Shawnee Outlook by Shawnee Outlook

Cash Prizes for Photo Contest | Knife Maker Crafts Business

Growth tactics JANUARY 19 Vol. 15 Number 11

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID SHAWNEE, OK PERMIT NO 33

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CONTENTS

JANUARY 2019

Publisher

Okie Icon Media

Managing Editor

David Dinsmore

Advertising Sales

Brad Carter

Creative Direction

Kelsey Walker & Fawn Wilson-Olivarez

Cover Photo

Writers

FEATURES 9

Cash Prizes in View for Second-Ever Photo Contest

Over the Fence: Drastic Change in ‘Neighborly’ Definition

Knife Maker Crafts Side Business from Passion

Shawnee Chess in Bind Trying to Bring Game to Local Students

24 SONIC CONTEST

Artist Considers Caring Canines ‘Champions of the Heart’

26 MENTAL HEALTH

Hornbeck Theatre, Library Hosted Backto-Back Free Christmas Movies for Kids

DEPARTMENTS

David Dinsmore

Brandon Dyer

Carolyn Lawremce

Ann McDonald

Angela Rowland

Connie Wright

Distribution

The Shawnee Outlook is delivered FREE

by direct mail to 25,000 homes and

businesses.

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

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

6 KEEP THE CHANGE 6 NUTRITION 101 25 SHAWNEE HISTORY 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.

SO - - - YOU WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD? Shortly after the death of the Apostle John, Hadrian became Emperor of Rome and was concerned about the growth of Christianity within the Roman Empire. Fearing Christians might become a disruption to his Empire, he sent a spy among them named Aristides.

Matthew 17:20

Andrea Beck

David Dinsmore

immortal words to the emperor have echoed down through history: "Behold how they love one another." Eventually Aristides and many others in the Roman Empire became believers because of Christian lives filled with God's love. The Roman Empire was changed by God's love!

Sundays:

8:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:45 AM 6:30 PM

Wednesdays:

7:00 PM

Aristides spent considerable time Jesus said a new commandment within the Christian community observing their lifestyle, gathering data about their I give unto you that ye love one anview of the Empire and their ability to be other as I have loved you... by this shall all men know that you are my a threat to the Roman way of life. After seeing them in action Aristides returned with a mixed report, but his

disciples.

John 13:34-35

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KEEP THE CHANGE

Book These Savings While Waiting Out Old Man Winter

ith the frenzy of the holidays behind us and winter settled in, it’s time to curl up with a soft blanket and a good book – if you have a fireplace, even better. There are plenty of ways to do so on a budget. • Go to the library. The local public library offers an almost unlimited supply of free reading materials. If you don’t manage your account online, though, you’re missing out on a variety of resources. First, you can request books from other libraries in network – so if you can’t find what you’re looking for in Shawnee, they can send it from other local libraries. Second, you can request they purchase new items. There is a quick and easy form on the website (pioneerlibrarysystem.org) that allows you to request the library purchase any items they don’t already have in their network. You’ll be the first on the holds list as soon as the item is ordered. Third, you have access to their Overdrive library of audiobooks and ebooks you can read on your chosen device so you don’t even have to leave your cozy house. • Check out book sales. The local library sale is typically in October, but they have books for sale in the front near checkout year-round. The Metropolitan Library System has their annual sale in February at the fairgrounds. It’s huge, and the selection can be overwhelming. Allow plenty of time. • Half-Price Books is my favorite retail location for purchasing books. Not only are the books half the list price as the name suggests, but their clearance section is always $1-3 and worth perusing. If you’re a public or homeschool teacher, request their educator discount card for an extra 10% off year-round. When you’re finished, sell them your unwanted reading material for extra cash. 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)

