ion Oklahoma Magazine September/October 2019

ionOK.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

OKC Mayor David Holt

Tom McDaniel, MAPS 3 Advisory Board Chairman

Scissortail Park Grand Opening Sept 27-29 Kyle Dillingham skates into the Grand Ole Opry

Express Employment Professionals Survey

Orr Family Farm

Lost and found in Cogar, OK

OKC Boathouse Regatta Festival

Oklahoma State Fair Sept 12-22

Lifestyle … Culture … Entertainment

publisher : Don Swift assistant : Joni Yeager editor : Tim Farley editiorial assistant : Darian Woolbright videographer : Jeremy Gossett director of photography : Michael Downes web site developer : Patrick Moore with Set Sail Media web site developer : Nina Jones, Data Design Inc. illustration : Rosemary Burke graphic design : Wendy Mills Advertising Sales Don Swift Photographers Jeremy Gossett Hugh Scott, Jr. Tracy Reece Jerry Hymer

Advertising Consultants Peter Preksto Contributors fashion : Linda Miller art : Joy Reed Belt people : Peggy Gandy social issues : Robbie Robertson community : Lauren Wright contributing writer : Sandi Davis contributing writer : Greg Horton contributing writer : M.A. Smith contributing writer : M. J. Van Deventer contributing writer : Julie York contributing writer : Dorian Quillen contributing writer : Kristen Marckmann

MIDLAND

SCOTTY McCREERY

12

Contents COVER STORY

12

Scissortail Park Grand Opening, Sept 27-29

by Tim Farley

ART

63

Colors of Clay Show opens at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

by M.J. Van Deventer

78

Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale

by M.J. Van Deventer

FASHION

32

26

Falling for Fashion: New looks for a new season

by Linda Miller

PEOPLE

30

Above and Beyond: Tribes’ investment in Oklahoma goes beyond casinos

by Linda Miller

32 66

Kyle Dillingham: Oklahoma’s Musical Ambassador Gives Electrifying Grand Ole Opry Debut Performance

by Tamara Hermen

50

Kara Byrd: Bringing Durant’s Strategic Vision to Life

by Garland McWatters

54

Colin Forsey rocks El Reno

by Bill O’Brien

68 88

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Hall of Fame Presenters 2019 Sister Cities International (SCI) appoints Mary Blankenship Pointer to the Board of Directors

80

TRAVEL 26 Exploring the evolution of air and spaceflight

by Linda Miller

80

Lost and Found in Cogar, Oklahoma

by Jesse Edgar

BUSINESS 66 Bedré Fine Chocolate’s new Dark Chocolate Premium 74

Sauce can be used in cocktails, milkshakes and desserts.

Express Employment Professionals comparing white, blue and grey collar workers

26

42

EVENTS, ENTERTAINMENT 18 It’s Oklahoma State Fair time! Fun and unique foods at the fair 42 Orr Family Farm festival brings unique experiences in 2019

by Kristen Marckmann

40 58

September in the Myriad Gardensl 15th annual Regatta Festival coming to OKC October 4-6

by Kristen Marckmann

70

Tulsa Greek Festival packed with food, cultural experiences and dancing

by Kristen Marckmann

86

Indian Festival in Yukon shows off language and culture

54

by Bill O’Brien

SPORTS

56

OKC Thunder 2019-2020 Schedule

IN EVERY ISSUE

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Publisher’s Note

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 9

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Dear readers,

I am very excited that our “First Class” team of professional editors, writers and other contributors to ion Oklahoma Online Magazine have committed their time and expertise toward making this digital online upscale publication a huge success.

We are offering both online FREE digital issues that can be downloaded to your computer, tablet or mobile phone. Also, printed editions are available as a print on demand service and mailed directly to your home or office from our hosting publishers website “Magcloud.”

Today the State of Oklahoma has been experiencing a certain noticeable growth among young people under the age of 30. In 2019, the NextGen Under 30 Award Recognition Program is celebrating a record response in its ninth year.

NextGen TALKS Oklahoma has been created in 2019 and our inaugural event is scheduled on October 4, 2019 at Oklahoma City Community College VPAC Auditorium.

Please visit www.nextgentalksok.com for more details. There will be three New community leaders and 10 New and NEXTGEN community leaders sharing their stories at this live event.

At ion Oklahoma Magazine we plan to publish many of the quality lifestyle stories from Oklahomans who are best representing the “Oklahoma Spirit.”

We want to hear from you, our readers, and your stories, so please email your ideas, thoughts and success stories.

oklahoma

Sincerely, Donald B. Swift, Publisher, ion Oklahoma magazine www.ionok.com www.nextgenunder30.com www.nextgentalksok.com

10 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

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COVER STORY

Oklahoma City’s “Crown Jewel” Scissortail Park Grand Opening kicks off September 27-29

BY TIM FARLEY

Oklahoma City officials anticipate a crowd close to 15,000 people at the Scissortail Park three-day opening which begins September 27

O

klahoma City’s Scissortail Park will become the “capstone” or the “crown jewel” of all MAPS 3 projects when it’s unveiled to the public.

That’s the opinion of two community leaders – Mayor David Holt and MAPS 3 Advisory Board chairman Tom McDaniel.

“This will affect our community for the next 100 years,” said McDaniel, who has led the advisory board since its inception. “This is an opportunity that occurs in cities to have a central location for a park, across the street from a major convention center and in the middle of downtown. It will be an iconic 70-acre park.”

Part of the excitement about Scissortail Park is that three sides to the attraction will be available for economic development including residential housing and commercial construction.

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Aerial view of Scissortail Park construction

“I’m sure there will be mixed uses,” McDaniel said, “for such things as restaurants, condominiums, apartments, a new hotel and other businesses. This park and what it will bring to the area pushes Oklahoma City to a higher level.

Yes, we have the Myriad Gardens and it’s a wonderful attraction but this park is bigger and provides us with a new amenity we’ve never had.”

Oklahoma City officials anticipate a crowd close to 15,000 people at the Scissortail Park three-day opening which begins Sept. 27. Citizens will see the many features of the 36-acre Upper Park, which include a stage and Great Lawn. The covered main stage overlooks a six-acre oval lawn with seating for more than 15,000 people. In addition, residents will be have access to a playground with a net lens, geometric dome climbers, children’s gardens and a large fort with a tower and slides with plenty of shade and public restrooms. The playground is next to interactive fountains for children to enjoy on a hot day.

Other park features on the 70 acres will include a boathouse, which incorporates a concession stand, public restrooms and a shaded patio. Guests can rent pedal boats, including one that’s ADA-accessible. This same

area can be rented for parties and other events. A promenade, dog park, event pavilion, activity areas and an indoor-outdoor café are part of this grand project.

The café will be managed by The Social Order Dining Collective, which operates a number of successful restaurants in the area. The café is scheduled to open in the spring of 2020.

Holt, in his capacity as Oklahoma City’s mayor, said the park in general will be “world class.”

“It will be a very special place in our city as it joins everyone from southeast Oklahoma City, southwest Oklahoma City, northeast and northwest Oklahoma City,” he said.

Holt was quick to point out the grand opening will celebrate only the first phase of the park. The second phase, or the 34-acre Lower Park, will open at a later time.

That portion of the park will extend to the Oklahoma River.

“We’ve never had an urban park this size,” he said.

“This will draw everyone together. It fills a need for us as a great American city.”

Designed by one of the foremost landscape architecture planning firms in the world, Hargreaves Associates, the SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ionOklahoma 13

Above, winding benches on the park patio.

Ceiling of the stage, left, seen also in the background of the terrace.

Below, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will perform on the third day of the opening celebration.

park is also a horticultural tapestry of native prairie grasses, lush flower gardens and tree-lined walkways.

With all of the hype and promotion, citizens and city officials are excited. Putting their stamp on the grand opening will be the Kings of Leon. Kings of Leon is an American rock band that formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1999. The band is composed of brothers Caleb, Nathan and Jared Followill with their cousin Matthew Followill. The band’s early music was a blend of Southern rock and blues influences, but it has gradually evolved throughout the years to include a variety of genres and a more alternative, arena rock sound.

To cap three days of celebration, OKCPHIL will perform a variety of classic pieces for everyone to enjoy on the Love’s Travel Stops Stage on Sunday, September 29 beginning at 7 p.m. Many of the works to be performed during this free concert will be nature-themed including Lark Ascending by Vaughn Williams, Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker,

by Tchaikovsky, and Firebird Finale, by Stravinsky.

“The OKCPHIL and Maestro Mickelthwate would like to 14 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

welcome everyone out to the Grand Opening celebration of Scissortail Park when the OKCPHIL will perform a familyfriendly night of wonderful music in the open air,” said Susan Webb, director of marketing and public relations for OKCPHIL. “We have an exciting program planned with several favorites including Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain.

We look forward to sharing this grand opening experience, which we think everyone will enjoy, with our Oklahoma City community.”

MAPS 3 SCISSORTAIL PARK PROJECTS Who designed the Park?

The MAPS 3 Scissortail Park project was planned using a public, resident-driven process including input and guidance from the MAPS 3 Park subcommittee, MAPS 3 Citizens Advisory Board and City Council. Professional consultants included Hargreaves Associates and ADG.

Who built the Park?

Downey Contracting constructed the Park. Crews broke ground on June 29, 2017, and worked for more than two years.

How was the Park funded?

Scissortail Park is a project of MAPS 3, an $805-million, debt-free capital improvement program to advance the quality of life in Oklahoma City. It was funded by a one-cent sales tax initiative that began in April 2010 and ended in December 2017. The Park project budget was $132 million to build a 70-acre downtown park including a cafe, lake, event pavilions, great lawn and stage.

How big is the Park?

Scissortail Park will be almost 70 acres total. The 36-acre Upper Park stretches from Oklahoma City Boulevard to the Skydance Bridge, which crosses Interstate 40 into the future 34-acre Lower Park. Construction begins on the Lower Park next year and is scheduled to be finished in 2021.

What are the main features of the Park?

Lake and Boathouse: The Boathouse will have a concession stand, public restrooms and a shaded patio.

Guests can rent pedal boats, including one that’s ADAaccessible, to enjoy the 3.7-acre lake under a shaded pavilion. This area can be rented for parties and events.

Lake bridge: The 240-foot bridge spanning the lake will have spectacular views of the Park, the OKC skyline and historic Union Station.

Ornamental woodlands and garden: Native plants and trees along with specialized gardens that feature color, movement, touch and smell.

Stage and Great Lawn: The covered main stage overlooks a 6-acre oval lawn with seating for over 15,000 people.

Playground: A net lens, geometric dome climbers, children’s gardens and a large fort with a tower and slides with plenty of shade and public restrooms. It’s next to interactive fountains for kids to enjoy on a hot day.

Promenade: The Park’s main north-south walkway will traverse its eastern edge. Lighting, interactive fountains and play areas dot the promenade, along with a large public art piece coming soon on the northeast corner. The largest platform on the OKC Streetcar route is along the Promenade.

Dog Park: A half-acre fenced dog park with dog water fountains and large boulders, with sides for large and small dogs.

Activity areas: A shady lakeside woodland leads to an open area for kite-flying, ball-playing and enjoying the sun. An extensive underground French drain system captures rainwater to fill the Lake.

Event Pavilion: A 6,400-square-foot event pavilion with a seasonal outdoor roller rink and covered picnic area will be in the southeast corner of the Upper Park.

Indoor/outdoor café: The Social Order Dining Collective, which manages a number of successful restaurants in the area, will operate this space when it opens in Spring 2020.

When will the Lower Park be complete?

It’s scheduled for completion in 2021.

Will the SkyDance Bridge be open for the Grand Opening?

The bridge will be passable during Grand Opening weekend. It may close again to complete the work later.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 15

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic will cap off the third day of the celebration with a free performance.

Maureen Hefferman, chief executive officer and president of Scissortail Park Foundation, said the city is honored to have a world class philharmonic playing in the park dedication.

“I can’t think of a better way to conclude the Grand Opening weekend than sitting in the Park listening to the philharmonic playing,” she said. “Many of the selections are nature-themed and I think everyone will really enjoy hearing these pieces.”

Labor of love McDaniel described his tenure on the MAPS 3 Advisory Board as a “labor of love,” but said a potential MAPS 4 should probably be left to someone younger.

“Let’s just say I’m 80 and this project took nine years. I 16 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

don’t think they would want someone who is almost 90 to be in charge of the MAPS 4 citizens oversight committee,” he said, with a laugh.

