Jenks Tribune Digital Issue 73 - January 8, 2021

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8 , 2021

JENKSTRIBUNE.COM

JENKS OFFICIALS EXPEC T 111TH AND ELWOOD PROJEC T COMPLE TION THIS SPRING

By Kyle Salomon This past summer, construction crews began work on one of the most popular intersections in Jenks, 111th Street and Elwood Avenue.

The project to improve the high-traffic intersection has closed the four-way roadway since the construction commenced.

Originally, the project was scheduled to be completed by February of this year, but due to several delays, 111th Street and Elwood Avenue will hopefully be open and completed sometime this coming spring, according to Jenks City Manager Chris Shrout.

Here is a list of the improvements being made to the Jenks intersection: -Continue working on retaining wall on northwest corner of 111th Street and Elwood Avenue -Construct wing walls for the Coal Creek Bridge abutments -Place diaphragms, stay in place forms and steel for Coal Creek Bridge deck -Continue work on installation of waterline, sanitary sewer line, and storm sewer structures -Continue with construction of aggregate base and edge drains on 111th Street west of Coal Creek Bridge The Jenks Tribune will continue to update the 111th Street and Elwood Avenue project as it progresses.

807 East A Street Jenks, OK 74037

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JENKS PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO OFFER FREE MEALS THROUGH REMAINDER OF SCHOOL YEAR Free meals will be provided by Jenks Public Schools for the rest of the 2020-2021 school year.

All students participating in the distance learning or in the Trojan Connect Program, may pick up breakfast and lunch on school days from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the north side of the Central Campus Dining Hall, located on F Street between Birch and 5th Street in Jenks.

Students who are attending school in person will continue to receive meals as normal at their school site’s cafeteria.

Meals are available for pick up on all district collaboration days or distance learning days, but are not available on all professional days, holidays, breaks, parent/teacher conference days or inclement weather days.

OBITUARIES Travis Harrington continued Travis was preceded in death by his grandfather Richard Darrell Harrington Sr. of Pryor, Oklahoma who died March 30, 2019, and succeeded in death by his grandfather Al Maurice Leaman of Dallas, Texas who died on December 6, 2020.

A small memorial service remembering both Travis and his grandfather Al, will be held on January 9, 2021 at 2pm in Ardmore, Oklahoma at the Griffin-Hilcrest Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Special Olympics of Oklahoma so Travis’s peers can experience the same life changing programs that deeply impacted his life.

You can do so by donating online at www.sook.org/ support/donate.

Al Leaman Alvin Maurice Leaman died December 6, 2020 in Dallas Texas. Born in Hinton Oklahoma on April 1, 1932, Al was the son of Maude Elsie Chenoweth and Clarence Leaman.

Following graduation from Central High School in 1950, Al attended Oklahoma University. He was drafted and served in the Korean Conflict as an Air Force Specialist from 1951-1954 in Japan and Korea.

For a brief period of time prior to his military service, Al and his brother, Gordon, established the first water ski school on Lake Texoma. Upon his return from the war, Al’s love of water sports gave inspiration to unique ventures such as becoming a featured professional water skier at Cypress Gardens, Florida, providing the entertainment daily performances.

His brother, Gordon, an entrepreneur in the truest sense, encouraged Al to leave Florida and return to Ardmore, Oklahoma, to join him in numerous business enterprises, including establishing the first ski school at Lake Murray. But for most of his career, Al was an independent salesperson in Oklahoma and Texas, retiring in Texas in 2005.

His love of being near the water never faded from his life. From water skiing, to deep sea fishing or beach time with family and friends, Al found his passion there. He especially enjoyed vacations to Port Aransas, Texas, for deep sea fishing and never turned down an invitation to the Florida beaches.

Al is survived by three daughters, Tracy Leaman Ream and husband Fred; Dana Leaman Williams and husband Worth of Dallas; Beverly Leaman Harrington of Corpus Christi, Texas; seven grandchildren, Jordan Ream Hutchinson and husband Tom; Sterling Ream and wife Angela; Morgan Ream Smith and husband Niel; Whitney Williams Rowell and husband Spencer; Hannah Harrington, Annie Harrington Jones and husband Ross; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death recently by his grandson, Travis Brian Harrington of Tulsa, Oklahoma, who died on November 16, 2020; by his older brothers, Gordon Eugene Leaman(1965) and Ronald Eugene Leaman 2003; his father Clarence Leaman (1965) and mother Maude Elsie Chenoweth Leaman (2005) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

A special memorial service remembering both Al and his grandson, Travis, will be held January 9, 2021 at 2 p.m. in Ardmore, Oklahoma at the Griffin-Hillcrest Funeral Home Chapel (griffinhillcrestfh.com).

