Shawnee Outlook - August 2015 by Layers Media, Inc.

Friends of the Library

DaLacy

4-H President

DOCKERY

AUGUST 15 Vol. 12 Number 6

Ready for Success

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CONTENTS

AUGUST 2015

Publisher

FEATURES

30 DEPARTMENTS

9 It’s Never too Late to Join the PTA 10 The Traveling Drama Troupe

Brad Carter

Managing Editor

Mindy Wood

Creative Direction

Layers Media, Inc.

Cover Photo

Layers Media, Inc.

Writers

Andrea Beck Jamie Bergsten Tim Burg Dr. Tom Henry 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

6 COMMUNITY

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

6 NUTRITION 101 20 SONIC CONTEST

13 Friends of the Library

22 SHAWNEE HISTORY

17 4-H President: DeLacy Dockery

25 CITY BEAT 29 KEEP THE CHANGE

21 United Artists 26

Advertising Sales

29 EVENTS

Ready for Success

30 One Cowboy. One Horse. Many Wishes.

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

A Brand New Year of the Same Stuff Each July, the board members of the SEDF meet to review and vote on who the new officers of the organization will be. They also focus on other seemingly mundane tasks that keep your economic development organization headed in the right direction, such as the budget review and our proposed plan of work. As an economic development organization that is under contract with the City of Shawnee to undertake, “all things related to economic development”, our budget is reviewed, scrutinized, and approved no less than three times prior to the SEDF board’s final approval. Needless to say, we are okay with all of those steps, as we believe those reviews are a measurement of our activities, which helps us gauge our past and future efforts. In a world where what gets measured gets done, it never hurts to have different sets of eyes looking at your work. As we prepared this year’s budget, a multi-step process, we remained focused on workforce development and attraction, plus the need to recruit more citizens to live in our part of the state. A skilled workforce is what brought the wide variety of employers here long ago and that need remains important to this day. We are also focused on the consumers’ needs to help attract more of the types of national retailers our citizens tell us they want located here, or better yet, what they are traveling out of town to find. Shopping locally is more than helping your friendly

business owner. It helps everyone as those local tax dollars build roads, support our fire and police departments, improve the county’s roads, and frankly a whole lot more. A better quality of life starts with us, which means having what the consumers want. We will also concentrate some of our efforts this coming year on developing the industrial properties your economic development organization owns, plus attempt to construct a “shell building” as an attraction tool. Without a doubt having an available building will help us be more visible in the marketplace and creates something to offer businesses, either new or existing, beyond a green field site. Build it and they will come has proven to be a wealth generation strategy for a lot of different communities in Oklahoma, and it’s long overdue for Shawnee to consider that option as well. As we run down the list of things we hope to accomplish in this fiscal year several recurring themes are in place. One is to stay the course on what helps our existing businesses, another is what can we do to keep the consumers satisfied locally, while at the same time helping the communities quality of life. Our new list of “to-do” items also focuses on the future; tomorrow will undoubtedly be here before we know it. We look forward to what the future may offer our area pertaining to opportunities for growth.

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. 6

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Homemade Applesauce I recently learned how to make my own applesauce when my son started eating solids 6 months ago. I enjoyed making this because I could make it in bulk and freeze leftovers. Ice cube trays are great for freezing fruits and vegetables. Once they are frozen, you can pop them out into a freezer safe baggie and just grab as needed. The good thing about making this for my son is that it is something I could eat too. You can even add ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon and/or dash of vanilla extract for some extra flavor. Ingredients: • 12 Gala apples, peeled, cored and cubed • Enough water to cover apples Directions: To prep the apples, use a sharp vegetable peeler or paring knife and cut away the outer peel. Then quarter the apple and use a paring knife to cut out the tough core parts from the quarters. Or use an apple peeler corer. Put apples in a large pot and cover apples with water. Cook until apples are very tender and start to break apart, about 20 minutes. Drain water off apples. Transfer apples to blender and puree for a smooth consistency or pulse on and off or a chunkier texture. Let cool before serving. Freeze remaining portions. Makes: 12 servings, ½ cup each Nutritional Information per Serving: Calories: 95 - Total Fat: 0 g - Saturated Fat: 0 g - Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 2 mg - Total Carbohydrates: 25 g - Fiber: 2 g - Protein: .5 g Nutrition 101 Tip: Apples provide a wealth of vitamin C for immunity. Maybe that’s where the saying, “eating an apple a day keeps the doctor away” comes from. The no added sugar in this recipe is great for those who are counting calories, people with diabetes, and it’s a healthy and delicious snack for kids.