www.shawneeoutlook.com

NUTRITION 101

Blue Zones and the Secrets to Long Life Have you heard the words “Blue Zones” around Shawnee lately? You might have heard and are not quite sure what exactly it is. Blue Zones are regions of the world where people live much longer than average. The term first appeared in the November 2005 National Geographic magazine cover story “The Secrets of a Long Life” by Dan Buettner. In his story, Buettner wrote the average American adult consumes 79 pounds of fat and 8,000 teaspoons of added sugar annually, washing it all down with 57 gallons of soda a year. During his study, Buettner and a team traveled to five places where people are naturally living to be 100 years old and older – Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Ogliastra region, Sardinia; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California. After his study, he came up with “The Power Nine.” Many residents of the Blue Zones practice nine healthy lifestyle habits that help them live longer, healthier and happier lives. Those nine principles are as follows: Move Naturally; Having a purpose; Downshift; Eating until 80 percent full; Plant Slant; Wine at 5 p.m.; Right tribe; Community; and Loved ones first. A Blue Zones team has been put together right here in Shawnee to try and implement some of these ideas. The past year, changes have been happening at businesses, schools, community, restaurants, grocery stores and churches. These are big changes that are really trying to make the community healthier. The fact that the Blue Zones team chose Shawnee is amazing. If you are interested in learning more about Blue Zones, there are multiple resources out there. There is a local Blue Zone team established who have an office on Main Street. The website for Shawnee is pottawatomie.bluezonesproject.com. The 2005 National Geographic where Buettner talks about his study and the book “Blue Zone Solutions” are both great, easy reads. I hope after doing your own research, you are as inspired as I have been. The following recipe is also Blue Zones inspired.

Roasted Chickpeas Every January, I do some type of fast for religious, mental and physical reasons. I have been hit and miss the last four years as I have either been pregnant or breastfeeding. This year I have actually been looking forward to what the fast will provide for me. I personally like to follow the Daniel Plan. This snack is a great way to add some crunch to your snack time or put it on top of salad while still adhering to the Daniel Plan and/or Blue Zones. Ingredients: 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp ground cumin 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp cayenne Pinch of salt

Pinch of black pepper Pinch of crushed red pepper 1, 15 oz, can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Directions: Add all ingredients to a bowl expect the beans. Stir all together until well blended. Add in beans and stir until evenly coated. Place on a pan in a single layer. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Let cool and store in an airtight container. Makes: 4 servings Nutritional Information per serving: Calories: 153 Total Fat: 8g Saturated Fat: 1g Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 296mg Carbohydrates: 17.5g Dietary Fiber: 3.6g Protein: 4g Nutrition 101 Tip: When doing a fast, make sure you do your own research and do it for your own reasons. If you would like some more information on the Daniel Plan, you can go to danielplan.com to read more. Changes can be extremely hard, but if you reach your goal, it will seem like a very small piece to your puzzle. Andrea Beck, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer, received her Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics from UCO in Edmond. She offers personal training services through Anytime Fitness and nutrition services through SSM Health St Anthony Shawnee. For nutrition or exercise questions, you can contact Andrea at andrea.beck1@ssmhealth.com.

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Cash Prizes in View for Second-Ever Photo Contest Submitted by Visit Shawnee

alling all photographers, from professional to amateur. Visit Shawneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second photography competition will begin soon. The last time we had such a contest, we had a lot of great submissions from everybody in the community. Not only is this a chance for people to show off their photography skills, but the contest also allows us to find new photos to help promote the Shawnee and Pottawatomie County area. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and go capture some striking scenes. The contest will run from Jan. 28 through Feb. 8, and fan favorite voting on Facebook will be between Feb. 12-19. Winners will be notified via email and announced on Facebook and our website on Feb. 22. The contest awards up for grabs are as follows: 1st Place: One grand prize winner will receive a cash prize of $750. 2nd Place: One blue ribbon winner will receive a cash prize of $500. 3rd Place: One red ribbon winner will receive a cash prize of $100. Life in Shawnee: One winner (chosen by a panel of judges) will receive a cash prize of $250. Fan Favorite: One winner chosen by a fan vote will receive a cash prize of $100. Photos must be taken in Shawnee, OK, Pottawatomie County, or the cities of: Prague, Meeker, Seminole, or Harrah. All photos taken since January 2017 are eligible for entry. There are other factors for eligibility, which you can read on our website at https://www.visitshawnee.com/photo. To give an example of one of our past winners, Jim Heath won the grand prize for his striking photo

Jim Heath (above) and Kent Workman won the categorical grand prizes in Visit Shawneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 photo contest.

of a sunset over the Shawnee Twin Lakes, with a water bird perched gracefully upon the silhouette of a boardwalk. Jim was awarded the $750 cash prize for his photo, and we used it as a highlight both for the Twin Lakes, and for our sunset days on social media. The 2018 Contest Winners were: Best in Show: Jim Heath 2nd Place: Sam Lincicome 3rd Place: Lizzy Burk

