Christen Ground, D.O.
Aaron Wilcox, D.O.
Brad Liston, D.O.
Jenna Klufa, APRN-CNP
Stephen Ross, M.D.
Taelor Baetz, PA-C
Ponca City Primary Care Physicians and Providers
Letter from the Editor
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
My oldest son attained his Eagle scout rank last month. It was a big moment for him. He was SO unbelievably proud of himself, as was his father and myself.
After over a decade in scouting, many merit badges, hundreds of campouts, and scout meetings, he completed his Eagle Scout project and fulfilled every single requirement needed. This was a huge accomplishment, not just because of how difficult the task was, but because six months ago, my son had all but given up hope.
Six months ago, his father and I had a very serious talk about my son falling behind on planning his scout project. We asked if he knew how much there was left to do because his lack of task management was going to inevitably lead to a project failure if he didn’t change course. I wish I could tell you that our discussion with him changed his behavior, and he woke up that next day with a renewed sense of optimism, but it didn’t. It took a few days, actually.
My son says he was grappling with the enormity of the project within himself and was trying to rationalize if he had “what it took” to do the work. He says that late in bed one night, he decided that he would get his Eagle, and that decision and determination for the task are what he had been lacking all along.
Day by day, he started breaking things out. He got a plan, made some lists, and started really chipping away at his project. He enlisted the help of some mentors and got answers to questions. He created a fundraising campaign to fund the project. Once the money was raised, he ordered his
materials and arranged for his fellow scouts to help him build the project.
There are tasks in our lives that test us to the very core of who we are. Huge, monumental, extraordinarily difficult tasks are usually the roadblocks to unlocking who we are. There are some secrets that can help you lighten the load, secrets my son learned on his journey to his Eagle.
First, you are only as strong as your team. One person can be the catalyst to start something, but you can get so much more accomplished by working together as a team. Second, take it one day at a time. My son was so focused on the big picture that it overwhelmed him. Once he broke that project into smaller, bite-size projects, the smaller tasks didn’t seem so daunting. Remember, mile by mile, it’s a trial; yard by yard, it’s hard, but inch by inch, it’s a cinch. Lastly, you have to make the decision you are going to do something before you can do it. I know this seems silly or obvious, but the very act of making the decision, “I am going to do this,” can sometimes be the missing piece of motivation someone needs.
It’s January, and that means it’s a fresh new year to start new projects, make new goals, and conquer life in an all-new way. If you are facing a monumental task - dig deep. Don’t quit. Keep going. I promise you have the strength to accomplish your goal and overcome whatever adversity you are facing, and just like my son, you will be so proud of yourself when you hit that goal.
Happy New Year my friends, and I hope this is the start of the very best year ever for you.
editor@poncacitymonthly.com
Pickleball is a paddle sport gaining power in Ponca City and all over the United States and Canada.
Story by Chelsea McConnell / Staff Writer
Pickleball Power
According to USA Pickleball, “Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum – whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities – are credited for creating the game.”
For Alan Phillips, pickleball is life. Phillips started playing a few years ago. As a former tennis and racquetball player, it was easy for him to make the transition into pickleball. Pickleball is similar to tennis and racquetball in that there is a back and forth between players using racquets to hit balls. From there, pickleball goes its own direction with various rules about how the racquets are used, where balls must be hit to and from, and the like.
soon playing multiple days per week at the Ponca City Country Club. He also began playing in tournaments in other Oklahoma communities. Playing these tournaments helped him network with other players and grow his skill level. He tested to become a Co-Ambassador through USA Pickleball for our region. According to USA Pickleball, “Ambassadors are volunteers who have pledged to promote the sport of pickleball and the USA Pickleball in the local area that they represent. They are individuals or couples who work with the communities, clubs and other various recreational facilities to guide and help build pickleball programs for all to enjoy. The main prerequisite is a love of the sport and the desire to share our game with others of all ages.”
Phillips picked up the sport quickly and was
In February 2023, Phillips and Natalie Fraser planned a Double Trouble tournament to raise funds for improvements to the pickleball courts at the Country Club.
Local businesses KW Select, Edward Jones and Quarter Turn sponsored the tournament. The event was so well received that Phillips and a co-worker decided to plan another one for the fall to benefit United Way of North Central Oklahoma. Phillips 66 partnered with them on that tournament and matched all funds raised for United Way. The Club currently has enough courts to host 32 players, though Phillips admits he would love to see this grow in the future. This year they hosted both of those tournaments again, as well as a tournament for the Ponca Young Employees group (PYE) in September. The PYE tournament raised funds for scholarships for the University Center.
with, and played in, several of the tournaments. Alan and Jamie say they would love to continue to be able to host 3-4 tournaments per year. They already plan to hold the Double Trouble and United Way tournaments again this year.
Tournaments are typically held on Saturday. They are broken up into two sessions –morning and afternoon. Each session takes about two and a half hours. Approximately seven games are played per session. Depending on the tournament, small prizes are offered. Phillips’ wife Jamie helps him run the tournaments, along with any other volunteers they can gather. Jamie helps check players in, keep score, take photos and does other tasks that go along with hosting the tournaments. Their two kids also love pickleball and have helped
Phillips would love to see Ponca City host a tournament with a cash purse at some point, as this would draw in more folks from out of town. Tournaments here have had 32 players, where tournaments in towns like Bartlesville host over 200 players. He hopes to see our tournaments grow over time and sees pickleball as an opportunity to cultivate tourism in our community.
Players of all ages have entered pickleball tournaments in Ponca City. Phillips expands, “For pickleball, it doesn’t matter how old you are. My son plays. He is 17. And we’ve got people in Ponca City that are 77 playing. Anybody can play, and they can be competitive and still be on the same court together. So, I think that’s what’s going to make pickleball so popular. Anybody can learn it. It generates a sense of community. I just think pickleball people are the best people.”
Playing has become so popular locally that games are happening several mornings each week at the RecPlex and several evenings at the Country Club. Games at the Club take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Phillips is there for most of them, that is when he’s not traveling around the state to play in other tournaments. Nonmembers can play at the Club for $5 per night or $30 per month. Recently, he and fellow player Fraser have begun offering free lessons to Club members on Wednesday nights starting at 6 p.m.
Through the Country Club, members have access to Erne, a drilling machine that can serve balls to the players, helping them perfect various swings. Erne holds about 120 balls and can be programmed using a special app. In the app you can set the speed and timing of the serves. Erne also has preprogrammed drills that align with every skill level, helping players up their game.
When asked about the future of pickleball in Ponca City, Phillips says he would love to host a summer camp for kids in 2025. He fondly remembers attending Tennis Camp as a child with Coach Wally Smith. He wants to set up a camp where kids can come and get lessons and learn to play the sport he has grown to love and enjoy.
Pickleball is growing across the U.S. and in our community for so many reasons. The game is fun. It’s active and can be a great source of exercise. Players can find a sense of community through the game. It can be played by people of any age. If you’d like to get involved in the local pickleball scene, use the QR code to access our area’s Pickleball GroupMe. PCM
Work Ready, Ponca City is your local office. We are an employment education program through Pioneer Technology Center, located in the City Central Building, 400 E. Central, Suite 307.