McDaniel said he’s been thrilled with the opportunity to make a contribution as the oversight committee’s chairman.

“It is something I really relish,” he said. “It will be a legacy for my grandchildren. I’ve learned something of this magnitude requires the cooperation of a lot of people.

Marshalling 80 people in the same direction has been challenging.”

In addition to the $130 million park, MAPS 3 has funded a new convention center, a street-car system, senior wellness centers and several other projects that have been paid for without any debt thanks to the penny sales tax Oklahoma City voters approved. n

EVENTS

IT’S TIME! New events set to bring excitement to Oklahoma’s premier fair

A

t the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair, fans can expect a variety of attractions that all work together to create the ultimate experience of FUN MADE HERE.

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FUN MADE HERE Renaissance Village – Located in the Centennial Plaza, Fairgoers can take a step back into the middle ages, to the time of Kings and Queens, jesters, minstrels and knights.

Enjoy performances by talented dancers and singers, incredible archers and hilarious jokesters. Visitors can shop the wares of medieval artisans and have a taste of delicious food and drink from the period. This fully immersive experience is one that nobody will want to miss out on.

Xtreme Chinese Acrobats – Visit the new Entertainment Stage in the Bennett Event Center to watch these high-fling performers as they attempt daring stunts. This show is sure to wow audiences of all ages.

Oklahoma State Fair Film Festival – Submitted and judge ahead of the Fair, short films that are selected as the 1st through 3rd winners in each category of this competition will be shown in the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center on

September 14. Following the Film Festival, the winning videos will be shown for the remainder of the Fair.

LIVE Mural Challenge – This new competition will take place on September 14 in The Circle. The 20 accepted entrants will create their murals and a judging panel will award cash premiums to the top pieces. All 20 murals will remain on display throughout the duration of the Fair.

Kids Celebration – This interactive show is meant to engage and entertain the whole family. Every child and teenager in the audience will have the opportunity to be the star of the game show. Each show is different, so patrons can come back again and again to experience the fun. Don’t miss this on the Entertainment Stage in the Bennett Event Center.

A Grizzly Experience – Yogi and his two friends will make a stop at the Oklahoma State Fair to show you that a grizzly bear is more than a cute face. Witness the interaction SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 19

between animal and man and learn what to do if you ever meet one in the wild.

Charro Gabriel Hernandez – Located in the Oklahoma Frontier Experience, Gabriel Hernandez began riding horses before he could walk and is one of the youngest performing charros at the age of 14. This charro rides his horse, El

20 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Vallo, and is a rare left-handed talent that comes from many generations of experienced horsemen. Catch him every night at the 7:30 p.m. Wild West Showcase.

Flyin’ Fiddler Wayne Cantwell – Mr. Cantwell makes his first appearance at the Oklahoma Frontier Experience with his fiddle thrown in a gunny sack over his shoulder. Using an old time clawhammer banjo and fiddle, he’ll perform traditional music of the open prairie or what you would have heard around a campfire or during an old western barn dance.

Early American Potter – From digging up the clay to the finished product, learn what it took to make pottery back in the 1800’s. Showcasing her amazing craftsmanship, Reggie will show you the various methods it takes to make products that were used in the frontier’s everyday life.

Team Penning – Team Penning is an equine competition where mounted horsemen and women separate and herd a select designated group of cattle safely and efficiently into a pen. This event showcases the skills necessary to function

on a working ranch. Don’t miss this competition in the Performance Arena.

Pleasure Draft – This division has been added to the equine competitions as a way for Draft Horses and other Draft type breeds to compete in classes such as barrel racing, trail, or obstacle classes. Watch as these gentle giants show off a huge variety of skills. In case you missed it last year…

Oklahoma Cornhole Classic – Through a partnership with Oklahoma Cornhole, we present the second annual

Oklahoma State Fair Cornhole Classic. Compete for prizes and bragging rights for this event. Check the Oklahoma Cornhole Facebook page for information on tournament registration and fees. This event takes place September 22 at The PATIO. SINGO / Trivia Night – SINGO combines ‘name that tune’ with bingo to make a fun night with friends. Music ranges from 60’s to today. Alternating with SINGO rounds will be Trivia Live. Test your knowledge and see how much you really know about life. Amazing prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, in the Modern Living Building on September 12.

Special event announcements and general updates for the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair will be released as information becomes available.

Tickets to the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair, including Disney On Ice, PRCA Xtreme Bulls & Broncs, outside gate admission tickets and carnival ride armbands are on sale now.

To stay up-to-date on all the Fair fun, visit www.okstatefair.com, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. And don’t forget to share your Fair memories and stories with us using #OKStateFair and #FunMadeHere. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 21

Food for Thought

NEW, FUN & UNIQUE FOODS AT THE 2019 OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR A BIG PART OF FAIR FUN IS THE FOOD! Continue reading to see what new and exciting creations our vendors have produced to ensure that the Oklahoma State Fair is where you can find FUN MADE HERE!

New for 2019 S’more On-A-Stick: Enjoy this delicious campfire favorite on the go, courtesy of A Latte Love.

Amish donuts: Brought to you by a new vendor, Amish Food Truck, Two Guys and a Hobby, these delectable donuts are hot and fresh and cannot be missed.

Angry Puffs: Breathe like a dragon with Angry Bull Sub Zero Desserts in flavors like cotton candy, funnel cake, cheddar, and fruit.

Vegetarian Platter: Satisfy your appetite with this meatfree dish at Chan’s in the Entertainment Plaza! This platter is flavorful and filling!

Caramel Apple Pie: Get one of your favorite fair foods in a pie! Caramel Apple Pie is making its debut with Cutie Pies 22 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Concession!

Caramel Popcorn Pie: Caramel Popcorn is a fan favorite at the Oklahoma State Fair! What better way to enjoy it than in pie form! Join Cutie Pies Concession for twists on classic pies!

Chocolate Brownie Pie: Cutie Pies is giving us another twist on a classic dessert! Chocolate Brownie pie will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Pickle Dog: This Pickle On-A-Stick is dipped in batter and deep fried! This is one of several fun twists we will see this year on our Fair favorite Corn Dog, brought to us by Denmore Delights.

Hot Cheeto Pickle Dog: Denmore Delights has alco created the Hot Cheeto Pickle Dog! This creation is a Pickle On-AStick, dipped in hot Cheetos and deep fried to perfection.

Deep-Fried Nutella: Granny’s is pulling out all the stops this year with their deep-fried Nutella. This is a new treat you can’t pass up.

Chili Mac: Try MacTastic’s creamy Mac-N-Cheese piled high with Chili and topped with corn chips.

Mac-N-Cheese On-A-Stick: MacTastic will wow all their customers with their cheesy Mac-N-Cheese On-A-Stick. Take your favorite American comfort food on the go!

Fry Bread Burger: Porky’s is bringing us a tasty half-pound burger with Funnel Cakes for the buns. Don’t miss out on this delectable combination.

Gator Dog: Are you a fan of Corn Dogs? Then try this version – but with alligator. It’s gator On-A-Stick, dipped in batter and deep-fried. Try this new item only at Porky’s.

Lobster Dog: Try this new item on Porky’s menu, Lobster On-A-Stick dipped in batter and deep-fried!

Scallops & Clams: Porky’s is bringing us all our seafood favorites! Be sure to stop by and see just how they serve these crowd favorites like clams and scallops.

Mahi-Mahi Slider: New to the scene, JP’s Food Truck is bringing us an all new Mahi-Mahi burger slider.

Gourmet Tots: JP’s is also bringing an all new Gourmet Tots that are finished with delicious toppings that set them apart from the tots we all grew up with.

Deep-Fried Coke: Deep-fried and Coke? Two of the most popular things at the fair! Find out how this incredible creation tastes at JP’s Food Truck.

Hot Cheeto Corn Dog: Lakeside is bringing us a Corn Dog breaded with a crowd favorite, Hot Cheetos! Don’t miss this Corn Dog turned up a notch?

Mac-N-Cheese Corn Dog: Layne Concessions is debuting it’s all new Corn Dog stuffed with mac-ncheese and deepfried to golden brown deliciousness!

Pizza Dawg: Combine your two favorite fair foods and get yourself a Pizza Dawg from the Oklahoma Pork Council!

Jalapeño Bottle Caps: Roadhouse Concessions is bringing us a new spicy favorite, sliced jalapeños, breaded and deepfried to create the all new Jalapeño Bottle Caps.

Deep-Fried Minneapple Pie: Joining us for the first time, Minneapple Pie is deep-frying all our favorite pies including their signature Minneapple Pie with a scoop of Ice cream!

Deep Fried Minne Chocolate Pie: Minneapple Pie is bringing us their flakey chocolate pie with a melting chocolatey inside. Find them in the Entertainment Plaza!

Deep-Fried Minne Pumpkin Pie: Get in the mood for fall with the delicious autumn flavors of the Deep-Fried Minne Pumpkin Pie. Parmesan Chicken On-A-Stick: Waffle Chix is bringing us crispy and flavorful chicken, piled on a stick for ultimate portability!

Brownie Waffle On-A-Stick: Don’t forget to stop by Waffle Chix for a selection of great desserts as well, including the warm Brownie Waffle On-A-Stick!

Flavorburst Slush: Cool down with the Your Just Desserts Flavorburst slush that will be sure to quench your thirst and beat the heat.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 23

FUN & UNIQUE FOODS RETURNING IN 2019 Watermelon Pie: Cutie Pies is bringing back their crowd favorite and award-winning watermelon pie, so if you missed it last year be sure to get your fill of this sweet and light treat this year!

Watermelon Salsa: Get a sweet and savory kick out of Cutie Pies Concession’s watermelon salsa.

Wonder Boy: Diamond Dawgs is at it again this year with their Cap’n Crunch battered corn dog served with honey mustard dipping sauce.

Avocado Fries: Gringos brings back warm and crispy avocado fries to satisfy your fried food craving in a healthier way. Enjoy these delicious avocado slices with sour cream and salsa for dipping!

Deep-Fried Coffee: Need that caffeine fix, but don’t want to miss out on a Fair food opportunity? Then Deep-Fried Coffee is for you! Find it at Gringo’s.

Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger: Harvell Concessions is bringing back their Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger – a juicy bacon cheeseburger encased in sweet and sticky Honey Buns.

Gator Bites: Layne Concessions is bringing you flavorful and crunchy gator bites, deep-fried to perfection.

Mac N Cheese Burger: This award-winning burger is cushioned by two deep-fried mac-n-cheese buns and is sure to be a 2019 Fair favorite.

Frosted Flakes Chicken On-A-Stick: You can get tender and juicy chicken dipped in batter and rolled in Frosted Flakes cereal and deep-fried at Netterfield’s Popcorn & Lemonade.

Cheese Curd Taco: O’Neil is putting a twist on the taco!

Enjoy melt-in-your-mouth cheese curds atop this beef taco piled high with all your favorite taco fixins’.

PB&J Burger: Not only is this a twist on a hamburger, but it’s also a twist on the PB&J. Porky’s provides a half-pound burger with peanut butter and jalapeños as their PB&J Burger.

Enjoy creamy, sweet and spicy goodness all in one food.

Donut Burger: Get a deliciously seasoned beef patty, hugged on both sides by soft and sweet donuts. Not only that, but each bun is topped with your choice of Oreos, Apple Jacks, 24 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Judging baked goods.

Fruit Loops, or Double Bacon. You can’t miss this flavor experience at Porky’s.

Waffle wrapped Snow Ice: Back by popular demand, Snow S’more takes this classic cold treat to a new level with their Waffle Wrapped Snow Ice! Bug Pizza: Do you dare? Experience the nice crunch and added protein of critters on your pizza. Grab a slice topped with scorpions, crickets, or meal worms, at Swain’s Pizza On-A-Stick.

Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf Cupcakes: The Sweet Shop is serving up meatloaf, topped with mashed potato icing and bacon & cheddar sprinkles – all in the shape of a cupcake!

Caveman Turkey Leg: We hope you tackle this item with a team. The Caveman Turkey Leg is giant and wrapped with almost one pound of bacon and slow cooked to perfection.

Don’t miss this at The Bacon Habit.

Pork Chop On-A-Stick: Who does pork better than The Pork Council? Do yourself a favor and get a slow-cooked, juicy Pork Chop On-A-Stick.

