bmonthly March 2017

The Arts

ON THE FENCE POTTERY

Last Call

OKM GOES USO!

Profile

ALAN ARMSTRONG

MARCH 2017

THIS MONTH: MOUNTAIN MAN CAMP N BSO SPANISH FIRE N COMPREHENSIVE MARCH EVENT CALENDAR

FRIDAY, MARCH 3 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 22 7:30 PM

Buy Tickets at: Call the box office at 918-336-2787 or 800-618-2787 or buy online at www.bartlevillecommunitycenter.com

what’s inside...

7.

10.

31.

25.

34.

27.

5

Publisher’s Letter

7

The Arts: All Fired Up On the Fence Pottery

28

Profile: Alan Armstrong

10

Feature: 100 Years of YMCA

31

Community: Where the Deer and Buffalo Roam

YMCA innovates and adapts while holding true to core values

17

February Events Calendar

22

Out & About: Photos from Around Town

Find out What’s Happening This Month!

25

34

Business: Sew Uptown

with Gay Cooper

Step back in time at the Southwest Regional Rendezvous

Last Call: OK Mozart Goes USO!

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publisher’s letter

publisher’s letter Sometimes in life we get lucky and find an ocean of opportunity before us. The sea of choices brings our senses to the forefront and we are set on our way. After five and a half years of Bartlesville Monthly, I continue to be impressed with our city and what it has to offer. When the magazine began, the most common question I remember people asking was, “Is there really enough to fill a monthly magazine?” Still today the question is not, “Where can we find something to write about?”, but rather, “Which stories will make this month and which ones will have to go in next month’s issue?”

A lot of the time, it’s just due to timing.

We are part of a small town with big ideas; the ongoing creativity and breadth of small business start-ups reinforce the faith in our city which is apparent.

Every month our writers bring news of new businesses and organizations looking to make their mark on the Bartlesville landscape.

There has never been a more important time to support our local culture. I see Bartlesville Monthly as the community billboard that shares the dreams of our residents which have become reality. Even as fledgling as they may be, the business of coercing your dreams into being has power. Bartlesville Monthly often highlights new businesses that may be just starting out, as well as more

established institutions that have endured here for over 100 years.

This is the beauty of Bartlesville. It has the depth of character which compels the like to set roots and thrive.

I hope all readers will enjoy the YMCA feature this month. For many decades, the Bartlesville Y has proved to benefit all ages.

Their continuing effort to foster a healthy outlook on life has touched thousands of Bartlesville citizens and we thought it was time they got noticed! We also highlight Williams President and CEO, Alan Armstrong. Armstrong spent most of his formative years here in Bartlesville and Mike Wilt shares his story in our profile section this month. From featuring artists who are driven to bring their passion to the public through business, to century-old organizations which have shaped our community, this issue of Bartlesville Monthly represents an excellent crosssection of life in Bartlesville.

As always, thank you to all who have contributed to create Bartlesville Monthly. If you would like to see a person, event or business highlighted in one of our upcoming issues, let us know! We love hearing from you.

Volume VII Issue III P.O. Box 44 / Bartlesville, OK 74005

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/Social Media Manager

Katy Holland

katy.m.holland@gmail.com Contributing Writers

Abigail Singrey, Mike Wilt, Lori Esser, Jennifer Cordero, Nate Williams Official Photographer

Tony Lehmer

www.lehmerphotography.com Contributing Photgraphers

Ray and Kathy Peaster Mark Blumer Kathy Hughes Calendar Manager

Katy Holland

calendar@bartlesvillemonthly.com Distribution

Cerre Wise Cheyanne Frazier 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, Inc.

ABOUT THE COVER: This month’s cover designed by PDG+creative lead designer Natalie Turner. The Richard Kane YMCA continues to adapt to serve the Bartlesville community for over 100 years! Cover design by PDG+creative.

MARCH 2017 | b Monthly

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the arts

All Fired Up On the Fence Pottery

by Lori Esser

Sheetal Kulkarni first placed her hands on a cut of clay in a remote potters’ village in India over a decade ago. Now, she’s the owner of On the Fence art studio in Bartlesville and selling her own pottery nationwide.

After she gradually acquired a wheel, kiln and equipment, Kulkarni turned her passion into a business, converting her garage into a workspace and her sunroom into a showcase area.

“Me and two friends went to this village to learn pottery on a whim, just to know how to play with mud,” she explained. “We learned different aspects… like processing clay, throwing, handbuilding, glaze and firing techniques.

“Art has always been a huge part of my life,” she said. “I was born to an art teacher and a draftsman; drawing and painting [were] a significant part of my childhood. I have since earned my degree in painting and printmaking.

Today, I draw from those skills while glazing and carving.”

“During my stay at the village, I came to greatly appreciate the skills of the local potters who were making some of the most amazing pottery,” she said. ”This is where I started my love affair with this 8,000-year-old art.”

She moved from India to the states in late 2005 and lived in California for the first six years. Then, in February 2011, her husband’s job with Phillips 66 brought them and their son to Bartlesville.