Each month, Work Ready, Ponca City holds a 30-hour workshop from 9 am - 3:30 pm where participants learn the value of being a better employee. So much is gained at Work Ready including practice of interviewing skills, communication techniques that support safe workplace connections and helps participants identify their cross-selling skills. Our program includes a professionally written resume and can open the door to short term certifications. The job search can be daunting and we want to help you find, get and keep the right job.
Whatweloveseeingeachmonthistheconfidence and excitement our participants gain overtheweekwithus.Theyrecognizetheir self-worthandknowtheyare“WorkReady.”
Lefttoright:FaeRabb,JobCoach;KatieHolman, JobCoach;HannahPatrick,AdministrativeAssistant; Dondi Rowe, Project Director and Cena O’Driscoll, ProjectManager. Stop by and meet our team!
Dondi, Cena and Hannah can help you get signed up. Fae and Katie are your Job Coaches and will support you throughout your job search. If you are between jobs and need reenergized about landing a better job, our classes are at no cost to you, so come spend the week with us!
PONCA CITY GIRL SCOUTS
Journey to the Medal
Story by Chelsea McConnell / Staff Writer
According to the Girl Scouts website, Girl Scouts have been “Blazing trails and redefining what’s possible for girls everywhere” since 1912. That is no different for members of Troop 307 located here in Ponca City. The Troop is made up of five girls based in the Ponca City area who range from 8th-12th grade. Each young lady within the Troop is on an individual path as part of her journey as a Scout.
Troop 307 has a leadership team comprised of Girl Scouts. Caitlin is their President; Aubrey is Vice President; Hope is Secretary; Addi is Treasurer; and Ali is Event Coordinator. A key component to Girl Scouts is that all the projects are girl led. While there are adult facilitators, the projects and activities pursued come from the girls’ brainstorming efforts. Anything they choose to pursue, they set the goals and tasks to accomplish. These Scouts work to earn badges, do quarterly service projects and are each working toward
bigger goals outside their regular activities. It’s important to note though, participation in all projects is optional. These Scouts are incredibly active only because they are an incredibly driven and compassionate group of young women.
During their time as a Scout, any Girl Scout can choose to go on a Journey in order to earn a bronze, silver or gold award. The website explains, “Girl Scout Journeys are multi-session experiences in which girls dig deeper into their interests and use the skills they gain along the way to make a difference in their community. While
badges show the world you’ve learned a new skill, Journey awards say, ‘I found a way to make a difference.’ During a Journey, Girl Scouts do hands-on activities, connect with experts and take the lead on a Take Action Project with their community.” The Take Action Project is the key component to earning either a bronze, silver or gold award. These awards are based on grade and are one of the highest honors a Girl Scout can achieve.
Members of Troop 307 are busy working on Take Action Projects and pursuing their awards. While the pursuit is a personal journey, the Troop works together as a whole to brainstorm, plan and volunteer to see ideas come to fruition. Participation is optional, but often Scouts are helping with projects outside the scope of their own personal journeys and projects.
Scouts Aubrey and Ali are pursuing their Silver Awards. As their Take Action Project, they decided they wanted to target hunger in our area. They decided to create Blessing Boxes for Ponca City and surrounding communities Newkirk and Tonkawa. Aubrey says, “The Silver Award was important because we got to meet the immediate needs of others in a tangible way. Even as a young woman I can make a difference in my community.”
The Troop began
“The Silver Award was important because we got to meet the immediate needs of others in a tangible way. Even as a young woman I can make a difference in my community.”
by volunteering at local food bank NERA (New Emergency Resource Agency). This helped the girls get a grasp of what the local food bank provides and what holes they might be able to fill with their Blessing Boxes. After that they set up in front of local supermarkets and solicited donations for the boxes. They were able to collect 760 pounds of food and $460. Next, they got three old newspaper boxes donated by the Ponca City News. They worked together to refurbish the boxes to hold their food and hygiene items. One box is located in front of the Girl Scout Headquarters in Ponca City. A second box is located outside TS Fork in Tonkawa. The third box is awaiting placement approval for a location in Newkirk. Boxes already in place have not only been utilized by those in need but have also been refilled by community members with giving hearts.
Scouts Addi and Caitlin are working on their Gold Awards. Silver Awards can be pursued by Girls Scouts ranging from 6th-8th grades, while Gold Awards are for Scouts in 9th-12th grades. Addi has chosen to work on pollinator plots for bees and monarchs as her Take Action Project. Take Action Projects are meant to be long-term, sustainable and have an ongoing influence on the issue they’re addressing. Addi says, “I want to make a pollinator plot for my Gold Award project. I like bees and butterflies and sadly their numbers are really decreasing. I want to give them a place to find food and reproduce.”
Caitlin is also working on her Gold Award. She is working with local agencies to get a location or locations in Ponca City designated as a Safe Place. Safe Place is a national organization that provides help and resources for youth in need. Caitlin says this
matters to her “because things like domestic abuse, human trafficking and mental health crises are very prominent in the community. I think people our age should be able to find someone to go to without feeling like they will be ratted out to the police or to their parents or abusers because they wanted to seek help.”
Along with pursuing their awards, Troop 307 also does service projects each season. This past summer the Troop collected supplies for Barnsdall after the devastating tornado damage the community sustained. Their service project for the fall was the food drives they participated in to help supply their Blessing Boxes. For the winter, they’ve decided on a project to benefit the elderly in our community, who can be overlooked during the holidays.
Troop 307 is small but mighty. Its members are doing great things in our area. Along with badges, projects and awards, these young women are also learning important skills to help carry them successfully through the rest of their lives. If there’s a young woman in your life who might be interested in Girl Scouts, you can contact Rebekah Wimer at rwimer@gseok.org or (918) 745-5264.
PCM
Oh So Chic A
Story by Alexia Puetz / Staff Writer
While growing up in Ponca City, Jessica Meyer watched as her grandparents and parents worked hard to create their businesses and wanted to follow in their footsteps as a young entrepreneur. As she worked, she made hats and shirts on the side, slowly starting her dream business. Jessica’s parents and husband supported her wholeheartedly, telling her to pursue it and do what she loves. Her dad’s dream was to see her one day own a shop of her very own, but when he passed away before he got to see this, Jessica made it a stern goal and is now the proud owner of Southern Chic Boutique.
Jessica came up with her business name from her love for her southern outfits. However, she likes to keep things stylish, dressing up, and looking her best, venturing a little more on the chic side of things. That being said, the store’s selection varies from fabulous dresses to clothes you can wear comfortably around town while still looking your best.
Her love for fashion is shown in the way she tries to help people. Jessica loves working with people on what would fit them best, while trying to keep her prices lower and more on the affordable side of things. She takes pride in her work, not letting a single item she makes hit the sales floor if it’s not
Peek Inside Southern Chic Boutique
absolutely perfect. Her unique shirts and hats are all hand-designed, making sure she has something no one else has. It’s also displayed in her love for school spirit, so if you’re looking for new Wildcat merch, Jessica has strayed from the normal designs and brought in more trendy ideas to help represent our school and show some more spirit.
