Kaylea Hutson's Blog, page 5
September 21, 2015
Lankford to visit Grove
Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller • khutson@grovesun.com
A Republican senator, described as being "in the thick" of things in Washington, D.C., will be the featured guest for the Northeast Oklahoma Lincoln Reagan Dinner.
U.S. Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) will serve as the keynote speaker for the meal, set for 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Grove Civic Center, 1702 South Main, Grove.
Delaware County Republican Chairman Pastor Robert Carter said the dinner will give Lankford his first opportunity to be in Grove since his election in 2014 to complete the remaining two years of retiring U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn's term of office.
"Sen. Lankford is in the thick of things in Washington, and he will provide an interesting and timely report on many of the issues our Federal Government is dealing with,” Carter said. “Sen. Lankford is Oklahoma’s highest ranking elected Federal official, and northeast Oklahoma is honored to be able to host him at this public dinner."
Lankford said he plans to talk to the gathering about who Republicans are, and where the party is headed in the future, concerning national issues.
Lankford said he "ardently disagrees," that the country is beyond hope.
"I'm not one to just throw up my hands, say it's too hard and quit," Lankford said. "That's not who we are."
Lankford admits the nation is "not in a good spot," but there is room for improvement.
"Congress is fighting like a couple who have overspent their credit cards," Lankford said. "Every fight we have circles back to money."
Lankford said much of his discussion will center upon the core beliefs that Republicans hold - including family, local control of government, work, rule of law and developing solutions which actually help people get out of poverty.
He said the party needs to focus on finding solutions that solve issues of poverty, rather than placing a bandaid on the issue.
Lankford likened the need to return to core values to those, held by those known as the greatest generation, like work ethic, values and integrity.
"We're not just losing this generation, we're also losing their values," Lankford said.
Ultimately, Lankford said, happenings in Washington D.C. mirrors what's taking place throughout the country.
"It reflects who we are, and what we've become as a nation," Lankford said.
Change, will only come when people make a difference in their own community, churches and schools.
"The long-term turnaround will only come through out states and communities," he said.
Lankford said he also expects he will discuss the upcoming presidential election and the slate of GOP candidates vying to become the party's nominee.
At this time, Lankford said he has not picked a favorite candidate.
"I'm pleased with the field and its diversity," Lankford said, adding that much of his views will focus on the overall process and provide "inside baseball" style tips about several of the candidates.
At this time, Lankford has not publicly thrown his support behind a candidate.
Lankford said he plans to also discuss some of his views concerning the nuclear treaty with Iran.
"This is not good for the U.S. and not good for the middle east and it's not good for Israel," Lankford said of the president's current plan. "I think no deal is better than a bad deal - and this is a bad deal."
More About Lankford
After serving four years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Lankford was elected to the U.S. Senate on Nov. 4, to complete Coburn's term of office, which expires in January 2017.
Lankford currently serves on the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Indian Affairs Committee. Additionally, Lankford serves on the Senate Republican Whip Team for the 114th Congress.
Before Lankford was elected to Congress, he served as the Director of the Falls Creek Youth Camp and Director of Student Ministry at the Baptist Convention of Oklahoma from 1995 to 2009. Falls Creek is the largest youth camp in the United States, with more than 51,000 students and adults attending each summer.
Lankford lives in Edmond with his wife Cindy. They have been married for over 20 years and have two daughters: Hannah and Jordan.
Tickets for the dinner are $50 per person and may be purchased by Monday, Sept. 28, in Grove at Shadow Arms Protection, 311 South Grand; Allstate Insurance, 2106 S. Main; Edward Jones, 2123 S Main; and Trinity Baptist Church, 206 Elk Street. Tickets are also available by contacting local Republican leaders.
One Thing With Lankford
One person who has inspired you
My faith is the driving force behind my life. It's essential to my day to day life.
With that said, my mother has always stood behind me. She's quite the lady. She has lived a life with a focus to help other people, and she's a life-long encourager to me personally.
One book that has 'stuck' with you
Scripture is extremely important to me. Another book, it's older, but "Good to Great" a book about management structures. It looks at structures that are broken and how you can turn them around.
Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God by Mark Batterson is also important to me as well.
One thing that might surprise people about you
I'm a little bit of an introvert. I speak to people all of the time, but I enjoy sitting on my back porch or in the yard planting, working or just being by myself. I like to spend a lot of time in the quiet or solitude.
One thing you can't live without
Sonic Vanilla Dr. Pepper. One of the things I don't like about D.C. is that there is no Sonics.
One piece of advice you've been given
Advice that came from Dr. Coburn. Several years ago I asked him how he did effective leadership in the congress. He said there were two ways. Become a conference committee chairman or study the issues. He was incredibly accurate. So few people study actually study the issues. If you engage and study, you can do your part behind the scenes to make an impact. Study and do the work, that was good counsel.
One thing you hope to impart on the people attending the dinner
An optimism and a sense that that national direction starts at home.
A Republican senator, described as being "in the thick" of things in Washington, D.C., will be the featured guest for the Northeast Oklahoma Lincoln Reagan Dinner.
U.S. Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) will serve as the keynote speaker for the meal, set for 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Grove Civic Center, 1702 South Main, Grove.
Delaware County Republican Chairman Pastor Robert Carter said the dinner will give Lankford his first opportunity to be in Grove since his election in 2014 to complete the remaining two years of retiring U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn's term of office.
"Sen. Lankford is in the thick of things in Washington, and he will provide an interesting and timely report on many of the issues our Federal Government is dealing with,” Carter said. “Sen. Lankford is Oklahoma’s highest ranking elected Federal official, and northeast Oklahoma is honored to be able to host him at this public dinner."
