POWERED BY SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 Magazine bartlesville
3901 SE Adams Road Bartlesville, www.dsrglobal.com918.336.6900OK “We Deliver Technology...”
On the Cover: 4-year-old Emilie Howard Photo by Mackey PhotograPhy insidethisissue Pg. 2 Letter From the PubLisher Pg. 4 music & the Arts Pg. 6 NAture & Nurture Explorations Child Care Pg. 8 sAmAritAN couNseLiNg & growth ceNter Pg. 10 bArtLesviLLe commuNity FouNdAtioN hAs Positive imPAct oN bArtLesviLLe Pg. 12 tri couNty tech Inspiring higher education through free fast-track program Pg. 14 hArdwork ANd commitmeNt buiLd LAstiNg LegAcy At JeNseN trActor rANch Pg. 16 resideNts come together At ‘the ceNter’ oF bArtLesviLLe Pg. 20 tribute to First resPoNders iNsPires New FouNdAtioN Pg. 24 this is why we ruN Miles for Mammograms 2022 Honorary Chairpersons Sisters Laurie Marshall and Rosemary Whitson Pg. 26 FAmiLy Promise Pg. 28 iNsPirAtioN through church Pg. 30 FuN with FrieNds COVER SHOT
F AITH
2 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 Publisher/Sales Jamie Unkenholz Editor Kim Archer Writers Tamara Browning, Cara Clark, Savannah Howe, Elyse Kelly, Karen Kidd, Glenn Minnis, Amy Roberts, Donna Rolando, Trina Thomas and Stevie Williams Photographers Andy Dossett, Robin Mackey Design & Production Jessica Waters To advertise in Bartlesville Magazine, contact Jamie Unkenholz at 918-335-8231. Bartlesville Magazine is a monthly publication of LOCALiq. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent. POWERED BY bartlesville Magazine publisher’s letter Welcome to a new season, and the fall issue of Bartlesville Magazine
F rom the love of family and a loyal, unwavering faith to the beauty of nature and the belief of working for a greater good, we all have different things that interest, inspire and motivate us to be better versions of ourselves.
P HILANTHROPY F rom volunteering at the local food bank to donating extra funds to a deserving organization, nothing feels better than helping out our fellow men and women. One Bartlesville organization has a mission to help those who help others. The mission of Project Tribute is to provide necessary and helpful equipment and supplies for first responders where funding and resources are limited. Read more about this great local nonprofit organization inside. I hope you enjoy this issue and reading about the people, organizations, and stories that help to inspire, motivate and educate. Inspiration is all around us, sometimes we just have to stop to notice it.
A RT & MUSIC E xperiencing, admiring, listening, and producing art and music are incredibly inspiring, and there is plenty of research to prove it. The University of Western Australia reveals exposure to the arts for just two hours every week can improve mental health and overall well-being. In fact, students engaged in arts programs display higher GPAs, lower dropout rates and higher standardized test scores.Check out the articles spotlighting Bartlesville Arts Association and Bartlesville Community Concerts Association to further discover the importance of arts and music in our community.
Jamie UnkenholzPublisher, Bartlesville Magazine
T his issue features the people, places and events that help inspire and shape us into the people that we are and wish to become. A s defined by Merriam-Webster, inspiration is a divine influence, the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions, or the act of influencing or suggesting opinions.
F AMILY & FRIENDS W here would we be without family and friends? They provide love, support, strength, listening ears and caring arms. They carry us in hard times and celebrate the good times. They know us better than we know ourselves, feel our pain and share our victories. Truly a blessing from God, our family and friends inspire and motivate us to push through, enjoy life and be better people. T his fall magazine highlights an amazing survivor story, nonprofit organizations and local foundations that focus on the importance of family and friends.
“ Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King, Jr. W hether we attend small prayer meetings or worship in a large megachurch, faith plays a huge role in our lives, one that is all-important, encompassing, essential and irreplaceable. Take a look at fall’s feature article, focusing on the establishment of one of Bartlesville’s oldest sanctuaries, Bartlesville First Church.
Capturing your Life’s Journey one photo at a time facebook.com/ robinmackeyphotography 918-440-5083 robinmackeyphotography@gmail.com
by BAA Board Member Amy Jenkins. Above: Dormant Reflections by BAA Board Member Amy Jenkins.
All the headlining acts and tionspossibleopportunitieslife-changingaremadethroughdonafromsupporters and grants from various corporations and foun dations.Currently, BCCA is once again offering free ticket vouchers to re gional youth nonprofit groups (e.g., Girl Scouts, school band and music classes, Big Brothers and Sisters, private music instructors of youth, etc.) for each of the season’s upcoming concerts.“Itisalways ex citing to see the ‘next generation’ experience the music through our youth outreach,” BCCA officials said on the organization’s website. “While not all of them will become profession al entertainers or musi cians, most of the young people visibly enjoy the concerts. Perhaps there are a few new budding vocalists or instrumen talist in the crowd.”
Inspiring Bartlesville through art and music by glenn minnisAtleft:Unnamed
With the Communi ty Concerts are billed as a great way for the area’s young people to enjoy an evening out filled with live entertainment and the chance to learn more about music, performers are also selected based on their lively stage presence and audience interac tion.“In addition to the outreach pro gram, we are working to enrich our entire youth onlyareaddaddedouraspiringactivitiesperformersmasterthroughcommunitymini-concerts,classeswithourandothergearedtowardmusiciansincommunity,”BCCAonitswebsite.Associationofficialstheopportunitiesopentoallwiththerequirementsfrom the groups being each youth be at least 8 years old, each student be involved in some form of performing arts, each group have proper adult supervision and each group give the Outreach Coordinator one day’s advance notice prior to each concert as to how many tickets for that concert are needed and each.After selecting which concerts they may want to attend, interested groups are advised to contact Outreach Coordi nator Warren Neff at the email uponattend.chaperoneshim918-335-2274),orgoutreach@bccamusic.address(orbyphoneatandgivealistofstudents&planningtoWidelydependenttheeffortsofits member volunteers, the Bartlesville Art Association touts as its mission supporting and encouraging the visual arts by artists and art appreciators across the area, assist ing in and encouraging education in the visual arts with an emphasis on youth art education, and organizing and promoting stillAssociation.tozationnameBartlesville,helpartsanshiptomemberpublicthatteer-operatedvoluneventsofferaforumforpresentationofartwork.Aspartofaneffortencouragememberfromanyonewithappreciationfortheandwhowantstopromoteitacrossin1965theoftheorganiwaschangedtheBartlesvilleArtWhileanall-volunteer
One of the partsimportantmostofan area’s culture is its art and music, and Bar tlesville has a healthy dose of both, with its Bartlesville Community Concert Association and the Bartlesville Art Association.Overthe years, The massesartistslarly1935,nearlyforfamilysalesdoorsawe-inspiringtraditionsedbecomeAssociationCommunityBartlesvilleConcert(BCCA)hasascelebratforlong-standingasithasitsdebuts.Sinceopeningitswithasimplepitchof“excellententertainmentreasonableprices”acenturyagoinBCCAhasreguintroducedsuchtotheBartlesvilleasVictorBorge, Guy Lombardo, Ranson Wilson, Peter Nero, The Canadian Brass, The Chicago Symphony, The Colorado Children’s Chorale, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance, Chinese Golden Dragon Acro bats, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, Wanda Jackson, Bryon Berline, Grady Nichols and other top performers.Alongtheway, the venue has also paid tribute to the music of such legends as John Denver, Abba,and the Beach Boys, all while offering an uplifting as sortment of Educational Outreach Programs, Master Classes and Matinee Performances to students in the area.
4 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
D avid Osborn - Pianist to Presidents Known as the “Pianist to the Presidents,” David Osborne’s career highlights are many. He has performed at the White House well over 50 times for the administrations of Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. David has performed at Jimmy Carter’s birthday party for over 30 years and entertained at Jimmy & Rosalynn’s 75th wedding anniversary in July 2021. He is the resident pianist at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. His music includes romantic, classical, jazz, pop, inspirational, patriotic, and Broadway show tunes.
