March _2025 by Ponca City Monthly

· Cardiology

· General Surgery

· Hematology

· Nonoperative Orthopedics

· Obstetrics/Gynecology · Oncology

· Otolaryngology (ENT) · Sleep Medicine

Urology

HUGE CARPET BLOWOUT

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

It hardly seems possible, but this issue marks the 60th edition of Ponca City Monthly magazine. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to its success. From our humble beginnings, we have steadily built a local publication that our community has lovingly embraced and eagerly anticipates each month.

Our foundation has always been the belief that quality content— whether in print or online—will always be valued. This belief drives us to always deliver the very highest quality publication possible each month. I cannot thank everyone enough for their unwavering support, including our advertisers, readers, writers, copy editors, staff, and those who enthusiastically share the magazine with their loved ones. Some of our readers even mail copies to family and friends who once

called Ponca City home but have since moved away, helping them stay connected to their hometown.

This is truly a publication created by the community, for the community. From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of my team, thank you for your support over the past five years. We remain dedicated to bringing this magazine to life each month for many, many more years to come.

editor@poncacitymonthly.com

PLAN NOW TO ATTEND THE 2025 SHOW AT THE KAY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS LIVESTOCK CENTER

TWO DAYS: FRIDAY 12 - 5 pm & SATURDAY 9 am - 4 pm

BUY – SELL – TRADE – FREE APPRAISALS

Featuring Western Memorabilia, 101 Ranch Collectibles. Firearms, Leather Goods, Spurs, Saddles, Rare Photos, Posters, Postcards, Ephemera, Books, Artwork, Coins, Tokens, Clothing, Glassware, Pottery, Antiques, and other items.

MUSEUM QUALITY EXHIBITS

ADMISSION FRIDAY $8.00 (ALSO GOOD FOR SATURDAY)

PLAN NOW TO ATTEND THE 2025 SHOW AT THE KAY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS LIVESTOCK CENTER

SATURDAY $5.00-CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE Sponsored by the 101 Ranch Collectors Association

TWO DAYS: FRIDAY 12 - 5 pm & SATURDAY 9 am - 4 pm

BUY – SELL – TRADE – FREE APPRAISALS

ADMISSION FRIDAY $8.00 (ALSO GOOD FOR SATURDAY) SATURDAY $5.00-CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE Sponsored by the 101 Ranch Collectors Association

BillRLeming, Agent – THANK YOU TO THESE EVENT SPONSORS –

****VENDORS**** May reserve 8’ Tables for $60, 12’ X 12’ spaces $120. (Discounts available if paid before February 1, 2025) For more information contact Mike Dvorak 580-307-5076 or e-mail Al Stehno at Goldspur101@gmail.com

Ponca City Concert Series Celebrates 90th Season

Story by Denise Jones | Contributing Writer

Since its founding in 1935, the Ponca City Concert Series has been bringing live performances of everything from major orchestras, to small ensembles, dance troupes and Broadway stars to the people of Ponca City and the surrounding area.

In 1935, the world was suffering from the Great Depression, and dictators were arming for World War II, which was soon to follow. In the U.S., the plains states were in the midst of the Dust Bowl. Roosevelt’s New Deal, supported by Oklahoma governor Marland, was underway, with the Boulder (now Hoover) Dam completed that year. Continental Oil Company, headquartered in Ponca City, saw record gasoline sales; DuPont introduced nylon; and Benny Goodman developed Swing.

In 1935, radio was a popular source of musical entertainment. But it was the vision of Dorothy Focat, president of the Ponca City Music Club that year, to bring the world of live performance to Ponca City, saying, “Like favorite food – if you haven’t tasted it, you’ll never know.”

She, along with other like-minded citizens, formed a Community Concert Association to bring live performances at reasonable costs. With the support of local business people, they raised money, booked artists and began presenting concerts in the Civic Center Theater. In later years, the concerts were held at East Junior High, Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, and today the performances are held in the Poncan Theatre.

Over the years, many well-known artists have performed in Ponca City, thanks

Jason Lyle Black “100 Hits of Stage and Screen”

The James Taylor tribute is next season.

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to the Concert Series. Some of those artists include The Trapp Family Singers, the Joffrey Ballet, the San Francisco Ballet, Arthur Fiedler (of Boston Pops fame), Peter Nero, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Don Shirley Trio (depicted in the movie ‘Green Book’), Mitch Miller and his Orchestra, Victor Borge, the New Christy Minstrels, the Chinese Golden Dragon acrobats and Broadway star David Shannon (lead roles in Phantom of the Opera, Sweeney Todd and Les Miserables). Throughout the years, many other groups have made a stop in Ponca City, performing a wide variety of music, including classical, jazz, big band, Celtic, Latin, rock ‘n’ roll, country and pop, presented by woodwind, brass and vocal ensembles, along with pianists, vocalists and guitarists.

The Ponca City Concert Series is an all-volunteer, tax exempt, nonprofit organization. Roughly 85% of membership fees and donations are used to book and present a selection of performers, usually four concerts per season. Remaining funds are used to promote memberships and for administrative costs. As a bonus, the Ponca City Concert Series has a reciprocal arrangement with the Bartlesville Concert Series, giving members the opportunity to attend all concerts presented in Bartlesville.

The Ponca City Concert Series is holding their membership drive for the 2025-26 season from March 8-21, but will accept new members at any time. Adult memberships are $60, which means each concert is a bargain at $15 each. Students 18 and under are free. Visit their webpage at www.pcconcertseries.org for more information.

Come and “taste” something new! PCM

The Running Chef

Rob Verdi “Saxsational” is in next season.

Acoustic Eidolon from earlier this season

First Lutheran Church: 100 Years and Counting

Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

How do you celebrate 100 years of service in a community, bringing the past merging with the present in a meaningful way? Those at First Lutheran Church pulled together a full weekend of activities on Feb. 5-7 they titled Rooted in Christ: A Celebration of Growth that honored traditions from the past, felt the joy of the present and looked toward the future.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is in the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” ~ Jeremiah 17: 7-8

The steering committee for the celebration consisted primarily of Jennifer Heitman, Next Generation Coordinator; Rachell Highley, Deaconess; and Church Council officers. However, many others helped with the planning, such as historian Janet Goll; Charity Felton, a teacher at First Lutheran School who wrote the words to the 100th Anniversary Hymn; and Chris Schelp, Director of Celebration Ministries, who composed the music for the hymn. The congregation enjoyed learning this special hymn leading up to the celebration.

Bad Boy Mowers are American to the core. The strongest, most durable

Goll enjoyed pulling the information together for the event, especially the photographs that line the Historical Hallway for all to reminisce about the past. The actual anniversary date was Feb. 5, and Heitman mentioned that students enjoyed dressing up as if they were 100 years old that day to kick off the celebration prior to the weekend. Many others have helped gather all that is needed as well to make the celebration activities special, and Goll says she most enjoys seeing people from the past, such as former long-term pastor Marvin Henschel, who was with the church beginning in 1976 for almost 20 years, and others who returned to join the current congregation to celebrate with current members.

Heitman has most enjoyed looking at the important history of the church as she’s helped

prepare the celebration, and Pastor Joseph Highley, who was installed in 2021, said the most important part of the celebration is the people from past and present coming together. Having been here only a few years, he knew putting names with faces would be such a significant time for him in his ministry at the church. Pastor Highley says, “Although all our accomplishments over the years are important, it is the people who matter the most. God has done exciting things in the lives of so many people.”

The celebration began with a family game night on Friday, followed by the hymn festival and social dinner on Saturday, and Divine worship, Bible study and a potluck banquet on Sunday with many out-of-town guests and local dignitaries in attendance.

