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40 Days in the Wilderness | Saving Lives, Fighting Crime

BACK in the GAME FEBRUARY 17 Vol. 13 Number 12

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CONTENTS

Publisher

FEBRUARY 2017

14 FEATURES 9 SCI Clients Dance the Night Away

6 KEEP THE CHANGE 6 NUTRITION 101

13 At the Circus!

7 SHAWNEE HISTORY

18 Forty Days in the Wilderness 21 Back in the Game: Connor Gordon Defeats Crippling Diagnosis 22 NCJAA: Shooting for a Future 23 More than a Flutter: How to Know if Your 25 Irregular Heartbeat is Atrial Fibrillation

Managing Editor

Mindy Wood

Advertising Sales

Brad Carter

Creative Direction

Kelsey Walker & Fawn Wilson Olivarez

Cover Photo

Dejah Quinn

Writers

Andrea Beck Tim Farley Ann McDonald Angela Rowland Cindy Stober Thresa Swadley Mindy Ragan Wood

Distribution

The Shawnee Outlook is delivered FREE by direct mail to 25,000 homes and businesses.

PO Box 1365 Shawnee, OK 74802 E-mail: info@shawneeoutlook.com

DEPARTMENTS

10 Saving Lives, Fighting Crime

14 The Porcelain Doll: Making of a Modern Opera

Okie Icon Media

To Advertise call Brad at (405) 445-3033.

20 SONIC CONTEST 26 MENTAL HEALTH 30 ART GUIDE

Volume 13, Number 12 Shawnee Outlook is a publication of Okie Icon Media. ÂŠ 2017 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.

29 Avedis: Making Healthy Choices Easier 29 PBA Brings Bowling Champions to Shawnee

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KEEP THE CHANGE

Treat Your Valentine February is here, and for many of us, our hearts turn to spending time with our loved ones – but date night doesn’t have to break the budget. Stimulus Tuesday – The good news is, February 14 falls on a Tuesday this year. Shawnee’s local Carmike cinemas offer $5 tickets all day on Tuesdays. Pair that with their Stimulus Tuesday concession deals and you have a wellpriced movie night. Sign Up for Discounts – If dinner is on the agenda, check to see if your restaurant of choice has an email or text list you can sign up for. Many of these lists offer a discount or coupon upon sign-up, plus you’ll stay notified of future sales and coupons. Stay In – If going out, even with a discount, isn’t in the budget, consider staying in. Check out Redbox or Family Video for a cheap movie rental. Or, choose something new on your streaming app of choice. Better yet, research Oscar nominees or past winners and enjoy award-winning entertainment from your own living room. For the menu, discover new recipes – try Pinterest or Allrecipes.com – and cook something new together. Game Night – Choose a favorite board game you already have and maybe haven’t enjoyed in a while or go buy a new one – maybe even a childhood favorite or something you’ve been wanting to try. If all else fails, grab a deck of cards and Google a new card game (look up the Russian game Durak for an international flair!), or an old one you’ve always wanted to learn. Trade Places – As a fun twist, expose your partner to something you love – make playlists for each other or select a book for the other to read. This is a chance to really get to know your significant other. Whatever you choose, remember the important thing is quality time! If you’d like to read more about my frugal journey, scan the QR code to visit my blog on the topic!

Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home mother of four. She enjoys finding new ways to stretch the paycheck and even posts some of her favorite tips and deals on her blog (steadfaststeward.blogspot.com)

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NUTRITION 101 Staying Active with your Valentine Couples who exercise together, stay together. While there are exceptions to every rule, data proves that it’s indeed true. If nothing else, couples who exercise together seem to be successfully overcoming one of the most difficult obstacles in the way of an exercise routine—time management. Almost every day we hear members say that it’s so difficult to find time to exercise. One option for couples is to tag-team their workouts. One will stay home with the kids while the other goes to the gym and vice versa. That’s a great way to compromise and effectively cope with the struggles of time management. However, if couples can somehow manage to get to the gym together, they have a leg-up on the rest of us who work out alone or without support from our partner. It is very rare to see couples performing the same routine at the gym. But that’s not the benefit to which I refer. The real benefit is the support we get from our partner on the days we might otherwise skip. Everyone has good days and bad days. For couples sharing these experiences, relying on each other to get through those difficult times is an asset often overlooked. The couples that I see regularly, are more consistent, productive, see better results, and have generally less difficulty sticking to their routine which is extremely important to one’s success. A workout routine, like a Valentine, can make all the difference if what you want includes happiness, healthiness, and a long productive life. Enjoy the smoothie below as you start your day off together.

Good Morning Smoothie Valentine’s Day (and every day), I have to start my day off with a little energy from coffee. Why not have the coffee in a fun way? Enjoy your smoothie with your love and live a long and healthy life together. Ingredients: • 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt • ½ frozen banana • 1 cup of ice or more • 1 cup brewed coffee

• • • •

2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips Stevia as desired

Directions: Place all above ingredients into blender and blend until smooth. Add more ice to desired consistency. Makes: 1 smoothie Nutritional Information per serving: Calories: 277 Total Fat: 5 g Saturated Fat: 3.5 g Cholesterol: 10 mg Sodium: 127 mg Total Carbohydrates: 35 g Fiber: 4 g Protein: 25 g Nutrition 101 Tip: Coffee can be a part of a very healthy lifestyle. According to Authority Nutrition, coffee has 13 science based health benefits. Some of those benefits include increased energy, helps burn fat, helps fight depression, has protective effects on the liver, and can help improve your performance at the gym. Antioxidants and many vitamins such as B vitamins, manganese, and potassium can all be found in coffee beans. Coffee, along with most foods and drinks, is one of the of those that is good in moderation. One to two cups of coffee will provide all you need for the day. Too much caffeine can have adverse effects on the heart. So have that cup and enjoy!

