Shawnee Outlook April 2015

The History of Little Olympics

|

Downtown Block Party

Thunder

Dancer Karsyn Reed

APRIL 15

Vol. 12 Number 2

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CONTENTS

APRIL 2015

Publisher

13

Photo by Simon Hurst

FEATURES

21 DEPARTMENTS

9 The History of Little Olympics

6 COMMUNITY 6 NUTRITION 101

10 Downtown Block Party

Advertising Sales

Brad Carter

Managing Editor

Mindy Wood

Graphic Design

Creative Direction

Aaron Morvan Layers Media, Inc.

Cover Photo

Aaron Morvan

Writers

Andrea Beck Jamie Bergsten Tim Burg Ann McDonald Malialani McQuerry Angela Rowland Mindy Wood

Distribution

The Shawnee Outlook is delivered FREE by direct mail to 25,000 homes and businesses. Distribution includes Shawnee, Tecumseh, McLoud, Meeker & Prague.

Comments or

Suggestions?

Write to: Shawnee Outlook PO Box 1365 Shawnee, OK 74802 Website: www.shawneeoutlook.com E-mail: info@layersmedia.com

To Advertise Call Brad at 445-3033 OR 808-0963.

20 SONIC CONTEST

13 Bryce Barfield: Children’s Author, Poet

26 GREEN LIVING

18 Thunder Dancer: Karsyn Reed

26 KEEP THE CHANGE

21

Michael Keith

29 EVENTS

Arts Trek 2015

Volume 12, Number 2 Shawnee Outlook is a publication of Layers Media, Inc. © 2015 Layers Media, Inc.

22 In the Air Articles and advertisements in Shawnee Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Layers Media. Layers 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.

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COMMUNITY

NUTRITION 101

Tell us something we don’t know In the business of economic development, at times we are the first and last to know about business locations or expansions. We’re in the “we need you now” business, which can quickly be followed by the “stay out of our way” business progression.

As much as we would like to be in the center of EVERYTHING, the reality of this occupation is that once we have responded to a business’ request for support, there isn’t always a need for them to darken our door until they need something else we can supply. We are okay with that, as our “To Do” list is consistently lengthy as we continue to focus on those areas that will help grow the Shawnee economy.

And just what might that be, you ask?

Rest assured that if anyone wants to blab about what is going on in this region, it would be us. However, you know by now that “loose lips sink ships” and our discourse on those business dealings is often times limited by client confidentiality.

Meaning, let’s get these project finalized and then celebrate their locating here or ongoing growth.

Without divulging any TOP SECRETS, currently we are pursuing new business prospects that include a new manufacturer who has an interest in our area and existing manufacturers that are considering expanding their local operations, if the labor pool is sufficient and it makes business sense to grow here. We are also working with a prospect on an inbound customer call center and the solicitation of national

retailers that meet our targeted retail gaps.

Recently we have had some interest from several different individuals who wish to develop more office space in the community, along with those who have a focus on support services that range from a coffee shop to aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul, and everything in between. All are good indicators of a growing community.

Coupled with all of those projects is the pursuit of attracting and developing more skilled employees that can meet the growing demand in our region. We recently had a large mail out campaign to the educators and administrators in the region, who are literally on the front lines of helping with workforce development. Those leaders are crucial to our successes in growing the workforce.

In an effort to reach more potential homebuyers, we have recently begun an ad campaign to raise awareness of the outstanding housing options in the Shawnee area. While we aren’t able to own the advertising in that market, we are getting our information placed in 550 locations in the OKC area, in 22,000 copies per month.

Other marketing changes are a bit more subtle as we refresh the Monday Memo look, by changing its look and revising the content a bit, plus increasing our use of social media.

Will all of this help us grow? Predicting the future is a difficult task, but we certainly like our chances. Stay tuned for more; it’s going to be interesting.

Tim Burg is the Executive Director of the Shawnee Economic Development Foundation and is one of only 1200 certified economic developers in the world. His past business and civic experiences allows him to focus his expertise on business retention and expansion opportunities, plus undertake marketing, attraction, and recruitment of new business to this region.

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www.shawneeoutlook.com

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Andrea Beck, a Registered Dietitian, received her Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics from UCO in Edmond. She offers her nutrition consulting services and strongHER workouts through Anytime Fitness and teaches nutrition at St. Gregory’s University. Andrea is an active member of Junior Service League. Visit www. strongherfitness.net for more information.

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The History of Little Olympics by: Ann McDonald

Eighty-two years ago, members of the fledgling Shawnee Kiwanis Club mapped out plans to hold a junior track and field meet and optimistically called it the “first annual.”

