Edmond Outlook AUGUST2010

Rugby Club Full Contact Sport

The Hot Zone Local Romance Novelist

Martial Arts Ministry in Action

13431 N Broadway EXT, STE 104 Oklahoma City, OK 73114

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AUGUST 2010

32 departments

features

6

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Armstrong Auditorium

24 FAMILY MATTERS

A Message with a Mission

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LETTERS FROM LOUISE Sunburns and Seashells

26 INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER

Gyroplane Takes Flight

10 SPORTS

Full Contact: Rugby

27 SHOPPING GUIDE

Back to School

12 BEST OF EDMOND

Bella Blu &

Energetic Wellness

30 THE HOT ZONE

Harlequin Romance Author

15 DINING GUIDE

Kang’s Asian Bistro

32 MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Martial Arts Ministry

Follow Us On Twitter

18 HOME & GARDEN

Emerging Deck Trends

t w itter.com/EdmondOutlook

22 FINE LIVING

Relax. Restore. Rejuvenate.

Become a Fan on Facebook facebook.com/EdmondOutlook

29 AROUND TOWN

online exclusive

POWER TO THE PEOPLE Insiders Look at “whatidchange.com” www.edmondoutlook.com

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Edmond Outlook

Dave Miller Stacy Brasher Joshua Hatfield Krystal Harlow Laura Beam JR Ross Marissa Denny Victoria Holland Chad Phillips Katie Smith Jessica Webb Randall Green Chad Phillips Laura Beam Stacy Brasher Radina Gigova Krystal Harlow Louise Tucker Jones Lindsay Whelchel Nathan Winfrey Mindy Wood The Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct mail to 50,000 Edmond homes and businesses.

Additional copies available at the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau, & Back40 Design office.

13431 N. Broadway Ext., Suite 104 Oklahoma City, OK 73114 405-341-5599 Fax: 405-341-2020 Website: www.edmondoutlook.com E-mail: info@edmondoutlook.com

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DESIGN GROUP www.back40design.com (Volume 6, Number 8) Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2010 Back40 Design, Inc. Articles and advertisements in Edmond Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Back40 Design. Back40 Design does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by Edmond Outlook does not constitute endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Edmond Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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A rts & Entertainment

SETTING THE STAGE

E

by Laura Beam

xcitement is mounting as Edmond prepares to usher in a new age of world-class entertainment. Opening in September, Armstrong Auditorium will be the spectacular new home of Armstrong International Cultural Foundation’s performing arts series.

Marketing Director Shane Granger remarks that, “With the completion of the auditorium, Edmond’s cultural renaissance has taken another giant leap forward. Armstrong Auditorium is a $20 million tax-free gift to the citizens of Edmond.”

The auditorium’s debut performance will feature Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” on September 5th.

Throughout the season, concert enthusiasts will enjoy choral, dance, string, piano, brass and wind from a choice of five intimately-proportioned seating areas. The hall will feature such headline performances as the Vienna Boys Choir, the Canadian Brass, the Russian National Ballet Theatre, pianists Andrè Watts and The 5 Browns, the Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet and the Romeros Guitar Quartet, among others.

Armstrong International Cultural Foundation formed in north Edmond in 1996 to forge a new era of the rich cultural and humanitarian traditions begun by philanthropist Herbert W. Armstrong. The foundations’s new concert hall is a crowning achievment representing two and a half years of architectural and engineering excellence.

“It is a sumptuous feast for the senses; visually stunning, acoustically brilliant, culturally rich and physically luxurious. It presents a peerless setting for enjoying the world’s greatest performances,” Granger reveals.

As elegant as it is in form, the auditorium is equally meticulous in function. Carefully scaled seating creates superior acoustical and visual effects that rival world-class concert halls in Amsterdam, Boston and Vienna.

Grandly perched on a wooded enclave near Oak Tree National, Armstrong’s 823-seat concert hall is a cultural jewel. Towering columns grace the entry and rise over a generous portico where guests can spill onto the Grand Mall to enjoy an evening breeze and take in yet another masterpiece.

“It is a sumptuous feast for the senses; visually stunning, acoustically brilliant, culturally rich and physically luxurious.”

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Dominating the view, a 40,000-gallon reflecting pool is anchored by the stunning Swans in Flight bronze and steel handiwork of internationally acclaimed British sculptor Sir David Wynne. Masterfully crafted to depict the five stages of a swan taking flight, each bird weighs nearly a ton and boasts a wingspan of 13-15 feet. Glorious in scope, the sculpture is spritzed with six water jets to emulate the appearance of motion in flight.

Breathtaking cultural wonders continue indoors, treating patrons to global enrichment around every corner. The hall spans nearly 45,000 square feet and rises to 80 feet at its highest point. Three soaring Caramel Onyx walls quarried in Azerbaijan and polished in Italy are set in distinguished book-matched panels. Swarovski®-trimmed chandeliers sparkle overhead with decisive elegance, dancing with reflection against the sky-high wall of windows overlooking the Grand Mall.

Every detail of the new auditorium’s world-class attractions, both on and off stage, echoes an age of refinement that will delight seasoned concert enthusiasts and newcomers alike. “This is concert-going the way it ought to be,” Granger says. “Our reward is the joy on the faces of our patrons.”

The Armstrong Auditorium Box Office is located at 14400 S. Bryant Avenue, at Bryant and Waterloo, 1.5 miles east of Oak Tree. For tickets, call 2851010 or you can order tickets on their website at www.ArmstrongAuditorium.org.

