Ponca City Regional Airport: Evolving, Growing for the Community 7
SPOTLIGHT: Bold Flavors, Warm Vibes: Inside Ponca City’s Ziggi’s Coffee 24
With Creative Friends 30
Once dismissed as a distraction, gaming has evolved into one of the fastest-growing competitive arenas in education. Across Kay County, students are finding teamwork, confidence—and even college scholarships—through high school esports. READ MORE ON PAGE 17
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November is the month we’re supposed to remember what we’re thankful for. It’s when we pause our busy lives and count the reasons we’re blessed beyond measure. Gratitude is an outward expression of that thankfulness. It’s wonderful to be thankful. When I think about a word, I like to ask: what’s its opposite? You might say the opposite of thankful is thankless—to have no thanks. But the more I sat with it, the more I disagreed. I think a better antonym is complaintfulness.
Is a complaint the opposite of thanks? Well, let’s see. If we dig further into the meaning of the word complaint. The root word of “complain.” If you travel way back in time, in Latin, plangere meant “to beat your chest and lament.” Add com- (“together”) and you get a word for shared mourning. Fast-forward to Old French, which turned it into complaindre, and English borrowed it as “complain,” along with “plaint,” “complaint,” and “plaintiff” (the person bringing a complaint in court). Over time, the meaning slid from sorrow to protest: no longer did it mean crying at a funeral, it instead meant speaking up when something’s wrong. Today we “complain” about the weather or a bad restaurant, but the word still carries that old idea of voicing a grievance.
I was raised by old-fashioned folks who didn’t always have a lot, and what they had, they were grateful for. They raised my sisters and me to be
grateful for the blessings we’d been given. They also said, more times than I can count, that constant complaining doesn’t accomplish much beyond stirring up negative feelings. If you see something wrong, find a solution and offer that instead.
So here’s my November challenge for you. Instead of “30 days of gratitude,” try 30 days without complaining. Don’t just be silent— find solutions. If you see a problem, don’t just state its obvious existence. Work to find a solution. When a gripe rises to your lips, convert it into a concrete action: a thank-you to someone helping, a fix you can make, a request stated respectfully. I have a feeling it’ll be harder than it sounds. But I also suspect this: as complaintfulness loses airtime, gratitude gains room to breathe. And in that extra space, we may find ourselves not just more thankful on a daily basis, but if we could get everyone in society on board, we would finally begin to see a world we are all more proud to live in.
editor@poncacitymonthly.com
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“We
shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”
~Winston Churchill
Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer
Ponca City Regional Airport is a happening place, and there are many reasons that is the case. In talking with Airport Manager Don Nuzum, it’s easy to see why he stays busy. The city is looking at a major building project for the airport, and it will be one that makes the area the showcase it should be.
Although there have been airport improvements over the years, the current building is over 50 years old. Now is the time for a terminal update; however, the truth is that there are numerous elements that make the local airport a place people from our city and others visit.
One of these reasons is the popular and well-known restaurant, Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant, that has been located there over 40 years now. Current owner Mercedes Avila took over most of the management of the restaurant from her immigrant father in 2005. Enrique escaped Cuba in 1975 by swimming across the Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. in search of a better life, eventually landing in Ponca City with his wife Irma, born in Mexico, and their young family. At that time, it was a small breakfast restaurant with fewer than 10 tables that he “purchased” from the previous owner for $1,000. Little did he know that the then-current restaurant operator did not actually have the right to sell the business, which was contracted out for only a year at a time primarily to provide breakfast for those working at the airport. Enrique did so well, they
never made him leave and the business has grown with multiple expansions over the years.
Today, Mercedes runs the business and works alongside her daughter Selah, working as she can when not studying for a position in phlebotomy, and her son Caleb who hopes to take over the reins more fully after he graduates from Lifestyle Christianity University in Dallas. Many of their employees are like family, having worked in the business for over 20 years. They employ almost 40 people now.
Mercedes was delighted to work with Winterrowd Talley Architects to help design the perfect restaurant and kitchen area with the upcoming renovations. She assisted in making the kitchen the model they need rather than a more standard, basic workspace. Those working on the project wanted to ensure the best space to continue making their awesome chips and tasty dishes. Mercedes says about 30-40% of their business is flight-related and that her parents would say they grew by “Grace of God and word of mouth.” Nuzum agrees, “When I travel with airport business, people in aviation always know about Enrique’s.”
Mercedes says, “I’m extremely grateful for the support the community and those who come in from farther away have shown us. Both my parents are immigrants, and their dream was to be able to work and provide a home for their family.”
Another business that operates at the airport is Greenwood Aerospace, another growing business that began as a local fuel stop. Now the business has fully entered government contracting, having secured its first GSA Schedule as a trusted supplier to government and public-sector customers. This designation allows for easier procurement and contracting with federal, state and local agencies.
The business website states, “Our mission is simple: Greenwood Aerospace will ensure our clients have what they need, when they need it, wherever they want it—because lives depend on it.” To meet this mission, the business has a highly knowledgeable and experienced team.
Chuck Greenwood as CEO began his love of aviation growing up and working with his father. His son, Chris, now serves as president. Together they have brought an innovative group of skilled employees together to grow and maintain their place in the field.
community take advantage of the longest continuous fly-in breakfast on the first Saturday of each month, raising funds for the local flight academy. The public is invited to attend, have breakfast and see the variety of planes that come in as well. The academy began in 2002 and was first run by OU, but in 2004 it became a locally run academy that continues to have great success for those students who participate.
Nuzum likely had no idea he’d be managing this variety of businesses when he took over in 1988 after having served as manager at Watonga. His interest in aviation began when he and some others took lessons after an uncle with a spray operating business asked them if they wanted to learn to fly. He was the only one of that group who ended up with his pilot’s license, but after that his wife Lori’s father and brother became interested and each earned their pilot’s license. Then, Lori learned to fly as well.
Also at the airport, many people in the
Having grown up in Watonga, Don has now been embedded in the Ponca City community
for years. Besides being Airport Manager, he served 26 years on the school board, including serving as the president. A Leadership Ponca City alumnus, he was awarded the 2025 Larry Hughes Leadership Award for his commitment to the community. He also serves on the Integris Health’s hospital board of directors and is involved with the Chamber of Commerce. However, the growth of the airport and its terminal project are taking up much of his time currently.
“When
openings rather than windows. The renderings are magnificent, with a beautiful lobby area, increased space for the restaurant, and better office areas, a conference room and space for needed equipment. The primary contractor for the project is Stillwater’s LBR Inc., an airport consulting and engineering design firm with over 40 years in the field. LBR hired the local Winterrowd Talley Architects for the project.
The terminal project has been in the planning stages since Oct. 2022. The city funded the architect’s work and environmental studies that were required before beginning to secure grants to fund the project. Nuzum mentions that most of the renovations in the past have been funded through grants, and one this size will require FAA grant funding as well.
The new building will include elements that will blend with the older design as well, primarily the columns found on buildings. However, the new columns will include lights in their center
Passion for flying carries Don Nuzum and his work through all the paperwork and planning required in his current role at the airport. Work is ready to begin once grant funds are secured.
Nuzum has seen much growth at the local airport, as have Enrique’s family and the Greenwoods. Investing in community is the tie that binds them all as part of our local airport’s history and future. Those of us in Ponca City and others who fly in will continue to benefit from their work. It truly can be a wonderful representation that shapes our community’s personality and progress. PCM
Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer
Watson Construction specializes in luxury residential and commercial construction in the northern Oklahoma area. The company was established in 1988 by John Watson. John’s father Terry was a carpenter and also worked for the company. Today the company is run by John’s son Gage Watson. Three generations of Watson craftmanship and hard work have helped build Watson Construction into what it is today.
Gage began running the business after graduating from college in 2019. He admits there was a learning curve to figuring out the management side of things and crafting his own business strategy. Though, he says, the hands-on experience he gained working for the business over the course of his life is priceless. “I was able to work around people like my dad and the people he had built relationships with. That taught me more than any higher education was able to provide. I learned more working out in the field and being around those guys
than I ever did going to college. My dad was a good teacher. And obviously the guys that he worked with were great to me.”
Now with several years under his belt, Gage has created structured systems to keep things running smoothly. The company often has several residential construction builds, custom homes and smaller projects happening simultaneously. As you might imagine, this means a lot of theoretical balls to balance or plates to juggle. Gage believes having a solid plan and setting expectations are the backbone
COME SEE WHAT EVERYONE IS BUZZING ABOUT COME SEE WHAT IS BUZZING
Exclusive Members-only Sip & See, Thursday, November 20th, 7 pm come and go event at our new location, 702 Legacy Trail. Members will receive an official invite in the mail. Join our exclusive membership to get discounts on retail and services, plus exclusive access to goodies and members-only perks. Call us at 580-382-4034 to find out more.
Exclusive Members-only Sip , Thursday, November 20th, 7 come and go event at our new location, 702 Legacy Trail. Members will receive official invite in the mail. Join our exclusive membership to get discounts on retail and services, exclusive access to goodies and members-only perks. Call us at 580-382-4034 to find out more.
Wednesday, November 26th
Last day at the downtown 4th Street location
Monday, December 1st
First day at NEW Lake Road location
Tuesday, December 2nd
Ribbon Cutting at 2 pm & Holiday Open House from 4-7 pm
of any successful project. In this vein, Watson Construction has a clearly defined process they use for every project or big build.
First, they want a client to determine their requirements and desires for the build along with their budget. Next, they want to meet with the client to determine if Watson Construction is the right fit for them. If it’s a good match, the client signs a contract to secure their spot. (Watson Construction has projects scheduled out 2 years, so getting your spot is crucial if you want to work with them!) Next comes the design phase where an architect is hired, designs are created and permits are obtained. The team at Watson Construction encourages regular communication to help the project run smoothly as decisions are made along the way. The construction phase involves many steps from a preconstruction meeting to punch lists and final touches at the end. When construction is complete and the inspections have been passed, it’s time for the client to enjoy their new space.
