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2 duncan lifestyles magazine 26 Contents TRAVEL GUIDE Take a drive to some surrounding towns and don’t be surprised if you feel a world away. THE ROWDY CROWD Local social club puts the fun in fundraising, and their love for one another inmost of what they do. HOMETOWNHAPPENING UnitedWay Day of Caring 14 on the cover 6 18 DIGGING DEEP ROOTS IN DUNCAN The Wilkins family endeavors to leave a legacy of community involvement. 34 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Join us in congratulating 2022 graduates with prayers &well wishes. 30 THE VALUE OF A SMILE No matter where you go, it is the same in any language and is both free and priceless. 42 HEALTHCARE SPOTLIGHT Get to know some of the great medical professionals serving the Duncan community, why they love what they do, andwho they are out of their scrubs. 24 HOMETOWNHAPPENING Crusin’ the ChisholmTrail Car Show 2022 46 GREEN DREAM The Territory Golf &Country Club is a secluded oasis largely untouched by time or man. 54 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ Air Fryer Edition: Carne Asada &Adobo Rubbed Chicken 16 TAILGATING CHECKLIST Football fans, get gameday ready.
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4 duncan lifestyles magazine Lindsey Kruger Marketing & Client Relations Leader Peyton, Cole, Kase, Lindsey and Kyler Kruger Duncan LifestylesMagazine© is published semi-annually by HometownMedia Group hometownmedia.group 502 NMain Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED INTHE 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 Connie Lewis Leonard Taylor Grimm Becca Nelson Sankey CREATIVE | DESIGN Susan Avery, Lead Robin Harrison, CG2 MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS Lindsey Kruger content@hometown-living.com PUBLISHERS Matt&Heather Martin matt@hometown-living.com Casey & Trisha Perkins casey@hometown-living.com Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. - Ephesians 4:32 A Note From Our Team I am so excited to introduce the summer issue of Duncan Lifestyles to you! This issue is sure to leave you smiling as it highlights the great people that serve the Duncan community and make it such a great town to live in. Meet friends as dear as family that support each other and serve together in The Rowdy Crowd (page 6) and a family leaving a community legacy through their kingdomminded business in Growing Deep Roots in Duncan (page 18). I love the common thread throughout Duncan Lifestyles… amazing people and their effect on our way of life. I encourage you to make your own mark on our community by simply taking the time to smile. From the timeless book How to Win Friends and Infulence People by Dale Carnegie, The Value of a Smile can be found on page 30. It is such a great reminder to make themost of the small moments of interaction in your everyday life. As always, we love for you to share your ideas for future issues of people and organizations who make you smile and make Duncan a great place to live. Just emailme, content@hometown-living.com! ON THE COVER The Territory Golf &Country Club Photo by Mike Klemme Freelancer Wanted! We are always in search for great local talent. If you would like to write or take pictures for any of our area markets please contact our office at 817.599.6167 or email us at content@hometown-living.com Hey Y’all! PRINT & DIGITAL SALES Kayla Durham kayla@hometownmedia.group Laurie Blackwell PHOTOGRAPHERS Debbie Duggar Visuals CJae Studios *Graduates
6 duncan lifestyles magazine I Written By TAYLOR GRIMM | Photos By DEBBIE DUGGAR VISUALS and Provided By THE ROWDY FRIENDS The Rowdy Crowd Local social club puts the fun in fundraising, and their love for one another in most of what they do. If you’ve ever been to the Viridian coffee shop on a Saturday morning you have probably seen a lively group of women. They might have even asked you to take their group photo. When asked what they do during that time, a quick and definitive “We’re Rowdy!” seems to sum it all up. Of course, that short and sweet descriptioncouldn’t begin to describe ladies like JeanSchallit, 84, andLinda Keeney, 78—the pair mostly responsible for a group of 15+ members around Duncan called the Rowdy Friends. “Anybody that comes to Viridian knows we’re gonna be there,” Jean said. Linda added, “We occupy the tables in the front and we’re always there, every Saturday morning. We come early and we stay until
