1 hometown living at its best
2 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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4 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group On the Cover 40 Contents 12 ANCHORING THE COMMUNITY Lawton teen, Matthew Aguilar, set about the monumental project of building a memorial in Elmer Thomas Park to thank the men and women of the United States Navy for their service. 22 FARM LIFE Mary Jahn is the third-generation owner of her family’s farm in Cyril where they love to welcome fall visitors to the pumpkin patch. 32 HOMETOWN HAPPENING An Evening with Resilient Warriors and Friends 38 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ From the kitchen of Alona Hayes 40 AUELEI OLORINA {BEAUTIFUL BALLERINA} Lawton native, Solei Niusulu, is breaking barriers and stereotypes as a Samoan Ballerina. 22 32
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6 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group 50 SURVIVOR’S LAP Tessie Sammons has participated in Relay for Life for close to thirty years. 60 WICHITA WILDLIGHT A Lawton photography club has been part of the local art scene for three decades and counting. 70 THE SKY IS THE LIMIT Rose Street Spectrum is a beacon of hope to families with special needs. 83 POWERFUL PARENTING As parents, we are called to train up our children in the way they should go. 90 LESSONS IN LOVE From the stress of deployment to frequent moves, military couples face a number of unique challenges. 50 60 Contents
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10 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Lawton Living 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. ON THE COVER Photo provided by the Aguilar Family “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” ~ Colossians 3:17 PHOTOGRAPHERS Wild Oaks Photography As the crisp autumn air ushers in a cascade of golden leaves and the days grow shorter, we find ourselves enveloped in the warm embrace of the upcoming holiday season. It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the fall issue of Lawton Living. Fall is a season of cozy gatherings, cherished traditions, and the promise of heartwarming moments. It holds a special place in our hearts, evoking a sense of togetherness and gratitude that brings families closer. For me and my family, fall has always been a treasured season. It’s a time when we can come together, share hearty meals, and create memories that will last a lifetime. From the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice to the excitement of planning holiday festivities, we embrace every opportunity to savor the beauty of the season and make the most of these precious moments. As you embark on your own autumn adventures and prepare for the holiday season, we encourage you to take the time to slow down, savor the simple pleasures, and connect with your loved ones. Let this season be a reminder of the joy that can be found in everyday moments. Laughter shared around a crackling fire, the warmth of a hug on a chilly day, and the heartfelt conversations over a table laden with holiday feasts that truly define the spirit of this time of year. So, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk through nature’s vibrant canvas or gathering with friends and family to celebrate, embrace the beauty of the present and let gratitude fill your heart. Thank you for being part of our wonderful community and for allowing us to share these captivating stories with you. As we celebrate the uniqueness and diversity of our area, we’re reminded that it’s the people that make this place truly exceptional. We hope you enjoy every page of this issue as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together. Wishing you a joyful and heartwarming Fall and Holiday season. Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive Hello Fall! photo by Jessica Rachel Photography Matt & Heather Martin Executive Publishers 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 WRITERS Chelsey Terry Cindy McIntyre Ellen Slater Jessica Wesson Rebecca Sanchez Taylor Grimm Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group
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NCHORING the Community ALAWTON TEEN MATTHEW AGUILAR SET ABOUT THE MONUMENTAL PROJECT OF BUILDING A MEMORIAL IN ELMER THOMAS PARK TO THANK THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY FOR THEIR SERVICE. 12 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
13 hometown living at its best T Written by JESSICA WESSON | Photos provided by THE AGUILAR FAMILY The USS Oklahoma City was commissioned in 1988, and this Navy submarine made history by being the first to be certified to use Digital Nautical Charts. She was deployed in 2007 to the Persian Gulf to help fight the War on Terror and again in 2008 tothe Eastern Pacific to support the War on Drugs. SO WHY IS THE ANCHOR AND CHAIN TO THE USS OKLAHOMA CITY SITTING IN THE MIDDLE OF ELMER THOMAS PARK IN LAWTON? In 2020, Matthew Aguilar set about the monumental project of building a memorial in the park to thank the men and women of the United States Navy for their service. Matthew was a Boy Scout at the time, and he wanted to achieve the highest rank of the organization. With a goal of becoming an Eagle Scout before his 18th birthday, Matthew had a lot of work to do to create the project he had spent months devising. “I was researching projects, and I came across an article from 2017 about a kid who had completed a memorial at a public library using a piece of scaffolding from 9/11,” Matthew said. “I wanted to do something like that to inspire people, but I wanted to focus on the military.”