Watson Construction employees 14 people and
the quality.
While maintaining a robust schedule of bigger projects, the company also fits smaller projects into the workload as well. Last year alone, Watson Construction completed around 35 smaller projects. These can be anything from adding a small addition to general home repair, a patio space, etc. Gage and his team can fit in these smaller projects alongside the larger projects through stringent time management.
As a company, Watson Construction wants to provide a product their clients can’t get anywhere else. Gage says he and his team are able to create amazing custom features due to the skill and talent of the people who work at Watson Construction. For any commercial buildings, they aim to add in design elements that make the space feel both comfortable and exciting. They aren’t interested in clean, simple lines. Their projects have character and exhibit the talent that only comes from years of hard work.
subcontractors. By having their own crews to do things like concrete, framing, trim and masonry work, they are able to keep a tighter grip on each build. This allows them to stay on time and on budget and have more control of
Gage enjoys projects where he is given the leeway to be creative and build something unique. Gage says for him, the best part of a project is when it’s finished. He appreciates
seeing a build completed, when all the chaos has come to a close.
Gage attributes much of his success to the amazing mentors he’s had over the years,
first and foremost being his father and grandfather. Another gentleman, Jim Leggit, has been with him from the beginning and formerly worked for Gage’s dad. Gage says Jim has taught him a lot. “Not only has he been one of the most influential people in my career, but he’s been someone that I’ve relied on endlessly over the last five or six years. He’s one of the smartest men I’ve ever met in my entire life. He’s one of the most skilled frame carpenters I’ve ever experienced, and I’ve worked around a lot of people.” Shaun Mackey is another employee who’s been a part of the business for many years. He’s worked with both Gage and his father and always been someone they could count on.
Gage also credits Garrett Caldwell with helping the company grow successfully.
Garrett has been with the company for five years. He acts as a superintendent and manages the Watson Construction employees. With Caldwell focusing on the talent, Gage can focus on managing the projects and the subs. This two-pronged approach keeps things on track for the company. Currently, Watson Construction is working on three custom homes and three larger builds. You can watch the progress of two of the larger builds right on Lake Road in Ponca City— Aesthetic State of Mind and Edward Jones— Judy Eckholt. They are also building a Stride Bank location in Blackwell. Along with these, they maintain a steady stream of smaller projects as well.
For more information, visit gagewatson.com There you can find more information about Watson Construction, their values and their process. The next step is to schedule your own consultation to begin building your vision. PCM
Story by Charles Gerian | Staff Writer
For generations, ambition for college-bound students followed a familiar script: lace up cleats, polish a trumpet, join the choir, take center stage on the court or the field.
These were the golden tickets—the résumé-builders that caught the eyes of scholarship committees and admissions offices. Parents and teachers encouraged it, telling their kids that sports and music weren’t just pastimes, they were stepping stones to a brighter future.
Pioneer Tech Manticores Tyler Busby, Devin Taberas and Rodrigo Navarro won the State Championship in May, defeating Central Tech Team 2, 2-0. They defeated Central Tech Team 1, 3-0 to capture the second State Championship in two days.
But for just as long, another pastime was pushed aside. “Put down the controller,” kids were told. “Pause the game. Go do something productive.” Gaming was seen as a distraction, a hobby best left in the basement.
Now the script has flipped. In a digital age where competition takes place on glowing screens instead of grassy fields, young people are finding real opportunities in the very activity adults once dismissed as a waste of time. Professional streamers build entire careers on YouTube and Twitch. College recruiters now scout talented gamers with the same seriousness once reserved for quarterbacks or point guards. In 2020 alone, more than $16 million in esports scholarships were awarded across the country.
Oklahoma is no stranger to this shift. The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association has officially recognized esports, with high schools statewide fielding teams through PlayVS,
and Mario Kart.
It’s not a trend anymore—it’s an institution in the making. And right here in Kay County, the movement is already reshaping how students, parents and educators think about competition, teamwork and the future.
When Ponca City High School opened its new STEM building in 2024, students gained more than classrooms filled with technology. They also gained an arena— one without bleachers, but with rows of computers, consoles and headsets. It was here that Ponca City launched its esports program, an idea championed by Superintendent Adam Leaming and one that has quickly become a home for students who want to compete on a different kind of playing field.
At the center of it is coach Ian Rand, a lifelong gamer who wishes he’d had the same opportunity when he was in high school. “I wanted to coach esports because I play several of the video games, and I wished I could have been on a high school esports team when I was in high school,” he said. Now, he’s the one helping students turn their hobby into a team sport—and in some cases, into a path for their futures.
Explaining esports to skeptics is one of Rand’s favorite challenges. “Esports are competitive video games played
Ponca City’s team competes in Overwatch 2, Marvel Rivals, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, Fortnite and Apex Legends—games chosen by the students themselves. Rand said the program has grown rapidly, and not just in numbers. “The biggest growth is how our student gamers communicate with their teammates,” he said. “When they started, they were only used to playing by themselves and had no communication. Now they’re able to talk, give callouts and cooperate, all while playing their video game.”
The team’s roster is as varied as the games themselves. Students come from different grade levels, skill sets and interests, with some also involved in football, band, yearbook or other school activities. “All sorts of students are drawn to esports,” Rand said. “It gives them a place to belong.” He has seen players gain confidence that carries into other parts of their lives, and especially into leadership roles. “Their teamwork and leadership have grown, especially in the team captains as they have to lead their teams in the games.”
A typical match day at Po-Hi depends on the format. Most competitions are virtual, with students gathering an hour early in the esports room to practice before facing another school online. Coaches then report scores on the league website. But there are also travel days, where the Wildcats pack up their consoles and controllers, load the bus and set up at another school to compete in person.
Preparation goes beyond practice matches. Players review their own game footage, study professional esports players and drill strategies specific to their chosen titles. And when the stakes are high—such as the in-person state tournaments—the atmosphere rivals any traditional sport. “The energy of a live esports competition is crazy,” Rand said. “Coaches, other players, parents and other spectators cheer and yell for their teams.”
The Wildcats have already carved out rivalries, with Bixby standing as their biggest competitor. A highlight for the team came when Ponca City toppled Bixby in Overwatch 2, a win that Rand still remembers with pride.
“One stereotype I wish I could change is that it’s just playing video games”
The success isn’t limited to competition, either. One senior recently earned an esports scholarship to Cowley College, while another went to the University of Oklahoma to work as a video editor for the OU esports team. For Rand, those opportunities prove the legitimacy of the program. “Life skills that students take away from esports are communication and self-reflection,” he said. “Academics are still the priority, and when students are ineligible, they know practice comes
Carl Renfro
Chairman
Brenda Renfro
President
Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA
Rick Renfro Secretary, Restaurateur Directors
We
second to homework. But esports can open doors.”
Rand also wants to change the way people perceive esports. “One stereotype I wish I could change is that it’s just playing video games,” he said. “These video games are some of the most difficult games to play. To add to that, the whole team has to communicate, remember in-game locations and abilities, and time their abilities for the best plays.”
Even with the serious side, there are lighter moments that keep things fun. Rand laughs about practices where his team is suddenly matched against some of the top 500 players in the nation—a nerve-wracking but exciting challenge. And despite the intensity, the moments that make him most proud aren’t always victories. “The moments I am most proud of as a coach are when I see my student gamers talking and hanging out with each other outside of esports practice,” he said. “I am proud that they are making friends and are engaged in bettering themselves outside of esports.”
Looking ahead, Rand believes the future of high school esports is only going to grow. With esports now recognized by the Olympics and colleges across the country offering scholarships, he sees opportunities expanding rapidly. “In the next five years, I see high school esports growing to amazing levels,” he said.
At Ponca City High School, that growth is already underway—one match, one team and one headset at a time.
monitors, and the roar of the crowd comes from teammates huddled close, calling out plays with headsets on. For Coach Amber Dunham, that scene is the culmination of a vision that began with a grant proposal and has since grown into one of the school’s most exciting programs.
“We put together an OTTE grant proposal through the K12 Foundation at the University of Oklahoma to secure the equipment we needed,” Dunham explained. “The whole process involved clearly outlining what we needed, why it was crucial for our project, and how it would make a significant impact.” That impact has been felt quickly. What started with a handful of curious gamers has grown into a competitive program with more than 20 students and even an expansion into Blackwell High School in just four years.
Ponca City’s Wildcat Overwatch team placed 4th, and the Rocket League team placed 3rd. The Rocket League team, Connor Furnas and Juju Aguilar with Coach Ian Rand, was awarded 3rd-place medals.
For Dunham, the motivation to coach was about more than just games. “It was a way to reach different groups of kids that aren’t necessarily in the spotlight,” she said. “It allowed them to create a specialized community within our school, foster communication skills and encourage students to keep up their grades. Plus, it just seemed like a fun way to connect with students in this generation.”
Esports, she insists, are anything but “just video games.” She calls them a mental battleground. “Unlike physical sports, where raw athleticism often takes the lead, this game demands quick thinking, sharp focus and the ability to anticipate moves in real time. Every call counts, and the mental endurance required is unlike anything you’d find in a typical physical sport.”
The Blackwell teams compete in the Oklahoma Scholastic Esports League, with students choosing from titles like Rocket League, Halo, Fortnite and Pokémon Unite. Dunham builds the teams based on student interest and skill, while her assistant coach, Chad, and IT support, John, help manage the logistics of
competition. Match days look different depending on the format: monthly core games with three-round matches against assigned opponents or weekly virtual contests that connect Blackwell to schools across the state. Some events are streamed, and plans are underway to add shoutcasters to give broadcasts the same energy as professional tournaments.