Sunday, May 14, 2023, 7:30 p.m. B eginnings - The Music of Chicago Beginnings is the Ultimate Chicago Tribute Band. Guitar riffs, hopped up vocal melodies and the famous brass section all make for American music that stands the test of time. Beginnings is a band of great musicians who grew up listening to Chicago and developed a love for bringing that music to life!
H ow Sweet It Is - The Music of James Taylor
Monday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.
Beginnings transports audiences through more than five decades of Chicago’s extensive catalog of gold and platinum recordings.
A ll Concerts take place at the Bartlesville Community Center. S eason tickets are available at bccamusic.org organization, BAA is now flourishing on the strength of being home to art activities nearly every“Weday.have partnered with civic organizations and our local schools to provide arts education and promotion of the visual arts,” the group said on its state.artsnized“Bartlesvillewebsite.isrecogasoneofthetopcommunitiesinthe by BAA Board Member Amy Jenkins
unday,
S Oct. 9, 3 p.m.
Nashville-based Steve Leslie is an award-winning singer-song writer guitarist. In “How Sweet It Is!” Steve Leslie performs the music of one of his greatest influences, James Taylor, in an authentic and spellbinding concert event. Steve’s warm baritone and exceptional guitar technique will have audiences singing along to James Taylor’s incredible catalog of songs.
Circe 1955
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 5 BV-0001459804-01 Introducing YANMAR, a complete line of ag equipment designed to maximize efficiency and provide enhanced productivity. High quality tractors designed to work as hard as you do. 24171 US 75, Bartlesville • (918)333-4777 • jensentractorranch.com Jensen Tractor Ranch Out-of-this-world innovation is only impressive when it works in your world 2 022-23 SEASON BARTLESVILLE COMMUNITY CONCERT ASSOCIATION
Sunday, March 12, 2023, 2 p.m. B acktrack Vocals Backtrack Vocals is a 5-person a cappella singing group that transforms familiar pop, funk, Motown, standards, and Broadway songs with all-new vocal arrangements. Capitalizing on their fresh sound, BTV began its musical journey by launching a YouTube channel.Their unique music videos featured new arrangements of familiar songs, bringing BTV millions of new fans.
6 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 W hen comesit to child care, nature can often be the best teacher. That is the ethos Careese Hallett brought with her when she dreamt up Explorations Child Care, a
ateopmentallylearnstronglyprovidesopportunitiesingdedicatedExplore,throughcertificationThechildren.”daycare’scomesNatureanonprofittobringtheeducationalnaturetochildren.Hallettbelievesthatchildrenthroughdevelapproprihandsonactivities with a books,wantedcare,”foracyscience,optionsmotorplay,icmessybeandmentdayenvironmentcreated,plannedcurriculum.play-basedThoughtfullyoutandtheoutsideatthecareisthefulfillofHallett’sgoalsdreams.“Thereneededtoopportunitiesforplay,dramatplay,smallworldvariousgrossandfinemotoraswellasart,music,literandsafespacestheinfantsinourshesaid.“Wespacestoreadforthecare givers to cook outside and for the children to be able to eat their meals outside. Our goal is to spend the majority of our days outside.”Various stations in the outdoor area offer children opportuni ties to interact with nature and learn through activities as simple as making mud pies to planting a garden. Hallett says it’s about infusing the kids’ daily care with nature, creating a setting for their edu cation that embraces the natural world. “Nature is at the heart of our pro gram—not necessarily teaching about it but being with it,” she said.But alwaysweatherOklahomadoesn’tplaynice.
Hallett met the prac tical challenge of the state’s climate head on by purchasing snow suits, rain suits, specific sun hats, sun glasses, play clothes and boots to ensure the elements would
Nature and Nurture by elyse kelly with photos courtesy explorations child care
myronmentoutsideatchildren’severynatureplayFromOutdoorcertifiedClassroom.wherethekidstowhattheyeat,infusesnearlyaspectoftheexperiencethedaycare.“Havingaqualitylearningenviwashighonlist,”Hallettsaid.
“I feel very passionate about children learn ing in natural spaces wherever that is— outside or a naturally inspired environment inside with carefully chosen materials for the
This brings the dis cussion of patterns to a real life experience and helps connect what the children are learning to the world aroundDuringthem.”the year, Explorations offers many similar op portunities through field trips to local parks, zoos, ranches, botanical Classroom,natureasdooraquariumsgardens,andoutgatheringspacesextensionsoftheircurriculum.BesidesOutdoorExplo rations is a Certified Healthy Child Care through the toshowsinfeatHealthyandDepartmentStateofHealthaCertifiedEco-ChildCare,aHalletttakesjoybecauseshefeelsithercommitmentthecommunity.
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 7 WE MAKE IT EASY Serving Bartlesville for 33 years swimnholesinc.com 412 SE Washington Blvd, Bartlesville, OK Swim’N918.333.4442HolesBV-0001459807-01 Grill, Bake, Smoke, Roast, Braise & BBQ With Traeger ® Wood Pellet Grills WE MAKE IT EASYFREE DELIVERY & SET UP BARTLESVILLE AREA BARTLESVILLE AREA The Ultimate Cooking Experience. It’s the best kamado grill, ceramic grill & charcoal smoker on the planet WE MAKE IT EASYFREE DELIVERY & SET UP Backyard & Pool House Design not be a thealsoobserved.likebutcanclassroomtogernailsearthgettingla-drainedcolorful,cheeks,snowflakesseasonstoopportunityon,”experiencechildrengaveweatheronsions“Onebarrier.ofthedeciwemadeearlywasnomattertheOklahomauswewantedthetobeabletoithandsHallettsaid.CreatinganforkidslearnaboutthebyfeelingontheirgatheringchlorelleavesorthewetspringundertheirfinisimportantHallett.Booksandmaterialsenhancelearning,thereisnothingbeingoutside,she“Everychildwillseechangesinworldaround them differently than the next,” Hallett said. “I want them to see it through their eyes not mine. I will be there to facilitate and further objectsmaterialsnotchildrentieslearningtheWoolarocpick“Thislearning,”usepremises.beyonditbeyond.”phytheirknowledge.”theirOneelementtonaturalphilosoHallettterms“theSheusestorefertowhatisthedaycare“Anothertermweis‘place-based’shesaid.iswhereweaplacesuchastospenddayforitsuniqueopportuniitpresents.”Hallettwantstolearnwithjustman-madebutnaturalandinnatural ways that will help them make connec tions.Pointing to teaching patterns as an example, Hallett observes that most teachers would pull math manipulatives from a shelf and perhaps read a book about patterns. In Hallett’s classroom, children are taught to see patterns in the natural world and “the“Webeyond.”might visit the museum while at Woolaroc and if you’ve ever visited the museum you know the entrance has a great pattern discus sion opportunity,” she said. “The pattern on the ceiling is one of the children’s favorite pattern discussions.
Larry cowan
8 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
REGARDED BY COMMUNITY AS ‘A WONDERFUL ORGANIZATION’ by tamara browning
Samaritan Counseling & Growth Center, at 245 SE Madison Boulevard in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, offers faith-based, affordable counseling to 900 individuals in about 5,000 counseling sessions a year.
Bartlesville Yard Greetings brought attention to the center on Facebook with a post thanking the center and letting the staff there know “We are so BLESSED to have you here in Bartlesville!” A Facebook post by Green Country Home Organizer expressed appreciation for a breakfast fundraiser -- “A beautiful event in support of a wonderful or S GROWTHCOUNSELINGAMARITAN&CENTER
S amaritan Counseling & Growth Center, Inc. in Bartlesville has provided mental health services for over 40 years in a commu nity that embraces them. Social media posts from businesses famil iar with the not-for-profit located at 245 SE Madison Boulevard show the regard Bartles ville has for the center.
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 9
Although Samaritan is faith-based, staff don’t try indoctrinating anyone into a faith. “We’re just available and open to people who want to discuss spiritual issues, which might show up as a part of their therapy,” Cowan said. “We’re not afraid of that. We don’t necessarily make that a primary goal, but we will certainly address any spiritual issues, and we are probably maybe one of the few around that we will actually link that because we believe very much in the whole concept of a person being spiritual, physical, mental and emotional.”
