AUGUST 2023
Growing Oklahoma’s Wine Scene Oklahoma’s First Viticulture & Enology Coordinator, Madison Franklin
Rock Crawlers
Edmond Police Summer Program
Sweet Stingers
4
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 5
6
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
I’m a “buy used” kind of car buyer. The last new car I bought was a sweet ride called a Saturn SL2 - remember those? Since then, I’ve bought used sedans, coupes, convertibles, SUVs and a minivan or two (actually 3). Letting someone else take the financial hit on initial depreciation has been my financial plan. I just sold two cars. One, I owned for 7 years, the other for 9 years. So I was shopping used again, but it was tough out there. When I’d find something I was interested in - it was either sold or under contract. Ever hopeful, I found a solid contender at a local dealership. It was the right color, low miles, excellent reviews, sporty and almost practical. I scheduled a test drive. When I arrived, the salesperson pointed over to a cubicle where someone was already signing papers on it. Disappointed, I should have left. But I didn’t. I lingered right over to another car. A brand new car. I knew better - but, it had a “Sold” sign on it. Seemed safe enough. My new best friend, I mean the salesperson, told me he was going to check on that “Sold” sign for me. Turns out the intended buyer was now ghosting the dealership and being that it was the last day of the month, the sales manager wanted that car sold today. Dave Ramsey would not be proud. Yeah, I bought it. It’s no Saturn, but it's still a sweet ride.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
10
8 20 Features 8 10 12 16 18 20 26 30
Edmond Fine Arts The Golden Spoon Plant Cafe Successful Connections with Erika Lucas Extreme Crawlers Oklahoma's Wine Ambassador: Madison Franklin Sweet Stingers Edmond Police Summer Program A LOOK Back: Edmond High 1947
Business 22 24
Blo Blow Dry Bar Edmond Santa Fe Customs
Columns 7 28
In Other Words with Dave Louise Tucker Jones
Cover photography by sundancephotographyokc.com
ADVERTISING l 405-301-3926 l sales@edmondoutlook.com MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 50,000 HOMES IN THE EDMOND AREA 1024 W Covell, Edmond, OK 73003 l 405-341-5599 l edmondoutlook.com l info@edmondoutlook.com
AUGUST 2023 Volume 19, Number 8 l Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. l © 2023 Back40 Design, Inc. PUBLISHER Dave Miller l PRODUCTION MANAGER Alison Miller l ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE /EDITOR Laura Beam l GRAPHIC DESIGN Anne Richardson PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins sundancephotographyokc.com l DISTRIBUTION Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to over 50,000 Edmond area homes. Articles and advertisements in the 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 the 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. The Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.
LOCALLOOK
Fine Arts for All By Taylor Bollinger Edmond elementary students have something new to look forward to this school year – art education for all! This announcement from the Edmond Fine Arts Institute was 21 years in the making. Finally, the figurative stars have aligned to provide the staff, support, and structure to expand fine arts education within the district, starting this month. “We launched the Art in Schools Program in Edmond public schools in 2002, with support from organizations like the Oklahoma Arts Council, Allied Arts, and local business sponsors,” said Shannon Price, executive director of Edmond Fine Arts Institute. “It has grown exponentially, but it is difficult to keep up with demands of a growing school district. We are thrilled the state is offering the support to make fine arts education sustainable for every age.” Before the Arts in Schools Program, formal art class for Edmond students started in fifth grade. Through the shared priorities and partnership of Edmond Fine Arts Institute and Edmond Public Schools, nine new art teachers have been hired. With this new funding from the state, students will now benefit from art education starting in kindergarten. “Art is so important for children,” Shannon said. “It reduces stress, keeps them more engaged, develops emotional and interpersonal skills, and bolsters academic achievement.” While many elements of academics are black and white, or right and wrong, art allows for a level of creativity and
