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Of course you’d drive miles out of your way to get to the best, most sophisticated critical care in the state. But now you don’t have to. INTEGRIS Health Edmond proudly announces the opening of the area’s only dual plane heart catheterization lab. So now outcomes for heart patients are more successful than ever before. And with the newly launched LIFENET System, connecting EMS teams with the hospital team at the point of the emergency, response times are faster than ever, too. In fact, on October 6, Edmond resident Todd S. experienced this life-saving difference for himself. He called 911 when he began having chest pains. When EMSA arrived at his home near Bryant and 2nd Street, they connected to INTEGRIS Health Edmond via LIFENET, verified it was a severe heart attack and took him straight to the response team awaiting his arrival. Within 50 minutes, he was recovering from the stent procedure that saved his life. The time he saved by not having to travel another 20 minutes to an equivalent hospital added precious time to his life. Today, Todd says: “It’s very reassuring to know we have such advanced heart care in Edmond.” INTEGRIS Health Edmond. No one else is closer. No one else is so far ahead.
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Outlook March 2014
Armstrong
C O N C E R T – G O I N G
A S
Auditorium
I T ’ S
M E A N T
T O
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outlookoklahoma.com
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Outlook March 2014
March 2014
photography by daybreakpics.com
My wife, Sandy, says it’s the small stuff I agonize over. Big stuff like starting a business, expanding a business, hiring
someone—I’ve got it covered. Picking out a new lamp for the living room? Give me a week.
So yes, I can be a bit indecisive in the home improvement
department—which explains why the exterior of our garage looks
like the Partridge family bus. I have one of our advertisers coming
12 The Biggest Loser
next week to paint the house, the folks on page 39. That’s great
because it needs it, but not great because I haven’t found the right
Q&A with David Brown about his experience on the show.
color yet.
I’m doing research. And the process goes like this: Go to the paint store. Agonize over all the choices. Don’t ask advice. Buy
samples. Prep the sides of the garage for paint. Roll on the paint
samples. Decide I hate those colors. Go to paint store again…you
get the idea. At this point, I’m five trips in to the paint store. Sandy
8 Facts & Figures
the support, hun. In all fairness, I have narrowed the choices down
The Blessing of Brothers
says I’m not choosing a color, I’m eliminating colors. Thanks for
to Svelte Gray, Neuvelle Shade, Sorbet Douglas Fir and Flatulent
Umber—who names these colors? (Okay, I made up some of those.)
15 Food
Needless to say, Sandy is growing tired of our multi-color garage. So hopefully by the time this column arrives in my neighbors’
18 Business
mailboxes, they can look over and appreciate that my house is now one color. Next on the home improvement list? We’re putting a
storm shelter in the garage from the guy on page 11. So do I put it under my car or Sandy’s…. Hmm, let me think about that.
25 Breakfast on Boulevard
A local organization is satisfying Edmond’s hunger.
28 Journey’s End Mike Hedin lived his final days with passion and excitement.
Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic Memorial Road Church of Christ
32 In a Class of Their Own
338 My Outlook
Dave Miller, Publisher, Back40 Design President
20 Soul of a Woman Kenya SoulSinger is taking R&B to a new level.
10 Louise
The Melting Pot Food Faves
Maybe my neighbors are too.
FEATURES
Jennifer Teel, Professional Princessutlook Meet the six top teachers nominated for Edmond’s John Hicks, Teacher of the Year. Thunder Drummer 35 Inspiration
to Action
Disabled American Veteran Rusty Dunagan is honored by the Gary Sinise Foundation.
To advertise, contact Laura at 405-301-3926 or laura@outlookoklahoma.com. Cover photo by Marshall Hawkins sundancephotographyokc.com
OUTLOOK
80 East 5th Street, Suite 130, Edmond, OK 73034
405-341-5599
www.outlookoklahoma.com
info@outlookoklahoma.com
Volume 10, Number 3 Edmond & North OKC Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2014 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 Marshall
Account Executive Emily Hummel
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
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5 o
u
t
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o
k
f a c
cooks in the kitchen, the perfect amount to win the Edmond Chamber Small Business of the Year award. Congratulations, Millie’s Table!
271 homes according to
1 in
in March 2013,
1
were sold in Edmond
Margo Waldrop with
0 0 0 0,
Only 1 in every 10,000 is a 4-leaf clover
t s
&
f
i
3000
Breakfast on Boulevard at First Christian Church in Edmond feeds around 3,000 people each month. Read more about the community movement on page 25.
Up to 15% of people in the U.S. believe they have a food allergy.
Churchill Brown Realty.
Percentage of people in the U.S.
The trails at Arcadia Lake will be
15-20 miles long
when finished later this year. Learn more at arcadialaketrail.com.
who actually have a food allergy:
3–4%
10
Source: webMD
Back40 Design and Outlook Magazine
won 10 ADDYS
at this year’s American Advertising Awards— 3 gold, 1 silver & 6 bronze!
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Outlook March 2014
g
u
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Around Town
Support a “Greyt” cause with Hounds of the Heartland on March 29th from 2-5pm. The Greyhound Gala fundraiser features raffle items, a silent auction, door prizes, refreshments & cocktails. Interact with adoptable greyhounds, too! Details on page 29 and at GreyhoundPetsOK.org. Senior Pastor Bob Long and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church invite you to join in the Opening Day Celebration of the new Edmond campus on Sunday, March 30th. Worship services will begin at 11am at Sequoyah Middle School, 1125 E. Danforth. Visit edmond.stlukesokc.org for more info! The Edmond Public Schools Foundation will be hosting their Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Auction on April 4th. All proceeds from the event will go back to students and teachers for the district in the form of teacher grants. Help support local schools by visiting edmondfoundation.org for donation and ticket info.