Campfire Taco: Visit The Urban Taco for this delicious and sweet waffle cone filled with marshmallows, strawberries, chocolate chips and caramel.

Funnel Cake Fries: The Urb Express is bringing back a twist on the classic funnel cake. Enjoy all the goodness of this Fair classic, but in French fry form!

WonderStick: A known crowd-pleaser, this J shaped cone is uniquely fashioned which makes it easier to eat without drips. Also, the cone is gluten free, thick & crunchy, and doesn’t get soggy as the ice cream melts! n

TRAVEL

Exploring the evolution of air and spaceflight

BY LINDA MILLER

E

ven before stepping inside, the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford is impressive.

Stretching six stories and pointing to the sky is the F-104 “Starfighter,” described as the most revolutionary aircraft ever built. Nearby rests an Apollo boilerplate command module. And there’s the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II, the only aircraft whose frame was designed around a gun.

It’s just a hint at what awaits inside this engaging and well-appointed museum that explores the history of flight from its early beginnings with the Wright Brothers to the Space Shuttle. And as expected from a museum named for Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the famed test pilot and astronaut’s role in aviation and spaceflight is documented with photographs, memorabilia and detailed accounts of his renowned career and accomplishments.

The Smithsonian-affiliated museum, considered one of the finest and most comprehensive of its kind in the central U.S., has more than 3,500 artifacts on display with flown space artifacts, actual aircraft, full-scale replicas and actual, flight-ready artifacts. Visitors are provided a program that highlights “starred” artifacts and exhibits with detailed information about each.

Early flight is showcased with full-scale replicas of the Wright Flyer, Bieriot X1, Curtiss Pusher and the Spirit of St. Louis. But perhaps the The F-104 “Starfighter” reaches skyward in front of the Stafford Air & Space Museum.

highlight are other displays including an impressive collection of rocket engines that includes a V-2 engine, one of the only remaining actual V-2 rocket engines left in existence, and a flown segment of a shuttle solid rocket booster you can walk through.

Others include an actual Gemini 6A spacecraft flown by astronauts Stafford and Wally Schirra; a gigantic Titan II rocket missile, one of only a few still in existence; mission command console used from missions in 1965 through the Apollo moon landings and the early Shuttle program; and a flown Apollo 10 lunar module checklist.

A rockets of the world display showcases all the man-rated rockets of the space race and many of the current satellite boosters used by the world’s nations, all in the same 1/72nd scale to show relative size comparisons.

Aircraft displays include a Sopwith Pup, a World War I favorite aircraft; F86 Sabre Fighter which gained fame during the Koran War; T-33 trainer; T-38 Talor trainer for which Stafford was the project test pilot; F-16 Fighting Falcon with bombs and sidewinder missiles; and a rare MiG-21 fighter aircraft. Displays throughout explain everything from the cramped quarters on different spacecraft to the goals of many of the projects, and any Stafford connection. And there are plenty.

But first, visitors have an opportunity to learn about Stafford who grew up in Weatherford, played football in high school and was accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis in Maryland.

He had always dreamed of being a pilot, being the one who flew the fastest, hottest planes. He pushed himself and graduated in 1952 in the top 3 percent of his class. As a top graduate, he was given an option to transfer to the newly formed United States Air Force. He jumped at the chance, starting on a path that would take him to new heights.

Top, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, one of many awards Tom Stafford has received.

Bottom, an actual deactivated Mark 6 nuclear warhead.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 27

Above, aircraft on display at the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford.

Left, Tom Stafford’s photo, uniform and certificate of retirement.

Stafford was a top Air Force test pilot. NASA accepted him with the second group of astronauts. His career includes four historic space missions, pilot of Gemini 6A, commander of Gemini 9 and 10. And joint commander of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, the first space mission between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. For his effort on the mission, he received a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.

Stafford and his crew set the all-time speed record of 24,791 mph returning from the moon on Apollo 10. He was the first astronaut to become a general and the first general to fly in space. He is considered the father of the B-2 and F-117 stealth aircraft. And upon retirement, he was the highest-ranking astronaut.

He has received several awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Oklahoma Aviator of the Century award, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the National Aeronautic Association Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, considered one of the most prestigious honors in aviation.

Displays include his Apollo 10 space suit, the pressure flight suit he used to prepare for his Gemini 6 and 9 spaceflights and the flight suit he wore during his tenure as the commanding general for the Air Force’s Flight Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

28 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

The actual suit Tom Stafford wore on the Apollo 10 mission to the moon in May 1969.

There are medals. Letters from presidents and much, much more. Upon retirement, Stafford was the first member of his Naval Academy class to receive his first, second and third stars as a general.

For many, the museum is an introduction to Stafford; for others, it’s a reminder. And for all it’s a fun and engaging way to experience the evolution of air and spaceflight.

For more information, directions, cost and hours, go to staffordmuseum.org. n

High-flying event Stafford Air & Space Museum will host the Third Annual Wings Over Weatherford from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 28 with a Warbird fly-in, historic aircraft rides, kids’ zone, museum entry, food trucks and entertainment.

Some of the Warbirds on display will include a T-28 Trojan, H34 helicopter, C-45, P-51 Miss American, Marschetti S211, B-25 Devil Dog, C-47 Boogie Baby and 1941 Vultee BT-13. Tickets can be purchased for rides in several of the planes. For prices and planes available for rides, as well as more information, go to staffordmuseum.org.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 29

PEOPLE

ABOVE AND BEYOND:

Tribes’ investment in Oklahoma goes beyond casinos

BY LINDA MILLER

O

klahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt and the state’s Native American tribes are at odds.

Stitt wants to renegotiate gaming compacts for a larger cut of gaming revenue. Tribes pay between 4 and 10 percent to the state to operate Class III gaming which includes slot machines, roulette and craps. The governor wants to increase it to as much as 20 percent, a figure he thinks is more in line with other states.

Gaming contracts expire on Jan.1, 2020, but what happens after that is a matter of disagreement. The Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association said the compacts will automatically renew for 15-year terms if the state tribes do not agree on new terms. Stitt believes there is no automatic renewal and new agreements must be reached.

Oklahoma’s Five Civilized Tribes – Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Choctaw Nation and Seminole Nation — have backed the state’s current gaming compacts. There are more than 130 tribal gaming operations, ranging from an annex to a gas stop to full-scale resort casinos.

Tribal leaders aren’t slamming the door on discussion, but they also argue they have contributed more to the state than the $1.5 billion in exclusivity fees over the past 15 years.

30 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

What can’t be overlooked is how beneficial the tribes, as well as the casino operations, are to the state.

The Oklahoma casino gaming industry supports more than 75,000 jobs statewide and has an annual economic impact of $9.8 billion, according to the American Gaming Association.

Revenue from tribal gaming in Oklahoma is about $5 billion annually.

Gaming revenues the state receives go to support education, mental health services and state agencies.

The tribes report $1.3 billion in fees have gone toward public education since 2006 and $200 million for local roads and bridges.

Beyond exclusivity fees, tribal investments benefit Oklahoma, residents and visitors in the form of education, roads, health care, public safety and tourism, allowing the state to use its own tax revenues for other needs.

Oklahoma tribes contributed almost $13 billion to the state economy in 2017.

In 2017, tribes invested $200 million in transportation infrastructure, paid $213 million in Medicaid expenditures at tribal healthcare facilities, as well as $198 million to support Oklahoma education, according to a study sponsored by the Oklahoma Tribal Finance Consortium.

Oklahoma tribes employed 51,674 Oklahoma workers in

The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur offers a recreated traditional village, art galleries, exhibit center, theater, shops and dining. More than 750,000 people from around the world have visited the center since it opened in 2010.

2017, paying out wages and benefits of $2.7 billion to Oklahomans. If Oklahoma tribes were an industry, they would rank as the 11th largest by employment. When combining business revenues, government expenditures and capital expenditures, Oklahoma tribes accounted for $7.7 billion in direct Oklahoma production. If Oklahoma tribes were an industry, they would rank as the 9th largest by production, according to unitedforoklahoma.com.

Tribes saved Oklahoma $88 million by requiring no state matching Medicaid funds last year.

Oklahoma tribes support nearly 100,000 jobs, according to unitedforoklahoma.com. The state’s nearly 40 tribes pave roads, build roads for people in their communities, provide college scholarships to needy students and keep hospitals open in rural, underserved areas.

The Choctaw Nation says 82 percent of tracked revenue comes from out-of-state customers. The tribe’s recent projects include walking trails, school parking lots and more than 50 miles of roadway. Summer education intervention programs reached 3,800 students, tribal and non-tribal, living in 80-plus school districts in southeastern Oklahoma and more than 90 percent of students improved their reading and math proficiency.

The Cherokee Nation’s business arm, Cherokee Nation Businesses, generates an annual economic impact of $2.03

billion within northeastern Oklahoma. Fifty-seven percent of its revenue comes from gaming and 43 percent from diversified businesses. The Cherokee Nation invests millions of dollars through its partnerships with local municipalities, law enforcement agencies and other service entities.

The Cherokee Nation operates health centers in nine towns. No Cherokee citizen within the tribes 14 counties must drive more than 30 miles for health care.

The Chickasaw Nation has more than 100 diversified tribal businesses that provide much of the funding for more than 200 programs and services that offer opportunities to the Chickasaw people. The tribe employs 14,000 people, most of whom work in Oklahoma.

The Chickasaw Nation provides grants and scholarships totaling more than $20 million to more than 5,000 students, operates four early childhood centers and has implemented a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) initiative to introduce students to the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur opened in 2010 and more than 750,000 people from around the world have visited so far.

In a recent economic impact study, the Chickasaw Nation was shown to contribute more than $3.18 billion to the Oklahoma economy each year. n SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 31

PEOPLE

Oklahoma’s Musical Ambassador Gives Electrifying Grand Ole Opry Debut Performance

BY TAMARA J. HERMEN

H

ot pink skateboard. Fiddle magic. Energy and passion.

History-making. Marriage proposal. Stunning firsts.

Extraordinary musicianship. Oklahoma proud.

Musician extraordinaire Kyle Dillingham delivered it all the evening of Wednesday, July 24, when he made his Grand Ole Opry guest artist debut and history by cruising to center stage fiddling on his skateboard.

Oklahoma’s music ambassador then crowned the evening with a backstage marriage proposal following a brilliant performance that captured the hearts of the Grand Ole Opry crowd.

The Debut Photo: Alan Messer

32 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

“The Grand Ole Opry was electrified with the first appearance of Kyle Dillingham,” said Duane Allen, The

Oak Ridge Boys. “He skated his way on stage and fiddled his way into the hearts of a sold-out crowd that wound up on their feet! Congratulations, Kyle, you set this place on fire!”

Dillingham was introduced to the audience by Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Oak Ridge Boys, who have become his friends and mentors. They are both represented by legendary music manager, Jim Halsey, who has 30 Hall of Fame musicians to his credit.

“My relationship with the Oaks is very special to me,” said Dillingham. “It is also a great joy to perform with my band, Horseshoe Road, and have a chance to share this incredible experience with my dear friends and musical collaborators, Peter Markes and Brent Saulsbury.”

The trio were joined onstage with the image of another country star. Dillingham’s hot pink board features a lithograph of Dolly Parton. The brightly-colored graphic of Dolly Parton’s torso on the bottom of the skateboard was highlighted when Dillingham lifted it above his head after doing a 360-degree spin into the sacred performing circle of the Grand Old Opry.

“Skateboarding does leave an element of risk, but it was a risk we were all willing to take and grateful that we did so,” said Dillingham. “Honestly, I have skate boarded as long or maybe longer than I have played the fiddle.”

Historic Skateboarding Fiddler The blonde-haired boy freewheeling the streets of Enid, Oklahoma, with dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder may now have come full circle. His worlds of music and skateboarding naturally coincided to put him in the history books of the more than 90-year-old Grand Ole Opry.

“Kyle Dillingham has made Opry history. His debut tonight, and the first ever to enter and exit on a skateboard. It is my thought that the fiddler blew the roof off the Grand Ole Opry House tonight,” said Bill Cody, Grand Ole Opry announcer and host.

Dillingham with his performance skateboard. Photo: Tim Dillingham SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 33

Dillingham and fiancé, Ginnette Tavzel, immediately following his marriage proposal. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media

The wheels that graced the Opry stage, courtesy of Quickie-Mart Skate Shop Tulsa and made by Black Label Skateboards, offered a more stable 80’s or 90’s retro size of board conducive to playing the fiddle while skateboarding. Dillingham is regularly using this board to incorporate skateboarding into his performances.

