Shawnee Outlook

Summer Programs | Kayak Club Makes A Splash

FOR

Art EVERYONE

JULY 20

Vol. 17 Number 5

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CONTENTS

JULY 2020

18

14

Publisher

Okie Icon Media

Managing Editor

David Dinsmore

Advertising Sales

Brad Carter

Creative Direction

Kelsey Walker & Fawn Wilson-Olivarez

Writers

Andrea Beck David Dinsmore Brandon Dyer Holly Gordon Ann McDonald Angela Rowland

Distribution

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

Contact Us

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

FEATURES 10

Summer Programs Vary During Continued Pandemic Response

13

Over the Fence: We Can't Help If We Hide

14

Local Kayak Club Makes a Splash With New, Veteran Paddlers

18

22 26

New Gallery in the Mall Aims to Provide 'Art for Everyone' Through Classes, Shows, Collaboration

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

DEPARTMENTS 6 KEEP THE CHANGE 6 NUTRITION 101 24 SONIC CONTEST

Helping Hands: Local Organizations Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic

25 SHAWNEE HISTORY

Reframing the 'What Ifs' of Right Now

30 CALENDAR

29 THE BRIGHT SPOT

olverine Storage

Volume 17, Number 5 Shawnee Outlook is a publication of Okie Icon Media. Š 2020 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.

Mo Knippenberg Administrator 405-395-4233

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722 E. Independence, Suite E Shawnee, OK 74804 custserv4752@merrymaids.net www.shawneeoutlook.com

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KEEP THE CHANGE

NUTRITION 101

Handing Out the Proper Stirring Up Summer Serving Sizes Fun in 2020 C W e cannot deny 2020 has been unpredictable. Thus, this summer is clearly not like any other. If your family is going a little stir-crazy from the cancellation of camps or vacations, here are some options for online and off-line fun from home: • Learn a new language as a family – There are several free apps and websites available for language learning. Check out Drops and Duolingo (also online!) to learn a new way to communicate.

• Find free/inexpensive online camps – Varsity Tutors has an extensive list of online camps for crafts, Minecraft, photography, drawing, and much more all available for free this summer. Also look into Outschool, an online platform offering classes on almost any topic imaginable for an extremely low cost. Many museums are offering similar services. A quick Google search will find you a plethora of options.

• Don’t forget to read – The Summer Learning Challenge through the Pioneer Library System is still happening this summer, so encourage your kids to get reading. Pizza Hut’s Book-It is also offering a free parent-led summer reading program that still allows kids to earn a free personal pan pizza for meeting their goals.

Check out bookitprogram.com for details.

• Make art together as a family with YouTube tutorials – Made with McHarper featured some great art projects during quarantine that are still available on their channel, and there are many other great channels that exist just for this purpose.

• Learn a new card game – BicycleCards.com has a tab labeled “How to Play” that allows you to choose what kind of game you are interested in along with how many players. It will provide a list of game options with rules for you to learn.

Also remember, it’s okay to let your kids get bored. See what they’ll discover on their own.

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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alorie counting isn’t for everyone, and because there isn’t a one size fits all solution for us all, paying attention to just serving sizes can be a great start.

Some years ago, there was a helpful chart that taught portion sizes based on your hand. The chart was called “Helping Hands.” The idea behind it was that no matter where you were or what kitchen tools you had, you would be able to pay attention to a portion size. Even if you don’t know the calories or the breakdown of the food, if you were at least able to see that you weren’t eating double portions, it would extremely help you in the long run.

Meat serving sizes are three to four ounces, and that is the same as the size of the palm of your hand.

Meat should be no thicker than the thickness of a deck of cards. A serving of fat is typically a teaspoon, which is the size of your thumbnail. A serving of condiments like salad dressings, sour cream, cream cheese, peanut butter and hard cheeses is about two tablespoons, which is the size of your entire thumb.

When something shows a serving size of one cup – such as cereal, soup or fruit – that is the same as the size of your fist. When something shows a serving size of ½ cup – such as pasta, rice, beans, potatoes and ice cream – that is the same as one cupped hand. When something shows a serving size of one ounce – such as chips, crackers and pretzels – that is the same as two cupped hands.

For a visual of those actual serving sizes using a hand, just search for “helping hands portion control” in your web browser, and you will find a lot of great visuals.

Chickpea Salad Many different chickpea salad recipes have been around for a while, and I was very hesitant to try them. It just sounded odd.

This recipe is very similar to traditional tuna fish or chicken salad recipes. If you are interested in making this for vegetarian reasons or are allergic to eggs, you can use a vegan mayo as a substitute.

Don’t wait as long as I did and give this one a try soon.

