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Outlook July 2013
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Outlook July 2013
photography by travis clancy
July 2013
I don’t want to say that
my wife is accident prone, but we do have a saying around the family, “It’s not an activity unless
Sandy gets injured.” And as of late, Sandy’s resting
comfortably with a broken shoulder that she managed to fracture in three places. How did she do this? Mountain biking? Boot camp at
Hafer Park? Riding her cool little Italian sportbike? No, she injured herself in what some people might call “the most dangerous of all activities”—she tripped and fell while folding laundry.
This is her third week of recovery, so that puts me in the middle
32 Laura Leighe
of my second week of taking care of all the house stuff. I didn’t
do anything for a week. Hey, I was in shock too. But life is slowly
Local musical duo creating their own unique sound.
returning back to normal…if you call normal doing everything for
your spouse. Chauffeuring, shopping, opening jars, cans, ziplock
baggies—it’s all a challenge unless I’m there to help. The good news is that her shoulder is getting better and she’s learning to adapt. She’s even mastered eating left-handed (the learning curve from fork-to-mouth was quite entertaining).
With all that’s happened, I was interested to hear her thoughts
on activities and risk. I was quite sure she’d be more wary of
8 Facts & Figures
potentially dangerous activities and how fragile our bodies are—
12 Louise
there’s no safety. Might as well go for it. Live life to the fullest! Dang.
15 Food
nope. She shared her philosophy: If I can get injured doing laundry,
I told her I’d like to hear more, right after I empty the dryer. And yes, I’ll be careful.
A 50th Class Reunion Jo’s Famous Pizza Food Faves
18 Business
FEATURES
10 Over-the-Hill BBQ&A
Learn tips & tricks from a master barbecuer.
20 Spirit of a Warrior Heart of a Patriot
92-year-old veteran Swanson’s Fireplace & Patio Oren Peters shares his Lawrence Goodwin, Attorney experiences from WWII.
Dave Miller, Publisher
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25 Daycations
36 Marketplace
37 Parents Helping Parents
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38 My Outlook Nate McCubbins, Kiteboarder
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Support is just around the corner.
To advertise, contact Laura at 405-301-3926 or laura@outlookoklahoma.com. Front cover photo by Marshall Hawkins.
OUTLOOK
80 East 5th Street, Suite. 130, Edmond, OK 73034
405-341-5599
www.outlookoklahoma.com
info@outlookoklahoma.com
Volume 9, Number 7 Edmond & North OKC Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2013 Back40 Design, Inc.
PUBLISHER Dave Miller
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Karen Munger
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Laura Beam PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com
PRINT PROJECT MANAGER Bethany Scott
Account Executive Emily Adler
DISTRIBUTION The Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond & North OKC 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.
outlookoklahoma.com
7
o
u t
l o
Go out and support your favorite local Edmond business during Krazy Daze! With krazy prices and savings everywhere you look, it will be hard to miss this year’s event
July 27th.
Visit downtownedmondok.com.
7
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o
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f a c
150 million on Independence Day alone! Have a Q&A with a grilling guru on page 10.
8
Outlook July 2013
&
f
i
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r
e
s
Around 342,816 Town There are approximately
Edmond Boy Scouts dedicated a replica of the Statue of Liberty in 1951. Today a second replica stands proudly at the intersection of Boulevard & 2nd Street. To see the original, visit the Edmond Historical Society museum at Boulevard & 5th Street.
Looking for travel close to home?
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Discover unique
adventures
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veterans living in Oklahoma and more than 22 million veterans living in the United States. For an amazing story about a 92-year-old veteran of two wars, turn to page 20.
July is National Ice Cream Month! The average American eats over 5.5 gallons of ice cream every year. The favorites are vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup topping and sugar cones. Visit a local ice cream shop to enjoy your favorite flavor!
Sara Sara Cupcakes recently competed on the hit Food Network TV show, Cupcake Wars! Congratulations to the team for representing Oklahoma well! To try one of their specialty cupcakes, visit their Edmond location at 17 East 5th Street, just across the street from Back40 Design! Edmond Women’s Club is a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the social, cultural, civic and educational enrichment of the Edmond community. The EWC is looking for new members to join their cause! For information about becoming a member, visit their website at www.ewc.org. Alcohol and drug addictions are the most untreated diseases in the US. If you have a child that is suffering from addiction and you don’t know what to do, turn to Parents Helping Parents, a non-profit organization in Edmond dedicated to helping those in need. To learn more, read about them on page 37.
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Over-th For some, barbecue is more than just throwing your favorite meat on the backyard grill. Meet Dale Sligar, a professional barbecuer with Over the Hill BBQ in Edmond. Having been in (and won!) several barbecue competitions, Dale agreed to sit down with us and share some of his secrets, stories and sauces. How long have you been barbecuing? I’ve always enjoyed backyard grilling (which is different than barbecuing). I cannot recall not cooking something. My team partner Jim Cox and I decided to try competition barbecuing since we both enjoyed BBQ cooking and both had recently purchased new smokers. We belong to the same church and Knights of Columbus Fraternal Organization. Initially our cooking was at council events where we raised funds for an intellectually disabled adults facility in Okarche.
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How many competitions have you been in? Jim and I have competed in about ten events since we partnered. We first branched into cooking at sanctioned events when the Edmond Arts Council hosted a KCBS event in 2011 at Hafer Park. We won People’s Choice at the 2011 & 2012 events, which gets you fired up to do more events. What is your favorite meat to barbecue? Why? Depending upon the activity and number of people to serve, I prefer pulled pork. My granddaughter Hannah can just about live on pulled pork and always has a great opinion of it. Ribs and chicken seem to be the toughest to consistently score well in competitions. The margin for error is very critical. Both are easy to overcook, which is not correctable. What does barbecue mean to you? BBQ is a very regional thing. I was raised in Kansas City and came to Oklahoma as soon as I could in 1985. Kansas City-style BBQ is sweeter, less spicy, and ribs and pork dominate, and you use mostly hickory
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Outlook July 2013
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wood smoke. Texas is Mesquite country with mostly beef brisket & ribs. Memphis and the Carolinas areas prefer a vinegary sauce. The Northeast is fish country and the West Coast has a blend of their own.
What’s the perfect barbecue side dish? If I said anything other than baked beans, I would be lying. A good potato salad or slaw would run second and third.
