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On our June 2022 cover is the Harbor Restaurant on Keystone Lake. Along with a great restaurant, The Harbor has a beautiful campground that you are bound to enjoy including complete RV hookups, as well as, RVs to rent. They also have a swim and picnic area for everyone’s fun! Come with family and friends and enjoy all features of The Harbor on one of Oklahoma’s beautiful lakes! The scenery sure is relaxing!
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IN THIS ISSUE...
OUR JUNE 2022 FEATURE STORY: A Window into a Remarkable Northern Oklahoma Prairie Experience by Alana Owen on page 6
5
Editorial by Trudy Evans
6
A Window into a Remarkable Northern Oklahoma Prairie Experience by Alana Owen
8
A Beautiful Oklahoma Destination by Trudy Evans
12
Oklahoma Corridor Kids by Jeree Milligan
14
The Accidental Hometown Tourist by Allison Eldredge
18
Thank You, Dane McBride for Your Service to Our Community
20
Notes on the Oklahoma Corridor by Rick Reiley
22
Delilah’s Dilemmas by Diane Brown
26
Pets of the Month compiled by Stillwater Animal Welfare
28
Pastor Paul’s Passages by Paul Ragel
30
Recipes by Jeree Milligan
PET’S PAW SPA, LLC 918.285.3115
823 S. Little Ave. Cushing, OK 74023
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In this month’s magazine, we have a bit of a continuation from last month’s issue that highlighted our First Responders. The first is a story about a Cushingite who is working at the Chandler Fire Department. He also works for LifeNet Emergency Medical Services which is the ambulance service in Stillwater. So be sure to read the article written by one of our newest writers, Michael Lee.
I wish Seth the best on the last of his paramedic training. He will make a great one! I’m pleased to report that Kayla’s ankle was not broken... and yes, we did make it back to the concert venue before Garth started, so that was good!
n Furn ow i Br
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And then we wanted to share our own personal First Responder story about a couple of EMTs from Fayetteville, AR. On April 23, 2022, Kayla and I, along with my BFF Jami, and Kayla’s BFF Tessa, were lucky enough to have Garth Books tickets! On that day we four girls were dropped off at the stadium by Jami’s cousin, who lives in the area. We had to wind our way through about 70,000 fans, all the way to the opposite end of the stadium to get to our gate. We were just almost there when Kayla had a mishap with some uneven pavement. She fell and landed on the cement curb. Luckily a Deputy Sheriff was right there and witnessed her fall. A nice lady, who I’m sure was a nurse, was there as quickly as she fell, examined her ankle and agreed with the medics that the Sheriff radio for an ambulance. When the EMTs arrived, they recommended the ER. So off she and I went in the ambulance while our two BFFs continued on to the concert without us.
The ER was about five miles from our location, but the trip took 45 minutes of the ambulance weaving through the thousands of fans in the area prior to arrival at the hospital. So, in that 45-minute trip we got acquainted with the EMTs, Seth and Chris. They were both super caring, nice guys. Seth was in the back with Kayla, and I know they had a good time because Kayla was laughing a lot! Chris and I talked about many things. Kayla and I both talked to them about our magazine and when Seth was leaving the ER, he came back to ask about the name of it again…we are now social media friends. The care they gave and the patience exhibited (well, Seth was about to lose his for all the pedestrian and vehicle traffic), they both were able to make a very painful, challenging situation, enjoyable.
