EDMOND OUTLOOK March 2011 by Outlook Magazine

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22 departments

features

ARTS & Entertainment Jared Lekites: A Vintage Sound

22 One Percent Motorsports Exotic Cars in Edmond

Letters from Louise Happy 45th Anniversary!

26 Shopping Guide Spring Fling

10 Sports Open Water Race: UCO Rowing

27 Determined The Story of Nathaniel Martinez

12 Best of Edmond Heritage Renovations & Clean My Grill

29 Wings A Special Needs Community

15 Dining Guide Nhinja Sushi & Wok 16 March Madness Gameday Dining space 18 Home Timeless Elegance of Diamonds 33 My Edmond Outlook Vivian Chen

30 Bomb Squad Edmond Police Travel in Style

Publisher

Dave Miller

Art Director

Advertising Director

Krystal Harlow

Advertising Sales

Laura Beam Lauren Wheat

Editor

Heide Brandes

Photography

Writers

Distribution

Edmond Outlook

Joshua Hatfield

Marshall Hawkins Melanie Clemens Radina Gigova Louise Tucker Jones Lindsay Whelchel Nathan Winfrey 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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(Volume 7, Number 3) Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. ÂŠ 2011 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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by Lindsay Whelchel

isten to one song by Jared Lekites, and immediately you know there’s something different about him. Bringing back the sounds of the 1960s, the Edmond musician is out to show current radio a thing or two. Lekites’ love of music came at an early age. “When I was little, I always had my ear glued to the radio. I’d listen to anything from Motown to Reba McEntire just a whole variety,” he says. “I just wanted to make the music that I like to listen to.”

“I love the audience reaction because when the crowd is really going for it, you can do anything.” And make music he did. After growing up in New England and California, Lekites moved to Oklahoma eight years ago. By then, music was completely ingrained into his life, and he started his first band in high school. Through influences like The Beatles and The Beach Boys, and with a talent all his own, Lekites’ unique sound began to take shape. “It just so happens that most of the songs I listen to are old and scratchy. I listen to vinyl and stuff from the ’60s. So, I think that’s why it came out sounding the way it did - a bit on the vintage side,” he says with a laugh.

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Though his style may be considered vintage, the experience of his music is new. Lekites said he feels that, like himself, listeners are connecting to the songs out of an affinity for the golden years of rock and roll. “I think what draws them to it is probably that they’re uninterested in stuff that’s going on now. I probably couldn’t sit through an hour of Top 40 radio,” he explains. With the release of his independent EP, “Looking for Diamonds,” Lekites gives the audience an opportunity to hear five original songs. “For the past couple of years, I had just written so many songs, and I wanted to get them out there,” he says. The process of recording, in which Lekites plays all of the instruments on the EP, is especially appealing to him. “To think up the parts in my head and translate them into what the finished product will be, I love being able to do that,” he says. Another aspect of this particular career that inspires Lekites is how it feels to perform on stage. “I love the audience reaction because when the crowd is really going for it, you can do anything,” he says. Lekites hopes to put out a full-length, currently independent CD he has been working on and expand his touring outside of the state. He says the time is right for musicians to embrace today’s new technological platform to boost their careers. The attempt to reach out to people is what inspired

Lekites to name his EP “Looking for Diamonds,” as a way to acknowledge the desire in listeners to find musical gems they can connect to. “That’s kind of what you’re doing when you’re shopping for music. You’re looking for certain diamonds in the rough, and I guess it’s kind of a good symbolism for what we’re all doing in life too,” he says. With his reputation gaining strength, Lekites says he hopes new listeners will find something deeper in his songs. “I want people to feel emotion - real, true emotion. Whether it be happiness or sadness, I don’t want them to walk away not feeling something,” he says. For Lekites, it’s about proving that what was old is new again. For more information or to listen to some of Jared Lekites’ songs, visit his website at www.myspace.com/lekites.

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L etters from Louise

by Louise Tucker Jones

needed a ride. He needed money for gasoline. That’s how we met. My friend arranged the ride for me from college to my hometown with a fellow student, and though I was pleasantly surprised upon meeting this dark-haired, blue-eyed stranger, my interest waned when he presented an egotistical attitude. But a ride is a ride, so I continued my weekend trips from Tahlequah to Henryetta. To

“Three days later I walked down the aisle of Army chapel #7, wearing a borrowed wedding gown, and married my prince charming in dress uniform.” tone down my driver’s lofty self-esteem, I asked crazy questions without easy answers to prove I could hold my own with his wit any old day. Eventually, we called a truce. When the semester ended, so did my ride with Carl Jones. Since his grades failed to reflect a studious attitude, his parents decided to let him earn his

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own money rather than finance an unappreciated education. It was several months before we met again. I had returned from a summer job in Texas and a day trip to Tahlequah to finish enrollment for my sophomore year in college when I stopped at the local drive-in Dairy Queen. To my surprise, Carl and his best friend pulled up beside me in his 1957 blue Ford. They hopped out of his car, ran over and quickly slid into the front seat of my car, one on each side, accidentally spilling my Coke all over me. Not a great impression! But in truth, I was glad to see this good-looking guy that I had verbally sparred with so many times. Somehow he seemed different. He was pleasant and fun. And just as his friend asked me to go to a movie the following night, Carl interjected that I already had a date with him. News to me, but something about that Rock Hudson action and smile made me feel a little like Doris Day and I accepted his invitation, even though it wasn’t really a question. After a year of long-distance dating, Carl returned to college, just before receiving his “greetings” from Uncle Sam. It seemed the Army needed him more than he needed a degree so he boarded a bus to Fort Polk, Louisiana, with dozens of other young men. Before leaving he placed an engagement ring on my finger and promised a wedding when he returned.

