On Tuesday, June 23, community partners and health advocates gathered at Oklahoma Baptist University for a halftime celebration of Pottawatomie County’s Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), taking stock of six months of community-driven work and looking ahead to a strong second half of 2026. The event featured a progress report on six months of collaborative work across the county’s health coalitions — including approval of Shawnee’s Safe Streets for All action plan, partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, lien reduction work that led to the passage of State Senate Bill 1198, and more. Dr. AJ Griffin, CEO of the Potts Family Foundation, served as the convening speaker and challenged CHIP partners to protect the momentum that has been built through trust, alignment, and shared action. The meeting culminated in the presentation of the inaugural CHIP Awards Presented by Pogo, recognizing individuals whose exceptional leadership and dedication are helping build a healthier, more connected Pottawatomie County. In keeping with the meeting's basketball halftime theme, the awards carried names familiar to any sports fan. "After six months of collaboration, action, and community-driven work, we're proud to celebrate the teammates making this plan more than just a document,” John Bobb-Semple, executive director of Pogo, said. “These are the people making things happen for Pottawatomie County." 2026 CHIP Award Recipients Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award Cindy Bartley, Shawnee Public Schools Cindy was honored for the extraordinary breadth of leadership she brings to the Mental Wellbeing Coalition. Balancing roles as educator, counselor, caregiver, and community leader, she shows up to every meeting with optimism, innovation, and a can-do attitude. A steady source of support through every iteration of the committee, Cindy's commitment extends well beyond the meeting room, as she lives the mission of community health out loud every day in her role as Coordinator of Prevention Services for Shawnee Public Schools. Her wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in the importance of mental wellbeing have been an inspiration to her committee and to the broader CHIP effort. Rookie of the Year Award Julie Gibbs, SSM Health Julie was recognized for the immediate and lasting impact she made in her very first year with Pogo, SSM Health, and the Veggie Rx program. From day one, she arrived ready to work, embracing every challenge with a positive attitude, professionalism, and a genuine willingness to learn. In a short time, she became an invaluable contributor to the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition, helping drive the committee's work forward and supporting key projects. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and heart for serving others made her the clear choice for this year's Rookie of the Year. Sixth Man of the Year Award Amy Moon, Stride Mortgage Amy Moon was recognized as the 2026 CHIP Sixth Man of the Year for her outstanding leadership and service through the Shawnee Housing Alliance. Whether connecting first-time homebuyers to resources through Stride Mortgage’s HSP+ program or stepping in to support Alliance projects, Amy consistently brings energy, adaptability, and reliability to the work. Her commitment to making homeownership more attainable for local families and her willingness to help wherever needed have made her an invaluable partner in advancing housing opportunities and community well-being. Teammate of the Year Award Susan Morris, Community Leader and Volunteer Susan was recognized for her exceptional collaboration and initiative within the Built Environment Committee. Over the past year, she developed a GIS tracking system for walk audits, actively recruited new members, volunteered at numerous events, and took ownership of key projects from start to finish. From leading the bike decorating station at Pedal Palooza to engaging youth in community health efforts, Susan consistently shows up, steps in, and delivers for her committee, making her an invaluable force behind the CHIP’s growing impact. Clutch Player of the Year Award Lynn Cowie, Shawnee Public Schools Lynn was celebrated for her unwavering dedication and positive presence at community health events throughout the year as a member of the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition. Always eager to help and consistently reliable, she steps in wherever needed — from setup and greeting attendees to behind-the-scenes support — ensuring every event runs smoothly and every participant feels welcome. Her flexibility, genuine desire to serve, and enthusiasm make her an indispensable part of every effort she touches. Co-Chair of the Year Award Andrea Beck, Registered Dietitian Andrea was honored for her extraordinary vision, dedication, and leadership in guiding the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition to success. A passionate advocate for healthy living both professionally and personally, she weaves nutrition education and wellness into nearly every conversation — and backs it up by walking the walk. Beyond her work with the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition, Andrea volunteers with youth at her church and continually invests in her own personal development. Her genuine enthusiasm for healthy living is contagious, and her leadership has been a driving force behind the CHIP’s success. For more information on the Community Health Improvement Plan and to download the full report, visit gopogo.org/chip.