Behind those matches is plenty of preparation. In addition to after-school practices, Blackwell students train in a dedicated esports class that emphasizes communication, strategy and selfimprovement. They watch recordings of their matches, study professional players and refine their gameplay in warmups and scrimmages. And while every competition brings intensity, the state tournaments carry a special electricity. “Anytime we qualify for state, the energy is absolutely infectious,” Dunham said.
The program has already made its mark at the state level. A thrilling comeback victory in Halo against Canute secured a championship for Blackwell, and the Maroons have also claimed a title in Valorant and runner-up
finishes in Overwatch, Fortnite, Pokémon Unite and Mario Kart. The rivalry with Canute, whose coach also happens to run the OKSE League, has become one of the highlights of the season. “It’s competitive, yet respectful,” Dunham said. “Our teams push each other to
But the real rewards, she insists, go beyond trophies. Dunham has seen quiet students become vocal leaders, taking command during high-pressure moments and learning to analyze their play afterward.
She’s watched students who once kept to themselves now build friendships that extend well beyond the esports room. “It’s incredible to watch them become more active and engaged in their daily school life,” she said. “They step out of their comfort zones, take on leadership roles and show a confidence that maybe wasn’t there before.”
That growth has become one of the program’s defining strengths. Students learn accountability by balancing academics with competition—
grades come first, and struggling players are supported before being allowed back in the game. They also practice skills that translate far beyond gaming: time management, teamwork, problemsolving and resilience. “They’re learning reallife skills that carry over into school, work and everyday situations,” Dunham said. “And it all starts with something they enjoy.”
The culture of the team is rich with traditions, both serious and silly. Players have pregame rituals, from music playlists to lucky gear. Their unofficial theme song has become the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way,” after one student’s impromptu performance turned into a full-team singalong. And between matches, the students once entertained themselves by sliding down the hallway in their
socks, “skiing” as Dunham laughingly recalls, to burn off nervous energy.
Blackwell Middle School’s Esport students work hard, readying for the fall 2025 season. Here, a young student athlete is immersed in Fortnite.
Looking to the future, Dunham believes the growth of esports in Oklahoma is only just beginning. When Blackwell first joined the OKSE league, about 50 schools were involved. Today, that number has passed 200, with more joining each year. Colleges are offering scholarships, and career pathways in gaming—from media production to event management—are opening up. “I think high school esports is going to keep expanding,” Dunham said. “And I expect to see more schools in our Kay County area getting involved as the scene continues to grow.”
For now, the Blackwell Middle School esports team is proving that competition doesn’t have to take place on a
“They’re learning real-life skills that carry over into school, work and everyday situations.”
field or a court to change lives. It can happen on a screen, headset on, with teammates leaning forward in the glow of the monitors, learning lessons that will last long after the final match ends.
When Pioneer Technology Center in Ponca City launched its esports program in 2021, it was little more than an experiment. Administrators had seen the rise of competitive gaming in education and asked IT instructor Zac Ladner to explore whether it could work at PTC. With little experience in gaming himself, Ladner leaned on his students to help host a trial run: a campuswide Super Smash Bros. tournament. The event was a success, proving that esports could find a home at Pioneer Tech.
students choosing from whatever the league offers each semester. This fall, the PTC roster includes Marvel Rivals, Rocket League, Fortnite, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Apex Legends, Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, Guilty Gear Strive, NCAA 26, NBA 2K25 and Smash Bros. It’s an eclectic lineup, reflecting the diversity of the players themselves.
“From that proof of concept, it just grew,” Ladner said. “We went from one tournament to playing well over a dozen different games in the Oklahoma Scholastic Esports League.”
Today, just four years later, the program has blossomed into one of PTC’s most unique student offerings. Participation has swelled from 18 players in its first year to more than 45 this fall, so many that the school had to hold tryouts for starting spots. For Ladner, who never considered himself a gamer before stepping into the role, the journey has been eye-opening.
“I just kind of fell into coaching the team,” he admitted. “At first, I didn’t really understand it. But once I started playing the games myself and saw what it did for the kids, it clicked.”
For outsiders who dismiss esports as “just playing video games,” Ladner has an answer. He points to a graphic he often shows parents and administrators—a chart mapping the many careers tied to the industry. “On the surface you see kids with controllers,” he said. “But really, it’s teamwork, communication, problem solving, strategy, leadership. And behind the scenes, there are roles in IT, production, broadcasting, marketing. It’s no different than any other sport when it comes to preparing kids for the future.”
The games themselves range widely, with
And those players aren’t the typical faces you’d expect to see on a basketball court or football field. Many had never been part of a team before joining esports. For some, physical sports weren’t accessible; for others, traditional athletics simply didn’t spark their interest. “Esports give them that first chance to belong,” Ladner said. “It’s their community, their team. And once they get in, you see them start talking, start leading. It pushes them out of their comfort zones.”
That growth is one of the coach’s proudest rewards. He recalled a student who once tried to disappear into the back of the classroom, quiet and unnoticed. “He told me he finally found confidence through competing,” Ladner said. “He ended up on our adult Marvel Rivals team, and they won the championship. That confidence spilled over into his schoolwork and his personal life. That’s the stuff that sticks with me.”
Live competitions bring their own energy— something Ladner compares to “a fourthand-goal moment in football with the game on the line.” He described watching a practice duel between two students, one from high school and one from the adult league, who battled in Tekken. The match ended in a rare double knockout, and the entire room erupted. “You know a good game when you see one,” he laughed.
PTC has had its share of good games. One of the most memorable came last season, when the team fought its way out of the losers’ bracket in Marvel Rivals, defeating their opponents twice to win the championship. Rivalries have emerged, too, adding to the drama and fueling the students’ drive to improve.
Beyond the thrill of victory, the program emphasizes critical thinking, time
at their sending schools to compete. When students struggle, Ladner steps in to help— even if it means brushing up on English homework, something he jokes is not his favorite. “Since esports started, I’ve been an everything teacher,” he said.
The players have embraced the identity of their team, even crafting a mascot: Petey the Manticore, a mythical mashup combining pieces of the sending schools’ mascots. Ponca, Woodland and Newkirk each contributed their feline imagery; Tonkawa brought in its Buccaneer roots; and Blackwell’s Spirit of the Maroon rounded out the design. Petey now stands as the guardian of PTC esports, complete with a fight song that, fittingly, was drafted with the help of artificial intelligence.
As Ladner looks ahead, he sees nothing but growth. Colleges are adding programs, scholarships are expanding and the industry itself is booming, generating billions annually worldwide. Several of his players have already attracted college offers, though none have signed yet. “It’s just going to get bigger and bigger,” he said. “Esports are here to stay.”
And though some may still dismiss it as screen time, Ladner insists the truth is clear to anyone who steps into the esports room on match day. “Until you see it in action, you just don’t get it,” he said. “I didn’t. But once you do, you realize it’s the same as Friday night lights. It’s kids competing, learning, growing—and finding a place where they belong.” PCM
Story by Chelsea McConnell | Staff Writer
Toni and Katee Nemer opened Ziggi’s Coffee in November of 2023, just prior to Thanksgiving. Centrally located on North 14th Street, Ziggi’s features a drivethru window for the convenience of their customers and has an inviting interior for anyone who wants to sit down and savor their drink or treat in a slower fashion.
Katee says one of the reasons she and her husband chose the Ziggi’s franchise was because of how wonderful the people at the Ziggi’s corporate office were to work with. They look out for their franchisees and are consistently doing things to try and help them succeed. Ziggi’s was started by Brandon and Camrin Knudsen in Longmont, Colorado, in 2004. Their mission is “to serve a convenient and superior cup of coffee, with service customers can rely on.”
The Ziggi’s menu boasts hundreds of drink options and a good variety of breakfast and treat items for those who need a bite with their beverage. The menu features the regular coffee items one would expect from a coffee shop, but Ziggi’s goes on to add Energy Infusions, Blenders,
flavored drinks), Sparkling Sodas, Fruit Smoothies and a specialty menu for kids.
For customers who like to try new things, the Ziggi’s team creates seasonally featured items to keep their menu interesting. When the new menu items drop, the baristas at Ziggi’s get busy learning how to make the new drinks and taste-testing them as well. This little job perk prepares each employee to give honest feedback and suggestions to customers when it comes to the fun seasonal menu items.
For fall, Ziggi’s theme is the magic of unexpected duos. They partnered with Mike’s Hot Honey to create the Mike’s Hot Honey Latte for a “sweet-meets-heat experience.” They have also recently
May
Rick & Kim Hancock
“If
MONDAY, NOV. 10TH, 7 PM
Free Listen and Learn: Billy Ponca will share the legacy of Lillie Burkhart and the Whitehair Museum and the history of the Osage wedding dress.
Reservation required.
TUESDAY, NOV. 11TH, 6:30 PM
Polymar Clay Christmas magnets and pins class taught by Betty Scott. Cost $15 Reservation required.
blended with ice. The iced lattes are a big hit too. The Energy Infusions are also very popular. These drinks can be served iced or blended and offer a caffeine fix for those who don’t like coffee. Ziggi’s has 12 different flavors of Energy Infusions. Ziggi’s has sugar-free options as well. They also have whey protein powder that can be added to their smoothies or drinks for anyone wanting a hit of protein or a post-gym pick-meup.
Ziggi’s menu features food items as well. They have oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches and several breakfast burrito varieties, including bean & cheese, beef & potato, bacon, chorizo, spicy sausage and egg & cheese. They also have a pesto panini and a grilled cheese panini. To satisfy a sweet tooth, they have scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, cake pops and delicious flavored breads like cinnamon and banana chocolate chip.
Ziggi’s also has an app! It is free to download and allows customers to earn points for their
spent, and rewards are received each time you hit 150 points. On Tuesdays customers earn double points. Customers can order through the app or even set up a standing order to be ready for them at a certain time each day.
