Snow Days

Posted on February 8, 2012 by justin

By Barbie Elder

 

With more shoreline than the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts combined, Oklahoma is a lake lover’s paradise, with natural beauty that challenges any American locale. Lakes also provide physical activity for the whole family, with boating, swimming and, yes, skiing, leaving thoughts of the office, school, TV and video games far behind.

 

But that’s in the summer.

 

It’s time we addressed the white elephant in the room. Winter activity in Oklahoma is, well, limited. Problem is, we have a very mild winter temperature mean, somewhere in the 50s, and just as importantly, there is a distinct lack of skiable mountains.

 

So, it burdens us not to leave the Sooner State for this review of skiing opportunities that are located without our borders.

 

Ancient rock drawings in Norway offer the first existence of a “man on skis with a stick,” and the oldest known ski, carbon dated to 3200 B.C., was found in Sweden circa 1924. Actually, the word “ski” goes back to the Old Norse word that translates to “stick of wood.”

 

A fellow named Sondre Norheim, from Morgedal, Norway has been called the father of modern-day skiing for inventing the equipment and techniques employed today. In 1870, he introduced the short, flexible ski to allow easy turning in soft snow and won the first Norwegian national skiing competition.

 

America’s first resort-based ski school was opened near Sugar Hill, New Hampshire in 1929. Other U.S. skiing achievements include the development of the first overhead chairlift in 1936 on the slopes at Sun Valley, Idaho; and, during World War II, FDR’s creation of the 10th Mountain Division, a warfare unit that utilized skiing. At the close of the war, the group’s members became a major force in the development of domestic ski activity.

 

Here are three destinations that offer the same wonderful experience for skiers, both novice and professional.

 

ASPEN

 

Founded as a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom and named after the abundance of aspen trees in the area, the city now boasts the most expensive real estate prices in the United States. Winter adventurers of all shapes and sizes flock to its spectacular winter activities.

 

“An Aspen vacation is many things to many people,” said Meredith McKee of the Aspen Chamber of Commerce, “but the common thread of any visit is that it is all out of the ordinary.”

 

Located in the pristine mountain valley at the confluence of the Roaring Fork River, Hunter Creek and Maroon Creek, the terrain has inspired locals and visitors for generations.

 

“Whether your itinerary includes learning how to snowboard, dropping into the Highland Bowl (crown jewel of Aspen slopes), sampling the surrounding backcountry on a hunt trip, walking the Aspen trails or taking in the town’s many cultural offerings, the experience is extraordinary,” McKee said.

 

“Aspen has much news this season, McKee said, “from new locally-owned bistros to a high-speed Tiehack chairlift. With more than 80 restaurants, bars and live music venues, Aspen continues to offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for our visitors.”

 

According to McKee, what separates Aspen from other ski resort towns is its unforgettable winter events.

 

“Our winter calendar kicks off with the ‘12 Days of Aspen,’ which is held over Christmas,” she said. “From there, we host the annual Aspen Academy Screenings, in which a slate of the year’s top films is screened, with the director and actor usually in attendance.”

 

Mid-January brings Aspen’s spirited toast to snow, the Wintersköl, offering four days of free celebrations throughout the city, including crowning of a king and queen, a torchlight parade descending Aspen Mountain, Wintersculpt snow-carving competition, a canine fashion show and Soupsköl, a soup competition among local eateries. January ends with the Winter X Games, a four-day event featuring athletes from across the globe competing for medals and prize money in snowboarding, snowmobiling and skiing.

 

In March is the America’s Uphill, a favorite spring ritual – this 3,000-foot climb up Aspen Mountain finishes at the Sundeck Restaurant at 11,212 feet. The 2.5-mile trek draws snowshoers, Nordic and telemark skiers, as well as Randonee skiers (Alpine Touring).

 

March is historically the snowiest month of the year in Aspen, plus the days are longer. Last year saw the start of Sunset Skiing – themes tied with local clubs and restaurants for after-parties and moonlight dinners.

 

Once the lifts close for the season in April, Aspen continues to attract visitors.

 

“Even when there is no snow, Aspen offers terrific mountain adventures as well as continuous cultural and intellectual pursuits,” McKee said. The Wheeler Opera House begins their season in February, while the end of June brings the eight-week Aspen Music Festival and School.

 

BIG SKY

 

Located approximately midway between West Yellowstone National Park and the city of Bozeman, Montana, Big Sky offers what natives refer to as the “Biggest Skiing in America,” with some 400 inches of annual powder on 5,532 acres of skiing and almost 4,350 vertical feet.

 

Big Sky does, however, offer a component almost unheard of for a popular ski resort – less crowds.

 

“Big Sky offers a 23,000-person-per-hour lift capacity that, in reality, is used for only 2,000 skiers per day,” said Chad Jones, public relations director for Big Sky Resort. “This offers the perfect opportunity for ‘crowdless skiing’ when you realize there are only 100,000 people in a 100-mile radius.”

 

According to Jones, the Big Sky resort has attracted some very high profile clients, such as President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.

 

“Big Sky welcomes all kinds of visitors – the person on the lift next to you might be a Secret Service Agent, or you might be making s’mores around the campfire with the First Family,” he said.

 

“We have endless possibilities in terms of terrain,” Jones said. “The amount of land here is massive, and we’re always looking for opportunities to grow and make the most of it.”

 

Five new trails include Wolf Den (Black Diamond/most difficult) located in-between Mad Wolf and Elk Park Ridge; Shady Chute (Double Black Diamond/extreme terrain) and Wolverine (Blue Square/more difficult) through the Peru and Bolivia territory; Congo Line and Madagascar (both Blue Square). Expert and advanced trails number 60 percent, and beginner and intermediate trails round out the other 40 percent.

 

According to Jones, events at Big Sky offer crazy, quirky fun.

 

“Whether you’re bellying up to a bar made entirely of snow, launching a dummy on skis off a huge jump or attempting to skim across a double-decker pond on your snowboard while wearing a giant banana costume, these events bring to life a healthy dose of Montana ski culture,” he said.

 

February offers live music almost every night, with the Big Sky Big Grass Bluegrass Festival opening February 17. March 17 kicks off Sunset Saturday, celebrating the extra hour of daylight. Closing day at Big Sky is April 15.

 

 

CRESTED BUTTE

 

A former coal mining community now known universally as the “last great Colorado ski resort,” Crested Butte is a destination for skiing, mountain biking and a variety of other outdoor activities.

 

Located near the town of Gunnison, Crested Butte rises to 12,162 feet above sea level. The ski level base is 9,375 feet, and 14 lifts serve 1,058 acres of terrain, 448 acres of which are double black runs. The area’s longest run is 2.6 miles.

 

According to Erica Reiter from the Crested Butte Resort, the community itself, along with Gunnison, takes visitors back in time.

 

“Our communities are situated away from the drone of the interstate highway buzz, and the Old West flavor remains to this day,” she said. “Here, folks can get away from the trappings of a busy day-to-day life in some of the most beautiful country in America’s lower 48.”

 

“Given the fact that Gunnison has a 109-year-old college, and Crested Butte is a rising mountain resort with colorfully clad Victorian storefronts, there is a certain surprising sophistication here, with cultural opportunities ranging from world class opera to theater to live music,” Reiter said.

 

Crested Butte mountain resort is famous for its parties, costumes and lighthearted fun. January features College Weeks, and February brings the four-day Extreme Freeskiing Championships, as well as the Dan Prater Memorial Cup Ski Competition for 11- and 12-year-olds.

 

“Snow is perfect this year,” Reiter said. “Snow is the answer for skiers and riders – it

drives them to jump out of bed early on a powdery morning, initiate snowball fights and whoop and holler as they plunge into deep drifts.”

 

Barenaked Ladies and Guster headline the FestEVOL Winter Concert on March 17. The concert combines mountain sports, live music, innovative natural brands and an eco-village sponsored by “Reverb,” a foundation created by Guster’s founder, Adam Gardner. Finishing the season at the end of March is the 43rd annual Flauschink – “flushing out winter and welcoming spring.” At midnight begins the 15th annual Elk Mountains Grand Traverse – a 40-mile backcountry race between the towns of Crested Butte and Aspen, based on the 1880s mail routes connecting the two towns. The trails close April 8.

 

According to Reiter, there’s plenty to discover at Crested Butte.

 

“Whether you are lacing up a pair of ice skates to test the rink, learning to ski alongside your kids in our beginner area, sliding into the Ice Bar for a cocktail or multi-course feast, driving a snowmobile, facing our extreme limits ski slopes, or simply sitting back and watching the snowfall, Crested Butte resort has it all,” she said.

 

Above all, remember – every winter sport participant shares the responsibility for his or her safety and of others using the ski facilities.

 

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Memorable and Unique Valentine’s Day Getaways

Posted on February 8, 2012 by justin

By Rebekah Mercer

 

Are you dreaming of a Valentine’s Day gift that will surprise and delight? Do you want to plan something unforgettable so the memories can be cherished for years to come? Are you thinking of something that will take you away from the stresses and cares of daily life and give you time to focus on each other? Then what you’re looking for is a romantic getaway for just the two of you.

