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• Practical Nursing • BSN in Nursing • A.S. Nursing (LPN to RN) • Dental Assistant • Pharmacy Technician • Medical Assistant/Phlebotomy • A.S. Medical Laboratory Technician • A.S. Respiratory Care • Surgical Technologist • Medical Office Admin. Specialist • A.S. Culinary Arts • Pastry Arts
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For important program information, go to plattcolleges.edu/Disclosure.htm.
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June 2012
30 It's All In The Hips
The women behind the glittery costumes, make-up and jewelry and their love of belly dancing.
DEPARTMENTS FEATURES 08 Arts
Musical Fusion
10 Sports
Tewell Time
12 Louise
Knowing Carl
13 Shopping
Summer Steals
15 Food
Hobby’s Hoagies Dining With Dad
18 Business
Bob Howard Nissan Brookdale’s Sterling Houses
20 Home
Blood, Sweat & Turf
22 Style
Get the Look
37 Before & After
24 Local Brews Locally-brewed beer enjoying a renaissance
26 Social Media for Athletes
Universities monitoring student-athletes online
28 Summer Camps & Activities
Local and Fun!
32 Bringing Hope... Carrying a message of love and forgiveness to the incarcerated
34 Lesson Plan Veteran teacher pens book for a student struggling with anger
39 My Edmond Outlook
Orange Rex, Entertainer
Pools 2 the Max
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PUBLISHER Dave Miller EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING MANAGER Krystal Harlow EDITOR Erica Smith ADVERTISING SALES Laura Beam Lori Cathey PRODUCTION DESIGN Karen Munger PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com Sara Wheeler www.saraephotography.com DISTRIBUTION The Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond homes.
(Volume 8, Number 6) Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. Š 2012 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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MUSICAL FUSION by Christy Shuler
they didn’t think would fit the mold,” says Young. Young released his first album, “On the Way,” in 2007. Now with three albums available on iTunes, the sky is the limit for this talented musician. With a variety of songs he has written, he loves to perform with his band at local venues such as Vin Dolce the Wine Bar and Boulevard’s Martini Lounge, captivating the audience with his unique style. You probably wouldn’t expect to hear “It’s Getting Hot in Here” or any of Michael Jackson’s songs played on the saxophone. That is, of course, unless they’re listening to Justin Young.
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hen listening to the tunes of Justin Young’s newest album, “Nothin’ but Love,” you could feel as though you are sitting in a dark jazz club as the cool lights reflect off his saxophone. His music infuses the classic touch of jazz with a play on contemporary music to create an unforgettable sound. A Detroit-bred saxophonist who spent recent years branding himself in California, Young is now settled in Edmond, having been relocated by his day job with The Boeing Company. Though he, his wife, Rachel, and young son, Tyson, have been in Oklahoma for less than a year, Young is already making a name for himself with the locals because of his wide appeal. You’ll find anything from country to R&B in his repertoire. “My main focus is to capture the audience... to give them a song that
“My whole life, science and music have just sort of gone together.” He was even asked to perform the national anthem at the Thunder vs. Jazz game on Valentine’s Day. He notes how impressed he was by the energy of the crowd and the spirit of the Thunder, as it is one of the few teams that still do an arenawide pregame prayer. Young’s musical outlook is inspired by a piece of advice he was given by his father, Jim Young, when he was a teenager. “He told me it was a good idea to get a degree and have something to fall back on,” says Young. Rather than rely entirely on his musical ambitions, he found another field in which he could flourish.
As a young child, Young would spend hours with his collection of Legos. He was fascinated with creating something enormous out of the tiny pieces. “When my parents pushed me to get a degree outside music,” recalls Young, “I thought, what degree can I get that would make it possible to put things together?” As it turned out, there was something else he was passionate about. He soon pursued a mechanical engineering degree from Michigan State University that would eventually lead him to his current position as a project engineer for the B1 program at Boeing. “My whole life, science and music have just sort of gone together,” he says. But even with his academic success, Young made sure not to let his musical career fall behind. While attending school, music provided a supplemental income as he performed his first gigs at weddings. Soon after, his saxophone was taking him across the country, landing him on the Los Angeles Morning News in addition to opening for Earth, Wind & Fire and The Temptations. He also has performed with guitarist Peter White. “Music has taken me places I would’ve never dreamed,” says Young. And though he knows that music has brought him many opportunities, he doesn’t forget his second passion, which consumes his days before he gets to perform at night. In this way, he sees himself not as a musician or a project engineer, but a combination of the two. In fact, Young has spoken at several high schools on this very sub-
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Justin Young performing with his band ject. He tells young adults that they do not need to limit themselves to one goal. “You can still get fulfillment out of life [pursuing two subjects],” he points out. And, as he illustrates, two seemingly different things can go hand-inhand. Young is currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Oklahoma. He says he’d like more opportunities to mentor children and teens and spread his theories on the fusion of music and academics. In this day and age, with so many crossovers between industries, one can hold virtually any title they set their mind to. This sensibility is what Young holds dear. For more information about Justin Young, go to justinyoungsax. com. For booking information, email bookings@justinyoungsax.com.
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TEWELL TIME by Nathan Winfrey
Y
ou might think gusty Oklahoma is an odd choice of home base for a professional golfer, but Doug Tewell has called Edmond home for much of his career. He played 20 years on the PGA tour with four wins, and seven seasons on the Champions Tour with eight wins (two of which were major championships). Born in Baton Rouge, Tewell moved to Stillwater when he was 12. He used to caddy for his dad on weekends. “Some of my friends said, ‘If you’re going out there every day, why don’t you just play when your dad plays?’ So that’s what we did. We just started playing together,” said Tewell. Toward the end of high school, scholarship offers started coming in from Arkansas and Tulsa, but it was a run-in with Hank Iba that directed Tewell to Oklahoma State University. When Tewell told Iba he planned to go to college out-of-state on a golf scholarship, Iba said, “We can’t lose kids like you from right underneath our nose to go off to college.” The next day, Iba’s secretary called and offered Tewell a full basketball scholarship. “I never professed to be a basketball player,” Tewell explains. He showed up for basketball practice on the first day, but Iba sent him off to play golf. “I didn’t really think about playing professionally until I got out of [college] and things just kind of fell right,” he says. Tewell had gone to work as a club pro and didn’t know if there would ever be a chance to play on the tour, but he was given an exemption to play in the 1974 Phoenix Open, made the cut, and won $75. “That wasn’t enough to really convince me, but I got to thinking,
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‘Maybe I ought to try this.’” “Some of the people who I thought knew a lot about the game didn’t think I was good enough,” he admits. “For a year, that worked on me a little bit. In 1975, I quit my job and went to the PGA tour. It was pretty scary.” He had two children, 6-yearold Kristie and 3-week-old Jay. “I had saved some money, so we loaded up the old station wagon and started driving to tournaments... 15 weeks in a row our first time out.”