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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OBU/Shawnee Community Orchestra

Auditions for the

15th Season of OBU/SCO Jim Hansford, conductor

August 24

MON

7 p.m. Raley Chapel Oklahoma Baptist University

For information contact:

Dr. Jim Hansford 585.4334 or 273.2273 jim.hansford@okbu.edu

Audition Requirements • Have a prepared piece (solo or etude) to demonstratate your skills • Be prepared to sight read a short musical excerpt

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Choirs and Ensembles

Shawnee Honor Choir, grades 3-7 (auditioned) Concert Choir, grades 8-12 (auditioned) Discovery Singers, grades 2-5 (non-auditioned) String Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble

Choir Auditions – August 17-19 | 3-5 p.m. Raley Chapel, Room 143

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Conchita Hansford, Preparatory Director 585.4323 or 273.2273 conchita.hansford@okbu.edu

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It’s Never Too Late to Join the PTA Most parents consider it vital to participate in the activities which affect their children. They sit faithfully through dance lessons and baseball practices. They shuttle little ones from art classes to church choir to gymnastics. Why then do many parents struggle to show that same support for a school’s parent-teacher association, which affects those very same children? This month we’ll take a look at some of our local PTAs, PTOs, and Community Clubs to find out what they do and how residents can help them be successful in a variety of ways, even if time is limited. Neetria Templeton, mother of three, served as the president of both the Shawnee Middle School and Sequoyah PTAs last year. During her nine years of involvement at Sequoyah, the group has accomplished a great deal, including the recent funding of a track around the playground and the purchase of iPads and iPad carts, playground and art supplies, and meals for teachers and students. Their SPA (Sequoyah Parents Association) also holds an annual school-wide carnival with games and prizes. Lindsay Goodson, last year’s Community Club president at South Rock Creek, has three children at the school. The group’s major fundraiser, an annual Thanksgiving dinner, has supplemented the purchase of a drive-thru awning for car-riding students and an electronic sign for the school. Other investments include Smart boards, landscaping, a water fountain, and reimbursement to teachers for classroom supplies. “It’s our goal to continue to better our school through financial assistance and man hours,” she said. The turkey dinner, for example, has been taking place for over fifty years. Shana Hibler, whose son attends Grove School, will head up their PTO during the new term. She said that last year was a record-breaker in terms of fundraising, and the group’s efforts have led

by: Jamie Bergsten

to many recent improvements, including large donations toward a new baseball field and pre-K playground. They have also purchased Apple TVs for classrooms, iPad carts, t-shirts for the academic teams, supplies for teachers and the school nurse, and a PE curriculum. Hibler cited other contributions made by PTO members, including their assistance at open house and during a newlyannual 5K run. Despite the differences in how these groups spend their money, there are commonalities among their membership, goals, and concerns. All three ladies would love to see growth and said that a great deal of time is spent trying to find ways to increase their numbers. “I know that my excuse not to help early-on was that I never knew when the meetings were. I never thought to just ask a teacher what they needed help with. The fear of not knowing anyone in the group was also a factor. There could be so many reasons (for others not to participate), but I’d love to see SPA grow in numbers,” Templeton said, “and allow us to spread the responsibility to more than the steady few.” Goodson agreed. “If being the president of an organization isn’t something you’re able to do, fit in where you can. Trust me when I say, no help goes unnoticed!” Hibler mentioned that Grove’s group has tried numerous meeting times in order to reach more people and allow them to be involved, yet it didn’t seem to draw in many more volunteers. “Some parents don’t work in Shawnee, so even a lunchtime meeting wasn’t convenient for them,” she said. However, these officers pointed out that adding new members is incredibly important and means the addition of new ideas. “The more individuals who get involved, the more we are able to achieve,” Hibler said. Though membership might seem intimidating for fathers, due to the large number

