AUGUST 2020
Breaking Barriers
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Attucks Community Center: Overcoming a History of Segregation Second Agency Stepping Up to Protect Animals in Northern Oklahoma Vortex Alley Brewing Reveals Their Next Big Thing
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AUGUST 2020
FEATURES 6..... Breaking Barriers 16..... The Attucks Community Center 22..... Second Agency Stepping Up to Protect Animals in Northern Oklahoma 23..... Ponca City: We Love You Robyn Boettcher Ryan
HEALTH & BEAUTY 32..... Health in Happiness 32..... Glaring Sun Rays & Masked Mayhem FOOD 14..... Jalapeno Grill: Street Tacos 30..... Recipe: Grilled Skirt Steak
with Chimichurri Verde
HUMOR & ENTERTAINMENT 13..... Stew on That by Rachel Stewart 17..... Crossword Puzzle 36..... Crossword Answers
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VOL. 1 NO. 5
ARTSPACE 20..... Ponca City Art Association BUSINESS 19..... Pioneer Tech: Training the Future Workforce 20..... Business Spotlight: Vortex Alley Brewing
BOOK REVIEWS
29..... Children's Book Review: The Girl Who Drank the Moon 29..... Adult Book Review: Lessons from Lucy: The Simple Joys of an Old, Happy Dog
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Kelsey Wagner Robyn Ryan Carey Head, Jennifer Vaughan, Brenda Baugh Robyn Ryan, Kelsey Wagner
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GARDENING 34..... Backyard Gardner:
Fresh Fruit and Sunflowers
CALENDARS 33..... Chamber Link: August Chamber Events
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Front row: Jennifer Vaughan, Robyn Ryan, Beverly Bryant. Back row: Carey Head, Kelsey Wagner, Brenda Baugh.
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© MyMediaMatters, LLC, dba Ponca City Monthly 2020. For permission to reproduce any article in this magazine, contact admin@my-mediamatters.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 other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Time for a New Start August means only one thing for me – new school supplies. Ahhh, just the thought of shopping for new notebooks, new pens and pencils, and a new backpack brings back fond childhood memories. Because new school supplies were more than just tools to help organize my young life, they symbolized a fresh start, a new beginning, and a new chance to redefine who I was. Each August brought new growth as a person, new friendships, new challenges, and an ever-growing sense of accomplishment. I'm not in school any longer, but on days that I need a little extra joy, I buy myself a new planner or notebook. As I sit down at my desk and crack it open for the first time, it still brings that same sense of newness, a chance to start again. This month's issue of Ponca City Monthly tells the stories of four local women, what inspires them and what drives them in their fields of work. Finding motivation, finding new ways to keep ourselves inspired to press forward in work or school can be difficult, especially when life feels overwhelming. School and work for many will look different this year. Teaching will inevitably have unique challenges and parenting will continue to bring unique struggles. But as we navigate this August and children return to school, remember to stop and find what inspires you - and remember that with each new year comes another chance for a fresh, new beginning.
The Renfro Family Foundation would like to thank Ponca City Police Department, Ponca City Fire Department, Ponca City EMTs, AllianceHealth and all medical personnel for keeping our community and our families safe and well.
Carl Renfro
Directors
President
Brenda Renfro
Randy Renfro
Carol Bouldin
Treasurer, CPA
University Center Board
Rick Renfro
Secretary, Restaurateur
Patrick Collogan
Attorney
Cindy Gorrell
Jeff Cowan
Vice President, Investments
RCB Bank
We are proud to support Ponca City 501c3 organizations through charitable grants.
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Sincerely, Kelsey Wagner Editor-in-Chief Ponca City Monthly
www.WTAOK.net
Northern Oklahoma Humane Society July 2020
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TRAILBLAZING PONCA CITY WOMEN TALK INSPIRATION, Story & Photos by Kelsey Wagner / Ponca City Monthly Editor-in-Chief
It’s no surprise there are still jobs primarily dominated by a certain gender. Teaching, nursing and flight attending are a few careers primarily filled by women. Meanwhile, male-dominated industries include construction work, auto sales and firefighting. But more and more people are crossing over to work in industries long held by their counterparts. We spoke with some amazing local women working in traditionally male-dominated fields. As the world continues changing, telling the stories behind those changes is important. Stephanie Austin, Heather Cannon, Kelli Kinkaid and Sally Talley are Ponca City women breaking barriers and moving our city forward.
Stephanie Austin
Percentage of Women Working in the Construction Industry by Year
1996 2020
8.3% 9.9%
company CEOs in the state of Oklahoma. Stephanie says her mindset in construction is figuring out how to do things more efficiently. Stephanie thinks each time, “what’s the end result, and what’s the best path to it?” “We have tried really hard over the last 5 years to get away from the ‘this is how we’ve always done it’ mentality at RSC, and not put ourselves in a box. It’s hard. We are really challenging people to be creative.”
Over the past 15 years, Stephanie says, the overall image of the construction industry has also changed.
But that doesn’t scare Stephanie. She loves construction and loves the challenge it brings daily. Stephanie was named President and CEO of Rick Scott Construction (RSC) last year, and began her career at RSC 16 years ago in August. “I started off as an Administrative Assistant. I answered the phones, did data entry, then moved up to accounting assistant.” Austin says she continued moving up the ranks. Stephanie says women are definitely still in the minority in the construction industry, and she is unsure if there are any other women construction
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Heather Cannon
(“Women in the Labor Force: A Databook.”)
Four of RSC’s top leadership positions are currently filled by women. Stephanie says that as the industry changes, more and more women will be working in construction across the board.
“If you can see it behind me, this whole stack of plans behind me,” Stephanie Austin points to a fourinch thick stack of papers on her desk, “that’s just the one jail project.”
that brings out positive characteristics in others.”
“In generations past, years and years ago, there was a stereotype about construction workers, that they were dirty, they weren’t educated and that they just slung mud and hammered nails all day. There were stereotypes in the industry that construction workers were not professionals, and over the years that has changed. It has changed not because of women, but because the characteristics that women tend to bring that they then bring out in those around them.” Stephanie says women bring unique skills and talents to the construction industry, and are able to encourage collaboration between teams. “That’s what I foresee changing in the [construction] industry the most, a lot more collaboration,” she says. “I don’t think the industry has changed [only] because there are women in the room, there are plenty of women who are not collaborative and have to be right; but I do think there are certain traits that women have emotionally and in the way they think,
There are currently 1,380 Honda stores in the United States, and Heather Cannon only knows of two other women dealership owners other than herself. Heather is President and sole proprietor of Heather Cannon Honda. “I can’t tell you how many others there are in the US, but I can tell you I’m the only [female-owned] dealer in our zone, which includes Arkansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, part of New Mexico, and part of Texas.” Heather has been working in the car business since she was 15. Heather’s mother, Lisa Hopkins, worked in the auto repo business, which is where Heather was first exposed to the industry. “I showed up to help my mom one day when she was repossessing a car, and when we got back to the dealership, I just sort of picked up the pieces and the rest is history,” Heather says. Before getting into the car business, Heather says she initially wanted to have a career as a mortician; a career she felt would come with more job security. “I never thought the car business was something I wanted to do. I wanted something with job security, and I knew the [auto industry] hours were very brutal. I just thought [the car business] wasn’t something I wanted to do.” Heather laughs. She shrugs her shoulders and
MENTORS AND WHAT DRIVES THEM IN THEIR DAILY LIVES U.S. Female Franchise Dealership Ownership
seeking to get into the car business, she laughs and says, “Don’t!”
(“More Women Own Dealerships.”)
In 2016 Heather opened her newly built facility, which is three times larger than the original store she purchased back in 2003. Heather says a new building wasn’t exactly in her original plans.
1995 2000 2004
2% 5% 7%
says, “but here I am on year 28.” Heather says there are two people that influenced her life more than anyone else: Mary Stanton and Charlie Cannon, both of whom were in the car business, and owned dealerships. Heather lost her father at the age of 2. She says Charlie Cannon stepped up as a father figure, but was technically her grandfather by marriage. Despite her divorce she maintained a close relationship with Charlie. Charlie Cannon owned Charlie Cannon Chevrolet and later assisted with his son’s automobile dealership Sonny Cannon Auto Plaza in Blackwell, where Heather worked at the time. “Charlie Cannon taught me firm handshakes and to always look people in the eye when you speak to them.” She remembers Charlie taking her to the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce banquet to practice shaking hands and making eye contact. Heather purchased her first dealership, Dick Stanton Honda, from Dick and Mary Stanton in 2003. She said Mary and Dick both taught her so much about the car businesses and were instrumental in her success. Heather says for her, it really is both the customer and the community that make her job worth it every day. “We’re very fortunate in Ponca City that we really do have very loyal customers.” She says her dealership sells about 80% of the Honda’s owned in Ponca City. Heather says her other secret to success is her strong team of employees. Heather says her team of employees is “absolutely fantastic.” When asked what advice she would give to those
Heather says the car business is tough and always has been. Technology, she says, is transforming it now almost beyond recognition. With more complex electric cars being sold every year, even the service department business has gotten tricky.