 

Distinctly Oklahoma has been scouting some great getaways for you that are just the ticket and are all within a few hours drive from Oklahoma City. Each of them offers unique pleasures, but they will all make you feel as though you’ve stepped into another world.

 

Arcadian Inn, Edmond

The Arcadian Inn is a boutique bed-and-breakfast that has won many awards and accolades over the years. Innkeepers Gary and Martha Hall, along with their two sons and Gary’s parents, make the inn a family-owned and operated business.

 

The house that encompasses the original B&B was built in 1908, but has undergone several transformations since then. While living in Edmond during the early years of their marriage in what she calls “their little fixer-upper,” Martha watched the big yellow house as it changed ownership several times. She dreamed of one day owning the three-story home on the corner of First and University, but back then it was all still a dream. After several years and a developer’s failed attempt to convert the house into office space, it was back on the market, but completely gutted and the grounds bulldozed.

 

In 1989, Martha’s dream came true when she and Gary bought the property. In just one year, they transformed it into what they envisioned as the culmination of their dreams for a romantic getaway. Today, the inn houses eight guestrooms in three adjacent buildings, connected by walkways and gardens. Each guestroom has an individual theme and décor, and each has its own double whirlpool Jacuzzi. In addition, one of the special touches is a private breakfast served in-room to preserve the privacy and seclusion of guests, many of whom come for honeymoons and anniversaries.

 

The house now attracts travelers from all over, who come to enjoy the special brand of pampering that Martha and Gary envisioned. But it’s not all about the décor and the food, although both are exceptional. It’s the attention to detail and the special touches and packages that are offered to fulfill each couple’s fantasy of the perfect romantic getaway.

 

An obvious choice for Valentine’s Day is the Romantic Persuasion package, which includes champagne, souvenir champagne flutes, strawberries and crème for a special treat, and silk rose petals on the bed sheets. The inn also offers numerous special touches to make your getaway even more memorable – a couples’ massage, roses by the dozen, spa baskets, or a private candlelit dinner for two. To book your getaway online, visit  www.arcadianinn.com/index.php.

 

Aaron’s Gate, Edmond

If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, with thoughts of a private getaway all to yourselves, we have you covered there, too. The Aaron’s Gate cottages are light years away from the city, but just a few miles from either Edmond or Guthrie. Each of the unique cottages is designed to be a romantic cabin in the woods, with all the amenities of a B&B but offering complete privacy. Each unit has its own full kitchen, luxurious bathroom, hot tub, sauna, Jacuzzi tub for two, gas fireplace, king-size beds and more.

 

Breakfast is prepped in advance and can be prepared in minutes at the cottage by following the simple instructions provided. Each cottage has a porch or outdoor sitting area to enjoy the woods and wildlife – a perfect spot for morning coffee or an afternoon glass of wine.

 

The cottages are designed with every detail envisioned to enhance your comfort and enjoyment. The Parrot’s Cove, an island-themed getaway, offers a screened-in porch with hot tub and European-style shower, with palm trees to complete the ambiance. The French Hen offers lavish French furnishings and décor, along with French boudoir amenities. The custom-built copper king-size bed and outdoor hot tub complete the exceptional features. The Meadow Lark Barn is in the style of an English barn – a two-story unit with an upstairs bathroom that is truly unique.

 

Aaron’s Gate is a concept designed and built by Gary and Martha Hall, the sister property of Arcadian Inn. Each cottage has the same attention to detail, and each is a fully envisioned fantasy getaway. If you’re looking for something completely different, one of these cottages is sure to fit the bill. Packages to enhance your getaway include flowers, chocolates, massages, and other special treats. For a virtual tour and all the details about each cottage, visit www.aaronsgate.com/cottages.php.

 

Stardust Inn, Medicine Park

Our last getaway gets you out of town and, indeed, out of the decade. Medicine Park is a step back in time, back to the 1920s and 30s, to be exact, when it was first developed into a resort. But much of the history and allure of the area hearkens back hundreds of years before that. For centuries, the area was a campground for the Plains Indians, who revered Medicine Creek as “good medicine.” Native American influences are evident everywhere, and the town’s rich history is a large part of its appeal.

 

The town’s incarnation as a resort dates to 1908, when Senator Elmer Thomas envisioned it as a recreational area. He took advantage of the plentiful round red cobblestones to build a resort utilizing that unique and charming element. Virtually every house and shop is built in the simple Prairie style, with these cobblestones front and center.

 

Thousands were soon attracted to the town on weekends; it became a haven for the famous and infamous, including Will Rogers, Wiley Post, Al Capone, Bonnie and Clyde, and many others. Today, it still prospers as a weekend getaway, and in 2010 was voted one of America’s Top 10 Coolest Small Towns by Budget Travel Magazine.

 

It is popular with those who enjoy getting out in nature and savoring the feel of a small town resort, while enjoying all the modern conveniences. Located at the entrance of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, it is less than two hours’ drive from Oklahoma City. With the wildlife refuge at your doorstep and lots of quaint shops and restaurants, it’s perfect for a one- or two-night stay.

 

Stardust Inn is the ideal place to enjoy the comforts of a first-class B&B while still maintaining the rustic feel of Medicine Park. Just a few feet from the entrance to the refuge, the inn features private entrances and a wrap-around porch with rocking chairs overlooking the nearby lake and woods. Each room features a two-person Jacuzzi , a coffee maker, WiFi, quality bedding and amenities. Much of the appeal of the inn comes from its décor and works of art, all of which are done by local award-winning artists and craftsmen.

 

Mornings are special at the inn, and a full breakfast is served each day by the owners, Pegi and Clark Brown. They are long-time residents and can arm you with all the information you need to make the most of your stay.

 

Popular with bird watchers and nature lovers, the nearby refuge also provides great hiking and wildlife sightings. Bison, elk, deer and longhorn cattle may be spotted, along with red-tailed hawks and prairie dogs. If you’re the type who prefers to enjoy nature and scenic vistas from the front seat of your car, you will enjoy the three-mile car ride to the top of Mount Scott, the third-highest point in Oklahoma. Be sure to bring your camera and your binoculars for some truly spectacular views along the way. For reservations, visit www.stardustinn.com.

 

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you, and be sure to make your reservations now to enjoy a special day full of romance and memory-making moments!

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History in the Making: Artist Brent Learned Makes His Mark

Posted on February 8, 2012 by justin

By: Gina Harkins

 

Life started out simply enough for Oklahoma City artist Brent Learned. The youngest brother in a family of nine children, Learned quickly fell in line with his elder siblings.

 

“Growing up, anything that was new to me was old to my brothers and sisters,” Learned remembered. “I was kind of the runt.”

 

Runt though he may have been in his early life, Learned soon grew to be 6-feet-9-inches and a skilled basketball player, first at Northwest Classen High School, and in the fall of 1988 at the University of Kansas.

 

“I knew two things that I wanted to do when I grew up,” Learned said. “One was to be an artist, and the other was to go to KU.” This legacy had been ingrained in Learned since his birth, following in the footsteps of many before him, including his great-grandfather, his father (also a former KU basketball player), and his siblings, each of whom attended the university at some point in their lives. But Learned’s story didn’t truly begin until the evening of his commencement ceremony in 1993, the night before his college graduation.

 

The son of a Cheyenne-Arapaho mother and an English and German father, Learned had discovered early in life a calling to become an artist. His father was a professional sculptor and stay-at-home dad, making it easy to find valuable time to watch and emulate his father’s work.

 

“I’d imitate what he was sculpting with paper and pencils, crayons, whatever I could get my hands on,” Learned explained. “I liked getting the praise from my mom and the instruction from my dad.”

 

A love for art followed him through college, where he majored in fine arts, with hopes of becoming a professional artist. And with little idea of what was ahead of him that night before graduation, fate dealt its card through a life-altering conversation with his mother.

 

“I asked my mom, ‘What can I do to make you proud?’” Learned recalled. “She said, ‘Brent, I’ll always be proud of you, but what would make me most proud is for you to paint your heritage. Paint your ancestors. You have a voice that they no longer have. You can tell their stories.’”

 

During his youth, Learned had taken only a minimal interest in his mother’s intriguing life, one that changed history when she became the first woman to lead the Cheyenne-Arapaho Nation as chairperson in the 1960s. But from that day forward, he decided to grant his mother’s wish, greatly enriching the art world in the process.

 

It started with learning more about his heritage.

 

“A lot of people go through life trying to research their past, and some don’t at all,” Learned said. “In my opinion, the ones who don’t are kind of lost. They don’t know where they’re going. You’ve got to know what your ancestors went through, their trials and tribulations, in order for you to even be here and do what you’re doing.”

 

Learned didn’t have to look far to learn more about the trials of his ancestors. His mother, Juanita Lincoln Learned, had overcome all odds when she triumphed to become the Cheyenne-Arapaho Chairperson through a write-in ballot, a victory made long before women were even considered as candidates for government leadership positions.

