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2 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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4 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Contents 12 LEARNING TO LEAD Lawton High School students are learning skills that will take them beyond the classroom. 24 A LOVE FOR PEOPLE AND FASHION Rose Duckett shares her passion and talent for business with the community through volunteer work. 34 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Children’s Starlight Fund Event 40 BISON, BIRDS, AND BEAUTY The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers visitors educational and artistic exploration of numerous wildlife species on nearly untouched landscape. 52 A LIFETIME OF CREATING Comanche bead artist Rita Heath makes her art a daily practice. 12 24 52 40
5 hometown living at its best @PamandBarrysTeam pamandbarrysteam 3908 NW Elm Ave., Suite 200 Lawton, OK 73505 Call us to SELL YOUR HOME FAST & FOR TOP DOLLAR! PAMandBARRY.com If your home is currently listed, this is not an attempt to secure a listing. Each office is independently owned and operated. *Reflects both listing and sales sides. *In medium sized teams category. *In medium sized teams category. We’re not bragging; we’re just applying for a job. Whether you are Buying or Selling, put your trust in our team’s proven results. 580.248.8800 FREE & INSTANT HOME VALUE Over 22 Years we have helped OVER 11,500 CLIENTS!
6 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group 60 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Celebrating the class of 2024! 66 A SILVER LINING The Lawton Center for Creative Living is facilitating community for area Seniors. 74 FREE INDEED Maria Meredith is encouraging others to strengthen their relationship with Christ and draw others to Him through dance. 84 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Family Empowerment Program 88 KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Whip up a batch of summer memories with these simple recipes for kids. Contents 74 84 66
8 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group T 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 by Wild Oaks Photography 1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: 2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. 9 What do workers gain from their toil? 10 I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. ~ Ecclesiastes 3 PHOTOGRAPHERS Wild Oaks Photography A Shot of Sunshine Photography Forever Focus Photography by Asia Time is a funny thing. It’s both a thief and a gift. It drags by slowly and moves faster than the blink of an eye. As another school year draws to an end, I am a proud mother of a soon to be 7 th grader and two almost 5 th graders. How they aren’t still toddlers who get excited to see a big tractor or build a giant block tower, I don’t know. I am trying to enjoy this busy season of ‘big kids’ and remember these days are numbered and make them count. On the flip side, we are building a new home and time seems to move so slowly on the construction site! Seasons of waiting tend to feel that way. Whether you are in a time of warp speed or the seconds are dragging by, one thing is constant and true, we are not promised tomorrow. I am sure of my eternity through my faith in Jesus Christ. If you are a fellow believer, I pray you use your time on Earth pointing others to Him. If you are not, please know there is a hope bigger than yourself and current circumstances. We have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God and need a savior. Admit you need a savior, believe that savior is the perfect son of God, Jesus, confess Him as the lord of your life from this day forward in your remaining time on Earth, looking forward to spending eternity in His presence. In this issue we feature many Lawtonians using their time and talents to build community connections in all seasons of life from youth to golden years. Thank you for reading Lawton Living and supporting the small businesses within these pages. As always, we love to hear what you would like to see featured in future issues! Email me at content@hometownmedia.group. Hello Lawton! 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 Jan Brand Sabrina Forse Sara Hook Rebecca Sanchez Jessica Wesson Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group Lindsey Kruger
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HILLIARY.COM (580)529-5000 Always Innovating because every community matters
WRITTEN BY SABRINA FORSE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AMBER BAIN-MAYFIELD Learning to LEAD 12 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
13 hometown living at its best B Lawton High School students are learning skills that will take them beyond the classroom. By the time a person graduates from high school they’ve read dozens of books, solved hundreds of math problems, and tackled a number of tests. Every year, students enrolled at Lawton schools graduate with an education that shapes not only their mind but their character. Activities Director at Eisenhower High School, Amber Bain-Mayfield said, “My biggest goal is to make sure the students leave school as kind humans that can relate to others and interact with people they wouldn’t normally interact with. I want them to know how to handle difficult situations and show empathy.”