Though, if you find yourself loving her work, but can’t find something on the racks, whether it’s school spirit or just a normal design, Jessica does custom orders and loves bringing people’s ideas to life. There’s a lot more than just clothing; her most popular item is her metal claw clips. They also offer shoes, bags, sunglasses, pens and other interesting items that might suit your fancy. And if you’re looking for any sales or deals, they will be participating in the Cocoa Crawl. So, stop by the Southern Chic Boutique, grab some cocoa and snag some deals.
Jessica’s goals are for people to feel welcomed and comfortable when they walk into her store; she wants to be known for a place people come to for any event, whether it’s casual, everyday, party or business while staying within a budget.
Her favorite part of owning a business is the people, the conversations she gets to have and the interactions that come with them. She likes hearing people’s stories and what they have to say. However, while that might be her favorite part, her most memorable moments and the ones she holds dear are the people who tell her stories of her dad and listening to how they remember him.
Jessica’s advice to any aspiring local entrepreneurs is, “It may be scary, but it’s something you can do. Just go for it. It’s never gonna seem like the right time, you just gotta do it.”
PCM
These Boy Scouts Are Gals!
“It is exciting to be part of this troop. The girls think they are the only ones learning new things, but I find myself learning new things all the time. They inspire me to try things and push myself to do things I didn’t think I was still capable of doing.“ ~ Tamara Bucher, Scout Leader
Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer
Scouts BSA Troop 501 consists of a group of young women who are determined, goal-oriented and focused on meeting the many challenges before them. Most of which they have set for themselves. These Mavericks, their troop nickname, are a troop which began in 2019, shortly after girls were allowed in BSA starting February 2019. Many people believe girls had already participated alongside brothers and friends but just hadn’t been able to earn their own badges and such. The yearning to learn and achieve these same things was great. Many of the young women in today’s troop would agree.
This year’s focus has been on activities to help increase education, improving outdoor skills, training to become better leaders, helping others grow and achieve, serving others and personal rank advancement. As you can see, the focus always includes others and their own achievements. They have remarkable peer accountability. They have even established a Maverick badge members can work
toward, along with the other badges achieved through the Scouting program. So far, four have earned this badge, which includes a list of requirements like how they participate and lead in their troop, specific first aid and leadership training, being able to assert why they should earn the badge and even a peer review. The badge named after their troop is at least as difficult to earn as any other.
Troop 501 has led the way before as well. They have the honor of
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producing the first female Eagle Scout in Oklahoma, Journey King. They are a group ready for those challenges, and they help motivate one another to achieve them.
Most all scouts desire to achieve the Eagle Scout ranking and Alyssa has achieved that level. She mentions that it’s been only five years since girls have been allowed in scouts, and her favorite part is “being able to teach other scouts.” Alyssa serves as a lifeguard at camps and has taught others to swim. She feels she’s grown with confidence in her leadership, and her work at summer camps has developed her job readiness.
Caitlin agrees with Scouts helping her grow in confidence. She started as a cub scout and just that day had used knots she had learned to tie a tree that had fallen. She has most enjoyed the National Youth Leadership (NYL) training that helps scouts learn leadership skills, and Lily felt NYL helped her see different leadership styles and ways of teaching people. All of these are better ways to understand our own learning and leadership.
the beginning. She says, “I went and saw I knew more than I had realized.” It is a great lesson to find yourself using skills you didn’t even realize you had gained. Quinn, on the other hand, is the newest member of the troop, and she loves hiking and camping. She had feared a five-mile hike some time back, but recently hiked 30 miles in just a few days with her father. She’s recently learned to make a campfire with the troop and is now gaining more skills as they all prepare for summer camps. Quinn says, “I like how we learn leadership early and incorporate that into most activities.”
Kelsey Griffith is a leader who joined the group last March when her daughter moved up from the AOLs (Arrow of Light to Scout transition is when those from 5th grade move from Cub Scouts to a Scout BSA Troop). “I love being part of the troop! Everyone was so welcoming when we crossed over. The girls are knowledgeable and helped the new scouts learn and earn their ranks,” Griffith says. “I love seeing them work together and grow.” Even after being with them less than a year, Griffith is excited to see what is in the future for these girls and their troop. They are always so prepared.
“Troop 501 is an elite crew of girls who believe in teamwork. They call themselves the Mavericks because they are self-reliant and independent and courageous enough to blaze their own trail.”
Kiersten admitted she wasn’t sold on camping at
At their recent meetings, the troop is already preparing for their summer destinations. Scouts age 13 and below will attend Quivira Scout Ranch summer camp in Kansas and scouts age 14 and above are preparing for Philmont Scout Ranch Adventure in New Mexico. Those scouts in 501 who have been to Philmont were offering examples of what to bring and how to pack backpacks for the others who have not attended before since individuals will be carrying their packs and food and other needed items. They have tips for the others who will attend for the first time this year.
In addition, Alyssa and Lauren will help the group figure out what they can share to keep packs concise for their nine days of hiking while carrying them. Lauren explains the importance of these camps: “Philmont is more than hiking and camping; it’s about overcoming hardships.” Working together on training for the longer trip and on successful packing is the beginning of alleviating those hardships before they even arrive at the camp. This is what leaders do for others. Of her earlier trip to Philmont, Lauren said, “My crew and I had to incorporate our knowledge of outdoor skills to successfully complete the 30-mile trek. There were ups and downs, but overall, I believe we learned how to be better leaders.”
The group has been practicing camping in varying weather conditions with storing and preparing different types of food as well to help them be ready for their more extended time this summer. They are busy young women, so planning additional times to camp around commitments like band, work, family and more is challenging, but they find it important and make the time.
their achievements, says, “Troop 501 is an elite crew of girls who believe in teamwork. They call themselves the Mavericks because they are selfreliant and independent and courageous enough to blaze their own trail.” These young women are certainly that. They have goals and plans. At least a couple of them, Lily and Quinn, are considering joining the military, and they realize that having the rank of Eagle Scout may grant a person advanced enlisted rank in any branch of the U.S. military. These scouts focus on all areas of their lives today as they consider their future.
a campout. They also help at fundraising dinners, lead in service for Scout Sunday and more.
In the community, the scout members regularly work at the monthly fly-in breakfasts at the airport that raise money for scholarships for Flight Academy, they placed flags in the lawn of the Kay County Courthouse for domestic violence awareness for the Survivor Resource Network and Ponca Tribal Victim Services, and they take care of the community’s old flags with a ceremony after a Court of Honor, just to name a few of their recent activities.
John King, who has led the group and seen
They also make ample time for service to the community. First United Methodist Church is the chartered organization for the troop, and while the church provides a place to meet, various project needs and transportation for trips, the scouts volunteer there as well. They recently took charge of the various fires for making s’mores at an outdoor church event which occurred right after they had come in from
If these activities and skills are something your daughter might be interested in, you can call First United Methodist Church at 580-7621681 and leave your contact information for one of the leaders to get in touch with you. Or, you can see them around the community and visit with them! They aren’t hard to find.
It is hard to imagine not being successful with this group of young women and their leaders being on your side as you learn and grow. The feelings of teamwork, the willingness to dig in and work hard for themselves and for the community, and the readiness to persevere through tough challenges shines in all they do. They come together and get right to business. They are certainly an inspiration to other girls, but it’s more than that. They can be looked up to by all of us. PCM
Meeting Maxx: Ponca City’s Police Canine
“The greatest fear dogs know is the fear that you will not come back when you go out the door without them.”