Lankford said he plans to talk to the gathering about who Republicans are, and where the party is headed in the future, concerning national issues.
Lankford said he "ardently disagrees," that the country is beyond hope.
"I'm not one to just throw up my hands, say it's too hard and quit," Lankford said. "That's not who we are."
Lankford admits the nation is "not in a good spot," but there is room for improvement.
"Congress is fighting like a couple who have overspent their credit cards," Lankford said. "Every fight we have circles back to money."
Lankford said much of his discussion will center upon the core beliefs that Republicans hold - including family, local control of government, work, rule of law and developing solutions which actually help people get out of poverty.
He said the party needs to focus on finding solutions that solve issues of poverty, rather than placing a bandaid on the issue.
Lankford likened the need to return to core values to those, held by those known as the greatest generation, like work ethic, values and integrity.
"We're not just losing this generation, we're also losing their values," Lankford said.
Ultimately, Lankford said, happenings in Washington D.C. mirrors what's taking place throughout the country.
"It reflects who we are, and what we've become as a nation," Lankford said.
Change, will only come when people make a difference in their own community, churches and schools.
"The long-term turnaround will only come through out states and communities," he said.
Lankford said he also expects he will discuss the upcoming presidential election and the slate of GOP candidates vying to become the party's nominee.
At this time, Lankford said he has not picked a favorite candidate.
"I'm pleased with the field and its diversity," Lankford said, adding that much of his views will focus on the overall process and provide "inside baseball" style tips about several of the candidates.
At this time, Lankford has not publicly thrown his support behind a candidate.
Lankford said he plans to also discuss some of his views concerning the nuclear treaty with Iran.
"This is not good for the U.S. and not good for the middle east and it's not good for Israel," Lankford said of the president's current plan. "I think no deal is better than a bad deal - and this is a bad deal."
More About Lankford
After serving four years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Lankford was elected to the U.S. Senate on Nov. 4, to complete Coburn's term of office, which expires in January 2017.
Lankford currently serves on the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Indian Affairs Committee. Additionally, Lankford serves on the Senate Republican Whip Team for the 114th Congress.
Before Lankford was elected to Congress, he served as the Director of the Falls Creek Youth Camp and Director of Student Ministry at the Baptist Convention of Oklahoma from 1995 to 2009. Falls Creek is the largest youth camp in the United States, with more than 51,000 students and adults attending each summer.
Lankford lives in Edmond with his wife Cindy. They have been married for over 20 years and have two daughters: Hannah and Jordan.
Tickets for the dinner are $50 per person and may be purchased by Monday, Sept. 28, in Grove at Shadow Arms Protection, 311 South Grand; Allstate Insurance, 2106 S. Main; Edward Jones, 2123 S Main; and Trinity Baptist Church, 206 Elk Street. Tickets are also available by contacting local Republican leaders.
One Thing With Lankford
One person who has inspired you
My faith is the driving force behind my life. It's essential to my day to day life.
With that said, my mother has always stood behind me. She's quite the lady. She has lived a life with a focus to help other people, and she's a life-long encourager to me personally.
One book that has 'stuck' with you
Scripture is extremely important to me. Another book, it's older, but "Good to Great" a book about management structures. It looks at structures that are broken and how you can turn them around.
Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God by Mark Batterson is also important to me as well.
One thing that might surprise people about you
I'm a little bit of an introvert. I speak to people all of the time, but I enjoy sitting on my back porch or in the yard planting, working or just being by myself. I like to spend a lot of time in the quiet or solitude.
One thing you can't live without
Sonic Vanilla Dr. Pepper. One of the things I don't like about D.C. is that there is no Sonics.
One piece of advice you've been given
Advice that came from Dr. Coburn. Several years ago I asked him how he did effective leadership in the congress. He said there were two ways. Become a conference committee chairman or study the issues. He was incredibly accurate. So few people study actually study the issues. If you engage and study, you can do your part behind the scenes to make an impact. Study and do the work, that was good counsel.
One thing you hope to impart on the people attending the dinner
An optimism and a sense that that national direction starts at home.
September 18, 2015
Stepping out in faith: Tulsa State Fair Entries
My entries for the Tulsa State Fair. Ready to drive to Tulsa tomorrow after REC Day. #lifeofaneditor Seven entries, Pro division. No clue what the judges are looking for..... but we have seven new pics for the walls of our new house.
Impact of Alcohol: Aftermath of DUI leaves survivors reeling from effects
Brandon Abel, 21, Eucha, died and his passenger, Dakota Fullerton, 19, was injured following a one-vehicle accident, which took place north of Grove on East 270 Road, near the Apache Springs subdivision, on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Highway Patrol Reports indicated alcohol and speed were the key factors in the accident. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunKaylea M. Hutson-Miller • khutson@grovesun.com
Editor's Note: This is part of a three part series examining the impact of alcohol use on young lives.
Life changed on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015, for Alan and Ida Abel.
It was then that the rural Delaware County residents stopped using a calendar to mark off the days of their lives.
Now a single number dominates each day — 28.
According to statistics provided by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, an average of 28 people are killed each day in accidents caused by alcohol.
It’s a sobering statistic — of which the Abels have first-hand knowledge.
Brandon, their 21-year-old son, died as a result of injuries he received in a one-vehicle accident, which took place north of Grove on East 270 Road, near the Apache Springs subdivision, on Wednesday, Aug. 19.
His passenger, 19-year-old Dakota M. Fullerton, Eucha, also sustained injuries in the accident. He was taken by Mercy Air Ambulance to Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, where he was admitted in good condition with trunk internal and external, arm and leg injuries. He has since been released.
