Shawnee Outlook

Worrel's Haven | Nonprofit Facing Challenges

AUGUST 20 Vol. 17 Number 6

Sustenance

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID SHAWNEE, OK PERMIT NO 33

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622 W Ayre in Shawnee | 405-273-6162 Monday-Friday 7:30 AM -3:30 PM

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CONTENTS

AUGUST 2020

18

9

14

Worrel's Haven Provides Sober Living Home for Women

13

Over the Fence: Unmasking Choice Vs. Courtesy

14

18

21

26

Launched in March, SCI Supply Able to Supply PPE Locally and Beyond Throughout Pandemic Downtown Gallery Hosting Community and Professional Shows to Provide Needed Outlet for Artists, Community Special Needs Nonprofit Facing Challenges in Face of Pandemic, Suspected Arson This Summer Boundaries for Families in Recovery

Publisher

Okie Icon Media

Managing Editor

David Dinsmore

Advertising Sales

Brad Carter

Creative Direction

Kelsey Walker & Fawn Wilson-Olivarez

Writers

Andrea Beck Jamie Bergsten Mitchel DeShazer David Dinsmore Brandon Dyer Ann McDonald Angela Rowland

Distribution

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

Contact Us

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

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

FEATURES 9

DEPARTMENTS 6 KEEP THE CHANGE 6 NUTRITION 101 23 HELPING HANDS 24 SONIC CONTEST 25 SHAWNEE HISTORY

Volume 17, Number 6 Shawnee Outlook is a publication of Okie Icon Media. Š 2020 Okie Icon Media

29 THE BRIGHT SPOT 30 CALENDAR

Articles and advertisements in Shawnee Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Okie Icon Media. Okie Icon Media does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by Shawnee Outlook does not constitute endorsement of products, services, political candidates/parties or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Shawnee Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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KEEP THE CHANGE

NUTRITION 101

Produce as Medicine Creative Reusing P

I

n Barbara Kingsolver’s “The Poisonwood Bible,” she mentions an African perspective on American homes, referring to “stacks of lidded containers the same size as the jars we throw away each day.” That comment has stuck with me for years as a conviction that much of what I might typically throw away can truly be reused, conserving both resources and money. Here are some ways I reuse items in my home: • Butter, Yogurt, and Cottage Cheese Tubs are easily repurposed to hold leftovers. If you don’t want to get confused, simply use a permanent marker to cross out the labels and even write what’s in them on the top.

You can get several uses out of them before they get worn out! I also like using the lids as paint palettes, rather than wasting a paper or Styrofoam plate. (Another paint palette hack – use a piece of junk mail – a store mailer or an envelope from a bill!)

• I have re-painted shortening containers and used them to store dry goods, such as sugar or coffee.

• 2-Liter Soda Bottles can be cut in half, with the top portion inverted into the bottom portion, taped securely around the edges, with portions of fruit and a small amount of water and vinegar in the bottom as a homemade fruit fly trap! Just throw it away after a few days and make a new one. These bottles are also useful for a variety of crafts, such as bird feeders!

• Clean out an old jar candle by freezing for 15 minutes and gently loosening the remaining wax with a butter knife before scrubbing with soap. Use these pretty jars on your bathroom counter for cotton balls or swabs.

Or make a sugar scrub and give it as a gift!

roduce as medicine? What if you were sick and your doctor literally prescribed more fruits and vegetables as medicine. For some the idea is not too far-fetched but for most, thinking of food as actual healing for our body is just crazy. It is common in our culture to need to take a pharmaceutical pill when there is something wrong such as diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Not to mention the many weight loss pills available and even prescribed. I was able to be a part of a trial run called Veggie Rx where we literally gave vouchers for people to go buy fruits and vegetables for 3 months.

Our goal was to see if just by adding in fruits and vegetables to a person’s diet, did their health improve.

During these 3 months we provided cooking demos on how to prepare the produce as well as grocery store tours and other nutrition classes. We were trying to tackle two hurdles – 1. Those who say they don’t buy produce because of finances and 2. Teach them how to prepare them. In 3 months, we saw – weight loss, decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol and decreased blood sugars. We also saw an increase of produce, people trying new produce and people stating they were able to feel less food insecurity.

What if more were willing to speak to a dietitian and follow the old philosophy by Hippocrates “Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food.” I feel very strongly that this idea should be approached. Veggie Rx just received a grant to repeat this program. We are starting the 1st of 4 cycles in July. If finances keep you from buying fruits and vegetables please reach out to me for one of the following cycles. Below is a very simple way of adding in fruit for a quick breakfast.

Fruit Bowl Getting in produce doesn’t have to take a lot of work. This recipe is literally done in under 5 minutes. Many times people say “I don’t have time to eat fruits and vegetables so I just grab something quick”. Well here is quick and includes all real foods. By adding in almond butter we get a balanced meal that includes protein, fiber, healthy fats and carbohydrates.

Ingredients: ½ cup of strawberries ½ banana 2 tablespoons of almond butter Directions: Wash strawberries and cut stems offs. Cut banana in half, peel and slice. Serve with almond butter (or any nut butter you wish) Makes: 1 serving

If you’d like to read more about my frugal journey, scan the QR code to visit my blog on the topic!

Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home mother of four. She enjoys finding new ways to stretch the paycheck and even posts some of her favorite tips and deals on her blog (steadfaststeward.blogspot.com)

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Nutritional Information per Serving Calories: 271 Total Fat: 18g Sodium: 5mg Total Carbohydrates: 25g

Saturated Fat: 1g Dietary Fiber: 6.5g

Cholesterol: 0mg Protein: 6g

Nutrition 101: Don’t let time be your reason for not eating fruits and vegetables. Carrot sticks, apple, orange, grapes, cherry tomatoes – these are all just a few examples of produce you could quickly grab with little effort. During summertime, many different fruits are on sale and readily available. Another great thing about having fruit in a bowl is that your kids are going to see it. We all know your kids are going to eat what they see their parents eating.. When we are making our kids healthier in the process it is a win-win for all.

