ionOK.com APRIL/MAY 2018

Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence “Unique Todd Lamb, Way” Oklahomans Support Public Education Enid native running for Oklahoma Governor Express Celebrates 35 Year Anniversary Li festyle … Culture … Entertainment

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14 Contents

COVER STORY 14 Todd Lamb: Protecting, Serving, Renewing Oklahoma! John Cox

FILM 28 Filmmakers Shine at Red Dirt Festival by Tim Farley 30 Fritz Kiersch gives tips to young filmmakers by Tim Farley 32 EDUCATION 22 Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence: A Glimpse into a Unique Way Oklahomans Support the Public Education System by Don Swift

MUSIC 32 McKnight Center Chamber Music Festival

NON-PROFIT 42 Non-profits ONE AWARDS 36 82 Make A Wish Luncheon a Success

TRAVEL 60 Artesian Arts Festival: Celebrating all forms of art 62 Travel memiors of a photographer: London 1968 by William S. McIntosh

FASHION 50 Suit Up! by Linda Miller

10 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 80

GIFTS 54 Mother’s Day: To Mom, with love by Linda Miller

BUSINESS 72 Express Professionals: 35 Years of Success by Sheena Karami

COMMUNITY 58 Keep Oklahoma Beautiful 58 54

EVENTS 80 Memorial marathon takes off April 29

ART 36 2018 Festival of the Arts 45 2018 Western Heritage Awards by M. J. Van Deventer

REVIEWS 40 The Emerging Leader by Linda Miller 68 Killers of the Flower Moon by Jane Goodspeed 60 COMMENTARY 76 Teachers’ walkout more than anyone expected by John Thompson

SPORTS 78 OKC Dodgers 2018 Schedule 84 OKC Energy 2018 Schedule PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Welcome to the world of ion Oklahoma Online Magazine — we are all about the Oklahoma Lifestyle, people, places, events and travel. 2018 will be an election year and for many Oklahomans living in our cities and towns across the state they will need to become much more knowledgeable about the critical issues and how they are negatively affecting our lives. The Oklahoma lawmakers need to hear that we expect them to come together in a bipartisan way and pass the educational reform that our state desperately needs and then balance the budget. Lawmakers need to understand teachers aren’t the only ones pleading for more state revenue even though they have been grabbing all the headlines. Many other states have been confronted with these same type budget problems and with strong leadership in their state governments found successful solutions. Oklahoma “Like” us on facebook Legislators need to step up and find those budget solutions for Oklahoma early in 2018. facebook.com/pages/IonOklahoma-Online Oklahoma is a state that offers a very affordable quality lifestyle and many opportunities for entrepreneurial young people. Adequately funding education in Oklahoma must be a priority one in 2018. Oklahoma’s economy needs to become more diversified by follow us on twitter @IonOklahoma attracting other industries. I would like to congratulate both Oklahoma City and Tulsa for being recognized nationally again in 2017 among two of the top cities in the nation for small business startups. Are you one of those who get much of their daily information over the internet and on your computer or smart phone? Ion Oklahoma Online www.ionok.com can be easily saved as one of your favorite news-entertainment websites. If you enjoy reading about many of Oklahoma’s success stories involving the progress Oklahoma and its people are making then you will want to bookmark ion Oklahoma. So many great things happening in Oklahoma don’t get much media coverage because of all the negative news being reported everyday. Let us hear from you regarding any feature stories about Oklahoma you would like for our editors to review, as we are always looking for those special stories to share with our ion subscribers.

Sincerely, Don Swift Publisher, ion Oklahoma Magazine www.ionok.com

12 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma

COVER STORY TODD LAMB: Protecting, Serving, RENEWING Oklahoma!

BY JOHN COX

When ionOklahoma last featured Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb in 2014, he was emphatic in articulating one of his passions as a public servant; to stop Oklahoma’s brain drain and to create a state full of economic, family and cultural opportunities for young professionals to call Oklahoma home for decades to come.

Today, Todd Lamb is taking that message and several others of his RENEW Oklahoma plan to every corner of Oklahoma as he seeks the 2018 Republican nomination for governor within a crowded primary field. Lamb grew up in Enid where his mother, Belva Lamb, still operates a twirling academy. His late father, Norman Lamb, was an attorney, football referee, state senator and former gubernatorial cabinet member

Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb, is one of multiple candidates overseeing the Oklahoma Department of Veteran Affairs campaigning for the Oklahoma Governor’s office in 2018. during both Republican and Democrat administrations.

14 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 On a recent stop in Shawnee Todd visits with local manufacturers.

“As a state senator and lieutenant governor, my mission has Todd Lamb is the only always been to make a positive difference, and provide proven, candidate with a proven conservative leadership at the state Capitol,” Lamb said. “When I am on the campaign trail in any of our 77 counties, I track record of recruiting speak of my record as a proven, conservative leader within a new jobs, and growing wide variety of issues, including school security, economic development and right-to-life. It is a record not assembled on existing Oklahoma rhetoric, but on issues I am truly concerned about. As a state businesses.” senator I led the override of former Governor Henry’s veto of —Todd Booze, President of Construction pro-life legislation while also authoring leading school security Ideal Homes, Norman legislation. As lieutenant governor, I created the Oklahoma

APRIL/MAY 2018 ionOklahoma 15 Todd and his late father, Norman Lamb. Left, Todd Lamb and his family.

Commission on School Security following the Sandy Hook believe that.” tragedy in 2012 which resulted in the implementation of To demonstrate his commitment to having a plan and five key policies to strengthen security in Oklahoma sticking his convictions to implement the plan, Lamb often schools and has now reconvened in the wake of the shares the story of a dangerous incident while protect- ing Parkland, Florida tragedy. My record illustrates that I have the President of the United States in a foreign land. been a proven, conservative leader my entire career, and I “I remember it like it was yesterday. It was my first look forward to transitioning my leadership ability to the foreign assignment as a U.S. Secret Service Agent.” governor’s office if Oklahoma voters provide me that Lamb continues to tell the story of the event in Guatemala. opportunity.” Air Force One was landing and the President was soon to Lamb, a former United States Secret Service Agent, has be on his way to the destination. A group of protesters been spreading his RENEW Oklahoma message across began to swell in size and vitriol. Soon they began striking Oklahoma in advance of the June 26th primary election, police cars with clubs and burning the American flag. and his Secret Service background plays an integral role in Because of intense training, and previous experience as an his goal to become Oklahoma’s 28th chief executive officer. agent, Lamb was familiar with difficult and dangerous “When I was a United States Secret Service Agent, I was situations. However, Lamb says that day in Guatemala was required to have a detailed plan and a backup plan. What I different and that he even found himself recounting the learned from this training is that a leader must always be bullets he had available. “There was intensity in the crowd prepared, and having a detailed plan is an integral that made me concerned for the President’s arrival. As component to being an effective leader. Whether it tensions rose, I stood firm, held my ground, executed the pertains to private or public business, community service, plan, enacted part of the contingency plan and remained family life or just executing your everyday personal life, the focused on the mission at hand.” more prepared you are, the more effective you are. I firmly Transitioning from his Secret Service background to his

16 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Todd Lamb understands what Oklahoma must do to progress economically. As someone who works in the agriculture industry, I know how vital it is for agriculture to remain a sustainable industry, and for it to be protected against financially detrimental public Members of Boy Scouts of America Troop 120 visit with Todd. policy. Todd has a detailed plan

five-point RENEW Oklahoma plan comes naturally to the that not only supports 46-year-old former college football player. “Oklahoma is a agriculture but focuses on great state with wonderful people, but we are also a small state with a small tax base. The challenge is how do we international trade of lift Oklahoma up to be a global economic competitor, and agriculture to ensure the how do we lift Oklahoma up to where we lead the nation in education outcomes, investing in transportation financial longevity of rural infrastructure, public safety and other public services? My Oklahoma.” RENEW Oklahoma plan is a great starting point.” — Tom Fanning – May, The RENEW Oklahoma plan consists of five platforms: 2017 OCA Cattleman of the Year

REFORM GOVERNMENT: It is clear Oklahoma’s government is broken. Our solution starts with changing our budget process, moving to zero-based budgeting and holding unelected bureaucrats responsible for how our tax dollars are spent. We must reform our Medicaid program and address the billions of dollars of waste and government giveaways. EDUCATION: The status quo is unacceptable. We must pay

Todd with Chuck and Victoria Perry of Grove at the Association of Realtors reception.

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 17 Todd with members of the Buffalo FFA chapter. our teachers more and increasing money spent in the ECONOMIC GROWTH: Oklahoma must diversify its economy classroom is key to accomplishing that goal. We have to so we are no longer at the mercy of fluctuations in the put parents back in control, improve academic world’s commodity markets. Energy and agriculture remain achievement and reduce administrative costs so we can the backbone of our economy. I am focused on economic get a minimum of 65% of every education dollar directly to development and recruitment of new types of businesses the classroom. and jobs to our state. NEIGHBORHOODS: Where we raise our families is what WORK: Work is what it will take to make Oklahoma better. really matters, and all Oklahomans deserve to feel secure Our citizens deserve a government that works, an in their homes and their neighborhoods. Whether it is a education system that works, and our students must be sprawling rural area, a small town or one of our metro prepared to work. I will work with Oklahomans from every areas, we must improve our communities. By focusing on corner of the state to be a part of tapping into our unique the most basic functions of government: safety, pioneering spirit to renew Oklahoma for the next generation. infrastructure, access to health care and educational and Todd Lamb has been an effective leader throughout his economic opportunity, we will make Oklahoma a better life, having been recognized as a leader in right-to-life state with a 77-county focus. efforts and as a champion for tort and workers’

18 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma

compensation reform. His private sector experience includes working as a petroleum landman and as an In my opinion, there is no executive in the telecommunications industry. He has one more proven to lead received numerous awards from pro-business groups, and Oklahoma as its next governor in 2012, was named recipient of the Christian Business Men’s Coalition Salt and Light Award. He and his wife of 22 than Todd Lamb. Todd has years, Monica, have two children, Griffin and Lauren, and the experience, work ethic, attend Quail Springs Baptist Church where Todd serves as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. and most importantly, the “I recite a simple message constantly on the campaign vision to be a great chief trail, and that is when I am a grandparent, Good Lord willing, I do not want to purchase an airline ticket to visit executive officer for my grandchildren. I want to visit them in Oklahoma.” Oklahoma.” Oklahoma must address its institutional challenges to — Chuck Mills, President of elevate our state to the worthy status our citizens expect. Mills Machine Company, Shawnee

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 19

Todd and campaign supporters at Clantons Cafe in Vinita.