South Rock Creek Thanksgiving PTA Fundraiser

of women in the groups, they would love to see more dads taking part as well. Goodson noted, “It’s refreshing and vital to the organization’s success to bring in new leaders and ideas. Turnover in the group is actually very important.” Social media has been used by these organizations in varying degrees. While Goodson called it “a great tool” and Hibler hopes to see her group create its own Facebook page, there are downsides as well. Templeton said, “You can run into questions of who can post and how to keep it positive and who’s in charge. It’s scary how quickly something can get out of hand. So for now, we stick to paper notes for the school, and we group-text and email like crazy.” Mike Crawford, superintendent at SRC, said that his school’s Community Club even led to the implementation of a new sport on campus. “When football started here a few years ago, they made the financial decision to help pay for the program. The school now pays the cost, but the Community Club helped get the ball rolling.” When asked what the role of any school staff should be in such a group, he added, “All of the teachers and administrators need to find the time to help a parent group with its fundraising activities. They’re always looking for people with new ideas for both fundraising and to distribute funds.” Because meeting times and days are likely to change with each year’s installation of officers, it’s best to contact a school’s office for more information about your local PTA. They’d be happy to have your help!

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WELCOME HOME

The Traveling Drama Troupe

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A local group of kids are taking the show on the road! Drama Club Connection will be performing at different schools throughout the community. The club’s founder and artistic director, Teresa Burnett, started the theatre company in 2011. Currently, there are about 50 children of various ages performing and staging shows. Drama Club Connection has performed 40 live plays and skits for children in Pottawatomie County and surrounding communities. Other independent theatre groups have used local theatres, so their troupe is unique. “Why go into the community? To inspire the imaginations of children and hopefully impact them in a positive way through plays laced with underlying lessons addressing things such as bullying, kindness, honesty, and the importance of celebrating each other’s differences. Gentle lessons about liking yourself, having confidence, and the importance of education and friendship are communicated through lively personified characters. In addition, plays are chosen to introduce audiences to classic literature such as the “Adventures of Br’er Rabbit,” and “Jack and the Wonder Beans.” Toppie Lincicome, former school counselor for Shawnee Early Childhood Center, said the troupe is a delight to watch. “I’ve had her homeschool drama bunch come out to SECC at least twice maybe more. I’ve always enjoyed how they creatively come up with special effects making vines grow and such. I love their productions. Her productions have always been well received by the SECC kids and faculty.”

Drama, said Burnett, is a great way to build skills and character. “Skills learned and practiced in drama help build confidence, foster listening skills, teach how to communicate effectively, instill the value of others, and promot team work. It aids in the development of leadership, inspires courage and the confidence to pursue dreams, champions self-control and personal discipline, promotes the usefulness of constructive criticism. I find it also helps develop social skills, teaches how to relax and concentrate under pressure, and encourages creativity. These skills are important in life and valued by future employers.” Students find their own place to fit into the troupe: set design, stage management, makeup, costume design, script writing, and directing. “Teresa has built a great rapport with her drama kids and one of the things I enjoy is how she finds a place for just about everyone,” said Lincicome. Burnett is a home educator and the students are homeschooled, which allows more flexibility in performance times and locations. Homeschool coops often create extracurricular programs like drama clubs to offer home educated students the same opportunities found in public and private education. They currently use the Sarkey’s Performing Arts Center on St. Gregory University campus for practices on Friday mornings. Burnett said she plans to open up practice times after school for public school students if there is enough interest. For more information email Teresa Burnett, dramaclubconnection@yahoo.com

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Friends of the Library by: Mindy Wood

Behind the scenes at the Shawnee Public Library is a team of dedicated advocates for literacy. Friends of the Library raise money and donate funds to provide opportunities for learning and literacy all year long in Shawnee and surrounding communities. The volunteer board of 12 elected members meets quarterly at the library where they offer refreshments, a speaker or performance, and a chance to learn more about all the library has for the community. They promote library membership, community participation, and raise awareness about the benefits of literacy. Their annual book sale, a local favorite for book lovers, brings in most of the money they spend throughout the year on programs and events which fall beyond the library’s budget. This year they managed $7,000 for numerous literacy projects. “There are so many programs funded fully or in part by the Friends of the Library,” said