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O K LA H O M A C O R R I D O R M AG A Z I N E / J UNE 2022 5
Pictured from front to back are the Woolaroc’s trail guides who host the twice annual bring your own horse fund raiser rides. Guest are treated to two meals on Saturday and an on site dry camp location Friday prior to the two Saturday day rides. Interviewees Wes Butcher (second from the left) and Roger Butcher (second from the right) are full time year around employees of the preservation. Photo by Alana Owen
A Window into a Remarkable
NORTHERN OKLAHOMA PRAIRIE EXPERIENCE by ALANA OWEN Last year when a group of friends decided to ride horses together at a benefit trail ride in Bartlesville, we had no idea what to expect. Not being native to Oklahoma, I was not even sure where Bartlesville was. After registering for the trip, paying fees, and signing waivers, we pulled out the trusty old atlas and away we went. When we arrived at the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, we set up dry camp for a night and watched the buffalo meander alongside us just feet away on the opposite side of a fence. We drank wine and watched the sun go down, amazed at how beautiful it was. It was an easy decision what I wanted to write about for the travel edition this month. The timing was perfect because we were getting ready to sign up for the annual ride at Woolaroc again. This year we continued to explore the grounds and meet new friends during the benefit ride. The Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve is situated in a remote area OKLA HOMA CORRID OR M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 6
on 3,700 acres. It was founded by oilman Frank Phillips (founder of Phillips Petroleum and marketed as Phillips 66) as a retreat in the Osage hills of northeastern Oklahoma. In 1925, Will Rogers referred to the location as “the most unique place in the country.” Phillips named the location Woolaroc to reference the presence of woods, lakes, and rocks. Today the preserve contains over thirty different species of native and exotic wildlife including bison, elk, water buffalo, exotic deer, and longhorn cattle. The museum is mesmerizing with a large collection of western art and artifacts and one of the largest collections of Colt firearms in the country. My personal favorite inside the museum is the Woolaroc airplane which won the Dole Air Race in 1927. I will not spoil the details of the plane or the race because it is much better to experience the story during your visit while viewing the plane suspended in the air inside the museum. The preserve was once a
haven for bandits and outlaws and a thriving retreat for those famous enough to get invited. The Phillips family hosted over 200,000 guests including presidents and actors. The lodge is worth a visit as it remains much as it was when Phillips was alive and present. Much to my surprise, the equine event was not my favorite outside exploration. Just hiking the trails and wandering upon the Mountain Man Camp far exceeds any expectations visitors may have. During the trail ride this year I spent time with Wes and Roger Butcher who are employed full time at the preserve. Our schedule was so packed (two-day rides and two meals were provided), that I had to call Wes later in the week to complete my interview. The Mountain Man Camp is a living history event that recreates the life of a fur trader in the 1800s. Guests can also experience what it is like to throw a tomahawk and shoot a black powder long gun. Brothers Wes and Roger Butcher are the primary mountain men that run the camp. Wes was born in Pawhuska and lived on the Drummond Ranch where his father was a foreman. The Drummond Ranch employed several foremen with each given about 3,000 acres to care for. When Wes was in fifth grade, he began receiving pay for his own work riding horseback. Wes fondly recalled his childhood explaining his first purchase with his earned money was a muzzleloader. Wes approached Woolaroc around 1992 and suggested that they run a mountain man pilot program where he would entertain the public with a mountain man camp. Shortly thereafter he was hired to do the work and eventually became a full-time employee. Both men work taking care of the animals and the lands during the winter months and assist with winter programs such as hanging lights and riding horses lit up with lights to entertain guests. Wes’s favorite activity at Woolaroc is definitely the Mountain Man Camp, and he enjoys the children visiting at Kidsfest. During this time the children are able to visit their camp site, throw a tomahawk, and shoot a bow. Wes has been elk-hunting in Colorado annually since he was in high school. He said he has taken a horse or a mule each year, except for the few times he attempted to go on foot and was quickly reminded that packing out an elk is “too hard for a fat boy” without an equine. While talking with Wes I could easily convince myself I am back in the 1800’s. His subtle adult jokes and the twang in his voice left me wondering if he really is from a different time or at least really living the lifestyle. The interview felt like speaking with a combination of characters such as Festus from Gunsmoke, the actor John Wayne, cowboy turned actor Slim Pickens, and Grandfather Walton from one of my favorite childhood shows (think Charlton Heston in the movie Mountain Men). One of those entertaining discussions involved Wes’ past, his present, and a history lesson all at once. I had to politely ask Wes to slow down, repeat his words, and give me some time while I processed the several visual images of his descriptive stories that invaded my mind, leaving
me slightly overwhelmed by the wealth of details and humor. Apparently, according to Wes, the term Mad Hatter came from the 1800s when hat makers were using mercury to stiffen their hats which caused them to “go mad and eventually die” because “they knew no better.” A joke about women who used the make-up products containing mercury quickly followed and no offense was taken, as his persona and storytelling is just who he is. Wes has been married to his wife Joy for 41 years. Joy’s rich American Indian heritage used to frequently be present at the ranch as she would dress in traditional attire and do bead work in their earlier years together. Wes said Joy does not ride much anymore but still comes down to visit and partake in some of the special events. Wes described how he misses her presence in his typical humorous fashion by stating, “I used to eat better when she would come down often, although once in a while she would have enough and just take her bag of groceries and go home.” Other events held at the preserve include a music festival on June 10, 2022, Kidsfest from June 25 and 26, 2022, Camp Woolaroc from July 19 to 28, 2022, SASS Cowboy Shoot from August 4 to 6, 2022, the fall trail ride on September 17, 2022, Cow Thieves and Outlaws Reunion on September 24, 2022, The Gathering at the Roc on October 1, 2022, and the Fall Traders Encampment on October 7 and 8, 2022. During the winter, the Woolaroc hosts the Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights every Friday through Sunday, November 25-27 and December 2-18, 2022. Visitors should check the website for additional events and exhibits and confirm dates prior to their visit. For an additional adventure approximately 25 miles down the road in Pawhuska, you can explore the Pioneer Woman Mercantile: a restaurant, bakery, and general store. The mercantile was founded in 2016, by the “Pioneer Woman”, Ree Drummond. Drummond has added on to the town with an eight room Inn (The Boarding House), a pizza shop, and Charlie’s Sweet Shop. If you plan to explore Pawhuska after a visit to Woolaroc, plan to slow your pace down and take your time as the Mercantile’s popularity will not allow a quick exploration. Like with all popular places, the lines can be long. Safe travels and enjoy your destinations. n The statues, history, grounds, and artifacts are remarkable at the Woolaroc Wildlife Museum and Preservation. Founder Frank Phillips was intrigued by outlaws, cowboys, and bandits, as demonstrated in the landscaping.
