THE
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JULY 2018 / VOLUME XII / Issue XII
COVER
PATRIOTIC EDITION
~ Tulsa to Oklahoma City and everywhere in between ~
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ON THE COVER...
Looking Forward
With a commitment to both marriage and country Leighton and Taima Gerken married and spent one month together just before going different directions in deployment with the Marine Corp. After one and a half years of deployment the two reunited. Their feelings were, “You have to push past all your fears and go for it.” Taima said, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something that you want to do.” Read about their military life and family on page six of our July Patriotic Edition.
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PATRIOTIC EDITION
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
AMERICA!
I STAND for the FLAG
5
EDITORIAL by Joe Gooch
6
PATRIOTISM: I’D DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN by Robbie McCommas
10
PATRIOTIC ROOTS by Michelle Brown
14
PATRIOTISM by Jeree Milligan
18
KIDS ON THE CORRIDOR by Jeree Milligan
22
PASTOR PAUL’S PASSAGES by Paul Ragle
26
CHANDLER OPEN RODEO by Brian Bendele
32
DELILAH’S DILEMMAS Diane Brown
38
NOTES ON THE CORRIDOR by Rick Reilly
42
MISS CZECH SLOVAK U.S. 2017-18 by Missy Husted
41
BIRTHDAYS ON THE CORRIDOR by Maci Brown
44 RECIPES by Jeree Milligan 46
DINING ON THE CORRIDOR
COPPER PENNY IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CUSHING
I KNEEL
Donnie & K.C. Pac, Kendrick, OK, show Artwork by Mongo Allen their Patriotism.
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4 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
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From the EDITOR
Hi Joe, I can’t believe how fantastic your magazine is. Mila has showed me several copies of it several times. Wanted to write a “good job” with your May issue. Mila brought me a copy when she came to visit a couple of days ago. We have a great time and your Corridor brings back a lot of doings, when we had the newspapers. You were such a good employee, so honest and faithful. So, congrats on a job well done. As ever, Mary Retherford Tulsa, OK I was employed by Bill Retherford, publisher of Neighbor Newspapers, from 1970 until 1985 where I participated in the Tulsa company’s growth from 15 employees to 90. I enjoyed the position of production manager for 14 of those years and learned honesty and faithfulness from this Cushing couple, Bill and Mary Retherford. I even took a giant step by publishing my own magazine, The Tulsa Batsman, for two summers while employed there. This started my love for publishing, while not only coaching, but serving as President of Tulsa Kids Baseball.
by JOE GOOCH
In the year 2000, I returned to my grandparents’ old home site between Cushing and Stroud, and in 2006, I started publishing The Corridor Magazine along with my late wife, Judy. I studied lithography at Oklahoma State Tech but I developed my honesty, faithfulness, and sales abilities from the Retherford family. I can’t explain the good feeling receiving this letter gave me! n
Bill and Mary Rutherford
THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 5
Taima and Leighton a t Camp Lejuene Re creation Ce nter
PHOTOS PROVIDED
PATRIOTISM
by ROBBIE McCOMMAS
“I’d do it all over again.” Life is but a series of decisions that bring us where we are today. This story begins with two high school graduates whose commitment to serve their country allowed their paths to cross. It all started at a Marine base where they found companionship in each other. Living in a country with five armed service branches to chose from—a young lady from Oklahoma met her soon to be husband of Colorado by chance. Or, was it destiny. Even though it was he that sought her out, when she saw him she said to herself, “That’s the guy I’m going to marry!” 6 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
Taima Brooks of Drumright, who set out to better herself, joined the United States Marines in 2009. “I talked to other branches, but felt the Marines were the hardest,” she added. “The best of the best and that’s what I wanted to be a part of.” With a vision towards a solid future, she enlisted, though her family begged her not to. “They didn’t think I could physically or mentally do it,” said Taima. “It became one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—I’d do it all over again.” She explained how watching the Twin Towers attack had an affect on her and her middle school classmates years prior. “I’m proud of what I did,” she continued. “I was
I kept going to the gym in hopes to see her... The day I found her I made a point to get her attention and talk to her. scared when I joined, it was my first time to fly. I really had true pride by the time I graduated boot camp and was accepted as a Marine.” Stationed at Court House Bay, part of Camp Lejeune, in North Carolina, Taima was in school to become a water support technician. Keeping fit, she daily went to the gym. In a male dominated area at Camp Lejeune, fellow Marine Leighton Gerken’s unit noticed her and told him about her. “I kept going to the gym in hopes to see her,” Leighton explained. “The day I found her I made a point to get her attention and talk to her.” Leighton’s mentoring began as a small child through his uncles and especially his grandpa. They all served over 20 years. Though their branches were the Army and Air Force, Leighton was captivated by the Marines. “I looked up to my grandpa,” he explained. “When I was little he gave me some of his medals, buckles and pins. I felt a sense of pride through his service. After high school graduation I had no sense of purpose, no goals in mind. I wanted a challenge and felt the need to contribute and do my part.” In 2009, Leighton joined the United States Marines. After boot camp in San Diego, his chosen path led him to become Sergeant Gerken, with the 2nd Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion. He joined what he explained as a brotherhood of men who had the same pride and goals in mind. Pushing through fear and the thought of quitting when conditions of freezing temps and entering water with fully dressed gear tested his commitment. “I wanted to serve even though I knew we were going to war,” he confirmed. “It was a test to myself to go to the front lines to defend my country.” Leighton was deployed after com-
