Teresa Rose

By

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March 25, 2024

Photo courtesy the Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

Executive director of the Communities Foundation of Oklahoma (CFO), Teresa Rose earned her bachelor’s degree and juris doctor from Oklahoma City University. After, she traversed the state, representing school districts in 150 communities. Following stints with Chesapeake Energy Corporation and the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Rose landed at CFO, utilizing her expertise in law, community relations, government and philanthropy. We caught up with Rose and got her thoughts on …

… the mission behind CFO.

To strategically distribute charitable funds, maximize our donors’ impact and strengthen their communities through stewardship and commitment to sustainable change. For us, this looks like helping great people, organizations and communities across the state do great things by providing guidance, assistance and knowledge. We are the trusted partner in helping people create positive, long-term change in Oklahoma.

… her day-to-day.

Most generally, I am responsible for ensuring the day-to-day operations are accomplished, but I also serve as the bridge between our generous donors and the diverse communities we support. It’s my responsibility to facilitate meaningful connections, ensuring that our donors’ intentions are fulfilled and that the work of our team will advance the communities in which we are working. As a result, sometimes I find myself traveling the state, from Anadarko to Stillwater, Tahlequah to Alva, visiting one or more of our communities in a day. Other days, I’m stationed at our office, collaborating closely with our staff, brainstorming innovative strategies to amplify the positive impact our donors can make across Oklahoma.

… her proudest accomplishments.

There is so much that I am proud of from the work of CFO and the donors and communities we support. The increase in the number of communities we work with is something I am very proud of. When people living in a community decide they want to make their community better, we can provide assistance by helping them with administrative support and nonprofit guidance. Often, people have a vision or a project which will improve their community but lack the experience or tools for the project to come to fruition. I am also very proud of the work we did to assist the State, City of OKC and OK County in dispersing the rent and utility assistance included in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Through the work of CFO and numerous partners, we were able to keep housed over 83,000 Oklahomans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this work we literally saved lives.

… what she wishes more people knew about.

The transformative power individuals hold within their communities. CFO’s goal is to forge dynamic partnerships between donors and communities, fostering growth and progress throughout our state. We firmly believe that every individual possesses the ability to affect meaningful change and leave a lasting impact.

… her time practicing law and her passion for education.

I absolutely loved the time I practiced law representing school districts. For most people who choose to spend their careers caring for other people’s children is a calling, and I was honored to support them as they worked to help children learn and grow to have healthy and stable lives. I believe education is one of the key and essential components of a successful and independent adult life. And for our children who are in low-income or poverty situations, an education is one of the only ways they have a chance to accomplish a different future. Additionally, democracy is dependent on an educated and thoughtful population. Self-governance requires that the population be informed and have the capacity to understand, assess and make determinations. A quality education is critical to developing these skills.

… what her dream Oklahoma looks like.

I love this question. My ideal Oklahoma is a state where, through a combination of public and private resources, every Oklahoman could access the resources to live the life they choose. Whether it’s through access to quality healthcare, affordable childcare in every county, or education systems that uplift everyone in them, our state’s citizens would be enabled to achieve their dreams and give back to their communities.

Top Real Estate Agents Listings

By

Mark Allen

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February 29, 2024

Insurance 101

By

Bonnie Rucker

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February 29, 2024

Health Insurance

What is it?

At its core, health insurance is an agreement between you and a health insurance provider, stating that the provider will pay all or some of any qualifying medical expenses you incur.

Matt Brown, life and health insurance agent with the Tulsa-based office of Rich & Cartmill, Inc., explains the essence of health insurance in simple terms.

“I think health insurance is protection for that, ‘what if’ day,” he says. “To be there for the worst case scenario, if it were to happen, [and] to protect you from medical bankruptcy, is the ultimate goal.”

And, unfortunately, the risk of financial problems due to an injury or illness is a real possibility. According to the American Public Health Association, medical bills are one of the most frequent causes of financial hardship in America.