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A BEAUTIFUL OKLAHOMA DESTINATION by TRUDY EVANS On the cover of our June issue is a beautiful destination on Keystone Lake known as the Harbor at Lake Keystone. It has a full-blown RV park, in addition to RV rentals, along with boats, and other watercrafts. There were shaded picnic areas that looked so nice, though some still remained under water due to the previous week’s flooding rains. They had covered docks in which to leave your boat. And I’m sure there was much more that we didn’t get to see. As mentioned, the water was up from the previous week’s rain, so we couldn’t really see the swim area, but I’m positive it is nice. The little restaurant there was so cozy with a small menu, and the burgers we had were really yummy! You can eat inside, outside close to the
water or upstairs. And that’s where the Karaoke was. While we were there, children were feeding the fish from the dock. Then about 10 minutes later a young boy about 12 or so showed up with his fishing pole, dropped his hook and within five minutes had a really nice catfish on the line. On customer said, “That’s dinner size!” All the staff was very friendly, caring, and helpful. We were taken out on the water by our photographer’s grandson, Carter, who works there, to get the just right pictures. It was calm, beautiful, and perfect! Kayla and I were ready to rent an RV on the spot, but we knew we had to get back to reality. You don’t have to travel far in Oklahoma to enjoy the beauty, the water, or the outdoors. It’s all what you make of it. n
P H OTO by C RYS T L’ S P H OTO G R A P HY OKLAHOMA CORRIDOR M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 8
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The Accidental Hometown Tourist
A by ALLISON ELDREDGE Every summer, most Americans take some type of vacation. Families will take trips to all the favorite spots like Walt Disney World, Branson, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and so many more. Last summer, I helped my mom watch and entertain my daughter and her four cousins. We tried to fill their time with lots and lots of free and low cost events and activities. The local libraries and splash pads were the most common adventures for our crew. I’m sure all libraries are great, but we hit the closest Creek County locations: Sapulpa, Bristow and Mannford. They all have the same theme for the Summer Reading programs; however, each library is so unique in how it presents the program, crafts, and rewards. The kids read and listened to many books and received some great prizes. The week before school started, I loaded up all five kids without any other parental help and we started our accidental tourist adventure. I had made a list of places that we needed to visit OKLAHO MA CORRID OR M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 14
PHOTOS by ALLISON ELDREDGE based on their uniqueness, historical relevance, and fun photo shoot spots. Day 1: Bristow, Oklahoma: my hometown. We started with the oldest church, St. George’s built in 1903. Of course, the building wasn’t open, but we took pictures with the front doors. We walked down to the city building and took pictures with a bull. Yep, a bronzed bull. In front of the building by the sidewalk, we found a historical marker that I had never seen before. Picture time! Walking across the street, we sat down and took pictures with the bronze statues of children having story time. A memorial to our summer spent in the library. Then, we went to someplace off the beaten path of local tourism; the local bank lobby. Partly because I needed to handle some bank business, and partly because it was a cool place to rest. The kids sat down with suckers and behaved as well as five kids can with sugar. Our next stop was the Bristow Depot and Museum. We took pictures with the caboose and the water tower.
