Ponca City Monthly May 2022

MAY 2022

Serving Northern Oklahoma

K AY

FREE PUBLICATION

C O U N T Y

Activity G U I D E

2 0 2 2

PONCACITYMONTHLY.COM

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MAY 2022

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MAY 2022

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VOL. 3 NO.5 Publishing Company MyMediaMatters Creative Agency Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner Associate Editor & Advertising Director Robyn Ryan 580-761-1295 robyn@poncacitymonthly.com Staff Writers Carey Head Jay Wagner Andy Hicks Chelsea McConnell Kayley Spielbusch Laina Smith Jill Rowe Jennifer Vaughan

REVIVAL OF THE 12 THE PIPE ORGAN IN PONCA CITY

Ad Designer Robyn Ryan Magazine Designer Andy Hicks

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THE THIRD ANNUAL SCHATTE MEMORIAL COOKOFF

FEATURE STORIES Career Explorations

Tonkawa Film Festival

ArtSpace: Kellie Garcia

New Kay County Amphitheater Celebrates Grand Opening On The Cover

Summer Activity Guide

75

Story Editor Sherry Cable

MONTHLY FAVORITES 9

21

26

40

42-69

Your guide to all the events, summer camps, art, movies and so much more.

Crossword

Book Reviews Sounding Off

Learning with Leaming

Cocktail Of The Month: Mint Julep Stew On That

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

MAY 2022

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30/33 36 39 71

72

Food Crush

73

Backyard Gardener

76

Health and Beauty

Notes From A Tired Mama

4

Copy Editor Patrick Jordan

RECIPE: AVOCADO TOAST

Puzzle Answers

74 79 79

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

© MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2022.

For permission to reproduce any article in this magazine, contact editor@poncacitymonthly.com.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or by other electronic means without written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Ponca City Monthly is a Member of the Society of Professional Journalists.

We believe that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy. We strive to ensure a free exchange of information that is accurate, fair and thorough. We pledge to: Seek the Truth, and Report It; Minimize Harm; Act Independently; and to Be Accountable and Transparent. To read our full pledge, visit: spj.org/ethicscode.asp

Letter from the Editor

Something has felt very odd lately, and I’ve been trying this month to put my finger on what it is. It started around the middle of April, around the time of Easter. Everywhere I traveled, every meeting, every event was completely and utterly packed. During our church service at Easter, every pew was completely full of frilly-frocked dresses and nicepressed suits and ties. Some events have even been standing-roomonly. There have been weeks this month that had events scheduled every single day of the week!

As I stepped back and examined what was different, I realized that this is the first spring since 2019 that people and events were allowed to exist as they normally would.

The pandemic hit so early into 2020 that we were robbed of our entire spring, and the spring of 2021 was nowhere near normal either. But, as I look around now at the happy families at baseball games and organizations busy planning a summer full of events, it just hit me – the thing that is different, is that this spring feels more like a normal, busy spring.

I have never in my life been so grateful to see life become hectic, busy and full of people.

The pandemic – does anyone else just kind of hate that word or is it just me? – it stripped down our society to bare bones. It tore friendships apart, it made people question their jobs and their school choices for their children. It tested our public safety and health care systems. It drove wedges between church families, and turned neighbor against neighbor as everyone did their best to live through some of the absolute worst years that our country has faced in a century.

But, you know what? We did it. The world did not end. And here we are, on the other side of disaster. So, as you plan that family vacation overseas, or book your kids camp activities or spend this summer exploring your community or attending sporting events elbow-toelbow with your friends and neighbors, take a moment to stop, take a deep breath and remember how lucky we are to have the privilege to have a busy, hectic summer.

editor@poncacitymonthly.com K AY

C O U N T Y

Activity G U I D E

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We’ve complied almost 30 pages of events around Kay County! Plan your summer adventure starting on page 42 Cover Design by Andy Hicks

APOLOGY: John Mallory was not given photo credit for the photographs he contributed to the Time Capsule story in the April issue. We deeply apologize for this oversight and thank John Mallory for his photo contributions to that story, but also for the many other stories he has contributed to.

MAY 2022

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The third annual Schatte Memorial Cookoff is to be held on May 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 1104 North Fourth St. The Memorial Cookoff was first held in fall 2020 to honor the memory of Paul Schatte.

The long-time Head Country Barbecue pitmaster and executive, Schatte had a passion for barbeque. As a former educator, he delighted in sharing all he knew about barbeque.

Schatte was as passionate about his faith as he was about barbeque. He was heavily involved with the First Lutheran Church. In his free time, Schatte enjoyed working on his farm with his wife, Shelly.

“Paul was a down-to-earth, all-around good man,” says Heitman. “When he passed, it was like a wave of shock went through the church and Paul’s widow Shelly community. We wanted to find “He loved sharing his skill and a way to remember him and honor knowledge of the barbeque world with his memory, so we developed the anyone who asked,” recalls Jennifer barbeque cookoff.”

Heitman, Schatte Memorial Cookoff organizer. “He loved it even more than The first cookoff began with a small cooking.” contest mainly consisting of Paul’s

“He loved sharing his skill and knowledge of the barbeque world with anyone who asked, He loved it even more than cooking.” friends, but it has now grown to include outside teams as well.

Last year, the cookoff hosted eight teams, and this year they are looking to host 10.

The teams come from across Oklahoma and Kansas. Vendors are also a part of the lineup, and they hope to see that number grow too.

The three main categories teams compete in are brisket, pork and chicken, with an additional “People’s Choice” category. With “People’s Choice,” attendees are invited to purchase a tasting kit and vote on their favorite. The final award is the “Overall” award, in which family and close friends of Schatte select the winner from a blind tasting.

Paul Schatte

The event will feature a lemonade stand, snow cone truck, indoor vendors and games for everyone to enjoy in addition to the cookoff.

Tasting kits will be available for $12 each. The vendors will open at 9 a.m., with tasting kits being available to purchase starting at 11 a.m. The barbeque awards will be presented at 2 p.m.

The proceeds from the event are to benefit the First Lutheran

Bank Like Anything’s Possible. equitybank.com/possible

Paul Schatte and Danny Head

Youth Group, as well as a scholarship fund established for Schatte’s grandchildren.

“We invite the community to come out and join us,” Heitman adds. “Our hope for this event is that Paul’s passion and love for barbeque and God will encourage others to be like him – share your passion and teach others how to keep it alive and well beyond your time on earth.”

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MAY 2022

Who’s Ready for Patio Weather?

Career Explorations: Carter Backus’ Story

Ponca City High School Helps Students With Special Needs Succeed In The Job Force.

Story by Laina Smith/Staff Writer | Photos provided by Kelli Kinkaid Autism is a developmental disorder that causes those diagnosed to have trouble communicating and interacting with others.

There are three known types of autism, from requiring little support to requiring high levels of support. Some people refer to the three levels as high-functioning autism, autism and extreme autism.

On those three levels, there are many different types of autism. For example, some are diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, in which they are more likely to have problems with social skills. There is also what is called pervasive developmental delay. This type of autism delays the development of social and communication skills.

“There’s a spectrum,” Kelli Kinkaid, EMT and PCHS ladies soccer coach, said.

“There’s not one child with autism that is like another. Everybody is different, from foods and textures. Some people don’t want to give hugs. Some want to give everybody hugs. They’re very smart.”

Kinkaid’s son, Carter Backus, a junior at PCHS, was diagnosed with autism in 2009. Between the ages of 1-2, he had problems with ear infections. His speech also started to recede instead of advance.

Like others diagnosed with autism, Carter had many traits he would show.

“When he was younger, also, he would, and a lot of kids do this,” Kinkaid said. “They line up their toys – his animals, his dinosaurs, or whatever, his Thomas the Train. I have pictures of everything lined up just perfectly. That was something he always did.”

Because of Carter’s diagnosis, Kinkaid believes that autism awareness is essential.

“I had no idea about it,” Kinkaid said.

“Autism awareness is really important because I know, still to this day, not a lot of people know about it. If you’re not immediately affected by it, then you probably have no clue.”

Kinkaid believes in autism awareness so much that in 2010 she started what is known as Carter’s Run, a charity 5K, in honor of raising money for autism awareness. This run was held at Ponca Lake every year. Money donated during the run went to Autism Speaks and helped Kinkaid run in the New York City Marathon.

Along with the charity run, Kinkaid and her mother started a support group for families in the community.

“It’s just so important, I think,” Kinkaid said. “Because I think some people, some parents especially, might think that there’s a problem, but just kind of push it to the side, and the best thing you can do is start them as soon as possible at a young age. I have no doubt that that’s why Carter’s doing as good as he’s doing now is because we did everything that we possibly could as soon as we knew.”

Carter was enrolled in special education courses at a young age, which has helped him throughout his childhood.

“As soon as he was diagnosed, when he was actually probably five by the time we got the official diagnosis, we started him before that in a program at Union Elementary School that was for special needs, and he stayed with that.

Then, once he was able to start first grade, then he had an individual para that stuck with him until middle school, which was sixth grade. Then from there, he went into a program which was called Rise. Mandy Seward was his teacher. He stayed in there for three years; sixth, seventh and eighth, and then he transitioned to the high school, and he’s been with Holly Ladner in her program ever since.”

Ponca City High School has what is known as Career Explorations. Career Explorations is a class offered to students at PCHS that are enrolled in special education courses already and allows them to gain credit for their diplomas.

See CAREER Continued on Page 10

MAY 2022

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CAREER Continued from Page 9 Career Explorations prepares students with disabilities for the workforce by teaching them how to create resumes, interview for jobs and even work at community job sites. This class is taught by Ladner and is coordinated by Sally Tubbs.

There are three different levels to this class. The first is known as work adjustment. This class is mostly for freshman and sophomores and focuses on the skills needed to succeed in the workforce such as teamwork, responsibilities, etc.

The second level is work study.

This class is normally for juniors and seniors and deals with job training. In this, a job coach will go with them to a community business while they work, some even receiving a stipend if they meet the Department of Rehabilitation Services requirements.

to work for a business in the community.

The final step of the class is a work release. This portion of the class is for second semester seniors. In this portion, students are allowed off campus during their Career Explorations period

Now that Carter is at the high school, he attends Career Explorations. He has worked in many different jobs throughout Ponca City in this program, including washing dishes at Garrett Wrangler’s and working at Grand Flowers and Gifts.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a group of neurodevelopment disorders that affect how people communicate, learn, behave and socially interact. People may have repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior or narrow interests. Not everyone who has ASD may have these symptoms, which are usually present from early childhood and affect daily functioning. Both children and adults can have ASD. The term “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills and levels of disability in functioning that can occur in people with ASD. Some children and adults with ASD are fully able to perform all activities of daily living while others require substantial support to perform basic activities. Learning and thinking can range from extremely gifted to needing severe help. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5, published in 2013) includes Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and pervasive developmental disorders not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) as part of ASD rather than as separate disorders. A diagnosis of ASD includes an assessment of intellectual disability and language impairment.

ASD occurs in every racial and ethnic group, and across all socioeconomic levels.

However, boys are significantly more likely to develop ASD than girls.

“Autism awareness is really important because I know, still to this day, not a lot of people know about it. If you’re not immediately affected by it, then you probably have no clue.”

Some of the other places in Ponca City that kids in Career Explorations can work include Golden Chick, Ponca City Discount Foods and Brandt’s Ace Hardware.

There are also jobs within the school district, such as laundry, library and others.

Carter also works outside of Career Explorations grooming dogs with Kinkaid’s mother. He also started a lawn care business with his father.

“He’s really like the happiest kid in the world,” Kinkaid said. “He loves everything and everybody, and he wants to be friends with everybody.”

Career Explorations is different for every child that goes through the program.

Each child has a specific plan created for them based on their interests and likes and dislikes. This allows the student to receive the best experience as possible while in the class.

Not only do the students at PCHS benefit from this class, but the community as a whole does also. Businesses are provided with employees willing and able to work and gain vocational skills and will soon join the workforce. It also benefits the employer as these employees work without compensation.

For more information on Career Explorations, how to get enrolled or to express an interest in students working for your business, contact Sally Tubbs at 580-7679500.

Ponca City also has services for those with special needs outside of school. The Ponca City Opportunity Center offers vocational and residential services for people of all ages. To find out more information visit https://opcenterok.wixsite. com/opcenter or call 580-765-6782.

Autism Facts & Stats •

intellectual disability or borderline intellectual disability.

• •

Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.

About 40% of children with autism do not speak. About 25%-30% of children with autism have some words at 12 to 18 months of age and then lose them.

Others might speak, but not until later in childhood.

•

Autism greatly varies from person to person (no two people with autism are alike).

• •

The rate of autism has steadily grown over the last 20 years.

Comorbid conditions often associated with autism include Fragile X, allergies,

asthma, epilepsy, bowel disease, gastrointestinal/digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, PANDAS, feeding disorders, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping

disorders, immune disorders, autoimmune disorders and neuroinflammation.

• •

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most underfunded.

A 2008 Danish Study found that the mortality risk among those with autism was nearly twice that of the general population.

• •

10 MAY 2022

Autism now affects 1 in 44 children; over half are classified as having an

Children with autism do progress – early intervention is key.

Autism is treatable, not a hopeless condition.

CRUZIN’ GRAND

CAR SHOW & SWAP MEET

FRIDAY JUNE 3 6-10 pm

SATURDAY JUNE 4 8 am-3 pm Lake Ponca Park

To cruz Grand, vehicle must be 1985 or older or a special interest vehicle or any year motorcycles.

Happy Mother’s Day to all you Super Moms!

Cost to cruz is $10.

Must have proof of insurance and a valid driver’s license.

Line up will be at 3rd and Central downtown Ponca City.

Food Vendors Saturday!

CAR SHOW

Valve Cover Racing! $ 5.00 entry fee, winner takes all!

CASH PRIZES HHH

Registration starts at 8 am.

Cost is $20.

Trophys and CASH prizes will be awarded at 2:30 pm.

Any vehicles welcome to enter.

Swap Meet Vendor spaces are free to sell automotiverelated items such as car parts, tools, auto memorabilia, signs, man cave items, etc.

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For questions, call Mike Wynn at 580-716-1175 or contact us at www.facebook.com/schoonerscarclub Schooners Car Club is a proud sponsor of Pioneer Technology Center’s Automotive Education Program.

MAY 2022

11

The Revival of the Pipe Organ in Ponca City Story and Photos by Chelsea McConnell/Staff Writer

In her poem titled “The Summer Day,” Mary Oliver poses this question, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with

your one wild and precious life?” For local organist Brad

Newcomb, the answer to this question came early in life.

Newcomb speaks of his path with a certainty and calm that

is both refreshing and awe-inspiring. He remembers seeing the organ played in church and remembers liking it, but he hadn’t seen it as a potential career option, yet. Upon

attending church camp as a young man, his views of the organ changed forever, lighting his path as a musician.

“I went to church camp between my freshman and sophomore year of high school and some 15-year-old kid gets up there and just shreds on the organ. And I thought, ‘Huh, that’s pretty cool.

Maybe I should do that.’ And I had had no piano lessons, no keyboard background at all at that point. I had just been in high school with the Ponca City Chorale so I could read music and I thought, ‘Okay, I can do this.’” Newcomb goes on to say, “I really felt called to be a church musician. I’ve been playing for almost eight [years] now. I’ve always felt the call to be a servant of the church, whatever denomination that may be or whatever I feel called. But, since I’ve gotten here to St Mary’s, I know that I’m supposed to be here, and it just feels so right to be here.”

12 MAY 2022

As a young man, local churches allowed Newcomb to use their organs for practice. He taught himself how to play in the beginning, practicing on organs at First Presbyterian, his home church, and Grace Episcopal Church. Brad’s practice led him to play for various local churches as well from time to time. During his senior year, he began lessons with the organist at Grace Episcopal Church, Jackie Saylor. Saylor gave Newcomb lessons for nine months, solidifying his base teachings on the organ.

Somewhere around this time, he was fortunate to meet the Organ Instructor for Oklahoma State University.

This propelled him to his next step. Newcomb applied to the Organ Program at OSU and was accepted and given a scholarship to attend.

See ST. MARY’S Continued on Page 14

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ST MARY’S Continued from Page 12

“There is not one pipe organ on the earth that is the same as another. Every single one is completely different.”

As the only organ student during his five years in the program, he had true hands-on teaching and experience learning his craft.

Organs are known for having foot petals as well.

Because of this, organ music has three lines of music instead of two, because the feet get their own line.

While in college, Newcomb worked locally for First Christian Church as their organist from 201719. During his time with FCC, he was also able to complete his college internship with Burton Tidwell. Tidwell was hired to refurbish the organ at First Christian Church, and Newcomb was given the opportunity to assist in the repair and rewiring. Tidwell’s website says this of his career, “Throughout a career spanning 37 years, I’ve been involved in the crafting of more than 300 pipe organs and more recently in cutting-edge work seamlessly incorporating digital voices into pipe organs. I’ve directed the tonal finishing of more than 150 instruments and been responsible for the scaling of some 250-300 instruments across the United States. It is this concentrated study that has given me a unique perspective on the craft and

has earned me a national reputation for careful attention to detail in the scaling and finishing of instruments of all sizes.

From 1995 to 2006, I oversaw the building of the third largest pipe organ on the West Coast at Westwood United Methodist Church, Los Angeles.”

Organ repair is no small feat. As Newcomb explains, organ building is part art and part science. “There is not one pipe organ on the earth that is the same as another. Every single one is completely different.

And when they install a pipe organ, it can take up to a few months or even years sometimes because every single pipe and every single piece of wood you see has to be specifically made for the space that it’s in.” Factors like building architecture and style play a role in the type of organ that will work in a given space. Building material variations like stone walls, cement walls and carpet thickness all affect the sound of an organ. Placement of the organ within the space affects the sound as well.

While Newcomb’s initial plan was to move back to Ponca City and be the organist for his home church, it was St. Mary’s that had an opening for an organist in 2019. They offered him a position

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NOW HIRING and he accepted and has been with the church ever since. He voluntarily converted to Catholicism in 2021.

During a typical weekend, Brad plays for three different services at St. Mary’s, one on Saturday evening at 5 p.m. and two Sunday morning at 8 and 11 a.m. During each service, Newcomb plays around 14-15 pieces of music. Five of these pieces are played during every mass, while the other pieces vary depending on the sermon and teachings for the week. He is joined by the St. Mary’s Choir during the 11 a.m. service on Sundays.

The organ at St. Mary’s has over 2,000 pipes and two keyboards. St. Mary’s organ will soon undergo its own renovation with the famous Burton

Tidwell. Newcomb looks forward to the organ being refurbished and the opportunities that will open up to the community. He hopes to eventually start a lunchtime recital series where citizens could bring a sack lunch to St. Mary’s and eat while they listen to beautiful classical organ music. Listening to an organist play is mesmerizing. Watching one play is even more fascinating. There are, quite literally, a lot of moving parts.