Andrea Beck, a registered dietitian and personal trainer, received her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She offers personal training through an online class and nutrition services through SSM Health St. Anthony in Shawnee. For inquiries, you can contact her at Andrea.beck1@ ssmhealth.com or through her Facebook page, Nutrition and Exercise 101 with Andrea.

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FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1974

Worrel's Haven Provides Sober Living Home for Women

by David Dinsmore

R

achael Cole did not want to establish a sober living home for women in Shawnee just because she knew people who could benefit from it.

She learned the impact such a place can have on someone’s life as they recover from addiction firsthand.

Cole struggled with addiction for 12 years, and when she was confronting it through sobriety programs, she became good friends with another woman on the same path.

The two eventually moved into a sober living home together while steering their lives back on track. Cole experienced the benefit of having that refuge.

“Not everyone has a safe place to go,” Cole said. “Their family is not always a place where they can go to live a clean life. I think it's important to try to provide them with a place that they can go live at and feel safe.”

The importance of this stability became even more concrete four years ago when Cole – who has continued putting in the work to remain sober – learned that her friend with whom she resided in the sober living home died of an overdose after a relapse.

Cole’s experience eventually led her to want to provide the kind of help she received to give women in this community navigating a path to lasting sobriety. She knows it couldn’t solve all problems, but it could give these women one more tool with which to rebuild their life.

In June 2019, Cole opened a sober living home in Shawnee called Worrel’s Haven, nam-

Photos submitted

ing it for the friend she lost.

“Our mission is to try to combine a structured living environment combined with the resources from the community in hopes of showing people how to build a life centered around sobriety,” Cole said.

The first hurdle was finding a location capable of housing the tenants Cole was seeking and a landlord who would share her vision.

“I honestly kinda got lucky finding someone who was willing to do this with their home in town,” Cole said. “That's not always easy you know.”

Once she lined up the location and a few residents, Cole began working through the process of obtaining status as a recognized nonprofit while trying to ensure the rent and bills were met depending on the number of tenants they

“Our mission is to try to combine a structured living environment combined with the resources from the community in hopes of showing people how to build a life centered around sobriety." ­— Rachel Cole, Founder Worrel's Haven www.shawneeoutlook.com

9

had who could contribute. Last month, Worrel’s Haven achieved its nonprofit status, and Cole said it might not have happened without support from individuals and organizations like Gateway to Prevention and Recovery rallying to help keep the home operating while solidifying its foundations.

“That’s been an awesome help to have people backing us in that way while we get established,” Cole said. “In my heart, I knew that there was a need for it. There's a need for it everywhere.”

Worrel’s Haven has the ability to house six women, and Cole said the biggest factor is the desire to start a new life away from addiction.

Following the application process, there is not a time limit on how long the residents can live there, but they do have to get a sponsor and try to line up a job within the first two weeks of moving into the house. They also need to join a formal group with meetings at least five times per week in the beginning. Residents will also meet with their sponsor weekly. All of these factors tie into the strategy of forming habits and routines that revolve around sobriety.

Cole also encourages those living at Worrel’s Haven to get involved with community activities and with formal programs like those offered by Gateway to help build connections with others who want to help them find ways to live soberly.

Worrel’s Haven accepts applications by referral from formal programs or anyone interested in residing in a sober living home for women. For more information, contact Cole at (405) 592-9472.

Cole and those involved with Worrel’s Haven try to meet regularly with the residents to discuss and set short and long term personal goals.

“Meeting new people is a big thing (for those trying to recover from addiction),” Cole said.

“Leaving your old life behind and starting over ... it's often the hardest thing, especially if they're from here and they're born and raised here. Just getting those people starts them in a positive direction in showing them that there are people pushing for them.”

One resident who has lived at Worrel’s Haven since October said she came from an “unstable,

unsafe and stressful environment.” Even though she knew her living situation was working against her, she was not sure what her options were until she heard about the sober living home Cole established. Since moving there, she said it has had a positive impact on her journey to sober living.

“I enjoy the accountability, structured living and affordability,” Lil N. said. “Being a resident has been both a learning and positive growth experience for my personal recovery.”

There are guidelines for residents like curfews and random testing, but Cole knows how accountability not only to those operating the house but also to those fellow residents can go a long way to helping someone with her recovery. A sober living home might not solve all their problems – and ultimately it is up to each woman to put in the work to build a life around sobriety – but having a place in which to start on that path surrounded by people committed to helping them find the right resources to succeed can help the residents focus on their goals and reach them.

Worrel’s Haven accepts applications by referral from formal programs or anyone interested in residing in a sober living home for women. For more information, contact Cole at (405) 5929472.

Classen Family Medicine 432 N. Broadway Ave. Shawnee, OK

405.395.4441

HOURS: Mon-Thur 8am-5pm

www.ClassenMedicalComplex.com Jeanie K. Johnson Simpson, PA-C PA Simpson received her Bachelor of Science degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Biology and Chemistry. She received her Masters of Medicine from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Physician Assistant program in 2005. PA Simpson resides in Shawnee with her husband, Chris and two daughters, Gracyn and Evy. PA Simpson has been practicing Family Medicine for over 14 years. She moved her practice to Shawnee in February of 2018 from Seminole. She treats all aspects of family medicine and especially enjoys pediatrics, diabetes and dermatology.

For the past several years, PA Simpson has also been performing cosmetic procedures such as Botox and Juvederm injections as well as laser therapy, through her own company Lily Kate Aesthetics, LLC. CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 10

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We express our gratitude for our dedicated team of healthcare providers for continuing to work and see patients during these difficult times.