Fan Favorite: Lizzy Burk Life in Shawnee: Kent Workman Life in Shawnee Honorable Mention: Chris Thomas Honorable Mention: BJ Sprague Honorable Mention: Jev Vandegrift Random Winner: Elizabeth Barry Go get out there with your camera, flip through your old photos and may the best photographers win. www.shawneeoutlook.com

OHH South welcomes OHH South welcomes W.John Haddad, md , facc OHH South welcomes W.John Haddad, md, facc W.John Haddad, md, facc

Long-time Shawnee cardiologist W. John Haddad Long-time Shawnee cardiologist W. John has joined Oklahoma Heart Hospital andHaddad will be seeing at the OHH Southand campus. has joinedpatients Oklahoma Heart Hospital will Dr. has proudly Shawnee beHaddad seeing patients atcardiologist theserved OHH South campus. Long-time Shawnee W. John Haddad patients locally for the last 20 Shawnee yearsand andwill is has joined Oklahoma Heart Hospital Dr. Haddad has proudly served excited tolocally continue your care OHHcampus. South. be seeing patients thelast OHH South patients foratthe 20at years and is Dr. Haddad has proudly Call 405.608.3800 forserved an appointment. excited to continue your care atShawnee OHH South. patients locally for the last 20 years and is Call 405.608.3800 for an appointment. Oklahoma Heart Hospital is at nationally recognized excited to continue your care OHH South. as a top-performing facility Call 405.608.3800 for an appointment. Oklahoma Heart Hospital is providing nationally exceptional recognized patient satisfaction. We’re proud to welcome as a top-performing facility providing exceptional Oklahoma is nationally recognized Dr. HaddadHeart to theHospital OHH team! patient satisfaction. facility We’re proud to welcome as a top-performing providing exceptional Dr. Haddad to the OHH team! patient satisfaction. We’re proud to welcome Dr. Haddad to the OHH team!

Oklahoma Heart Hospital South 5224 E. I-240 Service Road | Oklahoma City, OK 73135 405.608.3800 | okheart.com Oklahoma Heart Hospital South

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Over the Fence:

by Brandon Dyer, executive director of Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County

Drastic Changes in Definition of ‘Neighborly’

ave you ever in your lifetime borrowed a cup of sugar from a neighbor? Have you ever collected a neighbor’s newspaper while he was out of town? Or have you ever watched a neighbor’s child while she ran errands? I’ll bet you have probably experienced this kind of neighborliness at one point or another. I sure have. In fact, these kinds of things were quite common when I was growing up 30 years ago. However, the landscape of American neighborhoods is shifting. During the mid-2000s, two faculty psychiatrists from Harvard Medical School, Jacqueline Olds and Richard Schwartz, observed that the definition of “neighborly” had not only changed during the past 50 years, it had nearly reversed. Being “neighborly” during the post-World War II era meant bringing food to a grieving neighbor, sharing yard tools or stopping by to check in when you hadn’t seen a neighbor in a few days. Now, they noted, the opposite is becoming truer. A “neighborly” homeowner would never stop by unannounced for fear of appearing rude or intrusive. “Neighborly” means not playing loud music and not letting one’s yard get out of hand. Now, one of the best compliments given to a neighbor is that they don’t bother anyone. Yep. “Not bothering anyone” is frequently considered a neighborly accolade. How can this be? To me, “not bothering anyone” shares more in common with indifference than it does to any definition of neighborliness I’ve ever known. And a neighborhood ideal of “indifference” doesn’t sound like the sort of place I want to raise my kids anyway. Living peacefully disconnected lives – though certainly tempting at times – surely cannot create the kind of community we

JAN

all want. Just this morning I read a true story about a rare neighbor. He was a senior adult in his mid 80s living alone, and a young family with a two-year-old daughter moved in next door. He and the two-year-old became quick friends. The neighbor was kind and gentle, and he grew to love the little girl. He looked forward to watching her grow up, but sadly the neighbor passed. Soon after, the elderly neighbor’s daughter came by with a large plastic sack. He must have known he was dying soon because in the sack were Christmas presents for the little girl for the next 13 years. He had always commented that he would live to be 100, and he had bought enough gifts to see the little girl through her 16th birthday. I don’t know this man’s name, but he deserves to have this beautiful story told. Why? Because he represented to us what it should mean to be “neighborly.” He reminded us again of the basic goodness present in humankind. Sure, it’s an incredibly touching story. Most of us couldn’t write a story like that if we tried, but amid the extraordinary, let’s not miss the ordinary. This neighbor simply took the time to care with intention. On purpose. Yes, it developed into the makings of a Hallmark movie, but it