Can you tell us about your barbecue trailer? My partner and I used to borrow a flatbed trailer. Our smokers each weigh about 450 pounds, plus all the other needed equipment—we came home very tired and with sore backs. The trailer makes a big difference, and makes everything go easier. As with any hobby, more is always better.
Any plans for going full-time and opening an Over The Hill BBQ restaurant? I’m retired, and find that I am perfectly qualified for that. If my kids wanted to do that, I would help them cook—as long as I didn’t have a golf game scheduled.
What seasoning should every barbecuer know about? Pepper! I was once told by a wise old man that you cannot use too much. Following pepper would be sugar and salt. Any trade secrets that you would be willing to share? Well now, they wouldn’t be a secret anymore would they! About the best advice I can offer to anyone cooking anything is to cook to internal temperature. “It is done when it is done” is another wise tale—no need to rush. A fellow I once knew thought that if the recipe said cook a 12-pound brisket at 225° for 12 hours, surely it would cook faster at 500° a shorter time. That brisket would have made a nice pair of shoes. Any advice to the backyard barbecuer? Have fun, cook the things you like best. Try something new once in a while. Though delicious in its own right, there are many things better than a grilled hot dog. Do your family, friends and neighbors get to test out your creations? What kind of feedback do they give? My friends and family keep my freezer empty. My granddaughters are my biggest fans. I have several more friends around tailgating times.
Do you have any other hobbies? I do charitable work with the Knights of Columbus, play golf, visit grandkids and I’m trying to complete a 50-year-old honey-do list for my bride.
Do you prefer to go sweet or spicy? I like sauce that tastes a little sweet initially with a tiny kick at the end. I prefer to taste the meat and smoke so I use sauce sparingly.
Anything else you would like us to know about you? I have the best wife, family and friends any man could ask for. Without their love and support none of my hobbies would be possible.
outlookoklahoma.com
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Louise
A 50th Cla ss Reun ion
by Louise Tucker Jones
It was my last day of high school and several of us seniors had spent the day driving over country roads and cutting wild roses to decorate the gymnasium for our Commencement program. I was tired and a little reflective as I rode the long, yellow school bus home. Suddenly, it dawned on me how much my life was about to change. I wondered where I would be and what I would be doing in ten It was at Wilson that I developed years, a long stretch of time a compassion to help others, for a 17-year-old. Unlike some the integrity to stand against prejudice and of my classmates, I didn’t the ability to win or lose with dignity. have my life planned out. I had no idea what I really wanted to do or even what college I would attend. The only certainty concerning my future was that I eventually wanted to be a wife and mother, assuming that would happen with my high school sweetheart. On that bus ride home, I also wondered about my classmates. Would we be Louise and her sisterfriends forever? Being from a small farming community—eighteen girlfriends in my graduating class—some of us had known each other our whole lives. Would we drift apart? What would the “Class of 1963” be doing in 10, 20 or 30 years? Wow, who could even imagine? This summer, I will be attending my 50th high school reunion and yes, I still keep in touch with several of my classmates, especially my “sister-girlfriends” who I grew up with. We have remained close through all these years, sharing good and bad times. And today, as I look at old photos being posted by friends on Facebook, I wonder where the time went. It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was walking across the stage to receive my diploma then leaving the
next morning for a fun senior trip to Rockaway Beach, Missouri. So what happened during those fifty years? Somehow I managed to graduate from two different universities with BA and MA degrees, to teach school, write some books and do 101 other interesting things, but most of all, to become the wife and mother I always wanted to be. And no, it was not with my high school sweetheart. Actually, I did accept an engagement ring from him the summer after graduation, only to return it a few months later after meeting a “drop-dead gorgeous guy” at college named Carl Jones who stole my heart the minute we met. Through the years Carl and I attended all of my class reunions. This will be my first without him. And what do I expect at this reunion? A little heartache since my husband of 45 years will not be with me, but I hope to laugh and reminisce with my girlfriends and old classmates. And since this is an all-school reunion, being as we are so small, I’m sure I’ll see long ago acquaintances from other classes along with treasured friends. We will catch up on each other’s lives, then pull out pictures of our kids and grandkids and talk about the good old days at Wilson High School, near Henryetta, Oklahoma. It was there that I learned some of life’s most valuable lessons. Our instructors compelled us to not only excel in academics, but to develop an impeccable character with virtues that would carry us through life. It was at Wilson that I developed a compassion to help others, the integrity to stand against prejudice and the ability to win or lose with dignity, whether in sports or in life. I will be forever grateful to those amazing teachers who invested their time and knowledge in me. They gave their best and expected no less. What a remarkable gift! Even after fifty years!
About the Author
Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author and inspirational speaker. Author and co-author of four books, her work has been featured in numerous publications. Contact her at LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
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Outlook July 2013
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FOOD FOOD
Jo in the beginning of her pizza career
Jo’s Famous Pizza by Laura Beam
Few foods bring people together in such an instant, carefree fashion as the just-opened box of piping-hot pizza. Kids flock to the dinner table, office workers instinctively migrate from their computers and party guests come to life when this one-dish wonder casts its aromatic spell on a hungry crowd. By its very design, pizza is meant to be shared. Like other Italian foods we’ve adopted as American classics, the once-humble pie easily evolved into a stateside sensation. Though the first pizzeria opened in New York in 1905, it wasn’t until after World War II that pizza grew into a widespread attraction. American GIs stationed in Italy returned home with a taste for the hearty pies they had discovered overseas— yet another reason to thank our countrymen during this patriotic month! Popping up in cities and neighborhoods throughout the country, pizza shops offered exactly what the world was craving—fast, fun, inexpensive food and a casual spot to meet friends. Even the smaller communities enjoyed a piece of the pie. In 1962, Cha’Ray’s Pizza needed a manager for its Purcell, Oklahoma, location and found an unsuspecting treasure in its new-hire, Jo Ellen Powers. Never even having eaten a pizza, let alone made one, Jo was shown only one time how to make a pizza before she was on her own. With consistency and excellence, Jo rose to the challenge with great success. She eventually bought the business in the small concrete building in Purcell and Jo’s Famous Pizza was officially born. With the new restaurant’s winning fare,
late-night hours, pinball machine and juke box, the small-town hot spot lived up to its famous name, especially among teens. The ever-expanding family business found its way to Edmond five years ago, where Jo’s nephew, Dar Powers, now carries on the delicious traditions of Jo’s Famous Pizza. Each custom-crafted pie is handmade from scratch with dough and sauce made in-house. Yet as many pizza-enthusiasts agree, it’s all about the toppings—and Jo’s doesn’t disappoint. Pepperoni in every bite, fresh veggies and exceptional combos appeal to pizza purists and flavor-seekers alike. The Luau, The Taco, The Cowboy and The Bacon, Jalapeno and Cheddar Burger pizzas are choice crowd-pleasers. With a hometown touch, Jo’s goes the extra mile, dividing pizza toppings into halves, thirds and fourths to accommodate a variety of tastes in a single order. Edmond owner, Powers, comes by his love of the business naturally. Recalling summers as a boy in Purcell with his grandma and Aunt Jo, he remembers, “As kids, we hung out at the restaurant. We got pizza dough to play with and had a great time.” Powers keeps that
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personal tradition alive today, delighting young diners with their own ball of dough to shape while their pizza is prepared. Sandwiches, salads and appetizers round out the plentiful menu at Jo’s, along with an exciting line-up of three new Signature Salads for summer. The Café, The Greek and The Italian salads feature fresh combos and perfectlypaired dressings. Jo’s spacious dining room graciously accommodates large parties, business gatherings or cozy get-togethers. With its log cabin-style architecture, soaring ceilings and rustic chandeliers, even the setting has made Jo’s famous among locals. Visit Jo’s Famous Pizza at 900 S. Kelly Ave. in Edmond or josfamouspizza.com. Call 340-7070 for catering, take-and-bake, curb-side pick-up, birthday parties and corporate or team events.