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8 duncan lifestyles magazine 10:30-11. We laugh and have coffee and have fun.” Although the women, and one husband, involved are in their 60's, 70’s and 80’s, there are no official rules formembership to the Rowdies. Anyone is welcome to join, and anyone could have fun with this bunch. Jean said there’s really only one rule that all group members must abide by: “We don’t allow any serious talk on Saturday morning.” For as lively and carefree as they are, the beautyherewasbornfromthepain life inevitably brings. “It all started in 2017,” Linda said. “I had been married for 56 years and had a constant companion on Saturdays in my husband.” She said after his passing shewas so depressed from her loneliness. “We always watched sports or traveled or did things together and I just couldn’t shake the blues. So, I told Jeanand she suggested that we meet at the new Viridian coffee shop.” The pair unanimously described the meeting as heavenly. “We just had such a nice time together that we decided we would meet again the next Saturday and invite some more friends and we would call ourselves the Rowdy Friends,” Linda said. They were joined by some friends fromchurch and bunco, who told their friends. “Then it just spread like wildfire,” Linda said. It quickly became evident that Jean and Linda were not the only two seeking to fill their time with fun companionship. “There are so many widows and lonely women that are unattached or just wanting something to do to meet new friends,” Linda said. The group’s activitiesprovide a positive time of release from the challenges of change. “One member’s husband is at the veteran’s center in Lawton. She commutes there several times a week and this is a lovely outlet for her,” Linda said. “She so enjoys this, and there are all kinds of stories like that.” Though it started with coffee on Saturday morning, many of thesewomenhave come to be a constant presence in each other's lives. Jean has been leading a Silver Sneakers class for 12 years now. The class meets three times a week, and many of her attendees are Rowdy Friends who go for lunch together after. During COVID’s quarantine days the groupmet via Facetime to
9 hometown living at its best “We just had such a nice time together that we decided we would meet again the next Saturday and invite some more friends and we would call ourselves the Rowdy Friends.” - Linda Keeney
10 duncan lifestyles magazine remain in contact and in health. This consistent companionship provides a strong foundation for beautifully intimate friendship. “We have the rule on Saturday mornings that you can’t talk about anything serious, but that doesn’tmean thatwe don’t come alongside anyone who’s sick or in some kind of trouble to support and encourage them through it,” Jean said. “Us all being elderly, we’re all going through things. To have that support is awesome, especially for those of us that don’t have family here in Duncan.” Linda agreed, “It's a remarkable thing, to have this many people that care about what happens to you.” Their activities allow them to interact with and supportone-anotherwhileaidingthecommunity. Jean said, “For two years we have planned and executed a sock hop at the old Douglas School gym.” After getting acquainted with the director of the Senior Citizens Center there, they decided they would do the sock hop “just for fun,” but it would benefit the Senior Center and the Douglas School restoration fund. “The first year we had a terrific turnout,” Jean said. “We dressed in our 1950’s clothes and did a hand jive routine. We were the stars of the show.”
11 hometown living at its best Through tickets and concessions, they raised a couple thousand dollars. “We had a disk jockey come and play 50s and 60’s music,” Linda said. “It was really a success.” They are proud to report they helped to get a new floor, bleachers, and roof in the gym. This past year they performed a pom routine inspired by the Pom movie with Diane Keaton. Another annual fundraiser theyhost isa tribute to amember who is a breast cancer survivor. Like many of their fundraising pursuits, the event was inspired by the fun of their everyday life. “We just were having some fun in my backyard, out by the fire pit and decided we would just burn our bras,” Jean said. The bra burning is now an annual fundraiser benefitting the cancer center. The event has evolved to include an optional testimony time just before undergarments are tossed into the flame. They were able to raise $1,700 this year. This group of ladies will no doubt continue to host events and