Stanley Coren, Professor of Psychology and author of
books about the intelligence of dogs
Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer
Many of us have dogs that we must leave at home when we go to work each day, but what if that dog was able to come with us when we work? What if it was part of the job we do? Such is the life of one new member of our community. One of Ponca City’s newest officers is a K9 named Maxx, a German Shorthaired Pointer, who is about three years old and 60 pounds of friendly energy who loves attention. He is a beautiful, budding star of the force who is still in the early phases of his career with partner Corporal JT Hopkins. Just like any partners on the job, Maxx and JT are getting to know each other more all the time. Hopkins says, “In a year, we should be a solid K9 detection team.” It seems they already make good partners.
Hopkins grew up in Ponca City and was an athlete at PoHi. He always wanted to be in law enforcement and began his career with the Tonkawa PD and then as a deputy with Kay County. Beginning with Ponca City PD in February of 2020, Hopkins is currently assigned to the Special Projects Unit and felt this was a perfect place to partner with a K9 when the opportunity arose.
There is a process for selecting who can partner with one when a department decides to bring a canine into the department, so there were interviews. Police Chief Richard Evans explained that the officers interested in being the new K9 Handler submitted a letter stating their interest and qualifications. They were then each interviewed by two of PCPD’s former K9 Handlers, who then met with the Command staff of the department and determined JT
grew up. Hopkins says, “My whole family is here. I’m raising a child here. I love this community.” He feels that even if he comes upon people he knows from the past who have taken a wrong turn, he has a good rapport with them and can help or diffuse a situation.
Chief Evans explains, “Maxx is a single-purpose dog that will be utilized in the detection of narcotics, tracking and area searches. Since Maxx is a singlepurpose dog (Not a Bite Dog), he will be allowed to get out in the community and interact with our citizens. Also, with his friendly demeanor, he will be able to go into the schools and interact with the kids in a positive way.”
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The PCPD received Maxx from Tulsa, where he came first from Texas. Hopkins explains the Tulsa program gets the dogs months before class and imprints them on the odors (meth, heroin, cocaine and marijuana), so they are about 80% trained by the time handler school begins. Next, handler school is a four-week, 160-hour school that certifies the two as a team in the state of Oklahoma. The team will recertify each year.
“To Maxx, sniffing for drugs is a game, and he loves it.”
training. He says, “To Maxx, sniffing for drugs is a game, and he loves it.” When I mentioned the way my German Shepherd obsesses over her ball, JT said it is like that. Maxx loves to play his game and focuses completely on the mission.
Maxx can help in many situations. People are always more alert when they see a K9 at a traffic stop. They know the dogs are trained to sniff out numerous substances, as well as trained to help in situations that could occur. They end up being a tool that can help keep a situation peaceful. Maxx’s tracking capabilities can make him the perfect tool for lost children or people as well.
Maxx will continue to train with Hopkins for at least 16 hours each month, along with daily obedience
The responsibility JT has for Maxx is 24/7. Maxx may be a wonderful tool on the job, but he is one tool that goes home with him and must be taken care of. On the job, as Maxx becomes more trained, JT will take him out in the public more to meet with school children and others. The two will be a beautiful public relations tool for the department as the community gets to know Maxx.
At home, Maxx has found his place in the family. While the other two family dogs, both eight years old, a bloodhound Molly and a bulldog/ Australian shepherd mix Nugget, don’t have quite the same level of energy, they allow Maxx to zoom around the yard when he’s letting off steam from his day, and then they all get along fine. JT’s two-year-old son Bennett has welcomed Maxx into the family, as has his wife Angela, a teaching assistant at an elementary school, who likely feels like she has one more child in the family!
Hopkins has plans. He is finishing his BA in Criminal Justice through East Central University right now. He says one of the things he has pride in with this department is that they “police the community and police ourselves.” With Maxx at his side, he hopes to reach out into the community in ways that help people see officers as accessible. Much like the department does when they hold events like “Coffee with a Cop” for the community to attend. However, Maxx will reach all ages, even children. As a matter of fact, it was a kids’ naming contest with coloring pages that gave him his name.
Watching Maxx grow with the PCPD and Corporal JT Hopkins will be interesting, and seeing how they become more visible out in the community as they benefit it in diverse ways is something we can all watch for soon. Bringing the community together is something that these partners can achieve together.
Small, But MIghty! Little
Libraries Offer Free Books in Ponca City
Story by Alexia Puetz | Staff Writer
The first-ever Free Little Library was built in 2009 in Hudson, Wisconsin. Today there are over 150,000 that have registered across the globe, touching all 50 states, 120 countries and seven continents.
Here in Ponca City we have a little over 10 of these libraries, some older than 10 years, run by people wanting to help the community and support the advantages of reading. Having these available in neighborhoods helps people who can’t always get to the public library, whether they are children who can’t be unsupervised for a long time or for the older generation who can’t walk as far. These also allow people to share their experiences, the excitement that they felt disappearing into the world that was written before them. The motto of the Free Little Library
is to ‘take a book, leave a book,’ but we know some people don’t have books to give so it has developed into something more – a way to help people have access to books and learning without having to give something in return that they don’t have.
It’s not just books that make their way into these libraries, people put puzzles, coloring books and games in them, giving others more to do in the wintertime or on rainy days. Sue Boettcher tries hard to keep these other items within her library, while keeping it stocked full of books, saying it brings her joy every time she sees someone reaching in there, regardless of it being a book or not. Sue and her husband, Fred, started loving the Free Little Library a
little over 10 years ago, when they received it as a gift from their children, and Sue has been devoted to it ever since.
Another patron of our community, Angela McReynolds, is also a proud owner of a Free Little Library. She hand-built hers four years ago and it is popular throughout her neighborhood. Her love for reading pairs perfectly with a personal library just right out front, keeping a well-stocked kids’ section, along along with romance, fantasy and more serious books.
An interesting fact and more common theme I’ve learned from this group is everyone who owns one of these helpful libraries experiences the ‘Book Fairy.’ A lady who’s earned this name from emptying people’s Libraries and completely replacing them, keeping them all in a full rotation,
so as to never get stuck with the same books. She’s one of the few who knows where all the Free Little Libraries are around town, but no one knows who she is. She comes and goes, leaving new books in place of old ones -- a very Book Fairy thing to do.
If you’re interested in getting your own Free Little Library, you can simply register through their website littlefreelibrary. org and pick from their most elegant to a simple cottage for your new addition. If you don’t want to register or buy from them, they are available for purchase on Amazon or you can build your own, adding your own unique style. You don’t need permission from the city or permits and if you need help getting started with books, Ponca City Library sells a bag of books for a dollar, or you can donate books to the libraries, helping them grow and add new reads. PCM
MAKING HER MARK MAKING HER MARK
Story by Andy Hicks | Staff Writer
TATTOOS can be deeply personal, a spontaneous choice, or a mix of both—something that leaves a lasting mark, literally. My tattoo journey embodies this duality. What felt deeply meaningful when I was 20 is now a faded yet fond memory. I still recall driving to Arkansas for my first tattoo when it wasn't legal in Oklahoma. Thankfully, times have changed.