outlookoklahoma.com
9
Louise
The Blessing of Brothers
Jim, John, Monte & Ray
10
I grew up on a farm with four brothers. Perhaps it would be better to say, I survived growing up with four brothers. And I’m certain my mother was prejudiced to sons. (Just ask my sister. I know she will agree.) I say that because any time I ran to Mama to tell her one of the boys was teasing me, she invariably responded, “It’s just because they love you.” Well, I could do without that kind of love, thank you! Ray, my oldest brother and comedian of the family, enjoyed taunting my boyfriends. Just as I was leaving on a date, Ray would sternly announce to my escort, “You better have that girl home on time!” He would collapse in laughter when the young man timidly responded, “Yes Sir!” John, the adventurer, once strapped a pistol to his hip and went outside to practice his quick draw. Soon he came limping into the house and asked me to help dress a wound so Mama wouldn’t see it. He had shot himself in the leg! Jim was the peacemaker. Eighteen months my senior and my best friend, I knew I could count on Jimmy for anything. He once carried me from the barn to the house when I stepped on a nail with bare feet. He always came to the rescue and defense of his little sister. Then there was Monte, the baby of the family. Nearly six years younger than me, I didn’t mind him getting lots of attention. What I did mind was him pestering the daylights out of my girlfriends and me. But in spite of my brothers’ antics, I missed them when they went away for summer jobs and to college. One memory, forever etched in my heart, is when my grown-up brothers, living in four
Outlook March 2014
by Louise Tucker Jones
different states, came home for the funeral of my three-month-old son, Travis, who died suddenly from a rare congenital heart defect. I remember Monte sitting beside that miniature casket, drinking in the beauty of my baby boy. Monte was single. He had no children and had never held my little son. Several months earlier, my husband, Carl, had changed jobs, not realizing it would affect our health insurance, forcing us to carry an expensive, private policy for the pregnancy and birth. With less money for monthly bills, we moved from a nice two-story house in Tulsa to a cheaper rental in a less desirable neighborhood. My brothers were not happy with the location of our house or the sadness surrounding their sister, so they decided to do something about it. Without telling us what was going on, they took Carl and me to a suburb of Tulsa and showed us two lovely houses and asked one question: “Which one do you like?” Ray, now a realtor, used his commission for a down payment and I guess the others helped on closing costs. My memory is foggy from that time, but it seemed like only days before they packed us up and moved us into a brand-new three-bedroom house in Jenks. I will never forget what my brothers did for me. They couldn’t heal my heartache, but they could help with tangible needs, hoping to give their sister a smile during one of the most painful times in my life. That little house in Jenks not only provided a lovely home for our family, but we met wonderful friends and neighbors who helped us learn to live again. Never underestimate the power of love and the healing it brings to a hurting heart.
About the Author Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker and founder of the organization, Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. Email LouiseTJ@cox.net or visit LouiseTuckerJones.com.
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David Brown was just a guy. A guy who struggled with his weight— like many of us do. Then he was offered the chance of a lifetime by being a contestant in the hit NBC show, “The Biggest Loser.” Walking on set, he weighed a hefty 409 pounds. At the finale, he weighed 187 pounds, looking leaner and better than ever. David dropped by the Outlook magazine office to talk about his experience on the show. Being 222 pounds lighter, he had a confidence and charisma about him that was infectious. Eager to share his story, we dove right in.
How did it feel to be selected to compete on the show? It was such a surreal process. I put myself out there and hoped for the best. When I was accepted, it was a dream come true.
What was your first day like? The first thing you do when you get there is three hours of the most intense workout you’ve ever done. It’s a wake-up call—your body is out of shape with no real concept of working out.
What was the most beneficial thing you learned?
Build Your Workout Around Your Life NOT Your Life Around Your Workout Trey Milligan, MD - Owner
You have to leave your comfort zone behind and challenge yourself to workouts that are harder, longer and faster. My mantra is “do what you can today, so you can do what you want tomorrow.”
How did you keep track of everything you did to lose weight? We wore BodyMedia FIT trackers during every workout, which records your activity level. I logged 2.2 million steps during my time on The Biggest Loser. If you had told me before I started that I could walk that much, I wouldn’t have believed it.
What was the atmosphere like on the show? Did you get along with the other contestants? We all got along fantastically. The first week
everyone got to work out together, all 15 of us, with no teams. We all had the same goals, same ideals, same pressures, which helped everyone bond. We started encouraging each other very quickly. Even after we separated into teams, we still did.
What is your favorite part about being a contestant? Ultimately, it’s the success. During Makeover Week, when my family came around the corner and didn’t recognize me, well that was the payoff moment. Their expressions told me “it was worth it.”
Was it difficult to be away from your family for so long? It seemed impossible. Without my faith and my family’s letters to me, I’m not sure how I would have made it most days, much less each week.
What was it like being isolated from the rest of the world?
748-0028 • www.sciencefit.net 13801 N. Western Ave, Ste D Saturday and Evening Sessions Welcomed See our website for info on an initial consultation visit.
12
Outlook March 2014
While there, I didn’t have internet access, so there was no “noise” at the Ranch. Because of that, I now use less technology since being home because it just distracts me.
Are there certain foods or drinks you just avoid entirely now to keep the weight off? Well, I’m always aware of what I’m doing with my body.
ALighterSide
by Bethany Marshall
With food, you just need to have a plan and strategy in life with your food. You can enjoy the things you want to enjoy, just don’t over-indulge.
working through things I had neglected years ago. That’s what I’m most proud of.
How does it feel to get an entirely new wardrobe?
My faith and family were and are my main priority. All the experience did was reinforce my priorities. Now, everything is sweeter. My senses are awakened. The experience is better.
Well, I don’t have that wardrobe yet, but I’m working on it. The fun thing is that I can now shop at any store I want to, not just specialty size stores.
What’s the story with the beard? The beard started last year with no-shave November. After that, I came up with a goal to grow it out until I had lost 100 lbs. Then the beard became part of the storyline of the show and the producers wanted me to keep it until Makekover Week.
Any advice would you give to someone who wants to make a life change like you did? It’s the combination of taking the first step and challenging yourself. Giving yourself a motivation to move. Even if you can’t do something today, sign up for it anyway with a moment of courage and then start training. That idea has turned into my “1 Stronger” challenge.
How has it not changed you?