 

Throughout his life, Learned had always heard, “Oh, you’re Juanita’s son.” But as an artist, he realized he had a unique chance to show people what that meant, and to carry on her legacy and his own.

 

“It wasn’t until later on in my life, and even after her passing, that I truly understood not only what she did for my family, but what she had done for her people,” Learned said. “At her funeral, it was supposed to be only family, but about 800 people showed up. She had made her mark.”

 

Today, Learned’s mission is to make his mark in the world by sharing his talents as an artist and heritage as a Cheyenne-Arapaho Indian. Recognized worldwide by his daring use of a vivid color palette, Learned’s bold paintings are displayed in museums and private collections across the country, including the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of the American Indian, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and the Oklahoma State Capitol, which is featuring a selection of his work through February 12 in a special exhibit entitled “Life Before Statehood” in its East Gallery.

 

“I never was really into the traditional Indian paintings,” Learned said. “I wanted to do something that would teach and tell a story.”

 

For this reason, almost all of Learned’s works have a title with a story beside it, which grounds the beauty of the painting with the sometimes harsh reality of history.

 

“Once you get past the colors and get through to the true meaning, it pulls you in because that moment or event actually happened,” Learned said.

 

While his influences as an impressionist artist range from Claude Monet to Vincent van Gogh, Learned takes on a modern approach when it comes to censoring his art.

 

“When you learn about Indian history, you usually get your CliffsNotes snippets, but when you dig deeper, you realize there’s so much more,” he said.

 

This notion inspired him to create a piece a few years ago titled “When Blood and Ground Mix,” which depicts the aftermath of the Battle of Little Bighorn. The painting shows U.S. Army General Custer with two women digging holes in his ears.

 

“I did a painting of this event because not many people know about it,” Learned said. “The story goes that when Custer massacred the Cheyenne-Arapaho in Washita, he met with some of their leaders and gave his word that he wouldn’t attack them again if they put up a white flag and an American flag to show they weren’t hostile.” Learned explained that Custer unfortunately fought the tribe at the Battle of Little Bighorn anyway, and when the Cheyenne-Arapaho realized who he was, he was killed. Women from the tribe then dug holes in his ears to “allow him to hear better when he gave his word in the next life.”

 

“When you look at my paintings, they are powerful,” Learned said. “They take you back. You’re overwhelmed with the beauty, and it doesn’t seem like the colors would mix with the stories, yet they do.”

 

In addition to historical renderings, Learned also uses his paintbrush to create portraits of significant members of the Cheyenne-Arapaho tribe. Other times, he creates paintings that aren’t necessarily derived from an event in history, but that continue to portray the culture of his native people.

 

“I only paint Cheyenne-Arapaho,” Learned said. “I don’t paint other tribes. When you look at an Indian, especially a Plains Indian, you know which tribe he is from, where he came from, how his hair is braided, what he has gone through, all this just by first glance. Whereas other tribes, they have their own customs.”

 

So, while Learned is an Indian, he prefers to be considered a Cheyenne-Arapaho Indian first.

 

“It’s not going to offend me, but we’re at the point now in our history where it’s all being lumped together,” Learned explained. “I’d like to stay true to my ancestors.”

 

With each painting Learned creates, a new story unfolds and a new part of his culture is freed to be shared with whomever encounters his art. It’s this passion for creating something new, and for starting fresh with each canvas, that keeps Learned at the top of his game and loving what he does every single day.

 

“It’s like making a cake,” Learned said. “Sometimes I like to change up the recipe. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. But I always want to improve on the next one; I don’t want to be content.”

 

For this reason, you won’t find Learned’s work in prints; almost every piece is a one-of-a-kind original that can only be witnessed wherever the painting lives.

 

“I’m always changing, always growing,” he said. “I never wanted to be a one-hit wonder.”

 

But there is one consistency you will find in all his works, something that ties everything back together to understanding the past through the work of the present. On every painting he creates, you’ll find his Indian name – Haa-Naa-Jaa-Ne-Doa.

 

“The way I first got my Indian name was because my mom suggested I put my Indian name on my art,” Learned said. “To get your Indian name, you go to the elder in the family, which in my case was my aunt. Since my mom’s maiden name was ‘Howling Buffalo,’ my aunt made it a play on words and called me ‘Buffalo Bill Howling.’”

 

The first painting he signed with his Indian name will always be the most special one to Learned, one that just so happens to be featured in the Smithsonian Institute.

 

“It’s a portrait of my mom as a little girl of 8 or 9 months old, with her grandma holding her,” Learned said. He explained that the painting has extra significance because it hung in his mother’s hospital room before her passing, and it includes a letter written in her own handwriting beside it.

 

“In this journey we call life, I’ve found out a lot of things about myself through art,” he said. “I’m learning more about where my ancestors came from on both sides. It’s cool to put the puzzle pieces together to find out who I am.”

 

 

 

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Protecting Your Veins as Vital as Protecting Your Heart

Posted on February 8, 2012 by justin

By Staci E. Hensley

 

With heart disease continually in the spotlight, it’s easy to forget that this vital pump is only half the equation. If you truly want to slash your risk of heart attack and stroke, then you need to become knowledgeable about the other half of your circulatory system. Just as vulnerable as the heart is the body’s endovascular system. And like heart disease, most of the problems it is subject to develop slowly, with few warning signs.

 

The term “endovascular disease” encompasses several serious and potentially deadly conditions ranging from varicose veins to peripheral artery disease and deep vein thrombosis.

 

“Endovascular disease occurs when the blood flow is restricted or blocked, or when blood vessels become abnormally dilated,” explains Dr. Dominic Pedulla, board certified cardiologist and chief of the Oklahoma Vein & Cardiovascular Center. “It’s a slow process and is very similar to the problem that occurs in the vessels to the heart, which can cause heart attacks. That is why vascular physicians treat the whole person and prevent further disease through good follow-up, proper medications and appropriate lifestyle changes.”

 

While many lay people are quite knowledgeable about heart disease, most are unfamiliar with the dangers of endovascular disease.

 

“Most people know that blue, bulging, itchy veins are known as varicose veins, but they know very little more than that,” Pedulla said. “That’s why a lot of healthy people might not seek treatment until the disease progresses to the stage where pain and tiredness begin to impede their lifestyles. We work very hard to educate our patients so they know that seeking treatment early will alleviate pain and disease progression.”

 

Heart disease and endovascular disease don’t necessarily go hand in hand, but there are obviously some similarities. Genetics play a definite role, but lifestyle is just as significant a factor.

 

“People who are middle-aged or older, people who stand on their feet all day, those who carry around extra weight or who lift heavy objects, women who’ve had multiple pregnancies and people who suffer from high blood pressure have a greater risk of disease,” Pedulla said.

 

The blood vessels most commonly impacted by endovascular disease are multiple. They include the carotid arteries, which carry blood flow to the brain; the aorta, which is the main artery from the heart to the rest of the body; the iliac and femoro-popliteal arteries, which are the pathway for blood flow to the lower extremities; the renal and mesenteric arteries, which transport blood flow to the kidneys and bowel; and the leg veins, which return blood from the legs to the heart.

 

“Nearly 50 percent of people have some sort of vein problem that when left undiagnosed can lead to circulation problems,” Pedulla said. “More women than men suffer from the disease, and it is a condition that is more prevalent in North America and Western Europe than in any other place in the world. While it rarely results in a life-threatening issue, it can lead to other complications.”

 

Among these complications:

* Sores or skin ulcers connected with chronic, long-term backing up of blood. They are painful and hard to heal; often they cannot heal until the backward flow of blood in the vein is repaired.

* Skin over the veins can become thin and easily injured, resulting in bleeding. When any injury occurs, there can be significant blood loss.

* Deep vein thrombosis, which is a blood clot inside a deeper vein. DVTs can cause a “pulling” feeling in the calf, along with pain, warmth, redness and swelling. Often there are no significant symptoms, but if the blood clot travels to the lungs, it can be fatal.

 

Some good news is that vein disease can be diagnosed during a regular physical exam.

 

“Your doctor will look at your legs while you’re standing or sitting with your legs dangling,” Pedulla said. “He will want to know the history of your symptoms, including any pain you’re having. Sometimes you may have other tests to find out the extent of the problem and to rule out other disorders. A quick ultrasound can check the veins’ structure, check the blood flow in your veins and look for blood clots. This test uses sound waves to create pictures of structures in your body and gives the doctor an overall picture of the diseased vein.”

 

A True, Blue Problem

Varicose veins are far more than just unattractive. They’re a true medical condition that can make you tired, achy and destroy your quality of life.

 

“Every day we see patients have to quit doing the things they love, like running, dancing, shopping and other activities,” Pedulla said. “And a certain degree of depression can follow the disease, as patients reduce their activity.”

 

Some varicose veins develop due to weakness in the wall of a vein. There is a genetic link as well, with these veins often appearing in multiple members of the same family. Some congenital disorders also can interfere with the natural development of the venous system.

