SPOTLIGHT ARCHIVE Posted November 19, 2025Judy Henderson (left) with fellow Tulsa Masters Swimmer Annie Mock (right) wearing their medals from the 2025 Senior Games. Judy Henderson Makes a Splash at 85—Six Golds and State Records!At 85 years young, our very own Judy Henderson continues to inspire us all! Judy recently competed in the 2025 Senior Games in Norman, Oklahoma, where she brought home an incredible six first place medals. Her events ranged from the 100-yard freestyle to the 100-yard individual medley (IM)—25-yards of each stroke. In all these events, she established state records because "never had a woman swam in age group 85-89 years."What an amazing accomplishment! We are so proud and honored to call Judy one of our own here at the Aquatic Center. Her dedication, spirit, and love for swimming truly embody what it means to be a lifelong athlete. The National Senior Games will be in Tulsa in 2027! Judy says, "I better get back to working out!” Posted November 10, 2025 Painting with Words: How Helena Guzman Brings Spanish to Life Through ArtHelena Guzman is the creator of “¡Hola!: Teaching Spanish Through Art,” a program born from her creativity, bilingual background, and love for children. While working at a daycare, her artistic classroom designs and Spanish fluency inspired her supervisor to suggest blending both talents. What began as an art project soon grew into a full program that now serves school-age children grades K-4 at through Jenks Community Education and beyond. Guzman’s bilingual experience taught her that language is more than vocabulary—it’s connection, culture, and joy. In “¡Hola!”, students sing, paint, and play in Spanish, allowing the language to come alive through movement and creativity. Each class is tailored to meet the group’s energy and interests, helping children feel seen, confident, and inspired to use Spanish naturally in daily life. The program’s success lies in its unique combination of art and language learning. Students gain vocabulary, listening skills, and cultural understanding while developing creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. Through art, they find freedom of expression and pride in their progress. "I hope that what [ students] experience in class leaves a lasting impression." Guzman explains. "I want Spanish to be more than just a subject. It should be a tool for communication, a window into other cultures, and a source of pride in who they are and all they’ve accomplished while learning. It fills me with joy to think that, years from now, they might still remember songs, words, or moments that made them feel happy and safe while they learned." Looking ahead, Helena hopes to expand “¡Hola!” into more communities, offering creative bilingual education to children who might not otherwise have access. Her vision is to build a team of passionate, bilingual educators who share her commitment to making Spanish a source of connection, culture, and confidence. Above all, she hopes her students carry the joy of learning with them—remembering songs, words, and moments that made them feel proud, curious, and connected. Posted November 3, 2025 Charlotte Chalakee: Nurturing Confidence and Creativity Through TheatreThrough the magic of theatre, Charlotte Chalakee is inspiring budding thespians to step out of their comfort zones. In her classes, Young Actor’s Studio and Rising Performers, students gain more than acting skills—they build confidence, teamwork, and friendships that extend beyond the stage. “Theatre invites vulnerability, creativity, and self-expression,” says Chalakee. “Seeing that courage grow with each class is truly inspiring.” Parents notice the impact too. “This class has really brought our daughter out of her shell,” shared one mother. “She’s so much more imaginative now, always performing and joking around. She absolutely loves this class!” Another parent added, “Keeping our child in this class has become a priority. There’s no doubt our daughter will remain involved in theatre for the long term.” Through games and improvisation, students learn to express themselves authentically. “Every idea is valued, and every student is encouraged to take risks in a safe, supportive environment,” Chalakee said. “Reflection and collaboration help students grow creatively and personally, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging.” Chalakee’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. Her heart project, River’s Edge Community Theatre, is a thriving space where students of all ages come together to create, perform, and grow. Since its founding just one year ago, the program has expanded from 24 students to over 130, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for inclusive, family-friendly arts experiences. When asked about the impact she hopes her program will have on the students, Chalakee said, “Watching these kids transform from shy observers to confident performers is the most magical part of what I do. Theatre truly is a magical thing, and so is community. I feel deeply honored to play a small role in helping both thrive here in Jenks.” Posted October 16, 2025 Just Keep Swimming: Alma's Inspiring Routine at 94At 94 years young, Alma Churchill is a familiar face at the Trojan Aquatic Center in Jenks. Three times a week, she's at the front of the pool for Aqua Arthritis class—lifting hand weights, stretching, and moving with purpose to keep her joints flexible and her muscles strong.A lifelong Jenks resident, Alma taught music at Jenks Public Schools and now she keeps both her body and mind active through exercise, crossword puzzles, and trading jigsaw puzzles with friends at the Aquatic Center. Her dedication and joyful attitude inspire everyone around her. When asked her secret to staying so active, Alma says "Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming."Aqua Arthritis is offered at the Trojan Aquatic Center through Jenks Community Education, M/W/F at 10:30am and again at 11:45am. For more information on this class and others visit jenksps.ce.eleyo.com or call 918-298-0340.