pleting several schools including: Army Airborne, Survive, Evade, Resist, Escape; Army Tactical Tracking, Basic Combat Trauma Training Course, Helicopter training and Army Ranger School. In 2012, he was involved in a high fire deployment during the time of the attack of the United States mission in Benghazi. His battalion served in Jordan, Kuwait, Italy, Spain and Morocco. The battalion was trained to go in before anyone, gain intelligence and report to a higher command. Meanwhile, Taima deployed to Afghanistan to a base office. In the midst of each of their careers, the commitment they felt towards each other was strong enough that they became engaged and married at a courthouse in North Carolina before their deployments. Basically, they said, “I do,” spent a month together, then set out in different directions. After a year and a half of separation, the two reunited and had to get to know each other all over again! Two independent people must learn how to live together! It was hard they both admitted, but a honeymoon to Fiji and alone time put things back in order. “Communication is the key in everything,” Taima earnestly stated. “We figured it out after that!” Leighton said with confidence. After the service the two attended Oklahoma State University where Leighton completed a degree in Aero Space Administration and Operations in 2017. Taima studied Business Management and Sergeant was later added to her rank. Their family was blessed with a son and a daughter and Taima became a stay at home mom. Currently, Leighton works for Brooks Grease Service and their family lives near Stroud. In conclusion, the couple reflected on their military experience. “When I joined I was an immature boy,” said Leighton. “I learned that you can accomplish what others can only imagine through blood, sweat, tears, hard work and dedication.” “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something that you want to do,” Taima urged. “I have long term friends and I did a lot of travel. You have to push past all your fears and go for it!” n
Sgt. Gerken in Kuwait
Taima Gerken with 3-Star Lieutenant General Panter in Afghanistan.
Leighton and his Grandpa
Taima Gerken and her father Tyrell Brooks at Boot Camp graduation in Parris Island, SC
Taima Gerken
Leighton in Kuwait making a claymore bomb
THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 7
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GINGERTALES
by MICHELLE BROWN
PHOTO by KARSON BROWN
The Frazier Family: L-R Eric, Virginia, Charles, Dina and Mitch
OTHER PHOTOS PROVIDED
PATRIOTICROOTS July is America’s month. It is the time our country feels the colors red, white and blue have special meaning and become one color. Yet, there are those in our nation who give all 12 months, 365 days of the year to that one red, white and blue color. Those people never give a second thought to such an incredible sacrifice. In fact, those faithful people perceive it as an honor. I was privileged to spend time with a local family on The Corridor that just fits this description. Until my talk with the Frazier family, I will admit I have always considered myself a patriotic person. After sitting down in the comfortable and inviting home of Charles and Virginia Frazier with their sons, Mitch and his wife Dina, and second son Eric, patriotism took on a whole new meaning. Charles Frazier joined the U. S. Army National Guard in January 1963 while still in high school, serving 41 years and nine months before retiring. Somewhere along the line, Mitch decided he too wanted to join and did so August of 1986. Mitch turned 20 years old while at Army basic training and served until 2013. Mitch continues to work as a civilian for the Oklahoma National Guard. Joining the same branch as his father and brother, Eric began his military career December 1988, and to this day is still active duty. Although both sons agree neither had any intention of following in their father’s footsteps, 10 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
by MICHELLE BROWN
military life was “all they knew”. At one point, all three Frazier men were full time active duty. The Frazier men began in the artillery area of the National Guard, but as their career and personal family grew their military occupations changed. All three men married while in the military and speak highly of each of their wives’ role in a military family. Not having a military background and feeling quite inadequate to understand a lifestyle as such, I was anxious to get their rank, their Battalion name and number, the lingo, the catchy operation names such as Operation Noble Eagle, job duties, etc. in hopes these details would give me knowledge and cover my inadequacies. Such facts would enable me to connect my life with theirs and I thought my story would be easily completed. Not so! As I listened to their heartfelt stories describing the scenery, the sounds, and the people of their stateside and deployment times, those factual details became insignificant. Instead, my mind imagined their home away from home. I began to realize the definition of a military job goes much deeper than the definition of regular employment. As I sat with the Frazier family, they all voiced agreement on one statement, “You depend on each other for safety and friendships. You only have each other at times and the unit you belong to becomes your family.