We commend our teams willingness to keep seeing patients as their need arises and that we are able to provide both Home Health care and Hospice throughout the COVID crisis.

Enriching the lives of our patients and their families every day.

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• Best of Shawnee Award 2016, 2017 and 2019

• Bereavement Programs open to the public year round

Phone 405-214-6441

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Over the Fence:

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

Unmasking Choice Vs. Courtesy

I

drive a truck. Not a huge truck, just a regular half-ton 4x4 pickup.

In fact, I’ve driven a truck most of my life. Since I was 16 to be exact. It seems that I’m always hauling something or pulling a trailer or picking up various building materials. I’m at Lowe’s loading my truck bed with project materials so often that my phone’s GPS isn’t quite sure where home is anymore. When I pull into a parking spot out there it isn’t uncommon to be between two other trucks. The thing about trucks, which you may have noticed, is that they have large side-view mirrors to assist with trailer towing.

Unfortunately, they are not very easy to maneuver around when you are parked next to them trying to open your door to walk by without bumping into them.

That’s why automobile manufacturers developed folding mirrors for pickups. I click a button, the mirrors fold in and voila, life is easier and even a little bit safer for folks parking next to me.

All it requires is a small inconvenience on my part. It’s a courtesy, really. It’s not so much to help me as the truck owner. It helps those in neighboring parking places.

Years ago during a torrential rain and wind storm a giant elm tree fell and blocked the road leading to the back of our neighborhood; a truly unfortunate incident. But what made it worse was that only a week prior to this storm a neighbor had been sick enough

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to require the service of an ambulance.

I could see this fallen tree from my window and became concerned for my neighbor. What if an ambulance was called while this tree was blocking the road? I called another neighbor and we put our rain gear on and went out into the storm with chainsaws and cleared the road… just in case. Clearing the road offered me no direct benefit. However, a little inconvenience on my part was a gesture of goodwill toward my sick neighbor. It was me doing my part for the greater good… even though I didn’t necessarily have to.

I don’t tell these stories to convince you that I’m a great guy. I tell them to make what I hope is a timely point.

Covid-19 has changed our world, per-

haps forever. Positive cases are on the rise. For some who test positive, their symptoms are simply like the common cold. For others, their symptoms are quite severe, at times requiring hospitalization. There is still so much more to be learned about this virus, but one thing we know is that social distancing and wearing masks slows down its spread. It’s true, these methods aren’t 100% effective at preventing the spread. But microbiologists, epidemiologists and medical doctors in no uncertain terms have been informing us that these methods are our best chance to slow the spread and dramatically limit infections.

The point of contention seems to be whether or not governments at various levels should be able to mandate the wearing of masks. Does it limit freedom of choice? Is it violating personal liberties? What is the greater good?

I’ve heard arguments on all sides. No one likes being told to do something.

I get it. I would rather make the right choice than be told to do so. But what happens when the freedom of my choice possibly limits someone else’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness? What if me exercising my freedom to not wear a mask inadvertently leads to the infection of a fellow community member? Whose opinion governs when my rights bring harm to you? This is the classic question of how do we balance the responsibility we have to ourselves vs. the responsibility

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we have to our fellow man.

The casual observer has probably noticed that over the past few weeks as positive cases have risen so have the number of folks wearing masks in public spaces. What we have been told by medical professionals is that mask wearing offers little if any benefit for ourselves. The real benefit is for the people we come in contact with.

Choosing the mask isn’t for us, it’s for our neighbors. For me, it’s a small inconvenience to possibly protect another’s right to life and happiness. For me, it’s what loving my neighbor as myself looks like in a pandemic. Whether it’s folding my mirrors, clearing a road, or wearing a mask, enjoying my rights must always be weighed against how the outcomes of those rights affect my neighbors. For me, I choose to wear the mask.

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Launched in March, SCI Supply Able to Supply PPE Locally and Beyond Throughout Pandemic

by David Dinsmore

U

ntil a few months ago, the term “personal protective equipment,” or PPE, was not part of people’s everyday vocabulary if they did not work in specific industries.

It was, however, on the radar for SCI Supply, which is a new venture launched in March by South Central Industries in Shawnee. The nonprofit organization originally established this effort to meet local customers’ needs for janitorial and office supplies in conjunction with the other aspects of its operations.

South Central Industries provides vocational training, occupational opportunities, volunteer efforts, self-enrichment programs and some housing for individuals with developmental disabilities to help provide these needs as well as foster relationships and community outreach.

When it became clear that the response to the novel coronavirus pandemic hit would impact the community, South Central staff and family quickly prepared the store to move the original opening date up a week to March 16, according to information provided by executive director Tina Hanna. SCI already had state use contracts for PPE items and had access to many different vendors for PPE items, meaning the organization had the ability to provide hard-to-find items like toilet paper, diapers, wipes, masks, disinfectant, gloves, gowns and more.

These supplies were key to the continuing operations of entities like prisons overseen by the Department of Corrections; lakes, parks and outdoor spaces managed by the Department of Tourism; and child care, foster care, aging and disabled population services conducted by the Department of Human Services.

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SCI Supply planned launch in March helped ensure it would be able to continue providing personal protective equipment and other health essentials throughout the pandemic response for businesses and nonprofits like Legacy Parenting Center.

Photos submitted

in helping get local organizations begin to resume closer-to-normal functions for their clients.

“South Central Industries and Avedis Foundation played a major role in helping us reopen the center for client appointments after 16 weeks of strictly curbside service,” said executive director Lacey Holt of Legacy Parenting Center, which provides training and supply needs for families with young children in the community. “We are grateful for the opportunity to serve babies and families in person again with safety measures in place.”

The partnership with Avedis also led to a relationship with the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, which heard about SCI Supply’s ability to provide PPE and other necessary items. OKCNP was able to purchase items for use by its partner agencies across the state.