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations in memory of Al Leaman to one of the following organizations: Veteran’s Hope for the Warriors at support.hopeforthewarriors.org/give/166840/#!/ donation/or Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Travis Harrington Travis Brian Harrington died November 16, 2020 in Dallas, Texas at the age of 33. Born in Brownsville, Texas on December 10, 1986, Travis was the son of Beverly Leaman Harrington and Richard Darrell Harrington Jr. His life was a miracle from the onset. Born nonverbal with cranial facial abnormalities, cerebral palsy, amongst other disabilities, Travis spent many of his first years of life undergoing countless surgeries to help his body adjust to the outside world. The years that followed were full of constant trips to the doctor or hospital, challenging feeding times, the realization of long-term diapers, medical expenses, physical therapy sessions, and appointments where Travis would get fit for a new wheelchair, walker, or braces for his legs.

Much of his childhood apart from his disabilities was defined by playing with trucks and cars, his first love, spending time outside, making friends, and watching movies. Outside of those interest, his love for the outdoors, riding in the car with his head out the window, or spending time with his friends, Travis loved going to school and participating in Special Olympics.

Travis’s smile was its biggest and brightest each morning when the bus came to pick him up from our house. The joy from riding the lift and seeing his friends is etched in our minds. School was a place where Travis met like individuals with ranging abilities and had the opportunity to grow life skills outside of the home until he aged out. It was at school that Travis became involved in Special Olympics and spent many years competing in various events. His favorite, the weekly bowling league that he often won.

Travis’s life was a constant reminder of God’s goodness and grace. A life not meant to survive the day he was born, yet a life that brought immense love and joy to all those around him. Even in his disability, with his differences, or through his pain and suffering, Travis was full of love. He was a simple man with a big heart. He loved people unconditionally and gave love abundantly to all who would take it. He spent the last several years of his life with people who loved him back with the same intensity, sprinkling his joy everywhere he went. We are so grateful for The Park in Plano and the care he received there.

Travis is survived by his mother, Beverly Leaman Harrington of Corpus Christi, Texas; father, Richard Darrell Harrington Jr. of Vinita, Oklahoma; sisters, Hannah Marie Harrington of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Rebekah “Annie” Jones and husband Ross of Dallas, Texas; Grandparents, Marillyn Sue Seeberger and husband Rudolph “Gus” of Dallas, Texas; and Grandmother Gloria Ann Harrington of Pryor, Oklahoma.

Jacob Dennis Burgos Jacob Dennis Burgos passed from this life and entered his heavenly home on December 20, 2020. He was born on October 19, 1992 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Jacob was an extremely generous young man who was happy, kind, caring, highly intelligent, curious, fearless, with a unique sense of humor. Even though he was an introvert, he was very compassionate and helpful.

Jacob loved the color green and being born with green eyes made him feel unique. He was a carnivore by heart and love to eat meat. He loved old cartoons since the late 1990’s, as well as reading and writing stories.

He was passionate about books, anime and playing his PlayStation with friends.

He is survived by his mother; Rosemarie (Burgos) Torres, step-dad; Edwin Torres, brother; Joshua Burgos and a host of other family and friends.

Jacob will be greatly missed buy all of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service to honor Jacob was previously held on January 2, 2021.

Obituary provided by Hargrove-Marker Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

most influential individuals in university history. He taught at 0RU for 100 straight semesters (a total of 50 years) and never took a sick day. He was voted Faculty Member of the Year at ORU in 1994, and was inducted into the ORU Hall of Fame for coaching in 2010. He was universally loved by the students - a love which he reciprocated. It is hard to imagine anyone at ORU loving the university and the students more, or doing more for the university and students than Coach Duke. Many a student in graduate housing received a late-night visit from Coach Duke, who would drop off food and milk to help the financially-strapped grad students. In fact, for years he took food and milk to many people in need all over Tulsa.