If given the opportunity to lead Oklahoma as its next governor, I will work tirelessly to RENEW Oklahoma.” To learn more about Todd Lamb’s RENEW

Oklahoma plan, visit VoteToddLamb.com , call the Lamb campaign headquarters at

405.252.4289, or follow the campaign on Facebook and Twitter. n

COX

For many years Todd has visited all 77 counties. Here he is in Texas County.

20 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma

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EDUCATION

Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence A Glimpse into a Unique Way Oklahomans Support the Public Education System

BY DON SWIFT

he year was 1985. Former Governor of education as it applies to society, including its economic and U.S. Senator from Oklahoma, growth. David L. Boren understood the value T ACADEMIC AWARDS PROGRAM and importance for the State of Oklahoma to invest in public education. Since 1987, the Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence Senator Boren at the time wisely recruited flagship event has been the annual Academic Awards a statewide group of Oklahoma business Banquet, where the foundation presents cash awards to and community leaders to discuss ways of recognize outstanding public high school seniors as improving public education in the state. Academic All-Staters and innovative public educators as These meetings were very productive and resulted in the Medal For Excellence award winners. creation of a nonprofit organization named the “Oklahoma David Boren has described the annual selection of 100 Foundation For Excellence” whose mission would be “Academic All-Staters” as “Oklahoma’s most rigorous recognizing and encouraging academic excellence in competition” with recipients selected on the basis of Oklahoma’s public schools. www.ofe.org academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and Since 1987 the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence has acommunity involvement. awarded more than $4.6 million dollars in merit-based Five Medal For Excellence awards are presented annually scholarships and awards to the best and brightest students to an innovative elementary, secondary, regional university- and teachers in Oklahoma’s public schools through its community college and research university educator as well Academic Awards Program. as to an elementary-secondary administrator. Will Durant, the great American writer, philosopher, once The Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence is a 501c (3) said, “Education is the transmission of civilization.” Durant charitable organization supported solely by private contri- delved into the study of several civilizations throughout butions with an annual operating budget of over $1 million. history in some of his publications and noted the importance In February, the Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence

22 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 announced the Oklahoma 2018 top 100 Academic All-Staters Academic All-Staters are nominated by their principals or and top educators who will be honored at the 32nd annual superintendents. Since the inception of the Academic Awards Academic Awards Banquet on May 19th in the Embassy Banquet in 1987 over 3,200 high school seniors from 322 Suites Hotel Conference Center, Norman, Oklahoma. school districts have been named Academic All-Staters. The Each of this year’s All-Staters will receive a $1,000 Academics Awards Program is made possible through the merit-based scholarship and medallion. To be nominated generous support of businesses, foundations, and individual students must meet one of the following criteria: ACT donors, including many who serve as Academic All-State composite score of 30 or higher, a combined SAT score (in Scholars Partners. reading, writing, and math) of 1,340 or higher, or selected The selection committee is chaired by Tulsa Attorney as semi-finalist for a National Merit Scholarship. Teresa B Adwan and works independently of all other Each of the five educators selected for the Medal For foundation activities. The committee members are a Excellence award will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a diverse group of business, education, and civic leaders, as “Roots and Wings” sculpture, designed by the late Oklahoma well as past Academic Award program honorees. artist Ron Roberts and produced by Tim Brown of Edmond.

2018 Academic All-State Scholars School Student District School City Cory Rubertus Ada Ada High School Ada Kylee Massey Adair Adair High School Adair Kaden Gibson Afton Afton High School Afton Kashen Gibson Afton Afton High School Afton Ryan Oden Altus Altus High School Altus Allison Knowles Arnett Arnett High School Arnett Allison Biddinger Bartlesville Bartlesville High School Bartlesville Amanda Bolinger Beaver Beaver High School Beaver Tanner Hummingbird Berryhill Berryhill High School Tulsa Justin Koonce Bethany Bethany High School Oklahoma City Chase Wilson Bethel Bethel High School Shawnee Hanna Bowlin Bixby Bixby High School Mounds

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 23 2018 Academic All-State Scholars (continued) School Student District School City Thomas Martinez Bixby Bixby High School Bixby Jarrod Manning Blanchard Blanchard High School Blanchard Hunter Janway Broken Arrow Broken Arrow High School Broken Arrow Lauren Orr Broken Bow Broken Bow High School Broken Bow Ryne Garrison Burns Flat-Dill City Burns Flat-Dill City HS Burns Flat Leah Sander Cheyenne Cheyenne High School Cheyenne Maison Cook Chisolm Chisolm High School Enid Jonathan de Gaston Choctaw-Nicoma Park Choctaw High School Choctaw Natalie Evans Claremore Claremore High School Claremore “I do not need to tell you that many Parker Williams Clinton Clinton High School Clinton days it feels like the whole world is John Joseph Ray Coweta Coweta High School Coweta against teachers and education. It is Emilt Andrews Deer Creek Deer Creek High School Edmond May Fahrentbold Deer Creek Deer Creek High School Oklahoma City a blessing to be able to tell my Cassie Bisson Durant Durant High School Durant colleagues and to remind myself that Hanna Cook Durant Durant High School Durant Brian Carlton Edmond Edmond Santa Fe HS Edmond the Oklahoma Foundation for Kiran Edmond Edmond North HS Edmond Excellence and its donors not only Yeahwon Lee Edmond Edmond Memorial HS Edmond Emily Seiler Elgin Elgin High School Mountain View have our backs, but value what we do Jay Eischen Fairview Fairview High School Fairview and are willing to invest financially to Daniel Campbell Fletcher Fletcher High School Fletcher Colby Sutherland Foyil Foyil High School Chelsea prove it. Thank you so much for all Brett Severin Garber Garber High School Garber you do for Oklahoma teachers, not Kobe Johnson Henryetta Henryetta High School Henryetta Lanie Kinney Jenks Jenks High School Tulsa just sending us places and providing Ryan Zhu Jenks Jenks High School Tulsa amazing learning experiences, but for Tyler Abbott Jones Jones High School Jones Avery Black Lawton Eisenhower High School Lawton making us FEEL valued and Conner Hefferman Lawton MacArthur High School Lawton respected!” Gabe Wilmot Maysville Maysville High School Maysville Sydney Lowe McAlester McAlester High School LcAlester – Tulsa elementary teacher Alex Walls Miami Miami High School Miami Kathleen Kendall-Walker, Professional Jinho Ban MWC-Del City Carl Albert High School Choctaw Ethan Ho MWC-Del City Del City High School Oklahoma CIty Development Grant recipient Theodore Stephens MWC-Del City Carl Albert High School Midwest City Jordan Bays Moore Westmoore High School Oklahoma City Lauren Nguyen Moore Westmoore High School Oklahoma City Tho Trinh Moore Southmoore High School Oklahoma City Brendan Raper Morrison Morrison High School Morrison Braden Payne Mountain View-Gotebo Mountain View-Gotebo HS Mountain View Jared Gilbertson Newcastle Newcastle High School Newcastle Christopher Albert Norman Norman High School Norman Ashley Jang Norman Norman North High School Norman Ella Moxley Norman Norman North High School Norman Bailey Baustert Okarche Okarche High School Okarche Tanner Phillips Okarche Okarche High School Okarche Charlotte Bailey Oklahoma City Classen School of Adv Studies Oklahoma CIty Zachary Beebe Oklahoma City Pathways Middle College HS Norman Daisy Butzer Oklahoma City Classen School of Adv Studies Oklahoma CIty Sydney Vu Oklahoma City Classen School of Adv Studies Edmond Breck Gilespie Oklahoma Union Oklahoma Union High School Welch

24 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma School Student District School City Natalie Berryman Okmulgee Okmulgee High School Okmulgee Jamie Marrara Oologah-Talala Oologah High School Claremore Aniket Dehadrai OSSM OK School of Science & Math Norman Dominick Cammuso Owasso Owasso High School Owasso Faith Letzkus Owasso Owasso High School Owasso Jusin Derby Whiefield Pauls Valley Pauls Valley High School Paoli Melissa Green Piemont Piedmont High School Piedmont Tyson Harris Plainview Plainview High School Ardmore Areli Villabos Ponca City Ponca City High School Ponca City Kylanna Hardaway Poteau Poteau High School Poteau “The Academic Awards Banquet was Elizabeth Wennekamp Pryor Pryor High School Pryor Ashley Howard Purcell Purcell High School Purcell a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We Alyssa Noel Putnam City Putnam City North HS Oklahoma City were treated like VIPs throughout the Bali Ong Putnam City Putnam City North HS Oklahoma City Jack Thompson Sand Springs Charles Page High School Sand Springs day as we mingled with the greatest Brody Hedges Seiling Seiling High School Mutual minds in Oklahoma. Being able to Garret Johnson Skiatook Skiatook High School Skiatook meet with David Boren for an Kaylie Smith Spiro Spiro High School Spiro Simon Devlin Stillwater Stillwater High School Stillwater extended amount of time sparked a Alexa Sailee Stillwater Stillwater High School Stillwater flame of passion for teaching and William West Stuart Stuart High School Stuart Ashley Bivens Sulphur Sulpher High School Sulphur leaving the world a better place than Hanna Hill Sweetwater Sweeetwater High School Sayre we found it. The banquet itself was a Ivee Baker Talequah Talequah High School Talequah Corbin Slattery Thomas-Fay-Custer Thomas-Fay-Custer HS Thomas ceremony of honor that emphasized Eli Brock Tulsa Booker T Washington HS Tulsa the importance of greatness in the Cassandra Powell Tulsa Booker T Washington HS Tulsa Maya Rogers Tulsa Booker T Washington HS Tulsa classroom and inspired us to strive Joshua Anderson Union Union High School Tulsa for greatness in the future as well.” Ferinand Mudjialim Union Union High School Broken Arrow Josephine Uerling Union Union High School Broken Arrow – Rachel Yauk, Academic Jacob Schoeling Verdigris Verdigris High School Claremore All-State Alumna Kelsey Moore Wagoner Wagoner High School Wagoner Haley Smith Walters Walters High School Walters Jackson Li Weatherford Weatherford High School Weatherford Seth Sims Woodward Woodward High School Woodward