In Ponca City, one artist stands out: Sophia Gregory of Studio 2o5. She's not only an accomplished tattoo artist but also holds the unique distinction of being the city's only female tattoo artist— and she happens to be my tattoo artist. While getting some new ink to start the year, I had the chance to chat with Gregory about her artistic path and how she transitioned from paper to skin. Like many artists, Gregory discovered her love for art at an early age. "Well,
I've always been into art because my mom was an artist. She kind of just drew at home, and she always had me doing artsy stuff at home. So that was how I first got interested in art stuff. My grandma was a big help because she always supplied me with whatever art supplies I wanted," she shared. Her journey into tattooing began when Brian Spitz, the owner of Studio 2o5 and an award-winning tattoo artist, noticed her talent and encouraged her to take the leap. "Brian saw my art online and said, 'you could do tattoos if you wanted to.' I told him he was crazy cause I didn't want to have to deal with needles, and I was kind of scared about marking someone for their whole life. Like, what if I mess up?"
Spitz offered a gradual approach, starting with what Gregory was already comfortable with—drawing. "He said you can always start drawing and see how you like that. So, I started drawing his drawings or tattoos, and he was like, well, now that you're
doing that, you may as well just put it on skin. So just like one step led to another, he pushed me to start tattooing."
When asked about the differences between drawing on paper and creating art for a body, Gregory explained, "You have to draw it to fit the area instead of just drawing on a square piece of paper the whole time, right? You have this crazy shape, so you have to figure out how to fit what they want into those areas, which sometimes is very difficult. If they want a circle on a more triangle-shaped area, there's not always the best way to talk to them, figure out what would work best, and see if I can talk them into it."
Although she now tattoos like a seasoned professional, Gregory
admits it took about three years to transition from paper to skin—and even longer to feel confident making permanent art on strangers. Paper and human skin are vastly different mediums. "It grossed me out at first how easily a needle slices through the skin. I didn't like it. And then I was like, I don't know how to feel about this," she said, likening the experience to drawing on butter. Before tattooing her first client, Gregory completed a two-year apprenticeship requiring 1,500 hours of observation and practice, including tattooing fruit. "I liked honeydew melons, overall. It was like the most realistic to human flesh. Bananas would be second, but they're tiny, so you could only do really small stuff on there. So yeah, my favorite of all the
“IT GROSSED ME OUT AT FIRST HOW EASILY A NEEDLE SLICES THROUGH THE SKIN.”
fake things you can tattoo was the honeydew melon."
In addition to mastering the craft, tattoo artists must also complete certifications in CPR, First Aid, and bloodborne pathogens before passing a state exam to ensure proper health and safety knowledge. "There also is no study guide," Gregory noted with a smirk. "You must know that your mentor taught you everything that you need to know. Many of the questions will be like safety protocol and the basics you need to know for tattooing."
Her first tattooing experience was nerve-wracking. "The first tattoo I did was on somebody I did not know. And she was made aware, you know, that I was just, like, brand new. She made me very nervous. She just kind of stared at me the whole time, and she kept glancing at it like she did not like what she was seeing. I got more and more scared, and I stopped midtattoo, and Brian finished it. And then, I was discouraged for three weeks. I didn't do another tattoo."
Gregory eventually regained her confidence, thanks to a customer with numerous tattoos needing cover-
up work. "She was willing to let me practice on her with all the terrible tattoos to fix them up and make them look better. So, we did that, and she was like my customer, the only one I worked on for a while. And I just got better."
Her hard work paid off. At last November's Live Tattoo Expo in Oklahoma City, Gregory took home two trophies—first place in the competitive Black and Gray category and second place for portraits. "I love the competitions. Those are a lot of fun. You get to go and try to beat out people that are top-tier artists. And you don't have that many people there who are just not excellent at what they do. So, you have to bring your best to try to be the best."
If you're thinking about starting the New Year with fresh ink, Studio 2o5 is hosting a tattoo fundraiser in collaboration with the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society from January 24–26. Flash tattoos will start at $60, with proceeds benefiting the Humane Society.
For more about Gregory and the whole team at Studio 2o5, or to make an appointment, follow them on Facebook. PCM
JAN.4ISNATIONAL PLAYOUTSIDEDAY
by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS
1. Oscar ___ (wiener brand) 6. Houses for chickens
Porch item that may say "Welcome"
Company that makes Photoshop
___ nerve (eye-to-brain connection) 16. 2012 Super Bowl MVP Manning
Outdoor game with a rope (2 wds.) 19. Not well-lit 20. "We ___ busted!" ("Big trouble for us!"): 2 wds.
Depart
23. Spaghetti, ravioli, etc.
26. Used a rotary phone
27. Loads of wealth
28. Sends out, as radio signals
30. Pays for a poker hand
31. Outdoor game that involves coming to a complete stop (2 wds.)
35. Disco ___ ("The Simpsons" dancer)
36. Dianne with two Oscars 37. "Game of Thrones" broadcaster
38. Outdoor game using sidewalk chalk (2 wds.)
41. Dog show category
43. Colgate alternative
44. Fights with knights and lances
45. Well-known by most people
48. Deep canyons
49. Fixes spelling errors
50. "Sesame Street" rubber ducky owner
52. Salmon paste spread on bagels
53. Outdoor game in which one player is "It" (3 wds.)
59. Metallic mineral
60. "Wheel of Fortune" category
61. Give a public speech
62. Homer's mustached neighbor
63. Body shops remove them 64. Fearsome type of eel
DOWN
1. Angry
2. Shakespeare's "Much ___ About Nothing"
3. "See ___ later!" {"Bye!")
4. Recede like the tide
5. Has an association (to)
6. Zip and Morse, for two
7. Kind of classical music composition
8. Bart's bus driver
9. Photograph, briefly
10. Coors competitor
11. Olympics prize
12. Still breathing
13. Used a stopwatch to measure
Taylor Swift's most recent tour 22. Make less difficult
23. Bean used in Mexican cooking 24. Behave like a brat (2 wds.)
25. ___-Hulk (Marvel heroine) 26. Slimming plan 27. Poison ivy symptom 28. Standing straight 29. Netting material 31. Is exactly the right size 32. The items here 33. Helps with an illegal activity 34. Thor, Zeus, and others 36. Misfortunes
39. Glasgow resident 40. Prepared grapes for wine
"There's nothing to do" feeling
The secret to success – is it as simple as showing up?
Good day, PC Monthly readers! I wanted to turn our attention to a relatively simple notion that I think is the first key to success for anyone. Showing up! As we enter a new year, it’s a great time to focus on habits that set our children – and ourselves – up for success. As a father of four Wildcats, and someone who has dedicated a career to education, I have seen firsthand how showing up each and every day sets you and your children up for success. For students, few habits are as fundamental as regular school attendance. Research consistently shows that strong attendance is closely linked with both academic achievement and positive life outcomes as adults. In fact, the benefits of reliable attendance reach far beyond school walls, preparing young people to lead successful, productive lives.