Her pottery draws inspiration from nature and the many shades of the earth, sky and water. Asian influence comes naturally to her and allows her to infuse designs with paisley, flowers, textures and other patterns with Eastern theme.

“I took additional studio [lessons],” she said. “I learned modern and new techniques. I would drive every alternative day to 3rd Street Clayworks in Tulsa.”

“When the art of pottery is as old as it is, it’s hard to be original,” she said. “I love when melted glass on ceramic creates beautiful shades of blue, like a clear MARCH 2017 | b Monthly

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“When the art of pottery is as old as it is, it’s hard to be original,” she said. “I love when melted glass on ceramic creates beautiful shades of blue, like a clear bright sky reflecting on the water or a play of glazes on a clay body that create an array of colors and emotions.” bright sky reflecting on the water or a play of glazes on a clay body that create an array of colors and emotions.

“I try to create functional pottery that brings beauty, happiness and something special to everyday life,” she continued. “My end-result is a product [that combines] a touch of luxury with ease of use.”

For example, Kulkarni’s mixing bowl features modified handles, designed to put the least pressure on your hand while still helping you hold the pot securely. And most of her products are microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.

In her wheelhouse, Kulkarni plans to create a business website, and develop small handbuilding classes for both adult and youth enthusiasts. Her business is registered with the Made in Oklahoma organization and she’s a member of the Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is proud to be a local and handmade artist here in northeast Oklahoma.

“We feel the most settled and at home in Bartlesville,” she said. “My husband and I both grew up in a close-knit community in India with caring neighbors and family-friendly environment.”

Kulkarni’s pottery can be found on facebook.com/ onthefenceart, where she invites custom orders, as well as at Jude’s Café, Green Thumb Nursery & Greenhouse, Keepsake Candles, Windsor Market in Tulsa and at local craft shows including Sunfest and Affair of the Heart. v

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feature

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FEATURE | b Monthly

YMCA innovates and adapts while holding true to core values

by Abigail Singrey The children file into the Richard Kane YMCA, with broad smiles, flashing eyes and feet that can barely be controlled, anxious to get to the pool as fast as possible. Their excitement at having the monotony of their school day broken up is contagious. Every second grader in the Bartlesville Public School District gets to take hour-long swimming lessons during the school day for two weeks at the YMCA. Gathered by the edge of the pool, the children yell the answers to basic water safety questions, and cheer enthusiastically about wearing a life jacket while boating.

Then they break up into classes to learn targeted swimming skills based on their level, with some working on diving and swimming in the deep end, while others are working on basic strokes and putting their faces underwater. The program’s ultimate goal is that every child in the Bartlesville Public School District will be able to swim the width of the pool.

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London, England. First YMCA founded June 6th, 1844.

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“One misnomer is that we are a gym and a place to swim,” Haley said.

“We are so much more than that. We are a community center, and we offer financial assistance to make our facility available to everyone. We are meeting critical needs for the health of our community, especially in helping to combat the obesity epidemic.”

FEATURE | b Monthly

By teaching water safety, the YMCA is helping to literally save lives. Drowning is one of the top five causes of death for school-age children, with lowerincome children being more likely to be injured or die in the water. The YMCA has partnered with Bartlesville Public School District, with the help of funding from the Bartlesville Regional United Way, to combat the problem through the Learn to Swim program.

“We are flexible to the needs of the community,” Victoria Gammon, membership and program director, said.

This is one key innovation that contributes to the Richard Kane YMCA standing the test of time. This year, they are celebrating 100 years of impact in the Bartlesville area, reaching generations of Bartlesville families. Laura Haley, who runs a development consulting firm and has been working with national YMCA initiatives for 15 years, estimates that over 8,000 people have been touched by the Richard Kane YMCA’s programs.

The YMCA had its start as a social club. The first YMCA was founded in London in 1844 as an escape from rough life on the streets. It offered Bible study and a social atmosphere in a time when many young men were leaving rural communities and struggling to adjust to factory jobs and big city life. It quickly spread to the United States, and broadened its mission.

The Bartlesville YMCA broke ground on Feb. 21, 1916, with a band singing hymns and addresses from key citizens, including then Mayor C.A. Lamm and religious leaders. Frank Phillips was an original board member. It opened its doors to the community the following year.

Over the years, community members have continued to make sure the YMCA was the center of Bartlesville

life. Its namesake, Richard Kane, was a long-time YMCA supporter, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 1961 for his years of serving on the Board of Directors and various YMCA committees.

While YMCA has been a cornerstone of the community since the early days of Bartlesville, it continues to adapt and look to the future.

This year, the YMCA has reached a milestone 100 years in Bartlesville. To celebrate, the staff has been holding challenges each month for the community. For March, individuals can participate in the centennial sprint, where they spend 100 minutes a week running or walking. They also have the option of showing up for a one-day 100 minute event, where they see how far they can walk or run in 100 minutes.

“The challenges are flexible as far as ability,” Gammon said.

