VALUES December 2022

OBA HONORS KELLEY

KELLEY RASH

BY KATHY SMITH

With over 50-years of experience in the banking industry, Kelley Rash has learned the banking in dustry from the ground-up, growing up in a family of bankers and serving in multiple roles at AVB Bank (AVB). Rash is the fourth generation of her family

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Left to right are AVB Board of Directors Ted Cundiff, Russell Brown, Sally Wilton, Georgeanna Thomas, Kelley Rash, Cooper Rash and Topper Causby

to serve AVB, proudly continuing a family legacy that dates back to before statehood. She assumed the leadership role as AVB Chairman of the Board in 2001.

Her “People First” focus has been one of kindness and sharing within her family, community, and banking roles.

Ted Cundi , AVB Bank President and Chief Executive O cer (CEO), “Kelley Rash has a passion for the Broken Arrow community that is unmatched. Whether she is volunteering, fundraising, strategic planning, collaborating, donating, leading…she is modeling the mission of our Bank – SERVE, CONNECT and SUCCEED TOGETHER.” He continued, “A passionate advocate, Kelley is dedicated to the growth, development, and betterment of Broken Arrow. roughout the years that I have known Kelley, I have seen her positively impact this community and our Bank, and I am consistently in

awe of her kindness and generosity.”

In the words of a long-time AVB Bank customer, “Kelley Rash is the ultimate example of what is possible when quality business leaders look to give back to their community and represent something bigger than themselves.”

From one of her employees, “Kelley does not like to be the center of attention. Recognition is not necessary for her to do what she does. She is not boastful. Everything that she does for AVB Bank - our employees and customers - and for our community is done because she wants to make a di erence…and she does that with HEART. I so admire this woman and am blessed that I was led to AVB and have been given the opportunity to work with, for and on behalf of her.”

Cooper Rash, Kelley’s son, shared: “My mom strongly encouraged me to explore career options upon graduating with my university degree. Seeing the

love, concern and pride that she and my grandparents have always had for the Bank, how they were connected with the employees, customers and community, I wanted that. I am so proud of my mom…what she does, how she does it and who she is. And, as the h generation of my family to serve AVB, it is my greatest desire to make her proud.”

Kelley attributes her longevity in the banking industry to several factors. “We focus on hiring the right people and provide them with training and growth opportunities; and treating our customers right. For over, 117 years, generations of customers have called AVB Bank their bank. One thing has never changed…AVB’s respect for tradition, honesty, and integrity,” explained Kelley.

AVB Bank continues their investment into the community and Kelley and her employees work passionately to make a positive impact

Randy Waldrup, and Cooper Rash.

At many Broken Arrow events you will likely see where AVB has rolledup their sleeves to contribute and employees participating to make a di erence.

e banking industry has changed through the years. Kelley said her favorite part about working in the banking industry has been helping to maintain an independent nancial institution through tough economic and regulatory times…even throughout a pandemic!

She and her employees have established a legacy of strength, stability, and service that their thousands of clients have come to rely upon. “A handshake is, and always has been, a symbol of our bond; a symbol of trust, stability, and passionately working hard for our customers While there is more paperwork and documentation to be done in today’s nancial industry, business is still conducted based on that personal connection between you and the customers. Rash is adamant that AVB bankers never forget the foundation and values the Bank was built upon – doing business the old-fashioned way, with a handshake, creating a lifelong bond between you, your customers, and our communities,” Kelley expressed. AVB is a strong re ection of the Brown-Kimbrough family values that Rash embraced, de ned, and personally committed herself to…today, tomorrow, and for the tomorrows to come.

e joys and memories of her 50-year career encompass her early days in training as a bank teller…to demonstrating to customers how to use the Bank’s new technology, the ATM machine, outside in the summer heat wearing a dress and panty hose… working at her desk while her son was under the desk, playing or asleep…to sharing the many of life’s milestones with employees and customers who are all considered her extended family. All of these moments, and more, have been heartwarming and sometimes very funny.

e family legacy continues with Cooper Rash. From his early

beginnings playing and sleeping as a small child under his mother’s desk… to multiple summer internships at AVB Bank … receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in business (with emphasis in management and marketing) from Oklahoma State University, Cooper o cially began his banking career in 2016. He serves as AVB Bank Vice President of Marketing, specializing in market research, data analysis, media communication, web content, search engine optimization strategy and support of customer-focused delivery channels.

He is continuing the strong commitment to hometown family banking and is the h generation to serve on the Bank’s Board of Directors Regarding his election to the AVB Bank Board of Directors, Cooper stated, “AVB Bank has ser ved our customers with honesty and integrity for over 117-years. My family has served multiple generations, and I am humbled to be part of the next generation to continue this ser vice e signi cance of such a long lasting legacy is certainly not lost on me…successfully maintaining an independent/family-owned nancial institution shows resilience and commitment to our customers,

employees, community, and shareholders, and I am humbled to be a part of our Bank’s future.”

Kelley and Cooper share the same ideals set forth 117 years ago and maintain their strong sense of helping others and serving their communities.

Kelley is a life-long resident of Broken Arrow, her pride and joy are her two children, Cooper and Sara Cruncleton, and grandchildren, Lottie and August Cruncleton

Mother and son, Cooper Rash and Kelley Rash share in continuing the legacy of AVB Bank.

