SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ionOK.com
OKC Mayor David Holt
Tom McDaniel, MAPS 3 Advisory Board Chairman Scissortail Park Grand Opening Sept 27-29 Kyle Dillingham skates Express Employment into the Grand Ole Opry Professionals Survey Orr Family Farm Lost and found in Cogar, OK OKC Boathouse Oklahoma State Fair Regatta Festival Sept 12-22 Li festyle … Culture … Entertainment
publisher : Don Swift assistant : Joni Yeager editor : Tim Farley editiorial assistant : Darian Woolbright videographer : Jeremy Gossett director of photography : Michael Downes web site developer : Patrick Moore with Set Sail Media web site developer : Nina Jones, Data Design Inc. illustration : Rosemary Burke graphic design : Wendy Mills
Advertising Sales
Don Swift
Photographers
Jeremy Gossett Hugh Scott, Jr. Tracy Reece Jerry Hymer
Advertising Consultants
Peter Preksto
Contributors
fashion : Linda Miller art : Joy Reed Belt people : Peggy Gandy social issues : Robbie Robertson community : Lauren Wright contributing writer : Sandi Davis contributing writer : Greg Horton contributing writer : M.A. Smith contributing writer : M. J. Van Deventer contributing writer : Julie York contributing writer : Dorian Quillen contributing writer : Kristen Marckmann
MIDLAND SCOTTY McCREERY
1199 IONION OOKLAHOMAKLAHOMA MAGMAG COLOCOLLOOORR 88X10X10 5 BBLEEDLEED iinddndd 1 77/29/19/29//199 11:43 AM 12 Contents COVER STORY 12 Scissortail Park Grand Opening, Sept 27-29 by Tim Farley
ART 63 Colors of Clay Show opens at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum by M.J. Van Deventer
78 Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale by M.J. Van Deventer
FASHION 32 26 Falling for Fashion: New looks for a new season by Linda Miller
PEOPLE 30 Above and Beyond: Tribes’ investment in Oklahoma goes beyond casinos by Linda Miller
32 Kyle Dillingham: Oklahoma’s Musical Ambassador Gives Electrifying Grand Ole Opry Debut Performance 66 by Tamara Hermen
50 Kara Byrd: Bringing Durant’s Strategic Vision to Life by Garland McWatters
54 Colin Forsey rocks El Reno by Bill O’Brien
68 Hall of Fame Presenters 2019 88 Sister Cities International (SCI) appoints Mary Blankenship Pointer to the Board of Directors
8 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 80
TRAVEL 26 Exploring the evolution of air and spaceflight by Linda Miller
80 Lost and Found in Cogar, Oklahoma by Jesse Edgar
BUSINESS 66 Bedré Fine Chocolate’s new Dark Chocolate Premium Sauce can be used in cocktails, milkshakes and desserts. 26 42 74 Express Employment Professionals comparing white, blue and grey collar workers
EVENTS, ENTERTAINMENT 18 It’s Oklahoma State Fair time! Fun and unique foods at the fair 42 Orr Family Farm festival brings unique experiences in 2019 by Kristen Marckmann
40 September in the Myriad Gardensl 58 15th annual Regatta Festival coming to OKC October 4-6 by Kristen Marckmann
70 Tulsa Greek Festival packed with food, cultural experiences and dancing by Kristen Marckmann 86 Indian Festival in Yukon shows off language and culture 54 by Bill O’Brien
SPORTS 56 OKC Thunder 2019-2020 Schedule
IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Publisher’s Note
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 9 PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Dear readers,
I am very excited that our “First Class” team of professional editors, writers and other contributors to ion Oklahoma Online Magazine have committed their time and expertise toward making this digital online upscale publication a huge success. We are offering both online FREE digital issues that can be downloaded to your computer, tablet or mobile phone. Also, printed editions are available as a print on demand service and mailed directly to your home or office from our hosting publishers website “Magcloud.” Today the State of Oklahoma has been experiencing a certain noticeable growth among young people under the age of 30. In 2019, the NextGen Under 30 Award Recognition Program is celebrating a record response in its ninth year. NextGen TALKS Oklahoma has been created in 2019 and our inaugural event is scheduled on October 4, 2019 at Oklahoma City Community College VPAC Auditorium. Please visit www.nextgentalksok.com for more details. There will be three New community leaders and 10 New and NEXTGEN community leaders sharing their stories at this live event. At ion Oklahoma Magazine we plan to publish many of the quality lifestyle stories from Oklahomans who are best representing the “Oklahoma Spirit.” We want to hear from you, our readers, and your stories, so please email oklahoma your ideas, thoughts and success stories.
Sincerely, Donald B. Swift, Publisher, ion Oklahoma magazine www.ionok.com “Like” us on facebook www.nextgenunder30.com facebook.com/pages/IonOklahoma-Online www.nextgentalksok.com Follow us on twitter @IonOklahoma
10 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Excellence is standard Everything else is custom. Schedule Jo for a no cost 1-hour consultation. COVER STORY
Oklahoma City’s “Crown Jewel” Scissortail Park Grand Opening kicks off September 27-29
BY TIM FARLEY
klahoma City’s Scissortail Park will become the “capstone” or the “crown jewel” of all Oklahoma City O MAPS 3 projects when it’s unveiled to the public. officials anticipate That’s the opinion of two community leaders – Mayor David Holt and a crowd close to MAPS 3 Advisory Board chairman Tom McDaniel. 15,000 people at “This will affect our community for the next 100 years,” said McDaniel, who has led the advisory board since its inception. “This is an opportunity the Scissortail Park that occurs in cities to have a central location for a park, across the street three-day opening from a major convention center and in the middle of downtown. It will be which begins an iconic 70-acre park.” Part of the excitement about Scissortail Park is that three sides to the September 27 attraction will be available for economic development including residential housing and commercial construction.
12 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Aerial view of Scissortail Park construction
“I’m sure there will be mixed uses,” McDaniel said, “for area can be rented for parties and other events. A such things as restaurants, condominiums, apartments, a promenade, dog park, event pavilion, activity areas and an new hotel and other businesses. This park and what it will indoor-outdoor café are part of this grand project. bring to the area pushes Oklahoma City to a higher level. The café will be managed by The Social Order Dining Yes, we have the Myriad Gardens and it’s a wonderful Collective, which operates a number of successful attraction but this park is bigger and provides us with a restaurants in the area. The café is scheduled to open in new amenity we’ve never had.” the spring of 2020. Oklahoma City officials anticipate a crowd close to Holt, in his capacity as Oklahoma City’s mayor, said the 15,000 people at the Scissortail Park three-day opening park in general will be “world class.” which begins Sept. 27. Citizens will see the many features “It will be a very special place in our city as it joins of the 36-acre Upper Park, which include a stage and everyone from southeast Oklahoma City, southwest Great Lawn. The covered main stage overlooks a six-acre Oklahoma City, northeast and northwest Oklahoma City,” oval lawn with seating for more than 15,000 people. In he said. addition, residents will be have access to a playground Holt was quick to point out the grand opening will with a net lens, geometric dome climbers, children’s gar- celebrate only the first phase of the park. The second dens and a large fort with a tower and slides with plenty of phase, or the 34-acre Lower Park, will open at a later time. shade and public restrooms. The playground is next to That portion of the park will extend to the Oklahoma River. interactive fountains for children to enjoy on a hot day. “We’ve never had an urban park this size,” he said. Other park features on the 70 acres will include a “This will draw everyone together. It fills a need for us as a boathouse, which incorporates a concession stand, public great American city.” restrooms and a shaded patio. Guests can rent pedal Designed by one of the foremost landscape architecture boats, including one that’s ADA-accessible. This same planning firms in the world, Hargreaves Associates, the
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ionOklahoma 13 Above, winding benches on the park patio. Ceiling of the stage, left, seen also in the background of the terrace. Below, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will perform on the third day of the opening celebration.
park is also a horticultural tapestry of native prairie grasses, lush flower gardens and tree-lined walkways. With all of the hype and promotion, citizens and city officials are excited. Putting their stamp on the grand opening will be the Kings of Leon. Kings of Leon is an American rock band that formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1999. The band is composed of brothers Caleb, Nathan and Jared Followill with their cousin Matthew Followill. The band’s early music was a blend of Southern rock and blues influences, but it has gradually evolved throughout the years to include a variety of genres and a welcome everyone out to the Grand Opening celebration of more alternative, arena rock sound. Scissortail Park when the OKCPHIL will perform a family- To cap three days of celebration, OKCPHIL will perform a friendly night of wonderful music in the open air,” said variety of classic pieces for everyone to enjoy on the Love’s Susan Webb, director of marketing and public relations for Travel Stops Stage on Sunday, September 29 beginning at 7 OKCPHIL. “We have an exciting program planned with p.m. Many of the works to be performed during this free several favorites including Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the concert will be nature-themed including Lark Ascending by Common Man and Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain . Vaughn Williams, Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker, We look forward to sharing this grand opening experience, by Tchaikovsky, and Firebird Finale, by Stravinsky. which we think everyone will enjoy, with our Oklahoma City “The OKCPHIL and Maestro Mickelthwate would like to community.”
14 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 MAPS 3 SCISSORTAIL PARK PROJECTS
Who designed the Park? Ornamental woodlands and garden: Native plants and The MAPS 3 Scissortail Park project was planned using a trees along with specialized gardens that feature color, public, resident-driven process including input and movement, touch and smell. guidance from the MAPS 3 Park subcommittee, MAPS 3 Stage and Great Lawn: The covered main stage overlooks a Citizens Advisory Board and City Council. Professional 6-acre oval lawn with seating for over 15,000 people. consultants included Hargreaves Associates and ADG. Playground: A net lens, geometric dome climbers, children’s gardens and a large fort with a tower and slides Who built the Park? with plenty of shade and public restrooms. It’s next to Downey Contracting constructed the Park. Crews broke interactive fountains for kids to enjoy on a hot day. ground on June 29, 2017, and worked for more than two Promenade: The Park’s main north-south walkway years. will traverse its eastern edge. Lighting, interactive fountains and play areas dot the How was the Park funded? promenade, along with a large public art piece Scissortail Park is a project of MAPS 3, an $805-million, coming soon on the northeast corner. The debt-free capital improvement program to advance the largest platform on the OKC Streetcar route is quality of life in Oklahoma City. It was funded by a along the Promenade. one-cent sales tax initiative that began in April 2010 Dog Park: A half-acre fenced dog park with dog water and ended in December 2017. The Park project budget fountains and large boulders, with sides for large and was $132 million to build a 70-acre downtown park small dogs. including a cafe, lake, event pavilions, great lawn and Activity areas: A shady lakeside woodland leads to an open stage. area for kite-flying, ball-playing and enjoying the sun. An extensive underground French drain system captures How big is the Park? rainwater to fill the Lake. Scissortail Park will be almost 70 acres total. The 36-acre Event Pavilion: A 6,400-square-foot event pavilion with a Upper Park stretches from Oklahoma City Boulevard to the seasonal outdoor roller rink and covered picnic area will Skydance Bridge, which crosses Interstate 40 into the be in the southeast corner of the Upper Park. future 34-acre Lower Park. Construction begins on the Indoor/outdoor café: The Social Order Dining Collective, Lower Park next year and is scheduled to be finished in which manages a number of successful restaurants in the 2021. area, will operate this space when it opens in Spring 2020.
What are the main features of the Park? When will the Lower Park be complete? Lake and Boathouse: The Boathouse will have a It’s scheduled for completion in 2021. concession stand, public restrooms and a shaded patio. Guests can rent pedal boats, including one that’s ADA- Will the SkyDance Bridge be open for the accessible, to enjoy the 3.7-acre lake under a shaded Grand Opening? pavilion. This area can be rented for parties and events. The bridge will be passable during Grand Opening Lake bridge: The 240-foot bridge spanning the lake will weekend. It may close again to complete the work later. have spectacular views of the Park, the OKC skyline and historic Union Station.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 15 The Oklahoma City Philharmonic will cap off the third day of the celebration with a free performance.
don’t think they would want someone who is almost 90 to be Maureen Hefferman, chief executive officer and president in charge of the MAPS 4 citizens oversight committee,” he of Scissortail Park Foundation, said the city is honored to said, with a laugh. have a world class philharmonic playing in the park McDaniel said he’s been thrilled with the opportunity to dedication. make a contribution as the oversight committee’s chairman. “I can’t think of a better way to conclude the Grand “It is something I really relish,” he said. “It will be a Opening weekend than sitting in the Park listening to the legacy for my grandchildren. I’ve learned something of this philharmonic playing,” she said. “Many of the selections are magnitude requires the cooperation of a lot of people. nature-themed and I think everyone will really enjoy hearing Marshalling 80 people in the same direction has been these pieces.” challenging.” In addition to the $130 million park, MAPS 3 has funded a Labor of love new convention center, a street-car system, senior wellness McDaniel described his tenure on the MAPS 3 Advisory centers and several other projects that have been paid for Board as a “labor of love,” but said a potential MAPS 4 without any debt thanks to the penny sales tax Oklahoma should probably be left to someone younger. City voters approved. n “Let’s just say I’m 80 and this project took nine years. I
16 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
EVENTS IT’S
TIME! New events set to bring excitement to Oklahoma’s premier fair
t the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair, fans can expect a variety of A attractions that all work together to create the ultimate experience of FUN MADE HERE.