What’s next for you? I have a burden to share what I have learned. I didn’t realize the desperation that I had and I want to wake people up. My message is one of hope, healing and health. Connect with David by texting “1Stronger” to 44622, to get free text updates, diet & exercise tips, and inspiration from his journey of hope, healing & health. Booking info: 1STRONGER.com
Tell us more about the 1 Stronger Challenge… It focuses on the idea of a healthy lifestyle. Every 90-120 days, I want to have signed up for an event like a run, triathlon, bike race, anything. Then I can be specifically training for something and have goals for something.
Are you training for something now? photography by nbc universal
Right now I’m training with my family for the OKC half marathon. We are going to run it together.
Do you have a favorite way to exercise or activity? I love being on the spin bike. Also, at the Ranch, we could exercise outside in the national park it was located in, and I would run or ride my bike up to Inspiration Point. That was one of my favorite activities to do, be outside and feeling the wind on my face.
How has being a Biggest Loser contestant changed you? The biggest part of my transformation is something you didn’t see. It’s easy to see the before and after photos. However, the biggest change was in the emotional healing that happened day-by-day, week-by-week. Letting go of my depression and outlookoklahoma.com
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Outlook March 2014
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FOOD FOOD The Melting Pot by Laura Beam Forget the Sterno flame and Harvest Gold cook pot surrounded by swanky dinner guests with bell bottoms and bad moustaches. Fondue of the 1970s has long since evolved into one of today’s most chic comfort foods. And this is not your mother’s fondue. With foreign dishes and wine on the home dining scene for the first time, the ‘70s ushered in a grand age of dinner parties. As hosts emulated their visits to posh restaurants, sophistication came to the masses. Velvet décor and funky fashions were as lively as the budding worldly appetites of the day, and fondue quickly became the status menu item of choice. From the French “fondre,” to melt, fondue infused all the attributes we prize in even greater measure today—small bites, customized foods and interactive, memorable dining. Answering the growing hunger for this novel noshing, The Melting Pot opened in 1975 in Florida. As the franchise burgeoned across the nation, Oklahoma enjoyed its first foray into the surging food trend with the opening of The Melting Pot in Tulsa in 2005 and Oklahoma City in 2007. Owner of both Oklahoma locations, Becky Chapman recalls her initial attraction to the restaurant. “It was something completely different than anything offered in Oklahoma.” Though The Melting Pot has a distinguished air, guests certainly don’t need culinary expertise to know the pleasures of dipping one decadent food into another. The joy is almost
instinctual. Who can resist molten cheese or silky chocolate bubbling in a pot? One, two, three or four-course menu options are portioned and priced per person, offering an easy variety suited to OKC’s Bricktown vibe. Handsome wood décor, jeweled chandeliers, cozy booths and an impressive wine list deliver romance for an important evening, yet easily accommodate impromptu dinners and between-meal nibbles as well. “You can come in to celebrate with the whole four-course meal,” Chapman notes, “or just stop in on a whim for cheese fondue and salad. Chocolate, any evening, is a great stand-alone option.” You’ll love the aroma and anticipation as your chef prepares the cheese fondue at your table. Even the salads are a treat, with touches like gourmet cheese and candied nuts. Steak, chicken, seafood, pork and vegetarian entrées are cooked tableside in one of four cooking styles, served with vegetables and dipping sauces. Plan to linger a bit as you make that all-important chocolate fondue selection.
With options like crunchy peanut butter and Bananas Foster, exploring the menu is half the fun. The Flaming Turtle fondue is delicious enough to eat with a spoon, even before dunking brownies, Rice Krispies Treats and marshmallows in it. And thanks to the private booths, no one will even see you do it! The dress code is “Oklahoma casual,” Chapman chuckles, “which can mean anything! Couples come in for their anniversary in suits and cocktail dresses. The Happy Hour crowd comes in business attire and many people stop in dressed in jeans,” Chapman remarks. Both the menu and the guests, it seems, are a melting pot, which adds to the appeal of this eclectic eatery. Call 235-1000 for reservations or visit meltingpot.com/Oklahoma-city. Located in Bricktown at 4 E. Sheridan Ave. 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.
outlookoklahoma.com
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FOODFAVES
by Laura Beam
Let’s Do Greek It’s a month of March Madness and this tasty hot spot has a winning line-up you don’t want to miss! All month, enjoy the 2-Eat-for-$20 meal deal, complete with any two Gyros plates, hummus for two and two baklavas. On Saturdays, sink your teeth into the delicious original Gyros sandwich for just $2.99. For a quick dinner or feast for a crowd, take home family-style servings of your favorite entrées or Gyros meat by the pound and a bag of pita bread. Catering and a private party room are available, too! Stop by 180 W. 15th in Edmond or the First National Building, downtown OKC. Visit letsdogreek.com.
Jo’s Famous Pizza
When it’s time to feed a crowd, think inside the box! Nothing satisfies hearty appetites like the freshly baked aroma and taste of these legendary pizzas. Don’t miss the Reuben pizza, available in March only or feast on winning combos like the veggie, Thunder, Cowboy or Sooner pizzas, all loaded with the perfect blend of your favorite toppings. Don’t forget the fantastic salads with house-made dressings, great sandwiches and tasty appetizers like Boomers—halved jalapenos with mozzarella cheese topped with bacon, baked and served with Ranch dressing. Yum! Dine at 900 S. Kelly Ave. or call 340-7070 for carry-out. See the full menu at josfamouspizza.com.
Edmond Wine Shop
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day your own way with great deals on traditional Irish beers. This quaint neighborhood shop stocks all your favorites and some fun new finds, too! As the hint of warmer spring days inspires your palate, you’ll love discovering the impressive variety of hand-selected crisp, fruity and floral white wines. Planning a cook-out? Enjoy your grilled foods with light-bodied red wines or let the experienced staff make suggestions for a perfectly paired menu. www.edmondwine.com Shop at 1520 S. Boulevard and follow them on Facebook & Twitter for the latest tasting events and special sales.