The Impact of Attendance on Academic Success
Studies reveal that students with consistent attendance are far more likely to succeed in their academic pursuits than their peers who frequently miss school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students who miss just two days of school each month – about 18 days a year – risk falling behind academically, potentially leading to lower grades, reduced confidence and increased risk of dropping out. In fact, students with chronic absenteeism are over seven times more likely to drop out of high school than their peers with good attendance. For younger students, early absenteeism is also linked to difficulties with literacy, math and social skills, as they miss out on critical learning opportunities.
Attendance and Future Success
The habit of showing up on time and consistently, developed during school years, translates directly to the workplace. Something our Administrative team has been stressing with our Staff is the importance of showing up each day. Attendance is foundational to job stability, performance and career growth. Research from the Brookings Institution shows that individuals who missed fewer days of school as children are more likely to have stable employment as adults.
A report from the U.S. Department of Education highlights that students with good attendance records are more likely to have a 75% higher chance of earning a college degree and a better chance of securing higher-paying jobs.
Employers value reliability as a key attribute, and the work habits learned in school set a pattern for a strong work ethic
in adulthood. People who establish solid attendance habits early on are more likely to earn consistent promotions, sustain positive relationships with colleagues and achieve long-term career success. The link is clear: attending school regularly teaches young people accountability, time management and commitment – all skills that enhance their employability and success in adulthood.
Building a Culture of Attendance
For parents, teachers and community members, fostering a culture of attendance is essential. Here are a few ways we can work together to build habits that last a lifetime:
• Set a Positive Example: Show children the importance of attendance through your own commitment. Whether it’s work, volunteering or community events, your consistency demonstrates the value of showing up for responsibilities.
• Emphasize the Connection Between Today and Tomorrow: Help students understand that attending school today sets the stage for future opportunities. Share stories of successful adults who attribute their achievements to dedication and reliability – qualities they began developing in school.
• Encourage Positive Routines: Establishing bedtime and morning routines can make it easier for children to attend school consistently. Just as adults rely on routines to prepare for work, these habits help children feel organized, confident and ready for the day.
As we move into this new year, let’s make attendance a priority for Ponca City. In these dark winter months, it can be easy to miss the alarm, or feel too tired to get out of bed. However, by making the conscious decision to show up, you’re already setting yourself up for success. By showing up regularly, we’re not only building strong academic foundations for students, we’re instilling values that will shape their futures as adults. I want to see Ponca City employers and schools bragging about their attendance rates and how our community is committed to showing up! I hope you can join me this New Year in this goal. A new year is the perfect opportunity to set the tone for commitment and resilience, paving the way for future success – one day at a time. Have a wonderful January!
Story by Adam Leaming, Ponca City Public Schools, Superintendent / Contributing Writer
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
201 E. Broadway • Ponca City 580-762-4445
• 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
• Seasonal events
Wishing You a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
We encourage you to support non-profit organizations in this community, as do we, in the New Year!
Carl Renfro President
Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA
Directors
Brenda Renfro
Rich Cantillon Ponca City Chamber, Retired
We Offer Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled Call for information or apply in person. Office hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 3 pm, Closed 12:30 pm - 1 pm
Rick Renfro Secretary, Restaurateur
Cindy Gorrell Vice President, Investments
We take housing applications for the elderly and disabled. You must be at least 50 years of age or receiving disability benefits.
We are proud to support Ponca City 501c3 organizations through charitable grants.
Jeff Cowan RCB Bank, Retired
Jerod Helling RCB Bank, Market President
T.L Walker
Executive Director Standing Bear Foundation
with Shannon NP WELL-BEE
What a retinol is and why it is essential for great skin.
Story by Shannon Somers / Contributing Writer, Owner Aesthetic State of Mind
New Year, New Skin! One of the most common questions we get asked at Aesthetic State of Mind is, why do I need a retinol, and what is it?
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is one of the most popular medical-grade skincare products across the nation. Don’t be scared of the light flaking that comes along with retinol use. Like I always say, reactions equal results!
Retinol helps accelerate the shedding of dead skin cells, which can lead to smoother and more radiant skin. By stimulating collagen production, retinol can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting firmer, youthful-looking skin. Regular use can improve overall skin texture, making it softer and more even.
Retinol is effective in preventing clogged pores and can help treat acne by reducing breakouts and promoting clearer skin. Retinol can help lighten dark spots, sun damage and age spots by promoting the turnover of skin cells, leading to a more even skin tone. By increasing cell turnover and encouraging collagen production, retinol can give skin a more even and youthful complexion.
However, retinol can be potent, so it’s essential to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase usage to avoid irritation. Additionally, it’s important to apply sunscreen during the day, as retinol can increase skin sensitivity to UV rays.
Having the Conversation:
answers from providers
Story by Stephanie Krenn | Contributing Writer
Disclaimer: This article contains information from a medical professional provided solely for the content of this article. Consult with your own medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
As I have spent time telling my story, and allowing others to tell me theirs, it sparked an idea. Patients and providers desire communication and understanding when it comes to medical issues. I enlisted the help of doctors and medical professionals who have been instrumental in my journey, and I hope their words help us to understand each other better.
The first time I met my oncologist, Dr. Thompson, it was at a satellite office much closer to home than the city. I appreciated learning that many metro-area specialists do travel to rural offices throughout the state. Following the previous consult with my oncology surgeon, I had an idea what treatment options were ahead, and between chemotherapy, surgeries and radiation, I was overwhelmed with information. Dr. T was quick to mention that we could only go one step at a time and I could ask all of the questions I needed along the way. He and his staff would spend a lot of time answering those questions in the months and years to come, even providing me with research to review when I had to make treatment changes. He also occasionally took the blame for a lot of my frustration as I went through treatment. He still gets to see my shiny face every three months and, in a way, we’ve become friends. He has heard all about my son growing into an amazing young man, how I am still advocating for patients and my desire to discuss rural health care. Nine years later, he can gauge my emotional well-being from the first few seconds of walking into the exam room. He was gracious enough to let me ask him even more questions, and I think it brings perspective to the whole process.
What would you like patients to understand about your role versus their own role in the treatment process?
present information about their problem in a way that they can understand, describe the treatment options in a way that the benefits and risks are clearly explained, and guide/help them make informed decisions going forward. I try to let the patient take the lead and I help along the way.
Patients always say thank you for the help, but in reality, the patients are the ones doing the hard work. Without their patience and information about how they are doing, I can’t help them make decisions along the way. You have to be your best advocate and I’ll do everything I can to assist. A positive outlook and family support are just as helpful as any medication or intervention I can offer.
How does the pace of new and changing medical treatments affect your practice?
It is difficult to keep up. What is the standard of care for a problem in 2024 may not have been the standard of care 10 years ago, nor will it be 10 years down the line. New studies come out often and it’s a challenge to interpret these in the context of where patients are in their journey. Do you change treatments based on new information? It can go both ways, with more or less treatment.
I generally research a topic for every new patient I see, just in case things have changed. We get emails summarizing new and important findings. Talking in meetings and to partners at the clinic can be helpful. If we can get away to a [continued medical education] meeting or a conference once a year, that is a good way to keep up as well.
What issues do you see directly affecting your rural patients?
Generally, the difficulty with travel to and from the clinic, and the ability to get lab work and imaging reports sent to us from outside hospitals can be difficult. In the unfortunate emergency setting, it can be very difficult to get emergency care, close to home, without traveling to OKC or Tulsa. One benefit, though, is that rural communities tend to be “closer” in terms of personal relationships so support may be easier for patients there.