My favorite picture came from the water tower pictures. It really isn’t a pretty water tower, but it was the moment when five kids were smiling as they were happy to be out doing something different and out of the ordinary. The museum was nearing closing time and we asked first before all piling in the door for a tour. The lady was so nice and said she’d give us a quick tour. We enjoyed every moment of the tour and the kids had some good questions. If you enjoy museums, Bristow needs to be a must see on your list. They have had visitors from many states and other countries. Being on Route 66 has brought in many visitors and I know they would love to add you to their visitor list. The depot hosts a butterfly garden and a butterfly wing mural. It is placed perfectly for everyone to take a photo and find that they themselves have beautiful butterfly wings. Our final stop in Bristow was Benji’s Anchor Drive In. I have memories of going and sitting at the counter on swivel seats and getting a soda. Now they will have those same memories. We got a couple of sides and everyone chose their drink or milk shake. Day 2: Sapulpa, Oklahoma We hit the streets of downtown Sapulpa looking for murals and unique photo shoot places. We found several. There are big murals of Sapulpa and of classic ads. There was a unique mural of horses on the side of a building; unique because they horses are painted in old window slots and framed by shutters. They appear to be in a barn looking out and the cars parked nearby. We found old gas pumps to pose with. Then the kids decided they needed to get a picture with a large potted plant in front of stop sign. It wasn’t my idea, but they loved getting to choose some of the photo spots. We then went to the library for the last story time of the summer and of course we needed a picture with
the librarian. Next stop, the courthouse and its surrounding features: the fountain, the flag, and the gazebo. Inside, we took pictures on the stairs, we climbed the stairs all the way to the top floor, we looked for unique points of view and we enjoyed looking up and down thru the rotunda opening in the middle of each floor. Our next stop was the Sapulpa Historical Museum. It is wonderful two-story building not far from the courthouse and it is packed full of historical documents, art, pictures and exhibits. We spent at least an hour just trying to take it all in. The tour guide was friendly and informational. He truly knew his Sapulpa history. Our final stop was supposed to just be for pictures with the outside of the Burnett Mansion. The kids begged to see if they could see the inside and I said the oldest could go ask but not to be disappointed if they couldn’t. Well, I was completely surprised when we were allowed to go in and the lady took the time and gave us a wonderful tour. I hope the kids will look back on these two days with fond memories, as I do. It is always a neat experience to find something new in an area you thought you knew better than everyone else. This summer with gas prices looking to put a dent in vacation plans, tour your home town (or a neighboring town). Check out the local museum, library, historical buildings and new-to-you eateries. Take pictures with your family in spots that have meaning for you. Spots like your favorite ice cream place, your favorite parking spot at church or Walmart, where you went on a fun date with a friend or spouse, or even where you had an embarrassing moment. Make fun memories with others and share your story. My accidental tourist crew was Elliana, Benjamin, Asia, Bubba and Kingston. n
C
B
D
E A: The Horse Mural, Sapulpa, OK B: The Sapulpa Museum C: Bristow Museum, Bristow, OK D: Bristow Museum, Bristow, OK E: Bristow Library, Bristow, OK
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THANK YOU
DANE McBRIDE FOR YOUR SERVICE TO YOUR COMMUNITY by MICHAEL LEE Dane McBride is a Cushing resident born and raised. Dane currently is a Firefighter/EMT at Chandler Fire Department. He is also a part-time Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with LifeNet, Inc. in Stillwater OK. Dane is currently furthering his education in Paramedic studies at Gordon Cooper Technology Center. He has been in the field of EMT/ Firefighting since April 2020. I asked Dane a few questions: ML: Was Firefighting/ EMT always your dream vocation growing up? DM: Yes, I always wanted to become a firefighter since I was a young child. I didn’t fall in love with the medical side until I attended class at Drumright and took their night EMT classes. ML: What is your favorite thing about the team you work with? DM: Working with the men with whom I am on shift has become a brotherhood, and knowing that on every call, the guys with whom you ride out have your back gives you and extra level of security when going into a call. ML: When you’re not working, what are some things you enjoy doing? DM: My girlfriend Leann and I enjoy being outside with her dogs going on walks and hikes. On Sundays when I am not at the station, I am the lead drummer for Hope Church in Cushing. I also am a fill in drummer for Life.Church campuses across Oklahoma. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends. ML: Who was your biggest role model growing up? DM: My Grandpa, Howard Matherly. Grandpa was my father figure and was always there for my brother and me growing up. He attended every school event and every extra activity in which we were participants. Grandpa really taught me how to have a strong work ethic and drive to do a great job in anything I tried. He instilled a great importance for God and family. Grandpa lead the Matherly Family Gospel Band, which demonstrated to us a love for God, music and family. ML: How much has working in your community shown you? DM: It’s been a honor and very humbling. We see people at their worst some days and knowing that we have the opportunity to be the face they see in their time OKLAHO MA CORRID OR M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 18
of need gives me a joy, pride and a desire to be available on every shift. A few of Dane’s friends and family also wanted to show their appreciation. Patti Matherly: I am the proud mom to Dane McBride. He knew from an early age he wanted to be a fireman. I pray God’s protection for him every day. Thank you, son, for everything you and the first responders do! Josh Greer: Dane is a hero who saves lives and loves people well. Thank you for showing my kids what that looks like! You’re making a huge impact! Brittani: To my brave cousin, Dane. Thank you for sacrificing your time and energy to protect and help citizens. Your hard work and courage doesn’t go unnoticed. You are loved and oh so appreciated! Pat Matherly: Dane is my grandson. It’s been his dream since he was a child to be a fireman. With his hard work, he made it happen. I’m so proud of him and I know his Grandpa would be too! n
THANK YOU to all our First Responders!