The country was excited about the Olympic Games that had been held in Los Angeles the year before. Shawnee High School’s track team, featuring Harold Cagle, who was to later become an Olympian himself, was racking up points at their meets. The Kiwanians approached the school officials and offered to oversee a meet among the youngsters in Shawnee’s grade schools.

That first meet was held, May 17, 1933, at Hurt field on the OBU campus. The schools were dismissed for the afternoon to watch their athletes compete. There were two classes, A and B, and two boys from each school were allowed in each event.

Events included the 50 and 110 yard dashes, 220 and 440 yard run, the 440 yard relay, 120 low hurdles, high jump, standing broad jump, running broad jump and baseball throw. Eventually class C was added for younger competitors.

Franklin was the winner of the 1933 junior track and field meet. Washington and Wilson finished second and third.

Those schools and their students have slipped into the past, but the “junior track meet” is thriving. Kiwanis Club has kept the event running while adapting over the years to better serve the contestants. The meet has been delayed a few times, usually because of rain, and couple of times because of diseases such as an outbreak of scarlet fever in 1936.

In 1937, the youth track meet was first referred to as the Little Olympics. Shawnee’s most famous track star, Harold Cagle, was just fresh from the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and served as honorary judge. That was also the first year the meet was held at Jim Thorpe Stadium.

Except for the addition of Will Rogers (1953) and Sequoyah (1963), not much about the Little Olympics changed for the next 25 years. There was the big parade around the track led by the high school band and the Kiwanians. Each school had a pep club and cheerleaders all dressed in their school colors with the team proudly following.

Each school elected a queen, a captain to escort

Little Olympics Race 1946 her, as well as an escort for the mascot, and the fastest first grader who would be getting his first taste of the Little Olympics.

In 1957, another U.S. Olympian served as honorary referee at the spring event.

J.W. Mashburn, a former Oklahoma A & M quartermiler, who had competed in both the 1952 and ’56 Olympics was in attendance.

The demographics of the town of Shawnee were changing along with the social climate. As schools closed and were absorbed by existing districts, the Kiwanians divided the field into big and small schools in 1959. This gave more youngsters the opportunity to participate and to also win a ribbon.

Another big change came soon after when the Kiwanians, jumping ahead of the issuance of Title IV, welcomed girls into the competition in 1966. They competed in only four events and their points didn’t count toward team totals. But that soon changed.

Schools came and went over the years and the Kiwanians adjusted. The biggest change the Kiwanians had to overcome was during the 1980’s when the Shawnee school district went to the grade centers. Rather than housing all elementary grades, each school site had their own grade, such as second graders at Jefferson, third graders at Will Rogers, sixth graders at Wilson, and so on.

But the club members found a way to make the adjustments so Shawnee kids still had their Little Olympics.

Over the years, more events were added or deleted to meet the needs of the young athletes.

The pole vault had been eliminated early on and later the high jump. An 800 meter run, the tugof-war, and softball throw became events over the

Little Olympics Parade 1946 years to go with the 50, 75, and 100 yard dashes, running and standing long jumps, the 800 shuttle relay, and 400 relay. These events have stayed much the same these last several years.

The Shawnee Kiwanis Little Olympics is widely known all over the country. For a time, it wasn’t surprising to have other clubs contact the local members to learn how to start a track meet of their own. The local group even made up a film to show what’s done here.

For the last few years, the Little Olympics has returned to its roots. While the track at Jim Thorpe Stadium has been under repair, the event has been held at OBU. But it’s basically the same as it was 82 years ago, excited little kids trying their best to win.

Now, third and fourth generation Shawnee citizens participate in this special sporting event.

Little Olympics is the longest continuous running youth sporting event in Oklahoma. And it’s all because a group of Shawnee citizens have given up their time and raised money to always keep the Little Olympics running. www.shawneeoutlook.com

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DOWNTOWN BLOCK PARTY Local art lovers have a place of their own to enjoy art, live music, food, and the warmth of community spirit in downtown Shawnee. The Downtown Block Party is busier than ever as it now stretches along East and West Main Street, Bell and Broadway in the oldest part of town.

More than a dozen businesses have opened their doors the 3rd Friday night of every month to sponsor the event. Artists set up paintings, sketches, photography, sculptures, and mixed media pieces in or in front of businesses. Nearby bands play in the open or inside and a variety of food vendors can be found in addition to the restaurants open in the area. Comedians and story tellers have also been featured.