They fit in with the YMCA’s overall mission of building a healthier community, too, Gammon said. The YMCA is an issue-driven organization. Since the rising rate of health problems has drawn national attention, the YMCA has developed targeted programs to combat those health issues.

“One misnomer is that we are a gym and a place to swim,” Haley said. “We are so much more than that.

We are a community center, and we offer financial assistance to make our facility available to everyone.

We are meeting critical needs for the health of our community, especially in helping to combat the obesity epidemic.”

Oklahoma has a child obesity rate of 17.4 percent for children ages 10-17, and the rate rises to 33.9 percent among adults. This can lead to host of other health problems, including diabetes, heart disease and more.

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“This YMCA is really focused on improving the health of the community, developing youth in the community and continuing to be a hub for social responsibility and volunteering,” Haley said.

Centrally located downtown, in walking distance of major employers and near the west side of Bartlesville, the YMCA offers a convenient location for people of all income brackets to mingle and work out.

The local YMCA hosts its programs in an aging facility, a challenge that the leadership is well aware of. They have been looking at options to modernize to better fit their modern programs. The YMCA is still in the pre-planning phase, but is working on crafting a plan for their future moving forward.

“We are becoming a cornerstone in the community, impacting both youth and adult citizens,” CEO Robert Phillips said.

“Health is a driving force of what the Y does,” Haley said.

As a part of helping create a healthier community, the YMCA offers a variety of group fitness classes. Building a support system can help people keep to their fitness plan. Their most popular class is Zumba, which involves dance music and movement designed to burn a lot of calories. Other popular offerings include Body Pump, which focuses on building strength, and aquatics classes for those who need a lower-impact activity.

“People can find one they feel comfortable doing, which makes them more likely to stick with it and meet their health goals,” Gammon said.

The YMCA also offers youth sports programs, built around their core values of caring, respect, responsibility and honesty. The YMCA staff hopes that by teaching those values, they can make a difference with another hot-button issue: bullying. The kids who go through their programs know that they have high expectations for their behavior, both on and off the field.

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The YMCA staff is passionate about the changes they have seen in the YMCA in the past few years. The YMCA has been stepping up to be a community leader, partnering in 2015 with the City of Bartlesville to run the pools in the summer, a natural fit since the YMCA was already involved in providing lifeguards. Recently, due to the success of this partnership, they announced that they would run the ball fields for the City, coordinating field leases with athletic organizations and scheduling events. Both partnerships allow them to make connections with people who may not have participated in a YMCA program before and provide information about the YMCA’s year-round activities. Phillips said that this partnership will also be instrumental in bringing together all the youth sports in Bartlesville.

In April, the YMCA kicks off their annual Strong Kids campaign to raise funds to allow the YMCA to continue to make a difference. The YMCA is a nonprofit that relies on community support to allow it to continue to meet its mission of helping individuals and families achieve their healthy lifestyle goals.

“We are poised to be an incredible pillar in the community,” Haley said. v

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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.

Weds, March 1

6 PM

5:30 PM

Hillcrest Country Club, 1901 Price Rd

Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S

night, learn how to introduce yourself; sit,

Bartlesville Etiquette Class 101 Two-day course from How2Lady. The first

REFIT Dance Exercise Class

stand, and walk; proper language; cell phone

Johnstone Ave

etiquette; and social media etiquette. The

Free cardio class open to the public. The

second night enjoy a formal dinner and learn

workout formula is easy to follow and will

table setting, dining etiquette, and integrity.

both challenge fitness enthusiasts and

Register at the door for $125 or online for

welcome beginners.

Thurs, March 2

7 PM

12 PM

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

Fuel for your Day Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S Johnstone Ave Nutrition class with guest speaker, Ashley Burson, Wellness and Aquatic Specialist and Coordinator at Phillips 66.

6 PM

Donuts with an Italian Twist Tri County Tech, 6101 SE Nowata Rd Who doesn’t love a good donut? Come learn how to make the Italian version - the Zeppole!

Stray Katz Movie Night Tyler, Dewey This movie is open to the public – free admission! Food and drink available for purchase.

Fri, March 3 5 PM

Pre-Theatre Prix Fixe Meal Copper Bar at Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave Enjoy a limited themed menu to go with the performance of 42nd Street before catching the show at the Bartlesville Community Center. Patrons are guaranteed to make it to the Community Center before the show starts.

$90 at how2lady.net.

7 PM

Buckaroo Banzai Movie Night Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don Tyler, Dewey Hosted by Bartlesville Film Society. Free admission! Food and drink available for purchase.

Ladies Heart Healing Weekend God’s Gathering Place, 202 N Kaw Ave Take an in-depth look at receiving hearthealing from the Master healer, Jesus.

Friday evening and all day Saturday. No childcare available.

7:30 PM

Broadway in Bartlesville! presents “42nd STREET” Bartlesville Community Center, 300 SE Adams Blvd The quintessential tap dance extravaganza, 42nd STREET, is essentially Broadway’s ‘reality show’ filled with backstage drama centered around the American dream of becoming a star.