It was an accident fueled in part by alcohol and speed, according to reports issued by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Medical examiner's reports indicate Brandon Abel had a blood alcohol content of .16 – twice the legal limit.
“My son was killed by a drunk driver – himself,” Alan said.
* * *
Since Aug. 19, Alan has discovered a new mission in life.
“I want to turn his tragedy into someone’s triumph,” Alan said. “I want one person to make a change, then reach the second person, then a third [and keep on multiplying].”
His wife, Ida, agreed.
“I don’t want somebody else going through life like this today,” Ida said. “I don’t want someone else to lose a loved one. [We want to] stop this from happening to another person.”
The former director of the Grove Emergency Medical Services, Alan wants people to hear about the dangers associated with driving under the influence of alcohol.
He wants people to see images from his son’s accident, even though it causes pain.
The Abels hope the shocking the images of their son's vehicle will help convince people of all ages about the dangers of driving while intoxicated.
They say speaking out not only gives them a way to channel their grief, but it fuels what has become their ultimate goal.
“It will be worth it, if I can turn his tragedy into triumph,” Alan said. “If one person, young or old, takes time to stop and think before they get behind a wheel, and instead call a loved one [it will be worth it.]
“If I could have stopped [Brandon] I would have. I just want to hug him, and tell him that I love him.”
* * *
Brandon Able with his son, Braden, 1. Photo courtesy Alan Abel While the Abels admit choices made by their son throughout his teenage and young adult years led to his death, they know he was more than just a troubled young man with a pattern of bad behaviors.
He was also a young man learning to become a husband to Stacey (Summerfield) and father to son, Braden, 1, and stepsons Ryder, 3, and Roman, 4.
“He loved his boys,” Ida said. “He had lots of plans for those boys – and now he won’t be able to follow through with them. “
Alan remembers a son who cared for others, someone with a heart of gold.
“He would do anything, for anybody,” Alan said. “He had a good heart. Our solace is that while we look at the outward appearance, God looks at the content of our heart.
“My boy wasn’t just a drunk driver. He was somebody who loved and who was loved.”
* * *
Age played a role in the choices Brandon made.
“He was young,” Ida said. “He said, ‘mom, you’re supposed to mess up when you are young.’ He thought he had time to make it right. He thought he had time to turn his life around. [But] we saw his life leading two places – jail or death, which broke our hearts.
“It was like a bad dream we just couldn’t stop.”
* * *
In addition to educating others, the Abels hope their younger daughter, Brianna, a junior at Jay High School, takes heed of the message.
“I know to pay attention to the road, not to drive stupid, no drunk driving and no texting while driving,” Brianna said.
Alan hopes their daughter will remember one simple message, should she get into a situation involving alcohol.
“Stop, look, listen and learn,” Alan said. “Just call somebody. Save money [DUIs cost thousands of dollars], save a life. Call somebody, anybody.
“Everyone carries a cell phone, call somebody. If Brandon had made a phone call, we wouldn’t be where we are.”
* * *
To help spread their message, the Abels have joined the Oklahoma Chapter of MADD. Alan has also become a member of the national FADD or Fathers Against Drunk Driving. At this time there is no state chapter of FADD.
“We are looking for outlets to help spread our message,” Alan said. “Twenty-eight people lose their life every day from alcohol and driving. That’s one person every 45 minutes. On Aug. 19, our son became one of the 28.
“We want people to make a phone call, to call someone to come get them. I want people to understand, they just need to make a phone call, to call somebody. If they don’t the wake of destruction they leave behind is massive.”
For more information, persons interested may contact MADD of Oklahoma at www.madd.org/local-offices/ok or 405-748-3122 or FADD at www.faddintl.org. Persons interested may also contact Alan Abel to speak about the issue at alanabel@ymail.com.
Honoring First Responders
Grove Police Chief Mark Morris presents Officer Daniel Amendolara with the Governor's Commendation for his actions surrounding the Aug. 19 accident. Off-duty, Amendolara responded to the scene of the one-vehicle accident and assisted the two men until medical help arrived. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunAlan and Ida Abel have repeatedly said they are grateful for the first responders who helped their son, Brandon, and Dakota Fullerton on the night of the accident.
“For everyone who touched our son, who gave their best efforts, words will never be enough,” Ida Abel said. “Our thank you’s will never be enough, but we want that out there."
The actions of one first responder, off-duty Grove Police Officer Daniel Amendolara during the accident, has received recognition from both the Grove Police Department and Governor Mary Fallin's office.
Amendolara, who was at his residence at the time of the incident, heard the impact of the crash, and responded. He assisted both Abel and his passenger, Dakota Fullerton, until medical personnel arrived at the scene.
Ida Abel credits Amendolara's actions for helping her son get out of the burning car following its impact with the tree.
He has been given a Governor's Commendation by Gov. Fallin and the Medal of Honor by Grove Police Chief Mark Morris.
"When you are a police officer, you are never 'off duty,'" Amendolara said. "That goes for any emergency personnel. When someone gets hurt or needs help, we do what needs to be done regardless.
"I swore to 'protect and serve' my community and thats what I did and will continue doing so.
"In a situation like that, you don't have time to think. You just react. Being where I was at that time when I saw the vehicle pass by, I don't know if it was fate or just a coincidence, but I knew I had to go help when I heard the impact.
"Doing what we do, you don't really think of the dangers you put yourself into, you just know there are other people in danger and need your help so you do what you have to do at any cost."
Amendolara said it's hard to receive accolades for an accident that ended in a fatality.
"It's nice to be recognized, but I feel I was just doing what any person would have done or hope they would have done in that situation," he said. "It's kind of hard to put into words the feelings I have toward the entire situation due to the loss of a young man's life."
Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in the Friday, Sept. 18 issue of The Grove Sun.
September 17, 2015
Bits & Pieces: Life of Job?
It's been an interesting couple of weeks in the land of we, as the Lawman and I continue to create life outside of work.
Part of our world has been punctuated by a few, well, illnesses on my part.
Two weeks ago, what I initially thought was a rash turned into a full-blown case of the shingles.
For the record, I'm NOT old enough to get the shingles vaccine.
So instead of celebrating the last weekend of the summer - that beloved holiday known as Labor Day - doing something fun, the Lawman took care of me. Let's just say, I'm not the easiest patient to deal with.
Thank goodness, a very kind volunteer from Har-Ber Village. When I called out to the Country Store to ask about their famous oatmeal and lye soap, she not only took my order over the phone, she brought it to me as I finished the paper on Sept. 3.
I'm also grateful for the various folks that pitched in, and took pictures for me at the first home football game. I hated to miss it, but my pillow seemed to be a better choice.
The fun with shingles continued into the next week. I was just getting over them (at the not contagious stage) when I went to the Delaware County Bowl.
I love covering our "bowl" games. They are fun and the fans make great pictures.
If you've seen me in the last week, well, let's just say I got too close to one of the flag girls.
It all started because I got involved (ok absorbed) with taking a picture of the trumpet section of the band. As the music ended, I started to slipped around the drum major's stand to get in position for another picture.
That's when it happened. Apparently the flags don't finish at the same time as the band.
The poor unsuspecting flag girl brought her flag around for the finale. It just happened that her ending connected with my left eye. By fourth quarter, it was swollen, and by the next day, quite purple.
Never let it be said that I don't "throw" myself into the job.
Oh, did I mention the infection that landed in my right eye, or the crown that fell off of my tooth?
A friend asked me if I was trying out to be the next Job. I just laughed and shook my head.
So, if you see the Lawman, you might give him an extra hug or at least some condolences.
I'm slowly getting better and the land of we is going back to normal. We're still adjusting to married life, shared spaces, doing laundry and fixing meals.
In a few weeks, if all goes well, we're moving out of the apartment formerly known as "my" space, into our first "we" place.
I'm sure I'll have a few more stories to share. In fact, I can bet on it. Because if there's one thing I know, the land of we is full of laughs and a whole lot of fun.
Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller is the managing editor of The Grove Sun. Have an idea for a column or story? She can be reached at khutson@grovesun.com or 918-786-2228.
Editor's Note: This column originally appeared in the Friday, Sept. 18 issue of The Grove Sun.
Part of our world has been punctuated by a few, well, illnesses on my part.
Two weeks ago, what I initially thought was a rash turned into a full-blown case of the shingles.
For the record, I'm NOT old enough to get the shingles vaccine.
So instead of celebrating the last weekend of the summer - that beloved holiday known as Labor Day - doing something fun, the Lawman took care of me. Let's just say, I'm not the easiest patient to deal with.
Thank goodness, a very kind volunteer from Har-Ber Village. When I called out to the Country Store to ask about their famous oatmeal and lye soap, she not only took my order over the phone, she brought it to me as I finished the paper on Sept. 3.
I'm also grateful for the various folks that pitched in, and took pictures for me at the first home football game. I hated to miss it, but my pillow seemed to be a better choice.
The fun with shingles continued into the next week. I was just getting over them (at the not contagious stage) when I went to the Delaware County Bowl.
I love covering our "bowl" games. They are fun and the fans make great pictures.
If you've seen me in the last week, well, let's just say I got too close to one of the flag girls.
It all started because I got involved (ok absorbed) with taking a picture of the trumpet section of the band. As the music ended, I started to slipped around the drum major's stand to get in position for another picture.
That's when it happened. Apparently the flags don't finish at the same time as the band.
The poor unsuspecting flag girl brought her flag around for the finale. It just happened that her ending connected with my left eye. By fourth quarter, it was swollen, and by the next day, quite purple.
Never let it be said that I don't "throw" myself into the job.
Oh, did I mention the infection that landed in my right eye, or the crown that fell off of my tooth?
A friend asked me if I was trying out to be the next Job. I just laughed and shook my head.
So, if you see the Lawman, you might give him an extra hug or at least some condolences.
I'm slowly getting better and the land of we is going back to normal. We're still adjusting to married life, shared spaces, doing laundry and fixing meals.
In a few weeks, if all goes well, we're moving out of the apartment formerly known as "my" space, into our first "we" place.
I'm sure I'll have a few more stories to share. In fact, I can bet on it. Because if there's one thing I know, the land of we is full of laughs and a whole lot of fun.
Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller is the managing editor of The Grove Sun. Have an idea for a column or story? She can be reached at khutson@grovesun.com or 918-786-2228.
Editor's Note: This column originally appeared in the Friday, Sept. 18 issue of The Grove Sun.
Images from the 09.18.15 issue of The Grove Sun
Spreading A Love of Learning
Ruth CartagenaNutter helps Emma Housel look up a word during the Grove Rotary Club's distribution of dictionaries to approximately 175 third graders at the Grove Lower Elementary School. Rotary club members have been presenting third grades with dictionaries for more than a decade. Each student received a dictionary which includes additional study helps such as the U.S. Constitution, biographies of each president, the periodic table and more. One student in Barbara Couch's class said "this is much better than Google," as she received her dictionary. Tim Johnson, with the Grove Rotary Club, said the dictionary is the first book owned by many students. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Starting Young At The Delaware County Fair
A young exhibitor gets a helpful hand during the annual bucket calf show, which took place Saturday, Sept. 12, during the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Here Piggy Piggy
Four of the youngest competitors take part in the annual greased pig scramble, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Children in the 3- and 4-year-old division were each awarded a dollar bill for taking part in the event. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Honorable Mention
Photos I loved, but didn't have space to put in the paper
Showing with Mom
Taylyn Alkine, 2, answers questions from Charlotte Karnes (far right) while her mother, Jessica Alkine of Leach watches. This was the youngster's first experience showing calves in the bucket calf show at the Delaware County Free Fair. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.