Andrea Beck, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer, received her Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics from UCO in Edmond. She offers her nutrition consulting services, personal training and strongHER workouts through Anytime Fitness Shawnee. Andrea offers personalized meal plans and workout plans. Andrea specializes in weight loss, running, childhood obesity, pregnancy health and diabetes. Andrea is an active member of Junior Service League and her church, Life Church. For nutrition or exercise questions, you can contact Andrea at andrea.beck@anytimefitness.com

SCI Clients Dance the Night Away People with learning differences and physical challenges are making strides to be included in their communities. With every partnership, the stigma of disability is shed a little more as the promise of their potential emerges. Shawnee Square 8’s joined arms with clients of a local sheltered workshop and living community to teach them how to square dance. South Central Industries provides work and volunteer opportunities as well as assisted living homes for their clients. Their goal is to integrate them into the community as much as possible. Square dancing has a long history of including persons with disabilities, but those who teach to this special audience can be hard to find. Jim Howard who teaches square dancing all over the state, has a son with autism. He agreed to teach SCI’s clients every Thursday night. Club members pair up with clients and help them learn the moves. “You have to be patient and teach them at their pace,” Howard said, “not yours. They’ve responded really, really well.” Clients who often shun touch and remain reserved moved into the circle with locked hands and bright smiles. SCI Executive Director, Tina Hanna, was pleased. “It gives them a chance to participate in something that’s for everyone. They want to be just like everyone else. They want to work, volunteer, and they’re not looking for any type of special treatment.” At SCI clients participate in work that matches their skills, everything from building custom pallets for the Eaton Corporation, to delivery of paper goods to state agencies, and fulfilling janitorial contracts. Hanna said they continue to try other creative ways to engage the public, including volunteerism.

SCI Clients enjoy square dancing with Shawnee Square 8’s Club members Photos by Shawnee Outlook

Starting last fall SCI welcomed a food truck the first Thursday of every month. The public is invited to dine with the clients who help direct traffic, serve the food, and set up the dining area. “We’ve had a wonderful response from the community when they come out and visit with our clients. They are so engaged and so impressed with what they have to offer,” said Hanna. “We try to keep them engaged and involved on a very consistent basis.” SCI continues to prepare clients for work in the public, rather than assisted shelter work only. For more information, visit southcentralindustriesinc.com.

Save A Life CPR bringing CPR training to you (Shawnee and surrounding areas)

BLS, Pediatric and Adult First Aid CPR AED Classes Monday-Friday Classes

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Vitamins and Minerals Now Available!

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Winkler Door is proud to announce we have been in business for 25 years. To thank our loyal customers, we will be having a special on 7 and 8 foot garage door openers. These units will be $25 off our regular price and will include a free keyless entry. This special will last until supplies run out! Winkler Door Company has recently built a showroom and would like to invite you out to look at our products on hand. We are located at 17804 Drummond Rd in Shawnee, OK.

Corner of Main & Bell • Shawnee www.nealsfurnishings.com • 405.275.7500

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Roses are red, violets are blue. BANCFIRST IS THANKFUL FOR LOYAL CUSTOMERS LIKE YOU! SHAWNEE

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SHAWNEE HISTORY

The Worst School Disaster in US History By Ann McDonald, Courtesy Pott Co Historical Society Member

It was a peaceful spring morning, March 18, 1937, in New London, Texas. The town, just east of Tyler, was enjoying the riches of an oil field while the rest of the country was suffering through the Great Depression. Oil field workers swarmed the area for jobs, bringing their families. So many came that a million-dollar school housing more than 500 children was built. That morning, as those students, their teachers, and other employees went about their usual work, a huge gas explosion destroyed the building and took the lives of nearly three hundred. What could this event have to do with Shawnee? Among the battered and burned bodies were three children, cousins, born and raised here and whose grandmother and other relatives lived in Shawnee. James and Dicie Eslick were early settlers in Shawnee, moving to town before 1900. Their eight children were born here and the couple remained lifelong residents. Two of their daughters married men who worked in the oil fields. Oma, her husband, Fred Mustetter, and four children followed the work to Texas five years earlier. When that marriage ended, she married Hugh Rider. Just two months before the blast Oma’s sister, Ella, and her five children moved from Shawnee to join them. Her husband, Gene Cummins, had died in an oil field accident. On that fateful morning, as the world of many families exploded, Oma lost two of her children, Charles Oliver Rider, 14, and Betty Jane Rider, 12. Ella’s daughter, Marcella Cummins, 12, also perished. The sixth grade was almost entirely wiped out, losing 87. Two of Ella’s sons escaped serious injury. Dicie Eslick lost three grandchildren. Now a widow she was living with her son Charles, a lo-

New London School

cal fireman, and his wife at 701 N. Union. The children’s bodies were brought back to Shawnee, where they had been born, attended school, and had many relatives. Services were held at Gaskill’s Funeral Home and they’re buried in Fairview Cemetery. Also lost was Robert Henry Sallee, 18, of Asher. His family had recently returned home, leaving him behind to graduate. He’s buried in Tyler, TX. At least two other Shawnee families worried through the next few days as workers picked through the rubble, trying to identify bodies. Mrs. Faye Layman, a teacher, her son Ralph Layman, Jr., 14, whose grandmother, Mary Layman, lived here and Tommy Thomas, the nephew of the

Photo submitted

H.E. Phillips family had all survived. No family in New London was left unscathed. Several lost more than one child, a few even more. Sixteen teachers died as well. It’s still the worst school disaster in U.S. history. Walter Cronkite, just 20 years old, and working for a Dallas newspaper said later that the scene was worse than any he ever saw in war. After extensive study, it was determined the explosion was the result of natural gas, which the school had been allowed to divert from the oil wells, to heat the building. Likely a spark from electrical tools in the shop class ignited the leaking gas. Dozens of new safety measures were soon developed including adding a detectable odor.