“Honda made me build this building. It was either that, or I was going to lose the franchise. I didn’t want to pay for it, but actually — it has really opened us up to the community. We will have 300 kids here doing a trunk or treat and we love doing our ride and drive events. We take a lot of pride in this building. It really has been a blessing in the end.” When the new facility opened, she officially switched the name of the store from “Cannon Honda” to “Heather Cannon Honda.” She says she is amazed at how many curious onlookers come in just to say “We have never seen a lady’s name on a car dealership before.” “It makes you feel good, you know? I feel that’s my job here in our community — to really give back, to really be a mentor to my team, to help the community when they need it and just to count my blessings and to not forget where I come from. I think if you continue to do good things, God continues to bless you.”
Percentage of Career Female Firefighters by Year
2009 2019
3.6% 6.4%
(“New Statistics Show an Increase in Female Firefighters.”)
Kelli Kinkaid
Making a career change at the age of 40 is not an easy transition, but it is especially challenging when that change involves a required two-week boot camp carrying 60 pounds of gear each day. Kelli Kinkaid remembers the first time she thought about becoming an EMT/firefighter. She was in high school, and she considered it as a career option, but instead, she opted to work for her family’s business, Kinkaid Veterinary Clinic. Her father and brother are veterinarians at the downtown Ponca City clinic. But, after nearly two decades spent working with animals, she felt it was time for a change. Kelli left her job at the animal clinic and worked on her Dad’s farm in the meantime, while she considered her next career move. “I had no idea what I was going to do when I left I just knew I needed a change,” Kelli says. During her time away from work, Kelli traveled to Boston to participate in the annual 26-mile marathon, but due to extreme dehydration she was rushed to the ER. “I had an unfortunate experience [at the marathon] where I needed an ambulance. It was really scary, and I had just stopped working for my Dad. I ended up in the hospital and when I got back home, I decided that’s what I wanted to do,” Kelli says Kinkaid enrolled into a 6-month EMT certification
(continued on Page 8)
July 2020
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BARRIERS from Page 7 program that was offered at Pioneer Technology Center and was hired by the Ponca City Fire Department (PCFD) the following year. Kinkaid is not the first female firefighter to work at PCFD, but she was the only for a time. Another female, Katey Lawson, joined the ranks last year. Kinkaid is passionate about her job, but says it can be very physically demanding. She says the shifts are long and can be stressful, but she loves the challenge. “You need to be in shape. Also, at least in Ponca City, you can’t just be an EMT, you have to be a firefighter too.” She recalls being sent to a firefighter course at OSU and being tasked with carrying over 60 pounds of bunker gear every day for two weeks. “I don’t think it’s challenging being a female firefighter. All the guys have been very welcoming and have taken me in and they like the fact that I’m here. I think, like with anything, you have to prove yourself.” When asked who inspires her, she says it’s always been her hard-working parents. “Both of my parents are 75 and they still work every single day,” Kelli says. She continues, “I think what I love the most is that it changes every day. You never know what you’re going to do from day to day, but you know you are going to help people.” Kelli says that any woman who is interested in working as an EMT/Firefighter should definitely consider it. “You can do anything you set your mind to,” Kinkaid said. “Just because it’s mainly a ‘man’s job’ doesn’t mean it has to be that way. I was nervous at first, but we are all a big family now that we’ve gotten to know each other.”
Sally Talley
architect in the state of Oklahoma since 2016.
She remembers thinking about her future house. Sally would tag along with her mom, as they cared for the family’s rental properties all while dreaming up ways they could be modified or renovated. “Thinking back, I was always drawn to architecture through the love of design and really all things artsy, including buildings.” “Architecture is a mixture of art, science and math,” and as much as she loved art and science, Talley wasn’t very keen on math. While at a high school career fair, Sally met Troy Lewis, founder of the architectural firm she now coowns. “He helped encourage me to not worry about the math because that’s what you have engineers for,” she smiles. As Sally prepared for college, she felt certain she wanted to try her hand at architecture. Her mom Jane, a career commercial airline pilot, encouraged Sally to study both architecture and aviation. Honoring her Mom’s suggestion, Sally studied both architecture and aviation, albeit for one semester. Even though the architecture classes were challenging, she knew deep down it was exactly what she wanted to do. “My mom was my biggest encourager/supporter/ mentor. It really was because of her that I didn’t even really realize I was going into a male-dominated industry. It just wasn’t even ‘a thing’,” Sally explains. “My mom was this amazing trail blazer in the airline industry, and that didn’t even sink in until I was in college, when I realized what she did was incredible. I grew up not knowing anything different, just that I could do whatever I wanted to do. There shouldn’t be any boundaries for little girls. It’s just sad that there could ever be some little girls that might think there are things they can’t do.” Jane Morris was the first woman pilot to be rated captain of the 747, one of the first females to be hired by United and was the first pregnant pilot for United. Sally also credits as a mentor her “big sister” in her social sorority. Her “Big” also majored in architecture and pushed Sally to study hard. Sally says that most of her architecture classes were 50/50 males and females; but it’s after graduation, during the licensing process when the number of female architects starts to dwindle. “There just aren’t as many licensed women architects as there are men.”
Sally Talley is a Principal Architect and a business partner with Richard Winterrowd at Winterrowd Talley Architects Inc. She has been a licensed
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July 2020
Number of Registered Female Architects by Year
Talley has always loved the beauty of buildings. Growing up, she also loved Legos, Lincoln Logs and the once popular video game, the Sims. However, she wasn’t allowed to play the Sims, so she settled on a lesser known game called “Home Designer” that still allowed her to digitally build homes.
Holding a bachelor degree in architecture, with a minor in construction science, Sally laughs and said, “If you want to talk about male-dominated classes,
1958 1% 1988 4% 1999 13% 2016 36% (“Women in Architecture.”)
all the construction classes were almost all men.” Some of Sally’s first projects include a few elementary schools in Woodward. She loved the process of designing the schools and that she was able to be a part of the entire process from beginning to end. “Almost every project I’ve worked on has been so different. I’ve done a football locker room, the concert hall, schools, restaurants and residential.” Each week varies. Some are busy, especially if there are lots of new project meetings. Sally says it’s the variety of her work that she loves. Sally says a big part of new projects can involve ladders and measuring as she examines an existing space and begins dreaming up what the renovations will look like, just like she did as a kid. Talley attributes much of her success to her business partner, Richard Winterrowd. “Richard has been such a supportive architect mentor. He is so supportive of me, and patient with me because I am still learning every single day and he has been such a great partner to have. So, I just want to say thank you to him for having so much patience with me.” Sally encourages any kid, boy or girl, wanting to be an architect, to go for it. “Just keep that goal in your mind, and expose yourself to design — magazines, books — and come visit our office! We would love to show kids or anyone what architecture is really like.” Sally says Ponca City is where she is supposed to be. She met her husband right after buying into the architecture firm, around the same time he purchased his own pest control business. “I can’t imagine not being in Ponca City. Every time I go away, I just think ‘I can’t wait to get back home.” Three days after this interview took place, Sally gave birth to a healthy new baby. References 1.
“Women in Architecture.” AIA, American Institute of Architects, www.aia.org/ articles/6252982-women-in-architecture. July 20, 2020
2.
“New Statistics Show an Increase in Female Firefighters.” National Fire Chiefs Council, The Chief Fire Officers Association, www.nationalfirechiefs.org.uk/ News/new-statistics-show-an-increase-in-female-firefighters. July 20, 2020
3.
“Women in the Labor Force: A Databook.” US Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, www.bls.gov/opub/reports/womens-databook/2019/home.htm. July 20, 2020
4.
“More Women Own Dealerships.” Automotive News, Automotive News, www.autonews.com/article/20050926/OEM02/509260804/more-woenown-dealerships. July 20, 2020
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July 2020
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ART SPACE
THE PONCA CITY ART ASSOCIATION
Story & Photos by Brenda Baugh / Ponca City Monthly Staff Writer The Ponca City Art Association is a symbol of this community much like our beloved Pioneer Woman statue. For over 54 years, the PCAA has invested in the art community through education, promotion and “enriching the cultural life in our community.”
Southwestern art hangs on the gallery walls at the new PCAA's location.
The hard work of these PCAA members had been done under the green-tiled roof of the Godance Soldani Mansion. But 2020 ushered in big changes for the PCAA: a new location, a new sense of purpose and a new executive director. Terron Liles was selected as the new Executive Director for the Ponca City Art Association in February. Liles, a 9-year Ponca City resident and former vice president of the PCAA Board of Directors, began his new role on February 18. His dedication to the promotion of the visual arts and his love for Ponca City made the board members’ search for a new director a much easier task.
As Liles was taking on the responsibilities of his new position, PCAA also was also selling their old facility to move to the City Central Building, 400 East Central. The Ponca City Art Association’s new 1,293 square-foot facility is located on the fifth floor in Suite 501.
The PCAA has a permanent collection of 2D and 3D art currently on display.