Brown stresses that it is important not to assume you can’t afford health insurance without getting all the information.

“More and more people are qualifying for a tax credit through healthcare.gov,” says Brown. “So when they think they can’t afford it, they actually can. There’s situations or circumstances that are in place, that maybe … their adjusted gross income actually qualifies them for some monthly savings that they can use for the cost of their insurance. So they don’t have to go without. It’s worth the investigation to see that, based off [their] family size and [their] family income, they’re going to qualify.”

How do I get it?

In most cases, the best way to obtain individual or family health insurance is through an employer group plan. So check with your place of employment first to determine if it provides health insurance as an employment benefit. If health insurance is not a benefit offered by your employer or you are unemployed, you’ll need to look a little further.

Brown recommends shopping for health insurance through the federal health insurance marketplace,
healthcare.gov. Here, shoppers can check out the healthcare insurance options available in their county. This is where you can find information regarding whether or not you are eligible for a federally funded subsidy to help you pay for your coverage as well, says Brown.

“A subsidy helps them … pay for a portion of their premium if they qualify, based off of their household size and household income,” says Brown.

There is a third option for obtaining health insurance by contacting insurance companies directly or working with a health insurance agent or broker.

What should I know about enrollment?

At the end of each year, it’s important to re-examine your health insurance plan. Make sure that it’s still serving your needs, and determine if any changes need to be made. Because, typically, you can only make these changes during a specific time of the year – the enrollment period, or open enrollment.

Be sure to watch for information about the enrollment period if you’re using your employer-offered health insurance. There will be a window of time, typically in November or December each year, when you will be asked to enroll for your employer’s health insurance plan for the next calendar year. This is the time to make any changes to that plan for the next year.

The federal health insurance marketplace operates on a similar time table. Those deadlines are typically from Nov. 1 through Dec. 15, says Brown, but be sure to verify those dates in your state.

There are some situations that occur that cause an exception to this rule. These are called qualifying events and include things like marriage, birth of a child, a move to a new area or the loss or change of a job. These events allow individuals to gain or change their coverage at any time during the year, says Brown.

Term glossary

When dealing with health insurance, you may run across some terms that are unfamiliar. Premium is one of the first terms you’ll see, and it is simply the amount you pay, typically monthly, to participate in a certain healthcare plan. If you are getting your health insurance through your employer, this may be automatically deducted from your paycheck.

Another term you may hear in relation to health insurance is deductible, says Brown. He explains that a deductible is a dollar amount that you are 100% responsible for paying before insurance begins to pay. This amount varies from plan to plan, and can be tied to a higher or lower premium, so it is important to know your deductible.

Next you will want to know what the term coinsurance means. Brown describes this as the percentage split between you – the member – and the insurance company itself. So, after you’ve paid your deductible, if you have one, then your insurance pays a certain percentage of healthcare costs and you pay the remaining percentage. This is typically around 80% for insurance and 20% for the member, according to Brown.

After the deductible and coinsurance comes the out-of-pocket maximum. This is the total amount you would have to pay in a year. So no matter how large your medical bills are, that out-of-pocket maximum number is your total exposure for the year, says Brown. All co-pays, which are set amounts you pay for basic services, prescriptions and your percentage of coinsurance, count toward this out-of-pocket maximum.

Life Insurance

Now let’s discuss a different, but no less important, type of insurance – life.

What is it?

Much like health insurance, life insurance is a contract between an insurance policy holder and an insurer or assurer, where the insurer agrees to pay a designated beneficiary a sum of money upon the death of the insured person.

Susan Weed, the chief sales officer for American Fidelity Assurance in OKC, says that “life insurance allows us to plan, prepare for and financially protect our families and other loved ones when we die.”

What types of life insurance exist?

