OKLAHOMA FARM & RANCH

MayOKFR 2020 | www.okfronline.com | Volume 5 Issue 5

Keeping You Advised Meteorologist Gary England FREE

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OKLAH OMA FARM & RANCH OKFR letter from the editor publishing contribution

PUBLISHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JM Winter Andy Anderson Everett Brazil III Throughout my EDITOR Ddee Haynes younger years, I re- Savannah Magoteaux Jim Johnson [email protected] Summer McMillen member feeling some Garrett Metcalf, DVM production trepidation at the start Lacey Newlin T of Oklahoma’s tumul- Bryan Painter ART DIRECTOR tuous spring weather. Kayla Jean Woolf Janice Russell [email protected] Beth Watkins Many times I’d watch Barry Whitworth as the sky darkened advertising executives to the west, forming COPY EDITORS a rigid wall cloud. I’d Rosemary Stephens Judy Wade [email protected] Krista Lucas race to the house to tell my mother, who, as Oklahomans would do for decades, said, “Let’s Kathy Miller distribution [email protected] see what Gary has to say.” MANAGER Of course she was talking about Gary England, who could be Sherrie Nelson Kayla Jean Woolf [email protected] [email protected] argued as being, at one point, the most well known Oklahoman. When severe weather struck, you knew he would have taken over the DISTRIBUTORS station, warning, advising, and helping his viewers get through what administration Pamala Black Brenda Bingham Pat Blackburn might be the scariest time in their lives. I hope you enjoy learning [email protected] Dylan Edwards more about his backstory in “Keeping You Advised.” Tina Geurin Speaking of storms, what a wild ride these several weeks have been. I’ve put off writing this letter until the 11th hour, because CONTACT US our world changes daily. As we watch our livelihood transforms Oklahoma Farm & Ranch magazine by the minute, there aren’t adequate words to describe what we’re 200 Walnut St., Bowie, TX 76230 feeling. 940-872-2076, www.okfronline.com Currently on repeat on my speaker is Casting Crowns and Praise You in this Storm. The first verse and chorus goes: in association with I was sure by now, God you would have reached down, and wiped our tears away, stepped in and saved the day. But once again, I say amen, That it’s still raining. As the thunder rolls, I barely hear your whisper through the rain, “I’m with you.” And as your mercy falls, I raise my hands and praise The God who gives and takes away. OKFR and Post Oak Media are not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability And I’ll praise you in this storm, And I will lift my hands, That you for advertising content. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from are who you are No matter where I am. And every tear I’ve cried, the publisher is prohibited. The views expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine or its employees. You hold in your hand. You never left my side, And though my heart is torn, I will praise you in this storm. Wow! If you haven’t listened to it before, you might put it on ON THE COVER for a listen. In this time, many people who have turned to their faith, myself OKLAH OMA Gary England is a household FARM & RANCH included. My favorite verse has always been John 16:33. “I have told name in Oklahoma. He grew you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you

up in the northwestern town MayOKFR 2020 | www.okfronline.com | Volume 5 Issue 5 will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” of Seiling before joining the Readers, we don’t know what will happen in the coming days. I United States Navy. He hope that soon we’re going to dinner, seeing our friends, taking trips, continued his education at and enjoying life out of isolation. the University of Oklahoma, I don’t know how far away those days are, but I have faith in the eventually becoming a One who has overcome the world. television meteorologist for Keeping You Advised more than four decades. Meteorologist Gary England (Photo courtesy of News 9/ Griffin Communications.) Savannah Magoteaux

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CONTENTS

pg. 20 Gary England

pg. 34 The Cowboy turkey call...

pg. 14 Equine Cushings Syndrome pg. 29 Fried Morel Mushrooms 8 10 16 30 32 Blue Green Noble Get to Know Where the Paved Leading the Algae Learning Gary Leiter Road Ends Way Barry Whitworth, Consistency is key Learn more about Columnist Beth Two Oklahomans DVM, discusses how in trace mineral Oklahoma singer/ Watkins says greener are named to First deadly blue green supplementation for songwriter Gary pastures are coming; Next Generation algae can be. grazing cattle. Leiter. we just have to wait. Leadership Class.

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MAY 2020 | 7 DO NOT DELETE!!!

Blue Green Algae By Barry Whitworth, DVM / Area Food/Animal Quality and Health Specialist for Eastern Oklahoma This year an Oklahoma cattle producer in Payne County found seven dead cows and one dead deer in close proximity to a pond. The owner suspected something was wrong Twith the water. An analysis of the water was performed. “The analysis revealed that it was positive for blue-green algae and was above the lethal threshold,” according to Oklahoma State University Payne County Ag Educator Nathan Anderson. This year there have been reports of similar unexplained deaths by ponds. This would not be much of a surprise if these had occurred in late summer, but this incident took place in early spring. This should be a warning to live- stock producers to inspect ponds for blue-green algae accumulation when conditions are right no matter what time of the year it is. Blue-green algae is not really an algae but a bacterium, which is referred to as cyanobac- terium. The most common species found in the Midwest are Microcystis, Oscillatoria and Anabaena (Morgan, 2011). The bacterium is found in most bodies of water. However, they become a problem during times of rapid growth fueled by high nitrogen and phosphorus content and warm sunny weather. The overgrowth of the bacte- rium leads to the death of the organism, which then floats to the top and forms a “scum” on top of the water. These “scum” layers can be moved about the pond by wind movement. Pictured is Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in LeFlore County in March 2020. The producer lost Sometimes this causes certain areas in the pond seven cows overnight. (Courtesy photo) to be concentrated with the toxic levels of the signs of blue-green algae toxicity will depend to blue-green algae along with clinical signs or dead bacterium. Rain or wind disturbance can on the type of toxin ingested. The two types sudden death. If a producer suspects blue-green break up the “scum” and reduce the chance of of toxins associated with blue-green algae are algae is the cause of death in his/her cattle, he/ toxicity, but this is not always the case. a neurotoxin (affect the nervous system) or a she should immediately collect a pint of water All livestock, pets, wild animals, and hu- hepatotoxin (affect the liver). where large amounts of the algae exist. The mans are susceptible to blue-green algae tox- If seen early, cattle affected by the neuro- reason for quickly obtaining a sample is the icity. The amount of water consumed needed toxin will show muscle tremors, reluctance to toxin could be dispersed by the wind. Then to cause toxicity depends on the species of move, and breathing problems. This will lead the producer should contact a veterinarian to animal, concentration of the toxins in the water to convulsions and death. If cattle consume conduct a necropsy. A necropsy will rule out and how much water is ingested. Ingestion of water with liver toxin bacteria, they will have other causes of death. A veterinarian will most one quart of highly concentrated water is lethal weakness, pale mucous membranes, gastroen- likely take tissue samples for more testing and to cattle (Meehan & Mostrum, 2015). teritis, nervous signs, and death. rumen contents may be taken to examine for Most producers do not recognize a problem Animals that survive will lose weight and presence of blue-green algae. The water sample with blue-green algae until they find dead become poor doers. These survivors may also will need to be submitted for analysis. More livestock in the pond or in close proximity develop photosensitization. Animals with information for guidance about necropsy or to a body of water. Most cattle that ingest photosensitization are prone to sunburns on water sampling may be found at the Oklahoma contaminated water will die, but occasionally light colored skin areas. Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at (405) producers may find sick cattle. The clinical Typically, diagnosis is based upon exposure 744-6623 or https://cvhs.okstate.edu/oaddl.

