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2 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group IIn the heart of Duncan, Oklahoma, lies a healthcare clinic that is revolutionizing the way patients receive medical care. Fruitful Oaks Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a clinic that operates on a Direct Primary Care model, an innovative approach to healthcare that prioritizes the patient-physician relationship and offers high-quality care without the need for insurance or co-pays. Founded by Dr. Mark Rosekelly, M.Div., D.O., the clinic is a testament to the power of a holistic approach to healthcare that treats the body, mind, and soul. The Direct Primary Care model is a departure from the traditional fee-for-service payment system that has become the norm in healthcare. Instead of billing insurance companies for each visit, patients pay a simple, flat, affordable membership fee. This model removes the need for third-party billing and allows for a more direct and enduring relationship between the patient and their primary care provider. At Fruitful Oaks DPC, patients have ultimate access to their doctor through visits, phone calls, and text messages. The clinic also offers wholesale cash prices for labs and imaging, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all. Dr. Mark Rosekelly, the founder of Fruitful Oaks DPC, is a passionate advocate for this model of healthcare. He grew up in Norwalk, Ohio, and moved to Chicago, Illinois, to attend college at Moody Bible Institute. He obtained a Masters of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary and earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing a family medicine residency in Ft. Hood, Texas, he worked at Reynolds Army Health Clinic in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, until 2023. In 2021, he opened Fruitful Oaks DPC to serve the needs of his community in Duncan, Oklahoma. Dr. Rosekelly's wife, Stephanie Rosekelly, is also involved in the clinic as a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) with Fruitful Oaks Midwifery. She grew up in Fox Lake, Illinois, and attended the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she earned both her Bachelors and Masters in Nursing, specializing in midwifery. She recently opened a home birth practice called Fruitful Oaks Midwifery, bringing her experience in homebirth to SW Oklahoma. When she isn't catching babies or taking care of the family, she serves at Fruitful Oaks DPC by offering well-woman exams, drawing labs A Holistic Approach TO HEALTHCARE FRUITFUL OAKS DIRECT PRIMARY CARE:
3 hometown living at its best when needed, and assisting Dr. Rosekelly during procedures. The clinic is also home to Bloom Pelvic Health and Wellness with Doctor of Physical Therapy, Jordan Cody. Dr. Mark Rosekelly emphasizes the importance of building relationships with their patients and getting to know their needs. In some ways, this approach harkens back to an old way of doing medicine where you knew your doctor personally and had a closer relationship with them. One of the problems this clinic addresses is access to timely care. Today many people rely on urgent care when their physician offices cannot get them in promptly to handle everyday health concerns. Fruitful Oaks DPC makes every effort to get patients seen on the same day or the next day for urgent needs and strives to be able to handle every situation a typical urgent care would. Another perk to DPC care is that appointments start on time, and each patient is designated up to an hour for routine visits; no more rushed appointments where patients are limited in how much time they have to voice any and all of their health concerns. Fruitful Oaks DPC is a beacon of hope for those seeking a more personalized and holistic approach to healthcare. Their focus on treating the body, mind, and soul sets them apart from traditional healthcare models and offers patients a more comprehensive approach to their health and well-being. With the Direct Primary Care model, patients can enjoy high-quality care without the burden of insurance or co-pays. The clinic's philosophy of treating the whole person, rather than just the symptoms, is a refreshing change in a world where healthcare has become increasingly impersonal and transactional. Fruitful Oaks DPC is a shining example of what healthcare can be when it is centered around the patient and their unique needs. † fruitfuloaksdpc.com | 4086 Country Club Road | 580-952-9221
4 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group We LOVE FALL and all the fun and shenanigans this changing season brings. Email your fall and winter celebrations to content@hometownmedia.group for consideration in a future Hometown Happenings! O Duncan Lifestyles Magazine© is published bi-annually by Hometown Media Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 N Main Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. WRITERS Sabrina Forse Rebecca Sanchez Susan Turner Jessica Wesson PHOTOGRAPHERS Debbie Duggar Visuals Matt & Heather Martin Executive Publishers Our family is in the beginning stages of building a home. Where we are building is full of sandy soil. This circumstance reminded me of the timeless bible story (and song) about the wise man who built his house upon the the rock. Sometimes all you see is sand around you and you have to go look for the rock. We know from this parable from Jesus was pointing to Him as the cornerstone for all of our lives to have a firm foundation so that when storms come we will not be washed away like a home built on sand. This morning it also reminded me that when all we see is sandy situations, we are called to seek the rock. God is our rock and our salvation, but at times when circumstances are sandy we need to search for solid footing. That solid footing may be in the form of your community and those you put yourselves around. So whether you are new to Duncan or you are a lifer, we hope you see hope within these pages. Duncan is full of worthwhile events, community efforts and most importantly people who would love to know you and call you neighbor. When the storms come as they undeniably do in all of our lives, make sure you are building your life on the ROCK. Hello Pumpkin! Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Lindsey Kruger Marketing & Client Relations content@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive kayla@hometownmedia.group ON THE COVER Photo by Debbie Duggar Visuals Build Your House on the Rock “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” - Matthew 7:24 Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group “ Trick or Treat ” from the Krugers Happy Fall, from our family to yours ... we’re serious!