A survey is conducted at the end of every few months asking people to identify from the time they came into the center until the time they left how their health improved and in what way.
Clients received continuity of care through video health care when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, even as Cowan noticed a higher anxiety among people since the “Peopleoutbreak.got really anxious about lots of things. Of course, finances were a part of that as well as just basic health. So, obviously, the level of anxiety, even panic attacks is high er than it’s been through the years,” Cowan said. “I’ve been doing this for over 30 years now, and I’ve never seen the anxiety quite as high as I have now, and also, I think depres sion goes along with that. People have expe rienced more depression and stress. Stress is certainlySamaritan’shigh.” therapists set goals with cli ents, and surveys are conducted to measure the success of counseling.
ganization. Samaritan Counseling & Growth Center,LarryInc.”Cowan, Samaritan’s executive di rector, is aware of the public’s respect for the center.“That’s what I hear. We have a good repu tation in the community as providing quality therapy,” Cowan said. “All of our therapists are master level and licensed therapists in the state of Oklahoma, so it means we have some quality clinicians that are able to pro vide services for quite a variety of individu als’ pathologies or problems.”
“There’s a goal in front of them that says by the end of, say, a 5-week or 6-week period I want to note that my symptoms of depression like not eating, not sleeping, not being able to focus, those have dissipated or certainly have been reduced,” Cowan said. “When we see the symptoms have been re duced, say for depression or for anxiety, then we know we’ve achieved a certain amount of the goal that we set.”
As a faith-based, community-driven and subsidy provider, Samaritan has certain funds for people who have cancer and people with no ability to pay.
“We’re able to provide some subsidy for many of those people. It allows people who couldn’t get therapy in some other places to really get this from us,” Cowan said.
A United Way agency, the center offers faith-based, affordable counseling to individ uals and families living in several Oklahoma counties and southern Kansas. The center is affiliated and accredited by the Solihten In stitute, which promotes integration of mind, body, spirit and community into healing. Samaritan sees 900 individuals and offers about 5,000 counseling sessions a year. Ser vices include individual, couples and family counseling; Employee Assistance Program evaluations and referrals; tele-health (virtual therapy); tele-psychiatry; and group counsel ing. The center soon will start a group called “Parent“WhichTeach.”isteaching parents how to work with their children, especially those who have certain emotional disabilities,” Cowan said.
PexeLs/Pixabay haMed Mehrnik/Pixabay
Faith-Based Availability Several churches have been instrumen tal in supporting the center since it began operation in 1974 and continue to support the center today “in a variety of ways, from financial gifts to clients,” Cowan said.
10 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
BCF Executive Director Laura Jensen presents a check to John Lindblom and Cordell Rumsey of Washington County Elder Care. Elder Care was the recipient of a spring grant.
ville Public Schools Foundation to the Children’s Musical Theatre to the George Miksch Sutton Avian Research
Bartlesville Community Foundation has positive impact on Bartlesville I t takes supporttheof communitya for schools, business es and families to flourish. The goal of the PowerthrivethatthethedationCommunityBartlesvilleFounistoconnectsupportersandsupportedsoBartlesvillecan“throughtheofTogether.”FromtheBartles
BCFfunduniqueefitedtheorganizationsCenter,acrosscityhavebenthroughthecomponentstructurethatemploys.Inacomponentfundstructure,BCFExecutiveDirec tor Laura Jensen explains, individuals and families can give back to their community offertheOrganizations,generationsleavefuturepreferences,currentthatdonor-advisedthroughfundssupporttheircharitableorestatefundsthatwilltheirimpactfortocome.onotherhand,cantheirsupport through an endow ment that diversifies their foundationJensenprojectinvestmentsinterest,throughnizationsdonorstainability.theirportfoliofundraisingandsecureslong-termsus“TheBCFbringsandorgatogethercommonpooledandsupport,”says.“Thefocus es very intently on collaboration be tween organizations and onthattherecentnotablefoundation’stheareasfundthroughsustainabilitycomponentdevelopment.”Oneofthebiggestofimpactisclassroom.Themosteffortsinyearsinclude$25,000grantmadetheBruinstheRunprogram, which serves Bartles ville fifth graders, possible through a collaboration.courageofgrantwasYMCA.thefoundation,villebetweencollaborationtheBartlesPublicSchoolsRunStreetsandtheThatgrantpartofaspecialcyclethegoalwhichwastoeninnovativeBCFalsoaward by savannah howe with photos courtesy of bartlesville community foundation
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 11 ed over $144,000 in scholarships to Bartlesville area students, support ing organizationsandteeringcommunity,wasFame,AdvertisingtheSr.state.boardfamily-ownedownedTulsaBartlesvilleKelehersCreelKeleher,oreesthemakewhichHalltoiliesinsays,community,”heldrecognized31FamenualrecognizedshipsitatefamiliesJan.cyclethesetting,”particularingpassionbywereofmore.nursingofstudentsbright-futuredinthefieldsSTEM,teaching,artsandThemajoritythesescholarshipsmadepossibledonors“withaforadvanceducationinafieldorJensensays.Applicationsfor2023scholarshipwillopenon1ofnextyear.TheoutstandingthatfacilthesescholarandgrantsareintheanLegacyHallofgala;atotaloffamilieshavebeensofar.“ThiseventistocelebrateourJensen“anddonationshonorofthefamaredesignatedtheBCF’sLegacyofFameFund,isusedtograntsbacktocommunity.”Thisyear’shonincludedtheKingandfamilies.Themovedtofrominthe1970sandthelargestbillcompanyintheDanKeleherwasinductedintoNationalOutdoorHallofandthefamilyveryactiveinthevolunwithwomenchildrencrisisand the symphony. Two of Dan and Dixie’s six children, including Dan Keleher Jr., con tinued the billboard business until it was sold in Dan2021.Keleher Jr., a successful archi tect, remains very involved in Bartles ville with his wife, working with Agapé Mission, the Cham ber of Commerce and the YMCA — to name a few. The King fami ly has been deeply civically involved for generations. David (a lawyer) and Mari lyn (a graphic and watercolor artist with national distinction), high school sweet hearts, spent decades investing and volun teering since moving to Bartlesville in the 1980s. The couple raised three sons in the community, all while remaining involved in the public schools, economic de velopment and other charitable endeavors. All three sons re turned to Bartlesville and lead active lives rooted in service in their churches and communities.TheCreels are another multi-gen eration Oklahoman family that placed roots in Bartlesville in the early 20th century. William “Bill” Creel Sr. and Carol Creel raised five children through the public schools while being involved in board service for multiple founda tions, the hospital and more. After living across the country through mil itary service and job opportunities, Don Creel returned to Bartlesville in 1985, where he became very involved in the church, museum service and more. The Creel, King and Keleher fami lies, and every family that’s been honored since the first gala in 2008, “have been truly exceptional, and each year we are blown away by the extent of their im pact,” Jensen says.
Bartlesville Community Foundation Executive Director Lauren Jensen with Bill Creel II. The Creel family was the Heritage Family recognized at the 2022 Legacy Gala.
Offering free credits, Tri County Tech accepts roughly 300 high school junior and senior student applicants to their high school program that originate from a public, private, virtual or home school located in Nowata, Osage and Washington counties, according to Wyatt. Through the school’s partnership with Okla homa Wesleyan University, graduates of high school, adult full-time programs or prior diplo ma option programs that are not offered any more can apply for a maximum 30 credit hours of general elective and major credit toward the OKWU Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Technical Programs degree or a maximum of 40 credit hours of general elective credit towards any Bachelor’s degree at OKWU, according to the Tri County Tech website. Additionally, the agree ment between Tri County and OKWU will offer up to 15 credit hours for graduates from almost all adult flex programs.
Fiscal Year 2022
“We have a lot of nurses who did our fasttrack path, making $60,000 as a nurse at 21 or a young lady who said we saved her from a life of drugs and poverty,” Tri County Tech Director of Marketing Tosha Wyatt said. “She shared a pic ture of a refrigerator full of food purchased with her own paycheck not on government assistance and she was able to purchase her house not on wheels and not living in a trailer home anymore. We call it ‘life-changing learning.’”