Ingredients: • 1 can (15oz) chickpeas/ garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed • ½ cup diced celery • ½ cup diced carrots

• 1 diced baby dill pickle • ½ cup light mayo • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard • ¼ tsp garlic powder • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: Put all ingredients into a bowl and mash with either a potato masher or the back of a fork. The more you mash the beans, the better consistency you get. Serve in a wrap, on bread, on a salad or as a dip. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Makes: 3 servings Nutritional Information per serving: Calories: 338 Total Fat: 10g Saturated Fat: 0g Sodium: 827mg Carbohydrates: 51g Fiber: 8.8g Protein: 10g Cholesterol: 0mg Nutrition 101 Tip: If watching your carbohydrates, I would recommend using this as a salad topping so you don’t add in more carbohydrates. By using this on top of a salad or a dip for vegetables, you are adding in even more real food to your diet. This is a great make-ahead meal to prepare the night before and pack it for lunch. If you need to watch your sodium intake, you can always buy bagged beans and cook them. With almost nine grams of fiber plus the vegetables you serve it with, you will find this meal very filling.

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 through an online class and nutrition services through SSM Health St. Anthony in Shawnee. For inquiries, you can contact her at Andrea.beck1@ ssmhealth.com or through her Facebook page, Nutrition and Exercise 101 with Andrea.

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For the past several years, PA Simpson has also been performing cosmetic procedures such as Botox and Juvederm injections as well as laser therapy, through her own company Lily Kate Aesthetics, LLC. CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT www.shawneeoutlook.com

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Because of you… our community is healthier and more connected than ever before.

INDIVIDUALS

6,296

Individuals in Shawnee are engaged with Blue Zones Project.

202 766 286 5,042

GROCERY STORES

2 3

Grocery stores stopped selling tobacco products.

Grocery stores have become Blue Zones Project Approved.

Residents joined a Moai to socialize and support healthy behaviors.

Residents have found their life’s purpose through attending a purpose workshop.

Residents have given their time to volunteering in their community with Blue Zones Project.

RESTAURANTS

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Restaurants have become Blue Zones Project Approved making healthy choices easier for their customers.

Residents have signed the personal pledge to live longer better.

SCHOOLS WORKSITES

20 10

Worksites have become approved Blue Zones Project Approved.

8 7

Of our Top 20 worksites have become Blue Zones Project Approved to to help their employees be healthier at work.

Schools became Blue Zones Project Approved to make their students healthier.

Schools participated in Blue Zones Project’s “Walking School Bus” to keep kids moving.

POLICY SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

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Organizations have completed the supporting organization checklist.

6 6 4

Built environment policies have been completed at the local level.

Food policies have been completed at the local level.

Tobacco policies have been completed at the local level.

CONGRATULATIONS

to the following organizations: Faith-Based Organizations

Restaurants

Emmanuel Episcopal Church Sharon Baptist Church Shawnee Seventh-day Adventist Church

Grand Cafe Paul’s Place Steakhouse SSM St Anthony Shawnee Hospital Cafe THE OWL SHOPPE The Healthy Hippo The Lunch Box

Grocery Stores FireLake Discount Foods Homeland Store 196 Homeland Store 198

The Surf Bar

Schools

Worksites *Absentee Shawnee Tribe Action Physical Therapy Avedis Foundation BHHS Benchmark Realty *BancFirst *Grand Casino and Resort CPN Health and Wellness Community Renewal *Finley and Cook PLLC *FireLake Discount Foods First National Bank and Trust Co First United Bank Gateway to Prevention and Recovery *Georg Fischer Central Plastics *Gordon Cooper Technology Center *Oklahoma Baptist University Shawnee Family YMCA Shawnee Public Library *Shawnee Public Schools *SSM St Anthony Shawnee *One of the Top 20 largest employers in Shawnee

Horace Mann Elementary Jefferson Elementary School Pleasant Grove Public School Sequoyah Elementary School Shawnee Early Childhood Center Shawnee High School Shawnee Middle School Will Rogers Elementary

Supporting Organizations Best Friends Animal Clinic Community Market of Pottawatomie County Cornerstone Chiropractic HealthMarkets Insurance Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art Shawnee Kiwanis Noon Club Shawnee Rotary Club Shawnee Senior Center The Gathering Place Coffee Co Tri-Hi-Y Wystle

Tobacco

Food Environment

Safe Routes to School Master Plan

Model City of Shawnee

Food in the Classroom Policy

Tobacco and Smoking Policy

Safety Education Campaign

Smoke Free and Tobacco

A Multijurisdictional Food Policy Council

Joint Use of Facilities Agreement

Free Policies at all Academic Institutions, Facilities and Events

Comprehensive Plan

Smoke Free Multi-Housing Units Health Zone

Blue Zones Project Approved™ and supporting organizations – restaurants, schools, grocery stores, worksites, faith-based organizations, and more – put community first by creating surroundings that nudge people toward healthier behaviors.

Healthier environments encourage healthier choices…so we can all LIVE LONGER, BETTER.

CONNECT with Blue Zones Project Pottawatomie County to stay up to date: @bluezonesproject pottawatomiecounty

@bzppottawatomie

Built Environment

Complete Streets Policy

We are proud to call Shawnee home.

From the local shops to the big businesses, we support it all. And since we spend 90 percent of our time in the same places, it’s important that they encourage us to be healthy – socially, physically, and mentally.

@bzppottawatomie

PASSED POLICIES:

Permit Policy for Parklets

PLACE MATTERS

School District Wellness

CONTACT PottawatomieCounty@sharecare.com for more information on how you can get involved.