After Basic Training came AIT at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Then came the surprise announcement that Carl would be going to Germany instead of Vietnam. But with the good news came a caveat-no two-week leave before shipping out. Not even a weekend pass. Our wedding would have to wait another year and half unless I was willing to travel to Fort Leonard Wood right away and say our vows, knowing I would have to remain in the States a few months before joining him in Germany. Three days later I walked down the aisle of Army chapel #7, wearing a borrowed wedding gown, and married my prince charming in dress uniform. Our parents and a dozen soldiers were the only guests. Our wedding supper consisted of cheeseburgers, French fries and Cokes at a little café in the area. Just eight hours later, in the midst of freezing temperatures and a March snowstorm, we said our goodbye. And unlike our expectations, I was never permitted to join Carl overseas. It was nearly a year and half before we saw each other again. That’s how our life together began 45 years ago. So much and so little has changed. We still have snowstorms in March. We still eat cheeseburgers on our anniversary. My heart still melts with that Rock Hudson smile and I’m still asking questions. During these 45 years, we celebrated the births of three beautiful sons and the adoption of a lovely little girl. We also mourned the death of our precious middle son. We have become grandparents and even great-grandparents. So what is the secret of a 45-year marriage? Well, outside of those days that border on survival, I’d say it’s a lot like walking—you put one foot in front of the other, except in marriage you place your spouse in front of yourself and before all others. You also ask the Lord to be a partner in your marriage, praying blessings over your family each day. Sounds simple, but I believe that’s how God designed it. Oh, and if I had the choice of doing this all over again? I’d choose warm weather and a beach if at all possible! Happy Anniversary, Carl!

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 husband of 45 years, Carl

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lthough in songs, rowing a boat “gently down the stream” implies a quiet, leisurely activity, the women on the University of Central Oklahoma’s rowing team have a different experience. For these women, rowing proves to be an intensely–strenuous but rewarding adventure. “It’s not just paddling around out in the water,” Coach Pat Brown says. “Our girls work very, very hard.” Racing is like sprinting for six to seven minutes, pulling a 200-pound boat through the water, plus the weight of seven fellow rowers. Brown says lactic acid tests have proven that, at the shortest time, rowing is second in physical exertion only to Olympic wrestling. “That’s the level that we’re training and trying to race at,” he says. “There are no breaks, no lulls and no substitutions. You don’t pull someone out and put them on a bench because they’re tired. It’s a very intense, competitive sport. It’s incredibly physically demanding.”

“Rowing is second in physical exertion only to Olympic wrestling."

by Nathan Winfrey

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“A lot of people don’t realize how hard it actually is,” Co-Captain Jessica Lawson explains. She says whenever her body wants her to quit, she remembers that the body can do more than the brain thinks it can. The body can overcome the pain and throbbing legs and keep going. “It’s a really tough sport,” CoCaptain Brittany Koster says. “It’s a great fitness sport; it really pushes you to your limits, and I enjoy being challenged that way.” The 30-member, female UCO team started in 2008. Men’s teams are not sanctioned by the NCAA. “There are more women’s rowing teams than there are men’s nationwide,” Brown says. The women row at the Chesapeake Boathouse in Oklahoma City and will move to Chesapeake’s Central Boathouse when it is completed. They practice for two

UCO Women's Rowing Team

practicing on Lake Hefner

hours every morning except Sundays. In bad weather, the team practices in UCO’s Hamilton Field House. Races, called regattas, are held in the spring. Typically, six boats start at a complete standstill and then take off for a finish line 2,000 meters away. Depending on the number of schools participating, the first two or three boats to cross the finish line progress to the semifinals, and then the top two or three of those boats move to the finals. The team competes in Florida, San Diego, Tennessee, Austin, Tulsa, Philadelphia and Boston. “We travel farther than most D-2 rowing programs because there aren’t many D-2 schools around here,” Brown says. In big competitions, as many as 30 schools compete. “There’s nothing better than a close race,” Brown says. Events include eight-man and fourman races. Both types of races include a coxswain, who yells “row” and steers. The UCO team brings a varsity eight, a novice eight and a four-man boat to each race. “It’s really exciting when you see that your work is finally paying off,” Lawson says. “This is a time when you can show what you’ve been working on.” Brown says rowing is the epitome of a team sport. “There are no superstars in a boat. You win or lose as a team,” he explains. “Everyone is doing the same thing at the same time, so no one is better than anyone else. You have to work together. You can’t let up. If you aren’t pulling your own weight, you’re just dead weight in the boat.”

“The team aspect is more than in any sport I’ve ever played,” Lawson says. “If one person is off, it throws the whole team off.” Koster agrees. “The whole reason I started rowing is to be involved on a team,” Koster says. Brown says rowing is one of the few sports in which freshmen can immediately be part of the team. “No one at a D-1 school can just walk up and join the basketball team,” Brown says. “We look for someone who has a potential to become a strong athlete and the potential to become a strong rower, and then work with them on the fundamentals. If you’re willing to work hard and willing to train, over time, you can really develop the skills.” “You really get to know the people around you on a different level when you’re up at 5 in the morning just busting it out — they’re encouraging you and you’re encouraging them,” Koster says. The first regatta of the season is March 20, and the season is set to wrap up in mid-May. The NCAA championship is the first week of June. “I think for a D-2 team, starting up in this part of the country, we’ve had great success in the last three years, and I hope we continue to see that growth in the future,” Brown says. “We continue to get faster.” As rowing grows in Oklahoma, the team is only going to get better, Koster says. “It’s going to be cool to look back on it and say I was on the first team,” she says. UCO students interested in the team can e-mail pbrown@uco.edu.