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Laura Beam is a business and food writer and 20-year advertising and marketing executive in radio, newspaper and magazines. Share new business tips and trends with her on LinkedIn or email Laura@outlookoklahoma.com.
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FOODFAVES
by Laura Beam
16
Let’s Do Greek
Juiceblendz Café
Rib Crib
Saturdays are sizzling at this favorite Greek and Mediterranean food hot spot! Enjoy the Original Gyros Sandwich for just $2.99 all day each Saturday—and at this great price, don’t forget to take some home to your hungry gang. If summer finds you seeking lighter fare but craving all the savory tastes you love, go green! Check out the amazing line-up of Greek salads topped with Gyros meat, Chicken Kabobs, spicy Oregano Chicken or Falafel patties. The Let’s Do Greek family prides itself on a 30-year reputation of excellence and an award-winning menu of chicken, beef, vegetarian and rice dishes, sandwiches and sides, all lovingly prepared each day with the finest ingredients. Carry-out, catering and a private party room are available.
Just in time for summer, Juiceblendz Café debuts a luscious yogurt blend that drinks like a shake! The new Spin Your BlendzTM starts with premium yogurt and skim milk blended with a choice topping from a selection of more than 50—the perfect way to drink your yogurt on the go! Try the refreshing Smoothiez, too, with 100% just-juiced juices. Loaded with vitamins and enzymes, these cool treats deliver a healthy boost. Select from over 40 smoothie flavor blends, many with just 250–260 calories, and over 20 energizing add-ons for an extra health kick. Don’t miss the Yoblendz self-serve yogurt with 50 topping choices and the incredible Eatz menu. The Breakfast Bagelz are always a hit, along with great Sandwichez, Saladz and Wrapz to satisfy every craving.
Soaring temperatures and fun in the sun call for the ultimate summer feast—and this cool crib knows how to satisfy! With more than 20 years of know-how under its belt, Rib Crib smokes its own meat to mouthwatering perfection and brings the heat with saucy combos and amazing variety. Meat-lovers, meet your match with a selection of five kinds of ribs plus brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken breast, chicken tenders, chicken-fried steak, fire-grilled burgers, catfish, shrimp and more. Enjoy salads and hearty sandwiches like the legendary Cribwich loaded with brisket and hot links on a toasted bun— it’s one wicked “‘wich!“ Choose scrumptious sides like corn on the cob, cowboy beans and more. Don’t miss All-You-CanEat Ribs every Tuesday from 4pm to closing.
Visit letsdogreek.com or stop by 180 W. 15th St. in Edmond or the downtown OKC location in the First National Center.
Stop by 1200 W. Covell Rd. next to Uptown Grocery or call 205-3635. Find them on Facebook or newinoklahoma.com.
Visit ribcrib.com or call 513-5883 for carry-out or catering. Stop by 2601 S. Broadway in Edmond.
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BUSINESS
Swanson’s Fireplace & Patio Shop by Emily Anderson
mary Alice and J.C. swanson, owners
Swanson’s Fireplace and Patio Shop is a part of Edmond history, one of the few remaining original stores in downtown Edmond. Owners J.C. and Mary Alice Swanson have been in business for over 20 years serving the metro area for various outdoor patio and fireplace needs. J.C. began working as a delivery boy for Montgomery Furniture and worked his way up the ladder to become a sales associate. In 1961, he and his wife Mary Alice bought the store and it became Swanson’s Furniture. Swanson’s is a family-owned and operated business where J.C. and Mary Alice’s daughter, Beverly Hayden, works with her parents to make the store a prominent local business. Beverly has watched Edmond grow and change over the years and is glad that Swanson’s has been here to see it. “Customers buy furniture to spend time
outdoors at home. It becomes part of their family. In a way, we become a part of their family not just because they are purchasing furniture but for the friendships that come with the process,” Beverly said. “We are grateful for all of it.” Swanson’s Fireplace and Patio has had lasting relationships with its manufacturers and has partnered with industry leaders. Many of the manufacturers Swanson’s works with have been in business for over a hundred years. This speaks to their commitment in providing customers with the best product. Swanson’s offers quality goods for patio furniture and fireplaces, among other products. Many are made in the USA or Mexico, representing brands that are close to home. Customers experience excellent customer service and a fun family atmosphere at Swanson’s.
Purchases can be bought off the floor or special ordered to the customer’s liking, and delivery to the metro area is available free of charge. This trusted and upbeat shop offers hands-on service throughout the entire furniture buying process. Beverly remembers one of her customers who has moved to four different houses over the years and has come to Swanson’s every time to upgrade her outdoor furnishings—the customer considers herself a repeat offender. Beverly believes that customers will frequently come back to Swanson’s because they trust the quality of their store.“We are very fortunate doing what we love,” Beverly said. “It’s a blessing and a fun atmosphere.” For more information, visit them at their downtown Edmond location at 17 W. 1st St. or at swansonsfireplaceandpatio.com.
