UNDER
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OCTOBER 2020
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ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Keeping the Mission in Motion: Charity Angels Opportunity Center: Expanding Hope for Clients The UC: Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity
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October 2020
October 2020
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OCTOBER 2020
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VOL. 1 NO. 7
FEATURES ARTS 7..... Keeping the Mission in Motion: 20..... Look for the Art: GAD Charity Angels 41..... ARTSPACE: 13..... Opportunity Center: Cory Ake Expanding Hope for Clients 28..... Five under 40 59..... Halloween Miracle?
HEALTH & BEAUTY 53.... Featuring:
Personal Trainer, Kalyn Kyler
FOOD 22..... Taste: Local Flavor
The Perk Beverage Co’s Custom Coffee Blend 48..... Recipe: John’s Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
EDUCATION 38..... Education Corner: The UC: Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity
BUSINESS 40 ..... Kevin’s Corner: Stock Market News 5 1..... Business Spotlight: Hoddy Glass 37 Years Making Ponca City Shine
BOOK REVIEWS
HUMOR & ENTERTAINMENT 24..... Children's Book Review: 16..... Stew on That by Rachel Stewart A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting 16..... Crossword Puzzle 25..... Adult Book Review: 18..... Kids Activity Page American Dirt 56..... Crossword Puzzle Answers GARDENING 63..... Geocaching? What’s that? 55..... Backyard Gardener: CALENDARS 15..... Chamber Link:
RETRACTION: An article published in the September issue of “Ponca City Monthly” provided an update to the mural project planned for the Robin Hood Mill grain elevators. The site is benefiting from public and private funds as the canvas for two huge murals to be created by Oklahoma artist Rick Sinnett. The article neglected to mention the care the Hall family has given the property and raised an eyebrow with the use of the word “abandoned” to describe the nowidle flour mill. David Hall, owner, provided this statement: “The Hall family would like to clarify that Ponca City’s grain elevator has never been abandoned. The Robin Hood Mill grain elevator holds double nostalgia for Ponca City: not only is it a landmark that defines the Ponca City skyline, it is also the current home of the Bargain Barn Show, a favorite pastime for three generations of Ponca City residents.”
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October 2020
Editor-in-Chief Advertising Director Staff Writers
Ad Designers
Copy Editor Staff Photographer Office Manager Circulation
MyMediaMatters Marketing Agency Kelsey Wagner Robyn Ryan Carey Head Jennifer Vaughan Brenda Baugh Robyn Ryan Kelsey Wagner Christina Wright Patrick Jordan Jay Wagner Brenda Baugh Patrick Blackwell
You’ve Got to Be in the Magazine! If you would like to advertise in Ponca City Monthly, please call Robyn Ryan, Advertising Director, at (580) 761-1295, or email robyn@poncacitymonthly.com
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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.
Editor’s Note This month, Ponca City Monthly is helping Ponca City Main Street kick off a new annual tradition by highlighting five young professionals who are helping progress our city forward. The five selected are leaders in their respective fields of technology, construction, social services, film making and energy. Our exclusive feature story on the “Five Under Forty� provides an indepth look at who they are, what they do and who has helped them become who they are today.
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It’s important to recognize and celebrate innovation. But more importantly, to try and understand what factors helped shape the innovators. The old saying, “It takes a Village,� is true. A few months ago when Ponca City Monthly agreed to feature the “Five� on our cover, I did not know I would be among them. I’m so glad I could check “grace the cover of my own magazine� off my bucket list, and get it out of the way. I’m truly honored to have been selected, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s group. Ponca City is blessed to have so many people working toward a unified goal and investing in the future of Ponca City.
Sincerely, Kelsey Wagner Editor-in-Chief Ponca City Monthly
Editor@poncacitymonthly.com
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Keeping the Mission in Motion Charity Angels Expands Commitment to Improve Individual Independence and Mobility Story by Carey Head / Ponca City Monthly Staff Writer Photos by Carey Head and Contributed by Charity Angels As a “new normal” settles upon us, many still wistfully long for the way things used to be. Understandably, this nostalgia may serve to effectively put on hold progress until a better version of “normal” becomes available (such as one brought about through a safe, effective, and globally available COVID-19 vaccine). Members of the Charity Angels chapter of AMBUCS aren’t waiting for another change. They are dealing with this one just fine. Ask chapter treasurer Donna Hingtgen about the group, and it is a pleasure to absorb her enthusiasm. The evolution of the lunch meetings at a local restaurant into lawn chairs in members’ yards is one way the female arm of Ponca City AMBUCS is keeping
the mission moving. “It’s important to think outside the box,” Donna explains. “Do things differently, but keep doing them.” She points to the group’s mission to improve independence and mobility for those with physical disabilities. Providing the customized bicycle or tricycle, known as an Amtryke, is a key mission for all AMBUC chapters. The therapy vehicles are made to exact specifications for the individual applying for the mobility assist. One Amtryke has been approved for a local client. Charity Angels has delivered three Amtrykes during the COVID-19 isolation period. While the needed paperwork and measurements are being finalized for
a fourth, Charity Angels learned that an Oklahoma City AMBUCS chapter has an Amtryke waiting list of 42. Ponca City’s group has elected to send the funds to purchase an Amtryke for the Oklahoma City area client and help out the chapter. “Other than not being able to do things together, we still are very busy,” Donna says. In addition to the delivery of three Amtrykes, the group has completed a handrail installation, and successfully funded and installed two new playground elements at AMBUC Park at Lake Ponca. Wendy Bond, Charity Angel Ambility Chairman, presented renditions the proposed equipment to the Ponca City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. A basket swing, which hangs from an arched support, is especially soothing to autistic children, according to Bond. The second piece is a wheelchair-accessible, ground level merry-go-round. The structure holds two wheelchairs and up to six other children. After winning approval for their equipment donation proposal, the group worked as a team with Eric Newell, Park and Rec Superintendent, to see the project to fruition. Other ongoing projects include sponsoring the two Special Education classes at Union Elementary School. “This is our fourth year to sponsor the classes,” Donna says. “So, if there is a need, then the teachers, Sheila (South) and Jessica (Wyckoff), call us.” Union Elementary School Principal Jennifer Dye agrees. “Already this school year, they
Charity Angel’s Brook Lindsay, fourth from left, hosted a socially distant cookout and bonfire at her rural home. Joining Brook on the first row are Karly Fagg and Donna Hingtgen. Standing from left: Rosanne Cockriel, Natalie Frazier, Sheila South, Tracey Ivy, Katrina Presnal, Misty Jordan, Melissa Frame, Ginny Durham, Helen Coleman, Suzanne Devinney, Darrla James and Wendy Bond. Brook gave each guest a pre-bagged hot dog meal as well as s’more fixins so each could cook her own while maintaining safe distancing. (Photo provided by Charity Angels)
continued on page 8
October 2020 October 2020
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Keeping the Mission in Motion continued from page 7
have provided us with table dividers and masks for our special education classes. They are really wonderful to work with us.” Donna described how the Charity Angels managed to construct the table dividers as a group without the usual meeting for a workday. “One member bought the materials. Then they were transferred to another member who would work on a certain part of it. Then she would take them to the next member to have another part of the construction completed, and so on, until they were delivered.” The group also helps fund scholarships for students pursuing advance degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, and hearing audiology. Charity Angels sponsors three
students, with each receiving national scholarships. The chapter funded a $500 scholarship, as well. Though Charity Angels canceled close encounter-style fundraisers, such as the popular Wacky Golf Tournament, the group had a successful firework stand, and now a sold-out Mum Sale, so funding for their mission continues. The longest-running Ponca City women’s AMBUC chapter is celebrating its 11th year, and welcoming new members. Membership is open to those 16 and above who believe in the AMBUC mission to improve individual mobility and independence. Those interested are asked to complete an application. Annual dues are $80, and scholarships are available.
continued on page 10
Chrysanthemum purchaser Lanita Chapman, right, loads her order of mums from Charity Angel member Wendy Bond. Customers picked up their order at a Lindsay Manufacturing warehouse in Darr Industrial Park. Lindsay offered the space to shelter the hundreds of large plants until the sale’s conclusion. Mark your calendar for next August to participate in this important fundraiser which gives the gift of mobility to deserving clients in Ponca City and beyond. (Photo by Robyn Ryan)
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October 2020
Among the many accomplishm ents Ponca City’s Charity Angels AMBUCS chapter shepherded from idea to reality were two special additions to AMBUC park. The new features are handica p accessible, including a merrygo-round which accommodates wheelchairs . (Photo by Carey Head)
For more information, email pc.charityangels@gmail.com or visit the Charity Angels Facebook page.
Though many traditional fundraisers were cancelled due to the pandemic, the Charity Angels were thrilled the annual chrysanthemum plant sale was a sell-out. The fundraiser will help pay for the manufacture of Amtrykes, similar to the one pictured here. These highly specialized therapy and mobility machines are made to order for each approved client. The client’s physical therapist completes the measurements and recommendations for the Amtryke’s unique functions. (Photo by Brook Lindsay)
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Keeping the Mission in Motion continued from page 8
H H H H
Charity Angels members and chapter were recognized at the 2020 National AMBUCS conference. During the virtual conference’s awards ceremony, the ladies earned some heavy hardware including recognition as a Blue Chip Chapter (a perennial award for these gals), 100 percent giving in Scholarships, Ambility and Cornerstone. In total, Charity Angels funded the custom crafting of 13 Amtrykes last year, including one for a veteran. The group also funded the re-tooling of three existing Amtrykes for new recipients. Their efforts helped rank this Ponca City chapter as number 10 among the nation’s 155 AMBUC chapters. Individual honors include Brook Lindsay’s election to the District Governor office. Wendy Bond is the incoming National Big Hat Secretary-Treasurer and Donna Culver Hingtgen is the newly selected Great Plains Region Director. The highest honors bestowed by this 85-year-old organization are National AMBUC of the Year and National Project Manager of the Year. Wendy Bond was awarded second place, National Project Manager of the Year; Donna Hingtgen was awarded second place, National AMBUC of the Year.
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The longest-running Ponca City women’s AMBUC chapter is celebrating its 11th year and welcoming new members. Membership is open to those 16 and above who believe in the AMBUC mission to improve individual mobility and independence.
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Opportunity Center: Expanding Hope for Clients
Story & Photos by Jennifer Vaughan / Ponca City Monthly Staff Writer
Ben Grubb has been an Opportunity Center client since graduating from high school in 2004. He works full-time at Village Screen Print, where he’s able to walk to and from work each day. Ben has a personal job coach who assists him with the sublimation machine and folding clothes, which he’s recently showed his mother, Cindy, that he’s able to help her with at home. Cindy is also employed by the Opportunity Center as a Habilitation Training Aide, and she provides in-home support to Ben ensuring that he’s eating right, waking up with his alarm clock, and staying hydrated, among other things. Because of the program offered by the Opportunity Center, funded by the state, Ben is able to receive in-home care from the person who loves him the most in the entire world. Cindy says she can’t imagine life without the programming offered by the Opportunity Center. “It would be very, very hard. Ben wouldn’t have anywhere to go. He wouldn’t have a job. I wouldn’t have this job. I just think we’re so fortunate here in Ponca City to have something like this. It’s absolutely wonderful. When Ben goes to work, he’s just so happy. The people down there just love Ben. It’s like a family. That’s how I’ve always considered the Opportunity Center.” The Opportunity Center, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that provides both residential and vocational facilities and services for the lifelong benefit of people in Kay County who have developmental disabilities. Founded in 1963, The Opportunity Center has served the community of Ponca City for decades. However, in the last few years, it has experienced many structural changes due to revisions in regulations at the state level. The state of Oklahoma mandated in 2016 that the Opportunity Center’s clients could no longer work on their campus at Opportunity Village, located at 2225 North Union. The state’s position was that it wasn’t considered communityintegrated, due to the existence of a group home in the Village. In response to the state’s decision, the organization purchased a building downtown on Grand Avenue with two storefronts that now proudly houses two businesses, Whimsy and Village Screen Print. Since moving out of the Village location and into the community, the Opportunity Center has seen a broadening of community support because of its expanded presence in the community.
and was also one of the first hundred patients in the world to be diagnosed with genetic mutation DDX3X.
In January 2019, an unaffiliated nonprofit called Positive Impact dissolved, and the Opportunity Center absorbed the program to continue providing those services to the community. Located at Opportunity Village, the Positive Impact program coordinates therapy services for clients including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any other types of therapy they may need. Many therapists travel from out of town, and because of the facility, are equipped with the supplies necessary to provide the services these clients need. Emma Grace, a young girl, is one of those clients,
Emma is one of fifty clients to receive Positive Impact program services. She was provided Occupational Therapy by a therapist who commuted from Stillwater. Emma’s mother, Lyndsay Grace, says driving to Stillwater or Edmond isn’t always realistic, especially when receiving multiple types of therapies, multiple times a week. Lyndsay serves on the Kay County Council, one of three boards put in place to provide oversight for the Opportunity Center, because she says, “Emma will likely be receiving those services as an adult, and it’s so important.”
