ETown October 2012 by Etown Magazine

Spooky Time of Year Social Media

GURU Visits Enid

Graveyard Shift

By Jacqueline Hince Photo by Nancy Killam

John Stam Mission work runs in John Stam’s blood. His great uncle and aunt were martyred as Christian missionaries in the early 1900s. Two uncles served as missionaries all over the world. Stam now carries on the tradition, leading teams to Africa, Russia, India and the list goes on.

way up to head of the music department and registrar, the university closed, and Stam was out of a job. “We went to Colorado for just a few months, and I worked for my brother-inlaw,” Stam says. “But we soon realized Enid had become home.” That’s when he says God stepped in.

For eight years now, Stam has traveled to Niger, Africa, with crews of community and church members to provide medical help and drill water wells. The “vision” first hit Stam in 2002 after he met Yacouba Seydou, a Niger native in Oklahoma pursuing his education. While here, Seydou, with the support of

Stam says his family always seems to end up in mission work or education. He’s done both. In fact, education is what brought him to Enid. Originally from Minnesota, Stam studied music at Wheaton College in Chicago. He then went on to get his masters and doctorate of chorale conducting in Iowa. That’s where he met and married his wife, Mary, and the two started a family. In 1988, Phillips University in Enid recruited Stam to come teach. However, after a solid ten-year career there, working his

Senior Pastor Wade Burleson at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Enid offered Stam a job as the Pastor of Ministry Administration and Missions. Stam, who had already done mission work on his own for years, says moving into the new role was a smooth transition. Over the past 14 years, in addition to working in Enid, Stam and members of Emmanuel have worked in some of the roughest areas of New York City and third world countries like Guatemala and India. “Africa is probably one of our largest missions,” Stam says.

Emmanuel, founded The Hosanna Institute of the Sahel. Hosanna is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making a difference back home. Stam says after meeting Seydou he just had this tremendous “sense” they needed to travel to Niger. So he formed a medical team, scraped up supplies and went in 2004. He was shocked and appalled at the poverty there. “I had been in Russia shortly after the (Berlin) Wall came down, so I’d seen poverty. I’d never seen anything like this. Even what you see in Mexico and Central America doesn’t really

prepare you for what you see in Niger.” He describes distended bellies from hunger, mud and straw huts and hardly any sanitation among the population of more than 17 million people. In fact, he says one image in particular haunts him. “One of the most horrendous things I saw on that first trip was a girl, 16 or 17, who waded out into the river, did her business, then splashed it around, took water to wash her face and then drank it. That I’ll never forget.” It’s that memory and others like it that inspired Stam to bring fresh water to the people of Niger. Once back in Enid he was amazed how easily the pieces fell together. Within months of their first trip, he had made the connections necessary to get everything needed to drill wells. He and the church raised money, bought the equipment and trained a team. When Stam went back to Niger with the Hosanna Institute in 2005, they drilled two wells. As of today, teams have installed a total of 25 successful wells. Each well should provide water for around 200 people. However, Stam says many of those wells are serving nearly 2,000. Still, Stam says it’s been amazing to see the difference they are making. Waterborne diseases have decreased, the general health of those able to use the wells has improved and many are learning the importance of sanitation. Stam, who serves on the boards of a number of nonprofits, including The Hosanna Institute, Our Daily Bread in Enid, Enid’s Community Clinic and the Enid Symphony Board, says as he reflects on the years of service he’s given both here and abroad, he realizes he can’t take any credit. “ I look back and I’m amazed at how God has pulled all these different pieces together. You find yourself a pawn right in the middle of it, with all these things swirling around. Sometimes it feels overwhelming…but then I realize I didn’t put it all together in the first place. Then you just let go.”

Double Intenders Concert with hometown musician Ben Blankenship Photos by April Danahy

E contents OCTOBER / NOVE M BER 2 0 1 2

Let’s celebrate food!

Hi, my name is Ebby and I am a foodie. Food makes me happy; thinking about food, talking about food, cooking food, and especially eating food.

YWCA 11th Annual Leadership Luncheon

Social Media guru visits enid

Graveyard shift

spooky time of year

DogTown

If there’s a new romanticism to being laid to rest in a simple wooden box, local funeral home director Bill Stittsworth is thinking even further outside the box.

I’m fond of this time of year. Having been born on Halloween I am appreciative of how this season brings out bright colors and costumes and things with a little touch of the bizarre.

I drive along slowly searching for the party. I even roll down my window to listen for the crowd. Everything’s dark, too dark for a gathering of nearly three hundred people.

October/November 2012 Volume 6, Number 5 Managing Director Art Director Project Coordinator Etown Promotions Director Writers

Photographers

Account Executives Cover

Frank Baker Theotis Pace Lynne Benkendorf Cathy Nulph Christy Northcutt Becky Hodgen Ebby Stratton Candace Krebs Jacqueline Hince April Danahy Wade Burleson Audra W. Harris Muncy Photography Nancy Killam MotoPhoto Cammeron Kaiser April Danahy Alan Tarin Mark Cromwell

Cathy Nulph Mandy Arter Photo by Cammeron Kaiser

Here at Etown you’ll notice a slight change in some of our content with this issue. Stories that have been labeled Etown Preferred Partner in the past will now be labeled Etown Sponsor Content. This is to define stories that are done in collaboration with the business or entity featured in said story. In reality, all of our Etown advertisers are preferred partners! We’d prefer you do business with them all! We wouldn’t be here without them. Frank Baker, Managing Director, Etown Magazine

SUGGESTIONS

Do you have an idea for future stories for Etown? We’re always looking for good ideas of people and places to feature. If you have a suggestion give us a call at 580-548-8186 or e-mail fbaker@eaglemkt.com.

Etown Magazine • P.O. Box 1192 • Enid, OK 73702-1192 • 580-548-8186

Power of Pilates

by Christy Northcutt, Fit Chicks Owner & Fitness Specialist

Pilates, pronounced pi-lah-teez, has been around for years and is a great routine for posture and fitness. It is also well known as a program to give you a flat stomach. Pilates moves function differently than that of other forms of exercise in that the primary focus is the strengthening of the central core, or powerhouse, and use of the abdominal muscles to control movements. It allows the body to develop strength without bulk. Muscles are longer, firmer, and leaner. Other forms of exercise tend to focus mainly on developing the limbs only. Pilates workouts attract everyone from grandmas to Hollywood elite with its promise of core strength, flexibility and lean muscle tone. But as Pilates transforms from a professional dancer’s secret to a mainstream workout, many newcomers wonder if they should be rolling out a mat, standing upright or strapping in to a reformer — the equipment developed by Pilates creator Joseph Pilates.

What’s the difference between mat Pilates, standing Pilates and reformer Pilates?

Pilates mat or standing workouts and Pilates reformer workouts provide similar benefits. Working against resistance is essential to the 500 classical Pilates exercises, which are designed to train the body’s “powerhouse” — the abdomen, lower back, hips and buttocks. But you can accomplish that using either a mat or standing, where your own body weight creates resistance, or a reformer, where pulleys and springs create resistance.

How Pilates on a mat works

Pilates mat work is often done in live studio classes. Mat Pilates classes follow a flowing choreography that leads you through exercises that are slow and controlled. Mat work is a great option for beginners because of its emphasis on learning how to control your muscles during exercises. Pilates mat class size can range from three to 20-plus, so newcomers should look for smaller sessions. Advanced mat classes add additional challenge because you’re using your body all the time. The reformer isn’t assisting or supporting you.

