bmonthly April 2016

Daytripper

Tulsa Botanical Gardens

Profile

Nick Conner

Generations

APRIL 2016

Doenges Family of Autos

Dawn of the New

DOWNTOWN THIS MONTH: THE BURCHFIELD BROTHERSNPURSE-N-ALI-TEA PARTYNCOMPREHENSIVE APRIL EVENTS CALENDAR

1941 Ford Super Deluxe Business Coupe

THANKS FOR SEVENTY-FIVE GREAT YEARS! Since 1941 Bartlesville has treated us like family. And as we celebrate our seventy-fifth anniversary we want to thank you for being part of our family.

Words can't express how blessed we feel to be part of the community.

Help us celebrate our anniversary and see why Bartlesville, and all of Green Country, has traded with the Doenges family for seventy-five years.

Come in for a test drive — leave as part of the family.

Highway 75 South of Nowata Road 918-333-0900 | DoengesFordOnline.com

Get a second opinion on your financial health.

Richard Sewell Amy D. Cady, CFP®

Senior Vice President—Investment Officer

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Whatever’s on your mind, we’re here to listen, and we’ll help you evaluate your plan. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today. It’s free, and there’s no obligation. Then you can decide if your wealth is getting the care it deserves.

918-336-2600 cady-sewellwealthmanagement.com 4160 SE Adams Road, Bartlesville, OK 74006 Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.

Investment and insurance products: NOT FDIC-Insured/NO Bank Guarantee/MAY Lose Value

what’s inside...

8.

11.

33.

27.

25.

34.

5

Publisher’s Letter

22

Out & About: Photos from Around Town

8

Doenges Family of Autos:

25

Champions of Local Business:

27

Profile: Nick Conner

33

Daytripper: Stop & Smell the Roses

34

Last Call: Afternoon Tea, Lifelong Hope

Automotive Heritage

11

Feature: Dawn of the New Downtown

17

April Events Calendar

Find out What’s Happening This Month!

BARTLESVILLE, OK 4

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

The Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce

Tulsa Botanical Garden

Martha’s Task Purse-n-ali-tea

918-336-0307 • WWW.WOOLAROC.April 2016 ORG

publisher’s letter

Publisher’s Letter

Volume VI Issue IV P.O. Box 44 / Bartlesville, OK 74005

This month bMonthly has the opportunity to share information about a few exciting projects with the potential to greatly enhance the downtown landscape. The organized efforts of our downtown residents, city officials, organization leaders and a few outside developers, have taken shape and are now on the precipice of realization.

Like many other communities across the country our downtown is entering a new phase in the redevelopment process. The national movement of organic historic redevelopment became apparent to me over 8 years ago. I was working as a location scout for automotive manufacturers; I would seek out pockets of redevelopment in U.S. cities, then partner with a business in those areas who would serve as host for our event sites. Throughout the U.S., even at that time, many historic districts were already seeing a marked resurgence in neighborhood activity. Even before the communities became organized, there were individuals leading the way. Our downtown is a treasure. It has the potential again to serve as a major center of activity for the city of Bartlesville and I am so glad to see the myths, which for a long time deterred redevelopment, are gone.

Constantly bMonthly provides a vehicle to share the incredible efforts of our

citizens, whether they are working to improve the lives of others through our many nonprofit organizations or they are working hard to build and maintain a business, it never stops. The more people we meet, the more incredible stories of people following their hearts and dreams seem to multiply.

I hope each month bMonthly sheds light on all things that Bartlesville has to offer, and serves to inspire each of us to step outside our regular patterns. This April issue marks my first year as publisher. Although I have been part of bMonthly since its inception, this past year has been an interesting shift in understanding the fabric of our community. Thank you to all who have participated in many ways to make bMonthly an integral part of sharing our stories. Just as last year at this time, I look forward to the next year of digging deeper into our community to introduce you to the people, the businesses, and the projects that make Bartlesville an amazing place to call home. As always, if you know someone with a story that needs to be told, please let any of us know and thank you for reading.

www.bartlesvillemonthly.com facebook.com/bartlesvillemonthly Publisher/Owner

Jemme Hennessey jemme@bartlesvillemonthly.com Art Direction

PDG+creative andrew@pdgcreative.com Advertising/Sales

Peg Wilson

saleslady1@bartlesvillemonthly.com 918.914.2965 Copyeditor

Katy Holland katy.m.holland@gmail.com Contributing Writers

Mike Wilt, Katy Holland, Linda Keller, Barbara Shoff, Abigail Singrey, Lacy Gittinger, Lori Maranville

Official Photographer

Tony Lehmer

www.lehmerphotography.com Contributing Photographers

Kevin Bennett, Debbie Neece, The Bartlesville History Museum Calendar Manager

Mark Walker

mark@bartlesvillemonthly.com Distribution Manager

Hunter Martin Bryan (Ross) Travis Visit us online at www.bartlesvillemonthly.com

All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or otherwise, without prior permission of Bartlesville Monthly.

ABOUT THE COVER: Drone photo of Price Tower and downtown Bartlesville taken

by Kevin Bennett. If you have a need for aerial photos, Kevin will work with you to bring your ideas to reality. See more of his work at SOARINGVISIONS.COM Cover design by PDG+creative

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

5

Quality

Physical Therapy …Close to Home

Think Physical Therapy Isn’t Right For You? Physical Therapy Can: • Decrease pain • Provide spinal mobilizations/ manipulations • Increase range of motion (even in noninjured body parts) • Reduce risk of injury from falls • Reduce risk of injury • Improve balance and coordination • Increase overall strength (including • Improve sport performance core strength) • Rehabilitate all injuries (pre-surgery • Improve posture and post-surgery) • Give tips on proper seating in your • Decrease scar tissue car, work station and home • Teach proper lifting techniques Jane Phillips Physical Medicine Center Staff Hold Advance Certifications in: • Orthopedics (Bob Salvatori, DPT—Orthopedic Specialist) • Hand Therapy (Susan Clifton, OTR/L, CHT—Certified Hand Therapist) • Vestibular Rehabilitation (Edwina Louthan, PT—Vestibular Specialist) • ASTYM Certified (Kelsey Kliewer, DPT, and Tracy Troxell, MPT) Direct Access: Physical therapists can now evaluate and treat a patient without a referral for up to 30 days. After 30 days, a referral must be obtained from a physician or physician assistant. Specifically excludes Medicaid and workers’ compensation claims.

Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

To refer a patient and/or schedule an appointment, call the Physical Medicine Center at 918/331-1594 or fax the order to 918/331-1631.

3550 S.E. Frank Phillips Blvd.

Bartlesville, OK 74006 918/331-1594 • www.jpmc.org 6

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

7

generations

DOENGES FAMILY OF AUTOS

by Katy Holland

“I never expected to be a car dealer,”says Brad Doenges,

“I didn’t plan to be. But, how you get from 1941 to me sitting here today, it’s

Bill Doenges was born in Illinois and grew up in Blackwell, OK, where his father served as a Methodist minister. His father’s early death inspired the family to move to the larger nearby town of Tonkawa, where Bill and his brother, Soland, began working at the local Ford dealership. After earning college degrees from Oklahoma City University, they returned to Tonkawa to take over the dealership business. Bill was just 21 years old.