 

“No matter what the cause, defective venous valves may cause blood to stagnate in the leg, leading to increased pressure in the veins,” Pedulla said. “This may result in further enlargement of the varicose veins, increasing the likelihood of symptoms and causing complications such as skin changes and ulcer formation.”

 

People need to visit their doctor if they have any of the following symptoms:

* Your varicose vein has become swollen, red, or extremely tender and warm to the touch.

* There are sores or a rash on the leg or near the ankle.

* One of the varicose veins begins to bleed.

* Your leg symptoms are interfering with daily activities.

* The appearance of the veins is causing you emotional distress.

 

“Interestingly, many people think treating varicose veins is a cosmetic procedure, and don’t realize that their health insurance will pay for their treatment,” Pedulla said. “That misconception alone frequently leads people to ignore their condition until the symptoms become severe.”

 

Lasers to the Rescue

Smaller varicose veins, known as “spider veins,” are treated in several ways. Often the injection of a solution directly into the vein, a procedure known as sclerotherapy, can eliminate the problem.

 

For larger varicose veins, the latest and most successful treatment is to use a hair-like laser fiber to close the vein and reroute the flow of blood to nearby healthy veins, a quick outpatient procedure requiring only local anesthesia.

 

“The varicose vein symptoms improve almost immediately, and the appearance improves over the next few weeks,” Pedulla said. “Usually veins on the surface of the skin that are connected to the treated varicose vein will also shrink after treatment. If they don’t, these connected veins can be treated with sclerotherapy or other techniques. The treatment rate is highly successful, and re-treatment is minimal.”

 

How’s Your PAD IQ?

Peripheral Artery Disease is caused by a gradual plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis) and/or damage to the inner layers of the arteries, both of which occur slowly over many years. The damage is almost always linked to one of the following:

* Smoking.

* High levels of fats and cholesterol in the blood.

* High blood pressure.

* High amounts of sugar in the blood, due to diabetes.

 

Those most at risk include anyone over age 50, smokers, the obese, non-exercisers, people with a family history, and anyone with the medical issues listed above.

 

As the plaque builds up, blood circulation is restricted or blocked. Smaller blood vessels will try to compensate by rerouting blood around the blockage, but these vessels are smaller than the artery and not able to support complete circulatory blood-flow needs. As areas of the body react to lack of blood, pain can result, Pedulla said. While most people with PAD report no symptoms, he said, the following symptoms can appear:

* Pain in the calf, usually after activity such as walking or climbing stairs, which goes away with rest.

* Thigh or buttock pain during exercise that is relieved by rest.

* A lower temperature in one leg than the other.

* Changes in skin color, especially in the feet, including paleness or a bluish appearance.

* Sores or wounds on the toes, feet or legs that heal slowly or not at all.

* Poor nail growth or decreased hair growth on the legs.

* Weak or absent pulse in the lower extremities.

 

As the blockages increase in number and severity, symptoms and results can become more extreme, including pain that wakes up the individual from sleep and/or non-healing ulcers or gangrene, usually found in the feet.

 

PAD is treated based on the severity and number of blockages present. Medications and compression stockings – tight coverings for the legs and feet that aid circulation – may relieve symptoms. In more advanced cases, minimally invasive procedures such as stenting or angioplasty may be used; in severe instances, bypass surgery may be performed.

 

What You Can Do

You can’t do anything about your heredity, age or gender, but you can take steps to prevent or delay the progression of endovascular disease, Pedulla said. Living a healthy lifestyle is the key – no smoking, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, along with keeping blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels under control.

 

You can also relieve symptoms temporarily by lying down and raising your legs at least six inches above the level of your heart. For best results, do this for 10 minutes several times each day. Above all, Pedulla said, get help right away if you’re having pain, even if it’s just a dull ache.

 

“Laser procedures in particular are highly successful, in the 98 percent range,” he said. “A laser procedure produces almost immediate relief for most people and can get them back to normal activities in just a matter of minutes.”

 

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IN THE RAW, BRICKTOWN

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By the Taste Buds

Several of the Taste Buds were long-time Tulsa residents, solidly entrenched in the area restaurant scene – Cherry Street, Brookside, the 71st St. restaurant corridor, the Jenks riverfront area, the burgeoning Broken Arrow eateries – you name it, we ate it! From ethnic flavors like Ichi Ban and Los Cabos to the many Coney Island locations; and In the Raw, both in Brookside and on the hill in South Tulsa, for a combination of traditional and nouveau sushi and nigiri, plus a full menu of cooked cuisine – something to offer every diner.

It took a while to build up our portfolio of favorite restaurants in Oklahoma City, many of which have appeared monthly in Distinctly Oklahoma. Imagine our delight when In the Raw opened its first Oklahoma City location in Bricktown. With an ideal location overlooking the Bricktown Canal, this eatery soon became one of our favorites.

When previous owners decided to divest themselves of In The Raw in Bricktown, Curtis Bramlett, owner of the next-door Bolero Tapas Bar & Spanish Grill, stepped in.

Bramlett was intrigued by the Asian concept of the restaurant, and had some new ideas about the direction of the menu. He has recently initiated some changes he feels will bring a warmer feel to the community. What works in Tulsa, doesn’t necessarily work here.

“We’re proud to be in Oklahoma City. We’ve tweaked the rolls a bit, and I picked some of my favorites from when I was in New York City,” said Bramlett. Turns out, he attended the French Culinary Institute in New York City. He spent five years cooking at Le Cep Bistro, and nearly two years cooking at Bolero. Bramlett admits that his dream is to get back to the kitchen; however, since his own money is invested in the business, he feels the need to be in charge.

Bramlett says they will start offering specials fusing Vietnamese, traditional and Asian flavors, such as an Asian New York Strip to appeal to steak-lovers.

“We’re trying to have fun with the menu and not get stagnant. We won’t be constantly changing the menu, but we’re going to offer specials weekly – we want our regulars to be able to try new items if they choose.”

Regular lunch customers include those from nearby businesses and hospitals, hotel patrons and area tourists, while dinners include attendees of conventions and Thunder games.

Ashley Nguyen, head sushi chef at In the Raw, is well known on the area restaurant scene. She was the head sushi chef at the original Kang’s on Memorial, and her sister owns Okura on North May Ave. Nguyen helped formulate the new menu items, and is the guiding force toward a more Asian fusion direction.

On The Taste buds’ recent visit, Assistant Manager Issac Stine recommended we start with the Dynamite Shrimp – breaded and deep-fried black tiger shrimp tossed in a spicy Thai chili sauce. This warm shrimp appetizer runs circles around any cold shrimp cocktail! Other favorites include the Spicy Tako Salad – with sesame marinated octopus and cucumber – and the ITR Salad, which includes grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, scallions, crispy noodles and toasted almonds topped with a tangy ginger vinaigrette dressing.

We next tried the Cho Cho Beef appetizer – sweet soy marinated beef tips are skewered and pan sautéed, then topped with chopped peanuts and avocado, with a cilantro drizzle. The chopped peanuts offered a wonderful crunch to the tender beef, but can be eliminated for those with a peanut allergy.

Other appetizers include Edamame tossed in a special ITR seasoning, Miso or Japanese Clear Soup, Pork Gyoza and several tempura options, including a vegetable assortment.

For lunch only, they have added a Bento Box special, available on weekdays while dining in. One receives smaller portions of items on the regular menu – Chicken Katsu (fried chicken breast cutlet with Tonkatsu dipping sauce), four-piece California Roll, two-piece chef’s choice Nigiri, ITR Salad, Pork Gyoza, steamed rice and Miso or Japanese Clear Soup. A generous “sampler” for $12.95.

Other lunch specials include the $7 Raw Lunch Menu, which is offered between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays for dine-in. The OKC Combo is a choice of rolls (including Tempura Shrimp, Dunwell, California, New York, Avocado, Cucumber and Veggie), while the Bricktown Combo offers a choice of one of the above rolls and any three pieces of Nigiri sushi (including shrimp, salmon, albacore, mackerel, octopus, egg sushi, fried tofu or squid).

Stine said one of their most popular sushi rolls is the Thunder Roll, and we can understand why. The roll contains crab, cream cheese, jalapeno and asparagus, topped with crispy shrimp baked in a garlic spicy mayo, then sprinkled with scallions, 7 spice, masago and sesame seeds. This definitely is one of our favorites – served warm, the sauce almost tastes sweet, but then the spices kick in!

We then watched as head sushi chef Ashley Nguyen prepared the Mountain Roll. A simple roll that contains tempura shrimp and cucumber, but the name says it all – this mountain of a roll is then topped with salmon, tuna and yellowtail, drizzled with eel sauce and spicy mayo, then sprinkled with crab salad, masago, sesame seeds and scallions. Just try to get one all in your mouth in a single bite!

