Issuu

Homecoming Parade | Workplace Wellbeing

Survey Says ...

SEPTEMBER 2026 Vol. 23 Number 7

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID SHAWNEE, OK PERMIT NO 33

www.shawneeoutlook.com

GRETCHEN

WILSON October 17

GRANDBOXOFFICE.COM

www.shawneeoutlook.com

12 0 YEARS 26

210 WEST WALNUT • TECUMSEH, OK 74873 “Serving Families Since 1906”

405-598-2124

Whether you're growing your business, starting a new venture, or simply looking for a local bank that cares about their community, we’re here for you! BancFirst offers a wide range of lending* options with flexible terms and competitive rates. Our experienced loan officers are ready to work to find the right loan to fit your needs.

www.cooperfuneral.com

SHAWNEE MCLOUD TECUMSEH *Loans subject to credit approval.

14114 U.S. 177, SHAWNEE, OK 74804 | 405-777-4033

Monday-Saturday 9AM - 7PM 4

www.shawneeoutlook.com

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2026

Okie Icon Media

MANAGING EDITOR

David Dinsmore

ADVERTISING SALES

Brad Carter

CREATIVE DIRECTION Kelsey Walker Fawn Wilson-Olivarez

PUBLISHER

WRITERS

Andrea Beck Paulann Canty David Dinsmore Ann McDonald Macy Muirhead Angela Rowland Carmen Wolf

PO Box 1365 Shawnee, OK 74802 info@shawneeoutlook.com

This issue is dedicated with

love to Django and Lettie,

features

departments

12 Reviving Tradition: Shawnee Gears Up For First Homecoming Parade In Decades

6 KEEP THE CHANGE

14 Squash Surprise: Truck Driver Provides Loads Of Joy

9 ART OF THE MATTER

will be deeply missed.

—Cami Engles, Publisher

7 NUTRITION 101 23 SHAWNEE HISTORY

19 Survey Says: Data From Balloon 26 ASK PAULANN Fest, Rodeo Reveals High Praise From Visitors 28 FOR THE ROAD 24 Workplace Wellbeing: Small, 29 CALENDAR Deliberate Choices Can Improve Health, Productivity At Work

SEPT

beloved canine companions who

Volume 23, Number 7 Shawnee Outlook is a publication of Okie Icon Media. © 2026 Okie Icon Media Articles and advertisements in Shawnee Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Okie Icon Media. Okie Icon Media does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by Shawnee Outlook does not constitute endorsement of products, services, political candidates/parties or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Shawnee Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

To Advertise, call Brad (405) 445-3033

Bethel Acres 2026 Tag Agency

878-0040 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-1pm North of Hardesty Road & Hwy 102 www.shawneeoutlook.com

keep the change

A FAIR DAY OUT

s we all hold on to eternal hope that the temperatures will fall, let us look forward to the days when going outside will sound lovely again and lean into the fair season September brings with it! First of all, right here in Shawnee, the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center will host the annual Pottawatomie County Free Fair the second weekend of September! This is one of my family’s top free events! The Children’s Barnyard, Rowland animal demonstrations and other free activities make for a great family outing (and it’s not ALL out in the heat!). And did you know our fair features a coloring contest, a texting contest, a main stage of entertainers, and even Karaoke?! You can find details and schedules at freefair.org If you want to think a little bigger, the Oklahoma State Fair is coming the second half of the month. The State Fair tends to pack a little more punch to the wallet, but there are ways to minimize the damage. Look for discount days — such as Opening Day (Thrifty Thursday), Military Monday, Taste of the Fair Tuesday and more! Also, if you’re hoping to snag some fair fare, keep an eye out for the Little Book of Big Deals offering coupons to many vendors. Carnival armbands will cost a pretty penny, so if that’s not in the budget, be aware of special events happening throughout the span of the fair and time your visit to events that are most interesting to you and your family. Also check the schedule (okstatefair.com) for free events (after gate entry) such as the Planetarium, Circus Acts, Animal Racing, and more! Finally, if you’re looking for a fun day trip, look into other free county fairs happening across the state this fall! You can find a full list at countyfairguide.com/fairs/Oklahoma. S Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home mother of four. She enjoys finding new ways to stretch the paycheck and sharing her favorite tips and deals.

Your ad. HOUSE OF

TREASURES • Home Knick Knacks • Pictures • Crafts • Seasonal • Lots of stuff!

Every month.

Items from

25¢

Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm Closed for lunch 12pm-3pm • Saturday 10am-1pm

517 N Kickapoo • Shawnee, OK 6

Their mailbox.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Call Brad at (405) 445-3033

nutrition 101

CAN MUFFINS REALLY BE HEALTHY?

uffins are a convenient grab-and-go option for busy mornings, but not all muffins are created equal. Many bakery and store-bought muffins are surprisingly high in added sugar, refined flour and calories while providing very little protein or fiber. With a few simple changes, homemade muffins can become a much more nutritious addition to breakfast. One of my favorite ways to naturally sweeten muffins is with ripe bananas. As bananas ripen, they become sweeter, allowing you to use less added sugar while still creating a muffin the whole family will enjoy. Bananas also provide potassium, carbohydrates for energy, and some fiber. When making muffins at home, look for opportunities to increase their nutritional value. Using whole-grain flour or oats can add fiber, while ingredients such as chia seeds, ground flaxseed or nuts can provide healthy fats and additional nutrients. You can also experiment with reducing the amount

Banana Muffins

Banana muffins are a simple and delicious way to turn ripe bananas into a grab-and-go breakfast or snack the whole family can enjoy. Using naturally sweet bananas can help reduce the amount of added sugar needed. Ingredients: Three ripe bananas, smashed Three eggs 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract Three cups almond flour 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin tins with paper liners. In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt to the other ingredients. Stir un-

of added sugar in a recipe. Our taste buds often adjust to less sweetness over time. It is also important to remember that a muffin by itself may not provide enough protein to keep you satisfied throughout the morning. Instead, think of your muffin as one part of a balanced breakfast. Pair a banana muffin with Greek yogurt, eggs or cottage cheese for additional protein. Add berries or another piece of fruit for even more fiber and nutrients. Making muffins at home also gives you control over the ingredients and portion size, and they are easy to freeze for future busy mornings. A healthy breakfast doesn't have to be complicated. Preparing simple foods ahead of time can make nutritious choices much easier when mornings get hectic. Try the homemade banana muffins recipe below next time you want to meal prep breakfast. til combined. Divide the batter into muffin tins. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Yield: 12 muffins Nutrition Facts per Serving: Calories: 260 Total fat: 20g Saturated fat: 5g Sodium: 136 mg Carbohydrates: 17g Fiber: 4g Protein: 8g Nutrition 101 Tip: Muffins can be easily batch-cooked to make for a quick graband-go breakfast during the week. Pair with two boiled eggs to make for a balanced breakfast. S Andrea Beck, a registered dietitian and personal trainer, received her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She offers personal training and nutrition education through an online platform, StrongHER along with functional nutrition and labs through Laser Focus. For inquiries, visit strongherwithandrea.com, or the Facebook page, Nutrition and Exercise 101 with Andrea.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