To encourage this, students at Eisenhower, Lawton and MacArthur High Schools can apply to be a part of the Leadership program. “It’s extremely competitive,” Bain-Mayfield said. “We can only take about 20 students and I already have 56 applications for next year. We want to make the leadership class represent a good range of the student body. We have the Student Council Executive Board, Senior Class Officers and then other senior students who desire to be leaders.” During their senior year, the selected students attend Leadership class each day for one class period and participate in other activities throughout the school year. That interaction is a commitment that takes these students out of their own classroom and into others. “They talk with freshmen and underclassmen so they can be the leaders those students can look up to. We try to select a wide range of students so that they can connect with others,” Bain-Mayfield said. Those students then see the leadership students in action all year long. “The Leadership class drives the school spirit for the year,” she said. “They write scripts for assemblies, create dances for pep rallies and plan events.” 14 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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17 hometown living at its best Student Body President Jadyn Herbert, and Student Body Vice President Avery Gardner may seem like naturalborn leaders, but both said the Leadership class is teaching them to lead not only with their minds, but with their hearts. Avery said, “I knew I wanted to be in leadership when I heard other kids who were involved talk about being a part of something bigger than themselves.” Each year the students select an impact project. This year’s class chose to partner with the Partners organization, which pairs students with special education students. The Leadership class socially interacts with the special education students and participates alongside them with unified sports such as volleyball, basketball, and softball. They are also assisting with the Special Olympics track meet. Jadyn said, “These students should have the same opportunities to play different sports and know what it feels like to win.” Avery agreed and added, “I have really learned to not stereotype and understand that these kids are people just like us and most are a lot better than me when it comes to sports.” AJ El Kouri is a student athlete who was hesitant about being involved in the Leadership class but has since learned to open up. He said, “When I was younger, I didn’t really talk to anyone other than my sister. I’ve really learned how to interact, meet new people and make new friends.” His developing skill set includes designing theme days to encourage school spirit. “I feel like if you can get students involved in what’s going on outside of the classroom, they will buy more into the idea that school can be enjoyable,” AJ said.
18 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group During the school’s Building Empathy and Kindness (BEAK) week, the Leadership students raised $11,000 for the Every Eagle Matters program. Avery said, “It’s very rewarding to be able to give back and fill the closet so other kids in need can have the clothing and hygiene products they need.” In addition to connecting with their peers, students are learning to connect with others in leadership positions. BainMayfield said, “I think Lawton Public School is really committed to making sure that student voices are heard. The Leadership students from all three schools meet with the superintendent once a month. They learn to ask questions and get clarification on how to present questions in a way that they gain the knowledge they want.”
19 hometown living at its best 19 When enrolled in the Leadership class, students are gaining skills that will prepare them for the future. Avery said, “The Leadership class has taught me how to meet people professionally. There is a way to greet and meet friends and family but then you interact with professionals a different way so I think that will really help when it comes to getting a job in the future.” As they look toward the future these students are already using the skills they are learning in the present. “I’ve always been a social butterfly and am one to take charge,” Avery said. “The Leadership class has taught me that sometimes being a leader means understanding when to take charge and when to step back and let others lead.” †
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24 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS BY DEBBIE DUGGAR VISUALS AND PROVIDED BY ROSE DUCKETT
25 hometown living at its best A Love for eople & Fashion P Lawton businesswoman Rose Duckett shares her passion and talent for business with the community through her volunteer work.
26 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group WWearing a new outfit, sporting a handsome hat and completing one’s outfit with just the right jewelry or footwear is spellbinding. Owner of Brims and Accessories, Rose Duckett enjoys sharing that delight with everyone who comes into her boutique, and she radiates a savvy business sense by networking and serving others in the Lawton community. Originally from San Angelo, Rose first moved to Lawton with her husband, who was in the army at the time. While the military took them overseas, they always came back to Lawton, so it became home. Little did the Army know it was also bringing Lawton someone with a lifelong fashion interest. “When I was a kid, I always saw these ladies with the hats on, and it seems to me when you put on a hat you kind of get an attitude,” Rose says. “I like the hats and then the jewelry and everything. I like to dress up, especially for church. You feel a little bit more comfortable, more confident. It just does something to me, kind of transforms me when I put on my hat. I used to see my aunt dress up going to church all the time, and I always wanted to go with her because I thought that was the neatest thing, the way she dressed up.” Rose started sharing her passion by hosting ladies from church at her house where they gathered to drink lattes and trade hats. Interest turned to entrepreneurship when she noticed there wasn’t a local accessories shop. She sought retail space to start her own where she could expand and connect with the public more. After selling out of her home and other locations for nine years, she opened her Cache Road Square retail location in 2019. Shoppers come in for jewelry and clothes, but those were not the goal in the beginning. It was the hats, and that led to the shoes. Glass slippers and ruby red slippers are shoes of literary lore for a good reason- they have changed lives, and to Rose the right shoes can be life altering. She has stories to share, and enjoys retelling the reaction she had when her podiatrist told her that wearing heels was out and wearing shoes with inserts was in. “I said, ‘I can't do that. I go to church, and I dress up,’” Rose says. “I came up with every reason. But I went on vacation and finally wore the tennis shoes like he said and wore those high dollar inserts, and oh my goodness. I thought I was gonna die. I walked upon this boutique, and I love boutiques, so I walked in. After I got over the fact that this lady had on some shoes that I'd never seen before, she gave me some to put on and told me to walk around through the store. I went berserk in there. I had an arm full of clothes at the end of it all. She said, ‘Okay, what about the shoes?’ and I said, ‘What shoes?’ I forgot that I had them on! That's how impressive these shoes are. I'm telling you, there's nothing like these shoes.” Rose will be the first to tell you how her favorite brand of Alegria shoes transforms people with joint problems. She and her shop draw a broad crowd, and she is happy to help her customers find results.