6 REMINISCING IN DUNCAN Kyle Collins tackled the massive project of sorting and organizing thousands of historical documents for the public to enjoy. 16 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Chisolm Trail Arts Counsel Live Summer Concert Series 20 GROWING SUCCESS Think Ability, INC. is grateful for Duncan’s community support. 28 HEALTHCARE SPOTLIGHT Get to know some of the medical professionals serving Duncan. 32 STEPHENS COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY CELEBRATES 40 YEARS Scratching ears, rubbing bellies, and giving shelter since 1983. 40 KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Contents 20 42 NEXT GENERATION AVIATION Duncan High School offers an aviation program with hands on activities and experiences to challenge and inspire. 50 SILVER SNEAKERS The fitness class that is keeping Duncan’s senior citizens physically fit and socially active. 58 COMMUNITY IS A CANVAS Read the story behind the art scene in downtown Duncan. 6 42 58 On the Cover
6 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by REBECCA SANCHEZ | Photos by DEBBIE DUGGAR VISUALS and provided by KYLE COLLINS and courtesy of STEPHENS COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
7 hometown living at its best Detail-oriented Kyle Collins tackled the massive project of sorting and organizing thousands of historical documents and images so the public could access and enjoy them. in Duncan Reminiscing Stephens County Courthouse taken in 1951. The picture is taken looking East toward downtown. The Courthouse was built in 1920 and demolished in 1968. I think the oval could have supported additional space to expand the old courthouse. I think at least the Courthouse should have been preserved as a Museum for Duncan. The picture shows many businesses including Floyd Hand service station at 932 West Main (10th and Main); the Paul Hotel, which was above the Palace Theatre; the Duncan Motor Company, which will become the home for First Bank & Trust Co.; the Spencer Lumber Yard, which will become the home for Security National Bank. There are many changes to downtown Duncan that have come about because of fires or progress but it is still our home. - Kyle Collins Written by REBECCA SANCHEZ | Photos by Debbie Duggar Visuals, provided by Kyle Collins, and courtesy of Stephens County Historical Museum.
8 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group SSorting through history requires tracking heaps of information. A great deal of Duncan's history has accumulated since the 1880s, pre-statehood days. More than 100 years passed while photographs and documents were stacked up. Former Stephens County Historical Museum President Kyle Collins, who grew up in Duncan, initiated a major sorting process that brought thousands of images and documents into the public view. Oklahoma's history runs through three generations of Collins' family. Census records reveal his great-grandfather entering the state in 1910 after post-Civil War, economic effects brought his family west. Collins’ grandparents and parents settled in Duncan where he attended Emerson Grade School and Duncan Junior High. An appreciation
9 hometown living at its best for history began early, even earning him one of the highest grades in Keith Harrison’s class and representing DHS at an Oklahoma history event. Following in his family’s footsteps, he too graduated from Duncan High School. In retirement, Collins’ love of history focuses on his hometown of Duncan. Researching at the Stephens County Museum eventually led to becoming a museum board member. While serving on the board, he discovered boxes of papers and photographs askew and unorganized in the museum's back room. Previous organizing attempts had been made, but he knew he had skills that would meet the task. It was then that his love of history and his talents at numbers and details all converged. A Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Oklahoma University, employment as a tax accountant for Halliburton and 22 years of running his own loan company all had Collins planning a calculated approach. He chose a strategy to fit the situation: setting up 10 folding tables and arranging labeled boxes so everything would be ready for sorting. Collins and associate Mike Grantham, who also has multiple generations of Duncan family history, met at the museum most Tuesday afternoons to dig through the files and scattered boxes. “He knows people, and I know history,” Collins says. “He and I are just a perfect match. What he doesn’t know, I know, and that’s why we’ve been able to take those pictures and write on the back who the people were, where the building is and what the time period is. We can take a historical picture and tell you, if it doesn’t have a brick street, that it’s pre-‘11. In 1911, they bricked the streets in Duncan. Main Street was brick. Then I can tell you what side of the street it was on because the sun will shine on the north side of the street and not the south side. I can tell you what the date is and what side of the street it’s on just by the little things, and it’s just because I’ve seen enough of them. I’ve seen thousands of them, maybe 5,000.” Former Stephens County Historical Museum President Kyle Collins, who grew up in Duncan, initiated a major sorting process that brought thousands of images and documents into the public view.
