I. I believe in community.

In our church, First United Methodist, our ushers bring around the contribution plate rather than our passing it. We don’t require masks, but it’s left up to individuals. We are slowly gathering for a few meals, although I haven’t gone to those yet. I have people to protect, and I feel I have to make some choices about some things where certain risks can be assessed. It’s tough. I love my church family.

At First Presbyterian, Rev. Sherry says, “We continue to encourage our congregation to wear masks to worship, we encourage social distancing, and we continue to use commercial, prepackaged communion elements.”

“These people who are not coming to church aren’t clients or subscribers or colleagues. They are my parishioners.”

Some of these seem to be what many churches are doing, so as an individual or family, you just have to find your comfort zone for worship. There are many who are doing so via streaming, and many of our local churches are providing that service. Reach out locally, if that’s what’s best for you. It would give you a local pastor and others to be in fellowship with from this community.

Where’s the line when trying to accommodate everyone in a congregation? My congregation lost people … people … early on in the pandemic. We were part of the early outbreak and not everyone survived. Some did after lengthy stays in the hospital, many prayers and much heartache. Some of those still suffer after-

When thinking about the challenges we are facing, Father Roberts says we should think toward what we learn and how we grow because of that. “We are social creatures by nature, created for fellowship and communion with God and neighbor.

Next year will no doubt provide countless opportunities for us to manifest this truth and strengthen the bonds of fellowship that make this community what it is.”

As you’re thinking about your resolutions this year, think about what you’ve learned over these past couple of tough years.

Maybe you can come up with one that will help a local church, local people or simply move your community forward in some way during 2022. I asked a few friends I work with what they would do as New Year’s resolutions this year if they somehow involved the church, and they all involved people and prayer. I love these people I get to spend my days around at Cowley College. I believe my resolution will be writing and sending cards every Sunday. I want people to know I’m thinking of them. We are all in this together, you know. One community … Ponca City.

January 2022

43

Kanza Human Development Division

JANUARY MEETINGS & EVENTS

Cradle To College & Beyond

EDUCATION Begins with Child Care, Johnson O’Malley Program, Higher Education and Graduate Assistance EMPLOYMENT/TRAINING Begins with Adult Education, Adult Vocational Training and on-the-job training. Developing business opportunities for tribal members to be employed in all areas of a business.

CHILD CARE Providing child care for tribal members who are parents, single or married, who need employment, education or training to be self-sufficient.

OFFICE HOURS Monday through Friday 8 am - 4 pm

Closed Federal & Tribal Holidays.

To set up an appointment, please call

580-749-5420

Bring your Tribal card, driver’s license, proof of residence and Social Security card.

OFFICE LOCATION City Central Building 400 E. Central Avenue Suite 206

kanzahumandevelopmentdivision.com

The Kaw Nation has opened an office in Ponca City to better serve all federally recognized tribal members. The Kanza Human Development Division staff offers assistance with education, employment/training and child care.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4

Ponca City Business Council will meet at 8 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 6

Cash Mob at 11:30 a.m. at Sears.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 6

Education and Workforce Development Committee will meet at 4 p.m. at the Chamber Office.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 6

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 5 p.m. for The Art Center, located in City Central, 5th and Central.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 11

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. for Bronze Bar & Boutique, located at 505 N. 14th Street, Suite A.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12

35th Ponca City Leadership Class Session on Kay County Government.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18

Ambassador Committee will meet at 8 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20

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Community Development Committee will meet at 10 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21

Finance and Executive Committee will meet at 11 a.m. at the Chamber Office

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25

Chamber Board will meet at 11 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27

Tourism Bureau will meet at 9 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27

127th Chamber Celebration! Get Your Tickets Today.

Celebration Reception 4-6 p.m. Celebration 6:30 p.m.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 28

Ponca Politics Committee will meet at 11 a.m. at the Chamber Office.

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The Last Windwitch

by Jennifer Adam Once upon a time, the seasons followed one another in an orderly pattern and the land was blessed. The Windwitch wove the winds of the seasons so that the seasons were balanced. Then an evil banished the Windwitch. The seasons became tangled and the weather became dangerous and unstable. Crops failed. People suffered and starved.

as the hedgewitch’s magic. All Brida wants is to be a credit to Mother Magdi.

One day, Brida manages to accidentally gain the attention of the queen. Mother Magdi immediately goes on the run with Brida, in an effort to keep Brida hidden from the queen. As they travel the countryside, Brida learns more about her magic and how it works. Separated from Mother Magdi, Brida struggles to hide from the queen’s Crows as she flees the Huntsman.

Now the wicked Queen of Crows rules the land with sorcery and an iron fist. She tore down the temples throughout the land and banished the priests and priestesses. Her spies are Crows. Her Huntsman, along with his Hounds, pursues those who defy the Queen. All her subjects fear the Queen.