Pottawatomie County Branch Manager, Karen Bays. “During the summer we have large touring programs which are paid for by the Pioneer Library System and sponsors, but we have a lot more programs that we wouldn’t have without their help.” The annual book sale will be in October when donated and otherwise unused books are put on sale at the library. Teens from the Shawnee High School Honor Society load up and set up books in addition to working the sales event. An ongoing book sale is near the front desk by the library entrance. These heroes of literacy are behind programs all year long. “Even though the Friends of the Library are in Shawnee, they have supported our outreach efforts to south Pottawatomie County schools,” said Bays. Schools in Maud, Asher, Macomb, and Wanette are limited by the number and variety of books they can offer students in >

“There are so many programs funded fully or in part by the Friends of the Library,” www.shawneeoutlook.com

continued from pg. 13

their libraries. Avedis provided a grant for Information Stations, a system that rotates books from one location to another. The Friends of the Library continue to support programs in these “literacy desert” areas, providing craft supplies and other materials to ensure they enjoy the same opportunities found in Shawnee and larger communities in the Pioneer Library System. Mary Sims, the library’s outreach coordinator, is appreciative of their support for the elderly. Sims reads to residents at retired living communities. “I have what I call an adult story time and I read about things have to do with the holidays of the month or in the summer I read about fishing and family reunions,” said Sims. “They are greatest audience and so appreciative. It’s wonderful all the things that the Friends support. They fund a lot of the outreach that we do. ” The Friends of the Library has also helped make it possible for the Shawnee Middle School to welcome Native American Choctaw author and storyteller, Tim Tingle. He will speak to the entire student body in October and offer a special presentation to the SMS library club members during a luncheon in the

school’s library. Anyone who wants to become a Friends of the Library member can contact the Shawnee Public Library to apply. “We would love to have more members,” said Sue Winterringer, president. “We’re all readers, doing all we can to promote literacy.” Bays said, “All of us are so appreciative of their advocacy for literacy and learning.” Drop by their booth at the Pottawatomie County Free Fair next month to visit with Friends’ members or contact the Shawnee Public Library for more information: pioneerlibrarysystem.org, 405-275-6353.

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DaLacy 4-H President

DOCKERY by: Mindy Wood

DaLacy Dockrey has worked hard with the 4-H Club in Dale, Oklahoma and now it’s paying off. She will head to Oklahoma State University this fall, thanks to a Gates Millennium Scholarship, which will pay all tuition and living costs. Dockrey is one of 38 Oklahoma high school seniors to receive the scholarship and one out of 1,000 recipients in 47 states. Following in the footsteps of her older sister, Whitney, who was also a Gates Millennium Scholarship recipient, Dockrey joined 4-H when she was 9. DaLacy was voted Oklahoma 4-H State President July 2014 and has just finished her term. “If I hadn’t joined I would not be prepared to tackle life with the skills I have today. Without 4-H I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’ve had,” said Dockrey. The goal of 4-H, the world’s largest youth organization, is to “develop citizenship, leadership, responsibility, and life skills for youth through experiential learning.” Arts, sciences, and service projects are the three predominant outlets for activities. Dockrey said that 4-H isn’t “your grandpa’s organization anymore,” with diverse learning experiences in addition to agriculture and livestock. “They have robotics, theatre, food science, shooting sports, and childcare >

www.shawneeoutlook.com

continued from pg. 17

development; it’s not the same it was 100 years ago. There’s a place for everyone in 4-H.” The organization has always been known for agriculture and livestock, but demographics for 4-H show that the evolution of programs has broadened membership. Most Oklahoma participants live in cities with the remainder living in rural and farm communities. The top programs in the state are in science and technology. Dockrey showed livestock and grew vegetables during her 4-H career and her service projects revolved around children. She started Project Linus, which provides tie-style fleece blankets to children who experience trauma. The club made over 800 blankets. “My emphasis has been on service projects because it’s about giving back. We supplied all of Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics agents with blankets because a lot of times when they do raids and drug busts, there are children in the car or in the home. That’s been one of the highlights of my partnerships,” said Dockrey. She is also responsible for starting the 4-H Ambassador Program in Pottawatomie County. “They learn how to make 4-H more visible in the community. They learn to write articles, PSAs, thank you notes, and tell their 4-H