Pottawatomie County, let's get one thing straight: the 4th of July is for celebrating! The burgers, the fireworks, the kids running around with sparklers, Grandma's famous potato salad. You should enjoy it all. But we’ll let you in on a little secret: feeling great on July 5th doesn't require sacrifice on the 4th. All you need’s a few sneaky healthy 4th of July food swaps so tasty nobody at your cookout will even notice. Here's how to do the 4th, Pogo-style. Start at the Grill The grill is the heart of the holiday, and because grilling is one of the healthiest ways to cook, it's already doing you favors. A few ways to make it work even harder for you: Swap a beef patty for a turkey or chicken burger. For even more flavor, load it up with grilled onions, peppers, and avocado (a bonus swap for mayo!) Throw some veggies on the grates. Fresh corn on the cob, zucchini, summer squash, bell peppers — a little char makes everything taste like summer. Enhance the sweetness of fruit. Instead of sugary desserts, toss some peaches or pineapples over the charcoals. The sugars from the fruits naturally caramelize. Go bunless. Stack up all your favorite burger or hot dog toppings, then eat it open-face style. Don’t want to fork-and-knife it? Lettuce makes a great bun substitute. Rethink the Sides Table This is where cookouts get us. Between the chips, the dips, and the mystery casseroles, the sides table can pack more punch than the main event. Try these dupes: Greek yogurt is your secret weapon. Swap it into your potato salad, your deviled eggs, or your ranch dip. A little tangy, a lotta good for you. Put the veggie tray at the front of the line. True story: people load up on whatever they see first. Lead with the good stuff. Try watermelon and feta salad instead of pasta salad. It's cold, it's refreshing, and in July heat like we get around here, it's basically a public service. Sip Smarter Oklahoma in July is no joke, friends. When you’re loading up your cooler, make sure hydration is the star of the show. Freeze water bottles the night before. They’ll thaw as the day goes by, and when you reach for a refresh, your drink will be ice cold. Set up a fruit-infused water station. Strawberries and blueberries in a pitcher of water adds a fruity flavor and a patriotic flair. Use frozen fruit as ice cubes. The night before, freeze up grapes, blueberries, strawberries, or peach chunks. For extra hydration, toss a couple in some coconut water. Try going half sweet, half unsweet on your tea. You might just surprise your taste buds. Dessert Can Be a Showstopper Mother Nature is already doing all of the work with the sweets table. Fruit is at its absolute peak right now, and it happens to come in holiday colors. Here are a few ideas that'll steal the show: Hollow out a watermelon and fill it with fruit salad. Boom — dessert AND a centerpiece. Swap popsicles for frozen grapes. The perfectly refreshing snack while you’re sitting poolside or lakeside. Grab a star-shaped cookie cutter and go to town on fresh fruit. The kids will fight over them, and they look Instagrammable on your plate. Make a watermelon pizza. Cut slices of melon into pizza-shaped slices, then top with yogurt and blueberries. Build red, white & blue parfaits in clear cups. Yogurt, strawberries, blueberries. Five minutes of work, and it looks like you tried way harder than you did. And One More Thing... The best hack of all doesn't happen on your plate. Before the fireworks start, take the family on a walk around the neighborhood, get a game of kickball going, or set up cornhole in the yard. The holidays we remember aren't about what was on the table. They're about who was around it and what we did together. A little extra movement never hurt anyone either. So this 4th of July, sneak a swap or two onto your plate, drink your water, and soak up every minute with your people. You don't have to choose between celebrating and feeling your best. Around here, we do both. From our cookout to yours, Pott County. Happy 4th of July from your friends at Pogo! 🇺🇸

Originally published in the July 2026 issue of Shawnee Outlook Look, we hear you. Oklahoma summers are basically an argument for staying inside and making the A/C your BFF. But here's the thing: people who get out and stay socially active tend to be healthier, happier, and report a better quality of life across the board. That’s because staying socially connected is just as foundational to your health as eating your greens and getting your sweat on. The U.S. Surgeon General even made it official in 2023, declaring loneliness a public health concern — with risks comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Fifteen. Pottawatomie County's Community Health Needs Assessment confirmed it's a problem close to home too, with 42% of residents saying they don’t feel connected to their community. That same report, though, surfaced over 120 ideas for fixing that. And turns out, Pottawatomie County has plenty of ways to get plugged in. Get Moving with Good Company Research shows people who exercise with others stick with it longer, push harder, and actually enjoy it more. Good thing Pottawatomie County has more trails, parks, pools, courts, and lakes than you can shake a stick at. The activity almost doesn't matter. Nor does your expertise level. Getting out the door and into the same space as people who are glad you showed up? That's the real win. Show Up For Someone Else Checking on a neighbor, helping a buddy move, dropping off a meal for a sick family member. Some of the smallest acts pack an outsized impact. Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County has built their entire model around this idea — that intentional, neighbor-to-neighbor relationships are what actually strengthen a community from the inside out. Volunteering works the same way. Ask any regular volunteer why they keep coming back and they'll say the same thing: it's the people. If you’re looking to get plugged in here in Pottawatomie County, local food pantries, schools, nonprofits, hospitals, and community events are always looking for helping hands. Mix the Generations Whether you're hanging with the grandkids or befriending the older regular at your favorite diner, spending time with different ages is good for everyone. According to AARP, adults with close intergenerational friendships report boosted emotional support, stronger overall wellbeing, and less feelings of isolation. Younger people gain perspective and a mentor they didn't know they needed. Just ask the retiree and the twenty-something who discovered they're evenly matched on the pickleball court or the kid whose grandpa just baited his first hook. Walls come down, stories get shared, and everybody feels a little less alone. Eat Together Photo by Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County There's a reason every culture on earth built its traditions around a table. Food is the original icebreaker. Whether it's a church potluck, a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or just two coworkers grabbing lunch, sharing a meal brings people together and gets us talking. Know someone who eats alone most nights? Invite them to the cookout. An extra plate costs you little, but could be a lifeline to the right person. From food trucks to farmers markets and coffee shops that already know your order, filling your belly with friends is a great way to fill your cup. Get Your Head in the Game Few things get people off the couch and into the same room quite like sports and live entertainment. Rec leagues, pickup basketball games in the park, and even cheering on your kids little league baseball game is one of the fastest ways to keep your social circle strong — and growing. A familiar face on the field or in the stands has a way of becoming an actual friend by the final inning. Find Your People at Church Faith communities came up in nearly every focus group of the CHNA as one of the primary ways residents feel connected — and it makes sense. A congregation gives you somewhere to be on a regular basis and a net of people who notice when you're not there. Whether you're already a regular in the pews or looking for the right fit, the Shawnee area has a church community on nearly every corner, ready to welcome you with open arms. Put Local Events on Your Calendar Pottawatomie County always has something going on, and community events are one of the best places to socially connect. The International Finals Youth Rodeo (July 12-17), FireLake Fire Flight Balloon Festival (August 7-8), Pottawatomie County Free Fair (September 9-12), Pedal Palooza (September 19), Worksite Wellbeing Summit (September 24), and Tecumseh Frontier Days (September 26) are all coming up. So make sure you’re there too! You never know who you might run into. Now Get Out There! At the end of the day, the how doesn’t matter much. Actually doing the connecting does. This summer, Pogo is making it easy with the Gather & Go Challenge — made possible alongside our Social Connection & Active Lifestyle Committee, led by Brandon Dyer of Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County and Mindy Mew-Palmer of Vyve Broadband. Team up with your family and friends, log your steps, and take on social prompts designed to get you out of your comfort zone and plugged back into your community. The top two steppers will take home $100 cash. Scan the QR code to sign up!