Sunday Banquet table with guest Pastor Scott Heitshusen, his parents Jan and Wayne Heitshusen, and Shirley and Rev. Marvin Henschel

Worship speaker for Sunday was former student of the school and current pastor in Sealy, Texas, Pastor Scott Heitshusen. Grateful at being welcomed back for the celebration, Pastor Heitshusen says, “I attended First Lutheran School from before kindergarten through sixth grade, the highest grade offered there at the time. I was involved in team sports, like basketball and track events, and participated in productions like Christmas cantatas. The education I received in both the school and church at First Lutheran served me well when my family moved to Houston and in my future schooling, including my pastoral graduate education.”

Serving the needs of this community, First Lutheran Church has a long history, meeting first in the City Building Auditorium and incorporating Feb. 5, 1925. The congregation had 150 members by 1931 and grew to include Sunday School, Ladies Aid and radio broadcasts. They built their first church during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression and expanded in the 1940s during the war. This is a church that understands the need for faith in hard times.

In 1952 they broke ground for their school and opened in 1953 with 43 students in kindergarten and first grade. Grades and teachers were added until they had a full elementary school, complete with an auditorium. The gymnasium continues to host basketball tournaments today. In 1991, the school added a middle school building and students in seventh and eighth grade began to be served as well. The school has continued to be one of the most important missions of the Church, and it has continued to be updated over the years with new buildings and programs. As a matter of fact, the school will add a ninth-grade program for the 2025-26 school year.

Other items of interest that have been part of the celebration will be a recipe book, and even Pastor Highley jokes about how much they love potluck meals, so it should be full of wonderful recipes. Their 100-Year Anniversary Booklet includes a list of 100-plus gifts to the community. Different groups of the church were asked to submit the special gifts they gave to the community as part

of the celebration year. These are another way of exemplifying the focus on service to others felt by the church and its members.

After the weekend activities were over, the feelings from the celebration remained. As organizer and participant Jennifer Heitman puts it, “At the end of the day, I wanted to be able to answer the question, ‘Did this celebration glorify God?’ I can humbly say I believe it did! To God be the glory!”

First Lutheran Church is located at 1104 North 4th Street in Ponca City and has both an active FB page (First Lutheran Church – Ponca City, OK) and a website flcspc.360unite.com where you can find out even more information about the church, school and the recent celebration. PCM

Previous Pastor Marvin Henschel and wife Shirley reminiscing while looking at early photo at FLC

Sunday Worship with local Pastor Joseph Highley and guest Pastor Scott Heitshusen

Hope Squad Connections: Fostering Connection and Elevating Mental Well-Being in Youth

Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

Ponca City schools are implementing the Hope Squad program in the middle schools and high school after dealing with some fairly recent tragedies for youth in the community. The program began in 1997 in a Utah school system after they had experienced suicides of youth that were felt by the entire community. Understanding that something needed to be done, high school principal Dr. Gregory A. Hudnall collaborated with law enforcement and began a program that has grown into the current peer-to-peer suicide prevention program. After its first successful year at his school in Provo City, they expanded it to every school in the district, where it resulted in zero suicides for nine years after implementation. There are now thousands of schools across the United States and Canada that use the program with 98% of their administrators agreeing on its positive success in their schools.

“It takes a village to raise a child, and an entire community to save one.”

~ Dr. Gregg Hudnall, Founder of Hope Squad

Ponca City Schools’ superintendent Adam Leaming explains that after three suicides in the last decade and the need to have more assistance for the mental health of students after the long-term effects of the pandemic, Integris Health brought the opportunity for this grant program to the school system.

“It’s hard to have all the eyes you need on mental health,” Leaming says, “and the Hope Squad program prepares a group of peers to advocate for suicide prevention in their school. It is a great opportunity to help ensure students are able to cope in healthy ways.”

There has been training going on for the various schools this fall, with a recent parent and student meeting at the high school. However, Leaming says East Middle School moved forward first with the program. Emily Goff and Stephen Lamar attended the training in the middle of September and moved forward with the program to beat the holiday season that they knew could be tough on many students.

Next, the students who would serve as mentors were selected through teachers’ referrals and seeing who other students talked to when they had issues. They also made sure to have a selection to represent the student population at East. These students were invited to a luncheon to introduce the purpose of Hope Squad and then a parent/ guardian meeting was held to address any questions. The first training included team building and teaching the members about suicide and depression, as well as helping them learn how to ask someone who was having difficulties if they were considering suicide. The students also learned how to cope with their own stress when dealing with these situations.

end the meeting with an activity where the members have fun and let go of the serious nature of what they just discussed. They are certainly learning how to help others and cope with stress themselves as well.

At the end of the year, East Middle School plans to invite the high school advisors to come meet the East Squad so they can continue their participation in Hope Squad if they would like to as they move on to the high school.

“It’s hard to have all the eyes you need on mental health,” Adam Leaming says, “and the Hope Squad program prepares a group of peers to advocate for suicide prevention in their school. It is a great opportunity to help ensure students are able to cope in healthy ways.”

Emily Goff says, “We currently meet twice a month to learn new skills, like active listening. We call these meetings ‘the lunch bunch.’ At the beginning of each meeting, we checkin with the members. We ask what is good, bad or whatever is on their mind.” While the group covers the Hope Squad curriculum, they

The local program serves the school community well just as has been seen in other programs throughout the nation. With just one of the schools already active, there have been 10 official referrals. However, as Goff says, “The best part is that our members will see someone having a bad day, and they ask if that person needs someone to talk to. Knowing that Hope Squad members are doing their work without letting you know is the best.” Peer-to-peer is working well in Ponca City. Keep up the good work, Hope Squad!

Lance & Jaime Cherry Introduce the Cast Iron Standard

Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer

Kitchen specialty store Cast Iron Co. is located in downtown Ponca City in the historic Donahoe-Souligny building at 121 E. Grand Avenue. Cast Iron Co. specializes in offering high-quality cast iron cookware, kitchen gadgets and utensils, and an appealing array of gourmet sauces, seasonings and foods.

Opened in 2020 by Andrew & Lisa Simmons, Cast Iron Co. has become a staple of the downtown market. Self-proclaimed foodies Lance and Jaime Cherry bought Cast Iron Co. in June of 2024, officially opening the doors for their first time on June 3. Lance and Jaime are transplants from New Mexico. After visiting Ponca City, they fell in love with our community. They loved the lakes, the historical and cultural resources, and especially how kind people were. The Broadband was also a big factor for Lance and Jaime, as they have both worked remotely since 2020. The couple moved here in 2022. Lance and Jaime have backgrounds

in the nonprofit world, specializing in marketing and community outreach. They are still learning the ropes of owning their own store, but are enjoying taking their work skills and putting them into practice as small business owners.

One thing Lance & Jaime knew they wanted to do was expand the offering of Lodge cast iron products sold in the store. They recently added some of the Lodge Blacklock items, which is a line Lodge has created to honor their original products. Items from the Blacklock line are triple seasoned. The Cherrys’ passion for cast iron extends to bringing old pieces back to life as well. Lance explains that cast iron maintains its quality forever. He often sees people getting rid of a piece that was handed down to them because they are convinced it’s ruined. Lance and Jaime are looking forward to offering refurbishing pieces for their

customers. The Cherrys also plan to refurbish vintage pieces they find and offer them for sale.

The couple is working to bring in more items from local and area vendors. Lance shares, “We try really hard to find products locally. We try to find products that are American made and of high quality. We are really trying to focus on having unique items that you can’t find anywhere else.” They aren’t necessarily looking to offer trendy products but rather items that can be passed down from generation to generation. In a sense, Lance and Jaime are letting the sustainability and longevity of cast iron set the standard for the whole store.

