Ponca City Monthly October 2021

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October 2021

October 2021

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OCTOBER 2021

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VOL. 2 NO. 10 Publishing Company MyMediaMatters Marketing Agency Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner Associate Editor & Advertising Director Robyn Ryan

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$60 MILLION BOND PROPOSAL COULD CREATE GENERATIONAL INVESTMENT IN PONCA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, WITH NO INCREASE IN TAXES

Staff Writers Carey Head Jay Wagner Andy Hicks Chelsea McConnell Kayley Spielbusch Laina Smith Ad Designer Robyn Ryan Magazine Designer Andy Hicks Story Editor Sherry Cable

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Copy Editor Patrick Jordan

FRIENDSHIP FEAST

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FEATURE STORIES Soroptimist Club School Bond Proposal

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Domestic Violence Awareness Month

23

Healing After Infant Loss

27 35

Mental Health No Laughing Matter

5 under 40 Cover Story

MENTAL HEALTH DAY

MONTHLY FAVORITES Stew on That

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Geocash Contest

60

Learning with Leaming

62 64 70 54 74 77 79

Sounding Off Backyard Gardener

Congratulations to Ponca City’s 5 under 40 for 2021!

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Crossword

Made In PC: Cookshack

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Health & Beauty

Kay County Events Local Flavor: Chicken & Dumplings

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

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October 2021

Contributing Writers Rachel Stewart Paul Muehlberg Patrick Jordon Lorrie Layton Kat Long Steve Scott Kera Kester Marlys Cervantes Jaque Blackwell Lauren Payne Cheyenne Harbeson Adam Leaming Shannon Dunnigan Ashley Hein Kathy Tippin Terri Busch © MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2021.

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

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

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

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

Letter from the Editor

In third grade, I had a teacher who LOVED Teddy bears. And I mean, she was low key obsessed.

The bears, all shapes, colors and sizes, lined the classroom walls. She had fun bear-related games and activities, and books about bears.

So, when my birthday arrived on October 1st, I was thrilled. I was new to the school, and I had been anxiously awaiting my turn to enjoy the full effect of the birthday bear for WEEKS. I felt sorry for those kids with summer birthdays who would never get to enjoy the privileges of the birthday bear.

I wasn’t a particularly sentimental child, so I made a point to vocalize my disdain for anything that might make me seem weak or soft, and that included any affinity to stuffed animals. I wanted to be seen as tough, and strong.

So you can imagine how I felt when I arrived to school that very special day and found out…there were TWO birthdays in my classroom that day.

However, there was one bear tradition that appealed directly to me - the birthday bear. For the first two months of school I watched as the bear traveled from desk to desk, bestowing with it magical powers. Those who had the birthday bear on their desk got to be first in line for everything, were chosen to do special projects and enjoyed a wealth of special privileges. The birthday bear was something special, something to be desired.

I remember the whirlwind of emotions that morning. What did that mean?

How can we both be special? How can we both be first? “There can only be one?!?” I thought selfishly to myself.

Yes, that’s right. I had to SHARE the birthday bear.

But the day progressed, and my birthday mate and I had so much fun. We shared the birthday bear, we did all the special things together, and from that year on, all the way until we graduated high school together, I felt a special birthday bond with him.

Even though it may seem like sharing power can take something away from you, it doesn’t. In fact, by sharing, you are actually multiplying that power and creating special bonds with others.

Enjoy this beautiful fall month, take some time to slow down and rest your weary soul, and whenever you feel the need to exclude others, just remember that it’s okay to share the birthday bear.

editor@poncacitymonthly.com

VIEW DIGITAL EDITION AT PONCACITYMONTHLY.COM

ON THE COVER

Congratulations to Ponca City’s 5 Under 40! Pictured left to right: Garrett Bowers, Erica Fetters, Corbin Dewitt, Brittany Atauvich and Edward Dixon. Read the story on page 45.

Photo by Jes McIntosh Cover Design by Andy Hicks

October 2021

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Soroptimist Christmas 2010 Donation to NERA, left Tom Short and right Dorothy Deway Heather Sumner-BBBS Bowl for Kids Sake

2019 Fall Meeting Members with Awards

Breast Cancer Quilt -Ruslyn Hermanson, Cathy Cole, Nancy Taylor

LOCAL SOROPTIMIST CLUB CELEBRATES 70 YEARS

A global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.

Story Contributed by Kathy Tippin

In 1921, one year after women won the right to vote, the first Soroptimist club was founded in Oakland, California. At the time, women were not permitted to join the all-male civic groups, but their desire was to work toward strengthening their community.

Their first Oakland Soroptimist Club project was to “Save the Redwoods,” the great ancient trees which were being felled. The club lobbied the legislature, taking on powerful lumber companies and winning public support, resulting in a major portion of the forest being set aside as protected land that still exists today.

Their vision was “to ensure that women and girls have an equal voice in creating strong and peaceful communities, now and in the future.” The Soroptimist name was coined from the Latin words “soror” meaning sister and “optima” meaning best, so Soroptimist is perhaps best interpreted as “the best for women.”

award presented to her organization of choice and to the young woman) and the Ruby Award (recognition of a woman who has given volunteer hours to make a difference and a cash donation to the organization of the recipient’s choice).

Region Soroptimist of the Year Cindy Wigley-left

For 20 years, a major local project was to raise awareness of Breast Cancer through an annual banquet spreading information about breast cancer, supporting programs for women to get mammograms, celebrating survivors through annual banquets and more.

“In spite of COVID-19, SIPC members continue to meet our mission (to help women and girls) and make a difference in On Jan. 21, 1950, 25 Ponca City women were charter members for the Soroptimist Ponca City and the surrounding communities. Facebook and Club of Ponca City (SIPC) in support of the vision. Times were different coming out eBay sales are ongoing, and we are accepting donations and of World War II, but these women saw a need in the local community to support passing along items we cannot use or store to others,” said women and girls.

President Terri Buesing. “We now are back to meeting in person, and As the local club celebrates its 70th anniversary, SIPC members continue to play an active role in Ponca City. Using their respective talents and energy, members make time in their busy lives to give back to our local and surrounding communities making a difference for women and girls in our part of Oklahoma.

2020-21 was a very different time for SIPC members learning to adjust with the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite not being able to meet together twice a month, club members found ways to manage and move forward using other nontraditional methods. Thanks to generous donations from others in the community, the club raised record amounts of money through Facebook sales and outdoor donation events. This in turn helped them to not only help women and children in our area, but to help other nonprofits too.

Officers 2021-22

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October 2021

SIA programs that have evolved over the 70 years and continue to be major focuses of SIPC include Live Your Dream Awards (usually given to a single head of household to help her further her education to support her family), Senior Girls Scholarship (a cash

hope we will be able to continue to do so in 2021-22, but are ready to make adjustments if necessary. There probably isn’t a nonprofit in our community that benefits women and girls that hasn’t been helped by Soroptimist.”

Five years ago, SIPC started the Dream It Be It (DIBI) program for Ponca City eighthgrade girls as a goal to help girls grow up to be strong, successful, happy adults.

DIBI targets girls in secondary school who face obstacles to their future success by providing girls with access to professional role models, career education and the resources to live their dreams. Selected by their teachers, 40 eighth-grade girls participate in four sessions covering manners, appearance, job interviewing, personal behavior and conclude with a luncheon focusing on careers for women with local professional women role models. At the final luncheon, the girls are each given an opportunity to meet with professional women in three different fields, told a little about what is involved in the career and encouraged to ask questions.

“Unfortunately, our program was cut short in 2020 due to COVID-19, but in 2021 we held an abbreviated one-day four-hour program,” said Cindy Wigley, Dream It Be It chair. “We hope to be back to meeting with the eighth-grade girls over four months in 2022.”

President Buesing said, “SIPC is off to a great start this fiscal year! We are excited about several new projects we are considering to help women and children and will let the community know about them when we are ready to roll them out.”

For information on the local Soroptimist club and how you can make a difference locally and throughout the world, contact President Terri Buesing at 580-7637052.

PONCA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 2021 BOND ELECTION

SCAN QR CODES FOR 3D IMAGES BASEBALL IMPROVEMENTS

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR MULTI-PURPOSE

SHOWN ARE JUST A FEW PROJECTS THAT WE ARE SPOTLIGHTING FOR THE 2021 BOND ELECTION. OTHER PROJECTS INCLUDED IN THE ELECTION BUT NOT PICTURED INCLUDE: • HOWELL/MSB/COMMONS RENOVATION • COUNSELING SERVICES IN ANDERSON • HIGH SCHOOL FIRE ALARM UPGRADES • TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT AND TEXTBOOKS FOR THE DISTRICT • BAND EQUIPMENT FOR THE DISTRICT • CLASSROOM ADDITION AT THE CONCERT HALL • IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WILDCAT ACADEMY • IMPROVEMENTS AT EAST MIDDLE SCHOOL • SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL • IMPROVEMENTS AT LIBERTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • IMPROVEMENTS AT WASHINGTON PRE-K • REMODEL TO THE FINE ARTS CENTER • DISTRICT WIDE PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS • VO-AG IMPROVEMENTS

HOLD THAT LINE OCTOBER 12TH!

SCAN QR CODES FOR 3D IMAGES TENNIS COMPLEX IMPROVEMENTS STEM ACADEMY SOFTBALL STADIUM IMPROVEMENTS

WINTERROWD TALLEY ARCHITECTS WWW.WTAOK.NET (580) 765-3317 Paid for by Winterrowd Talley Architects

October 2021

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Professional women celebrating 100 years serving women and girls world-wide and 70 years serving Ponca City!

Celebrating

70 YEARS in Ponca City!

SOROPTIMIST® Soroptimist Club of Ponca City has improved the lives of Ponca City’s women and girls by…

• Disbursing over 150 Soroptimist Live Your Dream Cash Awards® to local women to help them get the education and training they need to improve their employment prospects and economic standing. If you have been a recipient of an award, please let us know what it meant to you.

• Holding six Soroptimist Dream It, Be It® events that have put 240 local eighth grade girls on the path toward achieving their career goals.

• Working with local domestic violence organizations to get women the legal and economic resources they need to break free from their former lives.

• Providing over $18,000 to 11 organizations this past year along with service and numerous supplies to other groups in our community and surrounding areas.

SOROPIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF PONCA CITY MEMBERS 2021-22

President PresidentTerri Elect Buesing Deb Vap Robyn Armstrong Martha Denney Dorothy Dewan

ViceSecretary Treasurer Backup Backup Directors President Claudia Kathy Secretary Treasurer Janelle Moreland Heather Sumner Barnes Tippin Lilly Freeman Stacey Wilson Tracy Ogden Lisa Eisele Kelly Houston Erin O’Hara Shasta Scott Dione Hanke Patty Markland Betty Scott Mildred Smith Ruslyn Hermanson Sharon Millemon Debra Scott Cindy Wigley

Soroptimist Club of Ponca City provides support to many area organizations.

Listed below are some organizations that we have supported over the past few years.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Camp McFadden Friendship Feast Habitat for Humanity Head Start Hospice of North Central Okla.

Kay County Free Clinic Lions Club (eyeglass project)

Living Hope Pregnancy Center Marland’s Place New Emergency Resource Agency Northern Oklahoma Humane Society Opportunity Center (The Caboose) Peachtree Landing (My Favorite Things) Ponca City Art Center Ponca City Library

Ponca City Senior Center Ponca City Public Schools Ponca Playhouse Supported Community Lifestyles Survivor Resource Network The Mission

We have helped many organizations over the years. We apologize in advance If we inadvertently omitted your organization.

If you’d like to know how you can join Soroptimist and make a difference, contact one of our members or message us on facebook at Soroptimist International of Ponca City.

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October 2021

ld u o C l a s o p o r P d n $60 Million Bo t n e m t s e v n I l a n io t a Create Gener , ls o o h c S c li b u P y in Ponca Cit s e x a T in e s a e r c n I o With N Seven-year, $49.7 million bond project, with an additio nal $10 million of CARES funds, will impact every school buildin g Story by Kelsey Wagner/Editor in Chief Photos and renderings provided by Ponca City Public Schools What is proposed? The Ponca

City Public School board unanimously approved a bond referendum for the Oct. 12, 2021, ballot in the amount of $49,750,000. The bond will help make improvements to the district and aid in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

Why now? Facility needs have been identified and through conversations with students, parents, community members, staff members and administrators. Interest rates are low.

What is in the plan? The plan is

multifaceted, with a number of repairs, renovations and new construction for the district. Currently, the bond has projects to renovate bathrooms, floors, HVAC units and paving in several areas across the district. In addition, work will occur at the tennis courts, baseball stadium, softball stadium and other areas across the district. All projects are available for viewing on our website at www.pcps.us. The district is committed to creating safe facilities that are accessible for our students and public.

In addition, the district intends to create learning environments that reflect the commitment to education that Ponca City has had from the beginning.

When is the election? The

election is Tuesday, Oct.12, and is open to anyone who resides in the Ponca City Public School district.

What happens if the bond is not approved? The needs of our

students, academic goals and facility needs will not go away. Costs for these projects will increase as materials and construction prices rise. Our school would have to find ways to meet the needs for our students and community.

I need more information. The

district website www.pcps.us has a listing of projects and the scope of work for each one. If you have questions, you can contact Bret Smith or Adam Leaming, Executive Director of Operations for the Ponca City Public Schools.

How do federal dollars impact this bond? Currently, PCPS intend to use a portion of its federal CARES relief funds to help increase the scale and scope of the October Bond referendum. Up to $9 million will be utilized to help with making improvements to the physical plant of Ponca City Public schools to aid in the mitigation of COVID-19. With these federal dollars utilized, the district can make academic improvements and utilize bond funds for projects that would otherwise be impossible to do in a normal bond cycle.

What is our current mill levy, and how does it compare to other schools? Ponca City, since

2000 has maintained a commitment to its voters to not exceed a 22 mill levy for our district sinking fund. Our levy is currently the lowest in Kay County and is one of the lowest of 6A schools.

Historic Bond Issues in Ponca City 1995 – Ponca City voters approved a $10 million bond issue that paid for a new elementary school and new mathematics, science and business center, as well as renovation work to the high school and additional vocational agricultural classrooms.

1997 – Ponca City voters approved a $6.6 million bond issue – remodeling two elementary schools, the Howell Building, the middle school and mid-high buildings; completing renovation work at the high school; and building a new track, plus new technological equipment at various schools.

1999 – Ponca City voters approved a $9.6 million bond issue that will continue a comprehensive $38 million improvement package started three years ago. The proposal will pay for remodeling, repairing and equipping the midhigh and middle school campuses and remodeling at a grade school and high school gym.

2015 – Ponca City voters approved a $37.5 million bond election in October of 2015. Projects included the Ponca City Public Schools Concert Hall; the new football locker room; new ticket booths; new press box at Sullins Stadium; weight training facility; Robson Field house improvements; and securing entrances at Trout, Woodlands, the Fine Arts corridor and West Middle School; East windows and HVAC; and bathroom upgrades.

2021 – In August, PCPS reported that the seven-year $49.7 million bond project, with an additional $10 million of CARES funds, will allow improvements to the school district and aid in the mitigation of COVID-19, bringing the total potential investment to $60 million.

PCPS is currently at a mill levy of 20.51.

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 10 October 2021

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BOND PROPOSAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Bond Projects Coupled Alongside 15 Cares Projects •

Anderson Building, Po-Hi – will be remodeled into a state-of-the-art STEM space. With a focus on college and career readiness, the Anderson STEM space is intended to marry a cutting-edge approach to physical layout construction and design with a researched, proven curriculum that will make our academic offerings more adept at creating students who are more workforce and college ready. o

The MakerSpace in the Anderson building will allow for more rigorous and robust courses in robotics, 3D printing and design, computer science, engineering, digital electronics, aerospace and other STEMrelated curricula.

o

In addition, a new first-floor counseling area will create new efficiencies for our staff to better meet our students’ needs. Whether academic or emotional, our counselors need the space to help ensure we meet the challenge posed in a Post COVID-19 world.

o

Replace HVAC systems

o

New floorings, wall systems, windows and window systems

o

Elevator addition – ADA compatibility

o

Expose concrete structure, mechanical systems throughout the upper level

o

Moving counselors to a lower level with more office space, natural light, secure entrance

Howell/MSB/Commons – This project will preserve our high school’s history, charm and beauty, while making it feel clean, modern and fresh for our students. The entire high school will undergo an incredible remodel that updates ancient plumbing systems, dated electrical and creates a more efficient space for our administrators, teachers and students.

•

•

18-month project delivered the intended results we sought for our community and the district – a space deserving and complementing our incredible instrumental music programs. Our students finally had the space that allowed them to shine. We will be adding three NEW classrooms and staging rooms for our instrumental programs with this bond project. Right now, students are seated in a hallway anxiously awaiting their opportunity to get on stage. When we conduct a musical concert that’s up to 300 or more students with their large and bulky instruments who find themselves sitting in a hallway waiting to go on stage, it is a safety and fire issue to continue holding students in those hallways in the long term.

•

•

•

o

Adding classrooms allows the district to host large regional, area and statewide competitions for instrumental music.

o

This would finalize the vision for the Concert Hall that the voters overwhelming approved in 2015.