Brida is the apprentice of Mother Magdi, the local hedgewitch. She has been raised by Mother Magdi since being left at the hedgewitch’s as a baby. Mother Magdi is certain Brida has powerful magic, but Brida struggles with the skills necessary to become a hedgewitch. It’s like her magic doesn’t work the same

In the ruins of a temple, Brida learns of her heritage: the queen is her aunt, who murdered Brida’s father and stole the throne. Brida realizes her magic may be just what the rebellion needs to defeat the queen; her magic might also be the key to healing the land and the seasons.

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REVIEW BY: LORRIE LAYTON The Apollo Murders

by Chris Hadfield My favorite type of historical fiction is something called “alternate history.” It’s speculative fiction in which one or more historical events unfolds quite differently than they did in our past. These stories ask “What if?” What if the colonies hadn’t won the Revolutionary war? What if the Allies had lost World War II? Those are only two possible scenarios, but you get the idea.

One of the things that makes alternate histories even more believable is when the author includes real people from history. Chris Hadfield, author of The Apollo Murders, does this very effectively. His story is peopled with names I recognized from the seventies – names from NASA – Al Shepard and Gene Krantz -- as well as politicians from both the United States and the Soviet Union – Richard Nixon, Henry Kissinger, Bob Haldeman and Yuri Andropov.

As a former astronaut and commander of the International Space Station, author Chris Hadfield’s experience allows him to take the science of a mission to the moon and blend it in as a believable, understandable, and integral part of his novel.

I invite you to join the Apollo 18 and NASA crews on the high-stakes thriller that is The Apollo Murders.

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The Apollo Murders is set in 1973 and focuses on the Apollo 18 mission. (In case you’re wondering, the last manned mission to the moon was Apollo 17 in 1972.) President Nixon has authorized one more Apollo mission in an effort to boost his popularity. When the US intelligence community discovers the Soviets have launched a spy space station in orbit around the earth, what began as a scientific mission to the moon morphs into a military space mission that might manage to accomplish a little bit of science on the side.

www.NapolisPoncaCity.com

47

Music in & Around Ponca City

Sounding Story & Photos Contributed

by Steve Scott

Off

WOW. We are starting yet another new year, full of hope and optimism. Many take this time to reflect on days gone by, both to learn for the future and to remember those moments and people that affected our life. Please bear with me as, for the next few columns, I am going to take a ride in Ponca City’s past and remember some of the musicians who influenced me, and many others, to learn how to play an instrument, and then use our talents to entertain the public.

Local Star … Waddy Pass I’m kicking off this series of locally famous bands with a return to the 1960s and “The Henchmen.”

The picture of the band with the 1965 Pontiac GTO includes (below from the left) Dale Bacher,

Waddy Pass, Pat Schultz, Mickey Skaggs and Steve Ellenwood. Back in the 60s, several Ponca City churches sponsored dances on Friday evenings each month. This provided a safe, chaperoned place for our city’s youth to go, and for local bands to play. I was a big fan of The Henchmen, and Waddy Pass was the guitar player I followed over the years as his career carried him to places that, at the time, a local boy could only imagine.

Waddy’s musical career started at the age of 6 1/2, when a salesman from the local Pruitt Music store visited his family’s home looking to enroll students to learn to play guitar. Waddy’s hands were too small for a guitar neck at that age, so Bert Pruitt seated him at a steel guitar. Within a year, he could play every popular Hawaiian song on the charts. Eventually, he

excelled on regular guitar as well, and by the age of 14, he was teaching at the store.

Waddy’s first band was “The Blue Crystals,” named after the color on the drummer’s trap set. From there, he moved into The Deserters and eventually The Henchmen. The band was always well-rehearsed, and as such was in demand for not only the church dances, but at the VFW, the Armory and other events.

By 1970, Waddy joined a Bartlesville-based band, The Skeptics, and toured clubs as far away as Chicago.

From there, he joined Down Home, a group known for their horn section, a lot of fans and a touring schedule that covered multiple states, including club circuits throughout Georgia.

In the 1980s, he joined Spunky Creek, a band he described as a cross between AC/DC and Merle Haggard, where his expertise on both steel and regular guitar were in demand. At one point, Waddy was contacted to play steel guitar on a debut album by a soon-to-be famous group, The Tractors, at Tulsa’s Church Studio (built by Leon Russell).

As if being a musical prodigy isn’t enough, Waddy is also talented with electronics. He spent several years working at Saied Music, where many musicians trusted him to repair their amplifiers and guitars.

The Henchmen 1969. (from the left) Dale Bacher, Waddy Pass, Pat Schultz, Mickey Skaggs and Steve Ellenwood.

48 January 2022

Ridin’ High is kicking off their 2022 entertainment calendar by featuring Jake Marlin & The Reckless on Jan. 15.

He now plays with several Tulsa-area musicians, who call their group Razzle. I was honored to hear them perform at a wedding reception a couple of years ago. Even at my age (and as a fellow musician), I was just as much in awe while listening to them now as I was in my youth. Waddy is continuing the Oklahoma tradition of so many famous entertainers in bringing joy and music to the masses. And I believe he represents the best of Ponca City.