Lance and Jaime use the products they sell. They cook on cast iron at home and have tried all of the gourmet food items. They encourage customers to ask questions and love it when customers stop by to visit about a product or share a recipe with them. They like to hand out samples on Saturdays and eventually plan to do more cooking demonstrations online. They often share recipes on their Facebook page that feature the delicious products they offer in store. Lance and Jaime’s favorite is a Hawaiian Chicken recipe. Originally shared by customer Larry Williams, the Cherrys kicked this recipe up a

notch by adding Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce made by Terrapin Ridge. Check out the “Recipes” tab on their website to find this recipe and more.

The Cherrys are bringing in a few new lines this spring, including a line of wooden utensils. This innovative brand offers all manner of wood items, including wooden bread knives. Cast Iron Co. is looking forward to helping families get away from using plastic utensils.

As Lance and Jaime continue to learn about and grow their new business, they are also really enjoying being small business owners in Ponca City. Jaime shares, “The merchants here love what they do and they’re passionate about what they offer. We love being part of that community. We’re all very supportive of one another’s businesses. We’re all in it as small business owners and we just want people to get back to thinking about us before they go to the big box because that’s who we’re ultimately competing against.”

For more information, visit Lance and Jaime in downtown Ponca City at 121 E. Grand Avenue. You can also reach them through their Cast Iron Facebook page, or their website at castironcompany.com. PCM

Cast Iron Crushes

some of the Cherrys’ favorite products

Handmade cutting boards, including custom designed cheeseboards and breadboards from Oklahoma company Nichoma Woodcrafters. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Lodge Cast Iron – The Blacklock line items are lighter weight and triple seasoned. Lodge Baking Sheets will last forever, unlike aluminum baking sheets.

Smoked Sea Salts by Herban Renewal Farms – check out the Habanero Sea Salt if you like a kick!

Tastefully Olive Greek Seasoning Olive Oil – takes chicken from drab to fab.

Meat Church Products – they’re all great! Holy Voodoo is a wonderful addition to dips and jalapeno poppers.

Chili powders – The Cherrys home state of Arizona fostered their love of red and green chili.

Terrapin Ridge Farms Hot Pepper Bacon Jam – this is the store’s #1 selling product! It’s excellent over cream cheese as an appetizer, stuffed into a burger or used as a glaze on pork roast.

Poppy Shop Handcrafted Popcorn –Jaime loves this brand because of their heart for their community. Located in Asheville, North Carolina, they were hit hard by last year’s hurricane. After they got up and running again, they poured a lot of their profit right back into rebuilding their community.

Milkhouse Candle Co. Very Vanilla Candle – the store’s signature scent.

Geometry Kitchen Towels – the patterns are constantly changing. If you see one you like, you’d better grab it.

NOC Holds Investiture for Diana Morris Watkins

Story by Scott Cloud Director of Public Information, Northern Oklahoma College | Contributing Writer

Diana Morris Watkins’ Northern Oklahoma College presidency was made official as the 15th President for NOC.

Watkins has served as president since May 2024 when she was appointed president by NOC regents, but Tuesday she was officially inaugurated as the NOC president with an investiture ceremony at the Kinzer Performing Arts Center on the Tonkawa campus.

Watkins explained her vision for NOC in her presidential address.

“When I met with the NOC Board of Regents about the possibility of continuing to serve as president beyond the interim period, I presented them with a document that outlined my vision for the future of Northern Oklahoma College, building on previous successes of the college and pointing to a pathway for future successes. I broke apart our mission statement and outlined what I thought it truly meant for this institution and for my role as president, confident that if given the opportunity I could lead our extremely capable executive team as we take a look at our processes and procedures searching for ways to create the most efficient and effective path forward for our students.”

“I think it’s pretty cool to have spent the past 20 years of my life working at the state’s first public community college,” she added. “Its rich history is beautifully showcased in the AD Buck Museum. I’m also excited for all of you to get a chance to see that some of the rich history showcased through stories of our outstanding alumni, which are displayed here in the hallways of the Kinzer Performing Arts Center as Faces of NOC and through the Distinguished Alumni showcased out front in the Eleanor Hayes Gallery.”

“Being a multicampus institution allows us to provide some unique programming in different areas,” she said. “As your President, I pledged to have a regular presence on each of NOC’s three campuses and in each of the four communities where we offer coursework. I hope those

of you who are active in the Tonkawa, Enid, Stillwater and Ponca City communities have already recognized that is a priority for me. The partnerships with the local chambers in these communities; with workforce and economic development leaders; with Autry, Meridian and Pioneer Technology Centers; with the University Center in Ponca City, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater and Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Enid are vitally important to the successes of Northern Oklahoma College, and I will continue to foster relationships with each of those groups throughout my tenure.”

“Providing ‘high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities and services’ requires a strong emphasis on professional development and a strong focus on continuous improvement,” she said. “Accessibility is a current strength for NOC through online and online live course offerings, but we can improve how we serve students with diverse needs replicated in other communities and are currently working to create more.”

NOC Presidents Emeritus Dr. Cheryl Evans and Dr. Joe Kinzer and the NOC Board of Regents presented the Symbols of the Office to Watkins.

In introducing Watkins, Dr. Evans said she asked those that worked with her to sum her up in one word.

Those descriptive words for Watkins include “driven, authentic, optimistic, visionary, energetic, smart, engaged, witty, approachable, capable, genuine, rational, objective, passionate, purposedriven, wise, astute, sharp and resilient.”

“These words describe the impact that she has already made on the NOC community and what kind of a team

player she is,” Evans said.

Tonkawa’s Kevin Ditmore and Enid’s Bert Mackie each spoke about the Tonkawa and Enid communities and NOC’s value in those communities. Sondra Ladd, the pastor at First Christian Church in Stillwater, gave the invocation and benediction.

Dennis Casey, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, spoke regarding NOC’s mission in the education community.

T.L. Walker, the Executive Director of Standing Bear Foundation and the Northern Oklahoma College Tribal Institute, gave Watkins a Native American Blessing.

The NOC Choir and Concert Band performed the Pledge of Allegiance, ‘For Good’ and the NOC Alma Mater.

The event was followed by a reception at the Renfro Center.

Watkins served NOC as a language arts instructor at NOC Stillwater, later as the Vice President for NOC Stillwater and then as Vice President for Academic Affairs before taking over as interim president in January 2024.PCM

Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.“ ~ Nelson Mandela

Jane Edwards Sutter gives credit to her parents and growing up in Ponca City for her successful “first summer job at the Ponca City News, a 30year career with local governments at the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) and then the Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County.”

As with many people, many of Sutter’s earlier adventures and achievements led to later successes in life. Her educational work in communication led her to solid positions with ACOG, and interests and volunteerism while working for ACOG led her to her career with youth in later years. All paths in her journey worked together for good in the community around her in ways that are beautiful to behold. Life lived on her own terms, but terms that have helped many in the community she loves.

After leaving her position with ACOG, Sutter knew she wanted to make a difference in an area where she had volunteered, to really help the community, and the area that stood out was the Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County. As a result, she served as CEO of the organization for nine years and four months, a time which showed growth from one clubhouse in Oklahoma City to six clubs, including five in schools (moving clubs into schools was an important project of Sutter’s).

Sutter had contacts within ACOG that

assisted in the mapping needed to show educators, leaders in OKC and police officers this expansion would serve the areas where they were most needed, so her previous work helped significantly in what she was now doing to help youth. The organization was then able to proceed with writing grants for different expansions in the various areas of need.

As far as expansion is concerned, Sutter most expresses her delight at how the team still in leadership has carried on even after her retirement from the organization. There are now 18 clubs (two clubhouses and 16 school sites).