14 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group With a family history of military service, it was a natural pick for the teenager. Eventually, Matthew settled on the Navy and knew he wanted to include a piece of a Navy vessel in his memorial. After getting into contact with Curtis Brown, PMS 396I11 Inactivations, Recycling, and Reactor Compartment Disposal project engineer PEO SSBN, Matthew found out that a submarine was undergoing the process of decommissioning. He immediately requested to have the submarine’s sail to incorporate into his project at the park in Lawton. His initial request was approved by the city of Lawton and all the proper channels, but there was a problem. The sail on this submarine weighed several tons and would cost half a million dollars to ship from Washington state where the submarine was being decommissioned. Time was running out for Matthew to complete his project to become an Eagle Scout by the time he turned 18. “Curtis recommended the anchor and chain, which is one of the first pieces to come off a decommissioned submarine,” Matthew said. With a new plan and approval for this piece, Matthew and his parents were invited to travel to Washington state to meet the crew of the submarine and tour the vessel. “I had to get special clearance to even get on the base,” Matthew said. “Then I actually got to meet the captain of the ship and tour the submarine. It was awesome to speak to the crew, and they were in full support of what I was doing.” Matthew started fundraising to ship the anchor and chain and to build the project once all the pieces arrived. He attended several civic organization events and spoke about his project. During his fundraising campaign, he was introduced to Mark Glenn of Glenn Oil Company. Mark generously offered to pick up the anchor and chain in Washington and bring it back to Lawton for the teenager. TOP LEFT: Matthew Aguilar speaks to the Lawton City Council to request permission to create a Naval monument in Elmer Thomas Park in April 2021. TOP RIGHT: Matthew Aguilar and Curtis Brown, US Navy IRR Project Engineer, congratulates Matthew Aguilar after his presentation to the crew of the USS OKLAHOMA CITY regarding his proposed project at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington in December 2021. RIGHT: Matthew Aguilar has a big smile with the anchor & chain from the USS OKLAHOMA CITY after being delivered from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in May 2022.
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16 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group The anchor arrived in Lawton in May 2022, five months before Matthew’s 18th birthday and the deadline for him to become an Eagle Scout. He started working with local businesses in town to create the final pieces of the memorial in Elmer Thomas Park. Finally, the project was completed, and Matthew was dubbed an Eagle Scout just three days before he turned 18. A couple of months later, the community turned out to support Matthew and to honor the Navy during the dedication ceremony of the monument. Denise Aguilar, Matthew’s mother, was proud of her son’s accomplishments and happy to see the community supporting him. TOP LEFT: Matthew Aguilar watches with anticipation on Day 1 of construction at his Eagle Scout Project site as Bryan Wilson of B & E Wilson Construction begins digging up the ground. CENTER LEFT: Bryan Wilson and Matthew Aguilar look over the construction plans for the USS OKLAHOMA CITY memorial at Elmer Thomas Park. BOTTOM LEFT: Gage Wilson, son of Bryan Wilson, and Matthew Aguilar help set the rebar in preparation of the concrete pour at the USS OKLAHOMA CITY memorial. TOP RIGHT: Matthew Aguilar helps guide the placement of the anchor from the USS OKLAHOMA CITY submarine on the monument slab on delivery day to Elmer Thomas Park. BOTTOM RIGHT: Matthew Aguilar gets assistance from his siblings, Nicholas and Rachel Aguilar, placing the chain of the USS OKLAHOMA CITY through the poles to form a perimeter at the Naval Memorial site at Elmer Thomas Park.
“We were honored to have the local community leaders and family and friends in attendance,” Denise said. “We had a wonderful surprise when Curtis Brown, along with two naval officials, Captain Timothy Clark and Command Master Chief Josh Sturgill, came from Washington D.C. to attend.” Denise said that her son’s project won Eagle Project of the Year for the local district, and it went on to represent the district at the state level. It won at the state level and has now gone on to represent Oklahoma in the national contest. Although the accolades are certainly an honor for the Eagle Scout, he said that it was never about that. He simply wanted to honor those who served in the military, specifically the Navy. “It meant a lot to be able to honor them,” Matthew said. “I was genuinely proud to see all the people who supported me and showed up to the dedication ceremony. I wanted to make other people smile because that’s the purpose of life to me.” 17 hometown living at its best
18 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group There were several twists and turns throughout the two-year process, and Matthew said he learned several valuable lessons while completing his Eagle Scout project. “It taught me a lot about patience,” Matthew said. “Having to wait and go through all the official documents and paperwork was hard at times. It was difficult to not be able to actively work on things.” Even with all the changes and long periods of waiting, Matthew finally achieved his ultimate goal of becoming an Eagle Scout. The Boy Scouts of America is a special organization for Matthew, and he says it taught him a lot. “The things I’ve experienced and seen are unparalleled,” Matthew said. “People think the Boy Scouts is just all about tying knots and selling popcorn, but it goes way deeper. It helps teach you life skills and gives you guidance on your future career.” Next time you walk through Elmer Thomas Park, be sure to find the submarine anchor and chain that stands as a testament to those that have served in the country’s Navy. You might just find that it speaks to you, just like it has to so many others who have stopped to admire the memorial. † TOP: Matthew Aguilar speaks to guests at the USS OKLAHOMA CITY Dedication Ceremony in Lawton, Oklahoma on December 12, 2022. CENTER: COMPLETION! Curtis Brown proudly stands with Matthew Aguilar at the Dedication Ceremony for the USS OKLAHOMA CITY in Lawton on December 12, 2022 to celebrate the completion of the project he helped him begin in 2021. BOTTOM: CAPT Timothy Clark read a citation from the U.S. Navy thanking him for his efforts in creating a Naval Memorial in Oklahoma.