His grandfather was an entrepreneur in uncharted territory, discovering what this “new freedom of transportation for individuals meant in places like rural Oklahoma,” explained Brad Doenges, grandson of Bill Doenges. Shortly before the onset of the Great Depression and impending Dust Bowl, the car business, along with highway systems were in early development.

“It was a crazy time to become a car dealer,” recalls Brad.

In 1941, Bill moved to Bartlesville and opened Bartlesville Ford Company Inc. It was in Bartlesville that Bill raised his three sons, William S (also known as Bill), Bob and Buddy, and adopted daughter Becky, whose husband, Joe Dillon would become Doenges’ longestterm employee, serving more than four decades, and he currently serves as Body Shop Manager.

Seven years later, Bill opened his dealership in Tulsa which was eventually sold to his two oldest sons 8

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

Doenges Motor Company opens at 312 S Osage in Bartlesville, later becoming Bartlesville Ford Company at the same location.

Tulsa radio remote at Doenges A1 Ford located at 5th and Detroit.

c1960

Tonkawa Motor Company Basketball Team. Dealership Mgr./ VP Dan Ryan pictured in car, 2nd from left William C. Doenges, parts asst., 3rd from left Oswald Doenges, parts supt., 5th from left Soland Doenges, Lincoln sales.

c1941

c1920

The original dealership where Bill and his brother, Soland, worked during high school.

After college, in 1929, they would return and purchase this dealership. William C. Doenges (Bill) was 21.

1923

A legacy that began with Bill Doenges over 75 years ago...

a legacy.”

becoming Doenges Brothers Ford.

As sons of William S, Brad and Bruce, grew up in the Tulsa dealership business and spent time visiting their grandparents in “the magical place” of Bartlesville. At fiveyears-old, Brad remembers exploring the dealership on the heels of his grandfather who would tell him, “Walk like you know where you’re going and take bigger steps!”

One of Brad’s fondest memories was getting picked up early on special mornings, along with other grandkids, to go to Holiday Inn for biscuits and gravy, then heading into the dealership to clean up before anyone arrived. They would then head out to work, haying on the family’s farm, later returning to the dealership.

Bill’s commitment to work was evident in his office. “He lived here!” remarked Brad, as he raised his finger to point out the adjacent shower and area of where there was once a couch on which his grandfather slept.

His passion for service didn’t stop with his auto business. Bill supported the Boy Scouts, YMCA, Oklahoma 4H, Future Farmers of America and more. “You can’t list the organizations, there are too many,” states Brad. Bill’s wife, Elizabeth, was one of the founders of Bartlesville’s Concern and Mutual Girls Club.

Doenges Family of Autos holds the Guiness World

b Monthly | GENERATIONS

William C. Doenges, NADA Chairman (center) with Joe Carter of the NADA (left) and President Jimmy Carter (right)

In 1991, Bill passed away leaving his lifelong business in the care of the next Doenges generations. For the next few years, both dealerships thrived. In 1997, a corporate adjustment in Ford’s business changed the future of the Tulsa location. Brad had begun working there in 1995.

Brad stayed with the new enterprise in Tulsa until 2000, when the dealership was slated to be sold again. Ford offered Brad an opportunity in Rochester, NY, “I was like, I think I’ll go to Bartlesville,” laughed Brad.

He was never pushed by his father to take on the family business. In fact, after working in several areas of the company as a teenager and throughout college, he actually pursued several different careers before eventually following the encouragement of his father’s general manager to return to the dealership.

“You’ve got to want it… not just because of the legacy,” Brad states. “It’s not an easy business. You fight hard every day.”

Brad and his wife Kimberly moved to Bartlesville with their young son William and added another son Bode five years later, now ages 15 and 10. Working alongside his brother who continues serving as a Lincoln Specialist, Brad became General Manager in 2002 and later purchased the company in 2010.

Doenges Family of Autos continues to grow and is the oldest Toyota dealer in the state. With the recent completion of Doenges Toyota, Brad anticipates the new “Green” building will make Doenges the first LEEDcertified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) dealer in Oklahoma.

“It’s important to look forward in long ways and plan for the future,” said Brad. “That’s important to me – sustainability of industry.” More important to his business is “the people.”

Doenges Family of Autos holds the Guiness World Record for longest corporate sponsorship of a sports team, Bartlesville’s American Legion Baseball Doenges Ford Indians.

2016

Bill and the Doenges Bros. with Ford Motor Co. representatives. left to right- Joe Dillon, William S. Doenges, M.J. Ellsworth, William C. Doenges, J.L. Busker, James D. (Buddy) Doenges and Robert S. Doenges

1979

c1970

Bill also served as Oklahoma Transportation Commissioner from 1983 to 1986 and was instrumental in the rebuilding of Highway 75. He was the Chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association from 1979 to 1980. And, as if all things auto were not enough to keep him busy, he served as President of the Bartlesville Rotary Club, and even ran for governor in 1954 then again in 1958.

“Nobody wants to be the dealer kid,” said Brad, explaining the pride he has in the real investment he has made by doing more than just inheriting his family’s business.

2010

Record for longest corporate sponsorship of a sports team, Bartlesville’s American Legion Baseball Doenges Ford Indians. The team still plays today at the Bill Doenges Memorial Stadium on Hensley Boulevard. As an athlete himself, Bill was always a supporter of youth in athletics and was one of the founding investors in Oklahoma’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Doenges Family of Autos Ford showroom, 1911 SE Washington Blvd. Pictured from left to right; Body Shop Mgr. Joe Dillon, Owner Brad Doenges, Accounting Michelle Cooper, and General Manager Rob Powell.

“Bartlesville is our home. It’s the place we have our deepest roots,” said Brad. “That’s something really important in the car business because we depend on our local customers. In the end, it gets down to taking care of [them],” he continued, explaining how the first focus of their business is service. “Selling is only a by-product of that.”

And much like his grandfather, Brad’s investments extend beyond his business. He serves as Chairman of the Board for Price Tower and recently completed his term as Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce. He also hosts a weekly radio show “Car Talk” on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. on KWON. Doenges Family of Autos also sponsors many scholarships and local programs including The Boys & Girls Club’s Gear Up for Great Futures bicycle ride fundraiser and the annual KRIG Country Showdown.

“It’s about always getting better and being humble about it,” Brad comments. Doenges looks forward to many more years of auto industry service. In so many ways the Doenges family has made a marked impact on the city of Bartlesville. And it is with the community that they are celebrating their 75th year of service. v

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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A Leading Force for business success and community development

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Coming this June, a completely historically restored development in the heart of downtown Bartlesville.

Now pre-leasing three studio loft apartments, eight one-bedroom loft apartments, and four ground floor retail spaces, all with stunning historical elements.