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Liles states the PCAA was looking for a facility that was more manageable than the three-story historic Mansion, listed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The new office building has modern, angular design features and provides an ideal, neutral backdrop to the PCAA’s permanent art collection.
Terron Liles, PCAA Executive Director
The brightly-lit artist studio provides a great workspace for artists to create masterpieces. For the artists, the most beneficial gain from new studio space is abundant natural light. The large windows allow natural light, even on rainy days, to flood every artist’s studio. This much celebrated and valuable tool allows artists to continue to create and be inspired. The new gallery space allows the PCAA to display its permanent collection. The multiple pieces were previously stored due to lack of space; thus, essentially hiding the valuable collection from public view. Selling 85 pieces and displaying 17 in the gallery on the fifth floor has allowed the PCAA to focus on and “revolve [the collection] around the central theme of American art from the Midwest and Southwest regions,” Liles says. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, or by appointment. City Central Building is located at the corner of Central Avenue and Fifth Street. The grounds surrounding the City Central Building will allow public artwork to be displayed, as well as provide extra space for upcoming PCAA arts festivals. The new location will provide outdoor and indoor space for artists to display their artwork.
The Ponca City Art Association’s Arts Festival is the longest-running festival in the state of Oklahoma and brings thousands of attendees and several artists from across the region each year. The arts festival is a juried show with cash awards given to artists in a number of categories. This is a family-friendly event with music, food and areas designed for the attendees to get inspired to create some art, also. The Ponca City Arts Festival is held annually in September. Although the PCAA Arts Festival will not be held in person this year, the board is 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: considering holding a virtual show in some capacity. Despite the President: Liz Leaming festival not being held in person in Vice President: Mary Anne O'Neill 2020, the PCAA has big plans for Treasurer: Cynthia Wilson Secretary: Vonda Blando 2021. Elaine Armstrong If you are an artist, food vendor Tristen Starkey or musician/entertainer wanting Kelsey Wagner to participate in an upcoming Chelsi Hendrickson Kimberlyn Bivins show or festival, please visit Amy Geurin the PCAA website at www. Aimee Snyder poncacityartassociation.org or call Debra Bellmard 580-765-9746. Hong Fu Nathalia Hiatt
July 2020
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Yvonne Pendley Wehrle Managing Broker/Owner RE/MAX Land and Homes LLC I have been in the real estate business in Ponca City for almost 30 years and I know the market well. I have been an active participant in the building and remodeling of 84 homes in a 7 year time span. With such an extensive knowledge of the building and construction of homes, I feel that I have an added advantage in giving my clients an extra edge when it comes to buying or selling a home. I would love to help you with all of your real estate needs‌ give me a call!
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July 2020
Humor & Entertainment
Here’s a thing that no one tells you, or teaches you in school, ladies. Once you find yourself over the age of 20, your work, social activities, and family gatherings will nearly always turn into a conversation about
“BEER ALL AROUND” AT VORTEX ALLEY by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS 1. Hollywood legend Bette ___ 6. Torpedo or hand grenade 10. Tattered cloths 14. Sports stadium 15. Urgent request 16. Cheese often coated in red wax 17. "Night at the Museum" star (2 wds.) 19. Path-finding puzzle 20. Occupied a chair 21. Resignation phrase (2 wds.) 22. Roll sometimes topped with lox 23. No longer in style 24. Most achy 25. Feeling distressed 28. Fuzzy "Star Wars" creature 29. Music's "The Divine Miss M" (2 wds.) 33. Mooing mammal 36. Notable periods 37. "Try it! ___ like it!" 38. Volcanic spillage 39. Spot for a snug bug 40. Endangered Asian predator (2 wds.) 42. Coats that may be fake 43. Substance on some nail files 44. Premiere performances 47. Noise from a hen's brood 50. Praise highly 51. Assist a tree climber 52. The Little Mermaid's home 55. Comedic actor Ferrell 56. Tangy salad veggie (2 wds.) 58. "What ___ can I say?" 59. Soothing gel additive 60. Kingly domain 61. Number on a birth certificate
your love life. It’s the weirdest thing. You have a boyfriend longer than a few months? You will get asked daily when the wedding is going to be. (“I don’t know, Aunt Linda, when are you going to quit drinking two bottles of wine a day?”) My favorite, though, are the tongue-in-cheek comments. “You better lock him down before someone else does!” (“Oh, yes, Roberta, I’ve been dreaming of the day I can force a man to ask my hand in marriage solely so some tart won’t swoop in and steal him as if he’s a handbag on sale at Liles and Company!”) You get engaged and you’re so excited to announce it, but then begins the constant “When’s the big day?!” and Lord help you if you don’t set a date right away. Finally, you’re married, some relief from family members, acquaintances and practical strangers prying into your private life. NOPE. The moment you say “I do” they’ll move on to your sex life, i.e. “When will you have kids!?” Literally, my wedding ceremony had just ended and we were walking down the aisle together as husband and wife and my redneck uncle hollered from the crowd “Time for the honeymoon, woo-woo!”
62. Beachgoers' colors 63. Like a smart aleck's reply DOWN 1. Applies with light touches 2. It may be expressed in square feet 3. Air conditioning outlet 4. Walk-___ (unscheduled customers) 5. Satisfy completely 6. Grade that's two notches below A-minus 7. Stan's humor partner 8. Be introduced to 9. Structure inside Vortex Alley 10. Comment 11. Familiar saying 12. Steady looks 13. Oily food fish 18. Mentality measurements, for short 22. Uncultured person 23. Garfield and Odie, to Jon 24. Expand like a balloon 25. Modern taxi alternative 26. Land with Lima and llamas 27. Adult male deer 28. Jazz giant ___ Fitzgerald 30. Mike who voices Shrek 31. Electrically charged atoms 32. Created 48-Down 33. Nicolas of "National Treasure" 34. In excess of 35. Suspiciously cautious 38. Droopy 40. Cigarette remnant 41. Moves as a seesaw does 42. Not as empty 44. One of Donald Duck's nephews 45. Order to leave the country 46. Model builder's wood 47. Two-dot punctuation mark
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I was asked several times a week when I was going to have a baby. My husband? Not once was asked. We have a baby, just to shut everyone up. (Lol) Finally, thank you Lord, the questions will stop. THINK AGAIN. “When are you going to give him a baby sister?” But then wait, here’s where it gets good. You oblige, give him a sibling, maybe two. But the moment you announce you’re having a third baby, it’s when the questions flip. “You’re having ANOTHER kid!?” and my favorite, “You know what causes that, don’tcha?” All these questions are relevant to women who follow the stereotypical timeline society has put in place for us (boyfriend, engaged, married, babies, in that exact order), God forbid you are single into your 20s or *gasp* 30s, in a long term relationship but not married, married without children, or have children without being married. I know people are well meaning, and probably just attempting to be friendly, but you don’t know what people are going through behind closed doors, and sometimes these questions are hurtful or painful to hear, let alone over and over again. Don’t be an Aunt Linda, and definitely do not be the redneck (probably drunk) uncle.
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Cavities in the ground Mind-reading ability, for short Dracula portrayer Lugosi Relaxation resorts
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Slithering swimmers Navy's football rival Dracula can become one It grows inside a pod
Crossword Answers on Page 36
July 2020
13
Jalapeño Grill: Street Tacos
Taste
California girl brings Baja-inspired cuisine to Ponca City
Story & photos by Trena M Jennings/Ponca City Monthly contributing writer
Summer Gregory has always had a dream of owning her own restaurant. It wasn’t until she and her family moved to Ponca City that Gregory was able to make that dream a reality. The Gregory family left Southern California in January 2018, looking for a simpler life. She, her husband Jeff, and their four children quickly settled in and began to put roots down. After a brief time working at Boomerang Diner, Gregory found the perfect spot to open her restaurant, 408 East Hartford Ave., opening for business in November 2019 serving up burritos, quesadillas, street corn, and street tacos. If you’re not in the mood for Mexican food, you can also order a flavor-packed burger. Gregory describes her fare as L.A.-style street food. “It’s what we’ve grown up eating. It’s what we love.” She said that living in Southern California, so close to Baja California, Bajastyle food became the family’s soul food. Gregory brought that Baja-style food and her own salsa-making expertise right here to Ponca City. The fresh ingredients meld together to produce a salsa with a full, rich, flavor that has just enough heat to tingle, but not burn. The peppers, that Gregory roasts herself, add a slightly smoky depth. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, let me entice you some more. Most everything served at Jalapeño Grill is freshly made. Thick, crunchy chips straight from the fryer make a
sturdy foundation for the chunky guacamole brimming with cilantro and onion. The queso blanco is creamy with a touch of saltiness that complemented the earthy flavor of the chips. The stars of the menu, however, are the street tacos – in particular, the fish taco. In true Baja-style, crispy beer-battered fish line the bottom of the corn tortillas. Next is a tangy slaw replete with thin slivers of jalapeño. Atop this glorious creation is a generous portion of Gregory’s salsa and a large dollop of her fresh guacamole. Beware, things might get a little messy. Truly a family endeavor, Jeff, Cody, 21, Chase, 19, Cash, 11 and Goldie, 9, all work at Jalapeño Grill. Summer loves that she gets to work with her family and wants to share that sense of family with the community. “We want this place to be a lighthouse in the community where people can tell us their stories. We want to hear their good days and even bad days. We want to contribute.” Gregory assures everyone that if Ponca City experiences another shutdown due to COVID-19, you can still get your Jalapeño Grill fix via take-out or delivery. She also offers catering.