There are a few different types of life insurance that you may want to consider, but it’s important to have some form of life insurance to provide for those you love in the case of death. According to Forbes.com, 44% percent of U.S. households would face financial hardship within six months if the primary wage earner died; and for 28%, it would be just one month.

Weed explains that there are three main types of life insurance: term, whole and universal.

Term life insurance can be the most affordable, but is only guaranteed for a set number of years – typically 15, 20 or 30. Weed says this type of life insurance can be useful “to cover your working years in case you pass away before paying off your home. Or to provide for your family during the years, when you have young children [and] they are most dependent on you financially.”

Whole life insurance typically has more costly premiums, but those premiums and the face amount will not change for the rest of your life.

“You have an idea of the amount of money that you want to leave, so that any outstanding and final expenses are covered, as well as an additional amount to help those who you are leaving behind,” says Weed.

Universal life insurance is a blending of the other two offerings, and all of these options should be discussed with a professional to determine which type or types are correct for different situations.

When it comes to life insurance, it is an important topic to ponder and discuss with loved ones. But Weed emphasizes the need to not overanalyze the choices and make a decision to protect your family.

“Most people do not have enough life insurance,” she says. “But the most important concept that I wish everyone could remember is [that] the best policy is the one you have in place when you die. Even a small amount of coverage is better than nothing.”

Staying Gold on Broadway

By

John Wooley

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February 29, 2024

Galt Laura Full Body JA — Oklahoma native Laura Galt is a producer on The Outsiders musical. Photo by James Arlen

In March 1943, the musical Oklahoma! – based on the play Green Grow the Lilacs by Claremore native Lynn Riggs – made its Broadway debut. More than 2,000 performances later, the Rodgers & Hammerstein production ended its run as one of the most successful shows ever to play the Great White Way, bringing our state incalculable positive attention.

Now, 81 years later to the month, along comes another set-in-Oklahoma musical. Like its predecessor, it’s based on the work of a stellar writer from the northeastern part of the state. And also like Oklahoma!, it could turn out to be something very good for us all.

The show is The Outsiders, based on the famed novel by Tulsa’s S.E. Hinton. Previews begin in New York on March 16, prior to its official opening date of April 11. And co-producer Laura Galt – who recently helped bring a number of cast and creative-team members to Tulsa for a weekend visit, including A-list producer Angelina Jolie – is enthusiastic about the connections that are already underway between the state and the show.

“One of my goals as a co-producer is to facilitate relationships between the production and the state of Oklahoma and city of Tulsa,” she says. “I think they can elevate each other. This musical can raise visibility for the state and, hopefully, encourage tourism. Oklahoma can also be a support for the production. And then, everybody’s goal is to shepherd Susie’s legacy, which is an incredible one.”

Back row, L-R: Daryl Tofa as Two-Bit Mathews, Joshua Boone as Dallas Winston, Jason Schmidt as Sodapop Curtis, Sky Lakota-Lynch as Johnny Cade, Brent Comer as Darrel Curtis; front: Brody Grant as Ponyboy Curtis. Photo by Miller Mobly

Susie Hinton wrote the novel The Outsiders while still a student at Tulsa’s Will Rogers High School. Her experiences of witnessing the tensions between the “greasers,” kids from the city’s poorer neighborhoods, and the “socs,” those in the school’s upper social echelons, fueled the book, which was first published in 1967. In the decades since, The Outsiders has not only become a perennial bestseller and enduring American classic; it’s also credited with starting the whole genre of young-adult fiction.

Galt stands outside NYC’s Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, where previews begin this month. Photo courtesy Laura Galt

In addition, The Outsiders was the basis for one of director Francis Ford Coppola’s most memorable pictures. That 1983 production, shot in Tulsa and featuring a cast full of young actors who were just beginning to taste stardom, sent a lot of viewers to libraries and bookstores to seek out the book. One of those was Laura Galt herself, who now works out of Texas but grew up in Oklahoma City and, she says, considers Tulsa a “second home.”