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10

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

feature

So go downtown.....

Things will be great when you’re downtown No finer place for sure

DOWNTOWN Everything’s waiting for you by

Mike

Wilt

-Petula Clark, Singer 1964 #1 hit “Downtown”

Those in the know will tell you that most cities have downtowns that need help. Not too long ago, Bartlesville was one of those cities. While there are still opportunities for development, the heart of the city is pumping again.

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | FEATURE

“Having grown up here in the 1950s and 60s, I remember a bustling downtown,” says Bartlesville City Manager Ed Gordon. “And I remember watching in dismay the decline. But downtown has enjoyed a rebirth thanks to entrepreneurs with a vision and a belief of what our community can be.”

And more plans and projects are in the works to build upon the progress downtown has experienced in recent years.

Historically, downtown landscaping has been a fairly emotional topic.

“The short version of the story is: who is responsible for it?” says Main Street Bartlesville Chairman Mark Haskell. “The city or the businesses?”

In January, the city council asked Main Street Bartlesville to try to find a long term sustainable solution.

A landscape committee has been investigating business improvement districts in communities throughout Oklahoma and elsewhere in an effort to learn what others are doing.

“We also have input from urban landscaping professionals as to what type of landscaping is low maintenance and attractive and doesn’t attract birds that, well, make a mess,” Haskell grins.

A fact-based recommendation is expected to be delivered to the Bartlesville City Council in May. “We want the city council meeting to be a non-event and be able to move forward with a good plan.”

Next is something known as the “5-for-5” plan. No, it has nothing to do with sandwiches, but rather green space and amenities included in five projects totaling approximately $5 million.

The first includes extending into downtown the Pathfinder Parkway – a popular walk-and-bike trail that snakes along the banks of the Caney River. It also includes improved landscaping and lighting along the entire path. Then there are improvements to Centennial Park at the corner of Frank Phillips Boulevard and Dewey Avenue, 12

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

The Bartlesville Community Center and Price Tower joined together in 2015 to form the Tower Green committee. With input from Main Street Bartlesville, OK Mozart and other downtown groups. The Tower Green is being planned as an urban gathering space, connecting the Community Center and Price Tower.

and upgrades to Johnstone Park including lighting, walkways, and parking.

of what locals affectionately call “the old hospital.”

One of the more ambitious projects calls for closing Silas Avenue between the Bartlesville Community Center and the renowned Price Tower. The area would be converted into a green space complete with a playground and an amphitheater for 350-500 people. The estimated cost is around $1.5 million.

As the head of Tulsa-based Larson Development, he says it’s not often he comes across such a magnificent find.

Another large endeavor envisions a splash pad/ice rink in Frank Phillips Park on the south side of the AT&SF train depot, home to the Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The price tag comes in at just under $2 million.

Multiple sources of funding are being eyed for all of the projects.

“We are at a crossroads,” Haskell says. “Many people have invested in downtown and they have made a huge difference. But we need to take that next big step to help Bartlesville’s downtown achieve its full potential.”

A few years ago, Mark Larson found himself driving through Bartlesville, a community he had never visited. Motoring down Frank Phillips Boulevard, he caught sight

“Holy cow! What is that?”

“In my line of work, most buildings are just wrecks. But this building was simply gorgeous and it was in great shape. For what I do, it rated a 9 or 10.”

Sitting on the eastern edge of downtown, the Washington County Memorial Hospital building was built in 1922 to care for veterans of World War I. The hospital served the community until 1969 when voters approved leasing the building and its contents to then-Jane Phillips Episcopal Hospital. Use of the facility eventually ceased as medical services became concentrated at the main hospital campus. The building has sat vacant for many years.

However, Larson said work is expected to commence this June to convert the facility into an apartment complex with 61 one- and twobedroom units. The exterior will look pretty much the same with the exception of some manicured landscaping, patio settings, and even

b Monthly | FEATURE

Another important downtown project is the resuscitation of four historic buildings.

Located at 119, 121, 123, and 125 Second Street, the buildings are being revived by New Leaf Development, a familyowned commercial real estate company.

a pool. The renovation is expected to take one year to complete before the accepting of tenants.

“When I first started, young professionals were the only ones interested. But now, it’s a complete variety with all ages, all walks of life.

And all attracted to the walkability and the excitement of the downtown environment.”

Larson is enthusiastic about being part of Bartlesville’s downtown renaissance. “There is hunger for change and growth and the reception here has been great,” he says.

“They don’t make buildings like this anymore. It’s exciting to bring back to life pieces of a town’s history.”

“I just fell in love with downtown Bartlesville,” says Jonathan Belzley who returned to his hometown of Tulsa and the family business after working in Los Angeles as a mastering engineer in the music industry.

“There are so many wonderful buildings, such great architecture. I come every two weeks or so and there is always a lot of activity. We want to be part of nurturing that.”

That part includes four retail spaces and 11 housing units. Built around 1906, the first floor of the buildings will include four store fronts with three efficiency-style

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | FEATURE

apartments behind them. The apartments will be roughly 650 square feet with 11-foot ceilings.

Phillips Boulevard so that we can develop even more activity and have energy just wrap around the block.”

“Very spacious with a studio style feel,” Belzley says.

While there are some historic preservation factors that come into play, work on the retail spaces and apartments is progressing at a steady pace and should be completed by the end of June.

The second floors will have eight loft apartments ranging in size from roughly 700 to 900 square feet with 9-foot and 10-foot ceilings.

Named after an early Bartlesville entrepreneur, they will be known as the Noble Lofts.

“People want what we are providing and we feel good that we are able to provide it.”

As for the retail space, Belzey says they have had an influx of inquiries, but no commitments just yet.

“But we’d love to see businesses that complement those along Frank

14

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

“The buildings along Second Street are almost like works of art and we are trying to preserve them,” Belzley says.

But the self-described “urbanist preservationist” is also trying to add to the aura.

“We want to play a role in furthering the cultural shift to make downtown the place to be, the place to hang out.”

Mark Haskell welcomes the assistance and enthusiasm. He and his wife, Debbie, have been preaching the downtown word for the past eight years after they transformed the second floor of a vacant building into a fashionable living space.

“Right after we moved downtown, I walked out one day and thought the rapture had happened because nobody was around,” he laughs.

“Our goal is to not feel that way again.”

Haskell desires that all of Bartlesville be successful, but an integral part of the community’s overall success is a pumping heart of town. v

Retirement Solutions Let’s Start a Conversation.

918.336.5460

www.InsureWithPhoenix.com

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APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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(Grades 5 through 10)

The Tri County Tech STEM Camp will include career-specific instruction and activities, field trips, instructor-led fitness, team-building, and entrepreneurship lessons. All classes will be taught by certified instructors, including National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT). Students will also learn presentation skills, culminating in a presentation they will give on the last day of camp. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided.

Choose between the following camps: Engineering Health Computer Technology

•

Incoming students grades 8, 9, 10

•

Incoming students grades 5, 6, 7

Students can be dropped off as early as 7:30 A.M. and picked up as late as 5:30 P.M.