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28 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group “I want people to know that they can come in,” Rose says. “They can be comfortable on the little couch, and I want them to know before they leave my store that I want to be certain they are satisfied. I'm not going to rush you through trying on shoes. If it takes 20 pairs for us to try on for you to find that shoe, then that's what it takes.” A personal touch, ambitious business drive, and community connections have proven both successful and fulfilling for Rose. At church, she heads up seasonal decorating, dressing up multiple Christmas trees, decorating for ladies’ tea events and even choosing outfits for her pastor’s wife. She has been a member of the Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce as a Red Coat Ambassador, earning a Rookie of the Year award and then a Red Coat of the Year distinction twice. As an ambassador, Rose took part in promoting Lawton businesses, being on site at ribbon cutting ceremonies, ready to leave her own line of work to do so if called upon. Networking gets the word out for existing and new businesses, so Red Coat Ambassadors aim to shake every hand at functions and assist with membership drives. In that role, Rose also helped promote local Lawton, in part by going from business to business checking in with owners, maintaining
29 hometown living at its best the chamber relationship and support. For Rose, that comes naturally. “I’m more of a people person, I guess,” Rose says. “I enjoy going out and meeting the people…When I first won, I didn't even know what I'd done.” In addition to supporting business owners, Rose joined Meeting with a Purpose, an organization that provides a support network between more than 200 people, many of whom she met through her chamber work. Members organize donation drives and charitable giving while having a whole lot of fun. Furthermore, she supports The Society of Military Widows, and as part of the Lawton Business Women, she is among a network of women supporting one another as business owners, often with educational scholarships. “It's kind of like a sisterhood,” Rose says. “It's women helping women.” As a business self-starter herself, Rose knows the positive effects that come from people supporting one another. “You feel good about yourself when you can help somebody,” Rose says. “It helps the people that are doing it, and the people that they're doing it for.” Rose’s energy for serving her clientele is inspiring, and her admirable ambitions that extend into the Lawton community are not only a positive example, but they are building confidence for other entrepreneurs and business owners. †
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HOMETOWN Happenings
CHILDREN'S STARLIGHT Photos provided by FOREVER FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASIA The Comanche County Memorial Hospital Foundation celebrated its 17th Annual Children’s Starlight Fund event on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Hilton Garden Inn, Lawton OK. They had over 670 guests in attendance and raised over $320,000 for their tiniest patients and their families in Southwest Oklahoma. “It’s so incredible to see the community come out and support our cause each year,” said the CCMH Foundation Executive Director, Lea Ann Chandler. Guests enjoyed a silent and live auction, a game of heads or tails, delicious meal, and Country Concert featuring Rickard Allen, Johnny Owens, and Terry K. Bell. This event supports the purchase of equipment, technology, capital needs, and other needs identified by the CCMH Foundation Board and Hospital Leadership in all areas of Women and Children’s Services. Throughout the past 17 years, the Foundation has had the opportunity to purchase equipment such as halo bassinets, infant warming beds, expansion and renovation of delivery rooms, infant monitors, ultrasound equipment, retina camera and so much more. The CCMH Foundation would like to say a huge thank you to all their community supporters and event sponsors. To learn more about the CCMH Foundation, visit their website at ccmhgiving.com or call 580.250.5989. Fund Event 35 hometown living at its best
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39 hometown living at its best SCAN THE CODE TO SUPPORT FAMILIES LIKE ERIC'S
BISON, BIRDS, & Beauty The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers visitors educational and artistic exploration of numerous wildlife species on nearly untouched landscape. WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE
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42 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group OOklahoma wildlife is roaming the prairie grass, crawling the granite boulders, and flying the skies at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Opportunities abound for families to head out and explore the refuge and see its natural wonder. With a map, a field guide and some safety precautions, visitors can step into a landscape much as it was in 1901 when it was first protected. From scenic drives and short hikes to see it all up close, the refuge is a great day trip. Hiking is very popular in the refuge as it is a great way to observe the surrounding wildlife. The Dog Hollow Trail system consists of the four Kite, Elk, Longhorn and Bison trails that are 1-mile to 6-mile interconnected loops. A northbound hike on the Bison trail passes by the French Lake Fish Tower and borders the water channel below the French Lake Dam. “It hikes along the edge of a canyon,” says Quinton Smith Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Visitor Services manager. “If there's been some recent rains, there is some really spectacular water flow and even a little bit of a waterfall, but it typically depends on rainfall.”