Sat, March 4 9 AM

Winter Artisan Market Bartlesville Women’s Club, 601 S Shawnee Ave Indoor market where you can shop locally, stay warm, get fresh baked goods, homemade products and more. Enjoy your Saturday mornings in a warm place.

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6 PM

Dance-a-thon to End Human Trafficking

Karaoke

Stage Art Dance, 308 S Dewey Ave

Tyler, Dewey

Tri County Tech, 6101 SE Nowata Rd

All dancers, ages 12+ can come dance for a

Join us for the Karaoke event in a great

Enjoy a night of creating new cheese dips

cause! Dancers will take classes in multiple

atmosphere!

and chocolate sauces and indulging in

disciplines and learn about the issue of human trafficking. $10 to participate.

Price Tower Sale

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

8:30 PM

Live music with Steve White Band

Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave

Painted Horse Bar & Grille, 110 SW Frank

Shop all kinds of furniture and unused

Phillips Blvd

items in the annex next to the tower from 9-1 p.m. Co-hosted by Price Tower and the

Sun, March 5

Bartlesville Art Association.

Ladies Night Out: Fondue Fun

dipping meats, fruits, vegetables, and a variety of breads.

7 PM

Thurs, March 9

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

Movie Night Tyler, Dewey

11 AM

Hosted by Bartlesville Film Society. Free

Johnstone Park Art Center, 201 N

purchase.

See March 8 event for more info.

Sat, March 11

Fabric Dyeing Cherokee Ave

admission! Food and drink available for

12 PM

Stress Management Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S Johnstone Ave Dr. James Hutchins from Jane Phillips Hospital discusses how stress affects your health.

7:30 PM

Bartlesville Community Concert Association presents “A Band Called Honalee”

11 AM

Battle of the Books Central Middle School Auditorium, 815 Delaware Ave

7:30 AM

Annual face-off Trivia competition between

Shamrock The ‘Ville

Bartlesville Community Center, 300 SE

Central, Madison, Osage Hills, and St.

Downtown Bartlesville, 6th & Jennings

Adams Blvd

John’s Middle Schools.

Streets

A Band Called Honalee is a modernday folk trio inspired by the music and

Youth Art Show Opening Reception

legacy of Peter, Paul and Mary. Musically

Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave

accomplished, interactive and energetic,

Students from Bartlesville area schools will

their shows allow audiences to experience

have their work displayed on the second

this timeless music live onstage once again.

floor gallery walls March 4 - April 1. It’s a

7 PM

Fri, March 10

Enjoy this St. Patrick’s Day celebration with a 5K Race, Fun Run, couch race, prizes and plenty of great costumes. All to benefit Mary

6 PM

Martha Outreach, a non-profit organization

Hopestone Cancer Support Center, 206

in need. Get more info and register at

Kids Pizza, Pop & Paint SE Frank Phillips Blvd

that provides necessary items to those shamrocktheville.com.

great way to see future artists in the making!

Tues, March 7

6 PM

8 AM

Hillcrest Country Club, 1901 Price Rd

Hopestone Cancer Support Center, 206

Shawnee Ave

See March 3 event for more info.

SE Frank Phillips Blvd

Indoor market where you can shop

Informal meeting for men dealing with all

locally, stay warm, get fresh baked goods,

types of cancer at all stages. Come and

homemade products and more. Enjoy your

Dance for Freedom Showcase

share a cup of coffee with others dealing

Saturday mornings in a warm place.

Grace Community Church, 1500 SE Kings

with similar situations.

Bartlesville Etiquette Class 101

7 PM Drive

Dance showcase and performance to bring awareness to the issue of Human Trafficking. Open to the public. Email

Men’s Support Group

Kids will be lead step-by-step by the artist to paint a fun St. Patrick’s Day picture. $20 per child covers pizza, drinks & painting.

Winter Artisan Market Bartlesville Women’s Club, 601 S

6 PM

Weds, March 8 11:30 AM

9 AM

Paint & Pour Hopestone Cancer Support Center, 206

6:30 PM

SE Frank Phillips Blvd step-by-step instructions. $40 per person

danceforfreedom21@gmail.com for more

Women in Business

info.

Hillcrest Country Club, 1901 Price Rd

Hillcrest Country Club, 1901 Price Rd

With Tiffany Bruce and Tri County Tech,

Enjoy 1940s cuisine, soda bar, cash bar,

covers everything. Must reserve a spot. Call

learn how to create a culture of graciousness

918-7876-1709.

Live music with Erin O’Dowd and Chloe Johns

costume contest, trivia games, photo

and engagement with easy-to-implement

stations, music and dancing at this

actions and behaviors from one of the

fundraiser for OK Mozart. Tickets are $65-

Copper Bar at Price Tower,

country’s top Great Places to Work located

100. Visit okmozartuso.eventbrite.com for

510 S Dewey Ave

right here in Bartlesville.

more info.

8 PM

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OK Mozart Goes USO

Create a fun St. Patrick’s Day picture with

EVENTS CALENDAR | b Monthly

7 PM

Tues, March 14

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

10:30 AM

Murder Mystery Tyler, Dewey Heritage Theatre presents the mystery, Cafe Murder. Help us find the murderer in this delightfully funny play. Admission is $34.95 and includes dinner. RSVP at 918-440-2393.