BY: DELL DAVIS

Wagoner has something the entire family can enjoy during the holiday season. Wagoner is bringing the best of the holiday season for visitors and residents.

e Annual Christmas Parade will be held ursday night December 2nd at 7p. Marching bands, oats, costumed characters and of course Mr. & Mrs. Claus will make a special trip from the North Pole to Wagoner for the evening parade. is years’ theme “Santa Paws Comes to Town,” Grand Marshall will be Dr. Larry Peters, retired veterinarian. Don’t miss this family fun.

Wagoner Public Schools will host an Open House on December 4th from 2p.-4p. is will give residents and visitors the opp ortunity to see all the renovations and new school buildings in Wagoner. A great opportunity to check out Wagoner if you are looking for a new home or business location

B e sure to shop and dine in Wagoner during the holidays-area restaurants and select convenience stores are o ering special discounts during the month of December. It always pays to shop local…don’t forget to Scan and Win A Christmas Grand f rom Wagoner merchants.

Over 125 displays and snow akes light up the night on N. & S. Hwy 69, Hw y 51 and through downtown along McQuarrie Street and on SE 15th Street. Wagoner area residents and C ommercial businesses in and around Wagoner will have lighting and yard decorations and inside tree decorating contests. Cash prizes are awarded; spons ored by Wagoner Economic Development Authority and Ft. Gibson L ake Ass ociation. While touring Wagoner don’t forget to check out the 100 snow akes that light city streets. Remember there is one unique snow ake-see if you can nd it!

e nightly light show has been a favorite since its inception two

years ago. e Show runs nig htly from 5:00p-10:00p. e shows are designed for all ages. e kiddos will love Grandy the Snowman and his singing snowmen. e show was designed by Jeremy Williams. e light show is spons ored by GRDA, Blue Sky Bank, Wooley Plumbing, Walmart, Green C ountr y Lig hted Displays and Wagoner Public Works. e p opular winter concerts will be held Decem b er 2, 3, 9 and 10th at the Wagoner Civic C enter Auditorium. Music styles will range from classic rock, bluegrass, countr y, gosp el and a special Chr istmas Show. e Fabulous Mid-Life Crisis Band will kick-o the concerts on Decemb er 2 followed by Bluegrass night featuring Heartland Xpress, Spring Street, Midnight Hollow and e Bazemore Family. December 9th local favorites the Cave D wel lers will per form. Saturd ay the 10th will feature the popular Grady Nichols. He and a full band of singers and musicians will bring

Christmas magic to Wagoner

Admission is $8 for adults, chi ldren under 10 are f ree with an adu lt. Concert sp onsors include: Arvest, Burger King, Taco Bueno, BancFirst, Kevin Grover GMC, Wagoner County Abstract, Armstrong Bank, Stanley’s and e City of Wagoner.

e Nutcracker Ballet an absolute favorite will be presented by Encore Performance for two special performances. December 10th at 7p. and December 11th at 3p. at the Wagoner High S chool Performing Ar ts C enter.

Christmas in Wagoner is de nitely wor th the quick drive

to see a million and more lights and enjoy the themes of Christmas past, present and the future. “We welcome you to Wagoner Your Christmas Destination, thank you to our spons or par tners, committee memb ers, city worke rs who work tirelessly to make your holiday experience one to remember” reports Mayor AJ Jones. “Come and see us we have a new street scape in progress. upcoming resurfacing of Hwy 51 through downtown Wagoner,

building rehabs and more. We are excited to have you visit our City anytime of the year!”

For more information and updates and details on schedules check these websites: wagonerinfo.com, City of Wagoner : wagonerok.org, Visitor page. f@thecityofwagoner or 918-485-2554

Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful Wins

2022 A liate of the Year Award

BY AARON McCOLLOCH

e ep Broken A rrow Be autiful, a Broken Ar row c om mu nity orga nization, was a nnou nc ed a s t he w in ner of t he A ffil iate of t he Yea r Awa rd during t he 2022 Env iron ment a l E xc el lenc e C elebration a nnua l banquet i n Okl a hom a Cit y on Friday, November 18 , 202 2.

e Environmental Excellence Celebration is hosted by Keep Oklahoma Beautiful to showcase people and organizations who provide hope in Oklahoma communities for a sustainable, more beautiful future.

“We have a super synerg y going in the city of Broken Arrow right now. We work together on all the projects that we do,” said Sharon Atcheson, Keep Broken Arrow B eautiful Chairperson. “It’s just amazing when we pull together as a co what we can do.”

Keep Broken Arro

requirements, participating in the Great American Cleanup and Paint Oklahoma Beautiful events, and its contribution with the Voyage Solar System Walkway project.

Earlier this year, more than 400 volunteers took part in the Trash Bash and Recycling Rally event that focuses on beautifying Broken Arrow by encouraging citizens to come together to pick up trash from roads and waterways, as well as drop-o hard-to-recycle items. Trash Bash and Recycling Rally is a partnership among City of Broken Arrow, Keep Broken Arrow B eautiful, and e Metropolitan Environmental Trust.

“I could not be more proud of the e orts of the volunteers who lead Keep Broken Arrow B eautiful,” said Broken Arrow City Manager Michael Spurgeon. “ e members of KBAB are strong, civic-minded individuals who are passionate about preserving

Cleanup categor y.

Additionally, the City of Broken Arrow was named a nalist in the Team Builders Government Projects categor y for its involvement with Keep Broken Arrow B eautiful and Broken Arrow Public Schools on the Voyage Solar System Walkway. e exhibition is a 1 to 10-billion-scale solar system model and is now on permanent display on Albany Street between 9th Street and 23rd Street.

