That’s what Alison told Mike, our trainer, after our very first workout session. Things were going fine until we hit lunges— the exercise everyone loves to hate. They target those lower body muscles like glutes and quads, and apparently, they also target Alison’s patience.
Luckily, she got over it, and we’ve been working out with Mike twice a week at the Mitch Y for months now. Originally, we planned to use a trainer to get started and then go off on our own. But it turns out his guidance, encouragement, and, most importantly, accountability, have been a game-changer.
Having scheduled sessions means we show up, no excuses. Mike keeps us on track with proper form, varied routines, and the occasional laugh—like when he suggested we get matching tattoos that say, “Body by Mike.” We told him that kind of branding might take years to earn, but we appreciated his optimism.
Working out together is something new to us. Sure, we’re building muscle, but we’re also strengthening our relationship. We’ve learned new things about each other, too.
For instance, I’ve learned that Alison claims she was born without certain leg muscles—at least, that’s her excuse every time she pedals an exercise bike. Meanwhile, she’s discovered that I sweat more than an average human.
So, would I recommend strength training with your spouse? Absolutely. It’s challenging, it’s fun, and it gives you both a shared goal to work toward. Plus, if you can survive lunges together, you can survive anything.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
the Cover: HailTrace. Photo submitted.
The Great Edmond Chicken Chase
By Taylor Bollinger
Edmond’s early morning calm was shattered last month by an unusual call. At 6:53 a.m., officers received a report that would set the stage for one of the most unusual pursuits in the department’s history.
“A chicken is running down the middle of the road.” One frantic minute later, the suspect had fled to Whataburger and could be seen evading capture up and down the West Frontage Road.
The officers gave chase, but the feathered fugitive was simply too fast. At 7:10, an update was recorded in disheartening bits: “Too fast for him, unsure if he can catch him.” By 7:20, frustration mounted. “Cannot catch the chicken,” the dispatcher recorded.
Enter Edmond Animal Services Officer Whitfield. “I had just gotten to work and was about to start my day when I heard about the chase,” Whitfield said. “One officer was dealing with an injured deer, another was trying to catch the bird, so I went over to help.” The chicken, by then correctly identified as a rooster, was spotted outside – of all places – Buffalo Wild Wings. “We all spotted him, but the second he saw us, he took off north.”
Fortunately, Officer Lewellyn, the youngest of the group, had the speed and stamina needed. “Lewellyn was quick and managed to get him in a net,” Whitfield recalled, lamenting the lack of body cam footage to fully capture the experience.
6:53 chicken running down the middle of the road
6:54 in front of Whataburger
6:54 keeps running up and down west frontage
7:10 too fast for him [Officer], unsure if he can catch him
7:20 cannot catch the chicken
7:46 out with animal services for the chicken
7:56 WE GOT HIM
At 7:46, the final standoff commenced—officers and animal control converging with one mission: Apprehend the fugitive. Just ten minutes later, the radio crackled with victory: “WE GOT HIM.” With the rogue rooster now safely in custody, he was transported to Edmond Animal Welfare.
“You actually need a permit for roosters,” Whitfield explained. He then shared the good news that the rooster is leaving life on the lam behind him, and settling down in an adoptive home with plenty of room to roam.
While the case of Edmond’s runaway chicken may not have been the most high-stakes police chase in history, it certainly provided a moment of levity for all involved. And while we may never know exactly why this chicken crossed the road—in the end, the rooster found a home, and Edmond found a story worth crowing about.
photos submitted
Officer Lewellyn
Crème de la Crumb Europe’s Finest at Home in Edmond
By Laura Beam
Noel Nugent’s love of baking began in Dallas when she was four years old, making boxed brownies with her mother. It did not take long to realize her passion was growing into much more than a favorite pastime. Despite graduating high school, moving to Europe, and working as a nanny while she pursued a degree in clinical psychology, baking remained her first love. In September 2024, Noel’s dream of owning a bakery became a reality with the opening of Crème de la Crumb. Edmond’s newest bakery is brimming with sun-filled banquettes, cafe seating and a peaceful welcoming atmosphere making it a local favorite. The aroma of fresh-baked goods and Italian-style coffees welcomes friends and neighbors to relax and enjoy a respite from the stress of the day. The glass showcase of dazzling pastries and basket of fresh-baked bread brings the sophisticated taste of Europe to the neighborhood.