“It’s the merging of these worlds.

Skateboarding and violin were always

my two passions. And it’s just amazing that they could intersect in such a beautiful way at the Grand Ole Opry,” said Dillingham. “My two worlds finally coming together on the biggest stage in country music. I would never, ever in my life have imagined it to be so.”

Musical Selection Dillingham’s grand entrance was only the beginning of this technically-

executed, eight-minute musical performance.

The first song was Oklahoma-born Alfred Brumley’s tradi-tional “I’ll Fly Away” with distinct vocal harmonies.

Next came the classic Russian romance “Ochi Chyornye (Dark Eyes).”

“Start traditional and then end with a bang,” said Dillingham.

He described the rationale behind the second song choice, and wanting to

34 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

SEPTEM

perform a vivid selection with the musical effectiveness of Orange Blossom Special or the Devil Went Down to Georgia.

“So we had in mind to do something that would deliver that kind of effect but be a little more distinguishing, unique and leave a lasting memory for people.”

“The way we play ‘Dark Eyes’ it starts out like a classical violin, so I start with this improvisation, sort of gypsy improvisation that is reminiscent of like a violin concerto,” he continued. “Then by the end we are just going faster than anybody can even clap and it ends in such a height of excitement.”

The Proposal The momentum and excitement did not end when Dillingham left the stage.

The official news release explained in detail the dramatic backstage moment when he embraced family and friends and proposed to his girlfriend.

“After Kyle’s one-of-a-kind Opry debut, he returned to his backstage dressing room where he was surrounded by friends, family and his band mates. While thanking everyone in the room for their contribution and

the Circle’ (dressing room number 4) was transformational for me personally and professionally. Both of these moments will have an enormous impact on the rest of my life, and I am so grateful that I will have somebody so wonderful to share the journey with me!”

Silk Road

support for his career, he turned to his girlfriend Ginnette Tavzel, knelt down on one knee and popped the question.

She tearfully embraced Kyle and said ‘yes,’ as everyone around cheered and applauded.”

“As if an Opry debut was not enough excitement for one night, I also took the moment backstage to ask my girlfriend, Ginny, to be my wife! ‘Into

Dillingham’s immediate engagements include performances in Oklahoma and China.

“We’ve been Invited by the Chinese government to do a Friendship Tour of northwest China along the ancient Silk Road,” Dillingham said.

The week-long China tour will encompass Gansu Province, a sister state of Oklahoma. Events include six performances, interactive activities with students and local artists and meals with officials.

Dillingham and Sally Williams, Live Nation regional office president of Nashville music and business strategy, in front of Dressing Room #4 reserved for artists making their Opry debut. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media

BER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 34

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 35

Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media

“So when people learn that you play the fiddle, the first thing they want to know is if you play country music. I always say, ‘why yes, but which country?’” he laughed.

“I’ve had a chance to perform and represent Oklahoma with my music in 40 countries now.”

Gifts to Share For Dillingham, it’s about the music. It’s about a connection to the audience. He brings these two perspectives to every performance, whether it is a small gathering at a church in Oklahoma, the far reaches of China or the Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville.

“In all the excitement, it can be easy to lose focus. But I 36 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

hear the voice of my manager, Jim Halsey, reminding us all that we have another great opportunity to change people’s lives with our music,” Dillingham said. “And if even one person was inspired, encouraged or healed by our performance that night, then this Opry debut with my band was a tremendous success for me.”

For more information on Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road, visit www.horseshoeroad.net, info@horseshoeroad.net, 405-808-8804, Facebook.com/kyledokc and Instagram.com/kyledillingham. n

Dillingham dances with lions

BY TAMARA J. HERMEN

Dillingham explained some of the action “was up and It was a call of the wild moment earlier this summer when fiddler Kyle Dillingham exciting and we were running around. Then other times she would lay by the glass, and I would lay by the glass on the and a lion had a man and beast other side and just strum singing sweetly.” experience that made global headlines.

“Well, no lions, but would you guys like to hear a song?”

Dillingham asked a couple at the Oklahoma City Zoo’s lion exhibit. The two were enjoying the June Date Night series.

The zoo was open from 6:00 to 10 p.m., which is a time frame that could be enjoyed by the 21 and older crowd.

“I was hired by the zoo to stroll and do romantic serenades while people were walking,” explained Dillingham. “While I passed in front of the lion exhibit, I saw one couple down there looking around. I started playing for them and singing for them and when I finished they were clapping.”

“Well, no lions, but I can roar like a lion,” Dillingham added. “So with my violin I made this noise, roar kind of noise with my violin and voice.”

“All of a sudden, this lioness came barreling over the hill.

Came right down to the glass. I turned. I was stunned. I was startled,” said Dillingham. “So I responded back. And she responded. I responded. It was a call and response kind of a thing. It ended up we played together for 30 minutes.”

He noticed that the other lionesses came, too, and the male watched from a rock in front of the windows.

During this exchange, a crowd had gathered and witnessed the interactive experience.

“Almost every single person came up to me individually and said this was one of the most extraordinary experiences,” Dillingham said.

He agreed. So he posted a video of himself and the lioness.

“The video got an enormous amount of attention and a company ended up picking it up and distributing it internationally,” Dillingham said. “It made ‘Inside Edition’ and was a part of news stories all over the world.”

It was the dance of a lifetime at the Oklahoma City Zoo. n

Kyle Dillingham serenades the lioness, getting an interesting reaction.

(Inside Edition video screenshots)

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 ion Oklahoma 37

FASHION

New looks for a new season

BY LINDA MILLER Photos provided by Worth New York and Cindi Shelby,

cshelby@worthnewyork.com

It’s time to make a list and check it twice.

A fall fashion trend list, that is.

After a rainy spring and steamy summer, cooler temperatures and a new fashion season will be a welcome change.

For fall, it’s all about the ‘90s, ‘80s, ‘70s and even a touch of the ‘60s, said Cindi Shelby, Worth New York’s director of stylists and former owner of R Meyers boutique in Nichols Hills Plaza.

There’s a trend, and a decade, for everyone to embrace, she said.

“We’re seeing power suits from

Black pantsuit with purple luxe blouse.

Double-breasted pink pantsuit.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 39

Animal print coat.

the ‘80s, complete with strong shoulders and slim waistlines,” Shelby said. It’s a super flattering silhouette, so don’t hesitate to embrace it. Try belting the jacket, too. Cinched waists were all over the runways.

And remember the popular television show “Dynasty,” focusing on the influential and wealthy Carrington family? Some of those stylish looks the women often wore are of-themoment now, such as cocktail suits and bow blouses in shiny satin and silk charmeuse.

40 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Green capelet dress.

Coats with a little drama are another must-have, from an elongated suede trench to an oversized plaid topper. “And if you’ve enjoyed the ‘Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,’ there’s luscious little teddy bear coats reminiscent of the early ‘60s.

Think pink mohair.”

Cape and cape details are a major trend, too, but if a full-out cape is a bit too much for you consider a capelet dress, Shelby said. It’s feminine and easy to wear.

Color ranges from soft lavender to rich purple, pistachio green to dark yellow, and all shades of pink.

Other trends include chain handle handbags, square-toe shoes, updated combat and hiker boots, belted jackets and coats, feathers as an accent, pockets, fleece, velvet, classic animal prints, monochromatic looks and statement necklines.

There’s a wide variety of looks from which to choose, so have fun with fashion, said Shelby, a Worth New York stylist since 2008.

“Style matters.” n

Pink coat.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 41

EVENTS

ORR FAMILY FARM festival brings unique experiences in 2019

BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN

G

et the whole family together and head out to Orr Family Farm this fall for a Fall Festival that has something for all age groups.

About 15 miles south of downtown Oklahoma City, this 105-acre farm has a giant maze, pumpkin patch, pig races, train rides, hay rides, a vintage carousel, and a 425-foot zipline. This year’s fall season at the farm lasts from September 21 to November 9. The farm will be open weekends in September and November as well as every day in October.

This year the Orr Family Farm will be celebrating its 15th anniversary.

Shainan Kemp, the farm’s general manager, explained that the Orr Family Farm was originally a race horse training facility.

“Glenn Orr built a train for his kids in his backyard, and they loved it so 42 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Above, Visitors to the Orr Family Farm participate in many Fall activities.

Left, an Orr team member holds one of the many animals on the farm.

much that he decided to expand the train and share his farm with the community,” Kemp said.

For the past fifteen years, the Orr Family Farm has been achieving Glenn’s goal of “providing a friendly and educational environment for children and families of all ages.”

With admission to the farm, youngsters are taken on a hayride out to the pumpkin patch and allowed to pick out their own sugar pie pumpkin.

Also at the farm, the Animal Barnyard gives youth the opportunity to come face to face with pygmy goats, sheep, bunnies, ponies, and chickens, which kids can also feed.

Hands-on learning experiences are provided at the farm through the discovery barn, which demonstrates the farm-to-table process and displays farm equipment through the ages. In addition to numerous kid friendly games and activities, like barnyard billiards and cannon blasters, there will also be lots of food and drink options sold at the Country Store, The Grill, The Cookie Barn, and Kettle Corn and lemonade stands.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 43

Fall is a fun time at the Orr Family farm.

New to the farm this year is the opportunity to stay the night in Conestoga wagons. A Conestoga wagon is a large covered wagon designed to travel large distances and were used in the 19th Century by pioneers moving west. The Conestoga Wagons aren’t built to travel long distances, but they are temperature controlled and sleep up to eight people. Staying in one of these wagons comes with access to a central firepit with complimentary s’mores and a nineteen-foot-long swim spa.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ionfor Oklahoma Visitors can also purchase tickets the special44Zombie Apocalypse Paintball, running from October 4-November 2, which takes kids and teens on a “war wagon” ride where they are tasked with defending the farm from a zombie infestation. September 21 is Hometown Heroes Day, which offers free tickets to military members, police, firefighters, and EMTs, as well as discounted tickets for their immediate family.

Every Friday and Saturday night in October the farm will host Farm After Dark, where all attractions will be open to visitors for a unique flashlight-lit experience. On Farm After Dark nights there will also be a bonfire where families can roast marshmallows and a firework display to close out a fun-filled day at the farm. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.orrfamilyfarm.com. n

44 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

COMING COMING OCTOBER O CTOBER

2019 2 019

OOKLAHOMA KLAHOMA SAVE SA AVETHEDA VE DATE DA ATE Speak up and NextGen tGen T TALKS ALKS Oklahoma Oklah Event

Friday d y, October day b 4, 2019

standout.

Oklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center 7777 S May Avenue Avenue ven Oklahoma City y,, Oklahoma Oklaho 73159

NextGen en Talks Talks is a showcase of o 15-minute presentations designed to highlight Oklahoma’ kl h klahoma’ ’s emerging i leaders lead l d who are already making a difference.

Registration 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Auditorium Doors Open at 1:00pm

Pr Program ogram 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM Master of Cer Ceremonies emonies Dick Pryor KGOU

12 Speakers Networking Reception and Happy Hour 5:30 to 7:30

To Purc Purchase chase T Tickets ickets now: n

www.nextgentalksok.com www .ne extgentalkso g ok.com or

tickets.occc.edu Make your reservations now because this event will sell out quickly!

NOW! NOW! NEW! NEXTGEN! NEXTGEN! CONNECTING WITH THE NOW, NEW W, AND NEXT NEX EXT TGEN GEN COMMUNITY LEADERS AND PLANTING SEEDS W WOR ORTHY OF CHANGING LIVES

EVENTS

SEPTEMBER in the

301 W. Reno Oklahoma City Many activities require registration; register online at myriadgardens.org

SPECIAL EVENTS Namas-Bey Yoga Free thanks to these sponsors: Fowler Toyota, Tinker Federal Credit Union & Stephenson Cancer Center Wednesday, September 4, 6-7pm Devon Lawn Lead by This Land Yoga Instructor, Emily Madden TO CELEBRATE Beyoncé’s birthday we are hosting a “NamasBey” yoga class here at the gardens! Start your Countdown; Get in Formation and fall Crazy in Love with a yoga class that will change your Mood 4 Eva. Bow Down into downward dog and believe Me, Myself, and I that you will feel Flawless after this Irreplaceable class focused on Balance, Freedom, and that Beyoncé Spirit. Mutt Radio will be providing our tunes for the night! We will serve plenty of Lemonade available at this event.