The Bandstand …

Never one to take a break, Larry Newsom will be at Zanotti’s in Stillwater on Jan. 7. And for a “triple threat” evening of music, Larry will be appearing with Rocky Kanaga and Austin Duplantis at The Spot in Enid on Jan. 12, with each performing a one-hour set. Looking ahead, Larry is booked at the Expenditure Brewery in Okarche on Feb. 18.

The Curtis Moore Band will be rocking the Stillwater Elk’s Lodge on Feb. 4 and Back2Sighs on Feb. 25.

I can use one word to describe Mother Kelly coming back after a year away from the club scene: “EXCITED!!!” Don’t miss their return at Back2Sighs on Jan. 14.

NATIONAL BIRD DAY JAN. 5

by Patrick Jordan

ACROSS 1. Food in a pig trough 5. Moth-repelling wood 10. Part of an i or a j 13. Professional helper 14. Get a chuckle out of 15. Salt Lake City's state 17. Skin reaction to cold or fear (2 wds.)

19. Edible ice cream holder 20. Sign up for schooling 21. Barrels at frat parties (2 wds.)

23. Set on a slant 25. Negative votes 26. Laugh syllable after "Hardy" 29. Identity theft scheme 31. "Show me the way!" (2 wds.)

35. Taxi alternative 37. Grows older 39. Sudden power increase 40. Insane, in Spain 41. Brings in a wheat harvest 43. Give a darn 44. First island in the Beach Boys' "Kokomo" 46. Trivial mistake 47. ___ out a living (barely survived) 48. Rigid about the rules 50. Perch for a bicyclist 52. Double-curved road segment 53. Milhouse or Martin, on "The Simpsons" 55. Let fall 57. "That's hard to believe!" (2 wds.)

61. Angry dog's sounds 65. Industrial show, for short 66. Rank requiring 21 merit badges (2 wds.)

Five Year Gap is coming off a Bricktown OKC New Year’s Eve performance and went right back in the studio to continue working on their debut album. Dirty Erin is finishing the tracks for their next release.

The Deviney Smith Band is recording their inaugural album and shared the first song with me. From what I just heard, this will be a CD I want, and you will too!

Finally …

It has been immensely enjoyable to track down various musicians who, through their bands 50+ years ago, were inspirational and provided a goal for me to try and achieve. I wanted to be like them, up on stage with people dancing and singing along to the music my band would play.

And I have heroes, like Waddy, to thank for my years on many stages.

If anyone has information on live music events, please write me at smscott54@ hotmail.com.

68.

69.

70.

71.

72.

73.

El ___, Texas Turn rotten Sword's sharp side Pre-___ (future doctor's study) Irritable Flow slowly

DOWN 1. Turkey stuffing herb 2. Zebra stalker 3. Stinky smell 4. Mexico coins 5. San Francisco transporter (2 wds.)

6. Flightless Australian bird 7. ___ down (explain in simpler terms) 8. Colorado ski town 9. Close up again, as a Baggie 10. Packet in a Chinese takeout order (2 wds.)

11. ___-Missouria Tribe 12. Powdered orange drink brand 16. "For ___ a jolly good fellow..."

18. Benevolent lodge group 22. Some deli breads 24. Salaries 26. Luau dances 27. Abandon, as a space mission 28. Happen again 30. Breakfast, lunch, etc.

32. Male mallard 33. Shrek and his family 34. Requirements 36. Pal of Friar Tuck and Little John (2 wds.)

38. Did a secret agent's job 42. How Montana is populated 45. Cards with single symbols 49. Most loyal 51. Very heavy weight units

1

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Curtain Walks nervously Slangy way to say "Correct" Health screening, briefly Section of some churches

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Conceited people have big ones Went on horseback, say Olympics sled Ladder feature Started a candle burning

ANSWER ON PAGE 61

January 2022

49

i a C

Cocktail

M e f O of he Month Mixed by Jill Rowe/Staff Writer

It doesn’t seem like there’s much to celebrate this year except for the fact that most of us are probably glad it’s over. But in a way, celebrations are needed now more than ever. To me, champagne marks the joy of the new year, and you better believe I’ll drink to that! One of my favorite cocktails that include champagne is the French 75. The French 75 celebrates the fast-firing 75-millimeter field gun that the French utilized during World War I. Phrases were popular comparing the lethal potency of the drink to the weapon, such as “Both will knock you flat.” With ingredients in this potent drink primarily containing alcohol with hardly any mixers, it’s no wonder it’s known to pack a punch.

Like many classic cocktails, the French 75’s history is shrouded in misinformation. The cocktail was supposedly created in Paris in 1915 at the New York Bar – later the famous Harry’s New York Bar, by Harry MacElhone. Harry, however, attributed the cocktail to a bartender at Buck’s Club in London. Regardless of where it began, the drink has changed its ingredients over time. Even the glass it’s served in has changed with drinking fashions over the years. First,

served in a coupe glass and then switched to a Collins glass in the 1920s and ‘30s, until the trend for champagne cocktails served in flutes emerged in the 1980s.