www.shawneeoutlook.com

story,” said Dockrey. Some of her memorable experiences include traveling on behalf of the organization. She has been to Washington D.C., Kansas City, Denver, and Atlanta. “Traveling is a great experience, especially to do it with other youth who want to travel and learn and do good things as well,” said Dockrey. She plans to seek a degree in agricultural economics and natural resources. Water resource management was a subject she studied during high school. She gave public speeches and completed educational projects regarding the need for and best way to harness water. “We’re going to need water. The population keeps growing and we’re living longer. How can Oklahoma benefit economically and be smart about resources, between progress and sustainability? It always interested me.” Dockrey hopes more students will consider 4-H. “I think youth make the (poor) decisions they do because they don’t feel they have value, that they belong. It makes you

feel like you’re worth something to know you can accomplish things. It’s not a competition, per se, it’s about personal growth and what 4-H cultivates.” An opportunity to see 4-H in action will be at the Pottawatomie County Free Fair in September where participants show their work through exhibits and demonstrate what they have learned for that year. Volunteers with 4-H help run the barnyard animal area and other functions at the fair. For more information about 4-H, visit oces.okstate.edu or contact your child’s school regarding existing 4-H clubs.

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United Artists

by: Mindy Wood

Shawnee is now home to a unique gallery, both in the diverse works of art they display and the relationships that propel its evolution and growth. Broadway Arts Gallery & Studio is a co-op of artists who longed for the synergy of being part of a group and the opportunity to display their own work and the works of guest artists. Once the co-op votes to approve a guest artist, their work is featured for a month in the gallery. The third Friday evening of the month, they hold a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres in honor of the guest artist. The art scene has begun to heat up with the Downtown Block Party every third Friday evening when artists display their work in the downtown Shawnee area. Broadway Arts Gallery is one of several new art hubs dedicated to exposing Shawnee to the arts. “We are delighted to be part of what I think will be a growing cultural scene available to Shawnee,” said coop member and artist, Cody Deem. The gallery, though not a large space, thoughtfully displays the work of eight artists at present. The work ranges from well-established artists, such as Bill Denny and Gene Beavers, to talented, budding artists on their own path to discovery. The diverse offerings currently include paintings in acrylic, oil and water color, sculpture, and jewelry. Guest artists bring something new, however, so it is not limited to these genres. In August, Dani Guess will be among three guests. She is a fine line artist who uses pencil and pen for her work. Bridgett Moore, who teaches pottery at Gordon Cooper Technology Center and Jade Wagner, a painter will also join the walls at the gallery in August. In September the gallery welcomes John Wolfe, whose work is a favorite at the JRB, a premier gallery in the Paseo District of Oklahoma City. He is a painter and sculpturist. The retired educator’s work has appeared on OETA on a number of occasions. Wolfe will also conduct a mixed media workshop the last Saturday in September. The gallery is as much a place to enjoy the works of other artists as it is to explore one’s own artistic delights. “Our goal is to have at least one workshop every month,” said Deem. “We have an ongoing bi-

By Link Cowen

By Christy Thompson

Link Cowen and Cody Deem

weekly art class. You can do anything you want, it’s not instructional. Glen Thomas from Oklahoma City taught art all his life and he individualizes the class.” During regular hours Thursday through Saturday from 1 PM to 6 PM, visitors may also get a chance to see artists at work. “It’s very laid back and relaxed here,” said Deem who often paints during her sittings in the gallery. “I don’t really consider myself an artist, but I’m having fun and I’m proud to be associated with these artists because they’re really good.” One of the group’s founders, Link Cowen, is a member of the Oklahoma Sculpture Society and his work has appeared at the In Your Eye Gallery in the

By Cody Deem

Paseo District. He said he’s excited to be part of a much larger picture. “We’re all committed to growing, we’re all friends and we want everyone to succeed; not just other galleries but all artists.” For more information, visit broadwayartsgallery.com or find them on Facebook “Broadway Arts Gallery and Studio.”