It is certainly hard on your loved ones back home.” Charles talked of the relationships created once his unit was on assignment to help major devastating situations, such as the Murrah Building bombing. He spoke of the Homeland Security responsibility duties the three men had and how important the concept of safety became after 911. These types of assignments built bonds within the unit that not many of us experience at a regular job. Since all within your unit were “in the same boat” as Charles described it, bonds and relationships ran deep. Dependability takes on a new meaning when one is military. Mitch spoke of his experiences while deployed to Baghram Air Force Base, Afghanistan. This particular Air Force base housed a large hospital for the wounded and cared for many soldiers who were hit by an IED (Improvised Explosive Device). COMMITMENT is the word that comes to mind when Mitch talked of these warriors. He talked of the Fallen Hero Ceremony and my heart sank as he detailed how United States soldiers killed in action are given respect and honor by those serving around them. This ceremony is dignified, detailed and planned with honor. As both Mitch and Eric state, “These men and woman have paid the ultimate price for our country and paying respect to them and their families can never be enough.” Eric talked of the support and logistic area he now works in. Not only is it an overwhelming task to get an army deployed overseas or even to stateside areas, but the magnitude of work it takes to keep that army supplied while deployed is quite a story to hear. Around 1,000 men and woman soldiers were mobilized to Afghanistan by the National Guard in 2002. Quickly, I began to understand little things in the convenience of my own home and daily routine were no longer little things to our nation’s protectors. Humbling to say the least. This article would not be complete without recounting the position of a wife and mother. “What does it take to be the wife and mother of three soldiers?” I asked. Virginia answered sternly and confidently, “Prayer.” She recounted feeling blessed as a mother for her two daughters-in-law and how they cared for each other. “We counted on each other just as the men counted on the family unit they were with,” she said. Virginia finally knew why she was never given a daughter. She said, “My sons married well.” Dina conveyed growing up in a military family has helped her cope with being a military wife and mother, as her father was a Vietnam Veteran. The group agreed that sometimes issues were not discussed by the couples. Charles said, “A lot weighs on their (wives) shoulders to take care of things at home. They have their own stressors.” Smiles and laughter
Charles, Virginia, Eric and Mitch Frazier pictured with MSG Mitch Frazier’s children Johnathon and Morgan Frazier
MSG Mitch Frazier and LTC Eric Frazier
Charles, Mitch, Virginia and Eric Frazier
filled the room when Virginia and Dina remembered playing “Dirty Santa” with the use of Skype and the Internet while Mitch and Eric were deployed. Virginia talked of the days when internet technology was not available and how it helped the “unknown feeling” she had at times. How refreshing it was to hear such positivity from these wives who stand in support of their soldier husbands. CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 > > > THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 11
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The boys agree that Charles never pushed the military onto them. It was a personal decision. Obviously, since Charles knew the dangers and risks involved when both sons enlisted, the three share a connection that is priceless and requires a mutual faith. The Frazier family talked of their third son, Jeff, whose life was cut short by cancer recently. The family giggled when I inquired of Jeff’s military experience. Although Jeff did not choose a military career, they laugh that he still made a larger salary and was by far their biggest patriotic fan. Humor is one characteristic I experienced in this family. They have learned to turn the not so great situations into the best throughout their years of military service. The ultimate question: What does Patriotism mean to the Frazier family? Suddenly a long silence filled the room. That question certainly opened up the emotions. Eric began to explain, “The level of giving back and understanding what giving back means...I think a lot of that is missed in today’s society. To support the country that gives us the ability to act and behave, to do the things we do shows appreciation. To ensure that those freedoms do not depart.” Charles and
Mitch agreed, “We have so many rights in this country and the flag stands for those rights. People do not understand the rights, freedoms and developments this country has. If you don’t like this country, try another one. Then you will like this country.” Virginia Frazier described simply what patriotism is with just a few words, “Respect for our country and flag.” This month be patriotic: wear red, white and blue. Fly Old Glory from your house, your office, your barn. Show our military you appreciate their unwavering and brave sacrifice. After all, it is the United States’ Military sacrifice that gave this fantastic country and its freedoms! n
This month be patriotic: wear red, white and blue. Fly Old Glory from your house, your office, your barn. Show our military you appreciate their unwavering and brave sacrifice.
THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 13
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THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 15
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{
you’re a grand old flag{ PA S TO R PA U L’ S PA S S A G E S
Many have enjoyed singing or listening to the strains of George M. Cohan’s popular tribute to the American Flag, “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” Cohan wrote the song for his stage musical George Washington, Jr. On opening night, February 6, 1906 at Herald Square Theatre, New York, New York, “You’re a Grand Old Flag” immediately became a show-stopper. The song became the first sheet music from a musical to sell over a million copies. As he was traveling, George Cohan was inspired to
by Pastor Paul Ragle
write the song after having a chance conversation with a Civil War Veteran. The veteran had a very carefully folded but ragged American Flag in his lap. The man turned to Cohan and pointing at the flag said, “She’s a grand old rag!” Cohan was immediately take with the line and, on opening night of the musical, used the line. Although folks loved the song, they objected to the flag being called a rag; Cohan bowed to their objections and switched the lyrics and the title to be instead, “You’re a Grand Old Flag!”
In the musical, George Washington, Jr., the scene with the Civil War veteran is recreated and leads into “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” Verse 1 There’s a feeling comes a-stealing, And it sets my brain a-reeling, When I’m list’ning to the music of a military band. Any tune like “Yankee Doodle” Simply sets me off my noodle, It’s that patriotic something that no one can understand.
“Way down South, in the land of cotton,” Melody untiring, Ain’t that inspiring? Hurrah! Hurrah! We’ll join the jubilee! And that’s going some, for the Yankees, by gum! Red, White and Blue, I am for you! Honest, you’re a grand old flag! Keep your eye on the grand old flag.
Although “Old Glory” has had white stars added to the blue canton as thirty-seven States were added to the Union, the 13 stripes have always been a constant reminder of the 13 British colonies which won their independence through the
Revolutionary War. I pray that our nation’s flag will continue to serve as a symbol hope, freedom, and courage. May our land be “a home of the free and the brave.” “And forever in peace may you wave”!