There is a strong possibility that the first French 75 didn’t contain gin at all. Cognac is believed to have been used since its very name was inspired by the French during the war. However, the recipe today as we know it contains gin, champagne or prosecco, lemon juice and sugar. I like to use simple syrup instead of sugar; it gives the drink a nice balance. While making your cocktail, if using champagne go light on the simple syrup to allow the fizz to come through. If using prosecco, use less lemon juice.

The French 75 is a citrusy, sparkling gin cocktail more potent than a cannon blast. Perfect for getting you through the holidays. It also tells us a couple of things about prohibition-era imbibers; they had a dark sense of humor and could definitely handle their booze.

The Frenc

h 75

1 oz.Gin 1/2 oz. lem on juice 1/2 oz. sim ple syrup Top with c hampagn e or prose

cco Combine g in, syrup a nd lemon with ice. S juice in a c hake vigor ocktail sh o u s l y aker filled a n d strain in Top up wit to a cham h champa pagne gla gne or pro ss. secco. Gar nish with a lemon twis t.

50 January 2022

Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs Digs into the New Year The Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs will hold their first meeting of 2022 at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at the Cann Garden Home.

Hostesses will be the Iris Garden Club with refreshments served prior to the program and general meeting.

The public is welcome to attend.

In this day and age. you will not want to miss Steve Scott, Specialized Security, speaking on “Personal Security In Present Times”. Stephen Scott is a former Federal Officer and security specialist. He spent seven years with the U.S. Department of State in Diplomatic Security, where he and his wife Betty served our nation at embassies and consulates in Russia and Malaysia. Scott’s career continued with the National Nuclear Security Administration where he served as the senior Technical Security Engineer over the systems protecting sensitive weapon assets and development programs. His presentation will cover basic skills anyone can develop that will help ensure their (and their family’s) safety, both at home and on the go.

Steve Scott, Specialized Security

Plan on staying after the meeting to help take down Christmas decorations.

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ANSWER ON PAGE 61

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7 3 Would you9 like to support us to promote your business or event?

5 3 8 4 Contact Robyn Ryan, Advertising Director 5 for more information. 9 Call 580-761-1295 or 7 email robyn@poncacitymonthly.com 3 1 8 2 5 January 2022

51

Backyard

Gardener

Mother Nature’s Antidepressant Story and Photos by Kat Long/Contributing Writer nd just like that, it is January of 2022. Wow. I feel old when I think 2022. It’s like a scifi movie date or (shudder) – an election year. Let’s talk of something more cheery than how old we are getting (bleak) or how many sci-fi movies are set in 2022 (it’s not a long list, or a good one), but I’ll give you a few titles toward the end. Promise. Let us cheer ourselves with talk of houseplants!

Jan. 10 is Houseplant Appreciation Day, and you should celebrate. Why? – because you can grow anything as a houseplant. Well, unless you are like me and have cats. Those darn felines will chew on any plant, even if it will make them sick, or worse, kill them. Insert head shaking here. I still grow indoor plants at work. And let’s face it, most of us are at work more than we are at home, at least for consecutive hours of the day. So, get a banana tree or a dragon tree. Succulents are popular and hard to kill – ditto on ivy plants.

The mother of all indoor plants is any of the pothos plant varieties, known as devil’s ivy. You know the ones I mean; they grow no matter where they are; you can make cuttings, root them in water and start another plant and give them away. In fact, you probably know someone with a large plant. Ask for a cutting and put it in a cup of water for a couple of months. Find a nice pot, grab some soil and viola, you have a plant for your window, shelf or desk to brighten your day.

If you want something more exotic, look no further than a spider plant. These spiky little guys are still on the top five list of easiest plants to grow, but they look more exotic; especially when they are making little spider babies on the ends of long stem shoots. Spider plants are not picky about water, light or temperature and can be hung easily, which is a bonus when dealing with animal plant stalkers.

52 January 2022

I mentioned succulents earlier and these are right up there with cactus on the amount of neglect they can handle. As long as there is some light, you can forget to water them for a long time and they will forgive you, no problem. If treated well, cacti will bloom and succulents will have “chicks” to reward you for your patience and attention. I mention patience first because a flower or chick a year is considered normal, even prolific. Insert your

favorite Christmas cactus story here.

If you want to try succulents or air plants, there is a subscription box for everything including these.

Air plants are the small rootless, dirtless plants which just need to be spritzed once a week or month depending on how much moisture is in the air. They hang out in glass domes or can be set in driftwood or other display mediums. If you are curious, Lowe’s always has succulents and air plants in its indoor plant area and Keathly’s Nursery has succulents and a few varieties of cacti.

If the subscription box is your way to go, check out Succulentsbox.com.

And when Herb Festival rolls around on June 4 this year, make sure to find the Air Plant Lady from CD3 Farm (or find her on Facebook now. She ships.).