“It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.” He ran out of money after about six months, but then received sponsorship from Charlie Dimon, a businessman in Columbus, Georgia who loved to help aspiring golfers and had previously sponsored golfer Tom Kite. After four years, Dimon’s investment in Tewell had earned him $11,000. After that, Tewell set out on his own. In all that time, he still hadn’t won a golf tournament. The year after his sponsorship ended, Tewell won twice. “My biggest thrill was winning my first tournament on the PGA tour,” he relates. “The ultimate reason I went on the tour was to win... it’s hard to do. The best player in the game only wins four percent of the time, whereas in other sports, it’s much higher.” Tewell says the most difficult aspect of the game was learning to cope with the pressure of the tour. “It was very difficult when every putt depends on whether or not you’re going to make your house
payment or car payment. There’s just so much pressure on you.” When he turned 50, Tewell joined the Champions Tour and was voted Rookie of the Year. “In my 20 seasons, I think I made about $2.1 million on the PGA Tour. That would be $15 or $20 million in today’s money. When I went on the Champions Tour, it took two years to win the same amount of money,” he said. “People tend to put athletes up on a pedestal,” said Tewell. He tries to live by something his dad used to say: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” Currently, Tewell serves on the boards at First Tee of Metropolitan Oklahoma City, an organization that uses the game of golf to teach important life skills and core values, and FaithWorks of the Inner City. Founded by former Edmond schoolteacher Sally Goin, FaithWorks ministers to families in the Shidler community helping them learn to help themselves. “I win golf tournaments and people clap for me, but I think people like Sally Goin are the real heroes.” Tewell retired from the tour at the end of the 2007 season, and since then he has played one or two tournaments a year. “I’m going to see if I can play a few more,” he says. “I kind of just renewed my spirit to get back into the game.” Not long ago, Tewell spent four days in the hospital with a rapid heartbeat. The doctor called it a “widow-maker.” It opened his eyes and made Tewell realize he needed to get back into shape and play some more golf. “My heart is fine; it’s healthy, so we’ll see what happens.” These days, he loves spending time near his grandchildren here in Edmond, but also enjoys the winters in Scottsdale, Arizona. “I could live anywhere. I never had to live in Edmond but we picked Edmond because it’s just a great place to raise your children,” he explains. Tewell is in the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and the Edmond City Hall of Fame. “It was quite an honor. I was taken aback by it,” he remembers. Tewell’s latest project is the TewellTime Junior Golf Caravan, a summer project he and his son-in-law, Pat Bates are doing in June. They are going to 11 small towns in Oklahoma with public golf courses doing two hour golf clinics for kids ages 8-17 to introduce them to the game of golf. “I feel very fortunate. I got some good breaks,” Tewell says. “I trusted God to lead my path... I have always depended on my faith to make sure I’m on the right path.” Tewell’s website, www.tewelltimegolf.com, went live in January. It features a golf talk forum and is a project between him and his son.
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KNOWING CARL by Louise Tucker Jones
T
oday, I am celebrating my husband! hero, affirming them in their own unique lifestyles, Hard to believe that a year has passed spending precious time with Jay, loving him, since I lost the love of my life to watching WWE and getting Sonic Cokes together. pancreatic cancer. I still miss Carl He was Aaron’s best friend as well as his dad and desperately, but today I want you to see the man you showed great pride in his son’s accomplishments. never knew through my eyes and my heart. Carl enjoyed playing golf, watching football It was our first Christmas together. Being six games and the History channel on TV, but nothing months pregnant and having no insurance, we were compared to wrestling on the floor or romping saving every penny for medical bills. But Carl knew outside with his grandkids. I could fill a book with how much I missed having a Christmas tree and came home one night with a surprise. He was excited and quickly put together a three-foot silver tree, which we decorated with blue bulbs and tinsel and set in front of the window for everyone to see. It was truly a Charley Brown tree with its sparse branches but I thought it was the prettiest tree ever because Carl bought it just for me. He did so many special things, like driving across town with no complaint to satisfy my pregnancy craving for raspberry-filled donuts at ten o’clock at night. And the babies? He was “Daddy” from day Louise, Jay, Carl, Axton, Alexandria, Aaron & Amy one, changing diapers, mixing formula and often cuddling our little ones on his chest to sleep. stories about Carl. Some absolutely crazy, like the Carl was the strength of our family, my rock time a bug bomb accidentally went off in his face. though 45 years of marriage, loving and caring for Though he wouldn’t recommend doing such a thing, me through nine surgeries, the births of three babies, he claimed that mosquitoes fell over dead when clinical depression and the death of our middle son, they bit him. Then there was the time he raced our Travis. He encouraged me in my writing and speaking teenage son at Turner Falls and jumped from a cliff career, reading everything I wrote, at my request, as a shortcut but ended up rolling his ankle on a pop before it ever reached an editor’s eyes and prayed me bottle. He finally came limping up the trail, arms through every single speaking event. He was his sons’ draped over two little senior citizens for support.
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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. Contact her at: LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
Though Carl was tender, he was also tough, training a year and half overseas with the elite Army Rangers, spending most of that time out in the field and mountains in rain, mud and snow for weeks and months on end. He has written me letters by flashlight, candlelight, from a tent, a jeep and even a foxhole. His leadership skills quickly took him from Private to Sergeant. Later, he applied those skills to his career, often mentoring young men in his field. A giant in faith, when Carl was facing death, his one request was that all be done for the glory of God. Everyone should have someone as strong, gentle and compassionate as Carl. He made life interesting and fun, his laughter bouncing off the walls of our home. He spoiled me with endearing compliments and a million other things like keeping a full tank of gas in my car, knowing I never checked the gauge. He enjoyed our acre plus yard and planted dozens of trees, shrubs and flowers. A favorite was the lilac. When it bloomed, Carl would take me outside so we could see and smell the first spring blossoms together. I will never get over the loss of my husband. I miss everything about him. But I’m so thankful God placed us together at such a young age and we had the good sense or pure craziness to get married with only eight hours before he headed overseas. Carl was my strength, encourager, best friend, sweetheart, lover, helper, teammate, prayer warrior, confidante and comic relief for nearly half a century. May you be blessed by such a love in your own life.
The kids are ready for summer, but is your pool? Oasis Pools & Spas offers quality maintenance, repair and remodeling for your swimming pool or spa. Whether you have an in-ground or aboveground pool, our trained technicians will keep it running beautifully. Stop by our store and Enjoy 15% off all toys, pool floats and games with this ad. Exp. 6/30/12 Located at 1333 N. Santa Fe • 340-6442
Beadle Dee Bead & Gift Shop
One of L.A.’s hottest boutiques is now open in Edmond! Terra specializes in women’s designer brands in apparel, footwear, handbags, and jewelry, like this gorgeous Lucky maxi dress and Cappelli straw hat and beach bag. Enjoy 15% off your total sale with this ad. (Exp. 6/30/12) Located at 17200 N. May Ste. 200 in Edmond (across from Rose Creek) • 367-0880 Find us on Facebook! (Terra of Edmond) www.terraonthird.com
All swimwear and swim accesories are 30% off at Ladybugs and Lizards! Come check out styles from Isobella and Chloe, Prada, Maaji, Kate Mack, Wes and Willy, Charlie Rocket and many more! Ladybugs and Lizards Children's boutique is where whimiscal and classic come together. Located in the Spring Creek Shopping Center, NW corner of 15th & Bryant Find us on Facebook! ladybugslizards.com 348-2121
Stop by this unique bead boutique for a variety of exquisite crystals, pearls, glass, gemstones and other beads, plus supplies and gift items. Sign up for a class and learn how to make your own gorgeous jewelry creations or host a birthday party for 10 of your friends! Located at Danforth & Santa Fe in the 7/11 Shopping Plaza • 715-5820 Visit us on Facebook!
Shop, Support, Save a Life. Our Sisters’ Closet is an upscale Edmond women’s resale shop benefiting battered women and children receiving services at the YWCA OKC.
Furniture & Design Let Kern's help you design the home of your dreams. From kitchen and bath to living and dining rooms, Kern's offers hand-selected custom furniture and accessories for all areas of your home. Call our experienced design team today for your consultation! Or present this ad for 40% off all furniture or 20% off accessories now through the end of June! Visit us at our NEW LOCATION - 3409 S. Broadway Ste. 500, in the Market Depot, right next to Charlestons. • 285-2374 Open M-F 10-6 and Sat 10-5.
Located 3 blocks North of 2nd, between Broadway & Boulevard at 101 E. Hurd. Open Tues-Fri 10-5:30 & Sat 10-5. • 348-2442 www.ywcaokc.org Mention this ad for a Shopping Discount! Also at I-240 & S. Penn. (NW corner Walnut Sq.)