Ben and Cindy Grubb
continued on page 14 October 2020
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Opportunity Center: Expanding Hope for Clients continued from page 13 Lyndsay offers advice for other parents who are struggling. “Everything seems easier now, I’m sure, because I’ve moved to [a place of] acceptance of who she is. But, thinking back to when we were in the unknown, it was a lot scarier and the future seemed so unsure. Remember to take one step at a time and give your child the best support you can. There are still times that I worry about her and her future, but time and good support from teachers, therapists, and friends and family help us move forward and support her future.” More recently, the Opportunity Center has implemented changes to reduce its footprint and become even more financially conscious. Thanks to an incredibly generous anonymous donor, the facility has leased out the offices at Opportunity Village and purchased a building at 3007 North Union, where utilities are 1/10th the cost compared to the old location. This move freed up additional funds which has enabled the institution to further expand its services to the community. This expansion is exactly what Executive Director Julie Grigsba says is the goal of the Opportunity Center — to always continue to provide new opportunities to clients. One of the newest opportunities will be an Adult Day Program, which will open in the newly purchased facilities located on North Union, scheduled to open in 2021. This program will allow family members to bring their loved ones to a campus where they’ll receive interactive care during the day. Each week will feature a different training topic for residents. For example, one week may cover fire safety in which clients will take a trip to the fire station; learn to stop, drop and roll; find out how to cook safely; or learn about different types of fires, including grease and electrical fires. The Opportunity Center provides clients with Sheltered Workshop, Community Integrated Employment and Group Employment, where they are paid in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). They also own multiple group homes throughout the community which provide clients with the opportunity to work toward living as independently as possible, while still receiving every bit of care that they need. Some homes are targeted toward clients who need 24/7 care, while other homes house clients who live quite independently already. In-home support is offered to clients in their own homes, where staff offers respite care, assisted daily living, and training specifically centered around each client, such as balancing a checkbook, grocery shopping, assistance with doctor appointments, and more. Julie Grigsba says the waiting list for services is long, and she urges parents and caregivers to call as soon as they know that services are needed.
Lyndsay and Emma Grace
If you would like to support the Opportunity Center in any way, please contact Julie Grigsba at (580) 765-6782.
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October 2020
“There’s a waiting list for our services with the state of Oklahoma that is ten years long. If you have a child who has a disability, contact us now and let us help you get them on the waiting list.” The Opportunity Center is able to provide services to clients without a wait, but the ability to offer those services is completely dependent on private donations. The center has two urgent and immediate needs: a vehicle with a wheelchair ramp for transporting clients, and a privacy fence. If you would like to support the Opportunity Center in any way, please contact Julie Grigsba at (580) 765-6782.
Crossword Answers on Page 36
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Thursday, October 1 - Education and Workforce Development Committee will meet at 4 p.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Tuesday, October 6 – Ponca City Business Council will meet at 8 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Thursday, October 15 – Community Development Committee will meet at 10 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Friday, October 16 – Lt Governor Matt Pinnell will speak in the basement of City Central at 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 20 – Ambassador Committee will meet at 8 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Wednesday, October 21 – Finance and Executive Committee will meet at 11 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Thursday, October 22 – Tourism Bureau will meet at 9 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Friday, October 23 – Ponca Politics Committee will meet at 11 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building. Tuesday, October 27 – Chamber Board will meet at 11 a.m. in the basement of City Central Building.
For Ponca City attraction information and event schedule for the month of October go to visitponcacity.com
] MARLAND MANSION ]
901 Monument Road • Ponca City • 580-767-0420
Ponca City Chamber of Commerce www.PoncaCityChamber.com 580-765-4400 October 2020
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Humor &Entertainment Entertainment Humor & May I vent for a moment about something that really grinds my gears? Something I’ve really been stewing on, if you will? Complainers. More specifically, people who complain without having any solutions, or willingness to do anything to fix the thing they’re complaining about. Also, (and I hate this term, but it’s really the only appropriate one) haters. It’s such a weird, foreign thing to me. Don’t get me wrong, I hate plenty of things (including myself most days) but hating on other people, or businesses, is so strange to me. If someone is out there hustling, doing positive things, working on something they believe in (and which isn’t hurting anyone), why you so mad, bro? The people who are like, “There’s nothing for kids to do around here!” Okay, Roberta, are you going to open an arcade? Oh, you don’t have the money? Okay. Have you looked into investors? No? Have you talked to our local business incubators or development authorities, or researched grant opportunities? No. Hmm. Okay. And that complaint specifically really cracks me up, because we could have all of the most awesome things for teenagers to COFFEE ADDITIVES (in honor of The Perk) by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS 1. Fictional spaceman ___ Gordon 6. Not anti 9. Mardi ___ (spring celebration) 13. The body's largest artery 14. Clumsy or stupid fellow 15. Sales team's target 16. Pastry with whipped filling (2 wds.) 18. Ordinary 19. Put a rip in 20. Insect in a colony 21. Like Bo Peep or Miss Muffet 22. Auction offer 23. Household animal 24. Shady tree variety 25. Feature at a movie theater? 29. Hang like a hummingbird 31. Scarlett of "Gone With the Wind" 32. Story 33. "Dancing Queen" group 37. Boxer who retired with 36 professional wins (3 wds.) 40. Has another birthday 41. Wood choppers 42. Far from interested 43. Roof edges 45. Subscribes again 46. Burner in a fireplace 49. Ripe tomato's color 50. Noisy blue bird 51. Online selling giant 53. 2,000 6-Downs 54. Alaskan gold rush city 58. Rescues 59. Kindergartener's coins, perhaps (2 wds.) 61. "We hold ___ truths ..." 62. Museums display it
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Remove a knot from Pepper's partner "That's correct!" Hoodlums
DOWN 1. Undeniable statement 2. Folk history 3. Region 4. Telescope sighting 5. Western omelet meat 6. 16-ounce weight 7. Huck Finn's boat 8. On's opposite 9. Rush of wind 10. Mail carrier's assignment 11. In any way (2 wds.) 12. Oregon's capital 15. "That doesn't sound ___ right to me" 17. Reason for taking aspirin 21. Flood prevention barrier 22. Paddington or Pooh 23. Surveys 25. Sammy of home run fame 26. Drink quickly 27. Intense anger 28. Rub out 29. President Rutherford B. ___ 30. Wouldn't stop talking (2 wds.) 32. Placed a levy on 34. Like an empty store shelf 35. Witch's concoction 36. Puts two and two together 38. Poe's "Nevermore" sayer 39. Follow the commands of 44. Got out of bed 45. Corporal or colonel, in the Army 46. Proves to be durable 47. Gerald Ford's Nebraska birthplace 48. Judge's hammer
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do, and they’d still probably choose to go park on Snake Road and make out. “We need a Golden Corral.” Yes, Herman, do you have the 2.5 million dollars of net worth (500K in liquid assets) necessary to make it happen? No? Have you talked to investment groups about your buffet dreams? Hmm, didn’t think so. Did you also know that most franchises won’t even consider allowing a restaurant to open in an area they haven’t already vetted, or that shows a decline in population? Did you fill out your census, Herman? And encourage all of your friends and family to do so, Hermy? “Ugh, another chicken restaurant?” YES, Penelope, another person who’s willing to invest thousands of dollars and thousands of hours of their time into our community. ISN’T THAT AWESOME?! Bottom line here, folks — all of these dreams that we have for our city come true, only when people are actually out there doing something, not just talking. So please, for the love of Beyonce, and I say this with the utmost disrespect, stop hating and complaining unless you’re out there being part of the solution.
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Chicken chow ___ Viewing organ April follower Coffee drinker's cup
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October 2020
SPOT THE 10 DIFFERENCES
Celebrate the Fall! Color this picture to create your own masterpiece.
KIDS ACTIVITY PAGE
Answers will be posted on the PCM Facebook Page
October 2020
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Art in the Alley, Art by Michelle Wittmer 103 E. Grand Ave.
Look Signal box at 5th and Central Ave., Art by local kids
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October 2020
“Ponca City Postcard” Art by Carlene Wallace at 400 E. Central Ave.
Buffalo Sculpture with 3D mural painted by Sam Hinman and Oralee Miller, 3rd & Grand Ave.
Art in the Alley, Art by Clyde Otipoby 205 E. Grand Ave.
for the art! “Through the eyes of a child” by Jo Saylors, at Ponca City Library, 5th & Grand Ave.
Buffalo Dancer by Barney Barnwell, 217 W. Grand Ave.
October 2020
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The Perk Beverage Co’s
Taste
Custom Coffee Blend
Story & Photos by Kelsey Wagner / Ponca City Monthly Editor-in-Chief
designed, and she took great care when choosing the look, feel, and layout of her coffee shop. “I looked at the history of the town and the prominent architecture,” she says, “especially the Marland history.” “This wall right here,” Jennifer says as she points to the north wall, a whiteon-white board and batten wainscoting, “reminds me of the living quarters in Marland’s office.” There are also industrial and rustic looks that bring a hardiron-meets-cozy-warmness to the atmosphere. Jennifer describes the same care she took choosing the blend of coffee she serves. During the first few years, Jennifer served a blend from a coffee roaster out of Seattle, WA called Herkermer Coffee. But due to logistical difficulties getting the fresh coffee in the winter months, Jennifer begin looking for a more local roaster. However, she was nervous about switching. “The taste of our coffee was at least 75% of who we were,” Jennifer says. But a chance meeting with a roaster out of Enid, OK, named Vitruvian Coffee Roasters, was enough to convince Jennifer to make the switch. Jennifer worked with them to develop a unique blend just for The Perk Beverage Co.
For the majority of the population, coffee holds a special place in their heart. It is the thing that helps weary workers begin their day. It might be the thing you drink while catching up with an old friend, or it may be the only source of warmth while working outside in the cold winter months.
In addition to serving it, The Perk Beverage Co. sells their unique blend so their patrons can have it anywhere they travel. Jennifer says The Perk Beverage Co.’s coffee sells whole bean and ground coffee, and also offers a half pound for $8.50 and a full pound for $14. Once purchased, the coffee can be customground for paper filter or wire filter, and it can even be ground for
Everyone has their own unique preference when it comes to coffee — its smell, taste, texture, and even how it’s prepared — which differs from person to person. You may like it hot, cold, with a dash of sugar, caffeine-free, or made with almond milk. You may prefer the rich and robust flavor of dark roasts, or the light and delicate taste of a breakfast blend. You might also have a preference for a French press or pour-over coffee maker, or maybe you prefer your Mr. Coffee machine that’s been brewing your coffee perfectly fine for the last twenty years. However you take your coffee, there is no denying that, aside from the few holdouts, coffee is the singular thread that binds Americans together as a culture. The Perk Beverage Co. serves coffee and other fine espresso drinks, 100% real fruit smoothies, homemade bakery items, and a daily breakfast and lunch menu. But when you step into the Perk Beverage Co., it is the aroma of their own unique coffee blend that has been bringing customers together since 2016. Togetherness is what drives owner Jennifer Green. It is the strong sense of togetherness, and her love of people, that first led Jennifer to open The Perk Beverage Co. on September 17, 2016, after deciding it was time for a career change. “I was interested in doing something in the public. I wanted to see people. I wanted to do something that made people feel better from the time they came in to the time they left.” Jennifer decided coffee could help her to both bring people together and make them happy. Jennifer knew that her coffee shop needed to be carefully
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The Perk Bever age Co. is open Monday - Friday and Saturday 7: 6:30 am - 4 pm 00 am - 4 pm Fi nd updates and www.theperkbe the menu at verageco.com or call the cafe at (5 80) 749-4683.
espresso. Jennifer says they offer coffee grinding for free, even if patrons bring in outside coffee. “We have people who bring in whole bean coffee they got for a gift because they don’t have a grinder. We happily grind it for free, no hard feelings. It’s just a service we offer to the community,” says Jennifer. Jennifer says that opening this shop, even despite the setback of COVID-19 and other missteps and mistakes, has been a truly rewarding experience. “Far and beyond, my favorite part of owning this coffee shop is getting to know people. I love the regulars who come in, the friends we’ve made – sometimes we know their names, sometimes we don’t, but we know what they want.” And what they want are coffee and happiness, both of which Jennifer proudly serves fresh daily.
In addition to The Perk’s primary location on 14th Street, they are adding a downtown location in City Central that is set to open in October. The new location will be called “Central Perk.”
My new office is conveniently located next to The Perk in the Pioneer Shopping Center!