A Taste of Vienna
Noel worked at a premier bakery in Vienna, Austria before enrolling in and graduating first in her class at Le cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts in London. Though she was offered a job in Europe upon graduation, home was calling her back to the States. In 2020, her family moved to Oklahoma and the vision of Crème de la Crumb moved forward with the help of her parents. “We are a Viennoiserie,” Noel explains, “which means we offer French-baked goods made in the style of Vienna. Our pastries are made from leavened dough or puff pastry. Even if customers have not heard of a Viennoiserie, chances are they have enjoyed some of its most-loved offerings such as croissants, brioche, or pain au chocolat – handmade chocolate croissants."
Whatever strikes your fancy as you gaze at row after elegant row of these delicacies, you are sure to be delighted. The Cruffin, one of the bakery’s most popular items, was inspired by Noel’s mother who loves cinnamon rolls. Made from croissant dough, the Cruffin is muffin-shaped with a sugary outer crust. The tender, billowy dough inside is laced with cream cheese icing
nestled between layers – creating a textural and flavor-filled delicacy. The Cronut, another customer favorite, is a cross between a croissant and donut, lavishly drizzled with vanilla icing. “Our strudels, chocolate croissants and pistachio pinwheels are also popular. And our pesto swirls, everything ham and cheese croissants, and sausage rolls are great choices for those who love savory selections.”
What’s New?
The bakery just introduced baguettes that come out of the oven at 10 a.m. every morning, hot and ready to enjoy. You can smell the deliciousness the moment you walk through the door of the bakery. That is because Noel and her carefully trained staff begin baking at 4 a.m. every morning. Whether starting your day with the bakery at 7:30 a.m. when they open or stopping on the way home before 6 p.m. when they close, the luscious offerings at Crème de la Crumb bring joy to any day.
Already expanding, Crème de la Crumb is preparing to open their new bistro in April. “The space next door to the bakery will allow us to offer other breakfast items together with sandwiches, soups, and salads for lunch,” says Noel. “The bistro will also offer a meeting space that businesses, families, or individuals can reserve for a small fee and food requirement.”
Stop by 5825 E. Covell Road (at Air Depot Blvd., ½ mile east of I-35), Edmond, or visit delacrumb.com. Open 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily. Closed Tuesdays. For large orders or catering, contact gabrielle@delacrumb.com.
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business? Contact her at laura@edmondoutlook.com
Noel Nugent
From the Heartland to Hollywood Kevin Costello’s Rise as a Screenwriter
By Taylor Bollinger
While most kids read books, young Kevin Costello buried his nose in screenplays. There, in the pages of popular movies, his aspirations of becoming a screenwriter began to bloom. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma in 2007 with a degree in journalism and professional writing, he packed his bags for Los Angeles, determined to break into the industry despite having no connections.
He applied for countless internships before landing a role as an assistant to independent producer Jennifer Klein and screenwriter Sheldon Turner. Between scheduling meetings and reading scripts, he absorbed everything he could about development, all while writing his own material late into the night.
Kevin’s persistence paid off when one of his scripts caught the attention of Klein and Turner. “That project didn’t actually materialize but it did lead to me being represented by an agent and manager,” Kevin said. “This really gave me a foot in the door.”
His first real break came with a rewrite for Universal, earning him a place in the Writers Guild of America in 2011, followed by his premier project with longtime friend Kyle Mooney, the 2017 film “Brigsby Bear.”
Produced by The Lonely Island, the film premiered at Sundance and was later picked up by Sony Pictures Classics, even making its way to Cannes. That success opened more doors, leading to work on “Tom and Jerry” (2021) and, most recently, “The Day the Earth Blew Up, a Looney Tunes Movie” starring Porky Pig and Daffy Duck, released last month on March 14th.
His love for film started in high school, where he spent hours studying scripts from movies he admired, teaching himself formatting before online resources were available. Encouraged by OU professors like industry pro Lou Berney, he realized that while screenwriting seemed like an impossible dream, it was one worth pursuing. “There’s so much luck and timing in this business,” he said, diverting from the obvious: It takes talent, and he has it.
plain visual terms like what is the camera looking at? How does it transition? It’s all in the present tense.”