18 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 FUN MADE HERE
Renaissance Village – Located in the Centennial Plaza, September 14. Following the Film Festival, the winning Fairgoers can take a step back into the middle ages, to the videos will be shown for the remainder of the Fair. time of Kings and Queens, jesters, minstrels and knights. LIVE Mural Challenge – This new competition will take Enjoy performances by talented dancers and singers, place on September 14 in The Circle. The 20 accepted incredible archers and hilarious jokesters. Visitors can shop entrants will create their murals and a judging panel will the wares of medieval artisans and have a taste of delicious award cash premiums to the top pieces. All 20 murals will food and drink from the period. This fully immersive remain on display throughout the duration of the Fair. experience is one that nobody will want to miss out on. Kids Celebration – This interactive show is meant to engage Xtreme Chinese Acrobats – Visit the new Entertainment and entertain the whole family. Every child and teenager in Stage in the Bennett Event Center to watch these high-fling the audience will have the opportunity to be the star of the performers as they attempt daring stunts. This show is sure game show. Each show is different, so patrons can come to wow audiences of all ages. back again and again to experience the fun. Don’t miss this Oklahoma State Fair Film Festival – Submitted and judge on the Entertainment Stage in the Bennett Event Center. ahead of the Fair, short films that are selected as the 1st A Grizzly Experience – Yogi and his two friends will make through 3rd winners in each category of this competition will a stop at the Oklahoma State Fair to show you that a grizzly be shown in the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center on bear is more than a cute face. Witness the interaction
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 19 Vallo, and is a rare left-handed talent that comes from many generations of experienced horsemen. Catch him every night at the 7:30 p.m. Wild West Showcase. Flyin’ Fiddler Wayne Cantwell – Mr. Cantwell makes his first appearance at the Oklahoma Frontier Experience with his fiddle thrown in a gunny sack over his shoulder. Using an old time clawhammer banjo and fiddle, he’ll perform traditional music of the open prairie or what you would have heard around a campfire or during an old western barn dance. Early American Potter – From digging up the clay to the finished product, learn what it took to make pottery back in the 1800’s. Showcasing her amazing craftsmanship, Reggie between animal and man and learn what to do if you ever will show you the various methods it takes to make products meet one in the wild. that were used in the frontier’s everyday life. Charro Gabriel Hernandez – Located in the Oklahoma Team Penning – Team Penning is an equine competition Frontier Experience, Gabriel Hernandez began riding horses where mounted horsemen and women separate and herd a before he could walk and is one of the youngest performing select designated group of cattle safely and efficiently into a charros at the age of 14. This charro rides his horse, El pen. This event showcases the skills necessary to function
20 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Oklahoma State Fair Cornhole Classic. Compete for prizes and bragging rights for this event. Check the Oklahoma Cornhole Facebook page for information on tournament registration and fees. This event takes place September 22 at The PATIO. SINGO / Trivia Night – SINGO combines ‘name that tune’ with bingo to make a fun night with friends. Music ranges from 60’s to today. Alternating with SINGO rounds will be Trivia Live. Test your knowledge and see how much you really know about life. Amazing prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, in the Modern Living Building on September 12. Special event announcements and general updates for the on a working ranch. Don’t miss this competition in the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair will be released as information Performance Arena. becomes available. Pleasure Draft – This division has been added to the Tickets to the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair, including Disney equine competitions as a way for Draft Horses and other On Ice, PRCA Xtreme Bulls & Broncs, outside gate admission Draft type breeds to compete in classes such as barrel tickets and carnival ride armbands are on sale now. racing, trail, or obstacle classes. Watch as these gentle To stay up-to-date on all the Fair fun, visit giants show off a huge variety of skills. In case you missed www.okstatefair.com , find us on Facebook or follow us it last year… on Twitter and Instagram. And don’t forget to share Oklahoma Cornhole Classic – Through a partnership with your Fair memories and stories with us using Oklahoma Cornhole, we present the second annual #OKStateFair and #FunMadeHere. n
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 21 Food for Thought
NEW, FUN & UNIQUE FOODS AT THE 2019 OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR A BIG PART OF FAIR FUN IS THE FOOD! Concession! Continue reading to see what new and exciting creations Caramel Popcorn Pie: Caramel Popcorn is a fan favorite at our vendors have produced to ensure that the Oklahoma the Oklahoma State Fair! What better way to enjoy it than in State Fair is where you can find FUN MADE HERE! pie form! Join Cutie Pies Concession for twists on classic pies! Chocolate Brownie Pie: Cutie Pies is giving us another New for 2019 twist on a classic dessert! Chocolate Brownie pie will be S’more On-A-Stick: Enjoy this delicious campfire favorite sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! on the go, courtesy of A Latte Love. Pickle Dog: This Pickle On-A-Stick is dipped in batter and Amish donuts: Brought to you by a new vendor, Amish Food deep fried! This is one of several fun twists we will see this Truck, Two Guys and a Hobby, these delectable donuts are year on our Fair favorite Corn Dog, brought to us by Denmore hot and fresh and cannot be missed. Delights. Angry Puffs: Breathe like a dragon with Angry Bull Sub Zero Hot Cheeto Pickle Dog: Denmore Delights has alco created Desserts in flavors like cotton candy, funnel cake, cheddar, the Hot Cheeto Pickle Dog! This creation is a Pickle On-A- and fruit. Stick, dipped in hot Cheetos and deep fried to perfection. Vegetarian Platter: Satisfy your appetite with this meat- Deep-Fried Nutella: Granny’s is pulling out all the stops free dish at Chan’s in the Entertainment Plaza! This platter this year with their deep-fried Nutella. This is a new treat is flavorful and filling! you can’t pass up. Caramel Apple Pie: Get one of your favorite fair foods in a Chili Mac: Try MacTastic’s creamy Mac-N-Cheese piled high pie! Caramel Apple Pie is making its debut with Cutie Pies with Chili and topped with corn chips.
22 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Mac-N-Cheese On-A-Stick: MacTastic will wow all their Deep-Fried Minne Pumpkin Pie: Get in the mood for fall customers with their cheesy Mac-N-Cheese On-A-Stick. Take with the delicious autumn flavors of the Deep-Fried Minne your favorite American comfort food on the go! Pumpkin Pie. Fry Bread Burger : Porky’s is bringing us a tasty half-pound Parmesan Chicken On-A-Stick: Waffle Chix is bringing us burger with Funnel Cakes for the buns. Don’t miss out on crispy and flavorful chicken, piled on a stick for ultimate this delectable combination. portability! Gator Dog: Are you a fan of Corn Dogs? Then try this version Brownie Waffle On-A-Stick: Don’t forget to stop by Waffle – but with alligator. It’s gator On-A-Stick, dipped in batter Chix for a selection of great desserts as well, including the and deep-fried. Try this new item only at Porky’s. warm Brownie Waffle On-A-Stick! Lobster Dog: Try this new item on Porky’s menu, Lobster Flavorburst Slush: Cool down with the Your Just Desserts On-A-Stick dipped in batter and deep-fried! Flavorburst slush that will be sure to quench your thirst and Scallops & Clams: Porky’s is bringing us all our seafood beat the heat. favorites! Be sure to stop by and see just how they serve these crowd favorites like clams and scallops. Mahi-Mahi Slider: New to the scene, JP’s Food Truck is bringing us an all new Mahi-Mahi burger slider. Gourmet Tots: JP’s is also bringing an all new Gourmet Tots that are finished with delicious toppings that set them apart from the tots we all grew up with. Deep-Fried Coke: Deep-fried and Coke? Two of the most popular things at the fair! Find out how this incredible creation tastes at JP’s Food Truck. Hot Cheeto Corn Dog: Lakeside is bringing us a Corn Dog breaded with a crowd favorite, Hot Cheetos! Don’t miss this Corn Dog turned up a notch? Mac-N-Cheese Corn Dog: Layne Concessions is debuting it’s all new Corn Dog stuffed with mac-ncheese and deep- fried to golden brown deliciousness! Pizza Dawg: Combine your two favorite fair foods and get yourself a Pizza Dawg from the Oklahoma Pork Council! Jalapeño Bottle Caps: Roadhouse Concessions is bringing us a new spicy favorite, sliced jalapeños, breaded and deep- fried to create the all new Jalapeño Bottle Caps. Deep-Fried Minneapple Pie: Joining us for the first time, Minneapple Pie is deep-frying all our favorite pies including their signature Minneapple Pie with a scoop of Ice cream! Deep Fried Minne Chocolate Pie: Minneapple Pie is bringing us their flakey chocolate pie with a melting chocolatey inside. Find them in the Entertainment Plaza!
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 23 FUN & UNIQUE FOODS RETURNING IN 2019 Watermelon Pie: Cutie Pies is bringing back their crowd favorite and award-winning watermelon pie, so if you missed it last year be sure to get your fill of this sweet and light treat this year! Watermelon Salsa: Get a sweet and savory kick out of Cutie Pies Concession’s watermelon salsa. Wonder Boy: Diamond Dawgs is at it again this year with Judging baked goods. their Cap’n Crunch battered corn dog served with honey mustard dipping sauce. Fruit Loops, or Double Bacon. You can’t miss this flavor Avocado Fries : Gringos brings back warm and crispy experience at Porky’s. avocado fries to satisfy your fried food craving in a healthier Waffle wrapped Snow Ice: Back by popular demand, Snow way. Enjoy these delicious avocado slices with sour cream S’more takes this classic cold treat to a new level with their and salsa for dipping! Waffle Wrapped Snow Ice! Deep-Fried Coffee: Need that caffeine fix, but don’t want to Bug Pizza: Do you dare? Experience the nice crunch and miss out on a Fair food opportunity? Then Deep-Fried Coffee added protein of critters on your pizza. Grab a slice topped is for you! Find it at Gringo’s. with scorpions, crickets, or meal worms, at Swain’s Pizza Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger: Harvell Concessions is On-A-Stick. bringing back their Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger – a juicy Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf Cupcakes: The Sweet Shop is bacon cheeseburger encased in sweet and sticky Honey Buns. serving up meatloaf, topped with mashed potato icing and Gator Bites: Layne Concessions is bringing you flavorful bacon & cheddar sprinkles – all in the shape of a cupcake! and crunchy gator bites, deep-fried to perfection. Caveman Turkey Leg: We hope you tackle this item with a Mac N Cheese Burger: This award-winning burger is cush- team. The Caveman Turkey Leg is giant and wrapped with ioned by two deep-fried mac-n-cheese buns and is sure to be almost one pound of bacon and slow cooked to perfection. a 2019 Fair favorite. Don’t miss this at The Bacon Habit. Frosted Flakes Chicken On-A-Stick: You can get tender Pork Chop On-A-Stick: Who does pork better than The Pork and juicy chicken dipped in batter and rolled in Frosted Flakes Council? Do yourself a favor and get a slow-cooked, juicy cereal and deep-fried at Netterfield’s Popcorn & Lemonade. Pork Chop On-A-Stick. Cheese Curd Taco: O’Neil is putting a twist on the taco! Campfire Taco: Visit The Urban Taco for this delicious and Enjoy melt-in-your-mouth cheese curds atop this beef taco sweet waffle cone filled with marshmallows, strawberries, piled high with all your favorite taco fixins’. chocolate chips and caramel. PB&J Burger: Not only is this a twist on a hamburger, but it’s Funnel Cake Fries: The Urb Express is bringing back a also a twist on the PB&J. Porky’s provides a half-pound burger twist on the classic funnel cake. Enjoy all the goodness of with peanut butter and jalapeños as their PB&J Burger. this Fair classic, but in French fry form! Enjoy creamy, sweet and spicy goodness all in one food. WonderStick: A known crowd-pleaser, this J shaped cone is Donut Burger: Get a deliciously seasoned beef patty, hugged uniquely fashioned which makes it easier to eat without on both sides by soft and sweet donuts. Not only that, but drips. Also, the cone is gluten free, thick & crunchy, and each bun is topped with your choice of Oreos, Apple Jacks, doesn’t get soggy as the ice cream melts! n
24 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
TRAVEL
Exploring the evolution of air and spaceflight
BY LINDA MILLER
ven before stepping inside, the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford is impressive. E Stretching six stories and pointing to the sky is the F-104 “Starfighter,” described as the most revolutionary aircraft ever built. Nearby rests an Apollo boilerplate command module. And there’s the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II, the only aircraft whose frame was designed around a gun. It’s just a hint at what awaits inside this engaging and well-appointed museum that explores the history of flight from its early beginnings with the Wright Brothers to the Space Shuttle. And as expected from a museum named for Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the famed test pilot and astronaut’s role in aviation and spaceflight is documented with photographs, memorabilia and detailed accounts of his renowned career and accomplishments. The Smithsonian-affiliated museum, considered one of the finest and most comprehensive of its kind in the central U.S., has more than 3,500 artifacts on display with flown space artifacts, actual aircraft, full-scale replicas and actual, flight-ready artifacts. Visitors are provided a program that highlights “starred” artifacts and exhibits with detailed information about each. Early flight is showcased with full-scale replicas of the Wright Flyer, Bieriot X1, Curtiss Pusher and the Spirit of St. Louis. But perhaps the
The F-104 “Starfighter” reaches skyward in front of the Stafford Air & Space Museum. highlight are other displays including an impressive collection of rocket engines that includes a V-2 engine, one of the only remaining actual V-2 rocket engines left in existence, and a flown segment of a shuttle solid rocket booster you can walk through. Others include an actual Gemini 6A spacecraft flown by astronauts Stafford and Wally Schirra; a gigantic Titan II rocket missile, one of only a few still in existence; mission command console used from missions in 1965 through the Apollo moon landings and the early Shuttle program; and a flown Apollo 10 lunar module checklist. A rockets of the world display showcases all the man-rated rockets of the space race and many of the current satellite boosters used by the world’s nations, all in the same 1/72nd scale to show relative size comparisons. Aircraft displays include a Sopwith Pup, a World War I favorite aircraft; F- 86 Sabre Fighter which gained fame during the Koran War; T-33 trainer; T-38 Talor trainer for which Stafford was the project test pilot; F-16 Fighting Falcon with bombs and sidewinder missiles; and a rare MiG-21 fighter aircraft. Displays throughout explain everything from the cramped quarters on different spacecraft to the goals of many of the projects, and any Stafford connection. And there are plenty. But first, visitors have an opportunity to learn about Stafford who grew up in Weatherford, played football in high school and was accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis in Maryland. He had always dreamed of being a pilot, being the one who flew the fastest, hottest planes. He pushed himself and graduated in 1952 in the top 3 percent of his class. As a top graduate, he was given an option to transfer to the newly formed United States Air Force. He jumped at the chance, starting on a path that would take him to new heights.