Ziggi’s has 12 employees and is deftly managed by Marsha Hanger. Katee gushes about their manager, “We have an amazing manager,
support her. She does such a great job. She probably doesn’t need our help at all, but we’re here anyways if she does and when she does. She’s just such a blessing.”
This season is an especially lovely time to enjoy Ziggi’s. Their building features a glass garage door that can be raised during nice weather to let in the autumnal breeze. Katee says they love it when customers spend time in the shop and welcome anyone to hang out there.
You can visit Ziggi’s at 2112 N. 14th Street or give them a call at (580) 576-7771. Better yet, download their app and they’ll have your order waiting by the time you get there. Ziggi’s is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. PCM
Drawings
Drawings begin at
Drawings begin at
$4,500 IN SANTA BUCKS
$4,500 IN SANTA BUCKS
SURPRISE PRIZES
THURSDAY, DEC. 19
Prizes are awarded in Santa Bucks
Ponca City Dispensary Inc.
Ponca City Dispensary Inc.
2128 N. 14th St. #3
THURSDAY, DEC. 19 announced on these radio
2128 N. 14th St. #3
announced on these radio
99.3 KLOR (TEAM Radio) 102 E. Grand Ave.
100.7 KPNC (Team Radio) 102 E. Grand Ave.
100.7 KPNC (TEAM Radio) 102 E. Grand Ave.
99.3 FM, KPNC 100.7
The Ponca City News
The Ponca City News
1047 The Bull (Sterling Broadcasting) 1601 E. Oklahoma
A+ Printing 119 N. 3rd St.
FM, KPNC 100.7
1230 WBBZ (Sterling Broadcasting) 1601 E. Oklahoma
Bull FM, and WBBZ AM
Aaron’s Sales & Lease 2608 N. 14th St.
99.3 KLOR (Team Radio) 102 E. Grand Ave.
A+ Printing 119 N. 3rd St.
The Bull FM, and WBBZ AM
Aesthetic State of Mind 104 S. 4th St.
Amazing Graze 1904 Jane St.
Aaron’s Sales & Lease 2608 N. 14th St.
Anderson Flooring 509 N. 1st St.
Aesthetic State of Mind 104 S. 4th St.
Anderson Flooring 509 N. 1st St.
Blanton Chiropractic Clinic 1700 N. 5th St.
Boomer Tire and Alignment 1300 N. Waverly St.
Blanton Chiropractic Clinic 1700 N. 5th St.
Brace Books & More 2205 N. 14th St.
Boomer Tire and Alignment 1300 N. Waverly St.
Brace Books & More 2205 N. 14th St.
Brandt’s Ace Hardware 3203 N. 14th St.
Branch’s Creative Monogramming & Embroidery 110 N. 1st St.
Brandt’s Ace Hardware 3203 N. 14th St.
Buckle 2101 N. 14th St./ Ste. 118
Buckle 2101 N. 14th St./ Ste. 118
Cast Iron Co. 121 E. Grand Ave.
Cast Iron Co. 121 E. Grand Ave.
Cell Barn 1315 E. Prospect Ave.
Cherokee Strip Credit Union 1508 E. Prospect Ave.
Cell Barn 1315 E. Prospect Ave.
Chuc Hoddy Glass 727 N. Union St.
Cherokee Strip Credit Union 1508 E. Prospect Ave.
Chuck Hoddy Glass 727 N. Union St.
Community National Bank & Trust 709 E. Prospect Ave
Combat Syndicate 205 S. Pine St.
Custom Powder and Blasting 2101 Hall Blvd.
Custom Powder and Blasting 2101 Hall Blvd.
Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters, Inc. 1217 E. Prospect Ave.
Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters, Inc. 1217 E. Prospect Ave.
Equity Bank - Downtown 222 E. Grand Ave.
Equity Bank - Downtown 222 E. Grand Ave.
Equity Bank - North Branch 803 E. Prospect Ave.
Equity Bank - North Branch 803 E. Prospect Ave.
Equity Bank - Plaza Location 1417 E. Hartford Ave.
Equity Bank - Plaza Location 1417 E. Hartford Ave.
300 N. 3rd St.
300 N. 3rd St.
Old West Liquors 3211 N. 14th St.
Petsense by Tractor Supply 2129 N. 14th St.
The Prairie Rose
The Prairie Rose
Quality Pools & Spas 115 E. Highland Ave.
407 E. Grand Ave.
Osage Casino - C Store/The Copper Tap 64464 US Highway 60
407 E. Grand Ave.
RCB Bank - Main 1223 E. Highland Ave.
RCB Bank - North Branch 2901 N. 14th St.
Ponca City Discount Foods 2405 N. 14th St.
Quality Water Services
Quality Water Services
RCB Bank - Downtown 212 N. 2nd St.
Ponca Finance Co., Inc. 420 W. Grand Ave.
Quality Pools & Spas 115 E. Highland Ave.
115 E. Highland Ave.
Rusty Barrell Supper Club 2005 N. 14th St.
115 E. Highland Ave.
Skyway CDJR of Ponca City 3501 N. 14th St.
RCB Bank - Main 1223 E. Highland Ave.
RCB Bank (Main, Downtown, North)
RCB Bank - North Branch 2901 N. 14th St.
RCB Bank (Main, Downtown, North)
Smith Home Furnishings 2500 N. 14th St.
RCB Bank - Downtown 212 N. 2nd St.
Southern Chic Tees & Boutique 314 E. Grand Ave.
Family Discount Pharmacy 310 Fairview Ave.
Family Vision Care of Ponca City 1619 N. 5th St.
Family Discount Pharmacy 310 Fairview Ave.
First National Bank of Oklahoma 1501 E. Prospect Ave.
Family Vision Care of Ponca City 1619 N. 5th St.
Fisher Window Tinting & Accessories 601 N. 1st St.
First National Bank of Oklahoma 1501 E. Prospect Ave.
Frocks & Fashions 213 E. Grand Ave.
Fisher Window Tinting & Accessories 601 N. 1st St.
Frocks & Fashions 213 E. Grand Ave.
1223 E. Highland Ave.
Ridin’ High
Ridin’ High
1223 E. Highland Ave.
Spray’s Jewelry, Gifts, & Tuxedos 211 E. Grand Ave.
Rusty Barrell Supper Club 2005 N. 14th St.
Stolhand Wells Group 2000 Lake Rd.
Safelite Auto Glass 1801 E. Hartford Ave.
Stuteville Chevrolet 3330 N. 14th St.
Skyway CDJR of Ponca City 3501 N. 14th St.
2200 E. Coleman Rd.
2200 E. Coleman Rd.
Stuteville Ford-Lincoln 2415 N. 14th St.
Smith Home Furnishings 2500 N. 14th St.
Rusty Barrell Supper Club
Sunny Creek Trading Post 400 E. Central
Southern Chic Tees & Boutique 322 E. Grand Ave.
Rusty Barrell Supper Club
Superior Seamless Guttering 6107 Lake Rd.
Spray’s Jewelry, Gifts, & Tuxedos 211 E. Grand Ave.
2005 N. 14th St.
2005 N. 14th St.
Stolhand Wells Group 200 Lake Rd.
The Gift Shoppe 301 E. Grand Ave.
Stuteville Chevrolet 3330 N. 14th St.
Titan Title & Closing 1922 Lake Rd.
Safelite Auto Glass
Ask for your tickets to increase your chances to win!
Ask for your tickets to increase your chances to win!
Safelite Auto Glass
Toni’s Westside Healthmart 301 W. Grand Ave.
Stuteville Ford-Lincoln 2415 N. 14th St.
1801 E. Hartford Ave.
The Farm House Kids Co. 314 E. Grand Ave.
1801 E. Hartford Ave.
Tractor Supply Co. 3008 N. 14th St.
The Gift Shoppe 301 E. Grand Ave.
Sears
Sears
Tyndall Family Dentistry 415 E. Hartford Ave.
United Way of North Central Oklahoma 205 N. 2nd St.
The Lost Gent Barbershop 1808 N. 5th St.
Titan Title & Closing 1922 Lake Rd.
412 E. Hartford Ave.
412 E. Hartford Ave.
Erin O’Hara Farmers Insurance Agency 1722 N. 4th St., Ste. D
University Center at Ponca City 2800 N. 14th St.
Village Screen Print 316 E. Grand Ave.
Toni’s Westside Healthmart 301 W. Grand Ave.
Smith Home Furnishings
Smith Home Furnishings
Erin O’Hara - Farmers Insurance Agency 1722 N. 4th St., Ste. D
Walmart Supercenter 1101 E. Prospect Ave.
Tractor Supply Co. 3008 N. 14th St.
Tyndall Family Dentistry 415 E. Hartford Ave.
2500 N. 14th St.
Whimsy 318 E. Grand Ave.
2500 N. 14th St.
Whimsy Kids 324 E. Grand Ave.
United Way of North Central Oklahoma 205 N. 2nd St.
Snyder’s Chicken & Catering
Snyder’s Chicken & Catering
Goodwill Thrift Store & Donation Center 2808 N. 14th St.
Hartford Home Appliances & More 412 E. Hartford Ave.
Hartford Home Appliances & More 412 E. Hartford Ave.
Heather Cannon Honda 3415 N. 14th St.
Heather Cannon Honda 3415 N. 14th St.
Homeland - North 2005 N. 14th St., Ste. 110
Hudson Auto Supply 300 S. 2nd St.
Homeland - South 904 S. 4th St.
Ryan A. Johnson, DDS 400 Fairview Ave., Ste. 6
Kelle Repair and Tire Center 1400 N. Ash St.
Hudson Auto Supply 300 S. 2nd St.
Kentucky Fried Chicken 1308 Princeton Ave.
Ryan A. Johnson, DDS 400 Fairview Ave.
Klinger’s Collision Center 3802 N. Pleasant View Rd.
Kelle Repair and Tire Center 1400 N. Ash
McGee Jewelers 219 E. Grand Ave.
Kentucky Fried Chicken 1308 Princeton Ave.