Thurs, March 16

Chair Exercises Washington County Adult Center in Dewey, 300 E Angus Ave Renetta Harrison, Washington County Health Department will lead the class.

9:30 AM

5:30 PM

Women’s Support Group Hopestone Cancer Support Center, 206

Live music with Jo Hemian Jazz Copper Bar at Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave

Karaoke & Dance Party Painted Horse Bar & Grill, 110 SW Frank Phillips Blvd Brandon Jenkins with Mark Chamberlain &

Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave

7:30 AM

An informal group meeting of those dealing

Young Professionals of Bartlesville New Members Coffee

with many different forms of cancer at many

Painted Horse Bar & Grille, 110 SW Frank

different stages. Come & meet other ladies

Phillips Blvd

who know exactly what you are feeling.

Interested in becoming a new member?

SE Frank Phillips Blvd

8 PM

Egg Drop

Weds, March 15 10 AM

Animal Barn Open Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd

Already a member and want to meet other young professionals? Join the membership team and other YP members for coffee, breakfast & informal conversation!

Fri, March 17

Guests can now enjoy the Animal Barn with

Kids of all ages are invited to build a contraption that can keep an egg safe in a drop from the 9th floor at this family-friendly event, with the hope that the egg survives unbroken. Awards are given out based on age-range and a fun variety of different categories, like biggest splat. Get more info at pricetower.org.

10 AM

Mountain Man Camp Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd See March 15 event for more info.

rabbits, goats, chickens, peacocks and even the occasional baby buffalo.

the Whiskey Poet Society Concert Black Saddle Saloon, 213 E Rose, Caney Enjoy a 1000-capacity dance floor. Ages 18 and up.

1:30 PM

Cupcakes & Canvases Kids Paint Class

Mon, March 13

Johnstone Park Art Center, 201 N Cherokee Ave

3 PM

St. Patrick’s Day Parking Lot Party

10 AM

Spring Break Program - Bear Wants More Bartlesville Public Library, 600 South Johnstone Ave Program presented by the Oklahoma City Zoo for elementary students.

1 PM

Spring Break Program- Ready Set Vet Bartlesville Public Library, 600 South Johnstone Ave Program designed to introduce kids to the world of veterinary medicine. Presented by Oklahoma City Zoo for ages middle school and up.

Solo Club, 408 E 2nd St

33rd Annual Southwestern Regional Rendezvous

Party under the big tent with live music

Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd

first-ever whiskey lounge! Your first domestic

Hundreds of traders and re-enactors

beer is free, if you’re wearing a kilt.

recreate life in the 1840s at Mountain Man Camp. Learn the proper art of throwing a

beginning at 4:30 p.m. & enjoy Bartlesville’s

Bring the kids to paint a step-by-step painting with acrylic paint on canvas.

They are sure to enjoy the cupcake and drink during the class! Visit bartlesvilleartassociation.org for more info and to register.

8 PM

7 PM

tomahawk, shoot a black powder rifle, view

St. Patrick’s Day Jam

the inside of a tipi and more all within the

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

beautiful grounds of Woolaroc! Open to the

Tyler, Dewey

public March 18-19 & March 22-25, 10-4

Enjoy Irish Stew and soda bread while a

p.m.

variety of bands play classic rock. Free admission!

Live music with Desi and Cody Copper Bar at Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave

8:30 PM

Live music with Michael Updegrove Band

Sat, March 18

Painted Horse Bar & Grill, 110 SW Frank

9 AM

Sun, March 19

Bartlesville Women’s Club, 601 S

10 AM

Winter Artisan Market Shawnee Ave Indoor market where you can shop locally, stay warm, get fresh baked goods, homemade products and more. Enjoy your

Phillips Blvd

Mountain Man Camp Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd See March 15 event for more info.

Saturday mornings in a warm place.

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Enrolling Now!

Call for details 918-335-6861 MARCH 2017 | b Monthly

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Mon, March 20

Fri, March 24

7 PM

6 PM

12 PM

10 AM

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don

Tri County Tech, 6101 SE Nowata Rd

Tyler, Dewey

Replace Chinese takeout with homemade

600 South Johnstone Ave

Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd

Join us for the production of Cafe Murder.

egg drop soup, fried rice, and delectable

Discussion with Cheryl Hart, nationally

See March 15 event for more info.

Help find the murderer! Admission $34.95

sauces that aren’t too sweet or salty. Perfect

and includes dinner.

for a weeknight meal. Must be 21 to register.

Age-Related Body Changes - Part 1

board certified clinical nurse specializing in gerontology.

5:30 PM

Mountain Man Camp

7 PM

Bartlesville Community Center, 300 SE Adams Blvd

Location TBD

wine and bourbon pull, photobooth, and

Visit ypbartlesville.com for more info.

entertainment from The Time Machine, a

5 PM

Two Girls & a Brush Inspirational Guided Painting Class

12 PM

Books Sandwiched-In Program

Enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, a

Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S Johnstone Ave Series kickoff! Book review during the lunch

Dallas-based band that will make sure the party goes all night! Benefitting Price Tower Arts Center. Visit pricetower.org for tickets and more info.