The 5 Browns

performing at the Armstrong Auditorium on November 4, 2010.

ARTIN

ROOFING & SHEETROCK

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L etters from Louise

Sunburns

and

SEASHELLS

by Louise Tucker Jones

I

t was the summer of 1960 when my older sister invited me to take a vacation with her to Galveston, Texas—just the two of us. I was fifteen years old and had never seen the ocean.

What could be better?

Jerlene and I packed the car on a Saturday morning and headed south. Hard to believe but it took us two days and nights to get to Galveston. After finding a motel, we hit the beach. If ever there was love at first sight, it happened the minute I saw the ocean. I spent the afternoon in the water letting the waves lift me off my feet and put me back down with a splash while feeling the sand slip from under my feet and back out to the sea.

Unlike me, Jerlene chose the sandy beach instead of the water, lying on a towel while soaking up the sun. She came for relaxation. I came for fun. Our first night out we had Chinese food, something totally foreign to me since I lived in a little farming community, far from exotic restaurants and fast foods. The next day I was introduced to pizza. I loved it! I loved everything about our trip. Even the ice machine outside our door was a novelty to me.

Then suddenly, Jerlene became disoriented while shopping at a souvenir shop. She grabbed my arm and I helped her out the door. We made it to the motel where she discovered that her afternoon at the beach

had left her with a severe sunburn. She was so ill that she spent the rest of her vacation in bed.

Each day I would gently rub her parched skin with medication then pick up food at the motel restaurant to take back to the room where we ate each meal. It was hardly a dream vacation, at least not for my sister.

I kept the ice bucket filled and soft drinks on hand and read magazines to her as she lay on the bed with only a sheet covering her severely burned body. Though I know she felt bad for me, I truly didn’t mind spending time at the motel. Our home didn’t have a lot of modern amenities so a hot shower, air conditioning and even a sink with running water were luxuries to me.

On our last night in Galveston, Jerlene felt well enough to walk to an ocean pier where the air was cool, salty and sounded of tinkling glass wind chimes blowing in the evening breeze. The next day we started home but the sun coming through the windshield proved too painful on her exposed skin so we spent the afternoon at a movie theater enjoying Cokes and popcorn then traveled at night.

I arrived home to anxiously awaiting girlfriends wanting to hear every detail of my trip. They were not disappointed. You see, I never felt I was cheated out of an adventure because Jerlene and I didn’t go more places or do more things in Galveston. That trip

“But my greatest joy was spending time with my sister. Just the two of us talking, laughing and even crying together.”

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was the highlight of my summer. I brought home seashells from my day at the beach, a wind chime from the ocean pier, and had memories of foods none of my friends had ever tasted.

But my greatest joy was spending time with my sister. Just the two of us talking, laughing and even crying together. With ten years separating our ages we were both about to plunge into different seasons of our lives. She was soon to be married and I was on the threshold of dating. On that trip we shared hopes, dreams, secrets and promises that would last a lifetime. Now fifty years later, we still reminisce about our grand adventure.

Summer will soon be over. Why don’t you plan a trip or activity with a friend or loved one? You just might make some memories that last a lifetime.

about the author Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author and inspirational speaker.

Author and co-author of four books, her work has been featured in numerous publications. Mother of four and grandmother of four, Louise resides in Edmond with her husband, Carl and son, Jay. Contact her at: LouiseTJ@cox.net or www.LouiseTuckerJones.com.

Louise

with her Sister Jerlene

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by Nathan Winfrey

A

lthough once thought of as a rough-andtumble game played mainly overseas, our community has worked to redefine the image of rugby. As the Edmond Rugby Club made its mark on local teens within the last three years, up to 25 high school students from Edmond, Deer Creek, and even Putnam City caught the fever.

Their team, Edmond Storm, is making a difference in these teen’s lives.

“It’s not all about winning, it’s about learning and respect,” says Coach Greg McFadden. “Our first priority is teaching the right technique.”

The sport’s appeal is different for everyone.

“For me, it’s the culture. It’s the camaraderie. It’s the friendship,” McFadden says. “You can travel all over the world and play it, and that’s what brought me here.”

Originally from New Zealand, McFadden came to the United States 15 years ago to coach and play rugby for the Oklahoma City men’s team. “I had played in London for a couple years before that and was looking to play overseas again,” McFadden says.

“I ended up coming over and enjoying it. I liked this place, so I ended up staying.”

McFadden often culturally educates the team beyond the simple rules of the sport, including the haka, a Maori war dance the boys perform before each game. He is grateful to the city for their support of the program.

“The city of Edmond has done a lot for us,” McFadden says. “We are the only team in the state to have our own field. We have two fields.” The

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fields are on the west side of Mitch Park. “The city has expanded the parking lot for us, added another field, put bleachers in there and water. They’ve really helped out.”

Oklahoma is where McFadden met his wife, Whitney, who is now sponsorship manager for the team. They live in Edmond with their seven foster dogs, which are from the Central Oklahoma Humane Society.

“It’s not all about winning, it’s about learning and respect.”

There are 10 other teams in Oklahoma and a state championship is held at the end of the season, which runs from early February to late April. The winner of the state tournament proceeds to regionals, where they play against teams from Kansas, Missouri and Texas before a national tournament in May. Over the summer, the team plays touch rugby once a month, and once school starts, they resume full training.