“Anytime we have an opportunity to work together on a project, we’re always willing to lend a helping hand because the outreach to our citizens is greater when entities work together,” said Rocky Henkel, Director of Streets and Stormwater for the City of Broken Arrow Henkel’s team collaborated on the construction of the Voyage Solar System Walkway project and completed the installation of the

KBAB, City of Broken Arrow named finalists in three categories.

KBAB Winners: (L-R) Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful Vice Chair Beverly Forester, Chair Sharon Atcheson, Board Member Mandy Cole, City of Broken Arro w Recycling Outreach Coordinator Galea Albano.

KBAB Award : The Keep Oklahoma Beautiful award for the 2022 Affiliate of the Year which was presented to Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful.

KBAB COBA StreetsTeam: (L-R) City of Broken Arrow Streets and Stormwater employees DJ Collier, Tommie Sanders, Gar y Fuller, and Director Rocky Henkel with the Finalist Certificate presented to the City of Broken Arrow for the Team Builders Government Projects categor y.

Gleam Guard Adds New Life to Cabinetry and Woodwork

BY KATHY SMITH

Save time and money on all your cabinetr y and woodwork

It’s shocking how much new cabinetry, interior doors and baseboards can cost, not to mention long waits for deliver y and installation. Avoid the high costs and long waits by letting Gleam Guard help you with your new kitchen and woodwork remodeling upgrades.

Takle your home renovation list before the holidays, starting with your kitchen cabinets. While cabinets’ purpose is functional, they remain a focal point of the home. Whether your cabinets are peeling, greasy or worse condition, Gleam Guard Wood Re nishing can remedy your woodwork and make it look like new again using eco-friendly, non-toxic and odorless materials. ey are an A+ Rated BBB Accredited company and o er reasonably priced and highly e ective solutions for restoring and re nishing your cabinetry and woodwork.

“We can re nish cabinets that are in really bad shape and also service cabinets that don’t need a full cabinet re nish. Some cabinetry and woodwork may just need to be refreshed and renewed. We can also clean your cabinets and give them a new, permanent nish,” says owner Tracy B ooth. “ e Gleam Guard nishes are available in matte, shiny and satin. When we apply our Gleam Guard system, it bonds to the original nish and makes the surface smooth and dr y. e process remarkably enhances wood grain and keeps it looking oiled and polished.

serious breathing problems, animals and birds to be in the house.” eir process begins by preparing the surfaces with a thorough cleaning to remove dirt and debris and making any reparation of damaged areas. Damaged areas are treated with custom-matched stain blends. Lastly, the cabinets are protected with a coating that will keep cabinetr y and

along with those which are painted, glazed and pickled — even raised panel cabinetr y doors.

“We have customers we ser ved over 20 years ago that say their cabinets continue to look great today. It is because of our hometown people in the greater Tulsa area that we were able to expand and help

families across the countr y beautify their homes, including Kansas City, Branson, Northwest Washington and Canada,” he says.

Tracy and crew will be in and out, without interruptions or breakaways.

eir work area, when nished, will look like no one was there. Gleam Guard’s amazing nish leaves your cabinets and woodwork pristine and easy to clean. A ercare is as simple as wiping with a damp cloth

Tracy says when people see the di erence Gleam Guard has made in

friend’s or relative’s homes, they are quite o en sold on the process! Even those considering new cabinets or refacing old cabinets frequently decide on Gleam Guard Wood Re nishing instead. It’s the sensible solution that makes a big di erence. Gleam Guard o en costs clients 70 percent less when compared to other options.

“I love to show people how they can save money and still have beautiful wood nishes that look like new,” says Tracy. “I would be happy to do an in-home demonstration on an existing cabinet door to give owners a glimpse of what Gleam Guard will look like in

their homes.”

Getting an estimate is free and easy. You can send Tracy photos of your cabinets and woodwork by text to (918) 231-1375, to email them send to info@gleamguard.com; or, call (918) 455-4211.

Dazzling Lighted Holiday Displays

FREE DRIVE- THRU EVENT IN MUSK OGEE

The Castle of Muskogee Christmas •

BY BEKI AKINS

De cember, 2022: C elebrate the best of family holiday traditions at e Castle of Muskogee! Take a leisurely drive through the Castleton Village, which is lled with thousands of holiday lights and displays.

e drive through is FREE, and donations are gratefully accepted. Guests may also view the ligh ts f rom an old-fashioned hayride or f rom the rail car of the festive Castle Train, both of which provide visitors with a unique experience through the Castle displays. Also in the Village area, the little ones may ride the cutest holiday ponies in town! For a taller vantage point, Cletus the Camel will b e here to provide rides around the Village area. Just want to hang out and snap photos? Grab a bag of Kettle C orn and enjoy the fest ive environment of the Castle gates before you head inside.

Once inside e Castle, guests may warm up and enjoy a variety of family holiday activities: Cra ing ornaments in Santa’s work shop, Wax Hands and Make Your Own Candle, Stu it Up – Plush Adopt ions ... and s o much more! Discover handmade creations for the special people on your holiday list. We encourage guests to visit the Christmas Shoppe for home holiday displays or holiday keepsakes. Join us in Rudolph’s Cafe for a light supper or snack, hot chocolate and treats!

Many will tour the lights for the love of holiday joy. e Castle also

Opens Thanksg

iving Night - December 31, 2022, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

• Pony rides – A holiday favorite! $8 per child.

Fri, Sat, Sun*. e cutest Christmas ponies in town!

• Camel rides – Live like a Wis eman. $8 per person. is is for both the young, as well as the young at heart.