43 hometown living at its best Watch for tiny refuge residents too such as the Blanchard’s cricket frog, which is less than three centimeters in size. Prairie dogs at two prairie dog town locations can be seen bobbing their heads up while they munch grass and roots. Familiarly known as the Mountain Boomer, the turquoisebellied, colorful-headed eastern collared lizard is likely to be putting on a display of doing pushups impressing female collard lizards in spring. “There's opportunity for wildlife viewing there, whether it's river otters playing out in the stream, beavers or anything else that's going to use that waterway,” Smith says of the Dog Hollow trails. “Every one of those trails is going to bump you through a little bit of the rock lands and bump you through some of the prairie. But none of the rock lands, none of the prairie habitat or the walk along the creek are going to be very difficult walks. Those are all easy, family friendly hiking opportunities.” Birds and reptiles flitting about the trees along the trail and among the brush and wildflowers can mean up-close encounters to witness breeding season courtships and pollinating. Bird species, at a recent count, numbered 275. Mountain Bluebirds, Great Crested Flycatchers and Northern Cardinals are just a few that birders have reported seeing. Hikers and bird watchers can check out birding backpacks from the visitor center, which include a map, compass, field guide and binoculars. A notable species in the refuge, the black-capped photo by Randy Jones photo by Randy Jones
photo by Kenny Seals photo by Randy Jones
Photo provided by Wichita Falls Ballet Theatre vireo, a smallish bird with a white belly, greenishyellow wings and a black cap of feathers, was once on the verge of extinction. Displacement by the brown-headed cow bird, and habitat degradation due to fire suppression and land use changes meant disruption to the vireo nesting in short scrub oaks. Re-establishing natural fire cycles and actively managing threats to the species have allowed the vireo to thrive at the refuge. “The prairie here that we protect is a vital habitat and ecosystem, for not just the birds, bison, elk and all the different things that are dependent on that prairie ecosystem, but the native wildflowers,” Smith says. “The wildflowers out here in the prairie ecosystem are amazing, and they are vital to sustain our native pollinators. Look at the national landscape, and there are very few places left with natural prairie grassland ecosystems. It further highlights the significance of this refuge.” Bison once numbering 60 million in North America, dropped to only a few hundred. In 1907, a group of 15 were brought to the refuge. Annual monitoring for disease and genetics allows the Fish and Wildlife Service to carefully manage the herd, now numbering about 650. Bison, elk and longhorn, transient by nature, roam freely and can often be seen from afar but not at predictable locations. Dawn and dusk are the best times of day to see most of the animals, and safety is key. Great distances should be maintained, and if a bison starts to look sideways at you or is switching its tail, it is feeling disturbed. Visiting in springtime means greenery, April geology hikes and May wildflower walks from the Friends of the Wichitas. Migratory birds are present, and baby bison calves and prairie dogs are out. Temperatures are cooler in spring and fall, but even in June there are wildlife bus tours and an introductory birding workshop. Educational programs and photography, writing and art workshops help visitors immerse themselves more fully in nature. Autumn colors in the foliage bring visitors back, such as school environmental education groups seeing bison and elk rutting and the spring babies who have since grown. Each year, nearly two million people visit the one-third of the refuge that is open to the public. Stewardship of the refuge is key to its success for future 45 hometown living at its best
46 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group “We all have to remember when we're out here, that it is a National Wildlife Refuge and it's our duty, not just our duty as refuge employees but our duty as American citizens to protect these landscapes,” Smith says. “They're scarce. There's not many of them left. There's surely not many left in Oklahoma for us Oklahomans to value and to see what they are. Of the landscapes across the state, this is the largest expanse that has been protected since before Oklahoma’s statehood. So, when you're looking at this place, it's unchanged, and it’s just as authentic as it ever was. When we're out here seeing that landscape and walking that trail, you get that sense of untouched wilderness. When you see that water bottle or that cigarette butt, it's totally ruining that experience for visitors, not to mention the harmful effects those things are having on wildlife that live in those spaces.” Keep yourself safe too, and never reach into crevices or holes where wildlife may be. Bring plenty of water. There is no potable water available in the refuge. Smith says if your water is half gone then your hike is half over. In addition, make sure you have told someone your destination, that you have a map as cell-service may not be dependable and that you’ve dressed for the occasion. Sturdy shoes are a good idea. When it’s time to get in touch with nature, to learn more about the natural environment and just experience being in the wonder and beauty of our Creator, plan a trip out to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. †
47 hometown living at its best photo by Molly Sizer photo by Kenny Seals
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50 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group www.lawtoncommunitytheatre.com LAWTON COMMUNITY THEATRE
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53 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY SARA HOOK | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RITA HEATH A LIFETIME OF reating C COMANCHE BEAD ARTIST RITA HEATH MAKES HER ART A DAILY PRACTICE.
