July 2019 Lake Texoma Life Magazine- A publication of The Lake Texoma Association

Y O U R

G U I D E

T O

L A K E

L I F E

EXTREME FUN Adventure by land + by sea with these unconventional activities

GRAB A PADDLE AND EXPLORE SOME SHORELINE BY

KAYAK + S UP JULY 2019 • FREE

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JULY 2019

welc me s I write, it’s cool and drizzly outside. It’s a little cooler than normal for this time of year, but I’m not complaining. I do wish the rain would give the lake time to catch up, but we’ve seen much more rain than this in years past. It’s an inconvenience, but we can still enjoy the lake.

Lake Texoma’s marinas are gearing up for and anticipating a terrific 4th of July holiday weekend. One of the best things about living in the Texoma region is the many opportunities to celebrate Independence Day in the area. There are fireworks shows, live bands and outdoor activities for several days, and you can pick and choose or participate in nearly all of them! Our own fireworks show at the Roosevelt Bridge will be held on Friday, July 5th. We will be having an open house again this year, and are adding a food truck and water slide, so gather your family and join us. We will start around 6 p.m. and keep your family entertained until the show starts at dusk. It’s a lot of fun!

When I was a kid, one thing we did often as a family was come to the lake during the 4th of July holiday. We’d stay a whole week – fishing, swimming, skiing and floating on air mattresses. We drank sodas from a can and ate bologna sandwiches and potato chips all day. For a kid, there could be nothing better. We had a Coleman stove and a heavy canvas tent with a pole in the center. I’m not even sure you can buy a tent like that anymore. Those are some of my favorite childhood memories!

My memories have faded, but my love for lake life has not. Summers in this region are hot, and there’s no better place to be during the summer than at the lake. Camp, fish, boat or just lounge around by the shoreline and watch the sunset – a welcome departure from daily life.

Whether you’re a tent camper, have a 36’ fifth-wheel with four sliders or prefer the balcony of a luxury resort, nothing compares to enjoying your coffee in the fresh lakeside morning air.

The sounds of the birds singing their wake up songs and the lake lapping up to the shore is perfect peace. What a way to start a day!

Come on out and enjoy all Lake Texoma offers! If you need help deciding where to go or what to do, give us a call. We can help you find that perfect campground, resort or hotel, and the best places to fish or direct you to a fishing guide. More of a city slicker? The Texoma Region has much more to offer!

Casinos, restaurants, shopping, golf, night life, movies and more. You can find it here. Make your plans early, especially for holidays, to be sure to secure your camping space or hotel room.

A

TERRI WEIR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LAKE TEXOMA ASSOCIATION

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LAKETEXOMAASSOCIATION INSTAGRAM: @LAKE_TEXOMA_ASSOCIATION TWITTER: @LTASSOCIATION WWW.LAKETEXOMAONLINE.COM

The Lake Texoma Association is a group of stakeholders in the Texoma region that support the mission of the LTA to protect and preserve Lake Texoma, as well as promote the entire Texoma region. If something is in the best interest of our lake, then you can bet the LTA is behind that plan every step of the way, with the cooperation of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, regional Chambers of Commerce, and individual businesses and stakeholders. The Lake Texoma Association is very much like a chamber of commerce, but with one major difference: the very diverse membership. Not just an organization of businesses and business people, LTA is made up of all types of concerned individuals who want to keep Lake Texoma the superb recreational and business area it is today. Lake Texoma Life is a publication of the LTA, produced in cooperation with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Two thousand copies of Lake Texoma Life were produced at a cost of $1.50 each. Projected readership is 6,000.

JULY 2019

LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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FOR A WET AND WILD RIDE, LAKE-GOERS CAN FIND THEIR FUN HYDROBOARDING AT WATER WINGS OF TEXOMA IN MADILL. [COURTESY PHOTO/AQUAFLY]

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[COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF AQUAFLY; CLOCKWISE: PHOTO BY BRAD L. VIA YELP; COURTESY PHOTO/EXTREME SANDBOX; COURTESY PHOTO/LAKE TEXOMA ADVENTURES]

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TEXOMA ROCKS

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS + MUSIC ON MAIN BRING FREE, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT TO TEXOMA CROWDS

CRUISIN’

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SET SAIL ON AN ESCAPE ROOM ADVENTURE OR ROMANTIC DINNER CRUISE WITH FASTRAC

HOME AWAY FROM HOME 10 GREAT ACCOMODATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL TO ANY VACATION & TEXOMA HAS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM

THE GREAT INDOORS

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BEAT THE HEAT WITH INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT THAT APPEALS TO THE WHOLE FAMILY

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

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TIPS ON REELING IN THE PERFECT CATCH IN THIS MONTH’S FISHING REPORT

PADDLE UP

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GRAB A PADDLE + EXPLORE SOME LAKE TEXOMA SHORELINE BY KAYAK AND SUP

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FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE AMERICA’S INDEPENDENCE BOTH ON AND OFF THE LAKE

EXTREME-LY FUN

GONE FISHIN’

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FLY HIGH ABOVE THE WATER OR CONSTRUCT YOUR OWN FUN ON LAND WITH THESE “EXTREME” ACTIVITIES

BASH FOR $$$

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HAVE SOME BIG FUN “DOWN ON THE BAYOU” AT LAKE TEXOMA ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

CALENDAR

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FOLLOW THE FUN WITH OUR EVENT GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE TEXOMA AREA

in this issue

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oth Sherman and Denison have already kicked off their annual summer concert series, Music on Main. Bringing in acts like A Flock of Seagulls, Band of Heathens, Shooter Jennings and Soul Asylum, both towns are expecting a big turnout for the events throughout the summer.

Bringing out as many as 3,500 people to its 2018 shows, Denison decided to incorporate more local talent into its series by hosting a Local Talent Live competition. Leading up to this year’s Music on Main, local acts competed for the opportunity to headline one of the city’s 10 shows.

TEXOMA

ROCKS

ALL SUMMER LONG

BY FUTURE BROWN

DAWNING ‘80S ATTIRE, THE SPAZMATICS (LEFT) PERFORMED FOR A HOT SUMMER NIGHTS CROWD IN SHERMAN IN 2018. COUNTRY ARTIST RICK TREVINO (RIGHT) ALSO GRACED THE HSN STAGE DURING THEIR 2017 CONCERT SERIES. [COURTESY PHOTOS]

AREA CONCERT SERIES BRING

BIG NAMES

“I think people can expect quality entertainment each week and will have a good time this year,” Main Street Director Donna Dow said at the show announcement event in March.

This year’s Music on Main acts so far have included The McNeills and BlackHawk in May. Continuing into June, free performances were held each Friday by Monte Montgomery, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis, Shooter Jennings, and Cordovas, respectively, and July performances are scheduled to include the Scooter Brown Band on the Fourth of July, followed by Ghost Dance Band, Chris Colton and Ty England.

“I am very excited about this

year’s lineup, and I think the addition of the contest has added some spice to this year’s concerts,” Dow said.

Making up the Hot Summer Nights schedule for Thursdays in June were A Flock of Seagulls, Chris Knight, Diffie and Band of Heathens, and the Lights on the Lake performance will be held July 3 at Pecan Grove Park in Sherman with KC and the Sunshine Band.

“It goes without saying we’re real excited about the hard work the committee has done putting this lineup together,” Sherman Mayor David Plyler said at the lineup announcement in April.

“We have made special, inten-

JULY 2019

TO TEXOMA

tional decisions about having something for everybody. If you don’t like a band one week, wait until the next week and it’s going to be completely different.”

Other July performers will be Escape, Legacy 4 and Soul Asylum.

“To be a part of something that’s been going on for 25 years is really special to me,” Sherman Tourism and Main Street Manager Sarah McRae said in April.

“As we keep growing, it’s something important to keep here and to keep these sweet hometown events that make everyone feel like it’s the same Sherman you grew up (with), and welcome all our new friends in.”

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CRUISIN’

BY RHEA BERMEL

Fastrac Boat Charters and Cruises take passengers on an adventure out on Lake Texoma, with themed cruises and lake tours on the company’s three operational boats.

One of this year’s cruises features an escape room adventure.

According to Fastrac’s website, “you’re an inmate aboard the Island Girl Prison Ship being transported to the Treasure Island Prison, You and the other inmates have a short window of opportunity to take over control of the boat from the Captain before you’re locked up for life. You have one hour. Make it count.”

Last year’s newest attraction was a murder mystery cruise, which has become a recurring event due to high demand. The murder mystery cruise includes 1920s themed

attire, where guests are served food and given an opportunity to explore clues and discover who was murdered.

Other themed cruises include a new debut, the trivia night cruise, a dinner cruise which is themed toward a specific genre. Recurring cruises include holiday cruises, full moon cruises, singles cruises and eagle watching breakfast cruises.