10 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group One by one they analyzed the backroom contents first by date and then by subject matter. Banks, courthouses, railroads, airplanes, bus stations, and the like, categories within the years all grouped in box-by-box chronological order, ultimately requiring 173 sorting boxes. It took six years. “I’m good with numbers, and I remember numbers,” Collins says. “Being able to understand and know numbers, made it easier to research dates and facts.” All of the organized information was of great value for preservation and the archival digitization process that followed. The final product was public, with online access to the cataloged photographs in a searchable database on the museum website. With each photo and newspaper article reflecting a notable time in Duncan's history, Collins expands the briefly clipped memories by doing further research and writing narratives to give the full story. “Some people like to watch TV. I like to research,” he says. When Collins noticed the Remember in Duncan When Facebook page, he asked to join. Since then, he has contributed 200300 stories to accompany the photographs and news clippings that surfaced in his museum sorting project. As one who pays attention to detail, number tracking, and record keeping, getting the full and accurate story is important to him. “If I write a story, I’ve researched it,” Collins says. “I’ve proved it, and I’m not going to publish it unless I feel like the information is 100% correct.” Each posted photograph, whether it has a story or the image is a bit of mystery, creates a stir. Comment threads are long since the images elicit words of thanks, added details, memorable anecdotes and information exchanges between members. People are engaging and reminiscing, and the online group has grown to nearly 9,000 members. Department stores, classroom snapshots from the 1940s, the Tastee Freez hangout and even aerial photos of Duncan all ignite conversation. One of Collins’ favorite stories to write Duncan Library at the corner of 8th and Ash Avenue in 1936. The City of Duncan purchased the house to be the City Library on October 2, 1926. The house is being removed and the historical 1939 WPA library building will be built. The librarian in 1939 is Mrs. Mary Browder. The old Emerson School that was built in 1919. Kyle Collins was a student at this school. The “new” Emerson building was built in 1963. The “new” Duncan Drive-In Theatre in 1949. The Drive-In was located at the NE corner of the 2-lane Highway 81 and Plato Road.
Weedn Hospital after 1925 1906 Duncan High School building under construction. The old high school was located just behind the Junior High building on 8th between Ash and Oak streets. It was a beautiful building in its time but reduced to two stories in 1921 due to faulty construction. City Hall and the Fire Department taken in the 1950’s BUT the building was constructed in 1909. Thanks to a bond issue in January 1909, City Hall and the Fire House along with two school buildings were completed. It is amazing how much progress was made from 1892 to 1909. The town grew from about 300 people to 4,000 citizens. A lot of success is due to strong leadership and vision from businessmen in downtown Duncan. An organization named the Commercial Club was comprised of such leadership in 1909. Starting in 1920, the Chamber of Commerce gives community support for town accomplishments. Circa 1950 Does anyone remember the Duncan Train Station? Did you get to ride the train to or from Duncan? Circa 1936 photo of the South side of 800 block of Main Street near 9th and Main. Payne Jewelry and Studio, Harry's Brown Derby, Oklahoma Tire and Supply, Coursey's Cafe, and Boiles IGA. Years later, we have Duncan Little Theatre, Rose Prairie Boutique, Bernina Center, Main Street Duncan, and Wisely Home and Pools in the same location. The building that the Cafe and IGA were in was the "Loveless" building, 1901. In faded paint was Duncan Furniture... Undertaking and Furniture. In the old days, Undertaking and Furniture store seemed to go hand in hand. Duncan Zoo was located in Fuqua Park 1946-1963 North and South of the swimming pool. Pictured is Kyle Collins’ mother, Jackie Collins, and her 1963-1964 kindergarten class. The Lion pictured is "Louie/Leo the Lion" that came from Oklahoma City in 1958. Erle P. Halliburton taken in the 1930's dressed in work clothes. This is the famous picture of Mr. Halliburton that inspired the statue of him in Memorial Park in Duncan. 11 hometown living at its best
12 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group covered the 1920s courthouse, included six photos, an architect’s rendering and had to be posted in four parts. The page also allows people to search for specific topics. “I think that I have probably established a pretty good foothold for at least Duncan history. What I have done at the genealogy library and the Stephens County Museum, extracting information from all sources and concentrating it on Remember in Duncan, has laid a really good foundation for the community to know its history. It’s a pretty extensive history. Almost any subject matter that you want to know, you can go into Remember in Duncan for banks, the school system, old courthouses, the library, airplanes, the airport and bus lines. You name it. If you are interested in a topic, I’ve got it there for you to look at.”