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This neighbor simply took the time to care with intention. On purpose. Yes, it developed into the makings of a Hallmark movie, but it begs the following question for those of us who feel overwhelmed with the frenetic pace of life we have created: What beautiful gifts are we forfeiting when we fail to notice the people around us? begs the following question for those of us who feel overwhelmed with the frenetic pace of life we have created: What beautiful gifts are we forfeiting when we fail to notice the people around us? This young couple probably wasn’t in the market for a new friendship. They likely would have told you they didn’t have time to get to know their neighbors. I’ll bet their social circle already seemed full. Besides, being neighborly these days means leaving each other alone, but each Christmas for the next 13 years, they’ll be reminded – especially their little girl – that we are better off together. May 2019 be the year you make room for one more in your circle.

2019

2008

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Knife Maker Crafts Side Business from Passion by Carolyn Lawrence

eil Southern’s mission for his knife making is simple: to create truly unique, beautiful, custom handmade knives for the patriot, crusader, hunter and blade lover. Before he began creating unique knives, he gained experience working with lawnmower blades, but before that he learned to appreciate the craft watching his grandfather working with steel. He learned how to use the tools required for forming and shaping steel. Now Southern is keeper of the tools, and they have helped give him an outlet for his creativity and a little extra income for his family by selling his custom works under the business name, Pork Chop Knives. “Neil’s little knife shop is his happy place,” wife Stephanie Southern said. “He genuinely loves doing it.” Southern does have a forge he can use, but most often he makes use of a stock removal method that lets him choose his piece and then begin to design it around the specifications of the person who ordered it. The metal used in the knife is important to the functionality of the piece, but the real art of

Neil Southern started Pork Chop Knives to be able to hone his craft for people wanting unique custom knives. Photos submitted

the task, however, comes in designing and creating the handle for the knife. He makes sure to go over the details of each piece with the customer. They can design and request exactly what they want out of a knife. They can choose from a beautiful black walnut handle, a composite of several woods for an incredibly unique look or a deer horn handle. They choose the size and shape of the blade – such as a tanto, clip point or bowie. The finish is according to their preference as well. Satin or primitive, it’s all part of the process in the art form of designing and giving their very own knife a life. Southern crafts these pieces in his off time

when he’s not working security at FireLake casino, but that is not the only way he spends his downtime. The benefits of owning Pork Chop Knives allows him to be able to give back to his community, Stephanie said. The moment he catches wind of an auction or a benefit of any sort, he is the first to volunteer. He pours his soul into crafting beautiful and functional knives to help others that can be sold to raise proceeds for people and organizations in need. He utilizes his talent to benefit the families of fallen police officers and to make Christmas a bit brighter for children who may otherwise not experience the joy of receiving something. “To say that I am proud of him would be a gross understatement,” Stephanie said. “I am proud of how stunning his work is and even more proud of how he gives back to so many.” For more information, check out PorkChopKnives on Facebook. www.shawneeoutlook.com

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Shawnee Chess in a Bind Trying to Bring Game to Local Students

by David Dinsmore

couple years ago, Shawnee Chess met several times a week at locations around town trying to bring the game to new potential players and helping players who had already discovered it come together for some friendly competition. They had weekly games at Shawnee Mall, twice a month at the Shawnee Public Library and every third Friday night at Main Street Photo Studio and Gallery. Since then, they have condensed their gatherings to every Thursday from 6-9 p.m. at the Shawnee Mall on the concourse between Ross and Shoe Dept. Here they sort out strategies, sharpen tactics, enjoy some camaraderie and even prepare for tournaments held in places like Oklahoma City or beyond. The number of participants can vary with the seasons – whether it’s the busy holidays or peak travel time in the summer – but the controlled environment inside the mall helps keep the game going no matter the weather. Jim Brenner founded Shawnee Chess with a mission “to teach children and people of all ages to learn how to play or to improve their current

www.shawneeoutlook.com

Shawnee Chess meets from 6-9 p.m. every Thursday at the Shawnee Mall between Ross and Shoe Dept. Their organizational goal of teaching the game to the next generation of players via local schools and institutions has met with some challenges, but they welcome any new or experienced player to their weekly meetings. Photos by David Dinsmore

skill in chess,” according to the group’s Facebook page. He began playing at a young age and then rediscovered the game as an adult playing with various groups while living in Ohio. “There’s a lot of mental acuity you can gain from playing chess,” Brenner said. Introducing the game to children has shown to have many positive results in developing their focus, problem solving and reasoning, Brenner said. One of the biggest challenges he faced when he began rediscovering his interest in chess came from a kid who was a regular attendee of a chess group back in Ohio. She was eight years old at the time and one of the most formidable opponents he faced in those days. Growing the game locally, however, has proven to be more challenging than some of the matches that take place at their weekly meetings, members said.