Chorus You’re a grand old f lag, You’re a high-f lying f lag, And forever in peace may you wave. You’re the emblem of the land I love, The home of the free and the brave.
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THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
Ev’ry heart beats true ‘Neath the Red, White and Blue,’ Where there’s never a boast or brag. But should auld acquaintance be forgot, Keep your eye on the grand old f lag. n
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CHANDLER OPEN RODEO ARTICLE PROVIDED
It’s that time of year again! The annual Chandler Open Rodeo will be on us before we know it. July 27th & 28th will mark the 78th annual rodeo, and it still packs all the fun a family can have in cowboy boots. “The Chandler rodeo is one of the last few events that provides family entertainment and a fun break from the dog days of summer.” Said Marty Hall, Chandler Roundup Club President. While temperatures are high, there is no stopping the crowds that show up to watch top-notch contestants compete for prize money in the age old tradition that is rodeo. The rodeo features traditional events such as Bareback Riding, Ranch Bronc Riding, Tie Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway Roping, Team Roping and Bull Riding. “What is unique about the open rodeo is that it gives local cowboys the opportunity to compete against athletes from all over and from different skill
78th Annual Chandler, OK
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& BABY BALE SPRINT
FRI & SAT - July 27 & 28 2018 8:00 p.m. NIGHTLY
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Chandler Roundup Club Arena Tilghman Park ADMISSION: PreRodeo 7/26
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Adults/Kids (6-12) $5.00 / $3.00
Adults/Kids (6-12) $6.00 / $4.00
For tickets contact: Roundup Club Members: Teresa Hankins @ First Bank of Chandler or Mike Bendele @ United Country Real Estate 402-258-0408
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EVENTS
Bareback Riding (1 Go Round) Ranch Bronc Riding (1 Go Round) Tie Down Roping - Jackpot Open Barrels - Jackpot Jr. Barrels 15 & Und - Jackpot Ladies’ Breakaway - Jackpot Team Roping - Jackpot (3x) Bull Riding (1 Go Round)
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ENTRY FEES $60 $60 $60 $60 $40 $60 $60/team $60
Warren Rodeo Company, Kellyville, OK 918-247-6826 - Rough Stock Must Call to Enter Monday, July 23, 2018 - 6-9 p.m. - Entries must be paid by 7:00 p.m. - CASH ONLY No gate refund - Negative Coggins Required for Horses
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High Money Winner combined both nights will receive custom spurs by Bill Kluender
26 THE CORRIDOR JULY 2018
levels from beginners to professional.” Said Mike Bendele, Chandler Roundup Club member. The rodeo also provides an opportunity for the youngest of competitors in the Jr. Barrels 15 & Under. But local businesses and their employees prefer one event in particular. “The Baby Bale Sprint is where it’s at!” Said Hall. “It’s a lot of fun to cheer on friends in the community, who try to out race each other pushing a 600 lb hay bale across the finish line.” The Baby Bale Sprint was created to encourage local business participation while raising funds for charity and has turned into a main stay for the rodeo. Typically 4 to 5 teams participate at once in the arena. Each team is comprised of three members and sometimes the competition can get a little out of hand as competitors have been known to go “Head over Heels” in the hopes of winning first prize. There are men’s and women’s divisions and first place teams earn bragging rights all while helping out a good cause. Another local favorite is the Queen contest. Every year a Queen (youth 18 years old or younger) and a Princess (youth 12 years old or younger) are selected to represent the Chandler Round Up Club.
The royalty selection process is designed to give contestants the opportunity to demonstrate their horsemanship skills, rodeo and horse knowledge, personality and club participation. All Queen contestants are ambassadors for the annual rodeo so be sure to support them as they sell advance tickets for the performance. If unable to find a Rodeo Queen contestant, contact Chandler Roundup Club members Teresa Harkins at First Bank of Chandler or Mike Bendele with United Country Real Estate at 405-258-0408. n
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Delilah’s DILEMMAS