Other sushi rolls on the menu include the State Fair, Rockin’ Cajun, Baby Gecko, Rock Star, Blondie, California Dream, plus the Sooner or Spicy Cowgirl to please both OU and OSU fans. But diners are also invited to “create your own thing,” so if they have the ingredients, you can have them in your sushi roll.

Not in the mood for sushi? ITR also offers a Pork and Sesame Noodle Bowl, Fusion Fried Rice, Seared Tuna or Chicken Katsu.

The Taste Buds are not ones to shirk dessert, so we will warn chocolate lovers to plan their dessert wisely – order the Chocolate Gateau while still eating your sushi. That way, it will arrive just in time to dig into the warm, gooey chocolate center that flows like lava and mixes with the cold vanilla ice cream on the plate. Another hot-and-cold delight is the flaky Tempura Fried Banana, which is served with vanilla ice cream along with caramel sauce.

Cheesecake fans can order the New York-style with a choice of strawberry, chocolate or caramel sauce. Vanilla Crème Brûlée is another tasty option. There is also a Chocolate Euphoria Cake, embellished with chocolate ganache, raspberry sauce and whipped cream – decadent enough to satisfy the most ardent chocolate lover.

Along with an extensive wine, beer and sake menu, ITR also offers a fabulous selection of Martinis. The Pomtini, Appletini, Saketini and Plum Saketini, Tara’s Blueberry Lemondrop (named after ITR founder Greg Hughes’ wife, Tara), and our favorites – the Rubytini (with a splash of grapefruit) the Chocotini (chocolate, of course!) and the Flirtini, a delightful libation of raspberry vodka and triple sec, with a splash of pineapple, cranberry and lemon juice, then topped off with champagne.

Thankfully, Thunder game nights bring thousands of fans to the downtown area, and Bramlett feels the entire Bricktown restaurant community shares the crowd and benefits equally. In the Raw offers free parking for diners, who can easily walk to the Chesapeake Energy Arena after dinner to catch a game. So, since you have to return to ITR anyway for your car, why not stop in and have some dessert or cocktails? Keep the excitement going!

 

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Oklahoma’s Very Own “COOKIE QUEEN”

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By Judy Brotton

Everyone loves a good cookie. But not many of us would go to all the trouble of extravagantly decorating a batch of cookies … just to have them eaten before our eyes! But Maryann Rollins, a self-professed “Cookie Artisan,” loves to do just that. She has become well known to neighbors and friends for her cookie platters – complete with entire themes, color schemes and detailed personalization.

Rollins came by her hobby naturally – five years of art classes plus medical training at the University of Oklahoma – with no formal cookie decorating lessons. But her combination of art and medical training proves helpful when making cookies that resemble people, and comes in handy when she’s decorating anatomically correct Halloween skeletons.

While looking for inspiration on the Internet many years ago, Rollins stumbled upon a picture on Flickr, a photo-sharing site. She began posting photos of her own cookies, and eventually became online friends with many other cookie decorators. Some were stay-at-home moms who home-schooled, while others were business professionals, in the medical field, even an aeronautical engineer. They ranged in age from young to old, hobby bakers to bakery owners. What they shared in common was their love of decorating cookies.

Callye Alvarado (“Sweet Sugar Belle”) from Texas formed the “Cookie Queens,” a private group of cookie friends joined by invitation only. They now have members from 26 states and 7 countries including Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Holland and England.

After years of Internet conversations and photo sharing, some of the Cookie Queens finally met at “Cookie Camp 2010,” a three-day event hosted by member Lisa Snyder and her husband, Alan, at Camp BaYoCa in the Smoky Mountains, outside of Knoxville, Tenn. With no interruptions from TV, telephone or Internet, they were free to demonstrate techniques, swap cookie cutters, judge cookie challenges, roast s’mores around a campfire and “talk cookies” to their heart’s content. They were finally able to put a voice to the faces they had met online.

A large lodge housed the ladies, who took over the camp kitchen to learn new icing techniques from one another. The best part? The giant commercial dishwasher! Cookie Camp 2012 – the third installment – has already been tentatively scheduled for October.

Before attending last year’s camp, Rollins contacted The Martha Stewart Show, sending along photos of cookies and Cookie Camp. Within 48 hours, she had received emails from three people representing the show, wanting to know all about the upcoming camp.

A platter of cookies was created by the 26 ladies at camp, spelling out “COOKIE QUEENS LOVE MARTHA,” and Alvarado took a photo. Unsure of the show’s interest, the photo was sent off to The Martha Stewart Show in hopes of hooking them … and it worked! Rollins envisioned the Cookie Queens sitting in the audience, watching the taping of a show, in which Martha Stewart showed pictures of their camp. They would proudly cheer and applaud as the cameras showed them in the audience.

Instead, two segments were planned to kick off Cookie Week – one coordinating a Google chat with four of the Cookie Queens – Alvarado, Glory Albin from California, Marlyn Birmingham from Canada and Laura Courtemanche from Vermont – with Rollins invited to represent them in person.

The second segment would entail decorating cookies with Martha Stewart, who had chosen a pie cookie inspired by fellow Cookie Queen Alison Stinnett from Joplin, Missouri. Originally a Thanksgiving cookie, Rollins adapted it for the show and made a chocolate cream pie cookie with a vanilla crust and peppermint whipped cream garnish, with a bit of Christmas decoration in the center.

“Being on the show was truly an amazing experience for me. I still can’t believe it really happened, and all in just a few days. Talk about a whirlwind!” said Rollins. The show was filmed on November 21, and aired on December 12. Rollins and her mother had flown to New York, where they were met by two friends from Connecticut. They spent the “girls’ weekend” shopping and dining at Mario Batali’s Eataly and Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill to celebrate … obviously Food Network gurus!

Upon arrival the day of the taping, the set was decorated for Thanksgiving for the morning taping; the entire set was broken down and decorated for Christmas for the cookie segment, then afterwards re-decorated for Thanksgiving. Rollins had her own dressing room, and her group was shown all the behind-the-scenes activity, including food stylists, decorators, cooks, cleaners, plus technicians for cameras, lights and sound, all bustling around the large kitchen set.

Someone filled in for Martha Stewart during the walk-through, so Rollins didn’t meet her until the live episode. Of the several outfits she had brought, they chose her favorite leopard top. Her clothing was whisked away and pressed, while she was taken to hair and makeup. She was wired for sound, tested by the techies, told where to stand, what to do, and especially where to look and what to say – no brand names.

“I had been emailed a list of questions that Martha Stewart might ask, so I was prepared; however, she didn’t ask many of them – most of it was off the cuff,” explained Rollins.

In the audience, seated in the front row, were Rollins’ mother and friends. Years ago, Rollins had herself been in the audience watching a taping of The Martha Stewart Show – now, she had come full circle.

“My friends used to tease me about ‘When you’re on the Martha Stewart Show …’ So, now that that has happened, I wonder what to do next. Maybe a cookie book!” said Rollins.

During the walk-through, the set was fairly quiet. Rollins didn’t become nervous until it was time for the taping, when the once empty kitchen was suddenly bustling with people, lights and cameras were on, music was up, and there was a full audience. Then, of course, Martha Stewart arrived, and Rollins can’t really remember much of what she said or did; she was gratified when she watched the segment later and had actually made sense.

During her career as a cookie artisan, Rollins has created cookie platters for birthday parties, baby showers, weddings and – much to her surprise – a funeral. “Diva” cookies decorated with leopard print and lots of bling to celebrate the life of a beloved older lady.

Although living back in Oklahoma for the past four years, Rollins and her husband, Scott, had previously lived in Connecticut for 17 years. While there, she teamed with a Manhattan event planner and created cookie platters for events attended by celebrities like Rupert Murdoch, Vera Wang (who even took some cookies home), the Kissingers, and for a holiday dessert table on a segment of “Good Morning America.” It was common to find Rollins loitering in Grand Central Station, waiting to deliver pizza boxes filled with intricately decorated cookies. She must have looked suspicious, because security agents occasionally inspected the boxes.

“At times, my cookie life is more exciting than my real life!” said Rollins. But her two lives intersected when she recently met a local celebrity. During Edmond  Memorial’s Swine Week, Rollins won tickets to a Greyson Chance concert. Of course, she made a platter of cookies for him, with a centerpiece cookie resembling his face. She and her family were invited backstage to meet Greyson, who was thrilled with the cookies. He later did a “Nightline” interview while on his tour bus, and showed the cookies on air.

Platters are her specialty – an entire tray of Eifel Tower and pink poodle cookies for her daughter Renee’s French class; volumes of conversation hearts for Valentine’s Day; a passel of bunnies, baskets and eggs for Easter; a plethora of skeletons, ghosts, gravestones and costume-clad cookies for Halloween; or an entire soccer team resembling players and coaches, complete with names. Recently, she made a large platter of stars, stripes, hearts and ornaments for volunteers of The HUGS Project, which sends care packages to service men and women overseas.

Rollins finds inspiration in everything, from wrapping paper, cards and stickers to invitations, tee shirts, tiles – she even recreated owls from a pair of salt and pepper shakers. She constantly sketches ideas, as well as using photos of the people she plans to render in cookies and icing.