Juiceblendz Café
Searching for something delightfully delicious while also nutritious? Scrumptious Smoothiez made of 100% raw juices tempt the palate while delivering a powerpacked punch of vitamins and enzymes for an amazing boost of energy and vitality. Choose from over 40 “just juiced juices,” many under 260 calories including the Strawberry Samba and Baywatch Body. Going green? Check out the Kale Smoothie or Green Machine featuring fresh combinations of fruit, protein and nourishing veggies. Check out the incredible Eatz menu loaded with Breakfast Bagelz, Sandwichez, Saladz and Wrapz to satisfy every craving. Stop by 1200 W. Covell Rd. next to Uptown Grocery or call 405-285-0133.
16
Outlook March 2014
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BUSINESS
Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic by Lance Evans Cindy Burkhalter and Dr. Richard Hatch
Everyone has experienced a sniffly nose or pounding headache due to allergies. The allergy specialists at Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic can help safeguard your body from potential allergic reactions while also dispelling many of the myths that have received national attention in recent years. “We’re one of the oldest allergy clinics in the country, founded in 1925,” says Dr. Richard Hatch. The staff at Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic specializes in providing patients with the necessary defenses to fight those tiny molecular allergens that can turn into huge problems. More specifically, they evaluate and treat a number of allergic diseases including allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, skin and food allergies. “We’ll evaluate and treat anybody with allergytype symptoms,” he says. Hatch says that there is one leading factor that makes the clinic the
18
Outlook March 2014
go-to source in resolving patients’ allergy or asthma related symptoms. “All of the physicians are board certified or board eligible allergists.” By having experienced allergists on staff, Hatch says that it truly helps isolate the myths about allergies and reduce the chance of misdiagnoses. “In some cases, people think they have food allergies when they don’t.” Hatch points to a number of factors that cause people to be misdiagnosed with food allergies, including false positive testing. The staff at Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic hope to not only empower their patients with the truth about food allergies, but other physicians as well. “Physicians should have a good understanding of what a food allergy is, what kind of symptoms it causes and the natural history of food allergy so that you can take the history and physical examination into account
in conjunction with the testing.” So, what exactly is a good test for food allergies? The clinic uses a food challenge to determine if patients are truly suffering from food allergies. “We’ll carefully introduce food to the patient under observation in the clinic and see if they, in fact, have a reaction,” says Hatch. He emphasizes that these tests should be administered under the care of qualified physicians. The accurate results revealed by the challenge help distinguish myth from reality and bring patients who are truly suffering one step closer to finding relief. “When you overdiagnose the nation, it has a negative effect on people who truly are food allergic because others don’t take those patients seriously.” For more information on the Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic, call 235-4040 or visit oklahomaallergy.com.
Memorial Road Church of Christ by Amy Dee Stephens PHil Brookman, pulpit Minister
Baking bread…a neighborhood block party…getting a raccoon out of a chimney… Stories of such neighborly activities abound this year as Memorial Road Church of Christ members focus on the theme of “iNeighbor.” “We wanted to get back to the basic Biblical principle of love your neighbor by encouraging everyone to meet the people who live next door and to help them with small acts of kindness,” said Andy Lashley, Minister of Involvement and Communications. The focus of the church is to share love in the community by loving people and loving God. According to Pulpit Minister Phil Brookman, the iNeighbor theme has been embraced because of its simplicity. “Become a blessing to the five or six people who live right next to you.” Lashley shared the example of a member who baked some goodies for his neighbor
across the fence. “The two have since formed a reciprocal friendship, helping each other with projects around the house. Simple kindness turned into a mutually beneficial friendship.” On a larger scale, Memorial Road is gearing up for its annual service project known as Day in the City: Neighborhood Edition. On April 5th, volunteers will work with needy families, schools or parks within their community. The church also offers many programs to help people through different seasons of life, such as DivorceCare and Celebrate Recovery programs. “If you are looking for a church home, a place to heal, or just a place to connect with others, we are a safe place,” said Lashley. “If you’d like to let us know you are coming to visit, we’ll have someone waiting at the door to escort you around or sit with you in the
auditorium. Attend a welcome class where you can drink coffee, meet some of the ministers and ask questions. We’re not perfect, but we constantly work at being a friendly, welcoming place.” “Throughout the Bible, we are reminded to love our neighbors,” Brookman said. “So invite a neighbor over for dinner. Say ‘hi’ to the people who walk past your yard. Be a blessing to the people next door.” By following the iNeighbor philosophy, Memorial Road hopes to encourage new friendships, community involvement and awareness of Godly principles. After all, who knows where baked cookies might lead? It may end up with them helping get a raccoon out of the chimney. Or better yet, a great new friendship. Feel free to visit MRCC at 2221 E. Memorial Road this Sunday, give them a call at 478-0166 or visit mrcc.org.
Call for Free Estimates!
outlookoklahoma.com
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Soul of a Woman by Lance Evans
As the melody from her single, “Love You to Life,” softly plays in the background, the lens slowly zooms into frame and reveals the short-haired songstress. Kenya SoulSinger knows how to work a camera. Dressed in a chic black-lace dress that complements her curves and huge hoop earrings that bring to mind east coast street fashion, Kenya slowly eases into the first verse of the song while making sure all eyes are on her. As she softly coos about the best love she’s ever known, Kenya begins to seduce the camera while swaying her bangle-covered arms to the music. As her eyes smile through the lens, she reveals a confidence that’s strong enough to entice and subtle enough to still garner respect. It’s here, in the fine lines of her art where Kenya is not only harnessing her power as an independent artist, but also rewriting the definition of success.
London Calling
Kenya SoulSinger proves how far you can go with a little courage and a whole lot of soul.