Coney Island, Vintage Venue, Main Street Photo Studio & Gallery, Neal’s Home Furnishings, Reeve’s Antiques & Things, and now Shawnee Public Library, are among the businesses supporting it.

Local restaurants feature special menus and stay open until 8 PM. “We’ve had some new businesses sign up to sponsor this,” said Ed Bolt of Main Street Photo Studio & Gallery. “The Ritz started in February, Vintage Venue and the library in March so more people are signing up. The crowds have been good,

by: Mindy Wood

even in winter, and are way up from last year. It’s definitely on an upward trend. We’re not Paseo or Norman yet, but we’re hoping we can get there.”

Safe Events For Families (SEFF) President, Dell Kirbs agreed. “There’s just a new vibe downtown.

It’s buzzing, it’s busy and there’s a lot more to come.”

Bolt featured his and two other photographers work from an excursion to Cuba. Among dozens of photos, he served authentic Cuban food and drinks with Cuban music in the studio. Other food vendors served vegan and gluten free food, hot dogs, and other area restaurants were also open.

Music ranges from jazz and blues to country and rock with everything in between. The Ritz Theatre featured Irish Folktales, singing and dancing.

New to downtown, Vernon Hatley Photography at 417 E. Main opened with a live jazz band and water colors by Kat Marie, and artwork submitted by students at Grove Elementary Public School.

Several stores have featured artists from local schools in the past.

“We want to encourage students and artists of all ages to show their work and give them a place to start doing that even at an early age,” said Hatley.

Starting this month, drawings and scavenger hunts will be ongoing with prizes including movie tickets, gift certificates, and food. The details are given ahead of time on SEFF Shawnee’s Facebook page.

This summer Bolt said they plan to have an open market set up in the Centennial Life Park on the corner of S. Pennsylvania and E. Main. They expect to welcome a horse drawn buggy back to the event as well.

SEFF, a non-profit organization best known for Boo on Bell and Shawnee Trail Days, now manages the event in cooperation with the Shawnee Art Guild. Downtown Block Party replaced First Fridays last year and is held every 3rd Friday night from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Bike Patrol is provided by the Shawnee Police Department.

For more information, visit www.seffshawnee. org or SEFF

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Bryce Barfield CHILDREN’S AUTHOR, POET by: Mindy Wood

by: Mindy Wood

Photo by Simon Hurst

A new children’s author is turning out adventures for young reader in a series with Tate Publishing. “Jo and Her Blue Block,” and “Jo and Her Bright Green Chair” are the first two books in a series with at least two more books planned.

Bryce Barfield uses rhyme to carry the story of little Jo as she discovers the world around her. Nature is a consistent element as Jo uses her imagination to contemplate color, space, size, and cause and effect. By transporting her blue block and green chair, Jo’s child-like curiosity guides the reader to different places and new possibilities.

Barfield said he’s always appreciated the playful optimism and childish wonder that all children possess. “I’ve always loved kids,” said Barfield. “They aren’t stiff like adults are sometimes. They’re open to new ideas and they’re bold.”

His six-year-old daughter,Jordan, has provided feedback for the books. She read the first draft of “Jo and Her Bright Green Chair” and gave him some advice. “I wrote that Jo was afraid the bee would sting her on the butt. She

said, ‘Daddy you can’t say butt in a children’s book, it’s inappropriate.’ I laughed because she was right. It’s been fun including her in the process.”

Jordan also chimed in for a new book in the works called, “Eliza Meets a Kind Traveler,” in which she co-wrote the ending. It’s the story of a 9 year-old orphan living in Israel in AD 32 who encounters the kindness of Christ and the disciples.

Barfield first discovered his love of writing in elementary school when he wrote a play for his 6th grade class about George and Martha Washington. For years, that talent was dormant, even forgotten. It wasn’t until 1990 that he began writing poetry sporadically, but it was stifled by an addiction to alcohol.

Now sober and tobacco free for over six years, Barfield is an advocate for sobriety and the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline. He has appeared in commercials for the organization telling his story about wanting something better for his daughter Jordan. In addition to improved health, he said he could let his creativity surface. > www.shawneeoutlook.com

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continued from pg. 13

“It was amazing how when I got completely sober that my creativity started.

As my mind cleared up, it was a way of expressing myself. I would write down a phrase on a napkin and then write a poem.

Then I could compile a book idea from that,” he said.

“The Threshold,” was his first poem written while contemplating his future. It captures both the mystery and the thrill of the unknown. “I have found a door. It is a blank door on a vast expansive wall. I have no key.

The door has no knob to grasp. How can one open this door? So to take steps forward, what waits beyond this door? What does tomorrow hold? Will it be future past? Will I know if I stay, would I go if I could?”