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Since there is no known anti- ers should take action to reduce the dote, treatment is usually unre- problem. An excellent fact sheet warding. For this reason, produc- is available from Oklahoma State ers need to focus on conditions University Extension Service on that favor the development of blue-green algae and how to best blue-green algae. Algae will manage the problem. The fact bloom with sunshine and warm sheet can be found at https://exten- weather. Excessive blooms are sion.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/toxic- associated with ponds located in blue-green-algal-blooms.html. If areas that catch runoff water high a producer has questions about in nutrients. Producers should be blue-green algae, they should inspecting ponds anytime these contact their local veterinarian HABs may look like green dots, clumps or globs on the water surface. conditions are present. They or an Oklahoma State University should be prepared to provide County Extension Educator. alternative water sources in times References of crisis. Morgan SE. Water Quality for Blue-green algae toxicity is Cattle. Veterinary Clinics of North not a new problem for Oklahoma America Food Animal Practice. livestock producers but having 2011;27(2):285 problems with cyanobacterium Meehan MA, Mostrum M. early in the spring is new. When Cyanobacteria Poisoning (Blue- weather conditions are right for al- green Algae). Fact Sheet at https:// gae build up, producers need to be www.ag.ndsu.edu/publications/ constantly observing their ponds livestock/cyanobacteria-poison- for any signs of the blue “scum” ing-blue-green-algae/v1136-cy- HABs may look like blue, green, or white spilled paint on the water anobacteria.pdf. on the water, and if found, produc- surface. (Courtesy photos)

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Noble Learning: Consistency Is Key in Trace Mineral Supplementation for Grazing Cattle By Caitlin Hebbert, Livestock Consultant

Trace mineral supplementa- tion is easily one of the most confusing, misunderstood and controversial practices across the Tbeef industry. We know minerals are not only important but neces- sary for daily function and optimal performance. This is generally accepted and understood through both research and anecdote. The benefits of minerals are particularly apparent in situations where diets are intentionally for- mulated for confinement, such as in feedlots and dairies. In those cases where we are feeding cattle every bite they get, consumption of nutrients is known, not just The benefits of minerals are particularly apparent in situations where diets are intentionally formulated for confinement, such as in feedlots and dairies. (Courtesy photo) estimated. What is more difficult is to or cursed your cattle for not know- throughout the year. Maybe you don’t get back around discern mineral consumption or ing what’s good for them, or all These changes in consumption to putting out more mineral for deficiencies in grazing cattle. Diet of the above. However, in most are normal and are representative four or five days, or longer. When selection in the pasture is largely cases, this feeding behavior can be of the mineral concentration in you do replenish mineral supply, anyone’s guess, especially in a attributed to delivery management the diet and of changing animal the cattle that missed out last time diverse system; so is the consump- of the supplement rather than to a requirements. When mineral is not are going to be aggressive and will tion of free-choice supplements poor formula. consistently available, consump- hoard the tub to try and get mineral like minerals. You may have heard it is im- tion becomes unpredictable and while they can before it’s all gone Are Your Cows Mauling the portant to just keep mineral avail- extreme. These dramatic swings again, knowing that it will be some Mineral Tub? able - whether cattle are really are not beneficial to the animal time before they get any more. I often hear that some pro- consuming it at the time or not. or your wallet and can be better Psychological Vs Nutritional- ducers don’t consistently keep While cattle should be consuming understood with simple psychol- Feedback Behavior mineral available because when mineral on some level year-round, ogy. At this point, your cattle are they do, their cattle almost inhale there are certain times of year Let’s say you either haven’t taking mineral in by the mouthful it. Consumption is more than five when they “fall off,” or consume had a mineral program in the past due to competition and despera- times what it should be, and it’s far less than normal. These times or you just got a new set of cattle. tion rather than simply to meet not worth the cost. If your cattle often coincide with the start of You put them out on mineral; they requirements. This behavior will are mauling the mineral tub, you fortified winter feeding and with maul the tub and slick it. In this continue if there is never a con- might have blamed poor mineral naturally occurring fluctuations case, it’s not likely that everybody sistent and reliable supply. It’s a formulation, bemoaned the price in mineral availability of forages got to get in a lick or two or 12. psychological behavior rather than

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a nutritional-feedback behavior. fication in most cases. Cattle in the feedyard act the same If you do limit mineral with way if there are dramatic swings salt, do it to reduce this initial in the volume of delivered feed, hoarding behavior, then reduce the resulting in bunk aggression and salt content over time while being increased competition. They are sure to keep mineral available. simply anticipating limited avail- Within a relatively short period of ability and getting the nutrition time, you should be able to have while they can. In these cases, mineral always available without Noble Learning: efficiency of nutrients wanes, salt addition and have normal nutritional status declines and consumption. frustration grows. It is valuable to you as a pro- When in Doubt ducer to have cattle with proper Keep the Mineral Out mineral nutrition. It is also good Contrary to popular belief, if to know when they are under- you can keep mineral out con- or over-consuming, but you’ll sistently through this period of never know if you don’t get them competitive panic, your cattle will regulated with consistent delivery learn mineral is always available management. and not a resource that will be Don’t let your mineral tubs get depleted. There is the option of slick. Check them consistently and cutting your mineral with salt to often, and fill them when they are help limit intake, which I only low. If you’d like more help regu- recommend doing for a limited lating consumption or understand- period of time. These minerals ing the benefits of trace mineral have been formulated specifically supplementation, contact a beef and shouldn’t need further modi- cattle nutritionist or consultant.

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Cancelled

By Ddee Haynes What started as a trickle of rain has sud- denly turned into a full-blown, hat blowing, take cover, buy all the toilet paper you can, and stay inside storm. All sports, professional, col- legiate,W high school, junior high, and even pee- wee are cancelled. Colleges, universities, high schools, trade schools, junior high schools, and elementary schools are all closed until further notice. Any business not considered essential has been ordered to close. What hasn’t been cancelled nor closed is agriculture. Farmers and ranchers are still doing what they do to feed the world while much of the population is hidden away. Crops still need to be planted, cows still need milked twice a day, livestock still need cared for and fed, and the list goes on and on. The daily life of our agriculture producers has not changed. Only through the diligence of these producers can the world still eat, be it a normal day or a crisis day. In addition to our agriculture producers, let’s remember our truck drivers, factory work- ers, the doctors, nurses, firemen and women, law enforcement officers, veterinarians, and all the people behind the scenes who continue to do what they do each and every day to keep our big world spinning regardless of what is happening. Let’s all take a breath, step back, put on our common sense hats, and think about this. First and foremost, I know the Coronavirus is a very serious issue, and everyone should take the necessary precautions. However, hoarding all the toilet paper and shutting yourself and your family completely away from the world is just a bit much. In my opinion, anyway, for The Campbell brothers, John and Josh, taking care of feeding the bottle calves. (Photo courtesy what it is worth. of the Campbell family) There is always a positive to every negative, let’s look for the positives. As United States if you are the one who needs help and receives no matter the situation, if you can just step back citizens we are still free to worship, live where it, say “thank you.” and clear your minds. Think about the situation we choose and be whom we choose. Pick up Don’t get me wrong and think I am totally for a moment in a rational state of mind. the phone and call your grandparents, discon- enjoying the Hollywood stars who are now The Coronavirus has completely upset all nect from technology and enjoy your family. making appearances on television commer- our lives. Freedom, something we all take for Play a game, go for a walk, read a book, paint cials, being so upbeat and positive telling us granted, is suddenly not so free. We can no your daughter’s bedroom, and get back to the to consider our time at home a “staycation.” longer call our friends and go out to dinner, basics. Finances are by far the hardest obstacles Seriously, those people have mansions, pools, meet our clients to discuss business or buzz by some people will face during this crisis. If you people at their beckon and call and plenty of and see your grandparents. Everyone is feeling know of someone struggling, remember what toilet paper. the strain, the age-old saying “it ain’t pretty, you learned in kindergarten, “share, be nice How about those stars lose the tutors and people” is putting it lightly. and to say thank you.” Help others who are less try to help their children with today’s math and Now that we have discussed the negatives, fortunate, don’t ask for anything in return and science. It is a good thing I do not have grade

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(Photo by Ddee Haynes) school children right now because we can and will get through this my version of home schooling current crisis. Our ancestors faced would consist of recess, lunch and far worse adversity than most of more recess. us will ever imagine. It is only For almost my entire adulthood through their strength, never give I have traveled for my job. I have up attitudes and God’s will they had to stop all travel, cancel all survived, and we are all here appointments and find creative today. ways to work. I am starting to Let’s find the positive in this feel like I did as a teenager when crisis, laugh a little more, hug (vir- I was grounded almost every other tual or real) a little longer and find week. a positive for every negative. All puns aside now, together Until next time….

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Equine Cushing’s Syndrome: A Hairy Situation By Garrett Metcalf, DVM Does your horse appear to not shed its winter hair coat like it used too? Is your horse having trouble keeping good muscle mass, getting a potbelly or having trouble with its feet?D These can all be signs of Equine Cush- ing’s Syndrome.