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Outlook March 2014
Confidence shows all over Kenya. It’s even evident in her name. A singer named SoulSinger? Now that’s the definition of being bold in a musical age when the online blogger is now the music critic. Fans are no longer just listening to artists—they’re also programmed to critique them. And with Kenya, the critiques could start before she’s even able to belt a single note. Luckily, her music not only justifies the audacity of her stage name, but it also calls for a rave review. While her popularity is beginning to grow in Oklahoma, one country is already placing Kenya’s music on the charts. “My music has been very well received in London,” she says. “I’m on playlists every day and am on the UK Soul Charts.” Kenya recently capitalized on her international success with a promotional tour across the pond. “It was a whirlwind,” says Kenya. “I did a record store signing, getting off the plane and going straight to the record store. It was amazing!” Kenya spent her time signing CDs, taking pictures with fans, interviewing, networking and setting up collaborations with other artists while in the UK. She says it was an experience she will always remember. “I feel very humbled by it and pleasantly surprised. They really love independent music in London.” As Kenya begins to talk about her musical journey, she makes you remember a time when music was actually full of soul. Born and raised in east Oklahoma City, it was there in the primarily African American churches of the region where Kenya developed her love
of music. You can even trace the origins of her stage name back to the roots and soul of the black church. “I sang in a gospel group called ‘Set Aside’ for 12 years.” Although the music may have stopped for the group, Kenya says that her passion wouldn’t keep her mouth shut for too long. “When something is inside of you, it has to come out,” she says. “There was so much inside of me—so many lyrics, tunes, melodies and harmonies,” she says. Kenya would soon find the courage to let the music growing inside her speak. It would be somewhat of a difficult transition for her. “I’m from the church and now I’m singing about romance and love,” says Kenya. “At first I was wondering what people would think about it, but that didn’t last for too long. I love R&B music so much.”
A Unique Independence
That love for Rhythm and Blues can be heard throughout her third album, “Love You to Life.” As she sings the title track about “soaring through the sky on a natural high,” you see just how much the married mother-of-two has set aside from her gospel days. But, unlike so many acts who rely on beats and twerking to shift units, Kenya is able to gracefully cover these topics while never compromising her artistry or soul. And with that, soul is the foundation of Kenya’s vocal styling. Her warm smoky voice creates a sound that transcends all genres. Kenya describes it as “sultry soul”— a combination of neo-soul, jazz, funk and hip-hop that mainly follows the themes of peace and love. “It’s a nice mixture,” she says. “Most people love soul music.” While Kenya has a lot to celebrate these days, she’s most proud of being a mother. She has found a way to balance her growing career with the demands of motherhood. “They’ve made it easy!” she says. The love and support provided by her family makes their hectic lives more manageable. Recently, she purposely scheduled her promotional tour in London around the time that her son was also going to the country with his school’s orchestra. “My son and I went together.
Her warm smoky voice can be described as “sultry soul”— a combination of neo-soul, jazz, funk and hip-hop that mainly follows the themes of peace and love.
I was able to attend his concert! We got an opportunity to hang out, tour London and bond as mother and son,” she says. “I’ll never forget having that experience with him.” As she affectionately talks about her son and stepdaughter, her songs instantly take on a much deeper meaning. “A song called ‘Anything’ is my son’s favorite,” she says. “Once for his birthday, I played that song on the keyboard and changed the lyrics up to say ‘I’d do anything for my son.’” While many artists would be willing to sell a little soul for a major label deal, Kenya says that she’s comfortable and happy with being on her own. “I love being an independent artist,” she says. “I love having total control.” And Kenya is in control of the majority of her music career. Kenya not only works with her production duo on all the music, but they are also the creative team behind the imaging, videos and releases. It’s a daunting task, but one that adds to the value of Kenya’s music. She says that all the work eventually pays off in the end. “I’d much rather work hard than to give up my personal love and taste.” Kenya has found a melodic way to represent all of her dimensions. She’s not just a church girl, wife, mother or even just a soul singer. She is all of those things—and more. “I have a special affinity for women and for uplifting and helping women feel better about themselves,” says Kenya. She hopes that her lessons can also be an inspiration to her fans as well. “The sky is not my limit,” she says. “I can do anything and reach all my goals and beyond.” To hear more of Kenya SoulSinger’s music, visit reverbnation.com/kenyasinger1.
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P a i d
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22 March 2014 ForOutlook more information
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Outlook March 2014
Breakfast on Boulevard
‘‘We’re hungry, all of us, in many
different ways,” says Mickey Stufflebean, program moderator of Breakfast on Boulevard, which provides free meals to any and all who show up to receive them. “We’re all in this together.” Many of the faces you’ll see are repeat visitors—not just coming for food or to volunteer to serve, but also for the social interaction and the sense of community they find. Sometimes it’s the hunger for connection that keeps people coming back.
Modest Beginnings
On May 7, 1990, Carole Roberts and Patty McKibbon began Breakfast on Boulevard, based on a similar program in Ponca City. A community program, the program is hosted at the First Christian Church of Edmond, financed by donations and run by volunteers from 6-7 different churches. The mission of the program is simple: to feed all who are hungry. As Stufflebean says, it’s not just about the food. In the first year of the program, about 3,000 meals were served. On the first day, just one young man showed up for a meal, a student
by Mari Farthing
from the nearby college. “They were so excited to see him, they think they must have scared him off,” chuckles Stufflebean. “They never saw him again.” Word spread and the numbers increased. Stufflebean estimates that about 23,000 meals were served last year—and the program continues to grow. Nobody likes to ask for help, but Breakfast on Boulevard was designed with an understanding that “we’re all just a breath away from losing what we have,” according to Stufflebean. “It could be one choice that makes the difference.” Offering people help provides a positive ripple; “when we get help, we look for ways to help others.”
Serving Others
Volunteers arrive early at 5:30am to start preparing food. Though breakfast doesn’t officially start until 6:30, there are often people who come earlier. “We don’t turn anyone away,” says Stufflebean. “We’re just here to serve, not to judge.” Those who come are allowed up to six meals, no questions asked. Some come by to pick up food for their family or neighbors. “If they ask for six, they get six.” Breakfast is hot and features a different specialty every day: pancakes and sausage on Monday, eggs and ham on Tuesday, French toast and sausage on Wednesday, biscuits and gravy on Thursday, and eggs with ham and vegetables on Friday. “Thursday’s my favorite,” laughs Stufflebean. “Can’t go wrong with biscuits and gravy.” Sack lunches are also provided with breakfast. Packed with two sandwiches, cookies and an apple, the lunches offer another way to give support. “Two sandwiches because that way it can be stretched to dinner,” says Stufflebean. Lunch also includes a Bible verse. “We’re not here to preach, we just include a verse to offer some comfort. We’re all in this ship together, and it’s crowded— we need to be there for one another.” continued on next page
sacking lunches, above (Left to Right): Steve Hanson, Steve Peterson, Mickey Stufflebean, Lori Douglas Gaye Gauldin serving biscuits and gravy Sheila Brooks Mixing something tasty
outlookoklahoma.com
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breakfast on boulevard, cont.