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HOBBIES HOAGIES by Melanie Phillips Clemens
“There’s no place like home” isn’t a figure of speech for Kim Nixon of Hobby’s Hoagies; it’s the heart behind the restaurant that has given Oklahoma customers a taste of the East Coast for more than 20 years. “Many people know that my dad, George, started Hobby’s Hoagies because he missed Philly cheesesteaks. We have a lot of customers from the eastern United States that tell us our restaurant reminds them of their favorite hoagie place back home,” said Nixon. Unlike Nixon’s hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, where sub shops grace every corner, sandwich shops in Oklahoma were an anomaly when Nixon’s family opened theirs for business in 1991. Their homemade baked Italian bread, fresh vegetables and top quality meats are what make Hobby’s Hoagies so great. “It’s the quality ingredients that you put on the sandwiches that make all the difference. We use rib eye steak, premium Boar’s Head lunch meat, real
chicken breast and fresh fruits and vegetables that we prep ourselves for the freshest taste,” said Nixon. Customers also love the crushed hot cherry peppers and sweet peppers Hobby’s has shipped in fresh from Deleware for the perfect flavor combination. Fresh, quality ingredients aren’t limited to their hoagies but abound on their New York-style handtossed pizzas, pastas and salads. “We hand make our dough, then layer it with top-of-the-line ingredients like Grande mozzarella,” said Nixon. With options like homemade potato or pasta salad and golden fries to complement any meal, finding a favorite might prove to be difficult. Fortunately, all of their delicacies are available for catering events from luncheons to conferences with a 24-hour notice. “We cater our big party subs, sandwich trays, meat and cheese trays, veggie or fruit trays, salads and desserts. We can do just about any size event. We recently catered an event with 1,300
Owner George "Hobby" Hobson box lunches. It took extra time and hands but it was a success,” says Nixon. However, their greatest successes are the customers who’ve tagged Hobby’s Hoagies as their favorite restaurant, one that brings them back no matter where life takes them. “When we go home to Wilmington, Delaware, we go to our favorite places that we grew up with. It’s cool to see people do that here, too. We see them grow up, have their own families and move away. But when they come back to visit, they make sure they stop in to get a Philly,” said Nixon. For all your catering needs or to get your own Philly, visit Hobby’s Hoagies located in the Oakbrook Shopping Center at Santa Fe and Edmond Road or visit their downtown Oklahoma City location at 325 N. Walker. To view their menu, go to www.hobbyshoagies.com
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DININGWITHDAD by Krystal Harlow
Cafe Evoke
Habaneros
The Meat House
Check out Edmond’s hip new hangout where superb coffee, fun wines and craft beer set the mood for great gatherings. Bringing the excellence of its renowned mobile coffee bar service to a chic new cafe, Evoke now delights guests, morning to night, with refined sipping and socializing. Enjoy coffee from the country’s finest roasters or a revolving boutique selection of wines and craft beers. Meet friends and catch the games on TV while nibbling on delicious sandwiches, cheese and fruit, baked goods and desserts. Visit 103 S. Broadway, in downtown Edmond or cafeevoke.com.
Show dad some love with an escape to this relaxing cantina for a Father’s Day celebration. He’ll feel right at home with generous portions of homemade Mexican cuisine, flat screen TVs and an expansive dining area that sports a cool, rustic decor and patio. For years, Habaneros has delighted guests with specialties like their renowned Chili Rellano, giant burrito and Pork Chili Verde. Enjoy all your favorites plus a great selection of beer and signature margaritas. Dine at Waterloo and Broadway, next to Sonic, or have them cater your next event! Visit habanerosok.com.
It's no secret that guys like to grill. And The Meat House has everything you need to treat dad to a memorable Father’s Day dinner. Choose from their wide selection of expertly butchered premium meats, poultry, veal, lamb, and pork, prepared proteins, fine cheeses, fresh produce, hearty breads and even prepared side dishes. They also have Boar’s Head Deli products, delectable desserts and pastries, and other gourmet grocery items. Or you can pick up a gift card for dad! Visit the store at 2249 W. Danforth or online at themeathouse.com. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 509-2900
Earl's Rib Palace
Millie's Table
Cimarron Grille & Casino
If you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy, this spud’s for you! Feast your eyes on the ‘King,’ a loaded baked potato piled high with chopped brisket and hot link, smothered with baked beans. Whatever your appetite, Earl’s slow, hickory-smoked meats are the ultimate indulgence. Although this palace is renowned for its signature ribs, you don’t want to miss their amazing chicken, pulled pork, polish sausage, bologna, turkey breast and chicken wings. Enjoy this extensive menu often, along with all your favorite sides. Stop by 2121 S. Broadway, in Edmond or visit earlsribpalace.com.
No one does homemade food like Millie! One taste of these made-to-order Hot Meals To-Go and you’ll never settle for mass-prepared grocer foods again. On Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, call by 2 p.m. to order custom-plated dinners including a choice entree, potato or rice, veggie and roll for just $8 plus tax, per plate. Pick up dinners from 5-6 p.m. and dine on hearty selections like Parmesan Chicken, Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf or Tilapia. Take home delicious entrees and sides from the freezer anytime, too. Call 330-9156 or stop by 1333 N. Santa Fe. Visit milliestable.com.
Surprise dad on Father’s Day with an easy getaway to this fun and friendly spot for an afternoon of food and entertainment. On Sunday, June 17 from 2-6 p.m., a male player will be chosen every hour to win cash prizes from $100 to $500 during hot seat drawings. From 1-6 p.m., male players will also receive $5 free play. Kick back at Cimarron Grille for breakfast, lunch or dinner featuring five meals under $5, plus look for great drink specials. Players also receive 10% off food with their club card. Located at 821 W. Freeman Ave., Perkins, OK. Call (405) 547-5352 or visit cimarroncasino.com.
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Bob Howard Nissan by Melanie Phillips Clemens Automobiles have come a long way from their early beginnings of coal gas engines to the complex machines they are today. While the advancements in automotive technology have evolved to meet the needs of modern consumers so have the specialized technicians who work on them. According to Kristal Beat, service manager for Bob Howard Nissan, “Nissan Master Technicians must be ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and Nissan certified.” Often the importance of specialized training in the automotive industry is similar to that of a medical specialist, going beyond general knowledge to meet specific needs. “Our technicians are highly trained in overall automotive repair, though we specialize in Nissans. If they have an idiosyncrasy, we’re going to know about it before the average mechanic because we deal with Nissans every day,” said Beat. With three Nissan Master Technicians, one Nissan Technician Specialist and three apprentices, Beat describes their purpose for training and giving top-notch service to their customers. “It’s not always possible to find technicians that are certified so we
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tend to ‘grow our own.’ We have technicians that have been with us over 20 years and a service advisor that’s been with us for 13 years. We send our techs to train for the certifications they need to provide our customers with the best service possible.” Training their technicians has proven beneficial to their customers and given the staff a sense of pride. “Our shop foreman and lead master technician, Tim Hayali, entered an exclusive worldwide Nissan contest a few years ago that allowed only platinumlevel technicians to compete. Hayali was one of three technicians from the U.S. that went on to compete in Japan. Of all the technicians who entered, he won third place. It’s satisfying to know what we have to offer our customers.” Being exceptional to Bob Howard Nissan means creating family relationships and offering professional service at a fair price within a fair amount of time. “We’re like family and we try to treat our customers like family. If our customers have a problem, we want them to be able to talk to us so we can fix it,” said Beat.
Service Manager, Kristal Beat Bob Howard’s shuttle service, follow-up surveys and food basket in the customer lounge are simply added benefits designed for their customers’ needs. “When Nissan owners have a need, we want them to come to Bob Howard,” explains Beat. “Car repairs are not exciting. It’s not tangible like going to the mall and spending a hundred dollars. But we want to make it as painless as possible. The misunderstanding is that repairs done at a dealership are too expensive and can be done cheaper somewhere else. The truth is we can save them money by getting it fixed right the first time.” Bob Howard Nissan is located at 13200 N. Broadway Extension. For more information on services, call 302-3421.