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Outlook July 2013
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Lawrence Goodwin, Attorney by Sarah Paige Berling lawrence “Lorenzo” Goodwin
Nobody wants to get divorced, and Lawrence “Lorenzo” Goodwin, divorce attorney, knows this. However, you don’t have to go through it alone. Goodwin is going to be there to help walk clients through every step of the way, helping them understand every situation, obstacle and victory. “Our clients come to us during a terrible time in their lives—there are custody issues and money battles,” he explains from his office on NW 13th and Shartel. “We do our best to have empathy for each client, while at the same time being entirely honest with them.” His office reflects this ideology, being a renovated house instead of a high-rise building. “It feels like you’re coming to visit a friend,” he says. Lawrence Goodwin graduated from the OCU School of Law in 2003, focusing on child support, custody and divorce law. Through
the past ten years, Goodwin has developed a reputation for being honest, trustworthy and delivering results. A past client, Jamie Lynn Braden, truly appreciated the attention Goodwin gave her. “Lawrence starts building a relationship with a client by laying a foundation of honesty,” she said. “The relationship is then secured by trust, made possible by his experience level and the results he obtains in your case.” Goodwin’s law firm differs greatly from others in the area. According to him, “the biggest complaint I hear about lawyers is that there is a lack of communication between the lawyer and the client. At my firm, the rule is, ‘You don’t get to go home until you’ve returned all your calls.’” Being available and open to communication with clients helps set Goodwin apart from the crowd. Lawrence advises clients to be well prepared for their divorce proceedings, “If my
clients can bring me documentation in a timely manner, well organized, then I can be much more efficient in the prosecution of their case. Also, write down questions through the week as you think of them for your meetings with your attorney. You will save everyone a lot of time and money if you come well prepared.” Through it all—divorces, custody battles, child support—Goodwin wants people to know that, not only is he on his clients’ side, he is there to counsel them through a difficult time. Goodwin emphasizes, “I have had to tell a lot of people hard truths that other attorneys don’t want to tell their clients. I ask the right questions and if their legal situation is not good or if I feel they need to take serious actions to preserve their custody or financial situation, then I will immediately give them the hard truths.” Call 405-605-7771 or visit okcdivorcelaw.com.
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O
Spirit of a Warrior Heart of a Patriot ren Lee Peters may be 92 years old, but at heart he is still the kid who left for war in the 1940s.
Like many of the veterans of a war that seems eons away, Oren likes to talk. He’s easy to talk to. With his pillowy cloud of white hair and a big toothy grin, Oren is a natural storyteller. He talks about boot camp, he talks about the men who he served overseas with, he talks about General Patton as if he were a real-life comic book hero, and he talks about pranks he pulled. Names like “Shifty,” who stole away for three days in Italy to cavort with wild women, become real people. Places like Sicily were foreign shores where men barely out of puberty made amphibious landings. Every now and again, Oren lets a cuss word slip, and then he grins as if he got away with something that no one in the room caught. What he and many other surviving World War II and Korean War veterans do not talk much about is the war itself. Even for a kid who “thought this was all a game” in the 1940s, when the serious talk about bloodshed and fellow soldiers dying starts, it comes slowly. The humorous stories told with twinkling old eyes and big grins fade for a moment. “When we landed in Salerno, Italy, the 36th Division of the Texas National Guard made the landing first and we were the floating reserve,” said Peters. “They secured the beach, and we were supposed to reinforce it the next day. But at 2pm, they called us to the boats and
20 2013
Outlook July 2013
20
Outlook June
by Heide Brandes
we made the landing in the middle of that afternoon because the 36th really got chopped up.” Until that day, Oren was still a kid. He soared through training and all the other wartime excursions with the blind optimism of youth. Barely 20, war was the big adventure to him. It was a game, and he was winning. “I enjoyed it because it was new and exciting,” Peters said. “But it was that day—it was there that I saw the tanks and the infantry coming down on us with nothing to stop them. That’s when the Lord and I had a conversation. I made all kinds of promises if He’d just get me out of there. I prayed and it wasn’t a game anymore.” That day, two P38 aircraft answered Oren’s prayers and bombed the advancing German troops. “Those were the prettiest planes I’d ever seen. I still have a lot of promises to keep,” Oren says quietly. For a moment, his bright eyes look up and the quick, teasing smile is back.
Soldier in Training
Oren Lee Peters was born in Edmond on April 16, 1921, as a direct descendant of intrepid land runners who settled east of Edmond during the 1889 Land Run. In his sophomore year of high school at Edmond High, he was in the midst of serving two years in the National Guard. One day, his commanding officers called him into his office and said, “Little Peter, I’m going to discharge you.” “I thought I did something wrong,” Oren said. “But he said that the unit was going to be inducted, but the orders hadn’t come down yet. They wanted to discharge everyone who was still in high school.” But the one-year training program was something that Oren’s older brother thought would benefit the young man. His brother told Oren’s mother that he would come back stronger, smarter, bigger and better suited to play football. “The war wasn’t on yet, so I did the program,” said Oren. In August 1938, he attended drill and summer
camps, thinking he was enlisted. “However, records show my official enlistment in the Headquarters Company 179th Infantry 45th Infantry Division of the Oklahoma National Guard was January 9, 1939.” Training was a big adventure and a ton of fun for a kid like Oren. It was there, while the enlisted men watched a movie in a theater, that they heard Pearl Harbor had been bombed. The movie was stopped and every enlisted man was sent back to barracks. “Outside, there was a lot of conversation about Pearl Harbor being bombed. We got back to camp, but to this day, I don’t know why they took us out of the movie. We were in Abilene, so there was nothing we could do,” Oren said. “As a kid—which is what I was—it didn’t mean that much to me. It was still a game and Pearl Harbor was far away.” War was a foreign place full of heroes and being a teenager meant that atrocities were still a foreign concept. As a driver for a general, the young soldier in training met General George S. Patton. “You could always tell when Patton spoke, because you could always hear and understand him. He spoke in beautiful language. People say he used profanity in a way that it was beautiful—it emphasized what he had to say,” said Oren.
and was discharged June 1945,” Oren said. After earning his high school diploma, the kid-no-longer became Edmond High’s football coach— mostly by accident. Two years later, however, the young Peters was back in combat, this time rejoining the National Guard in 1947 to sign his oath of office and serve with the 45th Infantry Division in 1950 in Korea. But there is life after war. Oren married his sweetheart Lucille. He served the Boy Scouts of America and coached the first junior high school basketball program in Edmond. He still attends Kiwanis meetings. He taught other young soldiers at the National Guard Education Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. “When I retired, we moved back here and started seeing all the major cities of the world,” Oren said. “We went to the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Rome, and we took the battlefield tour where I served. “This is just a situation that if we love our country and want to protect it, we have to be willing to fight for it,” said Oren. This Fourth of July, Oren will still be serving. He’ll be in Edmond’s Fourth of July parade with the Boy Scouts. “Be sure to wave,” he said.