Barre3 in the Gardens Monday, September 9, 7-8pm The Devon Lawn and Bandshell Bring yoga mat and water FREE September 9 on the Devon Lawn October 14, on the East Lower Lake 46 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

BARRE3 CONTINUES at the Gardens for another season of FREE community outdoor fitness. Barre3 mixes athleticism, grace and the latest innovations designed to balance the body. Meet at The Devon Lawn. We’ll be led by an amazing team from Barre3. Bring your own yoga mat, water and plenty of gusto! This is an amazing workout.

Latin Fest at the Gardens: Food – Music – Dance Friday, September 13, 7-11pm Seasonal Plaza Free event VIP: $25 per person Register online at myriadgardens.org

Botanical Balance FREE YOGA

Join us with our friends at Tango Public Relations on Friday, Sept. 13 from 7pm-11pm for a fun kick-off party to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) in OKC. The Seasonal Plaza at Myriad Gardens will host a mariachi band with dancing, food trucks, cash bars, and outdoor games. Inside the Park House, a VIP area is available for guests to sample from some of OKC’s best Latin cuisine, along with a bar that will include tequila tastings. Outside activities are FREE and open to the public.

Presented by Fowler Toyota, sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union and Stephenson Cancer Center Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:45 pm and Saturdays, 9 am Instructors provided by This Land Yoga Bring a mat, water Recommended for ages 16&Up Practicing yoga in the Gardens has the added benefit of connecting you with nature. The Gardens offer a space of beauty and tranquility to help relieve stress and quiet your mind. Classes are open to all levels, whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi. Thanks to our new presenting sponsor Fowler Toyota, and our generous ongoing sponsors Tinker Federal Credit Union and Stephenson Cancer Center, yoga is offered three times weekly free of charge.

Camp Out OKC Sponsored by Floyd’s RV Saturday, September 21 through Sunday, September 22, 6pm-8am The Devon Lawn and Bandshell $65 per family of 4 plus $10 per additional person (BYOT bring your own tent) (Tents to not exceed 9 ft. x 7 ft.)

Register online at myriadgardens.org The Devon Lawn will be transformed into an urban campground for families. Learn camping basics, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, and spend the evening enjoying the great outdoors. Once the sun sets, we will have an outdoor movie showing of The Jungle Book, s’more making and ghost stories. Reservations include breakfast. Space is limited, register by Friday, June 28 at noon. Don’t have a tent? Rent one from Outdoors Geek. Enter code: “campout” to receive 10% off your purchase!

YOUTH AND FAMILY CLASSES Reading Wednesdays Every Wednesday, September 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10am The South Lobby FREE Best for ages 2 to 5 Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season.

We’ll begin with an interactive song and children will enjoy creating a small craft after the story. Join us the last Wednesday of the month for reading and craft time with the Downtown Library. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi Clifford at (405) 835-6789.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 47

Woodland Terrariums

Magical Monarch Migration

Friday, September 6, 6-7pm The Garden Classroom Member $12; Nonmember $15 Best for ages 6 to 12 Register by Monday, September 2 at myriadgardens.org CREATE A FALL terrarium to last all winter long. Learn a bit about woodland creatures as we make a woodland theme glass globe planter using easy-to-care-for succulents and mini woodland animals and flora.

Thursday, September 12, 6-7pm The Garden Classroom Member $5; Nonmember $6 Best for ages 7 to 10 Register by Monday, Sept 9 at myriadgardens.org Every fall, millions of monarchs travel south to Mexico. Here in Oklahoma, we are lucky to see this migration happen. In this class, we will learn about this marvelous creature with crafts and games and find a few ways we can help them arrive safely in Mexico. Put your new knowledge to work and join us the next two Fridays after this class for monarch tagging in the Children’s Garden.

Little Saplings-Fall Session Every other Tuesday, 10-11am September 10, September 24, October 8, October 22, November 5, November 19, December 3 Children’s Garden Porch Member $3; Nonmember $4 Best for ages 2 to 5 Register by Friday before Pick a date at myriadgardens.org JOIN US in the Children’s Garden for an hour of songs, games and interactive nature fun. Toddlers – and parents – will learn about the exciting world of gardens in an engaging and educational way. Each week features a new theme with corresponding activities and learning opportunities. Every Little Saplings event begins with a song, ends with a sensory bin, and includes a handson craft.

48 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Monarch Tagging Walk-Ups Friday, September 13 and 20, 2-3pm Children’s Garden Porch FREE WITH THE CRISP air of autumn on its way, our gardens are filled with the vibrant beauty of Monarch butterflies making their way south once more! To gain more information and learn about their journey, people all over the country participate in Monarch tagging. Join us for a quick demonstration of how and why we tag Monarchs at the Gardens!

Sprouting Chefs: Healthful Mug Cakes Presented by Sprouts Saturday, September 14, 10-11:30am The Garden Classroom

Member $15; Nonmember $17 Taught by Toni Washington For families, preferably kids ages 7 and up Register by Tuesday, Sept 10 at myriadgardens.org LEARN HOW to make quick and healthful mug cakes without the hassle and time of using an oven.

We’ll talk about simple ingredients, like flour, sugar and fruit and then get to creating and eating these tasty cakes.

Everyone will get to decorate and take their mug home to continue the fun.

Tuesday, September 10, 6:30pm The Garden Classroom Member $14; Nonmember $19 Adam Sarmiento, Eco Landscaping Register online at myriadgardens.org AUTUMN IS the perfect time for collecting native seeds. Join us in this hands-on seed collecting expedition in one of our signature spaces – Oklahoma Prairie Garden. The class will begin with a brief indoor presentation and then transition outdoors for the workshop portion.

Sprouting Chefs: Pumpkins and Apples and Fall

Nature Photography Workshop

Presented by Sprouts Saturday, September 21, 10-11am The Garden Classroom Member $10; Nonmember $12 Donna Jung, FCS Extension Educator with Canadian County For families and children ages 5 and up Register by Tuesday, Sept 17 at myriadgardens.org DIVE RIGHT IN to all things fall as we talk about two of our favorite fall fruits – apples and pumpkins. We’ll learn about these fruits and then make a few easy and creative recipes using them, including how to spice up your pancakes.

Saturday, September 14, 1pm The Garden Classroom Member $18; Nonmember $24 Doug Hoke, Director of Photography, The Oklahoman Register online at myriadgardens.org PARTAKE IN A unique adventure through the viewfinder of your camera. Capture vibrant photos of garden landscapes, flowers, insects, and birds. Class begins indoors and then proceeds to the Crystal Bridge Conservatory and/or outdoors (weather permitting) for hands-on instruction. Bring your own camera.

ADULT CLASSES Proper Pruning Saturday, September 7, 1pm Yukon, Oklahoma–Chisholm Trail Park Member $9; Nonmember $14 Courtney Keck, Canadian County Extension Register online at myriadgardens.org Trimming stems and branches is an important practice in maintaining a healthy and well-manicured lawn or garden.

Learn what, when, and how to prune. Class will meet in the small gazebo at Chisholm Trail Park in Yukon.

Native Seed Collecting

Easy Plant Propagation Saturday, September 21, 1pm The Garden Classroom Member $18; Nonmember $24 Courtney Keck, Canadian County Extension Register online at myriadgardens.org LEARN WHAT propagation is and how you can easily do this at home. Plants will be provided for you to propagate from, as well as soil, containers, and other needed materials. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 49

PEOPLE

Kara Byrd: Bringing Durant’s Strategic Vision to Life

BY GARLAND MCWATTERS host of The Spirit of Leading podcast

K

Kara learned that some people readily get the vision, while ara Byrd, executive director of others take a while to see it. “If you are not able to have Imagine Durant, will be the first to tell you that the heart and soul vision, you don’t know where you are going. A lot of people had seen where we were, and thought what we have done is of any community is its people, not working; so, what is it that we can do and the animating energy of that will get us to exactly where we want to any group is the vision it has be? . . . People started coming to the table for who they can become and realizing that we are so much more and together.

Since January 2015, Kara has been the one and only paid staff of Imagine Durant, the community wide strategic vision process that emerged from an intensive community visioning effort facilitated by Integral City Meshworks, Inc. Growing the community vision Kara explains that the Durant’s strategic Kara Byrd vision is centered around three themes: a healthy and connected culture, a vibrant and thriving community, and a community where all citizens can learn.

These themes speak to both the current community needs and the need to attract a quality workforce.

“We are growing in our job market. We have to have a qualified workforce. In order to have that, the people who are moving in here are going to want to see infrastructure and a great quality of life. People started understanding about how everything was integrated together.”

50 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

so much stronger when we are together.”

Kara points to the community trails program as an early success. Citizens from all walks of life said they wanted a healthy place to walk, run, or to ride a bike. The wife of an architect was looking at the city maps and saw the potential for a trail system that followed the waterways through Durant. The volunteer planning group applied for and received a grant from the National Park Service. The first trail opened as the Nowa Oka Trail, which is Choctaw for “Water Walk.”

Personal challenges and growth Kara has accomplished much young in life. After graduating from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 2008, Kara took her first job with the Oklahoma State Department of Health working with the Tobacco Settlement

Endowment Trust to educate young people on the tobacco industry’s marketing targeted at young people. Her innovative ideas were adopted in several Oklahoma communities.

She was selected to the 2016 class of NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma Leaders. The Journal Record named her to its 40 Achievers Under 40 list.

However, she is quick to credit Greg Massey, CEO of First United Bank, for keeping her balanced through her own learning process. “He taught me how to look past my own perspective and see the perspective of others and how important it is to be a life-long learner.” Kara said that when you can step outside yourself and see that what you are working for and toward is the bigger goal, it is easier to push past those things.

Kara said that when she finished college, she was determined not to pick up another book unless it was a First mural, left, Kara with Stephanie Gardner in front of first downtown mural depicting Durant as a pass through for migrating Monarch butterflies.

Below, Kara with volunteers at opening day of Durant’s farmers’ market. L-R Jenilee Hitchcock, Kara, Stephanie Gardner (Durant Main Street), Brandy Heath.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 51

Above, City stakeholders review planning maps. Center, Kara being interviewed by KTEN reporters at one of the Durant trails. Right, Kara addressing Durant City Council.

Left, from left to right, Ron Drake, Flip this Town author and consultant on downtown living, Stephanie Gardner, Kara, and Amelia Mugavero KTEN reporter.

fiction novel. But Massey impressed on her that learning is a life-long journey and that she wouldn’t go any farther in life until she learned that. Coincidentally, one of the pillars of Durant’s strategic vision is a place where people can continue to learn.

It was Massey and Choctaw Chief, Gary Batten, who pioneered the Imagine Durant project in 2013.

The next big things for Durant Kara identified three immediate areas the unfolding strategic plan will address. One is aligning business owners with all facets of the educational system to foster a quality workforce. Another is to continue to encourage communication between the municipal and county governments since Durant is expanding beyond its city limits. The third is addressing the healthy and connected culture theme.

52 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

“We began looking at our statistics in Durant and Bryan County . . . There are actually three habits or behaviors here in the county that lead to poor chronic conditions that lead to sixty percent of deaths in our residents here, and all of them are preventable—that’s tobacco use, poor diet, and sedentary life style that leads to cardio-vascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and lung disease.”

Kara said they are trying to enlist the help of Blue Zones, LLC, and their methodology that has been successful in improving the healthy life style habits of communities, resulting in impressive gains in wellness and lowering the negative impact of unhealthy choices. Blue Zones will assess Durant to determine if the community is ready for their involvement at this time.

Kara looks back over the past five years since becoming the executive director for Imagine Durant and how it has impacted her. “When Imagine Durant started, I was a goldfish in a bowl—I didn’t allow myself to expand or to realize there were these bigger possibilities. Through the process of five years I have grown and stretched beyond my wildest imagination.”

Listen to the entire conversation with Kara Byrd on The Spirit of Leading podcast: www.inpoweredtolead.com/solpodcast/. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 53

PEOPLE

Colin Forsey rocks El Reno British born guitarist jammed with music legends

BY BILL O’BRIEN

I

n their recently published and critically acclaimed “Our Towns, A 100,000 Mile Journey Into the Heart of America,” authors James and Deborah Fallows document that while our national government is often in gridlock, a combination of public and private collaborative efforts at the state and local level are reviving many formerly moribund communities throughout the nation.