Originally published in the June 2026 issue of Shawnee Outlook Green stalks of corn are shooting up along the roadsides, school bells have gone quiet, and the heat index is already making its presence known. It can only mean one thing: summer has arrived in Pottawatomie County. The good news is that our community is packed with ways to get out and about — and turns out, doing just that is more important than you might think. Data from the 2024 Pottawatomie County Community Health Needs Assessment (2024) shows that adults who feel connected to others are significantly more likely to stay active, with socially connected adults nearly 50% more likely to hit the recommended weekly exercise minimums than those who feel isolated. So grab somebody and get moving! Whether you're swimming Twin Lakes at sunrise, bowling on a Tuesday night, or soaking up the sun at a splash pad, here are some of Pogo's favorite ways to have a good-for-you summer right here at home. Soak Up Some Sun at Twin Lakes Turns out, grandma was right. Outside time does wonders for the mind, body, and soul. The two lakes offer 25 combined miles of shoreline and more ways to spend a Saturday than you've got Saturdays. Swimming is free in designated areas on Lake 1, and if you have a boat, tubing, skiing, or just jumping right in are sure to get the heart pumping too. If fishing is more your speed, cast a line for bass, crappie, sand bass, or channel catfish. There's even a fully enclosed fishing dock for a little shade on those scorcher days. Stock Up at a Farmers Market Few things say summer like the taste of farm fresh tomato…or okra or sweet corn or watermelon. Luckily, Pottawatomie County has tons of farmers markets worth your weekend mornings. The Shawnee Farmers Market runs 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday on MacArthur, and markets have kicked up across McLoud and Tecumseh too. For something truly local, the Monks' Marketplace at St. Gregory's sells raw honey, grass-fed beef, and free-range eggs raised right on the abbey grounds. There's a real difference between a pepper that traveled 1,500 miles and one that was picked yesterday, and buying from neighbors connects your plate to the place you live in a way a grocery store just can't touch. Go for a Round of Disc Golf Ranked among the top disc golf cities in Oklahoma, Shawnee is a low-key mecca for the sport. Four courses are open to the public, so if you've ever wanted to give it a whirl, you're in the right zip code. The Immanuel Baptist Church course on East 45th Street is a local favorite, with heavily wooded fairways and elevation changes to keep you on your toes. The 18-hole course at OBU is one of the more scenic rounds you'll find in central Oklahoma. For beginners or a quick round after work, the shorter courses at Boy Scout Park and Barrett's Birdie Run are the move. Best of all, disc golf is free — and by the end of a round you'll have walked a couple of miles without thinking twice about it. Hit the Greens Golf gets undersold as exercise, and Pogo is here to make a case for it. You’re getting some Vitamin D, you’re walking around four miles, and every hole gives your brain something to chew on. FireLake Golf Course has been Shawnee's only public course since 1983, owned and operated by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. The fairways are lined with native grass and old-growth pecan orchards, and water comes into play on 13 of the 18 holes. If you have an in, Shawnee Country Club and Elks Lodge are worth a round too. Cool Down at Shawnee Splash Waterpark When the heat index nears triple digits, nothing cools you down like good old H2O. Shawnee Splash Water Park has everything you need to stay active on a summer afternoon through mid-August. Get some laps in the regulation-size pool, let the kids burn some energy on the spray ground, or brave the diving zone. Swim lessons run for ages 6 months and up, and adult programming includes water aerobics, water walking, and lap swim. Swimming burns more calories than running, and just a few bucks gets you through the gate. If the budget's tight, the splash pads at Rotary Park and Slick Humphrey Park in Tecumseh are free and open daily. Just don’t forget the SPF! Frequent Your Local Library A little extra free time is the perfect time to flex those mental muscles, and the Pioneer Library System makes it easy. With branches across the county, the opportunities are genuinely endless. Take on the Summer Learning Challenge. Last summer more than 9,500 kids and adults alike logged 22 million minutes of hitting the books. Check out a cookbook full of healthy recipes you've never tried. Get to know your neighbors through arts and crafts lessons, recipe demos, and even fitness classes, all right there next to the New York Times bestsellers. There’s a whole lot more going on than just knowledge around here. Get Moving at the Y The Shawnee Family YMCA is a community staple for good reason. The indoor aquatics center is open year-round with a five-lane pool, lazy river, splash pad, hot tub, and waterslide, plus swim lessons and daily open swim. Over 20 fitness classes run on a rotating schedule, from water aerobics and yoga to Silver Sneakers and Dance Fit, all included with membership. There's also an elevated indoor walking track, basketball courts, and a full fitness floor when the sun gets too hot for outdoor activity. Keep the kids active with Summer Day Camp for kids ages 5–12, and summer basketball and baseball leagues through July. Pick Up Pickleball Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country, and Shawnee is staying ahead of the curve. The best part? It works for almost any age or fitness level. KidSpace Park has two outdoor courts and the Recreation Center on North Bell runs indoor and outdoor games regularly. You can even take lessons or join a league. It's easy on the joints, fun to play, and a good hour of it burns more calories than you think. If you've been looking for a reason to try pickleball, make this the summer you get in the kitchen. Walk or Bike Somewhere New It doesn't get more beautiful in Pottawatomie County than this time of year, and the easiest way to take it all in is on foot or two wheels. Shawnee is home to several public paved trails for running, walking, or cycling — including Airport Trail, Avedis Park Trail, Bryan Street Trail, Highland Trail, and Boy Scout Park Trail — plus 30 parks for a jog or a walk with the dog. For something a little different, the walking labyrinth at St. Gregory's is a true hidden gem. Beyond Shawnee, Tecumseh Lake, McLoud's Joe Taron Park, and Earlsboro City Park offer quiet, scenic paths worth the drive. If trails aren't your thing, an early morning walk around your neighborhood or a bike ride down a quiet backroad gets the job done just as well. And when the heat wins