Elsie Elaine (Johnson) Shepherd Elsie Elaine (Johnson) Shepherd passed from this earth in her home surrounded by her loved ones on December 31, 2020. She was born in Stillwell, Oklahoma on April 3, 1941to parents, Houston Blaine Johnson and Frances Helen (Carlile) Johnson.

Elsie married the love of her life Kenneth M. Shepherd on July 24, 1957 in Bixby, Oklahoma. She was owner and operator of Shepherd’s Cleaning Service for 40 years. She was a longtime member of FBC Jenks and enjoyed attending activities with her prime time friends.

Elsie loved spending time with her family and especially loved gardening and yard activities with her husband Kenneth even participating in a recent local television series displaying beautiful backyards.

She loved being outdoors and riding her bicycle in the neighborhood.

She is survived Daughter; Kathy Henderson and husband Daryl of Talala, Oklahoma, Son; Kenneth D. Shepherd of Houston, Texas, one granddaughter; Whitney Cameron, Grandsons; Asher and Axel, Sister; Elizabeth Perry and husband Ed, Brothers; Kenneth Johnson and Delno Johnson, as well as numerous other relatives and longtime friends and family members.

She was preceded in death by her Husband; Kenneth Shepherd, Parents; Houston and Frances Johnson, Daughters; Gloria Shepherd and Doris Shepherd and Brother; Houston Johnson.

Obituary provided by Hargrove-Marker Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Coach Bernis Duke Just because we can’t be with a great man anymore doesn’t mean he is any less great. We celebrate the life and legend of Coach Duke. He was one of the kindest, most giving, most engaging, most caring, and funniest individuals that ever walked the face of this earth. He was also one of the greatest tennis coaches that ever lived. He was tremendously successful in life, although he never viewed this world’s standards for success as a true measuring stick. He entered heaven on December 22, 2020, where he is undoubtedly one of the most welcome new members.

Coach Duke was born on April 14, 1929 in Evening Shade, Arkansas to A.E. and Mary Duke. He was raised by his mother Mary (Mee-Mee) and his maternal grandparents, Henry and Della Pierce. His grandparents especially instilled in him a love for the Lord, which he would have through all his years. His early education began in a oneroom schoolhouse, which is amazing since he is one of the smartest people you would ever know. He continued with his education, getting a BA from Arkansas College, followed by a Masters from Arkansas Tech, and worked toward his doctorate at TU. His high school coach was the great Dodger pitcher, Preacher Roe, who mentored his growth as a young athlete. Coach Duke was a mountain of a man, both literally and figuratively. He boxed, and played both football and basketball in college. He was inducted into the Arkansas College Hall of Fame, primarily for his incredible basketball career. Although he was the gentlest man you could imagine, he was a 3-time Golden Gloves heavyweight champion, including beating Billy Ray Smith, the famous Baltimore Colts lineman.

He met Norma Jean Black at Arkansas College, and they married December 25, 1954. She was his confidante, best friend and partner in life, and would remain by his side for the next 66 years. Norma’s encouragement and direction enabled him to achieve many of his successes in life.

His coaching career at ORU was simply legendary.

Although his background was in basketball, he started the ORU tennis program in 1967. Because of the program’s infancy, he needed good players fast. Unfortunately, the best American players were already spoken for. He reached out to international players across the globe by sending post cards, and quickly built a powerhouse.

He was the pioneer of recruiting international players, and this practice which he began continues in collegiate ranks today. By the end of his career, he had recruited 125 foreign players from 20 countries. He used this avenue to share his faith with his players, many of whom became Christians. Several of his players went on to become pastors and missionaries as well.

He was fantastically successful as a tennis coach. His first team was 24-0. Several of his teams were ranked in the Top Ten in the country. Some of his players made it deep into the U.S. Open and Wimbledon. When he was inducted into the Intercollegiate College Tennis Hall of Fame for a lifetime coaching achievement honor, he had the 6th highest winning percentage as an NCAA Division 1 Coach. He won 563 matches and had a 28-year winning season streak. And yet, the first people he talked to after winning a match were often the players on the teams that lost to him.

Coach Duke literally saved some players lives. Some of his Czech players were caught in the grip of Communism, and he recruited them and brought them to America when the Soviet Union was crushing Czechoslovakia during the “Prague Spring” in 1968. Several years later in the mid1990s, he was able to get players out of Bosnia, when it was likewise being bombed and suppressed by Serbia.