Nearly 100 poems are compiled thus far and he is seriously considering publishing them. He has also completed a work of flash fiction with fiction and nonfiction novels on a long list of literary ambitions.

His next two books in the series, “Jo and Nicky the Mermaid,” and “Jo and Nicky the Fashion Model” introduce a new character in the series. For more information, visit BryceBarfield.com or TatePublishing.com

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Photo by Simon Hurst

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Thunder

Dancer Karsyn Reed by: Mindy Wood

Karsyn Reed has been dancing since she could walk. From “Mommy and Me” dance sessions to the Oklahoma City Thunder Raindrops is quite a leap, but this dancer has even bigger ambitions for her future.

OKC Thunder debuted a youth hip hop dance squad in the 20092010 season for 14 boys and girls age 7 to 12. Karsyn Reed, then a tiny 7 year-old, auditioned with her sister Keeley, then 10. Out of hundreds of children, both girls were accepted. To date, Karsyn is the only original dance member on the squad and the only one to be on the team every year for the last 6 years.

All members have to audition every year and it’s no easy task staying on the team. “They have to be able to pick up the routine very quickly,” said mother, Angie Reed. “They practice once a week and sometimes they only have a couple practices before they have to perform.”

“She feels very fortunate to be part of something as big as the OKC Thunder. Being a Raindrop, Karsyn has met so many people, and got so much exposure. She’s danced in front of celebrities who come to games like the Kardashians, Jay Z, and Beyonce,” said mother, Angie Reed.

“She gets to go back there where the celebrities are, where no one else is allowed.”

Karsyn said it’s exciting, but she doesn’t get nervous before a performance during Thunder games or for auditions. It seem dancing is second nature for her. “It’s what she does, it’s what she lives for,” said Reed. “She dances all the time, around the house and when she was younger,she’d dance down the aisles at Walmart.”

Reed said her daughter has benefitted from professional choreographers, including Paige Carter, dance team manager for the Raindrops. Carter said, “Karsyn has the showmanship, the attitude, and she’s worked so hard. She’s always been a great kid to work with. She’s started off so small, but she has this giant personality. As her dance coach, I can see she’s matured and grown up but also in her technique and performance as well.” > www.shawneeoutlook.com

17

continued from pg. 17

Karsyn dances for Dream Catchers in Shawnee and started winning national titles by age six. At 7, she won 2 solo national titles for hip hop and lyrical. She flew to Los Angeles, California to learn a hip hop solo from Laura Edwards, a professional in the industry who has danced with Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears and several other celebrities.

By age 8, Karsyn had won five solo national titles in advanced competitive levels and she continued to win national titles every year.

To her parent’s delight, Karsyn has also won several scholarships totaling several thousand dollars; nothing yet for college, but enough to help offset the cost of training a rising star. Karsyn said she wants to go to California when she graduates high school to pursue a career in dance. “That’s where a lot of the dancing industry is,” Karsyn explained.

She gets plenty of practice, in addition to Dream Catchers, working with the Raindrops every Wednesday night for practices and then

18

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performances throughout the month during Thunder games.

Although hip hop is her favorite, she does it all: Jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, tap, and open.

Karsyn is under contract with the OKC Thunder. All team members are carefully protected before, during, and after performances. “At first, I was a nervous wreck. There’s no reception where they are because of the cement building so I ended up chaperoning backstage for a lot of the games. Now that she knows everyone and where she’s supposed to be, I don’t worry about it anymore.”

The family enjoys free tickets to each game when her daughter performs. “There’s a lot of energy out there,” said Reed. “The crowd is sometimes so loud they can’t hear the music, especially the playoff games.”

Because she will age out this year at age 13, Karsyn is in her last season.

“I’ll miss it,” said Karysn, “but I still have Dream Catcher’s Dance Studio.”

No matter where she dances, it seems a bright future is ahead for this rising star.

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ARTS TREK The 6th annual Arts Trek is sure to have something for everyone. The festivities take place Saturday, April 11, 10AM-4PM, at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art and on the campus of St. Gregory’s University. Arts Trek combines an arts festival with a performance walk and is free and open to everyone. In the event of rain, all activities will move indoors into the Museum and the SGU Field House.

Participants in Arts Trek are diverse, ranging from expressive artists to aerial dancers to a pet rescue.

“This event is unique because of the level of community support,” said Donna Merkt, Arts Trek event coordinator and curator of education at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. “Almost all of the artists and performers are from this region. The performers all donate their time.