Liberty Elementary o

Remodel and expand the main office

o

Media center/library remodel and expansion

o

Teacher break room remodel

o

EIFS and exterior work

o

Flooring in cafeteria and food service

o

New bleachers

o

Replacing and upgrading classroom doors

Washington Elementary – “Loving on our smallest wildcats” o

New flooring in hallways, classrooms and work areas

o

New flooring in cafeteria and food service area

Lincoln Elementary o

Addition for cafeteria, new windows and serving line

o

Extending the lobby and canopy for more student waiting and secure entry

o

Remodel and expand our administration offices

o

Remodel all the restrooms in the Howell building from the 90s

o

New gym flooring, add new fire exit and add stage and curtains

o

Remodel historic doors to make them more intruder-resistant and maintain their historic look.

o

New finishes in each of the restrooms

o

Repair, refinish all wood wainscoting trim in main corridors and stairs of Howell.

o

Install blackout shades in the Commons areas

o

Polish terrazzo flooring

Concert Hall – Po-Hi– In 2018, we opened a state-of-the-art Concert Hall for our instrumental music program. Leveraging every last cent, this

Current Softball Field

10 October 2021

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Union Elementary o

New flooring in all hallways and classrooms

o

New finishes in all restrooms

o

Replacing all drinking fountains

o

All exterior doors and frames having ballistic bullet-resistant glass and frames

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 13

Proposed Softball Field

Formerly the “Domestic Violence Shelter.”

Providing free trauma-focused licensed counseling, children services & advocacy, and sexual assault response advocacy. Additionally, we are proud to offer many more community services like our rapid rehousing program, children’s groups, adult support groups, and our on-scene legal navigation. With these services comes case management, safety planning, transportation assistance, and much more.

Get Help 24/7

SRN TEXT LINE (580) 352-4255 SRN HOTLINE (580) 76ABUSE (762-2873)

20-Bed Pet-Friendly Emergency Safe Shelter

Coordinated Community Response Team A Coordinated Community Response Team is a multidisciplinary team that provides a coordinated approach to issues around domestic violence, while collaborating with service providers and system members to strengthen communication and networking with a goal of bringing to light gaps in services needed to support survivors.

At its core, the CCRT team operates under the assumption that domestic violence is a community issue and requires the engagement of entire communities to address it.

Kay County operates a CCRT program comprised of members from: • Kay County District Attorney, Brian Hermanson’s Office • Survivor Resource Network • Kaw Nation Family Trauma Healing Center • Tonkawa Tribe Victim Services • Otoe-Missouria Tribal DV/SA Program • Otoe-Missouria Tribe Social Service/ Tribal Victim Services Program • Ponca Tribal Victim Services

• Batterers Intervention Program Providers • Local probation and parole officers • Kay County Sherriff’s Office • Ponca City Police Department • Tonkawa Police Department • Newkirk Police Department • Blackwell Police Department • Tribal Police • Bureau of Indian Affairs October 2021

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BOND ISSUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

o

Replace flooring in cafeteria, new ceiling tiles, paint walls and wainscoting

o

New countertops and finishes in media center

•

West – At West, we will finish the secure entrance by adding bullet-resistant glass and the metal framing around the entrance to handle a thicker and much heavier glass.

•

East – The retaining wall and patio will be reconstructed and made safe and appealing as the drop-off point for our 8th graders.

•

Tennis – Right now, our middle and high school students in Tennis must change in the city building constructed in the 70s. The high school and middle school students practice on the nine courts owned and maintained by the city. To host competitions, the district needs a space with 14 courts.

Instead of building a standalone complex across town, the City of Ponca City and PCPS will partner to add five new courts to the existing complex. PCPS will replace the outdated facility with a new space with dressing rooms for our students and provide an overlook for our coaches to oversee the entire complex. The City of Ponca City will relocate the existing splash pad to a new location in the park.

•

o

Adds five tennis courts

o

Creates new bathrooms, changing rooms and coaching overlook

o

Eliminates the need to create an entirely new 14-court complex

o

Keeps our high school students on campus and not driving

athletic programs. When there is poor weather, which frequently happens in Ponca City, our athletic teams will not be on top of one another in our gyms.

A permanent indoor facility would allow for smooth and efficient transitions between all sports teams. An indoor practice facility would certainly make Po-Hi more attractive to athletes, citizens and demonstrates that Ponca City is proud of its campus and values, putting the resources in the hands of our coaches, athletes and community. This project will only be possible due to the one-time generational funds we received from CARES to assist in other critical areas in the district.

•

•

Creates a New Outdoor Soccer Field o

New soccer locker rooms, bathrooms and concession stand

o

Decorative fencing along 5th St. to match the campus

o

Indoor track space

o

30-ft. ball netting along 5th St.

Baseball Complex – The baseball field will be brought up to the standards of a 6A school. With a new eye-catching appearance from 5th St., you will no doubt be drawn visually to the charm of our new field. We’re starting with creating a new entry off 5th St. and creating ADA accessibility with an entire solid-surface courtyard. From there, you will pass the redesigned ticket booth and enter under the new roof decking to the lower level bleacher in the bowl. You will find new restrooms for the public, ADA access to the stands and a new visiting dressing room.

• Softball Field – The bleachers at the softball field will have a new awning constructed. ADA accessibility will be gained with new ramps to the field and bleachers. The field will have trees planted along the outfield fence.

Athletic Facility – Indoor Space – This space will bring another transformative component to our high school campus. A new indoor facility is incredibly important for several reasons. First and foremost are the logistical advantages it would provide for our

Ponca City Concert Hall

Mike Engster

Mike Engster

CF

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 15

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BOND ISSUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

In an article dated May 22, 1997, in the Daily Oklahoman regarding the October 1997 bond issue election for Ponca City Public Schools, Superintendent Dr. Bill White discussed the need for investment and maintenance in existing school buildings.

“We will probably never be out of a need to renovate our buildings; we have many old buildings,” he said. “By the time we get all of our buildings up to grade, it will be time to start over.”

“Several of the district’s buildings are close to 60 years old,” White said.

“They get 40 years out-of-date, and then you’ve got to do a lot more work to the roof ... to the lights – and the plumbing is just almost gone.”

Twenty-four years later, and those needs have not changed. Since the year 2000 and Dr. Bill White’s time as Superintendent, Ponca City Public Schools pledged a commitment to the community to never raise the mil level higher than 22 mils. PCPS has continued to reinvest, and they have honored the commitment.

Shelley Arrott, Superintendent of PCPS says of the commitment,

“Ponca City Public Schools promised to build and maintain state-ofthe-art facilities for our students, staff, families,

and community while keeping our school sinking fund mill levies even at 22 mills. Since the 1990s, we have been able to do so with the unwavering support from our community, with NO tax increases.

The October 12, 2021, proposed bond project, coupled with leveraging our CARES funds to prevent, prepare, and respond to COVID-19, will allow for generational changes for our students and community. All while maintaining the lowest sinking fund mill levies in our area and among our peer schools, our students and community are able to benefit from the experiences these outstanding facilities provide with NO tax increase. I am so excited about the possible future benefits for our Wildcats and for our wonderful community of Ponca City.

Thank you for ‘holding that line’ to enhance the educational experience for our students and to generate opportunities for our community!”

Proposed

STEM

classroom renderings

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 16 October 2021

15

BOND ISSUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Ponca City Monthly sat down with Adam Leaming, Executive Director of Operations with Ponca City Public Schools, to discuss more details about the upcoming bond election.

Q: How does PCPS decide what bond projects to present for bond issues each cycle?

We have a long-range planning committee that gets together to tour sites and discuss issues. The process begins two or three years before a vote is ever taken.

At the end of every year, they visit with the principals in every building. The group consists of principals, community members, parents, citizens and business owners. They walk through our buildings so they know what the current facilities look like. They talk with people in each school. These key stakeholders collect feedback from school personnel and teachers about what they would like to see changed in their classroom, building or program. If you’re a coach, we ask them, “What do you need? What else can we do to help make your life better or to help improve the lives of the students?”

Q: What’s different about this year’s bond issue?

This year’s bond issue is a seven-year bond. The bonds we’ve passed in previous years have been five or six years. This bond is an additional year, and we did that so we could have some extra funds to be able to do these larger projects. We think now would be the best time to capitalize on additional funds since we have these federal dollars to leverage and maximize our funds.

Adam Leaming

You also have the CARES funding. The total bond package is $60 million. When you package in the $10

million of federal dollars, plus almost $50 million a bond, it will create an opportunity for us to be very proactive in leveraging these funds.

This bond cycle would be the second round for us to try to do a leaserevenue bond. In previous years when we bonded, you bonded each individual project for each year. If you were to request a five-year bond for $25 million, you might request $5 million each year, depending on the projects. If you’ve got a $6 million project to do first, you might only ask for $6 million of those $25 million funds the first year. In a lease-revenue, you get all the funds upfront.

This method benefits the district in several ways.

One benefit is that it locks in material costs. I think it’s even more pressing now because you don’t know what construction costs will be in two years. With the lease-revenue option, we have what we feel is a very confident plan factoring in supply chain disruptions and material price increases to ensure the projects we’re presenting to the voters are going to meet that budget. The 2015 bond did that. Every project came in under budget, which was incredible. And we have a very ambitious construction schedule – we plan to have all these facilities completed within three/four years.

Q: What limitations are there on bond money – what can the money be spent on?

That’s a great question. And I think that’s a common misconception right now. Here’s what bond money is allowed to be spent on: •

Transportation. Bond funds can be used to purchase anything related to transportation – so that’s buses, suburban’s, special education buses.

•

Technology/IT Infrastructure. We have a one-to-one initiative, so that’s putting computers in the hands of every one of our students or refreshing our computers for our teachers.

•

Facilities. So that includes HVAC units and the buildings we walk into. That’s about it.

You cannot use bond money to give your teachers more money, which we would love to. We would love the opportunity to be able to do that, but it is just not possible.

Q: A large portion of the money is being spent on sports facilities during this bond cycle. What would you like to tell people who worry about so much money being spent on sports?

Rendering of the new indoor athletic facility, soccer field, and parking lots.

Every building in the district will see an improvement leveraging the federal dollars from the CARES projects.

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 18 16 October 2021

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Current tennis facility

BOND ISSUE

Rendering of the tennis court expansion

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

We’re able to do a lot of things now for athletics; it may feel like athletics is getting a lot of attention on this round. But, I think what we need to remember is the last round, our beautiful Concert Hall, which touched our musical and instrumental music programs, was a large, large project and very skewed to the Arts.

a beautiful high school, but we had a chain-link fence that was falling. We had a blue press box that was below the standards of what Ponca City had come to expect for its schools. And as you know, if you looked at the ticket booth, the locker rooms, the Hutchins at that time was not being used at all, even by the community. That entire area now has a whole different feel on 5th St.

Several projects will happen across the district at every site. The scale and scope will vary, but each site will see work in this upcoming bond cycle. Union is getting every surface redone; Liberty will get new windows and there will be a new serving line at Lincoln. Large and small, things will be happening at every single school. It’s hard to point those out when you have huge flagship projects like a Concert Hall addition, STEM academy at the high school, new Tennis complex, etc.

If you look at what we’ve done at West Middle School with the new office, all the secure entries that all the elementary schools have, we are moving to a new standard that we want to maintain beautiful facilities for our community for our students. We want to create the opportunity that when people come to this community, they think, “Wow, Ponca City has got it going on!” Right?

There may be a sentiment out there that we’re heavily skewed to athletics or heavily favoring the high school with projects. I think it’s important to note that in the past 20 years, we have remodeled each of our elementary schools. In this bond cycle, Liberty, Lincoln and Union will see considerable work. In the past election cycle, we favored the musical arts due to building a large beautiful standalone facility.

So right now, we work with probably two of the best construction managers in the state, and they just happen to be in our own backyard with Rick Scott construction and Kyler construction group. I know that when we work on these projects, casting this vision and forecasting budgets, these companies have a strong desire to help our community economically thrive and grow.

The high school is long overdue for work. While the campus saw some upgrades in the last cycle, this upcoming cycle will create a more cohesive look among our facilities. I don’t know if there’s ever a perfect bond issue that meets 100% of every need, but we do work hard to ensure we’re moving the needle to improved facilities, enhanced services and creating beautiful facilities.

But I think what is important for the voters to know and for our citizens to know is that this doesn’t just benefit a certain small segment of the Ponca City Public Schools; it is an overall net positive for the entire community of Ponca City.

Q. How will the entire community benefit from these projects?

When other communities come to our city to participate in competitions to support their children, the first thing they look at is our facilities. They will cast a judgment, right or wrong, on the state of affairs in Ponca City and our community. And if they’re in beautiful facilities with clean restrooms, the fencing all looks congruent and matching, and the campus looks vibrant and healthy, then that judgment is that we are a beautiful community. We work closely with our economic development team and other local boards, which bring in people to tour our community. Because when they bring people to visit, they always say, “Tell us about your school system.”

Well, they want to see our school system. And before 2015, there were some things that weren’t good. You’ll hear it from our chamber CEO, how he would cringe to take them down 5th St. to show them our high school. Now, we have

18 October 2021

Q. Of this $60 million, how much of that will go to local contractors?

And that is only done by utilizing local contractors as much as possible. Now, we have a commitment as a school district to make sure that we build these facilities top-notch and build them at the best value for our taxpayers, and our construction groups understand that as well. We have wonderful local businessmen and women that strive to make sure that their businesses can be a part and help us develop top-notch facilities in our community.

Q. Can you explain the STEM aspect of this bond issue?

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) has long been identified talking to our Superintendent Shelley Arrott and some of our leadership at our high school that this is something that they’ve been waiting and longing for.

Any STEM projects require a complete mentality change, a whole paradigm shift from what a traditional classroom would look like. This whole STEM project and what the Anderson facility could become are the most exciting project to me, but also the one that keeps me up at night the most because there’s just a lot to it.

It’s not like we’re building a baseball stadium where we know they’re going to be playing baseball games. Everyone knows what baseball looks like, but to design a whole facility, a brand-new facility – that’s a lot. They will be taking the Anderson building and completely gutting it. It is going to go all the way down to bare bones, just go to a shell, but then how do we rebuild it in a way that helps our teachers be the most effective STEM instructors they are? What

see BOND ISSUE Continued on page 20

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19

What Is a Millage Rate?

BOND ISSUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Current Baseball Facility

A millage rate is the tax rate used to calculate local property taxes. The millage rate represents the amount per every $1,000 of a property’s assessed value.

Assigned millage rates are applied to the total taxable value of the property to arrive at the property tax amount.

Millage gets its name from the Latin word “millesimum,” or “mill” for short, which means “thousandth part” (1/1000). The term millage rate is also referred to as the mill rate or the effective property tax rate.

Different agencies within a municipality may have their millage rates, which are factored into a homeowner’s property tax calculation. For example, school boards use a millage rate to calculate local school taxes based on deriving the total property value within school district boundaries.

What is our current mill levy, and how does it compare to other schools?

Area School Mill Levies Newkirk – 26.84 Tonkawa – 23.26 Blackwell – 20.91 Ponca City – 20.51 Other Class 6A School Mill Levies Bartlesville – 30.43 Sand Springs – 30.31 Sapulpa – 28.77 Enid – 28.61 Stillwater – 24.27

does that STEM instruction look like? The aerospace engineering room will look completely different from a robotics room or a computer coding, 3D printing and design or laser cutting room.

What’s remarkable is we have this whole collaborative culture that Arrott has instilled – we’re brainstorming ideas and coming up with a space that we recognize will meet those needs – not only for our parents that have been asking for this, but for our businesses and some of the community who have been asking,

“What are we doing to get our students more exposed to STEM?” We have a real task to make sure that our students graduating from Po-Hi are college and career ready.

It’s hard today to think of a single position working anywhere that you can do if you don’t know how to talk to a computer or a machine. So, we’ve got to make sure that our students and teachers are empowered and have those tools and resources. And so what we’d like to do with that Anderson facility is build this creative, innovative space with lots of high visibility between classrooms.

When these students or teachers walk into this facility, we

want them to feel an energy of creativity or inspiration in the facility.

We want our students to feel empowered to solve problems. Whether those problem-solving tasks involve designing robots that complete tasks, coding computers that will aid or assist, engage, entertain, or maybe it’s printing, cutting or designing different products. These skills will empower our students to feel that once they graduate high school, they can tackle anything, whether that’s going on to college into a STEM-related field or jumping into one of our local industries.

Q. If there’s one thing that you could tell someone headed to the poll, one takeaway, what would it be?

This bond issue has an opportunity to make a generational impact in our community, one that will impact all our kids immediately. These projects are planned to begin as soon as the spring, and then we will wrap up all of them in three to three-and-a-half years.

And these projects will make an impact not only for the students now but also for our grandkids and hopefully even our great-grandchildren. As a community, we will be able to look at our facilities and know that 2021 was the turning point when we took our high school campus to the next level. We will know that it was the year that every one of our elementary schools had a direct impact, and our athletic programs have the opportunity to serve the greatest number of students. An all-inclusive community reaffirmed its commitment to having topnotch educational facilities for all students that attend Ponca City Public Schools.

I think the important thing for individuals to recognize is there’s more school choice than there has ever been.