preform dance routines but admit that they really participate because of the support system found while doing it. “If it hadn’t been for that support system our lives would be so different, so boring in comparison,” Linda said. “We’ve had so much fun together and held each other up when times were bad. Some of us have become best friends. I really do believe it was a God thing—that he wanted us to do this. We help each other and we help the community. It’s meant everything to me.” If you are interested in joining them in community aide or Saturday morning fun, stop by the Viridian and meet up with them. “As an individual we maybe couldn’t do that much, but as a group we can do a lot, and we do,” Jean said. Afterall, “You have to be old, but you don’t have to act old.” And as Linda said, “Amen Sister!” † “It's a remarkable thing, to have this many people that care about what happens to you.” - Linda Keeney
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The United Way of Stephens County celebrated their 30th Day of Caring on May 13, 2022. This annual event is one of their most meaningful and popular events where volunteers from multiple organizations and businesses are given the day off work to engage in community service projects at 11 different local non-profits. The projects are submitted by non-profits and usually something that they do not have the skills to complete on their own. The event began at 8:30amwith registration and a group photo and then the volunteers headed out to their project assignments. Project sites include general cleaning, yardwork, tree trimming and painting. All supplies are provided at each site, so the volunteers have everything needed. Thank you to this year’s sponsors that providedmonetary and in-kind donations: Legacy Bank, ChisholmCorner, Debbie Duggar Photography, Duncan Builder’s Supply, Duncan Lions Club, Duncan Regional Hospital, First Christian Church, McCoy’s, Robert Petersen, Smith Dressler, Wal-Mart, The Duncan Banner, The Comanche Times, and The Chisolm Trail Shopper. Photos provided by DEBBIE DUGGAR PHOTOGRAPHY UNITED WAY Day of Caring HOMETOWN Happenings
15 hometown living at its best Each year, groups of volunteers come fromaround 10 local businesses that allow their employees to participate, as well as community volunteers. This year’s businesses included Duncan Regional Hospital, Halliburton, First Bank & Trust, Bank of Commerce, and Duncan High School's Pathways to Future Careers internship students & teacher, Lesa Hefner. United Way of Stephens County believes that volunteering connects people with their community and boosts morale while having fun to make Stephens County a better place for everyone to live and love! For information on next year’s Day of Caring, visit their website, unitedwayofsc.org/day-of-caring.
IN YOUR COLD WEATHER KIT, PACK: r Lap blankets that can be used in your picnic chair and then taken into the stadium later r Extra gloves, scarves, hats and packets of hand and foot warmers r A spare sweatshirt FOR HOT WEATHER, INCLUDE: r A battery-powered fan/ personal misting bottles r Sunglasses & sunscreen r Bug spray LEAVE THESE ESSENTIALS IN YOUR VEHICLE OR KEEP THEM HANDY IN A CLEAR RUBBERMAID CONTAINER. r Matches or lighter r Grilling tools and pot holders r Sharp knife r Cutting board r Cork screw r Bottle opener r Can opener r Meat thermometer r Salt and pepper r First aid kit IF YOU ARE THE MAIN HOST YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FOLDING TABLES & CHAIRS AND YOU MIGHT CONSIDER A CANOPY TENT TOO. r A grill and fuel r Coolers + and ice – one for kid drinks & water and one for adult beverages r Platters or containers for food r Plates, bowls, cups and utensils r Foil r Wipes, paper towels, trash bags & Ziplock baggies for packing away leftovers r A plastic tote and lid for hauling dirty dishes home r Lanterns or flashlights DO YOU NEED AN IDEA OF WHAT TO BRING OR WHAT TO MAKE? TRIED AND TRUE CLASSICS INCLUDE: • Mini hamburger sliders • Hotdogs • Skewers • Pulled pork Send us your game day tailgating pictures to content@hometown-living.com for consideration in the next edition. TAILGATING CHECKLIST • Beans • Fruit trays galore • Chips and dip (ranch, nacho, guacamole, the more variety the better) In Oklahoma you have to be prepared for all types of weather. If you tailgate in Oklahoma your pre-game can go from hot to windy to freezing in the span of a few hours, so come prepared and we can help! Support your local high school teams. Here is a tailgate checklist to help.