Additionally, many local businesses and organizations volunteer their time to help with the event, particularly with art projects for kids.”

Merkt believes it is the level of community involvement that led to Arts Trek being recognized by Frontier Country as the “Outstanding Event for Central Oklahoma” in 2014. This was the second time Arts Trek won the prestigious award.

Arts Trek also features a distinct feature that gets participants up and moving—the performance walk. “The performance walk is like a wine tasting,” laughed Merkt, “visitors have the opportunity to sample quick performances from a wide variety of performing art genres.”

2015

Beginning at 10AM, the performance walk will feature some returning favorites and new talent: Live action painting, a performance by the SGU theatre, cowboy poetry, a juggler, Middle Eastern and Irish dancing, musicians, aerial dance on silks, and much more. Stage performances will continue throughout the afternoon.

In addition to amazing performances, Arts Trek features a wide variety of spectacular visual art available for purchase, including paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, jewelry, hand woven textiles and baskets, art clothing items, leather works, and chainmail.

“The fantastic thing about our participating artists is that most of them are working in their art media during the festival,” shared Merkt. “This gives visitors a chance to see the artists’ processes, to ask questions, and get feedback from the artists about their work.”

Additional activities for younger Arts Trekkies include free face painting, and a free bounce house as well as art activities sponsored by local supporters of the event.

Saving Pets at Risk will also be on site with dogs and cats hoping to find forever homes.

For adult Arts Trekkies, enjoy tasting and perhaps taking home a bottle of refreshing wines from Base Vines, Cattle Winery, Rocky Top Winery, and Canadian River Winery.

For additional information, please visit www.artstrek.org or call 405-878-5300.

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In the air SHAWNEE REGIONAL AIRPORT

One sunny afternoon in March, a vintage 1944 Douglas DC3 aircraft pulled in to the Shawnee Regional Airport like a ghost from the misty past.

The enormous Round Trip was there for a pit stop after she had been sold by a 96 year-old gentleman who had been the pilot so many years ago.

Our seemingly quiet airport attracts pilots from all over the country, including several Hollywood celebrities and corporate businesses who find it an appealing, convenient stop.

Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, and Jerry Springer have landed here recently. “Brad Pitt hasn’t been here since 2010,” said Keenan English, Shawnee Regional Airport’s assistant manager.

“We see a lot of the celebrities who go to the Grand Casino like to use the airport.”

If it’s good enough for the celebrities, it appears to be good enough for a lot of other flyers.

While many city airports struggle to keep out of the red, the SRA enjoyed an operational surplus last year. English said the increase in traffic is largely due to the completed improvements including a new terminal, an over-layed runway, and a revamped taxi-way system.

“We have a lot of features and equipment that aid pilots in landing and taking off that a lot of other airports don’t have. We’ve got a long waiting list of pilots who want to base their aircraft here.

Until we get more facilities built, we can’t keep up.

It’s a good problem to have. I think we’re lucky to have an airport that isn’t financially burdensome to the city,” said English.

English said pilots often land at the SRA instead of the Wiley Post Airport because “it’s much cheaper” and they can easily rent a car and drive to Oklahoma City.

22

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The SRA is owned and managed by the City of Shawnee. The airport has a 7 member board who give recommendations to the Shawnee Airport Authority, which consists of the city commissioners.

The airport is funded primarily through operations revenue and leases, including land leases. “We have 640 acres of airport space, with 460 of those being inside the fence perimeter.”

Those acres outside the fence include land that was left over from the large naval base that was there during WW2. These properties are leased to businesses including the YMCA, Vyve, the Department of Public Safety, and Brown Derby.

Large improvements are funded mostly by federal and state fund dollars. Taxes on aviation purchases, from fuel to commercial plane tickets, are collected by the federal and state government. Those tax dollars are then appropriated to qualifying airports.

While some city tax dollars go to the Shawnee Airport Authority, the SRA is primarily sustained by operational revenue. Airport traffic attracts sales tax dollars. “People fly in and use hotels, restaurants, rental cars, and things like that,” said English.

The SRA oversees about 9,000 operations per year, with landing being one operation and take off a second operation. Forty-five planes are based at the airport and are used for business or recreational use.

Traffic is also driven into the SRA as the result of annual aviation events like the Youth Aviation Adventure and Pilots and Pancakes Air Show. Air Flite is an authorized helicopter repair

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service center who supplies aircraft parts to manufacturers and sell helicopters. A skydiving company and flight school also bring traffic.