She says, “There will be four new fabulous clubhouses in the city when OKC completes its MAPS4 youth center projects (which will be managed by Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County).” She is very proud of the continued success of the leadership continuing to serve the vision she helped put in place.

It is easy to see where Jane Edwards Sutter gets this desire to leave her current community to be better for others. She remembers Ponca City as just such a place and loved growing up here, having graduated from Po-Hi in 1971. She lived on South 8th Street in a house built by her granddad, Ira Edwards, in 1911, and went to Garfield Elementary, East Junior High and Po-Hi, just as her siblings and parents all did. Her family was very involved with First Presbyterian Church, and because of family-owned Bert & Ben’s Service Station, they knew everyone in

“That continuity made me feel very grounded and secure.”

town. Sutter says, “That continuity made me feel very grounded and secure.” It is easy to see how she came to desire helping other youth feel grounded in their own paths toward success in life.

Sutter had mentors early on, remembering her high school journalism teacher Mrs. Faulkner, as she says, “I was co-editor of the Poncan high school newspaper, and because of that received a scholarship from Gareth Muchmore, then editor of the Ponca City News, to go to a journalism camp at the University of Kansas between my junior and senior year.” Although Sutter wrote for the newspaper for three summers following high school graduation, the communication skills provided by her BS in Journalism and MS in Education from OSU opened the doors to her position at ACOG, a company that needed “writers who could make complicated subjects understandable.” These communication and writing skills led nicely to her work with the Club.

Besides her firsthand time with the youth and the expansion of the organization, Sutter says one of her most exciting projects while at the organization was when they worked collaboratively to write the book O is for Oklahoma and how it was one of the most fun things she did with the club members. Kids from each age group helped with the project. The publisher that worked with them generally gives the group the words to be used as the topics for the alphabet, but they declined that and

said they would come up with the words, too. The publisher said they’d see if that would work. The group of youth worked with Bob Blackburn, Ph.D., with the Oklahoma Historical Society, who made coming up with words for each letter educational, challenging and fun. Then, the youth wrote the descriptions for each word in couplets. In the end, the publishers used all words the youth had chosen, with words such as Chickasaw and Vortex, and enjoyed working with the group through the editing process. They had meetings via Skype to edit the wording and such, and the editors expressed their enjoyment of the heavy involvement of the group. For a group of youth to have this experience of brainstorming with a professional, writing and going through the revision process with a team of editors is so uncommon it is remarkable and unforgettable for

A CRAFTER'S PARADISE

BY KAYLA MAXWELL

If you’ve ever scrolled through the wild world of one of our community’s Facebook watch pages, you’ve more than likely seen someone ranting about how there’s nothing in Ponca City. No stores, no businesses, nothing to do etc. I believe, outside of my routine trips to Ulta of course, you just need to know where to look. As for the crafters, seamstresses and textile artists, I do my best to keep them covered.

At Sharps we carry a large selection of supplies and materials. My personal favorites, you ask? Well, I’d have to say it would have to be the cotton prints designed by a few of my favorite local artists. Four local artists have been selected to collaborate with Teton Trade Cloth, a company out of Bartlesville, Oklahoma that is owned and operated by the Delaware Tribe of Indians. Pete Buffalohead designed the most whimsical bigfoot cotton which depicts our hairy friend enjoying classic bigfoot activities such as playing hide and seek, throwing a boulder and enjoying a nap in the forest. Derrick Whitehorn created a traditional serape stripe pattern

with old style colors, Bruce Johnson created a traditional star design and Hinglu Huber designed a beautiful floral design. These 100% cotton prints, along with many others from artists all over the U.S. are just a small part of our extensive collection. Not a seamstress? These designs are available in aprons, canvas bags, enamel pins, blankets and a variety of ways to support local art.

For the western crafters, we have Pendleton wool by the yard, a selection of cottons, fringe in many colors and sizes, including the super hard to find metal fringes. And for the fancy folks, the list goes on and on. 100% wool cashmere, 100% wool trade cloth, wedding satin, mystique satin, double faced satin ribbon, ultra suede, lace, embroidered lace, acetate taffeta, wedding taffeta, sequin check, velvet, polyester for miles, satin jacquard, satin brocade and silk.

Sharps keeps basic sewing and crafting needs in stock as well with sewing thread, serger thread, wool yarn, fleece, bias tape, needles, beading thread, beads in many styles available in plastic, glass, metal, bone and even a few clay options.

Find your winter project needs at 118 South Second Street in downtown Ponca City.

all involved. Giving such uncommon experiences to the youth of Oklahoma County is something Sutter cherishes, and the fact that it led to even more was priceless.

The organization searches for grants to expand to different schools and areas. At that time, they still had a sizable debt and many foundations would not provide grants to those in debt, so they were working to clear theirs, which generally takes time even with solid contributors. One of their interested parties who came to tour a facility in 2013 was Governor Anoatubby of the Chickasaw Nation, who happened to come when they had received their books, O is for Oklahoma. They were able to show him their book and the diversity expressed in it. He later, without letting them even know it was coming, had a $400,000 check that paid off their building mortgage debt hand delivered. What a great surprise that was and a day of tremendous gratitude for the beginning of new phases of expansion.

After years leading the organization to successful expansion and stability, Sutter was already planning to retire as President/CEO in May 2020 long before COVID-19, and the group had a strong team in place to continue the work. When asked if she felt closure, she says, “I don’t think I will ever feel ‘closure’ until I see our community, state and nation start making kids a priority, including outstanding schools for ALL kids.” This sentiment is precisely what led Sutter to feel compelled to write her book,

Hope for America’s Youth: Beyond the Blue Doors of a Boys & Girls Club. She knew she needed to bring forth the sentiment expressed in the Mandela quote she includes in the book: “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.“ She has a passion for the “underserved and at-risk children and teens” she served for nearly 10 years with the organization, and she knows the need is critical to our communities.

When writing her book and getting in touch with former youth who were members, one of the beautiful surprises was just how much she discovered that entire families had been impacted by the experience of the youth being engaged with the Club. When visiting with one of the young men whose story is in the book, he talked about how the experience had helped his mother cope, his sisters become successful and how a younger brother is now on staff there. Many told stories of having a place they belonged during times of trauma, of having mentors and a place to be. In her book, Sutter says, “I thought about the hundreds of young people I had seen creating better futures for themselves as they worked with adult role models. I reflected on the talented staff members and generous volunteers who had helped guide so many of these talented young people out of poverty onto paths toward higher education and self-

sufficiency” (ix). The stories are many, and you can read a few wonderful ones if you pick up the book Hope for America’s Youth.

What does Jane Edwards Sutter really hope comes from her life and her book? She hopes to inspire more adults to engage with the children and youth around them. She believes that each interaction a person has with another affects change in some way, whether minuscule or dramatic — it all matters. In the introduction of her book, Sutter says she considers her book “an exploration, an honest attempt to demonstrate how caring adults can ignite the bright potential of America’s youth, creating effervescent constellations of hope” (xi).

Sutter says, “All kids matter and deserve the opportunity to thrive, regardless of what ZIP code they are born in, what nationality they are or what their gender identity is. Kids matter, and public schools matter! Our democratic society depends on educated people who are accepted and positively involved in their communities.” She witnesses these individuals forging a better future and brightening life like stars brightening a dark sky, reaching out among the world around them. Then, they scatter and connect to others. This is real success, when the light reaches out even further. Let’s be the light with Sutter, shall we, and scatter our hope for America’s youth by engaging with them in bright and positive ways? PCM

Thoughts on Higher Ed CARY’S SEPTIC

Benefits To Concurrent Enrollment

Story by Tim Williams/ University Center at Ponca City / Contributing Writer

Meet Ponca City High School senior Andrew Blancuzzi. When he graduates from Ponca City High School in May, he will have also completed over 25 hours of college credit through concurrent enrollment at the University Center. Andrew is one of many graduating high school seniors who have accumulated college credit while still in high school.