His success on the basketball floor and tennis courts were not the most important thing to him. Regarding sports and coaching, the relationships he fostered with his players mattered more to him than winning. Sports was an opportunity to share his faith and the Christian lifestyle he lived. And his wit! No one tell could a funnier story than Coach Duke. You would be laughing with your sides splitting even if you were the butt of his jokes. His conversations stick years after you have had them with Coach. In fact, for those of you reading this, you probably remember conversations you had with him all these years later. You probably would also remember that these conversations were among the wittiest, most entertaining and most profound you ever had.

Coach Duke was gregarious and never passed up an opportunity to talk with strangers. And he was so clever and funny. He loved to buy farm animals for his daughters and grandchildren, often to the chagrin of Norma. As part of his famous thrifty nature, he enjoyed driving economy cars, even if they were old and little (Norma did not!), just as long as they got good gas mileage.

He was drafted into the Army in 1954. He qualified as an expert marksman, although if you asked him, he would say that the only shooting he ever did in the Army was shooting baskets. After leaving the Army, he began his legendary career as a coach. He coached basketball, track, boxing and tennis. He coached the Newport High School team to the Arkansas state championship in 1964. He was Coach Duke was humble and genuine to the core. He lived a life of character and integrity that impacted his family, beloved in Newport, as in just about every place he went, his players, his students and anyone who he came in and when he left Newport High School, they actually had contact with. a song written, which was played on the radio lamenting his leaving the high school.

Above all else, Coach Duke deeply loved his family. He walked out his love for them daily in a tangible way. He In 1958, while coaching early in his career, he was among loved his wife, his three daughters and his grandchildren the first to help initiate racial integration in one of the first and great-grandchildren, many of whom were by his side public high schools in Arkansas. He was the only white when he passed. coach at the Arkansas Black State Championships. He saw only kids, not their color. Keep in mind that this was years He is survived by his wife, Norma, his daughters, before Bull Connor and George Wallace, and a plaque Denise Westfall (and Matt), Melanie Strickland, Amanda detailing Coach Duke’s contributions is in the National Scroggs (and Scott), and 9 grandchildren and 9 greatCivil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. grandchildren. They all can’t wait to see him again in heaven, to hear his voice and one more story.

In 1965, he heard of a new college being started that would focus on Christian living and theology and would In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made enable him to continue using his coaching skills. It was to the ORU Tennis Team c/o Mark Milner, ORU, 7777 S. Oral Roberts University. He was one of the charter Lewis, Tulsa, OK 74171 members of the university, and later voted one of the 50

HAPPY NEW YEAR, LE TS BE KIND IN 2021

By Sarah Clavin

Happy New Year! Can you hardly believe we are saying it? A. New. Year. We made it, we survived. I say that lightly because I recognize that many did not. Many lives were lost; a great toll was taken on emotional health, marriages, our children and their psyche. You and I, dear reader, we stand to live another day, and what a glorious day it is.

Quite generally I enter a New Year feeling fresh and light, viewing the upcoming months with a clean slate. But this year we entered wounded. It came full of baggage that still feels heavy and unprocessed. Though our backs may still bend under the weight heaved up on us from 2020, we continue to press forward, each step lighter than the one before.

And just so, we declare 2021 to be a year of restoration. Our goals are different, our perception aligned, and our focus on things more intimate. This past year taught us a great many lessons, none of which we will take for granted. Family matters most. Respect others. Support local. Be kind.

Kind.

I think that will be my word for this year. Like many others, each year I pick a word, a focus, an alignment if you will. One year it was mindful, another it was perseverance. This year I am choosing kindness.

Having experienced extreme kindness, and lack there of over the course of the past year, and having been on both the giving and receiving ends of it, I have formed an unprecedented value for the art of being kind to self and others.

Most generally speaking, I am a bit more on the abrasive side of things; I value persistence, loyalty, grit, and integrity. I am not one to choose empathy or compassion as a skill I hope to improve, quite possibly because I view myself in them as a lost cause. But over the past 365 days I have found a new respect for kindness in my life and the lives of those around me.

So this year, in 2021…

I vow to be kind to myself. I will apply critique when necessary, tough words when applicable, but I will crawl out from the depths of self-hatred and speak life-giving words to myself. I will work to view my faults and assets alike through a lens of grace and look on myself kindly.