! NEARLY

1 in 2

Families with young children struggle with diaper insecurity. HELP US CHANGE THAT.

www.legacyshawnee.com

NUTRAFOL now available

Hair Wellness from Within Clinically shown to promote hair growth and improve hair quality. MAGNOLIA CLINIC 4409 N. Kickapoo Suite 121 –Shawnee, OK 405.585.0475

KATIE FROST APRN-CNP 8

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Hours of Operation: Monday 9 AM - 6 PM Tuesday 1 PM - 6 PM Wednesday 8 AM - 5 PM Thursday 8 AM - 5 PM Friday 8 AM - 2 PM

art of the matter

LOOK AGAIN Discoveries Sometimes Hidden In New, Familiar Paintings

SUBMITTED BY CARMEN WOLF, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF MABEEGERRER MUSEUM OF ART

“Adoration of the Magi” by Dirck Barendsz features a scene filled with secrets — from unusually shaped camels to a potential self-portrait — that have caused viewers to take a second look.

ave you ever looked at a painting and thought you understood it — only to notice something completely different the second time you looked? That is exactly what happens with “Adoration of the Magi,” painted by Dutch Renaissance artist Dirck Barendsz. At first glance, the painting tells a familiar story: three kings have traveled from distant lands to bring gifts to the infant Jesus. But don't stop at the first glance. This painting rewards a good detective. Start with the baby at the center of the scene. Even though the painting is crowded with kings, soldiers, servants, animals and people in colorful clothing, your eyes are drawn toward the Christ Child. Look at where the people are looking and how their bodies are positioned. Barendsz uses these invisible lines to help direct your attention to the

most important figure in the story. Now look again. Does anything seem a little … odd? Take a close look at the Christ Child. His head seems a little small for his body, and his face looks more like a tiny adult than a baby. Earlier artists sometimes intentionally portrayed the Christ Child as a miniature adult to symbolize who he would become. By the Renaissance, however, artists generally portrayed him as a more natural-looking baby. Perhaps Barendsz was following an older tradition — or maybe different parts of the painting were completed by assistants in his workshop. We don't know for certain, and mysteries like these are part of what makes studying old paintings so interesting. Ready for another mystery? Find the camels in the background. Do they look like camels you've seen in photographs or at a zoo? They're a

little strange. Barendsz lived from 1534 to 1592, long before photographs, television or the internet. He may never have seen a real camel. When artists painted animals they had never seen themselves, they had to rely on another person's drawing or even a description. Imagine trying to draw a camel after someone explained one to you. There's another secret hiding in the crowd. One of the soldiers may actually be the artist himself. Artists sometimes included their own faces in large scenes, and the soldier looking toward the Christ Child is believed to be a possible self-portrait. Can you find him? Suddenly, this isn't just a painting you look at. It's a puzzle filled with clues. You can try this with other paintings too, it’s not unusual for artists to include clues in their art. > www.shawneeoutlook.com

Try It Yourself: Make a Look-Again Picture

Now it's your turn to challenge someone else's powers of observation. Draw a busy scene — a park, classroom, birthday party, zoo, imaginary kingdom or anything you like. Fill it with people, animals and objects that help tell your story. Then, secretly add five unusual details. Maybe someone is wearing two different shoes. Put a fish in a tree. Give a dog a pair of glasses. Hide a tiny version of yourself somewhere in the crowd. Make one object a color it would never normally be. Scan this code to visit When you're finished, give your the Mabee-Gerrer picture to someone else and see Museum of Art’s athow many unusual details they can home project page. find. Most importantly, remember what Barendsz teaches us: don't stop looking after the first glance. Then bring your new detective skills to the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. Find “Adoration of the Magi” in the gallery and see the real painting for yourself. Look for the unusual camels. Search for the artist hiding among the crowd. Then look again. What can you discover that we haven't told you about? S

www.shawneeoutlook.com

• SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS • IN HOUSE LAB & DIGITAL XRAY • ACCEPTING MOST INSURANCES INCLUDING AETNA. • CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING SOONERCARE PLANS.

SHAWNEE FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC OPEN MON-FRI 8AM-5PM

2400 N. Harrison | Shawnee, OK | 405.395.4441

STAY CONNECTED THIS SUMMER WITH

Healthy Hearing From backyard BBQs to lakeside chats, make sure you’re part of the conversation. Call for your evaluation today!

Mark Maynard Owner / Operator

6022 Hwy 177 Shawnee, OK 74804 mark.allamericanstoneworks@gmail.com 405-585-0937 | Office 913-909-1750 | Cell allamericanstoneworks.com

Call today to reserve your appointment!

405.777.4272

Our Doctors of Audiology Dr. Calyn Russ-Whitt Dr. Nicole Smith

Shawnee 3954 N Kickapoo Ave, Ste 5 hear4life.com

www.shawneeoutlook.com

community

REVIVING TRADITION

Downtown Shawnee Gears Up For First Homecoming Parade In Decades BY DAVID DINSMORE

The first Shawnee High School homecoming parade in decades will roll out at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25 in downtown Shawnee, which held similar parades for decades before ending at some point at least 15 years ago. — Photos provided by yearbooks at the Pottawatomie County Museum

ccording to some estimates, most if not all the current students at Shawnee High School were not even born the last time a homecoming parade rolled down Main Street. Video evidence uncovered recently shows that the tradition held through at least the early 2000s with photo evidence on record at the Pottawatomie County Museum extending decades prior to that. For almost a generation of students, however, this kind of community gathering and sense of legacy has faded into the frayed pages of yearbooks long shelved around the community. The plan is to end the drought at 10

www.shawneeoutlook.com

a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25 in downtown Shawnee as people head downtown to witness the return of the homecoming parade thanks to the cooperation of business owners, school administrators, city officials and individuals throughout the community. The initiative was sparked by Amanda Estala — chief operating officer at Stuart & Clover and parent of a Shawnee High School student — who fondly remembered the strong community spirit of homecoming parades growing up in a different Oklahoma community. "I would love the students to have the experience of a homecoming parade, just like I did in Holdenville,"