Watching the Action
Brothers Levi Summerfield, 5, and Cade Cash, 3, watch the action inside the show ring, during the livestock show at the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Jay. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.
Ruth CartagenaNutter helps Emma Housel look up a word during the Grove Rotary Club's distribution of dictionaries to approximately 175 third graders at the Grove Lower Elementary School. Rotary club members have been presenting third grades with dictionaries for more than a decade. Each student received a dictionary which includes additional study helps such as the U.S. Constitution, biographies of each president, the periodic table and more. One student in Barbara Couch's class said "this is much better than Google," as she received her dictionary. Tim Johnson, with the Grove Rotary Club, said the dictionary is the first book owned by many students. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunStarting Young At The Delaware County Fair
A young exhibitor gets a helpful hand during the annual bucket calf show, which took place Saturday, Sept. 12, during the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Here Piggy Piggy
Four of the youngest competitors take part in the annual greased pig scramble, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Children in the 3- and 4-year-old division were each awarded a dollar bill for taking part in the event. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunHonorable Mention
Photos I loved, but didn't have space to put in the paper
Showing with Mom
Taylyn Alkine, 2, answers questions from Charlotte Karnes (far right) while her mother, Jessica Alkine of Leach watches. This was the youngster's first experience showing calves in the bucket calf show at the Delaware County Free Fair. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.Watching the Action
Brothers Levi Summerfield, 5, and Cade Cash, 3, watch the action inside the show ring, during the livestock show at the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Jay. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.
Cook-off blends fun, food at DelCo Fair
Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller • khutson@grovesun.com
The aroma of spices and meat filled the air as the 10th Annual Road Kill Chili Cook-Off got underway on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Fairgrounds.
The event, an annual fixture at the Delaware County Free Fair, drew cooks of all ages to create a pot of chili designed to win accolades.
The competition, organized by the Jay Chamber of Commerce, was open to individuals, as well as businesses, non-profits and school groups.
Saturday was Checota Sperry’s first foray into the world of cooking contests.
Checota Sperry, 15, a sophomore at Jay High School, dishes up chili for Harley Buzzard during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Sperry won second place in the youth division. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
A member of the Jay FFA, Sperry learned of the contest when her fellow FFA members began discussing the chapter’s entry.
“I decided I liked to cook and I wanted to enter for the fun of it,” Sperry said as she stirred her crockpot of chili.
Grove FFA member Rylee Caswell jokes with Eugene Elliott as she serves him a bowl of chili during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Caswell said she started with a recipe created by her father and brother, but continues to perfect it each year. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunIt was the second year Grove FFA member Rylee Caswell entered the competition.
Caswell said her recipe was passed to her by her brother, Trent, and father, Tim, and is designed to be a sweet chili made with Blue and Gold products.
Caswell said she continues to perfect the mixture. This year she added hatch chili peppers to her chili, to give it a different flavor.
Lexie Farley, 13, stirs her pot of chili during the
10th Annual Road Kill Chili Cook-Off,
held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the
Delaware County Free Fair.
Farley won first place in the youth division.
- Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunWith five years under her apron, 13-year-old Lexie Farley was one of the youngest, and most experienced competitors at the event.
Farley’s mother, Becky, joked that she began entering the cook-off before she was old enough to brown her own meat.
Farley said she continues to improve her entry each year, adding and subtracting things in an attempt to create the perfect recipe.
Ultimately, Farley said, being in the competition gives her a chance to cook chili often with her father, Butch.
“It’s a daddy daughter thing, I’ve always done it with him,” Farley said.
In the end, Farley walked away with the first place in the youth division, while Sperry took second. Caswell, representing Grove FFA, took second place behind Jay FFA in the school division.
Mattie Haynes watches as Tristan Robinette serves chili to Jim Cameron during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. The Jay FFA officer team won first place in the school division as well as the best decorated table and the best overall chili during the competition. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
10th Annual Chili Cook-Off Results
Best Decorated Table – Jay FFA.
Best Overall Chili – Jay FFA.
People’s Choice - Sarah Adams
Business Awards: 1st - Grand Savings Bank-Jay; 2nd - Subway; 3rd - Bank of Grove.
Church Awards: 1st – First Baptist Church, Jay.
Individual Awards: 1st – Sarah Adams; 2nd - Beverly Buzzard.
Youth Awards: 1st - Lexie Farley; 2nd - Checota Sperry.
Non-Profit: 1st – Delaware County Historical Society.
School: 1st – Jay FFA; 2nd – Grove FFA.
The aroma of spices and meat filled the air as the 10th Annual Road Kill Chili Cook-Off got underway on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Fairgrounds.
The event, an annual fixture at the Delaware County Free Fair, drew cooks of all ages to create a pot of chili designed to win accolades.
The competition, organized by the Jay Chamber of Commerce, was open to individuals, as well as businesses, non-profits and school groups.
Saturday was Checota Sperry’s first foray into the world of cooking contests.
Checota Sperry, 15, a sophomore at Jay High School, dishes up chili for Harley Buzzard during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Sperry won second place in the youth division. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunA member of the Jay FFA, Sperry learned of the contest when her fellow FFA members began discussing the chapter’s entry.