Policy Updates in Pleasant Grove and Shawnee Public Schools Backyard Chicken Ordinance Veggie Rx Program

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From staff reports

M

ost summers offer a variety of programs and activities to help kids stay engaged during their time away from school. The response to the novel coronavirus pandemic has modified many family’s plans, but here are a few programs we heard about that are proceeding if only in a different way. If you know of more, please email editor@ shawneeoutlook.com so we can add them to our Facebook page.

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art While all in-person workshops and camps, but that does not mean kids need to stifle their creativity this summer.

“We are creating pre-made art kits that kids can do from home based on the MGMoA collection,” said Amber DuBoise-Shepherd, manager of education and outreach at the museum. “Some are simple and easier while others may take some time. They will range in price depending on the supplies.”

Museum officials hope to have the kits available in July. The kits would be simple grab and go art kits.

“I believe many children and teens are getting a lot of screen time, so I think kits that they can take home and work on while not looking directly at a screen will be good to bring out their creativity,” DuBoiseShepherd said. “We may offer Zoom hours for those students that would like to reach out to the EDU staff for questions or show and tell. We are still trying to figure it all out.”

In the meantime, the museum did open at the end of May. The new hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.5 p.m. They are limiting 10 visitors in the gallery at one time. People can sign up for a specific time slot

JULY

at www.mgmoa.org/hoursadmission.

Masks are not required but recommended. There are hand sanitizing stations for visitors. The gift shop is limited as well.

Pioneer Library System In addition to the Summer Learning Challenge highlighted in an article in June’s issue of Shawnee Outlook, the library is offering a couple more ways for kids to access library materials.

Mailbox Library is a service for participants ages 18 and younger to request up to three books at a time to be sent in the mail. Books are loaned for 30 days and may be renewed for up to 30 more days if none of the items are on hold for another reader.

After they read the books, the child or teen puts books back in the zippered bag they came in, turns over the address label and puts the bag in the mail.

They then can request up to three more books to be mailed.

There is no charge for customers as the library pays postage both ways. All that is required is a PLS library card in good standing.

Anyone who lives, works, goes to school or owns property in either Cleveland, McClain or Pottawatomie County is eligible for a Pioneer library card.

To start the process, sign up by calling (405) 8014593, emailing homeserv@pioneerlibrarysystem.org, or through a form online on the PLS web site, www. pioneerlibrarysystem.org.

The library is also introducing PLS Dial-a-Story

Bethel Acres Tag Agency

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

to deliver stories over the phone in both English and Spanish.

To use the service, customers will call (405) 701-2665 and listen to a pre-recorded story. Each story will be read in both English and Spanish and will primarily come from a collection of picture books. Roxanne Pico, children’s library assistant at Norman Public Library Central, will present the stories, which will change each week on Fridays with the initial run of the service to last through Aug. 31.

The first titles for the series are: “Dog Breath: The Horrible Trouble with Hally Tosis” by Dav Pilkey; “Skulls” by Blair Thornburg; “I'm a Shark” by Bob Shea; “A Cat and a Dog” by Claire Masurel; “Stormy Night” By Salina Yoon; and “Leonardo the Terrible Monster” by Mo Willems.

The goal of the service is to allow families with limited Internet connectivity to engage with literacy in a unique way. It also can help children who are spending extensive time in front of a screen to get a break from that while still giving them a way to connect with a new story or book.

Participation in PLS Dial-a-Story will count toward minutes earned for the library’s Summer Learning Challenge. Find out more about ways to participate in the Summer Learning Challenge at pioneer. beanstack.org.

The 12 libraries of the Pioneer Library System have reopened with limited services available. Also, interaction with the library continues through its many virtual resources available at www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org/download.

Visit WWW.TCPSHAWNEE.COM to sign up for the Mobile App!

2020 2008

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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Summer Programs Vary During Continued Pandemic Response

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OBU MUSIC PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT

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Over the Fence:

By Brandon Dyer, Executive Director of Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County

We Can't Help If We Hide

“D

oes everyone know what time it is?”

What words come to mind next? If you were a sitcom watcher in the 90s, you know the automatic reply is, “Tool Time!”

Actor Tim Allen played Tim Taylor, a funny handyman hack starring in his own local cable home improvement show alongside the steady and competent contractor, Al Borland. People on the show loved Al. He was hard-working, loyal and constantly perturbed by Tim’s shenanigans. The show was a bit of a comedic parody of the real home improvement show, “This Old House,” starring Bob Vila.

Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor routinely made a mess of his show and the projects they undertook, and this often carried over to his own life. He frequently depended on his natural charm to bail him out of failure after failure. Those closest to him were not always so charmed, particularly his wife Jill. When Tim ran out of tools for fixing his relationships, the one person he always turned to would be his wise but quirky next-door neighbor, Wilson. In story terms, Wilson’s character was the guide. He was not a dynamic character, but Tim could never get where he wanted to go in life without Wilson’s sage advice. It was always timely, and it always resonated with Tim. The interesting thing about Wilson

is that we never really got to know him.

Very few things about him personally were ever revealed. This was clearly purposeful by the writers, so much so that we never even saw his whole face.

