Shawnee Outlook March 2025 by Shawnee Outlook

BLAZING

keep the change

DIAGNOSE FINANCIAL HEALTH WITH A BUDGET

Managing a budget can seem overwhelming, but it’s really about managing your outflow so that it doesn’t exceed the inflow. I use a budgeting app (YNAB), but even so, I don’t often evaluate my monthly expenses vs. income when deciding to add new monthly costs. If you haven’t assessed your budget recently, I challenge you to sit down and take a hard look at the numbers.

Make a list of all monthly expenses. Whether bills, streaming services, extracurriculars or subscriptions, try to list all the predictables. Add the things that vary month-to-month but are still necessary – groceries, fuel –and those that you tend to spend every month, even if not necessary, such as on activities or eating out.

Make a list of all your potential income. If you have a variable income, try your best to come up with an expected or average monthly amount.

Compare the numbers. Is your income greater than expenses? Perfect. Add the excess to a savings account rather than find new ways to spend. If not, some changes need to be made.

Trim the fat. Look again at that list of expenses you made. What subscriptions can be cancelled? Which streaming services could you do without? How can you lower the cost of activities or groceries? Have you been spending too much eating out? If you can’t lower your outflow, you may need to seek ways to increase your inflow. Ask hard questions and make responsible decisions.

Take care of debt. If you have any debt to your name – credit cards, loans, etc – make a plan to increase your monthly payments to those. As in the above point, trimming more expenses from your budget to get those debts taken care of quickly. Then, stick to the plan.

Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home mother of four. She enjoys finding new ways to stretch the paycheck and sharing her favorite tips and deals.

Angela Rowland

CELEBRATE HOW 'FOOD CONNECTS US'

appy National Nutrition Month.

National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign established in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, the goal is that more people learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

This year’s theme is “Food Connects Us.” Food is a connecting factor for our cultures, our families and our friends. Sharing a meal is an opportunity to learn about its preparation, who made it and where the ingredients were sourced. Health, memories, traditions, seasons and access can all impact our relation with food.

While these factors influence the foods we eat, the foods we eat influence our health. I challenge you to celebrate this month at home with your families.

Here are a few ideas from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:

• Try one new fruit or vegetable each week.

• Let each family member pick out a new recipe with fruits and veggies in it to try each week.

• Plan to eat more meals together as a family.

• Be physically active together each day.

• Practice mindful eating by limiting screen time at meal time, including phones.

• Try a plant-based meal that includes beans or lentils.

• Let everyone help with food preparation.

• Try out new herbs and spices to bring more flavor to the meals. All these ideas are doable and not too overwhelming. There is a way for all family members, no matter their age to benefit from National Nutrition Month.

For more resources check out www.eatright.org to incorporate more ideas into your household, community, work and schools.

Below is a recipe to give a try with your family this month.

Hamburger Soup

With it being National Nutrition Month, I wanted to show a recipe that your whole family could help with since this year’s theme is “Food Connects Us.” When you are in the kitchen together as a family you nat-

urally connect more. This is a time that you can catch up together and talk about your day together.

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef or turkey or venison

1 onion diced

2 cloves garlic minced

2 medium potatoes, diced

3 ½ cups low sodium broth

28oz canned diced tomatoes with juice

Directions:

8oz canned tomato sauce

2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups frozen mixed vegetables

Brown meat, onion and garlic until no pink remains in the meat. Drain any fat. Add potatoes, broth, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, seasoning and bay leaves. Simmer covered 10 minutes. Stir in vegetables. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Makes: 8 servings

Nutrition per serving (1 ½ cups)

Calories: 183 Total Fat: 4.5g Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 5.5mg Sodium: 605mg Carbohydrates: 19g

Fiber: 3g

Protein: 15g

Nutrition 101 Tip: Soup can be such a great meal cold or not outside. It is one of many ways to pack vegetables into a meal. This soup can easily have five different vegetables alone. Soup is also something you can easily double up so you can have leftovers for lunch or have for multiple dinners. Soup is also something that is easy for kids to help with. It can be fun for them to pour the items in the pot and stir it. Feel free to play around with this and make it your own. Whatever vegetables you decide to go with, enjoy.

Andrea Beck, a registered dietitian and personal trainer, received her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She offers personal training and nutrition education through an online platform, StrongHER

Dr. Brian Chaffin

NATIVE CONNECTIONS GRANT PROGRAM

• Promotes the health and well-being of Native youth who represent the future health of their communities.

• Helps American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities identify and address behavioral health needs of our Native youth.

• Supports grantees in reducing suicidal behavior and substance use among Native youth up to age 24, and supporting youth as they transition into adulthood.

• Promotes suicide and substance abuse prevention resources to our tribal members as well as our community.

• Encourages youth to develop strong bonds by arranging activity schedules around the AI/ AN youth and provide consistency (regularly scheduled activities).

• Plans monthly events for AI/AN youth and their families to attend. The grant has reached out for Native Instructors to teach our AI/AN youth traditional, native skills.

art of the matter

HOLY DAYS Religious Traditions Source Of Inspiration For

Artists

SUBMITTED BY DELAYNNA TRIM, CURATOR OF COLLECTIONS AT MABEE-GERRER MUSEUM OF ART

There are several religious holidays in March this year. For many Christians, Ash Wednesday on March 5 starts the season of Lent during which many observers will fast or abstain from meat or other foods. Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer and charity giving in the Islamic tradition, starts this year on March 1. The Jewish holiday of Purim on March 13-14 celebrates Esther’s intercession with the king on behalf of the Jewish people.