Estala said. "That was one of my favorite experiences in high school — that community sense together of building floats and competing against the other grades." What began as a big-picture brainstorming session among downtown business leaders on how to revitalize downtown Shawnee quickly became a loose plan to bring back the parade this year, said Estala, who reached out to Shawnee Public School superintendent Jason James to talk about the feasibility of this vision. “Homecoming parades are one of those super cool events where the past and the future collide,” said James, who actually worked as a coach

with Holdenville Public Schools and attended some of the same parades Estala remembers with such esteem. “It just makes the school and community stronger.” Support also poured in from city manager Mark Simpson, Visit Shawnee, Safe Events for Families and more than a dozen downtown businesses and investors directly involved in the planning along with a network of more than 50 volunteers outside of city or school organizations. "To see everybody being willing to chip in, it's such a beautiful thing,” Estala said. “I'm most excited for our students to have this memory." Planners timed the parade to bring energy downtown, allowing families, students and community members to enjoy the event while getting the chance to also support local businesses, Estala said. The school district has arranged to bus elementary students downtown so they can watch the high school students and look up to older role models. Main Street will be decked out with Wolves pride, Estala said. James has arranged for senior banners representing students across all school organizations to be hung on windows and buildings along Main Street. Additionally, businesses have been encouraged to paint their windows and display flags. This year's homecoming theme, "A Night at the Oscars," features

opportunities for unique parade elements, Estala said. Candidates will stage at a local hair salon and walk a navy carpet to board antique cars. The parade will also showcase "Howl Walls" — large student-created art displays made from chicken wire and tissue paper — which will be featured in the procession before being displayed at the evening football game. Shawnee resident — and Shawnee Outlook’s resident historian — Ann McDonald has fond memories of the parade both as a student in the 1950s and as a parent in the 1980s. “I’m excited about the return of the event,” McDonald said. “I plan to be there and have tried to pass along the news. In fact, it’s the day before our

CUSTOM GRANITE, MARBLE & ENGINEERED STONE SCOTT STEVE MARY FAX: 405-273-4141

SOONER STONEWORKS LLC

125 W. MACARTHUR • SHAWNEE, OK 74804

class’s 66th reunion.” That element of continuity also plays a role for James as part of the appeal to bring back the parade. “Homecoming is all about welcoming back our alumni,” James said. “It is about a community of people coming back and remembering their high school years while reconnecting to give their kids and grandkids the best future possible.” With widespread community backing and student excitement led by student council advisor Ryan Boren, organizers hope this year's revival is just the beginning. "Hopefully this is something that continues on for decades to come," Estala said. S

P’s Foundation Repair Floor Leveling LLC TIMMY PIERCE 405.585.8317 Shawnee, Oklahoma

405-214-7400

www.shawneeoutlook.com

community

SQUASH SURPRISE

Truck Driver Provides Loads Of Joy To Tecumseh Families SUBMITTED BY LOOK FOR THE GOOD POTT COUNTY

ood news doesn't usually pull into town on a flatbed. But that's more or less what happened in Tecumseh this month when a semi carrying 147 crates of squash rolled up to the Tecumseh Round Up Club. Here's how it happened. Local truck driver Billy Bazmore was hauling a load of squash up from Mexico bound for a nearby grocery store. He had a truck packed with crates upon crates of fresh zucchini and yellow crookneck squash stacked high in his trailer just waiting to be devoured, but when the shipment turned out to be a different variety than what had been ordered, the order was refused. It was a routine supply chain hiccup that — in most places — ends with a truckload of good food headed for a dumpster, but Billy's company had a better idea: find a nonprofit that could get that haul to local dinner tables instead. Billy made one phone call to the Tecumseh Round Up Club, and the answer came back without hesitation: bring it on out. Word travels fast in a town this size, and within an hour and a half, families from across Pottawatomie County had come and gone with all the free squash they could carry. “Everyone showed up, and everyone was so grateful,” said Shiane Neiman, a board member of Tecumseh Round Up Club. “It looked like some darn good cooking was coming.” In a county where plenty of families are stretching every grocery dollar they've got, free and healthy produce is a real help in keeping bellies full. It's the same fight groups like Community Market of Pottawatomie County show up for every week, and for one afternoon, a truckload of squash joined in the ring.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

A local truck driver delivered a rejected load of zucchini and squash to the Tecumseh Round Up Club, who got it distributed to some grateful local families. It didn’t take a committee or someone to organize a food drive. A truck driver simply made a call, community-minded people said yes and a small army of volunteers jumped in the arena and unloaded all 147 crates by hand. One person refused to let something good go to waste, and a community was ready to catch it when it came. If you've seen a good story like this — or have been part of one — get online and share it. Look for the Good Pott County is always looking for great stories from the Shawnee area and beyond, and this month's squash windfall is proof of just how delicious those stories can be. Keep your eyes open this month, and when you catch the good happening around you, submit it at pottcountygood. com. S

WelcomeHome Home Welcome • Quick Approval • Quick Approval • First-time • First-time

Homebuyer Loans Homebuyer Loans

• FHA, VA & • FHA, VA &

USDA Loans USDA Loans

• Jumbo Loans • Jumbo Loans

Construction • •Construction to to Permanent Permanent Financing Financing

• •DebtDebt

Consolidation Consolidation

Flexible • •Flexible

Repayment Options Repayment Options

CANDA WHITE CANDA L. L. WHITE

Mortgage Loan Consultant Sr. Sr. Mortgage Loan Consultant NMLS# 46922 NMLS# 46922

Office: 405-273-1761 Office: 405-273-1761 Direct: 405-615-3603 Direct: 405-615-3603 cwhite@firstunitedbank.com cwhite@firstunitedbank.com cwhite.firstunitedteam.com cwhite.firstunitedteam.com 2675 N. Harrison | Shawnee, 74804 2675 N. Harrison St. St. | Shawnee, OKOK 74804

Member Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025. Member FDIC.FDIC. EqualEqual Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025.