Disease Overview Equine Cushing’s Syndrome is also known as PPID or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunc- tion. Veterinarians will often use the terms interchangeably, but the terms are referring to the same disease process. PPID is one of the most common endocrine diseases of horses. The pituitary gland is a very important part of the endocrine system and hormonal control of the horse. The hor- mones released from the pituitary gland have a major role in multiple organ functions and homeostasis of the horse. The pituitary gland resides at the base of the brain near the front of the skull. Where things can go wrong with the pi- tuitary gland is at the location of a specific area of the gland called the Pars Intermedia. A miscommunication of this area leads to an over-production of key important hormones leading to the clinical signs of PPID. One par- ticular hormone elevated by PPID is cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to immune system suppression over time and subsequent chronic infections. Chart: Courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim website. Diagnosis are listed below in the early and advanced Treatment Testing for PPID is necessary to confirm state: Unfortunately, PPID is not a curable the diagnosis based on a blood test. There are Other diagnostic tools used for the diagnosis disease, but it is manageable with good hus- seasonal effects on the pituitary gland so tim- of PPID are complete blood count, urinalysis bandry practices tailored for cases of PPID ing of the year is important to get an accurate and blood chemistry. These tests can further and medical treatment. The medical treatment diagnosis from the blood test; otherwise false substantiate the need for further PPID blood is the key to the management and control of positives or false negatives can occur. The testing. Radiographs displaying laminitis are PPID. The most common drug prescribed for blood test looks at glucose blood levels, insulin also important to the management and well the treatment of PPID is Prascend. The key levels and a hormone called adrenocorticotro- being of horses affected by PPID. Often the ingredient in Prascend is pergolide, which pic hormone. Testing can be performed during most detrimental effect of PPID is chronic binds to dopamine receptors to restore normal non-fall months, mid-November to mid-July, lameness from laminitis in untreated or un- dopaminergic inhibition of over produced with the use of a TRH stimulation test to controlled cases. hormones in cases of PPID. achieve accurate diagnosis. Clinical signs of PPID generally affects horses over the age Prascend is a daily oral medication that the disease are often used to detect the disease of 15, but it has been diagnosed in horses as comes in the form of tablets. Prascend’s main and to see if blood testing is warranted. young as seven years of age. side effect is appetite suppression leading to The other common clinical signs of PPID inappetence. Other treatments have been used

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with less success compared to toring rectal temperature) pergolide, but are sometimes nec- - Regular dental care annually essary in cases not well controlled - Restriction of sugars such as or responding poorly to pergolide. those found in lush pastures and This drug is called cyproheptadine, sweet feeds which is an antihistamine used for The outcome and prognosis for other conditions in the horse but a horse suspected of or diagnosed used alone is not very effective for with PPID is generally good. The the treatment of PPID. sooner the diagnosis is made, and Because the disease is progres- the earlier the complications are sive in nature, the amount of drug recognized or prevented from needed to control clinical signs manifesting, the better the out- will likely need to be adjusted. It come will be. Again, in my experi- is recommended to repeat testing ence with cases of PPID, the most and monitor these important bio- detrimental complication and most markers for the best management A excessively hairy coat, poor muscle mass, and pot bellies are all signs common reason to have the horse of the disease as possible. Other that a horse might be suffering from Cushings Syndrome. (Courtesy humanely euthanized is from important husbandry practices, photo) laminitis. Don’t be discouraged if like in any horse, include good clipped to maintain normal body (to avoid excessively wet stalls) you suspect your horse has PPID, nutrition, frequent dental care, temperatures. - Body clipping throughout the or Cushing’s, but please be aware deworming, frequent farrier care, Further husbandry practices year as needed it will take a dedicated owner, and general medical care. Horses needed for horses with PPID - Frequent bathing/cold water veterinarian and often farrier to with hypertrichosis or exces- listed below are provided from the hosing for the excess sweating, properly manage cases of PPID. sively long non-shedding hair American College of Veterinary especially in hot weather Always remember to talk to your coats in the hot spring and sum- Internal Medicine website: - Consistent monitoring for veterinarian about your horse if mer months will need to be body - Frequent bedding changing signs of infection (including moni- you suspect it has PPID.

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Singer/Songwriter Gary Leiter By Savannah Magoteaux

Gary Leiter describes himself as “just a redneck from small town Oklahoma,” but it’s clear that he’s much more than that. He owns and operates a landscaping company, is the Gformer host of Hunt, Sleep, Fish on KSBI, and he’s also a talented musician. He was a member of the regionally popular rock band Slowvein for more than two decades, he’s written songs for America’s Got Talent contestant and fel- low Oklahoman Blake Henderson, and now he’s working on his next musical endeavor – a new band called Gary Leiter and the Satellite Bulls. Leiter, of Bridge Creek, Okla., grew up in a musical family. “I remember growing up, my dad was an old timey country singer. I had a lot of uncles, and them and my dad would sit around with guitars, and I think that was when I learned to play. I never got to sit and play with them, and if I could go back and do that, I would,” he shared. “Then I got into a band when I was in high school, but that was probably to meet girls,” he said with a laugh. It must have worked, because he met his wife Cynthia while playing. At first, Leiter and his bands played cover songs, but it was during his time with Slowvein that the song writing bug caught. “We got to open for a lot of national acts, and that’s when I got started writing. Slowvein put out three albums, and I wrote all of them. We had a lot of Leiter, an accomplished musician and songwriter, was a member of the popular band Slowvein fans and a lot of sold out shows, and we put out for more than two decades. (Photo courtesy of Gary Leiter) some really good music. It was a great band, and we had a great singer,” he shared. Slowvein and I try to show them the ropes and help.” to be a songwriter, and while he made a lot of was made up of Leiter, Danny Berry on the He added, “But from there, it’s just about how headway, he knew he’d have more control if guitar, Mark Ramsey on the drums, Tommy hard they want to work at it and if they get he just sang the songs himself. “I’m wanting Martinez on bass and Elizabeth Turner, as the some breaks.” to get where we had 10 or 15 songs recorded, lead vocalist. There’s another bit of wisdom he shares and then start playing some live shows. Right The band played at major venues, including with the people he mentors; enjoy the moment. now, I’m just focusing on recording one song headlining the local stage at KATT Fest. “We “Performing is one of the coolest things on at a time. I’m pulling some songs out of the had a lot of fun doing it, and I miss it, but I earth, especially when you’re playing a big drawer that I was trying to shop in Nashville. I was the one that walked away from it. I got show. It was tough on me, when I was with didn’t want them to die in there,” he said. tired playing every weekend, and it was getting Slowvein and we were opening for Tesla and “I have enough songs written now, but all tough,” he admitted. bands like that, and at the end we were playing the momentum came to a halt with this virus. It was after stepping away from the band little bars again. If I ever get back there, and What’s going on now is more important than that Leiter began to work with Blake Hender- this is what I tell the kids I’ve been working music, so I haven’t really thought about it in son, who sang on Season 5 of America’s Got with, is to take it for what it was at that moment, a while. I was trying to pump them out each Talent. “They came to me about trying to help and appreciate how cool it is,” he said. month so people could play them before we him in the music business. I’m not a mogul Having stepped away from Slowvein, Leiter started doing shows. It always helps when you by any means, but I know how to get from A is now working on his next band, Gary Leiter put stuff out on Spotify or iTunes, because to F. I’ve helped some kids who come along, and the Satellite Bulls. He’d gone to Nashville when people come to shows they’re already a

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fan,” he said. “I’m a grandfather, but I still get While Leiter loves his work as ID’d for beer,” he laughed. “My a musician, he knew he’d need a grandchildren are the coolest job to get him through the rougher things on earth. They’re much, times. That’s how his business, much more awesome than any- Whitetail Landscaping LLC, thing to do with music. That’s the began. It started out as a lawn biggest reason I’m ready for this mowing service, evolving over the virus to be gone. Phone calls aren’t years. “I started doing sprinkler the same as being with them.” systems and then landscaping and It’s the love of family that design, and then the next thing makes Leiter want to change you know we’re building pergolas things in the future. “That’s one of and fireplaces. I tell my customers the tradeoffs when you’re touring it was all out of survival. When and stuff – the time away from someone would ask me to build a your family. If we start playing fireplace, I’d say, ‘Yeah, I can do shows again in the future, I’m that,’ and then I’d have to go figure going to manage that, too, be- it out. I’ve learned a lot over the cause family is most important,” years. Now I can do everything Along with being a musician, Leiter also owns Whitetail Landscaping he said. from the ground up. We do a lot LLC, which stays busy with a variety of outdoor projects, including If you want some great, new, backyard make overs. (Photo courtesy of Gary Leiter) of backyard makeovers and can do and different music to listen to, a lot of neat stuff, and that’s how wanted to see what I could do with I’ve got a family to provide for, check out Leiter’s latest songs I eat,” he said. music if that was my job,” he said. and they came first.” on Spotify and iTunes. You can While his business is success- “If you add up all the time I’ve Speaking of family, Gary and learn more about Gary Leiter and ful, Leiter has always wondered if actually sat down with a guitar, it Cynthia have three grown chil- the Satellite Bulls at www.Satel- it could be different. “I’ve always wouldn’t be that much, because dren, as well as two grandchildren. liteBulls.net.