Newcomb’s passion for the organ and for music is evident in the way he plays and the way he speaks about his work. He hopes that as a young organist, he can show kids growing up in Ponca City that they can pursue a career of their dreams here, no matter what path they take.

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MAY 2022

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New Kay County Amphitheater

Celebrates Grand Opening Story and Photos by Laina Smith/Staff Writer

On April 30th, after many years of planning and construction, the Newkirk Amphitheater officially held its opening night. As with any big undertaking, the Kay County Amphitheater started out as a dream among a few hopeful and dedicated Newkirk citizens and was eventually brought to life through hours of hard work, determination and tenacity. Champions and leaders of the project Kelle Cross, Holly Cline and Alyssa Winner McCleery share how the project came to life.

Cross, Cline and McCleery were grateful to have a dedicated volunteer base that was passionate about seeing the project come to fruition through their Amphitheater Advisory Committee and other volunteers. McCleery is the Newkirk Main Street Director, and Cline is the current NMS Board President. They both applaud the NMS Board for their dedication and Cross for her direction and vigilant championing of the amphitheater.

The first step for the project was to determine the location.

This process started several years ago in 2016. At the time, the Kay County Courthouse was considering an expansion but unsure of their exact plans. The Amphitheater Advisory Committee had hopes of making their dream come to life on the grounds of the courthouse property, but had to wait until courthouse expansion plans were solidified to move forward. After several proposed locations, the final home of the amphitheater was determined in 2019. The group names Courthouse leadership as one of the project’s biggest champions for allowing it to be erected on their property.

County Courthouse. Students could be sponsored for $7 each and the project doubled as a math challenge.

In these ways, the fund-raising for the amphitheater became a project the whole community of Newkirk began to rally behind.

According to the website, the original goal for the Kay County Amphitheater is as follows: “The Kay County Amphitheater will be a premier venue for performing arts and completely funded through private donations. The large stage will be built on the property that housed the Newkirk High School at 9th and Main Street. The stage will face the east and boast an outdoor plaza with open seating for 300+ people. It will be a space for class reunions and concerts, as well as providing an outdoor venue for students to perform and perfect their skills.” Amphitheater spec documents go on to explain the structure of the facility. “The amphitheater will have a 25foot by 50-foot raised concrete stage and steps with a quality, freestanding, open-air pavilion. An attractive 7-foot cultured stone sound wall will serve as See AMPHITHEATER Continued on Page 18

From there, it was time to begin fund-raising. The committee was clear on one thing – they wanted to have all the funds in place before they began construction. As with most large fund-raising campaigns, the group employed several avenues to raise funds. Main Street organized several smaller fund-raisers to help reach their goal, including concession sales at movie nights, pumpkin sales, lollipop sales and T-shirt sales. The group organized a letter campaign and personal visits. NMS and Amphitheater Advisory Committee volunteers did over 60 in-person presentations in a six-week period where they made in-person asks for support. The group even got students involved by challenging them to see how many quarters it would take to go around the Kay

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Ariella, Emily, Serenity at Pumpkin Fundraiser Sale

Artists with Audrey Schmitz

AMPHITHEATER Continued from Page 17 the backdrop and provide for outstanding acoustics.”

Once all the funding was in place, construction began in June 2021. As with any construction project of this scale, hiccups are bound to occur, like when the pavilion showed up three days before Newkirk Main Street’s biggest event of the year, Charlie Adams Day. This wouldn’t have been so unusual if the arrival date wasn’t several weeks ahead of schedule. NMS Board and volunteers sprang into action and found a way to make sure everyone attending the festival remained safe and the pavilion remained out of the event’s way. The group speaks of these types of occurrences with the kind of fondness one only has for such events after they are far in the rear-view mirror.

Artists with Audrey Schmitz

Cross has wonderful things to say about all the community partners that have helped make the amphitheater a reality. The group has been blessed to work with several amazing companies in Kay County and the surrounding area, including Rick Scott Construction, High Pointe LLC, McDonald Electric and Rob Caroll with RCSP Coating Specialists. Cross goes on to applaud the City of Newkirk saying they’ve “bent over backwards to be a good partner.”

Along with Newkirk Main Street and the Newkirk Chamber, the whole community has truly gotten behind the project.

An exciting art component is going to be a unique addition to the amphitheater. The committee hosted the Kay County Patriotic Art Contest for 4th-12th grade students from our area. The contest encouraged students to enter their patriotic art piece, along with an essay explaining how patriotism was expressed in their artwork. Out of 118 entries, 24 winners were chosen. Winners were invited to attend a two-hour workshop at Northern Oklahoma College with Art Instructor Audrey Schmitz where they transferred their artwork to a ceramic tile made by Schmitz. She then glazed and fired the tiles. These 8-inch by 8-inch tiles will be installed on site at the amphitheater.

While it is easy to sum up a community project in a few words, the time and effort that went into making the project happen, as well as the impact this project will have on Kay County for generations to come, is not as easy to summarize. Although the path wasn’t always easy, the kindness and generosity of Kay County Citizens gave Amphitheater Advisory Committee volunteers the fuel they needed to persevere. Thanks to their perseverance, Kay County citizens now have a beautiful gathering place in Newkirk. The opening night for the amphitheater was April 30. The Kay County Honor Choir performed at the opening night, led by nationally known Conductor Cristi Cary Miller and Director Elizabeth Odom. Newkirk Main Street will host Second Saturdays at the amphitheater this summer starting at 7 p.m. with various musical acts performing. These events will begin in June and go through October, offering plenty of opportunities for area citizens to enjoy some live music at the beautiful amphitheater.

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Tonkawa Film Festival Story by Chelsea McConnell/Staff Writer | Photos provided by Tonkawa Film Festival The Tonkawa Film Festival (TFF) held its 3rd annual film competition on the weekend of April 8th and 9th on the Northern Oklahoma Campus in Tonkawa. This film festival is the true definition of a passion project for Event Creator and Director James Oxford. At its core, the festival was born out of a desire to give back through creating a five-star film festival for Oklahoma and for the town of Tonkawa.

James Oxford was born and raised in Tonkawa. James attended NOC and then LSU where he got his degree in finance, before moving to Houston to work in the oil and gas industry. In Houston, James met his husband, who is a filmmaker.

He got pulled into the world of film making. As James puts it, “I work on films as a producer, which is where I use my finance and business brain to handle that side of filmmaking.”

James and his husband now live in the Hudson Valley area of New York. Several years ago, the two created a film together which was accepted at an Oklahoma film festival. Their excitement quickly turned to dismay, as the festival was poorly planned and executed, with little thought given to the event location or logistics of screening the films.

After years of attending festivals all over the county and in other parts of the world, James believed he could create a well-executed and entertaining event for all involved, particularly the filmmakers.

James credits his mom, Margie Oxford, as pushing him to make the final move and found the festival in Tonkawa. As the President of the Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce, Margie encouraged James to have the festival in his hometown with the Chamber as the host. After a year of planning, the Tonkawa Film Festival made its debut in March 2020.

Believe it or not, Tonkawa is quite well-suited to host such an event due to the availability of strategic partners in the area. The festival’s partnership with the Chamber as the host is key to the planning and execution of the event. The festival partners with Northern Oklahoma College and their Digital Media Institute.

The NOC campus provides the facilities necessary to show the films using their stateof-the-art equipment. Partnering with the Tonkawa Casino & Hotel, the festival can provide lodging for their filmmakers.

Additionally, partnering with the City and other parties named, TFF is able to make their event unique with features like the parade that happens each year. Growing up in a small

town in Oklahoma, many may take parades for granted. However, with filmmakers coming from all over the world, most have never been to a parade, much less ridden in a parade float!

In its third year, the TFF has been fortunate to see steady growth with the number of film submissions climbing annually by 30%-40%.

This year, 170 submissions were received with 34 chosen as Official Selections. Official Selection is a term used industry-wide and refers to films chosen to be screened at the festival. Genres this year include drama, comedy, animation, horror, music video and documentary. When asked about the yearly mix of Official Selections, James gives this insight.

“That is one of the things that’s so interesting about film festivals. They really are kind of a moment in time of what’s going on in the world. There are going to be films that are in a way timeless, that would make sense or be valid at any point See FESTIVAL Continued on Page 22

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Watch the video for Five Year Gap’s “Chalk Houses” https://youtu.be/R3uJl0Ojn9s

“That is one of the things that’s so interesting about film festivals. They really are kind of a moment in time of what’s going on in the world.”

FESTIVAL Continued from Page 21 in time in history. But you also are going to have films that are dealing with the pandemic, unrest in the country, LGBTQ rights, people of color and women’s rights. So those are very, very timely. The tone of that topic does vary from year to year to year. I think that’s what’s exciting about film festivals. That’s what [makes them] different than going to the movies. They’re not just about entertainment; they are kind of about education.

You’re getting a filmmaker’s point of view on a topic, and it may not be your point of view. You may not agree with the point of view and that’s okay.”

James is passionate about creating a positive and inviting environment for the filmmakers.

“We take [this] very seriously. If you send us your movie, and we choose to select it, we’re going to make it look and sound as good as possible.”

22 MAY 2022

After films are chosen, work begins with the filmmakers to get them to Tonkawa. James explains, “Then we start working really hard trying to encourage them to attend the festival because that’s what makes it the most special, is having them here with us.” James says if filmmakers can get themselves to the Oklahoma City Airport, the TFF will do the rest.

“If you fly into Oklahoma City, we will pick you up. We pick everybody up at the airport who flies in and we drive them to the hotel.

Hotels are covered by the festival, which is a very, very rare thing. We will shuttle [them] back and forth to everything that’s going on. They have breakfast at the hotel. We provide lunches and we provide food at the screenings in the evenings. Then we shuttle the filmmakers back to the airport on Sunday morning. So if you can get yourself to the Oklahoma City Airport, we’ll

take it from there. That’s kind of our approach. I think we have 17 filmmakers that are going to be attending this year, which is huge.”

Of the 34 films being screened this year, one is a music video created by local company Speak Now Films in conjunction with local band Five Year Gap. According to Speak Now’s Luke Garrison, the Speak Now team used a new to them, but older camera called a CanoSound 8mm to create the nostalgic look and feel they hoped to achieve for the video. Five Year Gap’s song “Chalk Houses” is featured in the video and is reminiscent of childhood in a small town.

More information about the festival and a list of the rest of the selections can be found on the Tonkawa Film Festival’s website at www.TonkawFilmFestival. com. Film submissions will begin being accepted for the 2023 festival at the culmination of this year’s event and proceed through Dec. 31. Be sure to check the site for information on early bird submission specials, sponsorship opportunities and tickets to this exciting event!

This Memorial Day and always, the Renfro Family Foundation encourages you to celebrate, honor and remember the brave men and women who have served and are serving in our military.

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The Burning Passion of Kellie Garcia Story and Photos by Jill Rowe/Staff Writer

Kellie Garcia has been burning her imprint on the fine art community of Ponca City since 2018. She says, “I started out making home Halloween and horror props. I used to mold foam, take Halloween prosthetics and paint them.” Kellie adds that eventually, that got very messy and too expensive.

She decided to try her hand at a new medium, discovering pyrography.

While scrolling through Instagram one day, she discovered an artist that was wood-burning Misfits and Danzig photos onto skateboards. She says, “I thought that was the most amazing thing. I just wanna try it!” She started looking more into pyrography and decided to give it a try. She

bought the tools she needed off amazon and quickly got to work. “It was a rough start. Slowly but surely, I began to differentiate between types of shading. It reminds me a lot of tattooing. But you don’t have anyone moving around while you’re trying to work,” she adds, laughing.

Pyrography is a way to create art by burning wood. After transferring a pattern to the wood with graphite paper, or sketching your design by hand, you begin wood-burning with a stroke technique called outlining. After outlining the design, the next step is to apply the details that give the image texture. There are three approaches to controlling the tonal values formed in the wood. Firstly, by the temperature setting, second by the width of the burning pen tip, and last by how tightly packed the lines are onto the surface.

Kellie finds inspiration in the details of faces. While talking about what inspires her, she says, “If there’s a lot of details See ARTSPACE Continued on Page 29

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in the face, expression in the eyes, or animals if they have interesting faces. A lot of celebrities. I find working with faces is my favorite thing to do.”

Her style is realistic and gothic.

She adds, “I like working with dark backgrounds, and I really enjoy adding just a touch of color.” She adds a subtle pop of color that draws the eye in and excitingly complements the burn patterns.

Ponca City. You can also find her work hanging up currently at Dollhouse Road Brewing in Pawhuska. This year she will have work for sale at Herb Fest, Octoberfest (in Ponca City), and the Ponca City Art Festival. Contact Kellie for custom commission work at mkegfamily@gmail.com. You can also find her on Instagram @kmloch2000 or Facebook at Loch Kreations.

Kellie’s artwork isn’t just beautiful to look at, it’s also award-winning. She took second place in her category for a piece she submitted to the City Arts Annual Membership show in May of 2022 here in

Kellie started her 30s as a writer for an e-magazine. She encourages people to step out of their comfort zone. She adds, “You’re never too old to try something new and figure out you’re good at something!”

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CHILDREN’s

BOOK REVIEW

Review By: Lorrie Layton PROVIDED BY BRACE BOOKS & MORE

Last Gate of The Emperor

by Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel Makonnen

Yared lives with his Uncle Moti on the space colony Addis Prime. They live in an old, abandoned factory on the outskirts of the city that they’ve converted into living quarters with multiple exit plans. Over the years, Uncle Moti has taught Yared some unusual skills like strategy and tactics (i.e., pincer formations and terrain advantages) and even archery lessons, with warbows and arrows.

Yared doesn’t care nearly as much about school as he does “The Hunt for Kaleb’s Obelisk,” or HKO for short.

HKO is a massive augmented reality tournament that is played in public. Yared is one of the two top-ranked players in HKO. The other top-ranked player – and Yared’s rival – is The Ibid.

“AND THEYʼRE OFF!”

by Patrick Jordan

ACROSS 1. Los Angeles football team 5. Slight competitive advantage 9. First or third, at a ballpark 13. Business school subj. (Abbr.)

14. Type of Scottish terrier 15. Cattle that pull plows 16. Jai ___ (court sport) 17. Possession that increases net worth 18. Happy 19. Kentucky Derby's nickname (4 wds.)

22. Substance lost by dieters 23. Zero, in soccer scores 24. They followed LPs 27. Exam 30. Juicy bit of gossip 35. Wealthy 37. The Derby's hometown 39. Grew older 40. ___ and outs 41. Second Greek letter 42. Drinks served at the Derby (2 wds.)

46. Laborer of ancient times 47. Director Spielberg 48. Applied color to, as Easter eggs 50. Speak 51. Repair shop calculation (Abbr.)

53. ChapStick may be applied to it 55. The Derby's racetrack (2 wds.)

63. Bikini tops 64. Secure again with a new knot 65. Retain 66. Move like the Blob 67. Campfire coal 68. Giggly "Sesame Street" monster 69. Carried a debt of

30 MAY 2022

Yared escapes from school to compete in this week’s tournament, only this time the rules have changed.

Everyone must enter using their own name. (No, Yared TheGr8 is not acceptable.) Additionally, all players must begin at level one and must play with a partner.

Guess who Yared is paired with … yep, The Ibid.

Minutes after the game has begun, the market where the tournament is located this week is attacked by a huge robotic monster – and the monster seems to be after Yared!

Needless to say, the tournament devolves into survival strategies. Thank goodness The Ibid is an exceptional pilot. Yared and The Ibid make it back to Yared and Moti’s factory/home just in time to see it explode.

I can’t tell you more, but this is a really fun sci-fi adventure.

70. Dandelion, to most homeowners 71. Opening in a vending machine DOWN 1. Caboose's position in a train 2. Rights advocacy grp. (Abbr.)

3. Pained utterance 4. Sample a perfume's scent 5. West's opposite 6. Dinner plate 7. St. Patrick's Day color 8. Contest submissions 9. Swamps 10. Rod between wheels 11. Large salty bodies of water 12. Finish 14. Price-fixing group, such as OPEC 20. Cheerios grain 21. Royal first name in Norway 24. Studies at the last minute 25. Single number 26. Film segment 28. Dirt 29. Improved the pitch of 31. BBQ restaurant order 32. Escapes on foot 33. Prefix for conservative or violet 34. Like most trees in summer 36. Its screen has sharp resolution (Abbr.)

38. "___ with my little eye..." (2 wds.)

43. Make mocking remarks to 44. Remove, as a toothpaste tube's cap 45. Merchant 49. "Which way ___ they go?"

52. Sitcom's introductory music 54. "Go, ___!" (OSU fan's shout) 55. Cornfield pest

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Told a fib

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In good health "Finding ___" (Pixar classic) Mark on a dalmatian Ghost's yell

Answer on Page 79

The book opens with an interrogation of Yared [last name redacted for security], a mouthy kid, by an exasperated adult. I liked the smart-alecky Yared right off the bat. We then jump right into the action.

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Our expanded grilling department also includes a large selection of: • Traeger and Blackstone Grills • Charcoal, wood chips and wood pellets • Utensils, pans and accessories • Sauces, rubs and much more!

BRANDTS Thank you for supporting our locally-owned ACE Hardware Store.

3201 N. 14th • Ponca City • 580-762-2921 • Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am - 6 pm & Sat. 8 am - 6 pm MAY 2022

31

Stop by soon for a test drive!

2415 N. 14th • Ponca City • 580-765-5533 StutevilleFordPonca.com • StutevilleLincoln.com

32 MAY 2022

ADULT

BOOK REVIEW

Review By: Lorrie Layton PROVIDED BY BRACE BOOKS & MORE

Shadows Reel

by C.J, Box

I’ve been looking at C.J. Box’s “Joe Pickett” novels, thinking I’d enjoy them if I ever took the time to read them. Well, I finally decided it was time and started out with Shadows Reel, which just happens to be #22 in this series. I really prefer to read a series in the order it was written, but this novel was just so intriguing I had to start out with the newest entry in the series. Similar to Tom Clancy’s novels, Box makes use of parallel narratives so that there are multiple storylines intermingling throughout the novel. (I really enjoy this storytelling technique.)

Shadows Reel opens the day before Thanksgiving as Joe Pickett, a Wyoming Game Warden who has trained more than his fair share of sheriffs over the years, is responding to a rancher’s report of a dead moose – two weeks after the close of moose-hunting season. Let’s just say that what Joe discovers is much, much worse than a poached moose.

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Joe’s wife, Marybeth, is the director of their local library. Her plan is to go into work before dawn so she’ll be able to head home during the early afternoon and get started on her Thanksgiving baking. Arriving at the library, she discovers someone making an anonymous donation to the library. Expecting another ranch history someone discovered while cleaning out an attic, she’s shocked to discover it is a photo album originally belonging to one of Adolf Hitler’s associates. As she endeavors to evaluate the authenticity of the album, she finds the contents truly disturbing.