FREE.* FUN. FABULOUS! What’s better than fun and free? When you host a Mary Kay® party, you could earn FREE* Mary Kay® products! Whether in person or virtually, get some friends together, and you could score some serious swag, such as Mary Kay® products women love. Contact me to get started. *Availability and criteria to earn free products are established by participating independent Beauty Consultants only.

David Conway Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/dconway5 405-788-6353

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Financial strategies built just for you Michael P Garbutt, CFP®, AAMSTM

Brent S Morris

Jacob Russell

Trey Thee III, CFP®

Financial Advisor 3813 N Harrison St Shawnee, OK 74804 405-214-4971

Financial Advisor 4010 N Kickapoo Ave, Ste 1 Shawnee, OK 74804 405-214-1978

Financial Advisor 923 E MacArthur St Shawnee, OK 74804 405-788-0040 Financial Advisor 318 W MacArthur St Shawnee, OK 74804 405-395-2006

David W Spires, CFP®

Financial Advisor 39004 W MacArthur St, Ste 110 Shawnee, OK 74804 405-878-0990

Chris Jones

Financial Advisor 2510 E Independence St, Ste 100 Shawnee, OK 74804 405-395-0068 MKT-5894M-A-A1

www.shawneeoutlook.com

cpn

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Let us take care of new installs, change outs, and maintenance.

Company LLC

405-334-9475 COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

STEVEN JOHNS 405-334-9475 DAVID JAMES 405-503-5533

Lucky Day Call or text today! 405-275-1122

www.luckydayhvac.com

Company LLC

405-334-9475

2102 B N. KICKAPOO, SHAWNEE, OKLAHOMA

• • Feb. 9th, 2026

BACK TOSTART SCHOOL SUPPLIES! PRE K - 5TH GRADE YOUR 2026 START YOUR 2026 • Mar. 23rd, 2026

JOB JOB SEARCH 2001 N. HARRISON ST, SHAWNEE, OK

WHEN: TIME: LOCATION:

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026 9 AM - 3 PM WORK READY SHAWNEE March 11th,

SEARCH 2026

ON THE RIGHT FOOT SUPPLIES 2” RING BINDERS, DRY ERASE INCLUDE: MARKERS,ON ANTIBACTERIAL WIPES THE RIGHT FOOT

JOIN US AND GRAB A SNOW CONE! JOIN US FOR OUR

www.shawneeoutlook.com

WORKSHOP

•

events

SURVEY SAYS ...

Data From Balloon Fest, Rodeo Reveals High Praise From Visitors BY DAVID DINSMORE

he second weekend of August saw one of the biggest influxes of visitors to Shawnee this year thanks to two marquee events — one of which galloped into its local debut with more than 70 years of continuous tradition behind it. The annual FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival hosted by Citizen Potawatomi Nation has been a staple for thousands of local, statewide and national attendees since establishing nine years ago as families flock to the Festival Grounds to enjoy fair-style fare, live music, bright balloons and other favorite activities. The festival has also hosted companion events like an outdoor expo to coincide with the variety of

Cowboys and their supporters attended the 71st Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo in early August, which was the first time the longest continuously running Black rodeo hosted an event outside Okmulgee since its founding. — Photos submitted other activities. “This event is a way for us to embody the Potawatomi spirit of hospitality on a big scale every year,” said Dennette Summerlin, executive assistant to the CPN Vice Chairman and balloon fest committee chair, in a press release. “It allows us to welcome the community and increase awareness for the broader Shawnee community. It is a labor of love from our dedicated planning committee, but it’s worth it every year, and we look forward to many more.” This year, a new tradition entered the arena as the city hosted the 71st annual Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo, the longest continuously running Black rodeo on record. For the first seven decades, the rodeo

called Okmulgee home, growing into one of the premier events for cowboys on the circuit and others who want to test their skills. It has featured widely across the country in various media outlets, including an episode of the longrunning hit series, “The Simpsons.” Shawnee’s Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center opened its gates to welcome in the Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo for the first time this year with organizers eyeing a longterm partnership that will feature some of the event’s long-standing traditions, such as a pre-rodeo parade for people to enjoy and get excited for a weekend of action in the arena. This inflow of attendees for these events offered a rare opportunity for www.shawneeoutlook.com

> 19

Shawnee civic and business leaders to get a pulse on how these new and returning visitors felt about the time they spent here. In partnership with 1050 Forward, The Shawnee Visitor Experience Survey collected 297 voluntary responses using QR code invitations distributed by volunteers at the two events. The results were strikingly positive, according to information provided by survey coordinators. Nine out of ten respondents said they felt welcomed in Shawnee, and 85 percent reported feeling safe – ratings that local leaders indicated reflect both the hospitality of residents and the organization behind the events. Additionally, 91 percent of visitors rated their overall experience positively with a handful giving low marks. “We wanted to know something very simple: When people come to Shawnee, how do we make them feel?” said Rachael Melot, one of the survey organizers and vice president and business development officer at Sovereign Bank. “The response was encouraging. Visitors told us 20

www.shawneeoutlook.com

they felt welcomed, they had a good experience, and many spent time and money in our community beyond the events themselves. That tells us hospitality matters, and that Shawnee has an opportunity to turn a first visit into a reason to come back.” Survey participants represented 151 ZIP codes across 13 states, stretching from the surrounding region to places as far as California, Oregon, Washington, Georgia and North Carolina. Oklahoma visitors made up the largest share, but the presence of travelers from across the country underscores the pull of these two events. Individually, the rodeo organizers mirrored the overall positive experience they had hosting the event in a new city for the first time in the more than 70 year history of the event. “Everything went great,” said Kenneth LeBlanc, head organizer of the rodeo and son of the namesake. “It was great for us, and I think it was great for the city too.” Community members served as

ushers to help make sure audience members had what they needed to be comfortable and have a good time, Kenneth said. He received a lot of positive feedback directly from the rodeo participants and audience members particularly about the facilities of the expo center. Much of that came in the little ways the facilities helped accommodate their fans and participants, said Lael LeBlanc, grandson of the rodeo’s namesake. He heard praise for the RV offerings at the expo center as a great resource enjoyed by some attendees along with the hotels enjoyed by others. In another instance, accessibility features at the facility allowed a busload of more than 40 older audience members from Wichita, Kansas to easily enter and find a place to watch the cowboys one evening, which helped confirm that moving the rodeo to Shawnee was the right choice. The survey showed the rodeo gave Shawnee the ability to introduce itself to new audiences as nearly 47 percent of