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By Summer McMillen

“Perhaps this is the moment for which you have been created,” Esther 4:14. This bible verse, paraphrased as it is, has always plagued my mind. What is my purpose “in life? If I said I didn’t have this thought at least once a week, then I would be lying. My husband, being the king of bluntness, asked me before we were even dating what it was exactly I liked to do. I couldn’t come up with an answer and immediately felt like the most boring person on the planet. Over the next few days, weeks and even years I pondered this question. I liked my job, of course. I liked to paint and take pictures. I liked cooking as much as a single working- woman on a budget could at that point, and I liked going home to be with my family so that we could ride pens and sort cattle. Was I boring? Did I not have big enough goals? These are questions I struggled with over the next few years until I convinced this blunt man to become my boyfriend and even- tually my husband, which led me to find my purpose. I was born and bred to be a partner. At first, that might sound like I sentenced myself to days of hard labor and burdensome toil. It might sound like I don’t have the ambi- tion to go out and tackle some lifelong goal that could possibly make the world a better place. It might sound like I just got married so I could Ready to give shots while my husband drags calves. (Photo courtesy of Summer McMillen) have somebody support me. On the contrary, grab cattle vaccines? I’m there. You need me myself with no errands to be done. More often being bred to be a partner is exactly what God to ride shotgun with you to a rodeo six hours than not, I am happy to serve my family. Joy, has called me to do. away? I’m definitely there with my pom poms satisfaction and peace are what I feel at the Some women shine as the leading lady in in tow. end of the day when the family is home at my their lives. They have career plans, family I could look at this as taking a backseat or dinner table eating steaks and sharing tales of plans and goals. Those women go on to change that I don’t have any goals of my own so I hide the day’s mundane adventures. This is my lot the world in some way. Then there are women in the shadows of someone else’s. Instead, I in life, and I couldn’t be more ecstatic to ac- much like myself who help people along their genuinely realize my goal in life is to be the complish it one day at a time. way. I’m always there. You need me to cook best wife, mother, cowgirl, and ultimately I am also due to give birth to a little cowboy a branding breakfast and lunch tomorrow? I’m Christian I can be. I get the chance to work at this month. Amidst the changes in our world there. You need me to help you move cows this every single day. right now, it’s a little bit of a scary time. Con- to another pasture? I’m there, usually with Some days I struggle. Some days I just tinue to pray for our country and its leaders. baby in tow. You need me to run to town and want to saddle my horse and take a ride by God bless everyone!

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Keeping Y Meteorologist Gary Eng

20 | MAY 2020 OKFR eeping You Advised Meteorologist Gary England

Long before the OKC Thunder rumbled into Oklahoma, the most well-known personality on television was Gary England. Whether or not you were born and raised in the Sooner state, it’s likely you’ve heard of the famed weatherman. His skill and accuracy at predicting severe weather seemed at times omnipotent; more like a shaman than someone simply reading and reporting data. Gary was, and still is, a household name in Oklahoma. Even if a person was more apt to turn to a different channel than KWTV News 9, the station he worked at for 41 years as the chief meteorologist, for entertainment, when it came to bad weather everyone wanted to hear what Gary had to say. The tagline “Stay with Channel 9 – We’ll keep you advised,” was as familiar to Oklahomans as the BC Clark jingle. He became known for an offbeat sense of humor and a personality that’s genuinely country, peppering his weather reports with exclamations of “gosh,” “good gracious,” and “great God almighty!” While people may be familiar with his on-air persona, they likely do not know how his upbringing paved the way for his passion for weather, what a jokester he was as a young man or how long he struggled unsuccessfully to find employment. They also might not realize the depth of responsibility he felt for his fellow Oklahomans when severe weather struck, or the grief he feels remembering the bad days. “Everyone saw me on the television for all these years. They think I’m just some scientific guy; that I don’t have a past. They don’t realize I’m a normal person,” he shared. Continued on page 22

Photo courtesy of Gary England)

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Keeping You Advised Meteorologist Gary England

Continued from page 21 Growing Up Born in October 1939, Gary grew up in the northwestern Oklahoma town of Seiling. He was raised in a time when a television set was a luxury, so once each week he and his family went to his grandmother’s house. There, with rapt attention, he’d watch legendary weather- man Harry Volkman. “He was someone I really liked, and before all the fancy stuff. He had a 15 to 20 minute program on Sundays, and I remember I would get right up to the TV, on my knees, to watch. One time when Harry came on, I pointed at him and said, ‘Daddy, I want to be one of those!’ My dad asked, ‘So what is he?’ I said, ‘I don’t know, but I want to be one,’” England recalled. Winter weather was particularly exciting for the young man. “When Harry would forecast snow, I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night. I’d watch the yard light by the window. We didn’t Left: Gary served in the United States Navy. RIght: Gary and Mary England on their wedding have too much money, and my breath would day. (Photos courtesy of Gary England) freeze on the window on the inside, but I didn’t only the kids and his grandmother at home. Woodward people, and they had so many sto- care. I was waiting for snow,” he said. “I’ll never forget it. The sirens go off, and we ries that, to a young boy, were so interesting. The town of Seiling only had one siren, and ran down to the cellar. All we had was a little That influenced me a lot,” he said. advance warning only came from deputies and candle, and we piled in there, and there was a Also impacting Gary was a documentary other spotters. “During severe weather season, damn snake in there. Boy, did we jump out. It television series called Victory at Sea, which it seemed like if we went to the movies on was like a covey of quail flying out of there,” detailed how the Navy helped win World War a Saturday night, we’d hear the storm noise he said. “I had so many experiences when I was II. He loved the ships and the uniforms and increase to our southwest, and they’d turn on younger that would shape who I became.” one other factor of Navy life. “There would the lights and talk about a tornado coming that While most of his tales are amusing, includ- always be a couple sailors walking down the way. Everyone would run out of that place, ing one of his grandfather and uncle refusing street with a girl in each arm,” he said with a jump in the cars, go home, and jump in the to go in the cellar and getting pelted by mud, chuckle. “I found out that it didn’t happen like cellars; all for a tornado that never came,” he a few were more sobering. that.” Somehow, the combination of watching added. “We always had those abrupt things. He recalled the day of the Woodward tor- Harry Volkman and Victory at Sea created his We had a lot of tornado warnings, but very nado in 1947. His family was living in Enid at future. “That’s all I could think about.” few tornados.” the time, but he and his father walked outside That future began quickly. “I got out of Once, while cleaning out a chicken house, and looked at the clouds. “It’s going to be school when I was 17. Not because I was Gary and his father were caught in a storm. “I a bad storm tonight somewhere,” his father overly smart, but because I started really early. got in the middle of the place, which wasn’t predicted. Momma signed the papers, and I joined the too smart, and Lord, it went on a long time. I That storm, the deadliest in Oklahoma’s Navy,” he said. looked outside and it was ripping the roof off. history, killed more than 100 people. All night In the Navy, Gary went into the weather It looked like there were chicken bullets going long, the sounds of ambulances, fire trucks, and service. “All the things I had been dreaming by,” he recalled. He remembered that his father police cars flying towards Woodward kept resi- about all those years happened in the Navy,” wondered if people were ever going to be able dents awake. It wasn’t until the next day that he said. to get a warning for the storms. the tragedy became public knowledge. “We After his stint in the Navy, he spent a year Many times, Gary and his family took moved back to Seiling right after that. There at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in shelter in his grandmother’s cellar. Once it was were a lot of men in Seiling that had helped Continued on page 24

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Keeping You Advised Meteorologist Gary England