With these demands tripling the workload for South Central, there have been challenges to providing these services while also operating amid a pandemic in a way keeps everyone safe while maintaining morale. South Central leaders instituted Due to large quantities necessary to supply state agencies like these, SCI Supply benefitted from established relationships with existing vendors, who placed them high on priority lists when they had to begin rationing orders of PPE, paper and chemical products in late March. SCI's existing large volume allowed for larger allocated amounts of largely unavailable items than most businesses could acquire.

Though brand name items of wipes and disinfectants are still scarce, SCI has still stocked EPA-approved items comparable to well-known brands.

“SCI has been blessed to have stayed open through the pandemic and provide necessary items to essential businesses,” Hanna said.

This steady stream of supplies caught the attention of local businesses and nonprofits like the Avedis Foundation, whose health-focused initiatives led them to seek ways to help local organizations continue to function safely during the height of the lockdown measures in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We have been committed to assisting our local nonprofit organizations by providing PPE essentials as they prioritize the safety of their

staff and clients during the COVID pandemic,” said Kathy Laster, CEO of Avedis Foundation. “These organizations work tirelessly each and every day to make sure that critical needs in our community are being met.”

The need for PPE among local nonprofits “became abundantly clear” at a weekly directors meeting hosted by Avedis that local non-profits needed lots of PPE items but were struggling with funding and the ability to locate these items. Avedis and South Central saw a chance to utilize their resources to make the process of providing these items a seamless process that increased local impact.

“Purchasing the PPE locally from one of our nonprofits, South Central Industries, made perfect sense,” Laster said. “Every purchase from South Central Industries helps to support their mission by employing individuals with developmental disabilities.

Tina Hanna and her staff provide superior service while fostering relationships in the community and enriching the lives of those they serve.”

This type of partnership not only helped provide necessary items for organizations that continued providing services, but it also played a role

weekly outdoor events with safe parameters that bring the SCI family together to celebrate remaining open and the ability to provide the needed items to our local customers and state agencies. These events include kickball, whiffle ball, karaoke and snow cones provided by another new South Central venture, the Special Kneads Food Truck.

Still, those associated with SCI have relished the opportunity to make an impact locally, around Oklahoma and across state lines by providing crucial services that have helped ensure essential organizations could continue operating safely.

“All SCI staff and clients were thrilled to step up and do our part to make a difference in battling this pandemic,” Hanna said. “It has been a win-win for us. We helped others and they have helped us provide jobs for our clients by purchasing with us.

Thank you to all of our wonderful customers that support South Central Industries.”

Call SCI Supply at (405) 273-6162 or South Central Industries at (405) 275-3851 or visit southcentralindustriesinc.com for more information.

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Downtown Gallery Hosts Community and Professional Shows to Provide Needed Outlet for Artists, Community

by David Dinsmore

I

t started with a space.

Artist LeAnne Henry Wright moved to a new gallery at 14B West Main St. in Shawnee in January. One morning not long after that, she was drinking coffee at home and looking at the pieces she has from other professional artists in this area, and it struck her that she needed to use her new gallery to demonstrate the level of talent living in and around the community.

“It’s insane that all these artists live in Shawnee,” Wright said. “Their work is represented all across the country in galleries and museums.”

As she began contacting the four artists – Corey Fuller, Paula Jones, Julie Marks Blackstone, and Lucas Simmons – Wright began envisioning a big event at the gallery that not only showcased the talent of her colleagues but also celebrated the community they call home.

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Professional artists Paula Jones, LeAnne Henry Wright, Julie Marks Blackstone, Lucas Simmons and Corey Fuller will each feature works as part of a show titled “Sustenance,” a recognition of local talent that has caught attention from art lovers across the country and an acknowledgement of the need for art even in the toughest of times.

ABOVE: “I Miss Your Face” show submissions RIGHT: An invitation to the Shawnee community to contribute to an open art show called “I Miss Your Face” centered on the last few months of pandemic response prompted almost 100 entries from beyond the community, including 11-year-old Spencer Lovett who drove three hours to enter his work, “Kept.”

And as with almost everything this year, the response to the coronavirus pandemic reshaped her vision of the show originally scheduled for April, but it did not shut down her desire to host the show now firmly set for Aug. 14.

In the meantime, she continued working and drawing from the circumstances that have defined this year. She built a piece featuring items donated by people across the community that represented the things canceled or missed due to the response to the coronavirus pandemic. Each of these items were hung above a sink placed along a wall of her gallery and appeared to all be flowing into it, and from the drain underneath came a series of notes and letters expressing the feelings of those who contributed or had something to share about how this year has affected them. The piece – titled “Cleansing Ourselves of One Another” – gave those who do not work full time as artists the chance to

express their feelings.

“With everything that’s happening, I just wanted to start creating the things I need,” Wright said. “I miss people, but I can’t be with people.

“In sharing these stories, people feel like we’re doing something together even though we can’t see each other.”

The idea struck her that there were many stories people could tell from this time of distancing and isolation, and the “I Miss Your Face” show was born. Wanting a precursor show to the professional show she was coordinating, she opened an invitation for anyone to contribute to a juried art show featuring portraits of faces. By the deadline at the end of July, she received almost 100 pieces from beyond just the local community.

“Some of these people had never submitted to a show before, and the talent is incredible,” Wright said.

The community show – which happened Aug. 5-7 – took on a life of its

own as sponsors stepped up to offer prizes for “I Miss Your Face,” and the response confirmed for Wright that at times like those people have experienced for the last five months, art becomes a necessity for some to be able to navigate what could feel like chaos.

“I thought art could be a way to give people some sustenance,” Wright said.

And that’s one of the ways the “opening act” community show helped lead to her to title the Aug. 14 professional show “Sustenance.”

“That word just kept going through my mind,” Wright said. “The reason for it all, I want to provide what I can to get us all through these times.”