rodeo respondents said it was their first visit to the community. Many of those rodeo guests didn’t just attend the event and leave; they stayed overnight, explored local businesses and spent money throughout the city. Spending extended well beyond the arenas and festival grounds. Sixty‑two percent of all respondents said they visited Shawnee restaurants, coffee shops, retailers, hotels or entertainment venues outside the event they attended. Restaurants and bars saw the highest share of activity, followed by retail, lodging and recreation. The data showed that for local businesses, the weekend was as important economically as it was culturally. The survey also revealed how people experienced the weekend socially. Shawnee’s events drew families, friend groups, and travel parties of all sizes. Nearly four in ten respondents arrived in groups larger

than three, and only 15 percent attended alone. This information can help local leaders identify and recruit other events looking for audiences with these types of attendees to help build more tourism opportunities for the city. “This gives Shawnee more than a good story to tell; it gives us information we can use,” said Marissa Lightsey, Avedis Foundation board member and executive director of College and Career Readiness at the Oklahoma State Department of Education, “We can see where visitors came from, what brought first-time guests here, where they spent money and what influenced whether they felt safe and welcome. The opportunity now is to learn from it and make the visitor experience even stronger next time.” To see more of the survey data, visit www.shawneeok.org/ ShawneeEventSurvey. S

www.shawneeoutlook.com

It’s time to schedule your Annual Medicare Plan review. Scan the QR code or call us to secure your place on the schedule.

Call Today 405-256-3342

by calling this number you will be connected with Ryan, a licensed insurance agent

www.shawneeoutlook.com

shawnee history

IN A NAME

Farrall’s Impact On Early Shawnee Still Felt Today

BY ANN MCDONALD, COURTESY POTT CO HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBER

bout a year and a half after the well-known 1889 north and south borders of his land — originally 6th Street Oklahoma land run, the federal government pur- and now known as Farrall. chased the excess land belonging to members of He built a two-story structure on the corner of Farrall some of the Native American tribes residing in what became and Beard where some reports say early community leaders Pottawatomie and Lincoln counties. Each tribal family chose met to decide the future of Shawnee. Later, a brick building their land then sold the remainder, and another run was known as the Blue Grass Hotel was constructed off present scheduled. A few years later, members of the Kickapoo tribe Farrall and Broadway. A small church and city marshal's ofsold some of their land, and it was added fice were at Union and 7th, and the first to those established counties through anfire wagon station was on south Bell. other run. When it was learned railroads were The motivations of the individuals and planned across the new territory and families who chose to leave their homes likely near Shawnee, Farrall and others and "make the run" differed. It might have saw the opportunity and convinced the been to make life better for themselves or train people to build their tracks on the their families, or it simply may have been north side of the river rather than the the lure of adventure. Whatever the reason, south side near Tecumseh, designated by on Sept. 22, 1891, many lined the edges of the government as the county seat. Sevwhat was to become the two counties. eral landowners donated or sold part of One of those hopefuls left his camp their claims to the railroads. Train traffic just across the North Canadian River and helped Shawnee to be an important area drove his stake into the ground, claiming in Oklahoma, including placing third in that quarter-section (160 acres) as his. the vote to designate a city as the state The family of James T. Farrall later passed capitol. down the story that by nightfall their an- James Farrall first staked his claim James Farrall remarried in 1898 to cestor had erected a lean-to to further in the 1891 land run in what Sarah Newberry, originally from the later became the city of Shawnee prove his claim. neighboring state of Arkansas. They lived Farrall was a resident of Iowa, having and spent more than two decades at 502 S. Beard. He served terms as mayshaping the future of the city, which been born there in July 1845 and later still features a namesake street and or and justice of the peace. serving in Company D of the Iowa Cav- park near where he drove his stake. Farrall's son, Marion, was town conalry during the Civil War. He moved to Il- — Photo submitted stable, and he and his wife Maggie lived linois where he and his wife, Louisa, had at 822 S. Bell with children Thelma, Ruby, children — May, Caroline and Marion. After moving to Mis- Cecil and Marion Jr. souri, son Charles was born. Clarence and Jennie were born While on duty in October 1907, Marion was attacked in Kansas as the family continued moving west. Farrall's wife while making an arrest and killed. He is buried in Fairview stayed in Kansas with the youngest children while her hus- Cemetery. band built up their homestead in Oklahoma Territory. UnJames Farrall died in April 1917, and he also is buried in fortunately, she died there in 1895. Fairview Cemetery. He had previously requested town ofFarrall and others began dividing and selling parts of ficials to rename University Street after his first wife, Louisa. their quarter-sections into lots. His property was surround- He also gave a corner of his claim to the city of Shawnee to ed by present-day Bluff on the south, 6th (now Walnut) on serve as a park. Still known as Farrall Park, which served as the north, Union on the east and Kickapoo on the west. Far- the home of Washington School from 1904 until the early rall planned for the Main Street to be halfway between the 2000s. S www.shawneeoutlook.com

Let's GO

WORKPLACE WELLBEING

Small, Deliberate Choices Can Improve Health, Productivity At Work BY MACY MUIRHEAD

his time of year is jam-packed here in Shawnee. Between school pickup lines, the county fair and Friday night football, clocking in to work every day can feel like just one more thing to get through. Before you know it, big bad burnout can come knocking at your door. It rarely happens all at once, either. Some weeks it’s yet another lunch scarfed down at your desk or a walk you meant to take and didn’t. Sometimes it’s a full inbox still waiting when you finally head out the door or a whole weekend that disappears before you’ve even had a chance to rest. The good news is you don’t need a wellness retreat to make your workday feel a bit better. Most of the time, it just takes filling the small gaps in your day a little differently. Here are a few places to start, courtesy of your pals at Pogo. Steal your commute back. Whether it’s five minutes or 45, that drive doesn’t have to be a straight shot from one obligation to the next. Swap the news for a podcast that makes you laugh, slow your heartrate with relaxing music or give a loved one a call to reconnect. Arriving with a clear head makes a world of difference throughout the day. Make your lunch break earn its name. “Break” implies you actually stopped. If lunch has quietly become a thing you do with one hand while typing with the other, try eating anywhere but where you work. Whether that's the break room,