Owner Michael Tucker said the eagle watching breakfast cruise is a fan favorite that sells out quickly.

“They really enjoy having a great breakfast on the boat,” Tucker said.

“There’s such a market for themed cruises.”

The dinner cruises rotate five to six menu options, including Mexican fajitas, Texas barbecue, Italian

lasagna and a down-home option of baked chicken or pork chops with salad and sides. Meals include dinner, dessert and a beverage. Guests wanting to enjoy alcoholic beverages are welcome to bring their own.

Cruises typically last an hour and a half to two hours and accomodate anywhere from 36 to 48 guests. Although the boats can carry up to 86 passengers, Fastrac likes to keep the cruises on a smaller, more intimate level.

Cruises take place on Fridays and Saturdays year-round and additionally on Thursdays and some Wednesdays during the summer.

Times vary based on sunset and sunrise times, with the majority beginning at either 6:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.

In addition to cruises, Fastrac also offers water taxis, sailing instruction and private charters. The water taxi provides a unique way for lake-goers without their own boats to explore Lake Texoma’s various islands and party spots. For more information or to make reservations, visit www.fastrac.com.

A B O A R D FA S T R A C C H A R T E R SJULY 2019

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[COURTESY PHOTO]

ADVENTURE, ROMANCE + VIEWS

JULY 2019

LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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[COURTESY PHOTO/IGLAMP]

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

BY RHEA BERMEL When it comes to planning a vacation, deciding where to stay can be the hardest part. Both the size of your party and what kind of experience you’re hoping to have while away play a part in the type of accommodations you choose.

Local Realtor Bubba Thompson of Homes By Lainie Real Estate Group explained its Lake Texoma’s community that welcomes so many visitors to the area for their vacations.

“Then, the most obvious is the lake,” Thompson said.

“The size of Lake Texoma allows us all to be able to enjoy the beaches, islands, fishing, skiing, swimming and lakefront restaurants. Be sure to check out the sunsets here; they are some of the best.”

Trips to the lake often involve a fair amount of time spent outdoors. For this reason, it may be a good idea to look beyond the typical hotel room to find something that provides convenient access to the water and other outdoor amenities.

Gateway Travel owner and frequent traveler Christy Wagnitz said many people choose to stay somewhere other than a hotel for the flexibility those options provide, such as one large vacation home.

“A lot of people like to have a more home-like situation,” Wagnitz said. “This is especially true when you have multiple generation families that want to do a big family vacation. It is a little more private for activities and things you want to do. It also makes it a little more relaxed for an extended stay.”

Wagnitz recommends checking references, reviews and location(s) for any type of accommodation you might be considering for your vacation. Depending on the size of your party and desired activities, there are several accommodation options available outside of a typical hotel.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES For couples or small families looking to take a trip at their own pace, using an RV can be an excellent option.

This method of travel allows you to take in the sights, along with the option of bringing your pets along for the ride. There are around 10 parks, 10 marinas and two state parks that offer RV camping on Lake Texoma. Sites including access to water, electricity and sewer run around $20 to $40 per night.

“For RV’ers, I suggest Lake Texoma RV Resort in Pottsboro,” Thompson said. “It has 24-hour facilities, a pool, showers, laundry and a clubhouse.”

VACATION HOME RENTALS Homes available for short-term rental vary widely in size and price. Having a full kitchen and multiple bathrooms can be a welcome convenience for family gatherings. A home also provides a better sense of privacy than a hotel or other shared living situation. This type of rental can be found on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO. CABIN RENTAL Those looking for a bit of an adventure but still wanting a home-like atmosphere should consider cabin rentals. Cabins range in design from rustic to bungalow chic, and can provide many of the same comforts as a vaca-

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more, depending on the location.

[COURTESY PHOTO/PARADISE ON LAKE TEXOMA]

GLAMPING

tion home rental, the difference being their location and style. Like their more traditional counterparts, cabins range widely in price depending on size, amenities and location. Several of the lake’s state parks and marinas offer cabin rentals, with prices usually ranging from $80 to $200 per night.