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O P P O R T U N I T I E S
N OOKLAHOMA T E S CORRIDOR ON THE
with RICK REILEY
BUFFALO JONES and The Heard
I was visiting Daddy O’s Music, Stillwater’s music store, once when a young man was sitting on a stool doodling around on an acoustic guitar. He suddenly launched into a beautiful rendition of the 1950’s pop song, Fly Me to the Moon complete with all those cool jazz chord progressions. Not something I would ever have suspected in a million years. From this young fella who looked 99 and 44/100 percent red dirt, country/rock musician through and through. But that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Many of these guys are as versatile as can be. That comes from playing constantly among those who cross their paths and joining in the fun. Turns out this young man’s name was Haydon Harris. OKLAHOMA CORRID O R M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 2 0
Fast forward…. In the past few months I’ve seen several social media advertisements for a band called Buffalo Jones and the Heard. They’ve played here in Cushing a few times and regularly play Stillwater, Enid & other locations. I thought I recognized a face or two and come to find out, I know all of these guys! And they’ve all been to our house at one time or another. One of them is Haydon Harris. According to him, Buffalo Jones & the Heard is a four piece musical shape shifting band of rascals residing from various parts of Oklahoma. Haydon was born and raised in Shattuck, OK, known for
its windmill museum and eight man football team. His dad and grandpa were his first musical inspirations. They were both musicians and when he went off to college he decided to pick up an instrument to carry on the family tradition. He mentioned, “My dad was a bass player and my grandpa played the fiddle, so I started playing guitar and writing silly songs.” Other inspirations were Woody Guthrie, Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Dunlap, Guy Clark, and the list goes on and on. Lately he’s been listening to J. J. Cale and Leon Russel’s live shows on YouTube, catching up on a bit of Oklahoma’s older but far reaching musical history. He reminded me that he met Nick Gedra at our house in Cushing on a Tuesday night about 10 years ago. They began playing a bit together then and in time they both began working at Daddy O’s Music in Stillwater. Nick is the shop’s luthier, and Haydon manages the place. The group performs a mix of cover songs as well as originals. Harris plays guitar, acoustic and electric, and sometimes plays a creation he and Nick put together called a dobrato. A combination consisting of a resonator with Bigsby tailpiece and a b-bender. (Serious guitar people probably could explain those things!) He also plays a bit of bass, mandolin and, occasionally, fiddle. He and Scott take care of the song writing while Nick and Ryan put their magic touches in the mix tying the songs together. One of Harris’ originals, Dirty Blonde Train Wreck is one they have a blast playing and has remained an audience favorite, as well as another couple of his, Another Day, Another Dollar and Just Life. Nick Gedra was born and raised in Stillwater. His parents encouraged him to take up the violin when he was six years old. They played along with dad on guitar and mom on the piano. Nick plays guitar and mandolin as well and also played in the Stillwater High School orchestra. He was classically trained, but when he heard Byron Berline and his BlueGrass band in a middle school program he was off in another direction. He said that a little after that, his friend Scott Stone brought him to one of our old Tuesday Night music gatherings where he met many other musicians that became a part of his musical journey. He’s played with 51 Junction, Buffalo Jones and the Heard, Kaylin Band, Shandee and the Unnofficials, Jackson Tillman, The Great Divide, and many more around the Stillwater area. He’s also set to go on tour soon with Jason Boland and the Stragglers. Haydon Harris said he met Scott Carson one night at Louie’s in Stillwater, heard him play and was impressed with what he called Scott’s ‘pipes’ and they’ve been friends ever since.