Holiday Activities

Inside e CastleNov. 25-27, Dec. 2-4, 9-11 & 15-31, 2022.

o ers a not so traditional holiday treat. In addition to the Castle’s holiday Catacombs and Torture Chamber Museum, guests may venture through the Sandy Claws Haunt. is is for our fans of thrill that would like to continue the chills throughout this holiday seas on! Visit http://okcastle.com for a complete schedule of nightly activities.

Holiday Outdoor Ac tivities in e Castl e’s Village

• Tractor-drawn Hayrides – is ride starts in the parking lot of e Castle and travels through the village on a di erent route from the car drive-through. Departs eve ry half hour. C ost is $5.00 per person, chi ldren 1 under are f ree. Fri, Sat, Sun*

• Castle Train – Enjoy the lig hts with a tour f rom the conductor himself ! $10 per passenger, children 1 under are f ree. Weekends f rom anksgiving to Ne w Year’s*. If you would like to book the train throughout the week, please call 918.687.3625 or email info@ okcastle.com to reser ve. Group rates available.

Please check the Calendar at http:// okcastle.com for a detailed schedule of each night’s activities.

• Gi Shops – A wide assortment of holiday merchandise, in atables and much more.

• Rudolph’s Cafe – Treat yourself to soups, sandwiches, cookies, hot chocolate, and a Christmas movie

• Chalice Hall – Make family traditions, enjoy lots of goodies at Santa’s workshop while making ornaments and playing reindeer games.

• Christmas Merchants – Find unique and handcra ed items from a variety of cra speople.

• Fireworks – Stock up for New Year’s in the Christmas Shoppe – Dec 15th through NYE.

*Weather Permitting

For more information please visit: http://okcastle.com or www cityofmuskogee.com

BY AARIKA COPELAND

Get your chance to win big this holiday shopping season! Buy Broken Arrow encourages shoppers to keep it local. “ is program really bene ts our entire community,” Lindsay Cunningham said, Marketing and Communications Director at BA Chamber. “It helps support our local retailers, provides jobs, and also increases our sales tax, which in turn builds our roads and funds our critical city ser vices. So it’s really a win-win for everyone!” And to win is simple: shop local, receive tickets, enter to win cash prizes.

e campaign starts Friday, Oct. 28 and runs through Sunday Dec

11. With over 85 local businesses participating this year, there is an opportunity everywhere to start gathering up those tickets. One lucky winner will take home the grand prize of $10,000. But others have the chance to cash in on monetary prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and “the new Small Business Giveaway of $1,000 that will come speci cally from one of Broken Arrow’s small businesses,” Cunningham, said.

e live remote event for this year’s drawing is sure to be exciting with 98.5 e Bull and 106.9 KHITS as key announcers. Drawing will be held at MattressFirm at 1552 S Lynn Lane Road, Broken Arrow on Saturday Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tickets

will be drawn live on the air and the winning ticket holder will have 20 minutes to claim the money via phone or in person at MattressFirm. If not claimed, three more drawings will take place until claimed, live on the air. e winning ticket holder will have another 20 minutes to claim. If the original number is not claimed on Saturday, Dec 17., additional numbers will be drawn starting on Monday Dec. 19. at 8 a.m. and be drawn every business day at 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. until all prizes are claimed through ursday, Dec. 22 at 5 p.m. If no one claims before Christmas, the next drawings will happen on Monday, Jan 2nd and continue until claimed as stated above.

Buy Broken Arrow starts Friday, Oct. 28. Photo courtesy of the Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce

Amplify Broken Arrow Awards

BY LINDSAY CUNNINGHAM

The Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation hosted their yearly Economic Outlook luncheon at Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center November 10, 2022. The Economic Outlook featured keynote speaker, Dr. Russell Evans, Partner and Chief Economist of Thorberg Collectorate. In addition, the Economic Development Corporation added the Amplify Broken Arrow Awards that were awarded during the program.

“Economic Development is not an organization, it is an action and it takes an entire community participating and investing to make it successful. The Amplify BA Awards recognized individuals, businesses, and organizations who have made a significant contribution to Broken Arrow through their economic development efforts,” stated Jennifer Conway, President & CEO of the Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation.

Awards and recognition were received by the following: Innovation

Recipient: Kyle Al-Rifai Automotive Industries

This award recognizes a successful project, program, product, or service that thinks outside of the box and continues to stretch the boundaries of and has proven to be a leader in innovation.

Restoration Recipient: Bill Leet Primus Properties

This award recognizes a project that brings new life into an aging building or program.

Transformation Recipient: Neal Bhow Tiger Hill Development

This award recognizes a building, project or program that transforms the world around it, impacting the entire community and fostering economic growth of those around it.

Creation

Recipient: Kim Washburn Laurannae Baking Co.

An individual who exemplifies entrepreneurship by creating a successful new business or industry.

Amplification

Recipient: Steve Easley OakTrust Development

An individual or business that has made a significant investment of resources (time, talent, treasures) in Broken Arrow that fosters economic development, positively impacting the quality of life by creating opportunity and ensures the success of Broken Arrow and the economy.

“We know that our community would not be where it is today without the vision and commitment of these individuals. The Broken Arrow Chamber and Economic Development Corporation felt it was important to recognize them, their contributions, and the legacy that will continue to bless our city for generations to come,” commented Conway.