Most of the time, the fence between their yards blocked the bottom half of Wilson’s face. Later, the writers found creative ways to continue this running sight gag. They would use props like books, menus or coffee mugs to block parts of his face. They would incorporate wardrobe elements like masks or scarves, and sometimes they even used other people to block a full view of the character’s visage throughout every episode of the show’s eight-season run. It became a schtick routine all its own, and the writers scored extra laughs as they found more and more clever ways to intentionally hide his face.

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not a privacy fence, but all of us tend to hide behind something. Meanwhile, our neighbor Tim needs help.

Hopefully, we have all had a neighbor like Wilson. I know I have. Rather than living next door, my “Wilson” lived two houses down. He often invited me over after mowing the lawn or working in the garden to sit on the back porch to have a cold drink and a few laughs. My kiddos were very young then. His were grown up. His experience and light-hearted attitude helped me more times than I can count.

It’s not always easy to know someone and be known. At some point, however, our neighbors are going to need us, and we can’t help if we are hidden behind the fence. So, here’s to being brave and showing our true selves to our neighbors. It’s relational tool time.

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That oddity always stuck with me.

However, despite the hilarious lengths the writers went to in order to hide Wilson’s identity, I never quite knew why.

All these years later, I think I finally do.

Have you ever seen the Sesame Street segment, “One of These Things is Not Like the Other,” where several objects are shown so the viewer can identify the one that doesn’t fit by the end of the song? It’s a game for children, of course, but as an adult, I finally know what doesn’t fit. A neighbor should never be unknown. A neighbor should never be completely hidden behind a fence. Sure, we all need our privacy at times, but it’s the object that doesn’t fit. It’s almost like Wilson’s hidden face is begging the question, what lengths do each of us go to in order to hide from our neighbors? Physically, yes, but also metaphorically. Maybe it’s

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Local Kayak Club Making a Splash with New, Veteran Paddlers

by David Disnmore

F

or the Pott County Kayak Club, timing is everything.

Starting as a Facebook page near the end of last summer, the group has seen interest level accelerate quickly from a few dozen to hundreds of people in the last couple of months.

“It has exploded, and people are falling in love with it,” said Denoda Rutherford, one of the co-founders of the club.

The response to the novel coronavirus pandemic has likely played a big role in the growth and interest in the group, Rutherford said. Kayaking provides many of the elements that people currently look for in an activity that reduces risk of transmitting or contracting the virus.

Obviously, it is an activity that gets people outdoors and doesn’t require them to get together in a small, enclosed space. Kayakers can each get in their own boat and stay a respectable distance due simply to the size of the boats and the fact that most only incorporate one paddler each.

Yet, even with all the emphasis on dis14

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tancing, people still want activities they can share with others. The environment, pace and nature of kayaking makes it a very social activity as everyone floats together on the lake or river. Whole families have taken to the water together locally in the last few months after one or two members tried it and decided to bring everyone in their house aboard.

Rutherford got her first taste of kayaking last August when she saw a Facebook post by former teachers, Kelli Parsons and Theresa Dame, stating they were going kayaking on Shawnee Twin Lakes and asked if anyone else would like to join them. Rutherford had been curious about it but had never had the chance to give kayaking a try.

“I got hooked and decided to buy two kayaks, one for me and one for my daughter,” Rutherford said.

Her two friends mentioned something about a “Poor Oklahoma Teachers Club," but the more Rutherford joined in with people hitting the lake, the more she thought there should be some kind of “formal” way of or-

Denoda Rutherford, Theresa Dame and Kelli Parsons helped organize the Pott County Kayak Club Facebook group as a way to organize kayak enthusiasts and novices who want to try their hand at paddling on Shawnee Twin Lakes and area waterways.

Photos submitted

ganizing outings for anyone in the area who enjoys or is curious about kayaking. She set up a Facebook page for the Pott County Kayak Club in the fall that had garnered interest from about 50 people.

In April, the three friends decided to host a couple of “newbie nights” using about 30 extra kayaks owned by people in the group and around the area.

On Facebook, they invited anyone who was curious about trying their hands at the paddles. The group had more than 15 people show up for the first event and then double that by the second night, Rutherford said. Meanwhile, the Facebook group they created jumped from 84 people in April to more than 500 members by the end of June.

The Facebook group provides a great way for those new to kayaking to have their questions answered – the most popular being how to actually transport their boat from their home to the water – and a chance for more seasoned paddlers to share some of the tips, tricks and tales from their own experiences.

Kayaking is also a sneaky way to get in some exercise without feeling like it’s exercise. It provides enough physical activity to help the body but enough distraction – especially in groups – and fun, to not realize how much you’re working, Rutherford said.

Some who came to the group looking for an activity specifically for fitness purposes said the camaraderie not only motivates them to get out on the lake,

but also creates a little accountability when they tell other members of the group that they will come participate.

As much as the public health crisis helped grow interest in the Pott County Kayak Club, it also has created some challenges for those getting into the hobby for the first time as kayaks have not been as abundantly available since countries began shutting down, Rutherford said. From shipping demands and manufacturing slowdowns, kayaks may not be as widely available currently as they were earlier in the year. In fact, Rutherford and some other group members have taken it upon themselves to call retailers around the state to try and locate places that have a healthy stock of kayaks. They then send out messages through the Facebook group to gauge interest before making the trek to places like Bartlesville and Perkins to buy boats in bulk to bring back to Shawnee for people to purchase without having to travel themselves to get one.