The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art has a great painting illustrating this moment, “Esther before Ahasuerus” by Giovanni Barbieri. This piece was created in the Baroque era, so there is a lot of emotion being shown. It depicts the moment that Esther has burst into the King’s chamber unrequested. He can have her killed for doing this, but instead he is pointing his scepter at her showing that she is safe.

At the same time, he has his hand over his heart showing that he is doing this because he loves her. With the heightened emotions of that moment, Esther faints and is caught by her ladies-in-waiting. In the moments after this, Esther asks for the king to save the Jewish people and shows that Haman was to blame. Since the king loves her, he believes her and ends up hanging Haman for his crimes.

The name Ahasuerus is used for three different kings in the Hebrew Bible, including the one who marries Esther. Many historians believe the Ahasuerus from book of Esther is Xerxes I as his empire as described in the Bible matches the

Achaemenid empire over which Xerxes ruled.

Giovanni Francesco Barbieri is also known by his nickname, Guercino, which means squinty eyed one. He was born into a family of peasant farmers in Cento, Italy. When he was 16, he was apprenticed to the painter Benedetto Gennari. He worked for Pope Gregory XV and others in Rome from 1621-1623. After Pope Gregory XV’s death in 1623, he returned to Cento. He continued to work until his death in 1666 in Bologna.

The painting by Barbieri is not the only piece that the museum has depicting this scene. There is an etching by Francesco Bartolozzi and a similar one by Robert Strange both based on Guercino’s painting. This was fairly common to create etchings or engravings based on well known works. This allowed more people to own and enjoy the artwork. Bartolozzi’s is more loosely based on his painting, or Guercino could have created several paintings of the same subject matter, which was also very common. Bartolozzi and Strange created their copies more than 100 years after the original painting was created.

Purim is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated by listening to the Book of Esther (Megillat Esther), eating a festive meal, giving gifts of food to friends

(mishloach manot) and giving to those in need (matanot l’evyonim).

Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of Adar, the second month of the Hebrew calendar. The Jewish calendar is a lunisolar calendar because it combines monthly lunar cycles with the solar year.

One of the traditions is that while reading the Book of Esther, people will make noise every time Haman’s name is mentioned.

Discover how to create a noisemaker out of cups and other craft ideas for Purim by checking out www.mgmoa.org/ art-projects.

Supplies:

2 Plastic cups

Dried Beans or beads

Popsicle stick

Hot glue or other glue

Stickers

Markers

Fill one of the cups 1/4 full of dried beans, beads or anything else that will make a noise when shaken.

Attach the end of the popsicle stick to the edge of one of the cups with hot glue or other strong glue, then glue the other cup on so that the beans/beads can flow freely between the cups. Strong tape like duct tape can also work for this.

Decorate with stickers, markers, paint, etc.

Esther Before Ahasuerus by Barbieri

Scan this code to visit the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art’s athome project page.

EVERY SEASON

Personal Nutrition About Balance, Not Trends

SUBMITTED BY POTTAWATOMIE GO

elevision and print advertising is chock full of the latest information on eating healthy and losing weight, but how is a consumer supposed to know if that information is truly more than just the latest fad?

Fortunately, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics created a nutrition education and information campaign called National Nutrition Month, which is observed in March. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

“If you’ve got some not-so-healthy habits, the dietary guidelines for Americans suggest starting with small changes in order to make healthier choices that will last,” said Sonya McDaniel, family and consumer science educator with the Oklahoma State University Extension in Shawnee. “(Focus on) low-fat and fat-free dairy, lean meats and other protein foods and oils while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, added sugars and sodium. A healthy eating pattern is adaptable to a person's taste preferences, traditions, culture and budget.”

Sometimes people get caught up in the latest eating trends, but research shows following a healthy eating pattern across a lifespan is the best choice. Choose an eating pattern at an appropriate calorie level to help achieve and maintain a healthy body weight while supporting nutrient adequacy and reducing the risk of chronic disease.

“To keep it interesting, focus on variety, nutrient density and amount,” said McDaniel, who also serves as the director for the Oklahoma State University Extension. “Meet nutrient needs within calorie limits by choosing a variety of nutrient-dense foods within all food groups.

“It’s not a good idea to eliminate entire food groups, but remember some of these foods need to be consumed in moderation.”

Try to consume less than 10 percent of your calories from added sugars. In addition, limit calories from saturated fats and reduce sodium intake. Cut back on foods and beverages higher in these components and shift your focus to healthier choices. ChooseMyPlate.gov is a great resource for additional information about healthy eating.

McDaniel – who is also part of the Pottawatomie GO Fruit and Veggie Up Coalition – suggests eating a variety of vegetables from all the sub groups, including dark green, red and orange,

It is important to learn what foods are best to eat at different ages throughout one’s life.

legumes, starchy and other. When it comes to fruits, whole fruits are your best choice. Read labels on grain products and choose whole grains at least half of the time.

“We all know calcium plays an important role in a healthy diet,” McDaniel said. “Select fat-free or low-fat dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt.

“Most people have an adequate intake of protein foods, but be sure to select from a variety of sources, including seafood, lean meats, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and soy products.”

Reading the Nutrition Facts label on all packaged food items is an easy way for consumers to quickly see the nutritional aspects of the foods they are purchasing. The label is a great way to check for saturated fats, calories and serving sizes along with vitamin and mineral content.