Her booth was amazing in 2019, and she knows all the things about growing and maintaining these lovely littles.

If you don’t know anyone with

plant cuttings, head over to City Central and knock on the Cowboy Driving door in Link #8. Susan has some amazing office plants, including a couple of pothos varieties, a bottle palm and a few species of spiderworts; I bet we can talk her into a cutting or two. Another option is when you see a plant in someone’s office or home, find out what kind of plant and how it is propagated. Ivies, spiderworts and pothos varieties are pretty much cut and rooted in water. Other plants like bottle palms and bulb plants are not going to be easily split and rooted.

The takeaway for you dear readers is Happy Houseplant Day. Go celebrate by getting your first indoor plant, or add to your already existing collection. And talk to them. They are alive and the only things they can do are listening and grow for you. And if you want them to do double duty, sprinkle a few basil or thyme seeds at their base and see if you can get some herbs growing. Always a joy to grow something green and colorful, and of course, Happy Gardening!

FRIDAY•FEBRUARY 25 at Osage Casino Cocktails at 6 pm Fashion Show at 7 pm 30 Tickets are available online @ survivorresourcenetwork.org via PayPal $

Don’t miss this fun event benefitting Survivor Resource Network!

January 2022

53

T T

his might be controversial to say, but the only two people on this planet I love unconditionally are my kids (and honestly, they’re pushing it). I don’t know whoever created this concept, it’s so absurd. Just because we happen to be in the same general geographical location and have arbitrarily decided to be friends that I must love you no matter what?

Just because we happen to share genetic DNA that means you’re free to act a fool and I still have to love you? Uh, no. My love for my family and friends and yes, even my spouse, is so very conditional – on so many fronts. You drive through Taco Bell

and don’t get me a cheesy gordita crunch? We’re done. You go into a gas

station and don’t get me a Snickers? You’re dead to me. You go have delicious drinks at Vortex Alley Brewing and don’t invite me?

I’m never speaking to you again. You name your baby the name I told you in 7th grade I wanted to use for my baby? Kick rocks. (Sara, if you’re reading this, I know you think I’ve forgiven you for this especially since I didn’t even have a girl to use the name on, but I

AUTO/TRUCKING ACCIDENTS

haven’t forgiven you, nor have I forgotten).

The list goes on and on, but these are obviously the most serious of transgressions that are, in my opinion, unforgivable. You may be thinking, “Oh Rachel, you’re just blowing this out of proportion” and to you I say, “BYE. We’re done.” Because disagreeing with me is also on my list of conditions.

Be the bigger person, you might say. If God wanted me to be the bigger person, he would have made me taller than 5’3”. Forgive and forget? I’m neither Jesus nor do I have Alzheimer’s. If you’re thinking, “Wow, she’s petty,” just know I’ve filed the paperwork to legally change my name to Petty Boop.

And lastly you’re probably thinking, “Wow, I bet she doesn’t have a lot of friends …” and you’re not wrong. So in closing, I’m currently accepting applications for casual friendships; you may apply online, but please know there is a rigorous interview process, as well as an iron-clad contract of conditions you must agree to in the event you’re offered the position.

PERSONAL WRONGFUL AUTO/TRUCKING INSURANCE AUTO/TRUCKING WRONGFUL PERSONAL AUTO DEFECTIVE INSURANCE WRONGFUL OILFIELD PREMISES AUTO DEFECTIVE DEFECTIVE INSURANCEOILFIELD OILFIELD PREMISES DEFECTIVE AUTO/TRUCKING AUTO/TRUCKING PERSONALAUTOPERSONAL PERSONAL WRONGFUL WRONGFUL AUTO PREMISES INSURANCE AUTO INSURANCE PREMISES PREMISES DEFECTIVE OILFIELD AUTO/TRUCKING PERSONAL WRONGFUL AUTO INSURANCE PREMISES DEFECTIVE OILFIELD PERSONAL WRONGFUL AUTO INSURANCE PREMISES DEFECTIVE OILFIELD INJURYACCIDENTSAUTO/TRUCKING DEATH ACCIDENTS NEGLIGENCE INJURY DISPUTES ACCIDENTS DEATH LIABILITY NEGLIGENCE INJURY PRODUCTS DISPUTES DEATH INJURIES NEGLIGENCE LIABILITY PRODUCTS DISPUTES INJURIES LIABILITY PRODUCTS ACCIDENTS INJURY INJURY DEATH NEGLIGENCE DEATH NEGLIGENCE DISPUTES DISPUTES LIABILITY LIABILITY PRODUCTS PRODUCTS INJURIES INJURIES ACCIDENTS INJURY DEATH NEGLIGENCE DISPUTES INJURIES AUTO/TRUCKING PERSONAL WRONGFUL AUTO INSURANCE LIABILITY PREMISESPRODUCTS DEFECTIVE ACCIDENTS INJURY DEATH NEGLIGENCE DISPUTES LIABILITY PRODUCTS INJURIESOILFIELD