Continued from page 22 ment prospects. Weatherford, Okla., a choice that He continued to look for a would shape the rest of his life. weather job, but knowing he had While there, he met “the cutest to make a living, he did a stint red-headed girl you’ve ever seen. selling typewriters; something at Her name was Mary.” which he was woefully unsuccess- At first Mary was less than ful. That was followed by a job impressed. Undeterred, he pursued selling advertisements. “I couldn’t her. He even resorted to throwing sell anything. The only thing I sold rocks at the second story window was bad debts. Someone would of her dormitory room to get her buy a big, beautiful two page full attention. Then he tried climbing color spread, and then wouldn’t up on a ladder and tapping on the pay for it.” window, still to no avail. Once, Luckily Mary got a job with when he was using a friend’s the radio station KTOK. One day shoulders as a ladder to reach the he noticed the station was putting second floor, the campus police in weather radar, so he tracked came by. “My friend ran out and down the general manager. “I left me hanging onto the ledge,” told him he’d need me when they Gary shared. “I left pretty quickly finished it, but he didn’t believe after that.” me,” Gary said. Eventually his tenacity paid The young couple was very off, and Mary and Gary were wed poor at the time, and Gary, with a year later. “I don’t know what nothing else to do, would stop I’d do if I hadn’t met her. It was Gary England during an early forecast at KWTV-9. (Photo courtesy of by the station regularly to help the best thing that ever happened Gary England) himself to free coffee. “So, I’m to me. She was trying to change ones he wanted. “They’d send me time forecasting oceanographic there one morning drinking my me into the person she wanted a letter back to say they’d keep and meteorological conditions for coffee after they’d finished the me to be, and I didn’t even know my letter ‘on file,’ which is code Glenn’s private weather service. radar, and a storm came up. They it was happening,” he said. “She for, ‘Don’t contact us anymore,’” “It was a learning experience. had an engineer there to run it, but gradually changed my clothes, got he shared. He was the greatest teacher I’ve he didn’t know how to read it, so my language under control, and I In the meantime, Gary and a ever had in my life. Even though they hired me on the spot. When didn’t drink quite as much beer. friend started a forecasting busi- I didn’t like him, I learned so darn you’ve been hanging around a She morphed me into the person ness for agriculture and aviation, much from that guy. It was the first job so much, they don’t have to she thought I should be, which was setting up shop at the Wiley Post time I learned discipline, because pay you much, but they gave me a lot better than I was.” Airport. Unfortunately, the busi- he didn’t put up with any crap. If a little office upstairs. It was tiny, After Southwestern, Gary went ness did not flourish. “It wasn’t the it hadn’t been for him, I would not but I had a microphone and a to the University of Oklahoma, smartest thing I’d done, but a great have succeeded in life,” he shared. lightbulb – I thought it was great.” where he earned a mathematics/ part of my life,” he said. “He taught me about science I’d he shared. meteorology degree. He graduated Once again, Gary sent out a never dreamed of. We did hurri- While on air, Gary would do in 1965, and because he’d already round of letters across the country, canes, tornados, floods, ocean rig segments on the “thunder liz- been in the Navy, he didn’t have this time asking for a job forecast- tows – a little bit of everything.” ard,” which he described as an to worry about being drafted to go ing. “Only one person responded. England still longed for a tele- 805-pound creature that changed to Vietnam. His name was A.H. Glenn, and vision career, and for his home color with the weather. It was Eager to pursue his dream of he was from New Orleans. Thank state, where tornadoes ravaged the completely fictitious, and view- being a television weatherman, he God he called. By that time Mary state and people had little warning. ers, in on the joke, called in with sent letters to weather stations in was pregnant with Molly, and I So he, Mary, and their daughter tongue-in-cheek reports about Oklahoma and surrounding states. needed a job.” Molly went back to Oklahoma run-ins with the beast. “You’d He received responses, but not the In New Orleans, Gary spent his even though he had no employ- Continued on page 26

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A Day Not Soon Forgotten - May 3, 1999 A story about Gary England would be incomplete without recounting the storm he will never forget. May 3, 1999 is a date forever etched in his mind and that of most Oklahomans. On May 2, the weather team was forecast- ing thunderstorms and a few tornados; typical of a severe weather day in Oklahoma. The morning of May 3, the forecast remained largely unchanged. Around 1 p.m., Gary got a feeling. “I told Alan Mitchell we better go out and check it out. We went out the back door, and that’s when it hit me. I tell you, I can still smell it. It smelled like the Gulf of Mexico had moved up here. It was very wet, very damp and very warm. The low level winds were just screaming by, and the low level clouds were whipping by,” he recalled. He had only felt that once before, back in 1974 during a tornado outbreak. He rushed back into the station, which at the time had a priority system of one through three, with priority one being the highest. “I went back, pointed at the director, and told them it was a priority one. When that hap- pens, the weather team takes over the entire This photo of was taken near the Bridge Creek, Okla., area on May 3, 1999, as the tornado station. They gave us all the reporters and the neared peak intensity. (Photo by NWS Norman general forecaster Erin Maxwell) people we needed,” he said. “We sent them out. I can’t tell you how many we sent out. I warnings. “I know us. I said, ‘Look, folks. In the days following the storm, messages just knew it would be bad.” Don’t go outside and look at this because written on houses and in letters praised Gary Around 4 p.m., the first storm popped up it will kill you.’ A few minutes later I said for saving lives, but he didn’t mention the on the radar. Storm chaser Val Castor was something along the lines of, ‘Most structures praise in this interview. near Lawton, and captured images of the won’t survive this tornado,’” he recalled. He recalled a girl who lived near Bridge storm, which produced a few tornados before As the tornado got closer to Moore, he Creek, where several people were killed. dissipating. continued his warnings. “I knew it would “She was doing an interview on another “Then it looked like a nuclear explo- level whatever it hit. I told people that they program, and she had a broken back. She sion on the radar. They were going up needed to be below ground if they possibly said, ‘Gary kept saying, ‘Get below ground everywhere. There was one that came up in could, and that they still had time to get out. or you won’t survive this,’ but we didn’t have Chickasha. It produced some tornados, and I knew this storm would level whatever it hit. any place to go.’” With his voice breaking, they kept coming. I was watching it live as We were watching it and knew people were he added, “There were so many stories like it went north, and we were part of it. You dying. I knew it was happening. I couldn’t that. You’re part of it when you’re in the couldn’t separate yourself from it. It got just talk about it for a long time.” weather.” north of Chickasha and then it disappeared,” “One of the things that stuck with me was The sense of responsibility ingrained Gary shared. a dog that apparently had its back broken. I while in the military stuck with him through- That reprieve was short lived, and the saw it on the video, but there’s nothing any- out his career. monster came back with vengeance. one could do because they’re trying to get to “I took it really seriously. I know what “It seemed like in 60 seconds it came the storm. There were horses dead and dying can happen to people. It feels like you’re back and was a mile wide. It was obvious all over the place. I had never seen anything responsible, whether one person dies or 40 at that point it was going to keep coming,” like it in my whole life. We had 40 dead and die. It’s a high responsibility. I was always in he said. 700 injured. We were lucky it wasn’t worse,” trouble with management for breaking into a Knowing Okies, Gary got stern with his he said. “May 3 was a horrific experience.” program to warn a tornado,” he said.