Year after year, Tri County Tech secures accolades like the Improve Performance Quality and Get World Class Results Award, Malcolm Baldridge Quality Award, Great Place to Work Award; and is consistently recognized as a top 100 workplace for women in the United States by Forbes Magazine, according to the Tri Coun
It’s not unusual for Bartlesville to witness high school students that receive early college credit through Tri County Tech’s free and fast trackWhat’sprogram.common is to see students come from a life of harsh circumstances that fast track their degree and build a personal and professional life for themself that may have once been an unprec edented thought.
Tri County Tech inspires higher ed through free, fast track program
by trina thomas with photos courtesy of Tri County Tech Director of Marketing Tosha Wyatt
Students of Tri County Tech
Fiscal Year 2022 Tri County Tech students
Tri County Tech client in the cosmetology program
Tri County Tech students during Fiscal Year 2022.
Tri County Tech medical lab during Fiscal Year 2022. Tri County Tech construction program
WE’RE READY TO HELP YOU SUCCEED In times like these, it’s important to know who’s ready to help. At Arvest, we’re ready to help you succeed nancially — with Free BlueTM Checking, our highly rated mobile app, free person-to-person payments and exceptional customer service. We’re ready to help. Switch to Arvest today. (918) arvest.com/switch337-3257 Member FDIC Free Blue™ Checking requires $50 minimum opening deposit, and enrollment in e.Statements and online banking.
Wyatt says some of the popular programs offered include welding, machining, nursing, cosmetology and a high school CNA program.
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 13 ty Tech website. Not only is the Oklahoma technical college a top place to work for women, but Wyatt is witnessing the impact made on what she calls “non-traditional gendered students.”
“What a lot of our students will do is they can come to us as a high schooler if they think they are interested in nursing, get their CNA for free which is a pre-requisite for our LPN program and most LPN programs in the state and through their clinical partnerships,” Wyatt said. “… We have an articulation agreement ... where high schoolers can come get their CNA for free and then get their LPN program. … They can get credit hours through the articulation agreeement for the BSN program through Oklahoma Wesleyan University that takes off almost a full year of electives for them and have some core classes.” According to Wyatt, the high school program inspires learning through other ways like allowing students to figure out if a career path is right for them without the high price tag attached once leaving high“Myschool.niece went through the CNA program as a junior thinking she might want to go through the program, and she realized she was not nursing material,” Wyatt said. “It saved her tons of money being able to experiment. Our goal is 90% retention and 90% placement and we achieve that goal.” Wyatt said. “Our vision is to inspire success through life-changing learning experiences and we really do try to live by Programsthat.” available to high school students include: Applied Welding Technology; Automotive Collision Repair; Automotive Service Technology; Computer Repair & Networking; Construc tion Technology; Cosmetology; Creative Communications; Culinary Arts; Drones and Avia tion; Early Care and Education; Energy and Power (NEW pro gram); Medicine and Biosciences; Pre-Engineering; Pre-Nursing; Precision Machining Operations; and Teacher Prep. High school districts eligible for the Tri County Tech high school program include: Barnsdall, Bar tlesville, Caney Valley, Copan, Dew ey, Pawhuska, Nowata, Oklahoma Union, South Coffeyville, Wesleyan Christian School and Wynona.
“We had an amazing student who came from the poorest school district in our bigger district,” Wy att said. “She came to us as a female welder, went on to our welding program, went on to advanced cer tification at OSU in welding. By the time she was 21, she was running her own inspection crew across the nation making six figures and donated a kidney to her cousin. I mean, this girl is amazing.”
Tri County Tech Main Campus
14 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
“I started working on cars in high school,” Jensen explains. “I had an old car I worked on over the years, and now I have gotten into Model As (1928-31 make). I restored four or five of those, then got into early V8s — the 33, 34, 35 models. That’s what I’m working on now I have
H
Establishing A Legacy As a young man, Jensen was drafted in 1960 and spend two years in the military. He met his wife Jean in 1964 and the two married the fol lowing year and raised three children. After 53 years of marriage, his wife died in 2018. She had been an active part of the business as well. Born and raised on a farm, Jensen knows the daily labors farmers face, making him a kindred spirit to customers. At one time, he ran cattle on his 80-plus acre property, and he still cuts and bales his own hay on 35 acres of the ranch.
ardwork and commitment build lasting legacy at Jensen Tractor Ranch
“Having this land, we can try out the equip ment right here,” Jensen says. “That’s really important on the used equipment. My grandson, Jared, is a mechanic at the business, and he knows all about how these machines.”
Now, Jensen concentrates his mechanical talents on his antique car collection, a longtime passion for the mechanic turned entrepreneur.
by cara clark with photos by andy dossett When Dave Jensen began Jensen Tractor Ranch in 1986, he was mission-driven to provide service to farmers, ranch owners and neighbors, many of whom he had grown to know. At 85, Jensen has retired from running the business, but he still keeps an active pace. Jensen turned the tractor company over to his son, Barry, who began working at the tractor ranch in 1987. He now runs it with business partner Rex Brown. But the family legacy is still very much alive. Barry’s wife Kim and son Jared are also active in the enterprise. And every day, the company founder stops by to pick up his mail and check in with the crew. “He taught me an ethic of hard work,” Barry says, when asked about the secret to the success of the business, an integral part of the communi ty. “I grew up working on cars and tractors with him. He taught me ranching and how to interact with longtime customers and make an honest living.”Jensen learned his own strong ethic when he was in the construction industry as a young man building grain elevators, a career he stayed with for 20 years. When the company he worked for went through layoffs, Jensen began working on tractors, a familiar chore since he had always worked on cars.
“One thing led to another, and I took on the tractor dealership,” he says. “When I was in con struction, I learned to work hard. I was brought up with a good work ethic, and in construction, you have to follow all the rules and regulations and get the job at hand and in good order. And then you have to leave a clean place when you get done.”When Jensen began selling tractors, they were Fords, now branded New Holland, and he said over 36 years, it wasn’t always easy. Deter mination and a commitment to his customers helped him forge a path through the tough times as he built up his company’s name and reputa tion.The company is now a full service dealer for New Holland Tractors and equipment as well as Skidsteers, Balers, Mowers and Rakes. The business sells and services Bush Hog, Rhino and Alamo Boom Mowers, Exmark ZTR mowers and Echo trimmers, blowers, chain and pole saws.
“It’s good to be able to compare notes when we have ques tions,” he says. “The best way to fix a prob lem is to help each other. And it’s import ant to be acquainted with what you are going to sell and what you represent. You need to believe in your product. It’s got to be a family affair really. It takes everybody work ing together to build up your reputation as a dealer.”Jensen says he’s also appreciative of the community — a sort of extended fam ily that has supported him and his business over the years. “I like being in volved in the commu nity I’m part of, and I’ve been blessed over the years,” he says. “I’m going to bless my family and all my friends in my later years. Without them, I would never have made it. The store is in good hands, and I have some good help. That means a lot to me.”
“It’s getting them the right product that’s going to do what they want it to do, and it will last them a long time,” Barry says. Jensen says the greatest reward is keeping the tractor ranch in the family and leaving his chil dren and grandchil dren a lasting legacy.
five cars restored here.”Jensen shows his cars in the community and throughout the United States with other collectors. Barry said he actually drives them to most of the shows himself, rather than hauling them as many car owners do, illustrating his affec tion for the antique vehicles.Jensen said the build of one of his favorite Fords makes it difficult to access, at times.“The Model A’s are good cars, but they’re really compact,” Jen sen says. “It’s getting hard for me to get in and out of them, but I drive them all the time when the weather is fit.”Jensen is an active member of the Early Ford V8 Club of Tulsa, one of about 100 auto aficionados. The pur pose of the club is to preserve and maintain Ford Motor Company vehicles for the model years 1932-1953.