Your ad. Their mailbox. Every month.

Call Brad at (405) 445-3033 www.shawneeoutlook.com

Saving Lives, Fighting Crime From rescuing a lost toddler and preventing a suicide to solving murder and burglary, the Shawnee Police Department had a busy year keeping the community safe. For their faithful response to danger and despair, they are recognized each year during the Shawnee Police Foundation Awards Banquet. Officers also enjoy heartwarming and joyful moments, when they save someone’s life or make someone’s day special. Officers Elisa Mudd and Daniel Crisp responded to a 15-month-old baby who was not breathing and unresponsive. “Officer Mudd immediately stabilized the baby’s head and cleared the airway and Officer Crisp then started CPR. After a short time, the baby became responsive. These officers distinguished themselves by immediately assessing the situation and taking action in attempting to save a human life,” said Chris Thomas, SPD Administrator. Cpl. Mike Myers received Officer of the Year, not only for outstanding and effective policing, but for his efforts “behind the scenes.” Myers discovered during a Tactical Team response that a six-year-old boy had been watching the incident from his home nearby. He was upset when he realized he couldn’t help officers perform their job. Myers organized a group of officers and allowed the boy to attend a TAC training. Myers also helped a teen who was forced to obtain a protective order against his own father and attended a local birthday party for a boy and his friends who wanted to become officers someday. Cpl. Greg VanBrunt was recognized for his work with local mentoring organizations, Big

SPD Chief Mason Wilson, Sen. Ron Sharp and SPF Vice Chair Erika Jones bestow Officer of the Year to Mike Myers

Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma and the Boy Scouts of America’s Law Enforcement Explorer Program. When a man teetered on the edge of life and death atop an overpass at Farrall and Hwy 117, it was Sgt. George Stafford who, for two tense hours, gained his trust and with fellow officers removed him to safety. Officers transported him to a mental health facility for an evaluation. A two-year-old wandered away from his home

SPD Chief Mason Wilson, Senator Ron Sharp and SPF Vice Chair Erika Jones present award to Officers Daniel Crisp and Elisa Mudd 10

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Gene Stryjewski

by Mindy Ragan Wood

Gene Stryjewski

on a scorching summer day. With the heat index at 105, it was a race against time to find him alive. Officers Sgt. James Wood, Sgt. Darryl Bordeaux, Cpl. Aaron Laster, and Cpl. Greg VanBrunt responded and located the child alive, trapped in some brush. During the awards ceremony, it was clear our community has a dark side, but officers were swift and diligent to deter and solve crimes. Detectives Ronnie Wilson, Charles Swantek, and Jason Crouch responded to a burglary and found a 91-year-old woman viciously murdered. “From the beginning of the case, where there were no suspects, to the end of the case with three arrested, the case was solved within 36 hours,” said Thomas. Recovered stolen guns, vehicles, checks, and drivers’ licenses were also among the crimes officers solved and prevented throughout the year. Dispatchers, who play a vital role in officer safety and precise incident response, were also awarded for their efforts. Dispatcher Tabitha Fitzgerald acted “with a high degree of professionalism” during a tense vehicle chase. During the 20 minute high-speed pursuit, the suspect fired on officers. Fitzgerald was “calm…while documenting every radio transmission and action provided by officers,” said Thomas. Dispatcher Angie Grey was also commended for several lifethreatening calls she managed.

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At the Circus! The circus came to town last month and brought with them the magic of tamed tigers, dazzling acrobats, and charming clowns. Parents and children watched with delight, sharing an experience other families have enjoyed worldwide for at least 250 years. Carden Circus presented Asian elephants, tigers, acrobats, dancers, clowns and magicians. Some of the biggest hits for the crowd were a trained poodle disguised as an elephant who performed with a clown, the tigers, and an illusion act called “quick change” where two women changed their clothing multiple times in seconds before the audience. Ringleader, Steven Best, said he lives for the audience’s reactions. “Sometimes the adults are more surprised than the kids. If we can get people away from the stress of their lives for a couple of hours and entertain them, see them smile and laugh, that’s what this is all about.” Performers are often third and fourth generation circus professionals, many from Russia and eastern Europe. Ilona and her sister Jaulisa are from Peru. Both of their parents were performers and they are in the circus with their brothers, as well. “I love the cities, America,” said Ilona, with an exotic accent. Carden Circus was here only for two shows, but plans to return next year.

Kids and adults smile at the circus

by Mindy Ragan Wood

Father and sons at the Carden Circus

Dance performers kick up the energy

Photos by Mackenzie Herman

Ringleader Steven Best

Father and son take in all the circus excitement www.shawneeoutlook.com

The Porcelain Doll: The Making of a Modern Opera When one thinks of opera, one typically thinks of music by a composer that has been dead for a very long time; but two Oklahoma Baptist University professors are defying this stereotype and have written and composed an opera, The Porcelain Doll, that will be premiered at Oklahoma Baptist University the first weekend of March. The two-year project was the brainchild of music professor and composer James Vernon, who then enlisted Brent Newsom, assistant professor of English, to write the libretto, or story, of the opera. Vernon chose the subject, Laura Bridgman, the first deaf and blind woman to receive a significant education in the United States, giving the pair even more challenges to overcome in the process. Vernon stated, “I came across the story of Laura Bridgman and was intrigued. Everyone has heard of Helen Keller, but if it were not for Laura Bridgman’s education 50 years prior to Helen Keller, there would never have been a Helen Keller. Bridgman was one of the most famous women of her day, yet people today do not know her story.” Writing an opera is no short task. The first step for both Vernon and Newsome was to spend time individually and collectively researching the Bridgman’s story. During the summer of 2015, they decided what elements of Laura’s life they wanted to share with audiences. They then had to overcome the biggest obstacle of figuring out how they were going to portray the thoughts and feelings of a main character that cannot hear, see, or speak. At the center of the opera is the story of Bridgman and her mentor, Samuel Howe, the founder of the Perkins School for the Blind. The educator wanted to prove that the blind and deaf could learn. Howe was a pioneer in the way we now think about people with disabilities and their education. In order to overcome the communication obstacles of Bridgman’s character, the character “Pneuma” was created to represent Laura’s thoughts and feelings throughout the opera. Pneuma means the soul or creative force of a person, and through this character the audience will know the thoughts and feelings that Bridgman experiences throughout the show. 14