The show will provide each artist

their own section to showcase multiple pieces. Some of these will be fresh works on display for the first time. In fact, one piece brought as a preview arrived at Wright’s gallery still a little wet. Some of the pieces will represent the artists’ expressions of how they have faced the events of this year.

The show will be following safety protocols with masks and limitedsized viewing parties in the gallery at one time according to a schedule, Wright said. Those with high risk concerns can contact the gallery for a private appointment.

For more information, call (405) 639-0075, search Art by LeAnne Henry Wright on Facebook or @henrywrightart on Instagram. www.shawneeoutlook.com

19

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Special Needs Nonprofit Facing Challenges in Face of Pandemic, Suspected Arson This Summer

by Jamie Bergsten

W

hat do a U.S. space mission and a Shawnee entity have in common?

They share the same name, and both are proof that overcoming challenges is completely doable with the right support system in place.

On May 15, 1963, the spacecraft Faith 7 launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as the final crewed space mission of NASA’s Mercury program. It was piloted by none other than Shawnee native Gordon Cooper and marked the last time an American was launched alone to conduct an entirely solo orbital mission. The craft completed 22 Earth orbits before splashing into the Pacific Ocean after more than 34 hours in flight.

Some at NASA felt that this particular mission – the ninth flight in the Mercury series – was too risky and shouldn’t be conducted, but other officials who supported the venture prevailed.

Cooper – a United States Air Force major at the time – performed a variety of experiments and took numerous photographs during the flight.

He was also the first American astronaut ever to send back television images from space.

Cooper’s feat of independence left a lasting mark on his birthplace as Shawnee gained its own Faith 7 that same year. The nonprofit Faith 7 Adult Activity Center opened in 1963 with the goal of providing employment opportunities and independence for those with delayed or limited development.

Now called F7 Work Activity Center, the organization seeks to improve vocational skills, provide fun activities in a safe environment and promote social interaction for its clients. They are paid for the work they do sorting items for recycling, assembling bags for conferences and events, shredding documents and more.

“The clients love F7, their little corner of the world, and the work they do,” said John Klaser, vice-chairman of the F7 board and president of the parents & guardians association. “There are about 40 people total in the program, counting both clients and staff.”

Klaser said the staff includes about six employees – some full-time, some part-time.

Unfortunately, F7 has had to face some major struggles this summer. First, the annual Faith 7 Bowl, pitting some of the best high school basketball players in Oklahoma and Texas against one another, had to be canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“That was heart-wrenching in two aspects,”

On May 15, 1963, the spacecraft Faith 7 launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as the final crewed space mission of NASA’s Mercury program. It was piloted by none other than Shawnee native Gordon Cooper. ... Cooper’s feat of independence left a lasting mark on his birthplace as Shawnee gained its own Faith 7 that same year.

The nonprofit Faith 7 Adult Activity Center opened in 1963 with the goal of providing employment opportunities and independence for those with delayed or limited development.

Klaser said. “First is the players and the public that get to participate lost that opportunity this year. The second is that the funds generated by the Faith 7 Bowl help to pay for sending clients to Special Olympics the following year. So next year is going to be difficult for getting clients to that event.”

Soon after, more tragedy struck. A June 10 fire believed to have been set intentionally burned a semi-trailer at F7’s property on South Kennedy Street, followed by a second, much more damaging suspicious fire on June 23.

“We’re still not sure of the total loss yet,” Klaser said. “We’re waiting on the insurance adjuster's reports, but it’s likely to be a sizable sum.”

“All of the offices are mostly okay, except for smoke damage,” Klaser said. “The same is true for the workshop area. The paper and cardboard baling areas are extensively damaged, though, along with the balers, the forklift and the tractor. The bale storage area was completely destroyed.”

F7 officials scrambled to find an alternate location so that clients could resume work as soon as possible. However, they’d like to find a more permanent solution.

“First, we need something we can afford,” Klaser explained. “Second, we need a safe location.

We’re looking for 5,000 to 10,000 square feet with some office space and a workshop area in an environmentally controlled space with some truck bays for the balers and storing the bales and equipment. Something we can fence for client security would also be nice.”

Klaser knows that those requests can come with a hefty price tag.

“The baler we really need is about $75,000, and we don’t know how much the insurance will cover,” he said. “I’m keeping my fingers crossed.”

Klaser’s son, Seth, began transitioning to his client role at F7 while in high school, and has now worked there for about 12 years.

“Hands down, his social interaction with the other clients and the staff are Seth’s favorite parts of F7,” said Klaser, who has had a leadership role with the organization for the past six years.

Cardboard comes from many local and regional businesses to F7. Those recycled materials are then picked up by an Oklahoma City company and trucked there.

“The staff has major dedication to the organization and to the clients,” Klaser said. “They’re all thrilled to be back at work for the first time since March. Paper shredding and tearing has resumed operations. Cardboard is being picked up and/or delivered. Cardboard baling will continue when we obtain a new baler.”

Income from recycling, Habilitation Training Services through DHS, grants and donations account for F7’s funding. Board members carefully allocate monies to pay staff and clients as well as paying for utilities, vehicles, equipment and maintaining work spaces. Any extra is used toward activities with the clients, like Special Olympics, bowling, Oklahoma City Dodgers games and other things in the community.

“Of course, this year, COVID-19 has put a major crimp in those activities as well,” Klaser said.

Another change impacting local recycling this year is the removal of paper and glass drop-off containers at the Central Disposal facility on 45th Street. As of July 1, the facility no longer has containers placed for residents to drop off their recycling materials, which means F7’s paper recycling efforts could play an even bigger local role for those wanting to discard large cardboard or bulk paper items that do not fit in their open, curbside bins. Curbside recycling pick-up service will continue for residents with blue bins – though, glass is not allowed in these bins – and residents can also drop-off of large trash or recycling items once a month at the Central Disposal facility with presentation of a current utility bill.