I vow to be kind to others. Whether we agree or disagree, whether helpful or hurtful, whether gracious or not. I will choose to be kind. Kind in both my words and my actions. I will do my best to lend a helping hand or a word of encouragement when necessary, and in the interim I will simply be nice, caring and sympathetic.

I vow to teach my children to be kind to both themselves and to others. I will work hard to teach my girls value and self-respect and how to look and speak to themselves in a kind, loving manner. I will teach my son how to be kind with his actions. And most importantly I will model what kindness looks like towards others in hopes that they will be the nicest kids at their schools. I will teach them that kindness trumps popularity any day, and that a servant is a true model of leadership, how to extend a helping hand with no expectation of anything in return.

Mark Twain said it this way, “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” Slowly I will trudge forward, a constant work in progress, not berating others or myself for our faults or differences but speaking in a language all can comprehend. And I will deliberately seek opportunities for kindness, graciousness, and compassion.

What theme will you align yourself with this year?

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” -Maya Angelou

GUEST COLUMN NOW MORE THAN EVER, COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS MUST WORK TOGE THER

By Glen Miller, El Reno Tribune

Without question the holiday season has brought a wave of cooperation and sharing among residents in our state.

It is what many refer to as the “Oklahoma Standard.”

What readers have seen in recent months is that community newspapers in our state have been sharing content at a greater level due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus shutdowns hit the newspaper industry hard as print advertisers were forced to make hard decisions regarding when and where to spend money. The trickle-down effect meant newspapers, especially those in smaller communities, were forced to do some belt-tightening when faced with smaller page counts and unfortunate staff reductions.

The situation forced newspapers to forgo the longtime competition factor in our industry and look to the greater good, which has always been serving the informational needs of our communities.

In early December, I was asked by my good friend Kyle Salomon, owner and publisher of the Jenks Tribune, to photograph the Jenks Trojans’ Class 6A-1 state championship game against Edmond Santa Fe. While it meant a hectic day, since the game's start time butted up close to the El Reno Main Street Christmas Parade, I agreed to shoot the game.

Later in the month, there were front page stories in the El Reno Tribune from both the Yukon Review and Yukon Progress. This was a first in my 26 years here and I do admit it was odd to see such cooperation considering all three newspapers compete against each other in various ways.

The sharing spirit has also jumped off the front pages and into the sports sections. For more than a year now the El Reno Tribune has been sharing sports stories with the Yukon Review on certain El Reno High School items and sports involving Redlands Community College.

Since the pandemic started, we have been asked and have provided both football and basketball photographs to the Piedmont Gazette. The Daily Ardmoreite published our story and photos from the Indians’ win over the Tigers in football.

It is the spirit of sharing, if everyone in our industry is willing to jump on board, that will carry community newspapers past the pitfalls of this pandemic.

Does it mean that the competitive nature among newspapers is gone? From this keyboard I can type without hesitation, no, not on your life.

It just means that our industry needs to work a little smarter as well as harder while sailing over the tsunami caused by COVID-19.

Founded, owned, operated and published by Hyperlocal LLC 329 S. Elm Street | Suite #201 Jenks, Oklahoma 74037 Phone: 918-528-7272 | Fax: 918-528-5605 | jenkstribune.com

Kyle Salomon Owner Hyperlocal LLC Publisher: Jenks Tribune

Jinger Wiesman Creative Director/ Advertising Executive Jenks Tribune

Office | 918-528-7272 Mobile | 918-231-0787

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Jenks Tribune Mission Statement “We are the Jenks community’s hometown source for hyperlocal news, sports and information that the people of our community need to know.”

OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM TO HOST BEHIND THE SEAS EVENT The Oklahoma Aquarium is hosting the “Behind the Seas” camp from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Jan. 23. The event is for people of all ages. Participants will be able to learn how the aquarium staff cares for its animals and they will be able to feed the animals on and off exhibit and learn about the facility’s research and conservation efforts.

COMPLE TE VIRTUAL AQUARIUM RUN

BY APRIL 3

The Oklahoma Aquarium is hosting its annual Aquarium Run in 2021 virtually. All contestants may walk or run at their own pace in a location of their choice. Whether you compete in your neighborhood, the park or on a treadmill, you will receive a 2021 Aquarium Run medal for your registered event.