Brookdale's Sterling Houses by Melanie Phillips Clemens
Life is a series of events, experiences and relationships that make each person’s journey unique. While the golden years may bring new and different challenges, the associates at Brookdale Senior Living believe that events, experiences and relationships are a significant part of the journey at any age. Jacki Winn, sales and marketing manager for Sterling House of Edmond and Sterling House of Edmond Santa Fe, shared the vision for “changing the way America views assisted living.” “We aren’t a nursing home or a place for someone to exist before they pass away. Our goal is to help our residents continue living a full and satisfying life. We believe this isn’t the end of the story but rather a continuation.” Celebrating life is at the core of every successful program at Sterling House. Countless programs which involve assessing resident needs, transition assistance and home health care, among others, all facilitate their belief that everyone deserves optimum life. Winn explained, “We believe in enriching lives socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, spiritually and with purpose.”
Pre-resident assessments and post move-in interviews play an integral part in ensuring that the joys and pleasures of life are not diminished for residents at Sterling House. “Our individualized assessments give us a snapshot of what each resident needs before they move here. Knowing their likes and dislikes, their interests and hobbies, helps us make them as comfortable as possible. We believe that our employees make the difference, so we staff to meet resident needs,” said Winn. Sterling House offers an excellent dining experience for residents as well as a weekly ‘menu chat’ with the dining service coordinator to voice their opinions. “We offer this program because at some point in life eating might be the greatest joy for a resident and we want them to enjoy what they’re eating,” said Winn. Brookdale’s Innovative Senior Care program ensures the best quality of life for residents who may require in-home care. “Each of our communities has a therapy gym, outpatient and home health care through ISC. They don’t have to leave for therapy.
Danelle Zemke, Jacki Winn & Jennifer Braun They can stay home which makes them feel more secure and independent,” said Winn. “The best part of Sterling House is our intimate home-like setting,” said Winn. “We go above and beyond state standards to take care of our residents. Our mission is to enrich the lives of those we serve with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity.” For more information, visit their website at www.brookdaleliving.com or call Sterling House of Edmond at (866) 485-5769 or Sterling House of Edmond Santa Fe at (866) 819-8932.
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BLOOD, SWEAT & TURF by Christy Shuler
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onnie Price, owner of Stone Makers of Central Oklahoma, has seen his share of beautiful outdoor spaces. In fact, he’s made a few of them. Price’s company uses a method in which a form of concrete is manipulated to replicate real stone. He’s created breathtaking pools, waterfalls, retention walls and fire pits, just to name a few. Stone Makers’ structures are stunning, built to last and even eco-friendly. Within a budget, they can design virtually anything. Their product allows them to create or re-create a surface that will stand the test of time and look gorgeous while doing so. Now Stone Makers will get its spot on television on the DIY Network series “Turf War.” Airing every Friday at 8 p.m., “Turf War” features two neighbors with less-than-desirable outdoor spaces. With the help of professionals, a limited time frame and a theme, the neighbors split into teams and
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Stone Makers of Central Oklahoma on the set of Turf War in Sacramento, California compete for the title of best outdoor space along with a $10,000 prize. Stone Makers will be featured in the June 8 episode. Price was first approached to do the show when a dealer within their network, Brickwalls Construction of California, asked them to step in and help with a big project they were working on. Accompanying Price was fellow stone maker Jeff Keen. The two jetted off to Sacramento, California where within a matter of days, they would transform their homeowners’ backyard into an “Island Paradise.” Though the Stone Makers product has previously been featured on the show, Price admits the experience of being on television was new to him. He had to get used to cameras following him around while he worked. He jokes that when
laying cement, you can’t necessarily redo it if the camera crew needs to get a second shot. At their initial viewing of their project, Price’s reaction to the homeowners’ yard was one of shock. “It was just demolished. It was overgrown and in disarray.” With a crew of talented professionals, Price’s team started in demolition: tearing things up and cleaning them out. “We had one tree guy who was amazing to watch. He was like a mix between a monkey and Edward Scissorhands,” he laughs. With just two days to complete the entire project, the crew spent a good three hours creating a blank canvas in which to create their couple’s dream backyard. Of course, on “Turf War,” even the homeowners get their turn with a tool or two. The couple got
“This awesome water feature is somebody's old driveway or old sidewalk.”
their hands a bit dirty and helped lay cement right alongside their team. Price says the two were grateful from the start, offering pizza to the crew and throwing a party for them when the project was over. After demolition, Price’s group worked hard to give their homeowners something unforgettable. Think tikis and a tropical oasis and you’ll get the idea. In Price’s words, the homeowners were “floored” when they saw the results. “You can never really tell what’s going to click with people,” says Price. Noting how tirelessly the team “bled and sweat” to create a unique water feature, he expected it to be the focal point in the mind of the woman. However, when he asked her what her favorite part was, she replied, “the steps.” Though a bit surprised by her response, Price admits how amazingly their cement product can use already-existing surfaces and make them look brand new, as they did with those steps leading into the house. In actuality, every structure Stone Makers creates has been recycled from a pre-existing one. “It’s a very green process,” reveals Price. “This awesome water feature is somebody’s old driveway or somebody’s old sidewalk.” And for those thinking that perhaps this product isn’t quite as sturdy as actual stone, Price says that it is actually two to three times more stable. So these homeowners won’t need another backyard redo anytime soon. Nor would they want to. The couple later thanked Price and his crew for bringing paradise to their backyard. They would probably
The finished product agree that Price’s work on the show lived up to his work motto: “Exceed expectations, every time.” Though the winners will not be revealed until the episode airs, Price reveals a tidbit you may or may not get to see on the show. In a side bet between the two teams, a member of the losing team gets the initials of the winner shaved into his head. Be sure to tune in to see the blood, sweat and remarkable landscaping on DIY Network’s “Turf War” on Friday, June 8, at 8 p.m. and an encore at 11 p.m. Find Stone Makers of Central Oklahoma on Facebook for information on attending a watch party complete with door prizes the night the episode airs. For more information about Stone Makers’ products, go to www.stonemakersokc.com.
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Style
FUNKY MONKEY
ANABELLE'S GALLERIA
TERRA BOUTIQUE
Igniting runways and boutiques this season, trendy neons bring a flirty versatility to wardrobes of all ages and tastes. This classic Audrey Hepburn look with a neon kick is a true class act. Perfect for every day wear, MYNE silk pants in fuchsia are sensibly paired with a sleeveless, black Greylin Ava silk tie top. Neutral, two-tone pumps or gold Gladiator sandals create a toned-down balance for day, along with simple earrings and smart bangles. For a seamless transition to evening, heels add a touch of glamour. Funky Monkey specializes in the hottest seasonal looks for ‘tweens’ and adults with a range of prices and unique styles. Check out their gorgeous maxi skirts and dresses, bold denims, trend-setting fringe, vibrant coral colors and celebrity-inspired Coachella designs this summer. Look for bright pants with bold patterns like polka-dots to come, too. Stop by 14101 N. May, OKC or visit funkymonkeyclothes.com.
Stay cool with the hottest trends for summer from Anabelle’s Galleria. Brightly patterned sun dresses from Funky People look polished and refined with a gorgeous straw hat from Goorin Brothers. Add a touch of bling with unique gold necklaces and earrings from John Wind and a collection of Johnny Swain bangle bracelets that sparkle with the words LOVE, WISH and DREAM. Stash your belongings in a fringe suede tote from Steve Madden that adds a bit of bohemian flair. And finish with the endlessly stylish pewter wrap wedge sandals from Madeline. Over-sized Aviator sunglasses from Michael Kors and a tangerine and teal ring from Ethel & Myrtle make this go-anywhere look a must for summer. Best of all, with Anabelle’s great prices, a look this stylish won’t break the bank. Anabelle’s Galleria is located at 1201 NW 178th (2nd & Western) in Edmond and on Facebook.