“Even though there is a lot of conflicting information available about eating healthy, there is so much food information out there,” McDaniel said. “Check out ChooseMyPlate.gov or contact your local dietitian or nutrition educator for the latest research-based information.

“Making well-informed choices is important, and now that we’re observing National Nutrition Month, there’s no time better than the present.”

Healthy Eating by Age

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends people adjust their eating habits to address the nutritional needs of their bodies during all stages of life. With March being National Nutrition Month, it is a great time to focus on the changes a person’s body needs through various stages of life.

Oklahoma State University Extension nutrition specialist Janice Hermann said what worked in a person’s 20s won’t

McDaniel

necessarily work in their 50s.

“As you age and evolve, so do your health and nutritional needs,” Hermann said. “That’s why it’s so important to eat right for life.”

This year’s National Nutrition Month promotes creating nutritious meals to meet individuals’ cultural and personal food preferences. The Academy encourages everyone to make informed food choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits they can follow all year.

Hermann said the new 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans provides researchbased advice to help people of all ages meet their dietary needs while limiting added sugars, sodium and saturated fat.

DGA guidelines for healthy eating include:

Teens to 20s: Build bone density by eating and drinking calcium-rich foods and beverages such as fat-free or low-fat dairy milk or yogurt or calcium-fortified soy beverages. Some non-dairy options for calcium include fortified cereals, beans, some leafy greens and canned salmon with bones.

20s to 30s: Eat more dietary fiber, including whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds in an effort to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity. Women of childbearing age should include sources of folate, such as beans,

peas and leafy greens, as well as consume foods that are fortified with folic acid, such as breads, cereals and other grain products.

30s to 40s: At this age, continue with a wide variety of foods, especially fruits and vegetables, whole grains and beans, as well as peas and lentils. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber.

40s to 50s: Continue incorporating regular physical activity. This is important because the body is changing due to fluctuating hormones and slowing metabolism. In addition, fine tune your healthful eating habits. Limit foods and beverages with added sugars, salt and saturated fats.

60s and beyond: A variety of protein-rich foods are a must to maintain bone strength in this stage of life. Try to incorporate strength-building activities to help maintain muscle. Good sources of protein include seafood, lean cuts of meat, eggs, beans, tofu and nuts. Animal-based protein foods also provide vitamin B12, which can be a concern for older adults. Check with your healthcare provider about a vitamin B12 supplement.

National Nutrition Month was initiated in 1973 as a weeklong observance and became a month-long observance in 1980 in response to the growing interest in nutrition. S

"H SHAPING THE FUTURE

OBU Shares Academic, Campus Progress Nearly 2 Years After Tornado

BY BRYAN PAINTER

istoric” not only refers to the past, it also encompasses the ability to shape the future.

Oklahoma Baptist University stands at an exciting crossroads as its historic Shape the Future campaign unfolds to define the university’s impact for years to come.

Alongside this initiative is a flourishing engineering program, the introduction of four new graduate healthcare programs and the much-anticipated Green and Gold Gala featuring leadership expert John C. Maxwell. These efforts, among others, mark a new era for the university, blending academic excellence with faithdriven purpose.

A Bold Vision for Tomorrow

Officially launched during The Weekend homecoming celebration last fall, the Shape the Future campaign is a three-year initiative grounded in prayer, partnership, and participation. As OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas declared during the launch event, this campaign is about more than just institutional growth – it is a call to action for the entire OBU community.

Reflecting on the devastating EF2 tornado that struck Shawnee, including the OBU campus, in April 2023, Thomas spoke of resilience and renewal. He has often expressed his thankfulness that no injuries occurred. In terms of structures, every building on campus experienced various levels of damage.

“We have been battered and beaten over the past 18 months, but we have not been bested,” he said. “The tornado, which caused unprecedented damage, has only strengthened the resolve of the

OBU’s new programs are not just academic advancements—they are designed to address workforce shortages while providing students with a faith-integrated education.

OBU community.

At its core, the campaign focuses on three strategic priorities: academic investment, facility transformation and enhancing campus life. These priorities aim to ensure that OBU continues to equip students with the tools to make a profound impact on the world, all while staying true to its mission.

Thomas outlined plans to expand academic programs in critical areas such as health sciences, STEM and business. Notable initiatives include launching the university’s first doctoral programs in physical therapy and occupational therapy along with master’s programs in speech-language pathology and physician associate studies. These programs are not just academic advancements. They are designed to address workforce shortages while providing students with a faith-

integrated education.

In addition to academic growth, the campaign envisions extensive renovations to iconic campus buildings like Raley Chapel, Shawnee Hall, Thurmond Hall and Wood Science Building. These upgrades are intended to create world-class learning environments that inspire both faith and discovery.

“Shape the Future is about our students, our alumni and the impact they will have on the world,” Thomas said. “We only get one opportunity to shape the future in this way.”

To help Shape the Future, visit okbu. edu/giving/shape-the-future/index.html.

John C. Maxwell Headlines the Green and Gold Gala

Oklahoma Baptist University’s 10th Green and Gold Gala will be held at 7 p.m. on April 1 in the Recreation and

Wellness Center on the OBU campus, giving attendees an exclusive look at the university’s recovery from the April 2023 tornado.

This year’s keynote speaker is worldrenowned leadership expert, John C. Maxwell, whose books have sold over 34 million copies in 50 languages. Maxwell’s presence offers guests a rare opportunity to hear from a global leadership icon as they invest in OBU’s future through the Shape the Future campaign.