“I feel like I was a very smart girl growing up,” she says with a laugh, “but I would probably call myself a reluctant reader. I was introduced to The Outsiders via the Francis Ford Coppola film, and that inspired me to look into Susie’s writings. Seeing the film inspired me to read. That’s something I’m hoping the Broadway show does for other youths.”

At the same time, she acknowledges the differences between the way stories are presented onstage and on a page.

“In a book,” she explains, “you can take several pages to develop or describe a character or an incident. But in a musical, you don’t have the time to elaborate or narrate. You have to show who that character is via a song. So a lot of the character development and the things that drive the story are done through song and lyrics.”

An example of that can be seen and heard on YouTube, which features a sample of an Outsiders number called “Great Expectations.” It’s sung in the musical by lead character Ponyboy, played by Brody Grant.

“It’s about these great expectations he has for his life,” says Galt of the song, “and these dreams he has for his life, and he knows the story that he wants to write for himself. But then he says, ‘Sometimes I feel like the story is writing me.’ Haven’t we all experienced that?’”

Feeling that those lyrics are examples of the universality of both Hinton’s story and its musical adaptation, she calls The Outsiders “a show for everyone – for men, for women, for all ages. I feel like there’s something in this show that every single person can relate to.”

Emma Pittman as Cherry Valance. Photo by Miller Mobly

Galt knows that both the book and the movie set some extraordinarily high standards. She’s confident, however, that the musical will be well-received by those who already love the previous two versions of The Outsiders.

“I do think fans of the book and fans of the movie will be fans of the musical,” she says. “As a personal fan, it hits every mark for me. You walk away so happy and so fulfilled. You see some things online where people are worried that maybe it’s not going to stay true to the story, but it is very true to the story. It’s done wonderfully well.”

For more information about the musical, visit outsidersmusical.com. Those interested in group ticket sales can contact Galt herself at atxrandom.com.

Your Inner Picasso

By

Sharon McBride

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February 29, 2024

It’s been said that creating art can be good for the soul and for mental health, but what if you think you don’t have any artistic aptitude? That’s where local classes and teachers can step in to help you reach your potential.

A variety of classes are held locally, and for people who don’t have experience or feel they don’t have the “talent,” – you can still benefit from taking a class, says Theresa Hultberg, the programs and exhibitions manager for the Paseo Arts Association in Oklahoma City.

The Paseo Arts Association in Oklahoma City offers a variety of art classes in different mediums, all across the district. Photos courtesy the Paseo Arts Association

“Creating art isn’t always about the final product,” she says. “It’s about expressing yourself and taking a moment away from the daily stressors we all experience to have some fun and explore color, texture, material and shapes. Creating something with your hands will engage your senses, get you out of your thoughts and ground you in the present moment. People often feel a sense of accomplishment when it is all done.”

The Paseo Arts Association hosts artist-taught workshops and classes on a rotating basis, and all events are hosted in the Paseo Arts and Creativity Center.

“[Everyone] can visit the galleries and studios in the Paseo Arts District,” says Hultberg. “Many of our businesses offer classes, including Su Casa (needlepoint), Prairie Arts Collective (stained glass), Paseo Pottery (ceramics), JW Jewelry and Home (jewelry), Paseo Arts and Creativity Center (watercolor, sculpture, alcohol ink, acrylic pour painting) and Paseo Gallery One (various mediums).”

No matter the medium you choose, you’ll be greeted warmly by the pros.

“All of the teaching artists in the district are extremely welcoming, and our spaces are accessible and casual, creating the perfect space to relax and create,” says Hultberg.

In Green Country, the Tulsa Art Center is a hub of creativity for art novices and pros alike.

“The Tulsa Art Center is an art-centered, educational community where experienced Tulsa artists inspire students of beginning levels of all ages to achieve their creative goals,” says Marie Sullivan, the center’s owner.