“There is nothing that can’t be made into a cookie!” insists Rollins.

Her cookies have appeared in publications like “fancyflours” baking catalog; a German magazine, “Magie des Zuckers;” and a book, “1,000 Ideas For Decorating Cupcakes, Cookies and Cakes.” Rollins has even been invited to give a presentation at a cookie decorating convention in Louisville, Kentucky in April.

“My crazy hobby has taken me on such incredible adventures! I love that my cookies have been a part of some special occasions. It’s wonderful knowing that they have helped make a celebration extra special, or someone’s day brighter,” said Rollins.

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Major Janie Howard – On The Front Lines of Healing

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By Bud Elder

 

It has been argued that, while the “information age” is a necessary and vital component of the human existence, there is fallout of the old world order as modern-day audiences are barraged by news, messages, advertisements, banners, links and pop-ups.

 

One such casualty is the dilution of words. We all say so much these days that the basic building blocks of communication don’t carry the impetus they once did. These days, it is hard to get to the true meaning of a word that has been overused to a level that it becomes a cliché.

 

Take the word “hero,” for example. Once used to describe an organic trait in the human condition resulting in selflessness and life affirmation, the word has been marginalized to the level that children of today mostly ascribe it to fictional characters with extraordinary powers.

 

Real-life heroes do not wear capes and fly. They come in all shapes and sizes. And genders. And, for the most part, they don’t want to talk, especially to mass media, about themselves.

 

It is a bright, chilly November morning at the Deaconess Family Care Clinic on Hefner Road. While still early, even before office hours, that does not stop a major traffic jam and cars overflowing an adjacent field as patients of Janie Howard, a Physician’s Assistant working alongside Dr. Waddah Nassar, welcome home their friend, their confessor, their physician.

 

You see, Janie Howard, somewhere in her early 50s, has been gone for the past six months or so, serving her state and her country as Major Janie Howard at Bagram Air Force Base, Afghanistan.

 

In his remarks to the assembled, their hugs and tears punctuated by military marches played by the Putnam City High School Band, Dr. Nassar says this about his colleague and friend:

 

“Janie Howard has made me realize the importance and dignity of war,” he said. “She is also a living example of one who is willing to make an ultimate sacrifice, a professional with a thriving practice who wants to serve her country in the best way she knows how.”

 

Those fortunate enough to have been treated by Howard find a bedside manner that is almost, well, infectious. She is disarming, practical and eager to solve whatever ordinary or extraordinary ailment has brought her patient into her treatment room. It is most certainly the same approach that she used when administering physical examinations for Taliban detainees.

 

A product of Western Heights Public Schools and the University of Oklahoma, Howard enlisted in the reserves in 1999 and spent her drill time along with others in El Paso, Texas.

 

“None of my family, save for an uncle in California, had been to medical school, and none had ever been involved with the military,” said Howard.

 

It was also around this time that she joined forces with Dr. Nasssar.

 

“I had gone to school on an Integris scholarship, so I spent my first two years at an Integris facility in Kingfisher,” she said. “A friend of mine from there, LaShawn Kochenower, was and still remains Dr. Nassar’s chief nurse; she made the introductions, and we’ve been together for 14 years.”

 

It was January 2003 when Howard got her first true deployment to Fort Bliss in El Paso for what turned out to be an 18-month stay.

 

“That turned out to be a wild ride,” Howard said. “I had a two-day turnaround to get ready – I felt bad for Dr. Nassar, who had to see almost 60 patients a day until they were caught up.”

 

There was another person who would have to adapt to Howard’s absence – her husband, Chuck, a pharmacist in Oklahoma City.

 

“Through all my deployments, Chuck has always been tremendously supportive,” Howard said.  “He has always told me to follow my heart as he has watched me go from adventure to adventure.”

 

During her time at Fort Bliss, Major Howard ran the deployment clinic for troops readying to go overseas. It was also during this time that she had her first dealings with bio-terrorism.

 

“In the early days of the Iraq War, there was great concern regarding biological weapons being used against our troops – they were inexpensive and easy to use,” she said. “I worked specifically with smallpox and anthrax vaccines.”

 

After her time at Fort Bliss, Howard returned to her practice, knowing that she could be called up at any minute.

 

“Over the next several years, I was sent to Germany three times,” she said. “However, my favorite trip was a humanitarian mission to Trinidad, where we worked directly with patients who had never had regular medical care, while also helping build a school for handicapped children.”

 

After almost nine years in the reserves, Howard joined the Oklahoma National Guard Medical Detachment.

 

“In March 2011, the 45th Infantry Brigade was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Howard said. “Their original purpose was to train Afghan security forces.”

As a member of Charlie Company 700 Brigade Support Battalion, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, a medical support battalion, Howard knew that deployment was imminent.

 

“This time, I had six months’ warning,” she said.

 

After training in Mississippi, Howard boarded a plane that would take her deep into the heart of quite possibly the most dangerous place in the world.

 

After an exhaustive flight that went through Turkistan, Howard arrived at Bagram Air Force Base, her slight frame lugging her 70-pound kit, along with her ruck and personal belongings. And while one would expect devastating heat, Howard found that her Oklahoma life prepared her somewhat for the other meteorological phenomenon that awaited her.

 

“During the summer, the Afghan wind blows at a level that we would equate with a small tornado,” Howard said. “I was both fatigued and apprehensive when we arrived, but I knew immediately that I would have to have a scarf to survive that wind.”

 

What awaited Howard upon her arrival was not what one would call luxurious quarters.

 

“For the first two weeks, while arrangements were being made for more permanent lodgings, there were 200 of us females all together in a gigantic tent,” she said. “These were women with different shifts at different times, so between their schedules, the lights being constantly on and the incessant flapping of the tent by the constant wind, none of us got much rest.”

 

Howard’s specific detail during her deployment was to train combat medics, poised to go with troops as they traveled to the front lines.

 

“Most of our combat medics are not in the medical field when they are civilians,” Howard said. “When they join the military, potential medics are given anywhere from 8 to 16 weeks of training.”

 

That the situation was grim was not lost on Howard who, at one time, asked to be taken to the front lines to see what her medics were going through.

 

“Six of my medics were wounded in some way as they went into combat,” Howard said. Such was the case with Cleveland, Oklahoma’s Ashley Jones, who survived an IED blast with a broken back and pelvis, and who lost her right foot above the ankle to amputation. Jones, who was awarded the Purple Heart, is currently recuperating in San Antonio.

 

Howard’s other assignment, revealed to her only after she arrived, was to give physical examinations to those detainees suspected of Taliban activity.

 

“I was accompanied at all times by a guard and another medic,” Howard said. “There was an issue, however, because of religious reasons, that the men did not want to be examined by a female. Sometimes we had to adapt.”

 

During her tour, Howard stayed in touch with her husband, friends and colleagues through the army’s email system.

 

“Maj. Janie Howard is an excellent officer and provider. The military personnel that came into her care during her deployment were better off because she is a true professional – an outstanding citizen-soldier,” said Maj. Gen. Myles L. Deering, the adjutant general for Oklahoma. “As a physician’s assistant, Maj. Howard stepped up and willingly accepted the responsibility of caring for our injured and ailing personnel. She’s truly a difference-maker and a gifted officer capable of performing to the highest level under the most difficult conditions.”

 

Back to her welcome home party at Deaconess – Howard’s patients, many of whom sent her gifts and care packages during her tour, watch as Howard presents Dr. Nassar with an American flag that flew over the Bagram base.

 

“I am so fortunate to be working alongside Dr. Nassar and his staff,” she said. “My being gone put a burden on them; however, they are beyond supportive – they are my second family.”

 

Dr. Nassar finds Howard to be an extraordinary individual.

 

“Janie Howard loves this country and wants to give it absolutely everything she has,” he said. “I always thought the small sacrifices we have made here pale in comparison with what she has had to go through.”

 

With some six years or so until she is able to retire, Howard knows that another deployment or two may be in her future.

 

“There is always a possibility that I will have to go back,” she said. “If that happens, I’ll gear back up and go wherever I’m sent.”

 

Spoken like, well, a true hero.

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Over 100 Years of Boots, Chaps, Hats, Food … and History!

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By David Althouse

 

Neighbor, when was the last time you visited Oklahoma’s Historic Stockyards

City, home of cowboys, cowgirls and time-honored businesses specializing

in western duds, rustic western furniture, American Indian jewelry

and John Wayne-size steaks?

Well, that’s too long!

Stepping into the world that is Historic Stockyards City is sort of like returning to the early 1900s, a time of brick buildings, wooden storefronts, gaslights and cowpokes – ingredients of western ambiance still ever-present in this 120-acre historic district located two miles west of downtown Oklahoma City and immediately south of the North Canadian River.

 

Occupying a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, Stockyards City is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing Oklahoma City’s wild and western history through its historic and time-honored businesses and variety of regularly held western-themed events.