One of the elements Rutherford has found most surprising since organizing the group of local kayak enthusiasts is how unfamiliar some people are with the aquatic activities Shawnee has to offer. She said there have been numerous times when people contacting her through the Facebook group will ask how to get to Shawnee Twin Lakes because they’ve never been there despite having lived in the community for years.

“Shawnee Lake is such a great asset to have, but it just doesn’t get utilized as much as we think it should,” Rutherford said.

Beyond the lake, the club has given some of the more experienced kayakers the opportunity to venture out into the county’s other waterways, including some ventures down the North Canadian River that snakes its way throughout the area. Being able to easily connect with other kayakers has enabled people to arrange safer trips they have wanted to undertake but not alone.

Organizers have started kicking around ideas of how to integrate the club into the larger community by hosting events in partnership with local businesses and organizations and facilitating group activities for entities like churches or companies. They have also begun selling T-shirts to help raise funds for possible regular kayak giveaways for group members.

In the meantime, the Pott County Kayak Club will keep offering locals – and others in surrounding areas – the chance to try out kayaking or connect with a group of likeminded hobbyists looking to make a splash in their social lives.

“It’s been such a joy watching people enjoying themselves,” Rutherford said. “It’s gone from a hobby to a passion to a lifestyle.”

Search Pott County Kayak Club on Facebook to find their page and their group for more information.

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17

New Gallery in the Mall Aims to Provide 'Art for Everyone' Through Classes, Shows, Collaboration

by David Dinsmore

“T

he idea behind this is in the name,” said Scott Baird, who recently helped open the doors to Community Art Gallery.

The keyword: community.

That was the vision Baird shared with Sebrina Lynam – not to mention other local artists, creators and makers – when looking to establish a place in Shawnee Mall that could serve a variety of roles in the local art scene that tied into the same goal.

“One of our mottos is ‘Art for Everyone,’” Lynam said.

The journey to opening the gallery, however, in some ways typified an oft-cited quote attributed to Norwegian artist, Edvard Munch: “Art comes from joy and pain … But mostly from pain.”

Baird marked the first step of the path to Community Art Gallery as the closing of Studio 112 And a Half on Main Street nearly two years ago.

“It left us floundering,” Baird said. “We kept giving (the local art) scene CPR … until we could breathe new life into it.”

Some of those efforts came from other local collaborations and movements like Shawnee Sidewalk Artists and Ars Prima. This work led to demonstrations and interactions with the community at events 18

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ABOVE: Community Art Gallery in Shawnee Mall serves as a gallery for local artists to display their work, but it also provides classes to those looking to tap into their own imagination and a studio for those looking for a place to stimulate inspiration and creativity with fellow artists.

like the third Friday Downtown Block pARTy hosted

by Safe Events for Families for the last few years. Local artists like Baird and Lynam would share their work and invite people at the events to join in on the fun.

Yet, they said they did not feel there was a central location that not only served to display local artists’ work to the public but also provide a conduit for people looking to exercise their own artistic ex-

pression, whether they are new to the visual arts or established creators.

In mid-March, Shawnee Mall lent an unoccupied space to local artists for a show, and the success of that event led to discussions about establishing a permanent place at the mall to support and foster local art.

“No artist will survive without showing,” Baird said. “Otherwise, you’re just doodling in the dark.”

Lynam and he started discussing a place where artists could gather to discuss and share their work.

They envisioned a place where community members of all ages and skill levels could meet for classes to learn new techniques and concepts. This could be a place where locals could select unique pieces to display in their homes that would be a departure from the mass-produced decorative options found at ubiquitous chain stores. They pictured kids having their birthday parties there and making art with

their friends and family.

Enter the response to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The gallery had to put all plans on hold when the mall closed its doors a couple weeks after the show.

“We were actually one of the last ones to leave the mall the day it shut down,” said Baird, remembering walking to his vehicle without knowing when he’d return. “It felt a little like the end of the world.”

Yet, the idea endured, and in early June, Community Art Gallery opened its doors and has enjoyed a robust response from artists and community members alike.

“There is satisfaction in creating something,” Lynam said. “That moment when someone finds something in themselves and can express it … that to me is joy.”

They have been able to bring that joy to people who have participated in some of their classes in events – some of which start at $5 per person. They have seen the excitement in the eyes of kids who may not get as many opportunities to participate in artistic endeavors after so many school-based arts programs have seen their funding

Community Art Gallery employs its “Art for Everyone” motto at its location inside Shawnee Mall near the food court and offers classes, gallery space, sales and inspiration.

evaporate.

They look forward to seeing this joy at weekly art camps hosted at Community Art Gallery during the month of July as well as those who come to enjoy the work on display at the show scheduled July 10-12. They are trying

to find a way to share the joy through specific events geared toward special needs individuals.

“This is not (Baird’s) gallery,” Lynam said. “This is not my gallery. This is not the mall’s gallery. This is the community’s gallery.”