During his 511 days of combat in Europe, Oren participated in eight major campaigns and four amphibious landings. Ready for War
From training camp to training camp, Private Peters got ready for a war and in early 1943, he was shipped out to take part in an amphibious landing in West Africa. “They didn’t tell us anything. They lowered the boats and put rope ladders over the side. I don’t know what the other guys thought, but I thought, This is it. We ran and hit the beach on our bellies and started crawling,” said Oren. “When they didn’t issue us ammunition, we should have known better. Patton was there and he wasn’t happy to see us crawling up the beach for no reason.” During his 511 days of combat in Europe, Oren participated in eight major campaigns and four amphibious landings. “I came home
During his service in World War II, Oren earned: • the Silver Star for gallantry in action • the Bronze Star for heroism • the Purple Heart for being wounded in action • the Good Conduct Medal • the American Defense Serve Medal • the American Campaign Medal • the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal • the Naples-Foggia, Anzio, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland-Fen Germany, Ardgnnes-Alsace medalS • the World War II Victory Medal • the Army of Occupation Medal • the Combat Infantry Badge
additional service medals received: • Army Commendation Medal • Korea Service Medal • United Nations Service Medal • Silver Star on the Combat Infantry Brigade • National Guard Minuteman Award • Arkansas Traveler Award • Oklahoma Exceptional Service Medal • Oklahoma Distinguished Service Medal • Oklahoma Military Service Medal • Oklahoma National Guard Long Service Medal
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Outlook July 2013
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Outlook July 2013
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Daycations
by Heide Brandes
This summer, families don’t need to break the bank or travel overseas to have a fun, adventurous and educational vacation. For Oklahomans, everything you need to explore and create memories is, at the most, only a day’s drive away! Daycations are increasingly popular due to tight budgets and higher gas prices. In Oklahoma, opportunities exist for outdoor or adventure types, art lovers and history buffs. Check out our picks for this summer’s daycations.
For the OutdoorLovers
FOR THE OUTDOOR LOVERS
Medicine Park/Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Tucked quietly within the foothills of one of the oldest mountains in North America, Medicine Park in southwestern Oklahoma has lured visitors and history buffs to its cobblestone streets and peaceful mountain streams for 100 years. In addition to its quirky cobblestoned shops, art galleries and restaurants, the Medicine Park area, near Lawton, offers a gateway to the area’s less explored attractions. History buffs love to wander through the historic cobblestone Medicine Park is a great place architecture of the town – one of the to enjoy nature, but one can only places in America with this type always escape back into the of architecture. Adventure seekers are cobblestone-lined streets for all a stone’s throw away from the hiking, the modern luxury you love,” climbing, camping and wildlife of the said Angela Peterson, owner Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge & innkeeper of The Romantic and Great Plains Country. Mountain Cabin. www.fws.gov/southwest/refuges/
Pelican Bay
wichitamountains
Pelican Bay in Edmond is one of Oklahoma’s premier outdoor water parks with water slides, an aqua climbing wall, a lap pool, a splash pool for the little ones, an entire water playground and more. Owned by the City of Edmond, Pelican Bay also offers sports, swimming classes for the whole family and events like dive-in movie nights and other family-oriented special features. When hunger
strikes, the park also boasts a concession stand with snacks, drinks and snow cones. 1034 S. Bryant, Edmond, 405-216-7649 • Open Monday–Wednesday
1–8pm, Thursday & Friday 1–7pm, Saturday 11am–6pm, Sundays 1–6pm.
FOR THE KIDSFor
the Kids
Science Museum Oklahoma
In the heart of Oklahoma City’s Adventure District, families can explore science and imagination at the Science Museum Oklahoma. With interactive exhibits, a new planetarium and hands-on science, a whole day can be spent in amazement at the world and beyond. “Science Museum Oklahoma is a place of discovery for all ages. That’s the great part about our evolution and growth,” said Brent Weber, director of communications. “Our exhibits, our live shows and our planetarium are all about innovation and imagination. In science, what’s old is constantly becoming new. There is no age limit on wonder.” With ever-changing exhibits, Science Museum Oklahoma gives kids and adults a steady rush of activities. “Even when it is time to calm down, cool off and refresh, our Dome Theatre, Science Live and the Planetarium all can rest the body while recharging the mind for another round of fun out on our museum floor,” said Weber.
The museum is located at 2100 NE 52nd St. in Oklahoma City. Visit sciencemuseumok.org.
cont. on next page
There is no age limit on wonder.
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Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum
Head out to Seminole for a day of exploration, education and fun for the kids at the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum. This year introduces exhibits that will thrill kids with the mysteries of technology, energy and even open-heart surgery. “We also have a new Tinker Studio and a new dinosaur exhibit,” said Marci Donaho, president. “We have an Acrocanthosaurus, which was found in southeast Oklahoma. You could spend all day here, but you should at least budget three to four hours.” In the ScienceWorks exhibit, children view the world of science through rotating exhibits like WeatherWorks, 3-2-1-Blast, Extreme Machines and Imagination Station. A current museum You could spend exhibit, Eureka! Centennial Hospital, lets youth explore all day here. 300 health careers while “performing” heart bypass surgery, hearing what a patient’s stomach really sounds like, taking care of a baby in an incubator or climbing into a real ambulance.
The museum is open from 10am–5pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 1–5pm on Sundays. Visit jasminemoran.com.