“I think it’s just my nature to work on cars,” Jensen says. “I love making them run right and restoring them back to the original condition, or as near as I can. I like going to meetings, and our club has tours and get-togethers to talk about cars and go to shows.”Tractor purchasers are looking at a serious commitment when they buy a durable good to work for the land for years to come – or even just a reliable mower to do the job. One of the things Jensen has passed on to his son is helping find exactly the right match for a customer.
The Marie Foster Performing Arts Hall see • THE CENTER • page 20
harPer
Things finally fell into place to bring the by elyse kelly brandon
16 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
Seating 1,700, The Center’s concert hall boasts an orchestra shell and state-of-the-art equipment. A number of nonprofits, including the Bartlesville Symphony Orchestra, Bartlesville Civic Ballet and OKM Music Festival, regularly bring high quality concerts and productions to Bartlesville.Afterahiatus during COVID-19, The Center brought back its Broadway in Bartlesville! series of national touring shows again for the 20212022Normally,season. the series is five shows, said Callaghan, but this year they managed to add a surprise.“Ashow just kind of fell in our lap,” she said. “We’d really been wanting to get the Blue Man Group here to Bartlesville, and I’d probably been working on that for six years.”
R esidents come togethe R at ‘ t he c ente R ’ of B a R tlesville
“It definitely brings the community together, unifies the community, by bringing us together for cultural events,” Val Callaghan, managing director, told the Bartlesville Magazine. “I always think the arts enhance any city.”
Celebrating its Ruby Anniversary this year, the Bartlesville Community Center has been drawing residents together through art and cultural experiences for 40 years. Also known as The Center for Arts, Events, and Community, the community center has come to be known affectionately as simply “The Center.” Since it opened in 1982, the space has hosted everything from ballets to the Oakridge Boys to “Chicago.”
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 17 BV-0001459800-01 WiFi THAT WOWS The best value on fiber-powered Internet. Up to 600 Mbps speed for only /mo for 3 mos* Scan or visit: sparklight.com/offers *Reg. price $60/mo. Activation fee may apply LIMITED TIME: GET FREE INSTALLATION** ($90 VALUE) Call 855-692-4117 INCLUDES UNLIMITED DATA ✝ UPGRADE TO GIG SPEEDS LIGHTNING-FAST INTERNET SAVE $150** $ 40 *Limited-time offer expires September 30, 2022. Regular price $60/month. Freedom Connect Internet Plans are only available in specified areas of select markets. Promotional rate quoted good for 3 months. Activation and deposit fees based on credit report. Offer good for new Sparklight customers only. Equipment and taxes not included. Restrictions apply. Call for details. †When your own data usage exceeds 5TB your data speeds may be slowed to 10Mbps x 1Mbps until the end of your billing cycle. **Savings is based on 3 mo service discount of $20/mo, plus a waived $90 installation fee. OFFER ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 The iconic building was designed by William Wesley Peters, chief architect of Taliesin Associated Architects, The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.thoMas Moore susan steward
Inside, a cloisonné mural of world record size depicts a stylized representation of northeastern Oklahoma countryside. As The Center celebrates its Ruby Year, the Bartlesville Community Trust Authority took the opportunity to rebrand and refresh as they look forward to the next 40 years. The Center is seeing some great growth, Callaghan says. To go along with the rebranding, some updates to the actual structure have given the community center a fresh face. New carpet, a new roof and new upholstery are a few of the improvements residents may notice.
B a R tlesville c ommunity c ente R 300 SE A dA m S B lvd . B A rtl ES vill E , OK 74003 t E l : 918-337-2787 www . BA rtl ES vill E cO mmunityc E nt E r . cO m O p E n : m O ndAy -F ridAy , 9 A m tO 5 p m . O nly O p E n wEEKE nd S A nd E vE ning S during cO ntr Act E d E vE nt S . ( r E ntA l tim ES m Ay BE cO ntr Act E d BE twEE n 6 A m A nd 12 A m .) from • THE CENTER • page 18 andy dossett Managing Director Val Callaghan
“The goal of The Center is to always provide cultural and educational activities that strength en the culture and economy of Bartlesville,” Callaghan said. “We always want to maintain an outstanding facility so that we can have wonder ful performances and beautiful rental spaces that can be a place to which citizens of Bar tlesville are proud to frequent and bring their friends.” GO
Shows and events aren’t the only way The Center brings art to the community. Located adjacent to Frank Lloyd Wright’s only skyscraper, the building itself offers a study in architectural style. With striking curves, the building brings a unique presence to the town and was designed by William Wesley Peters, chief architect of Taliesin Associated Architects, The Frank Lloyd WrightTheFoundation.exteriorisn’t the only façade oozing art.
18 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 blue-pated percussionists to town in the spring of last year. In honor of the return to the ater, Callaghan said they decided to add on a celebratory sixth show. Tickets sold out as the community embraced the musicians and arts once“Weagain.were thrilled—it was just great to see young and old enjoying a show that is popular around the world right here in Bartlesville,” she said.The arts and community center levels up the quality of life for residents, points out Callaghan.
For children and adolescents especially, the arts play an important role in development, she noted. Callaghan loves referring to STEM programs in school as “STEAM” adding an “A” for the “Therearts. are statistics that prove that children who listen to classical music do better in math,” she said. “Just having an outlet for some children who use that side of their brain more than other kids, it just enhances their learning. Plus it’s really fun—the arts are just really fun.”
IF YOU
Broadway in Bartlesville! Sunday, November 13, 2022 Madagascar,ChicagoTheMusical On Your Feet! Thursday, March 16, 2023 Thursday, June 15, 2023 Dates and times subject to change. All Shows Begin at 7:30pm 2022-2023 Saturday, February 4, 2023 STOMP Monday, April 3, 2023
Beckloff was moved to customize his personal Jeep with the names of all U.S. first duty.killedtofromresponders,caninetopoliceEMStomilitary,inthelineofThateye-catch ing vehicle sparked many TributeBartlesville’sestablishmentturn,conversations,conversations.unexpectedThoseinledtotheofProjectFoundation.“Formingthe nonprofit came from people asking how they could donate as they saw the Jeep out and about,” Beckloff said. “I wanted to create a transparent and impactful meth od to serve our first responders.”Foundedlate in 2020, Project Tribute Foundation focuses on saving lives of both first responders and those they help. The organiza tion’s mission is simple: supporting first responders by providing life-saving training, equipment, tools and support. The goal is to help every agency in the area, then eventually agencies andbothdationavenuesmentpayingsucheffective.whichvidingsoontowereefforts,cies.todeploy“Wecies,”medicalfirstagencies.tourniquetseffortFoundation’sProjectnationwide.Tributefirstwastoprovidetolocal“PoliceareoftenonthesceneforemergennotedBeckloff.wereabletotourniquetsdozensofagenThroughourfivevictimsabletomakeitnextlevelcare.”Thatinitialgoalshiftedtoproalargerkit,wasmorecostFindingefficienciesandforequipdirectlyarethefounbelievescansavemorelivesmakesurethe
T he work of Project Trib ute tionFoundaisproof that inspiration can strike in unusual ways.What started as one Oklahoma man’s personal act of protest has transformed into life-saving support for first responders. Jon Beckloff’s silent protest was a tribute that inspired some thingGalvanizedmore. by the ambush and murder of five Dallas police officers in 2016, Beckloff sought to honor those individ uals and other fallen first
T ribute to first responders inspires new foundation by amy roberts with photos courtesy project tribute foundation
20 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
Project Tribute merchandise honors first responders and provides funding for mission objectives.