The Tulsa Art Center has classes for adults and children, and all can enjoy courses in a low-pressure environment, says Sullivan. Parents who homeschool their children will also find valuable art resources at the center. Art “parties” can also be scheduled.

“We offer acrylic painting, color pencil, watercolor and drawing,” she says.

As for gaining confidence in art, Sullivan offers some insight.

“Everyone is born with talent until they start thinking they can’t do it,” says Sullivan. “During our classes, we start each beginner with the basics and help them learn the necessary techniques they will need to paint their piece.”

Art and Mental Health

Why does creating art help the mind?

“Because of the expressive nature of creating art, people are able to process their thoughts and emotions by making something with their hands that is uniquely theirs,” says Hultberg. “Both creating and observing art can reduce stress and empower people through their interpretation or relation to artwork.”

She continues: “Depending on personality, adults may find any one of the types of artwork we offer relaxing. We’ve had some popularity with acrylic pour painting, as it is a simple technique and participants get to play with color and patterns of the paint without the use of brushes.”

A Touch of Irish Magic

By

Drew Joseph Allen

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February 28, 2024

With March’s arrival, the green-themed holiday that’s a favorite for many also makes its appearance. St. Patrick’s Day, associated with Irish traditions, dance, music, food, drink and general revelry, inspires a host of Oklahoma-based celebrations.

Sham-ROCK The Gardens

Located in Oklahoma City at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Sham-ROCK on March 17 has something for everyone, from face painting to vendor booths to delicious foods and beer. On top of that, Irish dance routines and music will be performed, with bagpipes as an exciting addition.

“Myriad Botanical Gardens is proud to host this annual Sham-ROCK the Gardens tradition,” says Kristen Milburn, the public events manager for the gardens. “It is always a day filled with stomping-good music and family fun!”

Stockyard City in OKC offers a rousing St. Patty’s Day parade on March 16. Photo courtesy Stockyard City

And don’t forget to take in the green lake, dyed specifically for the event.

“And what a bright green it is,” says Leslie Spears, the gardens’ director of marketing and public relations. “It’s a great backdrop for so many photos!”

Stockyards City St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Located in the historic Stockyards City in Oklahoma City, the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 16 offers an eye-popping display of wonderful Irish iconography and music. Beginning at the intersection of Exchange and Pennsylvania avenues, the parade will include marching bands, bagpipes, Irish dancers, participants from the Shriners group, plus unique cars, community groups, horses and more. After, the McTeggart Irish Dancers will perform, alongside myriad fun activities for kids, such as balloon art and face painting.

ShamRock The Rose District

Located in Broken Arrow’s Rose District, this year’s ShamRock the Rose on March 16 marks the 10th anniversary of the event – and the perfect time to stop by. There will be live music from School of Rock, Glam-R-Us, and Weston Horn & the Hush, along with a family friendly kid’s zone, plenty of food trucks and street vendors, and a craft beer garden. Admission is free, but if you want to try unlimited craft beers, you’ll need a ticket starting at $40. There will also be a special Soldier’s Wish ceremony honoring Oklahoma veterans.

Kilkenny’s and Watershed Tulsa St. Patrick’s Day Block Party

Located off Cherry St. in Tulsa, the block party is hosting several St. Patrick’s Day themed events all weekend long.

“This year we will be transforming our streets into a vibrant celebration of all things Irish once again,” says Alyssa Reichlin, marketing director of Watershed Hospitality, which runs beloved restaurants like Kilkenny’s and Nola’s.

Live music will keep your toes tapping while Nola’s, Kilkenny’s and Alley Cat Ranch will provide delicious meals for purchase.

“Imagine juicy andouille sausage corn dogs or the classic corned beef and cabbage – perfect for fueling your revelry,” says Reichlin.

There will also be a kid’s zone for the little ones, plus adorable and adoptable pets from the Tulsa Humane Society.

“This is more than just a party,” says Reichlin. “It’s a chance to connect with the community, create lasting memories and experience a touch of Irish magic.”