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The cast rehearses for The Porcelain Doll, an opera

Newsome commented, “Audiences will be fascinated with Bridgman’s story. In some ways, it is a story of the triumph of the human mind and a very determined and intelligent individual who overcame severe limitations. Attendees will also appreciate the challenges and difficulties that Laura faced and the isolation that she felt.” As one of the most famous women of her time, many dignitaries and famous people met Bridgman during her life. The audience will recognize many of her contemporaries in the opera, such as Charles Dickens and Samuel Howe’s wife, Julia Ward Howe, who is most famous for writing the Battle Hymn of the Republic. OBU assistant professor of voice Rebecca Ballinger is directing the opera and has planned for lots of contrasts in this show, including light vs. dark and spoken language vs. non-spoken. Deaf and blind students from the school will be in dark colors and use lots of body language whereas characters that are visitors to the school will sport colorful vests and accents. For those who are interested in learning about the concept and production of an opera, Ballinger will speak before the performance about the production of The Porcelain Doll, and afterwards Ver-

by Thresa Swadley

Photo submitted

At the center of the opera is the story of Laura Bridgman and her mentor, Samuel Howe, the founder of the Perkins School for the Blind. non and Newsom will speak regarding the writing process. Ballinger stated, “This is an opportunity to connect audiences with opera in a new way with a living composer in their midst. “ It is fitting that this work was written for students, and that it is being performed by students, as it is a story intended to draw awareness to Bridgman’s life and the education that Howe provided for her. Vernon commented, “But like any opera, it is the story of human existence, love, betrayal, and the story of life. “ Tickets for The Porcelain Doll can be purchased online at https://www.okbu.edu/fine-arts/theatre/index.html. The show will run from March 3 through March 5.

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Tribal car tag fee donations add $1.7 million for Oklahoma schools A severe budget shortfall that is impacting classrooms around the state means that dollars going directly into the classroom are even more important. Programs like the Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal car tags give schools a reliable boost in funding. Since CPN first began issuing car tags in 2005, $1.7 million in funds has been sent to Oklahoma schools. Collected from fees on sales and registrations of tribal automobile vehicle license plates, CPN allows tag holders to designate a specific school in Oklahoma that their fees will be donated to each year. In the most recent fiscal year, the tribe’s donations of car tag fees to Oklahoma schools exceeded $272,000.

When tribal members first come to register their license plates at the tag agency, one option in the paperwork they fill out allows for them to choose a school that will receive the donation. Each time their tag is renewed, that school receives a portion of the fees that are donated on an annual basis. Tribal members can change their desired school by filling out new registration paperwork at the CPN Tribal Tag Agency.

Shawnee:

$17,811

“People just love this program,” said CPN Tribal Tag Agency Director Cheryl Tainpeah. “They like how they can send it not to just schools where they live, but to any one they choose.”

Moore:

$13,684

All Oklahoma schools, whether private or public, are eligible for the donations collected from tribal tag fees between May through April each year. Only donations to higher education institutions are not allowed under the program guidelines.

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Though the funds go to individual schools, the top recipients in terms of school districts in the past year were:

Tecumseh: $11,648 Norman:

$10,811

Edmond:

$10,268

To register a vehicle you must be an Oklahoma resident and a Citizen Potawatomi Nation Tribal member. In order to register a vehicle, appointments are mandatory, and can be made by calling the CPN

Tag Agency at 1-800-880-9880. No appointments are required to renew your CPN Tag. Renewals can be done by mail or in person but owners must provide their CPN tag number and current Oklahoma insurance verification with payment. Tribal tags are offered for automobiles, motorcycles, farm vehicles, RVs, travel and utility trailers,

ATVs and off-road motorcycles as well as black tags that have a non-use decal. For veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, there is a special CPN Veteran Tag available. To learn more, visit http://cpn.news/tagoffice or call 1-800-880-9880.

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Forty Days in the Wilderness by Tim Farley

Ben Williams

Ben Williams crossed off one item from his bucket list by hiking 40 days through the mountainous and rugged Pacific Crest Trail that begins at the U.S.-Mexico border and ends in Canada. Williams, a 64-year-old pastor in Shawnee, wasn’t tempted by the devil as Jesus Christ was when he spent 40 days and nights in the wilderness, but this preacher was tested in a variety of other ways. It would be a journey that demanded research, even though Williams helped build 23 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail during his 20’s. The trek was now 2,650 miles against winds through the mountains of California, Oregon and Washington; its most northern point is at the U.S.-Canada border. In preparation, Williams researched the hurdles he would encounter and trained physically so he would be ready for the most grueling and exhausting test of his life. “I wanted to step back, evaluate and refresh,” he said during 18

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an interview with Shawnee Outlook. “It had been my lifelong dream to do that (hike the Pacific Crest Trail).” It turned out that the 40-day hike had three main themes: adventure, meeting “incredible” people from around the world, and alone time with God. The adventuresome theme was obvious as a man nearing retirement set out by himself on a hike that eventually tested every part of him physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Before his trip, Williams discovered Backpacker Magazine ranked the Pacific Crest Trail as one of the most beautiful in the nation. “I couldn’t help think about God as I hiked,” he said. Of course, there were other thoughts as well. For instance, finding water a few days into the trip was at the forefront of Williams’ mind. “Where I thought I would find water I didn’t,” he recalled. “You can only live without water