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SHAWNEE HISTORY

Benson Park The County’s Crown Jewel

Did you know Benson Park was the “Crown Jewel” and the place to be for the first quarter of the 1900’s in Pottawatomie County? The park was designed and financed by the Shawnee Traction Company and located between Shawnee and Tecumseh on the west side of Squirrel Creek, a quarter mile east of what is now Gordon Cooper Drive. Twenty-one and a half acres was purchased for the park. It was opened six weeks later although construction continued. Squirrel Creek was dammed and a lagoon created. A two-story building was constructed, the first floor being for boat rentals and the second floor was a skating rink that doubled as a dance floor with a suspended orchestra pit above. The dance floor was home to themed dances, such as the kimono ball for “Oriental Week” and the “Oriental Bazaar” in 1908. Lanterns were hung on the trees in the park. In September of 1907, the Opera House opened. Admission was only twenty cents. It featured performances by traveling vaudeville, variety shows, and stock companies. In 1911, a Monster Gala Week brought five big vaudeville shows. The cost was five cents per ticket for either the matinee or evening performance. In 1909, a roller coaster was constructed and named the Circle Dip. It was touted to be the largest roller coaster west of the Mississippi. On opening day, 1,040 people came to the park for a ride. The Circle Dip was advertised as the cure for various maladies, such as dementia, brain fog, etc. In 1913, the opera house was converted into an indoor swimming pool called “The Plunge.” On opening day 1,200 people lined up to swim. Admission was twenty-five cents and included

by: Dr. Tom Henry courtesy Pott. Co. Historical Society Member

a towel. Swimsuits were available for rental. The pool was equipped with a slide and a rope swing suspended from the ceiling. After “The Plunge” was opened, the lagoon was drained and Squirrel Creek returned to its normal course. A band shell was constructed and provided free concerts on Sunday nights. The park band played often, the First Regimental Band, and other visiting bands were also featured. Twelve thousand people attended the John Phillip Sousa Band concert in 1915. On the east side of Squirrel Creek, a baseball field opened in 1911, with the first game being between Shawnee and Tecumseh. Admission was 25 cents, and for an additional 10 cents, a field chair was available. In addition to the regular baseball teams, there were girl’s teams, and games between Brooksville and Earlsboro. The baseball field was one of the more popular attractions. An airstrip on the north side of the park gave county residents their first look at an airplane. Thousands attended the park on holidays, such as Independence Day and Labor Day. County fairs were held for many years at the park beginning in 1908. The park saw the highest attendance from 1910 to 1918. Transportation changed from the trolley to the automobile. The trolley company ceased operation in 1927 and the park land was sold in 1930. The Plunge was filled in, the skating rink and dance floor burned. The Circle Dip was dismantled. Benson Park became a pleasant memory. If you drive by Squirrel Creek today, you will see a creek and a field of large trees. That is all that remains of the Crown Jewel of Pottawatomie County.

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CITY BEAT

MA 21:21

Faucets, Flushes, & Pipes Water at the Utility Department The American Society of Civil Engineers issued a “report card score” of D+ on the condition of infrastructure for the nation in 2013. The report included drinking and wastewater infrastructure among other items such as roads, bridges, rail, parks, energy, and schools. ASCE estimated an investment of $3.6 trillion dollars is needed by 2020. The City of Shawnee Utility Department hopes to get ahead of the crisis with a master water and sewer plan to address the improvements over a 30 year period. Although the funding has yet to be worked out, Brad Schmidt, deputy utility director said it is critical the city braces for growth and the ongoing deterioration. “The plan gives us a starting point from where we need to be in order to meet demand for the projected population,” said Schmidt. “Our newest wastewater treatment plant was built in 1980, remodeled in 1996. The other one was built in 1953. A lot of what’s in the ground is from the 1930’s and 1940’s. We’ve taken care of some major problem areas, but the rest has to be replaced at some point.” Main breaks have been a nuisance for several years. As bothersome as closed streets and gravel-filled patches the size of a small car can be, some days there are more crises than there is daylight or manpower for this department. It takes a minimum of four hours to repair a main break, often up to twelve hours. Schmidt said he has had crews working around the clock for days. “You have a supervisor in the office, two men running service orders, four men on a break and then you get two more main breaks that day. I have to pull men from the valve crew and water waste collections. When the crisis calms down, then it’s time to play catch up.” What are they doing when they’re not five feet in the ground with shovels and wrenches? Valves and fire hydrants have to be maintained. Sewer lines have to be flushed. There are daily, weekly, and monthly water samples to be taken and submitted to the Department of Environmental Quality. Crews also inspect sewer lines by inserting cameras into the lines and viewing footage on monitors in a van. Schmidt said they often find grease clogging the city sewer lines or causing homeowners grief in the lines that run