October 2020
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CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW BY LORRIE LAYTON
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting By Joe Ballerini , illustrated by Vivienne
To Think The Last Kids on Earth meets Goosebumps. The first book in this new series introduces us to a secret society of super-babysitters who protect kids from the monsters that really are under their beds or in their closets. On Kelly Ferguson’s first babysitting job, she discovers that monsters truly are real when Jacob (Kelly’s babysitter) is kidnapped from right under her nose by none other than the Boogeyman himself. (Well, technically there are seven Boogeymen, but who’s counting?) In order to rescue Jacob, Kelly turns to The Babysitters for help. These Babysitters take their job seriously. Not only are they professionals when it comes to changing diapers and mollifying fussy little ones, they dive right in when dealing with a monster. A Babysitter’s priority is to keep children safe and to rescue those who fall into the wrong (monstrous) hands.
When dealing with a new monster, a Babysitter’s go-to reference material is a manual entitled A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting. This manual contains data on all the monsters this group has ever encountered, including a physical description, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, and smell. Yep, smell. If a Babysitter encounters a monster he’s seeing for the first time, the manual even includes a decision tree to help determine the type of monster he’s facing. Of course, Kelly’s first time babysitting is on Halloween when this particular Boogeyman plans to transform our world into anyone’s worst nightmare full of the worst monsters from all of our nightmares – with the unwilling help of the child Kelly is babysitting. Absolutely no pressure there! Kelly and The Babysitters reminded me of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and her gang – although this series is written for a slightly younger crowd.
Our thanks to Brace Books for providing these book reviews!
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ADULT BOOK REVIEW BY TARA SMITH
American Dirt
By Jeanine Cummins American Dirt starts off with a bang (literally, a gunshot) and doesn’t stop. The main character, Lydia, is a woman to whom I can easily relate. Lydia owns a small bookstore, while her husband, Sebastian, is a journalist. Together with their young son, Luca, they live a comfortable, middle-class life in Acapulco. For a long time, the tourist trade has protected Acapulco from the drug cartels, but that is no longer true. Sebastian writes a fair but honest exposé on the leader of a new, violent cartel. The retaliation is immediate, brutal, and gruesome. Lydia and Luca begin a desperate trek to Los Estados Unidos, doing everything they can to move quickly while avoiding notice by any of the drug cartel’s many foot soldiers scattered throughout Mexico. Within twenty-four hours, they exchange their middle-class life for a migrant’s existence. As they walk hundreds of miles and ride atop trains for thousands more on their way north, they experience violence, fear, and despair. They receive unexpected help, and see wanton disregard for human life. Lydia worries Luca will witness so much horror as they flee northward that he will be permanently damaged.
Author Jeanine Cummins spent five years researching immigration and the U.S.Mexico border. She interviewed migrants seeking refuge, as well as deportees who were forced to leave family members behind in the U.S. She also consulted with Hispanic culture experts. American Dirt’s publication resulted in a surprising amount of controversy — much of it from the Latinx community. While some praise how the novel raises awareness of immigrant issues, others claim Cummins, whose heritage is Irish and Puerto Rican, has no right to tell a story that is not hers. Personally, I believe the novel did open my eyes to experiences of others in the real world.
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October 2020
2020 “FREDDY” AWARD WINNERS Our Awards Banquet was held virtually September 24 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 Vortex Alley Brewing The Grand Cigar & Lounge Liles and Co. Boutique & Salon NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR H Provisions Aesthetic State of Mind Combat Syndicate BEST INTERIOR DESIGN H Aesthetic State of Mind Cast Iron Co. Sugar Lips Salon & Clothing Boutique BEST FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT H Vintage Swag Anderson & Co. Salon Completely Quilted Bernina Sewing Center BEST WINDOW DISPLAY H Liles and Company Boutique and Salon Village Screen Print Whimsy BEST SIGNAGE H Speak Now Productions The Gift Shoppe & Emporium Grand Cafe
PREMIER PARTNER Equity Bank VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Andrew Hicks MAIN STREET HERO Rachel Stewart BOARD MEMBER OF THE YEAR Terron Liles 5 UNDER 40 Stephanie Austin Luke Garrison Melanie Gartside Erin Liberton Kelsey Wagner BEST COVID COMEBACK Whimsy Ponca City Arts ARTIST AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Shirley Petersen The “Freddy” Award was named after Fred Boettcher, in memory of his long-time support of downtown.
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Introducing Ponca City Main Street’s 2020
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Story by Carey Head / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer Photos by Jessah McIntosh
Ponca City Main Street’s inaugural “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. PCMS board member Rhonda Skrapke suggested the award idea and the board agreed the young people deserve the ovation. Main Street Director Chelsea McConnell explains, “It’s important to let people know the hard work they are doing each day is seen. We hope this award urges this group of amazing young people to continue to work hard for our community and for themselves.” Nominations were promoted through the PCMS social media platforms with applications accepted through the organization’s website. Nominees were required to fill out the applications to be considered. McConnell loved reading the completed applications. “I was aware that we had some really outstanding young people in our community … we have many great leaders who have gone before us, but I loved … discovering that we certainly have several more growing into those roles.”
Erin Liberton Phillips66
The applications were sent to judges from outside of Ponca City “so they would be scored without bias,” McConnell adds. The five winners will receive a trophy and bottle of champagne from PCMS as well as being featured as the cover story for the October issue of Ponca City Monthly. McConnell laughs, “They’ll also probably receive a lot more requests to volunteer for their community now that everyone knows how amazing they are!”
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Luke Garrison Speak Now Film Co.
Melanie Gardside Northern OK Youth Services
Kelsey Wagner MyMediaMatters Marketing Agency
Stephanie Austin Rick Scott Construction October 2020
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Erin five Liberton Community Relations Coordinator Phillips 66
You can take the girl out of banking, but you can’t take banking out of the girl. After nearly two decades in the local banking industry, Erin Liberton is now the Community Relations Coordinator – the connection between community needs and Phillips 66 philanthropic purse strings, if you will. “My role at Phillips 66 is very important for the community as a primary communicator, their public relations coordinator and the Philanthropic Outreach,” she explains. “Joining the team at Phillips 66, I brought fresh ideas and new perspectives as a ‘non-refiner.’ I am someone who loves Ponca City and the community in its entirety … and this has held true for me in both industries and roles.” Already, Erin has been instrumental in awarding $50,000 in Phillips 66 grants benefiting Alliance Health Ponca City and New Emergency Resource Agency food assistance program. Both organizations are at the front line fighting the COVID-19 challenges including those brought about by business furloughs and closings. It’s a good fit for this professional that loves a good challenge. “In my first 90 days, I made both professional and personal impacts to multiple nonprofits throughout the Ponca City area. I simply have figured out where I can make a difference and I’ve helped,” Erin explains. Erin began making her mark while at City National Bank and Trust. In 2001, she joined CNB while a sophomore at Northern Oklahoma College. The Ponca City Walmart Supercenter was one of eight branches opened in 2001 by City National Bank. “I had the opportunity to start and build the Ponca City branch … and was part of literally building this in-store, which was one of the early in-store City National locations in the state.” Her banking career took off: Erin became the youngest Bank Manager and Bank Officer that CNB had at the time. She focused on helping the Ponca City branch grow and “took every opportunity to get the bank and staff involved in the community.” Results were noticed and Erin was promoted to Vice President and Regional Manager, working throughout Oklahoma and the Wichita, Kan., area, and being honored for Region of the Year. “I took the opportunity to coach and train bank managers very seriously to not only develop their teams and their people, but to also invest in their communities and to get involved,” she says. “I’m very proud of the employees I’ve helped to develop over the years.” When Erin joined the leadership team at the former Eastman National Bank, now Equity Bank, she was the youngest and only female Senior Vice
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President in Eastman’s history. “I was very proud of earning these titles as there had never been anyone in my family in banking. I had worked very hard to earn these positions and titles. Nothing came easy or automatic for me — I had to earn it and work for it.” While at ENB, Erin twice-led online banking conversions and debit card conversions. The branding overhaul she captained brought modern day conveniences such as online and mobile banking solutions to Eastman customers. When Eastman aligned with Equity Bank, she completed the company’s Bank Simulation Training and the year-long Equity University training programs. Erin sits on the board of directors of New Emergency Resource Agency, a Food and Resource Center associated with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. She is the current president of the agency that has dealt with record-breaking needs and requests during the pandemic. Other boards currently benefiting from her experience include her appointment as Trustee to University Center-Ponca City Board of Trustees; director, City of Ponca City Board of Adjustment; former president and current board member, Habitat for Humanity; treasurer, Community Health Foundation; and director, Oklahoma State University Alumni Association— Kay County Chapter. She is a graduate of Leadership Ponca City’s class of 2006. Erin also completed leadership terms with Professionals Today, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Ponca City. Erin completed Leadership Oklahoma’s year-long training program and graduated with 2019-2020 class. She also is the recipient of the 2009 Larry Hughes Leadership Award. This award honors a Leadership Ponca City class member and is chosen by a committee of past recipients. Erin was a charter member of Charity Angels AMBUCS chapter and remains a “friend” of the organization. Erin is married to Eric Liberton and has two children, Brylen, 13; and Brynn, 10. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agribusiness from Oklahoma State University and an Associate of Science degree in Business Administration from Northern Oklahoma College.
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Luke five Garrison Production Director Speak Now Productions
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Leaving the relative security of the corporate world to enter the nothingis-guaranteed life of an entrepreneur is a decision of courage, faith and optimism. In April 2019, Luke Garrison did just that. He left a long-standing banking career to devote his full attention to a fledgling business on the verge of becoming a soaring success.
Since its beginning, Speak Now has grown from two part-time employees to three full-time and two part-time employees and a contract worker. Continued growth is expected over the next several years as the demand continues to increase for social media management and affordable advertising.
When he left Equity Bank, Luke was Assistant Vice President, Commercial Lending. His career was built on making sound business finance decisions. Since then, his company’s growth and stability has been rewarded as Speak Now Productions was able to purchase the building at 204 E. Grand Ave. The decision not only showcases “our commitment to this community, we purchase a building on ‘Main street’ ... as a lasting place,” Luke says.
In addition to commercial production and social media management, Speak Now Productions teams with area non-profits to showcase agency work. “We have always made a way to be affordable to our non-profits, knowing they rely on a limited budget. I wish we were in a position to give our work away to these organizations, but we do offer our whole heart as we pour into their projects, wanting to assure their message shines through in a way no other will,” Luke says.
Speak Now Productions is a video production, advertising and, now, social media management company founded in partnership with his brother, Ben Garrison. (Yep, Speak Now’s other happy camera guy and PCPD’s Det. Sgt. Benjamin Garrison are one and the same.) Founded in 2016, the partners originally planned to be an event videography team. “However, we quickly began to notice a direct need for social media commercial advertising in the Ponca City area,” Luke says. After producing a lip-sync video featuring Ponca City Police Department personnel, Luke and Ben realized they could harness the power of social media. The video went viral with over 2.3 million views. “People were calling the Police Department from all over the nation giving accolades, as we were making Top 10 Must-See lists, alongside larger populated cities like Dallas and Seattle,” Luke explains. (View the video here: https://tinyurl.com/yxgs4fy8) Since then, Speak Now has produced hundreds of videos and advertisements “showcasing Ponca City in all its beauty and putting it on the forefront of the social media frontier,” he says. “Most of these advertisements were purchased and paid for, but we built several just to promote the city and community we love with hopes of driving more traffic here.” Speak Now’s efforts for the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce has resulted in raising the world’s awareness of Ponca City as a destination. Luke and his team write monthly “webisodes” showcasing all monthly events happening in Ponca City. The June webisode received over 15,000 views “with an over 22,000 estimated reach and over 5,500 minutes viewed … on Facebook,” Luke says, noting the statistics for measuring social media performance. “These videos are viewed by locals and non-locals alike, presenting to the public what Ponca City, Oklahoma has to offer every day. “These webisodes are now sponsored by local businesses and all one has to do to be featured is be sure to add their event to the VisitPoncaCity.com calendar.”
“Since Speak Now was started in 2016, we’ve increased year over year, doubling the previous year’s revenue. I’ve had the privilege of sitting at the helm as the Production Director and Manager. It’s been, and continues to be, by God’s grace, a priceless adventure,” he adds. Luke is a graduate of Leadership Ponca City class of 2016. He gives back to the program by serving as Leadership Ponca City chairman, a position he’s held since 2018. Since 2017, Luke has served as an LPC Day Chair in producing the “Art and Culture Day” program including speakers, tours and discussions. He also is a member of the Evans Children’s Academy Committee and directed an Evans show this spring. Luke continues to serve as Vice President of the Poncan Theatre Board and modernized the theatre’s website and ticket sales platform so tickets can be purchased online. The social media management option allows companies to get professional help with their social media advertising. “We assist several local companies … who either lack the time or knowledge to do this kind of work,” Luke notes. “Social media marketing and management is a completely different animal than yesterday’s advertising. We have to remain innovative to assure that we stay on top of the curve and reflect our client base to the best of our ability.” He cites the difference between the traditional television message and one that typically works best for social media play. “A general commercial is 30 seconds long on the TV screen. On Facebook, however, there is a preference for quality content that keeps the viewer engaged for at least three minutes. This demands excellence in storytelling, and I get to help tell these stories.” Luke is father of three: Abigail, 13; Micah, 7 and Samual, 5. He holds an Associate of Arts degree in Music/Music Theatre from Northern Oklahoma College.