Scott Carson was born and raised in Garber, OK. He said there was always a guitar layin’ around the house and when he was seven or eight years old he got a guitar for Christmas and took a few lessons. He played through school and got more serious about it in college. He’s been in many bands but currently is playing primarily with Buffalo Jones and the Heard. He released an album of all originals a few years ago called Songs from NWOK and Other Strange Places. Good work. In his younger days he was drawn to the blues influence of such blues guitar luminaries as Stevie Ray Vaughan, gradually moving toward Tom Petty, The Drive By Truckers and others while developing a greater appreciation for Americana singer/songwriters like Guy Clark, Steve Earle and Lucinda Williams along the way. He plays bass with Buffalo Jones and the Heard, but also plays guitar and tinkers with the piano. As for Okie influences, he listed Kevin Welch and Chuck Dunlap as tops on the list. He’s a fine songwriter himself. In fact, bandmate Ryan McCall said that Carson’s tune Sugar Mama is one of his and the audience’s favorites! When I asked if he had a day job he simply said, “I plead the 5th!” Ryan McCall is a fine pedal steel player as well as a super duty electric guitar player, one of the most versatile I know in the business. He was born in Moore, OK, and picked up the guitar habit from his dad. His dad taught him some surfer tunes and the hook was set. Other influences were the Allman Brothers, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple and anything else his dad had in his music collection. He’s taught guitar at Daddy O’s for several years now. The fact that he, Nick and Haydon work at the same music store led to their sharing songs, inspirations and eventually led to their experience together as a band. As for Okie influences, he lists JJ Cale, Otis Watkins, Steve Gaines as OKie musicians who had an influence on his playing. He also plays with Brandon Clark of BC and the Big Rig out of Tulsa which keeps him busy year round. Recently he was involved in a motorcycle accident which did serious damage to one leg, which hinders his pedal steel playing. So he’s back on electric guitar at the moment but certain he’ll be back on the pedal as soon as his leg has properly healed. No doubt it will be onward and upward for this impressive music man! To find our more about this ‘shape shifting band of rascals’, Buffalo Jones and the Heard, follow them on Facebook and Instagram or better yet drop by Daddy O’s Music in Stillwater or give them a call. (405)624-0333. n
O K LA H O M A C O R R I D O R M AG A Z I N E / J U N E 2022 2 1
DELILAH’SDILEMMAS Lizzy Bukowski zipped her luggage. She looked around the hotel room she’d called home for the past two days, for any personal item she may have overlooked. Then made one last pass through the bathroom. She had left nothing behind...
with
DIANE BROWN
...At least nothing she had brought with her to Oklahoma. So far, everything was going as designed. She had made it past the first hurtle. Eli Solomon seemed to have warmed quickly and easily to the idea that he had a daughter. No doubt a result of his propensity for sentimentality. Next would be securing Delilah’s confidence. This would require more planning. Lizzy had concluded that fact within minutes of meeting the owner of the Royal Flush Ranch. It wasn’t as though Delilah had been unkind, much less antagonistic, but she did expect a certain degree of compassion from Delilah that was lacking upon their meeting. Belongings loaded into her silver Toyota Corolla, and bill paid, Lizzy made her way north on Highway 99. This was country, she thought to herself. Not that she had never seen country before. It was just . . . different. At the ranch, the two hired hands, Daniel and Damon, strolled through the back door, followed by Joel and Dooby. They formed a queue at the kitchen sink and began washing up. “You boys staying for supper?” Delilah asked, as she placed frying pans on top the stove. “What are we having?” Damon, the youngest ranch hand, asked while soaping up. “Cajun fried catfish, jalapeno hush puppies, cilantro-lime rice, and coleslaw,” Delilah said. “Is there enough?” Daniel asked. Delilah cut Daniel a reproachful look. “Yeah, that was a stupid question,” Daniel said. “Count me in.” “Me, too,” Damon said, drying his hands and stepping aside for Joel to take his turn. “Joel?” Delilah said, as she pulled eggs, milk, OKLAHOMA CORRID O R M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 22
and catfish fillets from the refrigerator. “Would you and Damon set the dining room table, please. For seven.” Damon and Joel looked puzzled. “But there’s only six of us, Delilah,” Joel said. “Lizzy will be joining us,” Delilah offered. She reached in the cabinet and heaved several bowls out.