Jinger Wiesman Owner/Graphic Designer 381creative.com | jinger@381creative.com 918.813.0654

AVERIT T ’S 31 PACES JENKS IN WIN OVER MUSKOGEE

By Kyle Salomon In the first game of 2021 Tuesday, junior Ben Averitt poured in 31 points to lead Jenks to a 65-47 win over Muskogee at the Frank Herald Fieldhouse.

The Trojans (4-3) were in control the majority of the game leading 16-7 after one quarter and 49-33 after three quarters.

The Roughers made a second-quarter run and cut the Jenks lead to 28-26 heading into halftime, but that would be as close as they would get.

The Trojans connected on three three-pointers and made 10 free throws on the night.

Following Averitt’s 31, junior Seth Wilkins added eight points of his own. Sophomore Gron Tata and juniors Cain Smith and Aiden Deken each had five points. Senior Carson Cooper had three points and sophomore Dylan Golightly, senior Albert Diarra and junior Jacob Simmons each had two points.

Overall, 10 players scored for Jenks and 14 players saw game action.

The Trojans were without junior forward Chase Martin and head coach Clay Martin. The Jenks coach has been battling COVID-19 and had to be hospitalized, but is now back home recovering.

JENKS DOMINATES BISHOP KELLEY IN THE POOL

By Kyle Salomon Jenks swim hosted Bishop Kelley Tuesday in a home dual meet and the Trojans and Lady Trojans took care of business.

In the combined score, Jenks beat the Comets 417 to 137. The Trojan boys beat the Bishop Kelley boys 213 to 69 and the Lady Trojans beat the Lady Comets 204 to 68.

In the girls’ 200-yard medley relay, Jenks A took first with a time of 1:55.57. Josie Jones, Kaya Smith, Jasmine Rau, and Laney Fenton made up the team. Jenks B finished second with a time of 2:02.92. Jasmine Moss, Amaya Oliphant, Bella Morrison, and Natalie Eaton made up the team.

In the boys’ 200-yard medley relay. Jenks A placed first with a time of 1:41.47. Grant Stucky, Jim Mahoney, Austin Sung and Josh Rau made up the team. Jenks B took second with a time of 1:51.68. Tad Tan, Mason Mink, Ezra Power and Lex Beck made up the team.

In the girls’ 200-yard freestyle, Laney Fenton finished first with a time of 2:01.68. Madilynn Mansfield placed third with a time of 2:09.09. Madison Owens took fourth with a time of 2:09.99 and Emily Duffy finished fifth with a time of 2:10.07.

In the boys’ 200-yard freestyle, Jazz Widney placed first with a time of 1:44.35. Jacob Clink took second with a time of 1:54.18. Ethan Matthews finished third with a time of 1:55.45. Ian Truong placed fourth with a time of 1:56.36.

In the girls’200-yard individual medley, Jasmine Rau took first with a time of 2:15.94. Amaya Oliphant finished second with a time of 2:23.28. Kaya Smith placed third with a time of 2:30.29 and Bella Morrison took fourth with a time of 2:42.09.

In the boys’ 200-yard individual medley, Grant Stucky finished first with a time of 2:00.11. Ryan Short placed third with a time of 2:11.99. Mason Mink took fourth with a time of 2:13.69 and Walker Bridenstine finished fifth with a time of 2:15.58.

In the girls’ 50-yard freestyle, Gabby Vargus placed first with a time of 26.07 seconds. Natalie Eaton took third with a time of 26.93. Josie Jones finished fourth with a time of 27.29 and Hannah Austin placed fifth with a time of 29.37.

In the boys’ 50-yard freestyle, Jazz Widney took first with a time of 22.71 seconds. Lex Beck finished second with a time of 24.74. Tad Tan placed third with a time of 24.77 and Jim Mahoney took fourth with a time of 25.24.

In the girls’ 100-yard butterfly, Jasmine Moss finished first with a time of 1:04.01. Daphne Brown placed third with a time of 1:12.53. Payton Pangburn took fourth with a time of 1:13.12 and Bella Morrison finished fifth with a time of 1:16.33.

In the boys’ 100-yard butterfly, Austin Sung placed first with a time of 52.65 seconds. Josh Rau took second with a time of 56.26. Ezra Power finished third with a time of 1:01.01 and Mikolaj Kamyszek placed fourth with a time of 1:04.93.

In the girls’ 100-yard freestyle, Jasmine Rau took first with a time of 55.58 seconds. Kylie vonHartitzsch finished second with a time of 1:01.74. Hannah Austin placed fourth with a time of 1:05.26 and Katharine Fritts took sixth with a time of 1:10.70.