13 hometown living at its best Collins also created a roll of honor for Duncan librarians, which spans the Duncan Public Library walls displaying the librarians’ photos, names, and years of service. He also donates his time to the Duncan Demons Forever Facebook page posting hundreds of school pictures from the museum collections, including listing every class of DHS graduates from 1902 to the present. “I don’t know of any other town that has gone to the great lengths to research all the graduating classes of their high school,” Collins says. “At one time there were seven grade schools. Duncan High School graduated about 300-500 students a year. When you multiply the number of grads by the number of years, the number of students to keep up with is astronomical.” Collins has served as museum president three times over and as treasurer twice. He continues to share his talents of researching and putting the fond memories and historical details into reminiscent stories for the people of Duncan. He is not only preserving Duncan history, he is also bringing the bonds of Duncan closer together. †
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HOMETOWN Happenings
17 hometown living at its best Photos provided by DEBBIE DUGGAR VISUALS Chisholm Trail Arts Council’s recent CTAC Live Concert Series featured Matt Mercado, Eleanor Dubinsky, and TAKE3. They had two sell-out shows featuring Duncan’s Summer Breeze and The World Famous, Glenn Miller Orchestra. CTAC Live offers concerts throughout the season featuring a variety of music genres and performing arts. It is an affordable opportunity to see and hear high-quality entertainment right here in Duncan. 2023-2024 season line up: • Sept 28 – Matt Axton • Nov 7 – Vienna Boys Choir • Feb 2 – Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road • Apr 5 – Fire and Rain, Folk Anthems of the ‘70s Visit their website for information and tickets for the upcoming 23-24 CTAC Live Concert Series at chisholmtrailarts.com. Summer Concert Series
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19 hometown living at its best When it comes to your or your family’s health, you want and deserve the best. You want a hospital with the highest quality scores in the region – a hospital that provides safe, excellent care and a positive patient experience. That’s why we’re here. Southwestern Medical Center has been a part of this community for 115 years and has a history of leadership in delivering compassionate, skilled healthcare to Lawton-Fort Sill and surrounding communities. » We were the first hospital in Lawton to be awarded “Accreditation with Commendation” – the highest level of accreditation awarded by The Joint Commission, the nation’s oldest and largest accrediting body. » The Southwestern Rehabilitation Center was the first rehabilitation facility in the area to receive a three-year accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) – the highest level of accreditation achievable. » And Southwestern Medical Center is also the first Joint Commissioncertified Primary Stroke Center in Southwest Oklahoma. Choose the hospital that has always put the health of this community and region first. Call 580.531.4700 or visit us online at SWMConline.com. BE WELL. LIVE WELL. Your health comes first – entrust it to Southwestern Medical Center, the hospital of firsts SERVICES AT SOUTHWESTERN • Behavioral Health • Cardiology • Digestive Health • Emergency Medicine • Endoscopy • General Surgery • Gynecology • Imaging and Radiology • Inpatient Surgery • Internal Medicine • Laboratory Services • Laparoscopic Surgery • Neurology • Nuclear Medicine • Nutritional Services • Orthopedics • Outpatient Diagnostics • Pain Management • Rehabilitation • Respiratory Therapy • Sleep Disorders Center • Surgery Center • Women and Children • Wound Care
20 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group GROWING Written by SANDY LOWE | Photos provided by THINK ABILITY and HMG Success
21 hometown living at its best KKyle Daley uses a walker and wears a helmet plus elbow and knee pads. But none of that keeps him from making friends. He met his "gardening friend," four-year-old Rhaylee, at Think Ability's Community Garden, where he works four days a week. They immediately discovered their common interest in gardening and shared plans for their garden beds. Rhaylee never even noticed Kyle's equipment and their friendship continues today, six years later. Kyle is a client of Think Ability, Inc., a non-profit organization that serves community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities. "Everything we do," says Executive Director Robin Arter, "provides jobs for the people we support. They gain work experience and become more employable in the community." THINK ABILITY, INC. IS GRATEFUL FOR DUNCAN’S COMMUNITY SUPPORT.
22 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group When Kyle learned about Think Ability, he lived in another community in southwest Oklahoma. He loved working in the flowerbeds at home and longed to work in a garden center. Kyle, his sisters, and their husbands had a family meeting and decided that starting in 2013, Think Ability in Duncan should be Kyle's new home. He now lives in an apartment setting with twenty-four-hour help available. He loves getting his hands dirty in the garden every day. Kyle propagates flowers, plants, and shrubs, repotting when they grow too big for their space. He recently planted a cedar tree in his backyard and is excited to see how big it will grow. Robin has been with Think Ability since 1990, just eight years after the organization was founded. She started as a Residential Director. At that time, Think Ability provided only residential services. Soon after, another local group, which served vocational needs, suggested a merger. Now Think Ability offers many residence options to meet clients' needs. Clients may live in their homes with family, in a group home, or independently. Think Ability also gained Power Print, a screenprinting shop, from this merger. From there,
23 hometown living at its best the employment opportunities for clients have grown exponentially. Think Ability clients run the Community Garden, which contains two hoop houses, a greenhouse, and an open garden space. Community members can lease space to plant, tend, and harvest crops for an additional cost. Think Ability clients will tend and harvest it for them, alerting them when crops are ready to pick up. Gloves, tools, and water are provided. The garden came from a need to provide good, clean food for clients and to show them where food comes from. Robin grew carrots in her bed. When they were ripe, she brought clients to watch her pull the first ones. It seemed like magic to them, and Robin harvested to a chorus of "Do it again!" Employees grow a variety of vegetables, landscaping plants, and flowers that are sold to the public. It resulted in the Garden Market, a retail outlet for crops, gifts, and other treats. The Garden Market also serves Think Ability clients who follow a special gluten- or sugar-free diet. The Garden Market does not stock "regular" soft drinks. Instead, it offers sugar-free soft drinks and other unusual products. Robin has no hesitation in crediting Think Ability's "amazing team of employees." "They support our mission," she says, "and share our passion. Everything we do is intended to set people up for success." Tina Absher has worked for Think Ability as a program coordinator since 2015. She started as a Direct Support Professional. She now coordinates homes for clients at five locations and ensures programs are running smoothly. That might mean managing employees' time sheets, helping clients with doctor appointments, or training and mentoring staff. "I love this work so much," Tina says. "I enjoy working with each individual. It's amazing to help with daily living skills and see their smiles and achievements."