Pre-dinner events include a silent auction and behind-the-scenes tours of revitalized spaces like Shawnee Hall, Raley Chapel, Thurmond Hall and W.P. Wood Science Building.

Individual tickets for the gala are $150 per person with $75 of each ticket being tax-deductible. Sponsorship opportunities and corporate tables are also available. The evening attire is semi-formal with suits, sequins and sneakers appropriate for the availability of tours in the historic buildings. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit okbu.edu/gala.

A Thriving Engineering Program

OBU’s engineering program is thriving, fueled by an innovative approach and community investment. The program launched in the fall of 2023 with 37 students, surpassing its goal of 12. It has grown to 51 students, with 28 deposits for the upcoming year. Its success stems from hands-on education, industry partnerships and faith integration. It prepares students for a competitive workforce while viewing engineering as an act of service.

A recent $300,000 allocation from the Pottawatomie County Commissioners further accelerates the program's growth. The funding supports equipment purchases and renovations to Thurmond Hall, the program’s primary facility, aiding OBU’s mission to produce workforceready engineers.

The renovation of Potter Auditorium includes several key enhancements. Including an adjusted floor slope for ADA accessibility and a new corridor behind the chapel stage that will connect the east and west wings. Additionally, a series of arcades will frame and accentuate the existing stained-glass windows, further elevating the beauty of the space. The finishes throughout have been carefully reimagined to offer optimal acoustical control while still honoring the auditorium’s historic character.

OBU’s engineering faculty and administrators are committed to rethinking traditional engineering education, blending technical rigor with a focus on character development. This innovative approach is already attracting attention and shaping the future of students on Bison Hill.

To learn more about OBU’s engineering program, visit okbu.edu/ programs/engineering.html.

Graduate Healthcare Programs: Meeting Critical Needs

OBU is also making significant strides in healthcare education with the introduction of four new graduate programs: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) and Master of Science in Physician Associate Studies (MS-PAS).

The OTD program – set to launch in January 2026 – will be led by Dr. Brandy Brown, an accomplished occupational therapist and educator. The program aims to address the growing demand

for occupational therapists with employment in the field projected to grow by 12 percent during the next decade.

Each program will follow an accelerated hybrid model, combining online coursework with hands-on lab immersions on OBU’s campus. This format allows students to complete their degrees in less time while receiving rigorous training in both academic and clinical settings. Faith integration will be a cornerstone of these programs, equipping graduates to provide compassionate, Christ-centered care.

Brown emphasized the unique community and faith focus at OBU.

“This program will not only prepare students to succeed in their careers but also challenge them to integrate faith into practice,” she said.

The graduate healthcare programs represent a bold vision for the future, addressing workforce shortages while reinforcing OBU’s mission to serve others through excellence and faith.

For more information on these programs, visit okbu.edu/programs/ health-sciences.html.

A Campus Alive with Possibilities

The Shape the Future campaign, Green and Gold Gala, engineering program and healthcare initiatives are just a few examples of the exciting developments happening at OBU. From the restoration of beloved campus landmarks like Raley Chapel to the creation of new spaces for learning and

worship, the university is alive with possibility.

OBU’s commitment to academic excellence, faith integration and community engagement continues to attract students and supporters from across the nation. As Thomas noted, the university’s future is being shaped not just by its leadership but by the collective efforts of the entire community.

“Together, we will create a future where OBU stands as the pinnacle of Christ-centered, world-class education,” he said.

“As OBU moves forward with its bold plans, the university invites alumni, donors and friends to join in shaping the next chapter of its story. Through prayer, partnership and participation, the OBU community can ensure that Bison Hill remains a place where lives are transformed and futures are shaped – all of life, all for Jesus.” S

IN TIME FOR SUMMER COOKOUTS!

RESERVATIONS FOR

HALVES AND WHOLE. Our high-quality beef is hormone-free and is pasture-raised right here at St. Gregory’s Abbey in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

The Thurmond Hall second floor entry houses a Firejet drone with a 6-foot wingspan that was built and donated by one of OBU’s industry partners, Kratos Defense.

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BLAZING

Potawatomi Fire Start 2025 Season With Chance To Threepeat

BY DAVID DINSMORE

The Potawatomi Fire have the chance to smoke the competition on their way to another historic season with a threepeat championship in their sights.

That goal, however, can only come by daily focus on the work they have right in front of them during each step of the season, head coach Mark Dannhoff said.

“We never talked back to back (last year), and now we don't talk about a threepeat,” Dannhoff said. “We just take every day one by one, and we stay on the step we're on until it's time to step forward. We never step back. And we try to get better every day. If we do that,

I think by the time the playoffs come around, we'll be playing at our best as we usually are, and the opportunity is in front of us.”

The Potawatomi Fire compete in the Central Conference of The Basketball League, which features about 40 teams across the U.S. and Canada. They begin their 2025 season on March 2 when they visit the Little Rock Lightning. The Fire will open their home schedule on March 8 when they host the Western Oklahoma Skykings.

The Fire franchise has made history since its establishment in 2022 as part of TBL. It was the first professional basketball team owned by a Native Ameri-

can tribe in Oklahoma and won several off-the-court honors in its first season, including the TBL Jim Koch Award as the league’s best run business and the best dance team award going to the inaugural Fire Girls lineup.

The following two seasons earned the Fire historical accolades for its performance on the hardwood as the team strung together TBL’s first back-to-back championship seasons in 2023 and 2024, with the latter also coming at the end of the first-ever undefeated season for any TBL team.