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Ready for Success It used to be that a college degree was a graduate’s ticket to a higher income bracket, with benefits and a cushy retirement plan to boot. Times have changed, according to a May 2015 report by Newsweek. Forty percent of unemployed Americans are college graduates. Those who are finding employment within their field of study are making less than those who were hired 10 years ago. Steeper university tuition and lower pay is causing high school students and their parents to reexamine what it means to earn a living. Career technology centers are finally overcoming the stigma that tech careers are for the less talented or less intelligent. Assistant Superintendent of Instruction at Gordon Cooper Technology Center, Mike Matlock, said students are getting their credentials and finding good paying jobs more quickly than college graduates. “Welders can start out at $25 to $35 an hour. With our aviation program, students with credentials are finding jobs within 18 months and are starting out at $20 an hour. Precision machining starts at $15 an hour. Our average student pay, starting out, is $13.40,” he said. Even at $13.40 an hour, that’s almost double the Oklahoma minimum wage of $7.25. To give students the best possible chance at success, leadership clubs teach skills students need to get to the top of the employment ladder. These clubs teach students everything from

by: Mindy Wood public speaking and how to interview successfully to the right way to run a committee. “They learn soft skills as well as real life opportunities to apply their technical skills within their area,” said Matlock. Skills USA includes trades such as automotive, aviation, and machining. FCCLA is about childcare fields and service careers in the special event and food service industry. BPA is for students pursuing business careers in accounting, networking, office management, and digital media. HOSA is for health professionals such as nursing and soon will include physical therapy. While many club organizations see a decline in membership after middle school, career tech organizations focus only on high school students. Other than the pre-engineering program which accepts sophomores, GCTC clubs accepts junior and senior students, in addition to young adults who have graduated. Matlock said they have been more proactive in communicating with schools and parents about the opportunities in career tech. “This is a great opportunity for your son or daughter without a lot of college debt,” he said. Local businesses who are concerned about how to replace a retiring workforce have also started partnering with GCTC. For more information, visit gctech.org or call 405-273-7493.

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EVENTS

KEEP THE CHANGE

Craft Your Way to Savings

AUGUST AUGUST 1ST -31ST August at the MGMOA: After school art classes begin on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Classes are separated by age group and time slots. Also, don’t miss the Oklahoma Modern: Contemporary Art from the Permanent Collection, which will be on display through the end of the month.

AUGUST 13TH First day of school for all Shawnee Schools. See Shawnee public school’s newest website for back-to-school news and events: shawnee.k12.ok.us

AUGUST 21ST If you were as excited as I was to hear Hobby Lobby was coming to town, you probably already know it’s a fantastic place to save money, but in case you’re new to the crafting world, or just to Hobby Lobby, here are some of my favorite ways to save money there and at other crafting stores!

Come out to the downtown Shawnee area for the Downtown Block Party where artists, live music, and food vendors set up along Main and Bell Streets. Galleries, restaurants, and businesses will host a variety of artwork from 6PM to 9PM.

AUGUST 27TH

The most essential rule for shopping at Hobby Lobby, or even JoAnn, is to never purchase anything full price, because you will almost always be able to get a discount one way or another. Both of these stores offer frequent sales on all their merchandise – if what you want isn’t 30-50% off this week, wait a week or two. You will almost be guaranteed to find your item discounted soon. If you can’t wait, search out a coupon. Hobby Lobby offers a coupon weekly for 40% off any one item at regular price. Always have one of these with you! You can find the coupon on their website, or, if you have a smartphone, download their app so you can show the coupon on your phone! For JoAnn, sign up for their mailing list and text alerts on their website. You will regularly have coupons (including coupons for up to 60% off regular price!) mailed, texted and e-mailed to you so you will never be without!