8
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
personal perspective that Shannon believes is valuable to a child’s development. “Art class may be one of the only times of the day when a child can experiment and think creatively. They aren’t asking, ‘Am I doing it right?’ With art, there is no wrong answer. There is freedom within that.” For most students, this addition will unveil an enjoyable pastime. For others, a passion. “It’s important for young people to have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of activities,” she said. “Like with sports, or anything else, kids gravitate toward different things. And unless they have exposure to the arts, they won’t know the full extent of their abilities and potential.” Opportunities to explore the fine arts aren’t solely for students. The Edmond Fine Arts Institute offers ongoing classes for all ages, so toddlers, teenagers, or even their great-grandparents can tap into their inner artist on their own schedule. Visit edmondfinearts.com to support Art in Schools or schedule your first class.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 9
FOODLOOK
The Golden Spoon Plant Cafe By Laura Beam
Stephanie and Isaac McCabe
It’s hard to believe that just 10 years ago, there were few, if any, vegan food options locally. Thanks to people like Stephanie McCabe, that has changed dramatically. After having her first daughter, Stephanie found a love of cooking and decided to major in nutrition at OU. While attending OU, Stephanie said, “I learned about the poor factory farming practices and convoluted nutrition guidelines that ultimately launched my vegan lifestyle, with my husband right there with me.” “I’m very particular about my food,” Stephanie admits. “I was always the girl who asked how much sodium was in something and how certain foods impact the way we feel.” Stephanie always dreamt of having her own restaurant. “Selfishly, I wanted vegan options on my side of town, so I decided I better do something about it,” Stephanie recalls. When she stumbled onto the empty cafe space on 178th Street, the Edmond native knew it was the right time and place to share her passion. “I called my husband, Isaac, and said, ‘I think we’re opening a restaurant,’” she laughs. In February 2023, The Golden Spoon Plant Cafe opened, serving up 100% vegan food, including all-day breakfast, delicious pastas, soups, sandwiches, shakes, smoothies and desserts. Even the pickiest and meatiest eaters are falling in love with this cool plant cafe! Vegan for the Win Over the years, when taking food 10
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
vacations, Stephanie discovered dozens of tasty dishes that have inspired her menu. The Beggin’ Eggin’ Cheese, with its New York pronunciation, is a delicious re-creation of a breakfast sandwich she enjoyed on a trip. Organic, eggy tofu and a choice of either seitan or organic shiitake bacon are layered on a flour or gluten-free biscuit or vegan croissant made in house. “Seitan is made from wheat,” Stephanie explains. “Buddhist monks created it because they don’t eat meat.” Seasoned just right, the seitan is an incredible meat substitute in the Buffalo Chick’n Sandwich and breakfast dishes. The Golden Spoon also uses as many organic ingredients as possible and makes all their own dressings. The Cashew Alfredo dish is a surprise and delight, with some of the creamiest, most flavorful alfredo sauce you’ll ever have. You’d never guess it was vegan! Family Faves The bright and beautiful McCabe girls– Maddie, Lily and Katie–bring the cafe to life with their vibrant personalities and food knowledge. Katie’s Guacamole is special to her because she is “in love with avocados!” she beams. “We used to make it at parties,” Stephanie explains, “and ours has cucumbers in it.” It’s a must-try as an appetizer or on the taco salad. Lily’s favorite is the Spinach Artichoke Dip made with organic raw almond parmesan. Maddie helps in the kitchen and all three girls love to play in the garden room, many times with other children who are visiting the cafe with their parents.