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Keeping You Advised Meteorologist Gary England

Continued from page 26 be surprised how many people would call me and tell me they saw it. It was great stuff,” he said. “I was there a year, and they fired me four times. After the storm season they thought they wouldn’t need me, but I reminded them about the people fishing, so they kept me. The same thing happened when they tried to fire me in the fall, when people would be going to football games. I made sure they kept me around.” Gary grew in popularity, so much that he got a call from the KWTV Channel 9 general manager asking him to come in for an inter- view. “He said, ‘You sound a little crazy, but I’d like to talk to you.’ I had to do an audition two days later, and I didn’t have a suit. I went out and got myself a pair of powder blue bell- bottoms. Oh, they looked good, and a maroon England, along with Lacey Swope and Michael Armstrong, during the 2013 tornado outbreak. jacket, with a white shirt, and a multi-color tie (Photo courtesy of Gary England) and boots. I was stylin’, baby. I went to that along with the firm Enterprise Electronics. to count it out. Desk computers were coming darn audition and they hired me, and the rest Although the National Weather Service is out, so I found a boy from OU. I told him I is history.” the only entity legally responsible for issuing could tell him where the tornado was, where On Oct. 16, 1972, Gary England finally warnings in the United States, he is credited it was going, and how fast it was moving, and became a television weatherman. with issuing the first televised Doppler weather that it would have an umbrella coming out, and Four Decades in The Big Town radar bulletin for a tornado, which happened I’d like to be able to tell what times it would A few months after hiring Gary, KWTV in March, 1982. “That was one of the biggest reach various towns,” he said. “It was really introduced a radar system specifically designed things that happened in television in many good. We created that, just by asking how we for television. On May 24, 1973, he did a live years, having the Doppler radar. We saved could do better.” cut-in to warn Channel 9 viewers of a devas- some lives, and some very smart people con- “Better radars and computer programs are tating F4 tornado near Union City. It was the tinued to develop great radars and tracking the biggest reasons that more lives have been first time viewers got to see the radar image equipment,” he said. saved. Some very smart people put them to- of a tornado. One of the big innovations of Gary’s time gether,” he added. Technology has come a long way since was First Warning, the state map that appears The Final Year the early days of his career. He shared how in the corner of the TV screen, with counties Gary held his post as Chief Meteorologist his original weather maps were painted on a colored to indicate storm watches and warn- at Channel 9 in Oklahoma City for nearly 42 metal-backed plate. There were four sides and ings. “The first time we put a map on to show years, and while his contract gave him the op- painted on it were maps of the United States where the tornado was, do you know what we tion to work longer, he decided on retirement and Oklahoma. “We had magnetic numbers used? It was a piece of red cardboard – a big in 2013. “Things change. We had the storms in and letters and we put current conditions and piece. We’d slap a map of Oklahoma on it, and 2013, and all the death, suffering, and destruc- forecasts on the maps. If you had to change it, if there were a tornado warning, we’d take an tion had built up over the years,” he said. you’d rotate it around,” he shared. X-acto knife and cut out that county, and then The first of the two major tornados came According to England, it was a gradual put a camera on it. It was wild,” he said. “We on May 20, when an EF-5 ravaged Moore and progression of creating better equipment and were lucky we never cut ourselves.” killed 42 people. The second major storm was systems. “We started with basically nothing, Similarly, he also helped create Storm an EF3 just 11 days later. and gradually people came up with concepts Tracker, a computer program that gave the On May 31, the tornado set the record as and it grew. We were always asking how we audience the arrival time of severe weather. the widest in history at 2.6 miles wide with could do better,” he said. “When we got our first radar, you’d take a the second-highest recorded wind gusts at Gary is credited as initiating the develop- Number 2 pencil, look at that eraser, and that 301 miles per hour (barely second to the May ment of the first commercial Doppler radar, would be 30 miles on the radar, so you’d have 3, 1999 tornado). “Four people lost their lives

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in that storm, but if it had crossed think better them than me,” he a residential area, it would have said. “I’m thankful to the Griffin been much worse,” he shared. “All family for what I was able to do. If three of those storms, the May 3 they hadn’t hired me, who knows, tornado in 1999, and the two in I had a great 42 years.” 2013, were monsters.” After his official retirement, When the storms died down, he came back as the Vice Presi- Gary knew it was time to leave. dent of Corporate Relations and “I called my wife that night and Weather Development for Griffin asked her to come get me. When Communications for a couple she got there, I got in the car, and I years. He followed that with a few told her, “Mary, that’s it. No more. years serving as the Consulting It’s over.’” Meteorologist for the University He announced his intention to of Oklahoma. He still does some retire just days later, and officially consulting work for attorneys. stepped down in August. Gary, Mary, Cassidy, Mike, Molly, and Chloe. (Photo courtesy of Gary Gary and Mary live in Edmond, “It accumulated over the years. England) while daughter, Molly, mar- We started getting the live video are always some people after it I miss most is just the regular ried and moved to California. “I of what was going on and seeing who have a problem, and they get shows where I could make people love Molly. I wish I could have it up close. I know one or two of mean and nasty, and you hear it laugh. I love practical jokes. I had more just like her. She and the guys I worked with had trouble so much these days. They don’t loved those slow days because her husband have two children, later. I was tired. I hated to leave have an address on that computer we’d have time to have fun doing Cassidy and Chloe. They live the people, but I didn’t want any and can send anything they want neat stuff or showing crazy pic- too far away, but we spend a lot part of it anymore,” he shared. to you.” tures. So I’ll check the radar some- of time on the phone with them. “Also, no matter how good you Still, he admits he misses the times, but when I hear of storms That’s my family. It’s small, but might do during a storm, there day-to-day job routine. “The thing intensifying in the southwest, I it’s a good one,” he said.

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Morel mushrooms are small and tree-like. They are often found under trees and in shady areas along rivers, but you have to keep your eyes peeled because they can be hard to spot. Once you see one, just use your fingernail to break the mushroom off from the roots. Fried Morel Mushrooms Lacey's PantryBy Lacey Newlin

Servings: 6 | Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Ingredients: Directions: • 12 morel mushrooms • Wash mushrooms in cool water, slice in half lengthwise and (or however many you find.) cut off the roots. Soak cleaned mushrooms in cool salt water for • Salt one hour. • 2 eggs • After they have soaked, lay mushrooms out on a paper towel • 1 cup milk to air dry. While they are drying, whisk egg and milk together in a • 2 cups flour bowl until incorporated. • 1/2 tsp pepper • Mix flour, salt and pepper on a plate. When mushrooms are • 1/2 seasoning salt dry, soak in milk bath for five minutes. Heat a quarter inch of oil in • vVegetable oil a sauté pan over medium heat. • Next, dip dredged mushrooms in flour mixture until coated. Many people hunt mushrooms in early springtime. Gently lay mushrooms into pan and cook for four minutes on each Just be sure to research which ones are edible and side or until golden brown. which is not. It is a fun activity to do with family or • Once they are removed from the pan, salt to your liking. Serve children. with your favorite dipping sauce.

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Where> the Paved Road Ends > For Such a Time as This By Beth Watkins The last time Oklahomans were stuck at how they communicate, but they do. They are home practicing their basic survival skills was just one big happy family. January 2010. Okies know if there is a chance Our cows winter in the west pasture, which of wintry precipitation we must make a mad is closer to the house, and it makes feeding Tdash to the grocery store. Thousands of homes them and haying them in the winter a little were without electricity, but very few were easier, and we can see 90 percent of that pasture without bread and milk. During this black-out, from the back porch. Most of our mommas families sat around the fireplace and played calve in the early spring, so keeping them close board games, volumes of books were read, and helps us keep a closer eye on them. babies were made. With Mother Nature forcing We have a momma cow I call Houdini. She hibernation, people had to be creative with their Greener pastures are coming; we just have to has earned that name because she magically down time to combat boredom. hang on a lil longer. (Photo by Beth Watkins) finds herself on the wrong side of a perfectly At this time in our lives, history is being a few times that I need to come up with a good fence. Evidently, she doesn’t like to be made. There is panic and anxiety around ev- plan. As of yet, I am still procrastinating on part of the herd: she prefers to live alone and ery corner, as people try to live as normal as developing a plan. occasionally she has a girlfriend that joins possible in the midst of this highly contagious We have a good sized immediate family; her. This year both ladies wintered in the east virus, COVID-19. Some people have better we have a daughter who falls in the high risk pasture, and there they both gave birth to some survival skills than others. We have friends category, with type 1 diabetes and asthma and healthy babies. I guess that proves they are who are prepared and anxiously awaiting the who works at a hospital in New Hampshire. We comfortable hanging out with the boys once Zombie Apocalypse. They have a plan in place. have a hypochondriac daughter who is experi- in a while. It’s probably the other ladies they This plan has been discussed many times over a encing symptoms and is watching the skies for don’t care for. Soon, these four will move to the late night campfire. Everyone in our group has Jesus’ return. We have a son who is convinced weaning pasture and the rest of the herd will be different skill sets, and everyone will have to this is all political and developed for popula- turned into the largest area we have. Once we do their part for us to survive. I asked them to tion control. We have a daughter-in-law who is open that gate and they catch a glimpse of the do me a favor, “Just shoot me at the beginning. very organized and at present is working from tall green grass, they will move faster than the I won’t be of any help.” They assured me they home; she isn’t the least worried about running people of Walmart on the opening day when needed my cooking skills, and they would pro- out of supplies. I know where she keeps her the ban is lifted. tect me. Clearly, these forward-thinking people stash of toilet paper, crisis averted. I hope when that day comes, and it will aren’t the only ones who have an emergency I’m thankful we live in the country with soon, we all treat each other a little nicer than plan of action in place. room to roam. I’m what my honey calls a “fair before. I hope we keep up the hand washing There must be a survival handbook. Chapter weather rancher.” If it’s too cold, I’m not get- rituals. I hope the people who prayed and one must outline the list of actions to take at the ting out; I’ll keep the home fires burning till found comfort, hope and peace from God in onset of any type of national news that involves he gets back. When it’s beautiful weather, I this uncertain time will continue to learn more a possible upset to normalcy. I’m assuming love ranching and lately we’ve had some really about Him. As for me and my house, we strive survivalists all across the land know that to pretty weather. Sitting on a four wheeler count- every day to put God first; we love our families come out of this ordeal smelling like a rose ing cows or helping mend fences are probably and our neighbors. We work hard, play hard, is to have stocked their fall-out shelters with my favorite chores to do. Here at the end of this and are grateful for each day. We’ve discov- toilet paper and bottled water. While the rest dirt road, life seems pretty normal. ered first hand worry never changes anything. of us shrug our shoulders and make a plan to Our momma cows are dropping calves We’ve also discovered when you try to out give pick up a few extra items next time we are at left and right. Our bulls are strutting with big God, his blessings pour out in ways you would the store “just in case.” Not that we have our smiles on their faces. I was sitting here thinking not have expected. One thing is for certain, head in the sand; we just don’t grasp that we how relaxing it is to watch our herd go about in this fallen world we live in, we will have may not be able to get what we need when we their daily lives with a sense of peacefulness, troubles, but we have a peace that surpasses un- really need it. Unfortunately, I was unmoved a life different from humans. We have 60 plus derstanding because we know God overcomes at the onset when people were panicking. I’ll mommas that live with two big, arrogant males. the world. This world is not our home, but I’m admit I have not panicked about not having These “sister wives” take turns watching over glad that at the end of this dirt road it feels a extra toilet paper, and it has crossed my mind everyone’s offspring. I have yet to figure out little like heaven on earth. God Bless!