Innovation Award: Kyle Al-Rifai, Automative Industries with Jennifer Jezek, Board of Directors Chair & Jennifer Conway, President & CEO

Restoration Award: Bill Leet, Primus Properties with Jennifer Jezek, Board of Directors Chair & Jennifer Conway, President & CEO

Transformation Award: Neal Bhow, Tiger Hill Development with Jennifer Jezek, Board of Directors Chair & Jennifer Conway, President & CEO

Creation Award: Kim Washburn, Laurannae Baking Co. with Jennifer Jezek, Board of Directors Chair & Jennifer Conway, President & CEO

Amplification Award: Steve Easley, OakTrust Development with Jennifer Jezek, Board of Directors Chair & Jennifer Conway, President & CEO

AVB Bank Promotes Katie Witcher to Loan Compliance Officer

BY KATHY SMITH

AVB Bank President and Chief Executive O cer (CEO), Ted Cundi , announced the promotion of Katie Witcher to Loan Compliance O cer. Witcher is responsible for implementing and overseeing consumer and commercial lending regulatory compliance, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) compliance and managing the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Loan Application Register (HMDA LAR).

Witcher has been with AVB Bank since 2015, ser ving as a consumer mortgage assistant and loan operations specialist and assisting with loan compliance.

“Katie has been a valuable resource in our loan compliance department, and we are excited for her to assume additional responsibilities in that area,” stated Cundi . “Our loan compliance department is an integral component of the bank functioning at the highest level, and we are pleased to have a talent such as Katie serving in this capacity.”

AVB Bank Senior Vice President, Loan Compliance and CRA O cer, Tammy Kee on the promotion of Witcher, “I am thrilled for Katie and look forward to continuing to work with her in our world of compliance. She has an extensive background in nancial compliance, and her knowledge is invaluable to AVB.”

Witcher is a graduate of the American Banking Association (ABA) National Compliance School, ABA Intermediate Compliance School, ABA Compliance Risk Management School, and the University of Central Arkansas Community Development Institute. Witcher is a member of the National Charity League (NCL) Bixby Chapter.

Witcher stated, “I love the people and atmosphere at AVB, and how they care about each and every one of us employees. ey show appreciation o en and it’s rewarding to work for, and with, such a great group of people.”

FLORAL CREATIONS

BY AARIKA COPELAND

ore t ha n just f lowers , Flor a l Cre at ion s i n Cl aremore ha s been a trus ted provider for t he past 19 ye ar s of not only h and- cr af te d flor a l a rrangement s but a ls o of fering a n a rray of one -ofa-ki nd g if t s for a ny occasion and e ver y season . “Flower s are ver y emotional . I t hin k it ma kes people feel good,” F lora l Creation s O wner D aw n McCla in sa id ab out customer s recei vi ng flor a l del iver ie s . “But we h ave s o much more to offer t ha n jus t fresh f lowers. We h ave u nique gi ft s [and] u nique items you ca n’t just buy at t he store .” Wi t h the holida ys a ppro aching, i t is im po rt ant to get your perfect holida y cen te rp iece o r der e d early t o ensur e the co nt ainers and fr e shest f lo wers w ill be in s to ck . Flo ral Cr ea ti on s also has new and unique C hristmas deco r tha t you won ’t find in b ig bo x sto r es, incl uding keepsake figurines

and t re e trimmings such a s or namen ts, p icks, and m ore. Shopp ers can b ro wse the seaso na l se lectio n s w it h co nfidence the y are get tin g s om ething truly sp ecial . “We h av e peo p le co me in her e and s ay, ‘o h m y gosh, I h ad no idea yo u had all o f thi s cool stuff,” Emily S ea t said, Flo ra l D esigner a t Flo ral Cr ea ti on s. L uxur y gift sets, guy gifts, jewelr y and de c aden t chocola t e ar e sur e t o take cen t er stage, b u t do n’t miss the h om e goods, p otte ry, ca ndles, grilling s easo nings, cracker mixes and cozy socks, o r the man y o ther a ff or da ble gift opt io n s; man y made in the USA. Wit h all the festive decor, yo u’r e sur e to want to place a n or der fo r yo ur o w n f lo ral holid ay cen te rp iece each cr ea te d w it h fr esh, seaso nal foliage. S pre adin g Christmas c heer with a holid ay fl or a l arrangemen t is sur e t o b rin g jo y and smiles to friends and fami l y this seaso n. F re sh fl ow ers alwa ys add s om ethin g magical to this time of year and ca n sho w yo ur lo ve d o n es the bea ut y o f the seaso n.

Wi t h new i tems rot at in g the shel v es, y ou ’l l likely fin d so mething s pecial eac h tim e you v isit. “We like to enco urage pe op le to co m e see wha t w e’ ve got, and to shop lo cal,” M cClain sa id .

A timeless custo m, the se nt imen ts behind f lo ral gifting s till a p ply t od ay. “ Ther e’s s o mu c h meaning behind it. You ’r e co nv eyin g the car e fo r the indivi du a l r e ceiving i t,” S ea t said. “A n d fo r s om eo n e who has g otte n t o deliver them, i t’s amazing t o see th e change in s omeb od y. Their whole face ligh ts u p. ”

Flo wers c an co mm unic at e em ot io n and are a p erfect exp re s sio n o f sy mp at hy, lo ve, f r iendshi p, jo y, and m uc h more. Tru s t Flo ra l Cr ea ti on s w it h each bel ov ed message.

Celebrate the holidays with unique gifts found only at Floral Creations. Start early on your Christmas decor with these adorable snowmen.

Order a seasonal centerpiece for your Holiday table.