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25 hometown living at its best In addition to working at Think Ability, Tina volunteers as an advisor for Duncan People First, a chapter of Oklahoma People First. The group promotes self-advocacy for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, teaching them how to advocate for themselves. Robin comments on Tina's delicate balance of supporting and mentoring without doing the advocating herself. Robin and Operations Director Belinda Stephens had been dreaming of opening a "farm to fork" café to take advantage of the Community Garden crops and accommodate the special diets of many of their clients. That dream came true in April. Neither of them had any experience in the hospitality industry. But they didn't let that stop them. Robin and Belinda didn't have restaurant experience, so they hired a chef. The chef didn't have prior training working with people with disabilities. They had already used this model successfully with the greenhouse. A professional landscaper
26 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group brought her expertise, and the Think Ability staff brought their knowledge and training. So everyone is learning to create true teams relying on one another’s strengths and skills. "Every day, people stand in line for a sandwich at the Garden Cafe," Robin says. "They come back because it's a great sandwich and because they want to support our mission. It's very exciting." Robin is quick to acknowledge that SUCCESS IS ONLY POSSIBLE WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT. One source of that support is the state government. The Think Ability Oklahoma City office employs over 100 disabled individuals who provide janitorial services for the capitol building and several other state government sites through the State Use program. And Kyle can brag that his art hangs in the capitol building. He draws intricate shapes on paper and adds color to create a stained glass effect. He gifted one of his works to State Senator Jessica Garvin. Garvin was so impressed she planned to hang the work in her office. "It's very humbling to see the individuals we support and the staff we mentor succeed," Robin says. "Not any one of us can do it alone. We all need each other." †
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28 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group The field of healthcare is a calling. Serving others wholeheartedly when they are not at their best takes a special kind of person. We wanted to get to know some of the many great healthcare professionals serving the Duncan community, why they love what they do, and who they are out of their scrubs. HEALTHCARE SPOTLIGHT Hometown KAREN RODEN | DIRECTOR, IMAGING & CARDIOLOGY SERVICES SHARE WITH US A MEMORY THAT IMPACTED, ENCOURAGED YOU, OR AFFIRMED YOUR PROFESSIONAL CALLING. I owe a special thanks to my director, Curtis Holmes, who hired me back in 1998. He introduced me to and cross-trained me in special procedures/interventional radiology. Some days were very stressful and tiring but very rewarding. Helping patients and improving their health is what it is all about. That’s when I knew I was where I needed to be. Dr. Byron Christie and Dr. Nathan Elfrink, the two Radiologists I have had the privilege to work with in this field, have also been very influential to me. Working alongside them and seeing their care and compassion towards the patients and community, why would I want to work anywhere else? WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC FIELD? I felt that Radiology would be exciting, interesting, and a lifelong career. Little did I know it would have such an impact on me. I am so glad I chose this path; DRH Health is my family! HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE DUNCAN COMMUNITY? I participate in Kindred Community which is very rewarding to me. The Bible tells us to honor the widows, and this is just a small way I can do that. It is a privilege to do this and get together with other community members to celebrate them and make them feel special and loved. TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I have been married to my husband, Heath, for 28 years, and we have two beautiful daughters. My oldest daughter, Emily, graduated from Comanche High School in 2020 (the year of the Pandemic) but has persevered and is in her last year of college in the OU nursing program here at DRH Health. She is also a newlywed, so I gained a son-in-law, Ryley Walden in June!! My other daughter, Kylie, will be a senior at Comanche High School, where she is active in basketball. We attend Providence Baptist Church. We enjoy ATV riding, going to the lake, scrapbooking, and spending time together. WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE BACKGROUND? I graduated from Comanche High School in 1993 and graduated with a Radiology degree from Midwestern State University in 1998. After graduation, I worked at DRH Health and have been here 25 years. I started out doing Radiology and on-the-job training for Mammography and Cat scans. Then, I moved to the Special Procedures/Interventional Radiology field, where I have spent the last 18 years of my career doing all the “fun” stuff. I love it and have worked with some amazing physicians along the way. In August of 2022, I became the Imaging/ Cardiology Services Director. “Karen is one of our hardest-working directors, and she always strives to keep her team excited about taking care of our patients and their families. She is an asset to our organization and does a great job, and we can’t say enough about how excited we are to have her on our team.” ~ Roger Neal, VP/COO, DRH Health
29 hometown living at its best KNOWLEDGEABLE SKILLEDHONESTFOCUSED KYLIE SOUTHERLAND | RN, BSN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT NURSE SHARE WITH US A MEMORY THAT IMPACTED, ENCOURAGED YOU, OR AFFIRMED YOUR PROFESSIONAL CALLING. Many instances in my nursing career have significantly impacted me and reassured me that I am exactly where I am supposed to be! One case that stands out to me is a woman who received a cancer diagnosis that day, and to be there with her and her family, hearing the most devastating news that would impact their lives forever. Being with them at that moment, going through all those emotions, and helping encourage them through it was a special moment that reaffirmed why I do what I do. Moments like those are hard and take a toll, but it reminds me that God placed me in this field and this specific hospital and department for a purpose! And that purpose fuels my fire to keep going and continue to be a strong and caring nurse! WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC FIELD? I chose emergency nursing initially because of the fastpaced, never-ending excitement that an ER holds. I love that in an ER, you never know what you might see that day, and you can learn something new every day! I enjoy positively impacting patients’ lives, even if it’s only briefly before they are off to another floor, facility, or home. I like being able to leave a patient with a good experience in a place where it might be hard to see any positives at all because when they come to an ER, they are at their sickest or going through some of the most challenging times of their lives. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE DUNCAN COMMUNITY? While in nursing school at the DRH campus, I volunteered at the Duncan Community Residence, helping with their nurse’s quarterly visits. Soon after, I joined their board of directors, eventually becoming president of the board of directors for Duncan Community Residence. When I finished my term there, life pulled me towards a new calling of being a resource for those in our community who are victims of sexual assault by being certified as a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) at our community Safe Center. TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I met my husband almost ten years ago while in college; we have two girls, a 4-year-old and a 10-month-old, and we are now working on building our first forever home together! We are at an exciting time in our lives! As a nurse, you realize how precious life is, so I always try to spend my time outside work, making the most of life and enjoying every moment I can with my family! WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE BACKGROUND? I did most of my undergraduate studies at the University of Oklahoma and was also in the National pre-nursing club. After meeting my husband, I finished my prenursing degree at Cameron University. I then attended the Kramer School of Nursing at the DRH campus, obtaining my Bachelor of Science and Nursing. After that, I passed my NCLEX and became a Registered nurse specializing in emergency nursing! For the past three years, I have worked in the ER Department. I have considered getting my master’s in nursing to move up to management one day, but right now, I’m happy with where I am in my career! “Kylie displays warmth and compassion to the patients she cares for in our Emergency Department. Her passion for serving our community extends beyond the walls of DRH.” ~ Kristen Webb, RN, MS, CENP, CNO
30 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group PATIENT EMPATHETICOPTIMISTIC MALLORY WINSLETT | PT, DPT DIRECTOR, REHABILITATION SERVICES SHARE WITH US A MEMORY THAT IMPACTED, ENCOURAGED YOU, OR AFFIRMED YOUR PROFESSIONAL CALLING. The biggest influencers in my life have been my parents. My childhood revolved around our church, our family, and sports, so when it came time to discuss “what you want to be when you grow up,” I knew I wanted to be in a position to serve others and be around sports. I just had to figure out how to take those concepts and make it a career. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC FIELD? I decided to pursue Physical Therapy because I wanted to be able to provide the tools and expertise to help others recover from injury the same way my family and I were helped by our Physical Therapists. I can think of no better way to serve others than to help people reach their goals, whether to return to a sport, work or regain strength and balance to lift a grandchild. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE DUNCAN COMMUNITY? I serve on a few boards within the Duncan community: Duncan Public Schools Foundation, Impact580 Church, and the First Christian Church Daycare and Learning Center. I also volunteer for Impact Kids Team at Impact580 Church, Beautiful Day, the Simmons Center youth basketball league, United Way, and the DRH Health Foundation. TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I am married to my husband of 11 years, Chance Winslett, who works for the National Rural Water Association, and we have two younger children in the Duncan Public School system. Chance is my high school sweetheart, and we always knew we wanted to raise our family in Duncan to be close to our families. We are heavily involved in Impact580 Church and our children’s sports. I look forward to our family gatherings and spending time with our church LifeGroup. WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING, WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING? I enjoy watching/attending OU Sooner sporting events with family and friends and going to the movies. However, most of my family’s time now is spent asking what is for dinner as we chauffeur our children from sporting event to sporting event while braving all the elements of nature. Who does not love a 9 am soccer game with a wind chill of 48 degrees with dirt blowing in your face? Apparently, we live for it! WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE BACKGROUND? I graduated from Duncan High School in 2005 and attended Cameron University in Lawton for my undergraduate/prerequisite coursework. I was accepted into the first-ever Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2008, through which I earned my Bachelor of Science in Health Studies degree in 2009. Then, I graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2011. I took my first post-graduate job with DRH Health in 2011 as a staff Physical Therapist. Later, I moved into the role of Hospital Rehab Supervisor, and in March 2020, I became the Director of Physical Medicine. ““Mallory is a bright, energetic leader in our organization who is always working with her team to make sure we provide the very best care for our patients. She is definitely a key player in our rehab success and we are very excited to have her here.” ~ Roger Neal, VP/COO
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32 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group SCRATCHING EARS, RUBBING BELLIES, AND GIVING SHELTER SINCE 1983. Written by SUSAN TURNER | Photos provided by STEPHENS COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY Stephens County HUMANE SOCIETY Celebrates 40 Years TThe Stephens County Humane Society has much to celebrate. Janis Holmes has taken the reins as the new shelter manager, and, as of April 11, 2023, the society has marked its 40th year providing sanctuary for some of the most vulnerable of God’s creation. The SCHS chain of command flows from the paws up. Janis knows the most important part of this job is undivided attention to meows, barks, and wagging tales. If you want to speak to Janis, don’t call at feeding time; feeding time is pretty much when orphaned baby kittens or 20 pound Great Pyrenees puppies say it is.