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Best of Edmond

Renovating Remodels

fluctuating economy coupled with a “waste not, want not” mentality have many homeowners opting to stay in their current homes, remodeling to fit their needs. That is when Heritage Renovations, located at 501 N. Meridian in Oklahoma City, steps in. Dan and Leslie Peake specialize in working with homeowners one-on-one to help them through the remodeling process. The couple originally started building and remodeling homes, as well as designing and building custom cabinets. In 1985, they shifted their focus to home renovations. “We realized there was an untapped market not being addressed properly,” Leslie says. “We felt that there was a difference between a new home buyer and a homeowner looking to remodel.” Remodeling contractors have to work in occupied homes and must protect the areas not affected, as well as make the home accessible for the occupants. All work must be able to seamlessly tie in the remodel and make it appear as if it had always been that way.

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by Melanie Clemens “We believe in doing it right the first time. Being born and raised in Oklahoma has instilled in the Peakes values of commitment, responsibility and excellence. Our greatest testament to this is our customer base. They call us back for future work because they trust us and know we will do the job correctly,” she says. “We are professionals who have fine-tuned the process over the years.” Leslie’s interior design degree from The University of Central Oklahoma brings form and functionality to their projects. “People live in their homes and have their own style so we personalize each project to match that individual lifestyle,” Leslie says. “We use a design program called Chief Architects that shows a 3D color picture in order to make any changes before it’s started, saving time and money. I really focus on the design and selections, and leave the construction to Dan. We both love what we do; it’s not just a job to us. We take pride in it, and our reputation is on the line with every project.” Heritage Renovations is a full–service firm providing turn-key projects. “We only use the best

Leslie Peake,

Heritage Renovations

craftsmen for our renovations. Since we own our custom cabinet and millwork shop, we have complete control over quality and time of delivery,” Leslie says. “Dan can build anything. I’ll show him a picture, and he’ll build it. It’s a gift,” Leslie says. “We are blessed to keep doing what we enjoy. The remodeling business is not affected by the up-anddown economy like new construction is. In fact, our business continues to grow year after year, and that is the best gauge for us to know that we are doing things right.” For more information, call Heritage Renovations at 405-887-4121 or 405-974-1174, or visit the website at www.heritagerenovations.net.

King of the Grill

cott Alexander loves a challenge and trying new things, and his latest venture has him fired up. During a summer barbecue, Alexander noticed the residue on the grill his father was using. While discussing the difficulties of cleaning a barbecue grill, Alexander said he saw an opportunity. After researching online, even inquiring at house cleaning businesses, he discovered that grill cleaning was uncharted territory – it was “just too gross.” “Apparently, no one wants to clean past the top rack. But the carbon, grease and baked-on food doesn’t disappear; it just keeps building up,” Alexander says. During his research, Alexander found a specialized steam/dip tank as well as chemicals he would need to begin. In September 2010, Clean My Grill opened for business. Alexander uses only environmentally friendly chemicals imported from Europe that have been successfully used around the world since 1994. They are biodegradable and safe for the consumer as well as for pets and grass.

by Melanie Clemens Alexander takes pride in his work. “I’m not bringing in a high–pressure water hose to clean the grill and make a huge mess. I put down drop cloths and vacuum up any residue,” he says. “There are no harsh chemicals and no high–pressure hoses. This is a combination of a specialized dip tank and two hours of hard elbow grease.” The work entails a lot of scrubbing and scraping on the grills, and the process itself takes around two and a half hours from beginning to end. “I like to take something that’s well used and restore it back to its original condition as much as I can,” Alexander says. Seeing the expression on a customer’s face when he’s finished cleaning a grill is “worth the 100 percent I put into it.” Other benefits to a clean grill include the reduced risk of grease fires as well as the removal of harmful carcinogens. This not only extends the life of the grill, but ensures a healthier surface for families to use. Alexander says he enjoys the challenge of being a business owner. Originally from Edmond, Alexander

Scott Alexander,

Clean My Grill

attended high school and college in Edmond before moving to Japan for eight years. “I see great success for this in the future. Clean My Grill is such a unique concept. Having your gas, infrared, charcoal grill or smoker serviced is similar to having your car serviced – it keeps it in good condition and extends the life of the product,” he says. For more information, contact Scott Alexander at 405-657-9537, email info@cleanmygrill.com or visit www.cleanmygrill.com.

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Dining Guide

Bryan Chandler,

Manager

Nhinja Sushi & Wok

by Melanie Clemens

ust amid the landscape of casual dining emerges an alternative cuisine that has the potential to change the definition of “fast food.” Nhinja Sushi & Wok, locally–owned and operated, opened for business in December 2010 by Kang Asian Bistro owners Kang and Mary Nhin. Nhinja balances high-quality food with a friendly environment that promises a dining experience worth repeating. “Our three boys – Mikey, Kobe and JoJo – were our inspiration for opening Nhinja,” Mary says. “We wanted an alternative in the fast food industry. We realized there wasn’t one for Asian sushi, so we created a place that is non-intimidating, casual and fun. People always tell us how wonderful it is to bring their children here. No one looks at them oddly; they fit right in.” While Nhinja is an “order–at–the–counter” establishment with fast food and service, it is not a typical fast food restaurant. Nhinja offers an option of whole grain brown rice and gluten-free dishes. Kang says he uses only high-quality ingredients in the recipes he created. The menu offers appetizers like Cream Cheese Puffs, Nhinja Poppers or Seared Ahi Tuna Salad. They boast