16

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

Know of an upcoming event that should be listed here?

Visit us at www.bartlesvillemonthly.com to submit a listing! It’s free!

All listings are by reader submission. Not responsible for errors. Bartlesville Monthly reserves the right to remove inappropriate content.

Friday, April 1

9:00 PM

Adams Blvd Church of Christ, downstairs

BAA Spring Art Show

Osage Casino Bartlesville

east)

10:00 AM

Live Music with Back Roads Band

Price Tower Art Gallery In its 63rd year, Bartlesville Art Association has welcomed local and regional artists to participate in their 2016 Spring Art Show.

Show runs from 4/1 through 5/14. Tuesdays through Saturdays 10-5p.m. Sundays 12-5 p.m. Price Tower is closed on Mondays

Saturday, April 2 8:00 AM

Singer Ann-Janette Webster

Tri County Tech Classes will cover fly fishing equipment needed and how to use it. greencountryflyfishers.com Tuition $5 Supplies $45

Copper Bar Performs 6:30PM-9:30PM.

7:00 PM

Spring Art Show Reception and Awards Ceremony Price Tower Art Gallery Refreshments served and Awards Given.

The Public is welcome.

9:00 AM

5th Annual Humble Road Birthday Bash and Poker Run Humble Road Church – 304 Seminole

St. John Before the Latin Gate Roman Catholic Church Featuring Zoltan Varga, Music Director & Organist Norbert Lakner, Trumpet Player

and modern music. Free Admission.

715 S. Johnstone Ave.

communication & leadership skills. Come join the party and hear their stories.

6:00 PM

Bartlesville Symphony Orchestra 2nd Annual Root Tootin’ Boot Scootin’ Hoedown Party

Live Music with Back Roads Band Osage Casino Bartlesville

Sunday, April 3 9:30 AM

5th Annual Humble Road Birthday Bash and Harley Giveaway Humble Road Church – 304 Seminole Come celebrate five years of sharing the Good News and get the chance to win a Custom Harley! Proceeds benefit The Shop, Humble Road’s Children/Youth Center. For

Bartlesville Community Center

more info or to donate call 918.766.2146 or

Come join the Hoedown Fun to Benefit

918.213.4042

our City’s Unique Symphony Orchestra Major Fundraiser. It’s a time to be with friends and learn to two step.... There will be fantastic prizes to bid on in our live and

2:00 PM

Big Band presented by the Bartlesville Choral Society

silent auctions. Limited Seating so get your

Good News! We will have vendors, food,

table now!! Western or casual dress. Jana

a bike show, 50/50, bike games, and poker

Jae- Live Bluegrass. Live & Silent Auctions,

run. Proceeds benefit The Shop, Humble

Dinner by Shorties Grille (beer and wine

Miller, Benny Goodman & the golden

Road’s Children/Youth Center. For more

included)

age off American Song. Be sure

info call 918.766.2146 or 918.213.4042

Tickets are $90 per person, $500 for table of

to wear your dancing Shoes! For

4, $1,000 for table of 8

tickets call 918.336.2787 or visit www.

tickets available at the BSO office 415 S.

bvillechoralsociety.org

Oil Painting Workshop Bartlesville Art Center – 102 N Cherokee

Call 918-336-7717 for reservations Honorary Chairs: Ford & Vanessa

is teaching a 1 day Floral Oil Painting

Drummond

Bartlesville Toastmasters 75th Anniversary Celebration

Swing back in time to the era of Glenn

Monday, April 4 10:00 AM

Open House

Workshop.

2:00 PM

Bartlesville Community Center

Dewey Suite 201

Pat Meyer, judge for the Spring Art Show

This Easter-themed concert will last around an hour and will have a variety of traditional

has been helping members improve their

9:00 PM

Come celebrate five years of sharing the

7:00 PM

Organ & Trumpet Concert

For 75 years, Bartlesville Toastmasters

Learn to Fly Fish

Additional information is available at

6:30 PM

dining room (enter the building on the

8:30 PM

Live Music with Mark Gibson Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Elder Care Take a behind-the-scene tour of Elder Care.

Enjoy coffee and a pastry while learning about the various programs Elder Care has to offer. All are welcome.

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | EVENTS CALENDAR

Age Related Bodily Changes: Normal or Abnormal?

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary

2010 Winner for Best New American Play,

Tri County Tech

through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION is about real people exploring their lives

Review oropharyngeal and gastrointestinal system changes. Students will also explore cardiovascular system changes and pulmonary system changes. Cost $5

5:00 PM

Taste of Home Cooking School hosted by Bartlesville Radio

GHOSTBUSTERS presented by Bartlesville Film Society The Bartlesville Film Society will be screening the film “Ghostbusters”. This is an all ages event that is open to the public.

Admission is FREE but is first come first serve due to limited space.

Bartlesville Community Center Visit www.okcookingschool.com for more info

Friday, April 8 10:00 AM

Thursday, April 7 5:00 PM

Spring Traders Encampment Woolaroc The Trader’s Encampment is open to the

Business After Hours

public and guests are encouraged to park

Join the Bartlesville Area Chamber of

and walk through the camp. There is no

Commerce. The Chamber hosts events on

additional admission required; regular

a regular basis to help you promote your

admission at the gate includes the Spring

business. By joining over 100 Chamber

Trader’s Camp. This camp is not only

members at this networking event you can

unique; it also serves as a wonderful

meet face to face with potential customers

educational tool for children to visit and

and tell them about your products/services.

experience the lifestyle of earlier times. Visit

People are more likely to do business

www.woolaroc.org for more info

with you having met you in person! Enjoy food and beverages provided. To attend this event and for additional information

6:00 PM

Kids Pizza, Pop & Paint

918.336.8708.

Hopestone Cancer Support Center Kids have a “pizza party” & receive stepby-step instruction on how create their own

Blue Whale Painting with Steven Graham Tri County Tech Create your own masterpiece of everybody’s

masterpiece for $20/child. Call 918-8761709 to reserve their canvas.

7:00 PM

favorite Blue Whale of Catoosa! This class

Circle Mirror Transformation

is hands on with step-by-step instructions.

Theater Bartlesville

Cost $35

2010 Winner for Best New American Play, CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION is about real people exploring their lives

T-Shirt Vest

through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

Tri County Tech Learn how to make a no sew draped vest from a men’s t-shirt. Supply list will be given at time of enrollment. Cost $19

7:00 PM

She Grows Come expecting a garden party! Held on

7:00 PM

the patio with a great message, and lots of

Circle Mirror Transformation

giveaway. Event is free and child care is

Theater Bartlesville

provided.

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

Free seminar on charitable estate and

Woolaroc public and guests are encouraged to park

United Way financial planning offered by local nonprofit organizations in the partnership program.