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21 hometown living at its best HILLIARY.COM (580)529-5000 Always Innovating because every community matters
22 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group MARY JAHN IS THE THIRD-GENERATION OWNER OF HER FAMILY’S FARM IN CYRIL WHERE THEY LOVE TO WELCOME FALL VISITORS TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH. WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE JAHN FAMILY Farm Life
23 hometown living at its best GGetting out of town is refreshing, and just north of Lawton families can head off to the wide-open spaces, grab a snack, and get up close with farm animals at Jahn’s Pumpkin Hill farm. Mary Jahn, along with her husband Jerry and sons Spencer and Cale, runs a farm that has been in her family since 1940. The Jahn’s pumpkin patch offers space to play and oodles of pumpkins. Parents pulling wagons and pushing strollers arrive in droves to show their little ones the goats, sheep, pigs, horses, cattle, and even two bottle-fed calves that joined the group last year. After playing on slides and running through the hay bale maze, everyone is hungry for the humongous cookies, brownies and homemade pumpkin pies served up during pumpkin patch season. Families take advantage of photoops with pumpkins, atop an oversized wooden chair, on a bench swing, or with youngsters pushing kid-sized wheelbarrows before heading home with their special pumpkins. “Many families want to get out of town, enjoy the time together, and make some fun memories,” Jahn says. “It's great to see the excitement in kids as they run down the hill toward the pumpkin patch. The blessing of the whole pumpkin patch is to see families enjoying themselves.”
24 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Every year from late September until just past Halloween, the Jahns open for families and school field trips. They welcomed 600 people in their opening in 2002 and have grown steadily with pumpkin and fun-seeking visitors each year. For a lot of students, the bus ride to Jahn’s is their first, an exciting adventure in itself. Different from their usual midday break at school, student lunches are loaded into a wagon and hauled to the lunch spot by a John Deere Gator. The kids’ excitement makes it all worth it to Jahn, and the family’s dog Beau is there too, eager to oblige anyone who will share their lunch. Not just for kids, the Jahn farm is also a stop for the Oklahoma Agricultural Leadership Program from Oklahoma State University on its Southwest Oklahoma tour. The Oklahoma Farm Bureau women’s group visited as well. Jahn also provides an overview of area history to her guests on her cotton trailer tours as everyone rides along in a retrofitted cotton trailer that her husband and son put steps on and had seats installed. “Most of my visitors just come to have fun,” says Jahn, “I throw in a little ‘love your farmer’ and ‘this is where your food comes from’ for free. While I have their attention, I share the local area history of the Comanches, facts about gypsum, grass, erosion and wildlife,
25 hometown living at its best what we grow, how we grow it and why we grow it. My mamma was a school teacher so I’ve got a little of that in me.” She tells riders how the farm they are on was a Comanche allotment in the late 1880s and that farms are named after the original Native American allottee. She tells them that her farm has a natural gas well on it and what oil and gas provide for Oklahomans. She tells them about the broom wheat people used for brooms from the dark ages to the 1950s. It’s a tour she has given time and time again, 100 times just last year. Two generations back Jahn’s grandparents on her father’s side, T.A. and Renda Whitfield, settled outside of Cyril to raise a family after they had finished their search for good soil. After first farming on Comanche allotment land, the family purchased their own 80 acres in 1942 and then another 80 expanding their broomcorn, wheat and cotton operations on a full 160- acre farm. Of the seven children her grandparents raised, it was Jahn’s father who continued the family business. After serving in the Marine Corp, he came home to Cyril to raise a family and enlarged the farm again. Jahn’s focus on agriculture took her to OSU where she earned a degree in animal science. Her father took part in her education
26 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group by writing notes in farm magazines and having her mother mail them to her at school in Stillwater. When ownership came to Jahn, she too started a family there. Her and Jerry’s boys are now the fourth generation to be involved. Their oldest, Cale, followed in his mother’s footsteps at OSU and then went on to the Texas Christian University Ranch Management Program in Fort Worth, Texas. “There have been lots of really great moments over the years,” says Jahn. “Seeing God at work is just amazing, like when a baby calf hits the ground and draws that first breath, seeing their mammas care for them or seeing the land come alive after a drought and a very blessed rain. But, working with our boys, watching them grow to become very capable and talented young men, has been the best.”