Top, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, one of many awards Tom Stafford has received.
Bottom, an actual deactivated Mark 6 nuclear warhead.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 27 Above, aircraft on display at the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford.
Left, Tom Stafford’s photo, uniform and certificate of retirement.
Stafford was a top Air Force test pilot. NASA accepted him with the second group of astronauts. His career includes four historic space missions, pilot of Gemini 6A, commander of Gemini 9 and 10. And joint commander of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, the first space mission between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. For his effort on the mission, he received a Nobel Peace Prize nomination. Stafford and his crew set the all-time speed record of 24,791 mph returning from the moon on Apollo 10. He was the first astronaut to become a general and the first general to fly in space. He is considered the father of the B-2 and F-117 stealth aircraft. And upon retirement, he was the highest-ranking astronaut. He has received several awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Oklahoma Aviator of the Century award, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the National Aeronautic Association Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, considered one of the most prestigious honors in aviation. Displays include his Apollo 10 space suit, the pressure flight suit he used to prepare for his Gemini 6 and 9 spaceflights and the flight suit he wore during his tenure as the commanding general for the Air Force’s Flight Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California.
28 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 The actual suit Tom Stafford wore on the Apollo 10 mission to the moon in May 1969.
There are medals. Letters from presidents and much, much more. Upon retirement, Stafford was the first member of his Naval Academy class to receive his first, second and third stars as a general. For many, the museum is an introduction to Stafford; for others, it’s a reminder. And for all it’s a fun and engaging way to experience the evolution of air and spaceflight. For more information, directions, cost and hours, go to staffordmuseum.org. n
High-flying event
Stafford Air & Space Museum will host the Third Annual Wings Over Weatherford from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 28 with a Warbird fly-in, historic aircraft rides, kids’ zone, museum entry, food trucks and entertainment. Some of the Warbirds on display will include a T-28 Trojan, H34 helicopter, C-45, P-51 Miss American, Marschetti S211, B-25 Devil Dog, C-47 Boogie Baby and 1941 Vultee BT-13. Tickets can be purchased for rides in several of the planes. For prices and planes available for rides, as well as more information, go to staffordmuseum.org .
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 29 PEOPLE ABOVE AND BEYOND: Tribes’ investment in Oklahoma goes beyond casinos
BY LINDA MILLER
klahoma Gov. Kevin What can’t be overlooked is how Stitt and the state’s beneficial the tribes, as well as the casino Native American operations, are to the state. O The Oklahoma casino gaming industry tribes are at odds. Stitt wants to renegotiate gaming supports more than 75,000 jobs statewide compacts for a larger cut of gaming and has an annual economic impact of revenue. Tribes pay between 4 and 10 $9.8 billion, according to the American percent to the state to operate Class III Gaming Association. gaming which includes slot machines, Revenue from tribal gaming in Oklahoma roulette and craps. The governor wants to is about $5 billion annually. increase it to as much as 20 percent, a Gaming revenues the state receives go to figure he thinks is more in line with other support education, mental health services states. and state agencies. Gaming contracts expire on Jan.1, 2020, but what The tribes report $1.3 billion in fees have gone toward happens after that is a matter of disagreement. The public education since 2006 and $200 million for local Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association said the compacts will roads and bridges. automatically renew for 15-year terms if the state tribes do Beyond exclusivity fees, tribal investments benefit not agree on new terms. Stitt believes there is no automatic Oklahoma, residents and visitors in the form of education, renewal and new agreements must be reached. roads, health care, public safety and tourism, allowing the Oklahoma’s Five Civilized Tribes – Cherokee Nation, state to use its own tax revenues for other needs. Chickasaw Nation, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Choctaw Oklahoma tribes contributed almost $13 billion to the Nation and Seminole Nation — have backed the state’s state economy in 2017. current gaming compacts. There are more than 130 tribal In 2017, tribes invested $200 million in transportation gaming operations, ranging from an annex to a gas stop to infrastructure, paid $213 million in Medicaid expenditures full-scale resort casinos. at tribal healthcare facilities, as well as $198 million to Tribal leaders aren’t slamming the door on discussion, but support Oklahoma education, according to a study they also argue they have contributed more to the state than sponsored by the Oklahoma Tribal Finance Consortium. the $1.5 billion in exclusivity fees over the past 15 years. Oklahoma tribes employed 51,674 Oklahoma workers in
30 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur offers a recreated traditional village, art galleries, exhibit center, theater, shops and dining. More than 750,000 people from around the world have visited the center since it opened in 2010.
2017, paying out wages and benefits of $2.7 billion to billion within northeastern Oklahoma. Fifty-seven percent of Oklahomans. If Oklahoma tribes were an industry, they its revenue comes from gaming and 43 percent from would rank as the 11th largest by employment. When diversified businesses. The Cherokee Nation invests millions combining business revenues, government expenditures and of dollars through its partnerships with local municipalities, capital expenditures, Oklahoma tribes accounted for $7.7 law enforcement agencies and other service entities. billion in direct Oklahoma production. If Oklahoma tribes The Cherokee Nation operates health centers in nine were an industry, they would rank as the 9th largest by towns. No Cherokee citizen within the tribes 14 counties production, according to unitedforoklahoma.com. must drive more than 30 miles for health care. Tribes saved Oklahoma $88 million by requiring no state The Chickasaw Nation has more than 100 diversified tribal matching Medicaid funds last year. businesses that provide much of the funding for more than Oklahoma tribes support nearly 100,000 jobs, according to 200 programs and services that offer opportunities to the unitedforoklahoma.com. The state’s nearly 40 tribes pave Chickasaw people. The tribe employs 14,000 people, most of roads, build roads for people in their communities, provide whom work in Oklahoma. college scholarships to needy students and keep hospitals The Chickasaw Nation provides grants and scholarships open in rural, underserved areas. totaling more than $20 million to more than 5,000 students, The Choctaw Nation says 82 percent of tracked revenue operates four early childhood centers and has implemented comes from out-of-state customers. The tribe’s recent a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) projects include walking trails, school parking lots and more initiative to introduce students to the fields of science, than 50 miles of roadway. Summer education intervention technology, engineering and mathematics. programs reached 3,800 students, tribal and non-tribal, The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur opened in 2010 living in 80-plus school districts in southeastern Oklahoma and more than 750,000 people from around the world have and more than 90 percent of students improved their visited so far. reading and math proficiency. In a recent economic impact study, the Chickasaw Nation The Cherokee Nation’s business arm, Cherokee Nation was shown to contribute more than $3.18 billion to the Businesses, generates an annual economic impact of $2.03 Oklahoma economy each year. n
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 31 PEOPLE
Oklahoma’s Musical Ambassador Gives Electrifying Grand Ole Opry Debut Performance
BY TAMARA J. HERMEN
ot pink skateboard. Fiddle magic. Energy and passion. H History-making. Marriage proposal. Stunning firsts. Extraordinary musicianship. Oklahoma proud. Musician extraordinaire Kyle Dillingham delivered it all the evening of Wednesday, July 24, when he made his Grand Ole Opry guest artist debut and history by cruising to center stage fiddling on his skateboard. Oklahoma’s music ambassador then crowned the evening with a backstage marriage proposal following a brilliant performance that captured the hearts of the Grand Ole Opry crowd.
The Debut “The Grand Ole Opry was electrified with the first Photo: Alan Messer appearance of Kyle Dillingham,” said Duane Allen, The
32 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Oak Ridge Boys. “He skated his way on stage and fiddled his way into the hearts of a sold-out crowd that wound up on their feet! Congratulations, Kyle, you set this place on fire!” Dillingham was introduced to the audience by Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Oak Ridge Boys, who have become his friends and mentors. They are both represented by legendary music manager, Jim Halsey, who has 30 Hall of Fame musicians to his credit. “My relationship with the Oaks is very special to me,” said Dillingham. “It is also a great joy to perform with my band, Horseshoe Road, and have a chance to share this incredible experience with my dear friends and musical collaborators, Peter Markes and Brent Saulsbury.” The trio were joined onstage with the image of another country star. Dillingham’s hot pink board features a lithograph of Dolly Parton. The brightly-colored graphic of Dolly Parton’s torso on the bottom of the skateboard was highlighted when Dillingham lifted it above his head after doing a 360-degree spin into the sacred performing circle of the Grand Old Opry. “Skateboarding does leave an element of risk, but it was a risk we were all willing to take and grateful that we did so,” said Dillingham. “Honestly, I have skate boarded as long or maybe longer than I have played the fiddle.”