Interestingly, many of the individuals who are involved in that process are not native to the places that they are successfully transforming and are often people from different parts of the country or foreign immigrants.

The authors write about dynamic Native Americans and Hispanic immigrants who speak accented English and have become essential components of these reviving places due to their expertise and dedication.

However, it is unfortunate that the authors did not include the Canadian County community of El Reno in their visits to smaller towns that are currently being energized because 54 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

British-born Colin Forsey could have been another immigrant whose efforts could have chronicled in their work.

Forsey, who is in his early 70’s, was a British rocker who was part of the early rock-n-roll scene in London, England and later served as a record producer for CBS Records. He is full of tales about rock-n-roll royalty such as Jimmie Page of Led Zeppelin and Eric Clapton.

Some years ago, he followed a woman to El Reno and decided to remain here after their romance fizzled out. He has opened a recording store on Bickford Avenue in downtown El Reno, and more recently he and his partner Bonnie Jordan opened a combination wine bar, restaurant, and art gallery beneath that studio that is known as “Our Glass.”

While that establishment has a modest façade, its interior features powdered brick walls and a stone bar that conveys tradition and a degree of elegance. On one wall is a series of artwork that is available for purchase, and Forsey explains that artists display their work there for a month’s time for a fee. Unlike most art galleries where patrons enter on one occasion and look at the work on display, the customers who frequent his place see that art presented on different occasions, and

Colin and Jordan partnered to open Our Glass a year ago at 108 S. Bickford in El Reno. The wine and craft beer delicatessen is an effort to bring first-class dining and entertainment to the downtown area. Below, a rack of wine and a selection of food.

some of them develop in time an apprecia-tion of the work that prompts them to purchase it.

Live musical entertainment is offered there as well on occasion by performers who Forsey’s trained eye has seen as having promise. In addition, the place also serves as somewhat of a literary salon in which on designated evenings aspiring writers from throughout the area read the poetry and fiction they have written.

The sandwiches served there are named for influential artists and exotic items such as pickle soup which is available on occasions. And the success of the Our Glass,

which was a candidate for an award in the Oklahoma Main Street’s Annual Awards Program, has prompted Forsey and Jordan to begin another ambitious project on the same street that will transform a building into a live concert venue location that will include a kitchen where traditional pizza will be prepared for sale.

Forsey, who reports that he is a man of deep Christian faith, believes that downtown El Reno could be a destination for people from throughout the region as they seek entertainment and good food and drink. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 55

OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER Date

home game . *Times are subject to change

GO! 56 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Oct. 23 Oct. 25 Oct. 27 Oct. 28 Oct. 30 Nov. 2 Nov. 5 Nov. 7 Nov. 9 Nov. 10 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 18 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 27 Nov. 29 Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 6 Dec. 8 Dec. 9 Dec. 11 Dec. 14 Dec. 16 Dec. 18

Opponent at Utah Washington Golden State at Houston Portland New Orleans Orlando at San Antonio Golden State Milwaukee at Indiana Philadelphia at LA Clippers at LA Lakers LA Lakers at Golden State at Portland New Orleans at New Orleans Indiana Minnesota at Portland at Utah at Sacramento at Denver Chicago Memphis

GO!

Time 8:00 7:00 2:30 7:00 7:00 4:00 7:00 7:30 7:00 6:00 6:00 7:00 9:30 9:30 7:00 9:30 9:00 7:00 5:00 7:00 7:00 8:00 8:00 9:00 8:00 7:00 7:00

2019-2020 SCHEDULE Date Dec. 20 Dec. 22 Dec. 26 Dec. 27 Dec. 29 Dec. 31 Jan. 2 Jan. 4 Jan. 6 Jan. 7 Jan. 9 Jan. 11 Jan. 13 Jan. 15 Jan. 17 tJan. 18 Jan. 20 Jan. 22 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 27 Jan. 29 Jan. 31 Feb. 5 Feb. 7 Feb. 9 Feb. 11 Feb. 13

GO!

Opponent Phoenix LA Clippers Memphis at Charlotte at Toronto Dallas at San Antonio at Cleveland at Philadelphia at Brooklyn Houston LA Lakers at Minnesota Toronto Miami Portland at Houston at Orlando Atlanta at Minnesota Dallas at Sacramento at Phoenix Cleveland Detroit Boston San Antonio at New Orleans

Time

Date

7:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 5:00 7:00 7:30 6:30 6:00 6:30 8:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 8:00 4:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 9:00 8:00 7:00 7:00 2:30 7:00 7:00

Feb. 21 Feb. 23 Feb. 25 Feb. 27 Feb. 28 Mar. 3 Mar. 4 Mar. 6 Mar. 8 Mar. 11 Mar. 13 Mar. 15 Mar. 17 Mar. 18 Mar. 20 Mar. 23 Mar. 26 Mar. 28 Mar. 30 Apr. 1 Apr. 4 Apr. 5 Apr. 7 Apr. 10 Apr. 11 Apr. 13 Apr. 15

Opponent Denver San Antonio at Chicago Sacramento at Milwaukee LA Clippers at Detroit at New York at Boston Utah Minnesota at Washington at Memphis at Atlanta Denver at Miami Charlotte at Golden State at Denver Phoenix at LA Clippers at LA Lakers Brooklyn New York at Memphis Utah at Dallas

Time 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:30 5:00 7:00 7:00 5:00 7:00 6:30 7:00 6:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 7:00 2:30 8:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:30

GO THUNDER! SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 57

EVENTS

Oklahoma City Boathouse

REGATTA FESTIVAL

15th annual Regatta Festival coming to OKC Oct. 4-6

BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN

T

he Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation will host its annual Regatta Festival, which has been bringing the community together around the Oklahoma River for 15 years.

Gather family and friends on the riverfront for rowing, kayaking, dragon boating, and whitewater rafting races, as well as a firework show on Saturday night.

While enjoying the races, there will be plenty of food supplied by local food trucks as well as a beer garden. This year’s festival will run from October 4-6 in the boathouse district of Oklahoma City.

The term “regatta” comes from the Italian word for “contest” and typically describes a series of boat races. Several years ago, “the Oklahoma River was nothing more than a ditch dividing the city. In 2004, the city SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 59

decided to build dams to make it more of a river,” explains Mike Knopp, the OKC Boathouse Foundation’s executive director. “The goal was to make the Oklahoma River a place that people gather,” Knopp continues.

“The Oklahoma River is now a world class amenity conducive to racing. In 2013, it became the first river in the world with permanent stadium lighting fixtures over the river to accommodate night racing.”

This signature fall rowing event attracts collegiate rowers from all over the country as well as some Olympic hopefuls. There will be 1,200 athletes participating in races at this year’s

Regatta Festival.

The main event of this festival is the Oklahoma City University’s Head of Oklahoma race, which is a 2.5-mile

60 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

head race for teams from across the country competing at the junior, collegiate, and masters level. There will also be corporate white-water rafting

races. Among this year’s corporate rafting teams will be employees from corporations such as Love’s, OG&E, and Integris. At night they’ll be holding the Nightsprints, which are 500-meter races illuminated by the river’s stadium lights. After all the races are finished for the day on Saturday there will be a fireworks show.

This year’s festival will also have fun and educational activities for children. Oklahoma City is one of four cities that the Outdoor Foundation has awarded a Thrive Outside grant, which is designed to help advance the outdoor culture of the city.

At the Regatta Festival, youngsters will have the opportunity to learn about rowing, climbing, and other ways to be active outdoors. The Thrive Outside grant also allows

for the OKC Boathouse Foundation to allocate money to help disadvantaged children have access to education and equipment for outdoor activities. Athletes who have gotten started in rowing as a result of the opportunities the OKC Boathouse Foundations offer have gone on to earn more than $8 million in scholarships for college.

This festival is free to watch and open to the general public. To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Regatta Festival, special discounted passes for October 5 will be available for the SandRidge Sky Trail, Sky Slides, Cloud Bounce, and a white-water rafting experience. For more information and to purchase experience passes, visit riversportokc.org. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 61

ART

Colors of Clay Show opens at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Ceramic arts exhibition showcases items that were necessary in Native American culture

BY MJ VAN DEVENTER

T

he traditions of Native American ceramic arts, titled “Colors of Clay,” opened Aug. 30 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The show will run through May 10, 2020. The exhibition explores the cultural and regional diversity of Native American ceramic traditions in North America.

Visitors will view 60 one-of-a-kind vibrantly colored pieces including clay pots, bowls, pitchers and jars. All were sculpted with absolute precision, according to the Museum staff.

These items, which were once seen as a daily life necessity in the Native American culture, are now one of its most notable and collectible art forms. Some of the items date back thousands of years. They are an artistic medium equal to the culture’s oil paintings, watercolors or sculptures.

The exhibition shows how the skilled hands of an artist takes a piece from its humble beginnings as clay into a beautiful work of art, steeped in ancestral methods while creating unique shapes and intricate designs.

“The story of each vessel is told in colors and designs that will delight the imaginations of Museum visitors of all ages,” according to Natalie Shirley, Museum President and CEO. “The SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 63

64 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

process of how these pieces evolved from simple, raw organic materials sculpted by hand into inspiring works of Native American art is something that will resonate with everyone who sees them.�

Visitors also can have a hands-on experience with the various interactive educational materials comprising the show. A sitting area also will be available for those who just wish to enjoy the colorful art in a leisurely fashion.. Several videos will be on view to help visitors understand the various ceramic processes, such as ďŹ ring and other specialty techniques.

Paired with the show is a collection of wall images from famed 19th century photographer Edward J. Curtis. His body of work focuses primarily on Native American people and the American West.

Curtis was considered to be the utmost authority on Native Americans. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 65

BUSINESS

Bedré Fine Chocolate’s new Dark Chocolate Premium Sauce can be used in cocktails, milkshakes and desserts.

PHOTO PROVIDED

C

hocolate lovers, rejoice.

Oklahoma-owned Bedré Fine Chocolate has a new

temptation.

Dark Chocolate Premium Sauce can be used in

desserts, coffee-based drinks, cold drinks such as chocolate milk and

milkshakes, and to create decadent cocktails “This dark chocolate sauce is so rich and chocolatey, you can enjoy it just with spoon or add it to your favorite foods. You’re only limited by your imagination,” said Kay Colbert, general manager for Bedré.

Although it’s only available online and in the retail store in Davis for now, Bedré is working to distribute the chocolate sauce to its partner retailers, restaurants and caterers.

The chocolate sauce is the first in a line of sauces. The company plans to expand the line with milk chocolate and caramel sauces in the future.

Bedré specializes in a variety of gourmet chocolate creations, including bite-size Meltaways, Chocolate Crisps, White Fudge Peppermint Bark and much more. Seasonal offerings like the popular chocolate-dipped strawberries are also available.

Bedré products are sold in several stores across the states, as well as the retail store in Davis, at Exit 55 on I-35. For other retailers and to order online, go to bedrechocoaltes.com.

Purchased by the Chickasaw Nation in 2000, Bedré Fine Chocolate blends ancient tradition with modern flavor to produce world-class premium gourmet chocolates. n 66 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 67

PEOPLE

HALL OF FAME PRESENTERS

2019

The Presenters are pictured above the Honorees they will introduce during the 2019 induction ceremony.

68 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

T

he accomplished Oklahomans being inducted into the 2019 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Class each have selected the individual to formally present them at the November 21st banquet and induction ceremony.

The 2019 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Presenters are: Mike Cawley, Ardmore, presenting James C. Day; Christy Everest, Oklahoma City, presenting Tricia Everest; Francis Ford Coppola, San Francisco, CA, presenting Gray Frederickson; Bill Moore, Oklahoma City, presenting John Herrington; Tom Coburn, Tulsa, presenting Steve Largent; Dave Whitlock, Tahlequah, presenting John Nickel; Barry Switzer, Norman, presenting J.C. Watts, Jr.; Allen Wright will accept the honor on behalf of Chief Allen Wright (Kiliahote), who is being inducted posthumously.

The 92nd class will be inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame on the evening of Thursday, November 21 at the CoxConvention Center in Oklahoma City. These accomplished Oklahomans will join the cast of 698 individuals who have been inducted into the Hall since 1928. Masters of Ceremonies will be announced on Sunday, September 15th.