Rugby is uniquely different than other field sports like football or soccer. All members of the starting 15 wear shirts numbered from 1 to 15 to indicate their positions (though alternatives exist). The first eight players, known as forwards or “the pack” will generally play in the scrum, while the remaining seven players serve as “the backs.”

This means a player does not get a personal squad number for an entire career like most American

sports, where jersey numbers often mark the “retirement” of many famous athletes.

Rubgy is played in 150 countries and is the second largest team sport behind soccer. McFadden says there are currently 300,000 registered rugby players in America, which is a relatively small number compared to the sport’s popularity in the rest of the world. “You don’t see a lot of rugby here, so for me, it’s a thrill to have rugby here and be able to do something with it,” he said.

Each player has a fixed role with specialist skills for that position. Each team uses the same formation of players, with only minor variations. In this respect, rugby is quite different from football, which has entire playbooks with various formations to call.

Rugby is treated much differently in New Zealand, where it is the national sport. “It’s more of a religion over there,” McFadden says. He started playing the game at age 5 and attended a private school where rugby was mandatory. Later, he played for the New Zealand “Under 19’s” rugby team.

McFadden’s father, Les McFadden, has been volunteering on the administrative side of rugby for more than 50 years and was honored by the Queen of England for his service to the sport. Les will be a liaison for the Scottish team at the next Rugby World Cup, which is held every four years and will take place in their home country of New Zealand in 2011.

The Edmond Storm participates in a variety of volunteer activities, including setting up the start/finish line for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. “We try to give the kids a bit of leadership training. It’s about more than teaching them rugby.

We try to prepare them for when they leave school,” McFadden says.

Edmond Rugby Club coaches McFadden, Mark Young and Tom Dickins, lend their time on a strictly volunteer basis. Future plans include hosting a state tournament soon, and possibly an exchange program with Argentina or Arizona. McFadden also wants to start a men’s club due to interest from potential players too old for team Storm.

For more information about the Edmond Storm, visit www.edmondrugbyclub.com.

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Best of Edmond

Bella Blu

by Stacy Brasher

T

he transition from vice president and co-owner of a down and dirty semi-trailer equipment business in Boise, Idaho to the joyful glow of mothers-to-be in Edmond, Oklahoma was quite a leap of faith for businessman Tim Kilkenny.

“I moved back home to Oklahoma after a 10 year stint in the family business in Boise, Idaho. Our business there was a full service semitrailer and heavy truck equipment business with 75 employees,” he said.

“The business itself was very lucrative, but I had little passion for it. I’m often asked how in the world did you go from a trailer/truck equipment dealership to maternity clothing?”

His answer: Believe in yourself. Take the first step, and never look back.

After the move to Edmond, he took a job with a friend who was working in online e-commerce. From that experience, inspiration was born and the investment purchase of Bella Blu Maternity & Baby was very quick to follow. “The owner accepted my offer and I stayed home on my Labor Day weekend in September 2006 to get all of the contracts completed to expedite the transition,” said Kilkenny. “That was it, I was then an online maternity store and I soon began my hands-on training to learn the business.”

As the business continued to grow, he decided it was time to go from online e-commerce to opening a retail store in Edmond. “At the time, Edmond had no maternity stores with the exception of low quality maternity clothing at some large retail outlets.” Now located at 323 S. Blackwelder Avenue, off Second and Bryant, the store has reached beyond retail sales of maternity clothing to incorporate diaper bags, cloth diapers, shopping cart and highchair covers, as well as skin care products.

Bella Blu has even had a product featured on a national morning talk show. “We have sent clothing to Elizabeth Hasselbeck on ‘The View,’ MaryLouise Parker on ‘Weeds’ and country singer Jo Dee Messina has bought from our online store. We have sent clothing to high profile New York models, as well as other cable television shows/sitcoms,” he says.

As a local hot spot for high quality maternity clothes for the casual and corporate mom, Bella Blu is known for their affordable prices. “As the first business I have full ownership of, I’m very proud that Bella Blu is individually owned and operated. We are not a franchise; therefore, I am not limited on what I can sell or what prices I can sell things for,” said Kilkenny. “I love the designers I work with and the customers that come in are often glowing with joy.”

For more information on their products, visit www.bellablumaternity. com, or stop by their retail shop for true value savings, without all the sales gimmicks.

Tim Kilkenny

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Owner of Bella Blu

Michele Menzel

Owner of Energetic Wellness

Energetic Wellness

F

by Stacy Brasher

inding healthy solutions to some of life’s biggest issues can be challenging. As the owner of Energetic Wellness, Michele Menzel, ND has been studying natural health for 15 years.

After suffering through her own health issues, she was drawn to finding natural ways to treat the body.

“I got diagnostic tests and didn’t like what they told me,” she said.

“After $10,000, they wanted to put me on antidepressants. With 3 small children, that wasn’t the way I wanted to go. I was homeschooling my children and supporting my husband, but I knew I could change what I was putting into the body.”

Last April, Menzel completed a dual-degree certification to receive her doctor of naturopathy diploma, as well as her degree in nutritional counseling. She opened Energetic Wellness soon after, and is now working toward becoming board certified.

“I love what I do, it’s a passion. I’ve seen what it’s done for my own life and my own health. I no longer have the symptoms I used to have. My 40’s have been better than my 30’s,” she said.

Located at 501 East 15th Street, Energetic Wellness offers infrared sauna, raindrop therapy with light touch massage and body balance foot baths. The Vitamin D with Collagen tanning bed is a natural alternative to direct sunlight.