Since starting his group locally almost five years ago, Brenner said he has approached every school and educational body in the area about incorporating chess into its options, whether it’s through a formal club or just regular special classes led by experienced players. He said these ideas have met with little to no interest from local educators. Shawnee Chess did have an arrangement with the public library in Shawnee to use its facilities to conduct its regular gathering aimed at providing instruction to new and developing players, especially primary and secondary school students who showed interest in learning how to play chess. Yet, support for these meetings also waned and eventually dried up. Even formal groups organized at institutions like Oklahoma Baptist University – where one of Shawnee Chess’s regular attendees had

once been the top player – are not as easily found as they once had been. One of the purposes of meeting at the mall as Shawnee Chess does is to be out in the open and draw attention from passersby, which they do from time to time, member Bud Jeffrey said. They happily welcome anyone with an interest in finding out what has made the game so enduring and endearing for players for about the last half-millennium. Yet, these chance encounters do not always lead to permanent fixtures, and they can only relate so much information to a potential new player in one meeting. The level of play and number of opportunities –whether via programs, clubs, groups or tournaments – available in places around the state like Oklahoma City indicate that chess is not out of place here, Brenner said. In fact, the game has ways of making moves among people in Shawnee under the right conditions. “We have chess sets due to the fact that we play during our annual Family Festival each summer the last part of June,” Citizen Potawatomi Nation vice chairman Linda Capps said.

The CPN Family Festival is one of the first places Brenner exercised his skills when he first moved to Shawnee to help his parents as their health began to wane, he said. He met a few players at those festivals who later became regular attendees of Shawnee Chess events. Jeffrey said the group and Capps have touched on the possibility of CPN and Shawnee Chess working together on staging a local tournament with area and regional players, though nothing formal is yet in the works. Still, opening the game to more students at a young age would be most impactful in preserving and promoting the game locally on a long-term basis, Brenner said. Until they can find some partnerships to bring their knowledge to students, they will keep meeting in any season every Thursday at the mall to hone their skills and offer instruction and resources to anyone looking to test their wits. For more information, visit facebook.com/shawneechess or email shawneechess@gmail.com.

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Artist Considers Caring Canines ‘Champions of the Heart’

by Carolyn Lawrence

“T

he aim of art is not to represent the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” — Aristotle This quote rings true for Jude Delaney, a local artist who captures the essence of “man’s best friend.” Her pieces are featured in the West Tower at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital – Shawnee. Her keen eye and steady hand are a magical combination in bringing her artwork to life. Most of Delaney’s subjects are therapy dogs, making her pieces that much sweeter. She likes to refer to them as “champions of the heart.” “I’ve never met a dog with a bad self-image,” Delaney said. She describes her love for dogs as being as natural as breathing. It is undeniable when you see her work. This creativity is fueled by love and passion. Delany’s chosen art medium is colored pencil. She also enjoys working with acrylics and is learning to use watercolors. “Colored pencil is really excellent for conveying fur and feathers,” Delaney said. “And I love the bright colors.” While viewing her pieces, it’s difficult not to want to reach out and pet the painting. Her attention to detail is stunning. The fur is as if it was blowing in a cool breeze. The canines hanging on the wall could turn their head any second and yelp a friendly bark. She has sketched so much life onto her canvas. In addition to being featured in the hospital’s Gallery Wall, Delaney has paintings in the Oklahoma Art Guild Show in the Paseo District. She recently joined the Colored Pencil Society of America again and will have her art featured at the next national show. The SSM Health St. Anthony Shawnee Hospital Gallery Wall is curated by the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. Delaney also belongs to the Mid-Del Guild in Midwest City. Her accomplishments and involvement in the art world are many as she continues to strive to for more. Her work being displayed in the hos-

“They are healing, helpful and loving. Dogs just love; they don’t judge.” — Jude Delaney