How Pilates while standing works

Most people don’t spend the majority of their days on the floor. Standing Pilates incorperates weight-bearing, multijoint movements that require more work and recruit more muscles. It allows you to move your body in all planes of motion to strengthen the powerhouse and hip muscles, increase spine and hip flexibility, and improve balance.

In health, Christy Northcutt Fit Chicks, Owner and Instructor Nationally Certified AFAA & NETA Group Fitness Instructor IDEA Health & Fitness Association Member StrollerFit® and Restore the Core™ Certified Fitness Instructor Youth Fitness Certified Instructor Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Specialist Questions? Email christy.northcutt@fitchicksenid.com

How Pilates on a reformer works

To some, reformer equipment might resemble a torture apparatus. Look closer to see that the sliding carriage and adjustable springs regulate tension and resistance. Cables, bars, straps and pulleys allow exercises to be done from a variety of positions, even standing. The resistance created by the pulley and spring system can provide a challenging strength and endurance workout. The reformer’s many attachments increase the range of modifications that can be made to the exercises, and allow additional exercises beyond what can be done on a mat. This capability, combined with the support afforded by the resistance the machine provides, allows people with limited range of movement or injuries to safely do modified exercises. Because this contraption can look daunting, many students start with a few private sessions before moving on to a group class.

More tips on choosing a Pilates workout

Still can’t decide between mat, standing or reformer work? There’s no need to agonize over the decision — most people can reap similar benefits from any of the three approaches. All forms will teach you how to use your powerhouse, make performing daily activities and sports easier, and tone your body along the way. Enid offers a wide range of Pilates classes at numerous locations. I offer mat Pilates classes with soothing, calm music and a mat/standing combo Pilates class with hip hop music. My friend, Kelley Wright, does a great job with group reformer classes. Depending on your taste, you can find a class to suit your needs and your workout time. Attend any of Enid’s Pilates classes. Who wouldn’t want longer, firmer and leaner muscles?

123 E. Broadway • Downtown Enid, OK 580.540.8969

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LET’S CELEBRATE FOOD! By Ebby Stratton Photos by Cammeron Kaiser

Hi, my name is Ebby and I am a foodie. Food makes me happy; thinking about food, talking about food, cooking food, and especially eating food. I delight in taking a basic recipe and switching it up to meet my tastes. I love to experience a dish at a restaurant I have never had the pleasure to meet before! As I am savoring every bite, I find it exciting to try to figure out which ingredients are involved! My passion with food started in the kitchen where I grew up. I spent countless hours gathered with my family and friends around my kitchen table. It was a big, round wooden table – as a matter of fact, I have that same table in my kitchen today! Speaking of kitchens, mine is a teeninsey one. I am proof you do not need a Bobby Flay style kitchen to cook. Small kitchens make it even easier since everything is only a few steps away! My philosophy is that cooking should be fun, simple, and fresh. Food is part of our daily life – let’s embrace it. My love of food has evolved over the years. I was blessed to grow up around women who were fabulous cooks. So, I suppose my passion

for food is in my blood. I find myself reading cookbooks like novels; my favorite TV shows are food related. Truth be told, at any given time, my mind is wandering towards food. Crazy, huh? Well, I would love to share this love of anything food related with you! Together, we can bring the joy of food to life! Enid has a plethora of food experiences to offer. I would love to explore them with you! Do you have a favorite restaurant where you only order that one exceptional dish? I welcome any ideas you have on sharing your food experiences – from your annual BBQ party to specialty dishes that have been in your family for years. We all have great memories of food, don’t we? Let’s share some of these special memories! It has been my pleasure to meet you here! Please email me with any ideas you may have or foodie experiences you would like to share. Let’s celebrate food!! Ebby Stratton estratton1956@sbcglobal.net

Allison Aholt, Kay Churchhill, Annie Galbreath, Janeth Wright

Leadership Luncheon YWCA 11th Annual

Miss Oklahoma 2011, Betty Thompson

July 12, 2012

On July 12 the YWCA held its annual Leadership Luncheon at the Cherokee Strip Conference Center. This event honors local community leaders, and also functions as a fundraiser, raising money for the YWCA through a silent auction for purses. Former recipients of the award nominated Gail Wynne for “Woman of the Year”. Wynne’s work with the community has been focused on reducing the hunger of those in need, especially children. With her tireless help, the “Food For Kids Backpack Program” has

been able to raise thousands of dollars to provide chronically hungry children with a backpack of non-perishable food for the weekend. Without this service, most of these children would not have enough to eat over the weekend, and would be waiting for school to begin to have their next meal. Over six-hundred students have been able to receive help from this program yearly. In addition to her outstanding support of the program, Gail has also impressed people by her humility.

Danielle Deterding, Melissa Deterding, Paula Deterding

Jana Shewey, Jessica Edwards, Mary Helen Iselin

Mary McCormick, Sue Burnett, Becky Owens

Dr. James Strate & Melissa Blanton

Brittany Willey & Rynn Day

Gail Wynne, Woman of the Year

Gail Wynne receiving the Woman of the Year Award

Brittany Willey Volunteer of the Year

Another award recipient was Northwestern Oklahoma student Brittany Willey. Because of her help with the YWCA for a school project, Willey was awarded the “Volunteer of the Year” award. For the project, Willey raised over $500 for the Crisis Center at the YWCA. She also redecorated the teen crisis room. “I like meeting new people. It’s really awesome to hear everyone’s stories and experiences,” says Willey of her volunteer work. In the future, Willey hopes to work with the “Girl Power” workshops at the YWCA. She has fond memories of attending these workshops, which deal with various topics important to young girls such as how to deal with bullying, and how to maintain self-esteem.

Autry Tech, winner of the “Community Partner of the Year” award, has helped the YWCA put on the “Girl Power” events, allowing many of its classes to partner up with the program. Keynote speaker Miss Oklahoma 2011, Betty Thompson, rounded out the Leadership Luncheon. Miss Thompson’s speech struck a note with YWCA supporters. She spoke of how important it is to build up young women, and how she was able to be successful because of the support of her community. For more information about the YWCA, please visit www. ywcaenid.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a persistent truth about home ownership.â&#x20AC;? No matter how difficult the last few years have been, one thing stands TRUE; Enid Folks still want to be homeowners. Now is the time to BUY. Interest rates are at historic lows, which makes obtaining a larger home more than just a dream, but a true reality. The Enid Market is and always has been a unique market where prices have remained stable. Waiting to see if home prices are going to drop is a huge mistake. If you see a home you want, then make an offer, and chances are good you will get that home. Enid has a very limited number of homes available on the market, so the time to buy is NOW! If you have any questions on how to purchase or sell a home, please do not hesitate to contact one of our outstanding agents at Paramount Homes Real Estate Co. 580-237-6200 or check out our website at www.ParamountHomesRE.com

www.ParamountHomesRE.com Etown Sponsor Content

Paramount Homes Wordsearch ASSESSOR ASSET CHAIN CONDOMINIUM ENCUMBRANCE ESCROW ESTATE FINANCING HOMES INSURANCE LENDER LIQUID PARAMOUNT PRIME RATE REAL TITLE

Not sure where to go in Enid for fashions that are cute and current while celebrating our curves? (I personally detest the term “plus size” — plus what? I think we gals would rather be described as curvy or voluptuous.) It’s so important to feel good about the size you are NOW! If you are a reluctant shopper, grab a friend and follow my trusty shopping guide.