For the ArtLovers
FOR THE ART LOVERS
Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park
Drama, comedy and tragedy come alive in downtown Oklahoma City with witches, magic, betrayal, love and battles through Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. This award-winning theatre company showcases Shakespeare plays in the summer and fall at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, but the company originally started in 1985 in Edmond. Created by Executive Producer Jack O’Meara and Artistic Director Kathryn Huey O’Meara McGill, Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park has consistently grown in popularity. The outdoor performances
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Outlook July 2013
continue to define theater art in Edmond and Oklahoma City. “Shakespeare is for everyone,” said McGill. “It really connects with people today with politics, love and family. The language is what draws people in, but the stories really resound with people now as it did then.” The 2013 season began June 6 and continues through September.
For more information, visit oklahomashakespeare.com.
Fred Jones Museum of Art
Take a drive south through Oklahoma City to Norman for one of the state’s most respected and unique art museums. The Fred Jones Museum of Art is always free, and this summer, art lovers can explore an in-depth look at the face of women around the globe. “Stirring the Fire: A Global Movement to Empower Women and Girls” is a new photography exhibition by Phil Borges in which the stark, unforgiving photos shed a spotlight on gender issues globally. The photos convey the stories and lives of women from around the world who share common themes of gender equality and struggle.
Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is located at 555 Elm Avenue in Norman. It is open from 10am– 5pm Monday through Saturday and from 1– 5pm on Sundays. Visit www.ou.edu/content/fjjma.html.
For the AdventureSeekers Rocktown Climbing Gym
Deep in Oklahoma City’s downtown area, old grain silos reach to the skies, and inside those silos, people are climbing to new heights. Oklahoma City’s Rocktown Climbing Gym is Oklahoma City’s indoor and outdoor rock climbing center, owned by Aaron and Lisa Gibson and the Touchstone Youth Project. “We have a not-for-profit climbing gym, but this is a great place to try rock climbing,” said Lisa. But don’t think Rocktown is only for climbing experts. The center offers a New Climber Package and more experienced climbers can take part in advanced climbing classes. The center also has an Oklahoma Climbing Club, the youth arm of the Oklahoma Climbing Team. Children ages 8–18 who want to learn and develop the fundamentals of climbing can join without competing in climbing competitions.
Rocktown Climbing Gym is located at 200 SE 4th St. in Oklahoma City. Visit rocktowngym.com.
continued on next page
photography by andy chasteen
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Outlook July 2013
Frontier City
Love the excitement of roller coasters and being shot through the air on extreme thrill rides? Then Frontier City, located on Interstate 35 between Oklahoma City and Edmond, is the place for you. Frontier City is Oklahoma’s theme park, offering six extreme thrill rides, 11 family rides, eight kids’ attractions and rides, and three water adventure rides. Like entertainment? The amusement park also features a Wild West Gunfighter Show, a magic show, live singing and dancing and more. The park also presents concerts during the summer season, including names like Fly Leaf, Huey Lewis & the News and Night Ranger. Admission is $34.99 or $26.99 for kids under 48” tall. Children ages two and under are admitted free. Visit www.frontiercity.com.
For the HistoryLovers
FOR THE HISTORY LOVERS
Chickasaw Cultural Center
Located at 867 Cooper Memorial Dr. in Sulphur, The Chickasaw Cultural Center is a stunning display of the Chickasaw culture and history. Complete with hands-on classes, historic displays, interactive media and art focusing on Chickasaw culture, the center has become the heartbeat of tribal pride. Children can connect with the past as they visit with Chickasaw elders of the tribe, who share their stories and memories. The exhibit
center begins with an introductory film in an 18th century council house replica. The Spirit Forest opens the soul to a forest path where senses are heightened with light and sound. Try lunch or dinner at the Aaimpa’ Café, which serves up traditional Chickasaw and American foods. For information or to plan your trip, visit www.chickasawculturalcenter.com.
Downtown Guthrie
Step back and explore the history of Oklahoma in Guthrie, situated just north of Edmond on Interstate 35. With three centuries of history, Guthrie is a national historic landmark and was originally Oklahoma’s first state capital. It’s a great place Guthrie is full of Victorian architecture, a myriad of antique and boutique shops, and sato explore history loons where cowboys and outlaws once drank but there’s also whiskey. Explore history with trolley tours, the shopping, dining Oklahoma Territorial Museum, the Frontier Drugstore Museum and more. and music. “It is a great place to explore history, but we also have a lot of modern attractions like shopping, dining and our music scene,” said Lucy Swanson, marketing and membership sales coordinator for the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce. “The Oklahoma Territorial Museum is a wonderful representation of early Oklahoma life during the Land Run era and before.” For more information on happenings around Guthrie, visit www.guthrieok.com.
Simon’s
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Call today to make your reservation
918.489.5735
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Safe Secure & A
D
V
E
R
T
O
R
I
A
by Sarah Paige Berling
May 20 and May 31 are dates that Oklahomans are not likely to forget any time soon. Storm season is a trial in itself, one that native Oklahomans understand. Storm Shield Shelters wants to help ease some of the anxiety about how to keep your family safe & secure.
Not everyone understands the importance and value of
having a storm shelter in your own home. “We really don’t
have that many basements in Oklahoma, mostly due to our clay
soil conditions,” he explains. “So you won’t find that many houses
with actual basements. These shelters provide a way of getting below
being safe inside an in-ground storm shelter with some of the most
odds and that’s what we want for all of our customers. It really hits
ground despite the soil conditions.”
Discussing the nature of his storm shelters, Andy says, “We
provide in-ground storage shelters for homeowners’ garages. It allows them to park their car in the garage but still have enough room to get into their storm shelter with ease.”
He adds that it’s a good idea to pack some key essentials into
A good storm shelter is an asset to any house and is potentially a life-saving addition should a storm emergency hit in your area.
your storm shelter, in
case the worst
should happen. “Some good
staples to have are a first-aid kit, water, and non-perishable food items, in case you get stuck in a shelter for an extended amount of time.” He pauses, then adds, “With every shelter we put in the ground, we also give away a free windup weather radio.”
With the recent tornadoes, personal stories and revelations
“In these last few storms we had, I had some friends who were
abound, and Andy shares one:
selling their house and had also just purchased a new house. On May 20th, the tornado in Moore took down both of their houses. However, they stayed safe in their grandmother’s storm shelter despite the
house tumbling down on top of them. Then the El Reno tornado hit while they were at a friend’s house, thankfully with a shelter. Once again, the house they were in was destroyed. They were 2 for 2 for
30
Reza Koranki, Andy Nelson, and Chase Shadid getting ready to start the shelter fabrication process
Outlook July 2013
horrific tornadoes in history,” he says. “To me, those are pretty good home when you know people on a personal level who have been severely affected.” There is a reason your hear Mike Morgan and Gary England say to get underground—it’s the only guarantee of your survival!