And it’s important for us in Ponca City Public Schools to highlight what we can provide, not only the citizens of Ponca City, but those that might be considering moving back here, relocating here, bringing a business, starting a business, and show them that there’s a great opportunity here. And I think great opportunity comes with a commitment to investing in your infrastructure. I know our community has always been proud of the fact that they do reinvest in our infrastructure.

Proposed Baseball Facility

20 October 2021

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2021 “FREDDY” AWARD WINNERS The Ponca City Main Street Awards Banquet was held September 2nd and the results are listed here.

In competitive categories, the winner’s name is bold and marked with a star.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR H Speak Now Aesthetic State of Mind Vintage Swag

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR H Cast Iron Co. Aesthetic State of Mind Combat Syndicate

BEST DIGITAL INFLUENCE H My Media Matters Speak Now Liles & Co.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN H Frocks & Fashions Aesthetic State of Mind Cast Iron Co.

BEST WINDOW DISPLAY H Whimsy Cast Iron Co. Speak Now

BEST DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT H Vortex Grand Cigar Provisions PREMIER PARTNER The Rusty Barrell

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR John Kuhlmann MAIN STREET HERO Kelsey Wagner BOARD MEMBER OF THE YEAR Julie Grigsba The “Freddy” Award was named after Fred Boettcher, in memory of his long-time support of downtown.

5 UNDER 40 Garrett Bowers Corbin Dewitt Erica Fetters Brittany Atauvich Edward Dixon Ponca City Arts ARTIST AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Elaine Armstrong

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Emily is excited to work with businesses and organizations to support downtown revitalization efforts.

Emily and her family moved to Ponca City from Cushing in July 2020. Although relatively new to Ponca City, she is familiar with the area as she grew up in Arkansas City, and has lived in Oklahoma for nearly 20 years. Her husband Jerod is RCB Bank-Ponca City Market President, her 8 year old daughter Evelyn is in third grade at Trout Elementary, and their 7-year-old rescue pup Tilly joined the family just a month after moving here.

Emily started her career at Cherokee Nation Businesses in Tulsa shortly after she graduated from Northeastern State University in 2006. At CNB, Emily worked her way up from communications coordinator to community relations manager. She gained experience and knowledge in community relations, employee engagement, volunteer efforts, internal communications, public relations, and government relations. Emily worked at CNB for seven years until the birth of her daughter.

Despite being a stay-at-home mom for eight years and living in three different communities during that time, Emily stayed busy outside of the home by volunteering and supporting organizations and communities. She has been actively involved in boards and organizations, including Samaritan Counseling and Growth Center in Bartlesville, Saville Center for Child Advocacy serving Payne and Logan counties, Geographic Club in Cushing, and her home churches in Bartlesville and Cushing. Emily currently serves on the Women’s Foundation of Oklahoma Board and the Kay County OSU Alumni Association. Emily and her family are happy living in Ponca City and enjoy supporting organizations and attending all the great events. They’re excited to make this their new home and want to be part of the amazing efforts to make Ponca City better for everyone.

Oct. 5 - PCMS Fall Mixer • Oct. 28 - Goblins Rain-out date • Nov. 5-6 - Fall Ladies Weekend 22 October 2021

Domestic Violence IQ Quiz

To reclaim safety for all, we must work together as one to end domestic violence.

One way to reclaim safety is to strengthen our understanding of it. This quiz is a quick, easy way for you to improve your knowledge on domestic violence so that you can help others.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Working Together to End Domestic Violence Contributed by Ashley Hein, Director Ponca Tribal Victim Services and Shannon Dunnigan, Survivor Resource Network Since 1987, October has been the month where domestic violence and its victims are observed. The purple ribbon is used for several other important causes, but it’s also in honor of domestic violence victims and support for the growing awareness.

In October of 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed, with the intent of recognizing the work of advocates to end violence against women and their children. All over the nation purple ribbons began to spring up in honor of those that had died, in celebration of those that had survived and to support growing awareness.

According to a study founded by the National Institute of Justice, a little more than 84% or 4-5 American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetime. This includes sexual violence, physical violence, stalking and psychological aggression.

Awareness is still a key part in helping to end domestic violence. see WORKING

One powerful theme that is being discussed during this time is reclaiming safety. Tribal communities have seen the firsthand devastation of domestic violence even though it is often left unspoken, unacknowledged and hidden behind closed doors.

We have seen too many times that another sister, mother, friend or auntie has been murdered by an intimate partner that had promised to love and respect her. In fact, American Indian and Alaska Native women are the second highest population in the United States to die from homicide, with over half of said homicides related to domestic violence.

With awareness comes an increase in reclaiming safety.

Achieving security for current and future generations is something we can start doing now.

• Encourage your tribal, city, local and state leaders to establish and adhere to codes, policies and laws that protect victims/survivors and hold offenders accountable.

TOGETHER Continued on page 24

1) Domestic Violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic violence, domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one partner (____________) another partner in a current or former intimate relationship. a. to show their love for b. to maintain power and control over c. to be respectful of 2) Abusive partners commit a pattern of abusive behaviors against their partners because (_____________). a. he/she was under the influence of drugs/alcohol b. he/she had an exceptionally stressful day at work c. of the need to maintain power and control 3) (________________) includes behaviors and words that are intended to humiliate, isolate, belittle, confuse, intimidate, criticize and threaten an intimate partner. a. A healthy relationship b. Physical violence c. Psychological aggression 4) The most lethal form of domestic abuse is (_____________). a. financial abuse b. murder c. substance abuse 5) Among American Indian and Alaska Native (NA/AN) women, (______________) have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner. a. almost 7 in 10 (66.4%) b. just less than 1 in 3 (32%) c. 1 in 4 (25%) 6) AI/AN women are the (___________) highest population to die from homicide. a. 4th b. 2nd c. 1st 7) Over half of AI/AN female homicides are related to (___________). a. domestic violence b. intimate partner violence c. relationship abuse d. all of the above 8) In 2018, in Oklahoma (___________) of the intimate partner homicide victims in Oklahoma were killed by firearms. a. 27% b. 56% c. 45% 9) Domestic Violence is (____________). a. not preventable b. preventable c. unavoidable 10) I can help end domestic violence by (____________). a. encouraging leaders to establish and adhere to codes, laws and policies that protect victims/survivors and hold offenders accountable b. donating to, or volunteering at, a domestic violence program c. committing to myself to learning more about what domestic violence is, as well as ways to prevent it d. all of the above KEY: B, C, C, B, A, B, D, C, B, D

October 2021

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WORKING TOGETHER Continued from page 23

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Be aware of how you speak about victims of domestic violence.

They are never to blame for the actions of their abuser.

•

Hold your family/friends and community accountable for their actions.

•

Talk openly with your children about violence and prevention.

•

Using social media to share messages about domestic violence and how to get help.

•

Commit just a few minutes of your time to learning more about what domestic violence is, as well as ways to prevent it.

•

Support your local domestic violence shelter and tribal victim service programs by attending their outreach and training events. Consider donating goods or volunteering your time with their programs.

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In October of 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed, with the intent of recognizing the work of advocates to end violence against women and their children.

Resources Ponca Tribal Victim Services 580-718-1199 Crisis 580-352-4287 Ponca-Tribal-Victim-Services

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After Infant Loss

Photos by Lauren Payne

The following stories were submitted by two brave local women, who are courageous enough to share their own personal stories of love and loss. While we understand this subject may be difficult for some, it is also very important. We hope this article will encourage anyone who is going through a difficult time after infant loss to seek the help and support they need.

Sunshine and Rainbows

what? Baby is the size of a peach, but peaches also give her morning sickness.

I lived those moments once, and I’m still all for it. We should celebrate all our blessings. Life’s too short not to, sometimes achingly short.

Fear, guilt, panic, divorce and depression are not words typically associated with pregnancy – at least not in the public eye. These were all sentiments I became intimate with, not just feeling but also expressing with other women behind closed doors.

In my case, I had two healthy, beautiful children, Sawyer and Scarlett. I didn’t know, and I couldn’t even comprehend this loss and the associated emotions or the conversations between women all around me.

by Lauren Payne

I couldn’t believe how many women I knew messaged me when I actually started talking about our story.

How many other women went through the things I did when I had no idea and was blissfully oblivious to how lucky I was. How many women are still suffering in silence?

The societal view of becoming pregnant is placed on a shiny, silver platter. We see cute and clever baby announcements, bold and beaming maternity photos, monthly updates and what Momma’s eating and how she’s feeling. Guess

My first miscarriage happened early during the day at a wedding I was photographing. We had just found out, but I was so excited I let it slip to some of the bridal party. About an hour later, I knew something was very wrong. As a wedding photographer, you can’t exactly call in or go home during your shift. I had one break to call my husband.

My chest was racing, and I’d never felt fear or uncertainty like this. Then, I locked it up and continued to shoot a wedding that my clients loved.

There’s a heart-wrenching theme with the loss of a child, and although every story is different, for many women,

Cheyenne, Jacob & Oliver

see HEALING Continued on page 28

October 2021

27

HEALING Continued from page 27 they’re also very similar.

On the inside, I was a mental, physical and emotional nightmare. On the outside, I was all sunshine and rainbows.

I had 13 blood draws – switching bruised-up arms – to determine my HGc levels with my first loss, half as much for the second. They’d climb but not enough. So, over and over, I’d go in. Each time it would spark a bit of hope. Each time the crash got worse.

We got pregnant for the third time, and we both just had a feeling. We knew this was it. I was ready to tell everyone and plan all the things, but at that point, I wasn’t sure about anything anymore. I still had this gut-wrenching fear I walked around with, and every time I woke up or went to the bathroom.

I received the phone call regarding my levels and my inevitable miscarriage right after picking up my children from school. I will never forget the pain and guilt I allowed myself to feel not only for another loss but also for violently sobbing in front of my children. I shot another wedding the following day.

My life slowly got consumed with the idea I’d never be content or hopeful. What I realized much later, seeing friends I knew and loved, some of my brides, sharing, asking for prayer, letting women know they weren’t alone and being the voices for hope – they were the most powerful.

They were, and still are, the heroines in my story, inspiring me to speak, believe and live with hope. They stood and stand for us all. We should too – saying, you are not alone.

Because after our last loss, we gave up, I gave up on a lot of things. Thinking back, I thought,

goodness, this is rock bottom. If only I had been right.

You see, you can read the statistic 1-4 women, but until you live it, all you’re doing is reading.

There’s really no way to prepare or protect you from the fear or pain. But, you can allow yourself to feel, mourn, share and be vulnerable and broken. You can enable your inside battle to become an outside battle that you don’t bear alone. I prayed to God tirelessly for hope each time. But, I also tried to make loss vanish. Loss doesn’t disappear. It becomes a part of your soul, your every single day, your tears. Loss is the rain before the sunshine, the hurt before a miracle.

Ladies, your stories aren’t finished yet, wherever and whoever you are. You can find hope in unimaginable darkness.

We met our sunshine and rainbow baby on Sept. 15, 2020, Midas Murphy Payne.

Love Through Pain

by Cheyenne Harbeson

There are moments in life that you think you have to be dreaming - that this horrible thing doesn’t actually happen to people. Moments like this are when you lose part of yourself, and your mental walls start to crumble. That is what my husband and I felt on Dec 23rd, 2020, when a routine doctor’s appointment turned into the worst day of our lives.

Like every first-time mom, pregnancy is a new experience. You overcome fears, realize your strengths, and battle your demons to grow into motherhood with your head held high.

Through every doubt or pain I had, I knew that the beautiful baby I was growing was my reward and would be mine for life to both love and guide. No one talks about the alternative. What if you don’t get the smile, the giggles....and their eyes opening for the first time?

Rock bottom came when my husband and I split and started the divorce papers. The strain of loss on a marriage is something else people don’t talk about. While I was pouring from an empty cup – my husband was experiencing loss too. It was my husband who found God during all of this, and God, his relationship, faith and patience saved us. We fought for each other hard. We fought for forgiveness and loved like hell – when so many broken souls can’t or lose hope. Had I known anything of what I know now, I would have at least guarded the one thing I thought I always had left and was blessed to keep – my family. - Lauren 28 October 2021

I arrived at the hospital that morning ready and hopeful to meet my baby boy. My overnight bag was packed. My husband was at work on standby, and my mother-inlaw drove me, just in case I got to stay and deliver. When the ultrasound tech turned on the machine and rubbed the gel on my stomach, I naively said, “It’s weird that the sound is off.” My heart was broken moments see HEALING Continued on page 31

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October 2021

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ATTENTION STUDENTS

Home is where your story begins, I can help you get there.

Spring 2022 Enrollment is starting soon!

BECKY POET 580.763.1871 beckypoet@gmail.com

Monday, Oct. 11… NOC students Tuesday, Oct. 19… NWOSU students HERITAGE REALTORS®

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Schedule your appointment today…

• Call Bron at 580-718-5600 • Select “book now” on the University Center facebook page • Schedule online @ ucpc.setmore.com

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Mon.-Fri. 11-2 Mon.-Thurs. 4:30-8 Fri. 4:30 - 9 Sat. 11-9

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2800 N. 14th Street • Ponca City

More Bang for your Buck!

Ponca City Monthly Magazine is available in Ponca City, Tonkawa, Blackwell and Newkirk.

Additionally, we offer a free online edition. When you advertise with us, your message is available in four communities, every day for an entire month.

You definitely get “More Bang for your Buck!”

Please contact me for more information…

Robyn Ryan, Advertising Director robyn@poncacitymonthly.com or 580-761-1295 30 October 2021

HEALING Continued from page 28 later when the doctor told me my baby’s heart had stopped. The doctor said that our baby, my reward and partner, and source of love for nine months, was gone.

We went into a Cesarean delivery hours later, and we finally got to hold my precious baby. Every mother says it, but he was beautiful, peacefully asleep with such delicate features. He was perfect; fully-formed, 6 lbs. 11 ounces, long fingers and toes, with his father’s eyelashes. We got to spend a wonderful 24-hours holding, talking, and loving him with every ounce of our being. He was in the safest place, and I couldn’t be mad at that. We were discharged, and I had to leave my angel in the hands of the wonderful staff while I went home, flat stomach, empty arms, and a broken heart.

The following weeks after his service, including picking up his ashes, went by in a numbing blur of grief. My mind knew what had happened, but my body wanted to nurse and grow my baby. I wrapped my chest tightly and painfully; I rode the roller coaster of hormones with no outlet besides tears and emptiness. What had I done to deserve this? I had failed to give my amazing husband his firstborn son, a grandchild to our parents and a great to theirs.

Was I not careful enough? Was I careless with how I moved, bent, worked, and exercised?

My demons, dark thoughts, and anguish were slowly extinguished by the love of my husband, who never once failed me, and who constantly reminded me of my worth. He told me I was a great mother, and I, in turn, was able to help heal his brokenness as well.

Our parents never stopped caring, always helped me when I fell, lifted my head, and reminded me we all loved the baby and he knew that. Other comfort came by way of a friend who visited and helped shoulder the burden. I will never forget their hugs of comfort. Lastly, an online community reached out with their own stories of pain followed by eventual

healing and the ability to try again.

The greatest lesson I learned is that support is everywhere. From a kind smile, meaningful story, or even God warming you with a spot of sunshine, you can lean into the people who surround you; they can take it.

Feel all your feelings, express your anger and embrace your happiness. Allow yourself to be happy again, laugh at a joke, be embarrassing. Our angel babies are smiling from above, proud of their parents, cheering us on with God’s hand on their shoulder. They are safe, they are loved, and they will never be forgotten.

Oliver, smile down on me my baby, one day I’ll hold you again.

Get smart about your discounts!

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KENNY WHEELER

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Will clean all hard surfaces, specializing in ceramic tile and carpet steam cleaning.

Tracey Shields, Owner References available

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1701 Blackard Lane • Ponca City

Bonded & insured

October 2021

31

We Are Your SoonerCare Primary Care Provider!

TRIAD COMPLETE HEALTHCARE

Call today to schedule your appointment:

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32 October 2021

Located inside 2703 N. 14th, Ponca City

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COVID-19

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• Available for people 65 and older that received the Pfizer vaccine.

• Available for immunocompromised patients that received Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

Schedule Vaccines/Booster Shots by calling: 580-765-9451

COVID-19 Vaccines Available

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FLU SHOT! Pneumonia & Shingles Vaccines also available!

October 2021

33

Member FDIC

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We Are YOUR Community Bank!

729 N. Union • Ponca City 580-762-2700 • waldorfriley.com

– PREMIER LENNOX DEALER SINCE 1951 –

LOBBY HOURS Monday-Friday 9-5 DRIVE-THRU HOURS Mon.-Fri. 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Saturday 9 am-noon

709 E. Prospect • Ponca City • (580) 762-3886

Financing available!

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Hardwoods • Vinyl • Carpet • Tile • Quartz • Granite • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Blinds

34 October 2021

THANK YOU

to all who have served and continue to serve our country.

Residential and commercial HVAC Repair, replacement and installation Maintenance agreements

509 N. 1st St. • Ponca City • 580-762-1736

Put Your Best Floor Forward.

All Active Military and Veterans receive 10% OFF all service calls and 10% OFF labor with purchase of new equipment.