First stop:

Oakwood Mall. Dillards, JC Penney and Factory Connection all have trendy cute styles for “curvy” sizes. One fun option is a tunic over leggings. Or consider cinching it in! Dresses cinched with a belt accentuate a small waist, while wearing a denim jacket over a dress adds a sassy option. Next up, head to For You Boutique downtown, where you can find some great unique lace tunics and tons of leggings and jeans (they go up to size 16.) Follow that up with a stop at Park Avenue Thrift, which offers a wide selection of leather boots, jackets and hats at a great price — anything you need to complete your outfit. Regardless of the size you wear, great skin care and makeup are a must for all women. I love the new TimeWise line by Mary Kay (local distributor Carolyn Simon turned me on to this.) It really does “firm, smooth and soften” the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For young and mature gals alike, get that nice healthy glow with bareMinerals tinted moisturizer. Here’s the best tip I can give to you gals of all sizes, shapes and ages: Be yourself! Shoulders back, chest high, stand tall and smile. For more updates, stay tuned to my Cats Fluff N Stuff Facebook page, as well as Etown and Let’s Beautify Enid.

Cathy Nulph

Photos by April Danahy

Ryan allen’s

“Murder at the Juice Joint” Birthday

DEBAUCHERY: Stong Holsten Beer Tasting

by Becky Hodgen Photos by Nancy Killam

Proof ’s Hayden Staerkel & Zach Noell

Mary Susan & Steve Chambers

2 In no particular order, I’d like to tell you about the great loves of my life: my mother’s homemade noodles, people, wine, my mother’s sweet potato pie, good cheese, Ryan Gosling, good beer, West Wing, genteel men, and apples. Ok, the last really isn’t a love, but after looking over that list, I thought I needed to add something more practical. But I’m very picky about my apples. No kidding, right? As you read that list you’ll also notice a trend…food and booze. Well, food, booze, and people. I can get all those things on any given night in Enid. Well, except for Ryan Gosling, but I’m not giving up. I would make a wonderful Canuck. I’ve sat through a few major league hockey games, can’t tell you what happened truly, but it was like field hockey only colder. Anyhow, recently I had a chance to attend Greg Stong and Keith Holsten’s beer tasting party, with my favorite guys, Hayden and Zach from Proof Wine and Spirits. On that night’s menu, the featured beers were all from regions of the British Isles. I assumed if Prince Harry could stand in for the Queen Mum at an Olympic water polo match, I could try some new beers. And come on, we

all know he was given strict orders that he was to attend and look like he was having a rip-roaring good time. He looked absolutely thrilled to be there too. As financial advisors of their independent firm of Stong Holsten Wealth Group, Greg and Keith have found great ways to bring their clients together, get to know them better, and all the while treating them to a genuinely good time. Too many times, as entrepreneurs and marketers, we focus too much on the product and not enough on the people. The more you know about your clients, the easier it is to market to and serve them. Because after all… that’s the point. The guys of Proof really outdid themselves this time. I’m always pleasantly surprised that they manage to present a few familiar brands and then reveal a few that are new to me. It’s like they are politely holding my hand and leading me to try a different brew. I’m a creature of habit, and many times I go straight for what is good and familiar. Usually a New Castle or Modelo Especial works for me. However when I go into their store, I am caught up seeing unfamiliar labels, and true to form, I leave with some-

thing brand new. Never am I one to think it is going to be the end of the world, if I try something new and heaven forbid I might like it. These guys have never let me down. Many of Greg and Keith’s clients that I spoke with don’t drink often, so they arrived with an open mind and empty glass. Ok, so they didn’t bring their own mug, Greg and Keith provided custom lager glasses. Another point for the marketing department at Stong and Holtsen: Reinforce your brand. Hayden and Zach were prepared to help us drink our way through the Olympics and down the River Thames. They had one particular brew that was called Old Speckled Hen made by the Moreland Brewery. It had a little bit of a fruity aftertaste, so for those of you who love a little tang with your beer, check this out. It reminded me of a beer I had once had in Berlin but was lighter. Another favorite of the night was Belhaven Scottish Ale. It was malty and hoppy and had a bright dark reddish hue like New Castle. Lots of people came back for seconds on this one. I’m going to be making a trip into Proof for this one. I always wonder where the Proof guys

Keith Holsten & Greg Stong

Gene Hollrah & Kalli Ingmire

Brandon Turnbow & Dalen McVay

find new and interesting inventory. Hayden explained that a lot of their inspiration for new brands comes from tours, but some come from just going down to the OKC and checking out what’s hot. They recommended Republic Gastro Pub and also any of the local breweries. A friend recommended Republic because they have the best Bloody Marys. Why, you ask? Well, it’s the bacon infused vodka, of course. Be still my heart. Don’t worry I found a place in Wichita that carries it. Give me a call, and I might just bring you some. See, my love knows no bounds. Oh, and with football season just around the corner, I asked the guys what would be a good beer to bring to the tailgate for a little change from the typical Coors, Buds, and Millers. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure you have your loyalties, but change it up a bit. Well, have no fear, OSU and OU fans can come together and toast with a great foamy glass of “Texas Sux”. Brewed locally in Oklahoma City by Big Stick Brew Co., it will definitely be the hit. I think I should try to make an equally insulting University of Alabama beer. All bets are off during the rest of the season, as far as this column is concerned. There’s a good chance that by my next entry, I may be rambling on about the disestablishment of college football officiating. But again I digress. The tasting party was a hit. There was a steady stream of partygoers traveling in and out, and wouldn’t you believe, it rained that day. This is proof God loves beer. Once, while I was in college, I told my mother I found Jesus at the bottom of a Maker’s Mark bottle. She wasn’t impressed. Again, I can’t stress enough how impressed I am with marketing efforts from our local business community. Make sure your brand is authentic and provide a memorable experience for your clients. Greg Stong and Keith Holsten genuinely enjoy and want to get to know their clients. Building a relationship and bond with your clients is paramount to the longevity of your business. Below is the complete listing of what we tried that night. Stop in and ask the men of Proof if a particular one catches your eye. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your football or autumn weekend, why not invite the guys over for a beer or wine tasting. It’s a great way to get all your friends together, and you can tell your mom you treated yourself to an afternoon of education. Chances are one of your friends will be over served and begin to tell you the meaning of life. See there, you can add philosophy to your afternoon. Until we meet again, adieu and War Eagle. • Old Speckled Hen-English Pale Ale • Wychwood Hobgoblin- Extra Special Bitters • Guinness Foreign Extra Stout • Smithwick’s Ale- Irish Red Ale • Belhaven Scottish Ale- Scottish Ale • Harp Lager- European Pale Lager

Chamber of Commerce Photos by Nancy Killam

GREATER ENID CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Annual Banquet

Grindhouse Tattoo & Art Company Honored Aah, well, I’ve been an artist my whole life but I started this tattoo thing about 8 years ago now. I’ve been hitting the show scene pretty hard for about the last 5. Done some pretty big shows all over the U.S. including the largest one in the record books,Biggest Tattoo Show On Earth in Las Vegas, as well as entering a lot of contests. The competition out there is pretty fierce. For a long time I was doing tattoos that I thought were totally winners, but not coming home with any plaques! It frustrated me to the point, that at the Tulsa Immersed Ink show Aug 31 - Sept 2, I went in with the attitude of simply I WILL NOT LOSE !!! I asked some good friends of

mine to come along and support me at the show and tattooed a rad idea we had saved up, and other long time friends and clients came along and entered a few pieces I had done on them......... And whaaattttta you know, I came home with 5 plaques, sweeping 2 categories & receiving a 2nd place in tattoo of the day at the show on Sunday!!!!! This is a national competition with artists from all over the country, so I’m really proud to finally be considered on that same level. My main focus although, is representing the tattoo industry the right way for the town I was born in and grew up in, Enid, Oklahoma!!! I moved away before thinking that’s what I had to do to succeed, but I am

trying to prove it to myself and the whole town of Enid, which I’m from & love, that there is a real artist here with a real vision and a business since bringing my “big city’’ shop to the Etown. I’ve recently expanded from a small 1-man shop booked up for 3 weeks to a big downtown full service shop with 3 artist including a piercer. We are open 7 days a week & take walk-ins. Sorry but you still gotta make an appointment if you want me, though!!!!