Jude Delaney uses colored pencil work to bring out the compassion in the therapy dogs she captures in her pieces currently displayed in the hospital’s West Tower gallery. Photos by David Dinsmore

pital serves as a divine purpose when considering the mission of the collaboration between the two entities. “SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital – Shawnee and the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art are working together to connect the world of healing and the world of art,” Delaney said. The intent of the hospital’s gallery is to showcase local artists as well as provide a visual experience that promotes the healing, soothing benefits of beautiful artwork. The gallery is located in the hallway that connects the main hospital to the new West Tower. Delaney feels that all dogs are therapeutic. She said in any sort of disaster that takes place “we always see dogs. “They are healing, helpful and loving,” Delaney said. “Dogs just love; they don’t judge.” Art serves as the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, especially in visual form. Artists produce works primarily for their beauty or emotional power, and Delaney encompasses just that for viewers to appreciate. www.shawneeoutlook.com

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SHAWNEE HISTORY

Flood of 1928 Likely Shawnee’s Worst Natural Disaster

by Ann McDonald, courtesy Pott Co Historical Society member

nyone familiar with Shawnee might be quick to note that the worst disasters suffered by the town are the major tornadoes: the one in 1924 and the more recent one in 1970. Yet, the flood of 1928 – due to lives lost and extensive property damage – could claim to be the most devastating natural disaster in Shawnee. As the town grew, it was apparent that while it was handy to be located on a major waterway, it was also a serious problem. The south side of Shawnee flooded several times even before statehood. When heavy rains came not only to the area but also upstream toward Oklahoma City, Shawnee was flooded. Property, crops and livestock were lost, and roads and railroads were wrecked. In 1908, two floods came back to back and much of the problem was blamed on the lack of dams upriver. Another serious flood came in 1923. The telegraph system from Oklahoma City kept towns downriver informed of when the rush of water would reach them so they could prepare. Bridges washed out, and Shawnee was nearly marooned. The interurban between Shawnee and Tecumseh was out for 30 days while that bridge was rebuilt. So it wasn’t a new problem for the citizens of Shawnee on April 4, 1928 when the clouds dumped nearly seven inches of rain on the city that night. Shawnee Creek, which rambled through the heart of town, was an offshoot of the North Canadian River. Coupled with the fledgling drainage system, it was recipe for tragedy. Scores were forced to the roofs of their houses as the streets flooded. Water-soaked homes were washed from their foundations, and more than 1,000 people were driven out. The worst ruin at was where the drainage of Shawnee Creek emptied into the Santa Fe basin in the area of Main and Tucker Streets. It was reported there was a “sea” almost three blocks wide and several miles long. The drainage canal under East Main Street was so overburdened that the flooding tore up sidewalks and pavement. The flooding caused heavy damage to 21 businesses along East Main Street, including lumber yards, cafes, grocery stores, drug stores and filling stations. The Santa Fe shops and the Shawnee Morning News offices were also flooded. Windows were broken out due to heavy hail.

Flood damage in 1928 along Tenth Street with the Britan Gin (later the site of Harp’s Poultry) on the corner of Oklahoma Street in the background. Photo submitted

Houses along Tenth Street north to Highland were destroyed. Automobiles were overturned or swept away. The flooding continued along Shawnee Creek. There was damage just east of the high school on Highland and even into Woodland Park. Mud and debris were swept diagonally through town as far as Beard and Market streets. The cost of the disaster reached more than $1 million, which was a large sum for 1924. The cost of lives lost began to be counted as the floodwaters receded. A woman and her 18-year-old son living on Oklahoma Street were swept away. A construction worker was witnessed rescuing as many as three others in the muddy waters at the Harrison Street bridge before he disappeared. A woman riding in a wagon with her husband as they tried to escape the rushing water was described as being “chased down” by the deluge and disappeared. Her body wasn’t discovered until a week later where it had washed under a house. Another woman was reported missing, and a local stone mason was

carried away from his tent. A 12-year-old boy was observed by others jumping for a bus in the floodwater and not seen again. Search efforts to find the missing continued with parties hunting through the streams and prying through the accumulation of debris along the course of the flood. When some were never found, the concern was that bodies had been washed all the way to the river. Speculation was also that they could be at the bottom of the large pool just east of the tracks on Main Street. Funds rolled in from around the state and even as far away as Chicago to help Shawnee recover from the disaster. The Red Cross, Boy Scouts, churches, service clubs and individuals worked tirelessly to raise money and do clean up work. City fathers also worked to create the drainage system that runs from the river through much of the town so that such as disaster never happened again. Shawnee’s low lying areas still temporarily flood with heavy rain but nothing has been like the flood of 1928. www.shawneeoutlook.com