Meanwhile, the Pickett’s friend and neighbor Nate is on a cross-state hunt for the man who stole his livelihood and threatened his family.

I definitely enjoyed Shadows Reel and will be reading the rest of this series very soon.

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MEMORIAL DAY

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LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

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Don’t prejudge your credit • $20 Referral Bonuses Paid

Offering Insurance and Risk Management Solutions Since 1931!

Bill Wetzel President

410 E. GRAND • PONCA CITY • 580-765-5566 www.loftiswetzel.com • billwetzel@loftiswetzel.com

MAY 2022

33

Ponca City, OK

SPRING SALE

Our BEST Triple Pane Windows

Buy 1, Get 1 @ 40% OFF Visit our showroom Monday thru Friday 8-5 and Saturday by appointment.

“Ponca City’s Siding & Window Store Since 1976”

1723 North 3rd • Ponca City • (580) 762-8122

le

la, Nicole, Tiffany, Jessica & Michel

L to R: Teonna, Kerry, Jennifer, Kay

Reservations online @ RustyBarrellSupperClub.com or by calling 580-765-6689

We have a great selection of gifts and cards!

Perfume

We have the very best selection!

Toni’s

Russell Stover Always 20% OFF cash and carry.

WESTSIDE DRUG & RX

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25% OFF Mother’s Day & Graduation Cards!

3-Generation Family Tradition

301 W. Grand • Ponca City • (580) 765-4456 Hours: Monday - Friday 8-6 and Saturday 8-2 Pharmacy Tech needed. Apply in person.

34 MAY 2022

HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH We will be closed Memorial Day, Monday, May 30 HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Ponca City Main Street Awarded $50,000 T-Mobile Hometown Grant!

Ponca City Main Street and T-Mobile recently held a check presentation at Veterans Plaza to celebrate the grant award. The money will be used to purchase a synthetic ice rink which will be set up downtown at Veterans Plaza for the community to enjoy mid-November through early January.

✿

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

OUR MISSION is to serve Ponca City and its citizens by promoting quality of life through the revitalization of downtown.

Our Vision is to make downtown the heart of our community!

Our Transformation Strategies are Arts & Entertainment and Community Connection.

INVESTOR SPOTLIGHT

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

Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Bill Wetzel, president of Loftis & Wetzel Insurance, about his company and its 91-year history in Ponca City and surrounding towns. Loftis & Wetzel is an independent third generation insurance and risk management company that provides services for personal, commercial, farm and other industries.

This client focused independent agency has expanded into different markets throughout Oklahoma including Blackwell, Edmond, Stillwater and Ponca City, and they recently bought another agency in Newkirk. Their goal is to keep evolving and expanding and reach their 100-year anniversary stronger than ever.

The company’s deep roots in Ponca City began in 1931 when Bill’s grandfather, Clifford Wetzel started Wetzel Insurance. Clifford ran the agency from 1931 until 1944, at which point he was drafted into the Navy at the age of 38 to fight in World War II. During the two years he was fighting overseas, Clifford’s wife and Bill’s grandmother oversaw the business. Upon Clifford’s return from war, he once again took the leadership position at the agency and ran it until his son, William, Bill’s dad, bought it in 1964.

William headed up the company until 1998 when Bill bought it. Bill had been with the company for 10 years when he acquired the agency and under his direction, the agency merged with another three-generation insurance agency to make Loftis & Wetzel Insurance.

Loftis & Wetzel Insurance is one of the oldest insurance agencies in Ponca City and has a prime location downtown near the post office, Chamber of Commerce, City Hall and City Central.The agency has been a longtime supporter of Ponca City Main Street, not only because downtown’s success directly affects them, but also because a strong downtown has a positive impact Bill Wetzel on the entire community. They’re excited about the variety of businesses and growing number of retailers choosing to locate downtown.

As a hometown business, Loftis & Wetzel employees have a track record of community involvement at the local, state and national level. Locally, they have supported the Chamber of Commerce, Peachtree Landing, United Way and Main Street among many other organizations. At the state and national levels, Bill and others have been a part of professional organizations including serving in leadership positions.

MAY 2022

35

Music in & Around Ponca City

Sounding

Off

Story & Photos Contributed

by Steve Scott A New Place to Hang Out

For this review, you might be tempted to see how many times I used the word “rock.” Please don’t make it a drinking game …

Regular readers of my monthly column know I often tend to recollect various past memories and comment on how they relate in today’s world. This month, I was given the opportunity to remember my spending almost 14 years living in Las Vegas and attending the opening of several new casinos.

The Kaw Nation is opening a new, upscale venue in their Braman, Oklahoma, location, right on I-35 for easy access. Steadily working for the last five years, Kaw Gaming Inc. (KGI) is ready to open the Rock & Brews Casino and Restaurant on May 10.

I was honored to tour the new facility in March with my good friend Bill Schutte, who introduced me to General Manager Bruce McClure and several executives from Rock & Brews Corporate. The chain was founded in 2012 by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons (KISS) with Dave and Dell Furano and Michael Zislis. CEO Adam Goldberg notes the Braman location is number 20. Big News – Paul and Gene are scheduled to appear at the grand opening!

This is a one-of-a-kind, rock-inspired venue, with phase one featuring a casino with 500 slots and a 200-seat restaurant. The real appeal of Rock & Brews is the rock-inspired décor, including giant album wall art and famous images from rock legends like KISS, The Who, Queen, Eagles, Rolling Stones, Beatles and many more. There are concert trusses and lighting, multiple screens displaying some of the greatest rock concert moments and a bar with a second-to-none selection of craft and international beers on 40 tap handles.

So, what do I think about this homage to rock?

The scale is impressive, from entering the main porte cochère to the gaming and restaurant areas.

You will feel this place the moment you walk in, thanks to the music playing through an excellent sound system. The finishes are very refined, and to

36 MAY 2022

be honest, better than I’d expected for a local property. The restaurant menu certainly covers the American and local food landscape.

Being spoiled by the Las Vegas scene for so many years, I must emphasize this entire place is upscale. You can see how the Rock & Brews Company with Kaw Gaming spent lavishly and generously everywhere, and the outcome is evident.

In comparison, this casino is a cut above the “local casinos” in Las Vegas, and could challenge some of the smaller strip majors.

This casino is refined, yet still holds true to the raw “rock and roll” feel.

As a musician with almost 50 years of playing experience, I can honestly say it felt like I walked into a “backstage” VIP-type environment. The Rock & Brews goal is to treat everyone like a rockstar, with hospitality that is above and beyond. The friendliness of the staff was evident, even prior to the grand opening.

The casino/restaurant is just the beginning. Phase two will add a 90-room hotel expansion, and future plans might include a live sound performance venue. Who could ask for more? Not me!

BTW – I used “rock” 13 times in this piece …

The Bandstand…

The 2022 Kay County music scene is loading up, and it is phenomenal!

The North Central Oklahoma Arts Council

sponsors the Full Moon Concert Series each month through October, starting on May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the gazebo in downtown Tonkawa.

The Down by Downtown (DXDT) summer music series happens the first Friday each month through September, starting June 3 from 6-9 p.m. at the Central Fare picnic area at 202 S. 4th Street in Ponca City. Kicking off the entertainment will be the folk guitar rock of Morgan, followed by the smooth sounds of Holly Peart. Both are returning favorites!

Larry Newsom is continuing his Las Vegas-type residency at Zanotti’s in Stillwater on May 13 and 28.

Mother Kelly continues their comeback tour at Mortdecais in Wichita on May 7.

If you are looking for Righteous Rock, Back2Sighs is delivering in spades. The new band in town, M-Pyre (comprised of veteran musicians), will make everyone’s day on May 13. The Curtis Moore Band is cued-up on May 27, New Dynasty on June 3 and OLDSKOOL bringing it down on June 10.

In addition, OLDSKOOL is scheduled to entertain at the Chisholm Trail Festival in Caldwell, Kansas, on May 6 and the Curtis Moore Band takes the stage at the Stillwater Elks Lodge on June 3. The Deviney Smith Band will be kicking off summer in Perry at the Plaza Palooza on June 11.

Ridin’ High, Northern Oklahoma’s live music and dance club, is proud to have Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands on May 14 and Whiskey River returning on June 11.

Vortex, Ponca City’s craft brew house, has really booked entertainment for the summer. For May, they have the works of featured artist Michelle Wittmer for viewing (and purchase!).

Trivia nights will be May 5, 19 and June 2. Nina’s Tacos will be the food truck on-site.

Timothy Bays will be entertaining on May 6 and Stacey Sanders on May 20. The food truck will be “I’d Smoke That” for both concerts.

Dirty Erin, Five Shades of Gray and Backroads Music are booking so look for their appearances.

Band #9 and The Hayes Brothers Band are each entertaining at several class reunions this summer.

And Finally – Add these dates to your calendar, get out to the venues and get your smile on. When you feel the drums and you feel that guitar solo, it adds so much to the experience.

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

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– NOW ENROLLING –

JUNE SESSIONS for 5th-9th graders

• Introductory Robotics/programming - June 6th - 9th ($130) • Space Challenge - June 13th - 16th ($150) • Level II Robotics/programming June 20th - 23rd ($150)

JULY SESSIONS for 1st-4th graders • Simple Empowered Machines -LEGO July 11th - 14th ($75) - Entry level

Scholarships are available for those that need assistance. Call or go online to enroll.

ucponcacity.com (580) 762-3886

2800 N. 14th Street • Ponca City • 580-718-5600

Compassionate Care by Trained Professionals Local people caring for local people!

Humanity Hospice brings together a team of specially-trained professionals and volunteers who work with the patient’s doctor to provide a plan of care designed to control the pain and ease end-of-life struggles for the patient and their family.

These professionals come from a variety of disciplines working together under the guidance of the Hospice Medical Director to meet the individual needs of your loved one.

We do so much every day with our patients from celebrating their birthdays, participating in activities and volunteering in their facility.

Toll Free (855) 782-2222 humanityhospice.com

Located in City Central, 400 E. Central,

Suite 303 in Ponca City

38 MAY 2022

The Mission of Humanity Hospice is to provide quality comfort care that enhances the lives of individuals with a life-limiting illness and their families through dignity and compassion.

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

This spring is rolling fast into our final month for school!

Our teachers and students are eager to finish the year on a high note. It’s hard to imagine that this year we have had two different COVID variants, quarantines, masking, inclement weather, a record-high bond passing, and a school board election. Not to mention a few 1000 other little things that pop up.

But for the sake of jinxing it, we are set to finish on a high note and welcome back many of the traditions that we have missed these last three years. With school ending May 20th, things with Ponca City Schools are going to see a flurry of activity this summer.

Our high school will undergo several transformative projects inside and out.

Each of the restrooms on the East side of the building are being fully renovated. Imagine gutting everything and replacing plumbing, electrical and ventilation and going back with new walls, surfaces, counter tops, and fixtures.

In addition to bathrooms, we are replacing all the flooring and windows in the commons that are now 23 years old, faded and worn with the traffic of 1000s of teens each day. One of the neatest features is a new platform seating area that will tie in the upper and lower commons.

when we return. On top of these projects, we will be deep-cleaning schools, removing surplus items, mowing, and making our buildings ready for our staff and students to return. It will be a wild ten weeks of activity as we have been actively meeting and planning each of these projects since October. If supply chain can hold and we can keep a dedicated workforce, we feel we can accomplish these projects.

When we’re coming back to school in August, we will begin work with our revolutionary STEM remodel of the Anderson building at the High School.

Simultaneously across the road, our concert hall will have dirt being turned for our classroom additions there.

I hope over the next several weeks when you drive past our schools you can take pride in our community’s commitment to provide top-notch facilities for our students and teachers! We’re going to be working hard to deliver the promises we made during our bond presentations. Thank you, Ponca City!

On the front lawn we’re looking to clean the grounds with a new brick feature in the front of the Howell building and are adding more historic lamps along the sidewalks. The district will also be replacing damaged sidewalks around the Howell building.

Across the district you will see new playgrounds being installed at each of our elementary schools. We are also doing major remodels at Union, Lincoln, and Washington Pre-k. You will see a small expansion to Lincoln for additional cafeteria space, new floors, and bathrooms, plus lockers. At Union we’re touching nearly every surface in the building with new ceiling tiles, counter tops, and flooring in classrooms and bathrooms. Washington Pre-k is getting new flooring installed throughout.

The district aims to do work at the Ag farm this summer with fencing and barn improvements. We’re also looking to enhance our registration building’s visual appeal as that is the first place you see when you step into our district.

We have intentions to have each of these projects concluded by August,

MAY 2022

39

Enjoy Everything Ponca City Has to Offer!

MAY 7

Kids Kids Night Night Out Out at at the the RecPlex RecPlex

Splash pads pads open! open MAY 1 Splash

MAY 7

Color Color Run Run at at the the RecPlex RecPlex

MAY

SafeSitter SafeSitter C

MAY 27

Rockwall Rockwall & & trampoline trampoline summer summer hours hours begin: begin: 10 10 am-7 am-7 pm pm

MAY 28

Murph Murph Challenge Challenge at at RecPlex RecPlex For For more more information information on on these these events, events, call call Ponca Ponca City City Parks Parks and and Recreation Recreation at at

580-767-0430

www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrec www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrec 40 MAY 2022

n!!

MAY 7-8 and 21-22

MAY 4

Dodgeball Dodgeball Tournament Tournament at at RecPlex RecPlex Trampoline Trampoline Court Court

Lifeguard Lifeguard Certification Certification Classes Classes at at RecPlex RecPlex

Y 20 & 21

Class Class at at RecPlex RecPlex

MAY 24

Youth Youth Skate Skate & & Scooter Scooter Camp Camp at at Dan Dan Moran Moran Skate Skate Park Park

MAY 27

Kayak Kayak rentals rentals open open for for the the season season at at Lake Lake Ponca Ponca

Wentz Pool Pool and and AMBUC AMBUC Pool Pool open open for for the the season! season!

MAY 30 Wentz MAY 2022

41

K AY

C O U N T Y

Activity G U I D E

2 0 2 2

Information Collected and Compiled by Jennifer Vaughan/Staff Writer

Summer is just around the corner!

If you’re looking for fun activities for

the whole family, we’ve got a list just for you. This year we put together a guide of the best events, activities

and resources to ensure you have a fantastic summer in Ponca City and Kay County!

These events were submitted by

various organizations and while we

have done our best to ensure every event is accurate, we suggest using the contact information provided

to make sure no changes to time or location have occured.

Muddy Time – The Pottery Place Dates: Saturdays Time: 12pm, 1pm, 2pm Ages: All ages welcome for duo throwing and 8+ years for solo Cost: $25 Location: The Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: Alena Jennings - 580-309-1582 thedoodleacademy@gmail.com Muddy Time is a pottery class open for walk-ins. The cost is $25 and includes an hour on the wheel, 2 balls of clay, firing and glazing for one handmade piece.

Additional pieces can be fired for $15. Learn more at www.TheDoodleAcademy.com!

Open Cricut – Ponca City Library Dates: Mondays Time: 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm Cost: FREE Ages: 16+ years Location: Makerspace - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-registration required. The Cricut can be reserved for 1 hour session at a time. The Cricut machine, the

See SUMMER Continued on Page 45

42 MAY 2022

We take pride in our responsibility to lighten your burden as you take the first steps toward healing.

A variety of options for burial and cremation are available.

Ponca City, Tonkawa and Blackwell

County Cremation Services Ponca City

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WE’RE HERE TO HELP…

MEMORIAL DAY

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FREE FLUID INSPECTION Coolant TAKE Engine Transmission $ 10 OFF Power Steering

Coupon not good with any other offers or specials. Must present coupon at time of service. One coupon per customer, per visit.

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SUMMER Continued from Page 42

COMMUNITY EVENTS

&

blades and tools, basic paper and glue will be provided. If you want to work with other materials - you will have to provide them yourself.

Open Glowforge – Ponca City Library Dates: Tuesdays Time: 2pm-3:30pm 3:30pm-5pm Cost: FREE Ages: 13+ years Location: Makerspace - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-registration required. The first 3045 minutes will be for design and the remainder of the time slot will be for the actual burning of the design. Any wood brought will need to be lightly sanded to remove all the finish before being put into the glowforge. Cutting board max sizes: Width 12 inches - Length 20 inches - Height 2 inches Storytime Mother Goose on the Loose – Ponca City Library Date: Wednesdays Time: 10:30am Cost: FREE Ages: 0-4 years Location: Program Room - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Mother Goose on the Loose helps with socialization skills, speech development and coordination with rhymes & songs.

Storytime in the Afternoon – Ponca City Library Date: Wednesdays Time: 2pm-3pm Cost: FREE Ages: 3-8 years Location: Program Room - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com An educational and fun time for kids to talk about what they enjoy and know, listen to a book and create crafts based on it.

Open Makerspace – Ponca City Library Dates: Fridays Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 12am Cost: Conditional on Equipment Ages: 8+ years Location: Makerspace - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-registration required. Customers must have a valid library card and signup at the Reference Desk. They must complete orientation for using Makerspace

equipment and sign the User agreement form. Customers under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult or participating in a library sponsored program. Use of filament in a 3D printer or 3D pen is a consumable and will be charged $0.06 per gram.

Underwater Silhouettes Art – Ponca City Library Dates: May 3, May 31 Time: 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Age: 10-19 years and 18+ years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be of the blue ocean waters and will use templates to make the silhouettes. This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help facilitate your own ability to create art.

Mayfest – Edwin Fair Mental Health Center Date: May 5 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Edwin Fair, 1500 N 6th St. We invite you and your family to join us for activities including games, jump tent, door prizes, health booths and more – all provided free to the public.

Flashback Friday – Twister at the Poncan Theatre Date: May 6 Time: 7pm and 9:30pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $4 online, $5 at the door Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: 580-765-0943 – director@ poncantheatre.org Cowboy Ball – Peachtree Landing Date: May 6 Time: 7pm Cost: $200, admits two Ages: Open to the public Location: Busy Bee Arena, 4610 N Pecan Rd. Entertainment will be provided by the Spurs & Whiskey Band! They play a variety of country, rock’n’roll and a few pop hits here and there! Rumor has it there will also be a fiddle player onstage with them.

As for food, a delicious all-you-can-eat barbecue dinner will be provided by The Original Stagecoach BBQ Restaurant.

Thirsty? We’ve got you covered with

unlimited beer, wine, and champagne!

While you’re there, be sure to check out the silent auction table(s), roulette game and card games. Drawings will be held for the following prizes: $5,000 CASH, $2,500 CASH, $1,000 CASH - Along with other major prizes valued at $500+! Ticket info on Peachtree Landing Facebook page!