The 2018 Awards Banquet Keynote Speaker is Johann Neem, a historian of the America Revolution and the early American Republic. The author of such works as “Democracy’s Schools: the Rise of Public Education in America.” Neem will speak on the history and importance of public education in a Democracy. Neem received his BA from Brown University. He went on to complete his PhD at the University of Virginia. Neem is currently a Professor of History at Western Washington University and a Senior Fellow of the University of Virginia’s Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture. The Academic Awards Banquet is open to the public and friends, family members, and relatives of the honorees are welcome to join them at the Awards Banquet for the admission price of only $50. Other Foundation For Excellence programs include a Local Education Foundation Outreach Program, Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute Fellowships, Teacher Grants for Professional Development and the David and Molly Mentoring Initiative.

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 25 “The entire week at the Colonial Recognizing and Encouraging Williamsburg Teacher Institute was Academic Excellence in magical, from walking the Duke of Oklahoma’s Public Schools Gloucester Street and visiting While the Oklahoma Foundation for Jamestown where the first English Excellence is best known for its Academic settlers fought for survival, to seeing Awards Banquet honoring the state’s the Capitol where we debated our leading public school students and independence just as the colonists educators, the foundation sponsors had in 1776. Not only have I gained programs throughout the year to strengthen a wealth of knowledge, materials public education in Oklahoma. and activities that can be shared Through its Local Education with my students, but I now have Foundation Outreach Program , the the ability to see things from the perspective of colonists. This foundation provides free technical support helps to bring history to life for my students.” and training to start and support local – Beverly McCutchan, Poteau Upper Elementary School teacher and school foundations across the state and 2017 Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute participant sponsors the Fall Forum for Local Education Foundations and other training events for foundation volunteers and public school supporters. Among its other initiatives, the Foundation for Excellence coordinates a summer fellowship program to send Oklahoma fifth- and eighth- grade teachers to the Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute . Inspired by David and Molly Boren’s passion for mentoring, the foundation’s Boren Mentoring Initiative Nicholas Grant of the Spiro Education Foundation and Susie promotes the growth and establishment of Thurmond of the Cheyenne Educational Foundation share strategies quality youth mentoring programs for success for small foundations during the 2017 Fall Forum for throughout Oklahoma. Through the Local Education Foundations. initiative, the foundation works with school “The Fall Forum is always a good day with helpful information. We districts, businesses, faith groups and will continue to be back and try to bring more of our board members mentoring organizations to promote each time to experience it and get some much needed understanding mentoring as a positive step toward and insight.” academic success. – 2017 Fall Forum for The foundation also administers Local Education Foundations participant Professional Develop-ment Grants for

26 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Mentor Day 2018, Merritt Mentors present a award to student Brad Posey

Teachers to attend national conferences and institutes, and Mentoring is most often defined as a professional partners with the national Fund for Teachers and the Tulsa relationship in which an experienced person(the mentor) Community Foundation to provide grants for self-designed assists another (the mentee) in developing specific skills summer professional development oppor-tunities for and knowledge that willenhance the less-experienced teachers in locations around the world. Thanks to generous person’s professional and personal growth. bridge funding from the national Fund for Teachers, 852 The Foundation has established a directory of more than Oklahoma educators have received Fund for Teachers grants 160 mentoring organizations statewide and provides totaling more than $3 million since 2006. opportunities for networking, training, and promotion among THE DAVID AND MOLLY BOREN its mentoring partners. The program works with school MENTORING INITIATIVE districts, community leaders, businesses, faith groups, and David and Molly Boren are indeed to be commended for mentoring organizations to promote the growth of mentoring. their vision of creating a mentoring program and culture David Boren, Chairman of the Oklahoma Foundation For within the Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence. They Excellence has often said “We know that education is the understood the impact that mentoring can make on a best investment Oklahoma can make in its future” and he student’s success in and out of the classroom. has followed his vision during the past 32 years now The mission of the mentoring initiative was to promote leading this very worthwhile Foundation and investment in the growth and development of quality youth mentoring Oklahoma. n programs statewide.

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 27 FILM FILMMAKERS SHINE AT RED DIRT FESTIVAL

BY TIM FARLEY

ouisiana movie producer Tom Tinker centers on a hermit Bhramayana was a happy man farmer who discovers his late L during the awards ceremony at father’s secret journal containing the Red Dirt Film Festival in plans to a magnetic powered Stillwater. machine that could change the The first-time movie producer made five trips to the world. At the same time, the stage to accept awards for the film “Tinker,” which farmer becomes custodian of his collected the most wins of any film. gifted 6-year-old nephew after “Tinker” won for best narrative feature, best direction, the boy’s mother dies. best actor, best supporting actor and best production “I wanted something I would be design. The film’s director was Sonny Marler. proud to show my mama,” said Film festival chief operating officer and actress Erin Bhramayana, who developed the Elizabeth Cook, a 1998 graduate of Yukon High School, was story and wrote the screenplay. thrilled with the films that were nominated for awards. People who watched the film during last weekend’s “Having winners like Shia LeBeouf, Colman Domingo, festival provided rave reviews, which was exciting for Clayne Crawford, Tom Bhramayana and Sonny Marler says festival organizers. a lot about how the quality of our fest is growing,” she “We were honored to have quality films like Tinker, said. “It was also fantastic to see so many local Nothingman and Long Goodbye in addition to a lot of other filmmakers take home awards for their hard work.” greats,” Cook said. “It’s amazing to see what can be done Bhramayana said the film is attractive to everyone with a low budget. The submissions get better and better because it strikes so many human emotions. every year.” “The messages in the movie are about compassion, love Several films had direct Oklahoma connections including and caring,” he said. “We wanted it to be inspirational and “Long Goodbye,” which was directed by 2003 University of PG.” Oklahoma graduate Christopher Vernale. In addition,

28 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 Indiana State University professor Brent Simonds, formerly of Holdenville, directed the documentary feature “Sweet Dreams Do Come True,” which is a musical memoir of veteran Nashville songwriter Verlon Thompson, who was raised in Binger. Oklahoma actor and director Ben Richardson also won the best Oklahoma film with “Repercussion.” Two special awards were presented to men with Oklahoma ties. The first Shawnee Brittan Mark of Excellence Award went to Matthew Mungle who spent a career as one of the top makeup artists in Hollywood. Mungle, who was born in Durant, has been nominated four times for an Academy Award in the Best Makeup category, winning in 1992 for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Mungle also was nominated for “Albert Nobbs,” “Ghosts of Mississippi,” and “Schindler’s List.” He has also received 26 Emmy nominations, winning six times. Festival organizers presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Oklahoma City resident and longtime Hollywood director Fritz Kiersch who began his directorial debut with “Children of the Corn” in 1984. He directed several other movies including “The Hunt,” and “Surveillance.” Kiersch also developed film programs at Oklahoma City Community College and Oklahoma City University. During a presentation last Saturday, Kiersch told eager actors and filmmakers the movie business has a plethora of peaks and valleys. “I’ve made a huge income and I’ve struggled. It’s a wonderful experience. Just jump in,” he said. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 29 FILM

Surviving Hollywood Filmmaker Fritz gives tips to aspiring young directors, producers at Red Dirt Film Festival

BY TIM FARLEY News Editor

ritz Kiersch is teaching college acclaimed horror film Children of the Corn. The film was students the finer points of released in March 1984 and turned out to be a box office F surviving Hollywood as a filmmaker. smash financially speaking. The movie had a $800,000 budget and grossed $14.5 million. After spending 35 years in Tinseltown as a screenwriter, Speaking to a group of aspiring filmmakers at the Red director and producer, Kiersch decided enough was enough. Dirt festival, Kiersch said, “it’s all governed by the money.” He was going to take decades of movie knowledge and help In his next breath, Kiersch urged his listeners to “just younger people learn the filmmaking craft. jump in.” Today, he’s the head of Point Park University’s Cinema “I’ve been all over the world,” he told them. “I’ve had a Arts program. Point Park is in huge income and I’ve Pittsburgh, Pa. Kiersch developed the struggled. It’s a wonderful However, this isn’t the first experience.” time Kiersch made his impact on cinema and film departments But after years of directing, young college students. Kiersch, at Oklahoma City Community writing and producing films in who has a home in Oklahoma College and Oklahoma City Hollywood, Kiersch put that part City, developed the cinema and of his life on old and decided to film departments at Oklahoma University at the request of teach others about the movie City Community College and school officials. business. He accepted a Oklahoma City University at the challenge from Oklahoma City request of school officials. Community College to develop a moving images program. Kiersch was a featured speaker at the Red Dirt Film “The idea started small and we would roll out the Festival, which was held March 28-31 at Oklahoma State curriculum as it grew,” he recalled. University. During the awards ceremony, Kiersch was Within a couple of semesters, students were flocking to presented a Lifetime Achievement award for his filmmaking the program as it became one of the most popular at the work, which included his directorial debut for the two-year school. Five years later, the moving images