MENTAL HEALTH

Living with Co-Occurring Mental Disorders

by Connie Wright

any people who are addicted to drugs are also diagnosed with other mental disorders, including anxiety and depression. Some people develop mental health problems related to their compulsive drug use, and some people take drugs to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders. Whatever symptoms appear first, it is important to treat all mental illnesses at the same time, according to the National Institutes of Health. At times, it is difficult to determine which came first: the mental disorder or substance use disorder. Having both a mental health disorder and substance use disorder does not always mean that one caused the other. Today, more than 7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental and substance use disorders. The interactions between these two disorders can worsen the course of both if treatment is not initiated. In many cases, people receive treatment for one disorder in hopes that it will diminish the symptoms of the other disorder. Disorders that are left untreated can lead to a higher likelihood of experiencing homelessness, incarceration, mental illnesses, suicide, or even death, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Co-occurring disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders, are prevalent among veterans and the military community. The Veterans Affairs Department reports that approximately one-third of veterans seeking treatment for a substance use disorder also met the criteria for PTSD. A combination of issues may contribute

to the development of addiction and/or mental health disorders, which includes biology, genetics, trauma, environment and life experience. There are a variety of treatment modalities for treating substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders. While treatment may be short-term or long-term, recovery from substance use disorders is a lifelong process. Substance use disorders impact a person’s mind, health, personal relationships, life goals and spirituality. At Gateway to Prevention and Recovery, we strive to work with patients in these areas. Unfortunately, there is no cure for any mental health disorder or for addiction to drugs and alcohol. However, there are numerous research-based therapies and treatment interventions that have been proven to be effective in treating those who are living with one or more mental health diagnoses, with or without a substance abuse or addiction disorder. The key is personalized care and treatment that is intensive and comprehensive in nature and that can be updated as needed. Longterm support and therapeutic intervention are recommended for all people with cooccurring disorders in order to empower their ability to make continual progress in their journeys in recovery, according to the American Addiction Centers. Life doesn’t have to include the daily struggle of a substance use disorder. Find a new beginning at Gateway to Prevention and Recovery. Contact us at (405) 273-1170 for more information. Please like Gateway to Prevention and Recovery’s Facebook page to find out more on how we continue to provide the best possible care or visit www.gatewaytoprevention.org.

Connie Wright is a licensed professional counselor and clinical supervisor at Gateway to Prevention and Recovery. She earned her master’s degree in psychological services at East Central University in 2015. Connie is an EMDR therapy clinician, certified clinician and supervisor in ACRA therapy and is pursuing her certification in play therapy. She is grateful that she gets to be a trusting, supportive and empathetic person in someone’s life who might not have that or ever have had that. Using a person-centered approach, she focuses on people’s strengths. 26

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On the Saturday before Christmas, kids and their grown-ups were treated to a free movie at Jones Theatres’ 97th annual Children’s Christmas Show at the Hornbeck Theatre followed by another free Christmas movie on the big screen at the Shawnee Public Library. Photo by David Dinsmore

Hornbeck Theatre, Library Hosted Back-to-Back Free Christmas Movies for Kids

n the Saturday before Christmas, downtown Shawnee was the site of an unintentional but entertaining marathon featuring back-to-back free children’s holiday movies shown at the Hornbeck Theatre and Shawnee Public Library. Up first, Jones Theatres opened the doors to its 125 N. Bell St. theater at 10 a.m. for a screening of “Jingle All the Way,” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger battling comedian Sinbad in a race to find the hottest toy of the season on Christmas Eve. Kids and their grown-ups grabbed some concessions and found a seat for the annual Children’s Christmas Show. “The movie was really funny,” said Libertie Howard, who came to the theater with her aunt, Kathy Baine. Baine heard about the movie just the day before the event and immediately thought Howard would enjoy herself. “We had a great time at the free Christmas movie at the Hornbeck Theatre,” Baine said. “We can’t wait to see what they show next year.” The show last month was the 97th of its kind for Jones Theatres. Jake Jones Sr. started the children’s Christmas movie tradition in 1921,