Storm Shield Shelters are preferable to any others in the state.
“Our shelters are FEMA approved and we work to get our customers their shelters as soon as possible,” he says. “Your house will also be
registered with FEMA—should we have a tornado and your house get
demolished, FEMA will automatically know where to look for you. We also test every one of our shelters for leaks in our custom-made water tank. All of our shelters are masterfully crafted here in Oklahoma.”
A good storm shelter is an asset to any house and is potentially
a life-saving addition should a storm emergency hit in your area. Who
knows when the next storm could hit? Keep your family safe against all odds with the trust and service provided by Andy Nelson and his crew.
Storm Shield Shelters 633- 0769 Locally owned and operated
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Laura Leighe
photography by Brett Heidebrecht
ART
by Meg McElhaney
Oklahoma’s music scene, while flourishing, isn’t known for pop music. But the two members of Laura Leighe are using that to their benefit by creating a sound as unique as their home state. Laura Gosset and Zack Dumbleton are working together as the band Laura Leighe to make an impact in Oklahoma. The simple pianoand-drums sound isn’t an easy sell according to Zack, the drummer for the duo. It’s also a bit of a novelty—a pop act from Oklahoma. Trent Stockton, Laura’s husband, manager, co-producer and native Oklahoman, says it’s even become a point of interest for when they perform for out-of-town crowds. “It’s usually Laura Leighe, from Oklahoma, when they’re getting introduced,” said Trent. Laura, born and raised in Duncan, Oklahoma, has been working on her career professionally since the release of her self-titled debut EP in 2009. Upon graduating from the University of Oklahoma and after teaching piano lessons in Norman for a while, she moved to Los Angeles to meet with producers and work on her music. “I was working to get more radio-friendly by trying out the girl-with-a-piano sound and my producers told me that there was only one slot for that on the radio,” said Laura. All of this changed when Bruno Mars hit the radio in Los Angeles featuring a sound that was different enough from both rap and singer-songwriter to flirt with both. When Laura heard the combination of the intricate melody of a singer-songwriter mashed up with the beats from rap music, she knew she could do it, too. Fast-forward a few years…Laura and her husband returned to their home state of Oklahoma. After she came back, she was introduced to the drummer who would become the other half of Laura Leighe. “I met Zack through some other musicians at LifeChurch where I sing,” Laura said. “He and my husband were pretty good friends and I had always wanted to play with a band—a girl and a piano limits where you can play.” Zack, also a native Oklahoman, has enjoyed his own success before teaming up with Laura. As a former drummer for Theater Breaks Loose, he has opened for acts like 3OH!3 and Mayday Parade. Although Laura wanted to play in a band with Zack, it was originally Zack’s idea that they didn’t need anyone else—they would
perform as a duo using his drumming prowess and her vocal and piano talent. They’ve been performing less than a year and have already begun to define a sound of their own. The best part? They’re doing all of this in Oklahoma. Zack and Trent work together on the rhythms and drum beats and Laura writes the lyrics and melodies. The band admits their current production process is haphazard. They record out of Laura and Trent’s in-home studio and send the files to their producers in L.A. The producers then send back different beats, samples and ideas. Through it all, the band is still a work in process. “We’ve only been at this for around a year,” Zack said. “We’re still trying to figure out the best way to write songs.” Laura and Zack have a hard time choosing which of their songs are their favorites. It’s apparent that both genuinely love the music they create. Zack’s current favorite is “Heaven,” from their self-titled EP, and Laura admitted it had a special meaning to her. “I heard the “Heaven” track and then the next day Trent and I went to lunch and he began talking about shopping for a ring,” Laura said. “We had dated for four years and hadn’t talked about marriage yet, so that’s what inspired that song.” Although they’re still working on finetuning their sound—right now it’s all pop with retro touches—they’re still very connected to the community. Both Laura and Zack perform at different churches around the metro.
Using Zack’s drumming prowess and Laura’s vocal and piano talent
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Outlook July 2013
For Laura Leighe, everything is new and exciting. Though they’re getting into more venues around Oklahoma City, they’re also looking to start expanding their audience to other states. Their next EP is also in their thoughts, along with a possible tour. Although starting out in a state that isn’t known for producing pop artists, Laura best explains their success in a nutshell: “You bloom where you’re planted.” For more about upcoming releases and events, visit lauraleighemusic.com.
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Outlook July 2013
(minimum of 300 sq. ft.) Time to say out with the old tile and carpet and in with new wood floors. Are you dreaming of new wood floors, but dread the mess associated with tearing out your tile? Are you tired of your 70’s carpet, but the thought of working with unreliable installers stop you in your tracks? Kregger’s Floors and More is here to help. Not only does Paul Kregger and his crew offer outstanding friendly and dependable service, but they have also created a system that elimnates many of the hassles most associated with tile removal. Their new dust collection system minimizes the dust. Although their technique is not dust-free, Kregger says it is “light-years ahead of the rest.” With most companies, replacing tile can take a week or more. Besides eliminating much of the dust, with Kreggers, your floor can be free of tile and prepped for new flooring in no time. “Most people think that the task of replacing tile is more construction than they want to deal with. With our manpower and no ‘middle man,’ your tile can be gone in as little as one day!” said Kregger. The installers are what set Kregger’s apart. This ensures customers are getting someone who knows and shows skills he’s familiar with to install their flooring. “In some stores the installers are folks the
store has known maybe a day, mabye a year. It’s hard to say. At Kregger’s all of our installers are long-time employees or family members.” Edmondite Christy Dowell says, “We have a home full of Kregger’s floors! New wood floors, tile floors, rugs, a shower and soon to be carpet. Paul and Chris and the rest of their crew have been a pleasure to work with; always courteous, respectful and punctual. They are also very trustworthy. We left our home to them for a week and came back to beautiful wood floors. It seems to me that ‘satisfaction’ is their number one goal... and I am completely satisfied! I highly recommend Kregger’s Floors and More.”
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If wood’s not what you’re looking for, come browse through our amazing selection of carpet and tile! Also ask about our complete bathroom remodels.