This was apparently fantastic news to Joel and Damon who had been enamored with the young lady on her first visit to the ranch. Their eyes went wide, and they grinned like the Cheshire Cat. This was apparently fantastic news to Joel and Damon who had been enamored with the young lady on her first visit to the ranch. Their eyes went wide, and they grinned like the Cheshire Cat. “Make that eight,” Dooby said, holding his hands in the stream of hot water running from the tap. “Karon’s coming out.” “And here she is,” Joel said excitedly, dropping the hand towel on the countertop next to the sink and racing Damon to the back door. “Damon! Joel! The table!” Delilah shouted, as she sat the bowls and groceries on the countertop next to the stove. “I’ll do it,” Dooby said with a bark of laughter. “I’ll help,” Daniel said. “What? You’re not going to vie for the attentions of the fair-haired beauty?” Dooby asked Daniel. “Uh . . . a little too young, and not my type,”
Daniel said with a surreptitious glance at Delilah. And while she missed the glimpse, Dooby did not. “Thank you,” Delilah said, her back still turned toward the two men. “Where’s Eli?” Dooby asked, pulling plates from the cupboard. “He’s upstairs, clearing out his room,” Delilah said blandly. “What?’ Dooby exclaimed. “He’s decided to give his room to Lizzy,” Delilah said. “Well, where is he going to stay?” Dooby inquired. “He’s going to room with Joel, for now,” Delilah replied. Dooby’s brows shot skyward just as Lizzy entered the back door with Damon and Joel hot on her heels carrying her luggage. “There she is,” Delilah said with a warm smile. “Joel, Damon, will you take her things up to Eli’s room, please?” Delilah motioned toward Dooby. “Lizzy, this is Dooby, my best friend,” she said. Dooby shook Lizzy’s proffered hand. A smile slowly inched across his face and his brow furrowed slightly. “I’m pleased to meet you,” Dooby said with an appraising look.
“Likewise,” Lizzy said slightly tremulously. “And you’ve already met Daniel,” Delilah said. Daniel smiled congenially and nodded. Lizzy mirrored his greeting. Just then Karon bounded through the back door, cell phone at her ear, ranting. “I don’t know what the problem is with you people, but you need to get it together,” Karon said. She stopped cold and looked at her audience as though she’d just awakened from a long nap and discovered she was not in the same place she was when she’d fallen asleep. She punched an end to the call. “So, I take it this is Lizzy?” Karon said, her tone still registering in rant mode. Having survived the terrifying introduction to Karon, Lizzy excused herself and went upstairs. Forty-five minutes later, the dining room buzzed with clinking silver against stoneware, and the emptying of tea glasses, and conversation. Eli and Delilah had explained to Lizzy that Mae’s Thunder and Henry’s Last Hoorah were registered with the United States Equestrian Federation. And although Mae’s Thunder was totally unremarkable, she was known as the million-dollar mare, because she produced
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high-dollar offspring. As did Henry’s Last Hoorah. And now the newborn colt, Last Tempest, and filly, Stormy Mae were also registered as a product of Mae’s Thunder and Henry’s Last Hoorah, and would make them very valuable. Competing for Lizzy’s attention, Joel and Damon took turns giving her an account of all the chores on the ranch, and their perfect execution of said chores, as well as the brawn and brain required for implementation. Lizzy responded with disinterested smiles and nods interspersed with glances at Daniel, whose attention was focused on Delilah, who studied Lizzy intently.
Karon was uncharacteristically quiet and appeared to still be fuming from her previous phone conversation. Dooby tread lightly where she was concerned in an effort to avoid the disintegration of an otherwise pleasant evening. Karon was uncharacteristically quiet and appeared to still be fuming from her previous phone conversation. Dooby tread lightly where she was concerned
in an effort to avoid the disintegration of an otherwise pleasant evening. As dinner wound down and everyone pushed away from the table, Daniel announced he would be leaving, after his offer to assist with cleanup was denied, and would return the next morning. Joel invited Lizzy to walk to the stable with him to check on the horses. Not wanting Joel to have any advantage, Damon quickly invited himself to accompany them. Lizzy resisted until Eli suggested he go with them all. Karon excused herself to the garage apartment to make some calls, promising Delilah and Dooby that she would share with them the source of her ire. That left Delilah and Dooby to clean the kitchen. Dooby had the dishwasher loaded, and Delilah had cleaned the stove and countertops. The pots and pans were soaking in the sink. Dooby leaned against the cabinets. “So?” Delilah began. “Tell me what you think of Lizzy.” Delilah said. Dooby silently deliberated Delilah a moment. He gently pinched her chin and gave her a quick peck on the lips, and the pulled her into a tight hug. “Ask me again in three weeks,” he whispered into her ear.