54 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group AAs a little girl, Rita Heath sat beside her mother and learned the traditional art of beadwork. At first she just watched, but soon she was stringing beads and making her own projects. It wasn’t easy – as an excellent beader and seamstress Heath’s mother had high standards, and nothing was acceptable until it was perfect. Still, she persisted. At 93 years old, Rita Heath is still beading every single day. She goes to work in the morning, comes home and does the chores, and then sits down to bead. The patterns may be different, and the colors she uses change regularly, but the enjoyment of the process is much the same. Heath said, “Sitting down and beading gives you a feeling of accomplishing something, plus it’s a good time to meditate and think about things.” The first step can often be the most challenging — simply threading the beading needle. Beads come in many sizes, and the finest of them use appropriately fine needles and thread. Laying down beads and attaching them to cloth or hide is no less difficult—but that is not something that worries Heath, who sees difficult patterns and beadwork as a challenge. Even the beads she uses can make things more challenging: Heath works with cut beads only, as opposed to the seed beads most beaders prefer. Heath said, “People don’t like working with cut beads, because it’s very difficult to make designs. You’ve got to size your beads, you’ve got to plan what you’re doing. [It] takes a little more time, but the finished work is well worth it.” Heath’s beading style is primarily that of the Comanche, a style characterized by blue, red, and gold colors on a white background. Her
55 hometown living at its best work uses many other colors as well, sometimes based on what is popular and sometimes simply what Heath herself enjoys. While she attends two art shows a year, the Lawton Crafts, Arts & Hobby Association’s annual craft show and the Artesian Arts Festival in Sulphur, Heath said she usually doesn’t take commissions. After all, she beads for her own enjoyment. Heath said, “I don’t do a lot of request bead work, because to me it’s work when you have to do that. I enjoy my beading too much.” Often, she simply starts with a color, and the pattern comes as she works. Heath has made many different items in her long career of beading: earrings, purses, belts, medallions, and hatbands, alongside larger projects like shawls. It was one of her shawls that won her a 3rd place award in 2016, at the Artesian Arts Festival. As an invitation-only show, Heath was participating
56 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group with some of the most talented First American artists across the country. The festival showcases artists of many media, each displaying the unique styles of their own tribe. With beading, that style can be seen in more than just the color choice. “Every tribe has a different way of doing beadwork, they have different patterns: geometric patterns, circular patterns,” Heath said. “There’s beautiful beadwork in all the tribes.” Currently there is a good community of good beaders creating and selling beadwork, but Heath said beading itself seems to be going out of style. Heath has always taken the time to share her artistic talents with others, whether it be sewing or beading, but she has found that the younger generation is not so interested. If new beaders aren’t taught, the tradition won’t continue. Heath said, “It’s not going to be around forever, and pretty soon there won’t be any beadwork.” At least one of her students has gone on to sell her beadwork, and Heath said the fact that she still does is very pleasing. For most, however, it is hard to find the time to sit down and bead when there are so many other things that could be done. While beadwork may not be the most popular art form, there are many resources for those looking to learn more. Heath herself still buys books, watches tutorials, and goes to classes, as she said people are always coming up with new patterns and techniques. All it takes is a few minutes a day, which could turn into a lifelong passion of over 85 years. “There’s a lot of good books out that will teach you how to do beadwork, and there are a lot of videos and tutorials that you can watch and learn from,” Heath said. “If you have a desire to learn a hobby, I would highly recommend taking up beading.” †
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60 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Join us in congratulating them with prayers & well wishes for their future endeavors. Contact our office for information on being featured in our next HOMETOWN GRADUATES SECTION content@hometownmedia.group Graduates HOMETOWN 2 1.Grace Milam | Sterling High School 2.Halle Means | Eisenhower High School 3.Andyn Nichols | Cache High School Wild Oaks Photography “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says, ‘I’M POSSIBLE!’” — Audrey Hepburn 1 3
61 hometown living at its best THINGS I WISH I KNEW WHEN I STARTED COLLEGE Attending college is a huge milestone in a young person’s life. Going out on your own for the first time, learning the ropes of adulthood, and working towards a college degree—it’s a combination of exciting and scary to say the least. After attending college for the last four years here are some of the things I wish I would have known when I began this life changing journey. When you show up to campus on your first day just remember that you’re not alone. Every other freshman on campus is just as lost and confused as you are, so don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Chances are those questions about ‘where is this class’ or ‘how do I get to the dining hall’ will lead you right to where you need to be, on time, and possibly with a new friend! Learning how to properly manage your time will be one of the best skills you can learn. That skill will not only get you far in college, but it will also be beneficial when you make your way into the real world. If you have the time I would suggest joining an extra-curricular or club. That is one of the best ways to find friends and community on campus. I was a part of the rodeo team at my junior college, and I made friendships that will last a lifetime. Attending your classes and keeping up good relationships with your professors is another important aspect. A majority of the time showing up for class and being engaged in the conversation goes a long way. College can get expensive fast, so make sure that you are aware of the financial aspects of it. Apply for every scholarship you possibly can, meet up with an advisor to get scholarship recommendations, and research scholarship opportunities. At the end of the day, it is important to know that a college degree doesn’t define who you are or the things that you can accomplish. It’s okay to mess up every once in a while. Life isn’t meant to be perfect; it’s just meant to be lived. by Emery Mask About the Author Emery Mask is a senior at Tarleton State University where she will graduate May ‘25 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications studies. Emery is currently completing her internship with Hometown Media Group. She plans to pursue a career as a rodeo journalist while also competing in professional rodeo.