wok dishes, soups, salads and an array of sushi rolls. “Nhinja is a good place for anyone wanting to try sushi. We have several cooked rolls made with chicken and steak as well as fresh sushi rolls,” Mary says. “We have lots of favorites, like the Nhinja and Kobe rolls, too.” The Nhinja consists of salmon, jalapeno and cream cheese. The Kobe, named after their son, is made with steak, cream cheese, scallions and spicy mayo. On the Chinese side, healthy options like shrimp with broccoli and Mongolian beef “receive new fans every day,” Mary says. One of the favorite menu items among the children is the Japanese marble sodas called Ramune. “It’s like a toy and a drink all in one,” Mary says. “Kang and I have a vision for what we want the restaurant to become. We’re not a franchise or nationally–owned company. We’re lucky to have Edmond as our hometown. We want to create a place that’s fast, fresh and fun. That’s what we want to be in the Asian niche. This is how we share our culture, how we keep it alive.” Nhinja is located at 13905 N. May Avenue. It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.Call 463-6622 to place an order for pick up, or you can place an order online at www.nhinja.com/menu.

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D ining Guide

march

madness by Krystal Harlow

Chili Dog E xpress “March Madness is my RedPin Bowling Kick back with your friends over delicious chili favorite time in all of sports, Lounge Bowling is only part of the fun at this hip hangout dogs at Edmond’s all-new Chili Dog Express. New because you get to watch –mood lighting, pub tables, lounge seating and management and fun renovations make this the video wall create a whole new experience ultimate hot spot for a quick bite or deliciously some good basketball and 60-foot that even the non-bowlers in your party will love. affordable take-out. Choose from a variety of tasty hand over your hard-earned Delicious party foods – and full bar invite you to relax combos with all your favorite toppings while you enjoy you take in a scenic view of the boats on the comfy lounge seating and catch the game on TV. Call money to a co-worker who while canal just outside – especially spectacular at night. 509-6079 for large to go orders – perfect for your next knows absolutely nothing Enjoy Happy Hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with $2.50 party – and look for great beer specials coming soon! bowling, free shoes and $2 domestics. Mention Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. about the sport.” this ad for $5 off! Exp. 3/31/11. 200 S. Oklahoma Chili Dog Express is conveniently located at 321 E. — Tim H. Richweis

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Ave. Visit www.bowlredpin.com or call 702-8880 for more information.

2nd Street, just west of UCO. Stop by today and see what’s new!

Steve’s Rib

Dan McGuinness Pub

Wingstop

Edmond barbecue fans know Steve’s Rib. That’s because Steve’s continues to smoke tremendous brisket, pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs with amazing sauces, sides and service. Steve’s also has a great laid-back atmosphere with several TVs and even a bar area at the Edmond location. Brand new to the menu are the special Red Chili Honey Glazed Baby Back Ribs served with two generous sides, Texas toast and a side salad for just $15.99! And satisfy your sweet tooth with their delicious homemade cobblers and brownies. Located at 1801 W. Edmond Rd. and 7202 W. Hefner Rd. Visit www.stevesrib.com.

Dan McGuinness has created a warm, Irish atmosphere with a combination of great food and entertainment, making it the place to be in March. Begin your party with crunchy fried pickles or loaded cheese fries, followed by Dan’s famous Fish N' Chips at a table with your own flat-screen TV. Enjoy amazing Happy Hour specials every day, Karaoke and Ladies Night on Thursdays and great live music on the weekends. And don’t miss the St. Patty’s Day Tent Party complete with drink specials and live music. For a full calendar of events, visit www.danmcguinnesspub.com or stop by 3005 S. Broadway in Edmond.

Wingstop is always a hit on game-day, with nine juicy award-winning wing flavors, sauced and tossed, fresh to order. Choose from quantities of 10 to 100 including family packs, party platters or combo meals, and take home the ultimate feast for any gathering or party. Also enjoy their hand-cut, seasoned fries, sides and veggies with a variety of dipping sauces. With so many crowd-pleasing options, it’s no wonder Wingstop has sold more than 2 billion wings and counting. Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Call 755-4411, stop by 12225 N. Penn or visit www.wingstop.com.

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H ome

by Radina Gigova

Elegant and timeless, diamonds have been captivating eyes and hearts for years. Helping people discover that special lifetime piece has been a family tradition for several Edmond jewelers.

iamonds have outshined the category of a product and have become a symbol. Their physical qualities – extreme durability and relative rareness – convey a message of commitment, class, uniqueness and strong feelings. Diamonds are perceived as an essential part of proclaiming a message of love. The fact that they appeal to the heart explains why a slogan invented by the famous diamond company De Beers was so successful. In 1947, a copywriter came up with the phrase “A Diamond Is Forever,” which proved to be so effective that Advertising Age magazine named it the best advertising slogan of the 20th century. Since the purchase of diamonds is so special, it is important to understand what diamond quality truly means. “It is amazing to get this somewhat ugly rock out of the ground and make it beautiful,” says Dennis Barrett, owner of Barrett Jewelers. The metamorphosis is a complex process and the value of the final product is determined by four characteristics, or the four Cs: carat, color, clarity and cut. It is the most common system for grading diamonds around the world and was created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Carat is the diamond’s weight. One carat equals about 0.2 grams, almost the same weight as a small paper clip. However, size doesn’t always mean quality. Diamonds with the same weight can have different value based on the other three factors. “People sometimes go for a larger stone that