Contact 918.337.2287 for more information.

and walk through the camp. There is no additional admission required; regular admission at the gate includes the Spring Trader’s Camp. This camp is not only unique; it also serves as a wonderful educational tool for children to visit and experience the lifestyle of earlier times. Visit www.woolaroc.org for more info

Wednesday, April 13 6:00 PM

City Church Men’s event Men, come hungry for a free cookout and time with other guys at City Church. Hear how you can gain strength for the day to day challenges every man faces. Event is free.

6:00 PM

Paint & Pour Hopestone Cancer Support Center Channel your inner artist with instructions by artist Jennifer Spina. $40/person covers all materials, snacks & drinks. Call 918-8761709 for reservation.

Thursday, April 14 7:00 AM

BPS Foundation Educator Hall of Fame Bartlesville Community Center To recognize the Educators who have shaped education in Bartlesville,

7:00 PM

Circle Mirror Transformation Theater Bartlesville 2010 Winner for Best New American Play, CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

congratulate grantees, raise funds for BPSF. For more information and to RSVP call 918.336.2787

6:00 PM

Icebox Pies Tri County Tech These pies are virtually “no-bake” and delicious. Find out how easy these are to

8:00 PM

KARAOKE & Dance Party

make and how delicious they are to eat.

Cost $39

Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Monday, April 11 10:00 AM

Age Related Bodily Changes: Normal or Abnormal? Endocrine, Musculoskeletal, and Renal Systems Tri County Tech This session will cover the endocrine system, musculoskeletal system, and renal system changes. Cost $5

City Church Women’s event

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Spring Traders Encampment

10:00 AM

is about real people exploring their lives

about your Chamber of Commerce call

6:00 PM

Foundation and Bartlesville Regional

The Trader’s Encampment is open to the

Dewey Heritage Theatre – 306 E Don Tyler

Tuesday, April 5

Saturday, April 9

Tuesday, April 12 5:30 PM

Planned Giving Partnership Program Arvest Bank Eastside Branch Hosted by the Bartlesville Community

Friday, April 15 6:00 PM

“Taste of the Tropics”-Children’s Musical Theatre Fundraising Event Hillcrest County Club A casual, fun tropical soiree! Grab your Hawaiian shirt, enjoy themed cocktails, appetizers, music, dancing, a vacation raffle, and entertainment! 918-336-0558

EVENTS CALENDAR | b Monthly

7:00 PM

There will be a variety of age-appropriate

Cooking for two can be challenging. Join

Circle Mirror Transformation

art stations including Chia Pets, Bottle Cap

us to learn how to prepare meals fit for an

Theater Bartlesville

Magnets, Sand Art, Photo Booth Family Pics

intimate dinner or a quick lunch for two.

2010 Winner for Best New American Play,

and so much more! We will be giving away

Cost $39

CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION

some exciting raffle prizes and every child

is about real people exploring their lives

has a chance to win!

11:30

Women in Business: Game Changers

Saturday, April 16

Hosted by Bartlesville Area Chamber of Commerce and featuring Rustic Cuff founder Jill Donovan. Event is offered to Chamber members.

To attend this event and for additional information about joining your Chamber of Commerce call 918.336.8708.

6:00 PM

Cyber Safety Tri County Tech This course will cover how to safely use the most common websites and applications on

9:00 AM

Business and Home Show Presented by the Bartlesville Chamber of Commerce and

the internet. Cost $19

Held at the Washington County Fairgrounds from 9am to 3pm.

Thursday, April 21

products and services that they provide.

6:00 PM

Parkinson’s Support Group Elder Care

Open Practice & Driver Registration Caney Valley Speedway – Caney KS

Operation Clean House Phillips 66 Parking Lot (Adams Blvd.) waste free of charge!!

12:00 PM

Osage Hills State Park Camp OK State Park Style A family camping clinic designed to make camping fun and easy for the whole family to get started. The park provides a tent, sleeping pads, cooking utensils, stove, chairs and lantern. April 23-24. $50 per family. Call 918.336.4141 to reserve your spot!

5:00 PM

Season Opener – Factory Stock, Street Stock, USRA B-mods Caney Valley Speedway – Caney KS

6:00 PM

This free event is an opportunity to meet many local business owners and learn about the

5:00 PM

8:00 AM

Come dispose of your hazardous household

Wednesday, April 20

through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

Saturday, April 23

Elder Care is partnering with the Parkinson’s

2:00 PM

Foundation of Oklahoma to offer a month

Circle Mirror Transformation

Parkinson’s Support Group. Loved ones are

Theater Bartlesville

welcome to attend.

6th Annual Harley Party Presented

by Keller Williams and Pro Mortgage Bartlesville Municipal Airport, Hanger 5 Support the Boys & Girls Club of Bartlesville.

Each $25 ticket is a chance to win the ultimate door prize-a brand new Harley Davidson motorcycle!

2010 Winner for Best New American Play,

7:00 PM

Circle Mirror Transformation

CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION is about real people exploring their lives

Puerto Rican Cooking: Desserts

through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

Tri County Tech

Theater Bartlesville

Students will prepare Puerto Rican favorites

2010 Winner for Best New American Play,

like flan, dulce de leche evaporada, dulce de

CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION is about real people exploring their lives through tiny leaps of faith and creativity.

8:30 PM

Monday, April 18

lechosa, tembleque, bien me sabe. Cost $39

10:00 AM

Painted Feathers Tri County Tech

Tri County Tech

Learn to paint designs on feathers for wall

We will discuss the nervous system.

décor, accessories, etc. Mix and match any

Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Students will also learn valuable information

and all colors. Supply list will be given at

on depression, dementia, and delirium.

time of enrollment. Cost $19

12:00

h’ART of a Child Richard Kane YMCA

Bartlesville Community Center Bartlesville Civic Ballet is delighted to present the full-length production of Arvola’s will be chimps, baboons, and monkeys galore! As the epic story of Tarzan and Jane unfolds, audience members can expect to see butterflies, zebras, and other creatures of the jungle. Visit www.bartlesvillecivicballet. com for more info

Cost $5

Tuesday, April 19 6:00 PM

Simple Car Maintenance Tri county Tech Students receive hands-on experience

Join Ray of Hope Advocacy Center and

Cooking for Two

checking oil, changing tires, and conducting

celebrate Child Abuse Prevention Month

Tri County Tech

other simple tasks that keep cars

with your family. A FREE event for children

Arvols’s Tarzan presented by Bartlesville Civic Ballet

Tarzan for the first time since 2003. There

Age Related Bodily Changes: Normal or Abnormal?

Nervous System

Live Music with Ginger Grey

Sunday, April 17

7:30 PM

8:30 PM

Live Music with Joe Rentie Painted Horse Bar & Grille

functioning. Cost $19

of all ages, from noon-4 p.m.