October 2020
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Kelsey Wagner
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Kelsey Wagner, Owner/CEO MyMediaMatters Marketing Agency and KB Enterprise
“I feel like I have lived a very long life in a very short time.” This intriguing statement is how Kelsey Wagner summarizes the challenges overcome and triumphs engineered to get to where she stands today — at the helm of a growing company she bootstrapped into being. After two layoffs in five years, Kelsey turned her back on the corporate world and vowed to never again work for somebody else. She took a hard look at her skills as a writer, graphic designer and web designer. With a $1,500 software investment, a spare bedroom-office, and a lot of gumption, what else was there to do but take that leap into the world of entrepreneurship? “I’m an innovator. I find ways to do things better. My main scope of work is technology; but it applies to all areas of my life,” she shares. “So, I started a web and graphic design company that has morphed into a full-service marketing agency. I did what I always strive to do: under promise and over deliver.” In a very short time, MyMediaMatters moved from the Wagner home to a downtown office suite. In January 2019, Kelsey purchased PoncaCity.net’s portfolio of 300 email clients and 40 website clients. In January of this year, she launched PoncaCity.com, a city-wide online directory and local travel guide. And, in April, the first issue of Ponca City Monthly was published. The demands of putting together the free, full-color, hyper-local magazine necessitated the hiring of a full-time Advertising Director. Other full-time positions include website designer and office manager. Kelsey also relies on the skills of a part-time writer and part-time copy editor to produce Ponca City Monthly. “Ponca City Monthly has surprised all of us and has been so celebrated and embraced by our community already, and it’s only been out for (six) months. This sounds like a lot — but I’ve been driven to have a diverse marketing agency that can adapt to anything that comes at us,” she says. MyMediaMatters now offers a wide range of marketing solutions for its clients, including commercial drone services. Kelsey also owns KB Enterprise, manufacturer of GateHands, a side-by-side tube gate latch system the keeps double gates straight and secure (www. gatehands.com). The five-year journey getting the product from concept to now being available at Tractor Supply online (and earning five-star reviews, thank you very much) has been a challenge. (www.tractorsupply.com/tsc. brand/gatehands) “I’ve been to more farm shows than I care to admit and sat talking with farmers about their gates. We also talk about cows, kids, life, and how the farm folks come to the shows on Thursdays to avoid the city folks. But I enjoy
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it. It’s fun, it’s enriching and it’s a project I get to do with my Dad who I have always shared a very strong connection.” Kelsey admits her least time-consuming business is as owner and host of a “super cute” Airbnb called The Gray House Airbnb. She is achieved superhost status with Airbnb and loves the experience. When she and husband Jay opened it in July 2018, it was one of just two Ponca City Airbnbs. She has used this experience to help others who want to be a host. (https:// airbnb.com/h/ponca-city-gray-house) Kelsey grew up on a wheat farm outside of Lamont. After graduating with 19 other Lamont High School seniors, Kelsey earned an Associate of Arts degree in mass communications from Northern Oklahoma College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administrative Leadership from University of Oklahoma. She is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Ponca City, a 2016 graduate of Leadership Arts Oklahoma and was honored as Rotary Member of the Year in 2017. The former Ponca City Main Street Board Member helped to form the downtown entertainment and arts district called the Grand Arts District. She wrote the successful $25,000 grant proposal to the Oklahoma Arts Council to fund the creation of the district. She also worked with Main Street to organize a $100,000 mega mural to be painted on the Robin Hood Grain Elevator. She marshaled community support to bring the proposal to the City of Ponca City Board of Commissioners. After winning the Commission’s approval, a $50,000 pledge in tourism funds completed the fund drive for Phase I of the double-mural project. Kelsey continues to serve as a board member of the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council and has been appointed to serve on the City of Ponca City Planning Commission. “So, again, I am many things, but in my heart of hearts, I am an innovator, always looking for ways to make the world a little bit better, whether using technology, farm gate latches or using a peer-to-peer overnight stay app.” She built her businesses from the ground up but admits her job(s) don’t feel like “work.” “I come to work, and I do what I love every day, and I can’t believe this is my life and this is what I get to do for a living.” Kelsey is married to Jay Wagner and has two children, Pierce, 13; and Noah, 11. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma and an Associate of Arts degree in Journalism from Northern Oklahoma College.
Gartside Supervisor, Family Resource Program Northern Oklahoma Youth Services
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Know a struggling parent or family? Encourage them to reach out to Melanie Gartside, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, or NOYS. Caring for Northern Oklahoma’s families is Melanie Gartside’s passion. She combines this passion with serious skills so she can be truly effective in helping families overcome virtually any challenge.
outside dollars to Ponca City’s NOYS so the agency can continue providing services free of charge. She also stepped up to take over the pinwheel fundraising project originated through the now-disbanded Oklahoma Child Abuse and Prevention Task Force. Through the month of April, pinwheels are sold with funds used to provide support groups.
Backed by her Behavioral Health Case Management 2 certification, Melanie works one-on-one with clients to teach them new coping skills and techniques. She has completed over 100 hours of professional training. “The minimum requirement for our agency is 20 hours,” she says. “I have chosen to participate in the extra hours of training to better understand my community and the families we serve.”
The playroom Melanie designed and created provides a much-needed space for Family Resource Program visits, DHS- or third party-supervised family visits as well as a welcoming play space for younger shelter children. “Having the ability to use this room helps bring community members into our agency to experience all of the services NOYS has to offer.”
As Supervisor of the Family Resource Program, Melanie oversees the parent educators and manages the contract between NOYS and Oklahoma State Department of Health, ensuring both agencies are delivering on mutual promises, so area families are strengthened. “Our program provides families (with) developmental information, family well-being referrals and donations and parent-child interaction techniques,” Melanie explains. In other words, if a family feels there are few solutions to their very real problems, Melanie steps in with an armful of helpful tools — the equivalent of a warm, supportive hug. Her program serves families with prenatal through kindergarten agechildren living in Kay, Noble, Pawnee and Osage counties. The contract with OKDHS includes requirements the program needs to meet. The annual audit keeps score of how well the program is doing in meeting those requirements. “Before I started, the program was only meeting two of the 20 essential requirements set by the state and national standards,” she said. “The program audit that occurred in May of this year showed us meeting all 20 essential requirements and exceeding requirements in five of them.” One of those “exceeded expectations” proverbial gold stars is in the category of support groups. “We have 100 percent program capacity and 120 percent of program visits were successful,” Melanie says. “This has been a group effort from the program; but I am extremely proud of how far we have come under my leadership.” She points to the relationships with Ponca City Public School’s Teen PEP Program and the Kay County Detention Center as two she also is proud to have developed.
As chairman of the Kay County Systems of Care, Melanie guides the meeting of all services providers in Kay County. They plan their participation in community events and discuss new services available for clients. She also is a member of the Infant and Early Childhood Coalition. “For this coalition, we are surveying the needs of the community and have been gathering ideas to begin implementing,” she says. The IEC Coalition will receive support from the Pinwheel Fundraiser. Melanie is in her third year as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, volunteer. The program provides a volunteer, when requested by the courts, to speak for children in foster care. “It is my job to speak for the children who cannot always speak for themselves,” Melanie says. “This has been a passion since I was in college and CASA was my sorority’s National Philanthropy.” She has turned her participation in Kappa Alpha Theta’s local alumnae group into a fundraising arm to benefit CASA. As the group’s president, she introduced an online forum and expanded communications into social media. “We are able to provide a financial sponsorship to the local CASA office of Kay and Noble counties.” While maintaining her full-time supervisory position, Melanie is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Wichita State University as well as certification in play therapy. “Based upon my current experiences, I see a tremendous need for a registered play therapist in our community.” Melanie and husband Shane Rourk have a 1-year-old son Asher. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Development from Oklahoma State University.
Melanie is a veteran grant writer and puts her experience to work to bring
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Austin President and CEO Rick Scott Construction, Inc.
In the very first sentence of her “Five Under 40” nomination response, Stephanie Austin emphasized the importance of teamwork in creating success. And, if a group of associates is only as strong as its laziest member, then CEO Austin reminds her team of each individual’s importance. “In the commercial construction industry, growth and innovation does not come from one single person, it comes from a team approach led by a coach,” she wrote. “Each team member must bring value. At Rick Scott Construction, each person is responsible for the profitability of the company.” As work begins on the new Public Safety Center for the City of Ponca City, Stephanie can smile with satisfaction at her part in creating the unique, twocompany partnership. The partnership created a bigger bonding capacity that has enabled general contracting responsibilities to be awarded to a Ponca City-based business. Stephanie explains, “The idea to form a joint venture with Kyler Construction could make possible the ability for RSC to pursue the work that individually would have potentially been out of our reach. I truly thought I would be shot down by all parties involved. What an outlandish thought – joining forces with our long-time competitor for a chance at our biggest project to date. But it worked! It might have been the scariest and at the same time, most proud moment of my career.” Today, KSB Enterprises, LLC, is the Construction Manager at Risk for the $17.5 million Public Safety Center under construction one block east of the current PSC located at 200 E Oklahoma. Stephanie shares her leadership talents with a number of local organizations including serving as secretary for the board of directors of The Opportunity Center Foundation, the Board of Directors, Community Health Foundation Board of Directors and as a member of the Community Health Foundation Finance Committee. She is a graduate of Leadership Ponca City’s 30th class. Through her involvement with the Oklahoma chapter of the Association of General Contractors, (AGC-OK), Stephanie reviews proposed legislation and gives feedback to leadership at the State Capitol. “This is extremely important to a small business/small-mid size contractor as most legislation is geared toward mega contractors in our industry. Without the small industry voice, we leave ourselves open to being swallowed up by big industry and legislation that weeds us out of the competition,” she says. Stephanie served as Project Manager for the Conoco Museum project, which received the 2008 AGC-OK’s “Build Oklahoma” award. She also received the Build Oklahoma award for her work overseeing the Ponca City High School Football Locker Room project. “Even though my name was listed as the project manager for this project, the honor and excitement in receiving the award didn’t come from my years of experience or knowledge
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of the construction industry. It came from being able to stand by the young professionals whom I worked alongside to make this project a success,” she says. “Truth be told, Chelsi Hendrickson (assistant PM) and Hayden Scott (project superintendent) made my job easy as they worked and collaborated each day to make this job a success.” “Coach” Stephanie’s turn at the recruiting helm has met with outside success. She explains, “In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world and into our state and backyard, I saw a need for providing PPE to folks that were on the front line fight to help save lives.” Since managing projects is what she does for a living, Stephanie coordinated an outside project to produce masks. She says recruiting volunteers and donors for materials was the easy part. Fabricating the end product and distributing them was a bit trickier. “Navigating questions from talented seamstresses on intricate details of the pattern, (such as) ‘bias,’ was totally outside my comfort zone, but we all managed. Contacting medical facilities and organizations who cared for patients and keeping up with demand was also a challenge and forced me to learn a new skill: sewing!” She credits this project and the individuals both sewing and donating as being a true blessing. Over 1,800 masks have been distributed to Ponca City medical facilities. Mask production continues, albeit at a slower pace. Since joining Rick Scott Construction in 2004, Stephanie has grown to become the buck-stops-here leader of a multi-million-dollar commercial construction company that has grown to three locations across the state as well as started a new joint venture. “We are on the cutting edge of industry standards and work diligently to mentor young professionals,” she says. Her mantra, “you can accomplish anything, no matter who you are and where you come from,” is something she strives to live out each day. “I knew I wanted to make a difference in the world; I just wasn’t sure what that meant.” When Rick Scott asked this accounting assistant if he wanted to move into an Assistant Project Manager’s role, Stephanie admits she didn’t know exactly what that meant and that she had a LOT to learn. “Never had ‘flying under the radar’ proven such a valuable life skill. I worked, learned, cried, got mad, wanted to quit, learned more, became invested, learned more, began to lead and fell in love with an industry in which I previously knew nothing. Never in my wildest dreams would I have envisioned myself where I am today, But I am so thankful and proud.” Stephanie is wife to Ryan Austin and mother of Hunter, 14, and Blake, 12. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Communications from the University of Central Oklahoma.