For more information about programs, opportunities and events at Community Art Gallery, call (405) 4327676 or visit facebook.com/ShawneeOkArts. Information is also available on shopshawneemall.com and facebook. com/shopshawneemall.

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HELPING HANDS

Local Organizations Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic Local businesses and organizations have not only found creative ways to operate while navigating the response to the coronavirus pandemic, and many have also found ways to give back and lend a helping hand to their neighbors in the community.

Here are a few some people told us about and some others who are still offering any assistance they can.

If you are part of a group or know of a group who has been working to help locally, please email editor@shawneeoutlook.com or contact us via facebook.com/shawneeoutlook.

chapters around the state responded to the call for masks as soon as the need became apparent.

From mid-March through early June, OHCE groups worked together to produce 42,000 masks, including 2,500 from chapters in Pottawatomie County.

These masks have gone to several medical facilities, firefighters and military personnel as well as many family and friends.

Those who would like to help OHCE’s efforts with community projects such as this and others including assisting women’s shelters, church organizations and more, contact the county OSU Extension Office at (405) 273-7683.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church/United Presbyterian Church

Gateway to Prevention and Recovery

Throughout the pandemic crisis, Emmanuel Episcopal Church has continued its daily lunch program. Hearing that patron numbers were increasing and that some supplies were becoming more difficult to obtain, United Presbyterian's Session decided to contribute to Emmanuel's efforts.

From mid-March to mid-June, UPC has contributed $9,000 to the program, through lines of credit to purchase prepared lunches from three local restaurants – The Lunch Box, The Owl Shoppe and Van's on Highland. The goal was to help both the lunch program and restaurants that were limited to carry out during the general shutdown.

OHCE Oklahoma Home and Community Education

Any community member can contact our Shawnee office at 273-1170 ext. 0 Monday-Thursday, between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.-3p.m. and speak to a behavioral health professional free of charge.

Community Renewal Community Renewal is providing a list of resources that it updates every weekday. Visit communityrenewal.org to find a link to its resource page.

Immanuel Baptist Church Visit ibcshawnee.org/serve-coronavirus or call (405) 273-2105 for opportunities to serve, such as: • Signing up to deliver groceries, prescriptions, DVDs and other essentials to those in need.

• Sew face masks for health care providers.

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From staff reports

• Make care packages for health care providers.

• Providing free to-go meals from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. every Thursday at Mission Shawnee at 126 S. Center St.

Shawnee Forward The organization is gathering and posting information for local businesses to help understand the impact of the current crisis and where they can find help. Visit shawneeforward.com.

United Way United Way Worldwide is operating its COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund and has already helped provide resources for local organizations providing relief to families. Visit unitedway.org/recovery/covid19 for more information.

Oklahoma Blood Institute Blood donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives.

Appointments can be made by calling 1-877-3408777 or clicking here or visiting a donor center listed below: • Ada – 1930 Stonecipher Blvd.

• Central OKC – 901 N. Lincoln Blvd.

• Edmond – 3409 S. Broadway, Ste 300 • North OKC – 5105 N. Portland Ave. Please be aware of and observe all local distancing guidelines and social restrictions when deciding how to donate.

"The reason I don't smoke weed? It's because of this little guy..."

LOSE YOUR RAZOR What helps you live above the influence?

For more information about youth substance abuse prevention, contact: Gateway to Prevention and Recovery, (405) 275-3391 or aflood@gatewaytoprevention.org

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3 WINNERS will be chosen at random from correct entry forms. Each WINNER will receive a $10 GIFT CERTIFICATE for Sonic.

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2. Fill out this entry form and mail to: Shawnee Outlook P.O. Box 1365 Shawnee, OK 74802 3. Winners will be announced in the next issue of the Shawnee Outlook.

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Policy Updates in Pleasant

Grove and Shawnee Public Schools 24 www.shawneeoutlook.com

Backyard Chicken Ordinance

SHAWNEE HISTORY

By Ann McDonald, Courtesy Pott Co Historical Society Member

Local Wading Pool Opened in 1929 Due to Overflowing Generosity of Wewoka Retiree

N

inety years ago, Shawnee youngsters were the recipient of the generosity of a man who “just likes to do things for children.”

Back in 1929, Frank Reed donated $1,500 for the construction of a wading pool in Woodland Park.

Reed, a native of Illinois, came to Wewoka and practiced law for the Seminole Nation. Over the years, he acquired land in the area that later produced oil. He retired to Neosho, Missouri, and began providing funds for playgrounds and wading pools for children, particularly in Oklahoma.

Shawnee was one of the recipients along with Claremore, Durant, Eufaula, Hugo, McAlester, Ada and many others. Even after his death in 1931, he left $100,000 to continue the projects.

In April 1929, bids were accepted to build Shawnee’s pool. In what was described as the season’s most gala event, the new wading pool opened in the middle of June. A bathing beauty contest was held for “belles under 7 years of age.” The prize was $5. Mr. Reed also provided ice cream for everyone who attended the event.

He had the honor of turning on the water to fill the pool for the first time.

Kiwanis Junior Police were charged with keeping order.