Food and Fun The garden room is a warm and inviting space overlooking the patio and scenic outdoors and is perfect for parties or meetings. The lawn can even accommodate a bouncy house. Or guests can just kick back on the patio with a chai latte and enjoy nature. Kids menus, coloring books, catering and eventually food classes are all part of the exciting way Stephanie is sharing her passion with the community. ”We have the privilege of letting people know they don’t have to sacrifice great taste to be vegan,” Stephanie says, “and we love having the opportunity to introduce and interest everyone in vegan food.” Dine from 9am-3pm every day, or 9am9pm on Friday, at 2851 W. Edmond Road, Suite B, or visit thegoldenspoon.net.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 11
FEATURELOOK
Erika Lucas and Ana Nuñez
Funding the Future for Minority Entrepreneurs By Maria Veres As a Latina woman business owner, Erika Lucas is passionate about sharing her success with others. Through her companies StitchCrew and VEST, she connects women and people of color with resources to grow their companies and careers. So far more than 130 people have participated in her programs. One of them is Edmond resident Ana Nuñez, who creates sustainable products for curly hair through her company, Vida Bars. Erika Lucas: Helping Business Professionals Succeed Before she became an entrepreneur, Erika worked in economic development and private equity. She saw firsthand how challenging it was for women and people of color to secure business funding. She decided to do something about it. In 2017 she founded StitchCrew, which connects traditionally overlooked business founders with funding, mentoring, and resources. Three years later she started VEST in response to the disproportionate effect the pandemic had on women in the workplace. VEST supports female professionals and entrepreneurs. Erika’s companies have strong relationships with organizations in OKC and beyond, including the Oklahoma City Thunder. “We were very lucky to partner with the Thunder because they understood the value of diversity,” she says. “To this day they continue to support us and amplify our message.” She administers several programs through StitchCrew, including a beauty product initiative, an OKC Latino business group, a national group for Cherokee business owners, and more. Every program is different, but they share a common vision—to help businesses succeed and to build a more flexible, diverse workplace culture. Erika is the mother of two daughters in their late teens. “They’re my inspiration,” she says. “My goal is to create a more inclusive community, and they’re my ‘why.’” Ana Nuñez: Sustainable Beauty Products for Curly Hair Like Erika, Ana was born in Chihuahua, Mexico. Also like Erika, she never planned to become an entrepreneur. Ana’s family moved to the US when she was seven. By 2019, she was a single mother of two, living in the OKC area and working full-time in talent acquisition. She also had a problem she couldn’t solve: She hated her thick, curly hair. For years 12
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
she straightened it with a flat iron. Then her daughter asked to straighten her hair too, and Ana knew she needed a better solution. She searched for sustainable products for curly hair and came up empty. “So I decided to make my own,” she says. “There was nothing on the market like this, and it had to be done.” With no chemistry background, Ana did online research to develop shampoo and conditioner bars for curly hair. Since all textured hair isn’t alike, she created six lines. Working from her kitchen, Ana spent months perfecting Vida Bars before launching in 2020. Her first collections sold out, and she realized she needed to scale. That’s when Ana and Erika’s paths crossed. While Ana was participating in Meridian Technology Center’s Stillwater business incubator, she was encouraged to apply for StitchCrew’s beauty cohort program. Later she also became part of StitchCrew’s program for Latino business owners. The support she received empowered her to build the Vida Bars customer base across the US and beyond. She moved her operations from her home to the Meridian Technology Center business incubator in Guthrie. Her next goal is to place products in boutique retail stores. Ana stays in touch with Erika and the colleagues in her cohorts. “One of the things that’s near to my heart is seeing Erika be so successful at what she does and sharing that with so many of us,” she says. Redefining Success Erika and Ana have both experienced the struggles that women and people of color face in the workplace, especially as business owners, and they’re both working to level the field. For Erika, the ongoing connections that form through StitchCrew and VEST are a big part of that effort. “We’re very much focused on paying it forward,” she says. As Latina moms, both women continue to work toward a world where the path will be easier for their children and the generations to come. “When we are welcomed and believed in and encouraged, we can become great partners in our communities,” says Ana. Learn more about Erika Lucas, StitchCrew, and VEST at erikalucas.co. Visit Vida Bars at thevidabars.com.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 13