Showroom Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10 am - 5:30 pm • Sat. 9 am - 2 pm

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Your Mental Health…It’s No Laughing Matter Story by Marlys Cervantes/Contributing Writer

Could there be a more important time than now to be sure we pay attention to our own mental health and that of our families and friends? With World Mental Health Day on October 10th, and our world being a solid nineteen months into a global pandemic, attention to this critical aspect of our health is even more important.

Many people went to jobs one day and were sent home the next. Some of us went to spring break from our careers in education, only to come back and suddenly be working virtual. At my house, the only ones happy with this switch to my being in front of a computer for hours on end were my dogs, who were the recipients of attention during my many needed breaks. My eyes hurt, my back hurt, and my head ached, and that was only the physical complaints.

Much more concerning was the mental anguish and empathy for my many students going through so much in their own or their families’ illnesses with COVID, their job losses, or their job changes due to the increasing demands placed on them. The stress was all too real, and I, like so many compassionate instructors, felt it through my computer screen.

see MENTAL

HEALTH Continued on page 37

plan

When asked about these issues of stress today, Krystle Nies, Psychology Instructor at Cowley College, who has a Master of Science in Behavioral Science with an emphasis in Education, explained that we must consider the idea of change, with people being “creatures of habit”, and then the way common sources of stress are being magnified with the pandemic. Even positive changes

t so

mething October 2021

35

s t N O C P A P 1 O H S ATTENTION Be a part of the largest retail promotion in the state!

Chamber Members

The $13,400 Santa Bucks Giveaway is a promotion that encourages people to shop local and to do business with you, if you are a participant.

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Giveaway kicks 1308 Princeton Av off Saturday, Nov. 6th.

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play with are stressful to most people, so a pandemic demanding immediate changes can create havoc in our minds and emotions.

According to the American Psychological Association (2012, 2015, 2016), the top 10 Common Sources of Stress in America are: Money, Work, The Economy, Family Responsibilities, Relationships, Personal Health Concerns, Housing Costs, Job Stability, Health Problems affecting my family, and Personal Safety (Morris & Maisto 2019). Nies states, “From my experiences, observations, and perspective, every single one of these common stressors were magnified since the pandemic started.” When the stressors are valid in a global pandemic, we must figure out ways to offset the stress.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website states that “taking care of yourself can better equip you to take care of others.” Suddenly, many of us in our communities were concerned about other members who were going virtual for school or isolating for health and safety reasons, while at the same time trying to be safe ourselves and maintain our own work lives.

Writ

e

Som ing eth

The CDC also warns that people are more apt to consider suicide during times of stress, and stress has certainly been high during the pandemic. Many of us found ourselves worried about the young people in our lives, like our children or students, as well as the older, like our parents or neighbors. There was just no relenting.

In my classes, we decided to have a few minutes of talking through what we each were doing to help relieve stress. For me, one of my go-to stress releases has always been to come home from work, walk through the front door and go right out the back, so I could sit down and have my big dogs sit on my lap and love on me. Nothing works better than the undivided attention and devotion

r fu

you

MENTAL HEALTH Continued on page 35

rry friends

of your dog. So, when I was working from home and came out of the office close to tears from the stress, my sweetheart would simply point to the back door.

Another tip is to write, and I mean write from your heart.

Writing for healing is a real method to heal and to move the chaos of your mind toward a better understanding of yourself. There’s an entire article here in this subject that I’ll write sometime because it’s one of my favorite topics.

Additionally, the website for the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that physical exercise “eases the symptoms of depression and anxiety.” Exercise helps with high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis. Physical activity releases endorphins and improves your mood, which can help with coping. An easy way to have this activity can be simply to take walks, and Ponca City has ample parks, paths, and other areas to walk. My favorite is Cann Memorial Gardens at the corner of Grand Avenue and 14th Street.

Digging in the dirt can do the same as well. In a Forbes. com article, “How Gardening Can Fight Stress and Improve Your Life,” research shows that spending time in nature lessened the “risk of depression, mental illness, impaired immune function, weight gain, heart disease” and more. So, plant some flowers or grow some vegetables and improve your health.

We must be serious when we deal with stress. However, it really can be a laughing matter. According to Mayo Clinic’s article “Stress Relief from Laughter? It’s No Joke,” the staff at the clinic state that short-term benefits of laughter, besides lightening your mood and easing your tension, are that it “enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.” Then, there are long-term effects, such as improving your immune system and relieving pain, among other benefits.

So, let’s not be so serious after all as you take care of yourself. Then, help your neighbor, your student, your parent laugh, take a walk, write in a journal, plant something new outside their door. Taking care of our community can be one of the ways we help improve our own spirits. Are you with me in this?

October 2021

37

415 E. Hartford, Ponca City 580-762-7857

Dr. Phillip and Nancy Tyndall

Remember, when choosing a Hospice provider, there is a difference.

445 Fairview • Ponca City (580) 762-9102

“Community-Owned Not-For-Profit Hospice”

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BRUCE DAVIS ALIGNMENT 701 S. 1ST H PONCA CITY H 580-762-5036 IMPORT & DOMESTIC

• Tires

• Shocks & Struts • Brakes

• Computerized Wheel Balancing

• Wheel Alignment

• Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment • CV Joint Repair

• Drums/Rotors Turned

LARRY M. BRYANT, OWNER

GET READY FOR FALL!

Check windows and screens for needed repairs. Then call us, the glass and screen replacement specialists.

Wheels & Tires We Have the Gifts Tool Boxes Tint Car Enthusiasts Dreams Window Bug Shields Vent Visors Are Made Of! Bed Covers

Order early to insure delivery for Christmas!

Hitches Bed Mats Hitch Covers Husky Floor Liners PLEASE VERIFY ALL AD COPY FOR ACCURACY & INDICATE ALL CORRECTIONS CLEARLY Bumpers Grill Guards Mud Flaps Step Bars More!

This is a proof only and an opportunity to identify any error made during the creation of your advertisement.

PROOF

CHUCK

Due to the variables in printing and table production, there may be image quality loss. Colors here may not match final printed copy exactly. For best font production, text should be a minimum of 10 point font. Fine line fonts may not be legible on dark backgrounds (ie: script fonts). QR Codes minimum size requirement is 1” Square. Please scan your QR to ensure functionality.

ABC Advertising Agency Inc. shall not be held responsible for any errors not marked, image quality loss, color fluctuations, and/or font legibil

HODDY

BRETT BROWN Owner

– Serving Ponca City since 1983 – 580-762-9844 • 727 N. Union • Ponca City www.HoddyGlass.com 38 October 2021

autointintions.com

411 E. HARTFORD • PONCA CITY

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NO FEE TO EMPLOYEES FOR ALL YOUR STAFFING & EMPLOYMENT NEEDS

OCTOBER MEETINGS & EVENTS

Testing for Clerical Support Temporaries•Temp to Perm•Permanent Outsourcing•Payrolling•Drug Testing

MONDAY, OCT. 4

762-8376

Cash Mob at 11:30 a.m. at El Patio

TUESDAY, OCT. 5

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

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6

Personnel Staffing, Inc.

800-657-5719

715 E. Hartford Ave., Ponca City

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. for Luxx Lash Studio

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6

Customer Service Training at 3 p.m. for Osage Casino Employees

THURSDAY, OCT. 7

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

TUESDAY, OCT. 12

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. for Just for Kids

THURSDAY, OCT. 14

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 2 p.m. for Veteran’s Landing

TUESDAY, OCT. 19

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

TUESDAY, OCT. 19

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. for CBD American Shaman Ponca City

TUESDAY, OCT. 19

HARRY MYERS REALTOR-ASSOCIATE

Your Friend in Real Estate!

Call or text me on my “Sell Phone”

580-382-1979

he.myers@yahoo.com

PIE Partners Meeting at 4 p.m. Administration Building

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 20

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

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 20

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 2 p.m. for The Reclaimed Bee

THURSDAY, OCT. 21

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

THURSDAY, OCT. 21

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

FRIDAY, OCT. 22

Ponca Politics Forum at 11 a.m. with Oklahoma Treasurer Randy McDaniel at Pioneer Technology Center. Please RSVP and cost is $10 and includes lunch

Ponca City, OK

TUESDAY, OCT. 26

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

TUESDAY, OCT. 26

Business after Hours from 5-7 p.m. at Pioneer Technology Center hosted by PTC and Community National Bank & Trust For information on other events taking place in October go to visitponcacity.com

PONCA

CHAMBER OF

ith ned, made w io sh a F ld O n enjoy a ey.

Come in and , rye or whisk n o rb u o b te your favori

CITY

COMMERCE

www.PoncaCityChamber.com • 580-765-4400

689 Reservations online @ RustyBarrellSupperClub.com or by calling 580-765-6 October 2021

39

10 Reasons

Tuesday,

1. A NEW! Wildcat STEM academy for grades 9-12 2. Improved safety and ADA accessibility across the district 3. Bathrooms refreshed at the High School, and at several additional locations 4. NEW! construction for a multipurpose indoor facility 5. NEW! Expanded tennis facility 6. Softball and baseball stadium upgrades

40 October 2021

to

VOTE YES

Oct. 12!

7. NEW! Soccer field and locker rooms 8. Every school will see improvements and enhancements 9. A concert hall expansion for warmup rooms and rehearsals for competitions 10. No tax increases!

#holdthatline on October 12 Paid for by Supporters for the Ponca City Schools Campaign.

October 2021

41

– Much More than a Vitamin Store – Dr. Bronner’s All-One Cinnamon Toothpaste

Herbatint

is fluoride free and 70% organic.

permanent haircolor gel is formulated with eight organic herbal extracts.

Satya Incense

is perfect for use when meditating or creating a relaxing atmosphere.

S in ce 19 7 1

Crystals for Healing

is a complete reference guide with remedies for mind, heart & soul

Welcome Fall!

Crisp, cool weather is on the way and it’s time to cheer on your favorite high school and college football teams.

Be sure to also support the Marland Estate by attending Octoberfest Saturday and Sunday, October 2nd and 3rd on the mansion grounds.

Carl Renfro

Directors

President

Hyland’s Insomnia relieves

Lily’s

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stress & promotes sleep through homeopathicallyprepared botanicals & minerals.

Happy Camper CBD Mushroom contains a unique blend of herbs Defense Tea intended to provide nutritive support contains four powerful to help you feel good about yourself. medicinal mushrooms.

762-1854 • Open Mon. thru Sat. 9 am - 7 pm 2906 N. 14th, Ponca City (next to Hobby Lobby)

Randy Renfro

LIZ GREENE 580-763-4887

Email: LizGreene@kw.com View available properties at lizgreene.kw.com

411 N. 14th • Ponca City • 580-765-0825 Each Keller Williams office is independently owned & operated.

42 October 2021

Carol Bouldin

Treasurer, CPA

Kay County Master Gardener

Rick Renfro

Secretary, Restaurateur

Jeff Cowan

Retired Banker

Cindy Gorrell

Rich Cantillon

Vice President, Investments

President Ponca City Chamber/Tourism

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

SAVE the Did you know you DATE own your local

What is Your Home Worth?

Call me for a free no-cost, no-obligation market analysis!

Brenda Renfro

Celebrating the Benefits of Local Power!

VETERANS power utility?

PARADE

Thank you Ponca City for believing in & supporting your very own Municipality!

“Owned by the Customers we Serve!”

Downtown Local Control Reinvestment Reliability Saturday, Nov. 6 Accessibility Did you know you Community 10:45 am own your local

• Equal or greater reliability.

• Customer-focused mission is to serve the customers.

• Emphasis on long-term community goals.

• Quick response from crews located in the community.

• Local employment.

• Economic development – not-for-profit electricity attracts business.

Celebrating the Benefits • Control over the electric distribution system aesthetics of Local Power! and design.

• Equal or greater reliability.

• Customer-focused mission is to serve the customers.

• Innovation techniques and technology to meet • Emphasis on long-term community goals. energy needs.

• Quick response from crews located in the community.

• Local Power supports other entities such as police, fire, • Local employment.

• Economic development – not-for-profit electricity park and recreation, library, to name a few, by attracts business.

• Control over the electric distribution system aesthetics contributions to the city’s general fund. and design.

• Customers have a direct and powerful voice in decision- • Innovation techniques and technology to meet energy needs. making through their communities elected officials.

• Local Power supports other entities such as police, fire, and recreation, library, to name a few, by • Local Power makes a difference every day: you live in a park contributions to the city’s general fund.

Local Power Community. Appreciate it and support it! • Customers have a direct and powerful voice in decisionmaking through their communities elected officials.

power OurLocalPower.org utility?

Thank you Ponca City for believing in & supporting your very own Municipality!

“Owned by the Customers we Serve!”

Local Control Reinvestment Reliability Accessibility Community OurLocalPower.org

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Ferguson, Ferguson, Mulligan Mulligan & Poet, & Poet, LLC LLC

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14th & Lake Road Ponca City

Owned and Operated by Larry & Stephanie Klinger

Free Estimates • Guaranteed Repairs

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“Whatever it takes” October 2021

43

44 October 2021

Story compiled by Kelsey Wagner/Editor in Chief

Ponca City Main Street’s 2nd Annual “5 Under 40 Awards” recognizes young leaders from the Ponca City area who demonstrate significant contributions to this community through their role in their business, community involvement, volunteer work, leadership ability, advocacy, and influence.

Rhonda Skrapke, past PCMS board member, suggested the award idea in 2020, and the board agreed the young people deserve the ovation.

The applications were sent to judges from outside of Ponca City so they would be scored without bias, and free of any nepotism.

The five winners received a plaque and bottle of champagne from PCMS at the annual awards banquet, which was held on September 4, 2021, at the Poncan Theatre. In addition to the awards, winners are featured as the cover story for the October issue of Ponca City Monthly.

Nominations were promoted through the PCMS social media platforms with applications accept- Congratulations Ponca City’s 5 under 40 for 2021! ed through the organization’s website. Nominees were required to fill out the applications to be considered.

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 46

October 2021

45

Continued from page 45 How have you contributed to your current business or organization’s growth, innovation, or profitability?

The Ponca City branch of City National Bank is the most tenured branch in the company.

Focusing on training, communication and team building has allowed my team to succeed in sales growth and profitability.

We minimize liability of loss with established standards and good business practices while experiencing personal and professional growth. As a result, the Ponca City location is one of the top tiered most profitable branches. I attribute this to finding and hiring good people with a passion for customer service. I believe that every individual deserves quality customer service and adhering to this goal creates a supportive work environment. Maintaining a consistent brand of service while embracing individual personalities allows City National Bank in Ponca City to achieve goals and retain customers. As a group, we commit to bi-monthly teambuilding to reinforce those communication skills and working relationships. Examples of those growth opportunities have been a Family Fun Day at Just For Kids, kayaking in Lake Ponca and bowling at Ponca Bowl to name a few. Engaging in new activities as a team fosters growth and in turn, profitability.

How does your business contribute to the community?

City National Bank promotes service to community. We partner with United Way on a variety of projects across the state and locally contribute to United Way and its partners. Furthermore, City National Bank provides free financial classes to the community. Organizations with whom the Ponca City has partnered to promote financial awareness are the Kaw Tribe, Comanche Tribe and Ponca Tribe as well as teaching courses on financial literacy to inmates at the Kay County Detention Center.

Financial education is a standard of care in CNB’s customer service. City National Bank has sponsored a number of fundraisers for the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society, Wounded Warrior Project, Salvation Army, United Way of Ponca City and the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce among others.

What community service are you involved in?

I served on the Ponca City Humane Society board (Northern Oklahoma Humane Society) from 2011-2017 acting in Secretary then Vice-President roles and as an Advisor in 2018. I organized a number of fundraisers on an annual basis promoting animal welfare and education among other services. As a member of the PC Chamber of Commerce since 2010, I served on the Board of Directors from 2015-2018. I have served on the Ambassador Committee since 2013. I Chaired the Ambassador Committee from 2016-2018. I recruit new members to the Chamber and promote member participation for the betterment of Ponca City. In 2014, I graduated from the Ponca City Citizens Police Academy and became Citizens Police Academy Alumni active in 2014-2016. I certified as a Ponca City Police Department Extra Eyes Officer in 2015-Current. As a Volunteer Officer, I serve as support personnel to the police promoting public safety through traffic and special event patrol. I secure crime scenes and police operation areas as well as cite handicap parking violations and check business security throughout volunteer shifts to name a few roles. I have been a member of PCDA Economic Vitality Committee since 2019. I promote the Ponca City Development Authority’s organization goals and events.

Please list any area trade or professional organizations you are involved with, your position, and any impacts you’ve made on the organization.

I am a graduate of the 26th Leadership Ponca City class. Our class project in 2012 was Ponca’s Big Clean Up; We assisted members of the community with small cleaning/organizing projects through a number of volunteers on a single day in Ponca City. I have served as an Organizer role for 1 Million Cups in Ponca City since 2017. This organization supports entrepreneurs who have started businesses or are thinking about starting businesses.

I am utilized as a resource for those individuals and generate leads for future presenters. I joined the Ponca City Rotary

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 48

46 October 2021

BROADWAY PLAZA APARTMENTS 201 E. Broadway • Ponca City • 580-762-4445

Simplified, Secure Living for Seniors and the Disabled • FREE Wi-Fi throughout building • Beautiful grounds and gardens • Friendly and caring staff • Rent based on income • 1 bedroom and efficiencies

• Carpet and mini-blinds • Handicap-accessible units • Meals on Wheels • Potluck lunch • Movie and game night • Friendship Feast transportation

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

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

Office open Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 3 pm, Closed 12:30 pm - 1 pm

Are your Windows Ready for Fall?