The Kiwanis Club had been instrumental in getting the pool in Shawnee and continued to operate it for the next few years. The school nurse was always on duty to safeguard the children. There was no charge for swimming, and the city paid for the water. A bathhouse had been erected with financial assistance from Joe Ingram, a Shawnee oil man.

In the next few years, the city built a wading pool on the east side of town in Boy Scout Park. It wasn’t until 1936 when – with help from the

This 1929 advertisement invited residents to enjoy the opening of a wading pool in Woodland Park provided through the generosity of Frank Reed, a retired lawyer and oil man who worked in Wewoka and retired to Neosho, Missouri.

Photo submitted

federal Works Progress Administration – the huge municipal swimming pool was constructed in Woodland Park just south of the original wading pool. In 1947, a wading pool on

the south side was added to the city’s playgrounds. It was in Farrall Park near Washington School.

The pools continued to be “the place to be” for young children

through the 1940s and 1950s, but during World War II, they had to be shut down for the lack of chlorine.

Officials said 600 to 750 pounds were needed to keep the water up to standard and what they were able to obtain would be used for the municipal pool.

Many older Shawnee residents remember well the treat of playing in the wading pools. During those years, the three pools were within walking distance of most families. Only small children were allowed in and to keep them from being overloaded with excited children, boys had 30 minutes then girls had 30 minutes to play in the water. Records indicate there never seems to have been a charge.

Sometimes, the park areas near the pools were where families had picnics and even birthday parties. Many remember it as “a great place to cool off, splash around and play with friends.”

As more families moved out farther from the downtown area, had access to other places in their cars and more entertainment was available, the pools were not as popular. The one at Boy Scout Park was the last to be closed.

The municipal pool closed in 2012 when it was determined that it was not financially feasible to meet ADA requirements and replace the antiquated plumbing system, even though it had been updated from the original in 1973. Splash Park replaced the huge swimming pool.

Reed’s wading pool there had long since been fenced off and then was dug up. Now the site of it is covered with a drive and parking area, but the memories of older Shawnee residents can still hear the giggles of youngsters who appreciated the generosity of a man who wanted to do something nice for children. www.shawneeoutlook.com

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MENTAL HEALTH

Reframing the 'What Ifs' of Right Now T

his season of time is strange and one which none of us has experienced before. Many of us lived by our daily-filled work and social calendars, finding pockets of time to connect with the people we cherish. Some of us are afforded the ability to work from home, creating a whole new set of family dynamics. The feeling of perpetual limbo can create a litany of questions.

When will we get back to normal? When will this time be over? Do I wear a mask, or not? Can I go out for a cup of coffee with friends? When can I go back to group fitness?

When will I go back to the office? In what ways can I listen/learn critically and approach anti-racism humbly?

We have questions, thoughts and feelings with lingering unknowns.

What if … I get sick?

What if … I have to work from home for another six months or more?

What if … someone says something about me wearing a mask while I’m out?

What if … I say something incorrectly or insensitively?

These questions left me feeling worried, anxious and overwhelmed as I chose to work from home for a time. Having never worked exclusively from home before, the first few weeks were a bit of a blur figuring out a desk space and establishing a daily routine.

About six weeks into the new routine, I think it really hit me: I may be at home for a considerable length of time. Being the curious person I am, I started reading, studying and implementing some of the suggestions from mental health experts. You know the ones.

Get a good sleep routine, continue to eat healthy foods, go outside, move your body, give yourself grace and control what you can.

Grace and control stopped me right in my tracks.

At Gateway to Prevention and Recovery, we believe in giving grace where it’s appropriate and needed, and we hold each other accountable for “controlling what you can control.” With this reframed perspective, I have begun to unpack the “What ifs.”

What if … I take measures to keep myself as healthy as I can be?

What if … I get to work from home for another six months or more?

What if … I wear my mask for your health and mine and not worry about what someone might say?

What if … I approach conversations with compassion and love, knowing I may make mistakes?

What if … this is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing today?

What if … riding my bike for five miles is enough?

What if … I continue to eat fruits and veggies every day?

What if … I practice giving myself grace for making mistakes?

What if … I am willing to try, knowing that failure is a part of the process?

What if … I am doing the best I can in this moment?

If you could reframe your perspective on something today, what would you choose?

It’s okay to be imperfect; in fact, that is what makes us uniquely human. We are bound to make mistakes as we traverse this new normal. As I was recently reminded by my coworker Lisa Watson, we are not going through this time alone. We are all experiencing this together.

Holly Gordon is the lead consultant for the TSET Healthy Living Program of Pottawatomie County. She has been with the organization since 2009 and holds a Master of Business Administration. In her role, she oversees environmental and social norm changes through policy adoption and implementation with countywide city governments, schools and businesses, creating organizations where the healthy choice is the first choice. Holly's community involvement includes serving on the BikeOklahoma Board of Directors, American Cancer Society volunteer and a Raleigh Bicycles 2019 National Ambassador, encouraging active transportation and creating equity.

26

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FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1974

THE BRIGHT SPOT Amid the bad news and bickering out there – and now with the current public health crisis – sometimes it’s nice to read a little encouragement.