A little known fact about small airports is that they do not have an air traffic control tower. Everyone communicates their location coming in or flying out for safety. “Only 5 airports in Oklahoma have them. We’re not large enough for that but everyone has a radio in the cockpit tuned to the same frequency. If they don’t follow the rules, which every pilot is trained to know, they can be reprimanded.”

English said entry level airplanes range from $50,000 to $100,000 depending on the type of plane and how old it is. All aircraft have to be maintained and inspected by certified aviation mechanics. Safety is the number one priority for everyone on the ground and in the air.

April 11, the Youth Aviation Adventure will kick off at the Gordon Cooper Technology Center Aviation Campus located at the airport. For ages 12-18, it is an interactive educational experience to educate youth about aviation careers.

For more information, visit shawneeairport.com or call 405-878-1633

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Spring Storm Preparedness Among them are 4WarnMe (KFOR for NBC), KOCO 5 News HD (ABC), News 9 Oklahoma’s Own (CBS), and KOKH FOX25. The National Weather Service also has an app that provides warning data. In addition, newer phones can be enabled to receive wireless emergency alerts (WEAs) during severe weather.

With warnings in place, what are local shelter options? The emergency management center doesn’t operate any public shelters in Pottawatomie County, so residents need to plan ahead. The City of Shawnee does have one small underground cellar in a neighborhood park which is opened for people in that area, and a few schools choose to open their facilities to the public when students aren’t on campus.

Lynch stated that one of the biggest challenges with public storm shelters, however, is that residents actually put themselves in danger trying to reach them. “Vehicles are NEVER a safe place during significant severe weather events,” he said. “On the other hand, standard residential construction (manufactured housing excluded) typically provides survivable protection for over 95% of the tornadoes we experience in Oklahoma. This was validated by the May 2013 storms in both our area and Moore.

If those impacted by the storm seek shelter by moving to the lowest level possible in a small interior room or closet away from exterior openings such as doors or windows, they are afforded protection. The exceptions to this recommendation are those living in mobile homes and many manufactured structures. Those living in these types of structures must take shelter in a safe room or personal storm shelter or travel to a

Living in Oklahoma during springtime carries the responsibility to be weather-aware. With an average of 55 tornadoes per year in our state, some of which have destroyed areas of Pottawatomie County in recent years, it’s no wonder that residents are both fascinated by and afraid of these dangerous storms.

Planning ahead is a key safety factor, according to Don Lynch, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Shawnee and Pottawatomie County. “By preparing in advance and working together with our neighbors as a team, we can cope with disasters and emergencies,” he said.

The City of Shawnee maintains a network of 20 outdoor warning devices. They are activated when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for a storm approaching Shawnee or when a trained spotter sights a funnel, tornado, or persistently rotating wall cloud near town. An all-clear signal will not be sounded, so if the sirens go off during a storm, it means take cover and seek more information, according to Lynch. “We strongly encourage people to have a weather radio or other means, besides sirens, to receive warnings, such as radio or TV, cell phone applications, severe weather alerting on email, etc.”

Shawnee, Asher, Bethel Acres, the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Earlsboro, Macomb, Maud, McLoud, and Tecumseh maintain emergency sirens of their own. The Pottawatomie County Commissioners have placed sirens in the Dale, Johnson, St. Louis, and Tribbey communities for the safety of residents there.

With so many people using smart phones, all of the Oklahoma City network affiliate TV stations have free weather apps to alert people.

safe location well in advance of a storm’s arrival.”

A variety of home shelters are also available for installation. These include outdoor in-ground cellars, in-home safe rooms, basements, the “flat safe” type installed in garage floors, and steel models that can be bolted down above ground in a garage or other large space. Prices vary, of course, but Lynch said that as long as the shelter follows FEMA guidelines, it doesn’t matter what type of shelter a resident installs.

“You should think about your family’s situation and needs when making that decision. I also recommend that people get a technical drawings sheet from their vendor, signed and stamped by a professional engineer, with notes stating that the model has been tested and meets or exceeds the FEMA standards.”

Lynch’s office is managing a rebate program with funding from the American Red Cross.

They’ll be able to provide rebates to over 200 Pottawatomie County residents, so the number of homes with shelters will continue to increase.

They also maintain a registry of storm shelters and safe rooms countywide. That information is provided to local fire departments, in case structures need to be searched after a storm. To add a shelter to the list, residents can call 878-1650.

The Pottawatomie County Local Emergency Planning Committee is hosting a preparedness fair on Saturday, April 25, from 10:00-3:00 at the Firelake area on South Gordon Cooper Drive.