Sidewalk Astronomy – Ponca City Astronomy Dates: May 6, June 10, July 8, August 5 & September 3 - Fridays Time: 7pm-9pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: RecPlex, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Richard Jones - 580-352-5292 astro74601@gmail.com Ponca City Astronomy members will set up telescopes for the public to view the Sun and Moon and any other objects that can be found. These events can be canceled due to weather.

Sidewalk Astronomy – Ponca City Astronomy Dates: May 7, June 11, July 9, August 6 & September 4 - Saturdays Time: 7pm-9pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Lake Ponca Campgrounds, 1400 N Prentice Rd. Contact: Richard Jones - 580-352-5292 astro74601@gmail.com Ponca City Astronomy members will set up telescopes for the public to view the Sun and Moon and any other objects that can be found. These events can be canceled due to weather.

Schatte Memorial BBQ Cookoff – First Lutheran Church & School Date: May 7 Time: 9am-2pm Cost: $12 Tasting Kits Ages: Open to the public

Location: First Lutheran Church, 1104 N 4th Street Join us for bbq tasting, vendors, games, and more! The “Schatte Memorial BBQ Cookoff” was started in the fall of 2020 to recognize and honor the legacy of Paul Schatte, a long-time member and former teacher/principal of First Lutheran Church & School, and a legend in the BBQ world.

Color Run – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: May 7 Time: 8am Cost: $15 Ages: Open to the public Location: RecPlex Parking Lot, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Join the RecPlex on May 7th for the Second Annual 5K Color Blast Fun Run! Color blast runs are a fun way to experience a 5k race with friends and family. A May race in Oklahoma is the perfect time to be outdoors and experience the sunshine and late springtime weather. Enrollees will receive a race shirt that will be perfect to wear as you run through 5 various color stages. Registrations will be accepted up until the race begins. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec/registration.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Kids Night Out – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: May 7 Time: 5pm-10pm Cost: $35 for the first child, $25 for siblings Ages: 2-12 years Location: RecPlex KidZone, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Sign your kids up for this awesome 5-hour fun-filled event! Your child will have a great

See SUMMER Continued on Page 46

MAY 2022

45

and discuss great literature in the Program Room. Aaron Mason will lead a talk about The Bingo Palace by Louise Erdrich. This event is part of a 4-part discussion series in the Native American Writers of the Plains theme.

SUMMER Continued from Page 45 time at the RecPlex while YOU get to go out to dinner, enjoy a date night with your significant other, or simply take advantage of the quiet in your home! We will provide dinner, multiple crafts for your child to engage with, and of course lots of fun in the facility! The kids will wind down with a popcorn bar full of treats to snack on while they watch a fun movie. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by May 6th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs.

Contact the RecPlex for more information!

Jockeys & Juleps – OSU Alumni Association Date: May 7 Time: 4pm-8pm Cost: $50 Ages: Open to the public Location: Marland Mansion, 901 Monument Rd. Mark your calendar and make plans to join the Kay County OSU Alumni Chapter for a fun-filled afternoon at the Marland Mansion for Jockeys & Juleps! Tickets to this exciting event are $50/person. Admission includes Kentucky-inspired heavy hors d’oeuvres, traditional Derby beverages, games, a silent auction, the airing of the 148th Kentucky Derby & much more. Derby attire is optional. Hats for the ladies and ties/ bowties for the gentlemen would be a great way to get in the spirit. Net proceeds will benefit a scholarship fund for students attending OSU from Kay County. For tickets, visit www.orangeconnection.org/s/860/18/ interior.aspx.

Makerspace Demos – Ponca City Library Dates: May 7, June 4, July 2 – 3D Printer Demo May 14, June 11, July 9 – Cricut Demo May 21, June 18, July 16 – Glowforge Demo Time: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

46 MAY 2022

Ages: 8+ Cost: FREE Location: Makerspace Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-registration required. The first Saturday will be about 3D Printer, the second will be about Cricut, and third will be about Glowforge. Each demonstration will be about 45 minutes to go over the basics of the specific machine and show the how to use the equipment and what can be made with it. A small trinket will be made or premade to be taken at the end of the demonstration.

Business on the Balcony – Ponca City Development Authority Dates: May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9 Time: 7am-8:30am Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: City Central, 400 E Central Ave, Suite #200 Contact: Kat Long – klong@goponca.com 580-765-7070 Business on the Balcony is come and go from 7am-8:30am every second Tuesday of the month. It’s located at the PCDA offices at City Central in Suite #200. Kat Long is the most considerate of hosts and provides an astounding breakfast spread that caters to numerous dietary decisions. Eat a little, network a lot. Bring a friend; meet someone new or invite a business associate!

Let’s Talk About It Book Club - Ponca City Library Date: May 12 Time: 6pm-8pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com The Library is hosting Let’s Talk About It, a book club for people who love to read

Touch-A-Truck - Ponca City Library Date: May 14 Time: 9am-9:30am, quiet time 9:30am-11am, noisy Cost: FREE Ages: 0-17 Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Touch-A-Truck is an annual event to kick off the Children’s Summer Reading Program for the Ponca City Library. Children can roam around the back parking lot filled with a bunch of different vehicles. From a police car and a fire truck to a street sweeper, tractor, a lift truck and more. The 9:00-9:30 time period is for anyone who is noise sensitive and need it to be fairly quiet. At 9:30am they can start honking and have the sirens blare – it will get loud.

D&D5E Dungeons & Dragons – Ponca City Library Date: May 14, June 18, July 16, Time: 2:30pm-5pm Cost: FREE Ages: 13+ Location: Board Room Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com His Lordship, Sir Theodore Blackwood, has formally created an Adventurer’s Guild, and cordially invites any who seek honor, comradery, and, of course, adventure, to come and prove their mettle! Those who sign up are guaranteed a spot to play, up to a full party of eight players; others are welcome to attend to listen and watch.

Five Year Gap - Ponca City Church Dates: May 15 Time: Doors, 6:30pm – Concert, 7pm Grades: Middle and high school students Cost: FREE Location: Ponca City Church, 701 W Chestnut Ave. Registration: fbcponca.org/%20VBS2022/ Game Night – Ponca City Library Date: May 17, June 14, July 19 Time: 6pm-8pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Program Room - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go program where an assortment of games will be supplied, but feel free to bring your own library appropriate games to play with as well.

Book Club - Ponca City Library Date: May 18 Time: 4pm-5pm

Cost: FREE Ages: 18+ years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Sign-up required – there is a limited number of books available. The book on discussion is Long and Faraway Gone by Lou Berney.

Ponca Otaku – Manga Edition – Ponca City Library Date: May 19, June 16, July 21 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Board Room Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com The Book Club version of Anime Club.

Attendees should bring their favorite manga to discuss. We want people to talk and listen and get an idea of what new manga the library should invest in.

The Music Man, Kids – Evans Children’s Academy Dates: May 20-22 Time: 7:30pm, Friday-Saturday 2pm, Sunday Cost: $15 per adult, $10 per student online $20 per adult, $15 per student – at the door Ages: Open to the public Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Brunch @ the Ponca City Country Club Dates: May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19 Time: 10am-2pm, reservations recommended Ages: Open to the public Cost: Pricing on menu Location: Ponca City Country Club, 1101 N Pecan Rd. Contact: Ponca City Country Club 580-762-2436 Summer Fishing Tournaments Date: May 21 – Shidler Lake June 18 – Ponca Lake July 16 – Hominy Lake August 20 – Sooner Lake September 17 – Kaw Lake Cost: $30/person per tournament, $150 for all five Ages: Open to the public Contact: James – 580-382-1799 Fishing tournaments begin in May through September, cash prizes will be awarded after each tournament. Championship will be awarded in September, must preregister

by May 15th. Must fish all five tournaments to qualify for championship.

Underwater Shadows Art – Ponca City Library Date: May 21 Time: 10am-12pm Cost: FREE Ages: 6-9 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave

Ponca City Farmers Market Dates: Tuesdays & Saturdays beginning in June Time: 4pm-6pm, Tuesdays 8am-11am, Saturdays Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Pioneer Woman, 14th Street & Lake Rd. Contact: Ponca City Farmers Market on Facebook The Ponca City Farmers Market is open seasonally beginning in June and located on the 14.5-acre Pioneer Woman Museum property at the corner of 14th and Highland Ave. The Market hosts vendors offering farm-fresh eggs and produce, delectable home-baked goods, hand-crafted creations, fresh-baked breads, mouthwatering macaroons, gooey smore’s bars, silk-textured goat milk lotion, live music, local grass-fed beef, and a beautiful crowd!

Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be a simple version of the blue ocean waters and will use templates to make the silhouettes.

This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help and facilitate the children’s ability to create art. A parent or guardian will need to come with the child.

Ponca Otaku – Anime Club – Ponca City Library Date: May 21, 2:30pm-4:30pm June 25, 2pm-5pm July 21, 2:30pm-4:30pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Program Room - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go program in the library’s program room. Four aquatic anime episodes will be shown: A Lull in the Sea, Blue Submarine No. 6, Squid Girl, and Tsuritama. Then Ponyo the movie will be shown in June and Demon Slayer and Ruroni Kenshin episodes will be shown in July.

Shiver of Sharks Craft – Ponca City Library Date: May 24 Time: 1pm-3pm & 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go program with multiple shark crafts. Use wire or cord to make a shark tooth necklace along with other shark crafts.

Film Series – City Arts Dates: May 27 - Friday June 24 – The Grand Budapest Hotel July 22 – Pans Labyrinth August 26 – West Side Story (2021) Time: 7pm and 9:30pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: City Arts – 580-765-9746 terron@pcarts.org The City Arts Film Series at the Poncan Theatre is held on the 4th Friday of each month beginning in February of 2022.

Showings are at 7pm and 9:30pm and are free to the public. This series features important and impactful artistic films from across all genres. A 15-minute presentation pertaining to the film will be given at the 7pm showing each month, with the film beginning at 7:15pm. The City Arts Film Series is brought to you by a partnership between the City Arts organization and the Poncan Theatre, through the generosity of John McNeese.

Spaghetti Eddie Concert and Sea Floam Craft – Ponca City Library Date: June 2 Time: 5pm-7pm, concert at 6pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Outside the Ponca Library on Grand Ave. Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Make Floam in the colors of the sea while listening to Spaghetti Eddie! The songs are fun, energetic, educational, and silly. They were written with the intention to entertain children and to not drive parents crazy.

This is also another kick-off to the Summer Reading Program to inform those that don’t know about it and encourage them to sign up.

Down by Downtown (DXDT) – Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council Dates: June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2 Time: 6pm-9pm Ages: Open to the public

Cost: FREE Location: Central Fare, 400 E Central Ave. Contact: Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council – www.poncaarts.org Brought to us by the Arts and Humanities Council, Down by Downtown (DXDT) returns in June and takes place the first Friday of each month through September at Central Fare in downtown Ponca City.

The partially shaded, intimate outdoor venue in downtown Ponca City comes alive with families and leashed pets who gather to enjoy live music, food trucks, beer and wine, yard games, and various pop-up shops at this free community event.

Star Wars Movie Marathon - Poncan Theatre Dates: June 3 - Star Wars: A New Hope June 10 - Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back June 17 - Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Time: 7pm and 9:30pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $5 per film or $11 for all three at www.poncantheatre.org Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: 580-765-0943 – director@ poncantheatre.org Pottery for Adults – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24 Time: 1pm-3pm Cost: $200 $180 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 18+ years Location: The Doodle Academy’s Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 In collaboration with The Pottery Place, the RecPlex is pleased to offer this fun pottery on the wheel class! We will spend time learning the fundamentals of throwing on the wheel (more advanced projects will be encouraged based on prior learning).

See SUMMER Continued on Page 48

Free Movie Tuesday - Poncan Theatre Dates: May 31 – The Adventures of Rufus the Fantastic Pet June 7 – Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory June 14 – Clifford the Big Red Dog June 21 – The Addams Family 2 June 28 – Space Jam: A New Legacy July 5 – Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone July 12 – Pinocchio (1940) July 19 – Shaun the Sheep July 26 – Sonic the Hedgehog 2 August 2 - Labyrinth August 9 – The Neverending Story Time: 2pm and 7pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: 580-765-0943 director@poncantheatre.org

MAY 2022

47

all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Youth Fishing Clinic – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: June 7 Time: 9am-11am Cost: FREE Ages: 5-12 years Location: Marland Pond, 901 Monument Rd. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Ponca City Parks & Recreation is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife to host a free fishing clinic for boys and girls 5-12 years old. You’ll learn all the tricks from baiting hooks, making perfect casts, and how to reel in the big ones.

It’s the perfect time for kids to work on their fishing skills. To register visit www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by May 29th.

SUMMER Continued from Page 47 Each student will make between 6-12 hand thrown pieces during this class. This class will be a 4 week class and will meet on the following Fridays: June 3, 10, 17, and 24. All items will be ready for pick up on Saturday, July 23 at The Doodle Academy 103 E. Grand Ave. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by May 31.

Cruzin Grand – Schooners Car Club Date: June 3 Time: 6pm-10pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Grand Avenue in downtown Ponca City Contact: Mike Wynn – 580-716-1175 www.facebook.com/schoonerscarclub Car Show & Vendors – Schooners Car Club Date: June 4 Time: 8am-3pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Ponca Lake Contact: Mike Wynn – 580-716-1175 www.facebook.com/schoonerscarclub Ponca City Herb Festival – Survivor Resource Network Date: June 4 Time: 8am-4pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Cann Botanical Gardens, 1500 E Grand Ave. Contact: 580-762-2883 info@PoncaCityHerbFestival.net The 29th annual Ponca City Herb Festival features free admission and over 100 vendors on the grounds of the beautiful Cann Gardens, a 10-acre showcase of exquisite landscape architecture. You will enjoy the radiant colors and aromas of

48 MAY 2022

blooming flowers, brick walkways, water features and a variety of plants, shrubs and trees during your visit to the festival.

The Ponca City Herb Fest also features entertainment, children’s activities and food trucks for festival attendees.

Ponca Writers at the Library Date: June 4 Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Board Room - Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Intended as part writer-therapy, part writerresource. If you’ve got an idea and you want advice developing it, or you’re stuck and don’t know how to proceed in your story, we welcome you dropping in with a draft (or at least two pages of it) and we’ll try to help you out. We try to provide a list of books you can check out or ILL, and a list of websites offering useful advice or assistance, regardless of what genre you’re writing in.

Dodgeball League – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 5-July 17, Sundays only Time: 5pm Cost: $50/Team Ages: 12+ years Location: RecPlex Trampoline Court, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 Get your friends together and form your 4-on-4 dodgeball team and prove you have mastered the 5 D’s of dodgeball in the RecPlex’s Sunday Dodgeball League at the Trampoline Court! Age and gender divisions based on number of registrations.

Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by June 1st. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and

Jellyfish Art – Ponca City Library Dates: June 7, June 28 Time: 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Age: 10-19 years and 18+ years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be a blue toned background with a jellyfish. There will be templates to help make the shape of the jellyfish. The color choices of this painting will be up to the painter and what we have available. This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help facilitate your own ability to create art.

Sand Volleyball – Co-Ed League – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 7-July 12, Tuesdays only Time: 6pm Cost: $50/Team Ages: 16+ years Location: Lake Ponca Sand Volleyball Court Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430

4 on 4, Co-Ed Sand Volleyball League is back for another season at Lake Ponca. Get your friends together and join the league for some summer fun. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by June 1st.

Youth Clay Hand Building – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 7, 14, 21, 28 - Tuesdays Time: 2pm-3pm Cost: $120 $100 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 6-17 years Location: The Doodle Academy’s Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 In collaboration with The Pottery Place, the RecPlex is pleased to offer this fun clay, hand building class for youth! We will spend time learning the fundamentals of clay. Each student will make between 3-6 handmade pieces during this class. This 4 week class will meet on the following Tuesdays in June 7, 14, 21, and 28. All items will be ready for pick up on Saturday, July 23 at The Doodle Academy 103 E. Grand Ave. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by June 4th.

Youth Clay Hand Building – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 7, 14, 21, 28 - Tuesdays Time: 2pm-3pm Cost: $120 $100 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 6-17 years Location: The Doodle Academy’s Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 In collaboration with The Pottery Place, the RecPlex is pleased to offer this fun clay, hand building class for youth! We will spend time learning the fundamentals of clay. Each student will make between 3-6 handmade pieces during this class. This 4 week class will meet on the following Tuesdays in June 7, 14, 21, and 28. All

See SUMMER Continued on Page 52

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27TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT in Memory of George Pease and Stan Wheeler

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• Lunch at Ody’s immediately following golf, courtesy of Brad Irons, D&P Tank and Kinzie Family, Ody’s Sports Bar • Door prizes from local community businesses given away during awards lunch at Ody’s.

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50 MAY 2022

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MAY MEETINGS & EVENTS TUESDAY, MAY 3

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

THURSDAY, MAY 5

• Cash Mob at 11:30 a.m. at Hughes Lumber • Education and Workforce Development Committee will meet at 4 p.m. at the Chamber Office • The 35th Ponca City Leadership Graduation at 6:30 p.m. at the Carolyn Renfro Center

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11

• The School Support Staff Reception from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Chamber Office.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 18

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

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

TUESDAY, MAY 24

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

THURSDAY, MAY 26

• Tourism Bureau will meet at 9 a.m. at the Chamber Office • Business after Hours 5-7 p.m. hosted by First National Bank of Oklahoma

FRIDAY, MAY 27

• Ponca Politics Committee will meet at 11 a.m. in the McFadden Room at City Hall • Ponca Politics Forum from noon - 1 p.m. in the Commission Chambers at City Hall. The forum will feature speakers Clayton Johnson and Wilson Pipestem on the McGirt Issue.

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SUMMER Continued from Page 48 items will be ready for pick up on Saturday, July 23 at The Doodle Academy 103 E. Grand Ave. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by June 4th.

Adult Clay Hand Building – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 8, 15, 22, 29 - Wednesdays Time: 3pm-4:30pm Cost: $135 $115 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 18+ years Location: The Doodle Academy’s Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 In collaboration with The Pottery Place, the RecPlex is pleased to offer this fun clay, hand building class for adults! We will spend time learning the fundamentals of clay. Each student will make between 3-6 handmade pieces during this class. This 4 week class will meet on the following Wednesdays in June 8, 15, 22, and 29. All items will be ready for pick up on Saturday, July 23 at The Doodle Academy 103 E. Grand Ave. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by June 4th.

Let’s Talk About It Book Club Ponca City Library Date: June 9 Time: 6pm-8pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com The Library is hosting Let’s Talk About It, a book club for people who love to read and discuss great literature in the Program Room. Karen Neurohr will lead a talk about Medicine River by Thomas King. This event is the last part of a 4-part discussion series in the Native American Writers of the Plains theme.