Currently, Jalapeño Grill is open Monday thru Saturday 11 am to 8 pm. Be on the lookout for expanded summer hours. Find updates and the menu on Facebook at Facebook.com/jalapenogrillponcacity, or call the restaurant at (580) 576-0258.
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July 2020
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July 2020
15
The Attucks Community Center Overcoming a History of Segregation Story and Photos by Jennifer Vaughan / Ponca City Monthly Staff Writer Since its formation in July 1998, The Attucks Community Alliance has been changing Ponca City in countless ways. The Alliance is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization and is composed of a core group of 10 volunteers offering programs, events and oversight for the Attucks Community Center. Attucks Community Alliance provides direction and guidance in the ongoing restoration, operation, and maintenance of the Attucks Community Center. The Alliance also provides programs for all ages in the safe and orderly environment of the Center. The Attucks Community Center is the focal point of positive growth for our community. Its mission seeks to •
increase citizen participation,
•
reduce poverty,
•
address social problems of immediate concerns,
•
plan for long-range growth and development by working to improve economic and social conditions, and
•
establish direct lines of communication between the many diversified groups within the community.
The Attucks Community Center is located at 1001 South 12th Street. It is housed in one of the oldest school buildings in Ponca City. Prior to the school’s opening, Ponca City’s Black students endured an hour-long bus ride to Langston to receive their education. Construction of “Attucks Separate School” was completed in 1926, with three add-ons completed in 1928, 1936 and 1937.
is in direct correlation of the guidance, nurturing and love bestowed upon me as a child growing up in the Black section of Ponca City.” He continues, “As I look back at the isolation and separation of this section of Ponca City, I now understand the drive and determination of our Black community leaders, parents and business owners to instill that same drive and determination in us to succeed even though we have to work harder. I continue to accept this challenge as Attucks is not merely a memory, it is a way of life, tradition and quite frankly a badge of honor.” The Attucks Community Alliance is planning much-needed major repairs to the Center. Phillips66 has served as a partner with employee volunteer grants and company philanthropic donations. The City of Ponca City is working closely with The Attucks Community Alliance to provide guidance for available building grants, park improvements and building code updates. Private and corporate donations, along with community support help provide financial stability to The Alliance. The greatest need of the Alliance during this time of building repairs is financial support and volunteers with construction experience and skills. “When I became involved with Attucks Community Alliance, it was to be a part of saving a building that was historical in our community,” says Dwain West, Chairman, Attucks Community Alliance Board. “I attended Attucks School through most of grade school. I remembered how dedicated the teachers and other staff were in making sure we were equipped and prepared to go to the next level of our education. I wanted
Among the many subjects available to its students, Attucks Separate School offered a home economics program, orchestra and band as well as cosmetology. Notably, the school housed a health clinic and provided the first hot lunch program in Kay County. The school celebrated its first graduation in 1932. In 1956, Ponca City Schools desegregated grades 7th through 12th. It wasn’t until 1966 that all grades were desegregated in Ponca City, and Attucks Separate School was closed. The school building laid mostly dormant for years, and a couple of fires destroyed several sections before the Attucks Community Alliance was formed. Attucks School was named to the National Register of Historic Places on December 4, 2017, nominated by Ponca City’s Historic Preservation Advisory Panel. “The Attucks facility is the soul and heart of the community in south-side Ponca City,” says Norris Frederick, board member. “What I do today in volunteer work and support of those in need,
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July 2020
Attucks Community Alliance board members, Dwain West, Dolley Rolland, Diane Anderson and James Roland are pictured sitting outside the Center.
Attucks is not merely a memory, it is a way of life, tradition and quite frankly, a badge of honor. to help preserve the building and to honor the people who gave their all for Attucks School,” West says. The Attucks Community Alliance is proud to provide community outreach in numerous ways. Attucks School is a focal point of for all of our community to enjoy and provides a needed space for meetings and events. It offers a learning space, an event center and even a place to say last good-byes to loved ones. “The historical perspective is still important, and we will continue to help keep that history, because it is relevant today. So many things take place in the Center that help to make us better and I want to make sure we continue to expand and grow the space and use it,” says board member Diane Anderson. Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the Center will open back up on Saturday and Sunday afternoons for children to play basketball and will also provide tutoring and a reading programs for children who may find themselves struggling due to coronavirus-caused school closure. Without paid staff, the Center relies on board members and volunteers to open and close the center as appropriate. They will have set Hours for tutoring and open time that may vary according to need and volunteer availability. Anderson is proud of the Center’s versatility. “The Center serves as a meeting place, has been a shelter, learning center, daycare center and even provided programs for seniors. I believe that, not only does the Center preserve an important piece of history for the city, but it adds a resource to citizens for various use.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP
The Attucks Community Center is located on 12th Street and Madison in Ponca City. Re-utilizing one of the oldest school buildings in Ponca City, the center was formally Attucks Separate School until Ponca City Schools were desegregated in 1966. The Attucks Community Center features Attucks park and splash pad, as well as basketball courts outdoor of the center.
The Community Center has hosted clothing outreaches, back-to-school supplies support, young black male workshops and mentoring. The Alliance mentors and sponsors the Ponca City High School African American Club in conjunction with Phillips 66 Black Employee Network (BEN). The Club assists the Attucks Community Alliance with an annual Thanksgiving basket giveaway, Martin Luther King, Jr. programs, preparing gift bags for seniors in assisted living facilities, Black History Month and more. Another event the Alliance co-sponsors with BEN is the Southside Children’s Christmas Party. Every child who attends receives a gift along with a sweet treat and fruit. Additionally, all attendees enjoy a meal or heavy hors’ d oeuvres. The Attucks Community Alliance also hosts an Annual Juneteenth weekend celebration. This free event provides games, prizes and lunch for all in attendance. The Juneteenth celebration also offers food for purchase to defray costs of the event and raise funds for the Center. The Attucks Community Center offers facility rental beginning at $125 for four hours or up to $400 for the day. It hosts many wedding receptions, funeral dinners, quinceaneras and provides meeting space for civic organizations and more. To reserve the facility, contact Diane Anderson at (580) 304-4927 or email AttucksCommunityCenter@gmail.com. “Attucks Community Alliance provides a safe place for many people, which is why I volunteer,” Anderson says. “I started volunteering when the Center was in a horrible state of repair and children were going into the building to play basketball. This was before the park was developed. Myself and others saw a need and wanted this to be a safe place to play and to learn. I guess the bottom line for me is that the Center meets the needs of many in many ways.”
The Attucks Community Alliance needs the support of the entire community to repair and maintain the Center. The history of the building during the years of segregation is a history that should never be forgotten or repeated. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to: ATTN: Board of Directors, Attucks Community Alliance, P.O. Box 267, Ponca City, Oklahoma, 74602-0267. July 2020
17
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Pioneer Tech Training the Future Workforce Story Contributed by Terri Busch, Communications & Marketing Coordinator / Pioneer Technology Center
Pioneer Technology Center was established to train future workers. The center’s vision, “to be the preferred and most trusted resource for workforce and business,” is lived out in their students’ success stories. Since its founding in 1973, Pioneer Tech’s annual enrollment averages 500 full and part-time students. The center serves area adults and high school juniors or seniors looking for a new career or a chance to update their skills and offers flexible scheduling. Through small classes and short-term career training, students can enter the job market in less than two years. Programs include Automotive Service Technology, Biomedical Sciences Academy, Business and Information Technology (both administration or computer technology), Teacher Preparation, Criminal Justice, Construction Technology, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Health Careers, Machining Technology, Industrial Technology, Welding Technology, Medical Assisting, Fleet and Facilities Maintenance, Practical Nursing and Firefighter/EMT. In addition to teaching employability skills, PTC uses the WorkKeys assessment to identify each student’s level of common real-world skills needed in most work situations. The assessment reveals the potential each student has in the areas of problem-solving, math applications, and reading for and locating information. Pioneer Tech provides free tuition to all high school students within the district and transportation at no cost. Adult students have the option of attending on either a part-time or full-time basis depending on their chosen career. Tuition for adults varies depending on the program in which they enroll. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible applicants.