The job doesn’t end once an idea is put to paper. Then, it has to be sold. “There is a traveling salesman element to the work,” Kevin said. “It’s interesting because I spend so much time alone, writing, then I have to go get other people on board. I have to make sure the people I’m pitching it to can see the vision too.”
The late nights, the near-misses, the projects that never saw the light of day— it was all worth it.
Screenwriting, Kevin admits, takes a different kind of creativity. “You have to see how it will all play out in your head,” he explained. “Unlike a novel, or some literary piece, there’s no place for internal monologue, or thoughts. You have to think in
Despite the demands of Hollywood, he remains grounded. A husband and father, he balances the industry’s unpredictability with the stability of family life. When wildfires recently threatened his neighborhood, he felt lucky his home was spared but saw firsthand the devastation many friends endured. “I've found that the best way to help is to donate directly to those affected,” he said, urging support for GoFundMe campaigns aiding those who lost everything.
Now, with more than 15 years in the industry, he reflects on the journey that brought him here. “The late nights, the nearmisses, the projects that never saw the light of day—it was all worth it.” His advice to aspiring writers? “Read everything. Take risks. Keep writing. You never know which opportunity will change everything.”
Kevin Costello
T he Friendly Face of Oklahoma on Capitol Hill
By Amy Dee Stephens
As a legislative assistant, Georgia Davies is at the heart of the political hustle and bustle on Capitol Hill in D.C. For three years, she has worked for Congressman Lucas, who represents western Oklahoma. It’s her job to listen to Oklahomans, understand their needs, and communicate their concerns to the congressman.
Getting Up The Hill
Raised in Edmond, Georgia anticipated a career in psychology, not in politics, until she participated in Model United Nations in high school. Enlightened by the people skills needed in politics, Georgia enrolled in a political science degree, with a minor in psychology.
A key experience for Georgia during college was an internship with Oklahoma Senator Adam Pugh. She spent a semester at the State Capitol observing how government operated, reading bills, and attending meetings with Senator Pugh.
“I sat in on so many conversations with business leaders and educators talking about what mattered to them,” Georgia said. “I learned that different parts of Oklahoma have different priorities.”
Georgia next applied for a summer job with Congressman Lucas, which she describes as the most transformative summer of her life. Before graduating, she emailed his office again in hopes of returning to The Hill. She was offered a job the next day!
The Fast and Slow on The Hill
Georgia’s work with the congressional staff is fulfilling, but fastpaced. She makes the daily mass commute on the metro with everyone wearing business clothes, with women carrying their high heels to the office. During legislative session, it’s a marathon of 30-minute meetings, which she then summarizes for Congressman Lucas.
“My job is to talk to real Oklahomans all day long to learn what matters back home,” Georgia said. “Congressman Lucas might be heading across town to discuss a farm bill, so I hop in the car and brief him on the way about what I’m hearing from constituents.”
Georgia also assists in tracking the congressman’s schedule, researching bills, and attending various networking receptions, which could even lead to a midnight vote. After the session, things calm down a bit, with fewer meetings and more time to catch up on topics—but the networking never stops.
The Prairie Pace
Georgia’s life in D.C. is significantly different from her Edmond upbringing—and she appreciates both. For starters, social activities are conducted in different ways. In Edmond, Georgia remembers going to football games, rodeos, and driving with friends along the backroads. In D.C., individuals gather at national landmarks for group walks.
“D.C. is forged on connections. People are converging from all over the world, trying to make friends. I’ve met a lot of people by joining co-ed sports leagues, and D.C. offers a robust cultural restaurant scene,” Georgia said, “but I didn’t know how much I loved Oklahoma until I left. I really miss Oklahoma sunsets and the small-town feel of downtown Edmond.”
In some ways, Georgia feels more connected to her home state than before she left. She’s constantly engaged in conversation with Oklahomans, and the non-Oklahomans often comment on her bubbly, down-home friendliness.