Drifter Ballard, owner Grindhouse Tattoo Parlor

Social Media

GURU Visits Enid

by Becky Hodgen Photos by Alan Tarin

Working in the communications field, I believe we all can improve our customer service and marketing efforts. I am a people person, and I get frustrated when I see poor customer service skills. Customer service is the quickest way to make an impression, and many times you only get one chance to really make a good impression on someone. When we decide we are happy with our performance, we are often becoming complacent. As technology evolves, we search to find new ways to sell a product or service. Maybe not all facets of technology fit all business sectors, but certain core principles can help us all. Hearing new ideas from someone with a different perspective helps inspire me to stay fresh and ask new questions—and thanks to Wymer Brownlee many of us in Enid recently had that opportunity when they brought author and entrepreneur Peter Shankman to town for several events. No stranger to trailblazing, Wymer Brownlee has been serving our tax and accounting needs for over forty-two years. Headquartered in Enid, Wymer Brownlee has been recognized as the 2011 Best Place to work in Oklahoma and the 19th Best Accounting Place to work in the country. Headquartered in Enid, Wymer Brownlee now proudly operates four locations throughout Oklahoma. It is evident in their newsletters, Facebook posts and face to face experiences. You are priority number one when you step in Wymer Brownlee’s offices. “Wymer Brownlee is growing and changing and we wanted a speaker that would help us as we continue to develop our company. Our community is doing the same thing and we wanted to share Peter Shankman with others while we were benefitting from his inspirational words and worldly experiences,” said marketing director, Molly Helm. Continuing to find new ways to serve their clients and the community, Wymer Brownlee sought out Peter. Molly hoped to give the audience a different perspective on marketing “I found Peter Shankman on Twitter several years ago and have enjoyed his global perspective and his ‘back-to-basics’ approach on customer service and marketing. People always seem to be looking for some magical solution to how to grow their business, and customer loyalty usually boils down to how we treat each other. Peter Shankman delivers this message in a very different way,” said Helm. PR Weekly describes Peter as “redefining the art of networking.” In 2011 Peter authored a Tweet that was voted as one of the Top Ten Tweets of the year out of more than 160 billion tweets. Peter has worked with Disney, Department of Defense, NASA and many other noteworthy clients. As a subscriber to Peter’s groundbreaking service, “Help a Reporter Out (HARO),” I was more than a little giddy to hear him speak and to soak up what knowledge my brain and pen could transcribe in that brief one hour. I should also add, he had been to Oklahoma only once before and as one who loves animals, was interested in a photo opportunity with a cow. Not such a big order, but think about this idea as we get down to the section about branding. What is your audience’s initial reaction to your brand? How can you guide or change their perception of your brand? Just keep paying attention… I liked this guy from the get go. Swaying from side to side and leaning heavily on the podium, he described himself as an ADOS (Attention Deficit Oh Shiny!) chat room and internet entrepreneur geek. He was flipping a poker chip in one hand and drinking Diet Coke in the other. One second he was on this side of the room, and the next he was lackadaisically sitting backwards in a chair.

You see, Peter has refined the art of making an impression quickly and had begun breaking new digital ground when some older audiences still thought Apple was a silly fruit company. If your home was anything like mine circa 1996, it might have gone something like this… “Who keeps telling me ‘You’ve got Mail’? Is this Big Brother? Ellen just checked the mail. The mailman hasn’t come yet. You want me to paste something? What is this, kindergarten? I hate this machine. Forget this; I’m going to read the Farmer’s Almanac for some real information. Too bad this box can’t tell me about the weather.”

Sigh.

Yes, Peter was light-years ahead of us. He helped found the AOL Newsroom as well as many other groundbreaking PR tactics and soon made his mark in the industry

with his own style of PR flair with his boutique firm, The Geek Factory Inc . He began his blog in 1995. Yes, you read right. When did your company start theirs—tomorrow? He describes those early years of digital marketing and networking as a freefall adventure. “We had no idea what we were doing. We would try an idea, and if it worked, we did it again. If it didn’t, we stopped,” explained Peter. Now, call me a groupie, but I found that statement pure genius. Most people miss the opportunity to even try a new digital marketing strategy. Many are afraid of the unknown. The idea that something is out there on the interwebs forever, scares the absolute bejesus out of some people. But technology isn’t there to scare you. It’s there to teach and aid you. Some of us still haven’t figured that out. Try it. The fall won’t kill you, I swear. For our talk, Peter really got down to

the meat and potatoes with his four rules of marketing and networking. Transparency You can’t lie to your audience, so don’t try. Eventually if you do lie, you’ll get caught, and there goes your credibility, which takes a long time to gain back. That’s a lot of lost dollars. Peter described transparency very simply. “People will buy from you, if they believe you; they won’t if they don’t (believe you).” If you do make a mistake or a misstep, fix it as soon as you can. Time doesn’t fix those blunders. Peter described some of the past political messes created by mistweets and misquotes. The individuals who were honest and upfront about the misstep often times saw the episode blow over and become yesterday’s news. Those who tried to cover it up or blame some other force, become Page

Stephen O’Neill, Melissa Deterding, Ryan Allen, Kyle Brownlee, Crystal Harmon, Peter Shankman, Molly Helm, Avadelle Hibbets, Nancy Roeming

Kevin Friesen and Ken Rapp

Rob Houston and Marcy Jarrett

Jeff Funk, LynnDe Funk, Scotty Maxwell, Kristi Maxwell, Peter Shankman, Carmen Ball, Frank Baker

Dr. Cheryl Evans, Dr. Ed Vineyard, Sheri Snyder and Anita Simpson

Six’s running joke for the next 6 months. What do you think about when you think of Anthony Weiner? Yeah, that’s what I thought, too. How could that have been handled differently? Yes, yes I know, don’t do it in the first place. But since crisis management teaches us a very fundamental point that crises will happen, it’s best to be prepared to be open and honest. Relevance Find out how best to reach your audience by asking them. Many times the interested parties that really want your news and interaction will tell you the best way to communicate with them. Is your newsletter digital? Do you have an app for your business? Maybe you aren’t lacking in the technology arena, maybe they want it more often in short intervals. This brings me to Peter’s next point. Brevity Learn to write well and use concise language. Do you know the average attention span of an online reader? 2.7 seconds. Whatever you have to say, grab their attention correctly and quickly. One of my pet peeves is receiving texts that omit words for numbers and such. C how u think i might be lacking in skillz if i can’t manage to sp tonite rite?