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DIGGING DEEP ROOTS in Duncan 18 duncan lifestyles magazine
19 hometown living at its best The Wilkins family endeavors to leave a legacy of community involvement. Written By CONNIE LEWIS LEONARD | Photos Provided By THE WILKINS FAMILY lthoughTonyandMelanieWilkins are first generation Duncanites, they have planted deep roots in the community where they raised their three sons. Tony and Melanie graduated from OSU, where Tony was captain of the OSU Football team. They moved to Duncan in 1991 and became owners and operators of Wilkins Health and Rehabilitation Community that serves over one hundred elderly residents, including those in a Memory Care Wing. Their oldest son, Trent, was an all-state football andbaseball playerwhowent ontoplay football at TU, then baseball at Northeastern State University. He holds a business degree from TU and a Masters from Northeastern. Trent, his wife Rachel and three children live inMelissa, TX, where he works as a State Farm agent in McKinney. Son Tyler was an all-state baseball catcher who went on to play at Northeastern as well. Tyler holds his undergraduate degree from Northeastern and a Masters degree from OSU. Tyler and his wife Halley live in Duncan where he is now the Administrator of Wilkins Health and Rehab. In his spare time, Tyler is a DHS Baseball coach. He is proud of this year’s teamwho just won the 5A Baseball Championship for the first time in school history! Halley is a Speech Language Pathologist at the facility as well as serving part-time for Duncan Public Schools. Youngest son, Tate, graduated from DHS in 2021. He was an all-state outfielder for Duncan Baseball as well as DHS Football quarterback, President of Student Council, and Reflections Show Choir participant. He is currently studying business at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton where he also plays baseball and plans to major in business. RIGHT: Tyler,Melanie, andTonyWilkins, 25th year anniversary of owningWilkins Health&Rehabilitation Community, 2016 LEFT: Wilkins Family celebrating Easter at Impact 580 Church
20 duncan lifestyles magazine The Wilkins family has always been active in church. “We believe that following God and raising our family in a godly home are of utmost importance,” the Wilkins shared. Tony has served as deacon, youth adult pastor, Sunday School teacher, among other areas of service. Melanie served as youth Sunday school teacher for over twenty years. The Wilkins family endeavors to leave a legacy of community involvement, leaving it better than it was. They focus on supporting children and their activities through their time and finances. Their legacy with their family and church has been to set an example to those they are teaching or serving with and to grow in faith so that others will know Him through their service and examples. Tony’s various community involvements include: President of Stephens County Board of Health, past President of Kiwanis Club, Link One mentor, baseball and football booster clubs. Tony also coached football for many years both in the rec league and for Duncan Public Schools. Melanie’s areas of service include: past President of Kelita Club, past President of Duncan Baseball Boosters, Duncan Football Booster Treasurer, past President of Plato PTA, Wilkins Family
21 hometown living at its best THEIR LEGACY WITH THEIR FAMILY AND CHURCH HAS BEEN TO set an example to those they are teaching or serving with and to grow in faith so that others will know Him through their service and examples. TateWilkins was Student Council president during 2021 HaloWeek at DHS. Over $30,000was raised for local charities.
President of One True Light Board of Directors, VicePresident of DuncanCommunity Residence Board of Directors, volunteermentor since the inceptionof LinkOneMentorProgram, volunteer for Beautiful Day and Kindred Community, Workforce Oklahoma Board of Directors, Stephens County Emergency’s Service Board. Melanie also started the Facebook group “Positively Duncan” in 2015. It now has 22,000 members who share positive issues, events, and news about Duncan in the group. “We have turned the administrative reins of Wilkins Health and Rehabilitation Community over to our son, Tyler,” the couple shared. Melanie will soon retire, and Tony will stay on for a while to support Tyler during through the transition. The greatest reward of their work is making the residents’ lives better by takingcareofeachone individually.They strive to include family involvement, making it a happy place to be. The greatest challenge of their career has been the COVID situation. It was absolutely heartbreaking to keep people isolated and separated from their families. Their amazing staff of 140 employees kept coming to work with good attitudes despite not knowing what the day or week would hold. “They, too, have a calling to make our residents’ daily lives the best they can be,” said Tony. They feel blessed to have been led to move to Duncan over 30 years ago. Neither of them had ever visited prior to moving here. Melanie grewup in easternOklahoma, in Sallisaw. Tony is from North Little Rock, AR. Tony’s mother, Marcia, moved to Duncan in 1998, where she worked and retired from Wal-Mart, and she attended all her grandson’s events. “We firmly believe that Duncan is one of the best small towns, if not THE best, in our state. We have traveled just about everywhere in OKwith our kids playing sports through the years. We feel like we have visited so many of the small towns and just haven’t found any who truly compare toDuncan. This community is our home, and we are honored to live here among such wonderful people,” Melanie and Tony proudly agree. † We firmly believe that Duncan is one of the best small towns, if not THE best, in our state. Santa'sHelpers, TonyandTyler, givingout employeeChristmas giftsatWilkinsHealth&Rehab About the Author/Writer Bio: Connie Lewis Leonard is an accomplished novelist and active journalist. She writes Christian fiction and nonfiction. As a journalist, she regularlywrites inspiring personal interest stories about people who make a positive difference in the world.Connie is a retired public-school teacher and has aMaster of Arts in English and Education fromMidwestern State University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education fromAngelo State University.She lives in Granburywith her husband and three rescue dogs. They have two grown children and three grandchildren.