27 hometown living at its best The Jahn farm operates a cow, calf and stocker cattle business, basically growing grass to feed and fatten cattle on a spread that has changed significantly over the last 81 years. “When my grandparents came to Cyril in the early 1940s, they had 45-horsepower tractors. Today the tractor horsepower has increased 10-fold, and that technology has been a tremendous blessing to us,” Jahn says. “Farming has evolved from day one, and we must keep learning, growing and changing to make our farms better than when we ‘found’ them.” The Jahns are your local farmers, and little pleases them more than when visitors drive out to share in their blessings. Whether it is a trip a family has made once, twice or more, the kids enjoy the break from a regular day’s activities. Adults enjoy the refreshing and broad rural space, and Beau the big lovable dog just hopes someone drops a sandwich. †
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31 hometown living at its best SCAN THE CODE TO SUPPORT FAMILIES LIKE ERIC'S
32 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group PROVIDED BY COHEN VETERANS NETWORK, INC. AND BY DERIKA UPSHAW RESILIENT WARRIORS and Friends
33 hometown living at its best OOn the evening of May 19th, a remarkable Military Mental Health Awareness Event took place at Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma. The event was organized to benefit the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock, a facility dedicated to providing mental health services to military veterans and their families. The event not only aimed to raise funds for the clinic but also emphasized the importance of May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The atmosphere of the evening was filled with emotion and a shared commitment to supporting the mental well-being of military personnel. CSM(R) Taylor Poindexter, Outreach Director for the Cohen Clinic, served as the Master of Ceremonies, with Brigadier General Shane Morgan, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Chae, and MG (R) Lee Baxter providing welcoming and introductory remarks. Special thanks to PJAE American Idol 2023 - Top 24 and Fort Sill Military Child who sang the National Anthem, and the Oklahoma State Champion MacArthur High School JROTC for presenting the colors. The guest speakers for the night included SSG Ryan Pitts, a Medal of Honor recipient, and Major General (Retired) Mark and Carol Graham. Their presence added to the gravity of the event and underscored the significance of mental health support within the military community.
34 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group As the event unfolded, heartfelt stories were shared, shedding light on the struggles faced by veterans and their families. The speeches delivered by the guest speakers resonated deeply with the attendees, reminding everyone of the immense sacrifices made by military personnel and the lasting impact these experiences can have on their mental health. The community came together in a powerful display of solidarity, demonstrating their commitment to providing accessible and comprehensive mental health care for military families. Through generous donations and ticket sales, significant funds were raised to support the sustainment of the Cohen Clinic at Red Rock. These funds will help ensure that the clinic can continue its vital work, offering high-quality mental health services and support to those who have served our nation and their families. The fundraising gala held at Fort Sill was an evening that will be remembered for its emotional impact and the unwavering support shown towards the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock. By shining a spotlight on mental health awareness and rallying the community, this event has undoubtedly made a profound difference in the lives of countless military families in need. If you are interested in contributing to the clinic, please email the Clinic Director, Amista Chambers, achambers@ red-rock.com. †
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38 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group COOKIE DOUGH • 1 cup softened butter • 2 cups of sugar • 2 eggs • 1 cup of oil • pinch of salt DIRECTIONS (1) Preheat oven to 350 (2) Cream butter and sugar. add eggs, oil, salt, & vanilla. (3) Sift dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. (4) Make into balls and roll in cinnamon sugar mixture. (5) Put balls on greased baking sheet, flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass. (6) Bake at for 10 minutes. Allow to cool on baking sheet, enjoy! FROM THE KITCHEN OF Alona Hayes SNICKERDOODLES CINNAMON SUGAR COATING • 1/3 cup sugar • 2 tbs cinnamon • 1 ½ tsp vanilla • 5 cups of flour • 2 tsp cream of tartar • 2 tsp of baking soda o
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WRITTEN BY JESSICA WESSON | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE NIUSULU FAMILY Aulelei Olorina { Beautiful Ballerina} 40 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
41 hometown living at its best I Lawton native, Solei Niusulu, is breaking barriers and stereotypes as a Samoan Ballerina. If the world of ballet is one of art, beauty, and grace. It’s also full of athleticism, strength, and perseverance. No one knows that better than Solei Niusulu. The Lawton native has been dancing since she was seven years old after she watched a show on the Disney Channel. “My mom and dad signed me up for ballet and hip-hop dance classes,” Solei said. “I remember looking forward to going every week, and I knew I wanted to be a dancer one day.” At the age of 13, Solei decided to focus on ballet full-time. Lesli Niusulu, Solei’s mom, realized that this was going to be more than a hobby for their daughter and sent her to Oklahoma University one summer. “Solei’s teacher at South Star saw something in her, and she encouraged her,” Lesli said. “When she was in middle school she went to OU Summer Intensive, and that’s what sealed the deal.”
42 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group She committed herself to learning the art and to becoming the best she possibly can. Ballet is not for the faint of heart, and it certainly takes a physical toll on the young ballerina. “She comes home from practice, and she’s constantly sore,” Lesli said. “She has to prepare her body through stretching and treat the soreness when she’s done. She’s gotten pretty good at knowing how to take care of herself and combating the physicality of ballet.” Not only does Solei have to overcome the physical challenges of ballet, but she also has the obstacle of being a ballerina of color in a world where that isn’t common. Solei started seeing professional ballet performances and noticed a lack of diversity. “I realized that none of the professional ballerinas looked like me,” Solei said. “It was extremely discouraging because that’s the field I want to go into. It would have meant the world to me if I saw just one girl who looked similar to me.”