By 7:30am, breakfast is over, the kitchen is clean and the volunteers begin preparing for another day. Food and supplies are purchased by volunteers with donated funds. Approximately six volunteers help each day, half in the kitchen on breakfast and the other half on sack lunches. Stufflebean estimates that 100 or more volunteers pitch in every month to keep the program running.
How to Help
Many volunteers who help at Breakfast on Boulevard are from other churches. Some are students and often, juvenile offenders fulfilling a community service sentence. But what unites all the volunteers is a respect for others, an understanding that this work is important and a desire to help. The program is most in need of donations of time and money. Financial gifts allow the program to purchase food and supplies; volunteers make the program happen. Any donation is appreciated. “We also accept cookies,” says Stufflebean. “We have people who bake cookies and bring them for the sack lunches.” A home-baked cookie can brighten anyone’s day.
Contact program moderator Mickey Stufflebean at 341-4742 or Judy Griffis at 348-1443 if you are interested in helping.
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Outlook March 2014
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’ jour ney s
A huge dust plume trailed behind
Mike Hedin’s Kawasaki as he rode hard and fast. He was on a mission.
end
by Dave Miller
He was on the final leg of his once-in-a-lifetime motorcycle trip. But by the time he reached Lima, Peru, the cancer had nested in his lungs, spine and brain. He was done riding. He returned to Edmond and on January 10th, he took his last breath surrounded by family and friends.
When Mike started his epic Alaska-to-South-America trip, he had no idea cancer was growing in his body. But it was. By all appearances, life was great for this former Marine sniper and master dive instructor. He was a partner in two thriving businesses in Oklahoma City, he had hobbies most guys dream of and he had great friends and family. So it’s no surprise that when he got the news that he was sick—terminally sick—he didn’t slow down. He accelerated and set out to do everything he ever wanted to do. Mike was big on adventure. And it was on one of his adventures that he noticed some unusual pain in his hip and shoulder. It was the beginning of May and he was participating in the One Lap of America, which is sort of a “Cannonball Run” rally race across the country. At first, the pain didn’t concern him much, but by the end of the month, he was coughing up blood.
Mike Hedin, 1970–2014
28
Outlook March 2014
A trip to Integris Hospital confirmed there was something very wrong with Mike. Small cell lung cancer had spread to his bones, spine, hip, shoulders and brain. Not good news at all. Some men may have crumbled or wallowed in self pity. Not Mike. His cousin Chris Lewis remembers Mike talking to a pastor at an auto racing event, “He told the pastor he couldn’t think of a better guy to get this kind of news. He said, ‘I have no wife, no kids—no one’s dependent on me.’” That wasn’t entirely true, as Mike was very close to several people, including his cousins and a particular ex-con named Bud. Mike and his cousin, Chris Lewis, owned a street cleaning business and a janitorial service in Oklahoma City. These successful ventures afforded Mike the opportunity to both pursue his adventures and change people’s lives. In this case, change came in the form of offering second chances to ex-cons, many who had served lengthy prison sentences. Bud was one of those ex-cons. Upon his release from prison, Bud was given an employment opportunity by Mike. “It was the second chance I needed,” Bud recalls. That was eight years ago. Bud is now married, has his own home and is one of the top men at the company that believed in him and gave him a fresh start. “When I started, we were employer and employee. We learned a lot about each other. We actually had similar backgrounds. Mike made me a better person,” said Bud. Over the years, we got to be like brothers. I miss him.” The most important thing Bud learned from Mike was that “there’s nothing that couldn’t be fixed.” So with the limited time Mike knew he had, he continued to knock items off his bucket list. Next up was the desire to take some very fast laps with a very talented race car driver, named Leh Keen. Favors were called in and stars somehow aligned—and in July, Leh and Mike took those very fast laps in a Nissan GTR during a special session at the Road Atlanta track. Then in August, there was that ‘65 Mustang race car that needed a new home. Mike always wanted a classic Mustang Fastback and they found one in New Jersey. So Mike and Chris bought one-way tickets, did the deal and drove the classic race car back from the Garden State, turning the purchase into a road trip to remember. “We drove 1,400 miles straight, only stopping for gas and food—and one sheriff deputy in Ohio,” Chris recalls. “We were well over the speed limit. I thought he was going to write us up, then Mike explained to the trooper we were driving his ‘cancer car.’ We got off with a warning.” And, of course, there was still the motorcycle trip to South America to complete. And that’s where the adventure ends. But even in death, Mike had adventures planned for others. Mike had trusts and investments. Mike had savings. He left everything to Bud, the felon who became like a brother to him. Bud recalls the moment. “This might sound strange, but I really wasn’t surprised. We were so close. That’s just Mike. That’s how he was.” Chris says if Mike had a message for anyone reading this, it would probably be to live in the now, don’t put off things you want to do, and experience all life has to offer. Sounds like great advice for the journey.
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Outlook March 2014
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At
In a Class of Their Own
a time when Oklahoma schools are suffering from low rankings and bad publicity, it’s refreshing to hear positive news from teachers in the Edmond Public School District. “We are an unusually happy group of teachers and unusually loyal to each other,” said Trish Kuykendall, a teacher at Summit Middle School. Part of that loyalty is demonstrated each October when teachers nominate each other for the Teacher of the Year award. It might seem early in the school year, but according to Kuykendall, who coordinates the scoring, “The first few months of school are the most precious and the most intense. The first 90 days set the tone for the entire school year. People often think that teachers are off for the summer, but the truth behind the scenes is that most of us work together year-round, spending much of the summer at the school.” One nominee is selected from each of the 25 schools in the district. Next, each nominee submits a video of his or her teaching. The scoring committee, made up of school employees and parents, looks at factors such as teachers who…
6
Following the video scoring, the nominations are narrowed to the top six candidates, who, according to Kuykendall, “exemplify the finest in the profession.” Those six individuals create a teaching portfolio, which includes a professional biography and response to
1. Communicate effectively with students of all backgrounds, 2. Inspire through daily creative and imaginative teaching, and 3. Go above and beyond in their efforts.
top teachers were asked: What legacy do you hope to leave as a teacher?