For more information on F7’s Work Activity Center, its projects, recycling capabilities or to help in some way, visit f7wac.org or call (405) 275-4223. Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 3907, Shawnee, OK 74802. www.shawneeoutlook.com

21

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HELPING HANDS

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

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

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

for masks as soon as the need became apparent.

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

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

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

Emmanuel Episcopal Church/United Presbyterian Church

Gateway to Prevention and Recovery

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

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

OHCE Oklahoma Home and Community Education chapters around the state responded to the call

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

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

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

• Sew face masks for health care providers.

From staff reports

• Make care packages for health care providers.

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

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

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

Oklahoma Blood Institute Blood donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments can be made by calling 1-877-340-8777 or clicking here or visiting a donor center listed below: • Ada – 1930 Stonecipher Blvd.

• Central OKC – 901 N. Lincoln Blvd.

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

www.shawneeoutlook.com

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By Ann McDonald, Courtesy Pott Co Historical Society Member

SHAWNEE HISTORY

Shawnee Woman Risked Health, Life for State's Ratification of Women's Right to Vote

O

n August 18, 1920, the 19th amendment granted women the right to vote. This now century-old milestone took decades of agitation with woman suffrage supporters lecturing, writing, marching and lobbying.

The ratification took threefourths of the states to pass the issue and a Shawnee woman was credited with swinging the Oklahoma legislature to cast the state’s vote in favor.

And some have said she sacrificed her life to do so.

Aloysius Larch-Miller was secretary of the Oklahoma State Suffrage Ratification committee. She was well-known for her energy and oratory abilities and was encouraged to convince Oklahoma Gov. James B.A. Robertson to call a special session of the state legislature to vote on the issue. They had adjourned without voting on the ratification and LarchMiller is reported to have said, “We shall keep up the effort to get action.”

The state’s Attorney General was scheduled to be at the county Democratic convention being held in Tecumseh to speak in opposition of calling a special session. Larch-Miller, despite experiencing a bout with the flu and a caution from her doctor, got up from her sick-bed and spoke at the event. She was able to obtain a vote of two to one for calling a special session.

Unfortunately Larch-Miller’s flu developed into pneumonia and she died two days after her speech, on February 2, 1920. She was 33 years old. She was buried in a family plot at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery, just west of town.

Twenty-six days later the Oklahoma legislature met in that special session she had campaigned for. In August Tennessee became the 36th state to pass it and the Nineteen Amendment was ratified.

This marker at the park in the 900 block of North Broadway in Shawnee memorializes the park’s namesake, Aloysius Larch-Miller, who helped fight for Oklahoma’s ratification of the now century-old 19th amendment granting women the right to vote.

Photo submitted

Judge George Abernathy of Shawnee made a resolution recognizing Larch-Miller as “a martyr to woman suffrage.” Gov. Robertson ordered the state flag flown at half-mast in her honor.

Aloysius Larch-Miller was born September 27, 1886, in Tennessee, to George and Ellen Larch-Miller. She was the second born of four children.

They came to Shawnee in 1903 and lived on North Broadway. Her father was a grocery merchant. After finishing school at Shawnee High School she attended the Territorial Normal School in Edmond (now University of Central Oklahoma). After graduating from there in 1908 she taught at Shawnee’s Harrison School for sev-

eral years. She never married.

During World War I she worked with the American Red Cross, serving as supervisor of teaching nursing at the state normal colleges.

After her death the family and other local citizens established LarchMiller Park in her honor. The park, in the 900 block of North Broadway, contains a marker with the information about her work.

One of her brothers also died at an early age but her other brother, Burke, was involved in several business ventures in Shawnee including the skating rink on North Kickapoo which eventually became the wellknown as the Roll-A-Way Rink. He also partnered with N.W. Baptist in

the Baptist Larch-Miller Hardware Store. During World War II he served in the Oklahoma legislature then was involved in real estate.

His son, Aloysius’s nephew, Burke Larch-Miller, Jr., was a POW during the war and was held for three years in the Philippines and Japan.

Her sister, Genevieve, was married to Dr. Thomas C. Sanders and they lived in the family home on North Broadway.

Like many patriots to their causes, Aloysius Larch-Miller gave her life for what she believed in. Americans should never take their right to vote lightly. Many, not just this Shawnee hero, have died earning and protecting that right. www.shawneeoutlook.com

25

MENTAL HEALTH

V

Boundaries for Families in Recovery

H

aving a relationship with a family member who has substance use problems or addiction can be challenging. Addiction impacts families in many ways and often creates patterns of functioning that go undetected until someone stops and begins to evaluate their situation. While there is a responsibility for the person struggling with addiction to take action on their health, addiction has a way of impacting all members of a person’s social and family systems.

There is a particular dance that emerges in a family with systemic patterns of generational addiction or mental health problems. Each person assumes a role and operates within a set of rules in an attempt to relieve anxiety, shame, guilt, and grief.

Addiction and mental health distress in a family has a way of saying to a person, “don’t talk about your emotions,” “don’t express your thoughts,” and “don’t even try to begin to think about your own needs.” In turn, a toxic dynamic emerges in which members of the family system assume an attempt to control anxieties and fears unexpressed in any way possible except directly. This dynamic usually develops through behaviors such as manipulation, enabling, and coercion. When these actions fail, or a family member relapses, resentments build-up, and the cycle continues, or the family disintegrates. Family systems want peace. Life changes, and people find themselves stuck. The person battling addiction loses their sense of self to maintain the patterns of behaviors they know don’t work but are difficult to break.

The family member can lose their sense of self in attempts to support and help the person struggling. All for love!

So, how are relational patterns reset?

What can families do to support their loved ones who struggle with addiction rather than continue in codependent patterns? The answers aren’t easy, and the process takes time to reform. The first step can be to begin to seek support through

some form of treatment, rehabilitation, and mutual support. New skills are needed to break and replace old habits.