“I decided I liked to cook and I wanted to enter for the fun of it,” Sperry said as she stirred her crockpot of chili.
Grove FFA member Rylee Caswell jokes with Eugene Elliott as she serves him a bowl of chili during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. Caswell said she started with a recipe created by her father and brother, but continues to perfect it each year. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunIt was the second year Grove FFA member Rylee Caswell entered the competition.Caswell said her recipe was passed to her by her brother, Trent, and father, Tim, and is designed to be a sweet chili made with Blue and Gold products.
Caswell said she continues to perfect the mixture. This year she added hatch chili peppers to her chili, to give it a different flavor.
Lexie Farley, 13, stirs her pot of chili during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chili Cook-Off,
held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the
Delaware County Free Fair.
Farley won first place in the youth division.
- Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunWith five years under her apron, 13-year-old Lexie Farley was one of the youngest, and most experienced competitors at the event.
Farley’s mother, Becky, joked that she began entering the cook-off before she was old enough to brown her own meat.
Farley said she continues to improve her entry each year, adding and subtracting things in an attempt to create the perfect recipe.
Ultimately, Farley said, being in the competition gives her a chance to cook chili often with her father, Butch.
“It’s a daddy daughter thing, I’ve always done it with him,” Farley said.
In the end, Farley walked away with the first place in the youth division, while Sperry took second. Caswell, representing Grove FFA, took second place behind Jay FFA in the school division.
Mattie Haynes watches as Tristan Robinette serves chili to Jim Cameron during the 10th Annual Road Kill Chilli Cook-Off, held Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Delaware County Free Fair. The Jay FFA officer team won first place in the school division as well as the best decorated table and the best overall chili during the competition. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun10th Annual Chili Cook-Off Results
Best Decorated Table – Jay FFA.
Best Overall Chili – Jay FFA.
People’s Choice - Sarah Adams
Business Awards: 1st - Grand Savings Bank-Jay; 2nd - Subway; 3rd - Bank of Grove.
Church Awards: 1st – First Baptist Church, Jay.
Individual Awards: 1st – Sarah Adams; 2nd - Beverly Buzzard.
Youth Awards: 1st - Lexie Farley; 2nd - Checota Sperry.
Non-Profit: 1st – Delaware County Historical Society.
School: 1st – Jay FFA; 2nd – Grove FFA.
Magic, illusions fill Tulsa PAC for weekend performances
The Illusionists - Live on Broadway will perform at 8 p.m., Friday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19, and at 1 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 20, at the PAC. Tickets are available by 918-596-7111 or 800-364-7111, in person at the Tulsa PAC Box Office, or online at MyTicketOffice.com. - Tyukodi Laszlo / Special to the Grove SunBy Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller
khutson@grovesun.com
Magic will fill the air in Tulsa this weekend, as the Illusionists bring their acts to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
The Illusionists - Live From Broadway, a group of magicians with different skills and talents, will open this weekend for a series of shows designed to entertain and enthrall audience members of all ages.
The members, with monikers that resemble The Avengers, have skills ranging from Anti-Conjurer, Daredevil, Manipulator and more.
One member of the group, Kevin James, is known as the Inventor, because he has been creating magic illusions and honing his skills for years.
James, who hales from a small village in Michigan, became enchanted by magic when he discovered a magic shop.
The shop, which sat an hour away from his home, had a big catalogue of magical items.
James said from a very young age he was hooked. He began to imagine the different possibilities magic could bring into his world.
James said he began to invent, discover and search out ways to create various magical illusions - in a time, he jokes, before Google existed.
Using a process that first began on paper, then emerged to include cardboard, masking tape, and then moving to wood and metal, James as The Inventor, creates magic illusions that are designed in his words "resonate with the audience."
Ultimately, he wants to create illusions that help remind adults of all ages, of the wonder and joy they experienced as a child.
While James uses many of his ideas, some have been used in the acts of David Copperfield, Chris Angel and even Penn & Teller.
"I love to seen when [magicians] really change it up, to make the illusion fit them, to tweak it for their personality," James said. "I like to see them add their little touches."
James said every magician adds their own "extra" items to an illusion, ranging from pauses to stories, lighting to staging. Everything is designed to engage and entertain the audience.
James is one of the magicians who helped create the original show, when it premiered in Australia. He joins other cast mates for this weekend's shows in Tulsa.
He tours the United States 45 weeks out of the year, engaging and entertaining people with his creations.
James tries to capture a feeling of wonder and excitement in all of his illusions. - Tyukodi Laszlo / Special to the Grove Sun.
"Everything I create I try to have an emotional connection with it," James said, adding that he tries to capture the essence of wonder in his performance. "Wonder is a beautiful thing. I try to get adults to feel a sense of wonder again."
James said every effect in his show is different, with many designed to trigger a nostalgic memory. In one instance, he helps people recall the first time they encountered a snow fall. In another, his illusion helps a young child make a napkin dance.
"The sense of wonder is electrifying," James said.
Ultimately, the Illusionists - Live from Broadway, is a show filled with seven entertainers, each with their own magical specialties.
Each person brings about a different aspect of magic, all designed to engage and entertain.
More About James
James, who can trace his linage back to the great American showman P.T. Barnum, is not only an inventor. He is also a collector of rare and unique items.One of the items in his collection is an old trunk, who once belonged to P.T. Barnum's second daughter, Helen Barnum. It came into his possession after he discovered it on a website that specializes in antique restoration.
James found the item especially meaningful, because he can trace his linage to Barnum through Helen Barnum. His connection is through marriage, but "I'm still on the [family] tree. I'll take it."