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January 2022 111165L MJJ Postcard 111165L Client MJJPackets Postcard Stillwater Client Packets v1.indd Stillwater 1 v1.indd 54

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9/2

HEALTH

TOP 3 TIPS FOR A HEALTHY NEW YEAR START Story by Kera Kester, NASM Certified Personal Trainer/Contributing Writer

Can you believe it is January 2022! This is a time of celebrating the lessons learned and victories we had in 2021. It is also a time of newfound hope for our New Year’s resolutions or goals. In the realm of fitness, there is especially much fervor to make a couple of changes. Whether those desired changes are mental, physical or emotional, there is a factor that must play a part in your success. In order to carry a goal or plan out efficiently, there must be sustainability! The definition of sustainable is “able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.” Many of us have done the drastic all-or- nothing approach or the inconsistent halfway-in approach.

The habits you form and the actions you take should be those you are personally able to stick with when the motivation may start to dwindle three months into the year. Here are three tips to not only create change, but sustainable change that lasts!

1. BE REALISTIC

We have to be realistic with the rate or level we choose to start with or maintain. If you are new to working out, don’t try and force yourself to run five miles everyday. No one is expecting you to start as a superhero and bench press 70-pound dumbbells. If you have an extremely busy schedule, trying to pencil in two-hour long sessions six days per week may cause you to get burned out or disappointed. If you tend to feel groggy or lazy in the mornings, there is no shame in scheduling night workouts. Making personal challenges is a great thing, but we also must know ourselves.

Impractical measures will not always yield the best results when it comes to exercise, dietary and internal goals.

2. AVOID BEING OVERLY RESTRICTIVE

For this tip, I will emphasize the topic of food. When people think of healthy eating, the tendency is to visualize oneself throwing out all junk food or processed items and replacing everything with chicken, rice and fruit.

Before you replace every chip bag and cereal box with carrots, I encourage you to think about this. Instead of just seeing foods as good or bad, think of foods as fuel and consider how they affect your biofeedback. Biofeedback is a fancy word for your body’s physiological functions. It serves us well when we are aware of how foods are affecting things, such as our sleep, internal organs and energy levels to name a few. Additionally, I think there are two other important considerations when changing our diets. One, how does this fit into my calorie range and macronutrient profile? Two, will eating this food right now align with the bulk of my diet being whole and nutrient dense foods? The goal should never be perfection, because that isn’t attainable. I always say, the 80/20 rule is a great start or rule of thumb!

3. UNIFY TO THRIVE

We all benefit from having others who will encourage and support us. It’s one of the reasons I will always recommend going to a gym at least a couple times in your life. There is good community and many like-minded individuals that will inspire you for your fitness journey. Get a workout buddy! Go partner with a trainer or coach! Sign up for group classes!

Community has a huge impact on the sustainability of your goals. If you don’t know where to begin or would like to continue growing your circle, you know I’m here for it! Feel free to reach out by email or social media.

We have all entered 2022 together, and I wish nothing but the absolute best for us all! Much love and Happy New Year!

January 2022

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PONCA CITY MONTHLY

All right, I know January is all dieting and exercise and resolutions and that is great, but if you feel like you want to celebrate making it to 2022 with a meatday-cheat-day, check out Jim’s Jumbo Burger in downtown Ponca City. Nestled on the northwest corner of Fourth Street and Oklahoma Avenue, this low-profile, former Marland Oil gas station is home to a burger that is unique to Ponca City.

Jim’s Jumbo Burger 220 S. Fourth Street, Ponca City.

580.762.4506.

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Follow Jim’s on Facebook

The menu isn’t flashy, the dated building has a walk-up window and it just seems so … simple. If you think about it, the simple is what makes it pretty rad. Simple means there is nowhere to hide. That’s why Jim’s has an exclusive grind made for them daily by Osage Meat Market. That’s why every burger is made to order with freshly cut veggies. That’s why owner Jimmie Akers still cooks on the same flat top griddle his father installed when he opened the burger joint in the 1960s.

Guys, these are well-seasoned (thank you, original griddle!), thin burgers that somehow make the cheese melt down into the meat.

How does this happen?!? And the buns. Let’s talk about the buns for a minute. These are not your selfish, steal-the-show buns. Nope.

These are pillowy, soft, I’m-just-here-to-helpyou-enjoy-this-tasty-burger buns – selfless, unfancy buns that complement the burger perfectly. All this buns talk is making me a little breathless .

After an industry-challenging few years, Jimmie and his wife, Darla, are still serving our community delicious, beefy eats. If finding a solution to stay open amidst many new COVID-19 restrictions wasn’t impressive enough, their familiar building was recently nominated to be added to the National Register of Historic Places. Jim’s cool factor just jumped about 100 points in my book.

So next time you need to treat yourself, venture downtown to Jim’s, order the Quad and tots and take a minute to just enjoy your food and show some appreciation to local business owners that keep the wheels turning in our community. I read a quote that stated, “Eat clean to stay fit, have a burger to stay sane.” I couldn’t have said it any better. Happy Eating!!