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63 hometown living at its best A financial planning strategy is only right if it’s right for you and your needs. I take the time to get to know each of my clients and their unique goals. Together, we can create a plan that works to help you make the most of today and still be prepared for tomorrow. Personalized advice that fits your portfolio. Client Satisfaction Rating Not FDIC or NCUA Insured | No Financial Institution Guarantee | May Lose Value CA Insurance #OK19658 5 out of 5 Client Satisfaction Rating based on 21 of reviews as of 8/28/2023: Each client has the opportunity to rate a practice based on the client’s overall satisfaction with the practice, on a scale of 1 to 5. The practice’s Client Satisfaction Rating is an average of all client responses for that practice within a rolling 24-month period, and is updated daily. There is no minimum number of responses required for a practice to receive a rating. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. Chuck Waugh, CLU®, ChFC®, APMA™ Private Wealth Advisor | Franchise Owner Waugh, Lavender & Associates A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC 580.355.9780 13 NW 44th St, Lawton, OK 73505 chuck.x.waugh@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/chuckwaugh
64 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group We all agree, nothing is as good as homegrown tomatoes. Regardless of fancy packaging or chemically enhanced color, homegrown is always better. Gardentown takes the same approach growing flowers. With over 50,000 square feet of greenhouse space and nearly 5 decades of growing experience, our locally grown plants are sure to thrive in your gardens. Tedious detail is given from germination through bloom time to provide sustainable, reliable beauty in your garden. While the supply chain backlogs and transportation costs soar, Gardentown plants are continuously available in our local greenhouses and are ready for planting in your garden during the appropriate season. 5360 N. Hwy 81 | Duncan | 580.255.2633 | gardentown.net | Find us on Facebook at Gardentown Nursery GARDENTOWN ... your premier garden center Annuals • Perennials Hanging Baskets • Trees and Shrubs Outdoor Fireplaces • Home Decor and Gifts House Plants • Outdoor Rooms Take it Outside at Gardentown
66 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY JAN BRAND | PHOTOS BY DEBBIE DUGGAR VISUALS LINING A Silver The Lawton Center for Creative Living is facilitating community for area Seniors.