You can’t imagine the money you could save by replacing your windows! Visit our showroom Monday - Friday 8-5 and we’ll help you select the perfect energy-efficient windows for your home!

We also sell and install siding, doors, patio doors and sunroom and patio covers!

1723 N. 3rd • Ponca City•(580) 762-8122 Toll Free (855) 782-2222 (405) 418-2530 humanityhospice.com Located in City Central, 400 E. Central, Suite 303 in Ponca City

– COMPASSIONATE CARE BY TRAINED PROFESSIONALS – Local people caring for local people!

Humanity Hospice brings together a team of specially-trained professionals and volunteers who work with the patient’s doctor to provide a plan of care designed to control the pain and ease end-of-life struggles for the patient and their family. These professionals come from a variety of disciplines working together under the guidance of the Hospice Medical Director to meet the individual needs of your loved one.

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

TheMission MissionofofHumanity HumanityHospice Hospiceis The to provide quality comfort toisprovide quality comfort carecare that that enhances the lives of individuals enhances the lives of individuals with with a life-limiting illness a life-limiting illness and their and families their families dignity. through dignitythrough and compassion.

October 2021

47

Continued from page 46 Please list any honors, awards, or achievements you’ve received either in the workplace, your educational career, or otherwise.

In 2013, I was the Top Performing Retail Banker. This is an achievement of sales production and profitability. Through the Ponca City Rotary Club, I have organized a number of service events for local nonprofits. In 2018, the creation of Service Mobs allowed Rotarians and other volunteers to complete small service projects on a monthly basis to present time. Examples of Service Mobs include: packing book packages for the Ponca City Library for new mothers, letter stuffing for the New Emergency Resource Agency (NERA), supply drive for Teen Pep, stocking and organizing for NERA, packing and organizing for the Ponca City Art Center, Standing Bear Powwow set up, costume shop renovations for the Ponca Playhouse, stocking the Pet Pantry for the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society, sorting and folding clothes for the Kay County Foster Closet, letter stuffing for the Opportunity Center and cleaning/ organizing the Poncan Theatre. This has been the most rewarding community effort and which I am most proud.

Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include?

Club in 2018 serving as Rotary Downtown Coordinator/Director since July 2018 and Sergeant at Arms since 2019. I am the Public Image Coordinator for District 5750 2020-2021 acting a resource for rotary clubs under the direction of the District Governor about branding and logistics. I am the Ponca City President Elect for 2022-2023. My purpose with Rotary is to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian service.

When I am not cosplaying (dressing up) as various fictional characters at ComiCons with friends, I am crafting. In 2020, I put my 12th grade Home Economics skills to use by making masks for the COVID pandemic. As a result of this passion, my spouse and I started vendor/craft shows on the weekends with his woodworking products and my craft projects. Some events have supported organizations like the Marland Mansion Estate and Survivor Resource Network.

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• Residential & Commercial • Certified & Skilled Technicians • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!

• Planned Maintenance Programs • 24/7 Emergency Service

580-762-5935

413 S. 3rd Street • Ponca City • stolhand-wells.com

See 5

UNDER 40

Continued on page 51

DAILY SPECIALS SERVED ALL DAY in addition to our extensive menu!

MONDAY Ham & Beans Chicken & Noodles

TUESDAY Liver & Onions Salisbury Steak

WEDNESDAY

Burrito Supreme Hot Beef Sandwich Taco Salad Beef Nachos

Dine-In • Take Out Curbside • Catering

THURSDAY

Bone-In Fried Chicken Meatloaf Smothered Chicken

FRIDAY

Fried Catfish Salmon Patties Popcorn Shrimp

FRIDAY NIGHT BBQ Buffet 4-9 pm • FRIDAY AND SATURDAY Salad Bar 4-9 pm SATURDAY Breakfast Buffet 7 am - noonish

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48 October 2021

Locally Owned & Operated

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Banking has never been so rewarding!

Improvements are underway at beautiful Resthaven Memorial Park.

Drive by and see our progress.

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1901 E. Hubbard Road • Ponca City • 580-762-5659

Member FDIC

Celebrating our

8th

Anniversary!

2013 – 2021

Thank You for Your Support!

A unique dining experience, TS Fork is a destination for locally sourced and farm-fresh food in plentiful servings with wonderful ambiance and atmosphere.

Dinner served by reservation Friday and Saturday nights.

Set menus may be viewed online or on Facebook.

Fall is a great time to get your property on the market.

Sellers are getting top dollar because there are so few homes for sale. Give me a call and let's get listed!

MARY BETH MOORE 580-401-3456

mbclarkmoore@ yahoo.com

Catering & weekday parties available.

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October 2021

49

I

want to start this out by offering my sincerest apologies to the generations before me. We haven’t been kind to you, we have been thoughtless in our actions and words, and for that I am truly sorry. To get to the point, I saw a video of a very young tart, I mean hussy, I mean girl, trying on “vintage clothes from the early 2000s” EXCUSE ME YOUNG LADY?! Vintage and 2000s are two words that don’t belong in the same sentence. The early 2000’s were like 5 years ago, okay?

(Stop…I know that isn’t true, please let me have this one.) And the kicker was she was trying on styles of clothes that I STILL WEAR and was calling them “classic vintage styles.” I have never been so offended in my entire life.

Why did she have to personally attack me like that? I now know what it feels like for people who were born before me to see trends and styles come

back and it’s painful to watch and for that reason alone I’ll never be wearing bell bottoms again even though I love them so much. Seriously though why is growing older so weird? Mentally you feel like a youthful, strapping, vibrant kid but physically your back hurts all the time and you don’t know why and you’re really invested in your front yard grass. Not too long ago I was eating cheese fries at Cornerstone at 3am on most Friday nights without a care in the world and now I take a fiber supplement at 8:30pm and am in bed by 9 and am genuinely really, genuinely happy about it. That one song in the movie Shrek wasn’t lying when it said “the years start coming and they don’t stop coming.”

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Continued from page 48 How have you contributed to your current business or organization’s growth, innovation, or profitability?

My work with Evans Children’s Academy at the Poncan Theatre started with a single show and has grown to be a full-time commitment. My first show in 2013 had a cast of about 25 kids and was shown to an audience under 200 people. Recently, our production of Oklahoma! saw over 100 kids audition, with a cast of 50 and over 1000 people in the audience. In the last 3 years, Evans has grown to include multiple corporate sponsors and has sparked a renewed interest in musical theatre and the accompanying arts, specifically music and dance. Voice and dance teachers are now in high demand as local kids want to compete for lead roles. This, in turn, has led to productions being very high quality. Evans went from a niche program to a pillar of the Poncan Theatre’s success. A single show per year, grew to 4 shows per year, and now we present 7 shows per year including shows designed for young performers. Without the income generated through the Evans Children’s Academy, it is likely the Poncan Theatre would not have weathered the pandemic in its current healthy (relatively) condition.

How does your business contribute to the community?

Northern Oklahoma College/

Evans Children’s Academy Fine Arts Division Chair/

Artistic Director

Evans Children’s Academy has become a pillar of the community in many ways. It is a place for kids from 7-18 to learn and grow together, to find out what they love, to meet new people, and to become well-rounded members of society. The quality of kids that participate in Evans is exceptional. It has been my mantra that the experience of the actor is the most important aspect of any show. More important than the final product and this has fostered some of the kindest, genuine kids to serve as role models for others who may not have that best home environment. Scholarships are available so that no one is turned away. The local economy is getting a boost in the form of the tickets and concessions to the Poncan Theatre, the staff that is hired to produce the shows, and the area voice and dance teachers that are now seeing a boom in enrollment as kids seek to further their education in that area.

Other theatrical productions and entities are benefiting from the training the kids are getting in these shows.

See 5

Please list any community, civic, or charitable organizations that you belong to, currently and in the past. Please include your position (member, board director, treasurer, etc.) and any specific impact you’ve had on the organization Poncan Theatre Board of Directors, member, treasurer. As treasurer, I took over right as the pandemic hit full swing. I am happy to say we have emerged in better financial shape than when the pandemic started, despite having less events. Choral Arts Society of Northern Oklahoma, artistic director.

I led CASONO for many years until my obligations at Evans became too much and I turned over my duties to Brandon Haynes.

While artistic director, I led a push to involve more community and more inclusive music culminating in a joint concert with PoHi Chorale, NOC band and choir of Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana. Oklahoma Association of Community Theatres Board of Directors, member Ponca City Federated Music Club, festival committee. I started taking my voice and brass students to the PCFMC festival and it quickly expanded from less than 30 students to over 100 student entries.

Please list any area trade or professional organizations you are involved with, your position, and any impacts you’ve made on the organization.

Oklahoma Music Educators Association, college committee Oklahoma Association of Schools of Music, treasurer Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia International Tuba Euphonium Association Buglers Across America NOC Faculty Association, president.

Please list any honors, awards, or achievements you’ve received either in the workplace, your educational career, or otherwise.

Faculty Excellence Award on four occasions Distinguished Faculty at NOC Bands of America Regional Championship Outstanding Music Major.

Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include?

I am a short-nosed dog breed enthusiast!

I share a home with a pug and an English Bulldog.

UNDER 40 Continued on page 52 October 2021

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Continued from page 51 How have you contributed to your current business or organization’s growth, innovation, or profitability?

Pioneer Technology Center • Created a Day Conference called Next Gen, partnering with Ponca City Young Employees. We asked several Local “Heroes” to be speakers and break out session guides. The goal of this conference was to provide the opportunity to learn from and ask questions of those people who are very involved in our community and have made a difference for the good. We hoped this will inspire those who attended to become involved in Kay County. Each Spring and Fall since I was hired at Pioneer Technology Center I have been able to provide the Leadership Conference called Leadercast via Simulcast. Leadercast is the world’s largest one-day leadership event.

The day is filled with 8 speakers. Some of the speakers have been Andy Stanley, Michael Hyatt, Tyler Perry, Nick Saban and many more well-known names. The conference is held live in Atlanta Georgia. With the partnership of local sponsors, I have been able to purchase the rights to air Leadercast via simulcast here in Ponca City for our residents. I have become a Certified John Maxwell Trainer. I had to complete online training and then go to Miami Florida to finish and receive my certificate.

This provided another training option for our businesses in the area. I also became a certified Crucial Conversations Trainer. This adds another training we can offer to our clients that is very beneficial. I have started a Toastmasters Club for our community. We did not previously have a Toastmasters club in our area for those people who want to develop their public speaking skills. This has been a fun and rewarding project to work on and offer to the people who have been attending the monthly meetings. The Ponca City Real Estate Co. I have already reached $1.9 Million in Sales for 2021. Marland’s Place (Board Member) Governance Committee Chair – I was in charge of helping re-write the Policy and Procedures manual for Marland’s Place employees. We made changes with their leave which will better support the employees and the organization.

United Way (Allocations Committee) Being on the Allocations Committee I reviewed the applications for funds of agencies in our area.

An interview was scheduled where I was able to ask questions along with other committee members to the Agencies and then decided how the available funds of United Way should

be allocated to the agencies to assist in their operations. OSU Extension Office, Applied for and received Healthy Living Grant to purchase and plant a vegetable garden and fruit trees at Marland Children’s Home. The garden was used by the Children’s home to provide healthy fresh fruit and vegetables to their residence.

Garden included 10 fruit trees planted in 2015 and 2016 with The Garden planted in summers of 2015-2017. • I worked with the Marland Children’s Home Staff to plan what to plant. The staff worked with the kids in helping with this decision. Kids in Care of MCH helped plant the garden in the spring and summer.

I was able to teach them about gardening.

They were responsible for watering, weeding and picking the produce. • I grew the Master Gardener Program Membership by 50%. Each Master Gardener was required to have 20 hours of community service per year. To obtain these hours we had an educational booth at the Kay County Free Fair for school aged kids each year. Worked at the Herb Festival, redid the three flowerbeds in front of the YMCA (now the RecPlex). Provided potted flowers in front of Golden Villa for their new opening.

How does your business contribute to the community?

Pioneer Technology Center • Encourages Employees to hold positions on nonprofit boards. • Offers free resources to in district clientele such as business planning, consulting, brainstorming, etc. • Host a United Way Campaign to raise money for the Local United Way. • Provides free meeting space for Non-profits. • Provides a place for our clientele to take classes to further their education to increase salaries and provide more opportunities. Ponca City Real Estate Co. • Makes donations to Marland’s Place to assist with the cost needs of foster care. • Offers a real estate service to help those in need of selling or buying. We are a very honest and hardworking team. Our real estate office works in the best interest of our buyers and sellers.

What community service are you involved in?

Toastmasters Kay County Club President March 2021 - Present • Marland’s Place Board Vice President July 2020 – Present • Marland’s Place Governance Committee Chair July 2020 – Present • United Way Allocations Committee Member Jan 2020 – Present • Ponca City Leadership Chair June

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 55

52 October 2021

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Continued from page 52 2019 – Present • October Fest, Chair of Food Venders Committee 2019 – Present • Ponca City Tourism Past Chair June 2019 – Present • Ponca City Tourism Board Member June 2016 – Present • Marland Children’s Tall Grass Tour Sponsorship Committee 2019 – 2020 • Ponca City Tourism Board Chair June 2018 - June 2019 • Marland Ponca City Habitat for Humanity Board Member June 2017 – June 2019 • Marland Children’s Home Board Member May 2019 – July 2020 • Volunteer Youth Basketball Coach through Park and Rec Fall 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 • Newkirk Leadership Chair and Coordinator 2019 • Security Leadership Team at Newpoint Church 2019 – Present • Blackwell Leadership Graduate 2016 – 2017 • Ponca City Leadership Class 30 August 2015 – June 2016 • Sunday School Teacher, Ponca City Life Center 2015 – 2016 • Wednesday night youth leader, Ponca City Life Center 2015 – 2016 Marland’s Place (Board Member) • business community. Ponca City Leadership (Chair) Please list any area trade or professional organizations you are involved with, your position, and any impacts you’ve made on the organization.

North Central Oklahoma Board of Realtors Membership Committee Jan 2021 – Present • North Central Oklahoma Board of Realtors Education Committee Jan 2021 – Present • PACE Post-secondary Adult Career Education, member June 2018 – Present • OkACTE Oklahoma Association of Career & Technology Education, member June 2018 – Present • OAE4-H Oklahoma Association of Extension 4-H Agents, member Jan 2014 – Jan

THIS

2016 • OAEAA Oklahoma Association of Extension Agriculture Agents, member Jan 2015 – Jan 2018 Please list any honors, awards, or achievements you’ve received either in the workplace, your educational career, or otherwise.

Ponca City Real Estate Co. • Rookie of the Year 2020 Pioneer Technology Center • John Maxwell Certified Trainer. Miami Florida March 2019 • National Association ACTE Vision Conference. Anaheim, Ca. December 2019 • Crucial Conversations Certified Trainer, Spring 2018 Oklahoma State University Extension • OAEAA Research Poster State Winner, June 2017. • National Association of County Agricultural Agents National Meeting 2017 Research Poster Session Participant. Each State Winner went to the National Meeting to present their posters in between sessions.

Bentonville, Arkansas July 2017.

Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include?

One thing I know I do well is listen. I often have people say, after telling me a story, “I don’t know why I just told you all that.” I ask good questions and I listen with intent. This makes other feel comfortable and I enjoy listening to what people have to say. We can learn something from everyone.

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 57

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Continued from page 55 How have you contributed to your current business or organization’s growth, innovation, or profitability?

I started as the Executive Administrative Assistant of Dorada Foods. In this role, I was responsible for daily reporting, budget reports, and employee relations events and activities. In time, the company quickly became aware that I could be relied on for high-level tasks and functions and more executive level functions were added to my workload. I became responsible for the company’s sustainability initiatives which were very highly valued by one of the primary clients of Dorada Foods—further proving my value and worth. Sustainability initiatives and efforts that I have been involved with include not only volunteering of my time, but also working alongside coworkers to recycle as many items as possible throughout our workday. I have carried these practices in both my professional and personal life.

After only three years with the company, and while being in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, I was promoted to the Accounting Supervisor for Dorada Foods. This position was previously referred to as Controller,but was renamed to better fit the additional duties assigned which included supervisory functions. In this role, I am responsible for the costing of products made, closing orders, forecasting budgets, and month end journal entries including payroll, monthly and yearly inventory audits, and the management and supervision of the accounting department staff. While at Dorada Foods, I have made a significant impact in many ways. While business growth is figured a little different in this type of manufacturing facility, I’ve helped the company streamline many processes and updated procedures for better training and documentation. In regards to innovation, I have been directly involved in projects and initiatives that have saved money by cutting costs, improving efficiency, and improving overall organization. In stepping into a role that was vacated by my predecessor, I was challenged because I had to give up numerous tasks that only I knew how to perform. This required a lot of crosstraining, collaboration, and teamwork on my part in working through the transitions.

I was placed on the company’s executive team early on when I technically was only the Plant Manager’s Assistant. As a whole, I’ve made a significant difference in a relatively short amount of time. I have established

rapport with all lines of business and have the respect of the management team. I have formed relationships with important clients and partners of the company. In the process, I have also helped to establish relationships in the community—some that had not been established or that had not been worked on in several years. It is important to note that my community efforts were not at the directive of my employer, but rather because I felt it was important. While Dorada Foods values the community and employees’ involvement, I have been one of the primary drivers of the company’s involvement and participation for the last several years.