There are many benefits to concurrent enrollment. Students can enter college with anywhere from a few hours to a year or more of college credit. Also, concurrent students are more likely to enroll in college after high school graduation and more likely to complete a college degree. That is very important in an economy where an astonishing number of critical occupations require an associate degree or higher.

One of the major barriers preventing students from taking advantage of concurrent enrollment is cost. One myth of concurrent enrollment is that it is free for students. According to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) website, “Participating high school seniors may be eligible to receive a tuition waiver for up to 18 credit hours of concurrent course work during the academic year, and high school juniors may be eligible to receive a tuition waiver for up to nine credit hours.” Students must meet certain conditions, so confer with your high school counselor and the NOC or UC enrollment offices and websites to get all the details. The State of Oklahoma reimburses the college for the cost of tuition. However, the tuition waivers do not cover the cost of fees and books. Currently, the fees are approximately $100 per credit hour (generally $300 per class) for concurrent students at NOC/UC. A senior taking 18 credit hours can accumulate almost $2000 in fees. Talk about barriers!

students will apply for the scholarship, including demonstrating financial need. Phillips 66 is partnering with us by generously awarding a $15,000 concurrent student grant. Additional funds are needed. For $300, your family, business or organization can scholarship the fees for one class for one student with financial need. A $100 gift provides one credit hour for one student. Those wanting to make a long-term financial impact on the program can give to the UC’s Concurrent Scholarship Endowment. For more information, visit UCPoncaCity.com or UCPCgiving.com, or contact the University Center. Together we can make a difference.

Keep learning!

Enter the University Center Foundation (UCF) and the Concurrent Scholarship Project. PCPS Superintendent Adam Leaming challenged the UCF to scholarship 100% of the fees of concurrent students that take their classes at the UC. The Foundation has provided scholarships for concurrent students for several years, but we have revamped the program to step up to Mr. Leaming’s challenge. For the 2025-26 school year, the Foundation has committed to scholarship 100% of the fees for 25 high school students. We hope to increase the number of scholarships over the next several years. This is in addition to the scholarships we award to traditional college students each semester. Concurrent

Kaw Lake

Story by Tori Haggard/ Natural Resource Specialist

USACE, Tulsa District, Kaw Lake / Contributing Writer

Kaw Lake is thawing out, which means that camping season is firing up! With parks beginning to open, it’s time to start thinking about where you’ll be going to relax and catch up on your tan. Kaw Lake offers seven campgrounds and two beaches that serve as great places to unwind with friends and family while enjoying lake life. Each campground is unique from the others and provides access to multiple points on the lake. The majority of these campgrounds have a boat ramp or are in close proximity to a boat ramp. While camping with us at Kaw, the $5 day use fee for Sandy Beach and boat ramps is waived. Be sure to grab your day use pass from a gate attendant or Park Ranger and display it on the dash of your vehicle.

As usual, the Kaw Lake staff has been taking advantage of seasonal park closures to perform improvements and maintenance in the parks and around the lake. A gravel fitness trail has been installed across from the prairie dog village near the Overlook on Lake

Road. Along this half-mile trail are six workout stations to help visitors close their exercise rings. At Coon Creek, construction on a new picnic pavilion is nearly complete and damaged trees have been getting cleaned up after the 2024 tornado. The striping across the dam has been redone for better lane visibility. Prescribed fires have been performed safely and responsibly to reduce fuel loads, encourage the growth and return of native species and to keep the parks looking clean.

Kaw Lake has been cashless for the past couple of years. Site reservations and day use fees can be paid online at Recreation.gov or over the phone at 877-444-6777 after an account has been created with Recreation.gov. It is best to make reservations in advance as cell service at the lake is not always great. If interested in volunteer opportunities with us, please call the lake office at 580-7625611. Kaw Lake wouldn’t be what it is without our amazing team of volunteers. Whether you plan to visit or volunteer, we look forward to seeing you at the lake!

DEN OF INIQUITY

by J. A. Jance

J.P. Beaumont (Beau to his friends) is a retired police detective turned private investigator. His somewhat younger wife, Mel, is the Chief of Police in Bellingham, Washington. Den of Iniquity is set during February and March 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down our society.

On Valentine’s Day, Beau is surprised when his 18-year-old grandson, Kyle, arrives unexpectedly, asking to stay with Beau and Mel. It seems Kyle’s parents are getting a divorce because his philandering father has a pregnant girlfriend. Kyle caught the girlfriend making out with his 15-year-old friend and bandmate. He left home to hopefully protect his friend from a sexual predator since his band wouldn’t practice at his house if he no longer lived there.

Meanwhile, a young Seattle police detective reaches out to Beau, asking him to speak with a friend whose grandson’s death was ruled an accidental overdose. Beau does meet with the grandmother. He agrees that the cause of death does seem suspicious and begins looking into it. As Beau sets about digging into this cold case, he asks the help of a forensic economist

and a forensic genealogist he has worked with previously and is surprised to be put in contact with a woman who’s conducting a study of the long-term economic and psychological effects of drug overdose deaths on surviving family members.

The interviews she has conducted as part of this study have been quite in-depth and several of those interviewed insisted that their loved one’s death was not the result of an overdose. She allows Beau to review redacted transcripts of those interviews, and he finds other instances of deaths by accidental overdose that are questionable and, moreover, they share similarities with his case that cannot be coincidences. Beau does his due diligence, and the resulting discoveries are completely unexpected.

Two thumbs up. I’ll definitely be reading more J.P. Beaumont novels in the near future.

Reviewed by Lorrie Layton

The Boy Who Carried Bricks by Alton Carter

This is an older book, but it is always one worth reading over again! The Boy Who Carried Bricks is an absolutely inspiring true story written by Alton Carter, who grew up, for the most part, in Stillwater, Oklahoma!

Carter is the second-born child of five siblings. All with the same mother, but four different fathers. In this story, Carter details his experiences from a very young age, not only in a lower-class family, but a black lower-class family. Carter believes his mother did her best, but she was not always able to care for, and protect, her children in the ways they needed her to, meaning he ultimately ended up in foster care. Even as a young boy, Carter knew he could do better and be better than past generations, if he could just continue to put one foot in front of the other. He dreamed of not necessarily being rich, but just making it out of his current situation. Carter remembers those along the way that held their hand out to help pull him up on his feet. He also remembers those that tried to continue

to push him down, and how they made him feel terrible at the time, but now he realizes they also helped push him in the direction he needed to go.

As you can guess, since we are reading this remarkable story, Alton Carter did manage to overcome his situation and make a wonderful life. He became the first in his family to graduate high school and then college, as well! He is now dedicated to being that person for other young people who just need someone to help give them a step up!

Check out this story and other inspirations from Carter at Brace Books & More!

Reviewed by Tara Anson

Book Reviews

Having the Conversation:

Mental HEALtH

Story by Stephanie Krenn | Contributing Writer

Mental Health. Counseling. Therapy. These words bring hope to some and misguided negativity from others. It has been the topic of countless clinical studies, books and podcasts. The importance of mental health was not foreign to me, but I had my own bias about the process when it came to myself.