One particular pattern that often comes up for family members seeking healthier ways of functioning is the pattern of boundary setting. Boundaries are ways we distinguish who is responsible for what in the maintenance and well-being in a relationship. Limits can be challenging to reestablish in relationships and may need support from a therapist. When considering a new boundary with a loved one, it often helps to think first about your values and needs and what falls within your area of control. It can be difficult for some to identify their own needs because they have neglected themselves for the sake of the family. This self-sacrifice can be detrimental to one’s health and ultimately for the relationships with which one exists.

The second step is to determine what you need to stay healthy. You may be trying to remain in recovery yourself, whether emotionally, mentally, or from some form of addiction. Once you have this list, then you can adequately define and communicate your boundaries, at least within the context of the situation you and your family or friends are currently facing.

When setting boundaries, be aware that this may be challenging for you and others at first. Struggling through the awkwardness and discomfort ultimately can result in more significant positive outcomes for you and others in the long run. If setting boundaries fails, don’t give up. Struggling through and making mistakes is part of growth. If you get stuck, remember this is why therapy and support are essential and available. Keep moving forward!

Mitchell DeShazer is a licensed marriage and family therapist for Gateway to Prevention and Recovery. For the last four years, he has worked with various couples and families of various ages with the goal of helping to improve relational health and strength.

Mitchell DeShazer is a licensed marriage and family therapist for Gateway to Prevention and Recovery. For the last four years, he has worked with various couples and families of various ages with the goal of helping to improve relational health and strength.

26

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THE BRIGHT SPOT Amid the bad news and bickering out there – and now with the current public health crisis – sometimes it’s nice to read a little encouragement. The Bright Spot is a space to share some inspiration or reassurance with the community through poetry or prose. If you have an idea or something to brighten someone’s day, submit it to editor@ shawneeoutlook.com.

The Amount of a Man’s Life

By Patrick Breen

Let’s just call this man “Robert.” I could be talking about you or me, but I am talking about a real man’s life. One day we all die, but it’s what we leave behind; what we have done while we were alive in this world. That’s what we will be remembered by. Two things are possible. It’s like leaving behind a metal box that holds the things Robert treasured most. This box is locked, leaving a letter with instructions to be opened after Robert is gone. This treasure might be awards, metals, trophies, titles, all kinds of earthly accomplishments awarded to him throughout his life.

Also possible is that this metal box is full of faith, hopes and dreams, hard work and belief. Robert’s dreams were more about saving souls, giving of his time to help others, preaching good news, storing up treasures in heaven, so others will know eternal life in heaven also. He cares about people, just like Jesus taught; saving others in the name of Jesus, God’s Son – the only Way, Truth, and Life.

Robert once knew what it was like to feel no hope. He almost gave up on everything, including himself, but his good wife loved him through it all. And they never gave up on Father God. Like the lost son who finally came home, someone just like you or me. You see, Robert found Jesus and also his soul, his family, preaching the gospel, leadership, and saving souls for God. That is what Robert has locked away in his treasure box.

Our box might contain our earthly awards and accomplishments, or our box holds things that will last forever – souls for God in heaven.

This salt which preacher Robert scattered is forever, kind of like you or me, and many others in heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ. It was all because of a man dropping salt on the ground – but we just call him Robert.

The Good Ol’ Days

By Kay Lynne Vance

Those happy times of days gone by Are what we make them; no need to cry.

If we can keep our faith in God, Sunny side up – that’s not so odd.

Cheer will lift the heavy heart And bring those good ol’ days right back to “Start.”

Day by day, as God deems best, He gives His grace to meet the test.

Mercies new and fresh each morn, Quiet waters, shades of rest.

Look at life with “2020 sight,” Our cup runs over by God’s own might.

These good ol’ days we build with words.

Words and deeds: Life, Love, and Laughter; Things that soothe, comfort and bless.

Thank you, friend, I’m glad we’re neighbors, Helping one another to be the best.

Now I sleep and no regrets come haunting And wake with joy that sets me free I work hard to be what He made me, And it’s been Deliverance forevermore.

My Redeemer has fashioned me a soldier In the Almighty’s soul-winning war

Shout

By Sheila Hughes I do my best to follow the Golden rule, Because that’s just what Christians do.

And the Ten Commandments remind me of my sin That’s been forgiven, old and new.

We should go about turning the other cheek And seek forgiveness should we wrong.

I believe the words within the good book Should cause one to sing a brand-new song.

Transformed

Sing joyful; joyful, lift your voice.

Praise the father and resurrected son.

We are to spread the good news Of the ultimate sacrifice of God’s chosen one.

Out of the heavy bondage, Out of the pits of my hell, God provided a rocky pathway, Although I’ve stumbled and I’ve fell

And that his stripes will bring us healing, And with his blood shed sin erased.

Two thousand years ago we read The total price on the cross was paid.

But I positioned myself steady.

He helped me back up on my feet.

I have altered all my wants.

And been provided every need.

And the stone was rolled away the third day.

We each are washed clean white as snow, And no body was found there in Christ’s grave.

Our seat is now the right hand of His throne.

One foot and then the other, And it has always seemed uphill.

But while I was moving forward, My soul began to heal.

The world as we know it won’t last forever.

The Bible says he’ll come again.

So, delight yourself in the Lord, Because heaven is the prize we win.

I’ve struggled through the healthy task Of keeping those that meant me well While closing all the heavy doors On those that caused me hell,

Keep your eyes fixed on him.

Share the news that salvation is free.

Rejoice that Christ he paid our price On the cross at Calvary.

Crying help at every open door, And shed more tears than in a storm.

Since my mindset was receiving renewal, I began to be transformed.

All things work for good For those who love our Lord.