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Outlook July 2013
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Parents Helping Parents
Like most parents of teenagers, Rod and Leslie thought their
son was going through normal transformations. At the age of 15, their son, J, displayed behavioral changes and falling grades. However, as he grew older, there were no improvements. What they discovered was that J was addicted to drugs and alcohol. “People need to be aware of the signs,” said Rod. “We did not see the addiction.” Parents Helping Parents is an organization dedicated to supporting parents dealing with children who have addictions. According to their website, 95% of youth will drink alcohol before graduating high school with 53% trying at least one illegal drug and a staggering 20% will be addicted to drugs or alcohol. Now at age 34, J lives on his own and works daily to be free of addiction. Rod and Leslie support and love their son and now have the tools to aid him in his fight against addiction, with the help of Parents Helping Parents. They hope that by sharing their journey it will help other families. “That’s the scary thing with addiction,” said Leslie, “you don’t know who it will grab.” In his early adult years, J had difficulty keeping jobs and lacked the ability to live on his own. He couldn’t handle regular responsibilities like paying the electric bill. Also, depression, which at times was suicidal, was a constant factor that kept covering up his life of addiction. “It was one thing after another,” said Leslie. “We were always worried about suicide.” Over a period of time, Rod and Leslie saw J’s life continue to decline as he rarely got out of bed and severe changes in his complexion appeared. They also discovered he had an exorbitant amount of outstanding bills and various loans, including pawn tickets. As Rod and Leslie searched for ways to help their son, they visited his psychiatrist for a possible change in medication. However, during that visit they learned of J’s addiction to an illegal drug. “Our whole world was rocked,” said Leslie. “We were in shock.” One of the organizations Rod and Leslie were referred to for guidance was Parents Helping Parents. Pat Nichols, cofounder of the organization, explained that a child may need help at any age. “Addiction is the number one health threat in America,” said Pat. “As a society, we just don’t focus on it.”
Pat and his wife Vickie started the organization in 2001 as a way to help their son who needed treatment while also providing support to other parents who have children dealing with addiction. The nonprofit organization has offices in Edmond and Norman. Pat’s role as president of the Edmond chapter involves responding to calls and e-mails, and keeping parents up-to-date on available resources. “We are developing a new mobile website for the Edmond chapter,” said Pat.
by Gina Dabney
“Our whole world was rocked…” The Edmond chapter hosts an average of 35 parents per week with an average of four calls per week. By the time a call is made, Pat emphasized, the situation is usually desperate. Recently, he received an e-mail about addiction from a mom that sounded like any mom in America. However, when he reached the end of the e-mail he realized she was from Pakistan. “Addiction affects anyone,” said Pat, “no matter where you are.” Even though J’s life is in order now, Rod and Leslie still attend group sessions at Parents Helping Parents in Edmond. The support and education that they received from the organization throughout their journey has been invaluable and along the way they said they have developed some great relationships. They love and support their son, within reason, as they know that the addiction is always present. “We will always be dealing with the addiction,” said Rod. “This will always be our way of life.” With the help of organizations like Parents Helping Parents, education and support is available for those dealing with children who have addictions. For more information, visit parentshelpingparents.info or e-mail Edmondparents@aol.com. For a recorded message, call 629-6384.
Pat nichols, co-founder
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Nate McCubbins, Kiteboarder
MY outlook
by Bethany Scott
How did you get started in kiteboarding? In 2005, while watching the travel channel, I saw one of the first kiteboarders jump over an island. I was in college, 19 years old and living in Norman. I got so excited, sold everything I had—including my truck—and bought a 13-meter kite. I spent every penny on gear.
Have you kiteboarded anywhere exotic? If so, where? Sure! I recently kiteboarded in Tiano Beach in the Grand Bahamas. It was gorgeous! The water was so clear you could see the fish and everything right beneath you. White sugar sand beaches. Completely amazing!
How would you describe kiteboarding? A lot like solo sailing. It’s an adventure almost—like wakeboarding on steroids. Plus you can fly!
Any interesting stories? …close calls? …rescues? …amazing tricks? In the Bahamas, the wind shifted offshore (out to sea) in the middle of a session. I performed a self-rescue, and got saved by a small boat just in time—as four black tipped sharks were circling my kite and I out near the coral.
How is it different from windsurfing? Windsurfing is the old-school guys holding on to a sail while on a surfboard. They are fast but expensive, tough to pack for travel and require high wind speeds. Kiteboarding has a distinct advantage over windsurfing due to the surface area of the sails. And again, with kites you can fly! How high do you guys jump? How long do you stay aloft? That depends on the wind and gusts. Anywhere from 15 to 20 feet is a big jump. The sky is literally the limit though—if you throw the trick down right. Kiteboarders can control how high they go, as well as how long their hangtime is, by using different techniques. How would one get involved with kiteboarding? First thing should be some online research to see if it’s for you. Kiteboarding is for adrenaline junkies, people that enjoy water and nature. Taking lessons starts the process. Someone wouldn’t buy a hang glider and jump off a cliff—it’s the same thing with kiteboarding. How much does the equipment cost? The equipment usually costs around $2000 new, half that if used— that includes the board, kite, harness, life jacket and helmet.
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When is the best season to kiteboard? Why? I love the fall. It’s still warm water, and as long as the air temperature is above 55°, it’s great riding. Fall provides the most powerful wind, due to the increased air density of a cooler atmosphere—so more powerful gusts! What is your favorite part about kiteboarding? The windier it gets, the faster I go. Who is the typical kiteboarder? That’s a tough question. The age demographic ranges from 14 to 70. The typical kiteboarder is someone who loves water. They are people who do whatever they set their mind to, no matter what. Also, women learn faster than men—which surprises a lot of people. Do you have any other interesting hobbies? Anything with the word board in it, I do. You can actually use your kite combined with a snowboard on the snow to snowkite. The kites really just make any sport with a board better.
What is the kiteboarding culture/community in Oklahoma like? Really positive, like a brotherhood. Everyone knows everybody as in a small town. It’s like a little community—hidden in plain site.
If you weren’t obsessed with kiteboarding, what would you be doing? Something outdoors for sure. Maybe working on a wind or solar farm. I love to be out in nature.
What is your favorite trick to do on Lake Hefner? I like to set my board down on the ground and jump off the grass right onto the water to start off my session. It’s a small thing compared to the big jumps but it makes me happy.
For more information on kiteboarding, visit okkite.com.
Outlook July 2013
outlookoklahoma.com
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80 East 5th St., Ste. 130 Edmond, OK 73034