How does your business contribute to the community?

With Dorada Foods being one of the largest employers in the Ponca City community, we are fully vested in ensuring the success of the people and the northern Oklahoma area.

We have employees that give back to the community in countless numbers of ways.

From volunteering to coach kids’ sporting activities to employees serving on non-profit boards—Dorada is very well represented in the community. Additionally, not only is the time of our employees donated to numerous causes but we make a significant financial impact in supporting a wide range of projects in support of organizations and non-profits.

Locally, some of our biggest donations have been to the New Emergency Resource Agency and the local school systems.

What community service are you involved in?

I have been active in the Ponca City community for many years in a variety of capacities. I am currently serving my second term on the United Way board of directors—a position that I have enjoyed serving on since 2017. I have also been an active participant with the United Way’s annual fundraising campaign each year since 2017 as well. I assist greatly with the United Way campaign through Dorada Foods and have been a key contributor in increasing the donation from this major employer in Ponca City. I am the Past President of the Child Development Center board.

In this role, I had to navigate a challenging year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I have worked closely with the Executive Director to seek out grant opportunities to make much needed improvements at the center while also ensuring the Child Development Center

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 58 October 2021

57

Continued from page 57 is able to stay afloat in a very challenging year and environment. While serving on the CDC board, I have been active in participating with the annual fundraisers including the Flamingo Flocking and the CDC Golf Tournament.

While serving as President, I helped secure a $25,000 grant from Phillips 66 to enhance and improve the landscaping and playground for the Child Development Center. While this project has been delayed for multiple reasons, I am very proud to have been a part of the procurement and early stages. In 2020, I was appointed to serve on the University Center Foundation Board. As a former University Center student, I know how important this organization is to Ponca City and the surrounding areas so being a part of this organization is a natural fit and is very important to me to help ensure educational opportunities for those in the Northern Oklahoma area. Over the years, I have also had the opportunity to experience first-hand the robotics and Lego programs providing STEM training to younger generations. I graduated from the Ponca City Leadership program in 2019 and was a very active and involved member of my class. In addition, I was a key contributor to our class project. This project produced new welcome signs at the entrances to Ponca City. It was a very large undertaking, but one that will add to the beauty of Ponca City for many years. In July 2020, I was appointed as a Trustee to the Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA). As part of my Leadership Ponca City responsibility in 2020, I shadowed the PCDA board for a year. Once I graduated from Leadership Ponca City, I was not obligated to continue attending PCDA board meetings, but I continued attending meetings and remained very involved in the PCDA’s events as I genuinely value what they are accomplishing. It was an honor to be considered and respected enough to be appointed as a Trustee. I take this opportunity and responsibility very seriously.

involved with, your position, and any impacts you’ve made on the organization.

I am a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. In this capacity we are not able to serve on any committees, but rather shadow and gain knowledge from area accountants and business professionals.

Please list any honors, awards, or achievements you’ve received either in the workplace, your educational career, or otherwise.

While working full-time, I was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and I graduated May 8, 2021.

I have completed Six Sigma Plus training and reached silver certification level; this is the highest ranking possible for Dorada Foods and is of great significance in the manufacturing sector.

Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include?

I have had multiple spine surgeries including a level two fusion in 2014 and a spinal cord stimulator implant in 2019. These have been no easy tasks to overcome, but with the support of my loving husband, family, and friends it has been achievable. My husband and I also welcomed our first son in January of 2021. Being pregnant and having a child during a pandemic was not ideal, but what a blessing we have been given. Through my many endeavors, I have learned that each day is a gift and not a given right. We need to take the time to unwrap each and every day.

Please list any area trade or professional organizations you are

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How have you contributed to your current business or organization’s growth, innovation, or profitability?

In the spring of 2007, my intent was to graduate college and pursue a job as a beef cattle order buyer for Smithfield Beef Group outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

This was a placement opportunity, at that time much more glamorous than most, and due to my new degree and livestock judging accomplishments, certainly suited my specific outlook. However, our family business (my grandfather’s business since the 1960’s and based in Ponca City since 1991) was struggling. My father had reached a burn-out from having taken over only 6-ish years previously... He wanted out and was about to take the company to auction. When I heard this from him (over the phone while I was still living in Stillwater), I interjected and said I would decline my other buying opportunity and move home.

Bowers Trucking was, at the time, a rock, sand, and gravel delivery company which as well hauled asphalt for other larger contractors. We had 12 trucks, 14 trailers, operated within a 250-mile radius of Ponca City, and generated annual gross sales of approximately $2MM. Today, (14 years later) Bowers Trucking & Logistics has 68 trucks, 183 trailers, operates a wide array of transport services, and carries products globally through ground, ocean and air freight methods. Last year, it produced $22MM in gross sales, and projects sales over $30MM this year. It is Oklahoma’s only licensed and accredited Department of Defense hauling contractor, having service 452 successful missions, and employees over 90 people in 15 different states.

How does your business contribute to the community?

Our local employee count of 46 brings jobs paying a median annual salary of $48,000 or more. We offer superior truckload, import and export services for our local manufacturers.

(Why is that so important?) Ponca City is considered a micropolitan, and a standalone community which vast manufacturing economy supports neighboring townships like Blackwell, Tonkawa, Newkirk, Shidler, Fairfax, Marland, etc. However (speaking from a logistical standpoint) the location

of the community has not always been conducive for supply networks being located as far as it is from the interstate (I35). Railroad had discontinued its passenger rail access here several years ago, and the freight rail servicing was only dependent on our large P66 refinery (which has declined in its local job count since 2001). The above could be a coincidence, but our focus on the local economy’s logistical needs has allowed our local businesses to grow and develop and gain global access to freight networks to bring supplies in and offer their finished products on a much larger scale.

Our company offers built-in logistical focus for businesses looking to move to Ponca City and a great deal of success-story building within our own company for workers at any level.

What community service are you involved in?

(Current) Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman (Current) Ponca City Business Council Member (Current) Ponca City Area Chamber Ambassadors Member (Current) Oklahoma Trucking Association Member/ Trustee/ Advisor (Current) Transportation Intermediaries Association Member/ Trustee/ Advisor (Current) Oklahoma Defense Contractors Foundation Member (Current) North Central Oklahoma Workforce Alliance Committee Chairman (Feb. 2021) Helped Melissa Bowers’ housing and feeding efforts for the Ponca City ‘Stay Warm’ initiative, sheltering Oklahoma’s homeless.

(2017-Current) Ponca City Development Authority Trustee (2019-Current) US Joint Chief’s Selective Service Academy Member for Senator Inhofe (2015-Current) Ponca City FFA Booster Club Chairman (2017-2019) PC Quarterback Club Vice President (2016-2018) Osage County Livestock Committee Chairman (20152017) 101 Rodeo Committee Member (2012-2016) Little League Football and Baseball coaching

See 5 UNDER 40 Continued on page 60 October 2021

59

Ponca City Monthly’s very own geocache-style game where following the clues can lead you to

50 in Chamber Bucks.

$

GeoCashing Story by Jay Wagner/Staff Writer

It’s been a whirlwind of fun hunting geocaches with you guys!! We can’t believe how many people took part in the hunts, and we LOVE all the historical landmarks that were highlighted as part of the hunts.

September Winners

(Current) Oklahoma Trucking Association Member/ Trustee/ Advisor (Current) Transportation Intermediaries Association Member/ Trustee/ Advisor (Current) Oklahoma Defense Contractors Foundation Member (Current) North Central Oklahoma Workforce Alliance Committee Chairman (2017-Current) Ponca City Development Authority Trustee (2019-Current) US Joint Chief’s Selective Service Academy Member for Senator Inhofe Please list any honors, awards, or achievements you’ve received either in the workplace, your educational career, or otherwise.

We’re going to be taking some time off for GeoCash contest, but it will be back soon!! Look for the GeoCash Contest in Spring 2022!

In the meantime, the sport of geocaching is alive and well in Ponca City and there are hundreds of them hidden all over Ponca City right now!

Please list any area trade or professional organizations you are involved with, your position, and any impacts you’ve made on the organization.

Heather Cox Winner of September’s GeoCash

1. Heather Cox 2. Angie Brewer 3. Becky Williams 4. Kenna Fitzpatick

Transport Topics Top 40 Flatbed/ Specialized Freight Carriers in the USA 2020 (Expected to rank higher in 2021) -June 2016 Total Quality Logistics Carrier of the Year National Fleet Safety Council Award Recipients - 2018 Bronze Award - 2019 Silver Award - 2020 Silver Award Internet Truckstop “Diamond Freight Broker” status 2020 - current 2006 National Champion Livestock Judging Team member (Oklahoma State University) Selected as AllAmerican recipient for Livestock Judging in 2007

Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include?

I have a great family at home, and am incredibly blessed to have my wife Melissa, and son HB. I’m a husband of 11 years and have been a father for 18 years who likes to contribute to my household with sarcastic humor and cheesy fatherly advice. We all enjoy traveling to remote locations and getting-away from the mundane routines so we can all reconnect.

In doing so, it is important to mention that I get seasick and have puked into 4 different international bodies of water. I’m an avid woodworker (building custom furniture pieces) and I like to tinker with other projects my wife finds on Pinterest. I have a great network of friends in which we travel often to hunt, fish, and play gin rummy together. I enjoy duck-hunting, trout-fishing, and building campfires. My wife and I are the happiest when we hike in the mountains during the day and lay under the stars at night.

5. Angie Walker 6. Hollie & Charlotte taylor 7. Don Selvey 8. Alisha and Chloe McLeilland Critchfield Familly Van Edwards Download the Geocaching(TM) app and continue your search for treasures in Ponca City! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/geocaching/id329541503

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Story and photos by Laina Smith/Staff Writer Many things probably come to mind when people think of Ponca City, Oklahoma. Some think of recreational facilities such as Kaw Lake and the many campsites. Others probably think of the many landmarks the city has to offer, such as the Marland Mansion. Most, however, probably think of all the excellent food the town has to offer, including barbecue.

Gene Ellis loved to barbecue and knew he wanted to create an easier way for people to cook the food he loved. So in the late ‘50s and ‘60s, he came up with the idea of cutting out a box from metal and using it to smoke the meat.

Cookshack is mainly known for manufacturing commercial and residential electric smoker ovens.

“It’s what Gene came up with back in the early ‘60s,” Powell said. “We’ve manufactured those ever since.”

The commercial unit is mainly sold to and used by restaurants, grocery stores and smaller, independent barbecue houses.

“Our best customer is a restaurant that wants to add barbecue to their menu,” Powell said. “We always perform better in that marketplace.”

“I actually have a smoker that Gene Ellis made in 1958,” Cookshack CEO Stuart Powell said. “So he was at it long before he incorporated the business.”

“He loved true barbecue,” Powell said.

“Back in those days, that was a laborious, time-consuming thing because you had to create a fire. Get it down. Then tend to it for 12-14 hours while you’re cooking meat, so he was trying to make it easier.”

Ellis and his family lived on a farm in Red Rock, Oklahoma.

But, when he got into manufacturing and decided to continue making smokers, Ellis knew he needed a more extensive community to accomplish that task, and Ponca City was it.

Incorporated in 1963, Cookshack smokers have contributed to restaurants and backyard barbecues of Ponca City and now all over the world.

The company started in a building on Ash Street in Ponca City but has since outgrown that facility. CEO Stuart Powell, who bought into the business after Gene and his wife died, was able to go to the City of Ponca and ask for a larger facility. So now the company sits at 2405 Sykes Boulevard in Ponca City, near the airport.

“This has been a really good move for us,” Powell said.

“Hopefully, it helps Ponca City also.”

The electric residential unit Cookshack produces is a home-use unit customers can use to barbecue in their backyard. They also do well in the hunting and fishing industry.

“We aren’t the cheapest product,” Powell said. “Our demographic is someone with over $100,000 in income a year. Our average customer is in the latter part of their life, probably 40 and above.”

Cookshack employee Dennis Meloy is going over the company’s new aggregate tumbler plans with a fellow employee Scott Gurnee. Meloy is an assembler at Cookshack from Newkirk.

Because of COVID-19, the business has seen an increase in younger people who are starting to utilize outdoor spaces for cooking. They have also seen a rise due to people renovating outdoor spaces.

As the business grows, Cookshack has started manufacturing other products such as pellet fire smokers, grills, char-broilers and pizza ovens. They also manufacture rubs, spices and sauces. Now Cookshack is manufacturing a commercial aggregate tumbler and hydraulic tanks, all contractually manufactured.

See COOKSHACK Continued on page 63 October 2021

61

Story by Adam Leaming , Ponca City Public Schools/Contributing Writer irst of all, it feels good to be back with you, the readers! I have missed writing and sharing my thoughts with you, and I have been greatly touched that my absence was even noted! I sincerely appreciate the kind words, notes of encouragement and the fondness of the PC monthly community to encourage me to get back on the saddle and write again.

As you’ve been informed, I’ve undergone a slight career shift where I found myself pivoting from higher education back to my first love, K-12 education. It’s a new role in an all too familiar organization, the Ponca City Public Schools. I don’t know if many people know, it was here with this same organization that I found a passion and elected to pursue education as a career.

a few lessons I’ve learned over the course of my career and reflecting on these instances has given me a new perspective on worry, concern, fear and anxiety, as I ask myself, “What can I control right now?”

A few of the things I’ve personally found helpful when dealing with change and feelings of being overwhelmed is one, I can be honest. Even when I don’t know what’s happening or the answer to a question, I can be forthright. I don’t need to respond with statements alluding that I have a vague understanding, nor do I need to make excuses for my lack of knowledge. I answer truthfully and get to the point.

Fast forward 19 years, many different positions, and I have now returned but at a more central administrator role with our beloved local school system.

I get asked daily, “How are you liking the new job, Adam?” I typically say, “I’m loving it,” or “it’s been an incredible learning experience!”

But, the bottom line with this new position is it is a big task with a steep learning curve. New processes, new laws, thousands of students and adults, there are a number of continually moving pieces. I went from knowing the ins and outs of my day to day and could even look to the future with a feeling of certainty on how to plan and adjust. Today, I’m lucky to remember the password to even log into my computer. It’s been quite humbling to say the least; answering the 100th question of the day with an, “I don’t know, let me get back with you on that.”

As you can imagine trying to keep track with it all can be quite overwhelming at times. But,

62 October 2021

There are so many things we can control and many I’ve found we can’t control. When I feel like it’s getting too crazy around me, taking a step back reassessing what I can control and consciously setting my intention has helped calm those feelings of being overwhelmed.

Thank you Ponca City Monthly for reading my first column in this new role, I’m so happy to be back with you! I can’t wait until next month, or you can keep up with me on Twitter! @adamleaming

COOKSHACK Continued from page 61 Veronica Tarver, a Cookshack employee, is welding a door to be placed on a residential smoker. Tarver is the only female welder working for the company at this time.

“In 2002, we partnered up with a guy out of Kansas City who manufactured a pellet smoker,” Powell said. “We became the first manufacturer of commercial pellet fire smokers in the U.S. Those are marketed under Fast Eddy’s by Cookshack.”

The biggest customer for commercial smokers is Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, a chain restaurant out of Dallas.

“We have some big names out there in the barbecue world using us,” Powell said.

When describing the manufacturing process of the smokers, Powell said he likes to refer to Cookshack as a glorified sheet metal shop.

“We buy stainless steel,” he said. “We just recently purchased a laser cutter, so we now cut that in a laser. It goes to a press brake, and it’s bent. We take pieces of stainless steel, take them into a welding station and weld those up into a box so that it can be a smoker. Most of our products are two-walled, so they have a piece of insulation between the two walls to hold the heat inside of them. Then they go to an assembly area where electrical parts are put together, whether that’s a heating element, control or thermostat. Then into the box and out the door.”

Depending on the size and amount of meat the machine can hold, most cookshack smokers take anywhere from 3-36 hours to assemble. Cookshack will build about 600700 commercial smokers and approximately 4,000 residential units in 2021.

The easy use and maintenance of Cookshack smokers are what continues to attract customers, new and returning, to this product.

“Our best salesperson is your neighbor that has one of our smokers,” said Powell. “Easy is what makes a great product.

It takes all the guesswork out of it.”

Cookshack smokers can be bought in different ways depending on the type of machine you’re purchasing.

For example, if buying for a restaurant, you will go through a dealer who sells restaurant equipment.

Cookshack offers 7 different residential

smokers and grills. The SM025 Smokette

Elite heats up between 140℉-300℉ and “That segment of our will hold up to 25 pounds of meat at a time. business we sell strictly through our restaurant equipment dealers throughout the whole world,” Powell said. “We ship stuff to Europe, Australia and the Pacific Rim all the time.”

There aren’t any in-person retailers selling Cookshack residential smokers at the moment. However, the smokers can be bought online at Cookshack.com or through other big barbecue websites, including bbqguys.com.

Cookshack has been a part of the Ponca City community for over 50 years and will continue to serve the area for years to come. If you’re ever in need or want a smoker, pellet grill or pizza oven, visit Cookshack’s website to find out more information.