Old West Liquors 3211 N. 14th St.
Klingers Collision CenterLLC 521 Monument Rd.
McGee Jewelers 219 E. Grand Ave.
Osage Casino - C Store 64464 US Highway 60
Willy’s Wash 2605 N. 14th St.
University Center at Ponca City 2800 N. 14th St.
Walmart Supercenter 1101 E. Prospect Ave.
2125 N. 14th St
2125 N. 14th St
Brian Zwanziger, OD & Jessica Zwanziger 521 E. Hartford Ave.
Waymakers Floral 111 E. Grand Ave.
Spray’s Jewelry & Gifts
Whimsy & Village Screen Print 318 E. Grand Ave.
Spray’s Jewelry & Gifts
SPONSORS
Willy’s Wash 2605 N. 14th St.
203 E. Grand Ave.
203 E. Grand Ave.
104.7 The Bull (TEAM Radio)
Brian Zwanziger, OD & Jessica Zwanziger 521 E. Hartford Ave.
Stolhand-Wells Plumbing, Heating & Air
1230 WBBZ (TEAM Radio)
Stolhand-Wells Plumbing, Heating & Air
City of Ponca City
Evans & Associates Enterprises, Inc.
SPONSORS (NOT TICKET OUTLETS)
Loftis & Wetzel
City of Ponca City
413 S. 3rd St.
413 S. 3rd St.
My Media Matters
Evans & Associates Enterprises, Inc.
Loftis & Wetzel
Stuteville Chevrolet
Stuteville Chevrolet
Phillips 66 - Ponca City Refinery
Ponca City News
My Media Matters
3330 N 14th St.
3330 N 14th St.
Merrick’s Custom Leather Handbags & Boutique 203 E. Grand Ave.
Sage Integrated Health
Phillips 66 - Ponca City Refinery
Ponca City News
Sun Loan Company & Tax Service
A Shop Ponca First retail event sponsored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Sun Loan Company & Tax Service
A Shop Ponca First retail event sponsored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Kentucky Fried Chicken
1308 Princeton Ave.
1308 Princeton Ave.
1806 N. 5th St.
1806 N. 5th St.
Toni’s Westside Healthmart
“Creativity is intelligence
Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer
The skill and artistry of crafting take many forms, and you will find several of those at the sessions of Ponca City’s Creative Friends group. In June 2024 Krista Robertson and Donna Hingtgen formalized the group to bring people who love craft projects in a monthly setting that gives them space, inspirational ideas from one another and time away from other stresses of life.
Robertson is the primary contact and organizer for the group, and she explains that unlike many past groups that focused on just scrapbooking, any kind of crafting work can be done when they meet. She mentions they have people who scrapbook, make cards and journals, do diamond art, embroidery and quilting. Anything goes that is creative work an individual may want to focus on.
People bring their own supplies, but also have an area where free items can be put out for others in the group who might need them. However, it is most significantly the inspiration and ideas that they share when they meet each month. Regular monthly meetings are free and usually on the third Saturday of the month from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., but they sometimes differ due to holidays and such.
In September Robertson organizes a two- to three-day gathering where the group can work from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. each day. For this
event, she coordinates T-shirts, goody bags, door prizes and three meals a day (although many times participants take breaks and eat in the community and shop locally) since several people come from out of town. The extended event is usually $125 for the entire time. Besides Ponca City crafters, others come from Winfield, Norman, Mustang, the Tulsa area and the Enid area, so local hotels also get business on the extended crafting sessions.
Last September’s theme for the two- to three-day event was “Rockin’ Around the Crop.” Robertson dressed to fit this theme, and everyone received a shirt that fit the theme. Many new friends are made after spending this much time together.
Hingtgen says, “I think people don’t realize the added tourism for Ponca City with this group since many come from out of town. Many are from smaller communities, so it is a good chance to shop and eat here.”
An additional point discussed by Robertson is the mental health benefit that comes from having a hobby that gets you away from everyday life and stress. In addition, people new to the community can attend and meet others who have similar interests. She says, “The group is very welcoming.”
For those interested in being part of this creative group, the end-of-theyear sessions will be Nov. 15 and Dec. 13. After having their Halloween session in October, these sessions will have themes of Friendsgiving and a Christmas party while people can work on crafts for themselves or gifts for the upcoming holiday. It’s a perfect time to become involved if you enjoy creating.
Robertson gives credit to P66 for allowing the group to meet at the 4th Street Clubhouse. It is a perfect location and has a wonderful layout with ample tables for those who attend. They’ve had
almost 30 attend in the past and generally have at least a dozen. The space has room for growth if the group expands.
If you enjoy a fun break to further develop and work on your craft ideas, this is a group that has individuals from their 20s to late 70s. The diversity of crafts and people brings new ideas that participants can see work before purchasing tools and supplies
for themselves. For example, many have moved to using toolboxes to bring their supplies and watched others work on magnetic easels before purchasing their own to set up and easily view their design before finalizing it. Seeing how other crafters use tools helps a person know if they would help them with their own.
Although prior registration is not required for the regular monthly sessions, it is still a good idea to let the organizers know you are coming to ensure there is enough room for everyone.
Krista Robertson, lead organizer for Ponca City’s Creative Friends group.
Robertson mentions that she can be found on Facebook and there is a “Ponca City Paper Crafters” page as well that you can join. She can be messaged via FB Messenger to be sure you have the correct meeting date. Most publicity is by word of mouth and through this page and the Oklahoma Scrapbookers group. If crafting is a hobby you have, or if you are looking for a place to begin, Creative Friends is a fun place for you!
“I think people don’t realize the added tourism for Ponca City with this group since many come from out of town. Many are from smaller communities, so it is a good chance to shop and eat here.”
Who is Bill Lawter? It began with a duck—five ducks, actually, as Bill Lawter grew up reading Donald Duck comic books. When little Billy—a Class A nerd—became infatuated with Donald, his three nephews and Uncle Scrooge’s world-wide adventures, he asked his parents for a globe so he could track the ducks. After his first border crossing over the Rio Grande to Juarez, Mexico, and a stint as a foreign exchange student to England, Bill was hooked. He became obsessed with foreign travel, eventually visiting 202 different countries, including two lengthy trips around the world. Bill does not take packaged tours—he makes his own arrangements and carries a single carry-on bag that fits under an airline seat. And yes, Bill still reads Donald Duck comics.
Editor’s Note: Bill is a long-time Ponca City resident, retired Conoco employee, dedicated community volunteer and we are so excited to share some of his fascinating stories of
Story by Bill Lawter | Contributing Writer
Ecuador supplies perhaps 30 percent of the world’s roses—even providing them to stores in Ponca City. In the two weeks before Mother’s Day in May, Ecuador reportedly exported an astonishing 22 tons of roses, mostly to the United States. Your mom may have been one of the lucky recipients of those high-quality bloomers.
Ecuador is one of two South American countries that hosts both the Andes mountains and the equator, which runs through the north side of Quito—the planet’s second-highest capital city. Despite its altitude, Quito is the best jumping-off spot for a visit to the sea-level Galapagos Islands— our ultimate destination. But Quito is an attractive city in an idyllic setting, so a few days in Quito are essential for visitors.
Quito is a challenge for heart patients—especially when a cardiologist insists on an altitude limit of 12,000 feet. That is difficult when Quito itself lies at 9,300 feet, and 17 of the country’s 40 volcanoes— some peaking at 19,000 feet—are nearby and demand tourist attention. But high altitudes can cause headaches, light-headedness, muscle weakness and rapid heartbeats, so visitors must use discretion.
Undaunted, my daughter and I hired a driver/ guide who had learned English watching reruns of The Simpsons on local television. With a picnic basket in tow, we headed for Laguna Cuicocha, at approximately 11,000 feet.
With beautiful weather and dormant volcanoes
Bill and his daughter 11,000-feet-high in the Andes at Lake
littering the landscape, we enjoyed strolling the Otavalo textile market, passing dozens of rose greenhouses, leisurely sightseeing and our picnic. We finally reached the monster Cutacachi volcano’s caldera, which holds the pristine, twomile-wide Lake Cuicocha. It was a perfect day . . . until we were robbed.
Our new friend was driving through a series of downhill curves on a narrow road. As he slowed for one sharp bend, we were startled to see an elderly woman standing in the middle of the road. She had tied a piece of white string to the twig of a bush alongside the road, and was holding the other end of the string in her gnarled hand. Her accomplice—another elderly woman—was sound asleep in the dirt of a roadside ditch. But the taut string was an effective roadblock. Our driver didn’t want to blow through the string and hurt the woman.
After a brief conversation in rapid-fire Spanish, our driver explained that the two women were hungry, and highway robbery was a good way to rustle up groceries. As we understood it, the two women survived by robbing vehicles every day.
After the driver’s explanation, we would have been happy to share food with the robbers, but we had eaten everything we had during the picnic. Well, everything except three bananas. We regretted not having more to offer, but when we handed the bananas to the bandita, she gave us a wide, warm smile in return. The bananas were perfect; she had no teeth.
The Essential Recipes: 120 Greatest Hits, New Twists and Perfected Classics
By Ree Drummond
It is officially our favorite time of the year! Not only is the weather cooling off and the leaves are beginning to change, it is the perfect time to get in the kitchen and cook up all those yummy foods for friends and family! To put the cherry on top, it is a Ree Drummond year! Every other year, our favorite country club girl turned rancher’s wife gives us another glimpse into her life and her kitchen!
This is cookbook #9 for Ree and possibly the best one yet! Not only is the cover incredibly beautiful, it is filled with all of
Ree’s favorite staples from over the years.