‘‘
“My hopes and aspirations for my students are endless. At the end of the day, however, I hope they know that they are capable of achieving anything through hard work and respect. I want them to embrace adversity and learn to accept challenges with an open mind. I wish for them to develop skills that will help them reflect upon their growth and know that learning is a perpetual adventure.” —Rexi Phillips, Social Studies Teacher at Boulevard Academy of Alternative Education
32
by Amy Dee Stephens
Outlook March 2014
Back (L-R): Rexi Phillips, Darin Williams, Teri Walls, Elanna Killackey Front: Tiffany Holden, Chelsea Agee
‘‘ ‘‘ ‘‘ “I want each student to know as they enter and exit my classroom, that they are loved wholeheartedly. Learned helplessness and hesitation has found its home in the minds of young learners today. I know each student is extraordinary and it’s up to me to strengthen their desire to learn. Facts only get you so far, but the willingness and ability to seek out knowledge can exponentially affect the life of a learner.” —Darin K. Williams, 5th Grade Teacher at Haskell Elementary
“The legacy that I hope to leave as a teacher is one of love. That may sound strange, but I mean a love of reading great literature, writing, critical thinking and love of our fellow man. I hope that the multitudes of students who have sat in my classrooms over the years remember that about me.” —Teri Walls, Pre-AP English II, ACT Review and AP Literature Teacher at Edmond North High School
“Every day, I shake the hands of my students when they enter the door and let them know how excited I am to teach them. When these same students graduate, I want them to remember that someone believed in their future success. Aristotle once said, ‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.’ I seek to create habits that will reflect a willingness to practice and fail, to struggle and lose, and eventually a willingness to battle and succeed.” —Elanna Killackey, English Teacher, Student Council Sponsor and Yearbook Advisor at Memorial High School
As educators, we get the opportunity to witness unbelievable transformations in our students.
questions about teaching contributions and student-learning results. “I’ve been in the district for 15 years, and I’ve met so many amazing teachers,” said Kuykendall. “We enjoy each other and like to see each other succeed.” When this year’s finalists were announced, all six reacted with surprise. Without exception, each expressed that they were humbled to be nominated by their peers. “Edmond Public Schools is a strong district with thousands of deserving teachers who do the same thing I do each and every day,” said Chelsea Agee, one of this year’s candidates. “My school family was so genuinely excited for me— it gave me a sense of pride to do my very best for them.” The Teacher of the Year winner will be announced in early April. For the next year, that person will continue to teach, while also conducting speaking engagements and representing the district in the statewide competition. “As educators, we get the opportunity to often witness unbelievable transformations in our students, as they are challenged to grow and develop a sense of self-worth,” said Tiffany Holden, Special Education Teacher. “Students have at least fifty teachers along their school journey, and I consider it an honor to get to be part of that number for them.”
‘‘ ‘‘ “I work to push my special education students to reach new heights and to have them know I value them for who they are, what they are capable of accomplishing and what they can become. My students are my driving force, and I am constantly finding myself exploring, restructuring and re-inventing my classroom so they can be bold and creative with their learning process.” —Tiffany Holden, Special Education Teacher at West Field Elementary
“The good I hope to do cannot be measured with a standard, but measured with a memory. I hope that my students look back at their time spent in my classroom with fond memories—learning taking place, constant engagement and fun. I acknowledge that students might not remember a particular math lesson that I stayed up late working on or an integrated unit that took weeks to plan, but I hope they never forget how I made them feel while they were in my class.” —Chelsea Agee, 4th Grade Teacher and Before & After Care Director at Washington Irving Elementary
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Outlook March 2014
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Rusty Dunagan was seven weeks into his second tour of combat when a bomb took almost everything but his life.
Inspir at ion
t o
Ac t ion by Heide Brandes
On September 21, 2010, Dunagan and his division were on a combat operation in Afghanistan when the man behind him stepped on a landmine. Designed to do as much damage as possible, the blast took off the soldier’s right arm and leg, but it also triggered a second bomb. A bomb directly under Dunagan’s feet. It was an explosive device designed to kill and destroy, and although Dunagan survived the blast, he woke up two weeks later in a hospital in Germany with both legs and his left arm amputated. “After I was blown up, I woke up and I just thanked God that I was alive,” said the 33-year-old Guthrie native. “I could see my wife and my kids again. Sure, it’s an adjustment for me. It’s hard, but every day, I learn something new.” With five children ranging in age from four months to 15 years old, Dunagan had to relearn his life as an amputee and disabled military vet. Years of rehab and an unwavering faith and optimism gave him the skills he needed to live a full life, but finances and the burden of being disabled made day-to-day activities a challenge. Soon those challenges will ease, thanks to not only the support of an entire community, but a famous actor with a passion to help disabled military veterans. Gary Sinise, best known for his role as Lieutenant Dan in the movie Forrest Gump, will build a custom Smart Home for the Edmond hero and his family through the Gary Sinise Foundation. Because of his family’s ties to the military, Sinise has always had a passion for helping veterans. For Dunagan and his family, the home is finally a place to call their own; and it’s a home designed especially to make Dunagan more independent as he adjusts to life’s challenges.
On March 11, The Gary Sinise Foundation will hold the Oklahoma City Inspiration to Action event, a private dinner to raise funds for the RISE Outreach Program. RISE is dedicated to “Restoring Independence and Supporting Empowerment” for America’s severely wounded veterans. Proceeds from this event will help benefit the Smart Home construction for Dunagan and his family.