Not only is Pioneer Tech finding success in training future workers, but industry, entrepreneurs, and small businesses are taking advantage of the Business and Industry Services (BIS) team to strengthen their company's leadership, safety, and human resource development. Pioneer Tech’s BIS team is a network of skilled employees who use their experience in business and industry, as well as state and federal programs, to provide the means for local businesses to remain competitive. Choose from Adult Training and Development (short-term training), Entrepreneurial Services, Leadership Development, Industry Specific Training, Safety Training, Small Business Management, Government Contracting Assistance, Agriculture Business Management, Manufacturing Extension Services, and a Certified Business Incubator for start-up companies. Through the Adult Training and Development (AT&D) program, on-site courses are available with program length ranging from two hours to a complete semester. PTC also offers over 300 different on-line courses and career training options. Pioneer Tech’s Business Incubator fosters the growth of small, start-up tenants, and is intended to help them to grow into thriving businesses. The incubator primarily caters to service, wholesale and light manufacturing businesses. For new tenants, the first three months of rent are free, with incremental increases following.
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19
Business Spotlight:
Vortex Alley Brewing reveals their next big thing Story & Photos by Kelsey Wagner, Ponca City Monthly Editor-in-Chief Rustic wooden picnic tables covered in doodles, hollowed-out letters filled with hops, barley and wheat under a clear epoxy bar top and a small, rebellious guitar-playing metal sculpture named “Victor von Vortex” are just a few of the unique features that patrons have fallen in love with since Vortex Alley B r e w i n g opened in downtown Ponca City just a few short years ago.
the land, by the sea or in the air, customers proudly show off their VAB shirts or hats as they travel. If you search the hashtag #VABinthewild on Facebook or Instagram, you can see the broad photo collection and diverse world-traveling fan base.
VAB opened to the public on Nov. 3, 2017, one year after Oklahomans voted to loosen the state’s liquor laws. Since that change, breweries all across the state have been booming.
VAB has grown since 2017 including expanding from the original six brews on tap to now serving ten. Their craft beers are distributed to other local venues, as well. VAB beer is available on tap at the Cigar Lounge, Astoria and Chili’s.
VAB also sells crowlers, 32-oz. cans the brewmasters David Thomas – Vortex Alley Brewing bottle in-house. In fact, the crowlers Dave says, are one of the reasons VAB was able to survive the pandemic shutdown. Marc Spaulding, Jim Allen, Spencer Boatmun, During the pandemic, customers would submit and David Thomas are co-owners of VAB, as it’s lovingly called by locals. Dave says its still hard to their order via Facebook and they then could pick believe he gets to make beer for a living, but that up the crowlers curbside. This service was enabled fact makes waking up at 4 a.m. to check on brews a thanks to the temporary pandemic-related allowance of curbside alcohol, which has now little less difficult. been made permanent. Thomas says the very first Business is still booming batch of beer brewed by the for VAB. But Thomas says four friends was “Bountiful the VAB owners know they Harvest” and it’s still one of need to implement changes their most popular. to guard against future VAB has a dedicated, loyal setbacks. With that in mind, fan base of craft-beer loving Thomas says they have an patrons. Open Wednesday exciting announcement through Saturday at 4pm, to make - and he makes it it’s not uncommon to see exclusively through Ponca eager customers waiting for City Monthly. the doors to open at 3:30 or “We are putting in a patio,” earlier. VAB fans are so loyal Thomas says with a broad that an entire movement grin. began called “VAB in the Wild” with patrons sharing Currently, VAB has a small, photos from around the world. Thomas says that fenced-in outdoor space in the front of the building he was sent a photo early on by a customer on and patrons quickly fill the available seating. vacation. He thought it was neat, so he shared in on the VAB Facebook page captioned as “VAB in Thomas says the new patio will be to the south the Wild,” the official birth of the movement. On and behind VAB, in the large vacant alley just
With that in mind, Thomas says they have an exciting announcement to make - and he makes it exclusively through Ponca City Monthly.
20
July 2020
behind the neighboring building to the south. VAB has already purchased this adjacent building with plans to outfit it for full scale manufacturing and canning. The new outdoor patio area will be equipped with a separate entrance to allow patrons of all ages, including kids, to enjoy the outdoor dining venue. With no end in sight to social distancing guidelines, a large, open-air patio will be a welcome addition for those patrons who want extra distance between guests. In addition to being family-friendly, Thomas shared the owner’s plans including adding more permanant vendors who offer craft food items for the outdoor patio space. VAB is one of many core businesses fueling the resurgence of interest in downtown Ponca City. And investments, like Vortex’s new patio, are becoming more common as foot traffic throughout the downtown area continues to increase. Vortex Alley Brewing and The Cigar Lounge, located around the corner, work closely together with many patrons frequenting both bars during the same evening. Astoria Bar is one block north, on Grand Avenue, and, judging by their popularity, have three similar attractions within easy walking distance is great for downtown. “We have absolute pride in being a part of the The new patio area will be located in the vacant alley to the south and behind the tap room revitalization of downtown Ponca City and the growth and will feature tables, chairs and a seperate entrance allowing patrons of all ages to dine in the businesses and art in the downtown area,” said outdoors, while also allowing patrons over the age of 21 to enjoy craft brews on tap. Thomas. He still finds it odd “that there are still people in Ponca City who don’t know VAB exists.” He hopes the new patio will bring in new folks to sample their handcrafted brews. VAB continues looking to the future with the new patio and the possibility of large-scale manufacturing and distributing as just the start. If there’s one thing that is certain, Ponca City has a thriving, lively and growing brewery downtown is something everyone can raise their craft beer-filled glass to and celebrate.
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21
Ponca City: We ❤ You
❤
Story & photos contributed by Robyn Ryan / Ponca City Monthly Advertising Director My earliest memories of my hometown start in second grade when I went to St. Mary’s School. My sister, Reneé and I lived with my grandparents, Fred and Shirley Boettcher while my dad, Fred Boettcher, attended his first two years of law school at OU. I have fond memories of attending “cake walks” and other events at Pleasant View school, where my grandma was a teacher.
of pretending I do know who I’m talking to.
In junior high, I also spent a lot of time at Wentz Pool with my sister Renee’. We, and every other young girl in town, were smitten with the fine-looking boys that were attending wrestling camps at Wentz Camp all summer long. Every week there was a new group. I remember like it was yesterday that the pool hours were 2 to 9 p.m. and we begged to stay open to close.
I also remember her taking my sister Renee’ and I to “expression lessons” at the Indian Gift Shop with Mrs. Sittles on Second Street downtown, something she did with all three of her sons.
Moving on to high school, I was part of the largest graduating class, the class of 1975. As I remember, we had 600+ students in our class. Summers were spent at Lake Ponca. We had to sneak around to swim because back then, if you got caught swimming in the lake, you got a ticket. It’s so nice on my daily drives “to town” to see all of the people enjoying the swimming beach now.
I attended fourth grade in Norman, as my dad brought us down to live with him in his final year of law school. There he met my mom, Suzanne, and we all moved back to Ponca after his graduation and their marriage to start our life as a family. My sisters Meredith and Courtney were born soon after completing our family.
The new walking trail has been so popular and is a welcome addition to the lake area. The Ambuc playground and the new kayak rentals are bringing more people out too.
It’s funny that I can still remember our first street address, 812 Overbrook. I remember carefree days of walking to Roosevelt school attending fifth and sixth grade there. My Roosevelt art teach was Beavers and my gym teacher was Mr. Vick and I’m even surprised that remember that.
East while Mrs. I can
I even remember the four of us walking the neighborhoods every evening campaigning for my dad when he ran for State Representative of District 37. Those were the good old days, Renee’ and I actually knocked on doors by ourselves, handing out emery boards with my dad’s name on them and asking people to vote for him. I’m told we were pretty cute doing so and that we helped him get elected a couple of terms.
❤
Next, I attended East Junior High for seventh through ninth grades. Back in the day East and West Junior High were fierce competitors and we were the East Junior High “Kittens.” I remember shopping downtown with my girlfriends on weekends and after school and getting “cherry lime ice” at Julie’s Drug Store or an “upside down chocolate malt” at Beatty’s Trolley Car. We took clothing and shoes “home on approval,” something that was very common, back in the day. Everyone knew that Bernard’s clothing store downtown had a yellow princess phone at a desk up front for anyone to use for free, and we all knew that J. Harris Shoes had the coolest shoes around. We had two movie theaters downtown, the Capri and the Poncan and we had two drive-in theaters, the Airline and Skyvue. We had Ben Franklin and Kress stores downtown and I remember shopping at both often. I had a close group of girlfriends that I had been in Camp Fire with since grade school. We often had bake sales on the weekends downtown to raise money. When was the last time you saw a bake sale around town? I even remember using my door to door skills selling Camp Fire candy through the years, starting in grade school. Later came fruit cakes for band in high school and campaigning door to door as a youngster certainly helped me have the personality to sell ads in Ponca City. I walked downtown with my dad a lot on weekends and remember we ran into so many people he knew on the sidewalk. My dad would stop and chat at length with most of them. I would say, “dad, who was that?” and he would say “heck if I know.” I find myself in the same situation around town as an adult and I think I’ve honed the skill
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July 2020
We used to “drag Grand” for fun and I remember we would turn around in the parking lot where Taco Stop is now, go back East on Grand all the way to 14th Street where we would head north to A & W Drive In and turn around and go back down Grand. I wish I had all the money we spent on gas dragging Grand. I remember that occasionally my mom would send my little sister, Meredith with me on these outings, perhaps I was babysitting. My girlfriend and I would make them sit on the floorboard because it wasn’t cool to drag Grand with kids. Sorry Meredith. That was one of the of the drawbacks of being one of my three younger sisters, along with Renee’ and Courtney. In August of 1975, at the age of 17, I moved to Norman, OK to start college. I have fond memories of riding the train back and forth to Ponca City during my first year because I didn’t own a car. I really loved to come home on the weekends. In 1979, after graduation, I moved to Oklahoma City where I had various jobs as I started my career in graphic design. On a chance office visit between my dad and his classmate, Judy Coddington, my dad discovered she worked in the Graphics Department at Conoco. He wanted me to come back to Ponca City so badly and when he found out there was a job opening in her department, well, the rest is history. I moved back in 1984 and started a short career at Conoco. After volunteering for a severance package after working there about eight years, I worked various jobs here, including Family campaign restaurant manager photo, 1973… m om, Meredith and m at Bravo’s (my family’s e seated
(continued on Page 24)
Renee´ standing
.
with dad and,
Go Crazy and she will
Go Nuts
It would be a
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Frances Coonrod
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over you!