hometown living at its best 67 HHollywood’s Golden Age star, Bette Davis, famously said, “Getting old isn’t for sissifies.” The Lawton Center for Creative Living has determined to put that sentiment to rest by providing a community that sizzles with life and new friendships are formed. It would be impossible to not find something of interest, whatever they were. The Lawton Crafts, Arts, and Hobby group meets at the center monthly. Their famous yearly autumn show in November is widely known throughout the region and beyond. The Shakespeare Club’s monthly meeting attracts the literary crowd. In this group you will probably find a lot of retired English teachers. Once a year this group celebrates the Bard with a formal dinner. Craft classes, art classes, and quilting instructions can all be had at the center. For those who love games, Bridge, pinochle and dominoes can fill up an afternoon of jovial competition. For the frisky, there is Tai Chi, and for those looking for relief from pain, there’s arthritis exercise. From February 1 to April 15, AARP provides free tax services for seniors. Bob Dishman, member of the board, and retired pharmacist, regales the fiercely competitive afternoons at the pool table with the group who call themselves, “The Cool Pool Players,” having rejected the one foisted on them by non-pool playing members, “The Old Geezers.” At almost ninety, Dishman doesn’t see himself as such. The Center not only provides various programs, but they are also concerned with the mental and intellectual wellness of those who attend and see the need for social interaction. Like the thousands who have fled California due to the high cost of living, Rena Addison moved to Lawton to be near her son, who had an extra house for her to live in. The first several months were hard. She had left the neighborhood she
68 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group lived in for years and all those friendships behind. Loneliness brought on depression, and she dreaded every day. Then she was told about the Center. She was struck with awe when she walked in and friendly Oklahomans came to say hello. She was made to feel welcomed and like she belonged from the beginning. Rena found new interests and got involved in activities.Surrounded by new friends, she spends her afternoons playing Mexican train and cribbage. Another new friend at the Center, Martha Uptgraft, introduced her to the art of making her own greeting cards. Accustomed to walking between one and three miles a day, Rena had to acclimate to the indecisive weather of the South Plains, where a cold front can blow through causing the temperature to drop forty degrees in an hour. Some of the old-timers like to say, “The only thing between Oklahoma and the North Pole is a barbed-wire fence” Rather than miss her daily exercise, the Center allows her to circle the cafeteria several times on the days outside activities are impossible. The Center believes in celebrations and decorates for them all: New Year’s Day, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. In November they throw a big Holiday Party that includes volunteers and the people of Lawton. This party is one of thanksgiving to those generous persons who give their time to make the twilight years good for those who come, and for those who deliver to those who can’t make it to the Center. On Mother’s Day they have a luncheon for the ladies, and this year the Red Hat Society sponsored it with a fashion show. They sometimes have accommodations for manicures for the ladies and drawings for prizes. Sometimes it’s quirkier and they have people there to paint funny faces for comic relief. Not to be outdone, the men celebrate Father’s Day with a cookout, and things of interest. Classic car shows are a favorite, reminding them of their first car and picking up their first girlfriend in a new Ford or Chevy. Manhood had arrived. They also offer free haircuts for the guys.
For the past two years the United Way has donated volunteer time at the Center by planting the garden behind the building with vegetable seeds. It’s called the United Way Day of Caring. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the Center provides lunch for 60 attendees. On the same days they provide meals for 110 to shut-ins, delivered to them by the volunteers. Charles pitches in, when needed, to help feed the people who come. After being married for 38 years, Tony Langford lost his wife suddenly. He had already been angry with God for forty years over an incident. With no God to console him, Tony drifted to the Center so his dog wasn’t his only source of solace. He got caught up in the games and whiled away a day with dominoes. hometown living at its best 69
At the Center, Tony would rediscover life. Margaret Perry realized he needed comfort and reached out as a friend. As a strong Christian, she knew what was missing in Tony’s life, and was able to get him to attend her church. Tony didn’t just find God, he found a community of friends he enjoys, and he attends the Bible Study every Friday night. Ask him and he is quick to tell you about the love of God that has changed his life. † Famous songstress Judy Garland, darling of the movies for decades sang this song with a message that describes the benefit for seniors at the Lawton Center for Creative Living. What do you do when your life gets interrupted with age: Look for the silver lining Whenever a cloud appears in the blue Remember, somewhere the sun is shining And so the right thing to do is make it shine for you. A heart, full of joy and gladness Will always banish sadness and strife So always look for the silver lining And try to find the sunny side of life. 70 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
72 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group LAWTON-FORT SILL CONVENTION CENTER
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74 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group M WRITTEN BY JESSICA WESSON | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARIA MEREDITH Lawton resident, Maria Meredith, is encouraging others to strengthen their relationship with Christ and draw others to Him through dance. Free Indeed Maria Meredith was born to a family of seven children in Dallas, Texas. When she was a child, her family moved to various locations, including California, Missouri, and Germany during her father’s 26 years of serving in the Army, so she was used to moving around. Finally, her family made their home in Panama City, Florida. As a five-year-old, Meredith fell in love with music, singing and dancing. “I was singing in church, and I used to think I would be a tap dancer,” Meredith said. “I would tap dance around the house and never had any formal lessons.” While she has always loved dancing, it wasn’t until she was 40 that she heard God's calling to use this passion in a way she hadn’t imagined before. “I was living in Cleveland, Ohio, at the time, and my church had a miming ministry,” Meredith said. “I thought it was the most magnificent way of worshipping, and I wanted to learn how to do it.” She took dance classes and followed her God given passion. She set out, determined to find her niche and educate other women on the impact of worship through dance.