Business is Booming

By

Tracy LeGrand

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February 28, 2024

126307009_2056301517843197_2382754088068881581_n — Becco Contractors is currently working on the Gilcrease extension project over the Arkansas River. Photos courtesy Becco Contractors

An aerial view of northeastern Oklahoma depicts the megalithic handiworks of heavy highway construction company Becco Contractors Inc. Projects range from highway and bridge constructions like the Gilcrease extension over the Arkansas River to the almost finished widening of Yale Avenue from 81st to 91st.

Holding both helicopter and plane licenses, Becco’s general superintendent Chad Smith is familiar with that stunning view from the sky.

“Most of our projects are within 90 miles of Tulsa for bridges and overlays outside the surrounding cities,” says Smith. The company typically works on around fifty plans simultaneously, often on projects large in scope, involving infrastructure and mainstay institutions including the Turnpike Authority, the Oklahoma Transportation Department, the City of Tulsa, the City of Broken Arrow and the City of Owasso.

Becco is a private, family-owned company headquartered in Tulsa that employs around 430 people. Smith says the business has grown about 800% since his parents founded it in 1988, thanks in part to large city projects that started in 1989. Smith grew up learning every aspect of the construction industry, later earning a business construction management degree at Oklahoma State University. Today, he continues to wear many hats including, he says with a laugh, “all the HR.”

Training existing employees and the future generation of workers is a priority for Smith, and Becco has curated project partnerships with Tulsa Technology Center to develop the workforce they need, with training for equipment operators and CDL (commercial driver’s license) truck drivers.

“We started a program about six years ago with Tulsa Tech,” he says. “Right now, we have an operator’s program with equipment simulators at the campus at 31st and Memorial with a full-time instructor; we think of it as ‘Becco University.’ As we bring in new people and invest in existing employees, we want them to succeed – and so we invest in training, helping them earn certifications and operating skills. We are getting a nice return on the young men and women who come through the training program who become safer, more efficient and overall better employees.”

Smith says he devotes time talking to high school and vocational tech students to “let kids know that construction is cool, and you can have a different, well-paying career where you are outside every day. Minimum wage in this is $16.20 an hour, and when you prove your worth, that wage keeps going up.”

The social media campaign #BeccoCares came about “to bring awareness to our company and to safety,” says Smith. “Often in this industry, the only news that comes out is talking about road construction. With hashtags, I thought we could update it and bring awareness to employees, safety, community and our well-received, free concrete recycling program. It’s ongoing, as we’ve donated to different [causes]. People ask for donations, and we help when we can. And we want to communicate that we are hiring and share an option to people wanting a computer or tech job.”

Treasure Hunting

By

Bonnie Rucker

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February 28, 2024

306041888_409648767976876_5680313394642254549_n — Photos courtesy the TABC

Henry Tankersley has a collection of items from late 19th and early 20th century drugstores – glassware, old advertising signs and even some antique Coca-Cola items.

Run by husband and wife Bill and Denny McConnell, 23rd Street Antique Mall offers a bevy of unique treasures. Photo courtesy 23rd Street Antique Mall

“I have an entire museum at my house,” he says.

But his favorite piece is a four-foot-tall mortar and pestle, made from colorful stained and leaded glass, lit from the inside. It was a piece that originally hung outside a drug store in Indiana.

Tankersley has turned his passion for glass collecting into a chance to build community as the president of Tulsa Antiques and Bottle Club. The group creates an opportunity for collectors to socialize and learn from each other.

“We collect antique bottles of all types, every kind you can imagine: medicine bottles, milk bottles, soda pop bottles and [all kinds of] jars,” says Tankersley. “Lots of glass items, as well as a variety of other non-glass antiques [such as] advertising signs and anything made of paper that has to do with antique items or a promotional product.”

Another enthusiast, Bill McConnell, got started collecting at a very young age.