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Pottawatomie Go will host industry experts at its annual Worksite Wellbeing Summit where employers and employees can learn about small, intentional choices that can lead to better health and productivity at work. your truck, a bench outside or a full-on local restaurant, make it a priority to get away from your workspace at lunchtime. Let your phone off the hook. Pick one hour in the evening — dinner, bath time, gym session, Thursday night football, whatever fits — and put your phone somewhere you can't see it. The emails and phone calls will still be there in an hour, and cutting back on screen time can lead to lower stress levels and deeper sleep. Switching your phone to “Do Not Disturb” during key points of your day can also help protect your peace. Sneak in some extra movement. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Pick the far parking spot instead of the close one. Make one meeting a walking meeting. If your workplace allows it, bring your sneakers to work and grab a lap during your lunch break. Small movement adds up faster than a big workout you never quite get around to. Actually take the day off you’re owed. Not the kind where you’re still checking in “just in case.” Aim for the kind where somebody else has your shift covered or your out-of-office reply is doing the talking for you. Research suggests taking consecutive days off is one of the most efficient ways to recover from workplace stress, but even a single day fully unplugged gives your mind and body real room to reset. Treat your breaks like they’re non-negotiable. No matter what your work looks like, breaks are often the first thing that gets

sacrificed when things get busy. But even 10 minutes away from your desk or the floor resets you for the stretch ahead. Protecting that time is part of doing the job well for the rest of the day. Keep water within arm’s reach. It sounds simple, but not getting enough water is one of the quickest ways to feel wiped out by hour four. So keep a water bottle at arm’s reach. Plus, sometimes those afternoon sweet-and-salty cravings are actually just a sign you’re thirsty. A water bottle you actually refill beats vending machine junk every time. Stretch before you clock in, not just after. A couple minutes of stretching your back, shoulders and legs before the workday can save your body a lot of wear, whether that day looks like standing on concrete or sitting behind a screen. Speaking of which, if you spend your workday in a chair or behind the wheel, stretching and standing from time to time is more important than you might think. Experts say sitting for long periods of time could raise your risk of obesity, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels and even heart disease and cancer. Fuel up like it matters, because it does. Chowing down on whatever’s fastest between meetings, service calls or patients is an easy habit to fall into, but a few minutes of prep can go a long way. Toss a bag of nuts or a protein bar in your bag, keep cut-up fruit or veggies in the breakroom fridge or go for the healthier options at the gas station. Even a handful of trail mix or a meat stick beats yet another bag of chips. Protect your sleep like it’s part of the job. Rotating shifts, early mornings or a mind that won't shut off after a long day all make good rest hard to come by. But healthy sleep isn’t a niceto-have. It's essential in keeping you sharp and safe. Try putting the screens away before bed, keeping a consistent wind-down routine and hanging up blackout curtains, especially if you work the night shift and get your sleep during daylight hours. Lean on your crew. Every job is easier with people who get it. Humans aren’t wired to do hard things alone. Our brains are actually built for connection, and your team is a built-in lifeline. Whether it’s a work wife down the hall or the coworker who always covers your break, every job is easier with people who get it.

Put It Into Practice at Worksite Wellbeing Summit

If you want to go deeper than a few habits, Pogo's fifth annual Worksite Wellbeing Summit is built for exactly that. On Thursday, Sept. 24, top professionals, employers and HR and business leaders from across Pottawatomie County will join together for a day focused on better wellness at work.

This year’s theme of rest centers on the simple idea that no one does their best work running on empty. Keynote speaker Del Chittim, a nonprofit leadership expert and executive coach, will lead the day with a message on paying attention to what drains us, being intentional about how we recharge and learning to show up as our best selves instead of just getting by. He'll be joined by voices that include Avedis Foundation president and CEO Kathy Laster, PhD, Julie Griffin of Meridian Technology Center and more. Tickets are on sale now with discounted options available for students and group tables. Learn more and save your seat at gopogo.org/wswb. Wellness at work is just that. Work. But it’s the good kind. A handful of small, deliberate choices repeated often enough becomes the way a workplace runs — and eventually, the culture that workplace is known for. Start with one this week. And if you want to rub shoulders with a room full of people already doing the work, Worksite Wellbeing Summit is where you’ll find them. S

When you go with us, you’re ALL SAFE. • All your home/business security needs

• Structured ethernet wiring

• Surround sound installs

• Builder packages available

• Inside/outside professional TV Mounts

• 24/7 monitoring, no contract

405-413-9442

spikemike46@gmail.com OK License # AC440850

SCAN ME

www.shawneeoutlook.com

ask Paulann

SHARED LOSS

Grief Serves Role As A Binding Community Experience Between People BY PAULANN CANTY, MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST, MS, LMFT

Photo by Rachel Cleere

ear Paulann, If we were sitting together talkMy dog passed away ing and not bound by the conlast month. I miss her fined, one-way limitations of every day. She was such a big a printed statement, I would part of my life, and honestly my want you to tell me about your best friend. I know some people dog and the love you feel for Paulann lose their actual kids or family her. In that space, we could talk members but I swear I feel like I have about loss and grief and all the ways too. I just can’t say that because I don’t each is present in our lives. In our conwant to offend anyone. versation, we could discover that howI am sorry your dog has died. She ever different our life experiences may was clearly a treasured and important be. We all have joy and sorrow, life and part of your life, and her death has left death in common. I believe sharing our a hole in your world. As I read your stories deepens our connection and thoughts, I realized I was grateful that creates common ground. If we were you made a statement rather than asking a question. Many things we experiWant Paulann to answer ence in life don’t seem to have a singular answer, but they are better served by your question in a the ebb and flow of conversation, both future issue? Send it to internal and external. The process of askpaulann@gmail.com. thinking aloud. That is certainly true Submissions anonymous. for me when it comes to loss and grief.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

sitting together talking, these are some things I might want to both say and ask. Dogs hold a special place in many of our lives. I have vivid memories of rescue dogs exhausting themselves as they searched in the rubble of the Murrah building looking for survivors of the Oklahoma City bombing. I have had the joy of watching children respond with smiles and big hugs to service and therapy dogs in our local schools. I am grateful for the cocker spaniel, Taffy, that sat next to me on our back porch, quietly listening as I poured my 6th grade heart out to her. There are endless ways dogs enrich our lives. And when they die, we grieve. Thank you for telling me about your loss in spite of the fear that you might offend someone. It saddens me that you feel you have to carry your loss alone. Shared joy is foundational to relationships and community, but so is shared