Serving Kay Co. Since 1907
219 E. Grand Ave. • Ponca City • 580-765-2636
CENTURY 21 GROUP ONE
Thank You! We would like to thank the Ponca City Ambucs for honoring our parents with the beautiful “John & Mary Sutton Memorial Pavilion” at Lake Ponca.
We were honored to be at the recent dedication and to see many of you that worked so hard on this project. We were humbled by the many individuals and businesses that sponsored the pavilion as well.
Recently David Sutton, Marty Sutton-Garner and Mark Sutton traveled back to their hometown of Ponca City from the Dallas area and Southern California. The siblings returned for the “John & Mary Sutton Memorial Pavilion” dedication in their parents honor. The pavilion was a project of the Ponca City Ambucs.
Your memorial is so fitting, as some of our best family memories were made at Lake Ponca. Marty Sutton-Garner Mark Sutton David Sutton
July 2020
23
2800 N. 14TH ST. PONCA CITY
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• Make sure your pets have plenty of water. • Spay & neuter your pets, there aren’t enough homes for us all. • Make sure your pets have tags so they can find their way home if they are lost.
PEAK ALERTS You may hear PEAK ALERT announcements on local radio stations. PEAK ALERTS are not a notice of a power shortage, they are simply a load management effort used to reduce the demand for electricity and keep your cost of power as low as possible.
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Aware Preparedness Watch PEAK ALERT!
Thank you Ponca City Things in you&can do to help reduce demand are: for believing supporting • Set your air conditioner up 5 degrees and use fans. your very own Municipality! thermostat Local Control • Use electricity for work (such as laundry, running the dishwasher, “Owned by the Customers we Serve!” Reinvestment
• Equal or greater reliability. ironing, cleaning, etc.) in the early morning or late evening. experience and hundreds of happy customers. • Customer-focused mission is to serve the customers. • Avoid using the oven during theReliability heat of the day. Visit Department • Emphasis on long-term community goals. Accessibility • Close curtains/drapes to block out the sun’s heating rays. of Energy’s website • Quick response from crews located in the community. • Unplug unnecessary electric appliances and equipment. Community for more tips: • Turn off indoor and outdoor decorative lighting. • Local employment. www.energysavers.gov • Reduce exterior door openings and closings. • Economic development – not-for-profit electricity OurLocalPower.org • Replace older model Heat/Air Units with more efficient attracts business. models ts or heat pumps. Celebrating the Benefi Thank you Ponca City • Control over the electric distribution system aesthetics for believing in & supporting of Local Power! and design. your very own Municipality! Local Control • Equal or greater reliability. Electric Universe - Online Learning “Owned by the Customers we Serve!” Reinvestment • Customer-focused mission is to serve the customers. • Innovation techniques and technology to meet Reliability www.poncacityok.gov • Emphasis on long-term community goals. Accessibility energy needs. • Quick response from crews located in the community. Community Dept: Ponca City Energy, • Local Power supports other entities such as police, fire, • Local employment. • Economic development – not-for-profit electricity Click on link: Electric University OurLocalPower.org 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. We offer Heat Pump Rebates! Call Ponca City Energy at 580-767-0405. techniques and technology to meet • Customers have a direct and powerful voice in decision- • Innovation energy needs. making through their communities elected officials. • Local Power supports other entities such as police, fire, park and recreation, library, to name a few, by July 2020 contributions to the city’s general fund. • Local Power makes a difference every day: you live in a • Customers have a direct and powerful voice in decisionmaking through their communities elected officials. Local Power Community. Appreciate it and support it!
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Ponca City: We ❤ You from page 22 restaurant) downtown and about 25 years ago landed at The Ponca City News. I worked for Tom Muchmore for almost a decade and then for the new owners for about nine months before retirement. That was actually my second attempt at retirement from The News. Both times I only lasted six months. The first time I went back to The News and the second time, well, here I am, working my dream job as Advertising Director for Ponca City Monthly Magazine!
❤
Mansion, Standing Bear, Marland’s Grand Home, and the list goes on and on. I have a real appreciation for our downtown district, mostly because of my dad. Our community is coming back little by little and we have some people younger than I, that are making that happen.
❤
Now, back to my job at The News … after working there just a couple of years, I made an attempt to move to a “bigger and better” city, Wichita. It was at this point in my life that I realized how much I loved my hometown. I only lasted three months and moved right back. I was lucky enough to be rehired on the spot by Tom.
Let me tell you the things I missed. I missed the lake terribly, having grown up with it. We truly don’t know how lucky we are to have two lakes in our area. I missed driving to work and seeing several people I knew along the way. I missed going into a convenience store for a pop in the morning where they knew my name because I was a regular. I missed the town where I almost never locked my car. I missed the town where I never had a house key growing up. I missed the everybody knows everybody thing that I didn’t care for growing up. It’s funny how adulthood changes your perspective on things.
In closing, I truly love my hometown and can’t imagine being anywhere else. To the movers and shakers making things happen, keep up the good work.
“Ponca City is a wonderful community and there are so many opportunities to be a part of the positive things that are happening.”
So, here I am at 62, reflecting back. I am grateful my dad wanted me back here. I am so glad for the wonderful life I’ve had here with great friends, great clients and great memories. I treasure our local gems like the Marland
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July 2020
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Second Agency Stepping Up To Protect Animals in Northern Oklahoma Story by Carey Head / Ponca City Monthly Staff Writer Photos by Kelsey Wagner
Chuck Greenwood is used to raising eyebrows. He’s a trail blazer in business; non-profit leader with a “shake things up” style; passionate animal advocate and fearless fundraiser. Give him a goal and get out of his way. Give him a quarter-million dollars and he will put it to use – although maybe not on his own pet project. Some background: Greenwood and his team of volunteers are putting the finishing touches on a $1.6 million capital campaign which has renovated the existing Ponca City Humane Society building and significantly expanded its square footage. As of January, the Ponca City Humane Society is now Northern Oklahoma Humane Society. Still, today, $150,000 remains to be raised to reach the goal. As the Humane Society capital campaign enters its final push, Greenwood was contacted by a local citizen with an intriguing offer: a breathtaking $250,000 donation for the Ponca City Humane Society or the City of Ponca City Animal Control Center. (Cue the eyebrows:) Greenwood directs the donation away from the Humane Society’s capital campaign.
What’s in a Name? Aren’t They the Same? “Contrary to what many believe, the Humane Society and Animal Control are not the same,” Greenwood explains. “The Northern Oklahoma Humane Society is a no-kill shelter, which means we would never euthanize animals to make room for more animals, but that limits the number of animals we take in.”
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July 2020
He continues, “‘No-kill’ is defined as saving every dog and cat in our facility who can be saved. It means healing the animals who can be healed, treating behaviors that can be treated, and prioritizing safety and a high quality of life for both pets and people in our communities. “Whereas the (Ponca City) Animal Control Center works cooperatively with the Humane Society to save the life of every adoptable animal in Ponca City, they have a much bigger challenge than the Humane Society does. They are overwhelmed with the numbers of pets coming in every day.” Greenwood said, “Animal Control has an ‘open door’ policy that means they do not turn away any animals; but that also means more animals come in than get adopted or the owner found. So, they must euthanize animals every week to make room.” He adds emphatically, “This is not Animal Control’s fault. It is the people in our community’s fault and our lack of (pet spay or neuter actions) to manage our animal population.”
A Two-Prong Approach Greenwood believes both organizations are important for animal welfare. “We both have the job of helping animals in need, and ultimately, achieving the goal of ending euthanasia in our community.” Under the direction of Ponca City Chief of Police Don Bohon, Animal Control Supervisor Steve Miner, and the citizen-led Animal Control Commission, the old ways of “the Pound” are a thing of the past. Gone is the three-day limit on animal confinement before euthanasia is ordered. Instead, the Animal Control Commission has extended confinement to 10 days in order to give rescue and welfare groups and volunteers a chance to re-home the animal.