“Even when I was a little kid, I used to drag in all kinds of stuff, but mostly junk at that time,” he says with a laugh.

Today, he and his wife, Denny, own 23rd Street Antique Mall in Oklahoma City. But their passion for collecting isn’t limited to the business side of things.

Today, McConnell’s tastes are a bit more refined. The couple collects antique furniture from the 1870s and 1890s, as well as a highly specialized brand of glassware.

The Tulsa Antique and Bottle Club meets to share neat finds and form a community. Photo courtesy the TABC

“It’s called Wave Crest,” says McConnell. “It was only made [between] 1891 to 1916, and they’ve never reproduced it. So it’s a fun thing to collect,” he says.

At 23rd Street Antique Mall, antiques lovers can find furniture and jewelry, as well as silver glassware, pottery and toys of all kinds from a wide variety of dealers.

While collectors’ clubs saw their heyday in the 1970s, according to Tankersley, there are still groups for people who enjoy antiques and other types of collectibles. These groups tend to congregate around specific types of collections, such as various types of glassware or furniture. They hold periodic meetings and some have newsletters to disseminate information, says Tankersley.

For those who may be intrigued by these cool collections, the Tulsa Antiques and Bottle Club holds its Antique Advertising and Bottle Show every summer at the Tulsa County Fairgrounds. This event is a great way to shop, learn about antiques and get to know others with similar interests.

Excelling in Antiquing

When it comes to learning about antiques and finding those special, one-of-a-kind items, it seems experience and practice win the day. Visiting stores and shopping for the things that get you excited are the best ways to learn more about the hobby.

“How I’ve learned about [antiquing] is just years of experience,” says McConnell. “We were collecting long before we got into the antiques business and we’ve been in the antiques business almost 35 years, so just [through] years of experience we’ve learned [what] things are reproductions, and how to tell the real deal from the not-the-real deal. And so the experience is key for me.”

Grace, Precision, Energy

By

Alaina Stevens

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February 28, 2024

Competitive figure skating is a captivating sport that demands a unique blend of grace, strength and precision. Behind the mesmerizing performances on the ice lies a world of dedication, devotion and relentless training.

“Competitive figure skating requires a commitment to training, on- and off-ice, specific to our sport,” says Jackie Brenner, the director of figure skating at Arctic Edge Ice Arena and Blazers Ice Centre, located in Edmond and OKC, respectively. “Balance through motion, extreme athleticism and the desire for excellence are at the core of what makes competitive figure skating so exhilarating.”

Aspiring figure skaters in the Oklahoma City area can access these two premier arenas, where they can begin their journey to mastery – or even just proficiency. These arenas not only provide top-notch facilities but also offer a supportive environment for skaters to thrive.

“Anyone interested in private instruction can contact either arena for assistance in coordinating training,” says Brenner. This accessibility to professional guidance underscores the commitment of the skating community to nurture talent and foster growth at every level – not just the pros.

According to Brenner, Oklahoma has a vibrant community of recreational and competitive skaters, all driven by the shared goal of reaching the pinnacle of their sport. Many aspire to compete at the prestigious U.S. Figure Skating regional, sectional and national events, where they can showcase their prowess on a larger scale.

“Training often allows skaters to hone their craft for competitive, test and professional opportunities,” says Brenner.

The meticulous training regimen prepares skaters for competitions and opens doors to various avenues within the skating world, including professional performances and even coaching careers.

Competitive figure skating is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle characterized by discipline and an unwavering passion. Every jump, spin and glide on the ice is a testament to the countless hours of dedication and perseverance invested by skaters.

Before You Glide

It’s no secret that ice skating can be a bit scary as a beginner. After all, ice isn’t the softest cushion. Here are a few tips to ensure maximum safety:

1. Make sure your skates fit well. Too big of skates can lead to wobbling and twisted ankles; too small of skates can cause blisters and an uncomfortable glide. Additionally, make sure your blades are sharp – dull blades will lead to falls.