TOP THREE FOR ME The bun/burger ratio Call your order in ahead of time and eat at the picnic tables at Central Fare (weather permitting) WELL-SEASONED!!! This is huge!

For more delicious food fun, check out @foodcrushok on IG and Facebook Show us what you’re eating! Tag us on IG with #LookAtMePC

56 January 2022

Stop by if we can help you purchase a vehicle in the new year!

3501 N. 14th Street • Ponca City • 580-765-2511 • bobhurleyponca.com January 2022

57

Chris Bugg, DDS

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(580) 200-2261 580-749-9370 www.DDSPoncaCity.com 58 January 2022

Tortellini Soup

Recipe and Photos by Paul Muehlberg/Contributing Writer

When it’s cold outside, soup is one of my favorite weeknight comfort meals. In this tortellini soup, I use anchovies and a parmesan rind for a flavorful broth that simmers only 30 minutes but tastes like it’s been on the stove all day. I also love the chili flakes and fennel seeds which add heat and a spicy note. I like to use a three-cheese fresh tortellini, and for a pop of color I like the tricolor. Look for fresh tortellini in the refrigerated section of the grocery store.

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1 pound Italian sausage 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 6 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 small anchovy filets 1 teaspoon chili flakes 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 8 cups chicken broth 28-ounce can stewed tomatoes, crushed & torn Parmesan rind 2 tablespoons chopped basil 18 ounces fresh tortellini (not the dried stuff) 1 large bunch spinach 1 cup heavy cream

Directions: Heat the oil in a large-heavy bottomed pot over medium-high heat. When the oil begins to smoke, add the sausage and break it up into small-bite sized bits using a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until browned 5-7 minutes Add the onion to the sausage and cook until translucent 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes or until garlic is fragrant. Push the sausage mixture to one side of the pot.

Add the anchovies; stir until dissolved and broken apart, about 1 minute.

Add the chili flakes and fennel seeds and stir and cook until fragrant about 20-30 seconds. Next add the tomato paste and stir until combined with the sausage. Continue stirring until the tomato paste is dark and fragrant about 1 minute. Next add the tomatoes, chicken broth, parm rind and basil. Scrap up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove the parm rind and add the tortellini. Cook the tortellini for 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the spinach and cream. Stir and season with salt and pepper. Serve with fresh focaccia.

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

An Ambitious 2022 Plan!

January is here and your local school district is in high gear to welcome back teachers, students, and our support staff. We want to kick start 2022 with a bang, and we have laid out ambitious goals for the upcoming calendar year. How ambitious? We will be kicking off sixteen (16) different projects over the next twelve months.

These projects are not inclusive of all the work the district does on an annual basis but are some of the larger projects you will see as an engaged citizen in our community.

When our bond issue passed on October 12th, the real work urgently kicked off. We’ve been and are still actively designing and meeting multiple times each week to bring these projects from dreams to reality. Now that it’s January we’re ready to roll with three projects at the conclusion of the school year in May. You will see work kicking off at Lincoln, Union, and the high school this summer.

Lincoln and Union are set to receive a number of refreshes including bathrooms, flooring, and quality of life upgrades for our students and staff. Each of these projects have been identified through extensive needs assessments and input from students, staff, and the community.

Before we even get into summer you will see dirt work this spring to build a new pad site for the Garfield Elementary playground. This project will help with water drainage from the building to the detention pond while allowing us to finally get Garfield a playground built for their students behind their school.

Speaking of playgrounds, our hope is that each of the elementary schools and Pre-K center will have their playgrounds installed and ready to go by the first day of school in August. Design work

60 January 2022

is ongoing on this project, and we’re hoping we can kick this project off as soon as regular warm temperatures return to Ponca City. Eight new playground structures with a soft solid poured in place surfacing are set to be purchased and installed for each of our youngest students in Ponca City to enjoy in the fall.

The high school will see a flurry of activity as we’re poised to refresh half of the bathrooms over the summer, with the remaining restrooms to be refreshed in 2023. These bathrooms will bring a much-needed face lift to the services we have available for our students. In addition to bathrooms, the high school commons will have new glass installed in the commons to go with new flooring. The tile floor from the late 90s will be going away and a new flooring design will add dimension and increase the visual appeal of our commons area.

The Anderson building will begin its complete interior demolition as we prepare to rebuild an amazing new STEM area for our high school students to enjoy by August of 2024. New fire alarm upgrades and a new intercom system are set to be deployed throughout the high school and campus.

Other notable projects that will kickoff this year in our school district will be in late fall of 2022 and they include our Concert Hall classroom addition and the dirt work of our indoor multipurpose facility and new turfed athletic field. Both of these projects will add additional square footage that the district can utilize to serve students.

Our aim is to serve our students and the citizens of Ponca City. I take a great deal of pride in our facilities and the individuals charged to help us maintain them. We strive to create facilities that work for our students and staff. In 2022, our goal is to continue with that focus as we break ground on each of these new projects for our community.