The Pioneer Woman Cooks—The Essential Recipes: 120 Greatest Hits, New Twists and Perfected Classics. The title might be a mouthful, but so is every single recipe in this book. It is packed full of everyone’s favorite essential recipes, but with a little surprise. Ree has taken 120 of her all-time greatest recipes and tested them, tasted them, retested them and ended with perfection on every single one. Inside you’ll find new little additions to Ladd’s favorite Chicken Spaghetti, Ree’s favorite Best Lasagna Ever, Bryce’s updated Broccoli Cheese Soup and an even more perfect, Perfect Pancake recipe!
This cookbook just hit shelves last month, and I’ve already gotten one for everyone in my family! It will make the perfect holiday gift for your favorite cook, and with step-by-step color photos of each recipe, it’s also great for beginners!
by Kate Messner
Noah Connelly was a star athlete and a firefighter who always ran toward danger until he died two years ago. His son, Finn, is nothing like him. Finn’s about to fail seventh grade: he missed 14 hours of PE and didn’t turn in his poetry project in English, focusing on “What Makes a Hero.” Finn explains to his teacher that he didn’t do the poetry project because he believes there’s no such thing as heroes, and he can prove it.
because there’s no way he and his mom can afford to replace that headstone. The old lady’s daughter surprises Finn with an unusual offer: she’ll drop the charges if Finn agrees to climb all 46 Adirondack High Peaks in one summer. Oh, he has to take the dead lady’s dog with him as he climbs those mountains. Finn doesn’t get a chance to respond. His mom accepts the offer. Finn will climb all 46 mountains with the dog.
Reviewed by Tara Anson
His dad made headlines as a star athlete in high school and again as one of the firefighters who responded to the Twin Towers on 9/11. Finn doesn’t make headlines because they don’t write headlines about boys who like to bake cookies. Correction—Finn has never made the headlines until now. He was caught on a security camera vandalizing the local cemetery. And of course, the old lady whose headstone he toppled was a beloved local mountaineer.
Finn expects to end up in juvie
Finn uses those 46 mountains for inspiration for his poetry project and for the missing PE hours. I fell in love with this book (and Finn) by the end of the second page. I loved his sassiness. Here’s one of the haiku he attempted to submit as part of his poetry project:
The sun was shining.
Nature nature blah blah blah.
This haiku is done.
Reviewed
by Lorrie
Layton
Story by Shannon Somers | Owner, Aesthetic State of Mind, Contributing Writer
As the winter months approach, our immune systems face extra challenges like colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. This is the time that it becomes so important to focus on helping your immune system as much as you can. November is the perfect time to explore ways to start!
Supporting your immune system isn’t only about preventing sickness….it’s also about cultivating the energy, clarity, and vitality that allow you to look and feel your best all season long.
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your immune system is through diet. Whole, nutrientdense foods serve as the body’s first line of defense. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as citrus, bell peppers, and leafy greens are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that help the body combat inflammation and protect against cellular damage. Zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, and oysters further support immune cell production and tissue repair, while vitamin A–rich options like sweet potatoes and carrots keep mucous membranes healthy. Even something as warm and comforting as bone broth offers powerful benefits, providing amino acids and minerals that reduce inflammation
and strengthen the gut lining, as well as just being good for the soul on a cold, gloomy day.
Speaking of the gut, I know I spoke about this in last month’s article but it’s so so important. Maintaining a healthy digestive system is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of immunity. It is more important than ever now since we are living in a world of highly processed foods. More than 70% of your immune system resides in the gut, meaning a balanced microbiome helps your body recognize and fight off harmful germs. Incorporating fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir can naturally boost beneficial bacteria, while high-fiber foods such as oats, apples, and chia seeds nourish those microbes. For those who need extra support during peak flu season, professional guidance on probiotics or immunesupportive IV therapy can offer a restorative boost from the inside out.
Beyond nutrition, strategic supplementation can make a meaningful difference. Vitamin D is crucial for immune support, especially when shorter days limit sunlight exposure. Pairing it with vitamin K2 enhances absorption and overall effectiveness. Vitamin C, zinc, and elderberry remain trusted staples for immune support, while adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and reishi mushroom help regulate the body’s stress response, an oftenoverlooked factor in immune health.
Equally important are rest, hydration, and stress management. Heavy on the stress management because we know the holidays put a lot of undue stress on us all. The immune system thrives when the body feels safe, rested, and hydrated.
As you move into the colder months, think of immune care as an extension of your beauty and wellness routine.
Story by Tim Williams CEO, University Center at Ponca City | Contributing Writer
We survived the fun and chaos of Halloween, and now the students of the University Center at Ponca City are back at their studies. Before we know it, finals week and the end of fall semester will arrive.
In October’s article, I highlighted several good things that are currently going on at the University Center. In that article, I only briefly mentioned scholarships because they deserve an article of their own. So here we go!
Our students may apply for scholarships just like any other student at our partner schools (NOC and NWOSU). One bonus of attending the UC is that students may receive additional scholarships from the University Center Foundation and other local organizations that are given only to students attending the UC. Here is a summary of those UC-
only scholarships.
Concurrent student scholarships.
Last spring the UC announced a revamp of our concurrent student scholarships. This fall the University Center Foundation awarded scholarships for 100% of the fees incurred by concurrent high school students. (See our website for scholarship details and conditions.)
The fees associated with concurrent classes are approximately $100 per credit hour. Although a few chose not to apply, the UC Foundation awarded just under $38,000 in scholarships to 71 students enrolled in 372 credit hours. Spring awards will be about the same as fall.
These scholarships were made possible by a generous grant from Phillips 66; generous donations from Carl and Brenda Renfro, John and MaryAnne O’Neill and Rick and Carol Scott; and other funds from the UC Foundation. We are currently raising funds for the 2026-27 school year in order to continue
this scholarship going forward.
General scholarship awards. The UC Foundation increased concurrent scholarships without compromising the scholarships to other students. In addition to the scholarships awarded to concurrent students, $11,400 was awarded to UC students attending NOC and NWOSU this fall, with plans for the same amount in the spring.
By the time spring semester scholarships are awarded, the UC Foundation will have awarded almost $100,000 in scholarships for the 202526 school year. That is an increase of $60,000 over last year and $80,000 over prior years. These scholarships are made possible by generous gifts from donors and proceeds from UC Foundation invested funds.
Scholarships from local groups.
In addition to scholarships awarded by the UC Foundation, other local groups often award scholarships to UC students. For the last few years, including this year, Ponca Young Employees (PYE) has awarded scholarships to several nontraditional students. They increased their scholarships this year so that four nontraditional students received
$500 scholarships. This year’s recipients are Ashley Gale (Education-NOC), Erica White (BusinessNOC), Cassy Schoonover (Psychology-NWOSU) and Noah Tah (Computer Science-NWOSU). In recent years local groups, such as the Community Health Foundation and Leadership Ponca City, have also awarded scholarships.
The University Center Foundation is passionate about making college education accessible to the students of Ponca City. Scholarship awards made possible by generous donors play a major role in making that happen. To learn more about the University Center
Foundation, its scholarships and how you can be involved, visit ucpcgiving. comvor contact the University Center.
The University Center partners with colleges and universities to bring college degrees, programs and courses to the people of the Ponca City area. Drop by for a visit, take a look around, meet our staff, grab some swag and see for yourself some of the wonderful things going on at the UC! We are located at 2800 N. 14th Street, give us a call at 580-718-5600 or visit our website at UCPoncaCity.com.
Story by Adam Leaming
We are in the middle of another great school year and heading straight into the holiday blitz. From turkey to presents and then a new year, this time of year never seems to slow down. There is one exception though, and that is for our teachers and Wildcat students on the Friday before each break. Somehow, on that day, time actually slows down. Physicists have tried to explain this with math and logic, but they have come up short. The truth is, there is no logic to explain it. The space-time continuum simply breaks down on those afternoons before a school break. Yet somehow, the clock still strikes 3:10, and we all head off into a well-earned holiday.
In our district, we spend a lot of time talking about quality instruction. One question I often ask my team is this: What makes a teacher great? The research is clear. If you want the best outcomes for kids, you give them an amazing teacher. If you want a great school, you give them a great principal. But the part I wrestle with is figuring out what “it” is that makes them great.
When I think back on my own school experiences, I remember some incredible teachers. Each of them was great, but in their own unique way. When I talk with our community, students, and families, I love hearing their stories about great teachers. I always ask, “What made them great?” The answers are always different and always special. Ask a four-yearold and they will say, “Because they help me,” or, “They give me hugs.” A high school student might say, “They believe in me,” or, “They push me to do better.” Parents often tell me they know they have
a great teacher because their child loves coming to school or because that teacher is positive and encouraging.
It makes me wonder if sometimes we focus on the wrong things. Of course, it is important to teach kids to read, write, and think. But maybe we also need to think about success in a different way. Maybe our job as educators is not only to teach but also to inspire and grow the next generation. Maybe success is not found just in test scores, but in how we help our students feel supported, valued, and cared for inside our schools.
I have never been to a class reunion where people from the 1960s or 1970s bragged about Ponca City’s tough exams. Instead, I hear stories about the teachers who made them feel special, who pushed them to do their best, and who believed in them when they were young.
So, as time slows down again before the next school break, I hope you remember this: we are here to encourage and uplift the 4,400 Wildcat students who come through our doors every day. We will continue to work hard for strong academic results, but more importantly, we will love our kids. We will encourage them, support them, and do our best to be the kind of people they deserve to look up to. Because our kids deserve that.
Story by Shelley Arrott, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce CEO | Contributing Writer
The holiday season is right around the corner, and in Ponca City, that means it’s time for the Santa Buck Giveaway!
For more than 30 years, the Santa Buck Giveaway has been a cherished Ponca City tradition and is the largest sales promotion of its kind in Oklahoma. This year, the Chamber is turning up the holiday magic by increasing the drawing night payout from $10,000 to $12,500 in Santa Bucks! And for the first time in history, we’re introducing a brand-new $2,500 Grand Prize! Over the past two years, an additional $3,500 in Santa Buck prizes have been added, making this community favorite bigger, brighter and more exciting than ever.