Once the active part of my treatment began to slow and I was down to one or two medical appointments per month, my body began to heal from side effects of chemotherapy and radiation while the adrenaline from the fight for my life subsided. That is when the negative shift in my mental health became obvious. I was physically exhausted and mentally irritable. Ever present were confusion about how I should feel, the way I interacted with others and how I processed this new version of life. My attitude, speech and connections with family and friends were struggling. It was up to me to acknowledge that my intensive cancer treatment while juggling life of a mom, wife, friend and employee had reached a breaking point and I needed help. I was encouraged by women further along in their cancer recovery to seek out a mental health professional.

However, though I knew it was important, I thought therapy was for other people. People who were worse off in their circumstances. Those who had been abused, victimized or battled substance addictions. Though I had experienced childhood trauma, I was led to believe that the handful of appointments with a counselor back then were sufficient to overcome any adverse consequences. I did not know that our bodies physically hold onto trauma and can cause health issues later in life, or that additional traumatic events will enhance old wounds that have not been healed. It did not occur to me that my medical situation would also require some work on my mind and coping mechanisms to improve my outcome. I have since learned that taking care of mental health is for everyone in any phase of life.

I had the chance to connect with Angie Ridings, LPC, LADC, of Tensegrity Counseling Associates, Edmond, Oklahoma, to discuss mental health throughout a medical diagnosis. As a two-time

breast cancer survivor, Mrs. Ridings has the personal and professional credentials to remind us to take care of ourselves. She says, “It’s important to remember that you are your own advocate. Advocating for yourself means having the awareness to ask for what you need, allowing yourself to rest and looking for even the smallest of things to enjoy. A lot of us are used to taking care of other people and being productive, but recuperating from cancer can change that unexpectedly. Suddenly the caretaker becomes the receiver. Being able to accept help and do more for yourself for a season ultimately makes you an even better caretaker, because then you have felt what it’s like being on both sides of a lifealtering event. I know for me personally, while I would not want to go back and relive my cancer experience, I also feel strongly that it made me a better therapist, mom, wife and friend. So, even if it is hard for you, allow yourself to speak up, be an advocate for yourself and let others care for you for a time. Take more walks and naps. Leave work on time to enjoy your family or friends in the evenings. Watch more movies or read more books. It’s OK to take care of yourself and a gift to just be for a while.”

patients have to work even harder to advocate for themselves because access to care is further away or limited. Feeling more restrictions on care can increase the sense of powerlessness that is so common during cancer. The less power we feel, the more likely we are to struggle with depression and anxiety”. I found this to be true.

It was important for me to connect with others who understood my circumstances. In-person visits have been the most effective, but telehealth appointments and virtual supports groups have also been an encouragement. These options exist for a range of circumstances, not just for cancer patients. I have now engaged in consistent therapy and support groups for several years, and it has been invaluable to my healing. As I process mental and physical pain, loss and grief of the healthy life I expected to have in my 30s and survivor’s guilt as I continue in remission while close friends pass away from similar diagnoses as mine, I continue moving toward an altogether different future than I had planned.

I share Mrs. Ridings’ thoughts when she said, “Having gone through my own breast cancer journey gives me unique insight and a passion for helping others. I think that is a common response to life’s struggles and a good way to cope. If we can turn our life experiences into something purposeful then we create meaning out of devastating events. I find this to be an important part of my recovery. This can be true for anyone.”

When I was looking for a mental health professional, it was discouraging as I struggled to find someone local with a specialty that could meet my needs, that was also taking new patients. Mrs. Ridings does acknowledge “rural

The stresses of life can sometimes overshadow the joy, and we could all use extra encouragement and help. Don’t forget to check out the Mental Health Minute each month in Ponca City Monthly for additional tips to improve your mental health.

Stew On That

by Rachel Stewart / Contributing Writer

Ihad the unfortunate displeasure of having my gas turned off last month, yes, during the bitterly cold winter, and no, not because I didn’t pay my bill, but because we had a gas leak. We didn’t have heat or hot water for about three days, and I just gotta say, I’m not about that life. I wasn’t made to rough it. I was made for convenience and ease and comfort. My car just texted me that it needs new spark plugs. That’s the life for me. The other day the TV remote was literally 3 feet away from me and instead of getting up off the couch to retrieve it, I spent 30 minutes figuring out how to hook my phone up to my TV to use it as a remote and I did it and it was the best day of my life. I have a robot who vacuums my house that I get to control via my phone. I have a house robot I can ask, “Hey, Alexa – do elephants think humans are cute?”

ST. PATRICKʼS DAY HUES

by Patrick Jordan

ACROSS

1. Covering for a broken arm

5. Famous British prep school

9. Removed an apple's center

14. Sinister sign of future events

15. Rant and ___

16. Bayer pain relief brand

17. Kentucky Derby beverage (2 wds.)

19. Muscle-to-bone tendon

20. Excessive self-esteem

21. Show featuring sopranos

22. "Ebony and ___" (1982 McCartney/Wonder hit)

23. Most painful

25. One of five in a limerick

27. Fogs

30. Holdup man

34. Number of Musketeers or Stooges

37. "What a tragedy!" (2 wds.)

39. Tug-of-war need

40. It's cut and dried in a salon

41. Shades of this color begin the answers to 17- and 64-Across, and 10- and 24-Down

42. Region

43. Federal meat inspection org. (Abbr.)

44. What spiders spin

45. Struck with a leg joint

46. Put out books in a library

48. Storage room in some houses

50. "Fender-bender" result

52. People aside from you

56. Silky bedsheet material

59. Look for the arrival of

62. One may have ChapStick on it

63. "In God We ___" (coin phrase)

64. She once had a talk show with Mark Consuelos (2 wds.)

66. Walkway in an airplane

67. "What ___ can I get for you?"

and she responds (The answer is yes, elephants do think humans are cute, similarly like we think kittens are cute.) And on top of having the gas turned off, my dear husband conveniently had an out-of-town work trip planned, so I had to fare the cold alone like a peasant from 1849, and when the gas was finally turned back on, I was tasked with turning on all the appliances by myself. That is a BOY job. I’m not supposed to be in a dirty, disgusting, cob-webby utility closet lighting a pilot on fire, I’m not supposed to be using tools to turn gas valves on. I’m a GIRL. And yes, I am an independent woman who can quite literally do anything I put my mind to, I just don’t want to do anything outside or dirty or anything that doesn’t involve a glass of Prosecco, and I also don’t want to do things I don’t want to do.

68. Dating couple, in a gossip column

69. Cleared away autumn leaves

70. Opening in a gumball machine

71. Bic products

DOWN

1. Responds to a beckoning finger

2. Spanish friend

3. Mister, in Mexico

4. Dynamite initials

5. What a spewing volcano does

6. Fairy ___ (bedtime story)

7. In excess of

8. Mountainous nation next to India

9. Gambling site in 11-Down

10. Peace symbol on the back of a dime (2 wds.)

11. Nevada gaming town

12. "Have I ___ lied to you?"

13. Like wet grass at dawn

18. ___ and the Pussycats (cartoon rock band)

24. Nickname for Ireland (2 wds.)

26. Wrinkle-removing appliance

28. Ripped

29. Queen of ___ (Old Testament ruler)

31. One who tells dull jokes

32. Fencing sword

33. Use a Kindle or Nook

34. Therefore

35. Dish made with corned beef and potatoes

36. Ferris wheel, for one 38. Chicks may hatch in one

Pop performer Stefani

Cute way to say "cat"

Released, as one's anger

Fixture in a restroom stall

cocktail

OF THE MONTH

Lady Lavender

Some of you are sticking with your New Year’s resolutions to stay sober, while others are practicing sobriety for personal reasons. Whatever your motivation, I just want to take a moment to give you a round of applause. Seriously. Sobriety isn’t a walk-in-the-park for everyone, and it takes so much courage and dedication to stay on that path. A huge part of the journey is having a solid support system. Surround yourself with friends who lift you up and truly support your choices.