Initial appointments can be up to 3 hours because she enjoys building trust with local residents, and listening to their health concerns. “We go over health history, my seven laws of wellness and I share with them a natural lifestyle, as well as why their body is having symptoms,” she said. “I use the spectrovision to see what’s going on inside the body energetically.

I want to see a balance of the organs and from there, I can see what’s unbalanced to create their plan for energy and balanced living.”

Her love for homegrown nutrition stocks their shelves with local farmraised products. “Let our food be our medicine and our medicine be our food,” is her personal motto. “I recommend whole food supplementation.

If it’s from a food source, the body knows what to do with it. So everything I have in the store is from a plant, animal or mineral.”

Menzel enjoys educating people about how to get back to natural living. “I want to help people realize the body was made so perfect that all we need to do is to get back to supporting it,” she said.

Her free educational classes are offered on the second and fourth Friday every month from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Call 359-1245 to reserve your spot among the limited seating for the August 13th class on “Essential Oils and Aromatherapy” or the August 27th class on “German New Medicine - Virus Mania.” Visit www.energeticwellnessok.com for more information.

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Dining Guide

Kang Nhin

Founder of Kang’s Asian Bistro

Kang’s Asian Bistro

K

ang’s Asian Bistro mixes glamour and style with unique flavors to create the perfect blend of Asian cuisine right here in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Founder and Canton, China native, Kang Nhin learned cooking traditions early on from his mother, and later honed his skills over the next 20 years through the restaurant industry.

“We’ve lived in Edmond for over 10 years and opened Kang’s in 2005. We love being a part of this community because of how family friendly it is,” said Nhin.

Along with his wife Mary and their 3 young boys, Nhin enjoys serving local residents with a full service restaurant that combines the concept of casual elegance and modern convenience by offering a taste of exotic countries, such as Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, France and China.

From the deliciously sweet sesame seed sauce in their Japanese Sesame Chicken rice bowl, to the perfectly tender Willow Thai Beef with tenderloin strips, mushrooms, asparagus, and basil, every meal is wok’d fresh. Their warm, inviting atmosphere is the perfect place to try your hand at some fresh sushi rolls, or sizzling Pan-Asian stir fry.

“My favorite dish is the Five Spice Quail, which is marinated in five secret spices and then flash fried

by Stacy Brasher

for a crispy outside and moist inside. It’s then woksautéed with garlic, olive oil, jalapenos and scallions,” said Nhin. “Our most popular menu items are Kang’s Fiery Chicken and the Baby Gecko Roll made with cream cheese, jalapenos, salmon, spicy mayo, eel sauce and green onion.”

Kang’s is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. located at 2080 East Second Street. They have extended hours Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Every evening, you can call in your order at 285-8300 within Kang’s Edmond delivery area for any minimum $20 order. Or, simply utilize their convenient drive through if you’re on the go.

“Monday through Thursday, from 4-6 p.m., we offer happy hour with half off sushi, appetizers, soups, salads and drinks,” says Nhin. “Be sure and find us on Facebook where we have lots of free food giveaways.”

Kang’s Buddha Lounge can also create a lasting impression for all your party needs, and the staff is happy to serve as your full service event planners with everything from made to order buffet dining, to the Party Hearty Sushi Tray for any upcoming occasion. For more information or to order online, visit their website at www.kangsok.com.

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D ining Guide

sweets ‘n

TREATS

by Krystal Harlow

“Life is uncertain.

Eat dessert first."

— Ernestine Ulmer

3 Off Lunch $5 Off Dinner $

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Cupcakes to Go Go

Java Dave’s

Cupcakes To Go Go is Oklahoma’s sweetest destination. The decadent smell of freshly baked cupcakes greet you as you enter the store. Equipped with a drive-thru and travel theme, you can start your cupcake vacation with a made from scratch Route 66 Red Velvet, The Leaning Tower of Peanut Butter or a Carrot Island cupcake. Make the trip for one cupcake or order 100 for your next party. To discover the newest flavor combinations and store events follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Located at 2524 W. Edmond Road, between Santa Fe and Western, call 330-2190 or visit their website www.cupcakestogogo.com.

Everyone knows Java Dave’s in the heart of downtown Edmond has great coffee and specialty drinks, but did you know they also have delicious desserts? Choose a slice of freshly baked pie, brownies, scones and muffins, or try one of their amazing cinnamon rolls. Breakfast options include yogurt with fresh fruit and walnuts or a “create your own breakfast” sandwich. Lunch features 16 different sandwiches, paninis and wraps along with several fresh salad choices. Java Dave’s is located at 9 S. Broadway and is open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Melting Pot

Ultimate Cheesecake

Red Velvet Bakery

Make The Melting Pot your dessert destination.

Choose from their famous dark, white or milk chocolate fondues, melted and swirled with accompaniments like crushed Oreo, amaretto, caramel and more. Each chocolate fondue is served with a plate of fresh dippers, including strawberries, bananas, cheesecake, brownies, pound cake and marshmallows rolled in crushed Oreos and graham crackers. Cap the night with a champagne toast, after-dinner drink or specialty coffee to enjoy the ending to your perfect night out.

Located in Bricktown, call 235-1000 to make your reservations today.