loss. Moments of sadness and grief allow us to see each other through eyes of grace and compassion. Shared loss opens the door to empathy. The sharing of your loss is an opportunity to understand grief more clearly. We live in a world where life is often viewed and defined by competition and comparison. That perspective works well with many things. The pain of grief, however, cannot be measured, ranked or won. In 1986, a group of high school sophomores and sponsors from the Oregon Episcopal School began their annual climb to the top of Mount Hood. What was to be a celebratory right of passage turned into Mount Hood’s deadliest disaster, resulting in the death of seven students and two staff members. There were four survivors, including a 15 year old boy named Giles Thompson whose severe frost bite resulted in amputation of both lower legs. Shortly after the tragedy, grief specialist, Doug Manning, spoke to attendees at the Oregon State Hospice meeting. He acknowledged the impact of the deaths on the community. He went on to say “We will have a hard time letting this young man grieve the loss of his feet. We’re going to tell him how lucky he is because he didn’t die. But he’s still going to miss his feet.” Manning’s words are a frequent reminder to me that ranking grief doesn’t help us heal. In fact, turning grief into a competition of loss isolates us from one another and limits our ability to grow through our experiences of both joy and sorrow. Loss is the experience of change in life, sometimes abruptly, sometimes gradually over time. Loss can come from the insertion of something unwanted or the absence of something cherished. Grief is the expression of feeling related to that loss. When you express your deep sadness at the death of your dog, you are not making a value statement about anyone else’s loss. You are just telling us that you feel your own loss deeply. I find myself wishing I knew your dog’s name. That wondering reminds me that we feel the depth of loss because we have known the depth of love. Loss looms large in the beginning. Over time we can embrace the connection that came before separation and be reminded of the richness of the shared life experience. I hope in the days ahead you will take comfort in the depth of connection and the joy it can continue to bring to your life. Notes: An account of the tragedy on Mount Hood can be read at: www.outsideonline.com/outdooradventure/exploration-survival/mount-hood-disaster1986/?scope=initial. S

_;,_ 1'

--+BOUTIQUE-!<�,.,_.,�v,,, , .,../� �� • -0-

BUY ONE GET ONE I• PERMANENT JEWELRY

BRACELETS

• WATERPROOF

ANKLETS

NECKLACES

CONNECTIONS THAT LAST

• TARNISH RESISTANT • MADE TO LAST

-- Promotion is for September only. --

Paulann Canty is a licensed marriage and family therapist and longtime Shawnee resident whose practice, Growthlines LLC, has decades of experience helping community members with a range of issues. She believes seeking therapy takes courage, and she will be answering questions from the community in the Shawnee Outlook every month. www.shawneeoutlook.com

for the road

NEED A LOAN? We can help!

NO CREDIT CHECK WITH A CLEAR CAR TITLE!

3 AUTO-SECURED loans INSTALLMENT loans SIGNATURE loans

3 AFFORDABLE

Pogo’s Wellness Tip of the Month

RIDE LIKE A KID AGAIN

emember when riding a bike wasn't exercise...it was just what you did? Turns out that childlike instinct was onto something. Unstructured, playful movement can boost your mood, lower stress, and sneakily get you moving before you even realize you’re breaking a sweat. So this week, borrow that feeling back. Dust off your bike and just ride! Want company? Come be a kid again with the whole town at Pogo’s annual Pedal Palooza Bike Festival on Sept. 19. Bring the whole family for a guided community ride, obstacle courses, free helmet checks and a day remembering how fun two wheels can be.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

monthly payments

3 NOT A PAYDAY LOAN 3 DEBIT CARD payments accepted

WE ACCEPT ITIN NUMBERS

3 QUICK APPROVAL process

Call or visit us, and we’ll help you get your loan quickly, with monthly payments you can afford!

redrivercredit.com

* All applications subject to our liberal lending policy.

calendar Sept. 1-30: Legacy Parenting Center will be hosting a monthlong diaper drive for Diaper Needs Awareness Week (Sept. 15-21) to collect diapers and wipes for families in need in the areas they serve in Shawnee and beyond. Visit legacyshawnee. com/dnaw or call (405) 432-2844 for information about drop off sites. Sept. 5, 12: The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art will host a Pumpkin Pottery class starting at 9 a.m. for participants ages 18 and older. No prior experience required – just come ready to get your hands a little messy and have a great time. Information: mgmoa.org Sept. 9-12: Make your way to the Pottawatomie County Free Fair in Shawnee for an array of activities perfect for children and the whole family. Check out the open class competitions, arts and crafts, commercial vendors, educational booths and delicious fair food. Daily livestock shows and exhibitions will include poultry, goats, cattle, rabbits, sheep and more. Don't miss the fair's farmhand olympics, as well as an antique tractor display, garden tractor pull and demonstrations. Information: freefair.org Sept. 10: Legacy Parenting Center will host its ninth annual Tapas and Trivia fundraiser at 6 p.m. at the Grand Events Center at 777 Grand Casino Blvd. to help fund its educational and diaper programs for young families. Information: legacyshawnee.com Sept. 10: Riders and community members are invited to the monthly Christian Motorcycle Association meeting, where fellowship kicks off with a 6 p.m. meal followed by a 7 p.m. gathering. The event takes place at American Legion Post 16, *Most Insurances accepted. 522 W. Saratoga St. Information: (405) 819‑6395. Sept. 11: Comic Darren Knight will bring his famous “Southern Momma” character to the stage with a show starting at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater at 10 W. Main St. and featuring guest star, Red Squirrel. Information: ritzshawnee.com Sept. 17: The Third Thursday Poetry Reading will begin at 7 p.m. at the Lunch Box at 217 E. Main St. featuring Sharon Edge Martin, a reading specialist and writer whose stories have appeared in a number of magazines. A regular columnist for the Oklahoma Observer, her collection "Not A Prodigal" was a finalist for the Oklahoma Poetry Award. More recently she has published a children's book, "Froggy Bottom Blues.” Her reading will be followed by an open mic session for attendees to read up to two poems of their own or from a favorite poet. The Lunch Box will open at 6 p.m. with desserts and drinks available.