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HOMETOWN Happenings
25 hometown living at its best ain Street Duncan held the 2022 Car Show and Cruise on April 29th. A wonderful display of classic cars, modified vehicles, motorcycles and vintage trucks. Attendees enjoyed deals of the day from the Downtown Duncan merchants and restaurants. Additional entertainment included food trucks, boutique trailers, and Kids Zone with games. Cruisin’ the Chisholm Trail was held by Main Street Duncan Inc. a non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the Historic Downtown Duncan district. Photos provided by CHARLES DUGGAR THE CHISHOLM TRAIL CAR SHOW 2022 Cruisin'
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29 hometown living at its best { { travel guide All Aboard! Your West Texas Adventure Awaits. Abilene is big on what matters: history, culture, innovation, and West Texas hospitality. Make a little time to stay and play, to see and feel authentic Texas, and do things you can’t find anywhere else. After all, Abilene owns bragging rights as the Storybook Capital of America®. Plot your summer adventure today! Learn more at abilenevisitors.com
The VALUE ofa Smile amended excerpt from Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People ] [ 1 It costs nothing, but creates much. 2 It enriches those who receive, without impoverishing those who give. 3 It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes lasts forever. 30 duncan lifestyles magazine No matter where you go, it is the same in any language and is both free and priceless.
4 None are so rich they can get along without it, and none so poor but are richer for its benefits. 5 It creates happiness in the home, fosters goodwill in a business, and is the countersign of friends. 6 It is rest for the weary, daylight to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and Nature’s best antidote for trouble. 7 Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is some thing that is no earthly good to anybody till it is given away. 8 And if in the rush of life some should be too tired to give you a smile, may we ask you to leave one of yours? 9 For nobody needs to smile so much as those who have none left to give! 31 hometown living at its best
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34 duncan lifestyles magazine 1. Zack Skinner | Homeschool Duncan 2. Maelyn Marks | Duncan High School 3. Micah Miller | Duncan High School 4. Madison Carlisle | Duncan High School 5. Trevyn Stewart | Duncan High School 6. Kaylee Foster | Duncan High School 7. Clay Phillips | Duncan High School 8. Asia Fleetwood | Duncan High School 9. Christian Aviles | Duncan High School 10. Emma Wilkerson | Duncan High School 11. Korbin Hammock | Duncan High School 12. Kenzie Leveille | Comanche High School 13. Jaxon Merchant | Duncan High School Graduates HOMETOWN photos by CJAE STUDIOS 1 2 3 4
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36 duncan lifestyles magazine 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1. Alexis Giles | Homeschool Duncan 2. Gavin Curry | Duncan High School 3. Carsyn Etheridge | Duncan High School 4. Floyd Guernsey | Duncan High School 5. Ava Curry | Duncan High School 6. Peyton Roberson | Duncan High School 7. Mac Guernsey | Duncan High School Join us in congratulating our area graduates with prayers & well wishes for their future endeavors. Contact our office for information on being featured in our next Hometown Graduates spotlight. Email: content@hometown-living.com
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40 duncan lifestyles magazine HOME LOANS WITH PERSONAL SERVICE Arvest retains the servicing of 99% of the home loans we make, giving you peace of mind that you won’t suddenly be dealing with an unknown mortgage servicing company. If you're considering buying a home, give me a call today! Member FDIC arvest.com/home4me Loans subject to credit approval. Nita Mitchell nmitchell@arvest.com (580) 467-0824 NMLS# 564626