One Brand- Top of Mind Be consistent with your messages. You can train your audience to focus on the things you want them to understand. If your message is consistent, it will be clear to your audience. Good customer service leads to a consistent message of reliability. Peter explains that if you can make your customer or clients 10% happier, they won’t leave you. So let your brand speak for itself through consistent messages and actions. I especially liked Peter’s comments about this point. “No one cares how great you are if you have to tell them,” explained Peter. Not to be a hater, but this makes me think of that person we all know that stands around telling you about their accolades. I am more likely to believe the person who is busy with their head down and making it rain, if you get my drift. No amount of fluffy language on your LinkedIn profile is going to fool employers and clients. If your brand is consistent and effective, your audience will experience your message. After Peter’s presentation, I know we all left wanting more. The neat thing is Peter

Beth, John and Wayne Shearon

gave us the tools to gain more insight and knowledge about our clients and their tendencies. Try new techniques out using his rules. Make your own rules. If I learned anything from Peter it is there is always room for new ideas in the digital world, because it’s constantly changing. I was also reminded that the little things, like listening and small kindnesses, matter and certainly not to rely on new technology alone to build my business. And speaking of listening, I am pleased to report that we were able to coordinate a visit to the farm for Peter (which included a photo opportunity and petting several cows) before he went back to NYC.

Weenie Martini Party Photos Nancy Killam

1. Ebby and Brett Stratton 2. Congressman Frank Lucas, Sharon Long, Dan Buckley 3. Jeff and Angie Tarrent 4. Cathy, Lynne, April, Nancy

5. Tom Nelson 6. Coni and Brad Blankenship 7. Larry and Kay Kiner, Carmen Ball, Frank Baker 8. Brian & Kelly Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke

Play It Forward Photos Nancy Killam 1. Martin Henry 2. Jamie Foster of Back Stage Pass 3. Viki Rose 4. Justin Brodie as “Big Red” the clown 5. Alex Sabedra and Dianna Beck as Cinderella 6. Doc Bryant 7. Mariah Maxey and son Connor

Living for christ: Lenny Juliano Emmanuel Baptist Church By Jacqueline Hince Photo by Cammeron Kaiser

On Sunday mornings you can find 25-year-old Lenny Juliano onstage at the Emmanuel Baptist Church “Refuge” service playing guitar and leading worship. Throughout the week he works at Atwoods in the marketing department, and he spends most of his evenings and Saturdays mowing lawns. In his spare time, Juliano writes, sings and records Christian songs. In fact, that’s his dream: to become a Christian artist and worship leader. But Juliano says just five short years ago, music was barely a part of his life. Born and raised in Enid, Juliano graduated from Enid’s Oklahoma Bible Academy in 2006. He says most of his focus at that time was on basketball. That’s what led him to Western Oklahoma State College, where he played on the varsity team as a freshman. Though he thought he was pursuing his passion for sports, while at Western, Juliano met the director of music. “He kind of inspired me to pursue music,” says Juliano, who played guitar as a hobby, “ever since then I have taken music very seriously.” Two years later, Juliano found the opportunity to take his music to the next level. He auditioned and got the gig to play bass guitar for “Refuge”, a contemporary service at Emmanuel. He’s since worked his way up to lead electric guitarist. Though he says those first few times on stage were “nervewracking”, he loved it, and his love for Christ grew in the process. Though Juliano was raised in the church he says he wasn’t truly dedicated to his faith until his twenties. Juliano says an event, that he would rather not relive, sent him running to Christ seeking refuge. “(That event) turned my world upside down and I was stripped

of everything. When I went back to college that year, my friends, who were a year above me, had all graduated. So I came back and I had no friends. I just had nobody, except my family. That was probably the hardest year of my life. I hit rock bottom.” Juliano turned to his faith to get through it. “That was when my life turned around and I finally became rooted in Christ.” Juliano says it was then that he realized his calling is to celebrate Christ through music. He is now working on producing his first demo, website and even music video. Juliano

says if not for Emmanuel Baptist Church he would never have found his true passion, “From an encouragement standpoint they have supplied me with so much support… they definitely care about everybody there and everybody involved (in the church). They’re just so supportive of everyone’s calling, drive and mission.”

G r av e ya r d S h i f t

A sea change is underway in how people are choosing to mark one of the biggest milestones in life: death. Local funeral home director Bill Stittsworth is helping them go to a greener grave. By Candace Krebs Photos by Cammeron Kaiser

If there’s a new romanticism to being laid to rest in a simple wooden box, local funeral home director Bill Stittsworth is thinking even further outside the box. “You can’t do any better than a shroud,” he says. “And they are made right here in Enid, Oklahoma.” A self-professed “straight-shooter” — who also prefers to be known as a “venture capitalist” combined with a “servant of the public good” — Stittsworth says a sea change is underway in how people are choosing to mark one of the biggest milestones in life: death. What’s old is new again, and Stittsworth is pioneering the concept of going to a greener grave.

“We’re going back to simplicity,” he says. In an age when people are downsizing their homes, cutting up their credit cards and streamlining their investments — in other words, post-2008 global financial meltdown — they are also looking for low cost-no frills approaches to things like weddings and funerals and choosing ceremonies that are meaningful rather than elaborate. Eco-conscious, organic approaches are in; formality and artificiality are out. Less is more when it comes to how Amy Stittsworth Funeral Service and Cremation Directors is re-imagining the most up-to-the-moment burial proceedings.

Saving green by going green is part of it. Stittsworth says he can prearrange a green burial for $625 with “no surprises.” But that’s only one factor. He says he’s “bombarded” by interest from people representing all walks of life, from schoolteachers to attorneys to farmers, who like the idea. “We have millionaires wanting to do this,” he says, adding that one man told him, “I didn’t get this wealthy by throwing away my money.” While green interment represents only a small sliver of a $12 billion industry, its popularity is growing. Stittsworth boasts the first Oklahoma listing ever to appear on the cover of Funeral Home and Cemetery News, a worldwide publication serving the funeral home business.

Bill Carpenter & Bill Stittsworth

“This thing has really gone through the roof,” he says at his office and chapel on North Washington across from Enid Cemetery. Not just decades in the making, the green burial movement has been around for centuries — literally, he points out.

“I read a good book the other day,” he says, pausing for dramatic effect. “It’s called the Bible. Let’s go back to Jesus’ day.”

Back then, the body of the deceased was wrapped in a linen shroud and placed in a tomb prior to burial. Stittsworth traces the rise of modern

interment practices to the Civil War era. When Abe Lincoln was fatally shot in Washington, D.C., his family wanted the body to be sent home. The same was often true for soldiers lost on distant battlefields. Those circumstances lead to the popularization of embalming procedures and lead-lined caskets. “It took off from there,” Stittsworth says. Fast forward to today, when celebrities like Michael Jackson are buried in elaborate $36,000 caskets. Stittsworth believes the industry has gone too far. Modern mortuary practices “extend the inevitable” while also extending the financial tab for grieving families, he says. All of the funereal excess has led to something of a backlash by the general public. Rates of cremation have risen dramatically, now making up nearly 50 percent of all burial arrangements. Still, Stittsworth and his business partner and wife of 24 years, Amy (with whom he

raised five children) say cremation isn’t for everyone. Many people prefer an alternative. Enter the simple cotton shroud, which allows for a prompt burial before dust returns to dust.