There are many different brands and types of smokers in the industry now. But, according to Powell, what makes Cookshack smokers stand out above the rest is the simplicity and longevity of the machine.

“Probably what makes us different than the rest is the fact that we’ve kept it simple, and we’ve kept it high-quality and long durability,” Powell said. “Most of our competitors build something that falls apart in a few years. We build a product that’s going to last you a lifetime.”

The deck in Cookshack’s newer facility on Sykes Boulevard has a phenomenal view. Company CEO Stuart Powell one day hopes to have an office here.

October 2021

63

Music in & Around Ponca City

Sounding Off Story & Photos Contributed

by Steve Scott

Danny’s BBQ Headquarters on Prospect is where you’ll find the Ponca City Monthly Magazine Entertainment Bureau at this 10-seconds in time.

Good food inspires my writing, and there is nothing more motivating than Danny and Carey Head’s award-winning BBQ dishes. Their patented sauce is an over 29-year mandatory ingredient in our home cooking.

While serving as diplomats for our nation in Kuala Lumpur, the Embassy Consul General begged us for a bottle of the sauce to be served with brisket at a formal dinner for the Malaysian Secretary of State and his entourage. It was always neat to receive a sealed, diplomatic pouch from the states with a case of Head Country BBQ sauce inside (we are forever grateful, Carey!).

Looking back, Ponca City has over 125 years of live music history, and I am honored to be a small part of it for almost 50 of those. There seems to be a continuing march toward “normalcy” in the entertainment climate, and the continued bookings by local venues is a testament to both their tenacity and pent-up public demand. Now, please excuse me while I chew on a couple more rib bones while typing this column …

Mother Kelly of live entertainment. Check it all out, including Austin Duplantis on Oct. 8.

Ridin’ High continues to be the “entertainment pacesetter,” featuring Tyler Russell and the Renegades on Oct. 2, Steel Scarecrow on Oct. 16 and the Bo Phillips Band on Oct. 30.

There is always something happening, including karaoke nights!

The Curtis Moore Band is bringing their magic to Back2Sighs on Oct. 15 and Nov. 12.

The Deviney Smith Band will be playing their own “southern rock goodness” on Radio KUSH with an acoustic set of music on Oct. 4, in downtown Perkins for Old Settler’s Day on Oct. 9 at 1 p.m. and later that evening at the Blackwell Football Stadium.

Looking back, Ponca City has over 125 years of live music history, and I am honored to be a small part of it for almost 50 of those.

The Bandstand …

Ponca Bowl is continuing to work toward becoming another live music venue for Ponca City. Any bands interested should contact Gretchen at (405) 822-0899 or Dustin at (918) 645-5276.

Check the Facebook pages for each of the locations and bands listed as entertainment bookings happen spontaneously when you least expect it.

Something Happening …

The enormously popular Larry Newsom is coming off a record month of performances, including both taverns and private parties. He’s staying busy again this month, so you can catch his performances at Zanotti’s in Stillwater on Oct. 16 and Oct.30, more private dates and an evening show at Frenzy Brewing in Edmond.

Oktoberfest, held annually at the historic Marland Mansion grounds, is a grandiose, Ponca City-style entertainment spectacular, best described as a bold, diverse fusion of crafts booths, cuisine, beer and a range of music acts that will rule each day. We missed this event in 2020, so the re-emergence is a welcome indication of pandemic recovery on the local front.

The crowd-pleasing Astoria Blvd Bistro fosters a great vibe, delicious food and a healthy complement

I’ve featured some of these bands in past columns,

64 October 2021

which can be found at www.poncacitymonthly. com online. In case you want to read about them, I included a reference with the band names.

The Curtis Moore Band (August 2021) will open the festival at 10 a.m. Saturday morning with Oklahoma southern blues and rock. Following at 11:15 a.m. will be local favorite the Hayes Brothers Band (June 2021) playing a wide variety of country, pop, rock and soul music. Down Low from Tulsa starts at 12:30 p.m., and after an uncommonly long layoff, Ponca City’s Band #9 brings their “feel-good dance music” to the stage at 1:45 p.m. The long-awaited return of Morrison 33 (March 2021) to the local music scene will happen at 3 p.m. Play it loud and pace yourselves guys! A Funkdafied Tribute starts at 4:15 p.m., and Dirty Erin (February 2021) closes out the night with their rock ‘n’ roll show of force starting at 5:30 p.m.

Whew! And that’s just Day One! Sunday entertainment starts at 11 a.m. with Corey and the Band of Fools. Another refreshing return to the Ponca City music scene is the hard-driving 5 Shades of Gray at 12:30 p.m. Arms of London (July 2021) brings their fun, high-energy mix of music to the stage at 2 p.m. and Holly and the Guys (August 2021) start at 3:30 p.m. to close out the entertainment part of the event.

I’m sending Kudos to Gary Wilson, who worked “above and beyond” to bring everyone the best show you have ever seen at Oktoberfest. It all sounds like a hit to me!

Finally …

I can say, without a doubt, that the last year has most likely been difficult for everyone. Sometimes it was like the world stopped turning, and the months ahead may have their moments as well. However, these challenges build us into who we are. The flurry of music acts performing across the area the last couple of months makes a statement. The bands and venues are continuing to find their groove again and are finding ways to keep it interesting and fresh. There’s really nothing else like a live music performance, and I firmly believe music can be medicinal. Let the healing begin,.

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

World Mental Health Day Mental Health in an Unequal World

Story Contributed by Jaque Blackwell, Grand Lake Mental Health Clinic; LPC Candidate The world is heavy. No matter where you are on this

planet, I’m sure you can feel it – I know I can. What

do you do when the world feels like it’s falling apart (literally) and the people on it feel like they are being

divided? It’s hard. It doesn’t matter where you are on the socioeconomic ladder, what position you hold in life or

what political side you are on, the world is facing difficult times.

Last year, I completed graduate school. I don’t think there was a time I ever felt so accomplished, excited and scared out of my mind in my entire life (minus the time I birthed my child). I knew this was going to be a time for personal growth in many areas of my life, and I was confident in my career choice. During that time, we all know the world took a turn a lot of us never saw coming. I don’t think any of us saw that coming. The world stopped and at the same time it was going faster than our minds could process. Not only was there (and still is) a pandemic, but many others were also fighting for their human rights (and still are).

In the process of getting under licensure to become a therapist, my colleagues and I couldn’t help but wonder what we got ourselves into. Are we ready to take this on? We were about to be flooded with people who have experienced trauma from everything happening in the world. What happens when we live under constant stress and anxiety? Well, I can probably write a ton of articles explaining the outcome, but for now, we will just talk about solutions.

The World Health Organization recognizes World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10 of every year. The theme this year is “Mental Health in an Unequal World.” Take a moment and think about what that means to you. To me, it means quite a few things. As an Asian American woman, that means that I am expected to work hard, no questions asked. I can’t show my own struggle because working hard is what I’m supposed to do. Believe me, I struggle and I wish that after all these years I could have been vulnerable in showing how much it has affected my own mental health. To me this year’s theme means that people in the LGBTQ+ community STILL have to fight for their rights. To me this means BIPOC are STILL discriminated just based on how they look. Mental health

see MENTAL HEALTH Continued on page 66

October 2021

65

Local mental health professionals supporting mental health awareness (left to right): Sierra McKinnon, LPC; Courtney Cline, School Counselor; Jaque Blackwell LPC candidate; and Brittany Valdez, Care Coordinator.

a person reacts to them. Coming together as a community, even with simple gestures, can change an entire demeanor of not only an individual but I believe for our city too.

MENTAL HEALTH Continued from page 65

in an unequal world means that many people still don’t have access to mental health help due to many reasons whether that is lack of resources in their community or just the simple fact that receiving mental health help is deeply stigmatized.

While the world was being divided, here in Ponca City I noticed something different. Do you remember that crazy snowstorm in the beginning of the year? Temperatures were very low and had the potential to get dangerous quickly. It was so cold! Normally, when this happens, people jump to get the normal “emergency” stash at the store, but Ponca City didn’t do just that. I remember a business opening their doors for people to stay warm. I remember a city working together to gather supplies to ensure people did not go hungry and stayed warm. I remember people booking hotel rooms so families had a place to stay if their heaters went out.

I remember COMMUNITY. Can you imagine what it would be like if we all woke up every day with the intention and thought of “how can I help my neighbor today?” We’ve all seen our city step up to the plate when times get tough. On World Mental Health Day, I encourage each and every one of you to do something kind. Take a moment and think about how you can help our community. Let’s learn to lean on each other when life gets too complicated because it’s too hard to do it alone.

The world stopped and at lifelong goal is to help de-stigmatize mental health issues, the same time it My to help others gain an understanding about mental disorders to provide empathetic care to the youth and adults in was going faster and our community. How can mental health be more accessible an unequal world? Here in Ponca City, we have plenty than our minds inof resources.

One resource very close to me is Grand Lake Mental Health Center. Not only do they provide therapy for could process. adults and children, but they also provide case management (housing, community resources and advocacy), recovery Not only was support specialists, nutritionists, medication management family support. Grand Lake has also stepped up with there (and still and providing iPads to each client. This has helped individuals cannot make it to the clinic have 24/7 accessibility to a is) a pandemic, who clinician in their time of need. but many others What can you do to help break the stigma of mental health?

I see and hear of people every day wanting to know what were also they can do to give a lending hand. While not everyone is a health clinician, I can see a world of change by simple fighting for their mental tasks people can do in their everyday life. When I go into a store and am greeted with a smile not only from workers but human rights from customers as well, that makes a world of difference to especially on a bad day. Heck, even when someone gives (and still are). me me a quarter for a grocery cart at Aldi’s makes my day. When

a friend is upset or has been “off” lately, a simple call or text may be what they need or a listening ear. Instead of judging someone for being in a bad mood, changing one’s thought process into something more empathetic can change the way Jaque and her son Landon

66 October 2021

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by Mary Coley Claire Northcutt is the type of woman I want to be. She’s smart, intelligent, persistent, fiercely loyal and not afraid of a little hard work. She’s a career journalist, working for the Stillwater News Press. She refuses to let any man take control of her life, whether it’s her ex, the lawyer she recently stopped dating or her interfering nextdoor neighbor. Claire is a single mom striving to raise her teenage son to be a man of integrity who thinks for himself. She’s an aunt who believes her nephew, a veteran suffering from PTSD, deserves the chance to make a good life for himself and takes steps to help him accomplish his life goals. Claire, a recent victim of a violent crime, suffers from PTSD herself.

Claire is writing an in-depth article on one of the local ranchers who runs a refuge for wild mustangs; she’s hoping the article will be picked up by the Associated

Press and go national. Claire is meeting him for a few follow-up questions and then she’ll be able to finish up the article. When he’s a no-show, she goes looking for him and finds him – dead, with blood everywhere.

Unbelievably, Claire’s nephew is the only suspect being considered by the sheriff’s department, simply due to his PTSD – because everyone knows that folks who suffer from PTSD are prone to violent outbursts, right? Rather than allow him to be framed for the rancher’s murder, Claire launches her own investigation, despite threats to her son’s and her safety.

Blood on the Cimarron: No Motive for Murder is the first book in Mary Coley’s new series, An Oklahoma Mystery.

I’m looking forward to the next book, Blood on the Mother Road: No Place to Hide.

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Once Upon a Camel

by Kathi Appelt During the mid-1850s, the United States Army decided to conduct an experiment. About 70 camels were imported and stationed at Fort Verde, where field tests repeatedly proved camels were exceptionally useful in transporting supplies.

In the early 1860s, a new Secretary of War, unaware of the previous successful field tests, disbanded the U.S. Army Camel Corps.

Many camels wound up in circuses or working as pack animals for prospectors and miners. A few camels escaped or were turned loose.

Once Upon a Camel is the story of Zada, one of those camels who was left to fend for themselves in the badlands of West Texas. Zada is an older camel who has lived a long, long time and has many stories to share, from her early years as an elite racing camel in Turkey, to working with other camels as part of a caravan in the American Southwest and winning the respect of a local mountain lion.

Zada lives close to a huge cottonwood tree where her friends Pard and Perlita, a pair of American Kestrels, have their nest with their two adorable chicks. When a dust storm the size of a mountain shows up, everyone must evacuate – including those two little chicks that aren’t yet able to fly.

Zada volunteers to give the chicks a ride, nestled in the tuft of fur between her ears. When Pard and Perlita are swept away by the storm, Zada must keep the babes calm until she hits on the idea of telling them stories.

This is a lovely story that I highly recommend. I thoroughly enjoyed Applet’s exuberant use of vocabulary and to make it even better, she includes a glossary of the Turkish, French and Latin phrases Zada sprinkles throughout her stories.

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Backyard

Gardener

Halloween Decoration and Seed Saving Story and Photos By Kat Long/Contributing Writer

Yes! It is my favorite time of the year. Let me count the ways. Halloween is the daughter’s birthday so decorating, costumes and all the fall things get me in the feels. And seed saving! We definitely need to talk about that. Oddly, the two things, Halloween decor and seed saving, can go hand and hand. Here’s how.

We talked about yard/garden clean up in September, but October is why you leave stalks, stems and dying flowers in the yard. Let’s begin with Halloween decorations. Leftover sunflower stalks and some taller leafless shrubs are all ready for some of that wonderful spider stingy décor. Or you can hang spiders, webbing and so many other Halloween decorations from the dying plants. If Halloween isn’t your thing, I am sorry. It is so much fun for kids and adults to dress up as something else. Me. I’m the adult.

Decorating your yard is also a great way to get geared up for Christmas decorations. Yes, I said Christmas. I have friends that will bypass all the Halloween and Fall and go straight for Christmas decor. No judgment. I just love all the decorations.

Now, on to the seed saving. Saving seeds is not hard. You probably have all the materials you need laying around the house. Some envelopes, a couple of white pieces of paper to break the seed heads on and be able to see the seeds when they drop and a sharpie to mark the envelopes. Lock the dog up and put the cats in another room, as I have found all the indoor animals like to “help” when doing something that takes some concentration and has a lot of moving parts.

Here is my routine: Hobby Lobby paper they use to wrap breakable stuff or a couple of big sheets of printing paper on the table. You can use white cardboard or if you have a white table, that will work too. I just like to be able to pick the seeds up in the paper. Now, go outside and gather one or several seed heads. If you are a newbie at this, take a picture of the seed head and remaining flowers/plants before you pick it. Then label it in your phone or computer. I did that the first few years I saved seeds. It just helped me remember what the flowers looked like.

Take the seed head(s) inside and shatter the seed head over the paper or table. Basically, pull the seed head apart with your hands. There will be seeds and there will be flower detritus. Here’s where the paper comes in handy.

Shake the paper and the seeds will separate from the leftover flower bits.

Identify your seeds and then just hunt for them. You don’t have to just have seeds in your packet, but the less flower bits you have, the healthier and drier your seeds will stay for a longer period of time. After you sort out your seeds, then label your envelopes. Don’t mark up envelopes until you have sorted out your seeds. One word: grasshoppers.

Insert rant: I have never in my 12 years of growing things in the yard had SO MANY GRASSHOPPERS! And me without any chickens to eat the darn things.

They have eaten almost all my hyssop and sage seed and have chewed up all my mint. And if you know me, that is a lot of mint. Ugh! Leaving rant. I still have plenty of seeds, just not a lot of hyssop or sage. And no mojitos for the last month or so. I am hoping the mint will recover before winter, but we shall see. I’ll give you an update next month.

Now, back to the seeds. I mark my envelopes with the year, where in the yard I took the seed and the name of the plant. You can also print up some of those pictures you took and affix them to the envelope. It is a nice touch when you give away seeds. Seal the envelope and find a box that holds the envelopes nicely. With so many Amazon boxes laying around, you should be able to find one that will work. Shake out your paper and repeat the process. I find seed saving to be both relaxing and exciting at the same time.

The seeds that will work with this envelope process the best are “dry seeds” such as herbs, flowers, lettuces and greens. Produce seeds are a little more complicated. Tomatoes, cucumbers and pumpkins need to be soaked to get all the fibers off of them. Tomato seed do best if put into cold storage for awhile (two weeks to a few months); cucumbers and pumpkins, after drying (no moisture at all), can be stored in glass containers in a dark place until spring planting. I mostly stick with the dry seeds, as they are easier and store well. And smell wonderful. I forgot how much the cats love it when I seed save; especially the catnip and bee balm.

Have a wonderful October, decorate for Fall and/or Halloween and save some seeds. The April Seed Swap is a great time to exchange seeds with other gardeners. We can talk more about tomatoes and cucumber seeds then and of course, Happy Gardening.

70 October 2021

Annual Screening Mammograms are recommended beginning at age 40 and every year after that.

Even if you do not have a regular physician, you can self refer by selecting from a list of physicians willing to follow up with you.

Call 580-765-0499

to schedule your Screening Mammogram.

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71

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72 October 2021

Friendship Feast 31 YEARS OF

Robert & Tricia

FEEDING PONCA CITY

Story by Chelsea McConnell/Staff Writer

It is said a “friend” is someone you can call on in times of need.

If this is true, the staff and volunteers involved in making our local Friendship Feast a success four nights a week for the past 30 years are certainly worthy of the moniker “friend.”