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is not as nice, but they are sorry for that later,” says Jackie Griffin, co-owner of Parsons Jewelry. “They would have appreciated the sparkle of the smaller, better diamond.” Diamonds occur naturally deep within the earth and often have “birthmarks,” light or dark spots within their structure or surface. “They are little specs of carbon that never got crystallized,” Barrett explains. Birthmarks make each diamond unique. The fewer birthmarks a diamond has the better clarity it has and therefore bigger value. A flawless diamond has perfect clarity and many jewelers have never seen one. The color of a diamond is the actual hue of the stone, meaning the less color, the higher the value. The GIA system uses letters in alphabetical order from D for a nearcolorless diamond to Z as the color hint increases to light yellow or brown. The exception to the rule is the so-called “fancy-color diamonds,” whose color is naturally very intense and lies outside of the D-Z range. Colored in deep blue, orange, green or pink, these diamonds are rare and valuable. According to GIA statistics, for every natural fancy-color diamond there are 10,000 colorless ones. Color can also be artificially intensified. “Usually they take something brownish or yellow, not a clear diamond, and they heat it up through radiation,” explains Paul Brockhaus, co-owner of Simpson Brockhaus. “It’s just a chemical process inside the diamond – everything is already there. What’s really cool is that you never know what color it will be when it comes out.” The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance and sparkle. The surface is usually cut with extreme precision into 58 facets that reflect the light. The facets can be as small as two millimeters in diameter. Just like a prism, the facets refract the white light into the colors of the visible spectrum. The resulting colors are bounced back to the eye. The effect of dispersion is known as the “fire” of a diamond.

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$5.99

psf

Genuine Mohawk Hand Scraped Wood Floors Installed

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Continued from page 19 Brockhaus remembers one of the most beautiful diamonds he sold to a customer. “It was four carats G color, which is near the top of the colorless chart, and at 20 feet away, it looked like a small beacon of light,” he says. “It was flashing brilliantly with all the colors that you can see in the rainbow.” Jewelry maintenance is very important. “We have so many people that come in who have lost diamonds, and they are just devastated,” Griffin says. She advises that many undesired situations can be avoided by regularly bringing jewelry to a shop for a professional check. She said insuring jewelry is also a good idea. When it comes to engagement rings, many jewelers agree the two months, salary rule shouldn’t be a trend. “It’s whatever you are comfortable with, not how much you make,” Griffin says. Popular diamond shapes at the moment are princess, cushion and the classic round, but Griffin says trends

change all the time, just as fashion does. “When I got married 47 years ago, white gold was popular, and I got that ring. I am now on my fifth wedding ring, but the same husband,” she jokes. One thing to avoid, however, is shopping online, jewelers say. “You have to be careful. Go to a jewelry store, so that you can actually see what you buy,” Barrett says. “You don’t have to wait for the mail and hope for the best.” Regardless of the size, shape or color, diamonds have been captivating eyes and hearts for years, and most likely will for generations to come. “There’s really not a right or wrong choice, it’s whatever you love. That’s the important part,” Griffin says. “If you really love your ring, you’ll wear it every day and enjoy it.” For more information or to discover the perfect diamond, call Barrett Jewelers at (405) 340-1519, Parsons Jewelry at (405) 341-1280 or Simpson Brockhaus Fine Jewelry at (405) 359-7700.

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by Nathan Winfrey

Andy Nelson and Graycen Mashburn, Co-Owners of One Percent Motorsports

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f you find yourself craning your neck as you pass One Percent Motorsports, it’s probably to ogle the fleet of exotic sports cars parked around the premises. The Edmond establishment, located at 20 West Fourth Street, maintains and makes performance modifications on high-end sports cars like Dodge Vipers, Ford GTs, BMWs and Italian cars like Maseratis. “There’s just no other sound like a twelve cylinder Italian car; it’s pretty neat and exotic,” says owner Andy Nelson. “I’ve been obsessed with cars since I was little. I used to spend all my allowance on Hot Wheels. As soon as I could read, I was reading car magazines.” He says the speed and power are what draw him to cars. “They’re works of art that you don’t have to sit there and just look at. You can get out and drive them.”

Nelson and owner Graycen Mashburn opened One Percent Motorsports in April 2010. Parked on the lot is a 1,000 horsepower Twin Turbo Ford GT with red and white stripes and a yellow Lamborghini Murcielago. The shop specializes in BMW work. “One of our main mechanics is a BMW specialist,” Nelson says. “He’s good with anything having to do with BMWs.” Nelson has a thing for Dodge Vipers – he’s owned nine. His pride and joy is a 2002 Twin Turbo Viper, a sleek gray machine that boasts 1,300 horsepower. He bought the car from a fellow car admirer in Texas. “The car community, even nationwide, is pretty small,” Nelson says. He’s known the original owner for years and asked to buy it from him about six months ago. Since then, Nelson has done tuning and headwork on it and rebuilt the transmission. It takes a lot of care to keep an exotic car turning heads and hugging highway curves. His Viper’s mileage can be as low as four miles per gallon, but can get up to 20 miles per gallon on highways. “You’ve got to pay to play, but it is well worth it. Whenever you’re making two to three times the horsepower that came from the factory, you have to pay close attention to everything,” he says. Special gauges in the car monitor things casual drivers never think about, like air/fuel ratio, turbo

“There’s just no other sound like a V12 Italian car." boost, exhaust gas temperature and fuel pressure. Nelson advises any potential exotic car owner to prepare to be a dedicated steward. “Understand the fact that it’s not just a Chevy truck,” he warns. “You don’t just get in and drive it. You have to pay close attention to it and be mentally prepared for it to cost an arm and a leg sometimes and be okay with that. Otherwise, you’ll hate it. It’s an expensive hobby, but it’s got great dividends. It’s like nothing else. It’s really indescribable.”