Historic Skateboarding Fiddler The blonde-haired boy freewheeling the streets of Enid, Oklahoma, with dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder may now have come full circle. His worlds of music and skateboarding naturally coincided to put him in the history books of the more than 90-year-old Grand Ole Opry. “Kyle Dillingham has made Opry history. His debut tonight, and the first ever to enter and exit on a skateboard. It is my thought that the fiddler blew the roof off the Grand Ole Opry House tonight,” said Bill Cody, Grand Ole Opry announcer and host. Dillingham with his performance skateboard. Photo: Tim Dillingham
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 33 Dillingham and fiancé, Ginnette Tavzel, immediately following his marriage proposal. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media
The wheels that graced the Opry my two passions. And it’s just amazing executed, eight-minute musical stage, courtesy of Quickie-Mart Skate that they could intersect in such a performance. Shop Tulsa and made by Black Label beautiful way at the Grand Ole Opry,” The first song was Oklahoma-born Skateboards, offered a more stable said Dillingham. “My two worlds finally Alfred Brumley’s tradi- tional “I’ll Fly 80’s or 90’s retro size of board coming together on the biggest stage Away” with distinct vocal harmonies. conducive to playing the fiddle while in country music. I would never, ever in Next came the classic Russian romance skateboarding. Dillingham is regularly my life have imagined it to be so.” “Ochi Chyornye (Dark Eyes).” using this board to incorporate “Start traditional and then end with skateboarding into his performances. Musical Selection a bang,” said Dillingham. “It’s the merging of these worlds. Dillingham’s grand entrance was only He described the rationale behind the Skateboarding and violin were always the beginning of this technically- second song choice, and wanting to
34 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
SEPTEM perform a vivid selection with the the Circle’ (dressing room number musical effectiveness of Orange 4) was transformational for me Blossom Special or the Devil Went personally and professionally. Both Down to Georgia. of these moments will have an “So we had in mind to do enormous impact on the rest of my something that would deliver that life, and I am so grateful that I will kind of effect but be a little more have somebody so wonderful to distinguishing, unique and leave a share the journey with me!” lasting memory for people.” “The way we play ‘Dark Eyes’ it Silk Road starts out like a classical violin, so I Dillingham’s immediate start with this improvisation, sort of engagements include perform- gypsy improvisation that is ances in Oklahoma and China. reminiscent of like a violin support for his career, he turned to his “We’ve been Invited by the concerto,” he continued. “Then by the girlfriend Ginnette Tavzel, knelt down Chinese government to do a Friendship end we are just going faster than on one knee and popped the question. Tour of northwest China along the anybody can even clap and it ends in She tearfully embraced Kyle and said ancient Silk Road,” Dillingham said. such a height of excitement.” ‘yes,’ as everyone around cheered and The week-long China tour will applauded.” encompass Gansu Province, a sister The Proposal “As if an Opry debut was not enough state of Oklahoma. Events include six The momentum and excitement did not excitement for one night, I also took the performances, interactive activities end when Dillingham left the stage. moment backstage to ask my with students and local artists and The official news release explained in girlfriend, Ginny, to be my wife! ‘Into meals with officials. detail the dramatic backstage moment when he embraced family and friends and proposed to his girlfriend. “After Kyle’s one-of-a-kind Opry debut, he returned to his backstage dressing room where he was surrounded by friends, family and his band mates. While thanking everyone in the room for their contribution and
Dillingham and Sally Williams, Live Nation regional office president of Nashville music and business strategy, in front of Dressing Room #4 reserved for artists making their Opry debut. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 35
BER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 34 Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media
“So when people learn that you play the fiddle, the first hear the voice of my manager, Jim Halsey, reminding us all thing they want to know is if you play country music. I that we have another great opportunity to change people’s always say, ‘why yes, but which country?’” he laughed. lives with our music,” Dillingham said. “And if even one “I’ve had a chance to perform and represent Oklahoma person was inspired, encouraged or healed by our with my music in 40 countries now.” performance that night, then this Opry debut with my band was a tremendous success for me.” Gifts to Share For more information on Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe For Dillingham, it’s about the music. It’s about a Road, visit www.horseshoeroad.net , connection to the audience. He brings these two [email protected] , 405-808-8804, perspectives to every performance, whether it is a small Facebook.com/kyledokc and gathering at a church in Oklahoma, the far reaches of Instagram.com/kyledillingham . n China or the Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville. “In all the excitement, it can be easy to lose focus. But I
36 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Dillingham dances with lions
BY TAMARA J. HERMEN
It was a call of the wild moment earlier Dillingham explained some of the action “was up and this summer when fiddler Kyle Dillingham exciting and we were running around. Then other times she and a lion had a man and beast would lay by the glass, and I would lay by the glass on the experience that made global headlines. other side and just strum singing sweetly.” “Well, no lions, but would you guys like to hear a song?” He noticed that the other lionesses came, too, and the Dillingham asked a couple at the Oklahoma City Zoo’s lion male watched from a rock in front of the windows. exhibit. The two were enjoying the June Date Night series. During this exchange, a crowd had gathered and The zoo was open from 6:00 to 10 p.m., which is a time witnessed the interactive experience. frame that could be enjoyed by the 21 and older crowd. “Almost every single person came up to me individually “I was hired by the zoo to stroll and do romantic serenades and said this was one of the most extraordinary while people were walking,” explained Dillingham. “While I experiences,” Dillingham said. passed in front of the lion exhibit, I saw one couple down He agreed. So he posted a video of himself and the there looking around. I started playing for them and singing lioness. for them and when I finished they were clapping.” “The video got an enormous amount of attention and a “Well, no lions, but I can roar like a lion,” Dillingham company ended up picking it up and distributing it added. “So with my violin I made this noise, roar kind of internationally,” Dillingham said. “It made ‘Inside Edition’ noise with my violin and voice.” and was a part of news stories all over the world.” “All of a sudden, this lioness came barreling over the hill. It was the dance of a lifetime at the Oklahoma City Zoo. n Came right down to the glass. I turned. I was stunned. I was startled,” said Dillingham. “So I responded back. And she responded. I responded. It was a call and response kind of a thing. It ended up we played together for 30 minutes.”
Kyle Dillingham serenades the lioness, getting an interesting reaction. (Inside Edition video screenshots)
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 ion Oklahoma 37
FASHION
New looks for a new season
BY LINDA MILLER Photos provided by Worth New York and Cindi Shelby, [email protected]
It’s time to make a list and check it twice. A fall fashion trend list, that is .
After a rainy spring and steamy summer, cooler temperatures and a new fashion season will be a welcome change. For fall, it’s all about the ‘90s, ‘80s, ‘70s and even a touch of the ‘60s, said Cindi Shelby, Worth New York’s director of stylists and former owner of R Meyers boutique in Nichols Hills Plaza. There’s a trend, and a decade, for everyone to embrace, she said. “We’re seeing power suits from
Black pantsuit with purple luxe blouse.
Double-breasted pink pantsuit.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 39 Animal print coat.
the ‘80s, complete with strong shoulders and slim waistlines,” Shelby said. It’s a super flattering silhouette, so don’t hesitate to embrace Green capelet dress. it. Try belting the jacket, too. Cinched waists were all over the runways. And remember the popular television show “Dynasty,” focusing on the influential and Coats with a little drama are another wealthy Carrington family? Some of those must-have, from an elongated suede trench to an stylish looks the women often wore are of-the- oversized plaid topper. “And if you’ve enjoyed the moment now, such as cocktail suits and ‘Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,’ there’s luscious little bow blouses in shiny satin teddy bear coats reminiscent of the early ‘60s. and silk charmeuse. Think pink mohair.” Cape and cape details are a major trend, too, but if a full-out cape is a bit too much for you consider a capelet dress, Shelby said. It’s feminine and easy to wear.
40 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Color ranges from soft lavender to rich purple, pistachio green to dark yellow, and all shades of pink. Other trends include chain handle handbags, square-toe shoes, updated combat and hiker boots, belted jackets and coats, feathers as an accent, pockets, fleece, velvet, classic animal prints, monochromatic looks and statement necklines. There’s a wide variety of looks from which to choose, so have fun with fashion, said Shelby, a Worth New York stylist since 2008. “Style matters.” n
Pink coat.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 41 EVENTS
ORR FAMILY FARM festival brings unique experiences in 2019
BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN
et the whole family together and head out to Orr Family Farm this fall for a Fall G Festival that has something for all age groups. About 15 miles south of downtown Oklahoma City, this 105-acre farm has a giant maze, pumpkin patch, pig races, train rides, hay rides, a vintage carousel, and a 425-foot zipline. This year’s fall season at the farm lasts from September 21 to November 9. The farm will be open weekends in September and November as well as every day in October. This year the Orr Family Farm will be celebrating its 15th anniversary. Shainan Kemp, the farm’s general manager, explained that the Orr Family Farm was originally a race horse training facility. “Glenn Orr built a train for his kids in his backyard, and they loved it so
42 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Above, Visitors to the Orr Family Farm participate in many Fall activities. Left, an Orr team member holds one of the many animals on the farm.
much that he decided to expand the train and share his farm with the community,” Kemp said. For the past fifteen years, the Orr Family Farm has been achieving Glenn’s goal of “providing a friendly and educational environment for children and families of all ages.” With admission to the farm, youngsters are taken on a hayride out to the pumpkin patch and allowed to pick out their own sugar pie pumpkin. Also at the farm, the Animal Barnyard gives youth the opportunity to come face to face with pygmy goats, sheep, bunnies, ponies, and chickens, which kids can also feed. Hands-on learning experiences are provided at the farm through the discovery barn, which demonstrates the farm-to-table process and displays farm equipment through the ages. In addition to numerous kid friendly games and activities, like barnyard billiards and cannon blasters, there will also be lots of food and drink options sold at the Country Store, The Grill, The Cookie Barn, and Kettle Corn and lemonade stands.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 43 Fall is a fun time at the Orr Family farm. New to the farm this year is the opportunity to stay the night in Conestoga wagons. A Conestoga wagon is a large covered wagon designed to travel large distances and were used in the 19th Century by pioneers moving west. The Conestoga Wagons aren’t built to travel long distances, but they are temperature controlled and sleep up to eight people. Staying in one of these wagons comes with access to a central firepit with complimentary s’mores and a nineteen-foot-long swim spa. SEVPisTitEoMrsB cEaRn /aOlCsoT OpuBrEchRa 2se0 1ti9ck eitosn f oOrk tlhaeh osmpea cia4l 4 Zombie Apocalypse Paintball, running from October 4-November 2, which takes kids and teens on a “war wagon” ride where they are tasked with defending the farm from a zombie infestation. September 21 is Hometown Heroes Day, which offers free tickets to military members, police, firefighters, and EMTs, as well as discounted tickets for their immediate family. Every Friday and Saturday night in October the farm will host Farm After Dark, where all attractions will be open to visitors for a unique flashlight-lit experience. On Farm After Dark nights there will also be a bonfire where families can roast marshmallows and a firework display to close out a fun-filled day at the farm. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.orrfamilyfarm.com . n
44 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 COMINGCOMING OOCTOBERCTOBER 20192019 OOKLAHOMAKLAHOMA SAVESAAAVEVETHE DATEDAATETE Speak up and NextGentGen TTALKSALKS OklahomaOklah Event stand out. Fridayddayy,, Octoberb 4, 2019
OOklahomaklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center 7777 S May AvenueAvenueven Oklahoma Cityy,, OklahomaOklaho 73159
NextGenen TalksTaalkslks is a showcase ofo 15-minute presentations designed to highlight Oklahoma’klklahoma’h ’’ss emergingi leadersleadl d who are alreeadyady making a difffererence.
Registration 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Auditorium Doors Open at 1:00pm PProgramrogram 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM MMasteraster of CerCeremoniesemonies Dick Pryor KGOU 12 Speakers Networking Reception and Happy Hour 5:30 to 7:30 TToo PurcPurchasechase TTicketsickets now:n www.nextgentalksok.comwww.neextgentalksog ok.com or tickets.occc.edu MakeMake your reservations now because this event will sell out quickly! NOW!NOW!W! NEW! NEXTGEN!NEXTGEN! CONNECTING WITH THE NOWW,, NEWW, AND NEXTNEXEXTTGENGEN COMMUNITY LLEADEREADERS AND PLANTING SEEDS WWORORTHY OF CHANGING LIVES EVENTS SEPTEMBER in the
301 W. Reno Oklahoma City
Many activities require registration; register online at myriadgardens.org
SPECIAL EVENTS BARRE3 CONTINUES at the Gardens for another season of FREE community outdoor fitness. Barre3 mixes athleticism, Namas-Bey Yoga grace and the latest innovations designed to balance the Free thanks to these sponsors: Fowler Toyota, Tinker body. Meet at The Devon Lawn. We’ll be led by an amazing Federal Credit Union & Stephenson Cancer Center team from Barre3. Bring your own yoga mat, water and Wednesday, September 4, 6-7pm plenty of gusto! This is an amazing workout. Devon Lawn Lead by This Land Yoga Instructor, Emily Madden TO CELEBRATE Beyoncé’s birthday we are hosting a “Namas- Bey” yoga class here at the gardens! Start your Countdown; Get in Formation and fall Crazy in Love with a yoga class that will change your Mood 4 Eva. Bow Down into downward dog and believe Me, Myself, and I that you will feel Flawless after this Irreplaceable class focused on Balance, Freedom, and that Beyoncé Spirit. Mutt Radio will be providing our tunes for the night! We will serve plenty of Lemonade available at this event. Latin Fest at the Gardens: Barre3 in the Gardens Food – Music – Dance Monday, September 9, 7-8pm Friday, September 13, 7-11pm The Devon Lawn and Bandshell Seasonal Plaza Bring yoga mat and water Free event FREE VIP: $25 per person September 9 on the Devon Lawn Register online at myriadgardens.org October 14, on the East Lower Lake
46 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Botanical Balance FREE YOGA Presented by Fowler Toyota, sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union and Stephenson Cancer Center Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:45 pm and Saturdays, 9 am Instructors provided by This Land Yoga Bring a mat, water Recommended for ages 16&Up Practicing yoga in the Gardens has the added benefit of connecting you with nature. The Gardens offer a space of Join us with our friends at Tango Public Relations on Friday, beauty and tranquility to help relieve stress and quiet your Sept. 13 from 7pm-11pm for a fun kick-off party to mind. Classes are open to all levels, whether you are a celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October beginner or an experienced yogi. Thanks to our new 15) in OKC. The Seasonal Plaza at Myriad Gardens will host presenting sponsor Fowler Toyota, and our generous ongoing a mariachi band with dancing, food trucks, cash bars, and sponsors Tinker Federal Credit Union and Stephenson Cancer outdoor games. Inside the Park House, a VIP area is Center, yoga is offered three times weekly free of charge. available for guests to sample from some of OKC’s best Latin cuisine, along with a bar that will include tequila tastings. Outside activities are FREE and open to the public.