Sept. 19: Roll into Rotary Briscoe Boy Scout Park for Pedal Palooza, a free, family‑friendly bike festival packed with a community ride, bike rodeo, games, giveaways, food and music. The fun runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1400 E. Main St. Information: gopogo.org. Sept. 19: The Ritz Theater lights up with Who’s That Singer?, a feel‑good fundraiser packed with music, laughs and local talent. The show starts at 5 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater, 10 W. Main St. Proceeds support Salvation Army programs. Tickets: $15. Information: give.salvationarmyaok.org Sept. 25: Join Community Market of Pottawatomie County for Harvest Moon, its biggest annual fundraiser featuring great food, drinks and an evening dedicated to fighting hunger. The event begins at 4 p.m. at 120 S. Center Ave. Information: ourcommunitymarket.org. Sept. 26: Walk for hope and healing at the Shawnee Community Out of the Darkness Walk, a free event supporting suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Check‑in and resource tables open at 10 a.m., and the walk begins at 11:30 a.m. at KidSpace Park, 1330 N. Center Ave. Information: afsp.org/shawnee.

Call 405-759-4300

SERVICES Visit First Med for non-life threatening but time-sensitive conditions or injuries.

Cold/Flu/Allergies • Pediatrics • Musculoskelatal Injuries Onsite X-ray • Physicals-Sports/DOT/FAA • Lacerations Skin Care Conditions • Motor Vehicle Injuries 405-759-4300 Urinary Infections • Workers Comp Injuries • GI Issues

Sept. 17: Bikes & Rods of Shawnee roars into downtown at 6 p.m. This free monthly family-friendly community gathering celebrates all things motorcycle and hot rods. www.shawneeoutlook.com

calendar Oct. 2: Songwriter Night @ Music Unlimited is back with a collection of featured artists every month starting at 7 p.m. at 1109 W. Kickapoo Spur. Information: facebook.com/ musicunltdok

monthly Main Street Shop & Stroll, featuring boutique shopping, dining and prize drawings. The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. along Main Street. Information: facebook.com/ events/1763730051717142

Oct. 2: The Ritz Theater will shake with Kiss the Goat, a theatrical, all‑ages tribute to Ghost featuring dark melodies, elaborate staging and the band’s signature eerie atmosphere. The show starts at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater, 10 W. Main St. Information: ritzshawnee.com.

Oct. 9: Oklahoma Baptist University presents Lamppost 2026, a free literary conference exploring the transformative power of Great Books, inspired by Augustine’s “Confessions.” Sessions run from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 500 W. University. Registration required. Information: okbu.edu/events/ lamppost

Oct. 3: St. Benedict Catholic Church hosts its annual Fall Festival, a full day of family fun featuring Granny’s Attic, food, kids’ games, entertainment, bingo, vendors and a raffle. Festivities run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 632 N. Kickapoo. Information: stbenedict.us. Oct. 3: Celebrate the season at Fall Fest, a family‑friendly afternoon of games, food, music and autumn activities at Woodland Veterans Park at 100 E Highland St. The fun runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Information: shawneeok.org/event/ fall-fest-1278 Oct. 3: The Ritz Theater rocks with the Chris Cornell Experience, covering Soundgarden, Audioslave and Temple of the Dog, joined by 16 Stone, a tribute to Bush. The show starts at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater, 10 W. Main St. Tickets: $20–$30. Information: ritzshawnee.com

Oct. 10-11: Collectors gather at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center for Rose Rock Cards & Comics, a two‑day show featuring vendors, trading, rare finds and family‑friendly fun. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days at 1700 W. Independence St. Oct. 13: The Mabee‑Gerrer Museum of Art hosts Fall Art Mania, a family‑friendly art workshop offering hands‑on creative activities. The event runs from 10 a.m. to noon at 1900 W. MacArthur St. Information: mgmoa.org S If you know of any events you would like to see featured, email editor@shawneeoutlook.com.

Oct. 4: Locomotive Operators of Central Oklahoma will host its monthly public run 1-4 p.m. at 29626 Lake Drive in McLoud. Ride the rails on powered ⅛-scale locomotives right outside of Shawnee Twin Lakes. Information: locotrains.org Oct. 6: The Mabee‑Gerrer Museum of Art hosts ASA Ceramics with John Bartos, a hands-on workshop perfect for families and art lovers. The class runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1900 W. MacArthur St. Information: mgmoa.org Oct 6: Downtown Shawnee welcomes everyone to join the

STRONG COMMUNITIES

START WITH US At Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County, relationships are the foundation of a thriving neighborhood.

3601 N Harrison, Shawnee, OK 405-481-9700 travis@bhhsbenchmark.com travisarealtor

TRAVIS ALEXANDER, REALTOR 30

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Through programs like Everyday Dads, Block Leaders, and neighborhood events, we help people reconnect, rebuild trust, and renew hope—one relationship at a time.

Get involved today! Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County on Facebook or www.communityrenewal.org

4151 N. Harrison St. Shawnee 405-765-1091

GI issues? No referral necessary! Trisha Taron, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, CGRN www.shawneeoutlook.com

Earn 50 points Sunday through Saturday in September for your chance to win:

55" TCL 4K TV

Portable Grill

Cornhole Set

Folding Camp Chairs

Pop-Up Tent

SATURDAYS IN SEPTEMBER $200 HOT SEATS Every Hour from 5–9 PM

TAILGATE PACKAGE Giveaway at 10 PM

& e g e l l Co otball o F L F N -Em k c i U-P

Must be a Hot Rewards Club member. Must be present and wagered on the day of the drawing. Players must report to Players Club for verification. 18+ to enter. Valid ID required. Must take prize giveaway. No cash substitutions. FireLake Casino reserves the right to cancel or change a promotion without further notice. FIRELAKE CASINO PRESENTS

SATURDAY LIV MUSIC 8 PM -

IN SEP T

12 AM

mon

h alf

fts

ppy hour ha

on all

day – friday

noon–2 pm AND 5–7 PM 32

www.shawneeoutlook.com

College & NFL football Football U-Pick-Em

Pick the winners of the OU and OSU football games each Saturday and the winners of the Sunday Night and Monday Night Football games.

If your pick wins get a $10 Bonus Play!

College & NFL Football WATCH PARTIES

Come out and watch football at the Center Bar.

EXTEND FireLake THEHotelFUN!

BOOK A NIGHT AT THE FIRELAKE HOTEL Call 405.878.8770 or visit ﬁrelakecasino.com