His 2002 Viper has been tested at 230 miles per hour, but he says it could probably go faster than that. Events like the Texas Mile in Goliad, Texas, give exotic car owners a chance to find their cars’ limits with a white-knuckled burn down a long stretch of pavement. Nelson is tempted to showcase his 2002 Viper, and probably will, though he admits car shows aren’t

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Continued from page 23 the reason he buys. “I’m not as into car shows as I am about performance,” he explains. “[Vipers] make more power on 91 Octane than any other car on the market that you can buy, period.” Nelson recently purchased a 2008 Viper, and it probably won’t be his last. Driving Vipers also helps set Nelson apart from other car fanatics. There are plenty of enviable cars crisscrossing Edmond intersections, so it takes owning a special car to remain distinct. “I like exclusivity – something you don’t see every day,” he says. “Vipers you rarely see on the road.” When Nelson pulls up to a red light and motorists beside him notice his car, he is usually met with a “thumbs up” or people ask him to do a burnout or rev it up. When Nelson was younger, sometimes people were negative, assuming someone else bought the car for him. “I’ve always paid for my own stuff. I started out cutting grass when I was 12 years old to buy my first car, and I’ve been a car fanatic since,” he says. That first car was a 1989 Chevy Camaro RS. Drivers with high-end tastes but thin wallets can always start small. For those serious about owning and maintaining exotic cars, a myriad of options and modifications are available. For more information about One Percent Motorsports, become a fan on Facebook.

Nelson and Mashburn, with a 2002 Twin Turbo Viper

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Spring Fling Shopping Guide You’re in good hands at Rivers Massage! Go to www.riversmassage.com and sign up to win a FREE full hour of massage. Call and mention this ad for a $39.99 full hour of massage when you make an appointment before 3/31/11. Located in the Hair I Am Salon at Waterloo & North Broadway. • 589-1227

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Deer Creek Tanning Salon & Boutique is your one stop shop for namebrand clothing, jeans, shoes, accessories and gift items; all while you get a great tan! We offer 2 levels of tanning with NO CONTRACTS. Bring in this ad for 20% off one regularly priced item. 3700 N.W. 206th Ste B • Edmond 844-8266 • Find us on Facebook

Stop in Super Suppers on your way home and select from an array of delicious Take n’ Bake prepared entrees, sides and desserts from the Grab n’ Go freezer - ready for dinner tonight or to freeze for later. On a diet? Super Suppers has many low calorie, low fat options as well. • 330-9156 Located at 1333 N. Santa Fe www.supersuppers.com

Anabelle’s Galleria

Anabelle’s has the latest spring looks for your little one from Peaches N Cream. Stop by today and see what’s new! 1201 N.W. 178th Ste 112 www.shopanabelles.com • 359-1189 Find us on Facebook!

Lauren Need a new look? Call Lauren at Urban Retreat Salon specializing in creative color, corrective color, and haircuts. Ask for a Keratin Complex smoothing treatment to eliminate frizz and curl while making your hair healthier. Mention this ad for 30% off cut and color! Located at 5 S. Broadway www.urbanretreatsalon.com • 340-6720

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Building a legacy has no off season. Which is why Legacy Sports Academy offers eight large, multi-use batting and pitching tunnels for rent by the hour or half hour. Also check out the Lil’ Legacy Program for ages 4-6 and Legacy’s great selection of custom uniforms. Ask about Legacy’s “EDGE” Sports Performance Classes. 14402 N. Lincoln in Edmond www.legacysportsinc.com Call 752-2448

renewal salon & spa Ladies, enjoy a total body workout at a women’s gym just for you with toning tables and aerobic circuits as well as facials, massage therapy and spray tanning. Plus, don’t miss the Renewal Spa & Salon next door, offering everything from Solar nails to threading. Located at 15 E. 4th (behind Arby’s) Dreambodies - 285-9699 • Renewal Salon & Spa - 348-5357

e grew up with an interest in politics, a love of music and an incredible sense of humor. He also grew up with cancer. But perhaps what those who knew Nathaniel Martinez remember most about the young Edmond resident, who died at age 20, is his devotion to education and the steadfast pursuit of his goals. Now, a scholarship has been started in his name by Tim Tillman, a friend of the family and University of Central Oklahoma employee, the scholarship seeks to help other UCO students achieve their goals in the face of adversity. Martinez’s saga started in childhood with a game of tag football and a common tackle by his best friend. When Martinez’s leg broke far too easily, his family knew something was wrong, Tillman explains. Doctors discovered a tumor in his leg bone and rigorous treatment began. Martinez was in middle school at the time, and the treatment was followed by a long period of remission.