Dannhoff himself directly understands the appeal of having certain distinctions within the league. He won

Photos submitted

TBL’s coach of the year award in each of his first two seasons in 2023 and 2024 and is the only coach in the league to receive that honor twice.

“There aren’t a lot of firsts left in professional basketball at any level,” Dannhoff said. “This year, there's another first for us. Nobody’s won three (championships in TBL), and nobody's done it three years in a row. But for us, we can't focus on that stuff. We’ve got to focus on getting better every single day and doing what it takes for us to put ourselves in a situation to compete for something that is more rewarding than anything any of us could do individually.”

The Fire’s roster this season features seven returners from last year’s undefeated championship team, and Dannhoff said this has been crucial to putting together the previous winning teams.

“The key to begin with is keeping the core together and bringing back as many as we can from each team,” Dannhoff said. “We're truly a family. After that, it’s being able to bring in pieces that you know will fit the things we need as well as fit into who we are and our culture and are willing to do the things it takes to be successful.”

Having the right individual talent and experience helps, particularly those

with TBL success, Dannhoff said. Ultimately, however, the team must succeed as a unit, so the challenge and the goal this and every season is making sure guys understand the importance of investing in the team dynamic.

“The biggest thing for us is every one of them has been the star where they've been,” Dannhoff said. “So they’ve got to be willing to sacrifice any personal agenda and any accolades and honors for the betterment of the team to get the ultimate goal of winning the championship. We talk about it all the time. The teams that win end up getting the accolades. So if you win as a team, then sometimes those things come your way anyway, but we want to put all those things aside and work together as one unit.”

And the Fire’s past and current players have demonstrated the individual rewards that can come with team success.

For instance, four players who will be looking to help bring all three potential championships for the Fire include 6-foot-9-inch forward and center Paul Harrison from North Greenville University, who is TBL’s only three-time champ including the 2022 TBL Championship with the Shreveport-Bossier City Mavericks. Joining him is 6-foot6-inch forward Ricardo “Ricky” Artis II from Wiley College, who earned the

2024 TBL 6th man of the year award; 6-foot guard Daylon “Chuck” Guy from Tarleton State University, named 2024 TBL MVP; and two-time TBL playoff MVP Deshawn Munson, 6-foot-4-inch guard from Harris-Stowe State University.

The list of returners also includes 6-foot-2-inch guard Jaylen Mahone from Ripon College; 6-foot-8-inch guard and forward Jachai Simmons from the University of New Mexico; and 6-foot-7-inch forward Isaiah Wade from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Joining the seven returners will be four new players, including two TBL veterans in 6-foot-8inch forward Javonlean “Jay” Hedgeman from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and 6-foot-2-inch guard Kameron “Kam” Williams from Ohio State University. Rounding out the Fire’s roster are a pair of rookie big men, including 6-foot-11inch Charles Lampten from Western Carolina University and 7-foot-1-inch Buay Koka from the University of Detroit Mercy.

To construct previous championship rosters, the work begins almost as soon as the previous season ends. Dannhoff said they spend the offseason analyzing players from a traditional standpoint using stats and video research, but they truly begin narrowing down their options by speaking with coaches at the college and professional levels about the character of the players and how they conduct themselves on and off the court.

“A lot of research and a lot of vetting goes into it to try to come up with the right guys to fill the needs on the team,” Dannhoff said.

Season and individual tickets are currently on sale. Check out potawatomifire.com for more information.

To stay up to date with all the latest news and notes regarding the Potawatomi Fire, follow the team on social media. You can follow the Fire on Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. S

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‘SELDOM DISAPPOINTED’

Library To Posthumously Honor Pott County-Born,

Award-Winning Mystery Author Hillerman

BY BILL HAGEN

…oh, blessed town” is how Tony Hillerman first describes Shawnee in his memoir, “Seldom Disappointed.”

It was the big city for a boy born and raised in the unincorporated village of Sacred Heart in the south edge of Pottawatomie County. As an accomplished author writing those words, it is also the hometown of and site of his marriage to Marie Unzner in St. Benedicts in 1948.

Shawnee and the Pioneer Library System will honor Tony Hillerman with a ceremony and a plaque on March 15 at 10 am in the Shawnee Public Library at 101 N. Philadelphia. His daughter, Anne Hillerman is also a prominent author and will serve as the keynote speaker at the ceremony with assistance from Tulsa author, Michael Wallis. This year marks the 100th anniversary of his birth.

To be precise, Anthony “Tony” Hillerman was born May 27, 1925 to farmer and shopkeeper August Alfred Hillerman and his wife, Lucy Grove. Growing up in the 1930s, young Tony learned how to fix things and gained a pragmatic approach to life. From his mother, he gained a love of reading and a positive outlook on life contained in her favorite saying: “Blessed are those who expect little, for they are seldom disappointed.”

His parents sent him to St. Mary’s Academy, a Catholic school for Potawatomi girls where they were certain he would get a better education untainted by the bigoted sympathies of

Award-winning author Tony Hillerman ascribes many of the traits that led to his success to his Pottawatomie County upbringing, and the Shawnee Public Library will honor his legacy with a March 15 ceremony.

a local elementary school teacher. As part of its anti-immigration program, the Klan was vigorously anti-Catholic. Subsequently, Tony went to Konawa High School then a semester at Oklahoma A&M. He spent the spring working on the farm until he turned 18 in 1943, whereupon he enlisted in the Army.