Sat, March 25

Johnstone Park Art Center, 201 N

Couples Cooking: Chinese

Thurs, March 30

The Tower Gala

Young Professionals of Bartlesville March Social: Trivia Night

Tues, March 21

Murder Mystery

7:30 PM

Bartlesville Symphony Orchestra presents “Spanish Fire”

hour.

Fri, March 31

Bartlesville Community Center, 300 SE Adams Blvd Imitated by composers around the world,

Cherokee Ave

the music of Spain evokes brilliant colors,

Contact Elaine Wilson to register at 918-

warm nights and sensual passion. Under

630-7098.

the fingers of young, award-winning guitarist Jennifer Kim, this great music is sure to find even more fans.

8 PM

Live music with Susan Herndon

7 PM

Copper Bar at Price Tower, 510 S Dewey

Spring Art Show Opening Reception & Awards

Ave

Price Tower, 510 S Dewey Ave See Bartlesville Art Association’s annual

beverages available.

Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S Josh Wright, local fitness trainer will present

American Plains Artists “Small Works” Signature Show Opening

his third class on healthy cooking.

Ole’ #1 Firehouse Art Center, 118 ½ W

10 AM

Main St, Pawhuska This celebration of “Art of the Plains” features realistic and representational artworks in traditional media that depict

Mountain Man Camp

the American Great Plains region - its

Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd

landscape, wildlife, people & way of life

See March 15 event for more info.

in historical or modern times. On display

Thurs, March 23

p.m. and Sun 12-5 p.m.

Admission is $10.00 at the door. Food and

Healthy Cooking Class - Part 3

Weds, March 22

show on display April 1-29, Tues-Sat, 10-5

Heritage Theatre Café & Pub, 306 E Don Tyler, Dewey

6 PM

Johnstone Ave

Oklahoma Boomtown Band

through May 7. Visit artsintheosage.org for

8:30 PM

Live music with Tommy Guns Painted Horse Bar & Grill, 110 SW Frank Phillips Blvd

Sun, March 26 12 PM

Family Free Sunday Price Tower

more info.

The fourth Sunday of every month, families

10 AM

9 AM

This Sunday, see the Shin’en Kan exhibition

Woolaroc, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd

Bartlesville Women’s Club, 601 S

themed craft.

See March 15 event for more info.

Shawnee Ave

Mountain Man Camp

6 PM

Winter Artisan Market

Indoor market where you can shop locally, stay warm, get fresh baked goods,

Grief Support Group

homemade products and more. Enjoy your

Hopestone Cancer Support

Saturday mornings in a warm place.

Center, 206 SE Frank Phillips Blvd This informal group meeting is open to anyone who has suffered a loss. Meet with others who are experiencing similar feelings.

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are invited to visit the Price Tower for free.

– the show ends today – and participate in a

Mon, March 27 1:30 PM

Age Related Body Changes - Part 2 Bartlesville Public Library, 600 S Johnstone Ave Cheryl Hart will continue her series on age related body changes.

Coming up next month...

April 1 1PM

Hopestone Cancer Support Center 206 Frank Phillips Blvd.

Fundraiser benefiting leukemia-fighter Kambri Albright. Family craft day including dream catcher workshop, branding iron demonstrations, leather bracelet/headband decorating, and live music. Crafts for kids of all ages. $25 per family.

FIND YOUR CAREER. With over 40 diplomas and certificates, Tri County Tech will help you prepare for success in today’s highly demanding and competitive workforce.

TriCountyTech.edu/Adult FLEX & FAST TRACK COURSES

ENRICH YOUR LIFE.

6101 Nowata Rd | Bartlesville OK | 918.331.3333

Financial assistance is available.

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out & about all that jazz

taste of chocolate

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OUT & ABOUT | b Monthly

woolaroc valentines dinner

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business

Sew Uptown with Gay Cooper

by Jennifer M. Cordero

Sew Uptown is the hottest new quilt and heirloom sewing supply retail store in the Bartlesville area.

From pattern kits to sewing accessories to fabrics of all varieties, owner Gay Cooper is ready to serve customers.

When the Cotton Patch in Tulsa closed last year, Gay bought their remaining inventory and packed it away for the right moment, which came on January 25, 2017 when she opened Sew Uptown located at 316 SE Dewey, downtown Bartlesville, between Cooper Herrington Furniture and Theater Bartlesville.

“Bartlesville has had a tremendous need for good quality fabric that quilters are going to want to use,” Gay explains. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

So far, I’ve had a good reception,” she beams with joy.

According to Gay, “There is a resurgence of sewing and handwork. I’ve been surprised at the number of young people interested in sewing.” She adds, “It’s a good life skill.”

“Since I was itty bitty, I remember going to grandmother’s and she would always crochet, embroider, and knit. After school, I went to the quilt guild. This [store] is honoring her and mother and what they instilled in me and their love of needlework,” she reminisces.