Photos by Mackenzie Herman

It would be a journey that demanded research, even though Ben Williams helped build 23 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail during his 20’s. The trek was now 2,650 miles against winds through the mountains of California, Oregon and Washington; its most northern point is at the U.S.-Canada border.

for three days. I finally found some.” The first chapter of his book centers on his lack of water and his disappointment about not finding any at Kern River, a spot which he anticipated would be full of water. Williams finally discovered a spring near Beck Meadow, but it was hardly pure spring water. It turned out to be putrid with every bug imaginable gathered for a convention. Using a Sawyer Squeeze purification system, Williams was able to collect some water. He later discovered clear, crystal water at another branch of the Kern River. Williams tried to prepare himself for the extreme elevations he would ascend to, but nothing in Oklahoma can prepare a hiker for elevations from 6,000 to his highest of 13,200 feet above sea level. “The air is so thin and I’m carrying 30 to 40 pounds in a backpack,” he said. “I totally underestimated the physical challenge.” At times, he camped above 11,000 feet and would wake up feeling tired. “With less oxygen, it was very challenging,” he recalled. Then there were the rocks, which at times were high as one’s knees, Williams said. Williams found inspiration, comparing the hike to life’s lessons. “You look at it like this is the chosen path in my life and you go where that path takes you,” he said. “I found my destination and it was very rewarding. I did it. It was a great feeling.” days, the● ● ● ●During ● ● ● the ● ●40 ● ● ● ● Williams ● ● ● ● ●would ● ● ●leave ● ● ●

trail once a week to get cleaner water and Mexican food. Then, he would hit the dusty and rocky trail all over again. His journey began Aug. 1, 2016 and ended on Sept. 10. Williams is doubtful he’ll make that same type of trek again. “My wife told me I can’t go that long again,” he said. “I might do a couple of days backpacking in Arkansas or I might start doing a week at a time.” Williams also said loneliness was an obstacle for him. “My wife shows up on every page in my journal,” he said, referencing the fact that he missed her. In one journal entry, Williams wrote, “I have lost weight. Maybe 10 pounds. Jeri (his wife) will be so inspired to cook and fatten me up.” In his last journal entry, Williams wrote, “Day 41. “Driving south from Bishop along the Eastern Sierras. I remembered how small I felt looking up at those incredible, tall mountains the day before this journey began. I thought, ‘I touched you, long line of giants. I followed just a tiny line through the heart of you, but I did touch these giants in a small way.’” Williams acknowledged the book and subsequent movie titled “Wild” made him think about taking the 40-day journey. Along his hike, Williams kept a journal and eventually penned his own 106page book entitled “Forty Days in the Wilderness.” So far, the book has been made available to friends and only, ● ● family ● ● ● ● ● ●the ● ●pastor ● ● ●and ● ●author ● ● ● said. ● ● ● ● ● ●

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Back in the Game:

Connor Gordon Defeats Crippling Diagnosis Fifteen months ago, Connor Gordon didn’t know if he would ever be able to play sports again. The athlete who dominated every sport he tried was restricted in a wheelchair after he was diagnosed with a bone disease. Connor was diagnosed with Leg Calve Perthes disease. His left femoral hip bone was dead. Perthese kills a bone when the flow of blood to a bone stops. The bone grows back, but not in the correct shape. The patient typically lives with lifelong mobile impairment. Dr. Harry Kim, a specialist at Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas, agreed to take Connor’s case even though his odds of total recovery were slim. He didn’t make any promises, but hoped to have him back on his feet in a year. After drilling several holes in his left hip bone, a new hip grew over the old one. Connor was not allowed to put any weight on the bone, which meant he was in a wheelchair or on crutches for a year. In November, Dr. Kim released him to walk. Last month, Connor was released to run, jump, and work on rebuilding his muscle strength. “Statistically it wasn’t supposed to work,” said Connor’s mother, Becky Gordon. “He’s older for the disease since most are diagnosed at age eight and he was almost 11. It has to do with growth spurts; it doesn’t repair quite as well when they’re older. His hip bone hasn’t quite filled in and it may not ever, but the parts of the hip that are the most important have gelled. It shouldn’t affect him long term.” The recovery process demanded that Connor not put any weight on his left side. He was confined to a wheelchair and crutches. Following Dr. Kim’s instructions was critical. “A lot of the healing process is compliance. It’s really hard to make an 11-year-old understand if you want to play sports again, you have to make the huge sacrifice or your bone will collapse and you’ll have to get a hip replacement. So, Connor has done a good job being compliant and doing what the doctor asked him to do,” said Becky Gordon. To cope with the inactivity, he started playing wheelchair basketball with the Oklahoma Adaptive Sports Association. Because his diagnosis falls into the category of bone cancer, Connor can continue to play wheelchair basketball if he chooses. “It’s more fun (wheelchair basketball) because it’s faster and you can flip your wheelchair,” he said smiling. Having the opportunity to play adaptive sports gave him an active outlet and his mother said,