But it’s not just about the prizes, it’s about celebrating the season together and supporting our local businesses.
The impact is incredible! Last year alone, tickets represented $19 million in sales for 75 merchants in just a month and a half!
Families even host watch parties to cheer on the big drawing night, making it a true holiday tradition. And don’t forget the thrill of Secret Santa Surprises, where lucky shoppers are randomly surprised with
$50 in Santa Bucks to spend instantly! That’s not all; every Santa Buck prize that is won can only be redeemed with participating merchants, keeping holiday dollars right here in Ponca City.
• Shopping kicks off Nov. 1 at participating Santa Buck Giveaway merchants.
• For every $10 spent, you’ll earn one ticket (up to 500 tickets).
Just stopping by? Shoppers can also ask for one free ticket with their visit to a participating merchant!
Look for the Santa Buck Giveaway poster in storefronts, scan the QR Code pinned at the top of our Facebook page or visit www. poncacitychamber. com for a full list of participating businesses.
Then on Dec. 18, the excitement reaches its peak as Team Radio broadcasts live from the Chamber Office on your favorite stations. We’ll also go live on Facebook, spotlighting local merchants and sharing the fun in real time. Winning tickets will be drawn starting at 7 p.m., and we
will draw for the next prize every few minutes. Tune in, turn up the volume and listen closely because your ticket might just be the lucky winner!
When you hear your ticket number called:
1. Call the Chamber Office within five minutes to verify you have the winning number.
2. If confirmed, you’ll have a set amount of time to drive to the Chamber Office at 5th & Grand to redeem your ticket.
• Your drive time will be determined by where you live.
3. To officially win, you must:
• Have the correct ticket.
• Call within five minutes.
• Present the winning ticket at the Chamber Office at 420 E. Grand.
The Santa Buck Giveaway is more than the thrill of winning. It’s about shopping local, supporting our neighbors and making the holidays merry and bright for the whole community. With more prizes, more excitement and more ways to win, this year’s Santa Buck Giveaway promises to be the best one yet!
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Story by Relo Adams, MS, MCP, LPC-C | Contributing Writer
There are so many things to look forward to in the fall season of each year. That candy holiday that so many love, cooler weather, my second 19th birthday and Thanksgiving! Looking over my life, I have so many ups and downs, and so much to be grateful for. The highs absolutely outweigh the lows. I complain sometimes, and sometimes I complain a lot, and then am instantly convicted because really, there is so much to be thankful for, even when things are tough. A core principle of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the interconnectedness of one’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Thoughts influence feelings, and feelings directly impact one’s behaviors and reactions. It is safe to say that our thoughts are actually responsible for creating our feelings. An easy example would be being stopped by a train when in a hurry. The go-to-thought when this has happened to be is “who builds a train track in the middle of town!? What a waste of time.” This type of thinking could lead to feelings of frustration, impatience and irritability or anger. The behavior related to those uncomfortable feelings could result in aggressive driving, rude words and poor attitude the rest of the morning or day. If the negative thought was immediately addressed “who builds a train track in the middle of town!? What a waste of time” and replaced with a helpful thought such as “what a good opportunity to listen to a podcast” the feelings would shift from anger and frustration to comfortable feelings such as calm or motivation which then influences the behavior as a result, which would not be aggressive driving and
rude words and poor attitude, but the opposite. Where your attention goes, energy flows! This simple sentence explains that what you focus on directly impacts your feelings, actions and reality.
Gratitude can be an extraordinary tool if regularly practiced because it can alter our bodies’ chemistry, reshape our brain and assist in building resilience. When practiced on a consistent basis, neurotransmitters are stimulated and stress hormones are lowered, our vital brain circuits are made stronger and the brain structure changes in a way that supports long-term psychological well-being. Practicing gratitude is nothing new, however neuroscience has now proven something that Philippians 4:8 has taught for many years; intentional thinking is powerful. Paul wrote “finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is admirable; if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think on these things.” He goes on to encourage putting this into practice and the result will be peace. Science backs this because when we concentrate or focus on “what is pure or right” we will bypass unnecessary thoughts or distractions because we are intentionally focused on specific
things. When this happens, the selective attention system of the brain is then activated which then allows for mental energy to be conserved by reducing the strain on the prefrontal cortex. Intentional thinking allows us to make space for what matters, allowing us to have more peace and for us to be more productive.
Emotional well-being is significantly improved as well. Thinking about what is “admirable and lovely” lessens the activity that occurs in the amygdala, which is the part of the brain that is responsible for stress and fear; the brain is legit rewiring when we do this. Besides this, our cortisol levels lower, which significantly assists in emotional regulation. Scripture’s command
1508 E. Prospect, Ponca City 108 S. Main, Newkirk cherokeestrip.com We’re thankful for your support and trust in us. May your Thanksgiving be blessed with family, friends, and all the things that you are grateful for.
• FREE Wi-Fi throughout building
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• Rent based on income
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We are Thankful for the Opportunity to Provide Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled in our Community. Call for information or apply in
• Friendship Feast transportation
• Meals on Wheels
• Movie and game night
• Seasonal events
201 E. Broadway • Ponca City 580-762-4445
own our trucks and trailers! Congratulations to the second generation at Hurst Construction on your growing company. Thank you for trusting us to haul your loads!
We take housing applications for the elderly and disabled. You must be at least 50 years of age or receiving disability benefits.
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to think on things that are praiseworthy perfectly aligns with the neuroscience discoveries related to anxiety reduction. Meditating on praiseworthy (positive) thoughts makes neuropathways related to optimism and gratitude stronger in the cingulate cortex. Science has shown time and time again that intentional positivity impacts resilience, also reflecting the transformation detailed in Philippians 4:8.
Instead of focusing on what he could not control or his current condition or situation, he chose to focus on what was pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy; and this is what his instructions were when he wrote this letter, the book of Phillipians. By replacing negative and/or unhelpful thoughts with positive and/or truthful thoughts, we change our brain development! Our brains are very moldable and when we engage in being intentionally thankful and consistently practice gratitude, we engage the neuroplasticity of our brain; which is just a fancy way to say our brain structure changes and has the ability to form new, healthier neuropathways. This is helpful in breaking the cycles of fear, anxiety, negative rumination; renewing our mind (Romans 12:2); allowing us to
by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS
1. Couch
5. Short boxing blows
9. Humped desert animal
14. Topmost part
15. ___ vera (soothing lotion)
16. ___ by the rules (play fair)
17. It's shouted when your Starbucks order is ready
18. Chinese dynasty famous for its vases
19. Tools found in ice buckets
20. Tennessee Williams play, with "The" (2 wds.)
23. Bart Simpson's age
24. Display in the Louvre
25. Like Noah's Ark animals
29. Come up, like the morning sun
31. Stomach muscles, for short
34. Symbol on a One Way sign
35. Fastener that holds pages (2 wds.)
37. Neeson of 2025's "The Naked Gun"
38. Criminal's alternative identity
39. Minnelli of musicals
40. Metallica or Black Sabbath (2 wds.)
42. Poe's "Nevermore" bird
43. Direction opposite NNW
44. Very long time periods
45. Fiery streakers in space
46. Greek letter after sigma
47. Pie ___ mode (2 wds.)
48. Nose job or tummy tuck (2 wds.)
56. Comb or saw part
57. Thin-bodied
58. Alaska's is 600,000+ square miles
59. Single copy of a magazine
have peace, long term. Both science and scripture confirm and affirm the power in thinking; it truly does transform not only our thinking patterns, but the way we live.
I had no intentions to write this month’s piece in this specific direction, specifically one of the many ways science has confirmed Bible teaching. I had all intentions to go deeper on the parts of the brain that are impacted and chemical production such as dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin that are impacted by practicing gratitude! Maybe we can have a guest expert to go deeper into this area in the future, after all I am a forever student and would love to hear how this is all impacted from a medical doctor, a very experienced therapist or if we are lucky, a neuroscientist.
60. Soap lather
61. Bathroom or kitchen fixture
62. Gives the appearance of
63. Do the bidding of 64. Veterinarian's visitors
DOWN
1. Competed on "The Voice"
2. This month's birthstone
3. National disaster relief org. (abbr.)
4. Woodsmen's tools
5. Like a printer that needs clearing
6. Visitor from another planet
7. It was once West Germany's capital
8. Sonic the Hedgehog's company
9. Wedding receptionʼs food provider
10. Abandon, as a space mission
11. Revealing skirt style
12. Trim a sidewalk's border
13. "___ Misérables" (Broadway hit)
21. Dish with oysters, beef, or rabbit
22. Helium, methane, etc.
25. Coconut trees
26. Ram of the zodiac
27. Angry
28. Oval-shaped tomato variety
29. Reservoir-filling events
30. Apple's tablet computer
31. "Sexiest Man ___" (People honor)
32. "Carmen" composer
33. What a bridge does over a river
35. Map out a strategy
36. Shellfish in a chowder
38. "That's okay, don't worry ___ it"
41. Dog walkers' tethers
42. 2013 Katy Perry hit
Accident-prone
Channing in "Magic Mike" movies
"Seriously, all joking ___..."
Dream big, folks! There isn’t enough space in this November 2025 article to go much further, but we have something to look forward to!
I’m thinking if this is what thinking does to our brain development and our actual lives and reality, can you imagine how our words influence our lives? Also, I’m reminded of the biblical and scientific parallels concerning what words we say and their impact on our mental health and resilience! I have a whole month to research and write about the power words have and how they impact our mental health and world we live in. And who knows … maybe December’s piece will be precious and about the joy we get from giving and the impact getting and giving gifts has on mental health. So many possibilities and I am excited!
If you or someone you know needs mental health assistance of any kind, please feel free to reach out to your local community mental health agency or call or text 988, the suicide and crisis lifeline or call 911 for immediate emergencies.