When it comes to cabins, Little Mineral and the Lighthouse Marina, Paradise on Lake Texoma, Buncombe Creek Resort and Marina, Lake Texoma Lodge and Resort and Grandpappy Point all provide cabin rentals, while some also provide RV spots, restaurants, a local store, pool, brewery and

JULY 2019

For the truly adventurous, glamping is a newer craze that provides vacation-goers the opportunity to commune with nature without abandoning all of the comforts of civilization. For around $150 per night, local service iGlamp will provide a large, sturdy tent in a similar style to a yurt, furnished with a real bed, furniture and other luxury essentials. Although some camp sites may provide the glamping set up as part of their reservation package, other services will set up and take down these amenities at a camp site of your choosing.

“I always suggest (to) come see why we love living on Lake Texoma,” Thompson said. “As a local Realtor, I see families visit here one summer and move here the next. It’s truly a vacation spot that’s only a one hour commute to the (DFW) Metroplex.”

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AXE-THROWING, ROPES COURSE + GROWLERS AMONG AREA ENTERTAINMENT BEYOND THE LAKE The greater Texoma area includes more than just the vast array of outdoor activities at Lake Texoma. Visitors to the area will find plenty of entertainment just a short drive away in either Sherman or Denison. Both communities offer a variety of entertainment options with three new, unique offerings that are sure to offer some excitement.

SCHULMAN’S MOVIE BOWL GRILLE Those traveling to Lake Texoma who are

looking for a getaway can head into Sherman to check out its newest attraction, Schulman’s Movie Bowl Grille. The indoor entertainment hub features a movie theater, bowling alley, video arcade and rock climbing, among its standard features.

As for its non-standard features, guests have the opportunity to check out an axe-throwing area.

“What patrons can expect is a full range and full day of attractions for the full family to be together,” Mark Schulman said.

the great

INDOORS

BY RICHARD A. TODD

KALI HALL AND COREY MANSEN PLAY AN ARCADE GAME TOGETHER AT THE OPENING OF SCHULMAN’S MOVIE BOWL GRILLE IN SHERMAN. [DREW SMITH/HERALD DEMOCRAT]

HEYDAY ENTERTAINMENT IN SHERMAN, THE FIRST TEXAS LOCATION FOR THE OKLAHOMA-BASED CHAIN, WILL FEATURE BOWLING, A ROPES COURSE, OUTDOOR MINI GOLF, A RESTAURANT AND OTHER AMENITIES WITH AREAS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNATED FOR ADULTS. [PHOTOS BY BRAD L. VIA YELP]

The Sherman location is the company’s largest yet, with a standard eight movie screens along with a bigger arcade, bowling alley and restaurant and bar.

Patrons will be given the opportunity to hunt zombies as one of the activities in one of the venue’s multi-player virtual reality experiences. Above the arcade is a ropes course, and an adjacent rock climbing wall along one side of the arcade. Another feature of the movie theater is the built-in food tray, which makes it easy to dine while watching a movie.

Guests can also bring food from the location’s restaurant into the theater.

HEYDAY ENTERTAINMENT HeyDay Entertainment will offer a variety of indoor activities for guests of all ages who want to get away from the lake for a few hours and get inside with the air conditioning.

The new venue will be the an-

chor for the budding Gateway Village community just east of Lake Texoma at the intersection of FM 691 and U.S. Highway 75.

CEO Brad Little said it’s the perfect escape for those who want to get inside and out of the elements at the end of a long day at the lake.

“When you have been out at the lake all day, the last thing you want to do is stay outside. You’re ready to shower and get inside where there’s some air conditioning,” Little said. “This is a great hangout. If you are a couple on a date or a foursome and you want to go out and have a great time and not be bothered by families, this gives you a great alternative.”

The venue will feature laser tag, bowling, a video arcade, ropes course and mini golf on the ground level. Upstairs will feature an adults-only portion featuring a more intimate setting with a smaller eight-lane bowling area, dining options and seating over-

JULY 2019

looking the activities on the lower level.

THE RAILYARD TRYINCUBATOR + GREEN GROWLER Those looking for something truly unique might consider heading to downtown Denison to check out The Rail Yard Incubator. The TRYIncubator is an experimental restaurant sampler that will offer a food-court style setting for aspiring chefs to try out their ideas in the market. The business will operate with a focus on offering support to local culinary arts students who attend area colleges.

In addition to the short-term mini-kitchens culinary artists will use to develop their craft, the incubator will bring together locally brewed beverages in one space with the Green Growler. Green Growler is a craft beer tap house that will allow patrons to experience locally brewed beverages,

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with the option to fill up a to-go mug (known as a growler) to take their beverage home with them.