Connor Gordon getting back in the game, shooting hoops

helped all of them keep a better attitude. “He was so positive and upbeat. He was like, ‘this is what I’m going to have to do right now; this is the way it is. I’m going to go on with life and keep going.’ It’s been an inspiration not to let life get you down,” she said. Becky said his sixth-grade football team and coach also made he sure he was included, even occasionally acting as team captain. “Coach Rick Grant never made Connor feel like he wasn’t part of the team,” said Becky. Both said the experience taught them a lot about how to handle changes in life and to have great empathy for the mobile impaired. “I get so infuriated when I see someone park in a handicapped spot now and I didn’t before. You have to plan everything around mobility. It’s a big deal (parking) when someone has to get a chair out of a car, especially when someone may not have help.” Connor said it meant a lot that people offered to help, although he rarely let them. “I learned to treat people the way you want to be treated. If you

by Mindy Ragan Wood

Dejah Quinn

see someone in a wheelchair, don’t ignore them; offer to help.” During his recovery, Connor also reached out for other interests including archery and band. He won two gold medals for Shawnee Middle School and is about to compete in a state tournament. He’s playing the trumpet in band and loving it. As to competitive sports, Connor will be released as soon as muscle strength returns to his left leg. He continues to train with Performance Course, an after-school physical conditioning program for students. Although Connor has a slight limp, it’s temporary until the muscle regains normal strength. “I am so thankful for Gary Frazier at PC for never giving up on Connor,” said Becky. “He kept Connor motivated, healthy, and fit. He made sure Connor focused on when he could play sports again, not if.” Connor will likely be released to play competitive sports by March, but for now he’s happy to be out of a wheelchair and on two legs. www.shawneeoutlook.com

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NCJAA: Shooting for a Future by Mindy Ragan Wood

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More Than a Flutter:

How to Know if Your Irregular Heartbeat is Atrial Fibrillation Submitted by St. Anthony Shawnee Hospital

When asked to describe how atrial fibrillation feels, often patients will say it’s like their heart just flutters. This seemingly benign symptom could signal a much bigger issue. St. Anthony Shawnee Physicians Cardiologist Dr. John Haddad says if you are Dr. John Haddad experiencing heart symptoms – like a fluttering sensation – you should talk with your doctor. “Heart palpitations can be a sign that something in your heart is not working properly,” says Dr. Haddad. “It is vital to find the cause of these symptoms and treat them promptly and properly to avoid more serious conditions or complications.” While heart palpitations can indicate a number of heart conditions, one common condition is called atrial fibrillation. What is atrial fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation, also called AFib or AF, is a condition that causes a quivering or irregular heartbeat. It can lead to heart-related complications. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 2.7 million Americans live with atrial fibrillation. In a normal heart, the muscle contracts and relaxes to a regular beat. In patients with atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers of the heart – the atria – beat irregularly. This means the heart is unable to effectively move blood to the lower chambers – the ventricles. About 15 – 20 percent of people who have strokes also have atrial fibrillation. “When blood slows down or is allowed to pool in the body, the risk of developing a blood clot increases,” says Dr. Haddad. “It can also increase your risk for stroke.” Even though atrial fibrillation is the most common serious

THE FIFTH ELEMENT 16 e main

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CURIOS WHIMSIES

shawnee

ANTIQUES VINTAGE RETRO

heart rhythm abnormality in people over the age of 65, many patients are unaware that it is a serious condition. Untreated atrial fibrillation doubles your risk of heart-related death and causes a four- to five-fold increased risk for stroke. What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation? For many patients, the first sign of atrial fibrillation is a quivering or fluttering heartbeat. The abnormal firing of electrical impulses in the heart causes the muscle to quiver. Sometimes people with atrial fibrillation do not notice any symptoms at all. For these patients, their condition is only detected during a physical exam by their doctor. For some patients, the following symptoms indicate something is wrong: • General fatigue • Rapid and irregular heartbeats • Fluttering or “thumping” sensations in the chest • Dizziness • Shortness of breath coupled with anxiety • Weakness • Faintness or confusion • Fatigue when exercising • Sweating • Chest pain or pressure If you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor to set up an appointment. If you experience chest pain or pressure, call 911. How is atrial fibrillation treated? Preventing episodes is important in treatment of the condition. For some, that may mean avoiding activities that trigger an episode. For some – it’s as simple as giving up your morning cup of coffee or changing up your exercise routine. For other patients, medical treatment is necessary. Many patients are successful in controlling their atrial fibrillation

with medications like beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. While they do not cure atrial fibrillation, they can help. Patients with atrial fibrillation require blood thinning medication to prevent strokes. If medication is not enough, your doctor may recommend more aggressive treatment including electrical cardioversion or ablation therapy. Electrical cardioversion uses an electrical shock to “reset” the heart to a normal rhythm. Radiofrequency ablation or catheter ablation can be used when long-term medications or electrical cardioversion are either not preferred or were not effective. Prior to ablation surgery, your healthcare team will perform electrical mapping of your heart. This mapping tells your doctor which areas of the heart are creating problematic electrical signals that disrupt your normal heart rhythm. Who is at risk for atrial fibrillation? Anyone from children to elder adults can develop atrial fibrillation but, the likelihood increases with age. Certain people are at higher risk, especially those with other conditions. Athletes commonly experience a rapid heart rate, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which can trigger atrial fibrillation. Those with underlying heart disease, or heart problems are at risk. Binge drinking may put you at a higher risk. Having a family member with atrial fibrillation can increase your chances of being diagnosed. Underlying medical conditions including thyroid problems, diabetes, asthma, and other chronic medical problems. Because atrial fibrillation is a serious condition and can increase your chances of heart attack and stroke, it is important to discuss your risk with your doctor. To schedule an appointment with St. Anthony Shawnee Physicians Cardiologists Dr. John Haddad or Dr. Sudhir Gupta, call 405-2735801.