Q &A
The “5 Under 40” application questions gave the nominees an opportunity to put their motivations and accomplishments on paper; but, why not explore a little more? So, I posed the following questions to each of the award winners — to be taken lightly or as a challenge, in whatever way each was inspired to respond. What they share is a solid reassurance Ponca City’s future is in very good hands. —Carey Q: What do you consider your personal strengths which you bring to a teamwork table? Stephanie: It has taken many years of practice, however the ability to come together as a team and process any item for what it is, void of any emotion. Concentrating on the facts and dissecting, working through and accomplishing a task as a team is a great feat. The ability to do so and know that any discussion is based solely on the work in front of us and the facts that surround it proves extremely productive and efficient. Working any other way simply is not. Luke: I’m a problem solver and a vision caster. I help to keep projects on track, work around client issues and team missteps. This leaves my team with the freedom to be creative. I look at the future projection of the company, and I assure we are staying relative in a world that changes constantly. Melanie: I consider my personal strength to be knowing when I should lead and when I should follow. I believe this is important especially when working with ever-changing team dynamics. Every day I listen to the needs and concerns of members in my community. These conversations allow me to gain a clearer perspective of circumstances, becoming a better team member/community partner. Erin: Good communication, integrity, determination, accountability, positivity, empathy, humility. Kelsey: Teamwork is tough for many reasons – differing opinions, different methodologies, and different work ethics make teamwork challenging. So, my attitude when working with a team is this: I don’t care how we get to the end goal, just as long as we arrive together. No person left behind – because at the end of the day, people matter more than jobs, more than projects, and definitely more than money. Successful team projects are done by teams that truly value each other and the unique contributions they all bring to the table. Q: Please share a setback or failure which served to strengthen you personally? Stephanie: Acknowledging setbacks and/or failures is a great learning tool if you choose to determine the root cause and then act on changing it. I choose to categorize items as learning opportunities; and it is through those learning opportunities I have learned to not let others determine or convince me of my worth as doing so breeds self-doubt, and non-productivity. Knowing my worth and value serves as great strength and proves fruitful in any situation. Luke: I’ve had many setbacks. I expect them. I think that is the life of an entrepreneur. If there is no grief, no sadness, no failure, there wouldn’t be any gain. I would think myself self-built and capable of doing it all on my own. Pride always has a way of punching me in the mouth, however I find I am strongest in my weakness. It is there that I look to God and to those he has placed around me for guidance – my team, my mentors, and my friends. Melanie: I experienced a setback when I accepted my new position as a program supervisor at the age of 23. This position requires overseeing not only
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the program outcomes but two staff members. This means that I was in charge of hiring and firing for the first time. Personally, I struggled with impacting the livelihoods of current and potential employees. By speaking with other program supervisors in the state they provided support and encouragement for these difficult situations, explaining how it is never easy; but it is my responsibility. By overcoming this obstacle, I gained better objectivity in separating personal life and professional life. Erin: In April 2010, I was about nine months pregnant with my youngest daughter. I was working out of town when my husband called and summoned me home. Those details of the day I found out my Dad died have yet to fade. At 27 years old, I had lost a parent. My Dad had passed away overnight and didn’t wake up. I wasn’t sure exactly how to process that, how to tell my nearly 3-year-old that Papa was gone. And, my heart was breaking for the daughter that was just weeks from being born who now wasn’t going to meet her Papa. Losing a parent is one of the hardest things I’ve ever went through, particularly when there was no opportunity to say goodbye — he was just gone. My daughter was born one month later. The next several months grew increasingly difficult. A setback like the loss of a loved one is very hard to work through and recover from. (…Truthfully though, I don’t know that we ever really recover. Rather, I think we learn to live with the change and adjust accordingly.) Working through the grief process took time and attention. As time passed, I worked to allow this life setback to guide me and make me stronger. I often recall things my Dad had said or sayings that he was known for and sometimes I laugh about them and sometimes a tear is shed. I had always been a hard worker, but, at that point, I think I started working differently. I quit worrying about the really little, insignificant things because at that time, they really were just that. I tried to do the things that matter more. I tried to listen more. I had always believed that we should live each day like it was our last, but who really thinks it will be their last? Losing my Dad as a young adult prepared me to help friends who lost parents and that has provided me with some solace. The last time I saw my Dad was at my sister Ellen’s wedding celebrations, just a couple short weeks before his passing. What a happy final memory we shared though. My Dad wasn’t a perfect father, but he was an amazing Papa. As a father, my Dad was strict and stern. I don’t know if he was that way because of his military experience, but I can still tell you the things my siblings and I do not do because my Dad told us not to. My Dad was one of the smartest, hardest working people I knew; and he had very high expectations of his children. I constantly tried to prove myself so that my parents would be proud of me. He never demanded perfection or performance, but I wanted to strive for it. Even without him here, this hasn’t changed and I think going through this hardship has made me stronger. Over time, I think I have become a better person because I am better able to value time and I work harder focusing on what is truly important. Kelsey: My husband was deployed to Iraq when I was five months pregnant with my second child. His deployment was very, very unexpected. It tested our marriage and it made me question who I was as a person. Caring for a toddler and a newborn by myself was difficult to say the least, but it helped me to develop an internal fortitude that I didn’t know I was possible. It also helped me learn that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. Q: In thinking about your greatest influences — parents, teachers, coaches, most likely come to mind. But, is there a relationship that has helped shape your beliefs and actions that is beyond these adults in your life? Just as importantly, why? Stephanie: I am extremely fortunate to have met Linda Brown, of Evans and Associates, 15 years ago, and, at that time, could not have imagined the impact she has had on my life. Working in a male-dominated industry is tough and doing so as a 20-something woman was thought to almost be ridiculous. I love what I get to do every day — even the challenges — and, that is largely due to the guidance and mentoring of Linda. For those that know her, you understand; and, for those that don’t, I encourage you to. Linda entered the construction industry at an extremely young age and proved to be extremely successful not only within the company but also in our town and state. She has paved the way to help others, like me, learn and understand how to navigate in a very challenging and sometimes volatile industry. Luke: Aside from the aforementioned, several people come to mind: my father and mother, Paul and Ellen Garrison; my mentor and friend, Steve Ballinger; my pastor, Michael Taylor; and other business leaders, Molly Kyler, Erin Liberton, Don Bohon, and Kelsey Wagner. However, the relationship that has shaped me, more than any other, is my twin brother, Ben. Ben is my best friend, my big brother, and the one that calls heads when I call tails. He has stood with me in solidarity through every trial, every conviction, and in every triumph. We have approached every conquest in life together. He challenges me to be better, cuts me deep, and builds me up. There is no greater influence on my decision making. Melanie: When thinking about my greatest influences, my relationship with Cheryl Kinkaid immediately comes to mind. Over the years, I spent many hours with Cheryl and these hours certainly have shaped many of my beliefs and actions I have taken as an adult. Cheryl started as my cheer coach as a child. During these years she taught me respect and responsibility. She then became my first boss. This is where I gained my passion for helping people and animals. Also, I had a first-hand look at the work ethic and multitasking she performed every day. From then on, I strived to be like Cheryl. Next, she became my Theta sister. We shared a dedication towards vulnerable populations with our philanthropy, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), and the non-profit Positive Impact of Oklahoma. Cheryl has played various roles in my life and has been there during my successes and failures. Cheryl has inspired me to push past my abilities and strive for more. I now consider Cheryl to be my friend, someone I look up to and can always count on. Erin: I’ve been blessed with many great influences in my life. Outside of the norms that often come to mind, I would have to say my Grandparents. All held very special places in my life and taught me many things. One Grandparent specifically would be my maternal Grandma. When I was in high school, my Grandma helped me purchase a vehicle that would end up lasting me several years. When I was in college, I lived with her for a while which was very special and gave us the opportunity for many discussions. As an adult, she was the very best “GG” to my daughters and their love was mutually special. Having a Type A personality that is often never satisfied, my Grandma reminded me it is okay to slow down and calm down. I was always on the go and striving for more; and while my Grandma encouraged me, she also reminded me that the value in rest is important too. From a personality standpoint, I really think my Grandma and I were nearly opposites, but it helped shape me to a better, more well-rounded person because I was challenged to see outside of my box. My Grandma was gentle, soft-spoken, and compassionate. She always encouraged me to take my time and think things through. My Grandma had a strong faith in Jesus Christ, and we had lots of faith-based discussions to make us both better understand where the other was coming from. I have always been a rule follower, but the ethics my Grandma exhibited were even more black and white than my own. It was during this time when I really learned and understood the importance of integrity and character because she was very strong in both. Kelsey: Of all my relationships, my relationship with my father influenced me the most and shaped who I am as a person today. From a young age, my Dad never treated me like a “girl.” He never went easy on me or acted like there were things I wasn’t allowed to do. I drove combines, did farm work, and was his shadow for a better part of my young life. He was tough, he pushed me, and he was a hard critic. But he was also kind, nurturing and took
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time every step of the way to explain and teach. He was (and still is) up at 5 a.m. every day working hard, coming up with new ideas, trying new things. He would say, “better get a move on, we’re burning daylight,” and as a child, it made me value the daytime hours. That’s how I try to live my life, with that same drive and motivation every day. Q: How would you describe your moral compass points? In other words, in deciding what is right and what is wrong, what is important to you personally when choosing how to act? Stephanie: When making decisions on how to act in a situation or which direction to take simply goes back to the basics of being a good Christian, living by the golden rule we were all taught in primary school, and acting ethically and honestly. Processing facts of a situation or decision, and only the facts, using the emotional intelligence mentioned above is the best way for me to sleep at night. Luke: I am bound to a biblical worldview. In my mind and heart, all choices are filtered through the Word of God. When making a decision it’s easy to react based on emotions in the moment. Initial reactions are often overreactions. But, when grounded in principle and worked through in prayer, the right, and logical choice always seems to surface. Melanie: When making a decision that needs to be based upon my own moral compass, I begin by identifying the facts. I determine how my choice will affect myself and others, then my mantra that I follow is “do no harm”. Next, I proceed with trying to make an informed decision that does not impose my viewpoints on others. Something else I keep in mind is a verse used in my sorority’s (Kappa Alpha Theta) moral code “now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” This is a reminder for me that if I cannot determine the exact path that should be taken, then I will love and care for the person or persons through the predicament. I do not think it’s reasonable to assume you will always agree on the best course of action in a situation; so, “do no harm” and “the greatest of these is love” are the phrases that help me keep my perspective and moral compass strong. Erin: I want to live a good life and be a good person. To do this, I believe that being good or living well is all about balance. Balance between reason and emotion, and between my needs and those of others. (I often call this “head/heart balance”.) I believe everyone should be treated equally and that we should respect one another. We should strive to improve the lives of others, regardless of their differences, because by building others up we can build a moral society. I believe that we should be an example to others of what is good so that others can copy and they too can become good examples. At the end of the day, I believe our integrity and character are two of the most important things we have. We should place high value on them because if you don’t, you really don’t have much else. Kelsey: Morality for me isn’t black and white. Right and wrong do not exist in a vacuum and I know that everyone is the hero of their own story. I don’t see people as good or bad, I see humans as tasks with making complex choices in a complex world. I believe empathy is the most useful emotion a person possesses and anger the least useful. So, I choose kindness, tolerance and patience. I’ve always believed wholeheartedly in the mantra “love thy neighbor as thyself,” with the keyword being love. Not like, not tolerate, not pretend to not see…but to love.
This last question was posed on the” 5 Under 40” nomination form. Their responses are too good to not share. Q: Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to include? Stephanie: Concrete pours are my most favorite thing in our industry. I am still very much a tomboy at heart. Being clumsy is one of my specialties. I play piano for our church. Being with my husband and sons doing anything is my most favorite past time. I am just “me” and that in itself is pretty funny. Luke: I am double-jointed in my index finger. Only one finger. On my left hand. I wait much too long between haircuts. I’m not a hipster, but my hair begs to differ. I have a beard, mostly because I look better with one than without one. If you are looking at my beard and thinking, “that can’t be,” I invite you to creep my Facebook profile and go back to 2013. That was a rough year for me… I was getting fat, but I didn’t realize I was getting fat. A docile work environment can do that to you. If I had a dragon, I would name it Saphira. If you know where I got the name, you shouldn’t admit it among friends; but you can tell me privately that we both enjoy a good fantasy. My first childhood memory is being spanked by my father. I don’t know what I did, but I was a brat, so I’m sure I deserved it. There is nothing better than a good cream cheese. I love the idea of being a dog owner. I want to have one of every breed. But I watch the sad dog commercials on TV, and know that I would be making those videos to support my own dogs so... I choose to let others own them and instead admire them as represented on the annual Purina Dog Show on Thanksgiving Day. (Go, Wolfhound!) Melanie: I am a mom of an 18-month-old active, expressive, adventurous boy! Being a mom has given me a new outlook on our community and the need we have for infant and early childhood services. Erin: I come from a large family and due to a blended family, I have a total of seven brothers and sisters. I am the oldest of the immediate family I grew up with but age-wise I am right in the middle of all of my siblings. Kelsey: I have my core values hanging and framed in my office. Through my trials and tribulations, I’ve learned that in order to be effective, I needed to know what drives me. It was important to me to have something that guided me through all my decisions, personal, civic, business. If I ever have any doubts about whether or not to say yes to a new project, I just consult my core values and it helps guide me and keep me on track. My core values are to: Discover, Connect, Innovate, and Share. Every single project I do fits into my core values. My mission statement is “To use my gifts of insight and ideation to reveal issues, innovate solutions and solve problems. To use my empathy to see the world through the eyes of others, and to share my stories so that others may learn from my experiences.”