CHOCTAW CASINO + RESORT For those seeking a variety of entertainment while sticking close to the lake, Choctaw Casino and Resort in Durant offers a host of amenities for all ages including its own entertainment venue known as The District, with food, an arcade, bowling and four screen movie theater.

The casino was recently nominated for “Casino of the YearSmall Capacity” by the Academy of Country Music and hosts weekly musicians, comedians and performers.

CHOCTAW CASINO AND RESORT IN DURANT HAS AN ON-SITE BOWLING ALLEY, ALONG WITH AN ARCADE AND MOVIE THEATER, AS PART OF ITS ENTERTAINMENT AREA KNOWN AS THE DISTRICT. [COURTESY PHOTO]

14 LAKE TEXOMA LIFE MAY 2019

[CHRIS JENNINGS]

WAYS TO C E L E B R AT E

INDEPENDENCE DAY NEAR LAKE TEXOMA

BY FUTURE BROWN

MUSIC ON MAIN DE NIS ON, TX

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Denison’s summer concert series Music on Main will continue on July 4 at Munson Stadium with headliner Scooter Brown and opening acts Bailey Rae, Adri Anna and Kenslie Clark. The show begins at 7 p.m., with fireworks to follow.

MAY 2019

LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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[DANIEL DUSEK]

FIREWORKS AT ROOSEVELT KI N G STO N , O K

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Th e Lake Texoma Ass ociation puts on its own firewor k s s h ow on J ul y 5 . Th e eve n t will be h e ld from 6 -9 :30 p. m. at th e Lake Texoma Ass ociation office, 1 1 934 State Park Road in Kin gston , an d will in clu de

an ope n h ou s e. H ot dogs , ch ips an d dr in k s wi l l be s old. S ite patron s can also expe ct an ice cre am tr u ck , we t bou n ce h ou se s, wate r spr ink le r s an d more. Firewor k s be gin at du sk .

LIGHTS ON THE LAKE SH E R M A N , TX

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The ci t y o f Sh e rm an w i l l

HIGHPORT MARINA POT TS BO R O, T X

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Fireworks will light up the night sky at Highport Marina on July 6.

The annual display begins at 9 p.m. and is expected to last about an hour. To donate to the fireworks display fund or to find out more information, call 903-786-7000.

h o st i t s 1 0 t h a nnual L i g ht s on t he L ake ce l e b rat i o n at Pe can Grove

West Pa r k in S he rm an. A con cer t feat u ri ng KC and [ HERALD DEMOCRAT]

the Su n s h in e B and i s f re e to t h e p u b lic , and fo o d ve n d o r s w ill be o n s i te.

Th e even t is fam i l y f ri e nd l y wi t h a k id s a ll ey i ncl ud e d .

Th e a f ter n oon o f eve nt s beg in s at 4 p. m. and gu est s a re en co urag e d to get t h ere ea r ly.

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[HERALD DEMOCRAT]

FIREWORKS NEAR CHOCTAW DU RA NT, OK

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Choctaw Casino and Resort in Durant will be putting on its annual fireworks show on Independence Day. Noted as the largest pyrotechnic display in the area, the show is set to music from KLBC 106.3 and will begin at dusk. For more information on site offerings, visit www.choctawcasinos.com.

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LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

BY LAND OR BY SEA, THRILL SEEKERS CAN FIND ADVENTURE ON TEXOMA SHORES

EXPLORE THE LAKE’S

EXTREME SIDE

BY DREW SMITH

The Lake Texoma area offers locals and visitors a number of traditional activities, but those looking to explore the region’s more extreme side could well find themselves flying high above the water or playing in the dirt.

EXTREME SANDBOX

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[COURTESY PHOTOS/AQUAFLY]

On the Texas side, Extreme Sandbox in Pottsboro invites customers to get behind the wheel of large construction vehicles and make their way through obstacle courses and challenges. Owner Randy Stenger said the Sandbox opened for business in 2016 and features a lineup of excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and other specialty vehicles.

“We really like to show them what that piece of equipment can do,” Stenger said. “It can range all the way from a finessed move, like knocking a tennis ball off a cone with the arm of a 26-ton excavator, to picking up a car.”

Stenger said clients as young as 14 years old can join in on the fun, but all ages must start with a 20-30 minute safety training session before climbing in the cab.