How does this work affect you?
The job can be difficult. I try to focus on what I can do to help someone in their most difficult times. Sometimes that solution isn’t the outcome we want, but I still try to make a positive difference in a very hard situation. We remember and hold on to our successes, which fortunately have been many in the last 12 years. I always try to learn from every patient and take something away that can help someone else in the future.
Medical providers are regular people trying to navigate complex medical issues within the boundaries of an everchanging medical system. They do want you to have answers so you can make the most informed decision, though sometimes they might need the time to find it for you. You have permission to be your own best advocate and ask your questions. All my best, until next time.
Dr. Christopher Thompson attended University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center for medical school and residency, with a fellowship in hematology/oncology at the University of Colorado. He has been with Mercy Hospital since 2012.
My goal when meeting and treating patients is to
Story by Relo Adams, MS, MCP, LPC-C / Contributing Writer
Happy New Year! Like many years before, I made several New Year resolutions for 2025 and then I found myself reflecting on the many years that I have made resolutions and set goals in the past and quickly realized that several resolutions over the years didn’t last long, and several other resolutions and goals, I didn’t even start! What did I do wrong!? If you have not been able to keep your New Year resolutions, you’re not alone! I am right there with you! Experts suggest that roughly 9% of Americans start their goals and complete their resolutions and about 23% quit their resolution by the end of the first week of the year. Close to 43% will quit by the end of January. I analyzed the resolutions and goals I set in the past and examined why each of them failed and I quickly realized that maybe I wasn’t ready for such a drastic and quick change. New Year resolutions fail for various reasons ranging from poor habits, unreal expectations, no accountability, resolutions not being specific enough, time frame, minimal support, negative thinking and mindset, no plan B for potential barriers and setting too many resolutions to name a few. A big thing is acting on the resolution long enough for it to become a habit.
I have fallen victim to setting resolutions that were based on unrealistic goals that required more effort than I was ready to commit to. I was not ready for the lifestyle change and became overwhelmed and quit. To say I had unrealistic expectations is an understatement. Besides this, I previously set goals that were not specific such as “I want to save money.” While this may seem specific enough, it is vague and lacks an actual goal to be reached. If I were to say “I want to save $5,000 by the end of the year” or more specifically, “I want to save $93 a week” I would have something to aim toward and be more likely to save money to reach that amount each week, and ultimately reaching my end of year goal of $5,000. Without a solid plan or end goal, how can progress be tracked? I quickly realized that I had to form new habits, and stop old, unhealthy routines. The thing with forming habits is being consistent because without consistency, the old habits will rule, and you can lose your motivation to change!
The thing with resolutions and reaching goals, you must have accountability. If your goal is to lose five
pounds, go to the gym with a gym partner. The extra encouragement and support will go a long way and assist with motivation. When there is no one to check in with, it is easy to lose your commitment and slip into negative thinking! Relying solely on your own willpower can work; however, when considering that willpower is finite, people exhaust their mental energy, making it easy to give up and potentially having a negative impact on their mental health. It is also important to have a Plan B. Plan for potential setbacks and barriers such as life events, or unplanned longer workdays. Unexpected obstacles have the potential to derail progress. Resolutions tend to fail when people don’t anticipate challenges or don’t have strategies to get back on track after a slip-up or set back. It may be a good idea to set few resolutions or fewer goals, rather than many resolutions and lots of goals at one time. That way, you’re not spread too thin by trying to multitask the various commitments to change.
While meeting with my clinical supervisor, Ashley Diedrich, MCP, LPC-Supervisor, I was reminded of the basics of goal setting. If I wanted to reach a goal, or complete a resolution, I needed to execute a plan that was specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely (S.M.A.R.T). SMART goals are a popular framework for setting clear, achievable objectives. When setting goals, I found it to be helpful to write it down and for it to be simple, yet precise.
S: Specific. When setting goals, be sure it is welldefined and clear and know the whos/whats/whens/ and wheres of the goal. You should be able to clearly understand what accomplishment is desired, the reason the goal is important, and what limitations and resources will be needed. SMART goals are practical and applicable to every area of your life, including mental health, health and wellness, relationships, education, etc. From a mental health perspective, someone could specifically say they’d like to successfully lessen or eliminate their anxiety symptoms of irritability, hopelessness, sadness and poor concentration to no more than three to four days per month for a period of two consecutive months.
M: Measurable. When setting your goals, it is important to be able to track progress or lack thereof.
You should be able to know when the goal is achieved. What tools or data will be utilized to track the trajectory of your goal? This can be as simple as keeping notes in your notes app in your phone or taking weekly pictures of yourself to see your body transform from working out, or keeping an eye on your bank deposits or transfers. Make your SMART goals personalized and customed to your needs! Continuing to think from a mental health perspective and referencing the anxiety mentioned in the S part of the SMART acronym, one could measure the success of the lessening of anxiety symptoms by recording their progress (self-report), and recording the input of the ones they’re frequently surrounded by to track the data of the symptoms.
A: Achievable. When setting your goals, it is important to make sure they are realistic to your current circumstances. If you set a long-term goal to save $5,000 for the year, and your short-term goal is to save $93 a week in order to reach that $5,000 mark and you don’t have the margin in your weekly budget and finances, then this financial goal is probably not achievable or realistic for you! Setting achievable goals is essential to maintaining your mental health and will help in lessening low moods and discouragement.
R: Relevant. The goal must make sense and align with the broader picture you have for your life and benefit the accomplishment of reaching short- or long-term goals. It needs to serve a purpose. Know why it is important and be aware if it aligns with your long-term objectives. Understand the benefits of achieving it and if that will assist you in moving forward. If this goal is accomplished, how will your life change? How will you benefit? Will it impact your life? Ask yourself relevant questions regarding the benefits of spending time working on completing this goal or setting that resolution. Is it actually relevant to my life?
T: Timely. When setting goals, set a deadline for the goal to be complete. It’s important to know when you would like to have this goal accomplished and understand what can be achieved short term and long term and know how your short-term goals will help you reach and complete your long-term goals.
SMART goals are a great way to help us all maintain our focus, retain our motivation, and become organized. Have a great year, Ponca City and remember, if you or someone you know needs mental health assistance of any kind, please feel free to reach out to your local community mental health agency or call or text 988, the suicide and crisis lifeline or call 911 for immediate emergencies.
Take care of yourselves,
– Relo Adams, Mr. Ponca City
When Digz the Dog Met Zurl the Squirrel
by Chris Pine, illustrated by Chuck Groenink
The cover of this picture book is what first caught my attention – a great big dog with a teeny-tiny squirrel perched on his nose. I was then surprised to discover that the author is a well-known actor. It seems Chris Pine became interested in writing children’s books when he began writing poetry for fun. This is his first book. I’m impressed with it.
Digz the Dog lives with Ms. Pinscher in her lovely home with a great, green garden and yard. Ms. Pinscher rescued him from the pound three years ago, and he’s now the king of Ms. Pinscher’s garden.