Polished and chic with a modern spin on vintage, this adorable lightweight jacket and delicate lace skirt by Nick and Mo is perfect for summer weddings and events. The gold necklace and earrings by Stella & Dot and wedge sandals add just the right amount of sparkle. Terra brings brands unique to the west coast to Edmond and specializes in women’s designer labels such as Lucky, Pink Martini, Yaya, Kenneth Cole, Ketz-Ke and more, at prices you’ll love. You’ll find everything on your “must have” list for this summer from colored denim, maxi dresses and cute tees to shoes, handbags, hats and jewelry. Or if you are looking for a unique gift, Terra is sure to please. Enjoy extended summer shopping hours MondayFriday 10:30 - 7 p.m. and Saturday 10:30 - 5 p.m. Located at 17200 N May Avenue, across from Rose Creek in Edmond. 367-0880 Find ‘Terra of Edmond’ on Facebook. Model Kendall H. by AD Agency.
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y tos b Pho sara e ph hy
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CLOSET MOXIE
LOABI BOUTIQUE
HIP & SWANKY
At Closet Moxie, their passion is fashion, and this maxi wrap dress by Karina Grimaldi epitomizes the top fashion for the summer. It’s bright neon hues are the latest trend and the classic shape makes for a stunning look. It can easily be dressed up with statement accessories in coordinating colors or you can leave off accessories as pictured and let the dress make it’s own statement. Closet Moxie offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories from highly coveted names such as Joseph Ribkoff, DaNang, Fresh Laundry, Komorav, Skye, James Jeans and many more. Whether you’re a true fashionista or need a little help in the wardrobe department, Closet Moxie is your go-to boutique. They strive to have something for all ages and price ranges. Add a little moxie to your closet! Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. in Northpark Mall, OKC or visit closetmoxie.com.
Maxi dresses are chic, sexy, stylish and comfortable and yes, of course, feminine. This beautiful dress by Cecico, paired with coordinating coral and turquoise bracelets from Fossil is sure to keep you cool and stylish this summer. This look is easy to transition from day to evening by slipping off these flirty floral embellished sandals from Fossil and slipping on a metalic heel with different accessories. Loabi Boutique offers a large selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry by brands such as Free People, Miss Me, LA Idol, Sisters, Nick and Mo, Karen Kane, Lucky, Fossil, Toms, Brighton and more. They also carry irresistible baby items from the tiniest Toms to precious onesies and dresses. Located at 454 W. Main Street in downtown Yukon, Loabi is worth the short drive. Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or look for them on Facebook. 494-7447
Summer’s carefree spirit comes to life this year in breezy fabrics and playful colors styled with an easy air of sophistication. Worn as a dress, this paisley print tunic by Pink Polka Dot exudes a soft, funky vibe with bell sleeves and splashy pink, red and green tones. Black wedge sandals by CG with flower petal embellishments give the ensemble a perfect lift while anchoring the look. A turquoise necklace, in keeping with the season’s hot demand for chunky jewelry, highlights the thread of turquoise in the dress for an extra pop of color. Hip & Swanky caters to the cravings of fashion-forward women of all ages. Cool and expressive tees are their fun signature item, along with unique tops and dresses, beach wear, cowgirl boots and fabulously fun jewelry. Look for more lacey tops, oversized sleeves and flowing styles to come this summer. Stop by 1247 E. Danforth in Kickingbird Square or find them on Facebook.
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LOCAL BREWS By Heide Brandes
Venture into 2nd Street Wine Company in Edmond, and beers of every flavor, boldness and color greet you like an army of suds and hops. From the usual suspects — nationallyknown brews like Sam Adams or Boulevard — to the more generic Corona and Tecate, customers of the Edmond package store have a wide variety to choose from. More and more of those customers, however, are looking for something local, something brewed in their own city and state. “People are really excited about Oklahoma beer,” said David Ogden of 2nd Street Wine Company. “I’m looking at my shelves and there are five, technically six, brands that I carry that are just from Oklahoma. People aren’t just eating and shopping local; they are trying local beers now, too.” From Edmond’s own Battered Boar Brewery to Oklahoma City’s darling COOP Ale Works and Tulsa’s Marshall Brewing Company to the original state breweries of Huebert’s and Choc, locally-brewed beer is enjoying a renaissance. In Edmond, the trend is no different. Customers north of Memorial Road
want to drink a frothy brew that carries the flavors born in red dirt and waving wheat. “As a whole, the craft brew movement has taken off nationwide,” said JD Merryweather, coCEO and director of sales and marketing for COOP Ale Works. Already, several restaurants carry COOP beers — known for their full flavors and high alcohol content — in either draft form or cans, and package stores throughout Edmond are stocking their shelves with COOP beer. “We saw a vacancy in the market when we started and there weren’t a whole lot of competitors,” said Merryweather. “Once we saw there was a need for (local beer), we focused on creating a top shelf product and built a following.” The Oklahoma beer movement began before Prohibition, but Choc Beer Company in Krebs reintroduced its beer in 1995. Brew pubs like Bricktown Brewery and Belle Isle Brewery also made their own brew, although those were only available on site. Huebert Brewing Company in Oklahoma City is one of the state’s original breweries and is responsible
“I really appreciate the thought, effort and love that brewers put into every craft beer.”
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for helping change state laws, allowing stand-alone breweries to exist. However, the past five years gave birth to new, brave breweries across the state like COOP, Mustang Brewing Company, Redbud Brewing in Oklahoma City, Battered Boar and Marshall Brewing. “There’s a bunch more in the planning,” said Merryweather. “I know of at least three breweries that are planning to open — one in Tulsa and two in Oklahoma City. The more breweries you have in the community, the better. You want to have a craft beer community, like what you find in Ft. Collins, Colorado, or Portland, Oregon. It’s a pretty hospitable industry.” Marshall Brewing Company sold its first beer on May 15, 2008, at a craft beer festival in Tulsa. Now, all their products are being sold throughout Oklahoma and Kansas with their sights set on Arkansas and Missouri. Marshall beers are also popular here in Edmond. “We’ve had tremendous success in Edmond,” said Wes Alexander of Marshall Brewing. “You have consumers who are hungry for knowledge and passionate about craft beer and local wines. Edmond is well-known for people and establishments wanting the best products.” COOP Ale Works also sells in Edmond, in either cans or on draft, in places like Cafe 7, Hide-
away Pizza, Fish City Grill and Applebees, as well as most package stores. “We’re seeing a big growth in Oklahoma craft beer,” Merryweather said. “Most liquor stores now have a ‘Made in Oklahoma’ section for beer. It’s nice to get shelf space. COOP has great support from the community, and in turn, we like to give back with sponsoring events and making local beer more accessible to the community.” In Edmond, sales of locally-brewed beer are pouring. Stores like Edmond Wine Shop say more and more people are looking for Oklahoma products. “We’ve seen a huge increase in local beer sales,” said Vance Gregory of Edmond Wine Shop. “People go to restaurants and taste the local beers that are served there and they come here looking to buy it. I think people are curious about what’s offered. I have a lot of real estate in my store dedicated to beer.” State pride drives many customers to embrace Oklahoma beers. Having a hearty, tasty brew that was produced in state puts Oklahoma on the map in the craft brew world. “People are eating local more, and if they are beer drinkers, then they are trying local beers at that restaurant. We want to keep our money local, but people won’t suffer bad beer just because it’s local. It’s also really good beer,” said Ogden.
Beer enthusiasts are also excited at the growth of craft beer in central Oklahoma. Randy Burleson of Edmond is a big fan of craft brew, but even more so of Oklahoma beers. “I love craft beer. As a home brewer, I really appreciate the thought, effort and love that brewers put into every craft beer,” said Burleson. “Our local Oklahoma brewers are producing world class beers, and Oklahoma should take great pride in that fact. COOP, Redbud, Choc, Marshall, Battered Boar and the exciting newcomer Anthem Brewing should be on every Oklahoma craft beer-lover’s shopping list.” If current trends continue, Edmond can expect to see more choices of brews and other alcoholic beverages that are produced in state. From small, independent breweries and wineries to even a planned Oklahoma City meadery, the art of beer brewing has established a foothold here. “This industry will continue to grow and expand,” said Merryweather. “You’ll see more breweries come up and more beer-based restaurants and bars.” Alexander agrees. “The number of breweries speaks well that people want to support this market, and more breweries are being planned. Oklahomans are proud of our state, and Oklahoma breweries making good beer makes us even more proud.”