We each are the righteousness through Christ.

He paid the cost we couldn’t afford.

It’s been quite difficult at times Setting up all-new rules, But it’s been made so very simple As I’ve been supplied all the tools.

Just praise his name, shout to the earth.

Walk in the light with all your faith.

Shout to the Lord, let us sing.

We’re delivered and redeemed by saving grace.

As I continue my alteration, Doing it as divine help the glory be.

Custom poems for any occasion, email Sheila at heavenlyexpressions2019@gmail.com.

By Sheila Hughes

www.shawneeoutlook.com

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CALENDAR

August Events All events subject to change and incorporate a variety of guidelines regarding public health standards. Please contact each organizer for complete and up-to-date information Aug. 7: Big Brothers Big Sisters will host Bowl for Kids’ Sake 6-8 p.m. at FireLake Bowling Center at 40945 Hardesty Road. This event will help support programs that give local students and their mentors the chance to “start on the path to their brightest possible futures.”

Contact nikki.rieves@bbbsok.org of (405) 3952788 for more information.

Aug. 7: The Pioneer Library System will host virtual concerts featuring Oklahoma artists starting with Shelby Phelps, an Oklahoma City-based singer and songwriter with a range from bluesy power ballads to foot-stomping soulful rock tunes. The concert starts at 8 p.m. via facebook.com/pioneerlibrarysystem.

Aug. 14: The Pioneer Library System will host virtual concerts featuring Oklahoma artists continuing with Hosty, the one-man band featuring the talents of Norman’s Mike Hosty.

He will mix his vocals with guitar ability while also playing drums with his feet. The concert starts at 8 p.m. via facebook.com/pioneerlibrarysystem.

"Pot can make it hard to learn but... algebra is hard enough."

What helps you live above the influence?

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

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Aug. 14: The LeAnne Henry Wright Art Gallery at 14B W. Main St. will host “Sustenance,” a show featuring five artists who call Shawnee home and whose talents have garnered attention from collectors, galleries and museums around the country. Information: (405) 6390075.

Aug. 15: The Shawnee Quarterback Club will host a golf tournament supporting the Shawnee High School football and wrestling teams at Firelake Golf Course, 1901 Gordon Cooper Drive. The 66 team, four-man scramble will have a flight each in the morning and late afternoon, and there will be prizes, giveaways and food. Information: visitshawnee.com/ events.

Aug. 15: Talk of the Town Orchestra, the premier ballroom dance band in the state will play the historic Ritz Theater at 10 W. Main St. The highly versatile ensemble comes with a 4000-tune repertoire of big band arrangements – swing, jitterbug, ballads, waltzes, latins, polkas, Dixie-land, blues, country and western, two-step, patriotic and gospel styles – ranging in time from the 1800s to today’s music. Information: facebook.com/theritzofshawnee.

Aug. 15-16: The second-ever Shawnee Comic Con will turn the page from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. both dates at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center at 1700 W Independence.

The event will have comics, toys, art, cosplay contests, open gaming, vendors from states across the region and much more. Tickets are just $5 per day. Information: shawneecon@ yahoo.com.

Aug. 21: Shawnee Stock is back as part of the monthly block party downtown hosted

by Safe Events for Families. Downtown Block Parties take place each month on the third Friday from 6-9 p.m. When the weather is nice, vendors and food trucks set up in Celebration of Life Park on the corner of Main and Philadelphia. Shops and restaurants located on Main Street stay open a little later to allow for visitors to eat, browse and stroll. Information: facebook.com/SEFFShawnee.

Aug. 22: Gordon Cooper Technology Center will host the Rocket Man Run 5K and Fun Run at its aviation campus at 2600 Airport Blvd. Registration ends at 5 p.m. Aug. 20 at bikesignup.com/Race/OK/Shawnee/RocketManRun5KFunWalk. Information: camaw@ gctech.edu.

Aug. 22: Grammy-nominated country artist David Nail will play the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center at 1700 W. Independence St. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show starting at 8 p.m. Tickets and information: kickndirtentertainment.com/event-details/david-nail-livein-shawnee.

Aug. 28: Four-time Grammy award-winning Christian music For King & Country will play a drive-in concert at 8 p.m. at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center, 1700 W. Independence. Gates open at 6 p.m. and tickets are sold by vehicle. Information: shawneeexpo. com.

Sept. 5-6: The award-winning Red Earth Festival, recognized as one of America’s top Native American art festivals, is coming to Shawnee featuring artistic creations of some of America’s most Native celebrated artists, who will offer for sale contemporary and traditional paintings, beadwork, basketry, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, graphics and culture attire.

The event will take place at the Grand Casino event center at 777 Grand Casino Blvd. Information: redearth.org.

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

The City of Shawnee wants businesses to stay open, and for everyone to stay healthy!

Mask Ordinance issued for all individuals inside public buildings July 27, 2020 – September 30, 2020 The following situations are exemptions.

Persons under 11 unless required by school or daycare

Private office space with no public interaction

While eating and drinking at a restaurant

Services that masks interfere with like dental services

When engaged in a sporting activity

Performing cardio exercise practice social distancing

Religious or ceremonial service practice social distancing

Public or private school building unless required by school

Developmental, mental, and/or medical disability

For questions, please call (405) 878-1601, or visit www.shawneeok.org

www.shawneeok.org

www.shawneeoutlook.com

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CHILLIN’ & GRILLIN’

GIVEAWAY EARN 40 POINTS

Monday–Wednesday for entry to win

$100 HOT SEATS EVERY SATURDAY IN AUGUST 5 PM – 9 PM

Gas Grill

Yeti Cooler

Two Zero Gravity Chairs

CAR SHOW

OPEN DAILY 8 AM - MIDNIGHT 32

SEPTEMBER www.shawneeoutlook.com

19 • 2020

BREAKFAST STARTS AT 8 AM