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Delilah pushed him away. “What!?” she insisted. Dooby laughed and shook his head. “Hey! I thought you were supposed to set a wedding date when Eli and I got back from our trip?” “Something came up,” Delilah said sardonically, brows raised and head tilted. “And you don’t honestly think I’m distracted that easily, do you?” “As a matter of fact,” Dooby said with a laugh. s“You do have a tendency to do the dog with a squirrel thing.”
Delilah gasped. “Oh, heavens!” she exclaimed. “Now that you mention it. Eli didn’t, hasn’t said anything about a wedding date since you all got back. And before you all left.....” Delilah gasped. “Oh, heavens!” she exclaimed. “Now that you mention it. Eli didn’t, hasn’t said anything about a wedding date since you all got back. And before you all left, he was so adamant about a date being set. Before Lizzy came into the picture. Dooby, you don’t think he’s changed his mind, do you?” n
SURELY NOT!
Nothing could keep Eli from wanting Delilah as his wife, right? Except perhaps for a long-lost daughter? Or is she really his daughter? Whether she is or isn’t, she’s up to something. STAY TUNED for the JULY installment of
DELILAH’S DILEMMAS in the
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by PAUL RAGLE
Why are you still going to church camp at your age?
I am 66 years of age and people often ask, “Paul, why are you still going to church camp at your age? Isn’t camp for people a lot younger than you?” While it’s true that I am usually the oldest person on staff at church camp, I’m still very committed to being at camp with the kids. Even last summer when we had to observe the CDC guidelines for doing camp safely with masks and social distancing, camp was a very important to me. Here are my Ten Best Reasons for Continuing to Volunteer as a Church Camp Counselor: 10) Very few clergy people volunteer to serve as counselors at church camp these days. We need theologically trained folks to teach, counsel, and speak good news to children and youth at church camp. Too often I’ve been the only ordained clergy person to serve on a camp staff. When pastors serve as counselors at camp, kids get to spend quality time with people who’ve answered the Holy One’s call to full time ministry. 9) A week of church camp can be more valuable than a whole year of Sunday school or youth fellowship in a local church. We intentionally surround young people with an embrace of spiritual community wherein they explore faith issues and immerse themselves in worship, study, fellowship and prayer. Getting away from the every-day tugs of modern culture opens kids to powerful faith experiences. 8) At camp I learn new songs and am able to share my old songs in new ways. Some songs are silly and some are deep songs of faith. I often bring music back from camp to use with my congregation. 7) At church camp I learn cute meal graces like the “Ninja Grace” or the “Adams Family Grace.” (Look me up if you want to hear a few of these meal prayers sung OKLAHO MA CORRID OR M AGAZI NE / J U NE 2 0 2 2 28
by the whole camp community.) 6) As a counselor at church camp I get free food and don’t have to eat my own cooking! 5) At camp we retreat from cell phones, television, & social media. Kids and adults may receive mail from home and the occasional care package. Fasting from some of what distracts us in everyday life helps us focus on worship, study, fun and the presence of the Holy One with us. 4) As a counselor I receive the beautiful gift of being led in worship by young people. Kids have much to teach us. Their leadership in worship is powerful and exhibits great depths of spirit. 3) I get to work on my tan and participate in great adventures. I first played Gaga ball and traversed a high ropes course and zip line at church camp. 2) At camp I hear young people tell their faith stories and speak about their hopes, fears and aspirations. 1) The number one reason why I still volunteer to spend weeks of my summer with kids at church camp is I believe at camp, I am better able to share the peace, the presence, and the good news of the Holy One than any place else on the planet. At home, kids may not be as open to these things because of distractions, but at camp I have seen kids grow, try on new skills, and experience faith in exciting ways. I am always exhausted after counseling at camp, and I tell myself, “Paul, isn’t it time for someone else to work with those kids?” But every year, the Holy One calls me to return. It may not keep me young exactly, but serving at church camp is always an amazing experience. Pray for kids you know who might be going off to camp this summer, and pray for the adults who give their time to be there with them. n
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