52 MAY 2022

101 Wild West Rodeo - Family Night Date: June 9 Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm, Community Appreciation BBQ Dinner 8pm, 101 Wild West Rodeo Ages: Open to the public Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the gate 12 and under FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394 Dance & Live Concert by Dax Perrier and the Outsiders – 101 Wild West Rodeo Date: June 9 Time: 10pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394 101 Wild West Rodeo - First Responders Appreciation Night Date: June 10 Time: 8pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the gate 7-12 years, $5 in advance, $8 at the gate 6 and under FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394 Dance & Live Concert by The Great Divide – 101 Wild West Rodeo Date: June 10 Time: 10pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394

101 Wild West Rodeo Parade Date: June 11 Time: 10am Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Grand Avenue in downtown Ponca City Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394 101 Wild West Rodeo - Military Appreciation Night Date: June 11 Time: 8pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the gate 7-12 years, $5 in advance, $8 at the gate 6 and under FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo. com 580-763-7394 Dance & Live Concert by Tyler Booth – 101 Wild West Rodeo Date: June 11 Time: 10pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Rodeo Grounds, 23 W Darr Rd near Ash and Prospect Contact: www.101wildwestrodeo.com 580-763-7394 Dead Metal Society Concert – Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council Date: June 11 Time: 9pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council – www.poncaarts.org Ponca City Federated Music Club Celebration - Newkirk Date: June 11 Time: 7pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Kay County Amphitheater, Newkirk Contact: Newkirk Main Street 580-362-2377 kaycountyamphitheater@gmail.com This performance is being coordinated by the Ponca City Federated Music Club which was founded in 1921 and celebrates their 101st birthday this year. The Ponca City Federated Music Club is a member of the National Federation of Music Clubs and the Oklahoma Federation of Music Clubs. The club promotes community awareness, support and involvement in the performing arts including opera, dance and poetry. The performance will provide musical opportunities for all ages-

-including both professional and amateur musicians. Both students and adults will perform in this program. Performance titles will be around patriotism.

Best of Motown and More – Poncan Theatre Date: June 12 Time: 2pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $25 per adult Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave. Contact: 580-765-0943 – director@poncantheatre.org First Baptist Church VBS Dates: June 13-16 Time: 9am-12pm Grades: For those who have completed PreK-5th Cost: FREE Location: First Baptist Church, 218 S 6th St. Registration: http:// fbcponca.org/%20 VBS2022/ Sand Dollars and Starfish Craft – Ponca City Library Date: June 14 Time: 10am-1pm, 3pm5pm

Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go program where you can decorate Sand Dollars and Starfish with a variety of paints and markers.

Book Club - Ponca City Library Date: June 15 Time: 4pm-5pm Cost: FREE Ages: 18+ years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Sign-up required – there is a limited number of books available. The book on discussion is Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night by Mark Haddon.

Sunrise Kayak Tours - City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 16, register by June 15 June 23, register by June 22 June 30, register by June 30 July 7, register by July 6 Time: 5:45am Cost: $30 – FREE for ages 50+ Ages: 12+ years Location: Lake Ponca Sailboat Marina, 1 Checkstand Rd. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Catch Lake Ponca at its most glorious

See SUMMER Continued on Page 55

Decadent Desserts!

Dinner served by reservation Friday & Saturday.

Set menus may be viewed online or on Facebook.

Reservations online or by phone:

www.TSFork.com 800-928-1840

Catering & weekday parties available.

Spring

is a great time to tour the beautiful Mansion grounds!

MARLAND MANSION

901 Monument Road • Ponca City • 580-767-0420 MAY 2022

53

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54 MAY 2022

the underwater world. Not a certification, but an experience, the participant interested in SCUBA can jump in the pool and breathe off the air tank and learn basic SCUBA skills. All equipment will be provided, participants will need a swimsuit, a towel, and a sense of adventure! Register at www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by June 12. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

SUMMER Continued from Page 52 time...Sunrise. Launching at dawn into the stillness of the morning allows you to catch the sunrise and all the wildlife activity that begins with the cresting of the sun. A kayak tour with friends is a perfect way to start your day! Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by the registration date deadlines listed above.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Glass Fusing for Adults – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 16 Time: 2pm-4pm Cost: $35 Ages: 16+ years Location: The Doodle Academy, 103 E Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex 580-767-0430 In collaboration with the Doodle Academy, the RecPlex is pleased to offer two Glass Fusing classes this summer! Suncatcher Fusing will take place in June and Small Dish Fusing in July. Classes will be held at the Doodle Academy on 103 E Grand. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by June 13th.

All-You-Can-Eat! Fish Fry for the Small Fry – Dearing House Child Advocacy Center Date: June 17 Time: 6pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $10 Tasting Kits 10 and under eat free w/ adult ticket purchase!

Location: Standing Bear Park, 601 Standing Bear Parkway Contact: Dearing House Child Advocacy Center – 580-762-5266 www.dearinghouse.com The 8th annual Fish Fry for the Small Fry be held on Friday, June 17th at Standing Bear Park in Ponca City . This fun family tailgate event features a variety of incredible food, games for the kids and live music! Tasting kits for this all-you-can-eat fish fry event are just $10 at the gate and 10 and under eat free with adult ticket purchase!

Juneteenth Celebration – Attucks Community Alliance Date: June 17 Time: 8pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Attucks Park, 1001 S 12th St. The Annual Juneteenth Celebration is set for Friday, June 17 at Attucks Park in Ponca City in celebration of the freedom of enslaved people in the United States at the end of the Civil War. A live concert will be hosted by the Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council and concessions will be available. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets!

Discover SCUBA - City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 18 - 9am-10:30am, 11am12:30pm, 2pm-3:30pm June 19 – 10am-11:30am, 1pm-2:30pm Cost: $60 Ages: 8+ years Location: RecPlex Lap Pool, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 SCUBA at the RecPlex! This class is designed to be a quick and easy introduction into what it takes to explore

Murph Challenge – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: June 18 Time: 7am-12pm Cost: FREE Ages: 13+ years Location: RecPlex KidZone, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Over the past decade in many tactical fitness circles, members have been doing the Memorial Day Murph Challenge. The “Murph” is a workout used by Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient Michael Murphy. Murphy died when exposed to enemy fire while attempting to radio headquarters for assistance. Join us at the RecPlex on Saturday May 28th to perform this workout created to honor fallen heroes. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by day-of.

Kids Night Out – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: June 18 Time: 5pm-10pm Cost: $35 for the first child, $25 for siblings Ages: 2-12 years Location: RecPlex KidZone, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Sign your kids up for this awesome 5-hour fun-filled event! Your child will have a great time at the RecPlex while YOU get to go out to dinner, enjoy a date night with your significant other, or simply take advantage of the quiet in your home! We will provide dinner, multiple crafts for your child to engage with, and of course lots of fun in the facility! The kids will wind down with a popcorn bar full of treats to snack on while they watch a fun movie. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by June 17th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

St. Mary’s Catholic Church VBS Dates: June 20-24 Time: 8:30am-12pm Grades: Preschool-5th Cost: $10, 1 child - $20, 2 children $25, 3+ children - Scholarships Available Location: St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parish Hall, 408 S 8th St. Contact: Bridgit Offer-Coleman 580-382-6010 - drestmarys@gmail.com

First Lutheran Church VBS Dates: June 20-24 Time: 9am-12pm Grades: K-5th - 6th grade and older can join as helpers!

Cost: FREE Location: First Lutheran Church, 1101 N 4th St. Registration: https://vbsmate.com/FLC Painting Seashells – Ponca City Library Date: June 21 Time: 1pm-3pm & 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go program where you can decorate seashells of multiple sizes.

Jellyfish Art – Ponca City Library Date: June 25 Time: 10am-12pm Cost: FREE Ages: 6-9 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be a blue toned background with a jellyfish. There will be templates to help make the shape of the jellyfish. The color choices of this painting will be up to the painter and what we have available. This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help and facilitate your own ability to create art. A parent or guardian will need to come with the child.

Unleashed Poker Run – Northern Oklahoma Humane Society Dates: June 25 Time: 9:45am, buggy registration 10:15am, bike registration and last bike out Ages: 21+ years Cost: $25/hand for a single rider, $10 per passenger Location: Starting at Tom’s Place, 43 E Osage Cove Park Rd. Contact: Northern Oklahoma Humane Society - 580-767-8877 Our friends at Ody’s Bar have once again offered to sponsor a Poker Run to benefit the animals at the shelter. We had so much fun last year, we’re ready to do it again! We’ll have six stops around Northern Oklahoma for a quick community ride and Ody’s will be hosting Rhoda’s Filipino Food Truck from 3pm-6pm. First place will be awarded $250, 2nd place will take home $100 and 3rd place will win a locally sourced gift basket. $20 t-shirts will be for sale during registration and at Ody’s following the ride. There’s a 50/50 Cash raffle at Ody’s Bar, and some really exciting prizes as well as a silent auction!

We’re looking for sponsors! Contact one of our board members, Ody’s staff, or the

See SUMMER Continued on Page 56

MAY 2022

55

Ages: Open to the public Location: Wentz Camp and Pool, 2932 LA Cann Dr. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Join us on the evening of the 4th of July as we swim and watch the Annual Ponca City Independence Day Firework Show. Hot dogs, hamburgers, swimming, and a great view of the fireworks are all included with your ticket. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by July 4th.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks, please contact the RecPlex for more information!

SUMMER Continued from Page 55

104 E Grand Ave.

Northern Oklahoma Humane Society for more information.

Kids Night Out – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: July 2 Time: 5pm-10pm Cost: $35 for the first child, $25 for each sibling Ages: 2-12 years Location: RecPlex KidZone, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 Sign your kids up for this awesome 5-hour fun-filled event! Your child will have a great time at the RecPlex while YOU get to go out to dinner, enjoy a date night with your significant other, or simply take advantage of the quiet in your home! We will provide dinner, multiple crafts for your child to engage with, and of course lots of fun in the facility! The kids will wind down with a popcorn bar full of treats to snack on while they watch a fun movie. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by July 1st. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Water Type Pokémon Morphs Craft – Ponca City Library Date: June 30 Time: 1pm-3pm, 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com A come-and-go craft where you score, cut, fold and tape a paper that will become moving paper sculptures that turn in an endless cycle or water type Pokémon.

Ponca City Family and Friends Celebration – Danny’s BBQ, Danny & Carey Head Date: June 30 Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca Lake The entire community is invited to the Ponca City Family and Friends Celebration, generously being hosted by Danny and Carey Head. Proudly serving Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters pulled pork, hot dogs, potato salad, chips, cookies and drinks to those in attendance. The public is encouraged to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs and the whole family!

The Addams Family – Evans Children’s Academy Dates: July 1-3, July 8-10 Time: 7:30pm, Friday-Saturday 2pm, Sunday Cost: $15 per adult, $10 per student - online $20 per adult, $15 per student – at the door Ages: Open to the public Location: Poncan Theatre,

56 MAY 2022

Tiny Tot & Mr. Muscle Contest & Bicycle Contests - Tonkawa Date: July 4 Time: 10am Cost: FREE Ages: 0-5 years for Mr. Muscle and Miss Tiny Tot contest 5 & under, 6-8, 9 & up Bicycle Contest categories Location: Downtown Tonkawa and Blinn Park, North Main & Rence Fireworks @ Wentz – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 4 Time: 7:30pm-12am Cost: $15

4th of July Parade - Tonkawa Date: July 4 Time: 12pm Cost: FREE Location: Downtown Tonkawa and Blinn Park, North Main & Rence Celebration for the whole family! Mr. Muscle and Miss Tiny Tot contest, bicycle contest, downtown parade and a fantastic fireworks display.

Moonlight Orca Art – Ponca City Library Dates: July 5, July 26 Time: 1pm-3pm, 5pm-7pm Cost: FREE Age: 10-19 years and 18+ years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be the ocean horizon and the moon with an Orca jumping from the water. There will be templates for the orca and the moon.

This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help facilitate your own ability to create art.

Magical Mermaids – Tonkawa Public Library

Date: July 6 Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Ages: 4-12 years Location: Tonkawa Public Library, 216 N 7th St. Contact: Megan Schatz, Children’s Librarian – 580-628-3366 ‘Magical Mermaids’ will teach kids about the important part they play in protecting our amazing oceans! Get ready for entertaining aerial performances from this circus show! There is magic inside all of us if we know where to look!

Reach For The Sky Live Music Event Newkirk Date: July 9 Time: 7pm Cost: FREE Location: Kay County Amphitheater, Newkirk Ages: Open to the public Contact: Newkirk Main Street - 580-3622377 - kaycountyamphitheater@gmail.com With solid roots in folk and bluegrass, the group plays a wide variety of styles, from contemporary pop to toe-tapping bluegrass with outstanding vocal harmonies!

Get Slimed – Ocean or Mermaid – Ponca City Library Date: July 12 Time: 4pm-7pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com The slime will be made with glue, baking soda, and contact solution. Depending on what you choose – the color dye, glitter, and other items will be mixed into the slime.

Collaborative Writing & Making Comics – Ponca City Library

Date: July 13 Time: 6pm-8pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com For any and all who want to learn or know about writing or making comics. There will be dinner for people to eat while enjoying a presentation of the collaborative works of the Ponca City Library Ponca Writers. There will also be a session on how to ‘turn your story into a comic or manga’, with practice storyboarding. Art skills Not required.

Extreme Animals – Tonkawa Public Library Date: July 13 Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Ages: 4-12 years Location: Tonkawa Public Library, 216 N 7th St. Contact: Megan Schatz, Children’s Librarian – 580-628-3366 Let us bring the zoo to you! Featuring 8 different, awesome Animal Ambassadors, Extreme Animals provides exciting educational program themes that thoroughly explore the animals, their environments, and their important roles in their respective ecosystems - and of course, we share the extremely important topic of Conservation! Wildly entertaining, the audience will learn as they enjoy the antics and personalities of these awesome exotics! Lots of hands on interaction with exotic wildlife from all over the world!

Deadline for Summer Reading Program Logs – Ponca City Library Date: July 15 Time: 6pm Cost: FREE All Ages: 0-17 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Every child that turns in their finished Summer Reading Program Log will be entered in their age group’s raffle for the Prizes. Some of the prizes include a Megalodon Tooth, a Kindle Fire, or a Drone. They will also receive a Golden Ticket to come to their age group’s party at the library. Each party will have food, drinks, fun games, candy and an awesome goodie bag.

Glass Fusing for Adults – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 15 Time: 2pm-4pm Cost: $40 Ages: 16+ years Location: The Doodle Academy, 103 E Grand Ave. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 In collaboration with the Doodle Academy, the RecPlex is pleased to offer two Glass Fusing classes this summer! Suncatcher Fusing will take place in June and Small

Dish Fusing in July. Classes will be held at the Doodle Academy on 103 E Grand.

Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by July 11th.

Moonlight Orca Art – Ponca City Library Date: July 16 Time: 10am-12pm Cost: FREE Age: 6-9 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Pre-Registration required. The painting that will be made at this program will be the ocean horizon and the moon with an Orca jumping from the water. There will be templates for the orca and the moon.

This program will not be taught by an art teacher, but by library staff and a volunteer to help and facilitate your own ability to create art. A parent or guardian will need to come with the child.

Sea Creature Paper Crafts – Ponca City Library Date: July 19 Time: 10am-1pm 3pm-5pm Cost: FREE Ages: Open to the public Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary. com A come-and-go craft where you score, cut, fold and glue paper together to form different forms of sea creatures.

There are some very basic and simple versions for the young crafters and more detailed and difficult versions for the more advanced crafters.

Central Baptist Church VBS Dates: July 19-21 Time: 6pm-8:15pm Grades: K5-6th Cost: FREE Location: Central Baptist Church, 1732 E Coleman Rd. Registration: cbcponca.org/vbs Little Luau Party – Ponca City Library Date: July 20 Time: 11:30am-1:30pm Cost: Golden Ticket Stub Ages: 0-7 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Every child that turns in their finished Summer Reading Program Log will be entered in their age group’s raffle for the Prizes. Some of the prizes include a Megalodon Tooth, a Kindle Fire, or a Drone and other age-appropriate prizes. They will also receive a Golden Ticket to come to their age group’s party at the library in the Program Room with their parent or

guardian. There will be party games food and drinks, candy, goodie bags and a whole bunch of fun.

Noah’s Ark – Tonkawa Public Library Date: July 20 Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Ages: 4-12 years Location: Tonkawa Public Library, 216 N 7th St. Contact: Megan Schatz, Children’s Librarian – 580628-3366 Think Build-A-Bear! Bring your littles to create their very own Plushy! We will wish upon a star, place the star inside our bear, then fill him with stuffing! Once our Bear is complete we will complete a birth certificate and begin tie dying his fur!

Book Club - Ponca City Library Date: July 20 Time: 4pm-5pm Cost: FREE Ages: 18+ Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Sign-up required – there is a limited number of books available. The book on discussion is I’m Thinking of Ending Things

by Iain Reid.

Survivor Party – Ponca City Library Date: July 23 Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm Cost: Golden Ticket Stub Ages: 13-17 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Every child that turns in their finished

Summer Reading Program Log will be entered in their age group’s raffle for the Prizes. Some of the prizes include a Megalodon Tooth, a Kindle Fire, or a Drone and other age-appropriate prizes.

They will also receive a Golden Ticket to come to their age group’s party at the library. This party will be when the library is closed. The teens will need to present their Golden Ticket Stub to get into the Library for the Party. The party will have the teens in groups of four teams to play versions of survivor games. There will be food and drinks, regular and gross. There will be candy and fun times for all.

Luau Party – Ponca City Library Date: July 24 Time: 11:30am-1:30pm Cost: Golden Ticket Stub Ages: 8-12 years Location: Ponca City Library, 515 E. Grand Ave Contact: 580-767-0345 www.poncacitylibrary.com Every child that turns in their finished Summer Reading Program Log will be entered in their age group’s raffle for the Prizes. Some of the prizes include a Megalodon Tooth, a Kindle Fire, or a Drone and other age-appropriate prizes. They will also receive a Golden Ticket to come to their age group’s party at the library. This party will be when the library is closed. The children will need to present their Golden Ticket Stub to get into the Library for the Party. There will be fun luau party games to go along with free food and drinks. There will be candy and goodie bags and a bunch of fun games as well.