43 hometown living at its best She started questioning whether her passion was possible for someone who looked like she did. Solei is Samoan, so she is a ballerina of color. It’s not common to see ballerinas of color, especially professional ballerinas. “It had me questioning why I didn’t get certain jobs or roles,” Solei said. “Was it because of the way I looked and not my talent?” As Solei continued to dance, she started getting comments from others about roles she would audition for. “People would make comments to her and say it so lightly that they didn’t even realize how damaging it was,” Lesli said. “They told her she couldn't be Alice in Alice and Wonderland because she wouldn’t look right in a blond wig, or they would say she needs to play the Asian role in the Nutcracker.”
“Ballet is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, and that’s why I want to pursue it professionally.” - Solei Niusulu Photo by Jana Carson 44 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
Her parents had a hard time watching their daughter struggle with this, but they are proud of her for trailblazing a path for young girls of color and her passion for dance. “We encouraged her by telling her that she’s knocking down walls for all the girls that come after her,” Lesli said. “Some of our family members are showing their daughters what Solei is doing so that they know what’s possible.” Solei is already doing that by representing brown ballerinas in a variety of ways. She is a social media ambassador for the Brown Girls Do Ballet Instagram page, and she is also featured in a book titled The Color of Dance: A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion in the World of Ballet. The social media page and book, both by Takiyah WallaceMcMillian, share pictures of ballerinas to promote diversity in ballet. “I am really grateful to be a part of something like this that gives me an opportunity to represent Samoans because sadly we don’t have a lot of representation in ballet,” Solei said. Regardless of these challenges, Solei loves her chosen career path. “Ballet is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, and that’s why I want to pursue it professionally,” Solei said. “I love showing up to the studio and working tirelessly every day. One of the hardest things about ballet is that I’ll never achieve perfection, but that’s what I love about it. I’ll always be working on something new and different.” Solei is a sophomore at Texas Christian University now, and she is studying ballet and psychology. “I chose to major in both because I know how hard it is to be a dancer and struggle with body image and perfectionism,” Solei said. “I am really interested in working in mental health counseling for dancers and other athletes after my professional career is over. It would bring me a lot of joy if I was able to give back to the next generation of dancers because I know what it’s like to go through that.” † Photo by Jana Carson Photo provided by Wichita Falls Ballet Theatre Photo provided by Wichita Falls Ballet Theatre
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50 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group L Written by ELLEN SLATER | Photos provided by COMANCHE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE Tessie Sammons has participated in Relay for Life for close to thirty years. Lawton resident Tessie Sammons’ struggle with cancer began more than 30 years ago, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 52. Sammons is one of the cancer survivors who participated in this year's Relay for Life. "I did my first Relay for Life in 1994," Sammons said. "I've walked in most of the relays since that time." This year, due to her age and mobility issues, she rode in a golf cart during the cancer survivor's lap at the Comanche County Relay for Life held in May at Bentley Gardens on the campus of Cameron University. According to statistics from the American Cancer Society, (ACS) close to 50 percent of Americans must battle cancer at least once during their lifetime. Sammon's story began in 1970 when she first found a lump in her breast. "I had four biopsies for lumps in my breasts between 1970 and 1992." she said. "They were all benign, but in 1993 a mammography revealed microcalcifications in the breast and the biopsy showed they were malignant." SURVIVOR'S L P
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52 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Sammons underwent a partial mastectomy and surgery revealed the cancer hadn't spread to the lymph nodes. She had six weeks of radiation and has been in remission since that time. "By the grace of God, I am 30 years cancer free," said Sammons. "I credit my recovery to early detection and treatment. In addition to radiation, I took the cancer drug tamoxifen for years. It was a brand, new treatment at the time." "I had my surgery and treatments at Southwestern Medical Center, and Monique Preston, the director at the time, got me involved with Relay for Life." Sammons was working as a Nurse's Aide when she was diagnosed and never missed a day of work. To this day, Sammons says she remains faithful to self- examinations and yearly mammograms. According to Melissa Bennett, Relay for Life Co-Chairman, the relays are held to celebrate our cancer survivors, to increase cancer awareness and also to raise money for ACS. This year's relay raised more than $25,000. "Much of the money donated to ACS goes towards cancer research," said Bennett. "Some funds stay local and are used for cancer screenings and to build Hope Lodges- like the one opened this year in Oklahoma City."