entirely, the air-conditioned hallways of Shawnee Mall have been a local walking staple for years. Go Bowling Bowling gets written off as a casual night out, but it's a legitimate workout. Just ask the muscles you forgot you had after a game or two. The Shawnee area has two great options. Shawnee Bowl on North Harrison has been a community staple for decades, and FireLake Bowling Center out on Hardesty Road is a 24-lane facility with glow bowl on Friday and Saturday nights. Both run open bowling and sanctioned leagues if you want to make it a regular thing, and both are a great call for the days when the heat makes everything else sound terrible. Check Out Shawnee Recreation Center Last but definitely not least, Shawnee Recreation Center is one of Shawnee's best community assets. Out on North Bell, you’ll find fitness classes for all ages — including Zumba, Pound Cardio, and line dancing — along with pickleball, billiards, walking groups, and more. For residents 55 and up, the programming goes even deeper. Think bingo, bunco, quilting, tai chi classes, and yoga, just to name a few. It's easy on the wallet, gets you off the couch, and puts you around other people in your town — one of the best things you can do for yourself all summer long.

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, move your body, and reconnect with the people who make life better. So Pogo built a challenge around all three. Introducing the Gather & Go Challenge, Pogo's newest summer adventure that combines a team steps competition with a social connection crash course. It's part friendly competition, part community building, and 100% worth showing up for. Sign up now for free on the Wellbeing+ app. Here's How It Works Team up with friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors — or join a team in the app if you don't have one yet. Then get moving! Every step counts toward your team's total as you climb the leaderboard together. The top two steppers when it's all said and done will each walk away with $100 cash. Along the way, you'll complete a series of mini connection challenges designed to help you go a little deeper with the people around you, like complimenting a stranger or calling someone you haven't talked to in a while. Why Social Connection? Research shows that staying socially connected is just as important to your health as eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly. Not kind of important. Equally important. And loneliness is a problem close to home. The 2024 Pottawatomie County Community Health Needs Assessment identified social connection and belonging as one of just four priority health areas for our community. In the survey, 42% of Pottawatomie County residents said they don't feel socially connected to their community, and only 55% feel close to people where they live. Socially isolated residents are also less likely to move enough. Only 27% hit meaningful weekly activity levels compared to 39% of those who feel connected. The good news? Connection is something we can actually do something about, together. The challenge starts July 1, so download the Wellbeing+ app and sign up for free so you're ready to hit the ground running!

Here at Pogo, we talk a lot about making Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma a place people want to live a little, longer. And a place worth living in for a long time is a place you can actually get around safely — behind the wheel, on foot, or on a bike. That's exactly what walk audits are all about. And the City of Shawnee has a full lineup we think you should show up for. What's a Walk Audit? A walk audit is a community-driven assessment of an area's walkability, safety, and accessibility. Participants walk a route as an everyday pedestrian, noting hazards like broken sidewalks, unsafe crossings, poor lighting, high-speed traffic, and barriers for wheelchair users. They document what they find, and that documentation becomes the data that drives real improvements. Once a month, the City of Shawnee is inviting residents to lace up their shoes and do just that. You don’t have to be an expert either. Just willing and ready to see your city with a fresh set of eyes on foot. All that’s required is an hour of your time and your honest opinion on what’s next for Shawnee. Click the button below to check out the full schedule and upcoming audit locations. Where Are We Walking Next? The City of Shawnee is hitting a different area each month through the end of 2026, and Pogo wants you to join us . Here's what's coming up: June 10 — Jim Thorpe Academy, 1111 N Kennedy Ave, 1-2 p.m. July 8 — Jefferson Elementary, 405 W Dill St, 1-2 p.m. August 5 — Liberty Academy, 711 E Federal St, 1-2 p.m. September 9 — Pleasant Grove Public School, 1927 E Walnut St, 1-2 p.m. October 13 — Grove School, 2800 N Bryan Ave, 1–2 p.m. November 11 — Location TBD, 1-2 p.m. Be sure to check the City of Shawnee's website before each audit, as times and locations may change. Why Walk Audits Matter Everybody in Pottawatomie County deserves streets that work for them, whether they’re biking to school, walking to work, or driving to the grocery store. Walk audits are how we figure out where the gaps are and start closing them. In April 2026, the City of Shawnee passed its landmark Safe Streets for All Action Plan, aimed at making Shawnee's streets safer for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and everyone in between. The reason it exists is simple and sobering. Between 2017 and 2023, Shawnee ranked among the highest per-capita fatality rates in Oklahoma. In that time frame, the city recorded more than 31 roadway deaths and between 2015 and 2021, nine non-motorist fatalities. The plan calls that unacceptable. And so do we. Thanks to the leadership and vision of Shawnee’s City Commission, the goal is officially zero traffic fatalities in Shawnee by 2036. But getting there takes more than a plan on paper. It takes people. People walking the routes, people flagging the gaps, and people telling decision-makers what the data alone can't show. Through walk audits and community surveys, residents identified nearly 69 miles of missing sidewalks and mapped more than 200 safety concerns across the city that informed the Safe Streets for All Action Plan. And that work isn't done yet. Come Walk With Us! A stroll through your city can shape what Shawnee looks like for the next generation. Better living is a community project. And it doesn't just happen in a city hall conference room. Change happens when real people — people like you! — get out and say “This sidewalk is crumbling” or “It’s so dark and unsafe here” or “My kid crosses this intersection every single day and it terrifies me.” That's your voice. And Shawnee is all ears. See the full Shawnee Walks schedule here, and we’ll see you soon! (P.S.: Don’t forget the sunscreen.)