Greenwood discussed his position with the anonymous donor, Chief Bohon, Supervisor Miner and City of Ponca City Development Director Chris Henderson. The team formulated a plan to use the generous donation to lead the purchase and renovation of a new Animal Control Center. Last spring’s historic flood helped drive home the need for this new facility. Henderson details how the plan became a reality thanks to the anonymous gift that gave it wings.
The second leg of the horseshoe will include the cat care space as well as the garage and storage area. Filling out the 6,400-square-feet under the roof will be the reception area — including a space for animals and humans to “meet and greet;” plus office and break room areas. The interior of the “U” will be fenced as an exercise yard. This also will provide needed space for socialization testing of dogs before they are able to encounter other dogs during exercise.
“Don Bohon and his Animal Control staff worked with my staff to develop Fencing on the building’s north and west sides will provide space for a general needs assessment and then we worked with Winterrowd and Tally confining large animals, which, in the past, have included horses, goats, Architects to fine tune a floor plan. Our Engineering CAD staff then developed sheep and a pig. a comprehensive set of plans that a building permit could be issued from.” Anticipated opening is late September 2020. According to Henderson, the total value of the new facility is $750,000.
It Takes a ‘Village’ The new Northern Oklahoma Animal Care Facility is located on East Hubbard Road. Greenwood was familiar with the building after considering it as an option for the Humane Society. Henderson described how City departments have come together to make the new Animal Care Center happen. “The task of remodeling the existing building at 705 East Hubbard Road was assigned to Development Services. We developed a budget and construction schedule and then set about the process of securing bids from individual subcontractors,” Henderson said. “Detailed CAD plans were prepared by Engineering techs and the Survey Crew laid out the site for improvements. “The Street Department paving crew removed the inadequate asphalt parking area and replaced it with a robust concrete parking lot with ADA-compliant parking spaces and signage. On site inspections and general oversight are being provided by myself, the Building Official and the MEP inspector. Because of our department’s particular skill set, we were able to act as the role of general contractor and architect on this project. “We’ve done these types of projects before,” Henderson added. “The first was the Police Training Facility on Central Avenue back in 2010. We later remodeled the Emergency Operations Center in the basement of the Safety Center.” Bohon describes the U-shaped building as ideal for customizing as the new Animal Care Center. One leg of the “U” will be dedicated to dogs with sufficient kennels to house 25 dogs instead of the current 16. Another area will keep smaller dogs safe, as well as moms with pups, and provide quarantine kennels.
‘Connecting Animals in Need with People Who Care’ For Greenwood, the decision to direct the $250,000 initial donation to benefit a City of Ponca City department was a no-brainer. “It never really was a choice,” he says. “It was more a desire of this anonymous donor to help all animals of Northern Oklahoma and the belief the best way to help the Humane Society is to make sure Animal Control gets the funding it needs — and the public support they need because they do very hard work in our area. “Most importantly, we need them to enforce animal cruelty laws and help educate pet owners in our area of the importance of spaying and neutering of our pets to control pet overpopulation. I believe both organizations will work together going forward and live by the new mission statement of the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society: ‘Connecting Animals in Need with People Who Care.’” Not content to pause and reflect on his part in Ponca City’s new animal welfare achievements, Greenwood details where his attention will be directed over the next several years: “My next goal related to animals in Ponca City is by 2028 that every Adoptable Pet has a Loving, Permanent Home and we become a no-kill community. A no-kill community is one that has reached a 90 percent ‘save’ rate or higher and adheres to the no-kill philosophy, saving every animal who can be saved. “The two defining characteristics of a no-kill community are collaboration and collective responsibility and I believe we have the tools and the people in place now and that will work together to achieve and sustain that common goal.”
July 2020
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CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW BY LORRIE LAYTON
The Girl Who Drank the Moon By Kelly Barnhill
The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a brand new, old-fashioned fairy tale, complete with witches, dragons, monsters, enchanted items, talking animals, and creepy villains. Every year, the Protectorate leaves an infant in the forest as a sacrifice to prevent the destruction of their village by an evil witch. Every year, a good witch saves that infant and delivers it to another village where the citizens are overjoyed to adopt and treasure that child.
story of Elder Gherland and Sister Ignatia, who is responsible for the safety of the Protectorate.
The gorgeous prose of this novel encompasses a variety of topics, including belonging, life and death, growing up, loss, sorrow, love, magic, honesty, choices, and consequences. As some of these themes are deep and can be dark, I recommend this novel This is the story of Luna, an infant left to die in for sixth grade and up. the forest as a sacrifice, who is instead rescued by Kelly Barnhill was awarded the John the good witch who adopts and raises her with Newbery Medal for The Girl Who the help of a wise Swamp Monster and a Perfectly Drank the Moon in 2017. The John Tiny Dragon. Newbery Medal is a big deal. It is an It is the story of Antain, a brave young man annual literary award given to the who struggles to embrace the life laid out for author of the most distinguished him and reconcile that life with his integrity. It is contribution to American literature the story of Adara, a mother who cannot accept for children. the sacrifice of her infant daughter. It is the story of Xan, who does her best to wisely meet the needs of those under her protection. It is also the Our thanks to Brace Books for providing these book reviews!
ADULT BOOK REVIEW BY LORRIE LAYTON
Lessons from Lucy: The Simple Joys of an Old, Happy Dog By Dave Barry
I discovered Dave Barry’s weekly syndicated humor column about 30 years ago and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read of his since then. In 1988, Dave won the Pulitzer Prize for commentary based on that column. Besides the column, Dave has also written more than 50 books and roughly 70 bajillion articles. His writing is humorous, witty, insightful, sidesplitting, and wise. Can you tell I’m a fan? Dave recently celebrated his 70th birthday, which means he’s the same age as ten-year-old Lucy in dog years (i.e., 10 x 7 =70). While comparing his life with Lucy’s, Dave came to the realization that while he may know lots more than Lucy does, she knows one thing that he doesn’t: How to be happy. Lucy is almost always happy – she’s happy to be with her people, she’s
happy to make new friends, she’s happy to go on adventures. (The only time she isn’t happy is bath time.) Lucy has more friends than Dave, fewer worries, and lots more fun. Lessons from Lucy chronicles Dave’s endeavor to understand how Lucy manages to be so happy and determine if he can make his life happier by doing what she does – but he draws the line at drinking from the toilet. His goal is to learn how to age joyfully. As I was reading Lessons from Lucy, my husband came to expect me to suddenly giggle, snort, chortle, or guffaw without any warning as Dave shared his unique (translate: hilarious) perspective on AARP, diversity training, farts, keeping your phone in your pocket, hurricanes, honesty, scallops, and dealing with customer service, just to mention a few examples. My goal now, is, like Dave’s, to age joyfully. I think you’ll enjoy Lessons from Lucy.
July 2020
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thank you! Ponca City Main Street would like to thank our generous Crazy Days sponsors. Thank you for your support! Equity Bank Pioneer Oil & Gas Lyn & Jerri Boyer Jodi R. Cline JREC PropertiesLLC
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July 2020
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• Treatment for work-related illness/injury • Follow-up with continuity of care • Pre-employment physical exams • DOT physical exams • Referrals to physical therapy • Specialists & specialized testing • Employee drug screening (DOT/non-DOT) • Pulmonary function testing
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Chamber
Link
Monthly Chamber News & Updates
August Chamber Events Saturday, August 1 – Sun ‘N Fun and Chamber Family Day at the Waterpark. Tuesday, August 4 – Ponca City Business Council will meet at 8 a.m. at the Chamber Office.
STEWART ESCROW & TITLE CO. (580) 765-6806 1922 Lake Road • Ponca City Proudly serving Kay County and the surrounding areas with all of their real estate closings, abstracting and title insurance needs.
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Thursday, August 6 – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. for Ponca City Discount Foods located at 2405 N. 14th Street. Thursday, August 6 – Education and Workforce Development Committee will meet at 4 p.m. at the Chamber Office. Friday, August 7 – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 4 p.m. for Ponca City Development Authority Central Fare located at 210 S. 4th Street. Tuesday, August 25 – Chamber Board will meet at 11 a.m. at the Chamber Office. Thursday, August 27 – Tourism Bureau will meet at 9 a.m. at the Chamber Office.
Ponca City Chamber Member Celebration Week: Monday, August 17 – Day of Kindness Tuesday, August 18 – Hotdog Appreciation Day Wednesday, August 19 – Partner Recognition Day Thursday, August 20 – Customer Service Training
For Ponca City attraction information and event schedule for the month of August go to visitponcacity.com
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(580) 765-4456 July 2020
31
y t u a e B
HEALTH Over the past several months, we’ve hit on a plethora of topics. However, this one hits home for me the most. It’s personal, it’s real, and it’s raw.
I am so proud that we’re breaking new ground by having discussions over the hard subjects in life.