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Enrolling Now! Call for details 918-335-6861

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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b Monthly | EVENTS CALENDAR

Thursday, April 28

Weekly Races – Factory Stock, Street Stock, USRA B-Mods

Elder Care

Caney Valley Speedway – Caney KS

Golden Hour Free social evening for anyone 60 or older. Enjoy live entertainment, food and beverages and giveaways. No RSVP required. April’s entertainment is Gypsy

singing poems and stories accompanied

Tri County Tech

the Ambler Hall chandelier. Find out more

salad combinations to make a fresh and

Ambler Hall Dove Award winners, and one of the fines groups from Nashville! Visit www.okmozart. com for more info

OK Mozart’s Ambler Hall

6:00 PM

Shannon, as she demonstrates the many

Burchfield Brothers presented

by OK Mozart

Live Music with Kierston White The founding member of the wildly popular

Join our Fitness and Wellness Specialist,

4:00 PM

8:00 PM

Twang.

Mason Jar Salads

Sunday, April 24

5:00 PM

5:30 PM

Tequila Songbirds takes flight at 8 PM, by flawless guitar under the warm light of about Ms. White and listen to her songs at KierstonWhite.com

healthy meal for on the go! Cost $39

8:30 PM

Saturday, April 30

Painted Horse Bar & Grille

Live Music with Jake Hemphill

8:30 AM

Light It Up, Blue, Bartlesville: Run for Autism

SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016 8 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

East of Earl Sears Park Paths to Independence school’s annual 5K and 1-mile fun run. Visit www.

Dispose of your hazardous household waste in an environmentally-responsible manner,

lightitupblue2016.eventbrite.com for registration info

FREE of charge.

7:30 PM

Arvols’s Tarzan presented by Bartlesville Civic Ballet

Choose your location based on the material you need to discard (see list on back for details):

Bartlesville Community Center Bartlesville Civic Ballet is delighted to present the full-length production of Arvola’s Tarzan for the first time since 2003. There

Phillips 66 Parking Lot West of the railroad tracks on Adams Blvd.

will be chimps, baboons, and monkeys galore! As the epic story of Tarzan and Jane unfolds, audience members can expect to see butterflies, zebras, and other creatures of the jungle. Visit www.bartlesvillecivicballet. com for more info

Tuesday, April 26 3:30 PM

Parkinson’s Support Group Elder Care Elder Care is partnering with the Parkinson’s Foundation of Oklahoma to offer a month Parkinson’s Support Group. Loved ones are welcome to attend.

1:00 PM

Purse-N-Ali-Tea St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 210 E. 9th Street Purse-N-Ali-Tea is a high tea party complete with hats and gloves, and a purse auction all benefiting Martha’s Task. Tickets are $25 each. 918-336-8275

Annual Countywide Recycling Event

or

Washington County District 2 Barn 399000 W. 1500 Rd Dewey, OK. (East on 9th St. off Highway 75)

For additional info, call Washington County Commissioners 918.337.2820 Together, we’re providing a safer, healthier environment in the place we all call home. facebook.com/OperationCleanHouseWashingtonCounty

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5K / 1 Mile Dog Walk May 14th @ 8:30am 17th & Shawnee To aid in the fight to save animal lives through education and community support.

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out & about bhs stem lab press event

shamrock the ville

bso wet and wild

22

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out & about business after hours

frank and lolas last show

klife banquet

APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder Wesay, say,Behold!

Behold!

We

(918) 336-0307 • www.Woolaroc.org

(918) 336-0307 • www.Woolaroc.org 24

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

business

CHAMPIONS OF LOCAL BUSINESS The Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce

by Abigail Singrey

Bartlesville businesses have a strong partner and tireless advocate in the Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce (BRCC).

“We love and support this community, so . . . we reinvest into our community with both our time and our resources,” said Tressa Cruse, Director of Events.

“My vision is to continue to be the catalyst for positive change in our community by working with all the various entities that make up the community,” said BRCC President Sherri Wilt.

The Business and Home Show this month is another way the Chamber makes connections between local businesses and the community. Cruse has personal experience with its effectiveness. Several months after meeting local vendors at the event, her air conditioner went out.

Not everyone understands the role the Chamber plays in the community. For businesses that need to grow, the numerous networking opportunities offered – from Business After Hours events, to Women in Business luncheons, to inter-business golf tournaments – provide the perfect opportunity to make those vital connections.

For businesses that are already established, the Chamber provides a voice to help them and the town of Bartlesville grow by lobbying for pro-business policies on the local, state and even national level. When Bartlesville businesses are strong, it is easier to attract new residents and jobs.

“Our role is making sure that the businesses here thrive and continue to thrive into the future,” said Matthew Watson, Director of Membership and Sales. “We give a voice to those who don’t have a voice.”

One way the Chamber helps local businesses is through investing in a “shop local” campaign. Focused around the holidays, they strongly encourage local residents to do their Christmas shopping in town. When people go to Tulsa or online, the lost tax revenue and the lost economic benefit to local merchants makes a huge difference, Watson said.

“I knew who to call . . . because the connection was already there,” she said.

Another benefit of the BRCC is the affordable training offered to businesses who can’t host it themselves, in areas like customer service and marketing. A LinkedIn training and Getting Your Business on Google Maps were two of their more popular recent offerings.

Local businesses are appreciating the effectiveness of the Chamber’s advocacy on their behalf. Over the past five years, the Chamber has grown 11 percent and member retention has increased from 86 percent to 92 percent. The Chamber currently has 752 members, and is looking to grow that number.

Kym Whitmore, Director of Retention Events and Women in Business concluded, “When we have more support, we can do more for the community.” v The Business and Home Show will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 16 at the Washington County Fairgrounds. For more information on events or membership in the BRCC, call 918-336-8708.

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CONVENIENCE WITHOUT COMPLICATION

MOBILE BANKING SO EASY YOUR DAD CAN DO IT.

At Arvest, we know you can’t always make it by the branch to do your banking. Our mobile banking is easy to use and lets you check balances, make transfers or even deposit checks in a flash. If you don’t currently have the mobile banking tools you need, maybe it’s time to switch.

Open an account with us today at arvest.com or at a nearby Arvest location.

Consult your wireless internet provider about applicable fees for required data plans.

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26

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profile

NICK CONNER

by Linda Keller

Nick Conner, a clean-cut father of two, doesn’t look the least bit threatening in spite of having a career that began on the dark side of law enforcement, working as an undercover cop chasing bad guys.

Working conditions incompatible with family life inspired him to look for a job where he could combine his “cop” skills with his love of the outdoors, while also preserving and teaching skills of the pioneers, knowledge and abilities that modern-day America is watching slip away.

That decision led Conner to his dream job.

Today he sits at his desk, turning in his hands a hand-carved wooden spoon, as he describes the many programs and classes offered yearround at Osage Hills State Park where he works as Head Park Manager. Grateful for his past experience in law enforcement to handle the occasional issue at the park, Conner mostly enjoys the tranquility.

“This is a very special place,” he says. And truly, it is.

Osage Hills State Park is a pristine slice of Oklahoma nestled about 20 minutes west of Bartlesville on State Route 60. Apart from the few cars driven along the winding ribbon of blacktopped pavement lined with boulders and tucked between hills, here a person feels very much a part of nature.