In the boys’ 100-yard freestyle, Ian Troung finished second with a time of 51.58 seconds. Ethan Matthews placed third with a time of 52.32. Braden Gress took fourth with a time of 53.42 and Aaron Fulbright finished sixth with a time of 57.61.

In the girls’ 500-yard freestyle, Gabby Vargus placed second with a time of 5:37.36. Emily Duffy took third with a time of 5:50.72 and Madison Owens finished fourth with a time of 5:53.44.

In the boys’ 500-yard freestyle, Ryan Short placed first with a time of 5:07.21. Jacob Clink took second with a time of 5:13.33. Lex Beck finished third with a time of 5:17.85 and Ethan Powers placed fourth with a time of 5:28.60.

In the girls’ 200-yard freestyle relay, Jenks A took first with a time of 1:45.83. Jasmine Rau, Josei Jones, Gabby Vargus and Natalie Eaton made up the team. Jenks B finished second with a time of 1:51.63. Kaya Smith, Karissa Lu, Madison Owens, and Emily Duffy made up the team.

In the boys’ 200-yard freestyle relay, Jenks A placed first with a time of 1:32.51. Jazz Widney, Ethan Matthews, Jacob Clink and Josh Rau made up the team. Jenks B took third with a time of 1:39.06. Jim Mahoney, Braden Gress, Ryan Short and Ian Truong made up the team.

In the girls’ 100-yard backstroke, Josie Jones finished first with a time of 1:05.92. Madilynn Mansfield placed second with a time of 1:06.69. Jasmine Moss took third with a time of 1:07.78 and Payton Pangburn finished fourth with a time of 1:12.63.

In the boys’ 100-yard backstroke, Austin Sung placed first with a time of 55.28 seconds. Josh Rau took third with a time of 57.97. Walker Bridenstine finished fourth with a time of 59.55 and Braden Gress placed fifth with a time of 1:04.70.

In the girls’ 100-yard breaststroke, Laney Fenton took first with a time of 1:09.53. Amaya Oliphant finished second with a time of 1:10.13. Natalie Eaton placed third with a time of 1:11.04 and Kaya Smith took fourth with a time of 1:11.59.

In the boys’ 100-yard breaststroke, Grant Stucky finished first with a time of 1:01.16. Jim Mahoney placed second with a time of 1:05.00. Mason Mink took fourth with a time of 1:06.48 and Tad Tan finished fifth with a time of 1:09.94.

In the girls’ 400-yard freestyle relay, Jenks A placed first with a time of 3:58.98. Emily Duffy, Gabby Vargus, Jasmine Moss, and Laney Fenton made up the team.

In the boys’ 400-yard freestyle relay, Jenks A took first with a time of 3:19.39. Jazz Widney, Ethan Matthews, Austin Sung and Grant Stucky made up the team. Jenks B finished second with a time of 3:34.41. Jacob Clink, Ryan Short, Ian Truong, and Braden Gress made up the team.

WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULES 2021 Boys Basketball January 12 – at Broken Arrow 8 p.m.

January 15 – vs. Booker T. Washington 8 p.m.

January 21 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 22 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 23 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 26 – at Sand Springs 8 p.m.

January 29 – at Sapulpa 8 p.m.

February 2 – vs. Union 8 p.m.

February 6 – vs. Webster 8 p.m.

February 9 – vs. Owasso 8 p.m.

February 12 – at Muskogee 8 p.m.

February 16 – vs. Broken Arrow 8 p.m.

February 26 – Regional Tournament TBA February 27 – Regional Tournament TBA March 5 – Area Tournament TBA March 6 – Area Tournament TBA March 11 – State Tournament TBA March 12 – State Tournament TBA March 13 – State Tournament TBA Girls Basketball January 12 – at Broken Arrow 6:30 p.m.

January 15 – vs. Booker T. Washington 6:30 p.m.

January 21 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 22 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 23 – Jenks/Union Tournament TBA January 26 – at Sand Springs 6:30 p.m.

January 29 – at Sapulpa 6:30 p.m.

February 2 – vs. Union 6:30 p.m.

February 6 – vs. Webster 6:30 p.m.

February 9 – vs. Owasso 6:30 p.m.