53 hometown living at its best These Hope Lodges are located close to hospitals for use by cancer patients who must travel more than 40 miles for treatment. Patients live in the lodges during the time they're receiving treatment. Bennett first participated in Relay for Life in 2009 when she lost her grandmother, Lawton resident, Gennevie Phariss, to cancer. This year, she was happy to co-chair the event held in May which featured themed laps, and activities such as a ring toss, giant ball toss, and a line dancing performance. "We had 18 teams participate this year," said Bennett. "Someone from each team has to be on the track at all times. The relay is ongoing, and it ties into the fact that cancer is a never-ending battle." Many of the Relay for Life teams were made up of students from MacArthur High School, which held an overnight Relay for Life at the school earlier in the year. Bennett said she enjoyed co-chairing the event especially coming up with ideas for the
54 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group themed laps. "We had a purple lap, a Cat in the Hat Lap and a Dance Lap," she said. "It was a lot of fun and helped keep participant's energy up." As always, the Survivor's Lap was heart-warming for many, as was the Luminary Ceremony that concluded Relay for Life. Sammons said participating in the Survivor's Lap touches her every year. "I've only missed four relays since 1994," she said. "I always know the other members on my teams and there is a sense of camaraderie between us." Sammons moved to Lawton in 1963 to care for a sick Aunt, met and married her husband, Gary, and had four children. She's been an involved member of the Lawton Community, ever since. Sammons says she has participated in Relay for Life for almost 30 years, because she believes in the work done by the American Cancer Society. "They've led the way with early detection and screenings such as Mamograms and cancer treatments," she said. And what advice would Sammons give to those first facing a cancer diagnosis? "I'd say never give up hope and be faithful with your screenings and treatments." † For more information on the Comanche County Relay for Life visit their website, relayforlife.org/comancheok.
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58 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group In the US, the average age of first drink of alcohol is 13. What is your child doing this weekend? Funded by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Red Ribbon Week is October 23rd - 31st This year, talk to the youth in your life about the risks of alcohol use
59 hometown living at its best www.lawtoncommunitytheatre.com LAWTON COMMUNITY THEATRE
60 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by CINDY MCINTYRE | Photos provided by THE WICHITA WILDLIGHT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY ildlight WICHITA W
61 hometown living at its best L A Lawton Photography Club has been part of the local art scene for three decades and counting. Lawton is blessed with amazing photographers, many vying for customers and recognition. But for those in the Wichita Wildlight Photographic Society (WWPS), sharing information and camaraderie carries more weight than competition. “I love how everyone accepts one another no matter your skill level or genre of photography,” said Valynda Monroe, a member since 2017. Monroe teaches evening photography classes at Great Plains Technology Center – where she learned her craft less than a decade ago. She does portrait photography of high school seniors and families at her Valynda Kathleen Photography studio in Fletcher. “I love designing a photo shoot that shows the individuality of each senior, to showcase their hobbies and interests,” she said. Dave McGowen, an award-winning wildlife photographer whose work has been published in Oklahoma Today and other magazines, said he enjoys networking with others in the club. “The most fun part for me is the first ten minutes before the meeting,” said McGowen. Valynda Monroe
62 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group He met fellow wildlife photographer Kenny Seals at WWPS, and they have taken many trips in the field together to capture wildlife, traveling as far as Alaska and as close as the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. “Kenny taught me a lot,” said McGowen. “He’s very good with birds in flight. There are a lot of good photographers there who share their tricks and tips.” McGowen is Range Operations Officer at Fort Sill, and his office is decorated with many of his favorite images. He has given several programs during the meetings over the 15 years he’s been a member, including Birds in Flight, Wildlife at the Wichita Mountains, Everything About Tripods, and Bears of Alaska. He recently returned from a photo safari in Kenya, and it’s likely that will be the topic of a future club program. Dave McGowen, photo by Cindy McIntyre by Dave McGowen
63 hometown living at its best Valynda Monroe gets a chuckle when she hears someone compliment a great photo with “Wow, you must have a really great camera.” “When you taste a great meal, you don’t say, ‘wow, they must have a great oven,’” said Monroe. “The camera is a tool, and if you don’t know how to use that tool, you won’t be able to consistently take great photos.” She has won awards in the Comanche County Fair and best-in-show at the Fletcher Free Fair, and she was awarded WWPS Volunteer of the Year for 2022. “I’ve helped schedule members to work in the WWPS tent at Arts for All, and host meetings when our president Clem Wehner is gone.” Monroe was influenced by a club presentation given by a Texas photographer who taught how to use off-camera flash (OCF). “He sparked that interest in me,” she said, and she experiments with various OCF techniques in her studio. She also gave a Zoom presentation on OCF during the pandemic. It’s an example of how receiving instruction has led her to give her knowledge back to the club. Founded in 1991, WWPS is one of five organizations that are funded by Lawton’s Arts for All, Inc. which hosts a spring outdoor art show in Shepler Park, and the fall Gala at the Great Plains Coliseum. Arts for All was founded in 1977 to foster arts in the community and raise funds for member groups. by Valynda Monroe by Valynda Monroe