 

For over 100 years, Stockyards City has been a destination point for ranchers, cowboys, cowgirls and cattle movers who still frequent the district for its livestock sales, western wear shops, ranch implement outlets and western-style restaurants.

 

This town-within-a-town traces its beginnings to a time shortly after statehood.

 

In 1908, Oklahoma City business and civic leaders learned that Thomas E. Wilson of Morris & Company (now Armour), was attracted to Oklahoma City because of its central location at the junction of multiple railroads and a large western livestock market. Wilson, interested in building a $3 million slaughterhouse and meat-packing plant in the area, entered into secret negotiations with Anton Classen, Sidney Brock, John Shartel, E.K. Gaylord and a committee of other major Oklahoma City business and civic leaders.

 

After receiving nearly all of the concessions asked of the Oklahoma City group, Morris & Company opened its Oklahoma City plant on October 3, 1910.

 

About one year later, hearing of the over half million animals that passed through Morris & Company’s gates during its first year of operation, Schwartzschild & Sulzberger (now Wilson Foods) asked for and received the same deal from Oklahoma City as Morris & Company.

 

“As an adjunct to the packing plants, the Morris Company organized the Oklahoma National Stock Yards Company,” writes Carol Holderby Welsh in “Cattle Market for the World: The History of the Oklahoma National Stockyards.” “The purpose of the Stock Yards was to provide an outlet to buy and sell livestock at prices based on supply and demand. The Yards provided pens, feed and water for the animals 24 hours every day.”

For a time, the district now known as Stockyards City was referred to as “Packingtown,” in recognition of Morris & Company and Schwartzschild & Sulzberger, the two founding companies of the business district.

 

By 1961, the two packing companies had decided to close, and the district became known as Stockyards City. That’s an apt description for the home of the Oklahoma City National Stockyards, the largest stocker/feeder market in the world.

 

Since 1910, more than 100 million head of cattle have passed through the gates leading into the Oklahoma National Stockyards, which are open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to stop by for the live cattle auctions every Monday and Tuesday beginning at 8 a.m.

 

When it comes to western duds, tack, art, entertainment and grub, Stockyards City sits tall in the saddle, offering over 70 businesses to meet the needs of any cowpoke connoisseur.

 

Old West aficionados shop such apparel and art establishments as Langston’s Western Wear, Little Joe’s Boots, Mike’s Custom Saddle Shop, National Saddlery Tack, Stockyards Mercantile, Cross Bar Gallery, Oklahoma Native Art and Jewelry, Jack J. Wells Western Artist and Shorty’s Caboy Hattery.

 

The superior, custom-made western hats of Lavonna “Shorty” Koger, owner of Shorty’s Caboy Hattery, are indicative of the quality western products made and sold in Stockyards City.

 

Koger has been hard at work at her hattery in Stockyards City for over 15 years, earning a worldwide reputation for using top-quality beaver fur to make only the sturdiest and most stylish western hats.

 

Her custom-made hats top off folks not only in Oklahoma and other U.S. states, but they’re also donned in Germany, Japan, Australia, Italy, France, Norway, Peru, Holland and Great Britain.

 

Koger is one of maybe 30 custom western hatters left in the United States. The equipment Koger uses to make custom western hats is no longer manufactured, so she is one of a dying breed.

 

You can still find her like in Stockyards City. Dedicated and skilled creators of custom boots, hats, saddles and a lot more are found in this little bit of the Old West in Oklahoma City.

 

Just as cattle drovers of old came running when the chuck wagon cooks called, today’s cowboys still skedaddle to the restaurants of Stockyards City.

 

Knowing good chuck when they taste it, modern-day caballeros come hungry and come often to Taqueria Los Comales, the district’s authentic Mexican restaurant; Panaderia la Herradura, Oklahoma City’s largest Mexican bakery; Longhorn Café, known for its home-cooked flavors; and Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, the famous Stockyards City institution serving cowboys, cattle traders, celebrities, businessmen, tourists and even American presidents since the earliest days of Stockyards City in 1910.

 

Legend has it Cattlemen’s was one of the few places that served into the wee hours of the night when it opened over 100 years ago. The story also goes that folks could devour a good steak, sneak in a swig and hang out with a colorful clientele even during the days of Prohibition.

 

What happened next in the lively line of Cattlemen’s history has been entered into the annals of western folklore.

 

In 1945, Cattlemen’s owner, Hank Frey, found himself in a heated game of craps against Percy Wade late one night in downtown Oklahoma City. The stakes climbed, and Frey offered up the keys to his restaurant for collateral. Wade, having wagered his life savings, threw a “hard six,” and the rest of the story is history. Wade and his son operated the restaurant for the next 50 years.

 

Nowadays, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse is known not only for its storied past, but also for its storied steaks, receiving recognition from such magazines as Bon Apetit and Southern Living, from the Food Network’s Guy Fieri, and from the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food.”

 

Cattlemen’s preeminence, past and present, earned it a spot in the book, “1000 Places to See In the U.S. and Canada Before You Die,” by author Patricia Schultz.

 

If it’s genuine cowboy and country music you’re after, then Stockyards City offers the Rodeo Opry every Saturday night at 7:30, one of the last authentic experiences of its kind. The Rodeo Opry boasts a collaborative relationship with professional musicians, recording artists and young Oklahoma talent for a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience in the vintage western setting of Stockyards City.

 

Erin Karl, director of Stockyards City Main Street, emphasizes three annual events held in Stockyards City – Wines of the West Festival, Stocktoberfest and the Cowboy Christmas Parade.

 

Some of Oklahoma’s finest wines are sampled inside Stockyards City stores at the Wines of the West Festival held each Spring, Karl said. “We give wine passports that people can turn in after they have sampled all the wineries, and these are entered for prizes.”

 

At Stocktoberfest, held in October, local and regional beers are available for sample and purchase in a block party-style atmosphere, complete with food and live entertainment.

 

The Cowboy Christmas Parade, held the first Saturday of December, has become one of the most anticipated holiday events held in the Oklahoma City area, Karl explained.

 

“Rodeo cowboys, antique cars, Native American dancers and 100 Longhorn steers make their way down the parade route every year at this Stockyards City event,” Karl said. “After the parade, children are invited to visit our cowboy Santa at the Rodeo Opry, get their picture taken and receive a free toy. Area merchants take part in the festivities by participating in an annual window decorating contest.”

 

Karl appreciates working each day in this uniquely western district of Oklahoma City.

 

“I love that I work among living history,” Karl said. “Our district is an amazing combination of old and new. Out-of-towners and international visitors rave about this great place, but we want locals to know what’s down here and have the same appreciation for Stockyards City.”

 

Pardner, that means giddy up!

 

For more information about the history, yearly events and current businesses of Historic Stockyards City, visit www.stockyardscity.org.

 

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POPULAR “COMPLEMENTARY” HEALTH PRACTICES

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By Kimberly Thomas Green

 

Oklahomans have always been pioneers, never afraid to try new things in an effort to make life on the plains easier. In the early frontier days, doctors were few and far between, and families were forced to depend on folk remedies. Some even turned to Native American tribal doctors for natural herbal and food remedies.

 

Alternative medical therapies from crystals to snake oil sprang up with traveling salesmen passing through Indian Territory. It became a booming industry, and was the beginning of modern pharmacology. Now, families are searching for complements to current medical treatments that many times seem lacking; however, there are now so many companions to medical technology, it makes your head spin! How do you know which ones actually work and which ones are only clever ways to rid you of your money?

 

Complementary or alternative medicine is anything that does not fall within the realm of traditional medicine, and refers to those treatments that can be used in conjunction with medical therapies. Many times, complementary medicine offers relief for those suffering with conditions not effectively addressed. Even healthy people may participate in complementary practices in order to enhance wellness. These therapies help the body make biological changes that forego foreign chemicals used by pharmacology and the side effects that often accompany drugs.

 

There’s room for everyone at the table of health. Doctors serve their purpose just as complementary approaches, but using one does not preclude the others. Used in conjunction, it is possible to age gently and spend the latter part of your life in better health than previous generations by combining traditional and complementary health practices.

 

Four out of ten adults in the United States use some type of alternative medicine, mostly relying on alternative care, holistic treatments and herbal supplements to complement traditional Western care. In 1998, a study of 13 countries showed that about 31 percent of cancer patients were using some sort of complementary or alternative therapies along with traditional medical treatment, and considering the technological advances of the last 13 years, it is no surprise that this number continues to grow. Today, complementary treatments are even available within cancer treatment centers.

 

Remember that conventional medicine is normally held to high standards of proven effectiveness and safety. Just because something is natural or holistic doesn’t mean it can’t endanger your health or well-being. Talk to your doctor to determine the best way to add complementary medical treatments into your wellness plan.

 

Acupuncture, homeopathy, massage and herbal supplements are but a few of the numerous alternatives available, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

 

Acupuncture

Embedded in traditional Chinese medicine, the earliest written records for acupuncture date back to 200 BCE (Before the Common Era). Acupuncture treats illness by inserting a stainless steel wire needle into the body, and works on the premise that the body functions are regulated by the flow of qi (chēē) or bodily energy; it attempts to correct imbalances in the flow of qi by stimulating points along the meridians.