The term “mocktail” (a cocktail without alcohol) isn’t exactly a new concept. Originally, they date all the way back to the 1860s when they were first coined “Temperance Drinks” by none other than Jerry Thomas, the legendary bartender and author of Bartender’s Guide Every good bartender loves a good challenge, like finding a way to serve thirsty patrons without alcohol. Rising to the occasion, they started experimenting with fruit juices, syrups and sodas to craft drinks that didn’t need alcohol to shine. Talk about thinking outside the glass!

3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice

3/4-ounce lavender syrup

2 ounces chilled club soda

1 basil sprig

1/4-ounce pomegranate juice

Fast forward to the 1930s, and with Prohibition ending, mocktails kind of faded into the background. But guess what? They’re back, baby, and not just for a quick moment. We’re talking about a cultural shift, people! The rise of the “sober curious” movement has led to mocktails gaining even more popularity. And let’s be real, it’s more than just about not drinking; it’s about mindfulness, health, sustainability and being more conscious of what you’re putting into your body. Mocktails aren’t just fizzy sodas with some cute garnish. They’re health-conscious alternatives that can include everything from adaptogens to mood-boosting ingredients like ashwagandha or ginseng.

Has America’s youth completely ditched the buzz? Not exactly, but they’re onto something with this sobriety-meets-health-consciousalternatives movement, and I’m here for it. One of my favorite mocktails is called Lady Lavender. It’s a light slipper, perfect for springtime to fight off the winter ick. With drinks like the Lady Lavender, it’s clear you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful sip. Here’s to mindful choices that taste as good as they feel!

In a cocktail shaker full of ice, add in the grapefruit juice, lavender syrup, basil, pomegranate juice and shake. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice and top with soda water.

Mixed by Jill Rowe/Staff Writer

Carl Renfro President

Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA

Rick Renfro Secretary, Restaurateur

Cindy Gorrell Vice President, Investments

Ponca City, OK

Real Self-care for Real Life

Story By Tara Fredrick | Contributing Writer

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish – It’s Survival

Let’s be real – life is messy. Like, ‘laundry still in the washer for three days’ messy. And if you’re anything like me, self-care probably feels like a luxury you can’t afford. But here’s the truth: self-care isn’t selfish – it’s survival.

In October 2023, my life changed forever when I lost my daughter, Jolene Rose. JoJo, as we called her, was my everything. Born with physical disabilities, she taught me unconditional love, strength and resilience. Her passing left me shattered, but self-care became my lifeline. It helped me rebuild, heal and honor her memory. Now, through this column, I’m sharing my journey and tools to help others care for themselves, no matter what life throws their way. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s survival, and it’s how we thrive.

After losing my daughter, JoJo, in October 2023, I didn’t think I could move forward. My world fell apart, and the only way I survived was by learning how to care for myself in ways I’d never prioritized before.

Self-care wasn’t what I thought it would be – it wasn’t glamorous or Instagram-worthy. It was letting myself cry. It was learning to say “no.” It was asking for help when I didn’t want to. Self-care looked a lot like survival.

This month, I encourage you to start small. Take 10 minutes a day just for yourself. Journal, go for a walk, or enjoy your coffee before it gets cold. Self-care isn’t about perfection – it’s about showing up for yourself, one tiny step at a time.

For more tasty food fun, check out @foodcrushok on IG and Facebook.

Top 3 for Me

Charcuterie ‘N More By Annie

It feels like society is becoming more and more obsessed with charcuterie boards. These boards are not a new concept. Charcuterie comes from two French words, chair (meaning flesh) and cuit (meaning cooked). While “cooked flesh” may not sound fantastic, the term was created to describe the act of preserving meat in the 15th century. It makes sense, as cured meat is a widespread staple in modern charcuterie. Along with the taste created by combining different components into one bite, the most amazing thing about charcuterie may be how beautiful it is. It is the practice of assembling food artistically, a style of culinary art. Is there a more appealing piece of art than one made for eating?

Some of the most gorgeous edible art in the form of charcuterie is being created by Annie Wilkins, owner of Charcuterie ‘N More by Annie. Wilkins started her business after years of making specialty charcuterie boards for family and friends. Armed with a vision, social media and access to a commercial kitchen, her pretty displays of cured meats, nuts, fruits, cheeses and more took off.

Her creations are not only inviting, but also super tasty. Incredibly versatile, Wilkins offers never-ending options when it comes to what a

client’s charcuterie consists of, as well as how it can be presented. Citrus, crostini, spreads, smoked gouda, pickles (they’re not for me, but they do look pretty on a board), berries, peppers, sharp chesses, salamis, cheese balls, vegetables and soft cheeses are a small sampling of what Wilkins can put together.

Presentation is not limited to a board. An increasingly popular way to heighten the charcuterie experience is a grazing table. Imagine a large table or countertop loaded to the edges with as much variety as the space can handle, directly on the paper-topped surface. Grazing tables are perfect for a larger group of people, such as a wedding reception or graduation, to “graze” the offerings throughout the event. Wilkins delivers the ultimate spread with her grazing tables, stunning clients with her attention to detail and pretty-as-a-picture final product.

Sharing food brings people together, and a well-prepared charcuterie board can be the centerpiece to spark conversation at any event. Charcuterie is often unexpected and always memorable. It’s a gorgeous collection of snacks! Wilkins’ creations are balanced and beautiful, and more importantly, her work gives people a chance to connect. Happy Eating!!!

1. 2. 3.

Wilkins can do charcuterie in any vessel! If a board doesn’t feel quite right, try cups or boxes or anything else. Get creative!

Charcuterie is for everyone. Meat lovers, cheese lovers, fruit lovers, cracker lovers, it is a fun crowd pleaser.

Party season is upon us, and charcuterie is suitable for any event. Order today for showers, parties, Wednesday wine nights, anything. All parties are perfect for snacks.

Charcuterie ‘n More by Annie is available by preorder. Follow @charcuterienmorebyannie on Facebook. Order via Messenger or call 580.749.0968.

If You Find Yourself In ...

Oklahoma City … and you are craving some amazing charcuterie, head to the Chisolm Creek area of north Oklahoma City and snag a spot at Riserva Bar + Tapas. Friends, this is easily one of the top five restaurants in OKC right now. Globally inspired, their charcuterie board is phenomenal. Pulling from Spanish flavors, this board is loaded with Jamon, Spanish chorizo, Drunken goat cheese, Soppressata and house-made pita, among many other accoutrements. This pita is remarkable. I’m not kidding. It is perfection. Chef James Fox has created an ingenious menu enveloped in a stunning space. Everything I’ve tried at Riserva, and I’ve tried most of it, is excellent. Find Riserva on Facebook and Instagram at @riservatapas.

Story & Photos By Amy Dewitt Geurin | Contributing Writer

Story by Jeff MacKinnon / Contributing Writer

Anyone who’s worked in customer service has likely experienced moments that leave you shaking your head in disbelief. From the customer who insists on returning an item they’ve had for years, to the one who demands a refund for something they’ve clearly used to the last drop, these moments can be baffling. Yet, they also come with a unique set of challenges and humor. Sometimes, it’s the ability to stay calm and find a solution that truly tests your patience and creativity. And, of course, there’s always that one customer whose problem is something so simple, yet they treat it like a life-or-death situation, leaving you speechless but somehow determined to make their day a little better. It’s these unpredictable, and often entertaining, moments that make customer service both tough and rewarding.