“Any handwork is my favorite. But there are times I’ve had a really bad day, I just need to shove some fabric in a machine. It’s therapy for me,” Gay says with a smile.

She explains most people visiting the store are “looking for a specific fabric or colors because they have a project in mind or they are just coming to see what’s here.”

Soon, Sew Uptown will offer sewing classes that will include beginning quilting, hand embroidery, English paper piecing, appliqué, clothing, sewing for the beginner and more.

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“Any handwork is my favorite. But there are times I’ve had a really bad day, I just need to shove some fabric in a machine. It’s therapy for me,” Gay says with a smile.

She will also offer open sew and charity sewing days, where people can bring their own projects. She says, “It’s more fun with others and to learn about other sewing charities.”

Gay used to be a fabric sales rep. She recalls, “the first shop I went to - it was fun and happy where everyone enjoys the process of making fun stuff. That’s what I want for my shop. Life is more enjoyable if we’re happy.”

Sew Uptown carries notable fabrics by Robyn Pandolph, Blackbird Designs, Laundry Basket Quilts, French General and more. She elaborates, “I will special order fabrics and can get them fairly quickly.”

“From ‘30s prints to moderns – everyone gets to benefit from my obsession with fabric,” she laughs.

Sew Uptown carries many how-to books, patterns for embroidery, appliqué, big blocks, threads, notions, and five brands of needles.

They will participate in the international 2017 Row

by Row Experience. Gay explains, “Participating quilt shops come up with a row and give away a free pattern.”

Quilters travel worldwide visiting quilt shops acquiring the free quilt row patterns to create their own 8-row quilt.

Learn more at www.rowbyrowexperience.com.

Gay is, “looking forward to people visiting from all over.”

Sew Uptown is open Wednesday through Friday 10am to 5:30pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm and Tuesdays by appointment. For more information on classes, products or special appointments, call (918) 332-8956 or visit them on https://www.facebook.com/SewUptown. v

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profile

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PROFILE | b Monthly

ALAN ARMSTRONG One might expect the president and chief executive officer of a major energy company that employs 5,600 people to have a certain exclusive air about him. But the unassuming Alan Armstrong, leader of Tulsa-based The Williams Companies, credits being well-grounded to family and time spent in Bartlesville.

Born in Waco, Texas, the 54-year-old father of four spent much of his youth in Atlanta, Georgia, but began and finished his schooling in Bartlesville. The third of four children and the only boy, Armstrong attended kindergarten and first grade and then returned to Bartlesville in 1977 to finish high school. The 1980 Sooner High grad has fond memories of those teenage years.

“I enjoyed playing several sports and lots of good oldfashioned work at McBride’s Auto Body, H&H Grocery, KC Asphalt, and Greenawalt & Armstrong Surveyors & Engineering. Then there were days at Grand Lake & Keystone Lake with cousins and good friends. I really enjoyed working with my grandfather, Gene Armstrong, on all kinds of projects on his ranch.”

Armstrong’s parents, maternal and fraternal grandparents, and one uncle all had extensive careers with Phillips Petroleum Company, but, more importantly, they all had a hand in shaping his life.

“I required a lot of steering,” he grins. “And I got that from many folks in my family. Having a faith-based family with two very strong and admirable grandfathers certainly got me started in the right direction. My parents instilled a sense of discipline and work ethic that influenced me as well.”

Given Armstrong’s Bartlesville roots and his family’s history with Phillips 66, it is logical for one to ask about his joining Williams after graduating with a civil engineering degree from the University of Oklahoma.

were very dim. I really wanted to be involved in the design and construction of large-scale infrastructure and Williams offered that specific opportunity.”

Armstrong says his Bartlesville past is a perfect fit with his Tulsa present.

“The work ethic and values I learned from being in Bartlesville are very closely aligned with the core values and beliefs that guide our culture at Williams.”

When he’s not traveling to places such as Houston, Dallas, Salt Lake City or California, Armstrong visits his Bartlesville family and “sneaks up to Murphy’s every

“The work ethic and values I learned from being in Bartlesville are very closely aligned with the core values and beliefs that guide our culture at Williams.” once in a while” for a hot hamburger.

“I’ve had the opportunity to live in and visit a lot of places. Bartlesville’s commitment to faith-based values and a strong sense of family will always make it a special place. I was always impressed with the great intellect that surrounded Phillips 66 and Bartlesville.

There were some of the most accomplished scientists and engineers in the world living right there alongside the rest of us in a humble and non-pretentious way.”

A tradition Armstrong carries on today. v

“I always had great respect for the company growing up and when I got out of school Phillips had just gone through its T. Boone Pickens and Carl Icahn (takeover) days. They were so debt laden that growth prospects

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community

Where the Deer and Buffalo Roam Step back in time at the Southwest Regional Rendezvous

by Abigail Singrey

The people wearing buckskin clothing and herds of buffalo grazing near teepees may fool visitors into thinking they’ve stepped back in time, but instead, they’ve arrived at the 33rd Annual Southwest Regional Rendezvous. The Rendezvous is a gathering place for anyone fascinated by a time when fur traders and Indians roamed the prairies. Held from March 15-25th, the event is being hosted for the first time at Woolaroc’s Mountain Man camp. It is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 18-19 and March 22-25.