30 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 program became a degree program of its own. Kiersch later turned his attention to developing a similar program at Oklahoma City University after receiving a call from then-school President Tom McDaniel. “We started from scratch. I remember my first office was the janitor’s closet, but every year we built and built,” he said. After five years, the program was up and running at full speed. Now, OCU offers a degree in film production with a complete schedule of courses that range from introduction to film studies to production design, on-camera acting, cinematography and film editing. Although OCCC and OCU have successful film programs, colleges often leave out the financial side of the business. “Young people need skill sets in managing their careers. They need to learn about invoices because it’s all about the money,” Kiersch said. “You have college academic programs that provide the theoretical, but the practical side takes money.” Kiersch applauded the young filmmakers for their willingness to enter a tough industry that is highly competitive. “This is a global industry, so don’t be afraid to do the small projects. Eventually, the small projects you do will get you a call for a much bigger project,” he said. Fritz Kiersch, Mary Ledet-Eaton and Shawnee Britton Turning his attention to Oklahoma’s filmmaking industry, Most of the movie was shot in Oklahoma, including Kiersch urged the young writers, directors and producers to scenes at the downtown Civic Center, Centennial Rodeo use the state as a venue for their movies. Oklahoma has a Opry, OKC Farmer’s Public Market, a farm in Yukon and Del film rebate program that provides generous financial City’s Castle Row Studios. incentives to filmmakers. Who can forget the movie Twister, with its story about “Hollywood is in Oklahoma,” he said. “We have trained tornado trackers. Wakita, OK, played a big role in the movie people who are making films right here.” and the University of Oklahoma’s Owen Field was part of The most recent example is the box office smash “I Can the film. Only Imagine,” which is a Christian-themed film about the Part of the Academy Award winning film Rain Man was life of Bart Millard, who wrote the hit song with the same shot in Oklahoma. Other films made in the state include name as the movie. Millard is the lead singer of the Phenomenon, Elizabethtown, Dillinger, Splinter and All- Christian band MercyMe. American Murder. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 31 MUSIC

McKnight Center Chamber Music Festival

ore than 1,500 people attended a week of concerts M in mid-April as part of The McKnight Center Chamber Music Festival in Stillwater, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. “The crowd reaction was very good. We had numerous standing ovations,” said Heidi Kelley, spokeswoman for the McKnight Performing Arts Center. “I believe the musicians enjoyed themselves and were very happy to be part of this inaugural event.” The concerts featured a variety of world-renowned and talented chamber musicians including famed concert pianist Anne-Marie McDermott, who served as the festival’s artistic director and was responsible for recruiting each of the musicians and organizing the programming for each concert. McDermott’s career spans more than 25 years as a soloist and collaborator. With more than 50 concerts in her repertoire, McDermott has performed with many leading orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, the Zurich Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional de Mexico among many others. She also is a member of the Chamber Music Society at Lincoln Center.

Amy Schwartz Moretti

32 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 Anne-Marie McDermott

Susanna Phillips

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 33 Bruce Adolphe Christopher Costanza

The festival’s musicians included: Susanna Phillips – soprano, Metropolitan Opera Singer Alex Kerr – violin, concertmaster of Dallas Symphony Bruce Adolphe – composer, musicologist and educator, Amy Schwartz Moretti – violin, former concertmaster of member of Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Oregon Symphony, head of Strings at McDuffie School for The festival included three intimate ticketed soiree Strings performances with unique performances in Stillwater, tulsa Roberto Diaz – viola, former Principal Viola of Philadelphia and Oklahoma City; masterclasses for OSU students, a Orchestra and current President of Curtis Institute of music-education concert for area elementary students and Music in Philadelphia a free concert in Stillwater. Christopher Costanza – cello, St. Lawrence String Quartet Each of the three soiree performances included a pre- Todd Levy – clarinet, Principal Clarinet of Milwaukee concert reception and post-concert dinner. n Symphony and Santa Fe Opera Orchestra

34 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Todd Levy

Architect’s renderings of the McKnight Center at OSU

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 35 ART Festival of the Arts

36 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 returns to OKC

Features nation’s fines artists, food favorites, expanded children’s art field

The annual Festival of the Arts returns to Oklahoma City April 24-29 with more than 140 of the nation’s finest artists, an expanded children’s art field, returning food favorites, culinary demonstrations and three performing arts stages featuring over 250 performances. The 2018 Festival in Bicentennial Park marks the 52nd annual event for Arts Council Oklahoma City. Event co-chairs for this year’s festival are Molly McBride and Paul Tyler. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 37 Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free, and the festival is expected to attract more than 700,000 visitors. More than 400 artists submitted visual art for the Festival jury process and 144 were selected with media including oils, water, drawing and printmaking, photography, ceramics, glass, sculpture, fiber, jewelry, wood and two and three-dimensional works. Continuing its celebration of the culinary arts, the Festival will feature 31 vendors in International Food Rows with proceeds benefitting local nonprofit organizations. This year’s event features an expanded children’s art field where participants can complete three art projects for $3. The face painting area also will include more extensive options in addition to the traditional $1 designs. All proceeds from Festival of the Arts support Arts Council Oklahoma City’s year-round, free and low-cost

38 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Right: Joy Richardson is the Designated Artist 2018 Festival of the Arts OKC

arts programming throughout the greater Oklahoma City Inasmuch Foundation, The Oklahoman and NewsOK.com, community. OGE Energy Corporation, Ozarka Water & Coffee Service, Arts Council Oklahoma City is a non-profit 501 ©(3) Sonic - America’s Drive-in, ICG, Toucan Production, organization dedicated to bringing the arts and the Oklahoma City Thunder and Tyler Media. Arts Council community together through free or low-cost cultural Oklahoma City receives funding from the Oklahoma Arts events and a variety of arts outreach activities that impact Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and the underserved populations. Each year, Arts Council events, Kirkpatrick Family Foundation and is an Allied Arts member programs and services reach nearly one million Oklahoma agency. For more information, call 405-270-4848 or visit City residents and visitors. Arts Council Oklahoma City is www.ArtsCouncilOKC.com. n sponsored by Devon Energy Corporation, MidFirst Bank,

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 39 REVIEW

Book details lessons for emerging leaders

BY LINDA MILLER

hat does it take to be a Every lesson drives home a point. Prepare instead of successful leader? procrastinate. Outwork the competition during your window W Simple question, but the answer isn’t simply of opportunity. When the time comes to lead, be prepared hard work, knowledge or passion, though internally regardless of the conditions outside. Sustained those are good starts and attributes of most emerging success is about continued planting and building a leaders. network of supporters. David Lewis says those who want to become an emerging Lewis also relates his own personal experiences, leader in today’s economy often need a roadmap to reach including a feeling of insecurity at one point in his life. the goals they desire professionally and sometimes “Those who become emerging leaders learn to personally. use the obstacles of our past, and often those He provides that direction in his book obstacles in our present, as our fuel. It is up “The Emerging Leader: Eight Lessons for to us individually to decide if we are a victim Life in Leadership,” now in its second or if we are a victor,” he writes. edition. Lewis says it’s the help many Mastering the eight lessons cannot be need to advance their career with a accomplished in a lifetime, Lewis writes. positive reputation. However, he reminds readers to ask One of the first lessons is to turn loose themselves, “Did I do better than yesterday? of any belief that you deserve success or The answer better be ‘Yes.’ “ recognition. He calls that the entitlement Lewis is vice president of franchising for attitude. Express Employment Professionals based in Oklahoma City “You will not reach your full potential if you believe you and is well-versed in leadership topics and workplace are entitled to that success,” he writes. dynamics. That also applies to repeatedly using excuses – from lack This is a small, easy book to read and a good source for of education to race, gender or age. They’re all excuses. anyone wanting to become an emerging leader – or a better Learn to navigate through disadvantages. leader. Just 114 pages, but they’re packed with wisdom Throughout the book Lewis shares interesting and and wit. Cost is $9.99, available on Amazon. enlightening stories about how others – from coaches to presidents to Noah — have navigated and succeeded.

40 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 1RZ2SHQ,Q1RUPDQ1R1RRZ2S2SSHQ,Q,Q 11RRUPUPDDQ  WK$YHQXH1:WK$YHQXH  1: 1RUPDQ2.1RUPDQ 2.   

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deadCenter Film Oklahoma City

The Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits announced that Tulsa Area United Way has won the 2018 Tulsa Community Foundation Award for Excellence, as well as receiving a $10,000 grant. The Center held its eleventh annual Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence (ONE) Awards on April 15 in Tulsa, honoring 24 nonprofits from throughout the state for superior leadership and exceptional service to their constituents and communities.

“Every year, the ONE Awards honors the best of the best Excellence, the Tulsa Area United Way, is a deserving of the nonprofits in Oklahoma,” Marnie Taylor, President winner. It is lauded throughout the country as being one of and CEO of the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, said. “This the best, and we’re thrilled they were honored with the top year’s winner of the Tulsa Community Foundation Award for ONE Award this year.