One bite of this creamy goodness and you’ll know why it’s called The Ultimate Cheesecake Bakery. But cheesecake’s not all they do well try any of their 32 gourmet flavors like Amaretto Almond or White Chocolate Raspberry. They have over 120 menu items including rich tortes, layer cakes, cupcakes, and more. They even design wedding cakes. Stop in for your next get-together, party or family dinner.

The Ultimate Cheesecake Bakery has been nestled in the Oak Brook Shopping Center off 2nd & Santa Fe for over 17 years. Call 359-8308 or visit www.ultimatecheesecakebakery.com

Best known for their red velvet cakes and cupcakes topped with rich cream cheese frosting, Red Velvet Bakery’s the perfect place to pick up a ready-made cake for any celebration. But did you know that Red Velvet specializes in meat pies too? Offering five flavors to choose from, the Southwest Chicken filled with fajita meat, black beans, green chilies, tomatoes and cheese. One 9” pie serves six! Mention this ad and receive a free coke with purchase of a Gyro Pie. Open Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2824 E. 2nd.Find them on Twitter and Facebook or visit www.redvelvetbakery.net.

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H ome & Garden

Emerging Edmond Deck Trends

W

by Stacy Brasher

hether you’re a do-it-yourself weekend warrior, or a couch-bound channel surfer – “The Backyard Oasis” is referenced so often on every television ad and in every home improvement store that you can’t help but envision your perfect outdoor haven. For some, that Oasis has an outdoor kitchen to rival Bobby Flay, while others dream of sleek, built-in benches circled around a modern glass fire pit.

No matter which Backyard Oasis feature dominates your dream, you’ll need the perfect porch, deck or patio surrounding each element to truly set the stage.

Board by board, Edmond resident Kevin Hillhouse built his business by helping local homeowners bring those visions to life over the last two decades with Riviera Deck & Arbor. “I do a lot of work with Western Red Cedar – it’s a very good choice for the Edmond area. It’s long lasting; it’s insect resistant and weather resistant,” he said. “I’ve got posts I put in my yard up to 25 years ago, and they’ve lost less than 20% around the girth of the post. That proves to me how well this product works in the ground.”

Redwood used to be a popular option for decks, but Hillhouse says residents have moved away from that trend because they don’t like the idea of cutting down those magnificent trees, not to mention the higher price range.

“People are going to composite material. Most people like it because it will not rot, but it’s a much more expensive product than pressure treated wood or cedar,” said Hillhouse. He does caution that while many homeowners think it’s a 100% trouble-free product, about every 3-4 years, it will need to be conditioned in order to avoid getting dull.

Edmond resident Hal Mills also has over 20 years experience with his company Edmond Deck & Patio. He agrees the trend is

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leaning toward composites, as well as the newest material, PVC decking. “The trend is to go with better, longer lasting materials.

The artificial decking materials are the newest thing out there,” he said. “The composite material is a mixture of wood and plastic, so it’s basically indestructible. You get longevity, beauty, and it holds color.”

Mills and Hillhouse both agree these artificial materials need to be installed properly in order to accommodate for shrinkage and expansion due to Oklahoma’s temperature extremes. “Your builder or contractor needs to follow the code and manufacture specifications for the materials, because you work with them differently than natural woods,” said Mills.

“Even though these are maintenance-free or very low maintenance, some of the composite material can have a tendency to get a mold that is unsightly and requires some cleaning. Some materials are more prone to mold than others,” he states. “The PVC is newer and more mold resistant, so that’s a concern that’s becoming eliminated. Negative side effects may involve more cleaning – but you’ll never stain, sand, or do anything else to the deck so it’s a good trade off.”

And no deck would be complete in Oklahoma summers without shade of course. Coverings such as pergolas are always popular, but new materials are emerging as well.

“To protect from the sun, there’s a sunscreen material that’s now out that you can see at Frontier City or Six Flags when you await a ride. It’s a black cloth-like material that blocks sunlight, yet breathes well,” said Hillhouse. “We use that on a lot of our decks with cedar tops to get shade, but not feel too closed in. You can often get 100% shade under an all cedar pergola around 4 or 5 o’clock if it’s set properly considering the angle to the sun.”

Edmond homeowners who want to extend the square footage of their current deck can gain character by changing levels, or materials to add interest. Mills recommends assessing the age and integrity of your current deck prior to starting a new project.

“Usually you can walk around and tell how solid a deck is. If you feel any movement or hear any creaking, it’s good to call us or another deck builder to ensure it is structurally sound.”

To set just the right stage in your backyard, show your builder magazine pages or photos of your dream setting. And when choosing a builder, seek out someone with years of local experience who has pictures of their work, along with references before you begin.

Because after all, “If you build it right the first time, it should last,” said Hillhouse.

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F ine Living

by Laura Beam

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Bella Salon

Balanced Wellness

Update your look with the personal touch of Bella Salon, where it’s all about you! This charming boutique salon and spa in the heart of Edmond offers the privacy and expert attention you’ve been missing at other full-service salons. Let their skilled stylists help determine the perfect new haircut, color and highlights that are just right for you. Treat yourself to a facial, microderm abrasion or chemical peel. Or enjoy the ultimate pampering with a hot stone, deep tissue or Swedish massage – just $40 for your first time! Mention this ad and get a healthy bronze glow with a spray tan for just $30. Great services for gift certificates! Call (405) 3590589 or stop by 21 E. 4th (2nd & Broadway).