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Two Oklahomans Named to the First Next Generation Leadership Institute Class By Bryan Painter, Communications Director for Okla. Conservation Commission and Okla. Natural Resources Conservation Service

There may be something to Commissioner for Area II, and the fact “conversation” and “con- Caughlin, an OACD Vice-Pres- servation” looks and sounds a lot ident, recently discussed their alike. conservation background. TThis is because those who are In 2015, shortly before his re- willing to learn and have conver- tirement from the U.S. Air Force, sations are advancing conserva- Campbell and his family bought tion efforts. 40 acres near Luther to begin de- Oklahomans Phil Campbell, veloping the farm they had always of Luther, and Joe Caughlin, of dreamed of owning. Campbell Tonkawa, are perfect examples, wanted to make sure he was do- which is one reason those involved ing things the right way so he in conservation are excited to hear could achieve his goal of a small, the two have been named among yet productive farm. Campbell’s the seven participants in the in- background in conservation began augural cohort of the Next Gen- in 2016 during his initial visit to eration Leadership Institute. The the Oklahoma County Conserva- National Conservation Foundation tion District at the suggestion of recently released the list. his brother. “What an honor for Conserva- “During the visit I explained tion in Oklahoma to have two of my goals of starting a small herd our Conservation District Direc- Joe Caughlin of Tonkawa has been named among the seven participants of Angus cattle,” Campbell said. tors chosen for the first Next in the inaugural cohort of the Next Generation Leadership Institute “Ultimately I needed information Generation Leadership Institute (NGLI). The National Conservation Foundation (NCF) recently released on the number of cattle that the class,” Trey Lam, Executive the list. Phil Campbell of Luther was also named as a participant. grass could support without ad- Director of the Oklahoma Con- will be an asset to the cohort and R.I.; and Samantha Steiner from ditional inputs. As a result of the servation Commission, said. “Joe also obtain additional leadership Franklin, Ohio. relationship with Josh McNeff, Caughlin and Phil Campbell skills that will continue to keep NGLI participants will meet for who at the time was a (Natural epitomize the leadership qualities conservation in Oklahoma in the four training sessions throughout Resources Conservation Service) of Oklahomans like Nolan Fuqua forefront. We congratulate these the year, with a capstone session at Technician, I gained valuable in- and Billy Wilson. Oklahoma has individuals on their commitment the National Association of Con- formation on native grass, surface a long and distinguished history and dedication.” servation Districts' annual meeting water as well as eastern redcedars. of providing leadership to NACD. The Next Generation Lead- in New Orleans in 2021. NGLI I’ve participated in EQIP (Envi- Being willing to step up and make ership Institute was formally curriculum will equip leaders ronmental Quality Incentives Pro- a difference is a trait engrained in launched in August of 2019 as a with skills and resources related to gram), installation of a water well Conservation Directors here in our year-long program to build future personal, civic and organizational as well as a pond for surface water state. Joe and Phil will prove to be conservation leaders through com- leadership development. in support of the operation.” great assets to the Conservation prehensive trainings. The 2020 This comprehensive train- Campbell said because of the movement at the national level.” NGLI cohort participants were ing will help participants rise to great experience with that office, “We are proud and honored selected through a competitive meet the future needs of natural he gladly applied to become a that two of our leaders in the Okla- national application process. resources management, helping Director. homa Association of Conservation The inaugural cohort, in ad- them to increase their capacity “I have thoroughly enjoyed Districts have been selected to dition to Campbell of Oklahoma to navigate and manage complex my experience as a district direc- participate in the inaugural Next County and Caughlin of Kay conservation challenges – both tor,” he said. “Approximately six Generation Leadership cohort,” County, includes Barbara Blei- current and future – at the local months later Trey Lam, Oklahoma Larry Wright, President of the weis from Charlotte, N.C.; Ryan and national level. Conservation Commission Ex- Oklahoma Association of Con- Britt from Clifton Hill, Mo.; ecutive Director, asked if I would servation Districts, said. “Both Mark Masters from Dawson, Ga.; Looking Back consider becoming a Commis- Joe Caughlin and Phil Campbell Cassius Spears from Ashaway, Campbell, who is the OCC sioner. I was appointed Area II