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Avedis: Making Healthy Choices Easier by Mindy Ragan Wood

The Avedis Foundation is moving ahead with their vision for a healthier community through Blue Zones, a global health movement. Avedis announced the launch of the Blue Zones Project for Pottawatomie County last month. Blue Zones, LLC founder, Dan Buettner, studied the areas or zones of the world that held the most centenarians. He found that people who were living healthy at 100 years had nine things in common. From his research, which was published in National Geographic Magazine in November 2005, he later formed Blue Zones. Through education and collaboration with food providers, policy makers, and the public, Blue Zones shows communities how to make healthy choices easier. From onthe-go healthy foods being more accessible at the front of a grocery store to creating a more walkable city, communities are seeing results. Lower smoking rates, increased fruits and vegetables, fewer depression reports, improved productivity and lower health insurance costs are reported in cities who have embraced Blue Zones principles. Some of those evidence-based principles that cities have applied include investing time with family and positive people, and engaging in natural exercise like walking and stress-reduction activities. The Avedis vision, to facilitate a healthier community, mirrors Blue Zone principals. Many of the policies and efforts similarly found in Blue Zone communities are already underway in Shawnee thanks to Avedis. The Master Trails and Sidewalk Plan, for which Avedis donated a $1.75 million matching grant to the city of Shawnee, will build new and connect existing sidewalks for

Mike Adcock, Avedis Foundation Board Chair, Jon Werger, Executive Director, Community Programs, Healthways, Michelle Briggs, CEO, Avedis Foundation, Tony Buettner, SVP, Business Development, Blue Zones, Michael Acker, General Manager, Blue Zones Project, Richard Finley, Mayor City of Shawnee Photo submitted

a walkable city over the next five years. The Shawnee Splash and Boy Scout Park splash pad, the trail on Bryan Street and renovation of the Airport Trail have all been supported by Avedis. Community Renewal, which seeks to bring relationships back to neighborhoods, is also a reflection of Blue Zones principles which stresses relational connectedness. The project begins with a sixmonth assessment period using the Gallup Well Being index to determine areas of need for the city and county. The assessment is done annually for three and a half years, at which point Avedis can choose to renew or discontinue the project. “During the initial Discovery Phase, Blue Zones Project leader-

ship team will facilitate the organization of a local steering committee, leadership committee, and working committees related to policy, schools, restaurant and grocery, faith-based and civic, and engagement.” said Paula Waters, Avedis Foundation Program Director. “We want everyone in our community to have the chance to be involved.” Michelle Briggs, Avedis CEO, expressed the philosophy of Blue Zones. “Blue Zones is about making the healthy choice, the easy choice. We can all do a little to improve our choices for health and well being. If you make small changes, it adds up to big results.” Oklahoma ranks poorly in the nation for overall health outcomes,

between 46-48. Of 77 counties, Pottawatomie County ranks 37 according to the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. “Avedis, through its partnership with Blue Zones Project, looks forward to improved fruit and vegetable consumption, increased activity levels and overall improved health outcomes now and into the future,” said Briggs. “We applaud Avedis Foundation for leading the way in creating an enhanced quality of life for Shawnee and the broader area of Pottawatomie County,” said Michael Acker, general manager of Blue Zones Project. For more information, visit bluezonesproject.com or see Blue Zones Project Pottawatomie County on Facebook.

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MENTAL HEALTH

Recover VS Cure Can people really recover from alcohol and other substance use disorders? Yes. They most certainly can, and do, every day. Many people throughout the world are able to live a life free from use of substances that once controlled their lives and go on to live in long term recovery. There are people in our community that are great examples of a person recovering from these disorders. Can addiction be cured? Not always, but like other chronic medical diseases, substance use disorders can be managed successfully. Substance use disorders are defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug or alcohol use, despite negative consequences. Substance use disorders are not only treatable, but the treatment is very often sustained for life. According to the National Institutes of Health, “Other chronic medical conditions have some of the same components as substance use disorders. One of those is relapse. Relapse rates for substance disorders are actually lower than other chronic medical diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma. Like these other chronic diseases, addiction can be managed successfully. Treatment enables people to counteract addiction’s powerful disruptive effects on the brain and behavior and to regain control of their lives.” Substance use disorders are a major public health problem that impact society on multiple levels. Directly or indirectly, every community is affected by drug abuse and addiction, as is every family. Drug and alcohol abuse take a tremendous toll on our society at many levels. So it makes sense that multiple levels of community should be involved and supportive of the recovery process. There are ways for the community to support recovery efforts of the treatment providers as well as individuals in need of help from their substance use disorders. There are efforts underway in Pottawatomie County but our community needs more due to the severity and

andrea beck

by Cindy Stober

increasing growth of these problems. We can work together and build stronger community support that will help those suffering from these disorders to live happy, healthy, and productive lives. People helping people is how we get there. Things the community can do: • Make jobs more accessible to recovering persons • Lead advocacy and awareness events to promote prevention and treatment for substance use disorders • Provide engaging activities for adolescents and young adults to participate in and have fun • Educate teens and families about substance use affects and how to get help • Support individuals and families in recovery through mentoring • Keep an open mind More to follow on how to identify substance use problems for yourself or someone you care about. Please send any questions or topics you would like to see covered in this column related to Substance and Mental Health Problems. No names or identifying information will be used. cstober@gatewaytoprevention.org Where to get help for substance use disorders • Gateway to Prevention and Recovery- accepts private pay, most insurances, sliding fee scale and has state contract money for those that cannot afford services. Problem gambling and also Adolescent state contracts are also available. Call 273-1170 or visit www.gatewaytoprevention.org • Citizens Pottawatomie Behavioral Health- 2735236 • Absentee Shawnee Behavioral Health- 8784716 • Kickapoo Tribe Behavioral Health- 964-2081 • Red Rock Behavioral Health- 275-7100 • CREOKS Behavioral Health- 275-1844

Cindy Stober, LPC, LADC, NCGCII, has been working in the behavioral health and addiction treatment field for over 15 years. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor and is the Clinical Director for Gateway to Prevention and Recovery in Shawnee, Stillwater, Chandler and Seminole. She is a Nationally Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor II and has been providing services for problem gamblers and their families for over 10 years. Cindy is active in her professional development and is a graduate of the National Council for Behavioral Health Leadership Program. 26