“Within 15 years, you could be digging in the soil and you’d find remnants of the shroud and that’s about it,” Stittsworth says. To complete the cycle of life in a thoroughly natural way, Stittsworth went looking for a plot of what he calls “virgin territory” to create a new burial site. While many cemeteries do allow for natural burials, they are already contaminated with artificial

Bill Carpenter & Bill Stittsworth

embalming fluids that include arsenic, formaldehyde and strychnine. It’s important to some people to know the soil is free of harsh chemicals. So in a unique collaboration with a local farmer, he settled on a corner of a field northeast of Enid. Farmer Bill Carpenter, who grew up in Iowa’s corn country before moving his family west and eventually settling near Enid, developed an immediate rapport with Stittsworth three years ago after meeting him at a local coffee shop. Bonded by equal parts mischievous humor and business-minded pragmatism, the two men came to a meeting of the minds over the need for fresh burial space. “When Bill first introduced it, I had never heard of green burial,” Carpenter admits. “I never would have imagined doing this. But I want to provide a service for the community.” Citing a “99 percent favorable approval rating” from those with whom he has

discussed it, Carpenter expects the “keep it simple” approach to eventually catch on more widely. “It’s not as popular in the Midwest as it is on the East and West Coast, but it’s coming,” he says. For now, the inaugural Chisholm Trail Burial Park is surrounded by a field of corn stalks that rustle quietly in the breeze. Sunflowers bloom along a nearby fencerow. Carpenter’s farmhouse and machine shed are visible in the distance, while a few rusting gas pumps and oilfield tanks pepper the view. Two and a half miles west, the paved surface of Carrier Road gives way to fresh gravel. (The two men can point to Oklahoma statutes that seem to indicate the county is required to pave the road and say they expect that to happen soon.) T h e unassuming spot would be easy to miss, if not for a large sandstone rock — shaped to resemble the Christian fish symbol — announcing the park’s name and containing a carefully chosen Bible verse.

“Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was, and the spirit return unto God who gave it.” — Ecclesiastes 12:7 Carpenter says it took him three weeks to settle on that particular piece of scripture, after asking several people for recommendations. “I decided: Lord, I better ask you myself, and this is what came,” he says. “The molecular structure of the air is changed by the words,” he adds reflectively, and it’s not hard to imagine either of these men presiding over a rousing memorial sermon. Together they’ve conjured a final resting place where tilled fields will reflect the gentle

Amy & Bill Stittsworth

parade of seasons and grave markings will be kept to a minimum.

“Here, there won’t be any keeping up with the Joneses,” Stittsworth says. Oklahoma state law requires that within 24 hours of passing away, one of three things must occur: cremation, refrigeration or embalming. To prevent the use of an artificial preservative, Stittsworth says it is possible to have a viewing of the body — displayed in a bed or on a table — and then immediately perform a natural burial. “This stuff is evolving. And once we have it just right, this will be the new wave,” he says. Already, 3,800 people have made prearrangements with Stittsworth for a green burial, with the Chisholm Trail Burial Park only one of several options. “If a cemetery doesn’t require an outside container, then you can do a green burial without asking any questions,” Stittsworth explains. He’s also making his new park available to other funeral homes that might want to conduct their own green burials there. Marking passage from this world to another involves a dizzying array of possibilities. Stittsworth confides that he can arrange to have a body placed on a raft in the ocean and set ablaze — a traditional Viking ceremony — if that’s what someone wants. “We’ll do anything anybody needs,” he says. “It’s their decision.” Respecting the pocketbook while paying homage to the earth just seems to fit the ethic of a man born into the funeral business in Bartlesville, who remembers his daddy as someone who was big on “consumer protection.” “He wanted to show people they could trust us,” he says. “These were his neighbors, these were his friends.” “When you’re in business,” Stittsworth concludes, “you listen to what people are asking for.”

July 1st Friday Photos Nancy Killam

1. Gary Bangs 2. Nancy and Memphis Ballard 3. Cobee Clark of Blazin 4. Drifter, Megan and Memphis Ballard

5. Riley Jantzen 6. Blazin; Members with Cathy Nulph 7. Lori Palm, Linda Moore, Sherri Hendrie, Landelle Johnson

Spooky T

Time of Year Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m fond of this time of year. Having been born on Halloween I am appreciative of how this season brings out bright colors and costumes and things with a little touch of the bizarre. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time that is perfect for visual artists and we have a quartet to draw to in this

wonderfully exotic series of photos. Brandi Von Black has become a new part of our extended Etown dysfunctional family (as we love to call it) and we feature her work as well as with her photo essay in this issue on the annual Dogtown Party. Cammeron Kaiser has long been a part

of Etown. In this feature she has combined her photos with a wonderful collaboration with Drifter and Megan Ballard from the Grindhouse for some truly unique images. It is that time of year when creativity takes flight. Enjoy. Frank Baker, Managing Director, Etown

Bre Myers

Rachael Burk 34

Janet Guerrero

Mandy Arter

Megan Ballard 35

Britny Dawn

Heather Thomas 36

Jewlee Syharaj

Brooke Crow

Cassie Garrison 37

Story by Audra W. Harris

hen you think of Enid’s pets and their people, what comes to mind? This year, it should be the 13th annual SPCA Wine and Food Festival, to be held on November 3rd at the Cherokee Strip Conference Center with service from 7 pm to 9 pm, and the event ending at 10 pm. “Enid’s Pets and Their People” is the theme for this year’s festival. The event started when Jerry Zaloudek was approached by a liquor sales person at her business, JB Liquor, with the idea of a wine tasting event for a non-profit organization. Zaloudek, a life-long animal lover, knew the SPCA was the perfect organization to benefit from such an auspicious event. Initially held above Leonardo’s, this event started off serving roughly 200 people. In the last 13 years, the wine tasting event has grown so large, it now serves an estimated 600

people annually. Day says, “It is a fun night for people to come out and dress up.” The Enid SPCA started 14 years ago when Vickie Grantz and Gabriella Wilson started fostering animals out of their homes. They previously worked at the animal shelter, but, according to Grantz, wanted to, “do [their] own thing.” Now, they are out of their houses and in a facility located at 1116 Overland Trail. This year, alone, they have already completed over 1000 spays and neuters. This event, which is one of the largest in Enid, features different wines, beers and gourmet foods to sample. Board members from the SPCA donate their own time and money in order to put this event together. Sponsors join from around the community, and, with the help of donations from the event itself, raise $40,000 annually. These

funds are used to offset costs of running the SPCA, which does not receive funding from the state or the local government. Karen Hickman, the Enid SPCA Board President, has always worked with local humane societies, no matter where she was located. Years ago, she went to the Enid Animal Shelter Open house, where she met Grantz and Wilson, who offered Hickman a job. When asked about her impression once joining the Enid SPCA team, she remarked, “It’s the best run shelter I’ve ever been a part of.” Here, the animals receive good stimulation, and socialization, which is important in finding them forever homes. Tickets for this event are $30 per person and can be purchased at Buck’s Party Shop, The Cat Clinic, and the Enid SPCA Office. If you would like to become a sponsor for this great fundraising event, sponsorships are available from $100 to $1500. For more information, contact the Enid SPCA at (580) 233– 1325. Karen Hickman & Vickie Grantz