Texassaid.respect,”It’sersfulllookedwerewhomrespondershebelievedtooeasilyoverorforgotten.“Myheritageisoffirstrespondandveterans.acallingthatIBeckloffFollowingthattragedy,
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 21 mission is achieved. “We never actu ally write a check to the first responders or their agencies. Instead, FoundationTributepays for requests canoneareoff,Accordingofanceiveofness-mindedfoundation’saremission.thatconsidersemphasizeddirectly,”Beckloff.TheorganizationrequestsfallunderitsApplicationsreviewedbythebusiboarddirectorswhoreguidancefromadvisoryteamfirstresponders.toBecklfundingrequestsevaluatedonsimplecriteria:theitemsbeing requested save a life? Requests might range from trainingself-defenseforpolice of ficers to gear such as those tourniquets or perhaps bullet-proof vests. In the future, Beckloff hopes men tal health support will become possible through Project Trib ute as Thewell.challenge to expanding both the offerings and the coverage area, Beckl off noted, is connect ing with donors and developing funding. “It’s been amaz ing to see how quick ly people support what we are doing once they learn what we actually do and how we do it,” said Beckloff, who noted the equipmentportersAmazonviationally,thebutionscharitabletoandwelcomesTributegoodfirstusingmoneycharitiesofedworkfoundation’scanbeimpactbytheexistencefraudulentthatsolicitwithoutfullyittobenefitresponders.Toaccomplishitsworks,ProjectFoundationdonationsiscommittedusing100%ofallcontritoupholdmission.Addiwishlistsavendorsuchasletsupmakedirectpurchas
By purchasing in bulk, cost saving allow Project Tribute to help more first response agencies.
see • TRIBUTE • page 24
22 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 es to support first responders.Additionally, mer chandise is available from Project Tribute, and, it, too, honors the hasers.fromhelpprofitssales,byexpensesthemission.exclusivelytoingcontributions,dation’sprotectsgeneratedSecond,forer,weareranysonershonorsgood.waypresentingtransparencycommitmentorganization’stowhileathree-opportunityforFirst,thegearfirstrespondinathird-perway,removingimpressiontheisarespondmakingitperfectanyonetowear.theincomefromsalesthefouncharitableallowactualdonationscompletelyandfundtheFinally,oncecharity’sminimalarecoveredmerchandiseanyremainingfromgearsupportrequestsfirstrespondWhilemuchbeenaccom
Tourniquets supplied by Project Tribute have already helped several people. Created to honor first responder, a tribute inspired something more. Project Tribute can also support life-saving training for first responders.
plished since he first wrapped his Jeep, Beckloff knows there are many more ways to support first responders. He shared that a unique fundraising walk focused on mental health awareness is being considered for fall. This endeavor is one more resource on which the foundation hopes to expand. More information about Project Tribute Foundation, its mer chandise or how to support its mission may be found on the organization’s web site at herespectedtrulyfirstaregetwillful,goodmitmentmissiontheisecttribute.com.www.projectForBeckloff,ProjTribute’sworkpersonal.Ideally,organization,itsanditscomtodoinginameaningtransparentwayinspireotherstoinvolved.“Ihopethatweabletoshowourrespondershowvaluedandtheyare,”said.
• TRIBUTE • from page 23
The Only Certified Factory Authorized Collision Repair Center C & M Collision Repair Center Inc 117 S. (918)cmcollisionrepair.comMorton336-4883
The funds raised by Miles for Mammograms directly support Family HealthCare Clinic’s Free Mammogram Program, providing free mam mograms to people in the community who desperately need, but cannot afford, the life-saving screenings.
Early detection is critical in a cancer journey,” says Laurie Marshall. “My first andmogramsgrams.forhonorary2020.journeytheirmaryMarshall’ssavedmammogrammylife,”agreessisterRoseWhitson.ThetwosistersbegansharedcancerinthespringofTodaytheyarethechairpersonsMilesforMammoMilesforMamannual5K2Kraceswilltake place Saturday, Oct. 1 at 9 a.m. in downtown Bartlesville at the Tower Green at Unity Square.
“
24 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 T HIS IS WHY WE RUN!
Laurie’s cancer journey began in March 2020 when she felt a lump in her breast. Her doctor immediately sent her to have a mam mogram screening. As she was only 37 at the time, Laurie had never gotten a mammogram and had to face many of her medical appoint ments alone since it was during the period of strict COVID regula tions in the health care somewithJustinfortunatelywereindustry.Thoseappointmentsdifficult,butherhusbandwasabletobeherwhenshehadseriousdecisions to make regarding her surgery and cancer treatment. Being young and otherwise healthy, Laurie opted for an aggressive treatment including a double mas tectomy and the most intense chemotherapy cocktail dubbed “The Red Devil.” She wanted the cancer gone. On that first day when Laurie received her cancer diagnosis, she called her older sister Rosemary to relay the news. Rose mary was concerned for her sister, but also realized that she should make an appointment for her first mammogram as she had just turned 40 a few weeks earlier. Right away, her doctor said Rosemary needed to get addition al images
Kate.Laurie Marshall and Rosemary Whitson. Rosemary Whitson and Laurie Marshall ringing the bell at Laurie’s last chemo, December 2020.
Rosemary Whitson with husband Kevin and daughter Ava
wasRosemary’sFortunately,talvasiveascancerthethatbiopsyRosemary’sfollowingresults.mammogramappearedofsomethingasouttheordinaryinherTheweek,showedshehadsamebreastdiagnosishersister-InInterducCarcinoma.caughtearly in Stage 1, same as Laurie’s. Rosemary also decided on a bilateral mastecto my and treatmentThethefacinglieftreatment.chemotherapyLauriewasindisbethatRosemarywasbreastcanceratexactsametime.twosistersbravedtogether, along with their friend Jessica Dobson who was also diagnosed with breast cancer at about the same time. They went to scarytheirladiesStill,toingLauriereenergizingItchemotherapyDay,”duringthemtheirwhoamazingareduringanyonepatientstheatcomforttogether,chemotherapywhichwasaasitwasstillthetimeduringpandemicwhencouldnotbringtosupportthemtreatment.Theythankfulforthemedicalstaffhelpedarrangeschedulestoallowtobetogethertheir“Girls’astheycalledtheirdays.wasanythingbutaspaday,astalksofoftentakthreedaysofsleeprecoverafterchemo.thethreeamazingkeptsmilesonfacesduringthosetimes.Thesistersfound by stevie williams with photos courtesy marshall & whitson
Above: Justin and Laurie Marshall, Rosemary and Kevin Whitson. Top right: Son Burke helps shave Laurie’s hair during chemo treatment. Middle right: Rosemary and Kevin with Ava Kate, winter 2020. Bottom right: Laurie Marshall’s 2020 Christmas photo with husband Justin and boys Burke and Asa.
“There is a lot of information out there about cancer and many people have experienced it either themselves or with a loved one,” says Laurie. “Use the information you find, but in the end, go with your gut when it comes to decision making.”Caregivers are part of the journey as well.
Laurie and Rose mary both recognize the importance of early “Everyonedetection.should be able to be screened if something doesn’t seem right with their bodies, regardless of insurance,” Laurie says. “I appreciate that Family HealthCare Clinic provides that.” This is why we run!
Rosemary shares the same willlife-savingcommunityhelpingandfromMammogramClinicFamilyinsurance.regardlessindividualsandaffordabletoClinic’sic,”Familyinservice“Thissentiment.isanamazingprovideddirectlyourcommunitybyHealthcareClinshesaid.FamilyHealthCaremissionisprovidequality,healthcarehealtheducationtoofallages,ofmedicalIn2002,HealthCaretookovertheprogramBartlesvilleYWCAsincethenhasbeenwomeninthewithoftendetection.Thisyear’seventoccur,rainor shine. T-shirts will be guaranteed for those who register by Sept. 1 and will be available at packet pick up on Sept. 29. The top three finishers in each age group will receive medals. Prizes will go to Top Male & Top Female. Prizes will also be awarded for Best Pinked Individual and Best Pinked Team. To register for Miles for Mammograms 5K and 2K races or to donate by “Sleepin’ In” or to volunteer for the event, please visit 918-336-4822.HealthCareorgmilesformammograms.www.orcallFamilyClinicat
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 25 strength in supporting each other, plus had amazing support sys tems with each of their husbands, their mom, and their friends and family. The recovery was lengthy.Rosemary advises those who are faced with a cancer diagnosis to “ask for and accept help and find time for yourself and the things you enjoy.” Laurie agrees and says, “Focus on spending time with those you love and pri oritize your life to do the things you love.”