BY HAYLIE SMART

Rogers County residents will not want fo r anything when it comes to fun holiday activities to do in and around Claremore. One of the newest holiday attractions that is a must see is Claremore Lake Lights. “We’re in our second year,” Tanya Andrews said, Director of Visit Claremore. “So it’s fairly new, but it took o really well last year.”

For those unfamiliar with Claremore Lake Lights, the lake and park is decorated with Christmas lights for residents to drive through and enjoy. And the best part? It’s completely free.

“We had a lot of visitors go through last year,” Andrews said. “Like people

from Catoosa, Tulsa, and Bartlesville, which was wonderful. And when you have family in for the holidays it’s ver y inexpensive. Grab a burger, go out there, and drive through.”

Park and Recreation and Public Works are the departments that work hard to make this light display possible. And with their new partnership with Grand River Dam Authority, they’re able to purchase additional lights for this year’s display. “ eir goal is to add new sections to it ever y year,” Andrews said.

Visitors can enjoy the light display beginning Wednesday, Nov. 23. Lights come on at 5 p.m. and go o when the park closes at 10 p.m. Lights will remain up until the rst

of January. “ is is a way the city can give back to the residents and to the community,” Andrews said.

A brand new holiday event people of Rogers County may want to check out is 12 Nights of Lights at Oologah Lake. “You, or a business, can go in [to Hawthorne Blu Campground] free of charge and decorate one of the RV campsites,” Andrews said. e holiday light display is a free drivethru and people can enjoy the displays ever y Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in December from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

A new, and not-so new, holiday tradition that’s become a Claremore favorite is the ceremonial Christmas Tree Lighting held in the parking lot of the Ne-Mar Shopping Center. “[ e Neelys] have been providing a very

Visitors can walk through the Belvidere Mansion in November and December to see it fully decorated for Christmas.

RIGHT: The ceremonial Christmas Tree Lighting at the Ne-Mar Shopping Center will be Thursday, Nov. 17.

large Christmas tree to the community for the last 40 years,” Andrews said. “And so a few years ago we started doing a community tree lighting ceremony where we have hot cocoa, cookies, music, and pictures with Santa.” Local ministers lead the tree lighting with a prayer to bless the Christmas season, and those who want to join in the prayer can. e City of Claremore and United Way sponsor the event so that residents can enjoy the festivities for free. e lighting ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. ursday, Nov. 17. And last, but certainly not least, is the longtime favorite Dickens on the

Boulevard. A Vicotrian-style festival, Dickens returns to Main Street, also known as the Lilac District. e two-day event kicks o at 6 p.m. with Tales from the Top Tours, with the cost being $12/ person and live music. A costume contest will take place at 7 p.m., the free-to-view Territorial Marshals re-enactment will be at 7:45 p.m., and the Victorian stroll and street dance will be at 8:30 p.m. B oth horse-and-carriage rides and pictures with Santa are available for $5. For a full schedule and other free amenities available at businesses along Main Street, go to downtownclaremore.org.

Challenges = Success.

Martial Arts Academy, Owasso, helps students develop self-confidence, discipline and focus.

BY HAYLIE SMART

In every social setting, there are leaders and followers. And for Martial Arts Academy Owner Chris Velez, he has made it his mission in life to create confident leaders through martial arts.

“It’s a very structured environment,” Velez said. “The primary focus overall in training is to help a student develop confidence and discipline.”

Though a student will also learn how to defend themselves, get in shape, and become flexible, Velez

said that’s not the end goal. “They will achieve those things,” he said. “But martial arts is a means to an end. When a student comes here you can boil it down to that they will experience challenge and success. The more challenge and success they experience, that’s where the growth takes place. And overtime it becomes easier for them to see themselves as successful.”

When a parent sends their child into the world to lead their own life, a way they can have peace is to know their child is firmly established in confidence and discipline.

“It takes confidence to be who

you are,” Velez said. “And to be the positive example. They can have all the knowledge of what’s right and what’s wrong, but it’s another thing to actually execute that.”

A longtime resident of Owasso, Velez began his training at an early age, in Owasso.

Velez worked, trained, and taught martial arts throughout high school, and he spent so much time there people started asking him if he was going to open his own school? “At that age, I wasn’t considering the idea because I hadn’t been exposed

to many martial arts business owners,” Velez said. But one thing led to another, opportunity presented itself, and Velez took a leap of faith. He opened his business in Owasso in 2003 and Martial Arts Academy is now not only working—it’s thriving. His successful business is a true testament to the practices of martial arts.

“We are helping parents raise confident leaders and adults reach their true potential,” he said. When explaining the different options at the academy, Velez said, “There’s two schools within this school. We have the martial arts students, and then we have instructors. Developing instructors is different from developing students. We give instructors space and a platform to gain experience.” Velez is

proud to note that all of his current instructors began as students at his academy when they were young and he has enjoyed watching them grow up. “I had a couple ladies that were counting down the days to when they could actually work here,” he said. “They had put in a lot of instructor hours in learning and assisting students and classes.”

Though Velez stays busy with running the business, he still trains and involves himself in nearly all of

the classes.”I’m on the floor, here, and present the whole time. Every person that comes in to enroll, I meet them personally.”

If interested in enrolling, or if you want to learn more about the principles of martial arts, call 918-376-9080 or go to martialartsacademy.net.