Discover how the healing properties of Ancient Chinese Medicine help to correct imbalances of the body and stimulate natural healing. Holding multiple Chiropractic and Health degrees, Drs. Dustin and Angela Schmidt have treated Olympic and professional athletes. Ask about traditional acupuncture, or for shorter treatment times without needles, laser and electronic acupuncture. Ideal for resolving physical problems related to tension, stress and emotional disorders, acupuncture can also treat many digestive, respiratory, neurological, muscular, urinary, menstrual and reproductive disorders. Feel better sooner! Call (405) 2460180 or visit www.balancedwellnessok.com, 307 E. Danforth Rd, Ste 154.

Nanda Orthodontics

Elements

Get straight teeth and a beautiful smile without unsightly braces! Dr. Ruchi Nanda, DDS, MS, has been practicing Orthodontics for 27 years, and is an Invisalign Preferred Provider. Clear, comfortable Invisalign aligners are removable so you can eat, brush, and floss with ease. The customfit, graduated aligners reposition your teeth, often in less than a year. Dr. Nanda also offers the new Invisalign Teen, equipped with indicators to gauge wear time. Dr. Nanda can create beautiful faces and broad, healthy smiles with the ‘tie-less’ bracket Damon System, too! Nanda Orthodontics is located at 17200 N. May, #300, across from the Rose Creek Golf Course. Visit www.nandaorthodontics.com or call (405) 330-9911 for a complimentary initial exam!

Let the Certified Therapists at 15th Street Elements Therapeutic Massage design a customized treatment regimen to restore your body to health. Therapeutic massage is proven to relieve pain and stress, lower blood pressure, improve circulation and enhance relaxation and overall well-being. Enjoy Swedish, Hot Stone, Sports, Prenatal, Deep Tissue or Trigger Point or Thai Massages in a luxurious environment. Open seven days a week, Elements welcomes walk-ins and offers flexible plans to fit your schedule and budget. Mention this ad for special package deals that you can share with friends and family! Call (405) 3412399 or visit www.touchofelements.com/southedmond, 2133 W. 15th.

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FAMILY MATTERS A MESSAGE W ITH A MISSION

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dmond-based ministry, Family-ID, is on a mission to make immediate family improvements that will influence generations to follow. It began 13 years ago with the vision of founder Greg Gunn and has since impacted over 2,000 families across the country and Canada.

Their goal is to reach one million families with their message of transformation and success. One of Family-ID’s objectives is to identify a vision and mission statement for the family, similar to a company’s vision or mission statement. They say the key is simple - write it down.

“What we try and help people do is the same thing they’ve done in business their whole life,” said Executive Director, David Brown. “To take a business from good to great takes intention. To bring a family from good to great also takes intention.”

The first Family-ID workshop Brown attended changed his life. “It was insightful. It came at the right time for where I was at, for where my family was at and it just completely reshaped our hope and our future.”

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“Right now I think people are hungry for wanting to have a cohesive family and not just cross their fingers and hope that it works out."

The program helps families set goals while making values attractive to children. The idea of a family identity becomes rooted with devotionals. Once a family’s purpose is established, they are encouraged to “write it down.” Then, equipped with resources from Family-ID, each person is prompted to “live it out” and encouraged to “pass it on” to future generations.

One family that is seeing the rewards of their effort through Family-ID is the Gitthens family. Shelly

by Lindsay Whelchel

Gitthens learned about the program through one of Gunn’s daughters. “There was a time when I would have been just overwhelmed by the concept, but we were at a time in our family that I was very intrigued,” she said.

As a member of a blended family, Gitthens and her husband both have adult children from previous marriages and a 10-year-old son together. In addition to helping them guide their young son, she says the program helps the entire family come together.

“We’re able to use what we’ve learned to reach out to our adult children and our grandchildren in a way that we just weren’t able to do before.”

Gitthens credits the mission statement curriculum with helping their family make the right choices.

“It has given us a compass and a place to come back to,” she says.

She firmly believes in what it can do for families.

“Right now I think people are hungry for wanting to have a cohesive family and not just cross their fingers and hope that it works out,” she says.

Brown believes that everyone has a list of priorities. The word “family” usually comes first in that list;

however, it’s apparent that on a day to day basis our work lives can sometimes creep up the list, taking precedence over a person’s top-ranked family values.

“The reality is that they live with those values upside down. Work becomes the priority. They spend 40 to 50 hours a week at a place they say is their fourth priority, and we all have to, but what are you doing with the time that you do have,” said Brown.

The idea behind the program is to be purposeful in your efforts and planning, much the same way a company’s CEO would. Brown says the program can also function as a small group curriculum in dealing with businesses and churches, and that family members often find themselves more productive at work once their home priorities are set straight.

Brown encourages people to “invest a small amount of time to make an impact that not only effects today, but future generations as well” because the program is meant to follow a family through the next generation and the one to follow. The question Brown asks is: “How do we lead our kids today so that they can pass it on, so our grandchildren become a product of living intentionally today?”

For more information and schedules for fall Family-ID workshops, visit their website at www.familyid.familyvisionministry.org.

Greg Gunn

and family

David Brown

and family

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INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER

by Nathan Winfrey

A

favorite mode of transportation for Batman, James Bond, and the Ghostbusters, the gyroplane is an oddlooking, but exhilarating way to fly.

“It’s difficult to define the sense of freedom that you have in that machine,” says Paul Patterson. “They have a very, very high fun factor.”

Patterson lives in Edmond with his wife, Elaine.