64 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Founding members of WWPS include Clark Smith, who is currently club treasurer, and David and Kris Gill, owners of Gill’s Framing and Photography in downtown Lawton. Sam Joyner, a former Lawton attorney and federal magistrate judge, is another. “He was the key member who got us our tax-exempt status,” said Smith. “We wouldn’t have lasted this long without that. It allowed us to be part of Arts for All, which helps fund us.” Clark Smith also praises Clem Wehner, WWPS president since 2008 for keeping the organization alive and vibrant. Clem and his wife Fran ran a Lawton portrait studio until 2006, and they are 30-year members of the Professional Photographers of Oklahoma. Both were adjunct instructors at Great Plains Technology Center for 15 years, and Clem gives several programs a year to club members on topics ranging from proper exposure to capturing emotion. “Clem has been key to this organization,” said Smith. “He’s a gregarious guy and loves to teach. That’s what people want when they come here. That’s what made the club live and grow.” Smith says there is a mixture of amateur and advanced photographers who attend. “Many are people who just bought a digital camera and want to learn the baffling technical side,” he said. “Others are experts who like comparing notes with their peers.” Other members, as well as outside guest presenters, give monthly programs on topics such as night sky photography, wildlife and bird photography, and videography. Programs planned for 2024 include making money with photography, light painting workshop, solar eclipse photography, creative editing, focus stacking, and landscapes. The Ice Cream Social is held in July, and the Christmas Gift Exchange takes place in December. Both events also include an informative presentation. In addition, plans are afoot to resurrect field trips to learn new techniques and for the camaraderie of doing what photographers love best – creating images and sharing them with others. When club members share their skills with the community, they earn points from Arts for All which helps with funding. Examples are creating exhibits or conducting classes at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge art gallery, setting up the annual Lawton Gala, or one-on-one mentoring. During the May outdoor Arts for All Festival, the society has a large tent with displays of members’ works, which may be offered for sale. It’s an important way to gain new members, and it gives amateurs a chance to dip their artistic toes in the waters of selling their work. Clem Wehner makes it easy to set up the displays and long-time members such as Dave McGowen and Kenny Seals have the setup and take down routine down to a science, and one of them is usually available the entire three days to help in case of bad weather or noClark Smith
by Cindy McIntyre by Ciark Smith Clem Wehner Teaching Portrait Lighting Class Cindy McIntyre ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Cindy McIntyre has been a member of WWPS for a year, and she has won numerous awards in writing and photography over her 40-plus years as a working professional. Most recently, she worked for the Fort Sill Tribune (2015-2017) and as a public affairs specialist for Fort Hunter Liggett, California (2017-2021). She fell in love with the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and returned to Lawton to retire. She enjoys small-town living and the array of community events offered here, and she feels a sense of pride in the beauty and people of her adopted state. by Cindy McIntyre
66 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group shows. Volunteers take turns manning the booth, making sales, and sharing information about WWPS. Smith’s art photography is heavily influenced by the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, which is practically in his backyard. Because the refuge has long been a favorite of Lawton area photographers, they named the organization “Wichita Wildlight” as a tribute to the artistic inspiration from this beautiful area. A Lawton native born in 1951, Smith retired from 35 years at his father’s firm, Smith & Sons Insurance Agency. He has had several exhibitions in Lawton’s Leslie Powell Gallery, and he has been club treasurer for several years. He says the meetings and volunteer opportunities are good sources of social interaction for him. WWPS has about 75 active, dues-paying members, and around 100 “affiliated members” who participate periodically. Meetings typically run 25-30 attendees. Some programs have drawn 95 people, and weekend workshops can attract 60 to 75 photographers. Valynda Monroe summed up the club experience when she said, “The more I learn about photography, the more I realize this field is so vast, the creative possibilities can keep you busy for a lifetime.” † WWPS meetings are held the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m., Boulevard Congregational Church, 5309 West Gore Blvd. Starting January 2024, meeting times will be at 6:30 p.m. There is no fee to attend, but $10 annual membership entitles participants to borrow photo equipment and books and to sell their work at the Arts for All. More information and links to photo tutorials and the Facebook page are on the website: WichitaWildlight.org. Jeremy Davis Dave McGowen
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68 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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ROSE STREET SPECTRUM IS A BEACON OF HOPE TO FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. THE SKY IS Written by TAYLOR GRIMM | Photos courtesy of CRISTINA VANARSDALL WWhen Stephanie Amaya’s son was diagnosed with Autism, her world was turned upside down. “When my son got diagnosed, I panicked,” she said. “It's going to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders because time is of the essence.” Shortly after diagnosis, they began athome therapy, Applied Behavior Analysis. They selected a company and were set up with Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). When the at-home program didn’t work out, their BCBA recommended they come into Rose Street and start therapy. Stephanie was nervous for her baby but knew she needed to act quickly. “If they're like my kid, who was diagnosed extremely early, it's hammered into your head that time is of the essence because the developmental years are so important,” she said. the Limit 70 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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72 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Since they had done ABA in-home they were familiar with the environment. Stephanie said, “The only transition we really had to make was putting him into a center. At the time he was two and putting him in a different environment was hard on my mom-heart.” That fear was eased knowing he was going to be taken care of by his BCBA. “I knew it was