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42 duncan lifestyles magazine 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 A MEMORY THAT MADE AN IMPACT, ENCOURAGED YOU I have always been proud to be a pharmacist but being a hospital pharmacist during the pandemic took that to a whole new level. Our health care team came together to provide exceptional patient care during the most trying of circumstances. It was very rewarding, even though it was by far the most challenging time that I have ever faced during my career. WHY I CHOSE MY SPECIFIC FIELD I have always loved the medical field, so a healthcare career was the obvious choice for me. I chose pharmacy specifically because it allowed me to be an integral part of a healthcare team. It also allowed me the time and flexibility to raise a family. I have been a pharmacist for over 18 years, spending the last 10 of those years at DRH Health. I am also the Pharmacist in Charge at DRH Health’s Jefferson County Hospital. PERSONAL INFO My husband, Brandon, and I have been married for 17 years. We have three wonderful children. Brice is our oldest; she just turned 13 years old, and we also have eight-year-old twin boys, Kye and Knox. I have lived in Ringling all of my life and really enjoy being able to give back to my home community through my work at DRH, which provides care for many Jefferson County residents. Amy Wade PharmD, Staff Pharmacist
43 hometown living at its best K N OW L E D G E A B L E SKILLEDHONESTFOCUSED A MEMORY THAT MADE AN IMPACT, ENCOURAGED ME, AFFIRMED MY CALLING Growing up, I struggled with a heart condition called AVNRT (AV Nodal Reentry Tachycardia). I spent many ER visits from my tweens to my early 20s, getting IVs, EKGs, and IV drugs to slow my heart rate. I met several healthcare providers who made a rough experience feel like it would be okay and survivable; that I was more than just a patient, I was a person. I think this, more than anything, lead me to a career in healthcare. MY DUNCAN ROOTS I grew up in Duncan and moved away after college. I later came back to Duncan to be closer to my parents. I am a proud single parent of two children, a 13-year-old son, and a 12-year-old daughter. WHEN I AM NOT WORKING, YOU WILL FIND ME I love to read, spend time with my kids, hike in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife refuge, or enjoy other outdoor areas around the state. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE I graduated with distinction from The University of Oklahoma College of Nursing in 2000, earning my BSN. I have many years of experience in the Emergency Department, electrophysiology, endoscopy, and surgical areas. BSN, RN, Surgery RN Amanda Tincher
44 duncan lifestyles magazine Jamie Torgerson A MEMORY THAT MADE AN IMPACT, ENCOURAGED YOU At the beginning of my nursing career, I had the privilege of caring for a young female patient with end-stage cancer. As I got to know her, she shared that she was teaching her 8-year-old son different things so he would be able to help his dad when she was gone. She wanted him to know how to use a microwave and do his laundry. The more time I spent with her, our conversations circled “Hakuna Matata” (from the Lion King, meaning No Worries). We decided that day would be filled with sunshine and everyone would smile! It wasn’t easy to do, but she thanked me for being her Shining Star when she went home. She told me she believed I met my calling by becoming a nurse. It was then I knew I was not just doing a job, but I was living out everything my eight-year-old heart dreamed of and more. MY DUNCAN ROOTS Honorably Discharged from the military (Fort Sill) after seven years and two months, I went to nursing school in Lawton and fell in love with Duncan Regional Hospital as a student nurse. Eventually, I moved to Duncan in 2018. My husband, Brady, was born and raised in Elgin. We have a 12-year-old, an 8-year-old, and a 3-year-old. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT I have recently become a part of the Beautiful Day Foundation, a fantastic program in that I hope to become more involved! When I am not working, you will find me running the streets of Duncan (literally), at the gym, hiking, or spending time with my family. CONFIDENT E M P A T H E T I C RESPECTFUL RN, GWEN (Go Where Ever Needed) and HouseSupervisor
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46 duncan lifestyles magazine Written By BECCA NELSON SANKEY | Photos By MIKE KLEMME and Provided by THE TERRITORY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Green Dream