As a mortarman, Tony served in Charlie Company of the 103rd Infantry Division in the European theater. During a patrol sent across a mine field, he was severely wounded by shrapnel and narrowly escaped losing his sight. He was subsequently honored with the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

Back home, he went to see a writer

for the Daily Oklahoman who had published a story about the battlefield experience that led to his Silver Star. She complimented him on the style of the letters she borrowed to write the story. His early reading from the Benedictine Monks’ library and the books he ordered from the state library system while growing up had helped shape him to be a writer. He followed her advice and enrolled at the University of Oklahoma, using the funding of the GI Bill to pursue a degree in journalism. His journalism career led to jobs in Borger, Texas; Lawton; Oklahoma City; and, finally, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

After 15 years of writing and editing, he enrolled in the English master’s degree program at the University of

New Mexico, working on the side as a lobbyist and troubleshooter for the president. Upon graduating, he joined the journalism faculty and taught until 1987. He was awarded an honorary doctorate in 1990. By the time he left fulltime teaching, Tony had published eight Navajo mysteries and received a number of awards. Each of the books from “The Blessing Way” (1970) and forward featured tribal police officers – first Joe Leaphorn and later Jim Chee – along with precise descriptions of the landscape in the Four Corners region and careful attention to Dineh ceremonies, beliefs and customs. They attracted both mystery fans and readers interested in the Southwest and Native American culture.

Among his many recognitions, Tony was proudest being named a “Special Friend of the Dineh,” making him the only non-Navajo to receive such an honor at that time.

Tony Hillerman published 11 more Leaphorn/Chee police procedurals, with the last coming in 2006. He also published four nonNavajo novels, including two children’s books. Other publications include the aforementioned memoir and several nonfiction projects –some with photographers – resulting in eight books celebrating the beauty of the region.

Anne Hillerman has continued the series with nine more novels, foregrounding a female tribal officer, Bernadette Manuelito. She will speak about her father’s legacy and her own career as a writer at the ceremony. S

DRIVE-IN

Birth Of Sonic Drive-In Franchise In Shawnee Subject Of Some Debate

BY ANN MCDONALD, COURTESY POTT CO HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBER

id Sonic begin in Shawnee?

Did the iconic drive-in’s birth really happen the way it’s depicted on the official Sonic web page?

Those who lived in Shawnee during its early days will argue that point. During the 1950s, a local entrepreneur, Troy Smith, had a couple of cafes in town, most notably Troy’s Panful O’ Chicken on east Main. About 1956, he joined Joe McKimmey in his “eateries” at 1814 N. Harrison Street, a hamburger drive-in known as the Top Hat and added a steak house situated behind it called the Log House.

In the late ‘50s, the Top Hat was the place to be – just like the drive-ins one sees in old movies. A carhop would come to the teens’ cars, and they could order an Aristocrat hamburger or a 10-cent Coke. Maybe they were just there to see who was with whom while listening to rock ‘n’ roll on their car radios.

trated on the Log House. It became the top place in Shawnee for fine dining.

After finishing law school, McKimmey opened his own firm, and the former log building became Mandarin Garden, where Shawnee citizens continued to enjoy many special meals. Other businesses have since been there, but it is currently empty. The original “logs” can still clearly be seen.

As for other communities declaring they had the first Sonic, Troy Smith’s local friends knew his group had purchased “a couple of other small sites” and might have even attached a Top Hat and a Sonic sign. That may be what causes the confusion. But the Top Hat in Shawnee did not morph into the Sonic.

Smith was always looking to move forward in the business. He learned of a new idea where customers used an electronic speaker to call in their order rather than have a carhop come to their car. After research and getting others interested, Smith sold his part of the Top Hat/Log House business and moved about a mile south to 1130 N. Harrison. There he built the first Sonic.

Though some accounts differ, local records and recollection indicate that the first Sonic drive-in opened in Shawnee in 1959 at the intersection of Harrison and Wayne streets. — Photo submitted

The grand opening was October 2, 1959. SHS seniors were sure this new-fangled idea of ordering would never take off because kids liked the old way of ordering from carhops. Later when many came back from college or military training or moving on with jobs or marriage, imagine the surprise when they found the Sonic packed with customers.

The site of that very first Sonic location differs from the Top Hat location cited by today’s official company site. It was a mile away, and both were in existence at the same time –verifiable using old phone books.

A couple of years later after a small kitchen fire in the Top Hat, McKimmey had the building torn down and concen-

The first actual Sonic was constructed on the west side of Harrison Street at the corner of Harrison and Wayne Streets. The layout ran parallel to Harrison rather than like the perpendicular orientation most common today. Customers had to maneuver around the stop sign on the corner of Wayne.

About 1976, that original site was removed, and a new Sonic was built in the same block but at the south end on the corner of Wallace. It featured the perpendicular design of modern Sonics, entering from the street and driving around toward the back. This plan was easier to fit into a space in the hundreds of towns the Sonic was spreading out to. In fact, in more recent years, the company announced its 3,000th location was being built in Shawnee, and the little hamburger place has continued to grow.

Just a few years ago, the one at Harrison and Wallace was also replaced, but it stayed on Harrison at the intersection with Highland, only a mile and a half from where the very first Sonic was built and opened in 1959. There are three other locations within Shawnee and another just south. And it all started right here more than 65 years ago … from the ground up.

mental health

BEGIN A NEW Expansive Future In Sight For Gateway With New Location, Branding

BY ALICJA CARTER

This year, Gateway to Prevention and Recovery will celebrate 40 years of supporting all individuals and families in Oklahoma working toward recovery and greater health through prevention, treatment and wellness. Since its inception in the 1980s, Gateway has grown to become the largest provider of outpatient addictions and co-occurring treatment services in Oklahoma outside of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Additionally, it is one of the few treatment providers in the state that also incorporates a robust prevention and wellness program, serving as a model for innovation in treating the whole person.