“It’s a perfect fit for us because our mission is to preserve the history of the west, entertain and educate,” Woolaroc CEO Bob Fraser said. “…It gives children a great window into what life was like in the 1830s and 1840s.”

Buckskinners, as they’re known throughout the group, gather every year to camp, trade stories and live out a bygone era. Around the 350 campfires, visitors will

see people with nicknames like “Old Crooked Stick” or “Bear Paw” whittling and telling tales, both of mountain men and their own hunting and fishing adventures.

Woolaroc is a unique location for the Southwest Rendezvous because they don’t need to stage the Old West feel. Campers can wake up and see elk right outside the camp or a buffalo herd grazing nearby.

All the rendezvous members are in period-appropriate clothing, eating with old-time plates and utensils, though Woolaroc’s host, Wes Butcher, can’t promise that there won’t be soda in those period appropriate cups! Anything plastic, such as ice chests, is well hidden to give an authentic feel.

Visitors can browse booths a wide selection of time-period appropriate gear for sale, or watch daily competitions in shooting bow and arrow, throwing a tomahawk and a knife. With three categories- men’s, women’s and juniors - all ages have a chance to compete.

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“It’s a perfect fit for us because our mission is to preserve the history of the west, entertain and educate,” Woolaroc CEO Bob Fraser said. “…It gives children a great window into what life was like in the 1830s and 1840s.”

People come to the encampment from all walks of life, from truck drivers to dentists to an aerospace engineer from Kansas who brings his entire family dressed in buckskins.

Wes Butcher and his brother, Roger, are as committed to the mountain man lifestyle as anyone. For 25 years, they’ve been running the Mountain Man Camp at Woolaroc.

Generations of children have shot their first musket or thrown their first tomahawk or learned how a teepee was made under the Butcher brothers’ supervision.

“It looks really neat on TV, but it would have been a rough life,” Wes Butcher said. “We do keep a fire in the tepee at all times so they can get a little smoke in their eyes and get the effect.”

And for the first few years at Woolaroc, they lived down there full-time. So they understand the appeal of getting away from it all to a simpler time.

“It’s a neat family thing (the rendezvous members) can all do together,” Wes said.

For those who can’t make it to the encampment, the Spring Traders Encampment on April 7-8 features many of the same activities, but attracts a smaller crowd. Also, the Mountain Man Camp, run by the Butcher brothers, is open from March to October.

“Frank Phillips would have loved the mountain man camp,” Fraser said. “He liked the lifestyle, the history of things of that time, and he enjoyed the people.” v

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last call

OK MOzart GOES

by Kelcey Nobles

Portion of proceeds benefits Oklahoma USO Experience all the food, fashion, and fun of the 1940s at OK Mozart’s USO-themed dance, beginning at 6:30 p.m., March 10, at Hillcrest Country Club.

Even the food has gone retro, she said. Savor period favorites such as assorted canapés, tea sandwiches, old fashioned meatballs, petit berry pies, star-spangled cookies and more. Enjoy retro cocktails, and check out the thirst-quenching Coca-Cola bar.

USO-THEMED FUNDRAISER! 6:30 p.m. – March 10, 2017 Hillcrest Country Club

“Step back in time for an evening of big band sounds, swing dancing and honoring our military,” said Mary Lynn Mihm, event chairman of OK Mozart Goes USO. “Proceeds from this event will help support the 33rd OK Mozart Music Festival in June, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Oklahoma USO to salute and support our military for all that they do for our country.”

Be sure to come dressed in favorite ‘40s style clothes and hairdos. Active and retired military personnel are encouraged to wear their uniforms. The red, white and blue decorations, plus ‘40s-era posters, will add to the nostalgic feel, and photo stations will be available to “seal the moment.”

• 1940s Cuisine COSTUME, DANCE & The audience will be treated to music by Floyd History buffs will want to get in on trivia contests, • Floyd Haynes & His Haynes and his Orchestra, featuring vocalist Jae Simand don’t forget to wear dancing shoes because prizes TRIVIA CONTESTS! mons. Haynes and Simmons are well known around will be awarded for best dancing and costume. Check Orchestra, Oklahoma and promise plenty ofFeaturing 1940s big-band clasout the many YouTube videos for instructions on swing sics. dancing.

CASH BAR Jae Simmons Tickets are $100 each, with four cocktail coupons, “OK Mozart is dedicated to celebrating or $75 each without drink coupons. Active and retired • 1940s-Period Clothing different cultural experiences, and what SODA BAR military personnel receive a $10 discount. better way to do so than by reliving the • Military Uniforms music of the 1940s,” said Mihm.

For more information and a link to the ticket site, visit www.okmozart.com. v PHOTO STATIONS Welcome 34

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