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Fieldhouse Media Owner, Kevin DeShazo
SOCIAL MEDIA FOR ATHLETES by Lindsay Whelchel
S
ports can be a hot topic, especially in Oklahoma. And perhaps equally as popular a topic is that of social media. Where the two collide, there is much debate. The issue of student-athletes using social media and the response from universities to monitor their online activities is a touchy subject for many. An Edmond entrepreneur is attempting to bridge the gap and calm the waters using a system rooted in education and offering a different approach to media monitoring for school athletic programs. Kevin DeShazo launched Fieldhouse Media last July to offer education services to student-athletes as a guide to using social media in a way that upholds a positive image. He says since most athletes will go on to careers outside of sports, the services also prep students to make networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter work for them in the job market. “Most of these student-athletes, the message they’ve been given about social media is how to not screw up… ‘don’t post this, don’t make us look stupid, don’t get in trouble,’ and nobody really learns that way,” said DeShazo. He explains that this is why he initially launched the company — to help an athlete’s online presence yield opportunities instead of opposition. “My view is social media is a good thing; it’s a great thing if you understand how to use it well and it’s not going away, so ignoring it or banning it is really not an effective thing to do. If we can show [student-athletes] how to use it well, then everybody wins.” This is a view that comes at a time when the controversy over a school’s monitoring of their athletes is at an all-time high. In April, U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel introduced a bill that, if passed, would prohibit schools and employers from requiring password information to access an employee, potential
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employee, or student’s social networking accounts, according to Engel’s website. Practices such as these were why DeShazo was reluctant to offer monitoring services but explains that he saw a need for it to be done in an appropriate way. “Monitoring, in my view and a lot of lawmakers’ views now that it’s coming to light, is done in an extremely invasive way,” he says, citing the focus on college athletes in particular and the schools requiring student-athletes’ passwords or for them to add applications to their online accounts that will give school officials or a third-party company access to password-protected information and activity.
“Have a personality, be who you are, but know who you represent.” DeShazo does acknowledge a need for schools to protect their reputations and hold their students accountable. This, he says, the athletes acknowledge as well. “Most student-athletes understand why the need for monitoring exists. They understand you’re not just a student but you’re in large part an ambassador for that program and that school, so they understand the protection that needs to be in place but they just don’t want to have their rights taken away or infringed upon.” For a lot of schools, DeShazo explains, infringement was not the intention. “I don’t think most schools were doing that maliciously. I don’t think they were trying to be invasive. I just think to them they’re thinking, ‘well, we’ve got a brand to protect, this makes sense’. I don’t think it registered that it was an invasive practice.” He attributes some of the issue with perhaps a generational gap in knowledge of the technology. “The biggest issue with social media and college
athletics is those who are making the rules and those who are enforcing the rules don’t really understand social media,” DeShazo says. In response, DeShazo launched FieldTrack in February. It is a technology offered to schools to monitor only athletes’ publically available content with a list of approximately 500 keywords, ranging from violent to drug related, that will alert compliance officers when the words appear in an athlete’s online posts. DeShazo says feedback from the schools has been positive and he says they are currently in negotiations to start a partnership with 10 schools across the country. The feedback from athletes has also been positive, he says. The company introduces the education side of the services when they approach the athletes with the monitoring system and emphasizes that it all comes down to trust. “You’ve got to have a level of trust with these players. They’re adults; we call them kids but college kids are adults,” he said. The program conveys the risks of an improper tweet to the students. DeShazo tells them to identify two identity words in their values to adhere to when posting, words such as faith or integrity, to be conscious of what they post and ask themselves if it elevates those key words or hinders them. He says he wants students to be themselves but be responsible online. “Online, be an adult,” he says and adds, “have a sense of humor, have a personality, be who you are, but know who you represent.” He then explains the benefits of social media within his presentation to the students and hopes the message expands. “I would love to see the culture shift, where instead of all the negativity surrounding studentathletes and social media, the articles would be discussing how well student-athletes are using it… what kind of publicity that’s getting them, what kind of opportunities that’s getting them,” DeShazo says. And this may be an idea worthy of going viral. For more information, go to fieldhousemedia.net.
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SUMMER camps & activities
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I
IT'S ALL IN THE HIPS
t’s a Tuesday night, and women are undulating to the snaky and mournful sounds of ouds, the reedy flutelike whistle of the double mijwiz and the staccato heartbeat of the doumbek drums. Lamees Amar leads the intermediate class of belly dance students at the AALIM Dance Academy, Oklahoma’s only nonprofit professional belly dancing school. She looks like a veiled dancer, with skin the color of creamed coffee, hair that spills down her back in black spirals and hips that women around the world would envy. At night, she is a part of Oklahoma City and Edmond’s alluring belly dance world, a world of learning to move snakelike and performing in restaurants full of the smell of spice and hookah. By day, she is Edmond resident Evelyn Shropshire. “I saw a belly dance show at the State Fair nine years ago, and I received a free lesson coupon,” said Shropshire. “I initially started it as a fun and physical activity for me to do with my 7-year-old daughter. I, of course, fell in love with it and never quit.” Now, not only does she perform in restaurants, hookah bars and for birthday parties throughout the
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state, she also teaches other women the ancient art form. From shimmying hips to slow and oozy hip circles to full-body undulations, more women in central oklahoma are attracted to a dance that was created by women for women.
“It has made me feel beautiful, graceful and feminine.” The AALIM Dance Academy Inc. is operated and owned by Soraya Al Musri, also known as Diane Chope, of Oklahoma City. She has operated belly dance studios for 30 years, and AALIM first opened its doors in Edmond in 1997, Al Musri said. In fact, after moving from St. Louis and Wichita, where she also operated belly dance studios, her first three studios in Oklahoma were in Edmond. “I began teaching in Wichita in 1983 and I moved to Edmond in 1998. The first studio was at Santa Fe and 15th, and then at Broadway and 33rd, and then at 15th and Kelly,” Al Musri said. “Edmond ladies responded favorably enough that we had to
by Heide Brandes
keep changing to find bigger space. We had over 50 students, so eventually moved to 23rd and Meridian, and expanded to 250 students within one year.” The growing popularity of the AALIM Dance Academy was due, Al Musri said, to the fact that all women can learn the art and benefit from it. “It is great exercise and a fun activity to engage in and share with family and friends,” she said. “The benefits include fitness, self- esteem, gratification of accomplishment in performing and continuing to be part of a great art form.” Shropshire said the fitness and health benefits of the ancient dance were part of the reason she still dances, but that belly dancing gave her so much more. “Physically, it has improved my core muscles, my coordination and my posture. In other ways, it has made me feel beautiful, graceful and feminine,” she said. “It has been a social outlet. I have met so many wonderful strong women whom I love to be around. And naturally, with so many wonderful women, it has been a source of emotional support during tough times, and always an outlet for the stress that life can bring. It is also a creative, artistic outlet that I never even knew I needed.”
Evelyn Shropshire as Lamees Amar For centuries, women have danced to the heartbeat of their soul. Many dancers learn various theories regarding the origins of the dance — that it descended from early Egypt, that it comes from religious dances from ancient temple priestesses or that it was part of traditional birthing practices. One other theory is that the rom (gypsy) migrated out of India and spread the dance form to the rest of the world. However it began, belly dancing is now a part of the Western world, too. It took hold in America in the early 1900s and women have been falling in love
with the sensual art ever since. “The thing I like best about belly dance is that I can lose myself in it. I can do it alone, without a costume, without an audience, without a mirror and I love it just the same as when I put on the glittery costume, the jewelry, the makeup and wow an audience,” Shropshire said. “I can’t imagine my life without it. I love the women, I love the dance, I love the music and you’re never done learning and improving.” That passion for the dance keeps Shropshire busy in the belly dance world. Besides teaching weekly classes, she’s also a popular performer at
places like Goporum Indian Restaurant, Sinbad’s Mediterranean restaurant and Moe’s Hookah Bar in Norman. “Lamees is a very popular and sought-after performer and currently performs regularly at six different restaurant and clubs in the area,” said Al Musri. “She is very knowledgeable and has studied several dance genres which amplifies her performance and teaching qualifications. She is an accredited teacher at AALIM, as are all the AALIM teachers.” For more information about AALIM Dance Academy or to learn how to belly dance, call 844-0304 or go to www.aalimdanceworld.com.