February 12 – at Muskogee 6:30 p.m.

February 16 – vs. Broken Arrow 6:30 p.m.

February 25 – Regional Tournament TBA February 27 – Regional Tournament TBA March 4 – Area Tournament TBA March 6 – Area Tournament TBA March 11 – State Tournament TBA March 12 – State Tournament TBA March 13 – State Tournament TBA Swimming and Diving January 12 – Frontier Conference Meet 5:30 p.m.

January 22 – Jenks Invitational 12 p.m.

February 5 – Regional Swim Meet 10 a.m.

February 19 – State Preliminaries 10 a.m.

February 20 – State Finals 10 a.m.

Wrestling January 8 – Larry Wilkey Tournament 10 a.m.

January 9 – Larry Wilkey Tournament 10 a.m.

January 12 – vs. Glenpool 7 p.m.

January 15 – at Sand Springs/Sapulpa Tournament 10 a.m.

January 16 – at Sand Springs/Sapulpa Tournament 10 a.m.

January 25 – vs. Muskogee 7 p.m.

January 19 – District Duals at Union 5 p.m.

January 29 – at Pryor Tournament 10 a.m.

January 30 – at Pryor Tournament 10 a.m.

February 2 – at Bixby 7 p.m.

JENKS FIGHTS OFF PESKY MINCO TO SNAP THREE-GAME SKID

By Kyle Salomon It can be difficult to break out of a slump and that is exactly what 6A 12th ranked Jenks ran into Dec. 29 afternoon to close out the Festival of Champions at Frank Herald Fieldhouse.

The Trojans (3-3) held on to beat 2A sixth-ranked Minco (3-3) 72-61 to end a three-game losing streak.

The Bulldogs didn’t make it easy for Jenks. Minco led 19-15 after one quarter. Jenks led 37-31 at the half and the game as tied at 46 going into the fourth quarter.

The Trojans (3-3) knocked down two three pointers and 24 free throws. A total of 13 players saw action in Tuesday’s game with nine scoring and two in double-figures. Junior Ben Averitt was the leading scorer with 21. Fellow junior Chase Martin had 18 points. Sophomore Dylan Golightly added nine. Junior Cain Smith had seven points. Sophomore Gron Tata finished with five points. Junior Noah Borchers had three points. Colton Coffey totaled two points and Carter Mundy had two points.

Martin, Golightly, Kittleman, Averitt and Tate were the starting five.

TROJANS’ UPSE T BID OF PU TNAM CITY NORTH COMES UP SHORT No. 12 Jenks nearly pulled off the upset Dec. 28 of No. 2 ranked Putnam City North in the first day of the Festival of Champions at Frank Herald Fieldhouse.

The Trojans and the Panthers were neck-and-neck throughout the entire game with Putnam North leading 15-14 after one quarter, Jenks leading 29-27 at halftime, the Panthers leading 45-43 after three quarters.

Both teams missed free throws with less than 10 seconds remaining in regulation and the fourth quarter ended in a 6060 tie.

P.C. North outscored the Trojans 11-5 in overtime to secure the 71-65 win. 11 players got into the game for Jenks with seven scoring and three in double figures. The Trojans connected on three three-pointers and 25 free throws.

Jenks sophomore Dylan Golightly was the leading scorer with 18 points. Fellow sophomore Gron Tata had 16 points.

Junior Ben Averitt had 13 points. Junior Chase Martin had nine points. Junior Seth Wilkins had four points. Stephen Kittleman had three points. Aidan Deken had two points.

Martin, Golightly, Kittleman, Averitt and Tate were the five starters for the Trojans.

LADY TROJANS FALL TO MUSKOGEE

By Kyle Salomon It was a tough start to 2021 for the Jenks girls basketball team, as the Lady Trojans fell 67-29 Tuesday at home to Muskogee.

The Lady Roughers were in control throughout the night leading 15-7 after the first quarter, 30-13 at the half and 50-19 after three quarters.

Jenks (4-3) finished with two three-pointers and five made free throws in the game.

Sophomore Mackenzie Forgione led the Lady Trojans with eight points. Junior Kiara Brown, sophomore Madison Luciano and sophomore Khalise Berry each had five points. Junior Paige Robertson had three points. Senior Nicole Johnson had two points and junior Brooklyn Robinson had one point.

Overall, seven players scored for Jenks and 12 players saw time on the court.