My call to action for this article and for those of you Stacie Hobbs reading it is to sincerely take Our health is a key asset a valid assessment of where City of Ponca City to the longevity and you are in life and push your Employee / Aquatic, quality of our life. So mind to think of where you Fitness & Community often, we take for granted want to end up. Your age Event Coordinator the opportunity to invest has no say in the make up of in our daily health. When the path that lies ahead of I say health, I mean all you. Your current situation spectrums. I’m talking about physical - whatever that may be, has no control health, I’m talking about quality of life, over who you can become. The only I’m talking about nutrition, but most thing that is holding you back from your importantly what I see more often than potential, your joy, and your freedom to not is that we fail to look inward and do whatever you want - is yourself. truly assess our mental health. After you’ve learned to be thankful, Life brings all of us a series of challenges, go serve others. Try giving what you opportunities, and emotions. How we can - be that your time, your talent, react to each of these things truly does or the treasures that you have on this dictate our direction and our impact on earth. Serve someone else with no others. Discussing mental health has expectation of gratitude or recognition. carried a harsh stigma and we are finally Serve someone else and you will reap evolving to the point where it’s allowed more reward by feeling valued and by and accepted in daily conversation. loving someone else than you will in any other manner. We’re bringing it to the table and we’re talking about how we are feeling. We Once you start giving, it becomes a are welcoming perspective, insight, and habit. Take the opportunity to look the opportunity to grow by listening to inward, to be grateful, and serve others. the experiences of other people. People are just that, people. All of us are flawed but all of us are so full of Honestly, I think we’re finally here potential to make a positive impact! because we’re realizing that we’re not so different after all. We all face massive You have the opportunity to be the challenges and we trick ourselves into good. Go. thinking that we have to deal with them alone. That’s just not the case.
Healt He althh Happiness in
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July 2020
GLARING SUN RAYS
Masked Mayhem
August’s Reign of Facial Terror
Wearing a mask may not be ideal and no matter your opinion on them, they seem to be becoming more of a staple in this “new normal” that we are being forced into by a global pandemic. As a critical care nurse, I have spent my fair share of 12 hour shifts living in masked mayhem. One of the first things that I noticed, other than my crippling inability to breathe fresh air, skin irritation and breakouts. So how do we prevent, or at least minimize the impact of what these masks are doing to our face. Facial skin is not the same as the skin on our hands, it lacks the same chemical make up and tissue, making it more sensitive. This is why you see breakouts and irritation on faces, more than hands or arms. The most important thing we can do, is wear an SPF, all year long and every single day. If there is one bit of skincare advice that would have been forced upon me, I wish it would have been this. Those glaring sun rays, even when they are hiding being clouds, reign down a level of terror on our skin. We are deep in the middle of summer and avoiding the sun is near impossible and honestly, it is just lame. However, when we see someone with a “beautiful, glowing tan”, what we really see is someone who has injured their skin. Tans are burn injuries to the skin, the body releases cells to repair these injuries to the skin, that leave the skin discolored. We all know that sun damage is the leading cause of skin cancer. This is why SPF is essential, it also provides a little extra protective barrier
between your skin and that dreaded mask. Ladies, limit the amount of make up you’re wearing. Not only will this decrease the possibility of clogged pores, it will also reduce the risk of infection. Masks can breakdown the skin, causing irritation and open wounds to form on your skin. Make up, dirt, debris and whatever else is on your mask will now be introduced to those open wounds, which can lead to infections that could lead you to the local doctors office for an antibiotic. Find a great SPF with a tinted primer and you’re all set for the summer months Wash your pillow cases frequently. We all hear how vital it is to wash our faces morning and night, but what about the thing your face lays on all night. Every time you lay on a dirty pillow, you’re reintroducing your face to that bacteria covered pillow case. This will help decrease breakouts and infections, if you end up with breakdown from your masks.
Shannon Somers-Puetz
Owner/Injector Aesthetic State of Mind Medical Spa
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CONSTRUCTION CO. (continued on Page 24)
July 2020
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The Backyard Gardener Fresh Fruit & Sunflowers
Story & Photos by Kat Long / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer I am writing this after picking blackberries in the yard. Looking up, the bees are buzzing the sunflowers as the sun starts to set. So of course, fruit and sunflowers. It isn’t that hard to grow fruit, either bush or tree, in our part of Oklahoma. Persimmons, for instance, are native to our area. And if you haven’t had a ripe persimmon in the fall, well, you haven’t lived, people. They are so yummy! Other trees which do well are nectarines, apples, sometimes peaches, plums and pears. Yes, there are a lot of things that could go wrong: cedar rust, apple scabs, aphids, mold, mildew, etc., but it is all worth it when you eat a fresh nectarine or peach. And there are always the fruit bushes: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, ground cherries or gooseberries to name a few. And the cool thing about these bushes is most of them like acidic soil. Blueberries will thrive next to your hydrangeas. Blackberries need a little more room, but they love our hot summer and are actually a native fruit to our area. And how cool is it to pick some fruit while you are pulling weeds or watering the yard? Very cool. And yummy. Another benefit is while these trees and bushes are flowering, the bees have something to eat in early spring. The nectarine tree blooms are some of the first flowers in the yard, and though it gives me heart palpitations every year because, you know, frost....
It is lovely to see all the bees stopping in, getting a sip and pollinating for fruit. Right now, the sunflowers are up all over the yard and the bees, all kinds of bees, are having a field day. There are shiny green bees and big ol’ bumblebees and everything in between getting drunk on the sunflowers. And I love them with their big open faces (the sunflowers, not the bees) tracking the sun’s progress across the yard. They are a thirsty plant and do love their water, but I think they are worth it.
Kat Long
If you are the researching type, might I suggest checking out OSU Extension information pages on fruit trees here https://bit.ly/3iGMBdM. And if you are more interested in fruit bushes, here is the information sheet link for blackberries and raspberries: https://bit.ly/3231rp1. But don’t stop there. Use the search function to find out all kinds of information on strawberries, blueberries and other native fruit bushes. And here is the kicker, the crescendo, the piece de resistance of why fruit; the plants come back every year. Well, if you get the soil and watering conditions down, you will have perennial fruit trees/plants for years to come. Heck, you might be the most popular yard in the neighborhood. So, try a fruit tree or bush. And always plant a sunflower seed or two. You gotta love their pretty faces. Enjoy August, pray for school to happen in some way, shape or form and Happy Gardening. Fall Seed Swap - Saturday, Sept. 12 on the Balcony at City Central. 10 am to noon. For more information, call Kat at 580.761.3028 or email klong@ goponca.com with subject “Seed Swap”. Be Counted for our community! 2020 Census Kay County on Facebook.
"If you get the soil and watering conditions down, you will have perennial fruit trees/plants for years to come" 34
July 2020
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Recipes
Recipe & food photos by Paul Muehlberg / Ponca City Monthly contributing writer Chimichurri is a herb sauce originating from Argentina and is traditionally made with flat leaf parsley, red wine vinegar, garlic, and olive oil, although other herbs such as oregano and cilantro are common. This super versatile sauce is perfect for topping grilled beef, chicken, pork and fish and just about any vegetable.
For this recipe, I use part of the sauce as a marinade with added spices for extra flavor! I prefer making chimichurri in a food processor for ease, but if you don’t have one, just use a sharp knife to finely chop the herbs and jalapeños. This colorful and fresh green sauce may just become your new summer favorite. Enjoy!
Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Verde Ingredients ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
2 lbs. skirt steak, cut with the grain into 4 equal portioned steaks ½ bunch flat leaf parsley leaves 1 bunch cilantro leaves 1 Fresno chili pepper or jalapeño, finely chopped 1 medium shallot, roughly chopped 4 garlic cloves roughly chopped
◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
Juice of 2-3 lemons, strained ½ cup olive oil ½ teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon ground cumin Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Red pepper flakes for heat (optional)
Serves 4 Directions
In a food processor, add the shallot and garlic cloves and pulse until finely chopped. Add the parsley, cilantro, lemon juice and olive oil to the shallot and garlics and pulse until finely chopped. Stir in the finely chopped chili pepper (and the red pepper flakes if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer half the mixture to a ziplock bag and add the cumin and smoked paprika. Be sure to reserve the other half of the chimichurri to use as finishing sauce to top your steaks! Lightly mash the outside of the bag in your fingers to combine the spices with chimichurri. Next, add the strip steak to the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours and up to overnight. When you’re ready to grill, remove steaks from bag, shaking off any excess marinade, and allow the meat to come to room temperature (about 30 minutes) before cooking. Prep and preheat the grill to high heat for about 10 minutes or until hot. Season steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Grill steaks 4-5 minutes on each side (flipping only once) or until an instant read thermometer displays 125 degrees for medium rare or grill longer until desired doneness. Transfer steaks to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. Slice each steak against the grain into thin strips and top with the reserved chimichurri. Serve with your choice of grilled vegetables or steamed rice. Garnish with roughly chopped parsley.
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A message from a concerned citizen‌ Feral and dumped cats are a huge problem in Ponca City. As of presstime, 202 cats and kittens have been euthanized this year. What will you do to help? Be a responsible owner and spay and neuter your pets.
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