INSPIR role toATION r e a l life & ACTION
Playing the amputee lieutenant in Forrest ForrestGump Gumponly onlymade made Sinise more aware of how disabled veterans suffer. Since then, he’s been a staunch advocate of veterans’ assistance. “Of course, playing an injured Vietnam vet in Forrest Gump played a part in that,” Sinise told Outlook magazine. “Through that role, the Disabled American Veterans Association contacted me and that led to my involvement with wounded veterans.”
Serving my country means everything to me. If I could do it again, I would. —Rusty Dunagan After 9-11, Sinise became even more active and helped raise funds and awareness for a memorial for fallen firefighters and police. Soon after, the New York Fire Department commissioner contacted Sinise about helping raise funds for a new home for a quadruple amputee. “I jumped on board,” Sinise said. “After that, we had another guy who was a quadruple amputee, and we decided to do a concert to raise money to build him a home too. I started the Gary Sinise Foundation three years ago, and that was a natural next step in my support of the military.” Its mission is to serve and honor our nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need by creating and supporting unique programs that entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities. Through its Building for America’s Bravest partnership, the Gary Sinise Foundation builds custom Smart Homes for severely wounded veterans. Additionally, the foundation has created many other programs that tackle specific issues for current military personnel and veterans. Being able to help Dunagan is an extension of Sinise’s passion for aiding injured soldiers. “Rusty has five kids, and he has a lot of needs. He’s given a lot for his country, and we can help Rusty have a more manageable and independent life” said Sinese. “He needed a home that would help him, his wife and kids.”
a pl ace to c a ll home
Each of the Smart Homes built by the foundation includes technology like retractable cook tops, cabinets and shelving, automated lighting, heating, air-conditioning and window treatments controlled by a tablet. Homes also include elevators, roll-in bathrooms, front-load washers and dryers, intercom systems and automated doors. All of continued on next page
outlookoklahoma.com
35
Inspiration to action, cont.
this can help restore independence in countless ways. Dunagan is excited to have a home, but his thoughts are more for his family than himself. “All the smart technology is really about taking the burden off my family and making me more independent,” said Dunagan. “Ultimately, I could get by in a tent if I had to, but I have five kids and a beautiful wife. This home will take some of the burden off her.” Dunagan’s wife, Angie, said her husband’s positive attitude and perseverance help keep the family happy and healthy. However, having a new home was something she never dreamed of. “I was so surprised when they contacted us,” she said. “I’m so grateful for what the Gary Sinise Foundation does.” The groundbreaking for the Dunagan home, located in far north Edmond on five acres will be March 12th. According to organizer Stuart Jolly, Executive Political Director at Education Freedom Alliance and a retired Lieutenant Colonel, the home is expected to be roughly 5,000 square feet and will be completed by the time Dunagan’s children start school in the fall. “The Inspiration to Action event on March 11th will feature 800 folks at a dinner that honors Rusty. Gary Sinise will be there, and we
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hope to raise enough money to build the home,” said Jolly. “We all donate and give time, but to give to something that you can see happen, to people you have met, it makes you teary-eyed.” Besides the dinner, the event will also feature a special presentation on March 10th of Forrest Gump. “It’s going to be so special to see this movie on its 20th anniversary and have Gary Sinise there,” said Jolly. Other highlights of the dinner include special donations from Jay Leno and Bill O’Reilly and other notable personalities. Individual tickets are $100 and sponsorship opportunities are available from $2,500 to $100,000. For Dunagan, the event means an easier, brighter future for him and his family. Despite his horrific injuries, Dunagan said he doesn’t regret serving in the military to keep his family and his country safe. “Serving my country means everything to me,” he said. “If I could do it again, I would. But to see people want to give back to those who sacrificed, it’s nice. It means a lot.” For more information on the Gary Sinise Foundation or the Oklahoma City Inspiration to Action event, visit garysinisefoundation.org or contact Stuart Jolly at S.Jolly@EduFreedom.org.
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by Bethany Marshall
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Jennifer Teel, Professional Princess What does it feel like to bring a child’s fantasy to life? It’s the best job in the world. It’s a blast to dress up—to be a Disney princess. Not only are you bringing joy to a child, you are bringing their dreams to life. Do you arrive to the events as the character? We arrive to almost all of the parties dressed up. I will say that traveling in princess gear has resulted in some interesting experiences. If we have to stop and get gas or something, we do it all in costume. Phones come out and pictures are snapped each time! How did you get started in princess parties? Once, I was asked to dress up as Belle for a friend’s child’s party. So I borrowed a costume and went to the party. Afterwards, I started getting requests for other parties, and I thought “Hey, that was fun!” so I kept at it. In Oklahoma, many families cannot travel to see these characters at Disney World, so we are able to spread that joy here! What kind of training do the characters go through? All my actors do research. I have packets for the actors to read through in order to get the backstory. It also has consistent answers for questions like “What’s your favorite color?” Why is all the training necessary? We don’t want to crush a child’s dreams by not knowing the story line, the other characters and songs. If we don’t know the character, the reaction swings from “I just met Princess Belle!” to “Mom just hired a nice lady to dress as Belle for my party.” Who is the most requested character? Since January, Elsa from Frozen had been a favorite. When a new movie comes out, those characters are always the most requested. Overall, the most requests are Cinderella and Rapunzel, followed by Belle. Peter Pan and Captain Jack Sparrow tend to be the most popular male characters. How do you handle “special power” requests? We have different fictional scenarios to give reason to the lack of powers. For instance, with Tinkerbell, she is usually itty bitty and can fly. The story we have behind her is that she had to use her pixie dust to make her big so that she could play with the kids. And then she only has “just enough” pixie dust left to get back to Neverland. Any favorite memories? One of the best experiences we’ve had was in the MLK parade downtown. The kids were so excited and were surrounding and hugging us. It was beautiful! We had no idea we would cause that strong of a reaction. What’s your favorite part about this business? The best thing is seeing the kids’ reactions when they see you for the first time. It never gets old. One thing that makes us different from Disney World is that we are able to spend two hours with a child and have one-on-one time while playing and singing with them. With that, we become their best friend. Are you ever looking for new princes and princesses? I get emails asking how to become a princess. We hold auditions in April and prefer to work with actors who can play multiple characters. For more information, visit foreverafterparties.com.
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