Sandra Beasley ILC

May 2026 Community Newsletter

Hello and welcome!

We are excited to reconnect with the communities and consumers we proudly serve throughout our 8-county area. Over the past several months, we have been diligently working on strengthening and organizing our Skills Training classes and expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities in our community. We are excited to share updates, introduce new leadership, and invite you to an upcoming community event. Community Showcase Event Join us on Friday, June 5 for a special come-and-go event from 1:00pm–8:00pm at: 215 East Randolph Avenue Enid, OK 73701 Light refreshments will be provided throughout the day. This event will highlight the five core services we proudly provide to the community:

• Information & Referral • Advocacy & Outreach • Peer Counseling • Skills Training

• Transitional Services We encourage community members, consumers, families, and local organizations to stop by, meet our team, and learn more about the services available throughout the communities we serve.

About Us Founded in 1984, Sandra Beasley Independent Living Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Garfield, Major, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Noble, Kingfisher, and Logan counties, reaching more than 78 cities. Our mission is to promote independence and improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through advocacy, education, support, and community involvement.

Fun Facts About Disabilities

• More than 1 in 4 adults in the United States live with a disability.

• Disabilities can be visible or invisible, and every person’s experience is unique.

• Assistive technology, such as screen readers, communication devices, and mobility aids, helps increase independence and accessibility for many individuals.

• Inclusion and accessibility benefit everyone by creating stronger and more connected communities.

Leadership Updates

We are excited to introduce our Executive Director, Katrinka Kuzniar. Katrinka has more than 20 years of experience in social work, event planning, and secondary as well as adult instruction. Her background allows her to better understand how individuals learn, communicate, and navigate life in different ways, helping strengthen the organization’s mission of accessibility and inclusion. Katrinka also holds a History degree from Oklahoma State University and an Oklahoma State teaching certificate.

We are also proud to welcome Bre Solis as our new Administrative Assistant. Bre is a graduate of University of North Texas at Dallas with a background in Communications and Digital Media. Her experience helps create stronger communication platforms and outreach opportunities for the many diverse communities throughout the 8 counties we serve. Memorial Day

Memorial Day approaches, we take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made sacrifices while serving our country. We extend our gratitude to veterans, military families, and all those who continue to serve our communities with strength and dedication. Memorial Day also reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, and supporting one another within our communities. We hope everyone has a safe and meaningful holiday weekend.

Recipe Corner:

Garlic Butter Steakhouse Burgers Bring steakhouse flavor home with these juicy and flavorful burgers — perfect for summer cookouts and Memorial Day gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef

• 1/4 cup softened butter

• 2 minced garlic cloves

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt

• Coarse black pepper

Instructions

Prep the Garlic Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic cloves and set aside.

Season the Beef: In a bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and coarse black pepper.

Form into 4 burger patties. Grill the Burgers: Sear burgers on high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached.

Finish & Serve: Immediately after removing burgers from the heat, top each patty with garlic butter so it melts over the burger.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Grilled Lemonade & Thyme Spritz A refreshing summer drink with smoky citrus flavor and a hint of fresh herbs — perfect for warm weather gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (46 oz) quality store-bought classic lemonade

• 4 large lemons, cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds

• 5–6 fresh thyme sprigs

• 2 cups chilled club soda or ginger ale

• Ice cubes

Instructions

Grill the Lemons: Heat your grill to high heat.

Place lemon rounds directly onto clean, oiled grates.

Grill for 30–60 seconds on one side until distinct dark char marks appear. Remove immediately.

Steep the Flavors: In a large pitcher, combine the lemonade, warm grilled lemon slices, and fresh thyme sprigs.

Gently bruise the thyme against the side of the pitcher with a wooden spoon to release its oils.

Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the smoky and herbal flavors to infuse into the lemonade.

Add the Fizz: Just before serving, stir in the chilled club soda or ginger ale until fully combined.

Serve: Pour over ice and ensure each glass gets a charred lemon wheel for presentation.

Stay Connected

If you have any issues we may be able to assist with, or if you have questions about our services, please contact us at (580) 237-8508 or visit us at: 215 East Randolph Avenue Enid, OK 73701 We look forward to continuing to serve our community and building meaningful connections with individuals and families across Northwest Oklahoma.

Note: Sandra Beasley Independent Living Center’s policy is to ensure that services are delivered in a manner that is respectful and accommodating to an individual’s disability. Materials are available in alternative formats upon request, and additional services such as interpreters, video conferencing, communication boards, or other assistive technology will be made available as appropriate.

Thank you for being part of our journey! Warm regards, Sandra Beasley Independent Living Center Team