Camp Out OKC Sponsored by Floyd’s RV Saturday, September 21 through Sunday, September 22, 6pm-8am The Devon Lawn and Bandshell $65 per family of 4 plus $10 per additional person (BYOT bring your own tent) YOUTH AND FAMILY CLASSES (Tents to not exceed 9 ft. x 7 ft.) Reading Wednesdays Register online at myriadgardens.org Every Wednesday, September 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10am The Devon Lawn will be transformed into an urban The South Lobby campground for families. Learn camping basics, enjoy a FREE variety of outdoor activities, and spend the evening enjoying Best for ages 2 to 5 the great outdoors. Once the sun sets, we will have an Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season. outdoor movie showing of The Jungle Book, s’more making We’ll begin with an interactive song and children will enjoy and ghost stories. Reservations include breakfast. Space is creating a small craft after the story. Join us the last limited, register by Friday, June 28 at noon. Don’t have a Wednesday of the month for reading and craft time with the tent? Rent one from Outdoors Geek. Enter code: “campout” Downtown Library. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi to receive 10% off your purchase! Clifford at (405) 835-6789.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 47 Woodland Terrariums Magical Monarch Migration Friday, September 6, 6-7pm Thursday, September 12, 6-7pm The Garden Classroom The Garden Classroom Member $12; Nonmember $15 Member $5; Nonmember $6 Best for ages 6 to 12 Best for ages 7 to 10 Register by Monday, September 2 at Register by Monday, Sept 9 at myriadgardens.org myriadgardens.org Every fall, millions of CREATE A FALL terrarium to last all winter long. Learn a bit monarchs travel south to about woodland Mexico. Here in Oklahoma, creatures as we make a we are lucky to see this woodland theme glass migration happen. In this globe planter using class, we will learn about this easy-to-care-for marvelous creature with crafts succulents and mini and games and find a few woodland animals and flora. ways we can help them arrive safely in Mexico. Put your new knowledge to work and join us Little Saplings-Fall Session the next two Fridays after this class for monarch tagging in Every other Tuesday, 10-11am the Children’s Garden. September 10, September 24, October 8, October 22, November 5, November 19, December 3 Monarch Tagging Walk-Ups Children’s Garden Porch Friday, September 13 and 20, 2-3pm Member $3; Nonmember $4 Children’s Garden Porch Best for ages 2 to 5 FREE Register by Friday before WITH THE CRISP air of Pick a date at myriadgardens.org autumn on its way, our JOIN US in the gardens are filled with the Children’s Garden for vibrant beauty of Monarch an hour of songs, butterflies making their way games and interactive south once more! To gain more nature fun. Toddlers – information and learn about and parents – will their journey, people all over the learn about the country participate in Monarch tagging. Join us for a quick demon- exciting world of stration of how and why we tag Monarchs at the Gardens! gardens in an engaging and educational way. Each week features a new theme with corresponding activities and Sprouting Chefs: Healthful Mug Cakes learning opportunities. Every Little Saplings event begins Presented by Sprouts with a song, ends with a sensory bin, and includes a hands- Saturday, September 14, 10-11:30am on craft. The Garden Classroom
48 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Member $15; Nonmember $17 Learn what, when, and how to prune. Class will meet in the Taught by Toni Washington small gazebo at Chisholm Trail Park in Yukon. For families, preferably kids ages 7 and up Register by Tuesday, Sept 10 at myriadgardens.org Native Seed Collecting LEARN HOW to make quick and healthful mug cakes without Tuesday, September 10, 6:30pm the hassle and time of using an oven. The Garden Classroom We’ll talk about simple ingredients, Member $14; Nonmember $19 like flour, sugar and fruit and Adam Sarmiento, Eco Landscaping then get to creating and Register online at myriadgardens.org eating these tasty cakes. AUTUMN IS the perfect time for collecting native seeds. Join Everyone will get to us in this hands-on seed collecting expedition in one of our decorate and take their signature spaces – Oklahoma Prairie Garden. The class will mug home to continue begin with a brief indoor presentation and then transition the fun. outdoors for the workshop portion.
Sprouting Chefs: Pumpkins and Apples and Fall Nature Photography Workshop Presented by Sprouts Saturday, September 14, 1pm Saturday, September 21, 10-11am The Garden Classroom The Garden Classroom Member $18; Nonmember $24 Member $10; Nonmember $12 Doug Hoke, Director of Photography, The Oklahoman Donna Jung, FCS Extension Educator with Register online at myriadgardens.org Canadian County PARTAKE IN A unique adventure through the viewfinder of For families and children ages 5 and up your camera. Capture vibrant photos of garden landscapes, Register by Tuesday, Sept 17 at myriadgardens.org flowers, insects, and birds. Class begins indoors and then DIVE RIGHT IN to all things fall as we talk about two of our proceeds to the Crystal Bridge Conservatory and/or outdoors favorite fall fruits – apples and pumpkins. We’ll learn about (weather permitting) for hands-on instruction. Bring your these fruits and then make a few easy and creative recipes own camera. using them, including how to spice up your pancakes.
Easy Plant Propagation ADULT CLASSES Saturday, September 21, 1pm Proper Pruning The Garden Classroom Saturday, September 7, 1pm Member $18; Nonmember $24 Yukon, Oklahoma–Chisholm Trail Park Courtney Keck, Canadian County Extension Member $9; Nonmember $14 Register online at myriadgardens.org Courtney Keck, Canadian County Extension LEARN WHAT propagation is and how you can easily do this Register online at myriadgardens.org at home. Plants will be provided for you to propagate from, Trimming stems and branches is an important practice in as well as soil, containers, and other needed materials. n maintaining a healthy and well-manicured lawn or garden.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 49 PEOPLE Kara Byrd: Bringing Durant’s Strategic Vision to Life
BY GARLAND MCWATTERS host of The Spirit of Leading podcast
ara Byrd, executive director of Kara learned that some people readily get the vision, while Imagine Durant, will be the first others take a while to see it. “If you are not able to have to tell you that the heart and soul vision, you don’t know where you are going. A lot of people K had seen where we were, and thought what we have done is of any community is its people, and the animating energy of not working; so, what is it that we can do any group is the vision it has that will get us to exactly where we want to for who they can become be? . . . People started coming to the table together. and realizing that we are so much more and Since January 2015, Kara has been the so much stronger when we are together.” one and only paid staff of Imagine Durant, Kara points to the community trails the community wide strategic vision program as an early success. Citizens from process that emerged from an intensive all walks of life said they wanted a healthy community visioning effort facilitated by place to walk, run, or to ride a bike. The wife Integral City Meshworks, Inc. of an architect was looking at the city maps Growing the community vision and saw the potential for a trail system that Kara explains that the Durant’s strategic followed the waterways through Durant. The Kara Byrd vision is centered around three themes: a volunteer planning group applied for and healthy and connected culture, a vibrant and thriving received a grant from the National Park Service. The first community, and a community where all citizens can learn. trail opened as the Nowa Oka Trail, which is Choctaw for These themes speak to both the current community needs “Water Walk.” and the need to attract a quality workforce. “We are growing in our job market. We have to have a Personal challenges and growth qualified workforce. In order to have that, the people who are Kara has accomplished much young in life. After moving in here are going to want to see infrastructure and a graduating from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in great quality of life. People started understanding about 2008, Kara took her first job with the Oklahoma State how everything was integrated together.” Department of Health working with the Tobacco Settlement
50 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Endowment Trust to educate young people on the tobacco industry’s marketing targeted at young people. Her innovative ideas were adopted in several Oklahoma communities. She was selected to the 2016 class of NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma Leaders. The Journal Record named her to its 40 Achievers Under 40 list. However, she is quick to credit Greg Massey, CEO of First United Bank, for keeping her balanced through her own learning process. “He taught me how to look past my own perspective and see the perspective of others and how important it is to be a life-long learner.” Kara said that when you can step outside yourself and see that what you are working for and toward is the bigger goal, it is easier to push past those things. Kara said that when she finished college, she was determined not to pick up another book unless it was a
First mural, left, Kara with Stephanie Gardner in front of first downtown mural depicting Durant as a pass through for migrating Monarch butterflies. Below, Kara with volunteers at opening day of Durant’s farmers’ market. L-R Jenilee Hitchcock, Kara, Stephanie Gardner (Durant Main Street), Brandy Heath.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 51 Above, City stakeholders review planning maps. Center, Kara being interviewed by KTEN reporters at one of the Durant trails. Right, Kara addressing Durant City Council.
Left, from left to right, Ron Drake, Flip this Town author and consultant on downtown living, Stephanie Gardner, Kara, and Amelia Mugavero KTEN reporter. “We began looking at our statistics in Durant and Bryan County . . . There are actually three habits or behaviors here in the county that lead to poor chronic conditions that lead to sixty percent of deaths in our residents here, and all of them are preventable—that’s tobacco use, poor diet, and sedentary life style that leads to cardio-vascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and lung disease.” fiction novel. But Massey impressed on her that learning is a Kara said they are trying to enlist the help of Blue Zones, life-long journey and that she wouldn’t go any farther in life LLC, and their methodology that has been successful in until she learned that. Coincidentally, one of the pillars of improving the healthy life style habits of communities, Durant’s strategic vision is a place where people can resulting in impressive gains in wellness and lowering the continue to learn. negative impact of unhealthy choices. Blue Zones will It was Massey and Choctaw Chief, Gary Batten, who assess Durant to determine if the community is ready for pioneered the Imagine Durant project in 2013. their involvement at this time. Kara looks back over the past five years since becoming The next big things for Durant the executive director for Imagine Durant and how it has Kara identified three immediate areas the unfolding impacted her. “When Imagine Durant started, I was a strategic plan will address. One is aligning business owners goldfish in a bowl—I didn’t allow myself to expand or to with all facets of the educational system to foster a quality realize there were these bigger possibilities. Through the workforce. Another is to continue to encourage process of five years I have grown and stretched beyond my communication between the municipal and county wildest imagination.” governments since Durant is expanding beyond its city Listen to the entire conversation with Kara Byrd on The limits. The third is addressing the healthy and connected Spirit of Leading podcast: www.inpoweredtolead.com/sol- culture theme. podcast/ . n
52 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 53 PEOPLE Colin Forsey rocks El Reno British born guitarist jammed with music legends
BY BILL O’BRIEN
n their recently published and British-born Colin Forsey could have been another immigrant critically acclaimed “Our Towns, A whose efforts could have chronicled in their work. 100,000 Mile Journey Into the Heart Forsey, who is in his early 70’s, was a British rocker who I was part of the early rock-n-roll scene in London, England of America,” authors James and Deborah Fallows document that while our and later served as a record producer for CBS Records. He is national government is often in gridlock, a full of tales about rock-n-roll royalty such as Jimmie Page of combination of public and private Led Zeppelin and Eric Clapton. collaborative efforts at the state and local Some years ago, he followed a woman to El Reno and level are reviving many formerly moribund decided to remain here after their romance fizzled out. He communities has opened a recording store on throughout the nation. Bickford Avenue in downtown El Interestingly, many of the Reno, and more recently he and individuals who are involved in his partner Bonnie Jordan that process are not native to opened a combination wine bar, the places that they are restaurant, and art gallery successfully transforming and beneath that studio that is are often people from different known as “Our Glass.” parts of the country or foreign While that establishment has immigrants. a modest façade, its interior The authors write about features powdered brick walls dynamic Native Americans and and a stone bar that conveys Hispanic immigrants who tradition and a degree of speak accented English and elegance. On one wall is a have become essential series of artwork that is components of these reviving places due to their expertise available for purchase, and Forsey explains that artists and dedication. display their work there for a month’s time for a fee. Unlike However, it is unfortunate that the authors did not include most art galleries where patrons enter on one occasion and the Canadian County community of El Reno in their visits to look at the work on display, the customers who frequent his smaller towns that are currently being energized because place see that art presented on different occasions, and
54 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Colin and Jordan partnered to open Our Glass a year ago at 108 S. Bickford in El Reno. The wine and craft beer delicatessen is an effort to bring first-class dining and entertainment to the downtown area. Below, a rack of wine and a selection of food. some of them develop in time an apprecia-tion of the work which was a candidate for an award in the Oklahoma Main that prompts them to purchase it. Street’s Annual Awards Program, has prompted Forsey and Live musical entertainment is offered there as well on Jordan to begin another ambitious project on the same occasion by performers who Forsey’s trained eye has seen as street that will transform a building into a live concert having promise. In addition, the place also serves as some- venue location that will include a kitchen where traditional what of a literary salon in which on designated evenings pizza will be prepared for sale. aspiring writers from throughout the area read the poetry Forsey, who reports that he is a man of deep Christian and fiction they have written. faith, believes that downtown El Reno could be a destination The sandwiches served there are named for influential for people from throughout the region as they seek artists and exotic items such as pickle soup which is entertainment and good food and drink. n available on occasions. And the success of the Our Glass,
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 55 OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Date Opponent Time
Oct. 23 at Utah 8:00 Oct. 25 Washington 7:00 Oct. 27 Golden State 2:30 Oct. 28 at Houston 7:00 Oct. 30 Portland 7:00 Nov. 2 New Orleans 4:00 Nov. 5 Orlando 7:00 Nov. 7 at San Antonio 7:30 Nov. 9 Golden State 7:00 Nov. 10 Milwaukee 6:00 Nov. 12 at Indiana 6:00 Nov. 15 Philadelphia 7:00 Nov. 18 at LA Clippers 9:30 Nov. 19 at LA Lakers 9:30 Nov. 22 LA Lakers 7:00 Nov. 25 at Golden State 9:30 Nov. 27 at Portland 9:00 Nov. 29 New Orleans 7:00 Dec. 1 at New Orleans 5:00 Dec. 4 Indiana 7:00 Dec. 6 Minnesota 7:00 Dec. 8 at Portland 8:00 Dec. 9 at Utah 8:00 Dec. 11 at Sacramento 9:00 Dec. 14 at Denver 8:00 home game . Dec. 16 Chicago 7:00 *Times are subject to change Dec. 18 Memphis 7:00
GO! GO!