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BRINGING HOPE TO THE HOPELESS
W
hen he is not working his day job in the weed control business, Edmond resident John Green is following another calling – bringing hope to those who have none. During the past 10 years, Green has been an active member and volunteer of Kairos Oklahoma, a prison ministry whose mission is to bring a message of love and forgiveness to incarcerated individuals and help them become productive members of society. “I do it because it helps me deal with life. It helps me focus on something besides myself,” said Green. “I might go in there thinking I’m doing good, but I receive much, much more than I give.” Kairos Oklahoma organizes 10 four-day weekends a year where 35 volunteers spend time inside state prisons. These four days are filled with
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by Radina Gigova
singing, dancing, hugging, sharing good food and stories together with 42 inmates who have applied and been selected to experience the special visit.
“We love them with no strings attached. That melts the hardest heart.” “They might initially come for the food and the cookies. (We take 5,000 dozen homemade cookies made by volunteers, with us to each of these weekends.) But they leave with trust and compassion, realizing that they are no different than us and that we love them,” said Green. Cookies are always a favorite of the inmates, but
they are also instrumental in communicating the message of forgiveness. “Forgiveness is a big issue on this weekend – forgiveness of self, forgiveness of others,” explained Green. “On one of the nights the guys are given a dozen special cookies and those are to be given to the man on the yard that they hold the most hostility against.” The written reflections from inmates reveal that the Kairos weekends have been truly exceptional: “What I’ve gotten out of Kairos is respect, love and courage to move forward with myself. I’ve come a long way from where I first started. I was blind to almost everything, but now I see what is in front of me.” – W.W. “The four-day weekend was an amazing experience. I’ve never felt so much love in one place. We live in a place where love is often forgotten, much
(L to R) Kairos Volunteers: Willson Green, Bonnie Hartman, Dale Petersen, Mike Gilbert, John Green & Larry Brannon less felt. I’ve seen a lot of guys show signs of having emotions and a heart after years of showing totally the opposite: many have forgotten they have a heart and that they are loved.” – D.E. Kairos Oklahoma is part of Kairos Prison Ministry International, which operates in more than 30 states in the U.S. as well as other countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, Peru and Canada. Kairos Oklahoma includes volunteers from many denominations such as Methodist, Baptist, Catholic, Episcopal, Church of Christ, Pentecostal and Presbyterian, just to name a few. These organizations, churches and volunteers commit to pray for these 42 inmates specifically by name during the very weekend the inmates are experiencing this expression of love and compassion. To visually communicate to the inmates just how many people are praying for them on the outside, Kairos volunteers pull out a hand-made paper chain with a name on each link, representing a person who’s praying for them. “The chain goes on forever,” says Green. “It’s about 100 yards long and encircles our part of the gymnasium two times. You can see [the inmates] melt in front of your eyes as they realize they are not alone.” Currently, the ministry works in five male prisons and two female prisons in the state. Jim Key, member of the International Council of Kairos and coordinator for Kairos Oklahoma said one of the biggest challenges is finding
enough volunteers so that the ministry can expand to more prisons. He said so far, at least 3,000 inmates have participated in the program. Key joined the organization in 1994, when he and his wife participated in a Kairos weekend at the McAlester prison. He has been with the ministry ever since. “We say we were given life without parole,” he joked. Key and his wife saw how the men changed when they took part in the program. “When they came in, they would have kept fighting one another and by the end of the weekend they were helping one another and supporting one another.” Toward the end of the Kairos visit, each inmate is handed a sack of sealed letters, an incredible treat. The letters are personally hand-written, one from each of the volunteers who have participated in the weekend. “We leave the area and sing softly in the background as they read and devour Kleenex. Yes, they have tears,” shares Green. “I used to be afraid of evangelism, but not anymore. We do nothing but love them for four days straight, with no strings attached. That melts the hardest heart.” Kairos also ministers to women in prison as well as family members who have a loved one incarcerated called Kairos Outside. Female volunteers are needed for both of these programs. Torch is a similar ministry that works with juvenile offenders. For more information about Kairos or to learn how to get involved, visit www.kairosoklahoma.org.
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LESSON PLAN by Lindsay Whelchel
I
t was more than 22 years ago when Edmond resident Rita Gray-Martin encountered a young boy who was very angry. As a teacher, she wanted to convey to the boy that it was OK not to understand sometimes and that he was loved. To illustrate this particular lesson she decided to write a book. Now, years later, that book is being published to teach the same lesson to other children. One could say that Gray-Martin has led a wildly varied life, but learning and education have always been common themes wherever she found herself. Growing up in Detroit as the daughter of a Motown musician, she loved acting, music and dance. A scholarship to train as a dancer led Gray-Martin to New York as a teen, and a desire to get an education in performing arts propelled her into college. But a career as a dancer didn’t last and the desire to learn what life was like in Europe sent her into the military and studies overseas. But this didn’t turn out to be a permanent fit in her life, Gray-Martin says. She returned to the U.S., working at a bank and taking business classes. Still, something was missing. It was then, in her mid-20s, that GrayMartin realized that it wasn’t the different learning experiences she was meant to have, it was teaching. “I actually think that I was born to be a teacher,” GrayMartin says and explains that as a child she would teach her stuffed animals and imaginary students. “Teaching was innate. It clicked, and I loved it; it was easy for me.”
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Since then, Gray-Martin has worked in many capacities as a teacher. She spent 21 years in the classroom teaching first through fifth grades and has served in administrative positions the past 10 years. In her 32-year-long career in education and now working as a motivational speaker, she
has been teaching her model of goal setting and positive expectancy through workshops and various speaking engagements. This model began as an effort to change the education system, she says. “I saw that there was a disconnect,” Gray-Martin says of some teaching environments. “I think that with the stresses of education and society and trying to teach the curriculum, some people have gotten caught up (in) just getting through the curriculum and they’re losing perspective of (how) teaching and education can still be fun.” At first, she worked with just teachers. Gray-
Martin has been a certified trainer, instructing teachers since 1988, the same year she moved to Oklahoma. Then, she felt urged to convey the message to a wider audience. An opportunity opened up by chance and now she speaks weekly to the community in her on-air faith-based radio show, “Steppin’ Out on Faith” on AM 1220. “With technology, everything is so fast-paced, everything is there at your fingertips; people are losing the ability to set goals, believe, have faith in something,” she says. Most recently, with publishing her book, Gray-Martin is attempting to teach one of her most valued lessons of all, the one for the little boy years ago. She is doing this through a fictional character named Erick, also the book title. Gray-Martin explains that it never felt right to publish “Erick” until recently. She was seeing more and more children dealing with the same anger issues as the little boy who inspired the book, and she felt called to publish. “Our premise behind this is we want all children to have a voice. Usually when a child is angry it’s because they don’t understand something, or something is hurting them and they don’t know how to express it,” she says. Gray-Martin tried several avenues to get her book published, from companies in New York to self-publishing, but nothing felt right until she had a fateful meeting with an author who pointed her in the direction of Tate Publishing, based locally in Mustang. They proved to be the perfect option for Gray-Martin. She explains that they immediately welcomed her. The morning of her first meeting, as she hurried to make it on time, she couldn’t find a parking space. Seeing only one reserved spot open, she
decided to park there anyway and that’s when she knew it was right. “When I pulled up and got out of the car, it was reserved for me. It said ‘Reserved for future author Rita Gray-Martin,’” she says with obvious joy. She worked with the publishing company and illustrators to bring the project to life. “Erick” officially launched in January of this year. Gray-Martin now has hardback and paperback books available and there are even custom Erick dolls Rita Gray-Martin for people to order online. A short film is also in the works. She says the feedback she has received has been positive. The book is meant to help adults understand and take the time to investigate further into a child’s outbursts. She says children see themselves in Erick. “Adults are amazed because even the kids that they perceive as being the good kids, the child with no problems, they relate to the stories. When I read it, I’ll say, ‘How many of you have felt like that? How many can identify with him?’ and they always raise their hand,” she says of her reading sessions. She makes various public reading appearances to get the book out to as many people as possible in an attempt to further her mission. “We have to pour into our society, so our society can continue to grow,” she says. And in this way, GrayMartin is teaching by example. For more information, go to ritagraymartinauthor.webs.com.