SPCA Benefits from MotoPhoto’s Pet Portrait Contest

Mary McCormick of MotoPhoto presents a check to Enid SPCA’s Vickie Grantz

This summer MotoPhoto’s portrait studio was pawsitively the place to be photographed. In addition to shooting high school senior summer sessions, MotoPhoto hosts an annual Pet Portrait Contest. The contest gives pet owners a studio session, and an entry portrait, at no charge, with a chance to win cash and prizes in 2 categories. MotoPhto donates 5% of any sales to Enid’s SPCA. And this year was a howling success. With close to 70 entries, the judges were hard pressed to pick the winners, but Max Benge and Chip took BEST IN SHOW. 1st Place PET WITH OWNER went to Hayden Johnson and Charlie, 2nd Place: Ruby Anton and Lily. 1st place PET ONLY was awarded to Ladybug, Daisy, Scooter, Pebbles and their owner, Veri Wilson. 2nd Place: Hank Williams and his owner, Jennifer Williams. The judges couldn’t resist Charlie in his Thunder uniform and gave him and his owner, Kiley Woodard, HONORABLE MENTION. Though dogs are the main entrants, cats, rabbits and ferrets have been photographed and the most unusual of all was a Sugar Glider (a small gliding possum).

Mary McCormick

Story April Danahy Photos By Dawn Muncy

Having completed its 3rd year Enid Paws 4 the Cause is building upon its successes in benefit of animal-related causes in the Enid community. Nearly $30,000 has been secured and reinvested in the community for our four-legged friends. The race is now a National Dachshund Foundation sanctioned event.

This year six racers, two each from the puppy, adult and senior adult categories qualified to represent Oklahoma in the national dachshund races held in Findlay, Ohio. Many of the athletes this year traveled to Enid to race, some as far away as Arkansas! Enid Paws 4 the Cause is a home grown

event organized by volunteers from: The Groom Closet, Security National Bank, Eagle Marketing and the Chisholm Trail Expo Center. A big thank you is in order to those businesses who sponsored the races and to those who supported the event with their attendance. A great time continues to be had by all!

Dogtown dog tags

I drive along slowly searching for the party. I even roll down my window to listen for the crowd. Everything’s dark, too dark for a gathering of nearly three hundred people. Cars have been lining the street for blocks now, but as I make a left off of 19th Street onto East Maple Avenue the traffic gets noticeably thicker. I hear the slight buzz of chatter and laughter, and live music floats into the air.

I’ve found “Dogtown”

By: Jacqueline Hince Photos by Brandy Von Black

Cammeron Kaiser, Lindsey Fielder

Steve & Lee Nafus

Sylvan Reynolds

Corey Groendyke & Mandy De La Cruz

Randy Brunken

Julie Nelson, Nancy Killam, Cathy Nulph

Catina Sundvall

“The story from years ago is that ‘Dogtown’ is the east side of Enid. It’s the wrong side of the tracks. I don’t know if the story is true…but it’s a good story. So that’s why we have this party. It’s to celebrate what we think is the best part of town.” Ben Ezzell has become a host of the neighborhood block party known as “Dogtown” by default. He grew up here and his father, David Ezzell, has either attended or hosted “Dogtown” himself for more than a decade, including this year. Although there is said to be five or six hosts for the event, I quickly gather that the main hub of the crowd wander freely between three homes grouped together in the

Host Madison, Dane, Megan & Chesney Wolever

1700 block of East Maple Avenue. As for the rumors of how the party got started, well at this point it’s pure legend. David Ezzell says the details have grown fuzzy, “I kind of have a vague memory that someone told me it was because we were living on the east side of Enid, but Cheri, my wife, swears she made it up.” No matter its origin, “Dogtown” has become a neighborhood staple here in east Enid. David Ezzell tells me it’s a way to put their neighborhood on the map. It’s also just a good excuse for a party. The three main hosts have pulled out all the stops. Twinkle lights hang from trees. Live singers croon out eclectic beats, and groups

Carl Fielder, Timothy Larsen, Curtis & Denise Tucker, Shelley Larsen, Lindsey Fielder

Tom Andrew, April Danahy, Steve Nafus

Colbby Thompson

Host Ben Ezzell

Billy & Pam Bingham, Paul Stone,

of people gather together to sip on wine, beer or something a bit stronger. The houses are all open, as friends and strangers freely explore the unique architecture and delicious spreads laid out on tables. Though attendees are encouraged to buy “Dogtown” dog tags, which each year raises several hundred dollars for Enid’s SPCA (a charity chosen due to the already quirky name of the party), David Ezzell tells me the main goal is just to have fun. “It’s just a party, that’s all it is. It’s to have people come see the East side, because Hosts Carmen Ball & Frank Baker

a lot of the folks here don’t get to the East side very often.” Or as host Nancy Roeming puts it, “east meets west you know…it’s cool.” While mingling about I run into a couple of “west-siders” who have wandered over to the “wrong side of the tracks”. Corey Groendyke, who runs Enid’s Farmer’s Market, says this is her third “Dogtown”, “Apart from the fact that the people who live in these homes are just amazing, and the most loving people ever, it’s just great to be a

part of this every-age-group, every-span-of demographic-you-can-imagine gathering. It is by far the most spectacular party in Enid.” Mandy De La Cruz, owner of Pane Vino, and a first timer here at “Dogtown” chimes in, “it doesn’t matter who you are (east or west), you’re welcome as family here. That’s the best part of it.” Family…until the wee morning hours come, and everyone is kicked out and sent home. No matter if they live on the east or west side of town.

“Those Guys” w/ Mike Danahy

Becky Allen & Gary Skelton

White Gold: The Great Salt Plains of Northwestern Oklahoma By Wade Burleson Photos by Mark Cromwell

rock formed is what we know as salt. The ancient Romans gave this white rock the Latin name “sal.” The Romans built great roads, the first of which they called the Via Salaria (the Salt Road) in order to transport salt throughout their kingdom. The word “soldier” (i.e. ‘one paid with salt to fight’) and “salary” (i.e. ‘salt payment’) have their roots in the Latin word salt. The word “salad” means “salted vegetables.” The Romans knew they received physical energy by salting their vegetables. The body grows weak and unable to resist disease when there is a sodium deficiency. Thousands of Napoleon’s troops died

In 1983 the United States declared the Great Salt Plains, located 31 miles northwest of Enid, a National Natural Landmark. Though many have enjoyed the beauty of the Salt Plains over the years, few have known of its importance in United States history. Though salt is abundant today through modern processing and mining methods, salt’s lack of abundance in previous centuries made it as valuable as gold. For this reason salt was called “white gold.” To find an abundance of salt above ground, ready for commercial use, was as rare as finding a vast treasure of gold nuggets sitting on the surface of the earth. Salt is the only edible rock in the diet of humans. When a volatile metal (sodium) mixes with a poisonous gas (chlorine) the resulting

during the French retreat from Moscow in 1812 due to salt deficiencies. In the early days of colonial America, colonists either paid dearly for imported salt, or they worked long hours to produce salt by boiling water obtained from brine wells, scraping the leftover salt from the bottom of the boiling pots, and storing the salt in salt sheds. After the American Revolution, the English blocked trade with United States and salt became even more scarce. One of the top priorities of the first three Presidents--George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson--was to increase the salt supply within the United States.