The Sand Creek runs through rocky terrain, as do miles of hiking trails where visitors can spend hours discovering its picturesque waterfalls, the park’s peaceful lake, and APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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PROFILE | b Monthly

its ravines that beg to be explored. There are also camp grounds and cabins for those who want to stay overnight or for a weekend. For those who don’t want to rough it, the cabins have fireplaces, central heat, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen including utensils, linens and towels. Cabins rent for $90/day, and you can even bring Fido along.

Folks don’t have to be nature lovers to experience the allure of the Osage Hills. In addition to a wellmaintained picnic shelter, clean restrooms with flush toilets, and a community pool open to the public for both swimming and sun bathing, there’s lots more here for city slickers to appreciate, much of which has developed since Conner arrived.

“This park really is a hidden jewel,” he says, adding that it’s not unusual for first-time visitors to begin by stopping at the Ranger Station to ask, “What’s there to do here?”

“In this increasingly urbanized society, a majority of people don’t know what to do outdoors,” he says. “So a big part of our job is to teach people how to deal with nature… [and] to dream up programs that are fun as well as engaging. We started thinking of creative ways to get people of all ages to come out and get involved.”

One way has been Osage Hills’ participation in the Oklahoma Parks Service “Passport” program, in which families collect stamps for every park visited and every activity completed. Some 50,000 passport booklets are distributed each year to fourth grade students throughout the state. Osage Hills State Park alone passes out 5,000 of them in the Bartlesville district that stretches from Blackwell to Bartlesville to Skiatook.

Conner has observed that even in the digital age people still have a craving for the analog world –

woods—birch, maple, walnut, apple wood and willow.

He explains that carving spoons requires very few tools, and each takes only about an hour to make. In the class, he’ll explain the different varieties, and how they’re used. Once carved, a quick wipe with walnut oil and the spoons are finished. Conner’s family uses his for nearly every meal at home. They’re washed with the rest of the dishes and still look like new.

“Part of our job is to teach skills. That’s what I want to develop more of at the park. My idea for Osage Hills State Park is to become a craft hub for Oklahoma.”

It’s a goal accomplished through a variety of daytime activities, overnighters and weekend events like Handcraft Gathering. These not only promote learning “old timey” skills, they stimulate adults and children alike to develop or deepen relationships. People connect as they learn and as they sit and talk around a bonfire in the evening. It’s a much more stimulating experience than passively watching TV or playing on the computer.

Many park visitors are regulars. In particular, area photographers use it as a background for family and wedding portraits. But many people come to hike the winding trails, go boating on the lake or to seek out the waterfalls.

making tangible things through crafts like quilting, knitting, basket weaving and… carving.

As he explains the subtle differences in the dozen or so wooden spoons that will be carved during the upcoming Handcraft Gathering weekend, an event celebrating all things crafted, he notes, “I needed to do things like this to keep myself interested, and at the same time provide the park yet another niche.”

Conner has made an assortment multi-colored spoons of different shapes and sizes from a variety of 28

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Conner pays tribute to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that built Osage Hills State Park during the time of America’s Great Depression.

“They gave us something that would last and it’s a wonderful gift we’ve been given. Come once and you’ll want to come back again and again.” v UPCOMING ACTIVITIES AT THE PARK: Camp OK State Park Style—April 23-24: A family camping clinic designed to make camping fun and easy for the whole family to get started. The park provides a tent, sleeping pads, cooking utensils, stove, chairs, and lantern. $50/family Handcraft Gathering—May 14-15: A celebration of what can be made by hand including knitting, basket weaving, blacksmithing, fly tying, wool spinning and carving. $20/person

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918-333-4300 APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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Have some fun at Tri County Tech!

Experience Community Education, and bring a friend or loved one!

• Gardening • Painting • Couples Cooking • Kids Cooking

• Zumba Gold • Yoga • Social Media ...and so much more!

Explore more at www.tricountytech.edu/ courses, or call 918.331.3333.

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the arts

THE BURCHFIELD BROTHERS: A MUSICAL PATH WITH SMOKY MOUNTAIN ROOTS

by Lori Maranville Imagine a walk in the woods or a stroll next to the ocean.

The musical musings of the Burchfield Brothers take you on a journey of the natural world.

Brothers Jon and Ben Burchfield are talented musicians who intermingle music, storytelling and humor in a unique way that appeals to all ages. Glimpse their past and you will find the source and inspiration of a dynamic and engaging style that calms the spirit and heals the soul.

Their path toward music started down a stone dirt driveway, in a town of 108 families, steps from a national park in east Tennessee. If ever there was fertile ground for nurturing musical talent, the Burchfield household in Happy Valley was just such a place.

“I remember watching dad playing guitar when I was just a little boy, there in Happy Valley, Tennessee,” Jon says. “It’s right in the Smoky Mountains. And between dad and our mother on her accordion, I don’t think there was ever a day when there was no music in our home.”

The Burchfield’s father was an old time fiddle and banjo player and their mother was a classical pianist. Both were musical evangelists and teachers in a two-room schoolhouse nestled in the isolated and beautiful valley near Cades Cove.

The idyllic setting was home to Jon, Ben and their three siblings.

For Jon and Ben, the setting of their past harkens memories of summers spent creek fishing, swimming and trail hiking.

“I used to dream about it,” Ben says of a childhood that is the vein that runs through all of their music. They recall folks bringing their instruments to their home on a regular basis and playing well into the evening. “My uncle used to come to the cabin and play banjo,” Ben says, “and I’ll never forget those times.”

A move by the family in 1961 to Bourbonnais, Ill., just south of Chicago, would expand their exposure to different musical styles, opening their horizons to classical and jazz. “We were already well-versed in gospel and mountain music,” Ben said, “but these new genres inspired us and really helped develop our sound today.”

Their sound is an eclectic mix, blending Appalachian, classical, gospel, jazz, Latin, praise and Renaissance into a smooth as silk delivery of music that transports and transforms, inspires and entertains, all while wrapping listeners in blissful tranquility. Both brothers are expert instrumentalists, each bringing their unique sound with Jon on traditional guitar and Ben on the Irish flute and an instrument called the Mallet Kat, played with either mallets or the hands and capable of producing 1,000 different sounds.

Jon had an early passion for the classical guitar, teaching himself to play and, at the age of 18, going on the road with the Spurrlows. The 13-piece band played backup for country music legend Roy Clark. “Night after night,” Jon says, “I watched everything he played. Occasionally between shows, Roy would

show me great guitar techniques which I still use today.”

Ben took an interest in piano watching his mother play. In second grade, Ben says, he remembers his brother bringing home a snare drum and being instantly drawn to it. “I fell in love with it and told my mother, ‘I’m going to be a professional drummer.’” He learned to play the clarinet in fifth grade and played drums throughout middle school and high school, often performing with Jon. He went on to study music at Olivet Nazarene University before he enrolled at the Chicago Conservatory. He would later add Irish Flutes and recorders to his musical repertoire and found a way to meld his love of the keyboard and percussion with mastery of the Mallet Kat. The brothers’ music careers started independent of one another, Jon touring solo after his stint with the Spurrlows and, Ben, working as a band teacher in Nashville, Tennessee. The two eventually decided to do a few shows together on the weekends. After successful performances at Opryland Theme Park, General Jackson Showboat and Opryland Hotel, they began regularly touring together, launching the “Burchfield Brothers” on an instrumental touring career that now spans more than 20 years.