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34 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group Janis’ devotion comes naturally. She grew up just outside of Dallas, Texas, and attended college in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography, minoring in Political Science. While she acknowledges not having a resume of specialized training to manage the tail wagging side of an animal shelter, Janis had the opportunity to learn on the best training ground there is. “My mother was a softie. She rescued animals. On our ten-acre property, we cared for 23 dogs. That was the environment I grew up in.” The example set by her mother mentored Janis, equipping her with something no classroom could--compassion. In 2014 Janis moved from Albuquerque to Duncan, Oklahoma. She opened a coffee shop and operated it for four years. “I was the owner/ operator. I took care of all aspects of the business by myself.” Even in this new location, Janis followed her heart. “Our business complex had a stray cat problem, and we rescued 40 cats. We tamed the ones we could and found homes
35 hometown living at its best for them, and trapped others. We had them spayed and neutered, then released them.” When the Stephens County Humane Society posted an opening for a shelter manager, the requirements specified someone with business experience. “Something in my gut told me I needed to apply,” explained Janis. “I ignored it for a time, then I answered the ad.” With a heart for rescuing animals and a head for managing a business, Janis was the balanced candidate SCHS wanted. “Animal shelter manager” must present a challenge to writers of job descriptions. The 50-hour-a-week job at times defies the definition--no two days are alike. The Stephens County shelter can house 45 dogs and 25 cats and is presently at capacity. Everything must be clean before the shelter opens so visitors can walk through. In addition to animal care, there is an abundance of paperwork as Janis oversees adoptions, manages supplies, and building maintenance. She also oversees a staff of 8 full and part-time employees, of which she is very complimentary. “We have an excellent staff,” she says. “They are knowledgeable and generous with their expertise.” Besides a grateful staff and the animals in her care, someone who genuinely appreciates Janis’ abilities is Stephens County Humane Society Executive Director Kelly Nelson. As executive director, Kelly is uniquely qualified. She served 14 years as a volunteer and in SCHS board leadership roles. A Certified Public Accountant, she brought to the shelter financial expertise framed through a heart for animal welfare. “I found it very easy to get involved,” says Kelly. “My input was valued from day one. It was a small shelter, but they had a great foundation, a building, and some endowments. With grants and partnerships to manage, their financials became much more involved, and I was glad to share my experience.”
36 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group Kelly provides a succinct definition of their mission--all efforts of the Stephens County Humane Society are focused on saving lives. In 2022 over 1200 animals aged newborn to senior were given shelter, care, and medical attention. Some of their most rewarding achievements have been rescues and seeing an animal adopted into a “forever home”. Complementing onsite shelter work are programs to help the public better care for and keep their own pets through education about vaccinations, heartworm prevention, spaying and neutering, and advocacy for loving, caring pet ownership. An organization focused on the health and well-being of animals demands a positive relationship with community partners. Excellent communication skills, an eye for detail, and stewardship of public trust all bolster the mission. “On a recent summer day, Duncan Animal Control was handed two Great Pyrenes puppies and six Chihuahua puppies,” says Janis. “Our shelter is full, but our staff gave all of the puppies a bath and deworming. Our foster and volunteer coordinator made calls and Facebook posts. Responsible people came out of the woodwork. It was so heartwarming
37 hometown living at its best to see each of these puppies find safe haven in foster care. I was very proud of our community.” Stephens County Humane Society partners with boarding facilities, veterinarians, and other animal rescue organizations. For example, northern states often have a shortage of animals to adopt. Stephens County transports animals to adopted homes in four other states. Closer to home, the City of Duncan pays their utilities, and they work closely with Duncan Animal Control. “People take strays directly to DAC,” says Janis. “They scan for microchips and there is a three-day hold during which DAC tries to find the owner. If none is located, we try to take the animal into our program. We also microchip every animal that comes through our shelter.” Stephens County can always count on local partners to support community programs such as the “pet pantry.” “Bark in the Park” brings families and pets together for games and an owner/pet costume contest. Perhaps the most unique community event, and possibly the most favored by shelter animals, is the children’s
38 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group reading program. Young readers are given the opportunity to sit beside a kennel and read a story to the occupant, never neglecting to show the illustrations. According to Kelly, the dogs love it. At the sound of the child’s voice, they get quiet and calm. An added bonus is motivation and encouragement to young readers. As shelter manager, challenges fall on Janis’ shoulders and on her heart. Currently, one of her greatest challenges is an unforeseen consequence of Covid 19. “When everyone had to remain at home, they visited shelters to adopt companion animals to help with isolation and be their quarantine buddy. Now that things have opened up, people’s lives have changed. They may have lost jobs, and they no longer want to commit time or resources to a pet. They may no longer feel the need for fourlegged companionship or prioritize time to give to them. As a result, those