Let me share a personal story of how a normal day can be uprooted by a simple request and the bizarre outcome. During a regular shift at Sonic, I was responsible for taking orders and preparing fountain drinks. A gentleman rang

and requested a large cherry and vanilla Dr Pepper, which was quickly poured and sent out for his enjoyment. Shortly after, the box rang and said customer complained the amount of cherry and vanilla was too strong and requested a new drink be sent immediately. Those that have been graced with working in the fast-food industry are aware that amounts of flavor are preset on the soda fountain to match company standards. My simple resolution was to attempt to put less flavor and add the medium setting into the large and quickly resent the order. Moments later, the box rang and to my surprise, the flavor was still too strong. My patience had disappeared when our shift leader returned from break to enlighten me that this customer just wants a regular Dr Pepper. My conscience struggled with the apparent fix, but I begrudgingly sent out a regular to which the customer rang back to inform me of the perfection and gladly drove away.

That’s the golden rule, isn’t it? “The customer is always right” can be a bit of a challenge when requests get truly outlandish.

Story by Relo Adams, MS, MCP, LPC-C / Contributing Writer

Trauma is a big word that can probably be overused in today’s world! Trauma is something that can occur in various parts of anyone’s life. Someone can have emotional trauma, physical trauma, political trauma, and generational trauma; the list can go on and on! To be specific, trauma can be defined as an intense response to a stressful situation, event, and/or experience that has had a lasting effect in someone’s life. Typically, trauma is accompanied by uncomfortable feelings like shock, fear, anxiety, being overwhelmed, and depression and traumatic events are usually scary, shocking, and unsafe. This month, I had the privilege of talking in depth with Jamie Phillips, MS, LPC-Supervisor and trauma informed therapy provider about emotional trauma, the causes, results, and treatment available to assist in recovering! Jamie was kind enough to share her writings about trauma with me and even insisted I include them in March’s Mental Health Minute! I hope you enjoy this information and find it as helpful as I did!

I have dedicated my 25-year counseling career to working with people who struggle with the impacts of trauma. Can you think back to a time when a friend went through a particularly difficult incident? Or, reflect on a time when you experienced a stressful event that was more than you could handle. Many of us have witnessed the impact trauma has had on our society but we may not always recognize the results or that there are effective interventions. Trauma is something we tend pass to others, such as through generations of our family or even to someone in our community. Unfortunately, it has become all too prevalent. According to a study by Kaiser Permanente, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) cause long-term chronic health impacts. This multi-year research project looked at the outcome of traumatic events such as witnessing violence in the home, experiencing sexual assault, physical abuse, emotional abuse, familial mental illness, parental imprisonment, parental

separation, caregiver with a substance abuse disorder, and having a family member attempt or die by suicide. These are extreme events that impact a person’s ability to function.

ACEs are common. Approximately 54% of people in our country have experienced at least one type of ACE as a child. Oklahoma is ranked 41 out of 50 states for highest ACE scores. Nearly one in five children in Oklahoma have experienced traumatic events. This can cause social, emotional and cognitive impairments such as struggling with concentrating on homework, having difficulties with making connections or experiencing anxiety or depression. The child’s resources have been spent attending to the need for safety and security instead of developing skills to make friends. As time passes and the child has not been able to overcome the deficits left by these stressors, they may begin to adopt not so healthy ways to cope. Health risk behaviors may include using nicotine to deal with their stress or failing to use protection when engaged in sexual activity. These types of behaviors over time can lead to disease such as developing heart disease from smoking or substance use. It may also have an impact on social issues. An example could be homelessness due to lack of support or trouble with the law due to stealing for resources. The ultimate result is an earlier death for those who do not seek assistance in dealing with trauma. Trauma has been proven to shorten the lives of many who suffer.

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/CDC-Kaiser-ACE-Study-Pyramid-1_fig1_328583097

us different ways to discipline our children that are effective and teach our children skills to grow and learn instead of just passing down what our parents may have used from their parents. We now know better techniques to help our children become confident well-adjusted people.

We can all be part of building resilience in the face of trauma simply by interacting with empathy, providing a safe space, and being a safe person. Demonstrate acceptance to those who are struggling or have struggled because of trauma. Keep in mind that it is always important to seek professional help processing adverse experiences. Refer to professionals when appropriate.

However, this does not have to be the end of the story. Intervention is key, the earlier the better. There are numerous evidence-based trauma therapies that have emerged from trauma research. Counseling can help people find better ways to process the events that have happened to them. Parenting classes or groups can show

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

The Sunny Side

by Liz Threlkeld / Contributing Writer

Beginning Homesteader’s Guide

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!

Practical Tips for Starting (or Growing!)

Your Homesteading Journey

Hey, Friends!

Last month we talked about what typically defines someone as a homesteader. This month, let’s focus on “how” to start homesteading. Here are some practical tips:

• Make a list of what you know how to do versus what you want to learn.

• Order some printed books on the areas of interest.

◊ If you’re looking for inspiration, I found “Slice of Organic Life” by Sheherazade Goldsmith extremely helpful. It gives just enough information on a myriad of homesteading topics to wet the beak. It’s simple and helpful when deciding direction. I encourage you to order your copy through Brace Books and More or check it out from the library using the Libby App or an ILL (inter-library loan)! The internet is also a helpful resource, but in the name of preservation and old-fashioned ways, books never go out of style!

• If you’re a hands-on beginner, the kitchen is a great place to start!

◊ Grow microgreens!

◊ Tackle a ferment like sourdough, Amish friendship bread, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha or curtido!

◊ Bake some bread!

• Get some garden seeds/plants. MarchMay is the ideal time to start planting certain various things in our area!

◊ Attend Ponca City’s “ANNUAL SEED SWAP – The Next Generation” at City Central (400 E. Central Ave.). Hosted by Sunny Creek Trading Post, guests can expect various booths, workshops and activities. See graphic for more details or visit Sunny Creek Trading Post’s Facebook page or website.

◊ Don’t have a green thumb? You may be surprised! Some veggies thrive on neglect and some thrive on being “over loved” with water. A quick Google search can help you pick the best seeds for your inclination.

• Start raising a small animal.

◊ Chickens are a great way to start receiving an animal product without butchering or milking. Be sure to check the laws regarding farm animals where you live.

◊ If you’re a little more adventurous and looking for your own protein, rabbit meat is wonderful! It’s typically the fastest producing meat animal, easy to skin, tastes like a cross between chicken and turkey, takes up little space and is a great intro into tanning hides!

• Attend homesteading events such as the extremely popular Okie Homesteading Expo in Pryor, Oklahoma!

◊ OHE will take place on March 21-22, 2025, bringing together homesteading enthusiasts and experts for two days of education and inspiration. World-renowned farmer, speaker and author, Joel Salatin, will headline the event, sharing his wisdom on sustainable farming and regenerative

• Get a few basic tools.

◊ Hand rakes and trowels are great for raised beds and pots. Shovels, hoes, broad forks and garden rakes are a must-have for in-ground gardening.

• Get a mentor!

◊ Locals are great because they know our area and zone the best and most homesteaders love to share ideas and experiences!

◊ My favorite homesteading influencers from Oklahoma are: “Arms Family Homestead” for broad topics, “Gardening with Leon” for growing food in Oklahoma weather, and for the super crunchy or adventurous, I recommend “Bad Baxter Farm”.

◊ For the beginner, “The Prairie Homestead” is my favorite suggestion!

• Arm yourself with the right attitude!

◊ Steer clear of the “All or Nothing” mentality.

◊ Have an attitude of learning. You’ve got to pay your dues.

◊ Don’t fear failing. When you fail, because you will – fail forward.

I’m convinced that ANYONE can be a homesteader. If they have the passion and the drive, they’ll figure it out.

I’m rooting for you! You’ve got this!

,Liz Threlkeld