47 hometown living at its best N Nestled under a canopy of mature shade trees is a square mile of lazily rolling hills blanketed in vibrant greengrasswithserenewaterssnakingthroughoutwhere appearances fromnativewildlife is not uncommon. An escapefromtherat race,TheTerritoryGolf&CountryClub in Duncan is a secluded gemwhere serious golfers can focus on their sport inanarea that is largelyundisturbed by man and time. Randy Heckenkemper, who was Designer of the Year at the time, drewup plans for the 18-holemodified target design golf course in 2003. Owners Barbara and Rick Braught showed Heckenkemper some properties, includingtheareathat isnowTheTerritory. “Hesaid, ‘This is it,’” Cooksaid. “The contour of the landwasperfect, and he could just envision it. It’s worked out well.” Since then, the property has collected a plethora of accolades, includingBestNewGolf Courses byGolfweek, Top 10 in Oklahoma by Golf Digest and, more recently, Golfweek’s Top 50 Residential Golf Course in America. TheTerritoryisdevelopingabout50lotsforresidential homes; however, it was not designed to sell houses on, saidGeneralManager, AustinPeters. “Most golf courses have houses on them,” he said. “We do have a secluded area set aside for homes next to the clubhouse that do touch a few holes, but you’re still 100 yards set back.” This very intentional design “makes you feel like you’re playing golf in the wilderness,” Peters said. THE TERRITORY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB IS A SECLUDED OASIS LARGELY UNTOUCHED BY TIME OR MAN.
48 duncan lifestyles magazine Peters, like many people who first drive through the gates of The Territory, was immediately wowed during his initial visit in 2022, when he was considering the job of GM. Peters—who grewup in Iowa, attended school in Colorado, and played courses through the nation as a golf professional—had plenty of renowned courseswithwhich to compare his newworkplace. “I’ve always wanted to come back to this area, and as soon as I came out for a visit (from California), I knew this is definitely where I wanted to be,” Peters said. “I’ve played across thenation, and this course isoneof thebest I’ve seen. It’s an amazing layout and could easily host abigtime tournament. That, coupledwith the facility inplaceand the ideas of theowners, theBraughts, for growthandchangeexcitedme andmade me want to jump on board.” “I’VE PLAYED ACROSS THE NATION, AND THIS COURSE IS ONE OF THE BEST I’VE SEEN." - Austin Peters
49 hometown living at its best The Territory is unique because of its focus on being a high-end private facility for serious golfers whomay ormay not choose to live on the property. “We want tomake the whole experience top-shelf, from the moment you drive in to how great the experience was while you were here,” Peters said. Typically, peoplewho joinTheTerritorydon’t do so just for its amenities such as the pool or Prairie House Restaurant. “If you’re joining this course you’re holding golf as a higher priority in your life,” Peters said. “This course is for people playing highend golf with high-end amenities attached to it. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if we have one of the lowest average handicaps among the clubs in thenation. It’sdefinitely turned intoaplayers’ club.” Individualswhodon’t golf but visit theproperty will definitely “catch the bug,” Peters said. “We do junior clinics for kids throughout the summer. Generally, families then get into it (because of their kids’ interest). I give lessons, as doesmy assistant.” Barbara and Rick Braught, owners
50 duncan lifestyles magazine Greg Cook, a longtime golfer and friend of Barbara and Rich Braught, caught the golfing bughimself about 40years agowhenhefinished school and sports. “All of a sudden competition was gone, and golf was a perfect thing to do for competition,” he said. “I enjoy the camaraderie. We have a steady game out here, and it’s really a lot of fun. Almost allmy friends are golfers after all these years, and it’s a great way to meet new people.” A retired business owner, Cook added that golfing is also an opportunity to network. “It’s a great way to do business. It’s hard to get a CEO’s attention for 4 ½hours anywhere else.” Cook was all in even before the course had blueprints “Iwas on the steering committee and was invited tohelp,” saidCook. Hewas a charter member of The Territory and now lives on the property. “It was going to be top-notch, and they were going to do things first-class, so I was in all the way.” Love of golf aside, Cook feels like he lives in an oasis. “There’s no reason to leave home, really,” he said. One of the top three golf courses in the state, The Territory hosts 28 tournaments per year and 12 annual club and creative tournaments. The Gunslinger Tournament is one of its larger, more renowned tournaments, but the club has hosted multiple other well-known games over the years. †
51 hometown living at its best ONE OF THE TOP THREE GOLF COURSES IN THE STATE, THE TERRITORY HOSTS 28 TOURNAMENTS PER YEAR AND 12 ANNUAL CLUB AND CREATIVE TOURNAMENTS.