Puzzle on page 49

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S C A M

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1 page 51 Puzzle on

4 7 5 3 2 6 8 1 9

6 2 1 4 8 9 3 7 5

3 9 8 1 5 7 4 2 6

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7 5 3 2 1 4 9 6 8

2 4 6 7 9 8 1 5 3

Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled

D O T

• • • • • • • • • • •

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

We take housing applications for the elderly and disabled. You must be at least 50 years of age or receiving disability benefits.

BROADWAY PLAZA APARTMENTS

201 E. Broadway • Ponca City • 580-762-4445

Call 580-762-4445 for information or apply in person.

Office hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm (Closed 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm)

2

5 3 4 8 7 2 6 9 1

9 1 2 5 6 3 7 8 4

8 6 7 9 4 1 5 3 2

4 3 2 7 9 1 6 5 5 6 7 4 3 8 1 2 WALK-IN CLINIC, NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY 1 Shopping 9 8Center5 6 2 4 3 Ponca Plaza 580-762-1552 2101 N 14th, Suite 114 Open 7 Days 6 a Week 5 •3Mon.-Sat. 1 9-8:30 8 &9Sun. 10-5:30 7 4 2 &1 4 COVID-19 6 7 5 8 9 FASTEST MOST RELIABLE COVID-19 7TEST! 8 9 2TESTING 4 3 5 1 Results in 15 Minutes!

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January 2022

61

Want to have your event listed? Submit your events to events@poncacitymonthly.com before the 5th of the PRIOR month.

OCT

22

KAY COUNTY EVENTS

JAN

7

PC Main Street Winter Blues Sale Downtown PONCA CITY ALL WEEKEND The Winter Blues Sale is a great time to snag all those items on your Christmas list that didn’t make it under the tree.

In-store deals, events, & hours will vary with each participating merchant.

Check with your favorite local merchants to see what exciting offers are up for grabs to start your year off in style!

JAN

14

The Taming of the Shrew Ponca Playhouse 301 S 1st St PONCA CITY

7:30PM The Ponca Playhouse is proud to present The Taming of the Shrew, January 14-16 and 21-23, 2022. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday Matinees at 2:00 pm.

The Taming of the Shrew, is one of William Shakespeare’s most famous comedies, depicting the tumultuous courtship of Petruchio and Katherine.

This comedy has been retold many times, most popularly in the Cole Porter musical Kiss Me Kate and more recently in 10 Things I Hate About You. Enjoy the courtship of Petruchio and Kate, while watching the suitors vie for Katherine’s younger sister, Bianca. Directed by the capable hand

62 January 2022

of Meghann Borum, with costumes by Emily Rose Parman, you do not want to miss The Taming of the Shrew in 2022 at the Ponca Playhouse.

Tickets will be available beginning Jan. 3 on the website poncaplayhouse. com or at the door. Ponca Playhouse members can email or call the Playhouse at 580.765.5360 to reserve their seats. Masks are welcomed in the theater. We hope you will come and Play with us!

FEB

JAN

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hold its January 2022 meeting in the home of Jane Thomason at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 26.

Co-hostesses are Betsy Carter and Sheila Kirkpatrick. Refreshments will be served prior to the general meeting.

Kay Zang, Quilter, member Pioneer Area Quilters Guild, will be the guest speaker. Kay will present a program on what she says is her calling - an endeavor of love - making “Quilts of Valor” for Ponca City Veterans. This is a members-only event.

The Four O’Clock Garden Club Home of Jane Thomason

9:30AM The Four O’Clock Garden Club will

12

Mutt Gala Northern Oklahoma Humane Society MARLAND MANSION

7PM The Mutt Gala is a fundraising event hosted for the benefit of the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society. Guests from all over will gather to show off their most extravagant alter ego fashions. This event features a dress

One of Kay’s “Quilts of Valor” that she recently displayed at Grace Episcopal Church Women (ECW) annual fall luncheon - Kay Zang with Diane Beekman assisting.

code that screams extraordinary. From body paint to fantasy to full-drag, your alter-ego is welcome! For more information, follow us @nokhumane on Facebook and Instagram.

FEB

15 7:30PM

Ponca City Concert Series Thalea String Quartet PONCAN THEATER

The Thalea String Quartet is dedicated to bringing timeless music to audiences from all walks of life by connecting on a musical, emotional and personal level. They have performed in prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center, Massey Hall, Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall as well as served as Associated Artists at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Waterloo, Belgium. The quartet members are also dedicated educators and share their commitment to teaching and community engagement. Unique engaging musical experience.

MyMediaMatters

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Ponca City Monthly Magazine is owned & operated by MyMediaMatters January 2022

63

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Kay County’s Oldest Jewelers 219 E. Grand Avenue Ponca City ▫ 580.765.2636 ▫ Gifts Layaway ▫ Custom Laser Engraving 64 January 2022