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Before
After&
Before
by Laura Beam
Copper is quickly becoming pure gold to pool owners who relish the pleasures of a backyard oasis but have tired of the expense, time and work required to maintain sparkling water. For decades, chlorine has been accepted as the most effective and economical method of pool sanitization, despite its harsh, toxic chemical effects that routinely damage clothing, hair and skin. As Edmond and North OKC residents Phil South and Ron Hudson discovered, there is finally a viable alternative that eliminates exhausting pool chores and ensures consistently clear, naturally fresh water. Introduced to an age-old, revolutionary copper ionization system for sanitizing water during a chance meeting at pool school, South and Hudson partnered to form Pools 2 the Max. Driven by the extreme efficiency, low operational costs and safety of copper ionization, the two pioneered a complete and affordable system, now available to individual pool owners. Pools 2 the Max offers a unique system upgrade for existing in-ground or above-ground pools currently using chlorine, saltwater or other chemical sanitization systems. Based on technology developed by NASA to sanitize drinking water for the Apollo astronauts, an electronic ionization device is installed in the pool’s filtration system. As the pool’s circulation system runs, the device constantly generates copper and silver ions and
builds up a residual of ions in the water to kill algae, bacteria, viruses and fungi. ‘It is totally safe,’ Hudson notes. “Even if you drank two gallons of pool water, you would ingest about the same amount of copper as in a single multi-vitamin.” The ionization upgrade changes a pool’s sanitization to a method that is virtually chemical and maintenance-free. In addition, the filtration system is converted to a far more efficient and less expensive system to operate and an automatic vacuuming system is installed. With no expensive chemicals to buy and no time-consuming monitoring and adjusting of chemicals, pool owners can finally spend time enjoying their pools rather than maintaining them. As an additional benefit, the new system requires less time running the pump which also saves on energy costs. Having maintained their own backyard pools
After for years, South and Hudson know firsthand the frustration involved in trying to strike the perfect chemical balance to keep pool water clean and clear. Like many pool owners who experience bouts of green, algae-ridden water, South found that his pool was so bad last year that he didn’t even open it for the season. Though somewhat skeptical, South upgraded his chlorine pool with the new copper ionization system and remarks that he has “been amazed at the constant clarity of his water, even after it rains. With no effort or guesswork, my pool is sparkling clear.” South, whose pool is the entertainment venue of choice for family and friends, notes, “Now the pool is always ready for the grandkids.” For more information about complete pool upgrades starting at just $697, contact Phil South at 371-3827 or Ron Hudson at 470-8178 or visit www.pools2themax.com.
371-3827 or
470-8178
pools2themax.com
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12 months
no interest!
(minimum of 300 sq. ft.)
products thru June (wac) Time to say out with the old tile and carpet and in with new wood floors. Are you dreaming of new wood floors, but dread the mess associated with tearing out your tile? Are you tired of your 70’s carpet, but the thought of working with unreliable installers stop you in your tracks? Kregger’s Floors and More is here to help. Not only does Paul Kregger and his crew offer outstanding friendly and dependable service, but they have also created a system that elimnates many of the hassles most associated with tile removal. Their new dust collection system minimizes the dust. Although their technique is not dust-free, Kregger says it is “light-years ahead of the rest.” With most companies, replacing tile can take a week or more. Besides eliminating much of the dust, with Kreggers, your floor can be free of tile and prepped for new flooring in no time. “Most people think that the task of replacing tile is more construction than they want to deal with. With our manpower and no ‘middle man,’ your tile can be gone in as little as one day!” said Kregger. The installers are what set Kregger’s apart. This ensures customers are getting someone who knows and shows skills he’s familiar with to install their flooring. “In some stores the installers are folks the
store has known maybe a day, mabye a year. It’s hard to say. At Kregger’s all of our installers are long-time employees or family members.” Edmondite Christy Dowell says, “We have a home full of Kregger’s floors! New wood floors, tile floors, rugs, a shower and soon to be carpet. Paul and Chris and the rest of their crew have been a pleasure to work with; always courteous, respectful and punctual. They are also very trustworthy. We left our home to them for a week and came back to beautiful wood floors. It seems to me that ‘satisfaction’ is their number one goal... and I am completely satisfied! I highly recommend Kregger’s Floors and More.”
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Kreggers is now offering an unbeatable $5.99 psf on genuine Mohawk hand-scraped wood floors installed. “What every customer is looking for is great quality at a great price. With our low overhead environment, they always get a great price and workmanship that’s second to none.” For more information call 348-6777 or stop by the store at 2702 S. Broadway in Edmond.
If wood’s not what you’re looking for, come browse through our amazing selection of carpet and tile!
www.kreggers.com
300 With This Ad. Exp.6/30/12
MY EDMOND
OUTLOOK by Krystal Harlow
Name: Orange Rex, Entertainer Extraordinaire You graduated from Edmond Memorial. Did you grow up in Edmond? I was born in OKC and moved to Edmond in 6th grade. I purchased a home near UCO when I was 21 and have lived there ever since. How did you become an entertainer? I am a natural ham. Gravity pulls me to the center of attention. I learned to juggle at 14 from a magician's assistant while working at Frontier City and the rest followed from there. Who were your heroes or role models? One of my greatest mentors was Otis Hornish a.k.a. Jingles the Clown. He saw me juggling at the State Fair when I was 15 and offered to pay for a clown seminar in exchange for volunteer hours performing with his clown troupe. After a three-day Extreme Clown Makeover, Jughead the Clown was born. The professional clowns took me in, taught me and put me to work. Although I retired Jughead at 23, I still use many of my clown skills today. Special thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Breezy, Chester, Tupper and of course Jingles for teaching a young man to embrace wonder. How long have you been wearing orange? I've worn orange every day for 15 years now. The percentage changes with mood and style but it's always there. Does it end with clothing or do you buy everything in orange? Most of my personal effects and decor are either orange or accented with. I have an orange toothbrush, eyeglasses, dishes, sheets and wallet. I use orange lighters and yes, I like oranges. How did you decide on orange? Do you ever get tired of it? I suppose simply because it suits me. Blue is actually my favorite color, but I can't imagine being Blue Rex. Orange matches my personality and makes me stand out. It's hard to forget the big orange guy with half a mustache and goatee. Have you met anyone famous in your adventures as Orange Rex? I've played poker with Willie Nelson, partied with the Beastie Boys and looked down on Shaquille O'Neal from stilts. Tony Hawk bought me a shot, although I think he put it on Johnny Knoxville's tab. I crashed Prince's birthday party and once P. Diddy referred to me as a "pimp." I've also shook hands with the last three presidents. There's more, but I didn't mention the ones I don't like. You just opened a new store called The Back Room? Yes, The Back Room is a retro, antique and art gallery located at 1503 N. Meridian that my girlfriend Jessie and I recently opened. To learn more visit Facebook.com/TheBackRoomAtRewind. Any advice for young aspiring entertainers out there? Perform for your audience and not for yourself. Be proud of your talent and eager to learn. Diversity is also very important. The more talents you acquire, the easier it is to make a career. I am mostly known for my work with fire, but I also stilt walk, juggle, make balloons, design props, photograph and emcee events. To contact Orange Rex for a performance or keep up with his adventures, find him at Facebook.com/OrangeRex.
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