56 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 2019-2020 SCHEDULE
Date Opponent Time Date Opponent Time
Dec. 20 Phoenix 7:00 Feb. 21 Denver 7:00 Dec. 22 LA Clippers 6:00 Feb. 23 San Antonio 6:00 Dec. 26 Memphis 7:00 Feb. 25 at Chicago 7:00 Dec. 27 at Charlotte 6:00 Feb. 27 Sacramento 7:00 Dec. 29 at Toronto 5:00 Feb. 28 at Milwaukee 7:00 Dec. 31 Dallas 7:00 Mar. 3 LA Clippers 7:00 Jan. 2 at San Antonio 7:30 Mar. 4 at Detroit 6:00 Jan. 4 at Cleveland 6:30 Mar. 6 at New York 6:30 Jan. 6 at Philadelphia 6:00 Mar. 8 at Boston 5:00 Jan. 7 at Brooklyn 6:30 Mar. 11 Utah 7:00 Jan. 9 Houston 8:30 Mar. 13 Minnesota 7:00 Jan. 11 LA Lakers 7:00 Mar. 15 at Washington 5:00 Jan. 13 at Minnesota 7:00 Mar. 17 at Memphis 7:00 Jan. 15 Toronto 7:00 Mar. 18 at Atlanta 6:30 Jan. 17 Miami 7:00 Mar. 20 Denver 7:00 tJan. 18 Portland 8:00 Mar. 23 at Miami 6:30 Jan. 20 at Houston 4:00 Mar. 26 Charlotte 7:00 Jan. 22 at Orlando 6:00 Mar. 28 at Golden State 7:30 Jan. 24 Atlanta 7:00 Mar. 30 at Denver 8:00 Jan. 25 at Minnesota 7:00 Apr. 1 Phoenix 7:00 Jan. 27 Dallas 7:00 Apr. 4 at LA Clippers 2:30 Jan. 29 at Sacramento 9:00 Apr. 5 at LA Lakers 8:30 Jan. 31 at Phoenix 8:00 Apr. 7 Brooklyn 7:00 Feb. 5 Cleveland 7:00 Apr. 10 New York 7:00 Feb. 7 Detroit 7:00 Apr. 11 at Memphis 7:00 Feb. 9 Boston 2:30 Apr. 13 Utah 7:00 Feb. 11 San Antonio 7:00 Apr. 15 at Dallas 6:30 Feb. 13 at New Orleans 7:00
GO! GO THUNDER!
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 57 EVENTS
Oklahoma City Boathouse REGATTA FESTIVAL 15th annual Regatta Festival coming to OKC Oct. 4-6
BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN
he Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation will host its annual Regatta Festival, which has T been bringing the community together around the Oklahoma River for 15 years. Gather family and friends on the riverfront for rowing, kayaking, dragon boating, and whitewater rafting races, as well as a firework show on Saturday night. While enjoying the races, there will be plenty of food supplied by local food trucks as well as a beer garden. This year’s festival will run from October 4-6 in the boathouse district of Oklahoma City. The term “regatta” comes from the Italian word for “contest” and typically describes a series of boat races. Several years ago, “the Oklahoma River was nothing more than a ditch dividing the city. In 2004, the city
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 59 decided to build dams to make it more of a river,” explains Mike Knopp, the OKC Boathouse Foundation’s executive director. “The goal was to make the Oklahoma River a place that people gather,” Knopp continues. “The Oklahoma River is now a world class amenity conducive to racing. In 2013, it became the first river in the world with permanent stadium lighting fixtures over the river to accommodate night racing.” This signature fall rowing event attracts collegiate rowers from all over Regatta Festival. head race for teams from across the the country as well as some Olympic The main event of this festival country competing at the junior, hopefuls. There will be 1,200 athletes is the Oklahoma City University’s Head collegiate, and masters level. There will participating in races at this year’s of Oklahoma race, which is a 2.5-mile also be corporate white-water rafting
60 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 races. Among this year’s corporate rafting teams will be for the OKC Boathouse Foundation to allocate money to help employees from corporations such as Love’s, OG&E, and disadvantaged children have access to education and Integris. At night they’ll be holding the Nightsprints, which equipment for outdoor activities. Athletes who have gotten are 500-meter races illuminated by the river’s stadium started in rowing as a result of the opportunities the OKC lights. After all the races are finished for the day on Boathouse Foundations offer have gone on to earn more Saturday there will be a fireworks show. than $8 million in scholarships for college. This year’s festival will also have fun and This festival is free to watch and open to the educational activities for children. Oklahoma City is one of general public. To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the four cities that the Outdoor Foundation has awarded a Regatta Festival, special discounted passes for October 5 Thrive Outside grant, which is designed to help advance the will be available for the SandRidge Sky Trail, Sky Slides, outdoor culture of the city. Cloud Bounce, and a white-water rafting experience. For At the Regatta Festival, youngsters will have the more information and to purchase experience passes, visit opportunity to learn about rowing, climbing, and other ways riversportokc.org . n to be active outdoors. The Thrive Outside grant also allows
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 61
ART
Colors of Clay Show opens at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Ceramic arts exhibition showcases items that were necessary in Native American culture
BY MJ VAN DEVENTER
he traditions of Native American ceramic arts, titled “Colors of Clay,” T opened Aug. 30 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The show will run through May 10, 2020. The exhibition explores the cultural and regional diversity of Native American ceramic traditions in North America. Visitors will view 60 one-of-a-kind vibrantly colored pieces including clay pots, bowls, pitchers and jars. All were sculpted with absolute precision, according to the Museum staff. These items, which were once seen as a daily life necessity in the Native American culture, are now one of its most notable and collectible art forms. Some of the items date back thousands of years. They are an artistic medium equal to the culture’s oil paintings, watercolors or sculptures. The exhibition shows how the skilled hands of an artist takes a piece from its humble beginnings as clay into a beautiful work of art, steeped in ancestral methods while creating unique shapes and intricate designs. “The story of each vessel is told in colors and designs that will delight the imaginations of Museum visitors of all ages,” according to Natalie Shirley, Museum President and CEO. “The
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 63 64 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 process of how these pieces evolved from simple, raw organic materials sculpted by hand into inspiring works of Native American art is something that will resonate with everyone who sees them.” Visitors also can have a hands-on experience with the various interactive educational materials comprising the show. A sitting area also will be available for those who just wish to enjoy the colorful art in a leisurely fashion.. Several videos will be on view to help visitors understand the various ceramic processes, such as firing and other specialty techniques. Paired with the show is a collection of wall images from famed 19th century photographer Edward J. Curtis. His body of work focuses primarily on Native American people and the American West. Curtis was considered to be the utmost authority on Native Americans. n
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 65 BUSINESS Bedré Fine Chocolate’s new Dark Chocolate Premium Sauce can be used in cocktails, milkshakes and desserts.
PHOTO PROVIDED
hocolate lovers, rejoice . Oklahoma-owned Bedré Fine Chocolate has a new C temptation. Dark Chocolate Premium Sauce can be used in desserts, coffee-based drinks, cold drinks such as chocolate milk and milkshakes, and to create decadent cocktails “This dark chocolate sauce is so rich and chocolatey, you can enjoy it just with spoon or add it to your favorite foods. You’re only limited by your imagination,” said Kay Colbert, general manager for Bedré. Although it’s only available online and in the retail store in Davis for now, Bedré is working to distribute the chocolate sauce to its partner retailers, restaurants and caterers. The chocolate sauce is the first in a line of sauces. The company plans to expand the line with milk chocolate and caramel sauces in the future. Bedré specializes in a variety of gourmet chocolate creations, including bite-size Meltaways, Chocolate Crisps, White Fudge Peppermint Bark and much more. Seasonal offerings like the popular chocolate-dipped strawberries are also available. Bedré products are sold in several stores across the states, as well as the retail store in Davis, at Exit 55 on I-35. For other retailers and to order online, go to bedrechocoaltes.com. Purchased by the Chickasaw Nation in 2000, Bedré Fine Chocolate blends ancient tradition with modern flavor to produce world-class premium gourmet chocolates. n
66 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 67 PEOPLE HALL OF FAME PRESENTERS 2019
The Presenters are pictured above the Honorees they will introduce during the 2019 induction ceremony.
68 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 he accomplished Oklahomans [email protected] , or directly from being inducted into the 2019 oklahomahof.com/banquet-induction-ceremony . For Oklahoma Hall of Fame Class each general information about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame T Banquet & Induction Ceremony, including pricing have selected the individual to formally present them at the November information and a description of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 21st banquet and induction ceremony. Patron levels, please visit OklahomaHoF.com. The 2019 Being inducted into Oklahoma Hall of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Presenters are: Fame is Oklahoma’s Mike Cawley , highest honor. The Ardmore, presenting portraits of the 2019 James C. Day; Inductees will be Christy Everest , added to the Oklahoma City, permanent collection presenting Tricia held by the Oklahoma Everest; Francis Hall of Fame at the Ford Coppola , San Gaylord-Pickens Francisco, CA, Museum in Oklahoma presenting Gray City. Their biographies, Frederickson; Bill Moore , Oklahoma City, presenting John photos and videos can be viewed through interactive Herrington; Tom Coburn , Tulsa, presenting Steve Largent; exhibits in the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gallery, along with Dave Whitlock , Tahlequah, presenting John Nickel; Barry stories of all Honorees. Switzer , Norman, presenting J.C. Watts, Jr.; Allen Wright The Oklahoma Hall of Fame preserves Oklahoma’s history will accept the honor on behalf of Chief Allen Wright by telling Oklahoma’s story through its people. Founded in (Kiliahote), who is being inducted posthumously. 1927, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame was created to honor The 92nd class will be inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Oklahomans who have given outstanding service to the Fame on the evening of Thursday, November 21 at the state during their lifetime and to provide educational CoxConvention Center in Oklahoma City. These accomplished programming for students of all ages. Through exhibits and Oklahomans will join the cast of 698 individuals who have experiences at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, the Oklahoma been inducted into the Hall since 1928. Masters of Hall of Fame stands to preserve Oklahoma’s unique history Ceremonies will be announced on Sunday, September 15th. while promoting pride in our great state. For more A limited number of individual tickets to the 2019 information about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame or Gaylord- Oklahoma Hall of Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony are Pickens Museum, visit oklahomahof.com or call on sale now and exclusively available by contacting Michelle 405.235.4458. n Sopp, Director of Development, at 405.523.3207,
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 69 EVENTS
Tulsa Greek Festival packed with food, cultural experiences and dancing
BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN
hat do Oklahoma and Greece have in common? Well, usually W not much, but from September 19-22 Tulsa’s Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church will be having their annual Greek Festival. This four-day, culture-packed festival is open to the public and will feature authentic Greek food, folk dancing, and lots of cultural activities for the whole family. This year’s festival will also feature a book signing event with Gina Michalopulos Kingsley. The Tulsa Greek Festival’s roots go back to 1961, where it started as a fundraiser dinner at the Tulsa Hotel supporting the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Ekko Tboone, co- chair for the festival, proclaims that “the Tulsa Greek Festival is the oldest ethnic festival in Tulsa.” This year’s theme is “The Best Lil Stop in Opa!homa,” which acknowledges the fact that the church is located just steps from historic Route 66. Tboone says “this festival is truly an experience that includes the sights, sounds, and smells of Greece!” This festival will have live Greek music as well as traditional Greek folk dancing. Dancers will perform cultural dances from Makedonia, Thrace, Thessaly, Epiros, Dancers perform traditional Greek dances Roumeli, Asia Minor, Crete, and the East Aegean Islands,
70 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 among others. Dancers will wear costumes reflecting the culture of the region represented by their dance. Dance groups will vary in age from kindergarteners to college aged to adult. On Friday and Saturday evenings they’ll be “Bringing the Kefi Back,” which gives festival attendees the opportunity to join in on the dancing. Younger visitors can visit the Kid Zone for a small additional cost that benefits Emergency Infant Services. The Kid Zone offers children the opportunity to go on a Fire Station Tour, play on an Inflatable Playground, as well as learn about Greek culture through the creation of Greek themed
Food and pastries are festival favorites.