Connect Church VBS Dates: July 25-29 Time: 6pm-8:30pm Ages/Grades: 4 years old - students who have completed 5th grade Cost: FREE

See SUMMER Continued on Page 60

MAY 2022

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engage with, and of course lots of fun in the facility! The kids will wind down with a popcorn bar full of treats to snack on while they watch a fun movie. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by August 12.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Back to School Bash - Newkirk Date: August 13 Time: 7pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Kay County Amphitheater Contact: Newkirk Main Street - 580-3622377 - kaycountyamphitheater@gmail.com

SUMMER Continued from Page 57 Location: Connect Church, 1101 W Grand Ave. Registration: https://connectchurchpc. churchcenter.com/registrations/ events/1262954 Crazy Days Street Party – Ponca City Main Street Date: July 29 Time: 5pm-9:30pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Veterans Plaza, 4th and Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City Main Street 580-763-8082 admin@poncacitymainstreet. com The Crazy Days Street Party is a free community event hosted by Ponca City Main Street on the last full weekend in July each year. The Party happens at Veterans Plaza in downtown Ponca City, at 4th & Grand from 5:00 - 9:30 p.m. and includes food trucks, live music and various other activities. The Party on Friday night coincides with Crazy Days Sales in downtown Ponca City that start on Thursday and run through Saturday, with many stores extending their business hours during these three days. New in 2021, a lemonade walk is now happening during the event. This gives young entrepreneurs an opportunity to make, sell, and market refreshing beverages for our downtown shoppers. Visit merchant locations to see each store’s specials and sales during Crazy Days.

Casino Grand – Ponca City Main Street Date: August 5 Time: TBD – Evening Event Ages: Open to the public Cost: $100

60 MAY 2022

Location: City Central, 400 E Central Ave. Ponca City Main Street is hosting an exciting new event for the summer, Casino Grand taking place Friday, August 5th. The Summit at City Central will be transformed into a posh casino experience featuring 16 table games, cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, cash and non-cash prizes, music by DJ Sawyer, dancing and exclusive high roller offerings for VIP sponsors. More info at www.downtownponcacity. com soon!

Family Fun Day – Marland’s Place Date: August 6 Time: 4pm-8pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $10 per vehicle Location: Marland’s Place, 1 300 Summers Place Contact: www.marlandsplace.com/ familyfunday Fun for the whole family with face painting, a petting zoo, bounce houses, yard games, food trucks, snowcones, vendors and beer & wine garden!

Kids Night Out – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: August 13 Time: 5pm-10pm Cost: $35 for the first child, $25 for each sibling Ages: 2-12 years Location: RecPlex KidZone, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 Sign your kids up for this awesome 5-hour fun-filled event! Your child will have a great time at the RecPlex while YOU get to go out to dinner, enjoy a date night with your significant other, or simply take advantage of the quiet in your home! We will provide dinner, multiple crafts for your child to

Good Vibrations Car Show - Tonkawa Date: August 20 Time: Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Cost: $20.00 Location: Blinn Park, North Main & Rence in Tonkawa Ages: Open to the public Participant judging on cars & trucks with awards presented for the top cars including Best of Show.

Wars of Wentz – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: August 27 Time: 6pm-8pm Cost: $5 Ages: 7th-12th Location: Wentz Camp, 2932 LA Cann Dr. Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Come on out to Wentz camp and test out your Splatt R Ball gun skills. The game will be Capture the Flag, a flag is hung at each start station. Teams must fight their way to their opponent’s flag station and capture their opponents flag. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by August 15th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Music in the Garden – Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council Dates: September 8, 15, 22, 29 Time: 6:30pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: Cann Botanical Gardens, 1500 E Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council – www.poncaarts.org Lifeguard Certification Class – City of

Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: May 7-8 Time: 8am-8pm Cost: $150 Ages: 15+ years Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 Become a certified Lifeguard by completing this Red Cross lifeguard training course.

Taught by certified instructors, participants will learn what it takes to become a pool lifeguard! Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by May 4th.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

SafeSitter 2-Day Class – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: May 20, 5pm-7:30pm May 21, 9am-12pm Cost: $150 Ages: 15+ years Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 This fun & engaging class is designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they are home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The instructor-led class includes games and role-playing exercises. Students will learn safety skills, childcare skills, first-aid and rescue skills, and life and business skills. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by May 10th.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Lifeguard Certification Class – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: May 21-22 Time: 8am-8pm Cost: $150 Ages: 15+ years Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 This fun & engaging class is designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they are home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The instructor-led class includes games and role-playing exercises. Students will learn safety skills, childcare skills, first-aid and rescue skills, and life and business skills. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/

parksandrec-registration by May 10th.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Youth Skate Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Date: May 24, May 31, June 7, June 14 - Tuesdays Time: 6pm-7pm Cost: $40 Ages: 8-14 years Location: Dan Moran Skate Park, 1117 South Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The Parks and Rec Dept will be hosting a youth skate camp for ages 8-14 for youth interested in learning how to skate. The instructor led camp will help skaters learn the techniques and skills fundamental to making a great skater. This camp will be a 4-week class and will meet on the following Tuesdays: May 24, May 31, June 7 and June 14. For those who need the necessary gear, boards, pads, and helmets will be provided. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by May 15th.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Youth Scooter Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: May 24, May 31, June 7, June 14 - Tuesdays Time: 6pm-7pm Cost: $40 Ages: 8-14 years Location: Dan Moran Skate Park, 1117 South Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The Parks and Rec Dept will be hosting a

youth scooter camp for ages 8-14 for youth interested in learning how to improve their skills on a scooter. The instructor led camp will help youth learn the techniques and skills fundamental to scooter riding. This camp will be a 4-week class and will meet on the following Tuesdays: May 24, May 31, June 7 and June 14. For those who need the necessary gear, scooters, pads, and helmets will be provided. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by May 15th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Wildcat Basketball Camp – Ponca City Public Schools Dates: May 30 – June 3 Time: TBD Cost: $60 Contact: Coach McFarlin - mcfari@ pcps.us The Wildcat Basketball Team along with coaches will teach young inspiring Wildcats how to dribble, pass, shoot, and enjoying the many games of dribble knockout, knockout, and KOTC (King of the Court). Camp prices are $60 and each kid will receive a T-shirt and a basketball!

Summer Camp – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 1-3 Time: 8:15–11:30am Grades: Going into 6th or 7th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Campers will sample the exciting programs at Pioneer Tech and learn problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and decisionmaking. Two pathway choices are available

when you enroll at https://pioneertech.edu/ summer-camp-june-1-3?category=campusevents-calendar. For information on scholarships or in-person enrollment, contact Karen Ware at (580) 718-4234.

Transportation provided from these High Schools: Blackwell, Newkirk, Tonkawa, and Woodland.

Wentz Junior Golf Program Dates: June 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 – Session 1 July 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 – Session 2 Cost: $120 or $220 for both sessions Contact: Wentz Golf Course - Kevin Brown – 580-767-0433 This program has two 7-day sessions that will include group and individual instruction, games and on-course play while progressing at their own pace. Students may participate in either session, or in both sessions.

Art Camp – The Doodle Academy Dates: June 6-10 Time: 9am-12pm Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $150 Location: The Doodle Academy, 103 E Grand Ave. Contact: Alena Jennings - 580-3091582 - thedoodleacademy@gmail.com Come spend the week Monday-Friday creating murals, paintings, ceramics, glass art, and mixed media madness!

Camp will start at 9:00 and pick up is at 12:00. Classes will be limited to only 10 kiddos to guarantee plenty of individual teaching for each kiddo. Camp is geared to ages 6+ and the cost is $150. This cost includes all supplies, daily snacks, camp t-shirt, and special treat on Friday. Ages 13+ are encouraged to apply for Teaching Assistant positions. Sign up today at www.TheDoodleAcademy.com!

Construction Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 6-9 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Learn hands-on carpentry and basic construction skills! Enroll at https:// pioneertech.edu/summer-academies, contact info@pioneertech.edu or call 7628336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022. Late applications not accepted, classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration.

NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant.

Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Introductory Robotics/Programming – University Center Dates: June 6-9 Time: 8:30am-12pm

Grades: Going into 5th-8th Grades Cost: $130 Location: University Center – 2800 N 14th St Contact 580-718-5600 student.services@ucponcacity.com Students will work collaboratively to learn the basics of computer coding and build a robot that can interpret computer code. Students will discover the basic mechanics of motors for movement and sensors to help the robot interact with its surroundings. Students will use the basic driving base and sensors to complete challenges like: navigating through a maze, sensing colors, moving objects, creating a class synchronized dance, and more.

Students will work collaboratively with partners and with the entire class to achieve goals. No prior experience necessary.

Criminal Justice – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 6-9 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Solve issues and learn about police operations! Enroll at https://pioneertech. edu/summer-academies, contact info@ pioneertech.edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022.

Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Youth Volleyball Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 7-9 Time: 1pm-3pm Cost: $55 - $35 for RecPlex Members Grades: 4th-7th Grade Location: RecPlex, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The RecPlex is teaming up with POHI Volleyball to put on a summer volleyball camp for girls in the 4th-7th grades.

Coaches and players from the high school will put campers through a series of drills and competitions to help each camper improve their fundamental skills. Come have fun playing and learning the game and receive a free t-shirt with registration.

Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by May 28. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Mini Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: June 12-15 Time: 4 days, 3 nights Ages: 6-12 Cost: $200

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SUMMER Continued from Page 61 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com Space Challenge – University Center Dates: June 13-16 Time: 8:30am-12pm Grades: Going into 5th-8th Grades Cost: $150 Location: University Center – 2800 N 14th St Contact 580-718-5600 student.services@ucponcacity.com Students will investigate, observe, calculate, and apply problem-solving skills to make robots solve challenges related to space exploration. Students will use the driving base and sensors to complete challenges such as initiating a shuttle launch to mars, setting up a satellite for communication, delivering a space crew to the base, rescuing the mars rover robot, and more.

Students should have completed the Introductory academy before enrolling in the Space Challenge Academy.

Youth Tennis Camp (7-12 years) – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 13-16, register by June 1 June 20-23, register by June 8 June 27-30, register by June 15 July 11-14, register by June 22 July 18-21, register by July1 July 25-28, register by July 8 Time: 10am-10:45am Cost: $40 Ages: 7-12 years Location: Wally Smith Tennis Center Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The Parks & Rec Dept. is teaming up with PCPS Coach Lynn Collenback to put on a summer tennis camp for kids and youth.

Lynn will be offering six separate, four-day sessions throughout June and July. Each session will put campers through a series of drills and competitions to help each camper improve their fundamental skills.

Registrants can sign up for multiple sessions for additional training. Come have fun playing and learning the game and receive a free t-shirt with registration. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by the registration date deadlines listed above. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Youth Tennis Camp (13-17 years) – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 13-16, register by June 1 June 20-23, register by June 8 June 27-30, register by June 15 July 11-14, register by June 22 July 18-21, register by July1 July 25-28, register by July 8 Time: 11am-11:45am Cost: $40 Ages: 13-17 years Location: Wally Smith Tennis Center

62 MAY 2022

Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The Parks & Rec Dept. is teaming up with PCPS Coach Lynn Collenback to put on a summer tennis camp for kids and youth.

Lynn will be offering six separate, fourday sessions throughout June and July.

Each session will put campers through a series of drills and competitions to help each camper improve their fundamental skills. Registrants can sign up for multiple sessions for additional training. Come have fun playing and learning the game and receive a free t-shirt with registration. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/ parksandrec-registration by the registration date deadlines listed above.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Culinary Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 13-16 Time: 8am–11am Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Learn skills to create yummy treats! Enroll at https://pioneertech.edu/summeracademies, contact info@pioneertech. edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022. Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be

offered.

Livestock Judging Camp - NOC Dates: June 13-15 Grades: 3rd-6th Cost: $150 Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Contact: Jennifer Bedwell jennifer.bedwell@noc.edu 580-822-5349 The instruction will include evaluation of swine, sheep, goats and cattle, along with oral reasons. The methods of instruction will include lecture, demonstration, handson experience, one-on-one coaching, critiquing, and question/ answer sessions.

Each participant will prepare and present several sets of oral reasons. Lunch will be provided along with refreshments, a copy of the NOC Livestock Judging Manual and recreational activities such as basketball, volleyball and football.

Horsepower Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 13-16 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Learn the ins and outs of how a vehicle actually works! Enroll at https:// pioneertech.edu/summer-academies, contact info@pioneertech.edu or call 7628336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022. Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration.

NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant.

Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Summer Academies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math NOC Dates: June 14-16 Grades: Students Entering 8th Grade in Fall 2022 Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Info: https://www.okhighered.org/summeracademies/ Explore the science and technology behind Oklahoma’s fastest growing energy sector, wind and solar power. Students will be introduced to the various forms of energy, focusing on the transformation of wind, solar, and hydro power into the usable electricity that powers our homes. Throughout the day students will participate in various activities and design projects that allow them to first-hand work with solar power, e.g. building solar fountains and cars, optimizing electrical production using wind power, building and designing wind turbines, and finally applying the electrical power to electrical circuits.

Livestock Judging Camp - NOC Dates: June 16-18 Grades: 7th + Cost: $250 Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Contact: Jennifer Bedwell jennifer.bedwell@noc.edu – 580-822-5349 The instruction will include evaluation of swine, sheep, goats and cattle, along with oral reasons. The methods of instruction will include lecture, demonstration, handson experience, one-on-one coaching, critiquing, and question/ answer sessions.

Each participant will prepare and present several sets of oral reasons. Housing accommodations at NOC Residential Hall are included, all meals and refreshments will be provided along with a copy of the NOC Livestock Judging Manual and recreational activities such as basketball, volleyball, football, waterslide, kickball and bowling.

Lifeguard Certification Class – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 20-30 Times: 9am-9:30am, 9:45am-10:15am, 10:30am-11am Cost: $55 $35 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 3-13 years Location: Ambuc Pool, 601 S 6th St. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 American Red Cross Swim Lessons at AMBUC Pool are conducted by certified instructors and adapted for swimmers with little, to no, water experience as well as more advanced swimmers. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by June 17th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the

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Location: Ponca City Airport, 2231 Waverly St. This camp is for middle school and high school students interested in aviation or space. The students pilot a computer aircraft flight simulator and a computer spacecraft simulator and will also get an optional airplane ride in the passenger seat.

Applications are available at the Ponca City Airport terminal building lobby.

Resident Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: June 26-July 1 Time: 6 days, 5 nights Ages: 8-14 Cost: $375 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com These fun-filled days will be spent making memories to last a lifetime. Survival skills, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, hiking, fishing, outdoor games, kayaking/canoeing, archery, swimming and more!

SUMMER Continued from Page 62 year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Youth Stage Acting Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 20-23 Time: 10:30am-12pm Cost: $75 $55 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 6-18 years Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 Performing Arts Camp at the RecPlex! Join instructor Amelia Hensley in this 4 day youth camp geared toward actors ages 6 and up. Designed to help young actors, no matter their skill level, the camp will cover technical aspects of the stage that include positioning, walking and blocking, diction, line memorization, acting techniques, scene work, and more. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrec-registration

by June 4th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Mini Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: June 20-23 Time: 4 days, 3 nights Ages: 6-12 Cost: $200 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com These fun-filled days will be spent making memories to last a lifetime. Survival skills, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, hiking, fishing, outdoor games, kayaking/canoeing, archery, swimming and more!

Level II Robotics/Programming –

64 MAY 2022

University Center Dates: June 20-23 Time: 8:30am-12pm Grades: Going into 5th-8th Grades Cost: $150 Location: University Center – 2800 N 14th St Contact 580-718-5600 student.services@ucponcacity.com Before becoming eligible for Machines and Mechanisms Academy or the Space Challenge Academy your child must complete the Level 1 or Introductory Robotics/Programming academy or have attended any of the prior UC Robotics programs.

Firefighting Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 20-23 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Students going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Learn basic firefighting skills such as fire dynamics as well as search and rescue! Enroll at https://pioneertech.edu/ summer-academies, contact info@pioneertech.edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022. Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Summer Flight Camp – Ponca City Aviation Foundation Dates: June 20-24 Time: 8:30am-3pm Grades: Students going into 6th-12th Grade Cost: $125-$200

Youth Basketball Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: June 27-29 Time: 1pm-2:30pm Cost: $55 $35 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Grades: 3rd-7th Grade Location: RecPlex, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 The RecPlex is teaming up with PCPS Coach Jody Fincher to put on a summer basketball camp for boys and girls in the 3rd-7th grade. Coaches and players from the high school will put campers through a series of drills and competitions to help each camper improve their fundamental skills. Come have fun playing and learning the game and receive a free t-shirt with registration. Register at www. poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by June 21. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Girls’ Basketball Camp – Northern Oklahoma College Dates: June 27-29 – Grades K-3 July 10-14 – Grades 7-12 July 24-28 – Grades 3-6 Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Contact: Greg Krause – greg.krause@noc. edu for informational brochure – 580-6286758 Our camps are designed to help the girls learn the basics of shooting, dribbling and passing, as well as other fundamental skills of basketball. We also apply those skills within a team structure as each of the girls is also a member of a team for the week and will play several games each day. Summer is the best time to work on individual skills and fundamentals!

Mechatronics – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 27-30 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Explore engineering concepts and use SolidWorks to print your designs on the 3D printer! Enroll at https://pioneertech. edu/summer-academies, contact info@ pioneertech.edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022.

Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Welding Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: June 27-30 Time: 8am–11am or 1pm-4pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Learn the basics of an oxy-fuel cutting torch, plasma torch, and GMAW/MIG process! Enroll at https://pioneertech. edu/summer-academies, contact info@ pioneertech.edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022.

Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Resident Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: July 3-8 Time: 6 days, 5 nights Ages: 8-14 Cost: $375 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com These fun-filled days will be spent making memories to last a lifetime. Survival skills, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, hiking, fishing, outdoor games, kayaking/canoeing, archery, swimming and more!

Boys’ Basketball Camp – Northern Oklahoma College Dates: July 5-9 Grades: K-4, 9am-12pm Grades: 5-8, 1pm-4pm Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Contact: Brad Witherspoon 580-628-6758 Our camps are designed to help the girls learn the basics of shooting, dribbling and passing, as well as other fundamental skills of basketball. We also apply those skills

See SUMMER Continued on Page 67

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SUMMER Continued from Page 64 within a team structure as each of the girls is also a member of a team for the week and will play several games each day. Summer is the best time to work on individual skills and fundamentals!

SCUBA Certification - City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 9-10, July 16-17 Time: 9am-5pm Cost: $499 Ages: 10+ years Location: RecPlex Lap Pool, 1604 W Grand Ave. and Lake Tenkiller Contact: RecPlex – 580-767-0430 Entry level SCUBA certification taught by certified instructor Paul Hummel of H2OK SCUBA. Students will learn the skills needed to become a certified Open Water PADI Diver. After successfully completing the pool session students will meet at Lake Tenkiller to complete the open water dives portion. Register at www.poncacityok. gov/parksandrec-registration by July 2nd.

Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Resident Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: July 10-15 Time: 6 days, 5 nights Ages: 8-14 Cost: $375 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com These fun-filled days will be spent making memories to last a lifetime. Survival skills, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, hiking, fishing, outdoor games, kayaking/canoeing, archery, swimming and more!