14
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 15
FEATURELOOK
Extreme Oklahoma Crawlers By Taylor Bollinger In a photograph, it’s easy to mistake crawlers for the real deal. But rather than full-sized trucks, jeeps and road-worthy vehicles, a closer inspection reveals them to be miniature remote control replicas. Controlled by hobbyists or competitors, RC rock crawlers conquer off-road paths with surprising agility. The pastime is growing in popularity, with events as close to home as Hafer Park. “If you’ve seen the rock buggy races that happen in places like California and Arizona, then you can imagine a rock crawler event,” said Kollin Sendall, Extreme Oklahoma Crawlers member and administrator. “People gather for little rock crawling competitions all around Oklahoma. Some of the best spots are Lake Murray, Lawton Wildlife Refuge, Robber’s Cave, or more locally at Arcadia Lake and Hafer Park.” It was Kollin’s son who first connected him with the hobby. “I bought my son an RC crawler truck. We were having so much fun driving it around that he told me I should get one of my own, and it just evolved from there.” Now, Kollin is immersed in the world of crawler competitions. “It unites a wide range of people,” he said. “We are seeing more and more kids getting into it with their parents, which is a fun way for them to bond and spend time together.” The monetary investment varies. Starter kits can be found for as low as $30, with specialized parts and specific replicas ramping up into the hundreds. Kollin encourages anyone who might be interested to give crawling a try. “It can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple days to build a crawler,” he said. “I live in Edmond, so HobbyTown on Danforth is always my first stop for parts.” Kollin calls crawling a great hobby for anyone with a mechanically inclined mind. “If you enjoy building things, or if you think off-roading sounds fun but is too big of an investment, crawling is a fun and financially better option.” The group’s Facebook page is a good place to start. It’s filled with dabblers and die-hard drivers, ready to answer questions and connect on the crawling journey. Visit @ExtremeOklahomaCrawlers on Facebook to find upcoming events near you.
16
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 17
FEATURELOOK
Oklahoma’s Own Viticulturist
Promoting a Growing Wine Scene By Amy Dee Stephens Madison Franklin
As of February, Madison Franklin is Oklahoma’s first Viticulture “I never dreamed that my chemistry, farming and restaurant & Enology Coordinator. Unfamiliar with the title? Madi basically careers, seemingly unrelated, would come together to perfectly serves as a wine ambassador, working to market vineyards and prepare me for the new position with the Department of develop agritourism for the state. It was water, not wine, that led Agriculture,” Madi said. “Thanks to new liquor laws passed in her to this unusual career. 2016, Oklahoma’s 45 wineries are finally gaining energy and While working on her biology degree at Oklahoma State attention.” University, Madi spent six summers wading through lakes as she In addition to visiting vineyards and exploring tourism worked for various environmental agencies doing biochemistry possibilities, Madi has redesigned the Oklahoma Wine Trail and water quality testing. Following her adventurous spirit, Madi Guide. Much like a passport, people can explore nine winemoved to Asia after she graduated to teach English. When she themed trails in Oklahoma. After completing each trail, ended that job, she took four months participants are eligible for prizes. to explore the world before returning One trail in Oklahoma county features home. six wineries, which includes Clauren “I booked the cheapest ticket I Ridge in Edmond. could find, which led me to Greece,” “There’s a booming wine scene in Madi said. Moving from Hanoi, a city Oklahoma, but we’re still young and with a population of eight million working on our reputation,” Madi said. people, to a small island with just “There’s a stigma that wine has to 300 people was a culture shock. To be expensive or produced in certain support herself, Madi took work places to be good. I’m trying to grow as a farm laborer, the island’s main our potential and tackle that stigma.” industry. Already, wineries are getting “My first job, on my first day in creative with marketing efforts. Greece, was at a vineyard in the Besides traditional tasting rooms, middle of nowhere,” Madi said. “I many are offering enticing There’s a booming wine scene in experiences, from wine bottle crafting was handed a basket and told, ‘Go Oklahoma, but we’re still young pick grapes.’ It was that simple. Just to weddings. Farm-to-table meals and working on our reputation. fill a basket with grapes. I loved the are becoming popular, with locallysimplicity and peacefulness of that sourced foods or dinners themed task.” after movies such as Star Wars or Lord of the Rings. During harvest season, people can even volunteer to help pick grapes or Following the Grapevine try grape stomping, as seen on the old I Love Lucy show. Upon returning to Oklahoma, Madi reflected that her “I love being part of an industry where, at the end of a hard environmental background applied to winemaking, so she put day’s work, people get to slow down and drink the fruits of aside lake work and started focusing on vineyards. During Covid, our labor—pun intended,” Madi said with a laugh. “Going from Madi searched for a master’s degree in viticulture, the cultivation ‘grape to glass’ is a ton of work, but it’s a beautiful worldwide and harvesting of grapes, and enology, the study of wines. She experience.” Visit OklahomaAgritourism.com to learn more. found a program in Italy that was more affordable than the United States had to offer. So, after working in restaurants and an Edmond wine bar to save money, she moved to Italy to learn the global wine industry. 18
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 19
FEATURELOOK
Sweet Stingers
The Family Business of Bees By Amy Dee Stephens Maybe you’ve seen a tractor trailer loaded with beehive boxes traveling the highways? Commercial beekeepers are crisscrossing the country to pollinate crops, and Justin Scott was early into his own commercial bee operation when Covid changed his business model. “People were homesteading more and showing an interest in having bees in their yards,” said Justin, owner of Sweet Stingers Honey & Apiary. “I offered to put a few hives in friends’ yards so they could learn how to do beekeeping. Instead, they quickly realized that it was easier for me to just drop by and manage the hives for them.” The concept expanded, and now, Justin has over 800 hives placed throughout Oklahoma. He regularly drives to different parts of the state, checking on his hives and removing the honey. “It takes me about 90 seconds to get in and out of a hive,” Justin said. “If the bees are content and doing well, I only have to visit once every ten days to two weeks.” Hives in Unusual Places Justin Scott In exchange for allowing Justin to place beehives on different properties, Sweet Stingers’ customers receive honey to eat, sell or give away. Not only are Justin’s hives placed in private, pesticide-free backyards, large and small, he has a growing number of businesses requesting bees. “I have hives in courtyards, on hotel roofs, at schools and community gardens, and in gift shops that source local products,” Justin said. “Restaurants are also adding my hives, especially for chefs who are creating local food menus. Corporations with green initiatives are adding hives to teach their employees about pollinators.” A small percentage of Sweet Stingers’ business profit comes from selling honey at booths. Customers enjoy sampling the variety of flavors from different regions of the state. Backyard
20
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
hives in central Oklahoma produce a light-colored sweet honey, while rural regions produce darker, bolder honey. Corporate sponsorships represent Justin’s largest area of business growth. “And if that keeps growing to a sustainable level, I would love to just give the honey away. Teaching people about the role of bees and helping them overcome their fear is really what we are about.” Honey and Humming The sweet smell of nectar and the gentle hum of a hive buzzing with 70,000 bees is hard to fully describe, but it is proving to be very therapeutic. Scientists are finding that the soothing smell and the tone of the humming is effective at calming people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Surrounding states are developing bee programs for veterans and prisoners, and Justin is interested in the results. Justin’s grandfather was a beekeeper, and Justin attributes his life-long interest in bees to a childhood experience that happened with his grandfather when he was nine years old. “I was tending the okra in grandfather’s garden when he said, ‘Get in the truck.’ He wasn’t the kind of man you ignored, so I crawled into the truck and he handed me a box with no lid. I looked down and was shocked. The box was full of bees, just inches from my face!” Justin said. “I was scared, but fascinated. After that, I learned alongside my grandfather, and he taught me the bee business, and I’m still intrigued.” Sweet Stingers continues as a family-based business. Justin and his son care for the hives, his daughter specializes in wax candles and locations, and his wife manages finances and scheduling. They are all making Oklahoma a sweeter place, one hive at a time. Visit them on Facebook and Youtube @SweetStingers, or on Instagram @SweetStingersOk.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 21
BIZLOOK