42 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 A New Leaf Tulsa Home of Hope Vinita

The ONE Awards honors a total of 24 organizations in make this night special. Because of their generosity, we are eight categories: arts and humanities, community, able to give $142,500 out in grants to these 24 nonprofits. education, health services, open services, self-sufficiency, That will have real impact in the communities.” seniors, and youth development. Additionally, the Center Finalists in each category are as follows (category names an overall winner of the event sponsored by the winners designated by an asterisk): Tulsa Community Foundation. All 24 nonprofits receive at The Chickasaw Nation Award for Arts & Humanities: least a $5,000 prize, and category winners receive $7,500. deadCenter Film, * Norman Firehouse Arts Center, Red The overall winner receives a grand prize of $10,000. Earth “We couldn’t do this without the generous foundations, Potts Family Foundation Award for Community: Tulsa corporations, tribes, individuals and volunteers to the ONE Area United Way,* Latino Community Development Awards,” Taylor said. “They really go above and beyond to Agency, Sara’s project

Pencil Box - Tulsa Latino Community Development Agency Oklahoma City

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 43 Moran Family Foundation and Inasmuch Foundation Award for Education: General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum,* Pets Helping People, The Pencil Box The Anne & Henry Zarrow Foundation and Herman Kaiser Foundation Award for Health Services: Jim Riley Outreach*, Parkside, Tulsa County Medical Society Foundation Express Employment Professionals Award for Self-Sufficiency: The Curbside Chronicle*, Palomar: Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center, 12&12 Boeing Award for Seniors: TSHA*, Healthy Living OKC, Claremore Senior Citizen’s Center The H.A. and Mary K. Chapman Charitable Foundations Award for Youth Development: A New Leaf*, Bridges of Norman, Loveworks Leadership Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Chahta Foundation and Cherokee Nation Open Category Award: Opportunities, Inc. CAA*, Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra, Home of Hope This year’s grants bring the total awards for Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence to more than $1.65 million to nonprofit organizations in s Red Earth, Oklahoma City t Firehouse Art Center, Norman Oklahoma. Past Award of Excellence winners have included McCall’s Chapel School, Inc., United Way of Central Oklahoma, Myriad Gardens, Elder Care, Little Light House, Oklahoma FFA Foundation, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Mental Health Association in Tulsa, Oklahoma Blood Institute and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Nonprofits may use the prize money as they see fit to aid current programs or make transformational changes for their organizations. n

44 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma ARTS Western Movie Stars Highlight Western Heritage Awards

BY M.J. VAN DEVENTER

ovie stars who have graced the Western screen for several decades were among the celebrities attending M the 58th Western Heritage Awards gala during the weekend of April 13-14 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross emcee the 2018 Western Heritage Awards

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 45 Bruce Boxleitner and Wyatt McCrea present award at 2018 Western Heritage Awards.

Among those stars were Sam Elliott and his wife, promoters. Each honoree demonstrates the Code of the Katherine Ross, who served as emcees for the star-studded West philosophy of doing hard work to create a sense of evening. This celebrated duo was no stranger to the community where integrity and courage bring out the best Museum stage. Both have been honored previously with in people. We could not be more thrilled to honor these WHA awards. Actor Barry Corbin, also no stranger to the exceptional individuals.” Museum podium, was inducted into the Hall of Great A new award this year – the Western Visionary Award – Western Performers as was Lynn Anderson, (1947-2015). was presented to Philip Anschutz, a Colorado resident and All the honorees receive a handsome bronze statue of owner of The Anschutz Collection of impressive Western art. “The Wrangler,” a cowboy on horseback created by Harold He once hosted the Museum’s Prix de West Society for a H. Holden, a Kremlin, Oklahoma artist and a 2017 Hall of private showing of this collection at his museum in Denver. Great Westerners inductee. The distinguished award Forbes Magazine named Anschutz one of its “100 recognizes people from a variety of walks of life who have Greatest Living Business Minds.” The award recognizes an made significant contributions to the American West. individual who has made a significant contribution and a In her first appearance at WHA, the Museum’s new national impact in preserving and protecting Western President and CEO, Natalie Shirley, said, “This exciting Heritage and its ideals. evening represents the highest echelon for Western Inducted into the Hall of Great Westerners were Jim Odle songwriters, musicians, entertainers, artists, writers and and Walter Vail (1852-1906.) Randy Cate received the

46 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Michael Martin Murphey presents an award at 2018 Western Heritage Awards.

Chester A. Reynolds Award, named for the Museum’s Company, LLC, Wrangler, and Oklahoma City Convention original founder in 1955. and Visitors Bureau. Museum Partners include Devon and The gala black-tie evening celebrates creative works in the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, and Community literature, music, film, and television that reflect the Partners include OG&E, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District, significant stories of the Western genre. Allied Arts, Adventure Road, and American Alliance of Among sponsors for the evening were Pitchfork Cattle Museums.

Other honorees include: FILM & TELEVISION AWARDS Theatrical Motion Picture – Wind River starring Kelsey Asbille, Elizabeth Olsen, Jeremy Renner, and Julia Jones, directed and written by Taylor Sheridan, produced by Acacia Filmed Entertainment, Film 44, Savvy Media Holdings Fictional Drama – Homecoming, Godless , S1, E7, starring Jack O’Connell and Michelle Dockery, directed and written by Scott Frank, produced by Netflix Documentary – Floating Horses: The Life of Casey Tibbs , directed and written by Justin Koehler, produced by Nowlin Town Productions

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 47 John Wayne's granddaughter, Anita Swift, and Rex Linn present 2018 Western Heritage Awards.

Western Lifestyle Program – Today’s Wild West , S.1 E6, directed and written by Mark Bedor, produced by Today’s Wild West Docudrama – Home on the Range , starring Buck Taylor, directed by Ken Spurgeon, produced by Lone Chimney Films Television Feature Film – Unspoken: America’s Native American Boarding Schools , directed and written by John Howe, produced by KUED/PBS

LITERARY AWARDS Magazine Article – “All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageant” Montana: The Magazine of Western History by Gregory Nickerson, published by Montana: The Magazine of Western History Poetry Book – Wooden Lions by Karla Morton, published by Texas Review Press Western Nove l – Stranded: A Story of Frontier Survival by Matthew P. Mayo, published by Five Star Publishing

48 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Michelle Dockery in Godless

Nonfiction Book – Lakota Performers in Europe: Their Culture and the Artifacts They Left Behind by Steve Friesen , published by University Press of Oklahoma Press Art/Photography Book – Once Upon a Time…The Western: A New Frontier in Art and Film , Editors: Thomas Brent Smith and Mary-Dailey Desmarais, published by 5 Continents Editions with Denver Art Museum and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Juvenile Book – Lotta Crabtree: Gold Rush Fairy Star by Lois V. Harris, published by Pelican Publishing Co.

MUSIC AWARDS Original Western Composition – “A Nickel A Head,” recording artists K.R. Wood and Michael Martin Murphey, composed by K.R. Wood. Traditional Western Album – “Take Me Back to Texas,” recording artist Maye Kaye, produced by Don’t Fence Me In Records n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 49 FASHION SUIT UP!

BY LINDA MILLER

SUMMER IS FAST APPROACHING. It’s only natural that our thoughts turn to swimwear. Beach vacations. Weekends at the lake. Backyard pool parties.

Who better to share what’s in store than Megan Barnes, owner of L.A. Sun & Sport, Oklahoma City’s only year-round swimwear destination. “It’s that time of year again where sunshine, swimsuits and sun-kissed skin are on the brain,” Barnes said. With so many trends in swimwear, it may be difficult to choose just one, she said.

All suits from L.A. Sun & Sport

Top: Beach Bunny sequin bikini, top $146, bottom, $132.

Middle: Beach Bunny stripe knot bikini, top $130, bottom, $95.

Bottom: Beach Bunny lace gun powder bikini, top and bottom, $130 each.

50 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 Left: Burgundy one-piece with high-neck and side cut-outs, $178.

Below: Aqua Clara green and blue print one-piece with plunging neckline, $175.

Left: Coral crochet off-the-shoulder bikini by Luli Fama, top $102, bottom $90, all suits from L.A. Sun & Sport.

Below: Rainbow colored cover-up by Luli Fama, $163.

“One-piece swimsuits are huge this year. Everything from the sky-high sides to plunging necklines and everything in between. One pieces are starting to be seen as sexy and even the women who usually gravitate towards a bikini have been jumping on this trend.” Those who prefer a bikini won’t be disappointed though. “The bikini is still selling like crazy and has trends such as off-the- shoulder tops, fitted tube tops with arm bands, high necks with cut outs, knotted front tops and lots of ruffles,” Barnes said. “The ‘70s inspiration is still trending and is showing up this season with grommets, lace-ups and an earth tone color palette as well as other colors.” So, show more skin or less. Go for feminine or sporty. Embrace details such as lacing, belts or mesh. It’s time to dive in. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 51

GIFTS

BY LINDA MILLER

Mother’s Day rolls around every year, but finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy. Should it be flowers or fragrance? Maybe a gift card to her favorite shoe or clothing store?

It doesn’t have to be the most creative gift, but it’s always important to keep someone’s likes in mind. Most of all, let her know she’s special. To help, here are a few suggestions.

Statement earrings are a big trend. Anna and Ava blue floral earrings , $30 at Dillard’s.

Scalloped bone frame by Opalhouse, Target’s new collection. 4x6 size, $14.99. Add a family photo for a special touch.

54 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 Does she love the smell of flowers? Miu Miu’s new L’eau Rosée fragrance is created from lily of the valley and cassis buds. 1.7-ounce eau de toilette spray, $81 at Sephora.

Can’t afford to give her a beach getaway? Consider a Bath & Body Works candle with scents reminiscent of the islands. $24.50.

A little arm candy is always a good idea. Rustic Cuff , based in Tulsa, offers dozens of colors and styles. Stores are in Spring Creek in Edmond, Classen Curve in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

Wrap up a new agate iPhone 8 or 8 Plus case and she’ll think of you every time she gets a call. $30 by Casery at Jonque Mode, Paseo Arts District. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 55 COMMUNITY Keep Oklahoma Beautiful

Photos Provided

n estimated 60,000 Oklahomans “Groups have begun their events and we are so proud to will join millions nationwide from be able to supply them,” Nance said. A now until the end of May in the The largest one-day cleanup during the Great American 2018 Great American Cleanup Cleanup in Oklahoma is the Oklahoma Department of thanks to the efforts of Keep Oklahoma Transportation’s “Trash-Off,” which was scheduled for Beautiful (KOB). April 21. “We are so proud to continue to be a state that has had The Great American Cleanup in Oklahoma is sponsored by 100 percent county participation for eight consecutive the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, ODOT, Oklahoma years, hoping to achieve nine this year,” said Jeanette Department of Environmental Quality, Oklahoma Beverage Nance, executive director of Keep Oklahoma Beautiful. Association, Oklahoma Environmental Management Authority, Individuals and groups wishing to participate in the Great OGE Energy Corporation, P&K Equipment, Warren CAT, Waste American Cleanup in Oklahoma must register through Keep Connections, Waste Management and American Waste Oklahoma Beautiful. Registered groups can receive free Control, Inc. cleanup supplies, program materials and grant opportunities. KOB is a statewide nonprofit with a mission to empower Free supplies include trash bags, gloves, vests, water, t- Oklahoma citizens to preserve and enhance the state’s shirts and promotional banners. The first shipment of natural beauty and ensure a healthy, sustainable supplies for more than 267 events have already been environment. disseminated throughout the state. “During this season (spring), we have multiple things

Redland United Methodist Church 2018 Redland United Methodist Church

56 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 happening at the time, which is why spring is so exciting for the KOB offices,” Nance said. Recently, Nance joined ODOT Director Mike Patterson to present an End Litter check to Mooreland High School. The students were challenged to make a 30- 45 second video highlighting the cost of littering in Oklahoma. In addition, the video showed ways to combat littering and the effects of illegal dumping.