Youth Intro to Theatre Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 11-14 Time: 10:30am-12pm Cost: $75 $55 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Grades: 3rd-6th Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 In this Performing Arts Camp at the RecPlex, join instructor Amelia Hensley as she provides young actors in the 3rd-6th grade a broad introduction to all of the fun and exciting elements of the theatre! Register at www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by July 4. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Summer Flight Camp – Ponca City Aviation Foundation Dates: July 11-15

Time: 6am-3pm Grades: Students ages 14 years-12th Grade Cost: $125-$200 Location: Ponca City Airport, 2231 Waverly St. Contact – Bert Blanton – blantonb610@gmail.com – 580-716-6443 This camp is for students age 14 years through 12th grade who are interested in becoming a professional pilot. There is a dire pilot shortage and this career field has great potential!

This session will include ground school and two actual flying lessons.

Optional additional flying lessons may be available if time permits.

Applications are available at the Ponca City Airport terminal building lobby.

Lifeguard Certification Class – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 11-21 Times: 9am-9:30am, 9:45am-10:15am, 10:30am-11am Cost: $55 $35 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Ages: 3-13 years Location: Ambuc Pool, 601 S 6th St. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 American Red Cross Swim Lessons at AMBUC Pool are conducted by certified instructors and adapted for swimmers with little, to no, water experience as well as more advanced swimmers. Register at www.poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration by July 8th. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

University Center Dates: July 11-14 Time: 8:30am-12pm Grades: Going into 1st-2nd Grades Cost: $75 Location: University Center – 2800 N 14th St Contact 580-718-5600 student.services@ ucponcacity.com Art Camp – City Arts Dates: July 11-15 Time: 8am-12pm Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $150 Location: City Central, 400 E Central Ave. Registration: www.pcarts. org Join us for Ponca City’s longest running youth art camp! Kids age 6 to 12 years are invited to attend this 5-day camp where they will learn and participate in numerous mediums including painting and fine crafts. Cost is $150 with limited scholarships available based on need. Tuition includes all supplies, camp t-shirt and daily snack.

Senior Youth Intro to Theatre Camp – City of Ponca City Parks & Recreation Dates: July 18-21 Time: 10:30am-12pm Cost: $75 $55 w/ RecPlex Member Discount Grades: 7th-12th Location: RecPlex Art Studio, 1604 W Grand Ave. Contact: Ponca City RecPlex 580-767-0430 In this Performing Arts Camp at the RecPlex, join instructor Amelia Hensley as she provides young actors in the 7th12th grade a broad introduction to all of the fun and exciting elements of the theatre! Register at www.poncacityok.gov/

parksandrec-registration by July 4. Youth scholarships, for those who qualify, are available for all City of Ponca City Parks and Recreation programs listed here and all throughout the year; please contact the RecPlex for more information!

Pottery Camp – The Pottery Place Dates: July 18-22 Time: 9am-12pm Ages: 8+ years Cost: $250 Location: The Doodle Academy’s The Pottery Place, 109 N 1st St. Contact: Alena Jennings - 580-309-1582 thedoodleacademy@gmail.com Join us Monday-Friday for Pottery Camp at The Pottery Place brought to you by The Doodle Academy. Each student will spend 6+ hours on the wheel plus instruction on hand building functional pottery. Each student needs to be interested in clay and ready to get in the creating zone. Camp is geared to ages 8+ and the cost is $250.

This includes all clay supplies, snacks, camp t-shirt, and firings. Sign up today at www.

TheDoodleAcademy.com!

Arts Adventure Camp – Northern Oklahoma College Dates: July 18-22 Time: 12:30pm-5:30pm Grades: 6th-12th Location: Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 E Grand Ave., Tonkawa Contact: Kerri Gray – 580-628-6760 The Arts Adventure Summer Camp is a nonprofit supported by various groups, including the Oklahoma Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. Students beginning sixth grade this fall to students that recently graduated high school are invited to sign up for the camp, which will be hosted 12:30-5:30pm.

July 18-22 at NOC’s Tonkawa location.

Professional artists from NOC and guest artists from around Oklahoma will teach the classes, which include anything from

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Salon Academy – Pioneer Technology Center Dates: July 11-14 Time: 9am-12pm Grades: Going into 8th-10th Grade Cost: $25 Location: Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 N Ash St. Practice the arts of nail polishing, hair styling, skincare and makeup! Enroll at https://pioneertech.edu/summeracademies, contact info@pioneertech. edu or call 762-8336. Deadline for enrollment forms is June 22, 2022. Late applications not accepted; classes limited to 10 students. Each participant requires a separate registration. NOTE: PTC is limited to 10 spaces per class and only 2 academies per participant. Depending on demand, additional sessions may be offered.

Simple Empowered Machines –

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SUMMER Continued from Page 67 poetry and photography to stage combat and leather animal masks. Technologybased classes also will be offered, including building digital escape rooms and video production.

Girl Power STEM Camp – Ponca Works Dates: July 18-22 Time: TBD - Day Camp Cost: FREE for qualified applicants Location: City Central Grades: For Students in 7th and 8th grade in the summer of 2022 Contact: poncaworksgirlpower.com Each summer Ponca Works hosts a weeklong day camp that exposes middle school aged girls to the benefits of a technical career. Tours, experiments, hearing from local girl bosses, and using those learned skills to create something to take home with them. It’s an experience that will stick with a girl, and help define their future.

Day Camp – Camp McFadden Dates: July 19-21 July 25-27 Time: 8am-5pm Ages: 5-9 years Cost: $100 Location: Camp McFadden, 9137 E Hartford Ave. Contact: 580-762-9955 campmcfadden@campmcfadden.com These fun-filled days will be spent making memories to last a lifetime. Survival skills, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, hiking, fishing, outdoor games, kayaking/canoeing, archery, swimming and more!

Art Camp – The Doodle Academy Dates: July 25-29 Time: 9am-12pm Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $150 Location: The Doodle Academy, 103 E Grand Ave.

Contact: Alena Jennings - 580-309-1582 thedoodleacademy@gmail.com Come spend the week Monday-Friday creating murals, paintings, ceramics, glass art, and mixed media madness!

Camp will start at 9:00 and pick up is at 12:00. Classes will be limited to only 10 kiddos to guarantee plenty of individual teaching for each kiddo. Camp is geared to ages 6+ and the cost is $150. This cost includes all supplies, daily snacks, camp t-shirt, and special treat on Friday. Ages 13+ are encouraged to apply for Teaching Assistant positions. Sign up today at www.

TheDoodleAcademy.com!

Lake Ponca Recreation Area, Park, Trail, Disc Golf Course & Swim Beach

Location: 1688 LA Cann Dr. Contact: http://www.poncacityok.gov/547/ Lake-Ponca Wentz Swimming Pool Dates: Only closed on Mondays Time: 1pm-7pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $1 for 12 years & under $2 for 13 and up Location: 2932 LA Cann Dr. Contact: www.poncacityok.gov/624/ Swimming-Pools - 580-767-0430 Ambucs Swimming Pool Dates: Only closed on Wednesdays Time: 1pm-7pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: $1 for 12 years & under $2 for 13 and up

Location: 601 S 6th St. Contact: www.poncacityok.gov/624/ Swimming-Pools 580-767-1546 Disc Golf Courses Bois D’Arc Course at Lake Ponca, Prentice Dr. Lake Ponca Course, 1150 LA Cann Dr. War Memorial Course, 899 N 5th st.

Willow Springs Course, 1000 E Scott Ave. Contact: https://ok-poncacity2.civicplus. com/618/Disc-Golf-Courses Walking Trails Lake Ponca Trail, Lake Ponca - 1.3 miles Standing Bear, 601 Standing Bear Parkway – 2.0 miles Hutchins Memorial Trail, North 5th Street & Overbrook Avenue - .838 miles Marland Estate Trail, 901 Monument Road - .711 miles Cann Memorial Garden Trail, 1500 E. Grand Avenue - .38 miles Downtown Fitness Trail, 516 E. Grand Avenue - .06 miles RecPlex, 1604 W. Grand Avenue - .86 mile Contact: https://ok-poncacity2.civicplus. com/616/WalkingJogging-Trails Mountain Bike Trail 4500 E Prospect Ave. – 7.2 miles Contact: https://ok-poncacity2.civicplus. com/635/Lake-Ponca-Mountain-Bike-Trail Sandy Volleyball Court 1688 LA Cann Dr. Contact: http://www.poncacityok.gov/619/ Sand-Volleyball-Courts City Parks The City of Ponca City has twenty exceptional parks that are each unique. Some of the parks have play structures, splash pads, shelter houses, restrooms, swimming beach, sand volleyball, skate park, disc golf courses, walking/jogging trails, dog park, youth fishing ponds, picnic tables, monuments and more.

Contact: http://www.poncacityok.gov/548/ Parks Splash Pad Locations War Memorial Park, 718 N 7th St. Dan Moran Park, 901 W South Ave. Young Park, 2101 Jane St. Veterans Plaza, 323 E Grand Ave. Attucks Park, 1313 E Dixie Contact: https://ok-poncacity2.civicplus. com/626/Splash-Pads Wentz Golf Course ​Location: 2928 LA Cann Dr. Contact: http://www.poncacityok.gov/235/ Lew-Wentz-Golf-Course

68 MAY 2022

Resources Imagination Library – United Way of Ponca City Dates: Sign up today!

Ages: Children under the age of 5 who live in Ponca City, Tonkawa, Newkirk or Kaw City Cost: FREE Contact: 580-765-2476 - www. unitedwayponcacity.org United Way of Ponca City has launched the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library through a gift provided by the Ponca City Literacy Council, 400 children will receive a FREE age-appropriate book mailed directly to their home until they turn five years old.

Register over the phone by calling United Way of Ponca City at 765-2476 or go to our website www.unitedwayponcacity.org to print a registration form and mail or bring by the United Way offices at 205 N. 2nd Street in Ponca City.

Community Care Auto Repair Dates: One Saturday Each Month Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE labor, you buy the parts Location: First Baptist Church, 218 S 6th St., E Oklahoma Ave. between 5th & 6th Streets Contact: 580-341-0439 - http://ccarrepair. org/page1.html Community Care Auto Repair offers to low- to-moderate income individuals & families assistance with vehicle repairs. One Saturday morning a month our volunteer mechanics perform a variety of auto repair services. Applications can be found at www. ccarrepair.org. You buy the parts & the labor is free.

Friendship Feast Meals – First Christian Church Dates: Monday-Thursdays Time: 5:30pm-6pm Ages: Open to the public Cost: FREE Location: First Christian Church, 210 N 5th St. Contact: 580-762-1167 www.fccponcacity.com/friendship-feast Friendship Feast provides food and care in a way that honors the “Dignity of Life” for all individuals who come for meals.

We provide a balanced diet of nourishing and healthy food. We always strive to be fair to everyone. We will always seek to give generously and freely from the heart and to operate cost effectively to reap the most benefit of the time and effort given by volunteers. Due to Covid-19, meals have been restricted to sack meals that we distribute through the south doors.

Friendship Bikes – First Christian Church Friendship Bike team members repair gently used, donated bikes to give to those in need of basic transportation, recreation or exercise. Requirements for a bike are to watch a safety video and sign a pledge to be a safe and courteous rider.

Contact: 580-762-4990 - https://www. fccponcacity.com/friendship-bikes Groceries, Utilities, Rent/Mortgage and RX Assistance - NERA Dates: Mondays, 12pm-3pm Tuesdays, 9am-10am - Rent and Utility Assistance Tuesdays, 2pm-5:30pm Thursdays, 9am-1pm Every 2nd Thursday, 9am-1pm - Senior Food Box Program Fridays, 11am–3pm Every 3rd Saturday, 9am-11am Location: New Emergency Resource Agency, 112 S 1st St. Contact: 580-765-5372 – www.neraok.org New Emergency Resource Agency (NERA) is a stateof-the-art Food and Resource Center affiliated with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and a United Way Partner Agency that provides assistance with groceries, utilities, rent and prescriptions.

As one of only twelve official Food Resource Centers in the state of Oklahoma, NERA has been certified by the Regional Food Bank for adopting and adhering to their high standards of service and produce delivery.

Cimarron Public Transit Summer Youth Rides Dates: May 23 - August 5 Time: 9am-3pm, Monday-Friday Ages: 12-17 years Cost: $1 one-way fare for youth for rides within the city limits and $2 one-way fare for trips to Sun N Fun! One parent or guardian can ride free when traveling with youth, as long as origination and destination are same.

Registration: Call 24-48 hours in advance, when possible. Trips will be scheduled on a first call basis, subject to availability.

Please inquire about group rates.

Contact: Cimarron Public Transit System 580-718-0444 Summer Food Service @ First Lutheran School Dates: May 23 - August 11, MondayFriday Closed: May 30, July 4, and August 9

Time: 11am-12:15pm Ages: 1-18 years Cost: FREE for children 1-18 years of age Adult meals - $4.25 Location: First Lutheran School, 1104 North Street – Dine-In Only Summer Food Service @ West - PCPS Child Nutrition Program Dates: June 1-30, Monday-Friday Time: 7:30am-8:30am, breakfast 11am-12:30pm, lunch Ages: 1-18 years Cost: FREE for children 1-18 years of age Adults eating w/ students - $2 for breakfast and $4.25 for lunch Location: West Middle School, 1401 W Grand Ave. – Dine-In Only Summer Food Service @ Garfield - PCPS Child Nutrition Program Dates: June 1-30, Monday-Friday Time: 10:45am-12pm, lunch Ages: 1-18 years Cost: FREE for children 1-18 years of age Adults eating w/ students - $2 for breakfast and $4.25 for lunch Location: Garfield Elementary School, 600 S 8th St. – Dine-In Only

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Summer Food Service @ PoHi PCPS Child Nutrition Program Dates: June 6-30, July 1-14 – Closed July 4th Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Time: 7:45am-8:30am, breakfast Ages: 1-18 years Cost: FREE for children 1-18 years of age Adults eating w/ students - $2 for breakfast and $4.25 for lunch Location: Ponca City High School, 927 N 5th St. – Dine-In Only Summer Food Service @ Liberty - PCPS Child Nutrition Program Dates: June 14-30, July 5-7 - Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Time: 7:45am-8:15am, breakfast 10:45am-12pm, lunch Ages: 1-18 years Cost: FREE for children 1-18 years of age Adults eating w/ students - $2 for breakfast and $4.25 for lunch Location: Liberty Elementary School, 505 W Liberty Ave. – Dine-In Only

580-762-3716

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BROADWAY PLAZA APARTMENTS

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

Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled FREE Wi-Fi throughout bldg.

Beautiful grounds & gardens Friendly and caring staff Rent based on income 1-bedroom apts. & efficiencies Carpet and mini-blinds

• Handicap-accessible units • Friendship Feast transportation • Meals on Wheels • Potluck lunch • Movie and game night • More!

We take housing applications for the elderly and disabled.

You must be at least 50 years of age or receiving disability benefits.

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

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

Kanza Human Development Division

EMPLOYMENT/TRAINING Begins with Adult Education, Adult Vocational Training and on-the-job training. Developing business opportunities for tribal members to be employed in all areas of a business.

To set up an appointment, please call 580-749-5420.

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

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

OFFICE LOCATION and HOURS City Central Building, 400 E. Central Avenue, Ponca City, Suite 206 Monday thru Friday 8 am - 4 pm • Closed Federal & Tribal Holidays

70 MAY 2022

3211 N. 14th • Ponca City

kanzahumandevelopmentdivision.com

EDUCATION Begins with Child Care, Johnson O’Malley Program, Higher Education and Graduate Assistance

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

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• Beer cave packed with ice cold beverages • Specializing in hard-to-find wines and spirits Always drink responsibly!

Tari Stanbrough, Manager

COCKTAIL OF THE

MONTH

Mixed by Jill Rowe/Staff Writer Over the two days of Churchill Downs’ Kentucky Derby, 120,000 Mint Juleps get served. This event requires 10,000 bottles of bourbon, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint and 60,000 pounds of crushed ice.

Now that’s what I call a party! The Mint Julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in the 1930s, although its origins trace back centuries when it was used first as a medicinal drink before gaining popularity as a cocktail.

The word Julep comes from the Arabic word Julab, a refreshing beverage made from steeped rose petals. As the drink increased in popularity, they swapped out the rose petals for local mint. The Julep quickly made its way to Colonial America where, of course, we spiked it with booze.

Into the 1700s, as the United States gained freedom, they discovered a surplus of local crops that would soon feed a growing distilling industry.

Rum and brandy were foreign goods, and the taxes eventually grew too high. America turned to local crops such as grain and corn, finally producing their own alcohol, which helped give birth to Kentucky bourbon.

In 1803 the Mint Julep got its first mention in print, published in medical documents as a stomach tonic. I’m guessing that’s what people are talking about when they refer to “the good ol’ days” – back when your doctor would prescribe you a Mint Julep for a tummy ache.

Mint Juleps became a fixture of warm-weather social events in Kentucky, including horse races. The Kentucky Derby was first held in 1875, and it has since become the state’s most well-known athletic event.

The Mint Julep became the official drink of the race in the 1930s. There’s talk that Juleps have been around since the very first race.

There’s nothing more refreshing than an iced mint beverage on a sticky, humid day. Traditionally served in pewter cups with crushed

t leaves, 1/4 oz. of In a glass, add 8-10 min . Pour in 2 ozs. ly nt ge e dl ud m d an p ru simple sy lots of crushed ice, d ad n, bo ur bo e rit vo fa of your for a garnish. stir and add a mint sprig

ice, this cocktail is known to be imbibed by genteel society. The distinctive frost on the outside of the cup created by using a metal vessel helps keep the cocktail colder for longer.

When it comes to Mint Juleps, bourbon is the traditional spirit. Some would even go as far as to say it’s the only liquor that belongs in the drink.

Old West Liquors has a phenomenal selection of spirits to choose from, located at 3211 N. 14th here in Ponca City. Tari is always available to answer any questions, and help you find whatever floats your boat!

The recipe is simple, bourbon, mint leaves and sugar cubes (or simple syrup). The key is balance!

The easiest way to ruin your Mint Julep is by overexpressing your mint leaves. There are two schools of thought on if you should muddle your mint or not. If you choose to muddle, muddle gently so that the flavor doesn’t overpower the drink or turn bitter.

The iconic Mint Julep may only include a few ingredients, but it encompasses over a thousand years of history, spanning several countries. While sipping this timeless classic, don’t be afraid to sport your largest and loudest derby hat! Cheers!