2. Speaking of falls – learn how to do them safely. Yes, you’ll bite it on the ice sooner or later. But knowing how to fall to protect what matters can save you a trip to urgent care. If you’re falling backwards, tuck your chin into your chest and aim to land with most of the weight on your bottom. If you’re falling forward, ensure you’re using your arms to protect your head. And never attempt to grab another skater to regain balance.

3. Avoid skating on natural frozen bodies of water unless they are surveyed and approved by a professional. You won’t be able to see how deep the freeze is, which can lead to potential breaks in the water and an unexpected cold plunge.

4. Don’t be afraid to wear safety gear, like helmets and knee, wrist and elbow pads. Worried about looking dorky? We guarantee it’s better to be safe than sorry!

A Lot of Buzz

By

Carol Mowdy Bond

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February 28, 2024

European honey bees are the most commonly used species as a U.S. pollinator. In fact, bees are used to pollinate over 100 commercially grown crops in North America, making beekeeping one of Oklahoma’s activities with the most buzz – whether as a hobby or a business.

“The Oklahoma Apiary Act allows any Oklahoman to have bees,” says Steve Easom, owner of Easom Farms in Slaughterville. “As livestock, bees need to be managed properly, and if not, there’s an 85% national death rate of bees.”

Rules and regulations for keeping bees are straightforward.

“The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture administers a very friendly set of guidelines,” says Patrick Tickel, secretary of the Oklahoma State Beekeepers Association, president of the Texoma Beekeepers Association, and vice president of the Noble Beekeepers Association. “With the U.S. Department of Agriculture classifying bees as livestock, it can afford beekeepers the chance for federal assistance.”

But both Tickel and Easom encourage people to study before diving into the activity.

“To get started, have at least one year without bees,” says Easom. “Take one year of knowledge and mentorship, and then get with a bee club to find out what type of equipment you’ll need.”

Tickel, who owns his own beekeeping business, advises novices to “find a support group, like a local or regional club. Monetary commitment can be a consideration. Weekly time commitment may range from one hour to three or four, depending on the number of colonies you manage.”

As for the care and keeping of the bees themselves, “honey bees need to be inspected once every 14 to 18 days,” Easom says. “Inspections take somewhere between five to ten minutes for the owner. With a mentorship, you’re going to see the different approaches to be able to achieve the inspection effectively.”

Tickel says risks include stings, but also not having time to manage hives on a schedule, and losing bees to pests and diseases.

Both experts advise to wear appropriate protective gear including a beekeeper suit, a veil and gloves every time one interacts with bees.

“Have an idea of whether or not you’re allergic to bees, and if allergic, take appropriate measures,” says Easom. “And don’t overfeed your bees. When there’s nothing to forage on, many people feed them too much, and they feed them sugar, which has zero nutrition.”

Oklahoma State University Extension has a plethora of beekeeping resources, plus white papers on the website.

Beekeeper Steve Easom’s program Heroes to Hives helps veterans gain new life purpose. Photo courtesy Steve Easom

Making a Difference

In 2022, Easom’s family began their free program designed to cater to veterans and first responders with life challenges. Using their farm’s facility to train new beekeepers, the program has positively impacted a variety of Oklahomans, helping them to refocus and gain new life purposes. The next classes, which include a virtual component, begin March 31 and meet once monthly until November. Classes run from
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Team Easom funds the equipment, and people don’t even have to be exposed to bees if they don’t want to.

“Our program is a pathway for them to finish the course, and come back into the program as mentors if they desire,” says Easom, who is also a veteran. “It’s the opportunity to give back, which makes a difference for the challenges they face. The public is also welcome, but we don’t provide equipment for them like we do for veterans and first responders.”

Easom’s Tru Bee Removal is the only state certified company that extracts and relocates problematic bees.
Find Easom at 405-830-0151, and sign up for classes at trubeeremoval.com.

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