Each Monday through Thursday evening, Board Members and volunteers host the Friendship Feast out of First Christian Church in downtown Ponca City. Over the years this group has been made up of anywhere from 75-250 volunteers representing approximately 22 churches, civic organizations and school groups in our area. Volunteers serve in roles as cooks, servers and greeters. Despite hardships like the COVID-19 pandemic, they have persevered in feeding friends in need in our community.

It all began one fate-filled Sunday in 1989. Then Pastor of First Christian Church Kip Wolf delivered what must have been an incredibly inspiring sermon around the idea of feeding the hungry and doing things to help others in your community. So inspirational was his sermon that a group of women created a steering committee and began researching ways they could help feed the hungry in our community. The group visited other communities where similar things were being done, and on Jan. 2, 1990, the Friendship Feast began. Initially the Feast hosted free dinners for the community on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, but they grew quickly. Within one month they were serving hot meals four nights per week. By the end of 2021, the Feast will have provided 520,000 meals to members of our community spanning the last 31 years.

Prior to COVID-19, volunteers would open the doors to First Christian Church at 5:15 p.m., having already spent several hours preparing the meal. After sign-in, guests were served around 5:30 p.m. At 5:45 p.m. they allocated time for announcements

and a devotion. Much like a large family or a Sunday School class, friends sometimes shared concerns or hardships for the group to pray over. Next, second helpings and desserts were served. The doors closed at 6:15 p.m. and volunteers would begin cleanup at that time.

As has been the case with most groups and organizations, COVID-19 forced the Feast Board to make some changes to their usual routine. Fortunately, the group was only down for six weeks before they started preparing sandwiches for friends to pick up at the door.

Friendship Feast Board Chair Robert Corbin shares more about 2020. “We started at the end of April of 2020 serving again. So we’re serving 90 people a night now. It kind of goes up and down during the month, but we’re almost back to pre-COVID-19 levels in terms of the number of people that we can feed or that we do feed.”

Providing a healthy, balanced meal is important to Feast Board members and volunteers, so the sandwiches quickly morphed back into full, hot meals packaged in to-go containers, including dessert and a bottle of water. The volunteers take great care in packaging

Beverly Roedel

See FRIENDSHIP Continued on page 75 October 2021

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OCT

22

KAY COUNTY EVENTS

OCT

2

Ponca City Octoberfest 901 Monument Road Ponca City 10/02 & 10/03 ALL DAY EVENT From The Beer Garden To The Live Music, Crafts & Food, Visitors Will Find Everything Needed To Enjoy Oktoberfest, Ponca City’s Largest Fall Festival. The Ponca City Octoberfest is a community event put on by a group of volunteers. The event is also a fundraiser for the Marland Estate Foundation, whose mission is to preserve and restore the historic, architectural landmark and to educate others on the E.W. Marland story. www. poncacityoktoberfest.com

OCT

9

Ponca City K9 Olympics Unity Gym 1908 E Woodland Rd, Ponca City 11:00AM TO 2:00PM Ponca City Parks & Recreation, Northern Oklahoma Humane Society and Trainer Angie Carroll have teamed up to kickoff the inaugural Ponca City K9 Olympics. The event will give you and your dog the chance to compete for gold in a variety of competitions that include Sit, Spin, Down, and Agility. This special dog competition will include awards to 1st – 3rd place finishers as well as raffle prizes, doggie and human snow cones, dog treat booths and much more.

Dogs must be current on shots, please bring your dog’s vaccination record to the event. Event is scheduled for

October 9th at Unity Gym. Register at poncacityok.gov/parksandrecregistration or for more information call 767-0430.

OCT

14

Ponca City Motoplayground Motocross Championships AMBUCS Motocross Track, Ponca City 10/14 - 10/17 ALL DAY EVENT Join us for The Most Amazing Display of Dirt Bike Culture Ever Assembled...

The Motoplayground Race at PONCA CITY www.poncamx.com.

OCT

16

Blackwell Fall Fest!

Blackwell Fairgrounds NOON - 4PM Food,Kettle Corn,Costume Contest,Best-Painted Pumpkin Contest,Scavenger Hunt and Prizes!

Fun Games & More! Over 20 Vendors will be setting up with a Variety of Options to fill Your Holiday Shopping Needs!

Petting Zoo,Horse Rides,Bouncy Houses!

Anytime Flowers Is hosting a Free Flower Bouquet Class for Kids during the Event! Please bring your own small container or Pumpkin to put the flowers in.

OCT

22

Goblins on Grand 300 block East Grand Ponca City 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Each year Ponca City Main Street hosts Goblins on Grand, our community Halloween carnival, in downtown Ponca City. Main Street organizes this event which takes place on the grounds of City Hall and in the adjoining street area from 6th – 3rd Streets. This year the carnival will be held on Thursday, October 22, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., with a rain date of Thursday, October 29. For this event, we partner with local businesses, clubs, and organizations within our community to provide a fun and safe trick-or-treating environment. The carnival features tons of games, a glow booth, a witch dance, food trucks, and more! The Ponca City Noon Lions host children’s vision screenings in

their screening trailer each year and line up on Grand with the rest of the booths. Wristbands that serve as entry tickets are $2 per participating child, regardless of age. All bands will include a trick-or-treat bag for candy and prizes. If you purchase your band in advance, you will receive your trickor-treat bag the night of the event. You can also bring your own trick-or-treat bucket or bag if you choose. The $2 wristband price helps us pay for items like event insurance, advertising, bags, candy, off-duty police officers, and other event expenses. www.downtownponcacity.com

OCT

30

USW Trick Or Treat USW Union Office 1202 W. Ponca Ave 5:30PM - 8PM Stop by for Candy!

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

74 October 2021

FF Mission Statement

The mission of “Friendship Feast” is to feed hungry people.

We will provide food and care in a way that honors the “Dignity of Life” for all individuals who come to the meals.

We will provide a balanced diet of nourishing and healthy food. We will strive at all times to be fair to everyone. We will always seek to give generously and freely from the heart and to operate cost effectively to reap the most benefit from the time and effort given by volunteers.

The program was started to meet a need in the community.

Jesus said to “feed the hungry” and as a body of Christ, we believe that is what the church is about. Feeding God’s people not only helps meet physical needs, but also sets an example for the people being served to “love one another.”

We hope this message will speak to the children and let them know that someone loves and cares for them.

FRIENDSHIP Continued on page 73

the food so that everything is in good shape for their guests. Bread and desserts are not packed in the same container as warm food for example, so they won’t get soggy.

pass it on to Survivor’s Resource Network or Peachtree Landing, or if it’s the right stuff, I’ll give it, I’ll give it to The Mission.”

The Friendship Feast is nondenominational, and the goal from the Friendship Feast Coordinator Tricia Fagg shares what she’s seen beginning was for the effort to be an ecumenical ministry. Today, from the groups who cook for the Feast. “All of our volunteers, just, churches from all over our area help with the Feast. First Christian they cook with so much pride. I mean, Church serves as the home for the like they’re serving their own family Friendship Feast. The Board realizes there. They want to feed everyone. without FCC, the work they’re doing They want to make sure there’s plenty. wouldn’t be feasible. The Feast is They, you know, never for anyone to funded by volunteer donations, go without. That’s our motto. Everyone community donations and grants.

Albright United Methodist Church gets plenty to eat as we can see it.”

Generous groups like the Elks First Christian Church Club and the United Community First Lutheran Church Each night of the Feast, 3-6 cooks Action Program have given them First Presbyterian Church gather to prepare a meal for friends. grants this year. RCB Bank is also a First United Methodist Church Many of the cooking groups also generous supporter for which the Free Will Baptist Church donate the food for their meals each Board is very grateful. They receive Grace Episcopal Church time they cook. It’s evident to both food from the Regional Food Bank Kiwanis Club Robert and Tricia how much love each of Oklahoma. In a typical year, Lion’s Club group puts into every meal they make. they normally host a spaghetti Newkirk First Baptist Church dinner fund-raiser, but that’s not “Everyone could dump the corn out or Newkirk First United Methodist Church been possible due to COVID-19. dump the green beans out and heat Northeast Baptist Church If you’re interested in helping out them up, add a little salt and pepper Prince of Peace Lutheran Church financially, donations can be sent to and be done with it. But none of them St. Mary’s Catholic Church First Christian Church in care of the do that. They want to add butter. They St. Paul’s United Methodist Women Friendship Feast. want garlic, they want to add onion Woodlands Christian Church flakes, and we supply some of it. But a There is a number referenced above lot of them come with this plastic bag that bears repeating – 520,000 full of spices that they bring in from meals. That’s 520,000 incidences of home because they want the food to children and their parents not going to bed at night with an empty taste good.” says Robert. stomach. It’s difficult to capture with words the impact the Friendship Feast has made in our community. A warm meal, a smile, a listening They are also very intentional about how they use what they are given. ear – love. It comes down to love. The volunteers who help with the Robert goes on to share, “We try to make sure nothing goes to waste.

Friendship Feast each week are a wonderful example of what it truly Even if people have a smaller amount than we can use, we’ll take it means to love your neighbor. and figure out how to use it, to supplement our own program or I’ll

Organizations Currently Represented at Friendship Feast

October 2021

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Pioneer Tech is the Manufacturer’s Partner for Success Story by Terri Busch, Communications & Marketing Coordinator/PTC Manufacturing Day is October 1st, and for Pioneer Technology Center we’re celebrating our manufacturers and those partnerships throughout our district.

We are grateful to those companies who have agreed to open their doors to our students and allow them to take a peek into their possible futures. We also thank those area manufacturers who hire our students, sometimes even before they graduate.

Our hands-on program areas for manufacturing include Precision Machining, Mechantronics (renamed from Industrial Technology), Construction Technology, and Welding Technology. Training with up-to-date equipment like CNC machines, carbon fiber printers, robotic welders, and a recently donated plasma table, students continue to develop an understanding of the processes and equipment they will one day run or automate in district manufacturing companies.

Pioneer Tech’s Business and Industry Services (BIS) division supports and champions local manufacturing partners through multiple programs. BIS Staff members, Janet Schwabe, Innovation and Incubator Manager, and Johnny Thornburgh, Industrial Coordinator, help area industries and entrepreneurs align with manufacturing partners who build parts. For example, a new entrepreneur, Triune Industries, Inc., who recently moved into our Business Incubator needed a piece of equipment for a truck-trailer dunnage rack they had designed. Brad Fredrick and Pat Dowell, owners, were heating metal and using a hammer to piece together a specific part to their truck-trailer rack.

Through collaboration with our BIS team, a process engineer and utilizing 3D printing resources at Pioneer Tech, they created a prototype of the part.

PTC’s BIS connections with area industry, like Oklahoma Investment Casting, will then be engaged to assist in discussion with product development to manufacture this part locally, which will end up saving time and money.

76 October 2021

In support of area manufacturers, Pioneer Tech collaborates to foster business to business introductions through a close relationship with the Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) and other district partners. An example of these relationships is the presence of area manufacturers, Precision Toole and Dye, Centerline, Cookshack, Moonlight Machine, and K&C Manufacturing, at the Design to Part Show held in Texas. Participation in this show is an effort to highlight the industry base and vast capabilities of these businesses to other companies seeking manufacturing solutions.

“When you walk down the aisle there is a whole section of Ponca City manufacturing companies who are working together to bring work to Ponca City and other area manufacturers. This cohesive group plays off everyone’s strengths and works together to support the growth of the manufacturing industry in our region,” says Johnny Thornburgh, PTC Industrial Coordinator.

Through additional collaboration and pooling of resources, tools like the Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), which was purchased by the PCDA and is housed in the Pioneer Tech Contractor’s Plan Room, make it simpler and faster to measure even the most complex parts. Hand-picked by area manufacturers, this piece of equipment is another example of partnerships and resources available within our district. Manufacturers have 24/7 access to this machine helping them make parts that save time and money.

We are blessed to have a wide range of manufactures in Northern Oklahoma and we salute our district employers, builders, constructors, creators, fabricators and processors this Manufacturing Day and thank them for their continued support and partnership. Truly your success is our success.

Healthy Mentalities Story by

Kera Kester, NASM Certified Personal Trainer/Contributing Writer

FINALLY, the month of World Mental Health Day has arrived! I love this day for many reasons; mainly because of the great reminder it is for perspective and re-centering.

The mind is an infinitely powerful tool and catalyst for all that we do and say. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we master self-awareness and reach for truth in all areas of life.

As a fitness trainer, I aim to understand different mindsets of my clientele; this can make or break the whole operation. Each year that I delve into the complexities of the minds of my clients, I find at least two or three common lines of thought. Here are three topics that must be discussed when it comes to mental health.

Our Image:

No matter who we are, appearance has at one point been a factor in our decision making. It is why we try on clothes before we buy them, for example. However, there can be a point to where it becomes too extreme, leading to depression, isolation or even anorexia. Additionally, it can lead to unhealthy byproducts of comparison, such as arrogance.

Here is the truth – your looks are not the most important or beautiful attribute about you. You have so much more to offer than the size of your glutes or the positioning of your facial features. Photoshopped pictures and the likes have done a number on the values of our culture. However, exercise and healthy dieting are most beneficial when used to prevent or improve undesirable symptoms like disease, rather than determine whether we love ourselves. You have every right to feel great about yourself because of your delightful characteristics you’ve developed and the beautiful image you were already created in! There is something magical that happens when you and others value what goes beyond physical appearance!

Dieting:

Many people expect me to give them an overly restrictive diet plan, feed them this year’s hot diet fad or make them go cold turkey altogether. This is not necessary and can even become dangerous to a point. I believe in whole foods and reading ingredients because it properly fuels our bodies and cleans out impurities; our bodies more easily fight off or avoid disease. Here is the good news – you don’t need to cut out all sugar and carbs to do this. These products have become “enemies,” when they actually help our brains and bodies. Now, is it best to use coconut sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup? Absolutely. Is it best to eat a piece of

HEALTH & Beauty

whole wheat bread with peanut butter and honey, rather than a Hostess cupcake? Absolutely. But your diet is a lifestyle, and no one will stick with a lifestyle choice that makes them feel overly restricted every single day. If you are just starting out, try switching out simple refined carbs with complex carbs first.

Then add in two cups of vegetables to your daily intake. Try the 80/20 rule. Little healthy steps can turn into big leaps really fast and, before you know it, you’ll love the energy you have and begin to crave edifying products. Food is a great equalizer and unifying joy – yes, you are free to enjoy it!

Reflection:

We feed what we choose to reflect on. If we focus on how much we hate a part of ourselves, then we won’t master self-love. If we focus on a step we’ve achieved, we will carry a sense of gratitude and be better equipped to love others properly. Am I proposing we ignore all mistakes and faults as if they don’t exist? No. But after we become self-aware and find helpful solutions – we must dwell on the positives. A good way to have a positive mentality is to start each morning with a journal entry of what you are thankful for. Another option is taking a moment to sit still and consider what you enjoy about the people you’ve been blessed to meet or get to know. We can’t pretend there are no downsides or disappointments in life.

However, we can consciously choose gratitude and engage to build good relationships with the community around us!

There is nothing like a healthy state of mind.

We see benefits from this in our emotions, relationships and jobs, to name a few. Guard your mental state with all you’ve got. Edify it with exercise therapy, community, prayer or whatever you can find to feed your mind with love and truth! I am always here to take your questions or be a friendly face and support system! My hope is that you take life on with a mind and heart full of love, peace and joy!

October 2021

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Chicken Dumplings Recipe and Photos by Paul Muehlberg/Contributing Writer

This recipe uses a store-bought rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal. Adding baking powder and baking soda to the dumpling dough gives the dumplings and airy and tender texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30-40 minutes

Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter 1 medium yellow onion, medium diced 4 garlic cloves, small chop 2 celery stalks, sliced ¼” thick 2 carrots, sliced ¼” thick ½ cup all-purpose flour 2 quarts low-sodium chicken broth 4 sprigs thyme 4 sprigs parsley ½ cup heavy cream 1 store-bought rotisserie chicken, deboned and torn into bite-sized pieces

For the dumplings: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature 3 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions: Set a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chicken broth. Tie the parsley and thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine and add to the broth; bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil). While the broth is warming, heat the butter in a heavy bottomed pot set over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Add the onions, garlic, celery and carrots.

Add a pinch of salt and cook the vegetables stirring occasionally on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes or until the onions are translucent and have given off most of their moisture. Next, add ½ cup of flour to the vegetables.

Cook flour and vegetables for 1 minute stirring constantly.

Next, slowly add the warmed broth to the vegetables.

Scrape up all the flour and any stuck bits from the bottom of the pot and whisk broth for 1-2 minutes or until the broth has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.

Continue simmering broth for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and cooked through.

For the dumplings: While the broth is simmering, whisk together in a mixing bowl, the flour, salt, pepper, baking powder and baking soda until well combined. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the buttermilk and butter until combined. Next using a rubber spatula, gently fold the buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Be careful not to over mix the dough or the dumplings will be tough. You only need to fold together the wet and dry ingredients 5-7 times. Dough will turn light and airy.

Next, remove the tied herbs from the pot and add the chicken and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Spoon out tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough and drop into the pot. Cover the pot and continue cooking on low heat for 7-10 minutes or until the dumplings are tender and cooked. Remove from heat and let set 5-10 minutes before serving. Stew will thicken as it cools.

October 2021

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