just a few years after establishing Jones Theatres in Shawnee. “That was to make sure that every child in the area could see a movie over the Christmas holidays,” said Ronny Jones, who is the third generation of his family to carry on the tradition. That first Christmas show lit the screen at the Cozy Theatre in downtown Shawnee – later renamed the Ritz. In 1988, the show moved to the Hornbeck Theatre after the Ritz stopped operating as a movie theater. Since then, the tradition continued under the guidance of Jake Jones Sr.’s son Johnny H. Jones and daughter Ruby H. Jones and now Ronny Jones. On top of offering a movie free of charge to area children, the Jones Theatre tradition has also included handing a bag of candy to moviegoers as they exit their show, Ronny Jones said. In recent years, his stepson and general manager David Hammer has tried to make sure this tradition continues by getting his kids involved in handing out the candy. “It’s always been something we’ve done as a family,” Ronny Jones said. “Ever since I was a small child, I remember that.” After the credits began rolling for “Jingle All

by David Dinsmore

the Way,” families could head down Main Street a couple of blocks to enjoy more free movie fun at the Shawnee Public Library starting at noon. This time the film was “The Dog Who Saved Christmas,” starring Gary Valentine, Dean Cain and Mario Lopez, who voiced the titular hero who must find a way to stop thieves from ruining the holidays for his new adopted family. Attendees also received free hot dogs, popcorn, candy and other refreshments during the flick. The library’s event was one of several free movie events they hosted last year, staff member Mary Sims said. The movies sometimes coincide with another event – like the monthly Block pARTy or the mystery dinner hosted at the library in October – and other times they are standalone events. “In the past, what we’ve done is a movie marathon,” said Sims, who added the selections have included all three “Santa Clause” movies starring Tim Allen shown in succession. “It’s wonderful we get to do this.” Those interested in future library events can check out pioneerlibrarysystem.org/hometowns/Shawnee or the Pioneer Library System Facebook page. www.shawneeoutlook.com

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CALENDAR

January Events The Shawnee Public Library is calling all kid scientists for Science Monday 4:305:15 p.m. Jan. 7 at 101 N. Philadelphia. This program for elementary ages kindergarten through second grade is about the wonders of science. Children will engage in active, hands-on learning about the physical and natural world. Information: (405) 275-6353. Get in on the Creative Conversations with Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art 12:301:30 p.m. at the Shawnee Senior Center at 401 N. Bell. Look at art and discuss it with other members of the community in an open, relaxed and non-judgmental environment. Any adult is welcome, not just senior citizens. Information: (405) 878-5300. LeAnn Rimes will be performing at 8 p.m. on Jan. 18 at the Grand Casino. The venerable country superstar is an internationally multi-platinum selling acclaimed singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter. For tickets and information: grandboxoffice.com. Suspend your disbelief as Rob Lake performs his renowned brand of storytelling through mind blowing illusions at 7 p.m. Jan. 12 at the Grand Casino. Tickets and information at grandboxoffice.com.

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Join the fun at Downtown Shawnee’s Block Party from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 18. Events are centered around Celebration of Life Park across the street from the Shawnee Public Library and carry on up and down Main Street. Each month the activities range from free music, art showings, cooking demonstrations and more.

The Oklahoma Lightweight Championship fight between Aaron Mckenzie vs Ago Huskic will hit Shawnee with HD MMA XV starting at 7 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Firelake Arena at 18145 Old Rangeline Road. There are 10 bouts scheduled for the octagon at the event. Tickets: firelakearena.com. Gear up and test your grit during the Oklahoma Gravel Growler IV bike ride/ race on Feb. 2 starting and finishing at 113 N. Bell Ave. Multiple bike distances, various surfaces, a running ultra-marathon and a start/finish festival atmosphere. Information: facebook.com/ okgravelgrowler. Saxophone innovator Derek Brown from Chicago will showcase his ability to cross genres from jazz to funk to pop using creative “beatbox-like” techniques. Brown will perform BEATBox SAX at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4 in Raley Chapel on the OBU campus. Information: (405) 585-4300. Take a walk down Fleet Street as Shawnee Little Theatre presents “Sweeney Todd” Feb. 8-16 at 1829 N. Airport Drive. Information: shawneelittletheatre.com. OBU Theatre will present Lewis Carroll’s classic “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” adapted by Simon Reade Feb. 15-17 at the Craig-Dorland Theatre on campus. Information: okbu.edu/theatre or (405) 585-4350. If you know of any events you’d like to see featured, email editor@shawneeoutlook.com.

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