A limited number of individual tickets to the 2019 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony are on sale now and exclusively available by contacting Michelle Sopp, Director of Development, at 405.523.3207,

ms@oklahomahof.com, or directly from oklahomahof.com/banquet-induction-ceremony. For general information about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony, including pricing information and a description of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Patron levels, please visit OklahomaHoF.com.

Being inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is Oklahoma’s highest honor. The portraits of the 2019 Inductees will be added to the permanent collection held by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum in Oklahoma City. Their biographies, photos and videos can be viewed through interactive exhibits in the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gallery, along with stories of all Honorees.

The Oklahoma Hall of Fame preserves Oklahoma’s history by telling Oklahoma’s story through its people. Founded in 1927, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame was created to honor Oklahomans who have given outstanding service to the state during their lifetime and to provide educational programming for students of all ages. Through exhibits and experiences at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame stands to preserve Oklahoma’s unique history while promoting pride in our great state. For more information about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame or GaylordPickens Museum, visit oklahomahof.com or call 405.235.4458. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 69

EVENTS

Tulsa Greek Festival packed with food, cultural experiences and dancing

BY KRISTEN MARCKMANN

W

hat do Oklahoma and Greece have in common? Well, usually not much, but from September 19-22 Tulsa’s Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church will be having their annual Greek Festival.

Dancers perform traditional Greek dances

70 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

This four-day, culture-packed festival is open to the public and will feature authentic Greek food, folk dancing, and lots of cultural activities for the whole family. This year’s festival will also feature a book signing event with Gina Michalopulos Kingsley.

The Tulsa Greek Festival’s roots go back to 1961, where it started as a fundraiser dinner at the Tulsa Hotel supporting the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Ekko Tboone, cochair for the festival, proclaims that “the Tulsa Greek Festival is the oldest ethnic festival in Tulsa.” This year’s theme is “The Best Lil Stop in Opa!homa,” which acknowledges the fact that the church is located just steps from historic Route 66. Tboone says “this festival is truly an experience that includes the sights, sounds, and smells of Greece!”

This festival will have live Greek music as well as traditional Greek folk dancing. Dancers will perform cultural dances from Makedonia, Thrace, Thessaly, Epiros, Roumeli, Asia Minor, Crete, and the East Aegean Islands,

among others. Dancers will wear costumes reflecting the culture of the region represented by their dance.

Dance groups will vary in age from kindergarteners to college aged to adult. On Friday and Saturday evenings they’ll be “Bringing the Kefi Back,” which gives festival attendees the opportunity to join in on the dancing.

Younger visitors can visit the Kid Zone for a small additional cost that benefits Emergency Infant Services.

The Kid Zone offers children the opportunity to go on a Fire Station Tour, play on an Inflatable Playground, as well as learn about Greek culture through the creation of Greek themed

Food and pastries are festival favorites.

arts and crafts. Attending this festival will also offer a unique opportunity to explore the church itself with a Church Tour on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with Father George Gartelos.

Additionally, there will be several vendors present selling various Greek goods. Cotzia’s Fine Art sells Greek-inspired jewelry and art, Hellini’s Imports sells Greek-themed t-shirts and souvenirs, Belcher Enterprises sells imported Greek clothing and ceramics, and Yia Yia’s Attic sells a wide variety of gently used books and housewares.

This year “we will have one of our

own parishioners, a first-generation Greek American author, signing her book inside the boutique area,” Tboone tells. He is referring to Gina Michalopulos Kingsley, author of A Magic Carpet Ride, which is a travel memoir with themes of family and

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 71

Dancers perform cultural dances from the various Greek regions

personal discovery.

Finally, there will be several vendors providing authentic Greek cuisine. Kefi on Greek Street is a new vendor this year that will be offering loukaniko (pork sausage), Greek salad, keftedes (meatballs), and saganaki (flaming cheese).

Greek Street Eats sells gyros three different ways, either classic, naked, or gyro fries, as well as calamari and Greek fries. Opa!homa Entrees will feature lamb, chicken or pork souvlaki,

chicken or pork pita, spanakopita and tyropita filled with either spinach or cheese. There will also be several can’t-miss desserts in The Bakery, such as baklava, galaktoboureko, kouroumbiedes, koulourakia, melomakarona, and loukoumades.

The Taverna will offer Greek imported beer and wine, as well as Opa!Coladas and Kefi Frozen Lemonade made with Ouzo, a Greek anise-flavored liquor.

The Tulsa Greek Festival is open to everyone regardless of religion

72 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

or background. Tickets are available at the door and cost $5 for adults after 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and all-day Saturday and Sunday. The festival is always free for children under 12 years old. As Tboone reminds, “Never forget, always remember—it’s the third week of every September.”

Visit tulsagreekfestival.com for more information about this festival. n

BUSINESS

Comparing white, blue and grey collar workers THE HARRIS POLL

F

ollowing the inaugural survey of America’s blue collar workers in 2018, Express Employment Professionals has partnered once again with The Harris Poll to learn more about how today’s white collar workers compare with blue collar employees and those who fall in the middle—grey collar professions.

Despite a similar outlook of the future, regardless of collar color, the survey revealed American workers have substantial student loan debt, are not saving enough for retirement, but feel their jobs provide a good living for the present.

Grey Collar Work?

Grey collar work combines some of the manual labor aspects of blue collar work but also has components of white collar work. For the purposes of this study, Harris defines grey collar workers as working in jobs such as, airline pilot or flight attendant, farmer or land manager, certified or licensed salesperson, clergy, childcare worker, engineer, firefighter, paralegal, military, teacher or nonphysician healthcare professional.

A full survey methodology and enlarged infographic are available below. Grey collar industries emerged as the forgotten workforce when comparing demographics and sentiments between the traditional stereotypical white and blue collar jobs. But with 40% of grey collar workers expecting 74 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

substantial job growth in their fields over the coming years, they are an important segment to survey in order to accurately capture American employment data as a whole.

College: Was it Worth it?

For workers with a high-school diploma or less, more than half look back and wish they had a four-year degree or attended a community college or vocational school. Seventynine percent of grey collar workers and 72% of blue collar workers believe they would have had more opportunities if they had attended college.

For those with a college degree, more than 1 in 3 grey collar workers, 35%, and almost 1 in 4 white collar workers, 24%, say they think the higher education they received is absolutely essential to their current job. In fact, most college graduates, 79% grey collar and 70% white collar, think going to college was worth every penny.

However, some college-educated workers express regret about their decision, wishing they had attended community college, vocational school or had gone straight into the workforce instead (46% blue collar, 31% white collar, 30% grey collar). Nearly 1 in 3 college graduates say they have too much student loan debt (32% grey collar, 31% white collar) and cannot find a good job despite their college degree (33% white collar, 28% grey collar). Eighteen percent of white collar workers and 16% of grey collar workers have at least $25,000 worth of student loan debt, and those with student loans estimate it will take approximately seven to eight years to pay it off.

Retirement: Saving for the Future While blue, grey and white collar workers are still paying off student loans, 62% of blue collar, 45% of grey and 40% of white collar workers also say they have less than $5,000 saved in case of an emergency.

White collar workers are the most likely segment to have a larger fund of $25,000 or more saved for emergencies, 33%, with only 24% of grey collar and 11% of blue collar workers reporting the same amount.

The majority of all workers are worried about saving enough for retirement (73% blue collar, 62% white collar, 59% grey collar) and only about half of workers are currently setting aside money for the later years (58% white collar, 53% grey collar). Blue collar workers are the group least likely to save for the future at only 42%.

Content in the Present But for now, job satisfaction is high among most workers. Eightyeight percent of grey collar workers and 86% of both blue and white collar workers say they are at least somewhat satisfied with their job and an average of 89% of all workers are proud of the work.

They believe their job provides them a good living financially to support their family (81% white collar, 80% blue collar, 77% grey collar) and few are worried they might lose their position in the future (13% blue collar, 13% white collar, 12% grey collar).

Most white and grey collar workers believe their boss cares about them personally (80% white collar, 77% grey collar) and that their company cares about its employees (80% white collar, 77% grey collar), though blue collar workers are the least likely to agree with this sentiment at 71%. Regardless of their type of work, the top reason U.S. workers value their field is the ability to make a good living wage at 53%. Having flexible work hours is also a top reason for job satisfaction (47% white collar, 42% grey collar, 35% blue collar).

Conversely, white and grey collar workers say the top thing they dislike about their job is having limited or no advancement opportunities (30% white collar, 27% grey collar). Blue collar workers mostly dislike that their job can be dangerous at times, 39%, though they also report limited or no advancement opportunities, 28%, as reasons they dislike their field.

Financially, about half of all workers describe themselves as middle class, and most say they’ve received a pay increase in the last year SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 75

(76% white collar, 70% grey collar, 68% blue collar). White collar and blue collar workers are more likely to say they received a promotion in the past year (36% white collar, 35% blue collar, 29% grey collar). Over half of U.S. workers anticipate they will receive a pay increase this year or next year (68% white collar, 60% grey collar, 55% blue collar).

• Economy: grey and white collar 51%, each • Health Care: grey collar 54%, white collar 50% • Immigration: grey and white collar 43%, each • Affordability of daily living: grey collar 43%, white collar 39%

Political Differences?

Not So Much At a time when the country is divided along many lines, views on political parties are notably similar between the groups. When asked which political party does a better job of helping Americans in their line of work, there is no consensus.

• Blue collar: 39% Republican, 36% Democratic, 24% neither • Grey collar: 35% Republican, 38% Democratic, 25% neither • White collar: 39% Republican, 37% Democratic, 22% neither With 2020 approaching, the 2019 survey also polled grey and white collar respondents on their concerns ahead of the election. (Similar questions were not posed to blue collar workers in the 2018 survey). Respondents could select all issues that applied. The concerns that rise to the top for U.S. workers are as follows:

Hopeful for Their Profession in the Future Looking down the road, roughly 3 in 4 workers believe there is a good career path in their line of work (75% white collar, 74% blue collar, 72% grey collar) and would encourage a friend or family member to pursue a job in it (70% grey collar, 68% white collar, 64% blue collar). However, they are less enthusiastic about encouraging a child to follow in their footsteps with only 64% of white collar, 62% of grey collar and 51% of blue collar workers making the recommendation. For those

76 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

who would encourage a child to pursue the same career, the top reasons for doing so include because it’s enjoyable and profitable.

Notably, grey collar workers are far more likely to encourage a child to explore a career in their field than white collar workers because they anticipate high demand for their job in the future (grey collar 45%, white collar 31%).

Eight-in-10 U.S. workers are optimistic about their future (83% grey collar, 83% white collar, 80% blue collar) and most parents are hopeful for their children, agreeing with the idea that their children will have an even better future than they will (88% blue collar, 81% grey collar, 75% white collar). And despite any past or future worries, an overwhelm-ing majority say their life is moving in the right direction (88% grey collar, 86% white collar, 85% blue collar).

Archaic Labels Although most U.S. white collar (83%) and grey collar (81%) workers view labels such as “grey collar” and “white collar” as a good way to describe the work they do, they also see them as old-fashioned and nonapplicable anymore (62% grey collar,

56% white collar). When grey and white collar workers were asked which definition or label best describes the work they do, their responses reveal an overlap in classification.

Eighty percent of white collar workers describe their work as “white collar,” while 49% of grey collar workers also classify their work as “white collar.”

Another 25% of grey collar workers define their duties as “grey collar,” and 14% say “blue collar.” Eleven percent of grey collar workers define their position as “something else.”

While the majority of white collar (76%) and grey collar (73%) workers believe labeling a profession as “blue collar,” “grey collar” or “white collar” is not personally offensive, they do think the labeling hurts how people view a particular line of work (62% grey collar, 59% white collar). In fact, more than 1 in 4 grey collar (31%) and white collar (27%) workers even say they would likely be in another profession if it weren’t for the assigned label (e.g., “blue collar,” “white collar”).

“The value of work is not found in the color of the collar one wears, the location of a job, the existence of an office or even the size of the paycheck.

The value of work is found in the sense

of purpose and pride it gives the worker,” said Bill Stoller, CEO of Express. “White, grey and blue collar Americans have clear differences, but they are also telling us that they feel good about themselves, their families and their future. That’s a good news story.”