going to be one-on-one, it wasn’t like a daycare where he’d be thrown into a class and his needs weren’t going to be met,” she said. One of Rose Street’s BCBAs and outreach coordinator Christina Vanarsdall said a BCBA studies behavior and creates plans to improve appropriate behavior, and give replacement behaviors to maladaptive ones She said, “We work with clients on the autism spectrum and who may also have developmental disabilities, brain injuries or emotional control regulation, social or behavioral issues etc.” ABA is Applied Behavior Analysis, a science in which the principles of behavior analysis are applied systematically to improve socially significant behavior, and experimentation is used to identify the variables responsible for behavior change. Stephanie said starting there was very simple. Her son’s goals with the previous company transitioned over and his hours were already set up based on his needs. They had a long way to go and not much time to get there. When they began therapy, he was completely non-verbal. She said, “He made no eye contact, wouldn’t respond to his name, and wasn’t doing the ‘normal’ things that two-year-olds do.” His BCBA first taught him sign language. Stephanie said it was very reassuring to know he’s only got one caregiver teaching. She said, “That’s what I love about ABA; it's one-on-one, really intensive therapy and our children build a bond with
73 hometown living at its best their therapist, and it's not a random situation, it's very personalized. We really got a step-by-step process of how to get him to communicate with us in an efficient way.” Communication was my ultimate goal and within a very short time, we went from being nonverbal to communicating through sign language and pictures and pointing and making sounds. About a year into being there five days a week, he began talking at the age of three. “Now, we can’t get him to stop talking,” Stephanie joked. He’s eight and has been in the program for six years. This type of therapy and education is life-changing, but not intended to be life-long. Starting early in childhood
74 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group development can make a difference in life quality for some students. “I don't feel dread about the future as far as will he go to college or get a job or any of that stuff,” Stephanie said. “They are very positive about what his future looks like, and it gives me a ton of hope to know there is a community, not just me and his dad, but a whole community that will look out for him and will advocate for him if I am not able to.” Christina said the most rewarding part of her job is being a part of that community and watching a child flourish past the limitations others label them with. Even if the gains come slowly, they are still there. One student she recognized with wonderful gains is 18-year-old J., who has been in the program for four years. Currently on track to get his GED and driver’s license, and working toward both has been a part of his program curriculum. “I don't like math, but I have to do it for my GED book. It frustrates me but I get help, and we work through it and it makes me feel a lot better about myself.” J. has decreased his hours to two days a week as his skill set has grown, but still loves going—mostly because of everyone there. “My favorite part about going would have to be everyone who's there,” he said. “I love the staff there; I love the kids there; I hope to maybe work there one day. I would be working with my friends, that's what they are basically.” When he gets there, he is greeted by one of his friends and grabs his curriculum materials for the day. He said, “I've learned so much!” The first thing they do is set a goal for the day. That might be researching a topic or completing a task, but it has to line up with a specific value. J. said values are friendship, or family, or education–something that you strive towards improving. J. said
his father wanted to build a chicken coop, so one of his recent goals was chicken research. “That's what I chose for today so that I could maybe help out my dad,” he said. “So, lots of prosocial things are going on.” After that, students journal about how they’ve moved toward their values throughout the day. That day J. chose to write about education, health, and friendship. “I wrote for friendship that I've been doing very well,” he said. “I’ve always struggled with that, but they’ve really helped. I used to be an absolute shut-in, so secluded in my own world but then they helped me regulate my emotions and learn that it's okay to be social, and it's okay to reach out and get support when you need it.” J.’s progression toward his values has changed his outlook on life. He said, “I've learned that
76 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group if you really set your mind to it you can do anything you want. It's really special because I thought that I would never be able to make friends. I’d never be able to do this or that—I'd never be normal. It always confused me and made me upset. I’d have a lot of really bad days because of it, and it really made my mom and dad worry. Ever since I went to [Rose Street] Spectrum, I learned all these things and met all these people, and finally branched out. Now I go to the mall or other places and am able to regulate my emotions and process things in a way that better suits me.” Knowing what she knows now, Stephanie highly encourages other parents to build a community and take advantage of their experience. It's important to find out what fits your family. “40 hours a week in therapy may not be for your kid, but half a day at preschool and half a day at therapy might.” She said there are tons of resources to help, a major one being other autism moms. “We’re extremely resourceful when we have to be,” she said. “In the beginning, I was literally given a diagnosis and said good luck. I had to find out about ABA, Speech, OT, and school services all on my own. It's tough, that's why I say reach out to other moms because we’ve all been there and can help you with what steps to take depending on which route you decide to take.” She said creating a community will hopefully help you hit the ground running and get whatever it is your child needs.” When needs are met, the sky is the limit! As J. said, “I've learned you can do whatever the heck you want, you can get that job; you can get that GED; you can drive. As long as you have the support you need, and your friends by your side.” † For more information on ABA services, visit theautismhelper.com or rosestreet.org/services.
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