376-9080

WWW.MARTIALARTSACADEMY.NET  @ MartialArtsAcademyFTC

Buy Local for Your

It’s that time of year again to shop local and win b Cash is Claremore Chamb annual “Shop Local” ini shoppers make purc participating stores, they r Cash tickets based o their purchase. Generally per $10 spent “ is year, we have 26 partici merchants,” Ashley M of Communications. “ boutiques to big box sto variety of others, incl supermarkets, pharmacies. Sa bene ts the communi is a Chamber event, o does not bene t mon We just want residen Claremore, especiall holiday season. ”

Start earning Santa Cash beginning early November for yo win a $10,000 grand p of Cherokee Casino W Downs. A secondar y prize of $2,500 from Suburban Chevrolet will also be awarded, and the third winner will receive a $2,000 prize courtesy of Helt Heat & Air, for a total of $14,500 in giveaways!

e drawing will be held outdoors at Will Rogers Downs on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. Tickets will be accepted at the drawing until 10 a.m. Late tickets cannot be accepted. Winners must be present to win, and the winning ticket must be presented for veri cation, so don’t be late!

For more information visit the Chamber website at Claremore.org

Tickets to Win Big Money

J&J Pharmacy, RCB Bank, Solid Rock Realtors, Sooner Flooring & Design, and BancFirst, Nabatak, TTCU Claremore, e District o Main, Stanley’s, Rogers County Loan, Claremore Compounding Cen

JT Septic, Speedy Lube, Spirits o 66, Stillwater Milling, Bill & Rut Reasor’s, Bennett’s Route 66 Pharma

Grand prize winner who shopped local and won big.

Chamber Staff.

KELLYVILLE

Star Spangled Christmas Parade

Dec. 17, 2022 | 6 p.m.

Town of Kellyville City Hall 410 E. Buffalo St. Kellyville, OK 74039

MCALESTER

McAlester Magical Christmas Parade

Dec. 8, 2022 | 7 p.m.

Downtown Area McAlester, OK 74501

Christmas at the Ranch Dec. 10 | 3 - 7 p.m.

Simply Country Ranch 7838 Krebs Lake Rd. McAlester, OK 74501

MUSKOGEE

Castle Christmas Nov. 24 – Dec. 31 | 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The Castle of Muskogee 3400 W. Fern Mountain Rd. Muskogee, OK 74401

Holiday Open House Dec. 10, 2022 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Three Rivers Museum 220 Elgin St. Muskogee, OK 74401

The Big Christmas Expo Dec. 10-11 | 12 – 5 p.m.

Hatbox Event Center 630 S. 40th St. Muskogee, OK 74401

Downtown Muskogee Christmas Parade Dec. 19 | 6 – 8 p.m.

Downtown Muskogee Muskogee, OK

New Year’s Eve Powwow Dec.31

Muskogee Civic Center Muskogee, OK 74403

OOLOGAH

Will’s Country Christmas Dec. 2-3 | 5 – 9 p.m.

Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch 9501 E. 380 Rd. Oologah, OK 74053

Oologah Lake’s 12 Nights of Lights

Hawthorne Campground Oologah, OK 74053

PRYOR

Pryor Christmas Parade of Lights Dec. 1 | 7 – 9 p.m.

Downtown Pryor Pryor, OK 74361

SAND SPRINGS

Snapped in Sand Springs Nov. 19 – Dec. 23

Various Photo Op Locations Sand Springs, OK 74063

Gnome Hunt Nov. 19 – Dec. 23

Inez Kirk City Garden 101 E. Broadway St. Sand Springs, OK 74063

Sand Springs Christmas Parade of Lights Dec. 2 | 7 p.m. Downtown Sand Springs Sand Springs, OK 74063

A Crafty Christmas Market Dec. 3, 2022 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 1050 W. Wekiwa Rd. Sand Springs, OK 74063

When Merry Comes Home for Christmas Dec. 3-4, 2022 | 2 p.m. Community Theatre 15 W. 4th St. Sand Springs, OK 74063

8th Annual Ugly Sweater Skate Jam Dec. 15, 2022 | 7 - 10 p.m. 401 E. Broadway Ct., Ste. B Sand Springs, OK 74063

Wreaths Across America Dec. 17, 2022 | 12 p.m. Woodland Cemetery Memorial Park 5111 S. Memorial Dr. Tulsa, OK 74145

SAPULPA

Route 66 Christmas Chute Nov. 3 – Jan. 1 Main & Dewey Sapulpa, OK 74066

A Dickens’ Christmas Carol by Mark Landon Smith Dec. 2-4 & 9-11 | Time vary Sapulpa Community Theatre 124 S. Water St. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Sapulpa’s Little Mr. & Miss Rt. 66 Christmas Pageant Dec. 3, 2022 | 1 p.m. First Christian Church 220 E. Lee Ave. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Reindeer Dash Dec. 3, 2022 | 11 a.m. Sapulpa Parks 1400 E. Haskell St. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Owasso Christmas Parade Dec. 10 | 9 – 10 a.m. Smith Farm Market Owasso, OK 74055

Tiny Tots New Year’s Celebration Dec. 29, 2022 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wheels and Thrills 10637 N. Garnett Rd. Owasso, OK 74055

PAWHUSKA

The Nutcracker Ballet Dec. 10 & 11, 2022 | 7 - 9 p.m.

Constantine Theater Pawhuska, OK 74056

Santa Workshop Dec. 10 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum 9 E. Broadway St. Sand Springs, OK 74063

Silent Night Frightful Night Mashup Dec. 11, 2022 | 7:30 p.m. Skates Roller Skating 401 E. Broadway Ct., Ste. B Sand Springs, OK 74063

Polar Express: Interactive Family Movie Event Dec. 4, 2022 | 4 p.m. 302 S. Elm St. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Sapulpa Christmas Parade of Lights Dec. 10 | 6 – 9 p.m. 101 E. Dewey Ave. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Santa Land Dec. 10 & 11, 2022 | Times Vary 923 S. Main St. Sapulpa, OK 74066

Kids Christmas Musical Dec. 18, 2022 | 10 a.m. 1011 E. Hastain Ave. Sapulpa, OK 74066

SKIATOOK

Annual Christmas Parade Dec. 10 | 10 a.m. Main Street Skiatook, OK 74070

Hillside Christmas Farmer’s Market Dec. 10, 2022 | 10 a.m.