A New Home

trauma-informed approach.

As a reminder, trauma is a strong emotional reaction that lasts after a very upsetting event. It happens when something is too much for someone to handle, affecting their mental and physical health. People with trauma might experience things like flashbacks, fear or trouble controlling their emotions. Gateway understands that trauma is highly prevalent in people who receive treatment for substance misuse and mental health services, with up to 95 percent of patients reporting exposure. Therefore, Gateway has prioritized creating a trauma-informed physical environment that promotes safety, respect and healing.

In 2019, Gateway’s board of directors, as well as its founder and previous CEO, Sallie Mclaughlin, knew that more physical areas would be needed to effectively and creatively meet the needs of the community and honor its mission. They searched intently for the right space to expand and paid cash for the new property. Gateway’s current board of directors and current executive director, Jon Greenwood, broke ground in 2023.

Within the next 4-6 weeks, Gateway’s treatment staff will move from its East 45th location across town to its new West 45th location. Soon after, Gateway’s administration, prevention and wellness teams will join them. This property provides 10 acres two homes and a 24,000-square-foot building to provide services.

When asked what makes this space unique and well-suited for the mission of the organization, Greenwood said, “The location is just outside of the city limits and nestled in nature, which offers our patients and staff greater privacy and peace while still being accessible. It also supports our continued growth.”

A Trauma-Informed Design

In addition to the structure itself, much thought has gone into the interior design of the facility. Greenwood said the building has been constructed with a

Gateway’s new logo and branding represent ‘an entry point or pathway to transformation, hope and recovery’ to accompany its new location on West 45th fully opening soon.

Gateway’s new facility design focuses on visuals and spaces that help create a calm and comfort for those participating in Gateway’s services, and these intentional choices were a priority over some more traditional considerations.

“During the building process, I received some feedback suggesting that we were wasting a lot of room with the widened hallways,” Greenwood said. “However, we know that this decision will increase our staff and patients’ emotional and physical safety, making it easier for healing to take place. It is a small price to pay.”

Immediate and Long Term Goals

At its current location, Gateway's ability to hire additional staff and offer more services to a greater number of people has been restricted due to limited physical space. However, as soon as it makes its move to the new location, expansion can begin. Gateway will have dedicated areas to serve families and their children, including two play therapy rooms, two family counseling offices and a sand tray room.

Gateway will also welcome horses on its property to assist with equine therapy.

The building will include a conference room and training space that can accommodate 150-200 people that can help with training for the community and allowing community partners to utilize the space for their own needs, including getting the word out about their services to Gateway’s staff and patients to reduce barriers to access.

Additionally, Gateway will look to enrich its wellness program with walking trails, exercise classes, sports and family fun days.

“If we can dream it, we can do it,” Greenwood said. “We want to position ourselves to be able to step in and fill the gaps to meet the needs of rural Oklahoma. We are paying close attention to the demand for women and children services, residential treatment, transitional housing, etc.

“I have to say that none of this would be possible without our incredible staff who put in the work day in and day out. Each person is committed to taking care of themselves and carrying out their role with creativity, integrity and passion for the good of the whole. While our culture of support, wellness and healing already exists, the new building is just what we need to help it reach more people.”

The New Branding

In addition to the new property, Gateway is also updating its branding to reflect the direction the organization is headed. The idea to update its look came about through conversations with community partners. It was evident that although Gateway had been around for 40 years, many people did not have a full understanding of who they were or what they did. Also, it was predominantly focused on substance misuse treatment and did not encompass Gateway’s expan-

sion into mental health care. Gateway wanted a brand that more clearly communicated who they were and reflected the growth that was already happening and yet to come.

Gateway coordinated with Jennifer Baker Stockett to make the new branding a reality.

“Gateway represents an entry point or pathway to transformation, hope and recovery,” Stockett said.

“It’s more than just a literal passage; it symbolizes the start of a supportive journey where individuals gain access to essential resources and guidance. Gateway becomes the bridge that helps people move from where they are to where they are to where they aspire to be, offering not only services but also encouragement and a vision for a brighter, healthier future.”

If you or someone you know would like support on their journey with mental health or substance use, do not hesitate to reach out to Gateway at (405) 273-1170 or send us a message through our Facebook page, Gateway to Prevention and Recovery, Inc. Our team is committed to helping individuals and families find the path to hope, healing, and greater health.

Alicja Carter, MHR, BHWC, is the Wellness Director at Gateway to Prevention and Recovery. She has worked in the behavioral health and addiction treatment field for 17 years. Alicja is passionate about living a well life and collaborating with others for the purpose of stimulating positive change in her community.