James said P.T. Barnum liked to entertain and find the unusual, unique and different items that engaged the audience. James said his show includes a little of this and more.
One Thing With James
One person who has inspired you.
Teller from Penn and Teller. Off stage he is such a gentleman. On stage he creates these really beautiful pieces of magic that are soul touching. It's special, really special.
Penn and Teller create so much good material. Teller is clever, funny and I'd like to be like him when I grow up.
One thing that might surprise someone about you
If I wasn't a magician, I would be a chef. I love to experiment in the kitchen. I've always wanted to take formal chef training. Not to become a chef, but to be able to dance better in the kitchen. I like to experiment to see if things taste good.
One thing you can't live without
My family. I draw so much support from them. They mean everything to me. My wife travels with me doing the show. I'm miserable when she doesn't. I need her.
One piece of advice you've been given
Invest in yourself. That's a great piece of advice. Put money back into your act. Back into being healthy. Become the best person you can be.
From Steve Martin - Be so good, they can't ignore you - He's a hero to me and a great magician.
About The Show
The Illusionists - Live on Broadway will perform at 8 p.m., Friday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19, and at 1 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 20, at the PAC. Tickets are available by 918-596-7111 or 800-364-7111, in person at the Tulsa PAC Box Office, or online at MyTicketOffice.com.
For more information about the Illusionists - Live From Broadway, persons interested may visit www.theillusionistslive.com.
September 15, 2015
Muttin Bustin' at the DelCo Fair
Ridge Tanner hangs on as he attempts to ride for six seconds in the 2015 Mutton Busting competition held Saturday, Sept. 12, as part of the Delaware County Free Fair. Additional pictures from the fair can be found inside today's issue of The Grove Sun and online at www.grandlakenews.com.
Photographer - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Originally published in the Tuesday, Sept. 15, issue of The Grove Sun.
A few of my other favorite shots from the day
McVicker to bring mixture of music, testimony to concert in Grove, Okla.
By Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller
Originally published in the Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015
issue of The Grove Sun
Life is not all black and white.
Contemporary Christian artist Mitch McVicker knows this first hand. In fact, it's an issue he has struggled with during the last 15 years.
This week, McVicker will bring his music, a blend of guitar driven pop and folk rock, to Grove for an evening concert.
McVicker, who began his musical career under the mentorship of Rich Mullins, will perform a variety of music, including works from his newest release The Grey: When Black & White Fade to Grey at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Grove's First Baptist Church, 501 East 13th Street, Grove. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Admission for the concert is free, however donations will be accepted at the door to defray costs. McVicker is coming to Grove through the efforts of Richard Castaldo.
"I've known Mitch for a few years," Castaldo said. "We reconnected in March at a Ragamuffin retreat in Kansas.
"I loved [his music] so much, I had to bring him to Grand Lake."
In addition to donations at the door, Castaldo has established a Go Fund Me Crowd Source fundraiser to help defray concert expenses. It can be found at www.gofundme.com/mcvickergroveok.
Castaldo hopes the concert serves as a family-friendly event, that helps draw the community together for a time of worship and more.
More about McVicker
McVicker said he brings a mix of music, with his one-man band performance, that can be described as a "Jesus style folk and rock" mixture.
He jokes that the stage is often looks like a garage sale because of the numerous instruments.
With the music on his latest album, McVicker has worked to explore the "greyness of God's kingdom," including the vast nature of God's love for the world, which he said is incalculable.
McVicker got his start in the music industry after meeting Mullins at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. At that time, McVicker was a basketball player working to obtain a theology and Bible degree.
Through Mullins, McVicker discovered an ability to sing and perform, saying Mullins allowed him to "live a dream I didn't know I had."
The two were working together, traveling to various concerts, when in September 1997, the pair were in a car accident in Illinois. Mullins was killed and McVicker was seriously injured.
McVicker said the accident serves as a benchmark for his life and career, saying it is almost as if he has lived two different lives.
"I was grateful to have another opportunity to try my hand at living life," McVicker said. "I saw every day as another opportunity to give it another shot."
More than a decade since the accident, McVicker said the residual effects are limited, however his eyesight will never be back to 100 percent.
It took a number of years for McVicker to resume singing, because his vocal cords were impacted by the accident. Since the accident he has recorded a number of albums. His newest album marks his 10th release.
He said the music on The Grey comes from the struggle which often takes place as people try to make sense of the world around them.
"We all experience a number of things that don't make sense," McVicker said. "[Most] is way beyond our ability to make sense.
"I hope people look beyond themselves to something greater. Hopefully they will get an understanding of what is more important and less important, and not be afraid to dive into life, and live less on the surface."
McVicker said much of his life as a musician can be credited to Mullins influence.
"I wouldn't' be doing this apart from Rich's investment in my life," McVicker said. "He is who I was around, as I was learning to do this.
"He's the best communicator, writer, performer there [was]. He was my friend and my greatest influence."
In addition to living as a musician, McVicker said he juggles life on the road, with being a husband to Paula and father to Brooklyn, 9, and Payson, 4.
"It's important to try to be there, whenever I can," McVicker said. "I miss enough [as it is]."
Originally published in the Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015
issue of The Grove Sun
Life is not all black and white.
Contemporary Christian artist Mitch McVicker knows this first hand. In fact, it's an issue he has struggled with during the last 15 years.
This week, McVicker will bring his music, a blend of guitar driven pop and folk rock, to Grove for an evening concert.
McVicker, who began his musical career under the mentorship of Rich Mullins, will perform a variety of music, including works from his newest release The Grey: When Black & White Fade to Grey at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Grove's First Baptist Church, 501 East 13th Street, Grove. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Admission for the concert is free, however donations will be accepted at the door to defray costs. McVicker is coming to Grove through the efforts of Richard Castaldo.