The Bright Spot is a space to share some inspiration or reassurance with the community through poetry or prose. If you have an idea or something to brighten someone’s day, submit it to editor@ shawneeoutlook.com.

I Remember Poppa

By Kay Lynne Vance

Just like yesterday, clearly in my mind; His arms are strong and loving, Very gentle, always kind.

He teaches everywhere we go And shows by words and deeds, Caring for the helpless; I will follow where he leads.

His path is clearly seen ahead; I watch his every step.

He bids me climb a rocky hill – I can't go on without his help.

We find a lovely secret place, And there I rest awhile.

Gazing up into his face, I share my hopes, and we smile.

See that valley spread below?

He tells me of a dwelling place Free from worry, pain and woe.

But now he's gone from time and space.

I want to be with him away.

But time goes on, and now it's Father's Day In the meantime, these thoughts I share and pray, "Remember, Poppa, I'll soon be there!

I'll soon be there someday!"

Neighbors

By Patrick Breen Everybody has a neighbor for the better and sometimes for the worse. A neighbor with accusations usually means you don't like them, or they don't like you.

Everyone is usually overly sensitive about something because of different educations, upbringing, moral standards and just a touch of likes and beliefs.

A close-by neighbor might really enjoy plants that may only make life miserable for people who suffer from allergies – like I do. That plant-loving person makes their neighbor have breathing problems all summer.

You may even have a neighbor who is vindictive, even to the point of vandalism such as scratching up your car. Even if you try to stay neutral and mind your own business, it may not really work. Some neighbors can just be hateful. Maybe they have mental problems.

The truth is, we are all just ignorant in some way – not stupid, but just ignorant of all the facts. You see, God really does make us all different. Nobody knows it all. So, let's remember, the neighbors can't be perfect, and neither am I. Trust God who loves us all.

Treat others like you want to be treated. God loves

them, and God loves you, too. Have patience when you have to put up with nutty neighbors, because they most likely think you're nutty as well.

Answered Prayer

By Sheila Hughes

We celebrate a new life.

You are now a child of the King.

Born again and saved by grace Young one, you are called redeemed.

With this gift comes anointment, Inheritance of everlasting life.

Grow in faith day by day To strengthen your connection divine.

Remember all things can be done Through Christ which is your strength.

Read, follow and know the good book Keep praising Him when you sing.

Your family numbers just got increased, And with those saints you will march.

Always know you belong to God. Jesus will be your faithful friend.

And all God’s children are rejoicing.

Angels on high call you their own.

The body of Christ shouts Hallelujah.

Your seat is the right hand of His throne.

Rejoice in spreading the good news How withing your heart, He’s there, And never forget your worth this day For all that believed, you’re answered prayer.

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July Events All events subject to change and incorporate a variety of guidelines regarding public health standards. Please contact each organizer for complete and up-to-date information July 1-Aug. 1: Registration for Oklahoma Baptist University Music Prepartory Department is open for the return to on-campus instruction with safety measures. The semester will run Aug. 10-Nov. 20. Lessons and programs for all ages. Information and enrollment: okbu.edu/prep.

July 8, 15, 22, 29: Community Art Gallery will host a Kids Art Camp every Wednesday at its location inside the Shawnee Mall near the food court. Information: (405) 432-7676.

July 10: Enjoy live music and dancing at Harvest Creek at 10165 N Harrison Ave. just north of Shawnee. Call (405) 625-9368 for more information.

July 12, 19, 26: NOLA Jazz Brunch at Theopolis Social Club every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 419 E. Main St. Full-service brunch indoors and outdoors with Brian Gorrell and Jazz Company. For updated information, visit facebook.com/theopolissocialclub or call (405) 7884404.

NEW STORE HOURS:

Mondays: By Appointment, Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm and Saturday 10am-4pm

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July 17: The monthly third Friday Downtown Block Party typically gets going at 6 p.m. along Main Street with vendors, farmers market and food trucks set up in Celebration of Life Park on the corner of Main and Philadelphia. Visit facebook.com/SEFFShawnee for the most current information leading up to the event.

July 24-26: Shawnee Shootout golf tournament will take two-man scramble teams to the Elks Club, Country Club and FireLake courses during the weekend. Dinner will be hosted Saturday night. Call (405) 585-1503 for more information.

July 25: Elvis Thru the Years will take the stage starting at 7 p.m. at The Ritz Theater of Shawnee at 10 W. Main St. Gary Garcia and David Lee will span the dynamic career of The King from his early to final days. Information: facebook.com/theritzofshawnee.

Aug. 4: Auditions for OBU Prepartory Department's Shawnee Honor Choir (grades 3-7) and Concert Choir (grades 7-12). Information: okbu.edu/prep, (405) 585-4329 or prep@okbu.edu.

Aug. 7: Big Brothers Big Sisters will host Bowl for Kids’ Sake 6-8 p.m. at FireLake Bowling Center at 40945 Hardesty Road. This event will help support programs that give local students and their mentors the chance to “start on the path to their brightest possible futures.” Contact nikki.rieves@bbbsok.org of (405) 395-2788 for more information.

If you know of any events you would like to see featured, email editor@shawneeoutlook.com.

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