Shawnee Research 101 Learn about all the resources the Shawnee Public Library has to help you do your research for school, for business, or just because you want to know. Registration required. Call 405-273-6353 or email shawnee_library@pioneerlibrarysystem.org

If your craft of choice involves sewing or textiles, be sure to also navigate over to Hancock Fabrics. They, too, have an excellent mailing list with regular discounts on fabrics and great coupons and sales, as well.

SEPTEMBER 8TH -12TH

Crafting can be an expensive hobby, but if you work it right with your sales and coupons, you don’t have to break the bank. And if you’re crafting gifts and décor, you’ll be saving even more over pricier storebought alternatives!

Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home 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)

SEPTEMBER 4TH Junior Service League is thrilled to once again work with the support of the Shawnee High School Athletics Department to bring back Kick Off Supper. On Friday, September 4, 2015 JSL members will serve a chili dog supper with all the fixins’ from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Make your way to the Pottawatomie County Free Fair in Shawnee at the Expo Center for an array of activities perfect for children and the whole family. Come to this annual fair for open class competitions, arts and crafts, commercial vendor and educational booths, delicious fair food, midway games, and evening carnival rides. There will be daily livestock shows and exhibitions too. Don’t miss the fair’s farmhand olympics, as well as an antique tractor display, garden tractor pull, and demonstrations. The Pottawatomie County Free Fair will also treat visitors to barrel racing and team roping events.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

One Cowboy. One Horse. Many Wishes. by: Mindy Wood

A young cowboy riding across America to raise money for childhood charities came through Shawnee last month. Tye Sturgeon, age 20, was on his way to Texas where he is raising money for Western Wishes, a charity that grants wishes to terminally ill children. Through high winds, rain, heat, snow, and traffic, Sturgeon has braved the elements from his hometown in Batesville, Arkansas through Mississippi, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas, and now, Oklahoma. He has travelled nearly 2,000 miles so far on his horse, Edward, a 12-year-old American Paint Horse. According to Sturgeon’s website, his horse is likely from Oklahoma. His journey began in March 2014 after he watched a video of Western Wishes. “I’m a softie when it comes to kids,” said Sturgeon. “I knew this was what I wanted to do, to help benefit charities and try to be a role model for kids.” Sturgeon is a singer and songwriter who, for a time, competed in rodeos where he sustained multiple concussions from riding bulls and broncos. “I got hurt pretty bad. I lived to see another day and I’m blessed to be walking around,” he said. His latest song, “Wish” is being aired in multiple states on radio stations and is a reflection of the journey he has begun. National and local media have caught up with him, but he’s also enjoyed meeting people who follow his journey on Facebook. Friends “back home” help Sturgeon map out the safest routes and he publishes them to his self-titled page. While he’s often spent sleepless nights camping in the elements, he’s stayed with fans of his journey too. Jennifer Peckman spotted Sturgeon in 30

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Shawnee and put him up at her home. She heard about Sturgeon after her daughter, Ashlynn, rode with him a short distance during her visit with family out of town. The Peckhams started following him online. “I was at the carwash on Harrison and I saw him,” said Jennifer. “I knew he was coming this way but I didn’t know when. We knew he needed a place to stay, so he rode down.” After some much needed rest and a home cooked meal, he set out for Texas. He has a long way to go still, as he makes his way to 48 states in one trip. He said the experience has been humbling. “When you’re on a long ride like I’m on, it brings you down to earth and makes you see all the goodness God’s done to this earth. You sit there and look out across the pasture and watch the sun go down. You get to see all the stuff that most people don’t get to see. I get to meet great people too.” Sturgeon has big plans after his ride. “I absolutely love the Cowboy lifestyle and code of living and greatly admire the honest, simple way of life that is being lost to a digital age,” he wrote on his website. “Someday I want to settle on a

piece of land I can call my own and train horses and mules. I joke that after this ride, I might call it the Lazy48, which not only refers to the states I’ll be travelling in, but was ironically my jersey number in football.” Although his goal was initially to benefit Western Wishes, he plans to participate in trail rides to raise money for other charities. His goal is to raise $30,000. Corporate sponsors help fund his ride. For more information, visit Tye Sturgeon on Facebook, @cowboytye on Twitter, or see Americanwishride.com

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