March 7: Rock band Nasty Weather will play a benefit concert for the local ENIGMA robotics team to help raise funds to compete in the world championships in April in Houston. The show will storm the stage at 7 p.m. in the Recreation and Wellness Center on the Oklahoma Baptist University campus. Information: nastyweatherband.com or CashApp - $EnigmaRobotics

March 8: The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art will host a monthly SWANshop art workshop from 9 a.m. to noon focusing on art and nature. These workshops will feature a monthly theme with this month’s participant exploring and expressing sources of love, compassion and emotional balance, growth and healing energies of nature. Information: mgmoa.org/swanshops

March 8-9: The Community Art Gallery of Shawnee will host its 6th annual Spring Fling art show sponsored by the Shawnee Mall. The show will feature many of the area’s most talented artists of all ages and skill ranges, including specially featured award-winning artists, local favorites, art activities, demonstrations and a mall-wide gallery walk with. The show helps support new and emerging artists as well as professionals. Information: (405) 432-7676

March 8: Community partners are teaming up with Keep America Beautiful to replant trees lost in the 2023 tornado through a local RETREET event across the area. Volunteers are needed to help with a variety of work, and following the work, Oklahoma Baptist University will host a celebration of resilience, healing, and growth with live music, giveaways, inflatables, kid activities, free food, Peach Wave, chair massages, balloon animals, face painting, yard games and fun at the intramural fields on campus. Information: gopogo.com/retreet

March 8: Join Oklahoma Baptist University for a Severe Weather Spotter Training session focusing on how to identify and report critical weather phenomena such as tornadoes, hail, damaging winds and flash floods. This presentation at 2 p.m. in room 102 of the Wood Science Building will cover storm structure, safety protocols and the role of spotters in supporting the National Weather Service. Perfect for weather enthusiasts, first responders and community volunteers, this training equips you with the knowledge to help keep your community safe during severe weather events.

March 8: Deja Blues will rock the stage with a mix of blues, rock, Southern rock and funk starting at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater at 10 W. Main. Information: ritzshawnee.com

Opioids: Did You Know?

Even if a doctor prescribes an opioid, there are still risks when taking them, including addiction and overdose, which may lead to death.

Start talking with your kids about the facts. For tips on how—and when—to begin the conversation, visit www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov.

Start talking with your kids about the facts. For tips on how—and when—to begin the conversation, visit www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov

Talk With Your Kids About the Facts.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an opioid to your child for things like surgery or a broken bone. Prescription opioids—when used long term or incorrectly—can cause the brain to become reliant on the drug and are extremely addictive.

March 15: The Shawnee Public Library will host a ceremony at 10 a.m. dedicating a bronze plaque commemorating the life and work of novelist, Tony Hillerman, who was born in Pottawatomie County. His daughter, Anne Hillerman, will be the keynote speaker. She has continued his Navajo mystery series with 10 more novels. Tulsa author, Michael Wallis, will serve as master of ceremonies. Information: (405) 275-6353

March. 20: The Third Thursday Poetry Reading will begin at 7 p.m. at the Lunch Box at 217 E. Main St. featuring a reading by a special guest. As usual, the featured reading will be followed by an open mic session for attendees to read up to two poems of their own or from a favorite poet. The Lunch Box will open at 6 p.m. with desserts and drinks available.

March 22: Peak Fighting Championship will host its first MMA and Muay Thai bouts in the Shawnee area with a card beginning at 5 p.m. at the Grand Casino Event Center at 777 Grand Casino Blvd. Information: grandboxoffice.com

March 29: Join us for the Pioneer Library System Foundation for a fantastical evening in Wonderland at the 3rd Annual Mad Hatter Tea Party at 6:30 p.m. inside the library at 101 N. Philadelphia. This enchanting event will whisk you away into a world of whimsy, featuring a delectable dinner, captivating entertainment and delightful company. Don’t forget to wear your maddest, most whimsical hat, just like the Mad Hatter would. Proceeds benefit programming and services at the Pioneer Library System’s Pottawatomie County branches in McLoud, Shawnee, and Tecumseh. Information: plsfdn.org/madhatter-tea-party

March 29: The Historic Ritz Theatre will host Metal Night featuring Haggardz Hellraizerz, Neanderthal Jones, Grudge Finger, Munkie Gunn, and Oklahoma Blood. Information: ritzshawnee.com

April 2: The annual Kiwanis Pancake Feed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center at 1700 W.

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Independence serves as a heartwarming gathering that fosters fellowship within our community and plays a vital role in supporting the children of our community. Information:

April 4: Songwriter Night @ Music Unlimited is back with Dave Laurencel as this month’s featured artist at 7 p.m. at 1109 W. Kickapoo Spur. Information: kevinhall8384@gmail.com

April 4: Redeemer Lutheran Church will host a free monthly movie night presented by for a fun night of fellowship, movie, pop and popcorn at 7 p.m. at 39307 MacArthur St. Parents and grandparents can enjoy a worry-free evening of movie entertainment while the kids watch an age-appropriate movie. Information: facebook.com/ redeemerlutheranshawnee

April 6: Locomotive Operators of Central Oklahoma will host its monthly public run 1-4 p.m. at 29626 Lake Drive in McLoud. Ride the rails on powered ⅛-scale locomotives right outside of Shawnee Twin Lakes. Information: locotrains.org

April 12: Join the Bethel Band for its 9th annual Car Show Fundraiser as an entrant or just come for the show at the high school near 16842 Bethel Road, Bethel Acres, OK 74801. Entries and registration begin at 8 a.m. inside the B.E. Cantrell Fieldhouse/ Gymnasium. Spectators can come for free and peruse all the vehicles until 1 p.m. while enjoying activities for kids, concessions, door prizes, raffles and a live performance by the award-winning Bethel Jazz Band.

April 12: Lace up your running shoes for a good cause at the 10th annual Cargo Classic 5K and 1-mile fun run starting at 8 a.m. at 8895 Coker Road. Proceeds support Cargo Ranch, a nonprofit mentorship program using horses and outdoor activities to help support kids who have changes, struggles, or obstacles in their lives. Information: cargoranch.org/cargo-classic-5k

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

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