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Commissioner by then-Governor extremely effective communica- Mary Fallin.” tors,” Caughlin said. “I hope that Caughlin is a fourth-genera- this opportunity and leadership tion agricultural producer from program will help me to do just Tonkawa. Their family farming that. As we advocate for programs and ranching operation consists of and funding at state and national 2,500 acres of cropland and 1,500 levels, we must have the tools and acres of native and improved resources available to communi- grass. cate our priorities and needs not With the help of family, Caugh- only to our lawmakers but also to lin manages a commercial Angus our consumer, the general public. cow-calf operation on a mix of I am excited about interacting with family-owned and rented pasture. the other members of the NGLI He also manages a no-till crop Cohort. The opportunity to listen rotation on the farm consisting of to my peers from across the coun- hard red winter wheat, soybean, try and learn from their successes corn, alfalfa, and various other and failures is something that I forage crops. In 2000, Joe began believe will help us all become a certified wheat seed business to more effective leaders.” help add value to the operation. He Caughlin said the message of said a few years later, a row crop conservation, in his opinion, “is seed business was added to help a very welcoming and unifying service customers better. Phil Campbell of Luther has been named among the seven national topic.” “The conservation of our natu- participants in the inaugural cohort of the Next Generation Leadership “I am very excited about this ral resources has always been an Institute (NGLI). The National Conservation Foundation (NCF) recently opportunity to learn more about important part of my family’s released the list. Joe Caughlin of Tonkawa was also named as a this movement that I am so pas- farming and ranching operation,” participant. (Photo by Farm Flavor Media) sionate about—and then, in turn, Caughlin said. “My grandfather Caughlin has been involved locations. Finally, I hope to gain to better share this message with and father instilled in me the im- with his local conservation district conservation knowledge to meet others,” Caughlin said. “We have portance of protecting the soil and for more than 25 years—approx- the future challenges.” a great history of conservation water so that it can be shared with imately five years as an associate Producers are often heard say- here in Oklahoma; but we can generations to come. We practice and over 20 years as a Director ing they want to be good stewards do more and we can continue to proper grazing management on on the Kay County Conservation of the land. It’s important to note improve and lead others to love our native and improved grassland District. that they are not just talking about conservation.” to minimize erosion. We have their land, but the land of others been utilizing no-till management Why This Opportunity is so as well, which is why sharing Moving Forward on our cropland for over 15 years Important information is so critical. “It’s a privilege to announce to help build soil organic matter Campbell and Caughlin are “I plan to share this additional these seven participants as mem- and prevent wind and soil erosion. always willing to participate in a knowledge I gain with my local bers of our inaugural NGLI We have had acres enrolled in the conversation about conservation. community, including the dis- cohort,” NCF Chairman Steve Conservation Reserve Program That leads to why the opportu- trict board, local producers, and Robinson said. “This group of and we are currently enrolled in nities that come with the inaugural Oklahoma citizens,” Campbell candidates demonstrated remark- the Conservation Stewardship cohort of the Next Generation said. “In addition, I plan to share able passion for locally-led con- Program to increase our efforts in Leadership Institute are so impor- knowledge at the Area as well as servation, and I look forward to protecting our natural resources. tant to each. Campbell said that State Meeting.” seeing how their skills continue to We are beginning the use of cover through NGLI, he hopes to gain Caughlin said that with re- develop over the next year.” crops to increase carbon and to add a greater knowledge of National cently becoming a Vice-President Campbell and Caughlin want diversity to our soil profile.” Conservation policy. of the Oklahoma Association of to use those skills in a manner Caughlin said they have imple- “The end goal is to commu- Conservation Districts, he be- beneficial to the land for many mented riparian buffer strips along nicate the value of conservation lieves this growth opportunity will years to come. the Salt Fork River to help protect to/from the national as well as help strengthen his efforts at the “Sharing the knowledge and the riverbank from erosion and to state levels to the local producers/ state association as he continues purpose of conservation not only help filter sediment from deposi- citizens,” Campbell said. “I have to learn more about the national with our peers but also with our tion in the water source. They a desire to learn from the NGLI organization. children, the next generation, is of continue to maintain their ponds, Cohorts as well as gain additional “In order to grow an organiza- vital importance for the preserva- terraces and waterways to protect knowledge of successful part- tion and have a greater impact on tion of our earth and its natural and preserve the soil and water. nerships utilized in other states/ others, we must learn to become resources,” Caughlin said.

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Confessions of a

By Andy Anderson The Cowboy Turkey Call Spring turkey season is a time to work some birds with my slate that signals the end of the hunt- call. ing season. One last hunt for a The slate call is my favorite as bird that is sometimes smart, and it’s easy to use, somewhat forgiv- Ssometimes, just plain weird. ing and I was just more confident One thing about turkey hunting with it. I stared calling, softly with is I’ve never been on one that’s just a few chirps, nothing too ag- been the same as the last. There’s gressive. always a challenge of some sort Boom, there he was, a loud that tries the patience of even the gobble just about 150 yards or so most seasoned outdoorsman. It’s right in front of me. the time of the year that starts with I waited patiently, calling back cool frosty mornings, and by noon just a little at a time, watching and you’re in a short-sleeved T-shirt. listening for changes in direction, Turkey hunting is extremely judging distance and such with challenging, from finding the birds each gobble back. It seemed like to perfecting the calling that works two or three hours of this cadence for that particular day. There back and forth without much are several ways to call: mouth change in his distance from me. diaphragms, slate calls, squeakers, Turkey hunting is extremely challenging, from finding the birds to I assumed he was hung up on perfecting the calling that works for that particular day. (Courtesy and now electronic. some hens he didn’t want to leave. photo) I had a pocket full of every- I decided I would try to stalk up thing you could imagine, camo the cup for warmth, watching my Toms were gobbling all around closer to him and try again. I took covered every square inch of my frosted breath as I exhaled fade me, and I had no idea what I had a quick look around to see if any- body, my face left only my eyes into the darkness. just snuck into, but I felt sur- thing was around me that would exposed to be seen. I perfected Just as the night faded away, a rounded. Some would say that’s alert the woods to my presence; all brushing in, blending in with my pink hue revealed the underbrush a good thing, but I was in a bad clear. I put all my gear up, stood surroundings and setting up for the and tree canopy, cardinals began place. I was exposed and feared up for a minute to let the blood perfect ambush. chirping and the faint sounds of getting busted by birds moving get back into my legs and started I started out early one cool turkey coming off the roost could around that I didn’t know where to walk out of the brush. spring morning to an area I knew be heard in the distance. they were. Just as I stepped into the trail, was used for roosting. I settled Knowing I was close, I started I slowly moved to nearby I looked to the left and there, in on the edge of the path to wait to gather my things, secured the brush, got settled in and waited the middle of the trail were two for nature’s alarm clock to wake thermos of coffee and started for some more light. Until then, big toms strutting around and the birds and get a bead on their to stand up when I heard hens I was confined to listening to the drumming. location. clucking and calling, from what I neighborhood disturbance all I dared not move as they were Sitting on a small foam pad thought was right in front of me. around me. only about 40 yards from me. It with my back against an old live As the hens got more active, the Within about 30 minutes I had was a foolish gamble as I was oak tree, I was sipping some cof- others I heard in the distance got good light. I could see well out to busted within seconds. Those toms fee, my hands wrapped around even more active. 100 yards or more, good enough figured me out and hit the brush

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quick, disappearing as suddenly I grabbed my shotgun and slate rolled my eyes at myself, got up and let LeDoux serenade those bad as they appeared. call, leaving everything else where quickly and rushed to shut my boys back to me. The remainder of the day I it was to head quickly for cover. phone off. LeDoux had just started sing- stalked those toms, using every Just as I sat down, there he Just as I grabbed my phone to ing when I could hear a gobble, call, every calling method I could. was, strutting right to me, not a silence it, I look up to see not one, then another and then two at the By now it was late in the day, I care in the world. As I waited, I but three birds quick stepping right same time. I was blown away at was hungry and just exhausted. didn’t bother to call as he was still to me. It hit me, they liked my how good LeDoux was at calling I retreated to a nearby creek bed working in my direction. ringtone, but now I found myself turkeys. to seek some shade, shed some I just never could get a good away without my shotgun. Only this time they got smart clothes and take a break. bead on him. He stayed just out of All I could do was get down and circled around me to come in I opened my lunch, set it out range or was behind a tree, some and let them pass. Within 10 behind me where I couldn’t get a and started into my sandwich. I brush, always something. I was minutes they were right on top of shot, and eventually got busted. had consumed quite a bit of water getting frustrated and so was he. me, I mean five yards away. Just They took off and wouldn’t have and needed to relieve myself. As That tom started to move away to add insult to injury, they knew any part of LeDoux or me, but that I stood about 20 feet from my so I decided to call a little, just I was there, and kept strutting was a fun hunt. gear, my cell phone that I forgot enough to get his attention. Noth- around in front of me, drumming I didn’t know it at the time, but to silence began to ring. ing, he just kept walking away. and gobbling, taunting me with that was my last time to go turkey My ring tone was a Chris I sat back on my knees, set my their antics. hunting that year. LeDoux song, “Look at You Girl,” shotgun down and just took a I really wanted to try and just Work got in the way of LeDoux the song my wife and I danced to moment out of frustration to calm sprint out to try to grab one. They and me getting back in the woods, at our wedding. Not too concerned myself, think things through and finally gave up and worked their but a friend of mine who I told with the call, as I was a little busy, try again. Nothing was working, way around me and out of sight. about it had success calling in his I took my time to answer it; actual- and I really didn’t know what to I gathered my stuff up, grabbed tom turkey using his favorite song ly, I was letting it go to voicemail. do other than try to sneak up and my shotgun and headed out their by LeDoux, “Bareback Jack.” Just as I finished up, a tom gobbled ambush the tom. direction. I found a small clearing Who knew LeDoux was so good about 50 yards from me. Then, my phone rang again. I and got set up, grabbed my phone at calling in a turkey.

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PartinG sHot Look Out here comes

Woodland Flowers Photograph by Janice Russell Under the shade of the wooded forest are many beautiful spring flowers. After a brief shower I took a hike Uand found this bird-footed violet. I love the bright and springy purple petals.

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