“We hope that the scholarship inspires and encourages students to reach their educational dreams.” Martinez’s high school years were relatively normal. He played in the band at Santa Fe High School and participated in a punk rock band with friends. But hardship found Martinez again during his senior year. Tillman remembers clearly the afternoon that Martinez stopped by his home to visit Tillman’s stepson before he went to an eye appointment.

by Lindsay Whelchel Martinez was having trouble with his vision and again, something wasn’t right. Another tumor was found on his optical nerve and an operation was necessary. That operation cost Martinez his eyesight and left him paralyzed. Although many may consider such a loss as the end, in Martinez’s case, it is where his story begins. When Martinez, who had been active and athletic his entire life, began to face the bureaucratic difficulties of many who are disabled, such as the Social Security system, he found his direction in political science, said his mother, Karen Martinez. “He felt like the disabled needed a voice. He was well spoken, and I think it was an area he felt he could give back to,” she says. To reach his goal of being that voice, Martinez knew he needed to stay committed to his education. But to even begin college took above–average efforts from Martinez. “He went to school to learn how to learn,” says Chip Nolen, Tillman’s stepson and Martinez’s best friend, referring to the time Martinez spent learning Braille and computer technology for the visually–impaired. After finishing this preliminary effort, Martinez enrolled in Oklahoma City Community College and used his determination to memorize the campus so he could navigate it entirely and attend class. He repeated the process again the following year to memorize and attend UCO, all without losing his drive or positivity. “Nathaniel had the most amazing sense of humor and was one of the most toughminded people I’d ever met,” Tillman says. “He was absolutely determined to pursue his education.” Tillman’s office at UCO was near the Disabled Student Services office, so he was able to see Martinez and his efforts regularly. This characteristic of strength was not surprising to Tillman, who said that after Martinez’s death, many who knew him

came to the conclusion that had he lived, he would have no doubt become a presidential nominee. “He was that single-mindedly devoted to something he believed in,” Tillman says. “Despite being fully aware of what was happening to him, he never lost that sense of humor. He was just an absolutely incredible spirit.” Nolen echoes this sentiment and said that through it all, Martinez was the one who held up his friends and never lost his joy. “We’d watch the game just like we always did, laugh just like we always did and [Martinez would] not let anything get him down,” he says. His mother explains that his time at UCO was beneficial and his hard work culminated in a big triumph when Martinez acted as lead attorney for a mock trial team. They won the competition. However,

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Continued from page 27 Martinez’s illness had become terminal, and he died two months later in July 2009. An idea occurred to Tillman and his family the day of Martinez’s funeral as they sought a way to honor him. “He was just relentless in his pursuit of education and what better way to honor that memory than by helping someone else?” Tillman says. He and his wife Kathy started the Nathaniel Martinez Scholarship. It is applicable to disabled UCO students who are enrolled the College of Liberal Arts. The scholarship was awarded to its first recipient last year, said Lisa Antonelli, development director of UCO College of Liberal Arts. The scholarship committee is in the process of selecting the next recipient. “We hope that the scholarship inspires and encourages students to reach their educational dreams,” she says. Nolen too says that it is in these students that determination like Martinez’s can be found and recognized. He says the ideal candidate is “someone who is in a situation similar to Nathaniel, who has been dealt a bad hand and someone who is pushing to succeed anyway. Somebody who is working that hard deserves any help we can give them,” he says.

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, C D o rm a n rt in e z Danny a M l ie n th a and Na

by Melanie Clemens

“L

ife, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” is a declaration penned by the founding fathers as one of the “unalienable rights” for all mankind. Written more than 200 years ago, it’s still upheld today as a “right” for every American. A group of parents in Edmond, Oklahoma, are working together to create a place that ensures that this freedom is available for children with disabilities. These parents began meeting in 2002, and two years later, they established WINGS as a 501 © (3) corporation. Wynter Olsen-Casallas, the program coordinator for Wings, has a brother, Preston, who has Down Syndrome. This fact, coupled with her passion and understanding for the cause, made working for Wings, “a good fit,” says Wynter, who has a background in nonprofit management as well as a dual degree in family psychology and cross cultural ministry. Parents of adult children with disabilities want their children to be happy, healthy and well cared for. They want their children to have the same quality of life as adults that they had as children. In an endeavor to provide a safe place for their adult children to live and pursue happiness, the Wings parents began visiting programs around the United States. What they found was hope for the future. The Brookwood community outside Houston, Texas, “was the answer we were looking for,” Wynter says. Brookwood offers everything that Wings is looking to become. “This is what we need, what our long-term goal looks like,” Wynter says. In 2009, Wings began offering day programs consisting of art production, health and wellness, life skills, community service and character training. “We are working on independent living skills to help

them be as independent as possible. They are capable of making contributions to society, and it’s important for us to provide this opportunity,” Wynter says. “We also teach them how to develop a profitable product line to help support the live-in community Wings will be some day.” Wings has partnered with Whistling Wind and Life Change Ballroom to benefit the health and wellness aspect of the programs. “Our programs offer significant opportunities. Instead of giving up when something is difficult, we challenge and encourage them to try a different way. It’s fun to watch them persevere. They are proud of their success,” Wynter says. Wings hosts a tour once a month for the community to see the classes in action. “Students give a 45-minute presentation about our program. Some of them have never spoken in public, so it’s a good experience,” Wynter says. Interpersonal relationships are an important part of Wings. Volunteers from the metro invest in the lives of the students. “Our students are awesome. Everyone falls in love with them,” Wynter says. “In December, for our monthly field trip, we had a Christmas party. We had 10 students and 35 volunteers. They just wanted to hang out with our students because they are loving and full of life. They are amazing to be with.” The Wings students have autism, down syndrome, muscular dystrophy or other undiagnosed types of cognitive or intellectual challenges. Students at Wings excel in sports like bowling, baseball and wrestling. James Price, a 22-year-old student, started playing in a baseball league when he was 12 years old. “When he went into the sixth grade, I wanted him to participate in normal activities. I started the Miracle

Wynter Olsen-Casallas

helping a student

in the Wings art class

League and a bowling league,” says his mother, Margo Price. “I opened doors for him, but he filled them himself.” In addition to playing sports, James has two jobs, plays the drums, sings in the choir and is a door greeter at their church. James is also involved in Special Olympics. In 2010, he went to nationals in Special Olympics, winning two gold medals and one bronze. “He’s not competitive at all. In Special Olympics, even though he gets gold medals, he wouldn’t care if he got bronze. He has fun with his friends,” Margo says. “He is the perfect example of unconditional love. Most of us put on boundaries, but he doesn’t. He’s never intimidated by anyone. It’s wonderful to witness that.” The Wings programs help parents become advocates for their children, paving the way through awareness. “I want to help someone else learn how to be an advocate for a child with special needs,” Wynter says. “Being differently able is an attribute about them. It doesn’t define who they are, but it’s something about them that makes them unique. Wings is there to help them be successful with the right opportunity and support.” For more information you can visit their website at www.wingsok.org or call 405-436-1865.