animals are coming back, overflowing shelters. Janis and her counterparts work double time to adopt them out. The task seems never-ending, and it is hard on the animals affected. “People considering a pet should realize it is a commitment that lasts over the entire course of an animal’s life.” SCHS has a firm foundation and pledges to keep its finances strong and its animals healthy. A dedicated staff and great network of support ensure that the shelter will continue to expand its resources. Leadership is key. Michael Harris serves as president of the thirteen member all volunteer board. He and Kelly work hand-in-hand to achieve goals set by the board. “Our design is that the board president and executive director are the twin engines of the organization,” says Kelly. “We co-pilot.” In addition to setting policy, the SCHS board is a ‘working’ board. Kelly knows she can count on them to work at fundraising events, adoption events, and assistance at the shelter. Individual board members also all give 100% financial commitment. As Janis says, “Every day we have a heartbreaking story and every day we have a heartwarming story. We never know what challenges a day will bring, but we are optimistic about the future.” †
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40 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group PEANUT BUTTER BALLS INGREDIENTS: • 1/3 cup chunky peanut butter • 1/4 cup honey • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/3 cup dry milk powder • 1/3 cup quick oats • 2 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine peanut butter, honey and vanilla. 2. Stir in milk powder, oats and graham cracker crumbs. 3. Shape into 1-inch balls, cover and refrigerate. MINI PIZZAS INGREDIENTS: • 1 tube of biscuits • 1/4 cup pizza sauce • Pepperoni slices • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese DIRECTIONS: 1. Press each biscuit into a greased standard size muffin cup. 2. Spoon 1 teaspoon pizza sauce onto each biscuit 3. Top with a pepperoni and 1 tablespoon of cheese. 4. Bake at 425F 10-15 minutes until golden brown. KITCHEN KIDS IN THE Courtesy of Taste of Home
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42 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by REBECCA SANCHEZ | Photos by SANDY FERGUSON NEXT GENERATION AVIATION Duncan High School students have been given the opportunity to start a career path in aviation with hands-on activities and experiences that challenge and inspire.
43 hometown living at its best DDream jobs are out there, and students long for being able to get their feet wet in the career world. Students at Duncan High School are doing more than getting their feet wet. They are getting hands-on experience with flight simulators and drones while learning skills for one of the top industries in the state. As one of 57 Oklahoma schools implementing the “You Can Fly” curriculum, DHS began the 2022-2023 school year by welcoming 15 students into the course, all freshmen and sophomores. Pre-AP Biology teacher Todd Ledford trained at the University of Oklahoma to teach the aviation class using the free Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) curriculum. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) lessons, assessments, and projects lead students through aviation history, principles of flight, and engineering design. Coursework diverges into either an airplane pilot or drone operator pathway at the start of junior year, ultimately preparing students for the FAA private pilot and remote pilot knowledge tests by the time they graduate from high school.
44 duncan lifestyles magazine | hometownmedia.group Students at DHS also use flight simulators. One is an FAA-certified, Gleim Basic Aviation Training Device purchased by Duncan School District. The second is a Jay Velocity simulator donated by the Corporate Aircraft Association to the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission Aerospace and Aviation Education Program. “All of the AOPA curricula, through the end of year four, is all of the information they need to pass their written test, but they have to get that signed off by a certified flight instructor before they can take the test,” says Ledford who also opens his classroom to Richard Martin, a certified flight instructor from 5B Aviation. Martin donates his time, augmenting the curriculum by teaching students FAA regulations. “My thought behind it was, ‘Why not bring these guys in as we go and sign off as we go instead of waiting until it is all over with, and they have to go back and reevaluate every little thing we did for four years?’”
45 hometown living at its best Ledford indicates that students will be eligible for flying time immediately after passing Martin's test. “Our local airport gives them an hour and a half of free-flying, which means they’ll kick off their flight lessons,” he says. “There’s going to be 14 and 15-year-olds flying up above everybody. There is already one student who is a third of the way through his flight lessons as a 16-year-old here at the high school.” The AOPA curriculum introduces students to the broader fields in aviation such as air traffic controller, electronic technician, mechanical work, engineering, or even drone piloting for land survey purposes. Each education and certification step leads to another. Students may take their learning and license to a military career, leisure flying, or one of the many aviation industry jobs from technology to HVAC to accounting. With nine universities and colleges in Oklahoma that offer aerospace degrees and certifications, five military installations in the state, and a spaceport, next step options are many. Ledford, the aviation students, and Duncan School District STEM Coordinator Sandy Ferguson all traveled to the state capitol in Oklahoma City for Aero Oklahoma Aviation and Aerospace Awareness Day to meet with legislators and to learn about aviation in the state. “We want students to see that the class is not only about flying an aircraft; it is all things that are aviation,” Ferguson says. “Aviation offers a vast field of employment opportunities.
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