Large tree planting

Recycling

Friends of KOB

UP with Trees

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 57 Twin Cities Revitalization Oklahoma Turnpike Authority

The students collaborated and were awarded an equal portion of the $750 check. The students who participated are Jane Curry, Hunter Vaughan, Logan Maher, Kimber McNaught, Madison Syms and Kereeya Thavanapong. “While all of this is going on, we have a unique regional workshop happening April 26 at the Wilshire Gun Range,” Nance said. The workshop is focused on any law enforcement officers, providing them with four hours of CLEET certified training in connection with littering and illegal dumping. KOB is able to host the workshop in Mooreland High School '18 collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. “Keep Oklahoma Beautiful is as busy as ever and we hope to see new faces continue to utilize our resources and participate in our programs,” Nance said. “Don’t forget to register for the Great American Cleanup and our regional workshop. We’re always excited to share with our fellow citizens ways to enhance our state’s natural beauty by preserving our environments. n

SWOSU End Ltter Winner.

58 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma SEEKING OKLAHOMA’S PROMINENT FUTURE LEADERS SEND US YOUR NOMINATIONS

ion Oklahoma Online aims at finding the next generation of leaders in the state of Oklahoma with the Eighth Annual “Next Gen” awards gala.

Next Gen Under 30 will recognize innovative, creative-thinking and inspiring young individuals who push the boundaries beyond their years in 15 different career categories – arts, entertainment, business, media, sports, technology and more. To nominate a candidate, go to ion Oklahoma Online’s website: www.ionok.com/nextgenunder30 or visit www.nextgenunder30.com

Any nominee 30 years old or younger in 2018 qualifies. Nomination deadline is Wednesday, August 1st, 2018. Winners will be announced September 7th on www.nextgenunder30.com nextgen Monday, Oct 1 10:30 -12 will be the AWARDS CEREMONY Day at the Capitol with Lt Governor Todd Lamb. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2018 EMBASSY SUITES HOTEL NORMAN

ion Oklahoma Online | 220 West Wilshire Blvd, #F2 | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73116 | 405.607.0930 TRAVEL

CELEBRATING ALL FORMS OF ART

The Artesian Arts Festival is expected to attract thousands of people on May 26 in Sulphur.

rt, music, dance and food will be showcased during the fifth annual Artesian Arts Festival A set for May 26 in downtown Sulphur. The Chickasaw Nation hosts the community event which celebrates all forms of art, with an emphasis on Native American art and artists. One-of-a- kind works from more than 90 artists will be on display including paintings, baskets, jewelry, sculpture, metalworking, bead work, textile and pottery. A senior citizens’ arts and craft booth also is planned. But there’s more than art to experience. The family friendly event will offer children’s activities, a variety of musical entertainment, tribal dance

60 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 The Pueblo Enchantment Dancers will perform at the 2018 Artesian Arts Festival.

Right, an artist concentrates on her bead work.

demonstrations and artist talks. And what’s a festival without food? Bring your appetite. Food vendors will be dishing up their favorite flavors. The festival, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., is open to the public at no charge. Last year’s event welcomed more than 8,000 people. Since it’s inaugural year in 2014, the festival has continued to expand to become one of the fastest-growing Native American art markets in the U.S. The Artesian Arts Festival is centered on the Artesian Plaza, adjacent to the Artesian Hotel and Spa at 1001 W First Street. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 61 TRAVEL

TRAVEL MEMOIRS OF A PHTOGRAPHER: LONDON 1968 BY WILLIAM S. MCINTOSH, VIRGINIA BEACH, VA

turned 40 years old in 1968 and had been particular interest in photographing the London people. A a practicing photographer for 20 years. favorite location they thought I would like was Portobello My success in photography enabled me to build the Road. A few areas they thought necessary included I largest portrait business in Virginia. Life seemed Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, the Tower Bridge, productive. My family grew with 4 daughters at 11, 9, 7, and 3 Parliament, Piccadilly Circus and some interesting years old. Lucie said that the house we built in 1960 had museums and historical restaurants and Pubs. become no longer adequate for the family. A 5-bedroom house I began by walking around Trafalgar Square, the largest came on the market in our neighborhood and we bought it. square in London, considered the Heart of the city. On one I had plans for Lucie and me to go to London sometime side of The Square stands the National Gallery, founded after Christmas, 1968, as a vacation for me to recuperate 1824, considered by art critics to be the finest museum for from a long season of work. This changed when we decided paintings in the world, across the street on the North East to move into the new home between Christmas and new corner is St Martin in the Fields Church, one of the most years. A bargain round trip offered to fly to London for 2 weeks important churches in England. Constructed 1722, the at the Tavistock Hotel in Central London with breakfast earliest church built on that location 1222, rebuilt by Henry included for $300. Lucie preferred I go on this trip and she VIII 1542, kept plague victims from the area passing throug h would take care of the move without me getting in the way. his Palace of Whitehall. At this time it was covered in the Because this trip offered my first attempt to make a fields between London and Westminster hence the name, St. multimedia slide show, I decided to make it about London. Martin in the Fields. Upon arrival, I visited the Tourist Bureau to get advice on Starting at Trafalgar Square, I photographed people with the most interesting places to photograph. I mentioned a pigeons on their heads and shoulders and children climbing

62 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 on the huge Lion statures. Four little girls posed for me, I told them I was making pictures for Hollywood. Two Bobbies Policeman posed for me (I returned 10 years later and the Bobbies would not let me photograph them).

PICTURES I MADE AT TRAFALGAR SQUARE While exploring Trafalgar Square I encountered an amiable London native. He was a tt racted to the way I talked to the children to let me photograph them, and we began a conversation. He introduced himself as Tom. It took me a moment or so to get used to his cockney accent (an accent traditionally spoken by working class Londoners), he spoke like Liza Doolittle in the movie “MY FAIR LADY,” I asked if I could photograph him, I told him I was photographing London and it’s people for use in a series of lectures in America on London. It was obvious he was an older guy and not in the working population, he was pleased to talk to me and volunteered to show me around the square. After spending some time taking some more photos throughout Trafalgar Square, I mentioned I would like to take him to lunch. He said I would show you a great place. After a pleasant walk we arrived at The Sherlock Holmes Pub, (in addition to a bar and restaurant, upstairs there was a recreation of Holmes & Watson’s study with a collection of objects and photographs related to the characters from his novels). We had a good lunch with a pint of British Ale. It was time for me to move on so we parted amiably and I took a subway ride to Portobello road.

NEWS YEAR’S EVE IN TRAFALGAR SQUARE In talking to my new friends in the Tavistock Drawing room over coffee and dessert and discussing my London photography project, they mentioned I should not miss this photography experience. Trafalgar Square on New Years Eve, the biggest celebration of the year. I arrived at what I thought a reasonable time for the big mid- night event. Over 250,000 people flocked to the Square. Whiskey and beer bottles rolled around ankle deep. The Bobbies faces are covered with lipstick and the women are kissing those would stand still, the temperature is freezing and there are half a

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 63 New Year’s Eve Trafalgar Square dozen ambulances near the fountain with the water turned PORTOBELLO ROAD on. Young men are climbing the fountain and forming a Arriving at Portobello Road, astonished me the variety of Ring Around the Rosie chain on each layer. I climbed a tree funky stores and London characters with unique to get a better angle of the group. A Bobbie hit the tree with individuality. I know of only one place I have visited that his baton and yells for me to come down. However, he had to would come close to comparing, Greenwich Village, New deal with so many kisses he wandered off and I stayed in York City. Greenwich Village today thrives conventionaly by the tree. Loud speakers were playing music and close to 1968 standards. midnight began a count down. One reveler in a bikini stood Before I photograph someone I ask their permission, this at the top of the fountain and mooned all four sides of the gets us into a conversation. Most know I am an American by group at the stroke of 12. The festivities were over and the my accent, and a few want to know why I am photographing fountain participants came down and went to the them. I tell them I am writing an article about England for ambulances to get out of the New Year’s cold. my city, Norfolk, Va., Norfolk England will be covered in my trip. The young people did not care (continued on pg 65)

64 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Some of the unique individuals along Portobello Road in 1968.