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PBA Brings World Bowling Champions to Shawnee ESPN will broadcast the Professional Bowlers Association Tournament of Champions from the FireLake Arena February 19. Qualifying games will be ongoing February 13 through Saturday with the tournament on Sunday. Last year, the tournament sustained nearly a million viewers and was the highest rated PBA telecast of the season. FireLake Bowling Center Director and PBA member, Chris Skillings said that might be because the sport remains popular. “Bowling is still rated the number one sport in the world participated in by the general public,” said Skillings. Fans will enjoy watching professional bowlers from all over the world, some of whom hold multiple world titles. Pete Weber, known for his maverick personality, is considered one of the best bowlers in the world since the 1980s. Walter Ray Williams, a prolific champion with 40 world titles, holds the record for all-time standard PBA Tour career titles. Jason Belmonte from Australia is a three-time PBA Player of the Year and is known for his distinctive two handed “shovel” style. The relationship between PBA and Citizen Potawatomi Nation started in 2014. After hosting summer games at the bowling center, PBA CEO and Commissioner, Tom Clark, moved their signature event here as well. He said it’s been an outstanding partnership. “Our relationship continues to grow. The 2016 championship finals in FireLake Arena were spectacular, one of the best venues we’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. The partnership with

2015 PBA at Firelake Bowling Center

PBA at Firelake Bowling Center

by Mindy Ragan Wood

CPN staff

Chris Skillings is one of the best that we have in the country. He is fully engaged and understands the PBA values.” Sillings said, “This community loves hosting the PBA, and we’re proud to bring a professional sporting event to FireLake and Grand Casino Hotel & Resort.” Starting February 13, 96 bowlers will begin a week of qualifying competitions at the FireLake Bowling Center. On the 19th, the finals will be televised by ESPN at the FireLake Arena. “The show will be cut to the top five who bowl all week

CPN staff

long,” said Skillings. Tickets for the qualifying games at FireLake Bowling Center, are $10 ($30 for an all week pass) and $30 for the final event on Sunday. “The show is limited to the first 750 to ensure everyone can have a good seat,” said Skillings. The event may fill up quickly. “We like having these events so our bowlers, people in the state that bowl and are competitive, can enjoy this. I’d venture to say we have about 600 bowlers in Shawnee and at least 120 who bowl just on Monday nights,” said Skillings. High school bowling groups will be invited to watch the games, and local business groups who would like to purchase a lane can bowl with the pros. “The Pro Am Bowl with the Pros is a meet and greet. They’ll be able to bowl with six pros, meet the guys, and ask them questions. It’s fun to be able to bowl with them and have conversations with them about their career. Saturday the 18th, we have a noon and 3 p.m. slot. It’s fun.” The show on Sunday will be intense. “They’re the best bowlers in the world,” said Clark. “On that Sunday, it’s highly intense. People think of it in a recreational way, but when you watch a professional PBA event, you’ll see people crying over the win. You’ll see players shaking because it’s so important to them to win that title. The fans understand what’s at stake and how exciting it can be.” The games are open to all ages. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.firelakearena.com www.shawneeoutlook.com

ART GUIDE

February Arts Events Shawnee Little Theater will present The Effect of Gamma Rays on the Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds February 3-11. This play depicts a powerful and moving study of an embittered, vindictive widow and her young daughters and has been hailed as one of the most significant, affecting plays of our time. Tickets: http:// www.shawneelittletheatre.com. Take the family out for a night of music and fun at a children’s concert sponsored by the OBU Division of Music on February 11 at 7 p.m. Enjoy a concert of music from Star Wars and pictures with Stormtroopers and Darth Vader. The free concert will be in Yarborough Auditorium in Raley Chapel. The Mabee Gerrer Museum of Art will present a special exhibit of the artwork of John Hernandez from February 11-March 26. The Texas artist draws upon popular culture and his works often seem to be caught in a psychedelic moment. For more information: http://www.mgmoa.org/exhibitions/hernandez. St. Gregory’s Theater Department will present the classic play, The Firebugs, February 16-19 in Sarkey’s Auditorium on the SGU campus. Tickets will be available at the door. Visit: www.sgu.edu. Rockford Johnson, the former minister of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, will be the featured poet at Benedict Street Market on Thursday, February 16. Enjoy the Downtown Block Party on February 17. Galleries and businesses on Main Street will be open late for your enjoyment. While you are there, stop in and see Kathy Shu-

mate demonstrating her art techniques at the Arts at 317. Do not forget to go by Broadway Art Gallery while you are in the area. Children of all ages are invited to participate in art classes at Mabee Gerrer Museum of Art. For class information and registration visit: http://www.mgmoa.org/afterschool-art-class. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear some of OBU’s best student musicians at the annual Concerto Aria Concert on February 19 at 7:30 p.m. The students who were chosen by competition will perform with a professional orchestra. The concert will be in Potter Auditorium in Raley Chapel and is free and open to the public. The One and Many is the theme of the spring dance concert to be presented by the Spirit and Soul Dance Ensemble at St. Gregory’s University from March 3-5. The program will be an evening of varied styles of dance choreographed by SGU faculty and students. The program will be in Sarkey’s Auditorium on the SGU campus. Tickets will be available at the door. More information: www. sgu.edu. Interested in painting? Crochet? Knitting? Checkout classes offered by the art galleries in Shawnee including the Arts at 317, Main Street Photo Studio and Gallery, Studio 112 ½, and Broadway Art Gallery. Attend an opera and meet the composer. OBU will present the Porcelain Doll, March 3-5. For performance times and tickets visit: https://www.okbu.edu/fine-arts/ theatre/index.html.

Thresa Swadley is a freelance cellist/teacher who has been active in the Shawnee Arts Community for almost 20 years. She is a member of the OBU/Shawnee Community Orchestra and plays in Trio Antiqua, a baroque music trio. Please contact her if you know of an upcoming arts event. Visit http://www.celloladyok.com. 30

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