“We always have people operate the equipment on their own, however, our instructors are on a wireless communi-

EXTREME SANDBOX IN POTTSBORO PUTS CUSTOMERS IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT AS THEY ATTEMPT VARIOUS CHALLENGES INSIDE LARGE CONSTRUCTION VEHICLES. [COURTESY PHOTOS/EXTREME SANDBOX]

cation system with them, so we’re there to help coach them through it,” Stenger said.

The Sandbox attracts a wide client base, including many DFW residents and corporations interested in team-building activities. But Stenger said even those who aren’t in the driver’s seat can still have fun.

“We have great spectators areas as well, so family members and friends can sit on the sidelines to see what’s going on,” Stenger said. “We often have headsets we can give them so they can still talk with whoever is in the cab, and at the end we can park the equipment (and) let them come up and check it out.”

Stenger said the business’s base package starts at $195 and includes one hour of drive time, but clients typically opt for more time or activities and spend an average of $300 to $500. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 855-3444386. Extreme Sandbox is located at 80958 N. Hwy. 289 in Pottsboro. Additional information can be found at www.extremesandbox.com.

“It’s one of those bucket list activities. So many people dream about driving one of these large pieces of

construction equipment, and this is a chance to fulfill it,” Stenger said.

“And, really, it goes back to our childhood. We all had our toy Tonka trucks and sandboxes, only now they’re bigger and they’re the real thing.”

WATER WINGS OF TEXOMA On the Oklahoma side of the lake, those looking for a wet and wild ride can find their fun hydroboarding at Water Wings of Texoma in Madill.

“Basically it’s a hoverboard propelled by jets of water,” owner and flight instructor Kevin Beam said. “It can thrust you up as high as 80 feet, and it’s like nothing you’ve ever done.

It’s the closest thing you can get to flying over the water and staying safe at the same time.”

Beam said the board is powered by a Jet Ski, which pumps lake water through a long hose and out of two ports underneath the rider’s feet. The relatively new sport has taken off in Europe and Asia, and so, too, have hydroboarding competitions, complete with flips, dives and dizzying aerobatics. But for first-timers, Beam said instructors will help them get the basics down and keep their flights at

JULY 2019

a maximum height of 10 feet.

“You’re standing on that board like you’re skating or surfing, and if you bend your toes forward, you’ll go forward,” Beam said. “If you lean on your heels, you’ll go backwards. And if you point one foot up and one foot down, then you’re gonna turn, and you can even do circles.”

Individuals and groups of up to 12 can sign up for lessons, with the most popular solo package costing $99 and including 30 minutes of flight time.

Beam said his clients have ranged in age from as young as seven years old to 72 years old, but riders weighing more than 50 pounds are better equipped to handle the board’s considerable thrust.

Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling 580235-7667. Water Wings of Texoma is located at 13443 Parrot Head Lane, Suite 16, in Madill. For additional information, visit www. waterwingstexoma.com.

“It takes a little time to get the hang of it, but we have a lot of repeat customers who keep coming back and get better and better,” Beam said.

“After that first time, you’re hooked.”

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fishing report

BY BILL CAREY

LAKE TEXOMA Summer fishing season

THE SUMMER SEASON BEGINS IN JUNE ON LAKE TEXOM A . The stripers have finished spawning. They come back from up rivers and are entering the main lake. Hundreds of thousands of hungry fish begin running all over the lake. They group up in large schools, and it starts with slab fishing.

This is when we locate the group and vertically fish. We drop the slabs over the side of the boat, let it fall to the bottom and reel up fast. The fish can range from a one-pounder to double digits, and 10-pound plus stripers are common.

About mid-June the fish start surfacing. Here we employ the traditional top-water sight fishing. We cast the 6-inch top-water plugs on the feeding fish. You can see the fish busting shad from long distances.

What is happening is the schools of fish find huge bait balls. They scare the bait

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[COURTESY PHOTO/STRIPER EXPRESS]

“THE STRIPER STRIKE SO HARD THEY CAN TAKE THE ROD OUT OF YOUR HANDS.” to the water’s surface and explode on the shad. The shad can run but it cannot hide.

This action will last for a couple of hours, then they sound.

That means the fish will stay grouped up and keep feeding. We drop slabs and “rip” them up. The striper strike so hard they can take the rod out of your hands. Some schools of fish can be a quarter of a mile wide and a mile long.

Texoma has a huge population of stripers due to their historic reproduction. The summer action will last until the first of September.