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 65 66 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma (continued from pg 63) they just smiled and moved on; for the most part I found them to be a happy group having a good time one could see this in the big smiles of the young girl with England and the British flag on her T shirt and the couple with the very blond hair. I thought they would mainly speak cockney. I was surprised that they spoke normal everyday good English, except the one with orange hair; he spoke like an actor in a Noel Coward play. I had a good chat with the lady holding a kitten in her fur coat. She mentioned she had a sister that married an American soldier during War II that lived in Richmond, VA. At the end of Portobello Road I came upon this billboard of the very muscular woman comparing her body with a big automobile, I included it in my photo series because I thought it was uproariously funny. n

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 67 REVIEW

The Richest People on Earth, Murdered and Swindled

BY JANE GOODSPEED

“For greed all nature is too little.” —Seneca

n oil gusher is a filthy business, and capping a blowout is dangerous and often fatal. But A that hazard pales in comparison to the actions of bad guys attracted to the Osage Reservation oil fields, eager to steal as much of the oil wealth as they can from what in the early twentieth century were the richest people on earth. Deceit and murder followed in one of the saddest chapters of Oklahoma history. In the late nineteenth century, the Osage Reservation was 1.47 million acres of land over a pool of oil that through the 1920’s would produce more wealth than all the gold rushes combined. The Act of 1906 created the Osage Mineral Estate for the benefit of the Osage Nation, controlling all gas, oil, and other minerals on and under the Reservation. Each member of the Nation at that time was granted a “headright,” a share in the distribution of profits from mineral sales. A headright represented an unimaginable fortune. In 1923 alone, the Osage Nation earned $30 million in royalties—in today’s dollars, that’s $407 million, or about $203,000 (in today’s dollars) for each headright. Per year. In his book Killers of the Flower Moon (Doubleday, $28.95, 336p, ISBN Anna Brown, a wealthy Osage Indian of Gray 978035534246), David Grann recounts “the Osage Murders and the Birth of Horse, Okla., whose death in 1921 led to one of the FBI.” Picked by Amazon editors as the best book of 2017, the book the first and most complicated investigations describes acts of exploitation and greed in the early 1920’s as white men in the FBI’s history. (Photo courtesy of the FBI)

68 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 married Osage women—and then In an interview with NPR, author murdered them to inherit their David Grann discussed Barney headrights. Twenty-four murders McBride, the man tapped by the later, this became the focus of J. Osage with going to Washington, Edgar Hoover’s first murder D.C., to get help. investigation by his young “Barney McBride was an oilman organization, the Federal Bureau of in the area, a white man. The Investigation. Today, the FBI regards Osage - he was a friend of the the Osage Murders as one of its Osage. The Osage trusted him. And most complicated cases. so they asked him to go to It began in May of 1921, when a Washington, D.C., to try to plead for group of hunters discovered the help. And Barney McBride went. He badly decomposed body of Anna showed up in Washington, D.C., Brown, an Osage woman, in a and he brought with him a Bible remote ravine in Osage County. At and a pistol. That night, when he first, police chalked up her death to arrived at his boarding house, he alcohol poisoning. Later an received a telegram, and it said be undertaker found a bullet wound in careful. Then, that evening, he Rita Smith, the Osage wife of W. E. Smith, the back of her head. The same day photographed here with the couple’s walked out of the boarding house. the body of Charles Whitehorn, also servant, Nellie Brookshire. On March 10, He was abducted. Somebody put a 1923, a bomb explosion beneath the Osage, turned up nearby. Two months bag over his head. The next Smiths’ home killed Rita and Nellie later, Brown’s mother, Lizzie Kyle, died instantly. Four days later, W. E. Smith died morning, he was found in a culvert unexpectedly, her death blamed on in the hospital. (Photo courtesy of the FBI) in Maryland. His head had been bad whiskey. beaten in. He had been stabbed, I Then in February 1923, Brown’s cousin Henry Roan was think, at least 20 times. His body had been stripped naked. shot to death. The following month, Brown’s sister, Rita It was clearly a warning. And The Washington Post later Smith, and her husband were killed when their house reported what had become increasingly evident, which was exploded. One by one, Osage people in the area died from that there was a conspiracy to kill rich Indians.” violence or suspicious causes. As grief for the victims Grann describes the worsening situation: “There was one subsided, panic set in. champion steer-roper Osage who got a call one night. He While it became increasingly clear that the deaths were went out of his house. He came back and suddenly homicides, local police seemed unable, or unwilling, to collapsed, frothing, his whole body shaking. Somebody had solve the crimes. Officers routinely overlooked unusual slipped him what was believed to be strychnine, which is details when an Osage passed away. By the spring of 1923, just a horrible poison. It makes your whole body convulse the Osage community had developed such intense distrust as if with electricity. You slowly can’t breathe, but you’re of local authorities that the Tribal Council decided to turn conscious throughout until finally you mercifully suffocate. to the FBI for help. So this was just one of the many means of targeting the

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 69 Left: William King Hale (Archives, Oklahoman)

Right: J. Edgar Hoover, in the 1920’s

Osage in these very systematic and brutal ways.” obligation to him by means of gifts and favors shown to Anna Brown and her family were particularly vulnerable, them. Consequently he had a tremendous following in the especially to “squaw men,” men who would marry wealthy vicinity composed not only of the riffraff element which had Osage women either to be kept by their money or to inherit drifted in, but of many good and substantial citizens.” their headrights. Anna, her mother and her sisters were W. K. Hale was one of the men arrested for the events immensely wealthy, with seven headrights: Anna’s mother, surrounding the deaths of 24 Osage between 1921 and Lizzie Q. Kyle, with four headrights; and Anna and her two 1923. Few in the county would agree to testify against him. sisters, Mollie and Rita, with one headright each. “The Indians and several white people in Fairfax and By the end of the decade, a widespread conspiracy led by vicinity are very much afraid that some deed of violence is one man left Mollie as the sole survivor. And she, it was going to befall them, probably by the hands of the Hale determined, was in the process of being poisoned when faction, and have placed in the rear and front of their federal agents stepped in. homes electric lights, which they burn all night. Quite a In the early days of oil discoveries on the Osage Nation number of these people want to sell their homes and leave Reservation, a man named William King Hale found his way the Osage country,” Special Agent F.S. Smith said in a into the county from Texas. He reportedly was uneducated report to the bureau. but was able to amass a fortune, mostly from insurance The well-researched Killers of the Flower Moon describes fraud and his unscrupulous dealings with the Osages. in gripping detail the murders, the investigation, and “Eventually he became a millionaire, who dominated trials. As a result of the events of the early 20’s, a law was local politics and seemingly could not be punished for any passed in 1925 that prohibited non-Osages from inheriting of the many crimes which were laid at his door,” Thomas B. the headrights of tribal members possessing more than White, special agent in charge, wrote in a 1932 memo to one-half Osage blood. n FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. “His method of building up power and prestige was to put various individuals under

70 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma Oklahoma City Community College 2017-2018 Performing Arts Series Presents

Tuesday, May 1 • 7:30 PM

ABBA MANIA the tribute, the highly polished and professional production created in 1999, takes you back in time by recreating one of the world’s finest pop groups in a live stage performance. Fantastic costumes, exciting choreoraphy and lots of glitter make performances of “S.O.S.,” “Super Trooper” and “Dancing Queen” as thrilling and fresh as the day they debuted. Tickets: $49, Youth 17 and under, $24.50 tickets.occc.edu • Box Office 877-288-5996 • www.occc.edu/pas

ONE YR BUSINESS

35 Years of Success

BY SHEENA KARAMI

n 1983, the economy was in the throes of a recession with a peak unemployment rate of 10.8 percent, I Professionals and established the headquarters in devastating established businesses and seemingly dooming new ones. But 35 Oklahoma City. years later, Express Employment Profes- “Bob, Jim and I began with the shared vision to help sionals not only survived those difficult people find good jobs by helping clients find good people,” circumstances, but grew into a $3.4 Express CEO Bill Stoller said. “Our shared values set the billion staffing company with more than foundation of Express; based on integrity, supported by 800 offices in three countries. people, teamwork, and a philosophy of building a company Thirty-five years ago, founders William H. Stoller, Robert that will endure. And upon that footing, the story of Express A. Funk and James Gray were left with a tough decision began.” after the dissolution of their employer, Acme Personnel. The In 1986, the partners acquired the franchise rights to 30 three banded together to form Express Employment Acme offices across the United States, officially entering

72 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 the franchise business. Within five years, Express was As Express has expanded through the years, the staffing ranked among the top staffing firms in the United States giant has received numerous awards, including being and was recognized as one of the fastest growing privately named the number one staffing franchise for seven held companies in the country. By 1990, Stoller and Funk consecutive years on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 List purchased Gray’s shares of the company. and the designation of one of Forbes’ Best Franchises to In 2017, sales reached a record $3.4 billion through 800 Buy Under $150,000. franchise locations and the company put more than Staffing Industry Analysts also deemed Express one of 540,000 people to work. the fastest growing major staffing companies and job “Our company’s vision is to pair quality job seekers with seekers rated the company as one of the best to work with, reputable companies, and the sales numbers will follow,” as evidenced by the receipt of Inavero’s Best of Staffing Stoller said. “When an Express franchise owner opens a Talent Award. location, an average of 600 people are employed annually “There’s a reason we have been named the number one through that office. We know that families count on jobs to staffing franchise by Entrepreneur on its put food on the table, so we don’t take our mission lightly.” Franchise 500 List for seven years in a row. Business Award-Winning Service continues to boom for Express and shows no signs

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 73 of slowing down anytime soon,” Stoller said. “When Philanthropy business is soaring, you’ve got to take care of your people. Express Employment Professionals has employed more There’s nothing more important than the employees of a than 6 million people since its inception and is committed company, and we want to invest and give something back to giving back to local communities. Recognizing that the to them for their dedication and hard work.” children of today are the workforce of tomorrow, Express focuses on children as the beneficiary of its corporate In December, Express International Headquarters was contributions. named one of The Oklahoman’s Top Workplaces, In 1991, Express became affiliated with Children’s Miracle highlighting what attracts associates, clients and Network Hospitals, which provides medical resources, franchisees to the company—its culture. Since 2016, research and community outreach to help millions of the company has introduced several new benefits for children and teenagers in more than 170 hospitals in North headquarters employees, such as up to $5,000 per America. To date, Express has contributed more than $4.8 dependent for dependent care, 100 percent health million to the nonprofit. In 2017 alone, Express donated insurance coverage for employees and 75 percent coverage more than $1.14 million to charitable organizations through for dependents, lower health insurance premiums, and free its philanthropic committee. full body scans for qualified employees. Through the Brand It Blue Initiative, Express franchise Express Franchise Development owners also support charities benefitting food pantries, Closing in on 900 territories worldwide, the company animal shelters, youth organizations, and more. In recent recently announced the launch of its emerging brands years, franchise offices partnered with local food banks to equity investment and development company, Express help end chronic hunger. Between 2013 – 2017, Express Franchise Development. staff, associates, clients, friends and family provided nearly Express Franchise Development will allow Express 600,000 meals through food drives, monetary collections Employment Professionals to invest equity into emerging and volunteer hours served. franchise brands while leveraging the staffing company’s Looking Ahead world-class franchise development team and competencies As businesses constantly adapt to keep up with as a 35-year proven franchisor. As its first venture, Express innovative technology and workforce demands, Express Franchise Development has entered into an agreement with looks forward to offering streamlined solutions to a myriad boutique fitness studio franchise The Barre Code. of hiring needs for the next 35 years and beyond. “We have an incredible team of experts within our “Moving forward we will continue on our mission of organization, so it makes sense to leverage our know-how, putting a million people to work, annually,” Stoller said. “We relationships and growth capital to elevate emerging will continue our collaborative, people-centered approach franchise brands,” Stoller said. Additional investments in and will continue to operate with integrity.” n other emerging franchise brands are expected to be tcompleted in 2018.