Blo Blow Dry Bar Edmond By Maria Veres Edmond has many amazing hair salons, but only one focuses exclusively on blowouts and styling. Blo Blow Dry Bar Edmond is a welcoming, customerfocused space dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. Become Your Best Self Every visit to the blow dry bar includes a free consultation with an expert stylist. Then, your hair will be pampered with top-of-the-line products from Color Wow and UNITE. Stylists use the products themselves and know exactly what they do. The blow dry bar offers a full line of blowout, updo, and makeup services. Purchasing a no-commitment
22
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
membership gives you two blowouts a month, at discounted rates. The salon also offers a bride-to-go service, with stylists available to travel to the wedding location. “We believe in creating an inclusive space for people of all ages, races, genders, and sexual orientations, and helping them feel gorgeous,” says Jerry Elledge, who co-owns the salon with his wife Tanya. Putting People First The salon is a locally owned family business. The Elledges live, work, and shop in Edmond. The blow dry bar supports many local school fundraisers and events, and they partner with nonprofits like Dress for Success and Make a Wish Foundation. “We want to donate back to the community as much as possible,” says Tanya. Blo Blow Dry Bar is the original blowout franchise. The Elledges were drawn to its values of inclusivity, outstanding customer service, and excellent quality. “People aren’t a number,” says Tanya. “We really care
about customer service, and we’re proud of the product we put out.” Every guest receives the pinkcarpet treatment, whether they come for weekly shampoo-and-style appointments or just for extra special occasions. “The better you look, the better you feel,” says Jerry. “We’re here to make you shine.” Blo Blow Dry Bar Edmond is located at 1380 W. Covell Road Suite #148, Edmond. Contact them at 405-906-2519 or online at blomedry.com/blo-edmond.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 23
BIZLOOK
Santa Fe Customs By Maria Veres Specializing in custom motorcycleto-trike conversions, Steve and Gloria Woolery are dedicated to keeping you on the road, in spectacular style. Expert Trike Conversions and More Steve has done motorcycle painting and bodywork all his life, but Gloria inspired his pivot into trikes. “She wanted a trike and she wanted me to build it,” he says. Once Gloria’s ride was finished, she had trouble driving anywhere because people kept pulling alongside her to gawk or take videos. The Woolerys realized the high demand for trikes and founded Santa Fe Customs in 2011.
24
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
They also do bodywork and painting for motorcycles and cars. Gloria specializes in detailing. If you need a topquality sound system for your vehicle or home, their son Colton has you covered with Santa Fe Sound, headquartered at the same location. Santa Fe Customs focuses on topquality products and craftsmanship, and they stand behind their work with a lifetime commitment. They’re expanding into a larger location next year. Keeping Bikers on the Road You can see Santa Fe Customs’ stunning trike conversions on their Facebook page. They’ve helped many riders with health issues who need the stability of a trike. They also make it possible for more spouses to ride together. Steve remembers one veteran with lung cancer who wanted to ride one last time. Five years later the vet stopped by their shop, looking fit and healthy, to thank the Woolerys for giving him his life back. “There are lots of good stories that go with these conversions,” he says. He loves the smiles on people’s faces when they pick up their finished trikes.
Steve & Gloria Woolery
“The best part is the satisfaction of helping somebody,” he says. Santa Fe Customs is located at 2125 Copeland Way, Edmond. Contact them at 405-921-4553 or online at santafecustoms.com.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 25
LOCALLOOK
Officers Demetrius Kirk & Amy Brooks
Training Tomorrow’s Leaders
Edmond Police Department Summer Leadership Program By Taylor Bollinger For the second summer in a row, the Edmond Police Department is welcoming local students to the Summer Leadership Program. Created and led by officers Amy Brooks and Demetrius Kirk, the program aims to equip emerging young leaders with the skills and experiences they need to continue their positive impact on their peers, community, and world. Dr. Kartina McDaniel with OKC Public Schools Administration assisted the officers in developing the curriculum and local boxer Robin Robinson Jr. helps train the students. “Amy and I had both worked as school resource officers, and were very involved in community events, and outreach with children,” said Officer Kirk. “We began to notice a rise in behavioral issues in elementary-aged children. Though we knew we couldn’t reach every single child in our community, we started to think about practical ways to make a difference for as many kids as possible.” The officers took their idea to Edmond Public Schools, partnering with leaders to create original curriculum and identify candidates for the first Summer Leadership Program. “We know that leadership is a domino effect,” Officer Kirk said. “When we strengthen one student, they can then go into their school and help raise other kids up as well.” Over the summer, the program will welcome around 60 incoming third, fourth, and fifth-grade students as they hear from local leaders like Mayor Davis, FBI and OSBI agents, and gain practical skills like financial literacy training through First United Bank. “We give them the chance to serve others and give back to the community that is shaping them,” Officer Brooks 26