“Is that . . . is that Leslieanna?” Delilah insisted. She straightened her back and scooted to the edge of the sofa. “Yes, but it’s not what you think,” Eli said quickly. Eli was in the same country, the same region, the same city, the same room as his young, gorgeous ex-girlfriend. The girlfriend he’d parted company with nine months prior because of Delilah. Leslieanna Castellanos was of Greek descent; tall with a thin, athletic build. She had long, straight and lustrous dark hair, and emerald green eyes. In addition to being a stunning beauty, Leslieanna had a brilliant mind, with a double doctorate being the tip of her credential iceberg. “Oh?” Delilah snapped. She stood up. “Tell me, Eli. What would you think if I was in a foreign country with one of my exes?” “I don’t blame you for thinking the worst,” Eli responded quickly. “But I can explain.” Delilah glanced at the clock on the desk, and hastily calculated the seven-hour time difference. “It’s after midnight there, Eli,” Delilah stated, walking toward the front hall. “And just where i s t h er e , b y t h e w a y ? A r e y o u i n h e r h o m e ? I n a hotel?” Delilah could feel the rush of blood heating her cheeks, and the sinking, nauseous feeling of anxiety in her stomach. After a long, exasperated sigh, Eli explained that he’d arrived in Athens about four hours earlier. He’d discovered that Abigail and Henry Henderson, Senior were staying at a resort in Cape Sunio, about forty miles southeast of Athens. While on his way to the resort, Eli had stopped for a bite to eat, where he just happened to run into Leslieanna and her fiancé, Giorgio, who just happened to be an old geologist contemporary of Eli’s. Giorgio had accumulated some “compelling data” on the Canary Island volcano. Unable to resist such a temptation, Eli had followed them to their condominium, and they’d spent the past two hours analyzing the data. Delilah shook her head in disbelief as she 32 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
by
DIANE BROWN
plopped down at the kitchen banquette. “Oh, hold on just a minute. I have to take a quick break,” Eli said. “Here, talk to Giorgio.” Before Delilah could object, the deep accented voice of a man said, “Xaipete, Delilah.” “I assume that’s hello in your native tongue,” Delilah said. And as irritated as she was, she was also relieved that Leslieanna was not alone with Eli. “Eli said you had an endearing sense of humor,” he said with a chuckle. “He’s promised to bring you to Greece soon. Maybe on your honeymoon. Leslieanna and I are really looking forward to meeting you.” “Thank you,” Delilah said. There was an awkward pause. “So, you and Leslieanna are engaged?” Delilah asked. “For a couple of months, now,” Giorgio said. Eli returned to the phone and his conversation with Delilah. He asked about the weather, and Delilah told him a cold front was on its way. Temperatures were expected to dip in to the teens. Eli reminded Delilah to the animals in the barn since the stable was not yet finished. She assured him that Joel and Gus were doing that very thing even as they were speaking. Eli ended the call by telling Delilah that he would be going to the resort in Sunio the next morning, where he would be implementing his plan to snag Abigail (aka Mrs. Wrigley) once and for all. On those rare occasions when Delilah didn’t feel like cooking, she simply announced that everyone was on their own
for sustenance. Since Dooby was still in Cushing tending to the injured Karon, and Gus and Marietta were supping at Gu s ’ s t r a i l e r , D e l i l a h ’ s p r o cl a m a t i o n w o u l d a p p l y to J o e l alone. Delilah made herself a grilled cheese sandwich and warmed a can of chicken noodle soup. When she’d finished her supper, she tidied up the kitchen, and then went upstairs. Delilah pulled a couple quilts from the hall closet. She took one to Joel’s bedroom, and placed at the foot of the bed. Then she went to her own room and placed the other quilt at the foot of her bed. While rifling through her chest of drawers for her warmest, flannel gown and thickest woolen socks, she heard Joel trekking up the stairs. “I put an extra quilt in your room,” she called out. “It’s already colder,” Joel said, standing at Delilah’s bedroom door. “Animals all secured?” she asked. “Horses are in the barn, and Pandora’s in her pen,” he replied. “I put an extra thick layer of fresh straw in her shed. She’ll be fine. Don’t you think she’ll be alright?” Delilah extracted her head from the bottom of the drawer and turned it toward Joel. She starred at him a moment con t e m p l a t i n g a s a r c a st i c r e s p o n s e . S h e b e g a n n o d d i n g h e r head. “I’d bet a hundred-dollar bill she could survive an ice age, or a great flood, or an asteroid strike like the one that took
O
out the dinosaurs,” Delilah said. “There’s soup in the pot on the stove,” Delilah said. “Otherwise you’re on your own for supper.” “I suspected as much,” Joel said. The pair made their way downstairs. Joel lit the fire under the pot of remaining chicken noodle soup, and fixed a ham sandwich. As Joel consumed his meal at the banquette, Delilah cleaned what little mess was left in the kitchen, and then pulled a load of clothes from the dryer and piled it into a laundry basket. “What movie are we watching tonight?” Joel asked, after his last bite. In Eli’s absence, when it was just Delilah and Joel in the house, Delilah had been introducing Joel to old, black and white movies. “Gaslight,” Delilah said, all mysteriously. “Ingrid Bergman, Charles Boyer, Joseph Cotton, and Angela Lansbury.” “Never heard of any of those people,” Joel said. “You’re kidding, right?” Delilah said, hoisting the basket onto her hip. Joel shook his head. “Oh, my stars!” Delilah exclaimed. Delilah dropped the basket of clothes on the floor in front of the sofa, and Joel took a seat next to her. It was shortly after 7:00 when Delilah pressed the play button on the remote control.