President Thomas Jefferson’s Mountain of Salt

Thomas Jefferson was elected the third President of the United States in 1800. On April 30, 1803 he authorized the purchase of the Louisiana Territory for fifteen million dollars from French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. The 828,000 square-mile acquisition, land that encompassed all or part of fourteen future states, more than doubled the land size of the United States overnight. The price was less than four cents an acre, but Jefferson’s political opponents castigated President Jefferson for purchasing this “vast

desert,” and then alleged the transaction was “unconstitutional” because Congress had not given their approval. President Jefferson, realizing he had to gain support for the purchase, went before a combined legislative assembly in November 1803 and gave his rationale for buying Louisiana. Within this amazing speech Thomas Jefferson raised the prospect that a massive amount of “white gold” would be found within the newly acquired territory. Jefferson said: “One extraordinary fact, relative to salt, must not be omitted. There exists about one thousand miles up the Missouri, and not far from that river, a salt mountain.... This mountain is said to be one hundred and eighty miles long, and forty-five in width, composed of solid rock salt, without any trees, or even shrubs upon it. Salt springs are very numerous beneath the surface of this mountain, and they flow through the fissures and cavities of it.” Jefferson’s speech worked. Opposition over the Louisiana Purchase died down, and Jefferson commissioned Lewis and Clark in late 1803 to explore the “vast desert” the government had purchased. Two and a half years later, when Lewis and Clark returned and reported on their exploration, a Massachusetts paper reminded its readers of the speech Jefferson had given to Congress in November 1803 and sarcastically reported that Lewis and Clark “did not confirm the account given by President Jefferson a few years since, of the huge mountain of salt, and therefore we conclude it has dissolved.”

Thomas Jefferson’s Desire to Discover the Mountain of Salt Continues

Thomas Jefferson left the office of President of the United States in March 1809, but his search for the “mountain of salt” continued. Jefferson wrote to his good friend John Sibley (1757-1837), Indian agent in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and asked for his help in finding the “mountain of salt.” John Sibley then wrote to his son, George Champlin Sibley , the Indian factor (trader) at Fort Osage on the Missouri River. John Sibley asked his son to help the former President find the “mountain of salt.” Major George C. Sibley was a Christian man who loved logic and possessed a rational faith. He grew up in the home of his maternal grandfather, the famous Puritan Congregational minister Samuel Hopkins. Sibley’s great uncle was theologian Jonathan Edwards. Major Sibley had been taught to believe in a providential and sovereign God, and he believed that this God would help him find the “mountain of salt.” Major Sibley’s Fort Osage had been the second U.S. frontier outpost constructed following Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase. The fort was built on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, approximately fifteen miles east of present day Kansas City. Fort

Osage would become the important jumping off point for explorers who were heading west, and on May 11, 1811, Major George C. Sibley set out from Fort Osage to find Jefferson’s “mountain of salt.”

Photos April Danahy

The Sibley Expedition (May 11 through July 11, 1811)

Sibley’s traveling companions included two other white men who acted as interpreters and several Osage Indians who served as guides. Sibley first led his party of interpreters and Osage Indians to a Kansas village on the Kansas River near present day Manhattan, Kansas. The group proceeded further north and met with some Pawnee Indians on the Platte River. Sibley’s expedition then journeyed south at a rapid pace, finally stopping at some Osage Indian villages near the Arkansas River in what is now northern Oklahoma. From here, Sibley led his party to take a brief excursion to the west. It was on this brief trip through northwestern Oklahoma in June of 1811 that Major George Champlin Sibley discovered what the Indians and French traders had long spoken of and what had become known as “Jefferson’s mountain of salt.” Along the Salt Fork River, a tributary of the Arkansas River, Major Sibley came across 11,000 acres of land that gleamed in mid-day with a shimmering white brilliance. Major Sibley called it “The Grand Saline.” It later came to be called “The Great Salt Plains.”

Kay & Larry Kiner Joint Birthday Celebrations

Aly Akers Mother & Daughter Tea Photos by Cammeron Kaiser

Sara & Jeslynn Dye

Cammeron & Chloe Kaiser

Mandy & Trinity Arter, Lily Ballard

Gabi & Sally Cotarelo

Etown Sponsor Content

Jenny Maschino

Michelle Reed

by Audra W. Harris At Salon De’Fy, located at 2301 W. Willow, owner Michelle Reed says she has created a “quiet atmosphere devoted to the client” in a beautiful facility. In addition to this client-centered business is a good chemistry between the employees, who work together for the benefit of the client. Salon De’Fy offers a delightful list of services for hair care which include cuts, special occasion styles, highlights, coloring, and extensions made from real hair. They also offer a multitude of massages including hot stone massage, sports massage, pregnancy massage, and a rain drop massage, which is used to cure a multitude of ailments. On top of these services, Salon De’Fy has also expanded their business to skin care. Jenny Maschino is a nurse practitioner who travels from Tulsa once a month to offer her skin care services at Salon De’Fy. Maschino, who has worked with aesthetics

for the last five years, uses only the best skin care services and filler products, including Botox®, Juvéderm, Restylane, and Radiesse. All clients are treated on a very individualized basis. Maschino explains that “aging is multifactorial, so you have to look at it in a multifactorial way.” After receiving a skin care treatment, you will want to prolong the result by using the best skin care products. Salon De’Fy is bringing in a medical grade skin care line called “Cosmedix” which is regular strength and “Results RX” which is the next

step up. They will be the only business in the area to carry these products. What makes this natural skin care line transcend all others? It is made up of a chemical property called chirality – meaning it is chemically structured on the molecular level. By incorporating this property into the skin care product, the user will experience a smaller risk of irritants and side effects. If you want to relax and rejuvenate, see the contact list below to make an appointment, or find them on Facebook!

Christmas in the Village By Audra W. Harris With Christmas fast approaching, it’s time to start celebrating with your family. For the second year, Enid’s Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center, 507 South 4th Street, will be hosting Humphrey Abstract Christmas in the Village. This event gives the community the opportunity to start the Christmas season by stepping back in time to celebrate Christmas during the Victorian era at the turn of the century. While taking a tour through the historic buildings of Humphrey Heritage Village all decked out in Holiday splendor, visitors will be able to write letters to Santa in the U.S. Land Office, make ornaments in the Turkey Creek School and visit the Glidewell House. New this year, is a Village Mercantile where visitors can find the perfect Christmas gift. Andi Holland, director of the Regional Heritage Center, feels that this event “brings the village to life in a different way than the community usually sees it.” This year, the community will be able to experience this magical Christmas scene on the night of November 30, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a $5 admission. Cookies and cider will be provided along with local entertainment and school choirs performing in the Village Church. Carolers will get you in the

Christmas spirit as you tour the grounds. Last year, nearly 400 people from the Enid community came to survey this fantastical scene. Humphrey Abstract Christmas in the Village is also offered to tour groups December 1-21. The group tours include a character-led tour of the beautifully adorned historic buildings, refreshments, a musical performance and an ornament. Lunch tours are also available. Groups are encouraged to add to their visit to Enid with a full day of Christmas activities including a Holiday Home Tour in the Waverly Historic District. Last year, over 300 from across the state took part in the Christmas tours. Holland feels groups make the most of their visit to Enid by making a “full Christmas day of it.” Reservations are required for group tours by contacting the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center. If you are looking for something different this year to celebrate the holiday season, step back to a simpler time with this glorious Christmas event. For more information, please contact the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center at (580) 237 – 1907.