He is a sport pilot and the only certified gyroplane instructor in Oklahoma. Patterson has been in the gyroplane business for seven years. “I was getting ready to retire and I decided this might be interesting – I never realized I would get this deep into it,” he said.

As an instructor, Patterson builds upon his experience as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War, where he flew Hueys in “ash and trash” missions – extractions, insertions and medevac extractions.

Patterson flew two tours, with total rotary wing time at 4,000 hours and a fixed wing time of 1,000 hours.

Flying a gyroplane is different than flying a helicopter or airplane. The controls are different, but there are some strong similarities. Also called autogyros, gyrocopters or rotaplanes, the machines were invented in Spain by Juan de la Cierva in 1923.

Although they’ve been around for nearly 90 years, gyroplanes are still considered an experimental aircraft, but certainly not a weekend toy.

The rotor on top of the gyroplane is completely free-spinning, with no power going to it. To create lift, the machine forces air through the rotor system. It develops thrust from a propeller powered by a conventional automobile or aircraft engine.

Gyroplanes handle extremely well in high wind.

As an experienced pilot, Patterson says the judgment in the air essentially has to be the same

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with both a gyroplane and a helicopter. “That is what’s difficult about being an instructor – teaching students judgment. I try to emphasize that, above all, safety is paramount.”

Patterson’s students come from all over the country. “There are very few gyroplane instructors,” he said. “There are probably less than 50 in the United States, probably less than 150 in the whole world.”

Patterson says there are no instructors in nearby states like Texas, Kansas and New Mexico.

Patterson says gyroplanes have suffered high accident rates in the past because people buy them

in kits and assemble the machines themselves. Then they try to fly them without proper instruction.

“Flying an aircraft and building an aircraft have no relationship to one another. Just because they built it, they think they can fly it,” Patterson says. “In gyroplanes, you move in three dimensions. Accidents generally occur because the pilot lets the aircraft get ahead of him and, once that happens, something’s going to bite you.”

Gyroplanes typically seat one or two people. They fly low and slow, and with only 2.5 hours of fuel, they aren’t made to fly cross-country. With a maximum

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“It’s difficult to define the sense of freedom that you have in that machine."

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Continued from page 26 safe speed of 100 mph and a service ceiling of 10,500 feet, Patterson rarely flies much higher than 2,500 above sea level. This equates to 1,000 to 1,500 feet above Oklahoma soil where he typically cruises at 65 mph.

Patterson usually requires his students to spend 25-30 hours in the air before they can receive their licenses. This is stricter than Federal Aviation Administration guidelines require, but he wants to be sure his students become safe pilots.

“You have to meet proficiency, and in order to develop proficiency, it takes time,” Patterson says.

“Good judgment comes from experience.”

Patterson also says it’s important to not space lessons out over too much time. “You have to fly consistently because consistency is the key,” he says.

Each lesson consists of 50-60 minutes of flight time, with 15-20 minutes of ground school.

For more information on Paul Patterson’s lessons or gyroplanes in general, visit the Popular Rotorcraft Association website at www.pra.org and look under the Rotary Wing forum. Or e-mail Patterson directly at paulpatterson1@cox.net.

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AUGUST 5: SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and come to Hafer Park at 7:15 p.m. to enjoy the tunes of 23rd St. Jazz Band.

AUGUST 11: FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES Edmond families are invited to pick up free school supplies for their K-5th grade children at Henderson Hills located at I-35 & 15th street on August 11th at 6:30 p.m. Please bring an Edmond, OK utility bill for proof of residency. For more information visit their website at www.weneedschoolsupplies.com

AUGUST 14: FIRELAKE GRAND CASINO 2010 MDA CELEBRITY POKER TOURNAMENT Over 20 celebrities have signed up to play poker in the FireLake Grand Casino 2010 MDA Celebrity Poker Tournament on August 14th starting at 10 a.m. Participants and on-lookers can also participate in a live auction that will feature donated items from local merchants with the proceeds benefitting the Muscular Dystrophy Association. For more information call 405-488-6998.

AUGUST 28: 2ND ANNUAL CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA Arcadia Lake, Edmond – Build your boat out of cardboard and duct tape and make sure it floats. There will be lots of fun and prizes. It begins at 9 a.m.

BUSINESS BRIEFS Hip & Swanky is celebrating their one year anniversary with great discounts and give-aways through the month of August. Located at 1247 E. Danforth in Kickingbird Square.

Central Fitt announces their grand opening at their new, expanded location. The first 100 to sign up receive a 20% discount. Call 5032759 or visit them at 100 N. Broadway Ste. 148.

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Hot ZONE THE

by Radina Gigova

R

omance novel – the phrase instantly conjures images of Fabio’s long golden locks blowing in the breeze as he romps on a sandy beach with a salacious woman. But fantasy cover art is not all these novels have to offer.

The pages within ooze fresh and optimistic narration while mixing contemporary dialogue with vivid historical settings and wild mystery.

Debra Cowan, a local Harlequin-published author has enjoyed reading and writing romantic fiction for many years. Her readers enjoy her passion for each steamy scene, as well her attention to detail for each story line.

Born in Idabel and currently living in Edmond with her husband, Cowan made up creative stories as a child. She graduated from Oklahoma Christian University with a B.A. in English and was planning to work as a school teacher, but after Cowan wrote her first novel, she decided to dedicate herself to writing full time.

“One thing I like about romance is that you can read anything you want, anything from things hundreds of years ago, to things that happened today,” Cowan said.