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Education Corner
Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity Story contributed by Adam Leaming, CEO / University Center
We have officially been back with classes now for several weeks at the UC. I am overjoyed to see students back in our classrooms and moving about our facility. It’s been a tremendous challenge this year for individuals, let alone those in schools. But, as with life, the sun sets and rises each day, and we forge a new normal day after day. For the UC, our new normal includes mandatory masking of
could I keep our students safe and enrolled? The list of uncertainties seemed like looming mountains that grew each day. The resources that were needed felt scarce and out of reach to meet the challenges. On top of that, I was cut off from the people, friends, and community I aim to serve. I recharge and feed off the energy of people and groups. Connecting individuals to others with similar goals or problems has been a lifelong passion. Networking was and has been a major lifeline in communicating the importance of the UC’s institutional mission and goal in our community.
“Where did I fit in, how could I help, and how could I keep our students safe and enrolled?” everyone in our facility, social distancing in our classrooms, and assigned seats! These new policies have been embraced by our students and staff, and have helped us to keep our doors open. Personally, I must admit that I haven’t been overly optimistic at times during the last few months. This year has been an up-and-down, emotion-filled roller coaster for me. At the end of March, during the height of the shutdown, I experienced anxiety and depression, and a sense of strong isolation enveloped me at times. I felt the mission of the UC was forever jeopardized as we looked to an uncertain future. I experienced a growing discomfort. Where did I fit in, how could I help, and how
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However, with the passing of time and spring shifting into summer, my perspective slowly turned more optimistic. The challenges, when taken in small bites, seemed less overwhelming. As the days turned into weeks, I noticed how more and more students would trickle in over the weeks to get enrolled. I saw in their eyes and heard in their stories that we shared similar uncertainties and fears of the future. But we also shared hopes, aspirations, and excitement for a new future. One of our new students was a brand-new mom who had lost her job due to COVID-19 and a downturn in her organization. She was uncertain how to pay
for school and how to provide care to her newborn, while still living in this new normal. But she was optimistic for a chance at a degree. A chance to educate herself and arm herself with the knowledge to become a future professional in the field of counseling. It was through this discussion that we discovered we could help her with resources to get her started on her academic journey. These resources were available only because of generous people in and around our community. People who recognize that, even in today’s climate, there’s hope in those who take on each day with a problem-solving mentality. When faced with a pandemic, these individuals could stop, they could hole up. But instead, they look outside of themselves and around their community, and keep going. It’s been my policy that people give to people, and it was true in this instance. A few phone calls, and we had the resources to get her started this August towards her degree. We need to connect and want to connect with more individuals who are ready and able to give. We have hundreds of students with hundreds of stories. Call me, text me, or look me up on Facebook. We can connect and get you started. Maybe together, we can fight through that feeling of uncertainty, and offer a feeling of optimism and hope, and aspirations of a positive new normal.
“These resources were available only because of generous people in and around our community. People who recognize that, even in today’s climate, there’s hope in those who take on each day with a problem-solving mentality.”
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Extra Care Offered by Hospice of NCO (Not required by Medicare): • Massage therapy • Community bereavement support including Butterfly Wings (formerly “Raindrops”) support for those who experience a miscarriage or infant loss • Pet Therapy • We Honor Veterans Program • Community equipment loan program • Educational in-services to the community
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October 2020
39
Kevin’s Corner Stock Market News
Story by Johnny O’Hare CEO/Cherokee Strip Credit Union
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Hi. I’m Kevin. I know I’m just a dog, but I may be the most awesome one that ever lived. My human Momma says that very thing to everyone she meets, and she knows some smart things for sure. Like how to buy my favorite peanut butter treats on AMAZON, and when to yell at my big sausage of a sister Bridget before she sticks her cold snout in my dinner bowl. While Momma is pretty smart, I know some things too. I pretend to be asleep in Dad’s big leather chair while they talk about financial stuff, but my hearing is really good. And even though I’m only 12 pounds of pure terror, I bet my brain is about 100 pounds. You would think a dog doesn’t care about money, because I have no pockets or a wallet. But I like to shred every new toy the day it arrives, so I want to be sure Momma can keep paying for my very bad habits. Right now, I know that market interest rates are at historic lows, and people like the Federal Reserve who decide such things say that rates will probably stay low through at least 2021. To earn a little bit more, many people have invested recently in the stock market, whose value went way down when the bad virus hit, but has bounced back up to new daily highs. While the stock market value jumps up and down a lot, the average returns in stocks over the long run are some of the best you can get. But even I know you don’t want all your treats in one basket. For most families, keeping about 10% in emergency cash at your favorite credit union or bank, another 30% in bonds or CD’s, and the last 60% in stocks is a great way to make more money while still having time to dive into the biggest mud puddle you can find right after a bath. Dad says I have to say each person’s financial situation is different, so always consult your own financial expert or tax advisor, rather than rely solely on the advice of a dog – even one as crafty as me. I saw a big shadow the other day when I was outside keeping squirrels away. Momma said it was an eagle, and that he could swoop down and take me if I didn’t stop wagging my frosty white tail high in the air. I’m not scared at all, so now she brings an old broom handle on our backyard patrols. I jumped over that big stick and hurt my leg, but I’ll be okay. Copyright 2020 – One Trick Productions
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ART SPACE Corey Ake
Story by Brenda Baugh / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer Photos contributed by Artist
The artwork of Cory Ake is dreamlike, mystical and surreal. Even though he takes his craft and apprenticeship extremely serious, that does not translate to the canvas or in the subject matter. An octopus in a wine glass. Flowers floating through a sky of stormy clouds. Pirate ships navigating fluffy white clouds. His artwork is a place where a person can get lost for hours.
How would you describe your artwork? “I would describe my artwork as filled with symbolism. A painted biography of my life. One giant story,” stated Ake. All of his oil paintings are related to one another and are in chronological order of his life. Each painting’s subject matter includes current events in the world along with the events that
continued on page 42
Artist Cory Ake On the second floor of the Royalty Building is a space that is not like any other office throughout Kay County. The waiting room has a couch, end tables and a television. Seems normal? However, the walls of this waiting room are covered from floor to ceiling with action figures still in the original packaging and the TV. is connected to a gaming system. This waiting room is not full of children’s toys, but full of a collector’s prized possessions. While taking this all in, there is a faint buzzing sound coming from just behind another door on the other side of the entrance. This is the waiting room for Studio 205. The door opens and a man with a mask walks into the room. The mask covers his mouth, but his eyes are smiling and a feeling of being welcomed encompasses the entire room. The man with the smiling eyes is Cory Ake and he takes social distancing and public health very seriously.
“Sheng De” October 2020
41
continued from page 41 are closer to home for Cory. Also, he includes hidden messages for the viewer. His focus and hope for each piece, is that the viewer sees their own story and that his painting is more of a mirror of one’s own life and experiences. Are you born and raised in Ponca City? “Yes I am!” Ake is proud of his roots in Ponca City. He shared that his family, on his grandmother’s side, are originally from California but decided to make Ponca their home. After a brief time living in Tulsa, he decided to return to his childhood home and that this was the place where he wanted to pursue art full-time.
Who do you consider to be the biggest influence with your art? Cory enthusiastically exclaims, “My grandfather!” Ake’s grandfather has encouraged him to pursue his passion since he was a child and has been showing him how to market himself and his art. The businessminded grandfather was a professional drummer in his younger years and played all over the world. Once he became a little more settled, he landed in Las Vegas where he owned several nightclubs and even ran around with the Rat Pack. Once in Ponca City, he was one of the early owners of The Rockin’ Horse Saloon; now known as Ridin’ High. What made you decide to start a tattoo apprenticeship? “I was always scared to venture out from my style and medium. My comfort zone.” Then Cory Ake met Brian Spitz, owner of Studio 205, and started discussing how “free and open” it is to tattoo. Through their lengthy conversations about the beauty of the human form and the beauty of art on skin, a friendship blossomed and grew. Spitz agreed to take Ake on as an apprentice, which is a two-year commitment for both gentlemen. Cory Ake has completed the 1500 hours the state requires him to “shadow” a professional tattoo artist and will begin tattooing soon under the supervision of his mentor and friend, Brian Spitz.
“Great Beyond” 42
October 2020
Studio 205 recently moved downstairs in the Royalty Building into a 3500 + sq. foot space. This larger space will allow the studio to have guest tattoo artists, continue with their visual art interests by teaching painting classes, displaying local artists’ art and adding to the already diverse and thriving art scene of Ponca City. The grand opening will be October 1st and Cory Ake will be there to greet everyone that walks through the door.
“Onward”
No tricks, just treats at Paladin Apartments!
PALADIN APARTMENTS 301 West Hartford • Ponca City paladinapartments.com • 580-762-7164 October 2020
43
Ponca City: We Love You Story & Photos contributed by Rich Cantillon
Before my 8th grade year, my parents announced to us that we were moving to a place called Ponca City. I was very upset, and told my dad that I would never forgive him for moving us. I was really happy with where we lived, my school, and the friends I had. But the decision had been made, and we made the move to Ponca City. When we first arrived, we saw historic lights, brick streets, and a lot of Spanish-looking architecture. As a young kid, I was not impressed. I thought it looked old. The downtown had a huge run-down place called the Arcade Hotel.
Today, I wish we still had the Arcade Hotel. While I was growing up, and now an adult, I see the unique look of Ponca City, and that is what I love the most about our amazing city. We came to Ponca City during the summer, and I immediately met kids in my neighborhood. They were very friendly, and took me in as one of them. I have always felt that Ponca City is a friendly city. At the chamber, I hear often about how friendly we are. I had a great summer with my new friends. We rode minibikes in the McCord area, where we lived at the time. We liked to camp out, and we would fish the Arkansas River. The interaction with the kids in my neighborhood helped me when I started at East Junior High. I already had a set of friends on my first day at my new school. However, finding out that our school mascot was a kitten did take me back a bit. It wasn’t fun hearing “meow” from the teams we played! I am certainly glad everyone is now a Wildcat! I was born and raised Catholic. We attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Little did I know, at the time, what an incredible parish this would end up being for me and my family for my entire life. While in high school, I loved our priest and I had many friends with whom I went to church. It was an active parish then, and it’s still a very active parish today. Every time I walk through the front doors of my beautiful church, I thank the Lord that this is my church and this is my hometown. We are so blessed to live and work in Ponca City, and I am blessed to call St. Mary’s Catholic Church my church.
Craig Stephenson, City Manager; Rich Cantillon, Chamber of Commerce CEO; Sue Lunsford, Retired P66; Diane Anderson, Retired P66 / Vice Mayor; Homer Nicholson, Mayor of Ponca City.
44
When I graduated from Ponca City High School, my dad asked me at my graduation party if I had forgiven him for moving me to Ponca City. I had to laugh because it was one of the greatest gifts that he and my mom could have given me. My time from 8th grader to high school senior were incredible years filled with laughter and adventure. I am one of those
geeks who was so sad at graduation. I did not want to move on. It had all been so much fun. I will never forget the teachers I had at Po-Hi, including Mrs. Krider, Mrs. Warren, J.D. Hanks — the list goes on and on. They were all so good to me. They were outstanding educators who had me well-prepared for college. When I went to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, people would say to me, “Yes, we know you are from Ponca City, and it is an amazing place to grow up.” I guess I talked a lot about my hometown. That always made me smile! I graduated with the Class of ‘76, so we were the bicentennial class. My classmates liked to have fun, and we really got along well. If there was a school event, we were involved in it. We made it fun and successful. I could not have had a better experience growing up in Ponca City and attending its public schools. Many from our class have gone on to do great things, but several of my classmates are leaders right here in Ponca City. This really makes me proud of the Class of ‘76. Our class even has a member in the Po-Hi Hall of Fame. I think that is very impressive. Now, I have to admit, I do feel old when I realize that the Allen Robson Field House, which was brand-new during my senior year, was just updated because it was looking old. Maybe I need an update, too? Ponca City is a loyal and caring community. My parents had a successful downtown photography business with many loyal customers. I learned right off that if you are good to people, they will be good to you. I had so many of my parents’ friends and parents of my friends in school who helped guide me to a successful life. They all taught me many valuable lessons. I will always be grateful to Dave and Georgia Perfect, Jim and Blondie Cheek, the Meeks family, Danny and Dottie Johnston, the Neisen family, and the Tarrant family, just to name a few. They were all
a great influence on my life. There truly are so many great influences in my life growing up, I could not write them all down.
a thriving town. But life has many changes, and so many times for the better. Kaw Lake is incredible.
I often think that only in Ponca City can a kid working at Hardee’s Hamburgers get his first car loan from Larry Hughes, who was an amazing banker and friend to our family. I worked at Hardee’s all through high school, and learned much about a great work ethic from our managers. They were so good to me, working around my high school schedule and events. They always said, “If you are leaning, you should be cleaning!” To this day, while at work, I have to be doing something! That is just the Ponca City way.