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Two hours later the clothes in the basket had been folded, the credits were rolling, and Joel had had an epiphany. “I always wondered where that expression came from,” he said, bemused. “I mean, who would think the flame of a gas lamp would have anything to do with being driven insane.” Delilah chuckled. “I take it you liked it?” she asked. “It was good,” Joel replied. “I’m going to bed,” Delilah said. “Lock the doors and get the lights before you come up?” “Sure,” Joel said. Delilah toted the basket of clothes upstairs, put the clothes away, and readied for bed. Within an hour she was fast asleep. Delilah slowly woke to the sound of howling wind, and a bit of chill in the air. She eye-balled the clock on the side table. It was 3:14. She closed her eyes. And then opened them wide with a start. Scratch. Scratch. Scratch. She tilted her head in several directions, assessing the direction of the noise. She waited for a repeat. Nothing. She yawned as her eyelids grew heavy. Scratch. Scratch. Scratch. Delilah sat up. Could it be the wind blowing a tree limb against the house? She didn’t think the tree on the south side of the house was that close. Again, she waited. She really didn’t want to get out of her toasty bed. But how else would she be able to pinpoint where the sound was coming from, or what might be making it. Scratch. Scratch. Scratch. “Oh, holy crow!” she exclaimed, as she bounded from the bed, slid her feet into her house shoes, and shrugged on her
robe, all in one swift move. “That’s not outside. That’s inside.” Her heart was pounding as she moved to the window simply to verify the sound was not coming from outside. She opened the shutters. The wind was whipping violently, but the tree branches were not close enough to touch the house. Thump. Thump. Thump. Her head snapped toward the bathroom. She froze, hand on the shutter. She felt a chill that had nothing to do with the temperature of the room. She closed the shutter, and tip-toed out of her room and down the hall to Joel’s room. She gently inched the door open, and found Joel sleeping soundly. She scurried back to her own room and stood motionless next to her bed anticipating the next audible hint. After ten minutes of silence, she finally decided to go back to bed. The next morning, Delilah woke, dressed and padded downstairs to the kitchen where she started a pot of coffee. She suspected Gus and Marietta would not be coming to the big house for breakfast given how miserably cold it was outside, but she would call to confirm her suspicions. She stepped over to the kitchen table where she’d left her cell phone the night before. No phone. She stopped cold. In her mind she retraced her steps. She had been in the living room when Eli called. She’d come to the kitchen and sat at the table until the call concluded. She’d sat the phone on the table and not used it after. It was on the table when she pulled the clothes from the dryer. She checked under the table. She checked the banquette
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cushions. She looked around the washer and dryer. She searched the entire kitchen. No phone. The moment Joel strolled into the kitchen, Delilah addressed him. “Joel, have you seen my cell phone?” she asked, practically frantically. “It was on the table last night,” he said. “You didn’t move it?” she pressed. “No,” Joel replied nonchalantly. Delilah took a deep breath, and then moved the search to the living room, where the phone appeared like magic on the old, oak desk. Delilah was certain she hadn’t placed the phone there. Well, almost certain. She had moved it or Joel had moved it. And Joel would have no reason to do anything with Delilah’s phone. “I’ve been watching too many psychological thrillers,” Delilah whispered to herself. And she picked up the phone and dialed Gus’s number. Delilah called Gus. Sure enough, he and Marietta would be having their breakfast at the trailer. Gus said he would come to the house after breakfast; Marietta would not. Marietta had not slept well the night before and she wanted to rest. She was well into her second trimester; pregnant with twins, and her energy had been consistently waning for the past few weeks. It wasn’t long before Gus, Delilah, and Joel were sitting at
the kitchen table drinking coffee. “Gus?” Delilah said hesitantly. “Last night, well, early this morning, I heard a scratching and thumping sound upstairs. It sounded like it was in the wall between the bathroom and my closet.” “Could’ve been mithe,” the toothless ranch hand offered. “When it’th cold like thith, they come inthide.” Delilah nodded. “I suppose so,” she said pensively. “But honestly, it sounded . . . bigger than a mouse.” “I’ll check it out,” Gus said. Again, Delilah nodded, unconvinced Gus was concerned. “And I’ll put out thome bait and trapth,” Gus added with a warm smile. “Alright,” Delilah agreed. “That takes care of the creepy sounds. Now, what about the vanishing phone?” n
WHAT INDEED? IS SOMEONE GASLIGHTING DELILAH? IS DELILAH’S MENTAL ENGINE SIMPLY NOT GETTING ENOUGH GAS? DON’T MISS THE AUGUST INSTALLMENT OF DELILAH’S DILEMMAS IN THE CORRIDOR MAGAZINE.
THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 35
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Notes
ALONG THE CORRIDOR
by RICK REILEY
LADIES and GENTLEMEN:
THE VOICE OF JARED TYLER Jared Tyler has been around the music business more than half of his life. He’s been engineer, producer, singer/songwriter, electric guitar player, acoustic guitar player, dobro player, mandolin player, banjo player, traveling accompanist, and traveling troubadour. Born in Tulsa raised in Owasso it was his father and uncle singing in church that gave him a foothold in the world of song. As a kid he enjoyed playing his mom’s records and he tells me the song, ‘Bimbo’ was the first he recalls getting really excited about as a kid, the first one he recalls learning to sing all the way through. (While talking with him on the phone we sang a chorus of it together. I remember it too!) He says he grew up listening to Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson records on his Fisher-Price record player which tells me those things were much more than just toys! HIs grandpa played fiddle and mandolin, which was further encouragement down the musical path and when grandpa presented him with a round back, ‘tater bug’ mandolin of his own, that direction seemed to have become permanently anchored. Then came grade school, middle school, high school, the guitar, singing in the choir and on and on. When he got into FFA stories of his considerable singing abilities followed him and he was called on to lend his voice at times at FFA conventions, meetings etc.,. He was a member of the Oklahoma State FFA Chorus. In fact he says he and red dirt music favorite, Stoney 38 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