Every first Wednesday in May, kids across the country trade the bus and the car line for their bikes. And this year, Pottawatomie County showed up and showed out too. National Bike to School Day is part of the larger National Bike Month — a nationwide celebration of what happens when we swap four wheels for two. Whether you're biking to work, running errands on two wheels, or just trading the car for a trail on a Saturday morning, National Bike Month is a reminder that alternative transportation can be a simple way to build more movement into your day without changing your schedule. National Bike to School Day puts the focus on kids specifically, creating a space for them to build healthy habits early and learn how to hit the streets safely. It’s also a reminder for families that the daily trip to school can look a little different than rush hour. Jefferson Elementary Bike Bus On May 6, 2026 Pogo joined Shawnee Public Schools for their Bike Bus to Jefferson Elementary. Kids lined up, helmets on, ready to roll for about a mile through the neighborhood before the school bell rang. A police escort led the way, and administrators, faculty, parents, and volunteers flanked the route making sure every rider was safe, smiling, and having the time of their morning. Why Bike to School Day Matters At Pogo, we talk a lot about living a little longer in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma. Turns out, the habits that help us do that start young. Kids who walk or bike to school regularly get more physical activity, arrive more focused, and build independence that sticks with them far into adulthood. Getting kids moving before first period is great for their brains and bodies. Plus, the healthy habits they build now? Those stick around a lot longer than a spelling test. And that's a plus for the whole community. The ABCs of Bike Safety Before the wheels started rolling, Pogo volunteers made sure every kid knew their ABCs. Not the classroom kind — the bike kind. A — Air Check your tires before every ride. They should feel firm, not squishy. Low air makes steering harder and flats more likely. A quick squeeze before you roll goes a long way. B — Brakes Give both brake levers a squeeze before you take off. Brakes should feel snappy and responsive, not loose or mushy. If something feels off, don't ride until it's fixed. C — Chain Take a quick look at your chain. It should sit on the gears, move smoothly, and not look rusted or stretched. A well-oiled chain means a smooth, safe ride. Bonus tips for parents and kids: Always wear a properly fitted helmet. It should sit level on your head, two fingers above your eyebrows, not tilted back like a baseball cap. Wear bright colors or add lights if you're riding in the early morning. Be seen! Ride single file in the street, stay as far right as safely possible, and follow traffic signs just like a car would. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don't assume they see you. Keep both hands on the handlebars. TikTok can wait. Go Ride Your Bike! National Bike to School Day is one morning a year. But here's the thing: there's nothing stopping you from making it an every Tuesday thing. Or Thursday thing. Or every-dang-day thing. Whether you're in Shawnee, Tecumseh, McLoud, or anywhere in between, riding bikes in Oklahoma is a great option for seeing your city. If the weather's right and the distance works, throw the backpack on, pump the tires up, and ride. Your kid gets fresh air, a little exercise, and a story to tell before first bell. You get a slower, sweeter start to the morning and the satisfaction of knowing you're setting them up for success. Everybody wins. Come live a little. Longer.