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F. Marion Cain IV, Detective with the Edmond Bomb Squad with the city's new equipment

by Radina Gigova

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here are no nostalgic feelings for the crammed space that used to be the Edmond Police Department’s old bomb truck. The department’s bomb squad has been using a new truck for a few months now, and they say it has made their work more efficient and the community safer, one threat at a time. The old truck was a 15-year-old blue ambulance purchased on eBay and modified for the squad. The new one is a custombuilt vehicle, especially designed to meet the needs of the team. The truck cost about $130,000 and most was paid for through a grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. “It makes everything so much easier,” says Edmond Bomb Squad Commander Sgt. Jim Teel. “Everything stays in the truck. With the old truck, we had to unload everything and set it all on the outside so that we could work inside the truck.” The truck is 25 feet long, has a ramp near the rear for the bomb robot, and all 10 squad members can comfortably fit inside. The truck also includes a work station with X-ray equipment, two olive green bomb suits worth about $20,000 each and a commercial generator that powers the electrical equipment in the truck. “We also have the capability to run on offshore power just like an RV,” Teel says. The truck was built by LDV USA in Burlington, Wisconsin. After a workshop meeting last spring with representatives from bomb squads across the state, the

Edmond team decided it needed a new vehicle. The funds were allocated, the model and features were selected and soon the truck was ready. “We went to the factory to pick the truck up, like you do when you buy a new car, and drove it back home,” Teel says. “We picked it up November 4th, and it was available to be used by the 6th.” When a 911 call about a bomb comes in, the senior person on duty responds and then contacts Teel. He determines how many members of the team need to be dispatched, according to the severity of the situation. “We have reached two to three calls a month. About a quarter of those calls are actual things,” Teel says. The people who are responsible for the calls that are from all walks of life. “They range from kids that have watched something on the Internet and want to try it out, to meth users who are trying to scare people away. It’s literally all kinds of people.” One of those calls came in last January. A man walked into the Oklahoma Fidelity Bank on Second Street, approached a teller and demanded money. The man told the clerk there was an explosive device in the bank. “We responded and set up a post just down the street,” Teel says. The bomb squad did a sweep of the building using the robot and found it to be safe. The suspect was later arrested. The robot, which travels on the truck with the crew, is a state-of-the-art ANDROS F6. It is among the most advanced of its kind and is used by the Army and the FBI. “It can fix things up, we can drag a body with it if we have

to, it could be used for surveillance and obviously for bomb destruction,” Teel says. “With the camera, we can actually view things from over a half mile away.” Teel, who has been a police officer for 22 years and served in the Army’s Artillery Unit for more than 12 years, is also a trained bomb technician and has approached many devices over the years. And even though he wears an 80-pound bomb suit with a front ceramic plate when he has to do the job, it is always a thrilling experience. “I remember the very first time when I did some demolition,” Teel says. “I just said a quick prayer, ‘Dear Lord, don’t let me screw this up.’”

When Teel is approaching a device, his main goal is to stay calm and not think about the outcome. “I’m concentrating on trying to figure out what it is, and how I’m going to take care of it,” he says. “I have to think about the task at hand.” The bomb squad consists of five certified bomb technicians and five assistants, who underwent rigorous training. “They are some of the best officers that we have, they are great people and I’m very proud that they work for me,” Teel says. “We are all very best friends, too.” And as far as the old truck, the Edmond Police diveteam now uses it as a response vehicle.

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by Heide Brandes Name: Vivian Chen, Santa Fe High School National Honor Society President and National Merit Scholar Finalist Edmond Resident Since: 1997 You were recently named National Merit Semi-Finalist and now Finalist. How did you become a candidate for this national honor? My parents really influenced me and supported me. They made sure I had my priorities straight. It’s challenging, but I focused and worked toward meeting the requirements, and that meant lots of studying. Why is being a National Merit Scholar so prestigious? Most people who are nominated as a semi-finalist become finalists, but only half become National Merit Scholars and get the scholarship. I had to study very hard and earn nearly perfect scores to be accepted. You have to score higher than 200 on the PSAT. As part of the selection process, you had to write an essay. What was your essay about? My best friend’s mother died of cancer. We also had a family friend with cancer, and another friend of the family had cancer while she was pregnant. The essay was about overcoming struggles and understanding God’s will. What do you hope to accomplish in 10 years? In 10 years, I hope to be a college professor who is doing research for the cure for cancer. I hope to be living in Edmond, raising my own family. Tell us something that you think will surprise everyone to know about you. People think I just study all day, and that I don’t have much of a life. I like to have fun, and I want to make the most of my high school years. What could you tell others about Edmond? Edmond is such a great place to live. Oklahoma is seriously one of the best states to grow up in because people are so kind, and that’s a great way to start off your life.