American Legion Post 131 723 W. Rogers Blvd Skiatook, OK 74070

Christmas Extravaganza Dec. 10, 2022 Meats on Main 215 E. Rogers Blvd Skiatook, OK 74070

STILLWATER

Stillwater Christmas Parade of Lights 2022 Dec. 1 | 7 p.m. Downtown Stillwater Stillwater, OK 74074

Annual OSU Poinsettia Sale Dec. 1, 2022 | 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Greenhouse Learning Center 318 N. Lincoln St. Stillwater, OK 74078

Little Women Dec. 1-4 & 8-11, 2022 | Times Vary Greenhouse Learning Center 318 N. Lincoln St. Stillwater, OK 74078

TAHLEQUAH

Annual Christmas Parade Dec. 2, 2022 | 6 p.m. Downtown Tahlequah Tahlequah, OK 74464

Cookie Stroll on Main Dec. 3, 2022 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 504 N. Muskogee Ave. Tahlequah, OK 74464

TULSA

Garden of Lights

Nov. 25 – Dec. 30 | Times Vary

Tulsa Botanic Garden 3900 Tulsa Botanic Dr. Tulsa, OK 74127

Arvest Winterfest Nov. 25 – Jan. 8

Downtown Tulsa Outside the BOK on Third Street Tulsa, OK 74103

Philbrook Festival 2022

Fridays & Saturdays starting Nov. 25 & ending Dec. 24 | 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Philbrook Museum of Art 2727 S. Rockford Rd. Tulsa, OK 74114

The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe Nov. 25-27, Dec. 2-4, 9-11 & 1618, 2022 | 7 p.m.

The Broadway Theatre Tulsa 720 S. Kenosha Tulsa, OK 74103

The Christmas Wonderland Dec. 1-18, 2022 | 6 - 9 p.m. Tulsa Promenade Mall 4107 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa, OK 74135

The Tallis Scholars in Concert Dec. 1, 2022 | 7 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church 501 S. Cincinnati Ave. Tulsa, OK 74103

Tulsa Symphony Presents Elf in Concert Dec. 2 | 7:30 p.m. Tulsa PAC 110 E. 2nd St. Tulsa, OK 74103

First Friday Art Crawl Dec. 2, 2022 Various locations in Tulsa Arts District Tulsa, OK 74103

Jingle Bell Run Dec. 3 | 9 – 11 a.m.

River West Festival Park 2100 S. Jackson Ave. Tulsa, OK 74107

LaFortune Park Holiday Arts & Crafts Show

Dec. 3 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

LaFortune Community Center Tulsa, OK 74135

Chandler Park “Jingle on the Hill” Dec. 3 | 12 – 3 p.m.

Chandler Park 6500 W. 21st St. Tulsa, OK 74017

Yuletide Market Dec. 3 | 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Admiral Blvd. & S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa, OK

ORU Christmas Concert Dec. 3

Mabee Center

7777 S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa, OK 74136

40th Annual Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show Dec. 3 | 3 p.m.

UMAC 6836 S. Mingo Rd. Tulsa, OK 74133

The Oklahoma Swing Syndicate Dec. 3, 2022 | 6 - 9 p.m.

Southminster Presbyterian Church 3500 S. Peoria Ave. Tulsa, OK 74105

Shop 66 Saturdays Dec. 3, 2022 Route 66 Tulsa, OK 74104

Winter Fair

Dec. 3 | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. 7100 E. 31st St. Tulsa, OK 74146

The Drunkard and The Olio Dec. 3, 10 & 17, 2022 | 6:30 -9 p.m.

Tulsa Spotlight Theater 1381 Riverside Dr. Tulsa, OK 74127

Tulsa Time Traveler’s Vintage Holiday Expo

Dec. 4 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cain’s Ballroom 423 N. Main St. Tulsa, OK

Holiday Market

Dec. 4, 2022 | 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Mother Road Market 1124 S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa, OK 74104

Disney Princess Tea

$3,130.00 $3,290.00 $3,440.00 $4,755.00 $4,390.00 $5,565.00 $6,580.00 $5,155.00 $6,580.00 $7,520.00 $8,455.00 $10,375.00 $11,485.00 $8,275.00 $9,495.00 $10,720.00

$12,150.00 $4,455.00 $1,535.00 $18,140.00 $13,540.00 $5,205.00 $1,720.00 $20,465.00 $18,050.00 $6,980.00 $2,300.00 $27,330.00 $14,795.00 $6,575.00 $1,935.00 $23,305.00 $19,755.00 $8,745.00 $2,580.00 $31,080.00 $24,495.00 $10,920.00 $3,225.00 $38,640.00 $29,440.00 $13,105.00 $3,920.00 $46,465.00 $26,235.00 $11,640.00 $3,450.00 $41,325.00 $32,835.00 $14,550.00 $4,265.00 $51,650.00 $39,420.00 $17,460.00 $5,125.00 $62,005.00

Above: Carl Parson with a pole barn under construction by Inola Portable Buildings & Pole Barns.