74 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma The Bestselling Book by Kent Frates Oklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases Six cases that remain the talk of the courtroom

Oklahoma has had more than its share of sensational legal battles with national ramifications, but for the first time in one volume, attorney/historian Kent Frates reveals the facts behind six cases that helped shape the history of the state—and the nation.

From bloody murders, to political scandal, to the horrific act of domestic terrorism known as the Oklahoma City Bombing, OKLAHOMA’S MOST NOTORIOUS CASES captures the stories, the times, and the import of these landmark trials. Only $24 Read the book that inspired the serial Includes 16 pages podcast We Will Always Remember of historic photos! available at (RealMysteries.us | weekly Feb. 12 to April 23) Full Circle Bookstore, OKC Best of Books, Edmond Order now by visiting The Bookseller, Ardmore The Book Place, Broken Arrow www.OkMostNotoriousCases.com or calling toll free 877.536.7634 and Barnes & Noble COMMENTERY Walkout is more than anyone expected Great Recession, test-driven accountability system on steroids created education dilemma

BY JOHN THOMPSON

never expected more than a one-day teacher walkout. Neither did the I teachers unions anticipate the work stoppage which has drawn national and international attention to Oklahoma schools and politics. I bet most rank-in-file teachers didn’t realize at first how exhausted and angry they are. Teachers tend to ignore politics as much as possible, block out the insults that are repeatedly thrown at the profession and focus on their students. I didn’t fully recognize the depth of teachers’ feelings until the fifth day of the walkout. Reading between the lines of press coverage, and listening to people inside the Capitol, I assumed that a deal would probably be struck on that Friday. As luck would have it, however, I kept running into former colleagues, who had always been extremely a- political, and saw their fervor. Regardless of what their leaders sought in terms of reaching an agreement, it dawned on me that teachers need more time for letting out their righteous anger. Two types of lessons should be drawn from the walkout; one will displease Republicans and the other will upset Democrats. During the Oklahoma teacher strike of 1990, throughout central Oklahoma City. I became a teacher after the state’s economy had cratered, savings and loan banking the Hoova’ set of the Crips took over my neighborhood and I systems across the state had collapsed, and a downturn in befriended the children growing up in the crack houses. the real estate market left foreclosed, abandoned houses Back then, it looked like our community was cratering due

76 ion Oklahoma APRIL/MAY 2018 to factors beyond our control. unions. Bill Gates and other billionaires assumed that the Today’s education crisis was produced by unforced errors. imposition of corporate governance would make schools It was basically caused by tax cutting. Had the state operate more effectively. operated the way that Oklahoma City does, and raised Oklahoma’s grant wasn’t funded, but like 40 other enough revenue to pay for basic services, Oklahoma would states, it committed to millions of dollars of additional not be in this mess that undermines its ability to compete costs for standardized testing, computer systems for in the global marketplace. But, teachers’ and students’ keeping track of test score increases, and for using an ordeals have also been made much worse by risky unreliable and invalid statistical model for firing teachers. competition-driven, accountability-driven reforms. Reformers didn’t bother to inventory the capacity that The walkout was a grassroots uprising by frustrated would be required to implement such a half-baked agenda. educators. From fiscal year 2010 to 2017, the average, They simply imposed huge workloads on teachers and inflation adjusted Oklahoma teacher salary plummeted by administrators trying to comply with dubious mandates. $8,150. As the state’s teacher salaries declined to 49th in The experiment failed, and the law was repealed, but the the nation, the average salary dropped to a level ($45,245) money and energy squandered in the reckless experiment that is virtually identical to the average pay of 1990, before are gone forever. the strike which led to House Bill1017. Almost certainly, the There is a theme that applies to both the Republican tax- extreme drop in salaries was due in large part to policies cutting and the Democrat’s rushed experiment. Everyone imposed by state leaders who didn’t even known that the has been to school, and many people thus feel free to make reformer’s self-proclaimed plan was to replace Baby snap judgments about the way education should be run. Boomer teachers with 23-year-olds. Teaching has a long history of being treated as a “semi- And that brings us to the second problem, the teacher profession.” Politicians and philanthropists feel free to bashing which took off with the bipartisan No Child Left impose their hunches on teachers in ways that they would Behind Act of 2001. The message was that failing schools never do to doctors, engineers, or other respected were the result of the “benign racism of low expectations.” professions. The teacher-blaming was put on steroids in 2010 as There is a long history of non-educators mandating one Democratic and Republican party funders pushed the “bad untested “silver bullet” after another on schools. This time, teacher” narrative. Get rid of burned-out veteran teachers, educators received a double shotgun blast of risky policies it was thought, and “disruptive innovation” will produce during the Great Recession. State budgets were cut 28 “transformative” improvement. Oklahoma joined almost all percent as teachers were subjected to a test-driven of the rest of the nation in passing legislation that allowed accountability system on steroids. Hopefully, adequate it to compete for federal Race to the Top funds. funding will be restored and, this time, policy makers will Even though I am a Democrat who will always remain listen to practitioners and deliberate more carefully before loyal to President Obama, his administration contributed adopting new policies. n greatly to this mess. Democrats joined with sincere, but uninformed, edu-philanthropists to impose a market-driven John Thompson is a former teacher who spent 19 years in system of school improvement. Democrats wanted to sound the Oklahoma City Public School system. He is an author and tough by challenging their constituencies – teachers and former historian with a doctorate from Rutgers University.

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OKLAHO MA CITY DODG ERS| CH IC KASAW BRIC KTOWN BAL LPAR K 2 S . MICK EY MAN TLE DR| .O K LAHO MA CITY, OK 7310|4 4 05. 21 8.1000 EVENTS IN HIGH GEAR MEMORIAL MARATHON TAKES OFF APRIL 29

Photos provided by the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

housands of runners will compete in the 18th annual Oklahoma City Memorial T Marathon Sunday, April 29 in front of the National Memorial and Museum. There will be a race for everyone – marathon, half-marathon, relay, 5K and kids race. These races are about more than running. It’s a celebration of life while honoring and remembering the 168 people killed in the Oklahoma City bombing April 19, 1995. Runners from all 50 states and 11 foreign countries have already registered. Runners may still register until the day before the race. The Memorial Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying USATF sanctioned race. OKC-4-5 Arya Bahreini, 2017 Marathon Winner (2:29:15 2017 time) Catherine Lisle, 2017 Women’s Marathon Winner – Cat Lisle is the only 4 time Memorial Marathon winner (2017 time 2:56:10)

From its inaugural race in 2001 with just shy of 5,000 bottles that hold less than one liter will be allowed. participants, the event now hosts more than 24,000 “We know some runners prefer to use hydration vests, but runners and walkers from every state and several foreign we join other major marathons across the country in countries. enhancing our security around the course,” Race Director The Health and Fitness Expo at the Cox Convention Kari Watkins said. “After attending the National Marathon Center is the best place to start the race weekend. The Expo Safety and Security Summit and working with local police begins Friday, April 27 and continue through Saturday, departments and Homeland Security we made these April 28. People can head to the “Why We Run” section of changes to ensure we provide the safest course possible to the Expo and select a running bib to run “In Honor Of” one all of our runners.” of the 168 who were killed 23 years ago. The Marathon is not only the largest race in Oklahoma, The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is the but is the largest fundraiser for the Oklahoma City National sole beneficiary of the Memorial Marathon. Memorial & Museum. The Memorial does not receive annual There will be some changes to the race this year. Runners operating funds from any local, state or federal and spectators will not be allowed to use back packs, government, but rely solely on the support of generous hydration vestgs, CamelBaks, ruck packs, air tanks or any donors to help us maintain and preserve the Memorial and other over-the-shoulder bags on the marathon course. Museum year-round. n Running belts, hand-held water bottles, or clip-on water

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 81 NON-PROFIT

A Bag Full of Wishes

The 11th annual Make A Wish Foundation luncheon raised more than $115,000 to grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. The event was held at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club March 6 to a sold-out audience. The event started with an auction as guests bid on a stunning Staff members (L to R) Row 1: Laurel Maulin, Erin Nantois, Kelli Warmath, Betty Kay Karim, collection of designer handbags, jewelry, accessories and gift Katie Massad, Juanita Torres, Kiyana Dan baskets donated by a variety of specialty and fashion retailers from Row 2: Jane Rohweder, Beverly Mullen, Lindsey Percival, Robyn Dumas across the state. Row 3: Brad Barghols, President & CEO

82 APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma ishes ull of W A Bag F

The registration table is busy before the luncheon. During the luncheon, seven fabulous live auction items were presented to more than 400 people as several different inspirational wish stories were told. The mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma is to grant the wish of every eligible child and help chance a child’s life. Many families and healthcare providers believe the wish experience is the turning point in a wish child’s battle against the illness. Granting wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions gives them more than an amazing experience. A wish come true has the power to make children feel stronger, more courageous and more determined to overcome their illnesses. n

LUNCHEON COMMITTEE MEMBERS Carly McDavis (Event Chair) Donna Lisle Shannon Barghols Stacy Lopez Addison Buck Lindsey McElvaney Lenice Cattley Jennicer Mickelson Kim Denny Shannon Presti Kindsay Dincan Kerri Smith Lori Garcie Kristen Smith

APRIL/MAY 2018 ion Oklahoma 83

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