There will be lots of displays and information, door prizes, safety demonstrations, emergency vehicle displays, and an opportunity for families to talk with the experts about their family’s disaster plan. Everyone is invited to attend.

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KEEP THE CHANGE

GREEN LIVING

Dress Your Kids for Less

Spring Cleaning Spring is in the air! I love this time of year when everything in nature is starting fresh all over again. Maybe that’s why I get the urge to start cleaning my environment each spring.

I am ready for my own fresh start! What are some signs that you are overdue for spring cleaning?

Three Simple ways to push the Restart button!

I have four kids now. It takes a lot to keep them clothed, but when we work it right, it’s not necessarily a lot of money! Here’s how I shop to keep my kids looking their best without breaking the bank.

Clean your house. It is amazing how a clean house can make you feel in control and relaxed at the same time. Shake out the rugs, dust, and open up those windows to let in some fresh air. Vinegar and water with a little lemon oil is a great natural all-purpose bacterial cleaner.

Garage Sales. These are absolutely the cheapest places to find kids clothes – with prices starting at a dime and averaging about fifty cents per item. Of course, the quality might be lacking and you’ll need to hit a number of sales if you’re looking for the trifecta: size, price, and quality. This option is clearly the most time-consuming, but potentially the most rewarding.

Clean your closets. I use the two year rule. If I haven’t worn it in two years, maybe it’s time to recycle for someone else. Closets can be clutter magnets, so this one part of the room can be a great place to start. Donate your clothes to the charity of your choice or plan a garage sale to earn some extra money.

2. You don’t find joy in the simple things in life. Winter has left you uninspired and unmotivated and your energy level is low.

Consignment Sales. Consignment sales combine the low costs of garage sales with the convenience of retail. The two primary sales in Shawnee are Monkey Business (Shawnee.monkeybusinessok.com) and Sugar and Spice (sugarandspicesale.com). Prices are generally higher than garage sales, but the quality is higher, as well. And usually there is a half-price day to help you maximize your savings.

These are also great places to get things like sheet sets, strollers, and other gear your kids might need.

Plant some flowers or start your garden.

Something as simple as digging in the dirt can be an easy way to detox your mind from the busyness of life.

ThriftStores. With the same convenience of the consignment sale, thrift stores are another great option! The new Goodwill in town has a great selection!

3. You feel like you are in a rut and the rut truck has not appeared at your door.

Spring is rolling in and I am ready to get my green glow on! This Spring, what’s one thing can you do for your own fresh start?

1. Clutter overwhelms you. If things are out of order in your environment, it can feel like your whole life is out of order.

Retail. There are, of course, a variety of options for great-looking kids’ clothes and many offer good sales. My favorite is The Children’s Place, for those times when I just need something quick and don’t have time to look. They frequently offer Free Shipping with no minimum purchase and almost always have sales and coupons.

If you sign up for their e-mails, you’ll receive a coupon for 25% off!

Or check retailmenot.com for other coupon codes!

These are the ways I keep my kids dressed for less.

Malialani McQuerry is a Certified Holistic Wellness Coach, Holistic Nutritionist, HN, a Green Living Specialist, blogger and business owner.

When not coaching clients, she loves to cook, travel, blog, and spend time with her husband, David and dog, George. For more healthy living tips, visit www.greenisntforsissies.com or www.facebook.com/GreenisntForSissies.

Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-athome mother of three. 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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EVENTS

APRIL APRIL 8TH, 15TH, 22ND Shawnee Senior Center welcomes the public to “Healthy Brain, Healthy Mind,” classes, sponsored by the Oklahoma Healthy Aging Commission. From 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

APRIL 10TH - APRIL 12TH The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Pottawatomie county office is partnering with Shawnee Frontline Church to host a Finding Forever Families 5K. The 5K was developed to raise awareness about the need for adoptive homes for children who are legally eligible to be adopted and have no identified placement. The 5K is considered a “fun run” meaning that participants can run or walk without a time limit. People of all ages are encouraged to participate. The event will take place at the Shawnee YMCA on Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Runners who register before April 24th are guaranteed a free T-shirt as part of the $20 registration fee. The price increases to $25 for those who register after this date and T-shirts will only be available while supplies last. There is no cost to participate for those under the age of 13. Participants can register at www.okdhs5k.eventbrite.com. The goal of this event is to call attention to Oklahoma children who are in need of a forever family.

Two craft shows, Sassafras and the Vintage Market will have vendor booths for vintage, antique, and craft goods for sale. Sassafras will be held in the conference center and the Vintage Market will be in the Otto Krausee building at the Expo Center.