Pottawatomie County Needs Some Zzzs Sleep is superfood for our mental and physical health. Problem is, many of us aren’t getting enough. Adequate sleep is associated with lower stress levels, decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, stronger immune function, improved cardiovascular health, hormonal regulation, and enhanced mood stability. Despite its importance, many people do not consistently get the quality or quantity of sleep needed for optimal health. “Sleep is a foundational component of mental health,” said Rebecca Damron, Pogo Mental Wellbeing Coalition co-chair. “By equipping residents with practical tools to improve sleep habits, we can make a meaningful impact on overall wellbeing in Pottawatomie County.” In March 2026, Pogo hosted a Sleep Challenge in partnership with SSM St. Anthony's Hospital, Shawnee Public Schools, and Pioneer Library systems. As a part of that campaign for better sleep for everyone in Pottawatomie County, several resources were created that can help you and your family benefit from the information and ideas long after the challenge was completed. Resources for the Challenge (and beyond!) Click to download your own: Healthy Sleep Habits Shift Work Sleep Tips Coloring Sheet Kids' Sleep Habit Checklist Sleep Diary Track your sleep to help identify areas where you might improve, or to track your progress getting great rest for your health & wellbeing! Sleep Care available in our community SSM Health Sleep Medicine 988 Mental Health Lifeline Oklahoma Respiratory Institute Oklahoma Sleep Institute Pediatric Sleep Center of Oklahoma Sleep Research & other Resources Sleep is Good Medicine American Academy of Sleep Medicine National Center on Sleep Disorders Research National Sleep Foundation SleepFoundation.org

For two weeks, something simple (but powerful) happened across Pottawatomie County. People started winding down. They took a few extra steps. They paid attention to their sleep. And it added up in a big way. Pogo's first-ever Pottawatomie County Sleep Challenge is officially complete, and the 2026 results speak for themselves. Take a little deep dive with us. What We Accomplished Together In just 14 days, this community turned small daily choices into something worth celebrating: 143 participants took on the challenge 8,185,846 total steps logged 3,214.58 miles covered across the county (and then some) 23,783 active movement minutes 3,248 interactions through app visits, likes, comments, and chats 376 friendships formed along the way 767 goal streaks completed That’s a lot of putting your wellness first, and a whole lot of people choosing to show up for themselves. More Than a Challenge This wasn’t about tracking sleep or getting a perfect eight hours on the regular. It was about building habits that actually last. That looks like: Swapping late-night scrolling for healthier wind-down habits Taking a walk after dinner instead of staying on the couch Checking in with a friend, coworker, or teammate Learning how sleep impacts your whole body health and doing something about it Because better sleep doesn’t just help you feel rested. It helps everything — your mood, your focus, your energy, your ability to show up in your life. (Psst: If you missed it, we broke this down in our guide on how sleep impacts your mental health.) A Community Effort The Sleep Challenge worked because this community showed up. From individuals committing to healthy bedtime routines, to workplaces, schools, and local partners helping spread the word, this was a true Pottawatomie County effort. And along the way, something even bigger happened: people connected. New friendships formed. Conversations started. Encouragement spread like wildfire. That’s the kind of ripple effect we’re here for. Don’t Stop Here The challenge may be over, but the habits don’t have to be. Keep practicing the sleep routine you built, and keep prioritizing your mental health. The goal was never just two weeks. It was always to prove that small changes can stick — and that you’re capable of more than you think.

City of Shawnee, Oklahoma The City of Shawnee’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Action Plan was developed through an established, multidisciplinary planning structure anchored by the Pottawatomie County Built Environment Committee. This committee functions as the primary advisory and community engagement venue for built environment initiatives in Shawnee, including those related to transportation safety, walkability, and community connectivity. Established in 2017, the Built Environment Committee was created to support long-term improvements to Shawnee’s physical environment with a focus on health, safety, and quality of life. Since its inception, the Built Environment Committee has served as a consistent and active forum for cross-sector collaboration, bringing together stakeholders to guide planning efforts, inform infrastructure priorities, and support implementation of community-driven projects. Committee Role in Plan Development The Built Environment was key to developing the SS4A Action Plan, as it both gathered direct feedback from its members and utilized its word-of-mouth network to collect survey responses. Through its routine meetings, the committee facilitated discussion around transportation challenges, safety concerns, and opportunities for infrastructure improvements across Shawnee. A core function of the Built Environment Committee is community engagement. Through monthly meetings hosted at rotating community locations (e.g., Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority, First United Bank), committee members and guests are invited to share feedback, visions, issues they’ve observed in the community. These regular meetings serve as a consistent medium for monitoring community needs as defined by the people directly affected. The Built Environment Committee was instrumental in the identification of key streets, areas of the city where safety issues most prominent. In addition to engagement, the Built Environment Committee contributes to awareness-building by helping communicate the importance of built environment improvements, including those that support active transportation and roadway safety. Through these efforts, the committee frames transportation safety not only as an infrastructure issue, but as a broader public health and safety priority. The committee also plays an advocacy and policy advisory role, supporting planning and design practices that improve walkability, bike-ability, and overall safety. These functions ensured that the SS4A Action Plan aligns with broader community goals related to safety, accessibility, and economic vitality. Committee Role in Implementation and Monitoring Beyond plan development, the Built Environment Committee is structured to support ongoing implementation and monitoring of built environment initiatives across Pottawatomie County. The committee meets monthly and may convene additional meetings or subcommittees to focus on specific projects or priority areas. This regular meeting structure provides a consistent mechanism for tracking progress, identifying challenges, and maintaining momentum on implementation efforts. The Built Environment Committee’s role in implementation includes: ● Providing feedback on project design and phasing ● Supporting coordination between stakeholders and sectors ● Elevating community concerns and real-time feedback ● Advocating for continued investment in safety and infrastructure improvements The committee’s policy recommendation function also allows it to contribute to long-term monitoring by advising on strategies that improve safety outcomes and align with evolving community needs. This structure ensures that the SS4A Action Plan is not a one-time planning effort, but part of an ongoing, community-informed process supported by an established governance and engagement body. Membership and Representation The Built Environment Committee is intentionally composed of a diverse group of members representing sectors critical to transportation safety and community development. Membership includes individuals and representatives from business, public health, urban planning, housing, parks and recreation, tribal entities, nonprofit organizations, and community advocates. Current membership reflects this cross-sector approach and includes representatives from local financial institutions and businesses, tribal housing authorities, education institutions, community residents, nonprofit professionals, and real estate professionals. The committee is open for any community resident to join or attend as a guest. Beyond allowing open participation, Built Environment Committee members are recruited based on their expertise, experience, and commitment to improving Shawnee’s built environment. This structure ensures that planning efforts incorporate a wide range of perspectives, including those related to economic development, housing, public health, and community safety. Leadership is provided by co-chairs who are responsible for setting agendas, facilitating meetings, and coordinating communication between the committee and broader community initiatives. Conclusion The Built Environment Committee serves as a well-established, active, and multidisciplinary planning structure that fulfills the role of a committee, task force, and implementation group for the SS4A Action Plan. Through its consistent meeting structure, diverse membership, and clearly defined roles in engagement, advocacy, and policy development, the Built Environment Committee provides both the foundation for plan development and the framework for ongoing implementation and monitoring. This existing structure ensures that the Action Plan is grounded in community input, supported by cross-sector collaboration, and positioned for long-term success in improving transportation safety and connectivity in Shawnee.