Growing up in Ponca City, and still today, people have the opportunity to hunt for all kinds of animals. This is a great outdoor event that our family truly enjoys.
Ponca City taught me to be a giving and generous person. I believe that it all started with many of our founders, and it is what makes Ponca City unique today! We are a very caring, giving, and supportive community. If I had to name the top reason why I love Ponca City, it would be because our people care!
One activity we did all the time was play tennis. We had tennis courts all over Ponca City, and all of my friends loved to play. That is something that has really changed over the years. I spent hours playing tennis when I was young. Of course, we would sneak down to Stillwater while in high school, and see our friends who were at OSU. I don’t think I ever missed Streakers Night on the strip! Wild times. We even had a few streakers
continued on page 46
Growing up in Ponca City was so special, and I believe it continues today for our young people. When you grow up here, you have all kinds of fun at Lake Ponca with water skiing, fishing, volleyball, and now swimming. We loved dragging Grand Avenue. It was always a blast, and still is today. We really had fun swimming and camping at Wentz. We spent a lot of time at the river doing all kinds of things, such as floating in our canoes, fishing, and looking for arrowheads. Kaw Lake was dedicated right after my graduation from Po-Hi in 1976. Dave Perfect took us out on the new lake. There was so much debris everywhere, it was crazy. I thought, “Nobody will never be able to do much on this lake.” Boy, was I wrong! Today, it draws thousands of people every year to our region. Kaw Lake is very special to me and my family. My father, Bob Austin, took most of the construction photos of the dam. He worked for Jerry’s House of Portraits at the time. In the Kaw City Museum, you can view many of his photographs. We went down to old Kaw City on the last night that visitors could go inside. It was unreal driving around what once was
October 2020
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Ponca City: We Love You continued from page 45
at Po-Hi. I can honestly say I never streaked! I know there are some who will read this and not have a clue what Streakers Night is. If you are a child of the mid’70s, you know!
“I am Ponca Proud, and I am a Wildcat for life!”
For our 40th class reunion, I was asked to compare Ponca City today to how it was in 1976. I loved doing that! Yes, there have been many changes, but I feel they are all for the better. Ponca City is more diversified in industry than it was in 1976. All of our school facilities, especially Po-Hi , are better today than in 1976. Our athletic facilities are over-the-top and so much better than when I was in high school. If you can believe this, even East looks better today than when I walked those halls. There is no comparison to Lake Ponca today to how it was in 1976. It is so much better. We could not even swim in the lake when I was growing up. There was not much on North 14th or Prospect when I was in high school. Even
our downtown has a new spirit of enthusiasm and investment which continues. I promise you that a thriving downtown is very unusual for rural Oklahoma. Downtowns are suffering everywhere. But I feel that our downtown will continue to grow with business, and evolve even more. So many great ideas are being discussed! So, yes, at my graduation party, I thanked Dad and Mom for moving me to Ponca City. Little did I know I would spend a lifetime here, and could not be happier! Ponca City is a special and unique place, from our brick streets and parks to mansions, lakes, beautiful architecture, statues, and our incredible history. From the beginning, with Ponca City’s founder B.S. Barnes, to today’s leaders like Mayor Homer Nicholson, we have vision, passion, a knack for working together, and always hope for a brighter and better Ponca City.
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October 2020
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Recipe
Recipe & food photos by Paul Muehlberg / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer In January this year, Ponca City lost an amazing cook, and I lost a dear friend, Mr. John Richardson. When John wasn’t cooking, he spent his time creating mixed media pieces, elaborate costumes, and mastering numerous art mediums in between, but in the kitchen is where he and I truly connected. John was the type of cook who understood that first, you eat with your eyes. He used his artistic ability to plate and serve a dish with as much thought
put into presentation as into its preparation. John could hand roll sushi, decorate intricate cakes and make a roux that any chef would be lucky to master. This bread pudding is based on a recipe that John and I once prepared together. I think of him when I serve it as a dessert in the fall, or with mimosas as a special weekend breakfast treat; although my favorite part about this dish is that it’s best enjoyed with the ones you love.
John’s Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding Ingredients • • • • • •
5 tablespoons butter 4 large granny smith apples, peeled, ½” dice 1 cup sugar, divided Kosher salt as needed 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 cups whole milk,
• • • • • •
2 cups heavy cream 4 large eggs and 4 large egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 14 oz stale French loaf, torn into bite-sized pieces 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar for sprinkling
Directions In a large non-stick skillet, heat 5 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. When the butter stops foaming, add in the diced apples, ¼ cup of the sugar and a pinch of kosher salt. Cook until the apples are soft and golden, and the sugar is dark and caramelized. Remove from the heat and stir in the cinnamon. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, bring the milk, heavy cream and sugar to a gentle simmer stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved about 5-8 minutes (do not bring to a boil). Let cool and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the milk and cream mixture to a blender or food processor, add-in the eggs and egg yolks. Pulse until airy, 20-30 seconds. In a large mixing bowl, add the stale bread (if using fresh bread, bake torn pieces on a sheet pan at 200 °F. for 20-30 minutes until dried and stale but still white in color). Toss with half the apples. Add in the milk, cream and egg mixture to the bread and toss until evenly combined. Scrap mixture into a buttered 9”x13” baking dish and top with remaining apples. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours and up to overnight. Brush top with melted butter and sprinkle with 2-3 tablesspoons of granulated sugar. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 °F. for 35-45 minutes or until bread pudding is set. If the sugar isn’t browned and melted, you can set under the broiler for about 1 minute to brown. Watch closely to avoid burning. Let cool and enjoy!
48
October 2020
Home is where your story begins. . .
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Best Little Steakhouse in Oklahoma
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October 2020
1216 E. Hartford Ave., Suite 1A, Ponca City, OK 74601 *New patients only. Call for details. Offer cannot be combined with other offers and expires in 4 weeks.
Business Spotlight:
Hoddy Glass, 37 Years Making Ponca City Shine Story & Photos by Kelsey Wagner, Ponca City Monthly Editor-in-Chief
Chuck Hoddy, founder of Chuck Hoddy Glass, first began working in the glass industry in Ponca City in 1969. With 14 years of experience under his belt, and an itch to branch out on his own, Chuck took a risk, and and with financial backing from friends, started his own company. Chuck didn’t have to look far for help. His oldest son, who graduated high school in 1983 was his first employee. His daughter De joined the company a month later. Everyone in the family has, at some point, worked for the company. “Dad retired in ’97, and I basically took it over from him,” De says. Hoddy Glass has been a part of many, many large jobs over the last 37 years. One of the most recent jobs that De says they are particularly proud of was for the new Wildcat Weight room. “We thought it was pretty neat that we got to install the mirrors at the High School weight room,” says De, smiling with pride. “I’m so proud to get to do jobs for the public, jobs that are paid for by the taxpayers, by us, the citizens.” In addition to running the family business, De is also very involved in volunteer work. “All of us were born and raised here, Dad was born and raised here,” says De. De says there used to be 3-4 custom glass companies in Ponca City, especially during the boom days of Conoco. As far as companies who specialize in the glass business, Chuck Hoddy Glass is all that’s left in Ponca City. De says she knows that even though there are online out-of-town options for products she sells that her customers could easily buy, they still choose to shop local. Hoddy Glass specializes in glass and mirrors for auto, commercial and residential. De says Ponca City holds a special place in her heart, and she loves the way the people in this town take care of each other.
Siblings David Bullington, De Steele & Roger Hoddy
“I just think the way everybody helps everybody else out is great. We shop local, and we just love this small town.”
October 2020
51
LIZ GREENE • 580-763-4887 View available properties at https://lizgreene.kw.com
411 N. 14th • Ponca City 580-765-0825 ]
Each Keller Williams office is independently owned & operated.
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October 2020
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HEALTH &
Beauty
Story & Photos by Stacie Hobbs, City of Ponca City Employee / Aquatic, Fitness & Community Event Coordinator
Featuring Personal Trainer, Kalyn Kyler This month, I wanted to feature an incredibly talented individual who gives her time to several projects around our community as well as invests in the health and wellness of people! Kalyn Kyler began volunteering as a fitness instructor in 2014 after having her third daughter. It didn’t take long for Kalyn to grow in her craft; she soon realized that she could contribute to her community through expanding her education first. After a lot of hard work, she became a certified personal trainer in February 2017 from the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). Her certification allows her to work with people of all ages, from children to seniors. I asked Kalyn a few questions about a few of her experiences to better understand her viewpoint of health, fitness, and relationships with people. STACIE: “What’s it like to teach others how to exercise?” KALYN: “I love teaching because I get to celebrate the victories right alongside my clients and press in through their troubles. In my early morning class - we all feed off of each other about what our goals are! We talk about everything from what we cook in our kitchens to what plans we have for the weekend… sometimes that means we will have to work hard to make up for our fun! Seriously, my job is so fun and rewarding! A bit of perspective though- so many people want immediate gratification for very little work. Unfortunately, that just isn’t the way to get results. Consistency is everything – and that’s why I’m here to help!” STACIE: “What’s your style of encouragement?” KALYN: “Oh, I am a talker! I really try to emphasize to my clients just WHY they are moving the way I am asking them to. WHY form is so important! It’s also so important that they know WHAT they are trying to accomplish with the prescribed movement. There are reasons behind each movement. Having intentional
movement is necessary mentally and physically. If you want to reach your goals, you have to understand the whole gamut.” STACIE: “What motivates you personally? How do you handle being a mom, a business owner, a community advocate and volunteer, and still have time to make your health a priority?” KALYN: “I am pushed by my group of workout friends just as they are pushed by me. Those 5 classes a week are MY workout as well. I don’t have time to come back to the gym for another hour each day to do what I want to do. For those out there who are all of the things above and more, you have time to dedicate to yourself. You just have to figure out where that time in your day is. Mine is 5AM. I am up at 4:40AM to make it to the gym to teach at 5:15AM. Then I stay for the first 30 minutes of another class-Fitness Boxing. I am home by 6:45AM to wake my kids, shower, and get ready for work. It is a total whirlwind most mornings, but it’s all I’ve got. Use that time wisely. (P.S. - I am NOT a morning person either!)”
KALYN: “Come to a group fitness class or hire a trainer. I know it is intimidating at first, but you really learn so much from the instructors and from yourself! There are perks of hiring a personal trainer vs group fitness class. A trainer gives you results quicker because the workouts are made specifically for you and your goals. And a personal trainer tracks your measurements and weight/fat loss for you, where a group instructor does not. But both are incredible options to have when you’re first starting out.”
STACIE: “Is there anything you recommend NOT doing STACIE: “What’s your number one recommendation when starting a fitness routine?” to those who want to achieve a goal?” KALYN: “Start slow and build up. You will be tired. You will be sore. Trying to jump out there and make KALYN: “You have to commit to yourself to show up it to the gym 5-7 days a week is a lot when you’re and put the work in. Set small, realistic goals to hit first starting out. It gets overwhelming and you along the way. Hitting a small goal on your journey to start feeling like it’s too much. Start with 2-3 days a the big goal is a huge confidence booster to yourself week and see how that works out for you for a while. and validation for the work you have been putting in!” Then reassess. In fitness, it’s all about routine and Kalyn has been a major asset to our community in reassessment.” health, wellness, and motivation. She’s an incredible, STACIE: “Do you have any tips for those wanting knowledgeable, and relatable resource for all things to begin a fitness routine but don’t know where to “Life” because she just understands! Reach out to her if you have questions about your health journey! begin?” October 2020
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October 2020
Backyard Gardener: Fall Gardening
Story & Photos by Kat Long / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer
Kat Long
FALL ACTIVITIES I hope you made it downtown for the Seed Swap. I hope we chatted, you met other likeminded gardeners and had lots of fun. As we growers and gardeners enter into October, there are some activities which can make you feel very accomplished when completed. They are not fun jobs, but they are necessary as we get into the winter months. Getting these things done will make spring so much more enjoyable. I promise.
FALL GARDEN If you planted some fall yummies like kale, spinach, Brussel sprouts or parsley, make sure you keep an eye on them as frost time approaches. Don’t get me wrong, these crops love a little cold weather, but harvest as you go with the greens. You can try for the big harvest before a hard freeze, or you can keep your cutting scissors handy and harvest greens to use in salads, soups and in side dishes all Fall and sometimes throughout the winter, if your fall garden gets lots of winter sun. October is also a good time to harvest the last of the summer herbs like sage, savory, lemon grass, thyme or oregano. Most herbs dry pretty easily, hanging upside down in a closet or pantry. Basil is harder to dry & store, but pesto is a wonderful, easy way to preserve your basil for future use. If you just didn’t have it in you to plant a fall garden, no worries. Now is a great time to plant garlic. Tractor Supply, Brandts, Atwood’s, Lowe’s and a few other places around town, will all have fall garlic and onions.