arts and crafts. Attending this festival will also offer a unique opportunity to explore the church itself with a Church Tour on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with Father George Gartelos. Additionally, there will be several vendors present selling various Greek goods. Cotzia’s Fine Art sells Greek-inspired jewelry and art, Hellini’s Imports sells Greek-themed own parishioners, a first-generation t-shirts and souvenirs, Belcher Greek American author, signing her Enterprises sells imported Greek book inside the boutique area,” Tboone clothing and ceramics, and Yia Yia’s tells. He is referring to Gina Attic sells a wide variety of gently Michalopulos Kingsley, author of A used books and housewares. Magic Carpet Ride, which is a travel This year “we will have one of our memoir with themes of family and
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 71 Dancers perform cultural dances from the various Greek regions personal discovery. chicken or pork pita, spanakopita and or background. Tickets are available at Finally, there will be several vendors tyropita filled with either spinach or the door and cost $5 for adults after 6 providing authentic Greek cuisine. Kefi cheese. There will also be several p.m. Thursday and Friday and all-day on Greek Street is a new vendor this can’t-miss desserts in The Bakery, Saturday and Sunday. The festival is year that will be offering loukaniko such as baklava, galaktoboureko, always free for children under 12 years (pork sausage), Greek salad, keftedes kouroumbiedes, koulourakia, old. As Tboone reminds, “Never forget, (meatballs), and saganaki (flaming melomakarona, and loukoumades. always remember —it’s the third week cheese). The Taverna will offer Greek imported of every September.” Greek Street Eats sells gyros three beer and wine, as well as Opa!Coladas Visit tulsagreekfestival.com for different ways, either classic, naked, or and Kefi Frozen Lemonade made with more information about this festival. n gyro fries, as well as calamari and Ouzo, a Greek anise-flavored liquor. Greek fries. Opa!homa Entrees will The Tulsa Greek Festival is feature lamb, chicken or pork souvlaki, open to everyone regardless of religion
72 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
BUSINESS
Comparing white, blue and grey collar workers THE HARRIS POLL
ollowing the inaugural survey of substantial job growth in their fields over the coming years, America’s blue collar workers in they are an important segment to survey in order to F 2018, Express Employment accurately capture American employment data as a whole. Professionals has partnered once again with The Harris Poll to learn more College: Was it Worth it? about how today’s white collar workers For workers with a high-school diploma or less, more than compare with blue collar employees and half look back and wish they had a four-year degree or those who fall in the middle—grey collar attended a community college or vocational school. Seventy- professions. nine percent of grey collar workers and 72% of blue collar Despite a similar outlook of the future, regardless of collar workers believe they would have had more opportunities if color, the survey revealed American workers have they had attended college. substantial student loan debt, are not saving enough for For those with a college degree, more than 1 in 3 grey retirement, but feel their jobs provide a good living for the collar workers, 35%, and almost 1 in 4 white collar workers, present. 24%, say they think the higher education they received is absolutely essential to their current job. In fact, most college Grey Collar Work? graduates, 79% grey collar and 70% white collar, think Grey collar work combines some of the manual labor going to college was worth every penny. aspects of blue collar work but also has components of However, some college-educated workers express regret white collar work. For the purposes of this study, Harris about their decision, wishing they had attended community defines grey collar workers as working in jobs such as, college, vocational school or had gone straight into the airline pilot or flight attendant, farmer or land manager, workforce instead (46% blue collar, 31% white collar, 30% certified or licensed salesperson, clergy, childcare worker, grey collar). Nearly 1 in 3 college graduates say they have engineer, firefighter, paralegal, military, teacher or non- too much student loan debt (32% grey collar, 31% white physician healthcare professional. collar) and cannot find a good job despite their college A full survey methodology and enlarged infographic are degree (33% white collar, 28% grey collar). Eighteen available below. Grey collar industries emerged as the percent of white collar workers and 16% of grey collar forgotten workforce when comparing demographics and workers have at least $25,000 worth of student loan debt, sentiments between the traditional stereotypical white and and those with student loans estimate it will take blue collar jobs. But with 40% of grey collar workers expecting approximately seven to eight years to pay it off.
74 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Retirement: Saving for the Future While blue, grey and white collar workers are still paying off student loans, 62% of blue collar, 45% of grey and 40% of white collar workers also say they have less than $5,000 saved in case of an emergency. White collar workers are the most likely segment to have a larger fund of $25,000 or more saved for emergencies, 33%, with only 24% of grey collar and 11% of blue collar workers reporting the same amount. The majority of all workers are worried about saving enough for retirement (73% blue collar, 62% white collar, 59% grey collar) and only about half of workers are currently setting aside money for the later years (58% white collar, 53% grey collar). Blue collar workers are the group least likely to save for the future at only 42%.
Content in the Present But for now, job satisfaction is high among most workers. Eighty- eight percent of grey collar workers and 86% of both blue and white collar workers say they are at least somewhat satisfied with their job and an average of 89% of all workers are proud of the work. They believe their job provides them a good living financially to support their family (81% white collar, 80% blue collar, 77% grey collar) and few are worried they might lose their position in the future (13% blue collar, 13% white collar, 12% grey collar). Most white and grey collar workers believe their boss cares about them personally (80% white collar, 77% grey collar) and that their company cares about its employees (80% white collar, 77% grey collar), though blue collar workers are the least likely to agree with this sentiment at 71%. Regardless of their type of work, the top reason U.S. workers value their field is the ability to make a good living wage at 53%. Having flexible work hours is also a top reason for job satisfaction (47% white collar, 42% grey collar, 35% blue collar). Conversely, white and grey collar workers say the top thing they dislike about their job is having limited or no advancement opportunities (30% white collar, 27% grey collar). Blue collar workers mostly dislike that their job can be dangerous at times, 39%, though they also report limited or no advancement opportunities, 28%, as reasons they dislike their field. Financially, about half of all workers describe themselves as middle class, and most say they’ve received a pay increase in the last year
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 75 (76% white collar, 70% grey collar, • Economy: grey and white collar who would encourage a child to pursue 68% blue collar). White collar and blue 51%, each the same career, the top reasons for collar workers are more likely to say • Health Care: grey collar 54%, white doing so include because it’s enjoyable they received a promotion in the past collar 50% and profitable. year (36% white collar, 35% blue • Immigration: grey and white collar Notably, grey collar workers are far collar, 29% grey collar). Over half of 43%, each more likely to encourage a child to U.S. workers anticipate they will receive • Affordability of daily living: grey explore a career in their field than a pay increase this year or next year collar 43%, white collar 39% white collar workers because they (68% white collar, 60% grey collar, anticipate high demand for their job in 55% blue collar). the future (grey collar 45%, white collar Political Differences? 31%). Not So Much Eight-in-10 U.S. At a time when the workers are optimistic country is divided along about their future many lines, views on (83% grey collar, 83% political parties are notably white collar, 80% blue similar between the collar) and most groups. When asked which parents are hopeful for political party does a better their children, agreeing job of helping Americans in with the idea that their their line of work, there is children will have an no consensus. even better future than • Blue collar: 39% they will (88% blue Republican, 36% Democratic, 24% Hopeful for Their Profession in collar, 81% grey collar, 75% white neither the Future collar). And despite any past or future • Grey collar: 35% Republican, Looking down the road, roughly 3 in 4 worries, an overwhelm-ing majority say 38% Democratic, 25% neither workers believe there is a good career their life is moving in the right • White collar: 39% Republican, path in their line of work (75% white direction (88% grey collar, 86% white 37% Democratic, 22% neither collar, 74% blue collar, 72% grey collar, 85% blue collar). With 2020 approaching, the 2019 collar) and would encourage a friend or survey also polled grey and white collar family member to pursue a job in it Archaic Labels respondents on their concerns ahead of (70% grey collar, 68% white collar, Although most U.S. white collar the election. (Similar questions were 64% blue collar). However, they are (83%) and grey collar (81%) workers not posed to blue collar workers in the less enthusiastic about encouraging a view labels such as “grey collar” and 2018 survey). Respondents could select child to follow in their footsteps with “white collar” as a good way to all issues that applied. The concerns only 64% of white collar, 62% of grey describe the work they do, they also see that rise to the top for U.S. workers are collar and 51% of blue collar workers them as old-fashioned and non- as follows: making the recommendation. For those applicable anymore (62% grey collar,
76 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 56% white collar). When grey and of purpose and pride it gives the one of the following professions: airline white collar workers were asked which worker,” said Bill Stoller, CEO of pilot or flight attendant, agribusiness definition or label best describes the Express. “White, grey and blue collar professional (e.g., farmer, land work they do, their responses reveal an Americans have clear differences, but manager), certified/licensed overlap in classification. they are also telling us that they feel salesperson (e.g., real estate broker, Eighty percent of white collar workers good about themselves, their families stockbroker, insurance broker), clergy describe their work as “white collar,” and their future. That’s a good news (e.g., minister, rabbi, imam), child care while 49% of grey collar workers also story.” (e.g., nanny, au pair), engineer (e.g., classify their work as “white collar.” mechanical, electrical, avionics, civil), Another 25% of grey firefighter, funeral collar workers define director/technician, food their duties as “grey preparation and catering collar,” and 14% say (e.g., chef, sous chef), “blue collar.” Eleven high-technology technician percent of grey collar (e.g., lab technician, workers define their helpdesk technician, IT position as professional, medical “something else.” equipment repair, solar While the majority of panel installer), non- white collar (76%) and physician healthcare grey collar (73%) professional (e.g., nurse, workers believe emergency medical labeling a profession services personnel, as “blue collar,” “grey physician’s assistant), collar” or “white paralegal, police officer, collar” is not personally offensive, they About the Survey protective services, military, security or do think the labeling hurts how people The survey was conducted online civil defense, professional view a particular line of work (62% within the United States by The Harris musician/artist, school administrator, grey collar, 59% white collar). In fact, Poll on behalf of Express Employment teacher, educator, or other academic more than 1 in 4 grey collar (31%) and Professionals between June 18 and July field worker, or typist/stenographer). white collar (27%) workers even say 8, 2019 among 1,011 U.S. white collar Figures are weighted where they would likely be in another profes- workers (defined as adults ages 18+ in necessary by age, by gender, sion if it weren’t for the assigned label the U.S. who are employed full-time, race/ethnicity, region, education, (e.g., “blue collar,” “white collar”). part-time, or self-employed and works income, marital status, employment, “The value of work is not found in the in an office, cubicle, or other household size and propensity to be color of the collar one wears, the administrative setting) and 1,019 grey online to bring them into line with their location of a job, the existence of an collar workers (defined as adults ages actual proportions in the population. n office or even the size of the paycheck. 18+ who are employed full-time, part- The value of work is found in the sense time, or self-employed and works in
77 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 77 ART
Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale
BY M. J. VAN DEVENTER
dozen of the country’s show will feature one-of-a-kind handcrafted leading western original art demonstrating the finest work cowboy artists will available to those who admire and collect A cowboy trappings. present approximately 50 of their one-of-a-kind The artists include Wilson Capron, Beau original crafted art at an Compton, Mark Dahl, Pablo Lozano, Scott Hardy, exhibition opening October Leland Hensley, Ernie Marsh, Pedro Pedrini, Cary 4 at the National Cowboy Schwarz, Nate Wald, Troy West and John & Western Heritage Museum. These cowboys don’t deal in traditional art. Their mediums are far different. Instead, like most cowboy artists who paint on canvas or sculpt in marble, these work with some of the toughest materials to tame. Their mediums are fine leathers, silver, bronze, even hard as rock jewels. They call themselves “traditional, cowboy artists.” Ranchers, cowboys and cattlemen have been using these materials since cowboys first roamed and tried to turn into art .and corral the great American West. Their “brand” is TCAA — short for the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association. The artists who come from across the country for this exhibition, the 21st annual show, are saddle makers, silversmiths, rawhide braiders and bit and spur creators. The