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53 hometown living at its best 915 West Plato Road, Duncan, OK 73533 AshbrookVillageOK.com License # pending The new standard in senior living. One of the finest assisted living communities in the state, Ashbrook Village offers services designed to help our residents live their most vibrant and fulfilled lives. Our residents maintain their independence with the comfort of knowing a team of caring professionals are always available 24/7. Call us today to schedule a tour and see how Ashbrook Village could be your new home! (580) 252-8300
54 duncan lifestyles magazine Carne Asada Salad Guacamole • 1 small avocado • ¼ cup diced tomato • 2 tablespoons diced red onion • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro • 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • Freshly ground black Steak • 10 ounces top sirloin steak (½ to ¾ inch thick) • 1 large garlic clove, minced • ½ teaspoon ground cumin • ¼ lime • Freshly ground black pepper Salad • 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce • ¼ cup (1 ounce) shredded Monterey Jack Cheese • ½ cup pico de gallo, store bought or homemade • 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced (optional) • Lime wedges For the guacamole: In a small bowl, mash the avocado, then add the tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper to taste. Mix and set aside. For the steak: Season the steak with the garlic, salt, cumin, and pepper to taste. Preheat the air fryer to 400*F. Place the steak in the air fryer basket. Cook, flipping halfway, until cooked to your desired doneness, 7 to 10 minutes for medium depending on the thickness of your steak. Squeeze the lime juice over the steak and thinly slice. To serve: Place 1 ½ cups lettuce, 2 tablespoons cheese, and ¼ cup guacamole on each plate. Top with half of the steak slices, ¼ cup pico de gallo, and jalapeno (if using). Serve with lime wedges on the side. Per Serving: 1 salad | Calories 388 | Fat 22 g | Saturated Fat 6.5 g | Cholesterol 108 mg Carbohydrate 16 g | Fiber 7.5 g | Protein 37 g | Sugars 4 g | Sodium 994 mg SERVES 2 | GLUTEN FREE | KETO FRIENDLY | QUICK (30 MINUTES OR LESS) hometown cookin’ airfryer edition
55 hometown living at its best Adobo-Rubbed Chicken with Avocado Salsa For the chicken: Fill a large bowl with lukewarm water and add ¼ cup salt. Stir to dissolve. Let the water cool to room temperature. Add the chicken to the water and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to brine. Remove the chicken from the water and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the brine. In a small bowl, combine ¾ teaspoon salt, the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, ancho powder, paprika, oregano, and pepper flakes. Spritz the chicken all over with oil, then rub with the spice mix. Preheat air fryer to 380*F. Working in batches, place the chicken breast in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and cooked through. (For a toaster over-style air fryer, cook at 350*F; the timing remains the same.) For the avocado salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the onion and lime juice. Fold in the avocado and cilantro and season with ¼ teaspoon salt. Serve the chicken topped with the salsa. Chicken • Kosher salt • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder • ½ teaspoon onion powder • ½ teaspoon ground cumin • ½ teaspoon ancho chile powder • ½ teaspoon sweet paprika • ½ teaspoon dried oregano • 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Avocado Salsa • ½ cup finely diced red onion • ½ cup diced tomatoe • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice • 10 ounces avocado, diced • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro • Kosher salt SERVES 4 | DAIRY FREE | KETO FRIENDLY Per Serving: 1 chicken breast + ½ cup salsa | Calories 324 | Fat 15 g | Saturated Fat 2.5 g Cholesterol 109 mg | Carbohydrate 10 g | Fiber 5.5 g | Protein 38 g | Sugars 2 g | Sodium 490 mg
56 duncan lifestyles magazine
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