Sleep and mental health are more connected than most people realize. When sleep slips, mood, stress tolerance, focus, and emotional regulation usually slip with it. When sleep is steady and restorative, everything feels more manageable. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can lack of sleep cause anxiety?” or “Does sleep affect depression?” — the short answer is yes. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes. Sleep and Mental Health: A Two-Way Street Sleep problems and mental health challenges don’t exist in separate lanes.  Sleep is foundational to how your brain works, especially when it comes to regulating emotion and processing stress. When sleep is short, broken, or inconsistent, symptoms of anxiety and depression tend to increase. In many cases, sleep problems show up before mood symptoms do — which tells us sleep isn’t just a side effect. It can be part of the cause. At the same time, experiencing anxiety, depression, or chronic stress can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, creating a cycle where sleep problems and mental health symptoms feed into each other. It’s a feedback loop. Poor sleep worsens mental health symptoms. Worsening mental health symptoms make sleep harder.  But it’s a loop you can interrupt. What Happens in Your Brain When You Don’t Sleep Think of sleep as your brain and body’s maintenance time. When you don’t get enough rest, a few important things shift. Emotional Regulation Gets Weaker Research shows that sleep deprivation increases emotional reactivity  and reduces your ability to regulate stress. That’s because it ramps up activity in the brain’s emotional centers while dialing down the part responsible for rational thinking and impulse control. When you’re sleep-deprived, your emotional center (the amygdala) gets more reactive , while the part of your brain responsible for judgment and impulse control (the prefrontal cortex) gets less effective. In plain language: your emotional gas pedal gets pushed harder, and your brakes get less reliable. That’s why everything can feel bigger, heavier, and harder after a bad night of sleep. Small annoyances feel personal. Minor stress feels overwhelming. Your brain is more on edge and less regulated. Anxiety Symptoms Increase Sleep loss keeps your stress system switched on. Heart rate rises. Cortisol levels increase. The nervous system stays on higher alert. Over time, that heightened physiological state can increase anxiety. Columbia University ’s Department of Psychiatry explains that sleep deprivation amplifies anxiety and stress sensitivity, making daily stressors feel more intense. When that alert system doesn’t get a full reset at night, your brain keeps scanning for problems the next day — even when nothing is actually wrong. That’s why anxiety can spike after poor sleep. Your body never fully powered down. Depression Risk Rises Chronic sleep disruption is strongly linked to depression. Part of this is biological. Sleep helps regulate chemicals like serotonin and dopamine — the ones tied to mood, motivation, and emotional steadiness. Think of sleep as recalibration. When that reset keeps getting interrupted, mood regulation gets shakier. Insomnia and other sleep disorders also often show up before the onset of depression and can worsen symptoms over time . In fact, persistent insomnia is considered a significant risk factor for developing depressive disorders later on. Research suggests that people with ongoing sleep difficulties are at substantially higher risk  for future depression compared to those who sleep well. Sleep duration matters, too. Both consistently short sleep and excessively long sleep have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms . When sleep is regularly out of balance, mood regulation systems in the brain can become disrupted over time. Over time, that wear and tear adds up. Focus and Cognitive Function Decline During sleep, your brain files memories, clears metabolic waste, and strengthens the connections that help you think clearly the next day. When sleep is cut short or stays shallow, cognitive performance drops. Reaction times slow. Concentration becomes harder. “Brain fog” increases. It’s why sleep deprivation is closely tied  to cognitive impairment, affecting attention, executive function, and working memory. And when focus drops, stress often rises. Small tasks feel overwhelming. Productivity dips. Frustration grows. What Better Sleep Can Do It’s not all bad news. The relationship between sleep and mental health works both ways. Improving sleep can: Stabilize your mood Reduce anxiety symptoms Improve emotional regulation Boost patience with people Lead to fewer anxious mornings Make clearer thinking easier Increase stress resilience Sleep gives your brain time to process emotional experiences, reset stress responses, and restore balance. And you don’t have to overhaul your life to see benefits. Even small improvements in consistency and duration can make a measurable difference in mood and stress tolerance. Put Your Mental Health First All of these reasons are exactly why we’re focusing on sleep here at Pogo . During the Pottawatomie County Sleep Challenge , we’re not chasing perfect eight-hour nights. We’re focusing on simple, repeatable habits that make quality sleep more realistic in real life. Because when sleep improves, mental health often follows. Small changes in sleep habits can create measurable improvements in mood and stress levels. Even small improvements in sleep duration and consistency can positively impact emotional well-being. And when a whole community commits to those changes together? That’s the stuff of dreams (literally).