 

“The State of Oklahoma has not seen fit to protect the public and license acupuncture. If one is contemplating acupuncture in Oklahoma, it is important to ensure that the acupuncturist is qualified to perform acupuncture. There is only one national board of acupuncture in the entire United States whereby doctors of oriental medicine and acupuncturists have determined those necessary standards required to be considered a competent acupuncturist, and that is the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (www.nccaom.org). Active NCCAOM Diplomate status is required by every state in the U.S. that licenses acupuncture [46 out of 50 states], and that is the standard which should be employed by anyone seeking acupuncture treatment here in Oklahoma,” according to James H. Maher, M.S., O.M.D., Ph.D., Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM) www.acupunctureokc.com.

 

Medical research finds that acupuncture is only effective with pain and nausea, and suggests the other effects are due to the placebo effect; however, anecdotal evidence is great.

 

Homeopahy

More than two centuries ago, homeopathy was developed in Germany based on the principle that “like” cures “like” – things that cause symptoms in large doses actually treat the same symptoms in microdoses, said Dave Mason, D.Ph., Compounding Pharmacist, Innovative Pharmacy, Edmond. Homeopathic practitioners believe that ingesting a small amount of substance can treat the symptoms caused by an illness. Nearly two percent of the U.S. population relies on traditional homeopathy to treat and prevent disease, while the number may be as high as 40 percent in Europe.

 

Anecdotal evidence suggests homeopathy treats ailments such as diarrhea, asthma, allergies and vertigo, but there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. “Homeopathy is based in physics and resonance theories rather than traditional allopathic [chemistry-based] medicine. By the time a preparation is created, there is generally no physical remnant of the substance that can be measured, which is why it is so hard to confirm using traditional research methods,” said Mason.

 

Massage

Although massage is a part of the modern lifestyle, few recognize it as a legitimate medical treatment. There are numerous types of massage, including Swedish, deep tissue, Shiatsu, reflexology, sports, craniosacral and lymphatic. Each of these techniques has different benefits, with specific massages addressing different body parts and varied issues.

 

The University of Miami showed improved immune function in HIV patients after massage therapy. Certain types of massage also ease symptoms resulting from cancer treatment and help reduce fibromyalgia pain. Deep tissue massage gets to the root of tightness in muscles.

 

Craniosacral massage can help with deeper issues such as TMJ and migraines, while lymphatic massage is more effective for treating swelling, joint pain and other more chronic issues. Shiatsu and Swedish massage are geared more for general relaxation and stress relief. Few medical professionals associate massage with serious health risks, although one that is too intense may cause pain or discomfort. While there is research on traditional massage, due to the individual differences in therapists’ technique, it is hard to quantify the results of massage.

 

“Therapeutic massage is a natural way to help manage stress that all people experience. It also helps people deal with muscular pain brought on by daily habits, work environments, physical activity and trauma. Taking care of our bodies is important. To be able to make someone’s life better with fewer aches and pains is a blessing,” said Jennifer McRorie, NCMT, Therapeutic Touch Massage, Edmond.

 

 

Herbal Remedies

The newest of the herbal remedies taking the world by storm is the Moringa Oleifera tree, considered a miracle tree because of the wide variety and amounts of nutrients it contains. The National Geographic Society, National Science Foundation, United Nations World Food Program and the National Institutes of Health are all studying it. The struggle has been formulating the product into a palatable supplement that both nourishes and tastes good.

 

Advocated as an outstanding indigenous source of highly digestible protein, calcium, iron, vitamin C and carotenoids, Moringa tree products are available on the Internet in many forms. Though it is being used in Third World countries to battle malnutrition, Americans are quickly catching on to its outstanding source of nutrition. Hundreds of studies have been performed that all conclude the nutritional benefits are astounding.

 

Ounce for ounce, Moringa leaves have more vitamin A than carrots, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, more vitamin C than oranges, and more potassium than bananas, plus all of the essential amino acids and protein that rivals milk and eggs. Moringa is also shown to have anti-cancer, antibacterial, anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory properties, and can also lower blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

 

Moringa is the most beneficial tree discovered in our lifetime. Zija®, a company based in the United States, has succeeded in formulating the most palatable form of Moringa, and is most responsible for its growing popularity in the non-scientific community.

 

“It is indeed the most nutrient-rich plant studied in the world. We are overfed and undernourished in the United States – 7 out of 10 people are diagnosed as obese or morbidly obese due to malnutrition. Moringa delivers more nutrients than any other product, with over 92 nutrients,” says Dr. Russ Bianchi, formulator for Zija.

 

It is up to each individual to know what supplements they are putting into their body. Some supplements interact with prescribed drugs, so it is essential to inform your doctor of any supplements you are taking.

Some alternative therapies are not considered therapy at all – water is one. We use 10 to 12 cups of water per day just living life, so replenishing water increases energy, induces weight loss, reduces headaches and can cause a more healthy appearance. Water is something that is readily available in our country, but once you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated, so drink water daily.

 

Acupuncture, homeopathy, massage and supplements are just a few complementary medical treatments. Talk to your doctor before you add to your wellness plan; of course, don’t attempt to replace well-established treatments with complementary medical practices.

 

In the absence of research, word-of-mouth is the best way to know how and if complementary therapies work. Ask your friends and family what has worked for them, and look toward a more healthy you in 2012.

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It Takes Tangerine to Tango

Posted on February 7, 2012 by justin

By Heather Rouba

 

Make way for Pantone’s color of the year — Tangerine Tango! This citrus-red hue will give your weary eyes a break from all those winter neutrals. The world is begging for a jolt of energy, a shot of boldness, all of which comes from this reddish-orange hue currently gracing designer runways and catalogs across the world. From J. Crew to Jones New York to Coach, everyone is embracing this hot new color.

 

“There’s the element of encouragement with orange, it’s building on the ideas of courage and action, that we want to move on to better things. Sophisticated, but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, recognized throughout the world as the leading source of color information.

 

“Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy,” said Eiseman.

 

Seemingly overnight, orange has become quite the statement color among designers and consumers alike. With its bold, strong nature, Tangerine Tango is making itself known in both men’s and women’s fashion, as well as house wares, home furnishings, paint, patio furniture, etc. A fun, unique take on a traditionally fall color, Tangerine Tango has the energy to last throughout the summer and into fall and winter.

 

“Color can be a mood lifter, which is why we chose Tangerine Tango,” Eiseman said. “We thought that would be the perfect color, one that will get people’s attention.”

 

With that said, this shade is not for the conservative fashionistas – it is one that will definitely draw people’s attention to both you and your outfit. You will find the color popping up under names like Poppy, Chili, Coral, Flame, Papaya and Salsa. Whatever the name, it pairs beautifully with all the usual neutral basics – instead of the standard red, wear a nautical navy and white striped sweater with bright poppy pants. A floral patterned blouse with splashes of flame and purple dress up off-white wide-leg trousers, and a bold tangerine heel finishes the look. Tangerine will add spark to basic black, heat up your cool grays, and freshen up your khakis and olives. For summer, wear this bold color with all your white basics.

 

For those not ready to make such a bold statement, perhaps trying it in small doses – in the form of standout accessories – will gently ease you into this fashion trend. Jewelry, handbags, scarves, shoes and other accessories have already jumped on the tangerine bandwagon. And by adding color to your current wardrobe, you can extend the life of what you already own. Wear a tangerine camisole or silk shirt under your usual black pantsuit; or don a tangerine blazer with a black top and slacks. Why not spice up your little black dress with a pair of bright orange patent pumps, or carry a vibrant coral clutch.

 

But the color doesn’t stop with fashion. Tangerine Tango is showing up in home items and makeup as well. A winner in cosmetics because of its versatility, Tangerine Tango is a bit exotic, but in a very friendly, non-threatening way.

 

“While bold and definitely a true statement color, tangerine can be subtly translated in makeup to highlight and brighten features while still looking natural,” says Blair Patterson, Estee Lauder global premier makeup artist. “Start by playing with tangerine blush colors. Mixing a tangerine blush with a basic face powder will dilute the pigment and ease you into playing up this ethereal spring look. Dust over it with a bronzer to tone down the natural brightness of this color for a fresh evening glow.”

 

In fact, next month Sephora will launch the new Sephora Color of the Year limited edition beauty collection, which will feature eye shadow, lipstick, lip gloss, nail polish and accessories – all embracing Pantone’s 2012 color.

 

“These products allow for on-trend, uninhibited expression, while being exceptionally wearable,” says Gilbert Soliz, lead artist for Sephora PRO.

 

While this bright orange is not an especially tricky color to wear, it is not universally flattering. Keep in mind – just because Tangerine Tango is the color of the year doesn’t mean it’s the best color for everyone. At the end of the day, the color of the year is what looks good on you!

 

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