LaRue met at an FFA convention and used to jam together from time to time. He recorded a CD in Nashville at legendary Bradley’s Barn ( a bold, iconic image in the world of country music) as an FFA project with friend Michael Garrett producing. He’d met Garrett in Tulsa in the early nineties who was then working with Hanson at the time before they became international stars. Garrett helped Tyler with that first CD and that experience lead him to learn more about producing. Since then he’s served as producer for many other Oklahoma artists. After high school he moved to Nashville for four years and worked as a writer for Noble Vision Music. Eventually he made his way back to Tulsa, then another year and
a half stint in Nashville and finally back here ‘for good’. HIs first gig as a sideman was playing dobro with Brandon Jenkins (another red dirt legenda who passed away earlier this year after complications from heart surgery). He also sang backup vocals on Steve Ripley and the Tractor’s CD, ‘Farmers in A Changing World’. He’s produced albums by Perkins native, Monica Taylor, Tulsans, Jesse Aycock and Chris Lee Becker as well as two by Malcolm Holcombe and many, many others. He’s also appeared on numerous records as back up singer and instrumentalist. He’s toured the USA and Europe with Malcolm Holcombe, the North Carolina singer/songwriter who’s been building an audience for years from the southeastern U.S. across the country and the world, one stop at a time. From Jared Tyler’s website: ‘ Tyler has recorded eight albums with the “super inspiring” Holcombe (two of which he produced) and toured with him throughout North America and Europe, opening for the likes of Billy Bragg, Merle Haggard, Shelby Lynne and Wilco. On his own, Tyler has opened for Karl Denson and Nickel Creek, and relished performing on stage alongside heroes Emmylou Harris and Buddy Miller after Harris sang on his 2005 album Blue Alleluia’. His CD’s include ‘Blue Alleluia’ 2006, ‘Here with You’, 2010 and this year’s ‘Dirt On Your Hands’. ( He recorded a demo of a Gillian Welch song ‘Orphan Girl’ a few years ago. Tulsa actress Mary K. Place heard it and sent it to Emmylou Harris who was impressed enough to offer her encouragement as well as her voice on one of his songs on his debut album, ‘Blue Alleluia’. Mighty impressive stroke of luck!) All of these are welcome additions to my playlist. From the first couple I can hear what I’d call the influence of Stevie Wonder, the Allman Brothers, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Merle Haggard, Jerry Reed, Chet Atkins and any number of Okie rooted red dirt artists. Tyler tells me that when he left Nashville for Oklahoma and saw Bristow’s Tom Skinner perform, he knew ‘everything was gonna be ok!’ He credits the late Skinner with being one of his favorite Oklahoma voices and inspirations. He is not alone. His most current release is a fun and poignant collection of songs, ‘Dirt on Your Hands’. Here’s a sample of lyrics from the title cut, ‘Dirt on Your Hands’ -his grandma explaining: ‘ I KNOW YOU LIKE MY TATERS STRAIGHT FROM MY FRYIN’ PAN WELL SOMEBODY HAD TO DIG EM AND THEY GOT A LITTLE DIRT ON THEIR HANDS THEY GOT A LITTLE DIRT ON THEIR HANDS’ CHORUS ‘I DIDN’T KNOW IT THEN BUT NOW I UNDERSTAND GRANDMA TAUGHT ME ALL I NEED TO KNOW
TO BE A MAN YOU GOTTA GET A LITTLE DIRT ON YOUR HANDS GET A LITTLE DIRT GET A LITTLE DIRT ON YOUR HANDS’ ‘Get a little dirt on your hands’. Folks all along the Corridor or familiar with the concept of getting a little dirt on your hands, grabbing hold, taking charge and getting something done. I’m sure that was instilled in FFA too. He also performs ‘Waltzing Around with My Shadow’ by the late Dixie Mitchell from Tulsa, who was a fine songwriter and guitar maker as well. This is one of the most beautiful country waltzes I’ve ever heard by anyone, ever. It has a great, best of, Merle Haggard quality to it. One of the big crowd pleasers in this part of the country is his anthem to Ft. Gibson Lake. (Fishin’ is a big part of Tyler’s life it seems): From (Goin’ to Heaven on) ‘Fort Gibson Lake’: ‘I CAN STILL SEE DEAR MOMMA WITH A POLE IN HER HAND OLD CHICKEN LIVERS TREBLE HOOK ON THE END A CHANNEL, A FLATHEAD, A MUD OR A BLUE SHE COULD CLEAN EM AND FRY EM FOR YOU!’ The underlying sentiment to Tyler’s work seems to be, that when we do everything in our lives, every action, every word, from the foundation of love, what a wonderful world it is. Yes, indeed! You can find out more by visiting his website; www. jaredtyler.com and by following him on Facebook and on Youtube as well. His music is available at all the usual places, online. Better yet, see him live. His songs, his performance and his VOICE (did I say VOICE?) are an unforgettable experience. THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 39
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2017-2018 Miss Czech Slovak U.S. by MISSY HUSTED