“I always say, ‘Thank you so much,’ after a barista hands me my coffee. My friends say, ‘You don’t have to do that here.’ But, of course, I do! I wouldn’t dream of not saying thank you when someone helps me or holds the elevator door. I guess you can take the girl out of Edmond, but you can’t take Edmond out of the girl.”
Georgia enjoys her visits home, but she believes that as she continues to prove herself, she will continue to advance up the legislative ladder. “I’m so fortunate to work for Congressman Lucas. He’s so wise and respected.”
Georgia Davies
Saving Stories of Service Amanda Duncan’s Dedication to Edmond’s Veterans
By Amy Dee Stephens
Amanda Duncan: Preserving Military History in Edmond
Although Amanda Duncan doesn’t have active military service on her resume, her work with Edmond’s Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is remarkable. As an Auxiliary officer, historian, and advocate, Amanda tirelessly supports military members and their families, a passion deeply rooted in her military lineage.
“My husband, Deric, is a US Navy veteran. I’m an Air Force granddaughter, an Army and Air Force niece, and my little brother is enlisting after high school,” Amanda said. “Every generation in my family has served our country, so I’m happy to serve the military community.”
Understanding the VFW
The VFW, which was founded 125 years ago, started as a voice for wounded soldiers following the Spanish-American War. Today, the organization supports veterans who have served in combat zones by providing assistance with financial claims, mental health, and family services support.
The VFW Auxiliary extends this mission, with family members of veterans promoting patriotism and organizing events open to all. “We host swap meets, art contests, scholarships, and even eSports combat gaming leagues,” Amanda said. “We sponsor Wreaths Across America at Gracelawn Cemetery and support groups like the Purple Heart Association and Gold Star
A New Home After 80 Years
After 80 years at its Campbell Street location, Edmond’s VFW relocated in 2023 to a larger building off 2nd and Fretz. Both Amanda and Deric played pivotal roles in the move. As the post’s Senior Commander, Deric believed the new space would better serve the community.
Amanda revived the Auxiliary, which had been inactive since 2015, and increased community events while overseeing the safe transport of the post’s historical collection. “Moving the VFW was a massive endeavor. We had eight decades of history—photos, newspaper clippings, funeral flags, dog tags, and even a rocket launcher!” Amanda said. “But it was more important to get events running. A post is supposed to have life in it.”
Honoring Francis Hamilton
During the move, Amanda discovered the story of Francis Edward Hamilton, a 23-year-old native of Edmond who was killed aboard the SS Paul Hamilton during WWII. Along with four other servicemen from Edmond, Francis remains missing in action.
Amanda discovered that the First Methodist Church once displayed a brass lamp in his honor, but the lamp has since been lost. Determined to preserve Francis’s legacy, Amanda suggested naming the post after him. This became official in 2024.
“I think it’s important for his name to be spoken because it probably hasn’t been in years,” Amanda said. “His photo
Artifacts and objects clockwise: Edmond High School photo of Francis Hamilton, handmade knife made by U.S. Service Member during WWI as a P.O.W., WWII photo from VFW scrapbook. Opposite page: Teddy bear hand sewn by Amanda Duncan from fatigues of Sgt. Charlene Lee Ford, Oklahoma Army National Guard.
Amanda Duncan
Francis Hamilton
was finally found this March, so we are seeing his image for the first time.”
Saving Service Members’ Stories
Amanda’s dedication to preserving military history has earned her the reputation as a “saver of military history” throughout Oklahoma. She often ventures into barns, attics, and even pawn shops to rescue military artifacts.
“Veterans save photos, uniforms, and letters—pieces of their lives—because they want them to be seen someday,” Amanda said. “I’ll go wherever I’m needed, headlamp and gloves ready, because once something is gone, it’s gone.”
Lost artifacts often belong to veterans without close family, but Amanda works to find proper homes for them, such as historical societies or VFW posts. She also volunteers to transform military uniforms into teddy bears for families to treasure.
“Mementos of service deserve to be preserved or displayed where they’ll be appreciated,” Amanda said. “Edmond has so many servicemen and women connected to our town’s history, and they’ve had an incredible impact. The VFW is dedicated to helping the living while remembering the past. I’m proud to save their stories.”