If you see either on a shopping expedition, and you have to choose one or the other, go with garlic. I always do. If you plant your garlic in October and November, you can harvest in June and July. Give it a try. And plant your garlic where it gets plenty of sun during the winter months. CLEANING If there is an early freeze, the leaves will begin to fall fast and furious. Now is a good time to start a compost pile or use your raised beds to store the leaves so they can break down for spring planting. You can build a compost pile out of spare lumber or even use chicken wire Wire Basket Composting circles to dump your gathered leaves into. They compost down pretty quickly especially if you give them a turn every couple of weeks. If you have raised beds, after they have been cleaned out, pile your leaves into the beds, smooth and cover with a tarp or plastic bags. I use bricks to weight down the tarps. This cooks your leaves down into lovely compost and bonus, it is already in the beds for next spring. Another cleaning item is tools. This is your final cleaning item before winter takes hold, because let’s face it, you will not be using the tools until then. If you have a lawn mower, drain out the gas.
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own your local power utility?
own your local power utility? THE POWER! YOU HAVE ating the Benefits
Thank you Ponca City for believing in & supporting Local Control your very own Municipality! Reinvestment “Owned by the Customers we Serve!” Reliability
Thank you Ponca City for believing in & supporting your very own Municipality! “Owned by the Customers we Serve!”
Local Power!
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Backyard Gardener: Fall Gardening continued from page 55 One of the things I forget is the south hose, so make sure to drain the hoses and put them away. For your hand gardening tools, and before you put the hose up, give all the tools a blast from the garden hose. You may need a bucket of soapy water and a stiff wire brush for encrusted dirt or rust spots. Dry everything well. Microfiber cloths are really good for drying tools and wick water away quickly. Give them a final inspection, and lightly coat with vegetable oil to assist with any stubborn rust spots while scrubbing. I have an old metal spittoon that I fill with sand and a cup of vegetable oil for my hand tools to be stored in over winter. If you have wooden handles on your tools, get some medium-grit sandpaper and go over any rough spots and if you can, rub them down with linseed oil. This helps repel water which can erode your handles overwinter. If you need new handles, replace them now so you are fresh and ready to go for spring. SEEDS And of course, seeds. I am of the school of leaving as many seed pods and stems in the yard for the birds who overwinter here in Ponca City. If you have sunflower seed heads leftover, if you clean up the branches, leave the extra heads for the birds. If you can handle it, leave your plants which have gone to seed in the yard over the winter months. Bonus for cleaning these up in the spring is winter kills the roots and the stems come out easily when pulled. Great job for young kids or teenagers who need a job. Bees hibernate in the hollow tubes of sunflowers, onions and thicker flower stems. Clean away debris from your foundation and close to the house so as not to attract the rodents, spiders or ants; But if you can leave seeds and stems out in the yard for the birds and pollinators, they would appreciate it. Your garden will thank you when these guys emerge in the spring. Originally, this article was going to be a rant on spiders in the house. I am a staunch defender of spiders in the yard and I help any wandering spider in the house to the outside (except fiddle backs. They DIE!). But this weekend, a warning shot, or bite, was had while I was minding my own business, sitting on my couch. Fair warning, all outside spiders are safe and if I get bit outside, I am the trespasser. But inside the house, well, there are books and shoes within arms reach and they will be used. Rant ended. And Happy Gardening.
Basil Pesto This is a really simple recipe to preserve the last of the basil in the yard. • 3 cups rinsed basil leaves (you can use the stems too, but • • • • • • • •
stems add a bitter taste) 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3 garlic cloves, chopped ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup fresh tomatoes chopped ½ cup pine nuts or sunflower seeds or walnuts (depending on your nut preferences) ¼ cup water 1 teaspoon salt (I use Celtic or Kosher salt; and probably end up using 2 teaspoons) I like salt. ½ teaspoon black pepper
Throw all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Spoon into ice cube trays and freeze for a couple of days. Pop frozen cubes into freezer bags/containers and label with “Basil Pesto” and date. (You will thank me later). Use in pastas or sauces. Lasts for a long time (I have used ones that are two years old from the bottom of the freezer without issue).
Article Recommendations
Great articles for composting, overwintering pollinators and drying herbs: • https://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/home-composting-zmaz06onzraw • https://xerces.org/blog/where-do-pollinators-go-in-winter
• https://www.motherearthnews.com/natural-health/5-ways-to-dry-herbs-zbcz1804
October 2020
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October 2020
Halloween Miracle? Story & Photos by Ashlie Hazen / Ponca City Monthly Contributing Writer
I’m not sure if it’s my habit for procrastinating or my Adam for a Halloween party in his classroom. need for things to be perfect that always has me working I had been down in the basement working on my youngest son’s Halloween costume until the last for two hours when I heard the voice of second. But I never dreamed it would be the very thing that my husband asking if I needed anything. would save the lives of my three children, and possibly my Realizing that I had forgotten to grab a sock husband and myself. before I headed downstairs, I asked him to It started when my youngest son was five. I ordered grab one before he joined me. his costume online, like I had been doing for him and my When he returned without the other two boys for the last 15 years. But when it arrived, the sock and a worried look on face, I pants were way too long and required hemming before was slightly annoyed. “The lights he could wear them. I had procrastinated on ordering the won’t work, and I think I smell costume, so there was no time to hire someone to fix it. something funny, maybe,” he said. I thought to myself, “How hard could it be?” Turns out it Rolling my eyes and thinking was harder to hem bell bottoms than I had expected, and to myself that he’d gone crazy, I I was literally making the last stitch as stopped sewing he was running out the door with the and started up excitement that every five-year-old has basement When I reached the the on Halloween night. stairs. I got to the I remember telling my husband of the staircase fifth step, something hit bottom Travis that night, as we pilfered that leads up to all four through the kids’ candy (don’t judge, bedrooms and flicked the we all do it), how much fun I had fixing my foot, so I looked up light switch, but nothing and even adding my own ideas to the It was a little at the exact moment happened. pants. I decided right then that I was alarming, considering going to make next year’s costume that the light is a the chandelier was chandelier with four from scratch. With only one child left in the trick-or-treat age group, I was bulbs, and what are dropping out of the the odds that they optimistic that I could create an entire costume. would all burn out ceiling. I instantly Over the next year, I bought a at the exact same cheap sewing machine, and taught time? myself the basics. First, I made Edward When I smelled smoke and Scissorhands, followed by Jack Frost reached the fifth (“The Nightmare Before Christmas”), saw flames from the step, something then Saul Hudson (better known as hit my foot, so Slash from Guns N’ Roses), followed I looked up at new hole in the by Beetlejuice, and finally the Mad the exact moment Hatter from “Alice in Wonderland.” the chandelier was ceiling. FIRE!!! Does anyone notice a theme? All of dropping out of the these characters (except for Slash) are ceiling. I instantly from Tim Burton movies. My son has smelled smoke and adopted his father’s love for ‘80s hair bands, and begged saw flames from the new hole in the ceiling. to be Slash. So what’s a mom to do but let the kid be Slash? FIRE!!! Now, you are probably wondering how a costume Travis and I opened the bedroom doors yelling, procrastination saved our lives. On Halloween morning “FIRE! Get up and get outside!” I grabbed anything that 2019, I woke up very early (I am NOT a morning person) was a picture on the way out the door as the three of us to put the finishing touches on the Mad Hatter costume, in were calling 911. I couldn’t believe three of us even had the hopes that I could send it to school that morning with the sense to call 911.
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October 2020
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October 2020
Halloween Miracle? Then I remembered … THE COSTUME! I don’t recommend or encourage anyone to ever do what I’m about to tell you I did, but I ran down into the basement and grabbed that costume. The hours, blood, sweat, and tears that I had put into that costume meant there was no way it was burning up with my house. NO WAY! The fire department responded within five minutes, and before we knew it, they were inside fighting the fire. A big shout-out and thank you to our amazing firemen and firewomen — they truly were amazing. Every time one of them came out, I would hear my husband ask, “Is it out yet?” to which he or she would respond, “Not yet.” My childhood home, which happens to be just around the corner from our house, caught fire one summer years ago, and something I heard one of the firemen say that day has stuck with me. Once a fire reaches your attic, it’s much harder to save the home, and every second counts. Although the fire department arrived quickly, the
fire started in my attic, as far as I could tell. I just knew I was going to watch my house burn to the ground. But my babies, husband, animals and myself were all safe, and I knew everything else was just stuff. The fire marshal told us that he was almost certain it was the wiring in that hallway chandelier that caused the fire, and then he told us the part that still sends a chill down my spine. “We are pretty sure the fire started sometime the previous night, and it had smoldered for at least eight hours until it got an inflow of oxygen when the chandelier dropped out of the ceiling. Your family has to be the luckiest family in Ponca City for the entire year.” I have never met anyone who went to bed with their house on fire, and all woke up and walked out of their still-standing house eight hours later. WOW! There are so many little things that saved us that night and morning, and if just one of them would have been ever so slightly different, it could have led to a very grave outcome. On a normal morning, we all would have been sound asleep upstairs when
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the fire got oxygen. Had my husband awakened 30 minutes later, my entire family would have been two floors above me when the fire got oxygen. If I hadn’t forgotten to grab that sock before I started the costume, my kids would have been two floors above my husband and me when the fire got oxygen. I often think about the odds of that particular morning going exactly as it did, with the fire getting oxygen at the exact moment I was walking up the stairs. God, luck, three guardian angels, a Halloween costume, and procrastination saved my family. As a bonus, those fine men and woman also saved my house with no water damage and very little structural damage. I wish I could say the repairs went as smoothly, but that’s another story! It all worked out the way it was meant to, and I wouldn’t change a thing about it. My three incredible sons — Noah, Hunter, and Adam — my amazing husband Travis, our cute kitty Oliver, and sweet dog Izzie all lived to tell about it, and that is all that matters to me!
My Halloween costume obsession…
Slash
Edward Scissorhands
Beetlejuice
Jack Frost October 2020
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October 2020
Geocaching? What’s that? Story by Jay Wagner, Ponca City Contributing Writer
Geocaching (jee-oh-kash-ing) is a global game of hide and seek where millions of hidden objects are sought out by seekers using their GPS devices or, more commonly, their smart phones. The term geocaching is a combination of two words: Geo (meaning earth) and Cache (a collection of hidden items). The game was born organically way back in the year 2000 shortly after satellite technology was upgraded to allow for more open and accurate use. GPS enthusiasts were thrilled to learn of the newly released capabilities and tested the results by hiding items for others to find and report. One such enthusiast hid a stash of various items in a bucket along with a pen and notepad (for signatures) and shared it in an online forum. Several others took note of this challenge and thus the game began to take shape. The only rule at the time was to Find some stuff, Leave some stuff. Within weeks the game spread across the globe as many others copied the idea in their own communities. The caches can vary in size from small film canisters to ridiculously large items akin to a Route 66 roadside attraction. They can be found in parks, trails, trees and popular attractions. The containers can be easily identifiable or disguised for added difficulty. Your smaller finds may only be large enough to hold a strip of paper to add your name to the list of previous finders. Many seek out newer caches and race to become the ‘First’ claimant. Larger caches may contain special collectible items or small tokens for trade. It is customary for those seeking caches to bring their own pen and some small trinkets, or
Swag (as they so fondly call it), to swap in and out of their finds. You should never take, destroy or move the cache from its place so that future seekers can share in the fun. The caches can range from easy to difficult depending on the size of the container and the terrain needing to be traversed to get to the cache. There are also many options on the type of geocache adventure offered. They could be a more traditional, single location stash or it could be more similar to a wild goose chase where the first find gives clues to the next and so on using puzzles and riddles to sort out. Geocaching is a great opportunity to get outside and stretch your legs, take the kids out for a treasure hunt or just walk the dog to the nearest stash. You may even accidentally learn something about your community along the way. What’s great about this game is that you can take it wherever you go. On a family vacation or a business trip and needing to add some adventure to your day? Download a wellreviewed geocaching app on your phone and choose from the hundreds of local treasures awaiting you. You may find that the thrill of the hunt can be an exciting new hobby. Many apps are free to use but may come with upgrade options for more difficult or rewarding finds.
INTRODUCING
Ponca City Monthly’s very own geocache-style game where following the clues can lead you to
$50 in Chamber Bucks.
CONTEST RULES: Be the first to find the cache and bring in the special code for your prize. Also, inside the container will be a collectible coin to keep! The cache will only be hidden for a limited time for each issue, so hurry to find it fast!
Since these are considered temporary hides, the use of geocaching apps isn’t allowed. However, we ask that if you are the first to find the cache please retrieve the special code and coin but leave and sign the included note saying that the treasure has been found. Once the deadline has passed, the code will no longer be valid for the prize. A new Ponca City Monthly’s GeoCash will be hidden when the next issue is released.
OCTOBER CLUE: Guarding each sunrise I stand tall and proud My eyes gentle and wise My existence avowed
Difficulty: Easy (located in 10-15 minutes) Terrain: Easy (mostly flat surfaces) Size: Small (size of deck of cards) Deadline: 20th of each month
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