I sat down with the 2017-2018 Miss Czech Slovak US, Madeline Hecker and visited about what Miss Czech Slovak US is, what her roll is, a little about her, her family history, and her future, along with some random fun facts. I hope you enjoy learning a little about one of the great young ladies that was raised along The Corridor and a little bit of history in the process. Madeline lives in Prague, OK and is of Czech descent. Her great grandparents were both born in Czechoslovakia and migrated to the United States. The shy young girl shocked her parents when she showed an interest in running for Czech-related royalty pageants. They were, and still are, fully supportive of her and she started her career as Czech Royalty at the age of 12 by being crowned the 2007-2008 Oklahoma Czech Slovak Junior Queen. In 2009-2010 she was the Prague, OK Junior Kolache Queen, 2010-2011 The Prague, OK Kolache Queen, 2016-2017 the Oklahoma Czech Slovak Queen, and her biggest and most desired accomplishment, 2017-2018 Miss Czech Slovak US Queen. On a side note, Madeline isn’t the first Miss Czech Slovak US to come out of Prague, OK. Stephanie Goodnight Lee wore that crown in 1992. As Oklahoma Czech Slovak Queen, Madeline was able to run for Miss Czech Slovak US. This is a pageant held in the Czech capital of the USA at the Czech Days in Wilber, NE. The pageant was started in 1986 by John and Lois Fiala and Doris Ourecky. Contestants of the pageant must be unwed single females between the age of sixteen and twenty-six and of Czech, Moravian, Slovak, Rusyn, or Silesian descent. After an application process where you prove your ancestry, explain your kroj, (the official Czech dress), and tell why you are proud of your heritage, you then go on to the three days of competition and festivities held in Wilber, NE. The judging is based on four categories: private interview, kroj modeling, on-stage interview, and talent. Contestants also participate in the local parade and activities around town and the winners are awarded scholarship money. Awards are also given in thse categories: talent, authen42 THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018
tic kroj, Americanized kroj, oratory, spirit, heritage, Miss Congeniality, and Sokol. The Czech Days is the largest Czech festival in the United States and people from all over the world go there to celebrate the Czech heritage. Of course, other than the Kolache Festival in Prague, OK, the Czech Days in Nebraska is Madeline’s favorite festival to attend. Being Miss Czech Slovak US has been a dream of Madeline’s since she attended the pageant in 2008 as the Oklahoma Czech Slovak Jr Queen. As Miss Czech Slovak US, Madeline’s duties are enjoyable and simple. She gets to travel across the country and spread awareness of the pageant, the Czech history, and her heritage. She has traveled over 8,000 miles in the last year attending festivals and parades and sharing about being Miss Czech Slovak US. She still has a few festivals and places left to visit, including her second trip to Czechoslovakia, before handing over her crown. Madeline graduated as a summa cum laude English major in December of 2017 from the University of Central Oklahoma. She will be making her third trip to Prague, Czechoslovakia in October of this year for a yearlong course to learn to teach English as a second language.
Fun Q&A
Q: What has been your favorite parade car? A: The parades I attend are always great to have cars available for me, very nice cars, but I have to say my
absolute favorite was a 1956 red Thunderbird owned by Prague, OK local Cliff Anderson that I got to use for the Prague, OK Kolache Parade. Q: What would be your fantasy parade car? A: Easy, a 1964 Mustang convertible.
Q: Tell me about your kroj (pronounced; kro-yeh, in case you were miss pronouncing it like I did) A: I have an older sister and I always got her handme-down kroj. My kindergarten year my kroj had an orange skirt with chickens on it and it will always be my favorite because it was made especially for me by my mom. The kroj I competed in, was crowned in and for which I won an award, is an Americanized Kroj modeled after Moravian Wallachia, an area in easternmost Czech Republic. This is where two of my ancestors were born. I designed the entire kroj, and the designs on the collar, sleeves, and handkerchief were created and hand drawn by me and hand embroidered by my mom, Cecilia. The handkerchief belonged to my Mema Lillie Bartos. Family friends helped make the skirts and blouse as well. The shoes and socks (krpce and kopytce) which are my favorite part of the kroj, were custom made for me by a man in Czech Republic, which is a great story. The Czechs are a very trusting people. When I was in the Czech Republic in 2016 I was looking for shoes and was told that they had to be custom made. I was given information about a shoe maker and when I got home we contacted him. He asked me to draw my feet on a piece of paper and mail the paper to him. He custom made my shoes from sheep leather that was raised in the area of my ancestors and hand knit my socks from wool from that location also. He first mailed them to me and then I paid him. Q: Who makes the best Kolaches? (She laughs a bit when she answers) A: Obviously my family. The recipe was brought by my ancestors from Czechoslovakia and used in the family bakery in Prague, OK for many years. The dough is the best part. Q: What do you do when someone calls a klobasnek a Kolache? A: I kindly explain the difference. A klobasnek is savory. A Kolache is sweet. Chuckling, she says, “The Texans are the worst at getting it wrong.”
This very colorful kroj is from Blatnicka Moravia in the Czech Republic. It is a bridal kroj from the 1940s and was worn as a wedding dress. Everything is handmade, hand embroidered, and the ribbons hand painted.
Madeline Hecker with excitement on her face after being crowned Miss Czech Slovak US, the first Oklahoman to be crowned in 18 years.
Q: As an English major I’m sure you have pet peeves when it comes to writing. What’s your biggest? A: The wrong use of words like, your/you’re, their/ there/they’re, to/too/two!
Q: What is the funniest thing anyone has said about you being royalty? A: A little girl came up to me at a festival and thought that since I was the Queen, I lived in a castle, had tons of jewels, money and power. Q: How can people follow your journey as Miss Czech Slovak US? A: www.facebook.com/MissCzechSlovakUS
2017-2018 Miss Czech Slovak US, Miss Madeline Hecker being crowned Queen THE CORRIDOR / JULY 2018 43
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