“I connected with a spiritual group called Errin’s Ministry, which was a collaborative group of dancers from all over Cleveland,” Meredith said. I danced with that group for five years and learned so much. I finally decided to start my own ministry called Steps 2 Christ.” She mentored other young women who wanted to find their home in dance worship and used their talent to serve their community. God brought Laura Smith, a God-fearing, trained dancer into Meredith’s life who selflessly gave of her time and talent to bless Steps 2 Christ. “Laura helped train our dancers and we practiced on Sunday afternoons,” Meredith said. “We’d go to nursing homes or different churches to minister, and that’s how I started. She moved to Lawton, Oklahoma, approximately five years ago and brought her passion with her. “I joined Voice of Hope Church in Oklahoma City, and I started sharing my story,” Meredith said. “One of the other members encouraged me to start a group here, and I wasn’t sure if I could do it again. I knew it took a lot of work, and I didn’t know if I had it in me.” Meredith contemplated the rewards and challenges of starting over, but God stirred her to return to her passion. “I prayed about it, and I felt God moving me in that direction,” Meredith said. “So, I started advertising it in the church, and we eventually started practicing. I even stepped out on faith and set up the 501(c)(3) status to make it a nonprofit.” 75 hometown living at its best
76 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group The newest organization, Set Free Ministries, is geared toward helping individuals find a positive outlet to plug into. “The purpose is to empower youth and adults to use their gift of dance to build their relationship with Christ and to draw others to Him,” Meredith said. “We want to teach them to become servant leaders in the community and give back to others.” Eventually, Meredith’s goal is to visit specific individuals who need Christ-centered encouragement. “We want to visit nursing homes, women’s detention centers, and women’s prisons on a regular basis in the future,” Meredith said. “We want to touch those individuals who are having difficulties in life.” Set Free Ministries held its first Praise Dance Conference in Lawton in 2023. “We were blessed to have sponsors that paid for some of the conference costs for our participants, and we’re already excited to be planning our second annual conference,” Meredith said. “We had 45 women attend ages 8 to 60. It was a great turnout for our inaugural event.” Meredith has other roles in the community where she serves Lawton and makes connections for Set Free Ministries. “I’m part of Lawton Business Women, and I’ve shared information about my group with them,” Meredith said. “I’ve also reached out to
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churches all over Lawton to let them know what we’re doing and why we’re doing it.” She felt it was important to become involved in her new community and to make a positive impact. “I wanted to network and also get to know others in Lawton,” Meredith said. “I had just moved here, and I didn’t know many people.” She also joined the Chamber of Commerce and the Mayor’s Commission on the Status of Women. “One of my friends mentioned me to the mayor, and shortly thereafter I was asked to join the committee,” Meredith said. “I wanted to join this committee to make things better for women in the community. Meredith has also been a part of the Lawton Business Women’s Organization. She loved raising scholarship funds for young women to go to college, and that the legacy funds will continue to grow in the future. She found her passion later in life, but she didn’t let that stop her from chasing after a dream. 78 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group
79 hometown living at its best “I saw what dance worship did for me personally, and there wasn’t a ministry that had ever touched me in that way before,” Meredith said. "It encouraged me to build my relationship with Christ and to reach other individuals that way.” Meredith strives to create a positive, safe atmosphere for youth to express themselves. “There’s so much noise around young people today with social media and peer pressure, and it’s hard to reach them with traditional methods sometimes,” Meredith said. “They get excited about music or dance, and it’s different than preaching or spoken word. We try to offer something that stimulates them and makes them passionate about worshipping God.” †
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UNITED WAY'S FAMILY HOMETOWN Happenings Photos provided by UNITED WAY Success By 6's Family Empowerment Program is a United Way of Southwest Oklahoma initiative that brings parents, children, community leaders, educators, and health and human services professionals together to provide educational sessions at no cost to families in our community. The goal of the program is to educate families with children 0-6 on the importance of early childhood development and how to prepare their child for school and life readiness by age 6. The program is a combination of parenting classes and children's lessons with fun and engaging activities. It is a 12-month-long initiative, cycling monthly, from sessions on topics of education, traumainformed care and trauma resilience, emotional regulation and validation, early literacy, STEM lessons and so, so much more. Sessions are facilitated by various community partners such as health organizations, nonprofits, banks, and individuals with skills to share with our parents. Sessions are held in four different locations throughout the community partnering with the City of Lawton Parks and Recreation Department and utilizing all three community rec centers. The first Thursday of every month at the HC King Center, the second Thursday at the Dr. E.A. Owens Center, the third Thursday at Patterson Community Center, and the fourth Thursday at the Boys and Girls Club. All host sites graciously offer their facilities at no cost! A family meal is provided at the beginning of every session. At the end of every session parents and caregivers receive a $25.00 Walmart gift card to help provide them with basic necessities they may otherwise go without. While parents and caregivers are in parent-focused sessions, childcare is provided! Attendance is capped at 10 families a session, but the whole family is welcome to attend, grab some dinner, fellowship, and connect with each other and community resources! For more information on getting involved with Success By 6, visit their website at, uwswok.org/success-6 Empowerment Program
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