78 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Willemsma. Their art specialties include The TCAA is comprised of a small band of silversmithing; rawhide braiding, bit and spur and 20 artisans. Some who were among the founding group saddle making. have died; others have taken emeritus status. McCorkle says “One of the most unusual pieces in the show is a saddle the members are “pleased to be included in the roster of that pays tribute to the women who rode bucking horses in events at the National Cowboy Museum. We are not part of early day rodeos,” says Kent McCorkle, who is the CEO for the Museum but we love showing here.” To those collectors the TCAA. “The piece pushes the envelope of creativity,” he who come year after year, they can’t imagine any other says. venue so perfect to show their art. McCorkle and Don Bellamy were among the traditional Natalie Shirley, the Museum’s President and CEO, says, cowboy art enthusiasts who met in Elko, Nevada 22 years “These artists who comprise the TCAA are among the most ago to create the TCAA. Now, as the CEO, skilled artists working today, creating McCorkle says, “I’m not an artist but extraordinarily beautiful art that Fm a collector in a small way.” His evolved from the tools of the forte is his business skill. His working cowboy. The show and mission in that position is to sale is a highlight, not only instruct and inspire the for those with an interest artists who are creating in the cowboy arts, but for work of consistent quality those with an interest in and maintaining the art, indeed.” purpose of the TCAA, The exhibition begins which is to elevate the with an exclusive preview traditional cowboy arts. Friday, October 4 at 6 Included in that mission p.m. to offer potential is elevating the quality of the buyers and collectors the traditional cowboy arts being opportunity to preview the created today ~ art that will show, before the sale, beginning at inspire those who value and collect 5 p.m. October 5. Reservations for the these works of art. “It is important to event are available at maintain the high level of quality and inspire other nationalcowbovymuseum.org/tcaa . Proxy bidding is also traditional western artists to create quality works. To do available at [email protected] that, we annually provide a $24,000 scholarship to a Major sponsors for the event include Kraig and Deborah potential artist to help maintain our trade. I have a Kirschner, Alan and Nadine Levin, Norris Family Foundation, tremendous appreciation for their art,” McCorkle says. BancFirst, Mike and Sheila Ingram, NBC. n
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 79 TRAVEL
Lost and Found OKLAHOMA
BY JESSE EDGAR
ince I found my passion for photography, Oklahoma history, S and abandoned architecture, I have met a lot of other photographers. Landscape photographers, drone photo- graphers, urban explorers, and everything in between. Their styles differ in many ways but they all share one thing in common: They all have a passion for photography. OH! And every single one of them have probably photo- graphed the abandoned W.S. Kelly gas station and General Store in Cogar, Oklahoma. I’ve seen it posted on Instagram about 1,500 times. I’ve seen it posted on Facebook probably 25,000 times, and when you google Cogar, Oklahoma, it’s practically the only thing that shows up. Every person that owns a classic car,
80 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
82 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 motorcycle, or just lives within a 20 mile radius has probably stopped and taken a few pictures here. Everyone has captured it in their own special way and that is what makes this little gas station so special. Well, that and the fact that Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman once filmed a scene from the movie “Rain Man” there in 1988. You see… Cogar, Oklahoma was put on the map in 1902 when they built their first official post office. Then it was taken off the map when the post office was shut down in 1952. And that is it… That is the story of Cogar, Oklahoma. I couldn’t find any other information regarding the
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 83 town. I couldn’t find any history. There wasn’t any info on the me. It’s time for me to put my spin on it and see how I fare. I W.S. Kelly Gas Station and General Store. The town doesn’t arrived right at sunset. I tried to take advantage of the participate in Census data. As far as I can tell there is a golden hour but the low light was a little difficult to work church and a few houses and the rest of Cogar is with. All in all I was happy with the results though and I am agricultural land. glad that I finally got to experience the legend of Cogar, The story of Cogar, Oklahoma is a short one. Tom Cruise Oklahoma. and Dustin Hoffman gave the town a small resurgence back Jesse Edgar’s work can be seen at to relevancy for a year or two, but after that… crickets. www.OklahomaAbandoned.com , Instagram - So, now I find myself here. Finally standing in front of the https://www.instagram.com/oklahoma_abandoned/ and gas station that so many people have photographed before Facebook – www.facebook.com/OklahomaAbandoned n
84 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
• Acc ess to th e best in- home Wi Fi experienc e—inclu din g hassle-fr ee set up an d suppo rt
• Ove r 250 ,00 0 Wi Fi hotspo ts whe n y ou tr ave l
• Free Security Software protects you r co mpu ter fr om v irus es an d sp yw ar e (a $169 v alue)
60 0 - 764 7 CO X .CO M / INTE RN E T COX SO L U TIO NS ST O R E®
*Ma x downlo ad sp eed s a re inc r e asing to 5 0Mb ps for Prefe r red an d 100 Mbp s fo r Premie r. Se e c ox.com fo r s peed av ailab ility in your loca l a re a. Speed comp arison based on ma x do wn load spee d o f Cox Prefer red package (5 0Mbps down loa d) vs . AT & T U-verse Pro 3 Mbps servic e . O ffe r expir es 9 /30/14 and is a vailab le to ne w re sidential Interne t custo mers in Cox service a reas . $19.99/month includes Cox High Speed Internet Es sen tia l when cu st ome r n ewl y sub scribes to both Cox H igh Speed Int ern et E ssential an d Cox Advan c ed TV or high e r. To tal bun dle r ate va rie s b y ma r ket . Af ter 12 mo nt h s , b und le rate inc re ase s b y $ 20 /mont h fo r mo nt h s 1 3-2 4 . R egul a r ra te s a ppl y t he re af te r. See w w w .c o x .com . 2- y ear se rvice ag ree m e n t req u i red . Ea rl y t erm ina t ion fee s m ay a ppl y. A dd itio n al In te rne t pac k ag e s a re a va ilabl e and may b e re q ui r e d for a cce ss to all adve rtised f e a tu r es . W i Fi ne two rk a cce ss available to re siden tial cu s tom er s w ith Cox Intern et Pr efe r re d or h ig her s ervi ce at hot s po ts in se le ct loc ati o ns outs id e o f Co x ser v ice a re as . S e e c o x .com/ho ts pot s fo r availa ble co ve rage a re as and ho ts pot s . Equipm e n t fee s , installat ion c ha r ges , ta x es , fee s and su rch a rg es ad dit iona l . No t a l l se rvices a nd f ea tu re s a va ilab le ev e r ywhe re. A c r e d it c h e ck and/or d e pos i t m ay be requi r ed . O ffer n ot com b in ab le w i th o the r o f fers . Equipme nt req u i r ed . Unint e rru p ted or e r r or f r ee servic e n o t gu a ran te ed . Act ual s pe e d s var y. Othe r res tric tions m ay a p pl y. ©2014 Cox C omm un ication s , In c . All r igh ts reser v ed.
EVENTS
Indian Festival in Yukon shows off language and culture
BY BILL O’BRIEN
n Indian festival that promoted the Malayalee language and culture was A held in Yukon Saturday, September 7 at the Yukon Fine Arts Center. The event was sponsored by the Oklahoma Malayalee Association and the Malayalee language is spoken in the Indian province of Kerala which is located on the southwest Malabar Coast of India where many of the Indian immigrants in Oklahoma originally called home. That province has a tradition of matrilineal inheritance, “where the mother is the head of the household,” according to the Wikipedia entry regarding India, and that may account for the higher status women enjoy there and the fact that Kerala has the highest literacy rate in that nation. Kerala is home to one of the earliest Christian communities, and St. Thomas the Apostle of Christ came there and began to proselytize for that new faith in the early Christian era, and many of the Malayalee-speaking residents of Oklahoma are of the Christian persuasion. They also have assimilated well into Adults perform at a festival in Yukon on Sept. 7. the Sooner State, and many of them are health care professionals and successful business people. For a time, a weekly television comedy show was filmed in a home in Edmond that was occupied by a staffer at the Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure. The show was performed in the Malayalee language and later broadcast in Kerala.
86 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 The program that was distributed to the attendees told of how the gathering was held to commemorate the Indian harvest holiday of Onam. The event began with a line of women in white gowns with gold images embossed on them who were carrying gold plates making their way onto the stage followed by five men in white and red robes. The men pounded drums in a rhythmic manner that was somewhat similar to the drumming that accompanies the opening of the Native American Red Earth Festival in Oklahoma City. Several different men and women served as master of ceremonies and introduced the various male and female dancers who danced in well-choreographed steps in bright costumes to Indian music and songs. Some of the performances had much of the audience singing along and clapping in a manner that suggested that they were familiar with the songs. While young boys participated in some of the dances along with young girls, almost all of the adult dancers were women, but some adult men sang individually. Most of the introductions of the performers were made in Youngsters also were part of the Sept. 7 festival. Malayalee, and awards were bestowed on children who had drawn images of characters from Kerala history and folklore. The concerns that some members of the association may have about preserving the Malayalee culture was made evident by an announcement of the classes that were being offered in that language, and young people were encouraged to enroll. That program is also referenced in the website maintained by the Oklahoma Malayalee Association. After the performances concluded, the attendees made their way to the cafeteria where they enjoyed a traditional Onam Festival feast, and some of them spoke of the larger Indian cultural event that will take place in Moore, Oklahoma, on September 28 of this year. n
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 87 PEOPLE
BY TIM FARLEY
Sister Cities International (SCI) appointed In 2018 she was awarded the Oklahoman of the Year Mary Blankenship Pointer, Oklahoma City award in Philanthropy by the Oklahoma Magazine. business leader, to the Board of Directors “It is an honor to be appointed to the board of Sister Cities at the 2019 Annual Conference in International. In my opinion, promoting peace through Houston, Texas. mutual respect, understanding and cooperation is more “We are delighted to have Mary Blankenship Pointer join important now than any other time in recent history. I look the Board of Directors and the Sister forward to serving on the board to help Cities International family,” noted achieve these goals,” said Mary Roger-Mark De Souza, President and Blankenship Pointer. CEO of Sister Cities International “Mary About Sister Cities International was will serve an integral part of Sister founded by President Dwight D. Cities International’s leadership team, Eisenhower in 1956. The organization helping our vibrant network to connect serves as the national membership to more members and partners across organization for sister city programs in the country and across the world.” nearly 500 individual member Pointer has thrived in her career as a communities of sister cities, counties, and professional banker with over 25 years states across the United States and other of banking experience, including nations, with relationships in over 2,000 business development commercial communities in more than 140 countries. lending and private banking. Alongside Mary Blankenship Pointer This sister city network unites tens of her work in the banking industry, Pointer is passionate about thousands of citizen diplomats and volunteers who work giving back to her community. She currently serves as on the tirelessly to promote peace and understanding through Board of Directors of the Council of International Neonatal programs and projects focusing on arts and culture, youth Nurses, the Pioneer Library System, the Amigos Library and education, business and trade, and community Services, and Dove Public Charter Schools. development. n
88 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
PEOPLE
winners recognized
cross 17 career categories, 338 brightest,” ion Oklahoma Online Magazine Publisher Don Oklahomans age 30 years or Swift said. “Each honoree has displayed exceptional younger from 241 companies and leadership among their peers as well as contributions to A their Oklahoma communities.” organizations are being recognized for their professional leadership and The 17 categories include arts; education; higher extensive service to their communities. education; energy and transportation; finance; healthcare; From Guymon to Durant to hospitality; law; Tahlequah, the 2019 NextGen Under manufacturing/industry/the 30 Oklahoma Award honorees were 2019 NextGen Under 30 trades/agriculture; media/public selected through a highly Oklahoma Award Recognition relations/marketing/advertising; competitive application process. non-profit; policy and public This year’s class will be honored is a statewide program service; retail and e-commerce; at the annual awards ceremony that honoring young professionals science/technology/engineering; will held at the Embassy Suites and who are leading Oklahoma’s and staffing. “With these outstanding Conference Center in Norman on future and cultivating change Friday, November 15, with a individuals, our state will continue reception at 6 p.m., followed by in their communities to advance,” Swift said. “We look dinner at 6:45 p.m. and an awards forward to their continued presentation 7:45 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. contributions and positive The 2019 NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma Award Recognition influence within our state.” is a statewide program honoring young professionals who For more information and a complete list of honorees, visit are leading Oklahoma’s future and cultivating change in http://nextgenunder30.com/award-winners/. For more their communities. Throughout the year, the class will information about ion Oklahoma Magazine, visit connect with next generation Oklahomans in rural and urban http://www.ionok.com/. areas and will learn about leadership through workshops In 2017, the NextGen under 30 Foundation (501c3) was and retreats. created to offer scholarships to these very talented young “The NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma aims to support people and participation in leadership classes, workshops, retention of young professionals in Oklahoma and recognize and retreats. n outstanding achievements among our state’s best and
90 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019
uundernder oklahoma
YOUR
DAY AT THE CAPITOL
RSVP: [email protected]
Gen NETWORKING LUNCHEON
RSVP: [email protected]
onOK magazine