Zurl the Squirrel is a girl squirrel with lots of family and friends, but she’s insecure. She feels inadequate, like she doesn’t quite fit in, because her tail is “the shortest in her nest.” Her dad convinces Zurl she’s “the best of the best,” and she again feels like she’s the queen of the garden.
One day Digz and Zurl cross paths in Ms. Pinscher’s garden. They’re automatically
enemies. They taunt each other and call each other names. Then just before Digz chomps on Zurl, he realizes that she’s scared – just like he was scared when he was in the pound. That makes him wonder … maybe they’re more alike than they had thought?
This sweet story concludes with each of these enemies apologizing to the other and the two become the best of friends – because even though they’re quite different, they are, most importantly, the same in their hearts. And they lived happily ever after!
This is a perfect picture book to share with your little ones. Chuck Groenink’s illustrations are breathtakingly gorgeous, and Chris Pine tells the tale of Digz the Dog and Zurl the Squirrel in lovely, lilting rhyme.
Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
THE WAITING
by Michael Connelly
I had seen some of the Bosch series on Amazon Prime and enjoyed that. I knew Michael Connelly had authored the Harry Bosch series, so when I realized that Connelly had extended his Harry Bosch series into a Ballard and Bosch series, I absolutely had to check it out. Personally, I prefer to read a series in order, but sometimes I’ll start off with a book that’s partway into the series if that book sounds truly appealing. That’s what happened with this book, and I’m so glad I tried out this novel.
Renee Ballard is a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department. She’s a surfer girl who has struggled to prove herself as a woman in what is still a male-dominated profession. Harry Bosch has been her mentor, of sorts. Detective Ballard leads LA’s Open-Unsolved Unit. Two years before, the LAPD had followed a trend in law enforcement to use retired detectives to pursue cold cases. Ballard finally has a team she’s pleased with: a retired FBI agent, a former prosecutor from the district attorney’s office, a retired cop from Las Vegas, two volunteers
with no law enforcement experience, a software company entrepreneur and a genetic genealogy specialist. The only thing that could make her team better would be if there was another member of the team with a badge. Even so, her band of volunteers manages to close three coldcase murders a month.
Ballard gets her wish when Maddy Bosch, an officer with the LAPD and Harry’s daughter, asks to join the Open-Unsolved Unit as a volunteer while she’s off-duty. Bosch has two strong reasons for joining. Not only will it help her advance in her career, she was recently handed what looks like photographs from LA’s most famous unsolved murder case and she feels obligated to see it to its conclusion.
Absolutely great characters and storytelling!
Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
Book Reviews
The Sunny Side
by Liz Threlkeld / Contributing Writer
Welcome to “The Sunny Side” where we’ll chat about all things homesteading! My name is Liz Threlkeld and I have been homesteading with my family in small forms or large fashions for most of my life. From growing gardens to DIY projects, to cooking and preserving, to raising and processing our own meat animals, we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. I’m excited to get to share some of this life with you. Ready? Let’s grow!
Finding Purpose in the Winter Pause
It’s a new year, Friends!
The weather drives critters and people into their dens where the heat has traded places with the cool. The leaves have fallen to expose the trees’ skeletons that were otherwise hidden during the year. Color has faded. Growth slows. The days are short and the darkness is long. It’s as though nature puts her finger to her lips and whispers “shhhh…”. It’s the hush of winter.
I didn’t always appreciate the pause. As far as I was concerned, it was a kink in my productivity on the homestead. As I have aged, though, I have endeavored to see the purpose behind the things I don’t understand. Here are some of those findings:
Without a certain number of hours of freezing temperatures, certain stone fruits, such as apples and peaches, cannot bloom and therefore cannot bear fruit, which is why they cannot grow by the equator. Some seeds rely on the freeze-thaw cycle of the soil to help bury them, preparing them for spring growth and, of course, we wouldn’t have winter wheat or maple syrup if it weren’t for the freezing temperatures.
fat cells, and it tends to reduce aerial pollen allergens, bringing relief to allergy sufferers. Without getting too “sciencey”, my most recent fascination has been with how the cold makes you more “hardy”. According to BiologyInsights, cold shock proteins, or CSPs, are proteins that are created by your body during cold exposure that helps cells to survive harsh environments and adapt to temperature fluctuations.
our past successes and mistakes. It can also be a time of rest, rejuvenation, and renewal for you, the animals, and the garden beds. My personal favorite part, though, is getting to use it as a telescope to peek into the future - our future, the one we are planning for the next year. We will discuss ideas, throw out the bad ones, toss in some crazy ones, and let our imagination run wild through the still dark weeks, until we finally settle on a plan for the coming year.
Then, there’s the effect that it has on humans. Cold boosts the immune system by triggering the production of white blood cells, it can increase your metabolism and burn stored
Still, what if there were more that could be gleaned besides the physical aspect of the slow season? I love that the new year starts in the middle of it. The natural respite sets the pace in our rhythm. It creates space in our busy lives to reflect upon the past year. Perhaps it’s the time we need to learn from
You see, sometimes visible progress slows, such as with the branches of trees, but deep beneath the surface, the roots are plunging further into the ground. They are searching for water and protection from the cold, but the extension also stabilizes the tree for the next season of growth it will experience.
Knowing the secret power of winter is what makes me giddy with anticipation as I’m rummaging through seeds and seed catalogs, or dreaming about which animal to bring home next, or what building project might spark my interest, or even what we can eliminate that didn’t serve us well. It’s the growth beneath the surface, stabilizing us for next year.
I love a good action item to consider so here’s yours: embrace the lull of the season and use its slowness to your advantage, whatever that looks like for you. Even winter has its ‘sunny side’.
To Pause and Ponder!
Liz Threlkeld
Stew On That
by Rachel Stewart / Contributing Writer
This pains me deep in my soul to admit, but … they were right about exercising. It does make you feel better. UGH! That was tough to say out loud. I accidentally went to the gym the other day and spent 8 minutes and 36 seconds on that machine that makes you look like a gazelle gracefully sprinting through the Serengeti. I genuinely cannot remember the name of it … it’s not the stationary bike thing, or a treadmill, you know what I’m talking about, that gliding thing, but anyways I truly felt rejuvenated. And energized. WHAT?! I haven’t felt either of those things since I was 23. I came home and didn’t plop down on the couch to rot the morning away. Instead, I did a project that took me approximately 11 minutes to complete that I’ve been putting off for six months. I got through my to-do list like Usain Bolt crossing the finish line to win a gold medal. Another thing they’re right about? Drinking water. When I get my daily headache, I have to
ask myself, “Is this from the three glasses of wine you had last night? From the six Reese’s Cups from your kids’ Halloween candy that you had for breakfast? From the crushing weight of worrying if I’m making sure I’m getting everything done; eating all the protein I’m supposed to; being a good daughter, wife, friend; making sure I’m raising good humans, etc.” Turns out, nope, it’s the fact that I’ve had three Dr Pepper’s and not a single sip of water in the last 12 hours. Wild, huh? Another thing, and this one is going to blow your mind, turns out, if you go to sleep at a decent hour, you actually wake up feeling rested?! My question on this, is how? I physically cannot fall asleep until I aimlessly scroll social media and watch trash reality TV until the wee hours of the morning! I heard a rumor about well-balanced diets too, but, good lord, a person can only do so much.