“It was important to me that my husband Kevin got a break from taking care of me, our daughter, and the household,” Rosemary said.Laurie is grateful to her husband Justin. “Being a caregiver can be a lonely and over whelming job,” Laurie said. “The caregiver needs to remember to take time to grab a cof fee with a friend, get a massage, or do whatever it takes to feel more like oneself. Many people forget that the caretaker is going through a lot and needs to be sup ported as Rosemarywell.”and Laurie had heard of Miles for Mammograms in the past, but in 2020 each participated actively. Rosemary registered as a “Sleepin’ In” partici pant and became keenly aware of the importance of a mammogram. “I couldn’t imagine a situation where I might not have been able to get a mammogram due to lack of thedetectawareness.helpteamMilesedthen“Marshallgrams2020formedLaurie’sinsurance.”co-workersateamfortheMilesforMammovirtualracecalledStrong.”ItwasthatLauriedecidsheneededtohaveaforMammogramseveryyeartoraisemoneyand“Ifsomeonecantheircanceratverybeginning,it makes a huge differ ence in keeping it from spreading throughout the body,” Laurie said.
26 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
‘More than just a shelter’
Family Promise of Washington County
FPWC, a ilycontactandcommittedCountynessproblemaboutassessmentsathehomelessorganizationnon-denominationalnonprofit,helpingfamiliesinarea,arerootedinseriesofcommunityin2012thearea’sgrowingwithhomelessamongWashingtonfamilies.“AcoregroupofvolunteerschurchesmadewiththeFamPromisenational organization,” FPWC’s website says. “They initiated a planning process which led to Family Promise of Wash ington andpropertygrantitrecognizingInternal(3)ognizedFPWCCounty.”wasrecasa501(c)underthefederalRevenueCode,itsnonprofcharitablestatus.In2014,FPWCusedfundstopurchaseforadaycenterbeganrenovations.
Homeless chil dren and their families have a place to turn for help in greaterFamilyBartlesville.Promise of Washington County (FPWC), an affiliate of Family Promise Nation al, declares its mission on its website, “to help homeless families achieve ty-basedthroughindependenceacommuniresponse.”Theoriginsof
Anchor House, FPWC’s three-story house on South Johnstone Avenue, opened early the following year to offer homeless families a place to eat meals, shower and do laundry. That summer, Ashley Sikes came on board as FPWC executive/ network director and FPWC accepted its first families the following September.“It’salife-changing program,” Sikes told a Fox News Affiliate at the time. “It’s more than just a establishedandmoreFPWCWeek2016,proclaimedmantlesvilleNovember,Theshelter.”followingthen-BarMayorTomGorandCityCouncilNov.13-19,asFamilyPromiseinthecity.ByJanuary2017,hadreceivedthan140referralsawaitinglistwasforfamilies in need of the program’s services.“The need is defi nitely there,” Sikes said in a Facebook post at the time, adding “We’re constantly working to try to help those that are in need.”Since those first families, FPWC has received almost 370 referrals and served 23 families, 37 adults and 48 children from newborn to14 years old, by karen kidd
Family Promise of Washington County Executive/Network Director Ashley Sikes facebook coM/faMiLyProMiseofwashingtoncounty/
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 27 BV-0001460212-01 5202 SE Nowata Rd. (918) 815-1812 No worriesI got your back and your arms, legs, neck, shoulders, hand, feet... I am a Massage Therapist Morris Amy Morris Amy (918) 287-2624 • 213 E. 6th according to the organi zation’s website. FPWC has helped adults get jobs and eight families transition into stable housing. The adults include one mother assisted by FPWC who obtained her G.E.D and Certified Nursing Assis tant copalofamscongregationsonresources,”supportivebeen“Allcertification.familieshaveconnectedwithcommunityFPWCsaysitswebsite.Today,FPWC’shostareAdBoulevardChurchChrist,St.Luke’sEpisChurch,Disciples
FPWC’s support congre gations are City Church and Eastern Heights Baptist.InApril, FPWC announced in social media that volunteers were “continuing to make progress” at the nonprofit’s Osage House, with hopes of soon being open to serve FPWC“Thankfamilies.you to all the volunteers that have so graciously spent time in helping make this happen,” FPWC said in a Facebook post. In addition to its programs for homeless children and their families, FPWC is well known locally for it’s annual “Tour De BVille” event, a family fun bike ride through downtown Bartlesville that includes stops along the way. “The good news is we are raising money for Family Promise!” FPWC said on its website in the leadup to last year’s event. “And we are still having fun outside SAFELY! All of the money raised will help families who are experi encing homelessness in our Thecommunity.”event,open to all ages, raised $6,770 last “Thatyear. amount will help THREE family’s get back on their feet and into housing!”sustainableFPWCsaid in an Oct. 8 Facebook post, shortly after the 2021 event.Anyone who would like more information about FPWC may visit the nonprofit’s website familypromisewc-ok.org.at “ ”It’s a life-changing program; it’s more than just a shelter. We’re constantly working to try to help those that are in need. Ashley Sike Executive/Network Director Family Promise of Washington County
Christian Church, Our Savior Lutheran, Good Shepherd Church, Dewey Church of Christ, Town & Country Christian Church, Uni tarian Universalist and Redeemer Lutheran.
For the last four years, Rev. Dr. Greg Tener has served as the primary voice of the house of wor ship that held its very first formal organization
B ARTLESVILLE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 4 05 SOUTH CHEROKEE AVENUE B ARTLESVILLE, OK 74003 I M9NFO@BFBC.NET18-336-6172YBFBC.ORG S ervice S : S UNDAY: S UNDAY SCHOOL: 9:15 A.M. W ORSHIP SERVICE: 10:30 A.M. W EDNESDAY: A CTIVITIES: 6 P.M. O FF ICE HOURS: 9 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. BARTLESVILLE FIRST CHURCH 4715 PRICE ROAD B ARTLESVILLE, OK 74006 I B9NFO@BARTLESVILLEFIRSTCHURCH.COM18-336-3361ARTLESVILLEFIRSTCHURCH.COM S ervice S : T RADITIONAL WORSHIP: 8:45 A.M. SUNDAY S MALL GROUPS: 9:45 A.M. SUNDAY M ODERN WORSHIP: 11 A.M. SUNDAY S UNDAY SCHOOL: 9:45 A.M. SUNDAY Bartlesville First Church
Early on in their interaction, members at Bartlesville First Baptist Church face a soul-searching question from its leaders.
28 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 BARTLESVILLECHURCHES
“First Baptist is a launching pad for all kinds of service to Christ: Innovative ministries that reach out to our communities and far-reaching around the world,” reads a passage on the church’s web site. “How will God use you?”
The church, whose roots date all the way back to 1867, continues to grow in size and stature, including adding an adjoining medical center at the corner of Fifth Street and Cherokee in the 1970s that was purchased and remodeled for use as a preschool building. With that, Bartlesville First Baptist Church, under the tutelage of Senior Pastor James Biesi adecki, became the largest church presence in downtown Bartlesville. Now in the lead for nearly a decade, Biesiadecki continues to set the tone in cementing First Baptist as an institution actively working to expand the diversity of programs it offers in support of church members’ and com munityDownneeds.theroad at nearby Bartlesville First Church United Methodist, the scene is much the same, with the church continuing to grow under a motto of “make disciples for the transformation of the“Everyworld.”time hope is reborn in a hopeless life, every time there is a glimmer of mercy in the oppressive darkness, every time someone learns that Jesus loves them; transformation begins,” the church adds on its website. “First Church leaves footprints of hope and encouragement throughout the Bartlesville area. We feed the hungry with the food grown in our Garden of Eatin’ and through our support of the CONCERN food pantry. We sup port the needy through Lighthouse Mission, Agape Mission, and the Angel Tree project”
Providing Inspiration to Many by glenn minnis
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 29 BV-0001459806-01 Your Commercial Real Estate Resource “Bringing Business People and Places Together” Jim Swezey, Broker RealBartlesville,918-336-2244530S.KeelerAveOK74003jim@swezeyrealty.comBartlesvilleCommercialEstateSpecialistsince1987Sales*Leasing * Management * Asset Analysis Visit www.swezeyrealty.com for more information • Site location • Space planning • Market Analysis • Experience
“One fact remains: We cannot achieve great things without the devout, forward thinking, hardworking lay people serving as the backbone and heart of the church,” the church’s website reads.