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PADDLE POWER

BY AUDREY LOVE PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKE TEXOMA ADVENTURES

WHEN SEARCHING FOR A MORE UNIQUE WAY TO EXPLORE THE WATERS OF LAKE TEXOMA, don’t get caught without a paddle. Adventure-seekers and casual explorers alike can take to the water and navigate some of the lake’s nearly 90,000 acres with aquatic activities for any age and skill level through Texoma Destinations.

“I think it’s just good for people to get outside, especially if they’ve never been to Lake Texoma before. Being on a kayak or paddleboard on Lake Texoma is a completely different experience than being on a boat,” said Cortney Garvin, manager and event coordinator for Texoma Destinations.

“You get to see Lake Texoma from a different perspective. I can’t describe it, honestly. There’s no words for it.”

Kayaks and stand up paddleboards offer lake-goers a more immersive, hands-on experience, and can dual as both exercise and a relaxing way to soak up the scenery. SUPs and one- and two-person kayaks, available for rent by the hour with necessary safety equipment, are available at three of Texoma Destination’s five properties: Lighthouse Resort

ADVENTUROUS ALTERNATIVES TO E X P L O R I N G L A K E T E XO M A 22 LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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LAKE-GOERS AND ADVENTURE SEEKERS ALIKE CAN RENT PADDLEBOARDS (SUP), SAILBOATS AND KAYAKS FROM VARIOUS LOCATIONS ACROSS THE LAKE, INCLUDING ONE OF THREE PROVIDED BY LAKE TEXOMA ADVENTURES.

and Marina, Island View Park and Paradise on Lake Texoma.

“You can do kayaking and SUP lessons through Lighthouse Resort and Marina.

We actually have a captain who’s an instructor; she’ll go out there and teach you how to do it,” Garvin said.

“It takes not even 30 minutes, and it’s like riding a bike; once you’ve done it, you never forget. It’s a pretty simple process. And it doesn’t matter how old you are, either.”

Outdoorsy lake-goers can take their explorations a step further and “paddle to a place under the stars” with overnight kayak camping trips, boating activities and three-day camping trips through the company’s newest venture, Lake

Texoma Adventures.

“That company in particular is more activity-based.

It’s for the go-getters that want to go and have adventures and do crazy things on Lake Texoma they’ve never done before,” Garvin said. “We do overnight tent camping excursions that involve kayaking to the islands, for example, and pitching tents and staying out there and experiencing what it’s like to actually be out on Lake Texoma. It’s more than just cabins and RVs.” Those seeking a slower pace can climb aboard a standard sailboat or smaller Hobie sailboat for a leisurely cruise or sailing lesson, or paddle out on SUP when the sun goes down.

“My favorite thing that we

do is a sunset paddle trip.

It’s a two-hour experience where you’re on a kayak or SUP watching the sunset on Lake Texoma. I don’t think I’ll ever experience anything like that again in my life,” Garvin said. “It was absolutely breathtaking. Just being out on the water, floating, watching the sunset happen; it’s really cool.”

Garvin said in the midst of their summer busy season, their sister company Fastrac Boat Charters and Cruises set sail at least two to three times a day, five days a week with various charters, as well as provide Texoma’s only water taxi service.

“The water taxi is literally like Uber for the water, and it’s a whole lot faster than driving,” Garvin said. “One

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of the things that’s most popular for us is picking people up from (marinas) and taking them out to the islands. It’s great for people who don’t have a boat or who want to drink and not worry about driving their boat.”

No matter what watersport piques your interest, each of Texoma Destinations’ five properties are located within close proximity on the Texas side of the lake at Preston Point peninsula.

“Each property offers something different,” Garvin said. “It doesn’t matter what property you’re at; you’re always going to have something to do.”

For more information, visit www.texomadestinations.com or call 903-2001239.

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The Lake Texoma Association’s annual Bash for Cash is set to return to Tanglewood Resort and Conference Center this August for it’s twenty-eighth year.

LTA Director of Mem-

tions, music, a photo booth, and a Cajun-inspired menu, complete with boiled shrimp, sausage, chicken, potatoes, corn, cheese grits and bread pudding.

“We’re really trying to run with the theme as far as the

D OW N O N THE

bayou

BY DREW SMITH

bership and Events Brandi Burkhalter said this year’s fundraiser and dinner will be held on August 15 at 6:30 p.m. and the chosen theme is “down on the bayou.” Event offerings will include live and silent auc-

food, the decorations and the general atmosphere,” Burkhalter said. “It’s going to be a good time.”