MAY 2022

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Can we talk about how terrifying the internet is, especially at the hands of someone like me? How am I supposed to be trusted with the literal world at my fingertips? I have a tiny little device that allows me to be an absolute menace at all hours of the day. It’s shocking, really. I met a new person the other day (against my will, obviously, you all know I hate people and avoid new ones at all costs) and within minutes I had taken a 3D tour of their house that they bought in 2006 for $10,000 under market value, calculated what their approximate monthly payments are, verified they paid their property taxes, saw that they applied for two marriage licenses to the same person in the span of six months and found out their adorable sweet Grandma June beat cancer (praise be!) last year. (They had not been arrested, but they do need to slow down, three speeding tickets in 18 months is too many!) Is it not scary how

much of our lives are that readily available to literally anyone that has five minutes of free time on their hands?! You’re probably thinking, “Rachel, why do you even care about this stuff?” and sure, I shouldn’t, and don’t really care, but if there’s one place I’m going to be, it’s up in your business. I know, I know, I don’t know why I’m like this, I wish I could change. Thankfully I, while incredibly annoying, am harmless, but think of all the people out there that aren’t harmless!? I find it to be very unsettling, albeit entertaining, the things that are considered public information. Thankfully for society, I only use my investigation skills for good, but let this be a lesson to all, to not cross paths with a bored, young, attractive, incredibly charming person such as myself who has insomnia if you have something to hide, because I will find out your secrets. (And before anyone feels threatened, it’s not a threat … it’s a promise.) *insert evil laugh*

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72 MAY 2022

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PONCA CITY MONTHLY

Donuts are one of those things that make life a little bit sweeter.

Happiness seems to course through people when eating a donut.

They’re kind of magical like that. If donuts are part of the morning, the day is usually off to a happier start than it would be otherwise. Set back off the corner of Hartford and Seventh, Turtle’s Donut Shoppe is starting days off sweetly by selling some of the best donuts and pastries in northern Oklahoma. Owned by Jeff and Shannon Schieber, this little local shop has been satisfying sweet tooths across the area for 20+ years and is still going strong.

or a crisp chef salad or hearty beef and cheddar sandwich is easy and tasty. Every option is a winner.

Jeff and Shannon opened Turtle’s Donut Shoppe in Ponca City at the corner of Brookfield and Seventh in January 2002. After recently relocating to Hartford and Seventh, the

There are different kinds of donut people. There are long john people or twist people. Bear claw people or apple fritter people (apple fritters for life). Cake donut people or yeast donut people. Personally, I am hands down a plain, glazed, yeast donut person, and Turtle’s has my favorite one in town.

It’s light, it’s puffy and the amount of glaze on the donut is excellent. I want to taste the actual donut, so the amount of glaze is important to me. The sweetness and quantity of this glaze 1911 N. 7th St., 580.762.1184 enhances the flavor of the dough without Hours: overpowering it. For the cake lovers out there, Tue - Friday: Saturday: the blueberry cake donut is fantastic. Tart yet 6 a.m.-2 p.m 6 a.m. - Noon sugary, dense yet tender with amazing texture, it is bursting at the seams with blueberry flavor.

Turtle’s Donut Shoppe

There is also this bran muffin. Hold on … stay with me here. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, boring, bran muffin. This mini bundt cake-looking muffin tastes like carrot cake. Pecans, cinnamon, a few raisins (and even some carrots!) turn what would be a bland, depressing muffin into a flavorful, crumbly pastry with the most delicious crusty edges that pairs perfectly with a strong cup of dark roast coffee.

With roomy seating for approximately 24 people, grabbing lunch with one of their creamy chicken salad sandwiches

lifelong Kay County residents renovated the building, added a drive-through and opened their charming new spot in May 2021.

Customers, old and new, are all welcomed with a smile, a “Hello!” and the feel that you’ve just stepped into a space that is familiar and cozy. Our community is fortunate to have access to such a fun, delicious place that produces such yummy creations (they have turtle-shaped donuts!). Plus, is there anyone who doesn’t want to start their day with some sprinkles? Happy Eating!!

Follow Turtle’s Donut Shoppe on Facebook at @Turtle’sDonutShoppe

TOP THREE FOR ME The drive-through setup.

Fast, spacious and clean.

The glazed yeast donut.

I can eat a dozen of them.

The whole loaves of Lemon Blueberry Bread.

This bread is amazing.

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

MAY 2022

73

HEALTH

DON’T TORTURE YOURSELF INTO BODY GOALS! SMALL STEPS FOR LASTING RESULTS

Story by Kera Kester, NASM Certified Personal Trainer/Contributing Writer If we took a poll for how many people want to lose some unwanted fat, a high percentage would probably answer yes. However, when the words “fat loss” come up, it can trigger imaginations of countless grueling hours in the gym along with day after day of a boring or unfulfilling diet. BUT, you do not have to torture yourself into your body goals! A few changes can create a healthy, progressive and enjoyable lifestyle that doesn’t feel daunting. Here are six that will help you on your way!

1. More veggies and protein!

Add them into each meal. If you find this difficult, start by daily incorporating both into one meal. When you can consistently do that, then shoot for two meals and keep working your way up. Additionally, eating more fruit and/or nuts ensures variety as well as increases nutrient and vitamin consumption that help the body thrive!

2. More fiber!

To lose fat, it’s a good idea to put a caloric deficit into effect. This means that you take in less calories (energy) than you expend. Should you feel hungry, having a diet rich in fiber will help satiety levels. Foods like oatmeal, broccoli and beans will help keep you full longer. Keep in mind, the calories in oils and condiments can add up quickly, so be mindful of this during a calorie deficit.

3. More sleep!

Lack of sleep relates to insulin resistance, circadian rhythm disruption, inhibited mental clarity for good decision-making and increased appetite. Being overtired causes the reward centers in your brain to fire up in hopes to make you feel better. This could look like succumbing to the temptation of skipping a workout or feigning for a sugar-filled coffee drink to help you get going. Poor sleep triggers a stress hormone called cortisol. It tells your body to conserve energy for the day ahead, which means holding onto your energy reserve (fat storage). Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night! Cool fact – during 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., we produce the highest amount of HGH secretion which burns fat, improves bone density, repairs cells and body tissue and improves immunity.

4. More walking!

Cardio isn’t just amazing for your heart and respiratory system. It partners beautifully with strength training for fat loss. The National Institute of Health recommends 30-45-minute sessions of moderate intensity 3-5 days per week. This could be jogging, biking or swimming, to name a few. For busy schedules, HIIT sessions are a great fat burner,

74 MAY 2022

especially for stubborn areas. Even walking helps! You may think something like incline walking won’t do much. However, those burned calories can add up quickly over a month’s time!

5. More strength training!

When done efficiently, lifting weights builds muscle and that lean muscle burns fat. Don’t freak out should the scale number go up. It doesn’t tell the full picture. Muscle weighs more than fat so seeing overall weight come up isn’t necessarily bad! The truth is weight loss and gain are both needed when it comes to safe and sustainable body recomposition. If you’re getting leaner and more sculpted (or “toned”), then keep going!

That is progress and with much patience you will see greater and greater changes. A great strategy is implementing progressive overload while training positions and movements, such as squat, hinge, push, pull, carry and core.

6. More hydration!

Water is a metabolism booster, appetite suppressant, digestion aid, waste remover, and helps muscles, joints and connective tissues move correctly for better form or range of motion. Optimal functioning of organs like the lungs and heart require water. It’s also a major role in proper metabolization of stored fat or carbs and necessary for the process of lipolysis. Lipolysis is the breaking down of fat cells which reduces fatty tissue volume. The daily intake standard depends on variables specific to each individual. The US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine recommends about 2.7L for women and 3.7L for men.

If progress stalls, don’t immediately cut calories or add excess gym hours.

Biofeedback variables like sleep, food quality, exercise consistency, stress and recovery usually hold the answer. Biofeedback is as important as the actual exercise we do. Both depend on each other.

Each tip above has an important word – more. It’s helpful to avoid thinking of fitness as removing a bunch of things. Instead, think of it as adding variables in. Instead of anxiously focusing on outcome goals, focus on healthy behavior goals. The desired results are merely byproducts of good habits we consistently enforce. How your body looks is subpar to the real beauty of your journey! Listening to and taking care of your body as you nourish and exercise it is the higher purpose and treasure of fitness. Keep moving forward and stay beautiful inside and out!

Avocado Toast Recipe and Photos by Paul Muehlberg/Contributing Writer

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •

2 thin slices of Pancetta 2 slices of White French Country Loaf Bread Cultured butter for toasting bread 1 ripe avocado, sliced Cherry tomatoes, halved (as many as desired) Baby Arugula Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 large eggs Flakey sea salt Crushed red pepper flakes Makes: 1 open-faced sandwich

Directions

1. Fill a large sauce pan with water and set over medium heat; heat the water to a very gentle simmer. Note: don’t boil the water.

2. Add the pancetta to a cold skillet and set over medium low heat. Cook until brown and crispy.

Set onto a paper towel-lined plate and reserve. Next, butter the bread and season lightly with salt and pepper and toast under the boiler until brown and toasty. Next, fan the sliced avocado on the toast and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Next place the pancetta on the avocado and top with a few arugula leaves.

3. Crack each egg into a small ramekin. Gently drop each egg into the water and cook until the white is set and the yolk is still runny, 3-4 minutes. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and immediately place on the toast. Sprinkle the eggs with the flakey sea salt and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

MAY 2022

75

Backyard

Gardener SPECIAL EDITION

The Economics of Gardening Story and Photos by Kat Long/Contributing Writer

S

ome of you may know that my day job with Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) involves assisting small businesses start, run and grow here in Ponca City. Wait a minute. That sounds really close to what we do as gardeners; at least the start and grow part. This month, let’s talk about why I got into gardening. Growing plants was a natural extension of growing our local economy. Let me introduce you to economic gardening.

The third year I was working at PCDA, I went to a training course about “Economic Gardening,” which centered on growing companies, retail and service businesses in your own community through business support, research and industry information. It was amazing to see what other communities were doing and how one city in particular, Littleton, Colorado, was a 100% grow-your-own city as their economic development strategy. They did not (and still don’t) actively recruit companies to their community. In fact, they discouraged recruitment of outside companies because those companies would compete with the ecosystem the community was supporting.

“May is National Small Business Month.”

Two years after this training, I scattered my first seeds because I wanted to see what would grow.

And when I say scattered, I mean grabbed a handful of mixed-up seeds, closed my eyes and scattered. It was an amazing summer of “What’s that?” and “Who are you?” And “Oh my gosh, that’s a cucumber.” Two years after that, I wrote my first gardening article on composting. And two years ago, a local magazine was born and here is the Backyard Gardener in Ponca City Monthly. Hmmm, looks like the two thing is kind of a lucky number.

The Last Decade In the last 10 years, Ponca City has stretched and grown so much.

Allow me to brag on PCDA with our award-winning Business Retention and Expansion Program (BR&E), which hosts events like the Trade Show Brigade and programs like the Industry Certification Assistance Program (ICAP). And my small-business programs, which include The Business Plan Pitch-off for start-ups and new businesses

76 MAY 2022

in Ponca City, as well as Business on the Balcony networking, which is the second Tuesday of each month at 7 a.m.

There are also these great partners in our community who have assisted in this economic gardening growth. They include Pioneer Technology Center; Pioneer Tech Business Services; The Manufacturing Incubator, which is celebrating 30 years of assisting small businesses; government contracting assistance; and all the other training programs available for high schoolers and adults. There is also The City of Ponca City with the Wi-Fi project and now the broadband to home project. This affects so many areas of Ponca City life, and there are not many communities around a 25,000 population with this type of wired and wireless support. And there are many more examples, but I am running out of space. So, let’s talk “next generation.”

Grow Your Own There is another huge component to growing our own economy See GARDENING Continued on Page 78

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MAY 2022

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GARDENING Continued from Page 76 Pioneer Technology Center, Business Services Molly Kyler 580.718.4304 Pioneer Technology Center Business Incubator Janet Schwabe 580.718.4309 Government Contracting Assistance PTAC Dawn Brakey 580.718.4261 Leadership Ponca City Rich Cantillon 580.765.4400 Ponca Works – PCDA 580.765.7070 PCDA Business Plan Pitch-Off June and November 2022 goponca.com City of Ponca City Broadband http://www.poncacityok. gov/710/Ponca-City-Broadband Nena Tacos LLC like them on Facebook for their schedule and menu The Splash Co GoSplashCo.com OklahomaLabels.com Vortexalleybrewing.com GoPonca.com BR&E, Ponca Works, Small Business Support CityCentralpc.com Co-work space, Central Cafe, Conference Space, Outdoor Gathering and Programs Kay County OSU Extension Office & Master Gardeners Shannon Mallory 580.362.3194 PoncaCityOK.gov City of Ponca City

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and that is workforce. Industry, retail and service companies all need new workers to continue to produce and grow. Growing our own workforce has been challenging. And now more challenging with “the great resignation.” Many adults don’t know all the products made in Ponca City or all the retail/services available. How do we reach the kids?

Ponca Works, a program PCDA started 10 years ago to help recruit workforce to Ponca City, pivoted to school outreach and demand job camps.

Internship programs at the high school have started to gain traction; Career Fairs are finally back after a two-year hiatus. Industries are seeing the benefit of having the “next workforce” tour their shops either in person or virtually.

Making sure everyone living and working in Ponca City knows what is happening here every day in their community is a tall order. Kids and many adults are glued to their electronic devices and are not curating their own information. Remember when we looked at posters and flyers for upcoming events – even billboards or signs? Now, if it is not posted to several social media sites, it might as well not happen. Which leads to the next component of economic gardening.

Community Involvement Developing our community includes organizations like PCDA with The City Central Building, encouraging businesses to support local arts (Hello, PC Arts) and our Ponca City Main Street, finding support for qualityof-life events like the T-Mobile grant for the ice rink.

Habitat for Humanity builds houses one at a time and is always looking for volunteers. The Great Day of Service in March, getting involved with Leadership Ponca City, serving on a nonprofit board, participating in local government or buying a taco from the food truck. All of these actions create the future of Ponca City – which leads us back to the garden.

I have been in Ponca City for 17 years now. I love that I have been a part of the growth of a company town to a town with many companies. A community with many opportunities for a mom and pop shop to grow into the next labeling manufacturer under a new owner like A+ Printing. Or for a pub to start, grow and begin to manufacture their own products like Vortex Alley Brewing. For a family to make Mom’s dream come true like Nena Tacos, our latest PCDA Business Plan Pitchoff Winner. That every child under the age of four who is around a swimming pool will never drown thanks to The Splash Co., last year’s Pitch-off winner. Or foster our art community with space and classes like the Doodle Academy. And then there are the local manufacturers, such as Head Country, CME, Precision Tool, K&C Manufacturing and Moonlight Machine, just to name a few. These longtime companies continue to grow and thrive in our community because they collaborate to bring more and larger manufacturing contracts into the community.

And gardening, which has a similar set of parameters – It can be a business: hello, farmers market and community-supported agriculture (CSAs). Most farmers are entrepreneurial, willing to try new things. Cultivating workforce is usually recruiting family members, so there is the growing on your own part. And of course, there is no greater community than our growing/gardening community.

Whether it is flowers, plants or produce, gardeners and growers love to get together and talk shop. With the OSU Extension office at the Newkirk Court House, Oklahoma State University down the road with their greenhouses and programs, The Kay County Master Gardening course and monthly meetings, The Herb Festival in June or just hanging out with other gardeners at Cann Gardens, there are so many ways to participate in the gardening community.

Every year that I have gardened, I have added a new/different plant to grow – maybe an edible flower or a cool-looking cucumber.

Just to see what will happen.

I double dog dare you to apply that theory outside the garden. Try something in your life, in your business that is new. Just to see what will happen. It will be amazing, possibly life changing. And you can definitely say you tried. And of course, Happy Gardening.

A FINAL NOTE Could you do a little gardening in your community? Are you ready to mentor another gardener or another business? Maybe you would like to explore having an intern next year or dive into that great business idea you have been kicking around. Resources and contact information for some of the things mentioned are listed on the left side of this page, or just give me a call. It is my job after all, 580.765.7070.

6 3 1 7 2 5 9 MOM LIFE: 2 THE9MODERN 8 5 4 3 1 1 8 9 3Chelsie6Hendrickson 4 2 4 1 6 2 7 8 5 8 5 3 1 9 7 6 9 7 5 4 8 2 3 3 4 2 9 1 6 7 7 2 4 6 5 9 8 5 6 7 8 3 1 4 Story Contributed by

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I am just going to say it, my kid sleeps in the same bed as me. Pause for reaction…

Now, before you get your pitchforks out and tell me how bad it is, let me tell you that I already know this is something that people feel is taboo. Even before Hudson was born, people would tell me not to let my child in bed with me, and I have the “advice cards” from my baby shower to prove it. I said myself that my child would never sleep in the same bed with me. You know, one of those “my child would never” comments that end up smacking you right in the face. Look, we really did try to get him to sleep in his own bed. Scout’s honor. However, it just didn’t pan out that way. And you know what, I am tired of defending myself about it.

I haven’t quite understood why some people get so distressed when they find out that my child sleeps in the same bed as I do. I mean, it isn’t affecting their sleep? Sure, there are some instances where I wake up and must dislodge him from my side because he wants to be near me all night. But you know what, I take some comfort in that and it seems to work just fine for us. We all sleep and are better versions of ourselves because of that sleep. And I realize this is a hard limit for some people. They refuse to have their kids sleep in the same bed as them, and more power to them! If it works for them, then I am all for it! So why can’t we have the same attitude towards somebody whose child sleeps in the same bed and it works for them also?

Don’t get me wrong, I had major frustration and anxiety when it came to my child sleeping and the nights blur together when we were up all night or only slept for a couple hours tops. There are so many books, articles, blogs, etc. on how you should sleep train your child. I mean, no wonder new parents feel that pressure. And I know the typical thing to do is to let your baby cry it out, and I tried that route, but was quickly over it, especially when, after a while even taking him into his room terrified him. I was not about that life.

So, one night, after being past the point of utter exhaustion and to the point where I was

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a desperate mom-zombie who could barely function, I put him in bed with us in a small bassinet. I mean, I was desperate, but still super paranoid because that is who I am as a person. And you know what happened, he slept. Not all night at first, but more than he had ever before. I woke up at 4am that morning ready to solve the world’s problems!

After that night, we still let him sleep with us, but I felt very defensive about it. Looking back, I wasted a lot of energy on making excuses for a decision that wasn’t a wrong one. Energy I could have been putting towards other more important things, like my family. I decided I was tired of stressing out about it.

Parenting is hard enough, why must we make it even harder?

Now, this isn’t me saying, if you want your child to sleep, they must sleep in the same bed as you. This is me saying, this is what works for us, and if it works for you too, you don’t need to feel bad about it. So, whether you let your child co-sleep with you or if you are determined for them to sleep in their crib or bassinet, it is still YOUR decision. And no matter what you decide, your child will eventually sleep. There will be a day when you fall asleep and wake up to light peeking through the window and you wonder if you are dreaming or not because it seems too good to be true. You will find what works for you, and when you do, don’t let anybody make you feel bad about your choice. Cause in the end, as long as your baby is safe and happy, what’s the big deal anyway? And hey, if your child was able to sleep well from the beginning, well I am so happy for you! Ok, 20% jealous and 80% happy… alright, maybe 60/40.

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