About the Survey The survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals between June 18 and July 8, 2019 among 1,011 U.S. white collar workers (defined as adults ages 18+ in the U.S. who are employed full-time, part-time, or self-employed and works in an office, cubicle, or other administrative setting) and 1,019 grey collar workers (defined as adults ages 18+ who are employed full-time, parttime, or self-employed and works in

one of the following professions: airline pilot or flight attendant, agribusiness professional (e.g., farmer, land manager), certified/licensed salesperson (e.g., real estate broker, stockbroker, insurance broker), clergy (e.g., minister, rabbi, imam), child care (e.g., nanny, au pair), engineer (e.g., mechanical, electrical, avionics, civil), firefighter, funeral director/technician, food preparation and catering (e.g., chef, sous chef), high-technology technician (e.g., lab technician, helpdesk technician, IT professional, medical equipment repair, solar panel installer), nonphysician healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, emergency medical services personnel, physician’s assistant), paralegal, police officer, protective services, military, security or civil defense, professional musician/artist, school administrator, teacher, educator, or other academic field worker, or typist/stenographer).

Figures are weighted where necessary by age, by gender, race/ethnicity, region, education, income, marital status, employment, household size and propensity to be online to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 2019 ion ion Oklahoma Oklahoma 77 77

ART

Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale

BY M. J. VAN DEVENTER

A

dozen of the country’s leading western cowboy artists will present approximately 50 of their one-of-a-kind original crafted art at an exhibition opening October 4 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. These cowboys don’t deal in traditional art. Their mediums are far different.

Instead, like most cowboy artists who paint on canvas or sculpt in marble, these work with some of the toughest materials to tame. Their mediums are fine leathers, silver, bronze, even hard as rock jewels. They call themselves “traditional, cowboy artists.” Ranchers, cowboys and cattlemen have been using these materials since cowboys first roamed and tried to turn into art .and corral the great American West.

Their “brand” is TCAA — short for the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association. The artists who come from across the country for this exhibition, the 21st annual show, are saddle makers, silversmiths, rawhide braiders and bit and spur creators. The 78 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

show will feature one-of-a-kind handcrafted original art demonstrating the finest work available to those who admire and collect cowboy trappings.

The artists include Wilson Capron, Beau Compton, Mark Dahl, Pablo Lozano, Scott Hardy, Leland Hensley, Ernie Marsh, Pedro Pedrini, Cary Schwarz, Nate Wald, Troy West and John

Willemsma. Their art specialties include silversmithing; rawhide braiding, bit and spur and saddle making.

“One of the most unusual pieces in the show is a saddle that pays tribute to the women who rode bucking horses in early day rodeos,” says Kent McCorkle, who is the CEO for the TCAA. “The piece pushes the envelope of creativity,” he says.

McCorkle and Don Bellamy were among the traditional cowboy art enthusiasts who met in Elko, Nevada 22 years ago to create the TCAA. Now, as the CEO, McCorkle says, “I’m not an artist but Fm a collector in a small way.” His forte is his business skill. His mission in that position is to instruct and inspire the artists who are creating work of consistent quality and maintaining the purpose of the TCAA, which is to elevate the traditional cowboy arts.

Included in that mission is elevating the quality of the traditional cowboy arts being created today ~ art that will inspire those who value and collect these works of art. “It is important to maintain the high level of quality and inspire other traditional western artists to create quality works. To do that, we annually provide a $24,000 scholarship to a potential artist to help maintain our trade. I have a tremendous appreciation for their art,” McCorkle says.

The TCAA is comprised of a small band of 20 artisans. Some who were among the founding group have died; others have taken emeritus status. McCorkle says the members are “pleased to be included in the roster of events at the National Cowboy Museum. We are not part of the Museum but we love showing here.” To those collectors who come year after year, they can’t imagine any other venue so perfect to show their art.

Natalie Shirley, the Museum’s President and CEO, says, “These artists who comprise the TCAA are among the most skilled artists working today, creating extraordinarily beautiful art that evolved from the tools of the working cowboy. The show and sale is a highlight, not only for those with an interest in the cowboy arts, but for those with an interest in art, indeed.”

The exhibition begins with an exclusive preview Friday, October 4 at 6 p.m. to offer potential buyers and collectors the opportunity to preview the show, before the sale, beginning at 5 p.m. October 5. Reservations for the event are available at nationalcowbovymuseum.org/tcaa. Proxy bidding is also available at triley@nationalcowboymuseum.org Major sponsors for the event include Kraig and Deborah Kirschner, Alan and Nadine Levin, Norris Family Foundation, BancFirst, Mike and Sheila Ingram, NBC. n SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 79

TRAVEL

Lost and Found

OKLAHOMA

BY JESSE EDGAR

S

ince I found my passion for photography, Oklahoma history, and abandoned architecture, I have met a lot of other photographers.

Landscape photographers, drone photographers, urban explorers, and everything in between.

Their styles differ in many ways but they all share one thing in common: They all have a passion for photography.

OH! And every single one of them have probably photographed the abandoned W.S. Kelly gas station and General Store in Cogar, Oklahoma.

I’ve seen it posted on Instagram about 1,500 times. I’ve seen it posted on Facebook probably 25,000 times, and when you google Cogar, Oklahoma, it’s practically the only thing that shows up. Every person that owns a classic car, 80 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

82 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

motorcycle, or just lives within a 20 mile radius has probably stopped and taken a few pictures here.

Everyone has captured it in their own special way and that is what makes this little gas station so special.

Well, that and the fact that Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman once filmed a scene from the movie “Rain Man” there in 1988.

You see… Cogar, Oklahoma was put on the map in 1902 when they built their first official post office. Then it was taken off the map when the post office was shut down in 1952.

And that is it…

That is the story of Cogar, Oklahoma.

I couldn’t find any other information regarding the

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 83

town. I couldn’t find any history. There wasn’t any info on the W.S. Kelly Gas Station and General Store. The town doesn’t participate in Census data. As far as I can tell there is a church and a few houses and the rest of Cogar is agricultural land.

The story of Cogar, Oklahoma is a short one. Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman gave the town a small resurgence back to relevancy for a year or two, but after that… crickets.

So, now I find myself here. Finally standing in front of the gas station that so many people have photographed before

84 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

me. It’s time for me to put my spin on it and see how I fare. I arrived right at sunset. I tried to take advantage of the golden hour but the low light was a little difficult to work with. All in all I was happy with the results though and I am glad that I finally got to experience the legend of Cogar, Oklahoma.

Jesse Edgar’s work can be seen at www.OklahomaAbandoned.com, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/oklahoma_abandoned/ and Facebook – www.facebook.com/OklahomaAbandoned n

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EVENTS

Indian Festival in Yukon shows off language and culture

BY BILL O’BRIEN

A

Adults perform at a festival in Yukon on Sept. 7.

86 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

n Indian festival that promoted the Malayalee language and culture was held in Yukon Saturday, September 7 at the Yukon Fine Arts Center.

The event was sponsored by the Oklahoma Malayalee Association and the Malayalee language is spoken in the Indian province of Kerala which is located on the southwest Malabar Coast of India where many of the Indian immigrants in Oklahoma originally called home.

That province has a tradition of matrilineal inheritance, “where the mother is the head of the household,” according to the Wikipedia entry regarding India, and that may account for the higher status women enjoy there and the fact that Kerala has the highest literacy rate in that nation.

Kerala is home to one of the earliest Christian communities, and St. Thomas the Apostle of Christ came there and began to proselytize for that new faith in the early Christian era, and many of the Malayalee-speaking residents of Oklahoma are of the Christian persuasion. They also have assimilated well into the Sooner State, and many of them are health care professionals and successful business people. For a time, a weekly television comedy show was filmed in a home in Edmond that was occupied by a staffer at the Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure. The show was performed in the Malayalee language and later broadcast in Kerala.

The program that was distributed to the attendees told of how the gathering was held to commemorate the Indian harvest holiday of Onam.

The event began with a line of women in white gowns with gold images embossed on them who were carrying gold plates making their way onto the stage followed by ďŹ ve men in white and red robes. The men pounded drums in a rhythmic manner that was somewhat similar to the drumming that accompanies the opening of the Native American Red Earth Festival in Oklahoma City.

Several different men and women served as master of ceremonies and introduced the various male and female dancers who danced in well-choreographed steps in bright costumes to Indian music and songs.

Some of the performances had much of the audience singing along and clapping in a manner that suggested that they were familiar with the songs. While young boys participated in some of the dances along with young girls, almost all of the adult dancers were women, but some adult men sang individually.

Most of the introductions of the performers were made in Youngsters also were part of the Sept. 7 festival.

Malayalee, and awards were bestowed on children who had drawn images of characters from Kerala history and folklore. The concerns that some members of the association may have about preserving the Malayalee culture was made evident by an announcement of the classes that were being offered in that language, and young people were encouraged to enroll.

That program is also referenced in the website maintained by the Oklahoma Malayalee Association. After the performances concluded, the attendees made their way to the cafeteria where they enjoyed a traditional Onam Festival feast, and some of them spoke of the larger Indian cultural event that will take place in Moore, Oklahoma, on September 28 of this year. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ion Oklahoma 87

PEOPLE

BY TIM FARLEY

Sister Cities International (SCI) appointed Mary Blankenship Pointer, Oklahoma City business leader, to the Board of Directors at the 2019 Annual Conference in Houston, Texas.

In 2018 she was awarded the Oklahoman of the Year award in Philanthropy by the Oklahoma Magazine.

“It is an honor to be appointed to the board of Sister Cities International. In my opinion, promoting peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation is more important now than any other time in recent history. I look “We are delighted to have Mary Blankenship Pointer join forward to serving on the board to help the Board of Directors and the Sister achieve these goals,” said Mary Cities International family,” noted Blankenship Pointer.

Roger-Mark De Souza, President and About Sister Cities International was CEO of Sister Cities International “Mary founded by President Dwight D. will serve an integral part of Sister Eisenhower in 1956. The organization Cities International’s leadership team, serves as the national membership helping our vibrant network to connect organization for sister city programs in to more members and partners across nearly 500 individual member the country and across the world.” communities of sister cities, counties, and Pointer has thrived in her career as a states across the United States and other professional banker with over 25 years nations, with relationships in over 2,000 of banking experience, including communities in more than 140 countries. business development commercial This sister city network unites tens of lending and private banking. Alongside Mary Blankenship Pointer her work in the banking industry, Pointer is passionate about thousands of citizen diplomats and volunteers who work giving back to her community. She currently serves as on the tirelessly to promote peace and understanding through programs and projects focusing on arts and culture, youth Board of Directors of the Council of International Neonatal and education, business and trade, and community Nurses, the Pioneer Library System, the Amigos Library development. n Services, and Dove Public Charter Schools.

88 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

PEOPLE

winners recognized

A

cross 17 career categories, 338 Oklahomans age 30 years or younger from 241 companies and organizations are being recognized for their professional leadership and extensive service to their communities.

brightest,” ion Oklahoma Online Magazine Publisher Don Swift said. “Each honoree has displayed exceptional leadership among their peers as well as contributions to their Oklahoma communities.”

The 17 categories include arts; education; higher education; energy and transportation; finance; healthcare; hospitality; law; From Guymon to Durant to manufacturing/industry/the Tahlequah, the 2019 NextGen Under trades/agriculture; media/public 30 Oklahoma Award honorees were 2019 NextGen Under 30 selected through a highly Oklahoma Award Recognition relations/marketing/advertising; non-profit; policy and public competitive application process. is a statewide program service; retail and e-commerce; This year’s class will be honored at the annual awards ceremony that honoring young professionals science/technology/engineering; will held at the Embassy Suites and who are leading Oklahoma’s and staffing.

“With these outstanding Conference Center in Norman on future and cultivating change individuals, our state will continue Friday, November 15, with a in their communities to advance,” Swift said. “We look reception at 6 p.m., followed by forward to their continued dinner at 6:45 p.m. and an awards contributions and positive presentation 7:45 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.

The 2019 NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma Award Recognition influence within our state.”

For more information and a complete list of honorees, visit is a statewide program honoring young professionals who http://nextgenunder30.com/award-winners/. For more are leading Oklahoma’s future and cultivating change in information about ion Oklahoma Magazine, visit their communities. Throughout the year, the class will connect with next generation Oklahomans in rural and urban http://www.ionok.com/.

In 2017, the NextGen under 30 Foundation (501c3) was areas and will learn about leadership through workshops created to offer scholarships to these very talented young and retreats. people and participation in leadership classes, workshops, “The NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma aims to support retention of young professionals in Oklahoma and recognize and retreats. n outstanding achievements among our state’s best and

90 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

un under der

oklahoma

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