Burkhalter said the association was happy to welcome hundreds of guests to last year’s Bash for Cash

and is striving for a similar-sized crowd this time around. Organizers were proud to bring the Miss Lake Texoma pageant back in 2018, but chose to focus efforts solely on the fundraiser this year.

“Last year we pretty much maxed out on the number of people, which was great to see,” Burkhalter said. “We had about 300 who attended and we’re trying to get that many in there again this year.”

As the association’s largest fundraising opportunity of the year, Burkhalter said Bash for Cash typically generates $20,000 or more.

“It helps us carry out our mission which is to preserve, protect and promote Lake Texoma and the surrounding region,” Burkhalter said. “When we’re not working to protect and preserve the area, we’re working very hard to promote the entire region — both

the Oklahoma and Texas sides. We do that through marketing, putting ads out there and trying to drive up tourism in the area.”

The Lake Texoma Association was established in 1954 upon incorporation into the state of Oklahoma.

The nonprofit works with a number of lake-related entities and is committed to issues involving the lake environment, wildlife, business, infrastructure, agriculture, recreation and legislation.

Individual tickets to the Bash for Cash are priced at $75 and tables can be reserved for $750. Ticket purchases include beer and wine vouchers for attendees 21 years of age and older.

Mixed drinks and cocktails are available for purchase at a separate cash bar.

For additional information about Bash for Cash, call the Lake Texoma Association at 580-564-2334.

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JULY 03

PECAN GROVE PARK - WEST, SHERMAN

4 P.M. - 10 P.M. FIREWORKS @ CHOCTAW CASINO & RESORT DURANT, OK 4TH OF JULY PARADE CEDAR MILLS MARINA & RESORT, GORDONVILLE - 11 A.M.

FEAT. SCOOTER BROWN BAND + FIREWORKS FOLLOWING THE SHOW HERITAGE PARK, DENISON 7:30 P.M.

10TH ANNUAL LIGHTS ON THE LAKE KC + THE SUNSHINE BAND, FOOD VENDORS, KIDS ALLEY

04

04

MUSIC ON MAIN

05

FIREWORKS W/ LAKE TEXOMA ASSOCIATION WEST END OF ROOSEVELT BRIDGE, MARSHALL CO. STARTS @ DUSK RICK ROACH SNEAKY TIKI, MEAD - 8 P.M. FASTRAC FIREWORK DINNER CRUISE @ ROOSEVELT BRIDGE 6:30 P.M. - 11:30 P.M. - WWW.FASTRAC.COM

Boutique/Gift Shop * A/C Rental Units * RV Sites Propane * Launch Ramp

Fuel Pier & Store ATM ** Fishing Licenses Groceries & Supplies 26 LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

JULY 2019

06

CHARLIE + HIS STEEL DRUMS SNEAKY TIKI, MEAD - 5:30 P.M.

25

HAWAIIAN HULA DANCING

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS FEAT. SOUL ASYLUM MUNICIPAL GROUNDS, SHERMAN 7 P.M.

SNEAKY TIKI, MEAD - 9:30 P.M. HIGHPORT MARINA INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS POTTSBORO - 9 P.M.

26

MUSIC ON MAIN FEAT. TY ENGLAND W/ ARBUCKLE XPRESS HERITAGE PARK, DENISON 7:30 P.M.

LIGHTHOUSE MARINA FASTRAC FIREWORK DINNER CRUISE, HIGHPORT’S EXTRAVAGANZA POTTSBORO - 7 P.M. - 11 P.M. WWW.FASTRAC.COM

11

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS FEAT. ESCAPE (JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND) MUNICIPAL GROUNDS, SHERMAN 7 P.M.

12

MUSIC ON MAIN FEAT. GHOST DANCE BAND W/ SIDESHOW DRIFTERS + RED CLAY GYPSIES HERITAGE PARK, DENISON 7:30 P.M. KARAOKE NIGHT SNEAKY TIKI, MEAD - 8:30 P.M.

16

SOUNDS OF SUMMER

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HOT SUMMER NIGHTS

GODWIN PARK, WHITESBORO 7 P.M.

FEAT. LEGACY 4 (MOTOWN) MUNICIPAL GROUNDS, SHERMAN 7 P.M.

19

MUSIC ON MAIN FEAT. CHRIS COLSTON W/ BRAD WAYNE PURDOM HERITAGE PARK, DENISON 7:30 P.M. KARAOKE NIGHT SNEAKY TIKI, MEAD - 8:30 P.M.

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LAKE TEXOMA LIFE

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