Take care of yourselves, and each other,
~ Relo Adams, Mr. Ponca City
Take part in a photo shoot
"If you
by Liz Threlkeld / Owner of Sunny Creek Trading Post | Contributing Writer
Welcome to “The Sunny Side” where we’ll chat about all things homesteading! My name is Liz Threlkeld and I have been homesteading with my family in small forms or large fashions for most of my life. From growing gardens to DIY projects, to cooking and preserving, to raising and processing our own meat animals, we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. I’m excited to get to share some of this life with you. Ready? Let’s grow!
Hey Friends,
I want to take you on a short walk of our homesteading lives recently and peel back the curtains a bit. Between 2023 and 2024, after many years of scaling up, our family grew, hunted or fished 75% of what we ate on our homestead. This had been a long-term goal of mine for a couple of reasons: a personal mission to feed my family healthier, nutrient-dense, whole foods and an effort to prove to myself and my family that we could feed ourselves should we ever need to.
Along that journey, as we grew more and more food, I realized just how much work it was to do all the things. I began to see that food may be one of the reasons that humans choose to cohabitate in communities. My mindset shifted from self-sufficient to communitysufficient. We started ramping up the food production that we did well, resulting in a surplus of produce, and bartered that with others for the food items that they produced better than us. This is where I began my “Hybrid Homesteader” model of thinking.
stop at the random veggie pile parked by the side of the road, drive to the opposite end of town to get my fresh, raw milk and chicken from RLC Farm, and hit up the “pecan lady” selling pecans on Facebook Marketplace.
However, two problems were consistently emerging: 1. Homesteaders, as well as myself, had products to sell but little to no time to chase customers because we were too busy chasing chickens, kids, or that dang cow that got out again. 2. As a customer of local food, my typical “grocery trip” around town to source it all was exhausting. After visiting with other local foodies, they reflected my plight. It was so laborious to do all the things.
After a daily trip to my garden, I’d then move to the community for more food sourcing every week. I’d stop at the neighbor’s veggie stand, buy eggs from the other neighbor, go to the lake to grab some fresh fish,
The answer plopped into my mind one day. Kay County needed a centralized location in town where local, small-scale producers could take their products to be sold and where eager customers could find homegrown and community-made in one convenient location! Thus, Sunny Creek Trading Post was born, at least in imaginative form.
Of course I had never started a business in my life, didn’t know the first thing, and capital was a
real issue. However, that did not deter me from consulting Google for “help starting a business in Oklahoma”. Maybe I’d start super small…
Let me tell you the next few steps in fast forward mode (and note that when I say “I”, I really mean me and everyone involved who helped me): that Google search led me to OKSBDC, which led me to the Biz Dept. at Pioneer Technology Center, who helped me start my LLC and then introduced me to the Ponca City Development Authority, who suggested I start a local produce subscription box, which I did, then I got into the commercial kitchen incubator space at PTC, which led to the Business Plan Pitch-Off at PCDA, which opened up conversations with Kat Long about the eventual “dream”, who, after our successful local food popups suggested, “Why don’t you just open up your store right here, right now?” gesturing to the old, empty coffee shop location inside of City Central.
Fast forward mode - HALT!
Ummm, excuse me? *me looking behind me to see who Kat must have been talking to - I see no one* Did you just say that to ME?
To be continued online…
Liz Threlkeld
To read the rest of the story and see my little secret of how I balance my business and homesteading please (scan here).
Oklahoma City … and need a forkful of pie love, go to the Plaza District on NW 16th Street and visit one of my favorite neighborhoods in Oklahoma City. Named one of the top three pie shops in the United States by USA Today, Pie Junkie specializes in one thing ... pie, and they know exactly what they’re doing. The Bird Dog Buttermilk pie is one of the most perfect and sweet bites you can eat. Made with a splash of Bird Dog Blackberry whiskey, it is like a chess pie, but with a subtle berry flavor. The Apple Crumble with Salted Bourbon Caramel sauce is top tier, and my favorite. I mean my most favorite apple pie on the planet. Gimme a straw for that caramel sauce. However, Pie Junkie’s most popular flavor is the Drunken Turtle. This very, very, very chocolatey pie is not for me (refer to the May 2024 article for more on why I do not want chocolate. Ever.), but it’s a crowd pleaser. Graham cracker crust, pecans and that addictive salted bourbon caramel all mixed up with a fudgy filling. I get it. People love it. And I really love that … for them.
by Amy Dewitt Geurin | Contributing Writer
Cue the cozy vibes and stretchy pants—it’s November. Festivals and ice-skating rinks (check out the Veteran’s Plaza in downtown Ponca City!) and hunting season and casseroles galore. For many, it is a time for coming together, and no gathering feels complete without food, and holiday food means pies—homemade, delicious pies for all.
Mary’s Grill in Tonkawa has been serving all-American comfort food since 1955.
Carol Sawyer bought Mary’s in 2016, and she has kept the classic favorites that customers love, but she has also added dishes to keep things interesting.
Homemade pies are a staple at this homey neighborhood spot, and every variety is made from scratch.
Everyday options include apple, cherry, chocolate meringue, chocolate cream, chocolate peanut butter, coconut cream and strawberry. Whole pies are available to order FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
More than just fabulous pie, Mary’s has a great selection of classic diner food. The club sandwich is piled high with everything expected—turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese and more. It is a hearty, layered, satisfying, two-handed meal. Try one of the creative and fun baked potatoes. The Maverick Spud is a perfectly baked potato smothered in shredded cheese, bacon, chives and a creamy layer of homemade mac and cheese.
Carol ensures that Mary’s supports the community. Intentional decisions, such as only serving Blue & Gold sausage purchased from local FFA chapters, and
Mary’s has e-gift cards available. Super easy to buy online and super fun to give.
Daily specials. When that Blueberry Cream Cheese Pancake craving hits, check the website to see when it’s available!
Pro tip: Order the College Fries, fries slathered with cream gravy, but ask for the sausage cream gravy instead. Perfection.
using local farm fresh eggs not only boosts local business, it helps keep the dollars in the community. Local spending, local impact.
Restaurants like Mary’s are a cornerstone of American food culture, serving familiar and comforting food, while maintaining the charm and warmth that draws both regulars and newcomers in consistently. Visit Mary’s and back the businesses that back your community. And while there, have some tasty pie. Happy Eating!!
Mixed by Jill Rowe | Staff Writer
It’s a wonder I made it out of my 20s alive. Those were the days of Zimas with Jolly Ranchers, Four Loko back when it had enough caffeine to power a small city and Sparks energy drinks (which, apparently, live only in my memory). Hangovers? Barely knew ’em. I was practically invincible. Drinking refined sugar by the gallon and dancing the night away without a care in the world.
These days, a Margarita makes me reach for a roll of Tums before I even take a sip, and if my hand strays from the table I’m gripping onto while dancing, trouble comes knocking. But long before acid reflux made its dramatic debut (I genuinely thought I was dying), I was all about a good Appletini. These days, you’d be hard-pressed to find a bar that still supplies Apple Puckers.
The Appletini saw its rise to fame in 1997 at a Los Angeles club called Lola’s, where the bartender decided to mix apple schnapps with vodka. They named it the Adam’s Apple Martini, later shortened to Apple Martini, and eventually the now-famous Appletini. Word of the cocktail spread quickly, and Lola’s soon saw long lines of customers, including Hollywood celebrities, eager
1 1/2-ounces Calvados 1-ounce Apple Juice 1/2-ounce Lemon Juice
to sip the glamorous new creation. Before long, the Appletini had made its way into pop culture, appearing on TV shows and in films, while bartenders across the country began experimenting with their own twists.
So, what can you do when you feel like taking a stroll down memory lane without going into a diabetic coma? Let’s try swapping the Apple Puckers for something slightly less artificial. My recommendation is Calvados, a type of apple brandy. It might have a little more of a kick than the puckers, but you can soften it with a splash of apple juice for a smoother, perfectly balanced sip.
Growing older doesn’t mean giving up on flavorful cocktails. It just means the aftereffects aren’t as fun! Thankfully, we can often swap ingredients to keep the taste we love without the regret. In the end, the only thing stronger than Four Loko is hindsight.
Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Story by Jeff MacKinnon | Contributing Writer
The annual Thanksgiving buffet had arrived, and the office was buzzing with excitement. CEO Spike stood at the front of the line, surveying the spread like a general about to lead his troops into battle.
“Strategy, people,” he said, pointing at the turkey.
“You don’t waste prime plate space on plain rolls. Rolls are decoys.”
Meanwhile, Josh, already holding two plates, nodded seriously. “I’m just making sure the team is represented at both ends of the table,” he said, “I’m double plating for efficiency.”
Valerie, from HR spied on Josh suspiciously with clipboard in hand, taking her role as buffet monitor seriously. “Remember, folks, it’s one scoop of mashed potatoes per person. We can’t have another ‘gravy incident’ like last year.”
Darin grinned as he slid past with three slices of pie. “Don’t worry, Valerie, I’m just conducting some, uh, dessert-based research … strictly for client relations.”
Valerie, not buying into his usual antics began scribbling on her clipboard as Darin quickly retorted, “It’s dessert diversification. You know, like portfolio management.”
By the end of lunch, Spike had loosened
his tie; Josh was building a “second-round” plate disguised as “helping clean up;” Valerie was negotiating over casserole portions; and Darin was in a full-on pumpkin pie coma at his desk. The office didn’t get much work done that afternoon, but they all agreed it was the most successful Thanksgiving dinner yet.
So, this story could be classified as an “Office Tall Tale,” but follow these simple office buffet rules to prevent reading about yourself in Ponca City Monthly magazine. Scout before you scoop (Robin’s surprise casserole is always lurking); small plate first and pick up the pace on round two; compliment the chef, even if the “chef” is store bought; and most importantly, exit the buffet gracefully prior to entering a food coma. Happy Feasting!