APRIL 11TH Hope for healing is partnering with the senior center and hosting an arts and crafts fair at the municipal auditorium located at 401 N Bell Ave. on April 11th from 9AM. to 5PM Free to the public. Inquiries can be sent to hopeforhealingfosterfoundation@yahoo.com or call 405-788-8172.

APRIL 11TH Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art presents their 6 annual Arts Trek. Live performances include dance, music, theatre and art demonstrations from 10 AM to 4 PM. Art walk begins and 10 with events ongoing until 4 PM.

APRIL 17TH

YOUR EVENT

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Downtown Block Party is a community art event featuring live music, food, comedians and story tellers, and much more. Area businesses along E. and W. Main, Broadway, and Bell streets host artists inside or in front of their business with live entertainment. The fun starts at 6PM and ends at 9PM

APRIL 25TH Pottawatomie County Local Emergency Planning Committee is hosting a preparedness fair on Saturday, April 25, from 10PM-3PM at the Firelake Arena on South Gordon Cooper Drive. Displays and information, door prizes, safety demonstrations, emergency vehicle displays, and experts on family disaster plans will be available.

APRIL 28TH

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The Salvation Army will host a luncheon from noon to 1PM featuring speakers and a video presentation about the work done through the organization. Donations are accepted. Please RSVP at 405-275-2243 www.shawneeoutlook.com

29

The Magic of Fairy Godmothers There’s a little princess inside every teenage girl who wants to dress up for prom. They giggle as they google the latest fashions and shop ‘til they drop for the best dress, shoes, and jewelry their money can buy.

For many girls those dreams have been crushed by poverty. When families struggle to provide even the basic necessities of life, $200$300 for prom expenses is unthinkable.

Thanks to Fairy Godmothers, a formal clothing closet, those fairy tale moments can come true. They provide prom dresses, tuxedos or suits, shoes, jewelry, flowers, and salon services like makeup, hair, and nails to needy teenagers who would never be able to afford it. They even raise money to pay for prom tickets.

Fairy Godmothers started as an outreach to provide gowns to tornado survivors last year, but the need was so overwhelming they continued and now are housed in the old Sears store in Shawnee Mall.

More than 350 pristine gowns of every size, length, and color are available for teens to rent free of charge. Students are referred by their schools. The present the referral after they sign in at the shop and then browse and try on clothing. Since they opened at their current location March 1, they have provided for 27 students.

These are not shabby, outdated gowns either.

Many of them have never been worn, and several gowns worth well over $1,000 have been donated by bridal shops throughout the state. Some of

by: Mindy Wood

the designer names include Alfred Angelo, Maury Lee, and Jessica McLintock. Sizes 2 to 16, and a few plus size dresses are cleaned, pressed, and even altered to fit a student for prom.

Everyone donates their time. Florists, restaurants, hair stylists, and makeup artists from Meeker, Chandler, Shawnee, McLoud, Tecumseh, and Seminole donate services and goods to make all these dreams come true. Salon services are provided at the Fairy Godmothers location the day of the prom.

“I have Mary Kay representatives come and do their makeup right here,” said Karen Hazelwood, director of the charity. “One of them said she remembered that her family didn’t have the money for prom when she was growing up. This is her way to give back.”

Prom tickets are purchased from the sale of new wedding dresses that have been donated by bridal shops. “We have designer bridal gowns for $200 each,” said Hazelwood. “I didn’t realize how expensive prom tickets were. Some schools charge $100 per ticket. The money raised from the wedding dresses pays for those tickets.”

Hazelwood said the girls are often shy and downcast when they arrive, but then something magical happens. “When they come here, you can see the sadness in their faces. But a whole new person comes out when they step out of the dressing room in that gown.”

One girl in particular Hazelwood will never forget. She was in need of a plus sized gown.

by: Mindy Wood

“Her mother said, ‘You’ll never find a dress, you’ll never find a pair of shoes that fit.’ Well, she went to that prom in a new dress and shoes that fit. I cried the whole way home because she was so ecstatic, you could just see it all over her face.”

It’s a lot of hard work, but Hazelwood said their enthusiastic smiles are worth all the effort. “I can be stressed out and ready pull out my hair until a child walks in; then it all goes away.”

Hazelwood said they always appreciate donations, and in particular, need gowns sized 22 and up. They accept financial donations through “Fairy Godmothers by Brooke Martin” on gofundme.com. Their Facebook page is titled, “Fairy Godmothers.”

For more information, contact Karen Hazelwood at 405-626-5524.

It’s like putting your business card in 25,000 mailboxes, except it’s only $150.

SHAWNEE OUTLOOK

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