"I've known Mitch for a few years," Castaldo said. "We reconnected in March at a Ragamuffin retreat in Kansas.
"I loved [his music] so much, I had to bring him to Grand Lake."
In addition to donations at the door, Castaldo has established a Go Fund Me Crowd Source fundraiser to help defray concert expenses. It can be found at www.gofundme.com/mcvickergroveok.
Castaldo hopes the concert serves as a family-friendly event, that helps draw the community together for a time of worship and more.
More about McVicker
McVicker said he brings a mix of music, with his one-man band performance, that can be described as a "Jesus style folk and rock" mixture.
He jokes that the stage is often looks like a garage sale because of the numerous instruments.
With the music on his latest album, McVicker has worked to explore the "greyness of God's kingdom," including the vast nature of God's love for the world, which he said is incalculable.
McVicker got his start in the music industry after meeting Mullins at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. At that time, McVicker was a basketball player working to obtain a theology and Bible degree.
Through Mullins, McVicker discovered an ability to sing and perform, saying Mullins allowed him to "live a dream I didn't know I had."
The two were working together, traveling to various concerts, when in September 1997, the pair were in a car accident in Illinois. Mullins was killed and McVicker was seriously injured.
McVicker said the accident serves as a benchmark for his life and career, saying it is almost as if he has lived two different lives.
"I was grateful to have another opportunity to try my hand at living life," McVicker said. "I saw every day as another opportunity to give it another shot."
More than a decade since the accident, McVicker said the residual effects are limited, however his eyesight will never be back to 100 percent.
It took a number of years for McVicker to resume singing, because his vocal cords were impacted by the accident. Since the accident he has recorded a number of albums. His newest album marks his 10th release.
He said the music on The Grey comes from the struggle which often takes place as people try to make sense of the world around them.
"We all experience a number of things that don't make sense," McVicker said. "[Most] is way beyond our ability to make sense.
"I hope people look beyond themselves to something greater. Hopefully they will get an understanding of what is more important and less important, and not be afraid to dive into life, and live less on the surface."
McVicker said much of his life as a musician can be credited to Mullins influence.
"I wouldn't' be doing this apart from Rich's investment in my life," McVicker said. "He is who I was around, as I was learning to do this.
"He's the best communicator, writer, performer there [was]. He was my friend and my greatest influence."
In addition to living as a musician, McVicker said he juggles life on the road, with being a husband to Paula and father to Brooklyn, 9, and Payson, 4.
"It's important to try to be there, whenever I can," McVicker said. "I miss enough [as it is]."
Images from the 09.15.15 issue of The Grove Sun
Celebrating A Win at the 2015 DelCo Bowl
Junior Buck Facio hoists the Delaware County Bowl trophy above his teammates after the Grove Ridgerunners topped the Jay Bulldogs 39-34 during the 2015 Delaware County Bowl, Friday, Sept. 11, at J.B. Earp Stadium in Jay. Additional coverage of the game may be found elsewhere in today's issue of The Grove Sun and online at www.grandlakenews.com. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Muttin' Busting At The DelCo Fair
Ridge Tanner hangs on as he attempts to ride for six seconds in the 2015 Mutton Busting competition held Saturday, Sept. 12, as part of the Delaware County Free Fair. Additional pictures from the fair can be found inside today's issue of The Grove Sun and online at www.grandlakenews.com. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Pullin' with Coronal and Don
Wayne Furnas of Miami takes part in the annual Draft Horse Pull, Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Delaware County Free Fair in Jay, Oklahoma. Furnas placed second in the competition. He finished the evening with his team, Coronal and Don pulling 12,100 pounds. Watch www.grandlakenews.com for additional photos from the draft horse pull and from the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair. [ Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Celebrating a Win
Members of the Ridgerunner Football Team celebrate following their 39-34 win over the Jay Bulldogs at the 2015 Delaware County Bowl. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.
Talking with his team
Grove Head Football Coach Mike Loyd talks with his team following the 39-34 win over the Jay Bulldogs in the 2015 Delaware County Bowl.
Junior Buck Facio hoists the Delaware County Bowl trophy above his teammates after the Grove Ridgerunners topped the Jay Bulldogs 39-34 during the 2015 Delaware County Bowl, Friday, Sept. 11, at J.B. Earp Stadium in Jay. Additional coverage of the game may be found elsewhere in today's issue of The Grove Sun and online at www.grandlakenews.com. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunMuttin' Busting At The DelCo Fair
Ridge Tanner hangs on as he attempts to ride for six seconds in the 2015 Mutton Busting competition held Saturday, Sept. 12, as part of the Delaware County Free Fair. Additional pictures from the fair can be found inside today's issue of The Grove Sun and online at www.grandlakenews.com. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun
Pullin' with Coronal and Don
Wayne Furnas of Miami takes part in the annual Draft Horse Pull, Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Delaware County Free Fair in Jay, Oklahoma. Furnas placed second in the competition. He finished the evening with his team, Coronal and Don pulling 12,100 pounds. Watch www.grandlakenews.com for additional photos from the draft horse pull and from the 2015 Delaware County Free Fair. [ Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove SunCelebrating a Win
Members of the Ridgerunner Football Team celebrate following their 39-34 win over the Jay Bulldogs at the 2015 Delaware County Bowl. - Kaylea M. Hutson-Miller / Grove Sun.Talking with his team
Grove Head Football Coach Mike Loyd talks with his team following the 39-34 win over the Jay Bulldogs in the 2015 Delaware County Bowl.