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
said. “They’ve helped with bingo at a local nursing home, cleaned up at Arcadia Lake, and ran a lemonade stand to raise funds for a local animal shelter.” Art and physical activity are also integral parts of the program, as students create vision boards for their future, write thank-you notes to someone who has positively impacted their life, and glove up for boxing practice from a trained professional. “One of the most important aspects is boxing,” Officer Kirk explained. “We practice for an hour each day, and it’s amazing how much confidence it builds. You can see a huge difference between the first and final day.” Program leaders aren’t the only ones noting the difference in children throughout the program. “I can’t thank Officer Brooks and Officer Kirk enough for this leadership program,” said the parent of one participant. “I’ve noticed such a change in my child. Her attitude and thought process about everything has improved tremendously. Having her hear things from someone else’s perspective has helped me incredibly. I am truly grateful for this program.” Though the program is an intensive lesson in leadership, the officers always make room for fun. “We love seeing kids build accountability, respect, and nurture that inner desire to be better,” Officer Brooks said. “But thanks to the generosity of our community, donating movie tickets, ice cream, and so much more, they have fun doing it.” Contact Officer Kirk at demetrius.kirk@edmondok.gov for more information on the Edmond Police Department Summer Leadership Program.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 27
ALOOKBACK
A Birthday Song! By Louise Tucker Jones This picture of my son, Jay and me was taken last year on my August birthday. Before Jay got sick. Before 7 weeks in ICU. Before my precious son went to heaven. And it’s a favorite! Pictures become treasured keepsakes of people we love. Since the introduction of the iPhone, a camera has always been at our fingertips. You can snap a photo in an instant. No large device needed. No flash attachment. Just point and click. It hasn’t always been that way. I have very few photos of my childhood since my family did not own a camera. The school took individual pictures so I have those, and when we gathered for family reunions someone in the bunch usually had a camera and shared those snapshots so we weren’t completely without family photos.
28
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
When I got married, my mother had a Kodak camera with her. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have pictures of my momentous occasion since Carl and I did a last minute wedding in a little Army chapel before he deployed. Today, someone would probably pull out their cell phone and record the event. Along with our new phones came “selfies,” which can be entertaining or egotistical. I’ve definitely taken my share of these fun photos with my sons, Jay and Aaron, as well as my 100-year-old mother when I would visit. She loved it unless her hair wasn’t combed properly. I even had a few selfies with my husband before he went to heaven twelve years ago. And of course, birthdays are best celebrated with cake, candles, photos and family. So I’m not sure how this year’s August birthday will be without my son, Jay. He’s been with me all of his years, giving hugs, smiles and lots of joy. But knowing how much my boy loves his mom, I figure Jay will gather all of our heavenly family—his dad and grandparents, his brother and sister, along with Jesus and a few angels and sing a
heavenly chorus of “Happy Birthday” to me, his proud mom, on my special day. Can’t wait to hear it! Thank you, Jay! Love and miss you my sweet son! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 29
ALOOKBACK
a look back Edmond High '47 Edmond High School students listen attentively in a classroom at the building at Boulevard and Campbell in 1947. Edmond’s high school began in 1915 with one class of 9th graders, but it wasn’t until 1922 that 24 students graduated as seniors. The building at Campbell and Boulevard, which served as the high school from 1924 to 1957, now houses Boulevard Academy. Learn more about Edmond’s first high school at the “Bulldog Spirit” exhibit at the Edmond History Museum.
30
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l AUGUST 2023
AUGUST 2023
l EDMONDOUTLOOK.COM l 31
1024 W Covell Rd., Edmond, OK 73003