If your child melts down over the wrong color cup before 8 a.m., sleep might be part of the story. Parents search this question all the time: how much sleep do kids need? The answer isn’t just about hours. It’s about brain development, mood regulation, learning, and mental health. Sleep affects nearly every system in a child’s body. And unlike adults, kids don’t usually say, “I’m exhausted.” They show it. Overtired in children often looks like hyperactivity, irritability, emotional outbursts, clinginess, or sudden defiance. What feels like “bad behavior” is sometimes just a nervous system running on empty. At Pogo, we talk about sleep as one of the most overlooked tools for our mental and physical health. That absolutely applies to kids. Here’s how to think about sleep in a way that actually works for real families and gives your child’s brain and body what they need to grow and reset. So, How Much Sleep Do Kids Actually Need? According to the CDC, recommended sleep amounts by age per 24 hours are: Newborn (0-3 months): 14-17 hours Infant (4-12 months): 12-16 hours Toddlers (1-2 years) 11-14 hours Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10-13 hours School-age kids (6–12 years): 9-12 hours Teens (13–18 years): 8-10 hours These ranges include nighttime sleep and naps. Regularly getting less than the recommended amount has been linked to problems with attention, behavior, learning, emotional regulation, and physical health. That doesn’t mean one late soccer game ruins everything. This is about patterns. Consistency over time matters more than one rough night. Why Sleep Matters for Kids’ Mental Health Research shows sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation, emotional processing, and regulation of stress hormones. Sleep also supports the development of neural pathways that strengthen learning and executive functioning. When kids don’t get enough sleep, studies show they are more likely to experience mood swings, increased anxiety symptoms, difficulty focusing, and lower frustration tolerance. Chronic sleep restriction in children and adolescents has also been associated with higher risk of depression and behavioral concerns. Sometimes the first step in addressing emotional or behavioral struggles isn’t a new discipline strategy. It’s sleep. Sleep first. Then reassess. Bedtime Routines for Kids Kids thrive on predictability because predictability signals safety. That’s why a consistent bedtime routine is so important. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. It just has to be repeatable. When the sequence is the same each night — washing up, pajamas, brushing teeth, a short story, lights out — the brain begins to associate that order with winding down. Over time, that routine becomes a cue for melatonin release and physiological relaxation. Research has shown that a nightly bedtime routine is key to not only healthy sleep for kids, but also development, including language development, literacy, emotional and behavioral regulation, parent-child attachment, and overall family functioning. Protect the Wind-Down Window The 30–60 minutes before bed matter more than most parents realize. During this time: Turn off screens Lower the lights Avoid roughhousing Keep conversations calm Exposure to bright light — especially blue light from tablets, phones, and TVs — can delay melatonin release and shift the body’s internal clock later. That makes it biologically harder for kids to fall asleep, even if they’re tired. High-energy play can also spike adrenaline and cortisol, which are alerting hormones. If bedtime routinely feels chaotic, it may be a sign the transition period needs softening. What If My Child Fights Bedtime? Bedtime resistance is common, especially in toddlers and early elementary kids. Overtired kids can actually appear wired. And when cortisol rises due to fatigue, it can make falling asleep harder. In these cases, moving bedtime earlier by even 15–30 minutes can make a noticeable difference. Offering limited choices (“red pajamas or blue?”) can increase cooperation while preserving structure. School-Age Kids and Sleep As children grow, schedules stretch. Homework expands. Activities multiply. Screens sneak in. But sleep still plays a central role in academic performance. Research shows that insufficient sleep in school-age children is associated with reduced attention, impaired memory consolidation, and decreased classroom performance. If mornings are consistently rushed, emotional, or exhausting, it’s often worth revisiting bedtime rather than only adjusting morning routines. Teens and Sleep Adolescence brings a natural shift in circadian rhythm. During puberty, melatonin release happens later at night, making teens feel more alert in the evening and sleepier in the morning. This shift is biologically normal. But despite feeling wired at night, teens still require 8–10 hours of sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation in adolescents has been linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, risk-taking behaviors, and academic struggles. Encouraging consistent sleep and wake times — even on weekends — can help stabilize their internal clock. Your family may also make a rule to keep devices off-limits in the bedroom or at bedtime. If you’ve ever interacted with a teen, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that telling them what to do often doesn’t work. Modeling healthy sleep habits at home also makes more impact than lectures ever will. Signs Your Child Might Not Be Getting Enough Sleep Not getting enough sleep doesn’t always look like yawning in kids and teens. In children, being overtired often shows up as behavior changes before it shows up as obvious sleepiness. You might notice more frequent emotional outbursts, a shorter fuse over small frustrations, or tears that escalate quickly. Mornings may feel unusually hard, with repeated snooze cycles, slow starts, or difficulty getting out of bed even after what seemed like a “full night” of sleep. Some kids fall asleep almost immediately in the car, even on short drives. Others seem wired at night — suddenly hyper, silly, or unable to settle — which can actually be a sign of overtiredness. Teachers may report difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or increased impulsivity during the day. If sleep improves and behavior improves, that connection is meaningful. Before assuming something bigger is going on, it’s often worth asking a simple question: Are they getting enough sleep for their age? What Parents Can Control (And What They Can’t) You cannot force a child to sleep. But you can influence the conditions that make sleep more likely. You control routine, environment, timing, and light exposure. The body handles the biology. If sleep difficulties are persistent, severe, or affecting mental health significantly, talk with your pediatrician. Conditions like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or pediatric insomnia sometimes require additional support. Make It a Family Goal Sometimes sleep sticks better when it’s not “mom or dad’s rule,” but a shared goal. If you’re working on better sleep for your child, consider making it a family reset. One way to easily prioritize this is the Pottawatomie County Sleep Challenge. Families can participate together to build consistent routines and track healthy habits side by side. The whole family can fully join the challenge using our printable Sleep Diary. It’s a simple, screen-free way for children and teens to track bedtime, wake time, and how they’re feeling each day.