Romance is the main focus in her stories, but the plot is also mixed with challenges for the characters - tense situations and unexpected turns. “Usually the people are brought together by some suspense element or they have to work together to solve some kind of a mystery,” Cowan said.

Her first series of books, called “The Hot Zone,” was set in the 1900s. The six-book series was about detectives who were investigating a number of suspi-

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cious arsons. The town where the action took place was called Presley and it was actually a reflection of Edmond – the streets, the landscape, and even some of the people.

The inspiration for the books came from a magazine article about an old female fire squad in Washington State. When Cowan started her research, she found interesting details about Edmond arson cases by speaking with retired Edmond fire chiefs.

“I kept coming across all these different cases and different ways arson was started,” Cowan said. In one of the books, a female investigator was sent to look into a murder that was covered up by fire. She had to work on the case with another detective and the two of them fell in love.

Cowan has often used Edmond and northwest Oklahoma City as a setting for her novels. She has mentioned places like the National Cowboy and West-

Debrah Cowan

local romance novelist

ern Heritage Museum, as well as specific street names so that readers can have a more vivid idea of where the action takes place.

The characters of Cowan’s books have strong personalities and values. Most of them are skilled specialists who pursue a good purpose but face numerous challenges before their happy ending.

“I kind of think they are more ordinary people, in extraordinary circumstances,” she said. “When we are confronted with challenges, a lot of times we do things that we never thought we could.”

When Cowan creates a character, she often finds inspiration through something she read in the paper or heard people buzzing about as she listens around town. In other cases, the fictional character is inspired by a real person that she has met or knows quite well.

Cowan admits she has used most of her family members as characters. “I’ve used my sisters’ names, all my cousins, aunts and uncles.”

Cowan said she even used her old boss in her novels. She was joking with him that if he gives her a hard time, he’ll end up dead on the pages of her book. “I killed him in like three different books,” she said with a grin.

The romantic genre has a considerable place in the publishing world with estimated $1.36 billion in sales for 2009. Cowan says her audience is really anybody 18 and older. “I get e-mails from 20-year-olds, from 85-year-olds, men and women,” she said.

Her message to all of them is that good always prevails. “If you work hard and if you have a good partner in life, then you can get through anything, and come out stronger.”

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Martial Arts Ministry

P

by Mindy Wood

assion comes easy when you know your effort makes a difference in the lives of those you serve. Blake and Bekah Graham’s passion is American-style Tae Kwon Do. Their goal is to see students become healthy from the inside out through Martial Arts Ministry.

Both second degree black belts, the Grahams have ten years combined teaching experience at several large dojos. As instructors, their hearts ached to provide the physical, emotional and even spiritual benefits to families who couldn’t afford classes.

“We took this idea to our pastors and decided to create a nonprofit organization so we could accept donations for scholarships.

We wanted to offer high quality instruction, but on a smaller pricing scale,” said Bekah.

The school is even uniquely equipped to teach children with special needs, such as cerebral palsy with a doctor’s consent. “Our student with CP had horrible core strength and we’ve seen him go from not being able to do a sit up, or pushup, or kick above his knees, to kicking waist high, doing pushups and up to 50 crunches,” said Bekah. “He’s a student who was bullied because of his disability. He’s gone from shy and afraid, to confident and capable of defending himself.”

They stress the difference between aggression and boldness and Bekah said that works especially well for students with aggressive behavior. “We had a four year old with aggression issues,” she remembers. “He just turned six and he’s now controlled, confident and has a lot more focus. We know that low self esteem is typical with bullying and his boosted self esteem actually stopped that behavior. His mother said he’s now gained friendships and this has given him an outlet for natural aggression and provided boundaries.”

The Grahams take a different approach to teaching by replacing the extreme formality of a typical school with a family atmosphere where kids and parents work together in beginner classes.

Call 513-7600

2820 N. Kelly, Suite 200 • Edmond 32

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“We make sure we know what’s going on outside class too, especially with our older students who have to present their report cards and can’t move on if they’re failing classes,” said Bekah. Students who struggle with poor attention and behavioral challenges often thrive in the active world of martial arts when given the correct guidance. “Many times parents confide in us about discipline issues at home. We work on several layers because we want the person to improve in all aspects of their life.”

As former children’s ministry directors and youth pastors, the Grahams decided to use their Biblical teaching background to also coach virtues, such as respect, honor, courage, discipline, honesty and self control. At the end of class, they discuss a “focus” and take prayer requests. “Our mission is to protect the vulnerable places of families and individuals by instilling both Biblical and martial arts principles simultaneously.”

They offer a preschool class, as well as beginner’s and intermediate levels ranging from 1st grade children to adults, and an adult course in mixed martial arts for ages 14 and up. For willing students, they also compete in four to six tournaments a year.

Although the two-year-old ministry saw immediate growth,

A student who was bullied because of his disability went from shy and afraid to confident and capable. they keep their classrooms at 10-15 students and only meet twice a week to maintain their own busy schedules. Bekah is a stay at home mother to their three children, ages 3, 6 and 15 months, while Blake works as a tech support trainer.

They don’t mind squeezing it all in. “We don’t feel the pressures of building a big business because that’s not what it’s about for us. We’re going to get more out of seeing the changes in the kids than we’ll ever receive financially. That’s our heart,” she says.

For more information, contact Martial Arts Ministry at 412-0111 or visit www.mam.krossfire.net.

Blake & Bekah Graham Owners of Martial Arts Ministry

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