To learn more, visit VFW4938.org or VFWAUX4938.org.
Millie Tucker Gift & Bridal
By Maria Veres
Nestled in downtown Edmond, Millie Tucker Gift & Bridal offers a personal, small-town shopping experience, combined with the elegant brands of a big-city boutique. From tabletop collections to handcrafted bags to baby blankets, Millie Tucker offers gifts for every occasion, and specializes in bridal and gift registries.
The Brands You Love, Close to Home
“When I travel, I go to a few gift shops that are my happy places,” says owner Lisa Dahlberg. A longtime Edmond resident, she wanted to create the same kind of welcoming space here in town. She named the store for her
grandmother, Mildred Tucker, and other women in her family who inspired her.
Millie Tucker offers quality table top brands like Herend, Vietri, and Juliska. There’s also a delightful assortment of other gifts, including home decor, baby, and personal items. Many gifts in the shop can be personalized with monograms —either embroidered or hot stamped.
Bridal Registries, Graduation Gifts, and Much More
“Registering for wedding gifts is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Lisa. She and her Edmond-based team love working personally with local couples to help them make their choices. If you prefer, you can set up your registry online. Millie Tucker offers registries for new babies and other occasions, too.
Throughout the entire month of April, Lisa encourages customers to take advantage of the Jon Hart graduation sale, with 20% off and free personalization. Perfect for high school or college grads, a Jon Hart bag is a classic that will last for decades. Springtime brings many occasions for gift-giving. Whether you’re shopping for
a wedding, graduation, Mother’s Day, or something special just for you, you’ll find the perfect treasure at Millie Tucker. Millie Tucker Gift & Bridal is located at 217 E Campbell Street, Suite 140, Edmond. Contact them at (405) 906-3747 or online at shopmillietucker.com.
23rd Street Antique Mall
By Maria Veres
The Oklahoma City metro area has no shortage of antique stores, but 23rd Street Antique Mall is something special.
Focusing on pieces from the early 1900s and late 1800s, the mall is a favorite destination for antique lovers throughout the state and beyond.
Quality, Beauty and Character
Owners Bill and Denny McConnell share a longstanding passion for antiques. They own many antiques themselves, especially nineteenth-century pieces. “We love their beauty and character,” says Bill. “Antiques are an extension of our history.”
Since 1989, Bill and Denny have been committed to sharing those slices of
history with their customers. The mall is beloved by OKC residents of all ages, as well as visitors from around the state, across the country, and beyond. They’ve even had surprise visits from celebrities like Drake and the members of Aerosmith.
23rd Street Antique Mall has won multiple readers’ choice awards over the years. “We see the awards as a reflection on our dealers who bring in such good merchandise,” says Bill.
A New Shopping Experience Every Time
With over 70 vendors, there are always new treasures to discover at 23rd Street Antique Mall. Many sellers carry unique furniture items, which Bill and Denny can deliver in their 1948 Ford panel truck. The mall also offers a layaway program to make large purchases more affordable.
Just as every antique is special, so is every customer. Bill and Denny invite guests to enjoy free coffee year round, as well as wassail (hot spiced cider) on chilly days. You’ll be greeted when you arrive, and thanked for coming in when you leave.
“Our goal is to make shopping here a pleasant experience,” says Bill. “We
enjoy what we do and want to share that enjoyment with others.”
23rd Street Antique Mall is located at 3023 NW 23rd Street. Contact them at (405) 947-3800 or visit online at antiques23.com.
Bill and Denny McConnell
by Brent Fuchs
Chasing the Storm, Leading with Technology
By Taylor Bollinger
Derik Kline has always been fascinated by weather. Growing up in Oklahoma, his curiosity was sparked early, especially by the state’s violent storms. “I vividly remember the major snowstorm of 1988,” Derik recalls, but it wasn’t the snow that captivated him. Tornadoes, ice storms, and windstorms filled him with awe rather than fear. “I remember a storm in ’89 or ’90 that knocked down a tree. Even with tornado sirens blaring, I wasn’t scared—I just wanted to watch.”
By second grade, Derik frequently visited meteorologist Mike Morgan at the local news station. After his father passed away when he was just 10, Morgan supported him, even coming to have lunch with Derik at school. These moments cemented Derik’s passion for meteorology.