The music of the two is reminiscent of groups like Manheim Steamroller, although they have a sound all their own. Their collection of songs is personal, carefully selected and artfully performed to reflect their Appalachian roots and Christian upbringing.

Described by some of their listeners as “music doctors,” the Burchfield Brothers aim to motivate and inspire with their performances. “I want people to be calmed by the music with a peaceful feeling,” Ben says, adding that he also hoped they might be motivated to pick up an instrument themselves. For the foreseeable future, the duo plans to continue touring the country but might one day return to their Smoky Mountain roots. v Join the Burchfield Brothers for their live performance at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 24, 2016 at Ambler Hall, 415 S. Dewey in Bartlesville. Tickets are $17.50 and available from okmozart. com or call 918-336-9800. Don’t miss the 15-minute pre-show

by Pirate Armando beginning at 3:45 p.m.

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MEGAN RYAN

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Premium Brands & Flavors Including:

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32

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Premium Brands & Flavors Including:

2448 SE Washington Blvd, Ste F Bartlesville, OK 74006 (918)-876-4187 Must be 18 years of age or older

STOP & SMELL THE ROSES Tulsa Botanic Garden

daytripper

By Lacy Gittinger

Just northwest of downtown Tulsa is a sprawling outdoor wonderland known as the Tulsa Botanic Garden.

Acres and acres of trees, lakes, walking paths, and of course plants and flowers make up the home for several upcoming events this month that would merit a short drive to the south.

The drive time is just under an hour and people of all ages will find plenty of scenic entertainment to love.

Visitors can experience specialty events and programs nearly every weekend and you won’t want to miss them with the warmer season upon us.

The second annual Garden Art will be held on Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists from the Tulsa Glassblowing School will spend the day featuring their handmade, one-of-a-kind glass pieces. Gardeners and backyard enthusiasts take note! Find hummingbird feeders, garden gazing balls, flowers and other unique pieces that will make beautiful additions to your landscape. Also on showcase, Garden Deva Sculpture Company will have whimsical, spring, and gardenthemed metal art pieces for sale. Lots of family-friendly activities and crafts will be available throughout the day for children and families of all ages, including scavenger hunts and art demonstrations.

Later this month, the Garden will celebrate Earth

Day with Kites at the Garden on Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Tulsa Wind Riders Kite Club will be flying their colorful kites in all shapes and sizes at the Botanic Garden.

“You can partner with them for kite-flying and enjoy the trick kite show,” said Lori Hutson, Communications and Programs Director. “Bring your own kite or assemble your very own at the Garden.”

On Sunday, May 15 the Garden will host the grand opening celebration for their Children’s Discovery Garden. The Garden will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for members only to explore and enjoy the brand new Children’s Discovery Garden before the official ribbon cutting and grand opening for the public at 3 p.m. The Garden will stay open late, closing at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

The Tulsa Botanic Garden is open Thursday to Sunday, 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Starting May 17, the Garden will be open Tuesday to Sunday. General admission is $5, $2 for children ages 3 to 12 and children 2 and under are free.

Members of the Botanic Garden receive free admission, special previews and events and reciprocal benefits at many gardens across the country. v APRIL 2016 | b Monthly

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last call

AFTERNOON TEA, LIFELONG HOPE Martha’s Task Purse-n-ali-tea– Saturday, April 30

by Barbara Shoff Martha’s Task offers hope to women living in poverty.

Teaching them marketable sewing and crafting skills, the outreach then provides a shop from which the women can sell the goods they make. In addition to sewing and crafting, the women are offered basic computer training so they can learn how to market their creations online as well as prepare personal resumes for future endeavors.

Martha’s Task started in 2000 as a community outreach. Two years later, the organization received 501(c)(3) non-profit status and its participants began training, working and selling from their current location at 718 S. Johnstone Ave. Martha’s Task has two main opportunities for those in need: the Emergency Assistance Program and the Economic Development Program. Women in both programs have incomes at or below poverty level.

Emergency Assistance is designed to provide cash for immediate needs such as prescriptions, doctor’s fees, utilities, or housing deposits. Women can earn this money working 3 hours per week for $7.25 per hour.

The Economic Development Program helps women become more economically self-sufficient by providing professional sewing instruction to those interested in becoming seamstresses. Each woman trains 6 hours a week earning $7.25 per hour. When a woman finishes the training, she is given all the items needed to start her own home-based business, including a sewing machine, fabric, and other supplies and notions. Seamstresses are always welcome to continue sewing in the workshop and to sell their completed items in the Sew Original gift shop.

Financial support for these programs comes in different ways, one of which is the Martha’s Task annual Purse-n-ali-tea, a cornerstone fundraiser for the 34

b Monthly | APRIL 2016

organization which makes Martha’s Task the success it is.

A delightful spring tradition, the sixth annual Purse-nali-tea party will be on Saturday, April 30, 1 to 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 210 SE Ninth St. Director Laura Walton explained, “The event combines a delicious tea meal in all of its finery and will offer for sale merchandise the women have made, as well as a silent auction of handcrafted purses created by talented area seamstresses exclusively for Martha’s Task. More than 40 one-of-a-kind purses will be sold to the highest bidder during this pleasant afternoon fete.”

Tickets are $25 each. The public is invited to attend.

Reservations are required.

Martha’s Task is able to provide training to women free of charge because of private citizens’ continuous donations of fabric, sewing notions, sewing machines and crafting materials. Monetary contributions are also appreciated any time of the year.

Those who have received help from Martha’s Task are given so much more than training. Many have gained the confidence to move forward in life. Some participants in the program act as role models, teaching others the skills they have learned. One woman recently completed her college degree.

In addition to teaching sewing skills Martha’s Task, more than anything, offers hope. v For Purse-n-ali-tea party tickets or more information, contact Martha’s Task at 918-336-8275 or marthastask@yahoo.com.

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• • • •

Birthday Party Rentals Massage Therapy Steam/Sauna Rooms And so much more!

RICHARD KANE YMCA OF BARTLESVILLE 101 N. Osage | Bartlesville, OK P 918-336-0713

GET YOUR

MOVE ON!

We’ll CLOSE in 25 days

or give you $595!*

See what others are saying about a Truity home loan...

“Thanks for being the LEAST stressful part of my life, and being so dang good at your job(s).”

—Christopher D.

Visit TruityCU.org/HomeLoans to apply.

Questions? Contact Mortgage Officer Janet Witzel 918.337.7629 | Janet.Witzel@TruityCU.org | NMLS #645893 *New purchases only, with approved credit. Some restrictions apply. Ask for details.