“Keep your face always towards the sunshine and shadows will fall behind you..” – Walt Whitman well over a century ago in 1895. Over the years, the church has experienced several spurts of membership growth, including in 1983 revolving around the church’s “Vision 2000” plan put forth by then-pastor Dr. Ray Owen. As part of the plan, downtown Bartlesville be came home to a pre-school children weekday care program designed to meet the needs of young families with both parents working. With mission outreach also being big parts of what Bartlesville First Methodist strives to do, the church recently provided support for building a M.E. Church in Kenya,ThroughAfrica.it all, leaders at the church have stayed consistent in their message and in express ing gratitude to those it feels has aided them in achieving their mission.
30 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022
Paper Games interior
With so many options, Bartlesville banishes boredom from friends’ gatherings and offers a variety of places to create a memorable occasion for many different tastes. If you haven’t gotten togeth er for a while—maybe since COVID-19, you now have some ideas to crank up the fun and let the good times roll. by donna rolando with photos courtesy of paper games, boots & brushes and song box
Bartlesville offers plenty of fun for friends
Paper Games exterior
Pe rhaps games and role playing is what your friends like to do. Paper Games, a locally owned shop at 574 SE Washington Blvd., is known for fostering games like Magic the Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh! and Warhammer, according to its website.
Paper Games
B artlesville is known for its variety of attractions from museums to music festivals and, of course, great cuisine, but sometimes it’s a night out and it’s all about having a blast with your friends. Well, you don’t have to leave Bartlesville to kick it up with the gang. Here are some suggestions to turn your get-together into one that will excite Instagram envy.
G ame enthusiasts can play right in the store on hand-crafted oak tables where they can find competitive action or “just have fun.” There are all kinds of games for your friends to sample from Carcassonne, Catan and Ticket to Ride for beginners to the BoardGameGeek’s top 10, including Gloomhaven, Pandemic Season 1, Brass: Birmingham and Terraforming Mars. C omic book lovers will find a large selection of graphic novels to peruse. There’s something for all tastes with board games, role playing and trading card games, as well as Paper Games-themed souvenirs like hoodies, mugs and T-shirts to take home.
SEPT/OCT 2022 • Bartlesville Magazine 31
Melissa Briggs, PT • Excel Physical Therapy 512 SE Washington Blvd • Bartlesville, OK 74006 918-333-4343BV-0001459798-01 What is a Specialist?RehabilitationPelvic trying or just express many people who didn’t know they had an artistic side,” the Boots & Brushes Paintbar website says, beckoning individuals to come and “see for yourself,” at its studio, 322 S. Johnstone Ave. T he gang can get together at one of the paintbar’s scheduled events or arrange for a private party for special events like birthdays, bachelorette parties and more. These private sessions include easels, aprons, p aint and canvas along with drinks and snacks for purchase or favorites like pizza you provide.
PHYSICAL THERAPY
see • FUN • page 34
A: A physical therapist trained in pelvic floor rehabilitation can be a safe and effective non-surgical option for treatment of pelvic floor issues ranging from pelvic organ prolapse to bladder or bowel leakage, and if you are experiencing unexplained pelvic pain, a (Pelvic) trained physical therapist can evaluate and help identify the source. Pregnancy and postpartum issues can be managed with physical therapy and get you back to pre-baby function. When you feel confident that you are doing the right stretches, performing your Kegels correctly, or have a qualified person to help ease your aches, you’ve experienced (a lifeline to some really intimate and) valuable health care. You can be evaluated and treated by a Physical Therapist for thirty days WITHOUT A REFERRAL from a physician. Give us a call to make an appointment today.
Q:
to imitate Picasso, Monet
Brendon Swisher D.D.S Downtown Emergency, Cosmetic & Restorative Dental Care (918) 336-1262 412 E. 4th St. greencountrydentalarts.com - Fast - Safe - Affordable Financing Available BV-0001459799-01 Boots & Brushes Paintbar A lso downtown in Bartlesville is Boots & Brushes Paintbar, where private parties can be arranged for friends to enjoy wine while
their inner muse. “ We are proud to have the pleasure of introducing painting to so
Crossing 2nd
Songbox Music & Bingo
S hopping is nothing new but it’s a favorite so why not consider it for your friends’ get together? Washington Park Mall, located at 2350 SE Washington Blvd. also has a movie theater to make the day complete. You’ll find variety of stores from The Fitness Factory to Bath & Body Works, boutiques and a nail salon, all surefire hits. Bartlesville is also known for specialty shopping like its Artisan Market.
Cooper & MillCompanyBrewing
32 Bartlesville Magazine • SEPT/OCT 2022 BV-0001459926-01
I f your friends are more the kind to enjoy a good brew, then perhaps the Cooper & Mill Brewing Com pany, located at 200 S. Dewey Ave., will be a hit. With a name honoring the town’s rich history, Cooper & Mill Brewing Company is Bartlesville’s first brewery offering many different types of beer all handcrafted right in the taproom. For even more fun the event center on site will let you challenge your friends to shuffleboard, pool, cornhole and more. There’s also a big screen TV for when you just can’t miss the big game.
I nstead of running to a destination, maybe it’s time to host your own party or fun family night? The combination of music and bingo is a guaranteed success. Songbox Music & Bingo offers excitement from every musical genre and era with “unique curated playlists,” including country, hip hop, Broadway and alternative 90s. You can make it happen for guests or family by visiting songboxevents.com and making arrangements for your choice of music and bingo cards to be sent via email. Jam Productions and Strawberry Moon Streaming Radio puts on Songbox Music & bingo every Thursday at 7 p.m. live on strawberrymoonradio.com.
Shopping at Washington Park Mall
A great place to satisfy your taste buds and karaoke or dance to your heart’s content is Crossing 2nd, located at 215 E. Second St. in downtown Bartlesville. This haunt is a little bit of everything under one roof—a deli by day with hearty soups, hot stuffed buns and stacked sandwiches and bistro by night with fare from around the globe. Don’t forget about breakfasts on Friday mornings as well with specialty coffees to jumpstart theOday.neof the restaurant’s signature items is a Not Your Mama’s Milkshake, which uses vanilla ice cream to create frozen sensations like Peach Bourbon or Raspberry Moscato, while other frozen drinks include the ever-popular Pina Colada and daiquiris. Besides lots of karaoke and dancing, there’s ping pong, games and live music and four fun areas to enjoy activities: the Lounge, the Patio, the Game Room (New Bay) and the Garage.
• FUN • from page 33
Museums B ut if your friends are new to town and want to take in some culture, there’s nothing to say you can’t check out a museum. Bartlesville won’t disappoint on this front. There are oodles of museums including Phillips Petroleum Company Museum marking the city’s petroleum roots, the Frank Phillips Home (also related to the oil industry and a national historic site), the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife (a 3,700-acre wildlife preserve with a world-class art museum), to name a few.
Gourmet Western Dining Cash Bar Dancing SATURDAY, SEPT. 24 6:30PM CLYDE LAKE Featuring the music of: BIG TIME GRAIN CO. 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road | Bartlesville, OK 74003 | woolaroc.org | Get tickets online or by calling (918) 336-0307 ext. 101 BV-0001459926-01 Artisans Fireworks Gourmet Western Dining Cash Bar Dancing Artisans 6:30PMSATURDAY,FireworksSEPT.24CLYDELAKE Featuring the music of: BIG TIME GRAIN CO. 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road | Bartlesville, OK 74003 | woolaroc.org | Get tickets online or by calling (918) 336-0307 ext. 101
BV-0001459953-01 NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLE LIFETIME LIMITED POWERTRAIN WARRANTY +10 YEARS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 24 / 7/ 365 ASSISTANCE FLATCHANGETIREBATTERYSERVICE DELIVERYFLUIDSERVICETOWING 3800 SE ADAMS RD BARTLESVILLE, OK (918) BARTLESVILLECHEVY.COM201-1872 2001 SE WASHINGTON BLVD, BARTLESVILLE, OK (918) PATRIOTBUICKGMC.COM347-4045