As a teenager, Derik turned his love for weather into action. He interned with meteorologist David Payne, often waking up at 3 a.m. to assist with forecast graphics. “David helped me become the storm chaser I am today,” Derik says. Once he got his driver’s license, he hit the road. His first major storm chase came on May 3, 1999, a day marked by one of Oklahoma’s most devastating tornado outbreaks. Derik drove his 1995 Chevy Cavalier into the storm, tracking tornadoes near Elgin. “At one point, we were behind one tornado, and I saw another forming in my rearview mirror.”
Despite the risks, Derik insists that storm chasing is safer than it seems. “People think getting hit by a tornado is the biggest danger, but really, it’s traffic,” he explains. Today, his team follows strict safety protocols, with one person driving and another monitoring the storm.
Derik’s passion eventually became a career. In 2010, he attempted to launch a storm-chasing tour business but sold just one tour. However, a chance encounter with a roofing
salesperson needing help tracking a hailstorm gave him a new idea. He realized the potential of storm data in the restoration and insurance industries and began building HailTrace LLC. “We started small,” Derik remembers. “At our first trade show in 2012, we didn’t sell anything. But a few months later, we made our first big sale, and that’s when we knew this could work.”
HailTrace has since grown into a leading weather technology company, with nearly 50 employees and a reputation for innovation. The company helps restoration professionals stay ahead of the storm with cutting-edge tools and excellent customer service. “Every day, we’re making progress,” Derik says. “When I don’t have a list of things to tackle, I’ll know it’s time to quit.”
Derik’s enthusiasm for weather has never waned. “Most people’s passions change, but mine never has,” he says. His storm-chasing adventures even extend to his personal life. His truck, a fully outfitted Raptor optimized for chasing storms, sometimes embarrasses his wife and daughters, who request to be dropped off further down the block. His son, however, thinks it’s the coolest thing ever.
From his childhood fascination with storms to running a successful business, Derik’s journey is a testament to following your passion. “Sometimes, the passion finds you,” he reflects. Learn more about Derik’s innovative work at hailtrace.com.
Derik Kline
Photo
Special Wishes and Dreams
By Louise Tucker Jones
April brings a third birthday in heaven for my son, Jay. Two and half years of missing him sing, dance, laugh, tease, hug and call out, “Mom!” And today, I’d like to honor my son with a favorite birthday memory.
Jay was born with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease. Year after year, he was given a devastating prognosis. But Jay never listened to the “doom and gloom” reports and went right on enjoying life to its fullest, outliving all medical predictions. I call that a miracle!
Along the way, God granted some fun wishes and dreams. One took place on Jay’s 30 th birthday. We planned a huge
party for this milestone, but puzzled over a gift for this momentous occasion. Finally, I asked Jay what he wanted. His answer surprised me.
One of Jay’s favorite things at that time was a daily trip to Sonic for a Coke. No hamburger and fries. No ice cream. Just a medium-size Coke. And on his 30 th birthday he wanted a limousine to pick him up and take him to Sonic for that Coke. He got it! As we rounded the drivethru in that limo, Jay called out his order to the driver as if he had been raised in the lap of luxury.
So why is this a favorite memory? Because Jay dared to dream during those years that doctors thought he would never survive. He made wishes that might seem unusual to some, but he never let anyone or anything rob him of his zest for life.
Perhaps someone reading this needs to make a wish or dust off old dreams. Maybe you should dare to dream new dreams. I love the lyrics to a song in the animated movie, Cinderella. It says, “A dream is a wish your heart makes…”
So, are you ready to make a heart-wish?
Do me a favor. Make one in honor of my son. And like Jay, never allow anyone to steal your hopes or dreams. In fact, you could send me an email to let me know you made that wish. And who knows? We just might see you at Sonic in a limo!
is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Louise Tucker Jones
a look back 1923 Easter in Edmond
In 1923, Eloise Rodkey (second from left) and five others dressed in Easter clothes are ready to hunt for Easter eggs. This photo was taken in the front yard of Earl and Emma Rodkey at Main and University, across the street from Mitchell Hall.
