Edmond Outlook - September 2020

September 2020

Biking Around Edmond Local Eats: Lemonade House Grille

Q & A with Actor Mark Adam Goff

Saving the Little Old Houses

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Features

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ASK EDMOND

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LOCAL EATS: LEMONADE HOUSE GRILLE

It’s a rare case when the words I speak have an impact on someone’s life - at least that’s how it feels. When I replay important conversations I’ve had in the past, I think I should have used bigger words, more empathy or perhaps some research or fact-finding would have supported my point of view.

And then sometimes, you get it right.

Three decades ago, I was living six blocks from the beach in Santa Monica, CA. I had recently become unemployed and spent my days trying to figure out what I was going to do with my life and hanging around with an oddball group of friends and neighbors - also unemployed. One member of the “looking for work” crew was Dean. Dean seemed to have girlfriend problems quite often that would then turn to drinking-too-much problems.

On this one afternoon, Dean came to me upset and told me all about what she did, and that he’s had it up to here with her. And that he was going to the liquor store - as soon as it opened. I told him, why don’t you try not going to the liquor store this time - not exactly words of wisdom, merely a suggestion. I honestly don’t have any recollection of the conversation. But Dean remembered it vividly because he emailed me last month, recounted the exchange and thanked me for that incredibly simple moment of advice. That pivotal exchange of words turned into the beginning of his long term abstinence from alcohol. Crazy.

I’m not taking credit for Dean’s life change, he told me he had joined a 12-step program and done a lot of work to change how he lived. I’m just left thinking that our words have impact and a little kindness and caring, or even a little obvious advice from a friend can help someone. You never know.

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Where were you when the Edmond Outlook debuted 15 years ago this month?

Family serving up freshly squeezed lemonade and American cuisine BLUE STAR MOTHERS

Providing support to active-duty members of the military SAVING THE LITTLE OLD HOUSES

Chapman rehabilitates local, neglected houses in downtown Edmond STITCHING FAMILY STORIES

Helping preserve treasured family memories through quilt restoration BIKING AROUND EDMOND

40 miles of dedicated bicycling trails criss-cross the city

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VICTORY COTTAGE

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Q & A WITH MARK ADAM GOFF

900 sqft fundraiser home in Parade of Homes Local indie film actor shares passion for the craft

Business 22

KENNEDY TIRE & AUTO SERVICE

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MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT

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EILEEN’S COLOSSAL COOKIES

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Providing top-quality auto repair

Delicious self-serve yogurt and treats Melt-in-your-mouth cookies for any occasion BLOCWORKS

Climbing gym & activity center for kids of all ages

Columns

Dave Miller Back40 Design President

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RECIPE: TEFF CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

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LOUISE TUCKER JONES

Cover photography by Marshall Hawkins

A tasty twist to the classic chocolate chip cookie If I Could Have ‘Do Overs’

ADVERTISING l 405-301-3926 l sales@edmondoutlook.com MAILED MONTHLY TO 50,000 HOMES IN THE EDMOND AREA 1024 W Covell, Edmond, OK 73003 l 405-341-5599 l edmondoutlook.com l info@edmondoutlook.com September 2020 Volume 16, Number 9

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Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc.

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© 2020 Back40 Design, Inc.

PUBLISHER Dave Miller l EDITOR Jennay Wangen l ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Angie Clemens Byers l GRAPHIC DESIGN Adrian Townsend, Anne Richardson PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com l DISTRIBUTION Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond area homes.

Articles and advertisements in the Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Back40 Design. Back40 Design does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by the Outlook does not constitute endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

LOCALLOOK

Ask Edmond

Where were you 15 years ago when the first issue of the Edmond Outlook debuted?

Dave Miller Publisher

Louise Tucker Jones Columnist

I had just moved into the Chimney Hill neighborhood. I had kids in elementary and middle school, and I was raising a grandbaby. The Back40 office was sparsely furnished and located on Memorial near Bryant (the space is now a dispensary). We were busy working on our second Edmond Outlook publication.

I was living in Edmond with my husband, Carl, and our youngest son, Jay. I was juggling a speaking and writing career and excited to join the Edmond Outlook team. But mostly, I was celebrating the birth of my beautiful granddaughter, Alexandria, and earning my new name of GrammiLou.

Adrian Townsend Graphic Designer

Angie Clemens Byers Account Executive

Jennay Wangen Editor

In 2005, I discovered what I wanted my career to be and changed my major to Studio Art at OSU. Most of my time was spent in class, working at Lowes, and with Amy, my wife of two years. I may have also spent a little too much time playing Halo 2 online with friends.

Fifteen years ago I was living in Edmond and working for a promotional products company. I didn’t have kids, yet, and still slept in on Saturdays. Ha! Life is completely different now and I am incredibly thankful!

I was just starting my last year of middle school. I felt so cool because I had just gotten my first cell phone and finally had contacts instead of glasses.

Glasses didn’t have the same cool factor they do now.

Edmond Outlook, first edition, September 2005. Here’s where the current Outlook team was 15 years (or 180 issues) ago.

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FOODLOOK FEATURELOOK

By Katie Standlee

Lemonade House Grille Freshly squeezed lemonade and American cuisine

Dennis, Mark, & Linda Grimes

Walking into the open, wooden-clad restaurant feels reminiscent of walking into your family’s home for dinner.

Filled with antique-fixtures and windows, the genuine pocket doors are from an 1875 Kansas farmhouse. The walls are decked with creative and whimsical decor. Guests are in for a real treat as this antique-chic restaurant serves up freshly squeezed lemonade and American cuisine.

Dennis, Linda and their son Mark Grimes took interest in this new restaurant concept in 2017. After feeling the warmth and energy the restaurant had, they knew they had to bring Lemonade House Grille to Edmond.

Lemonade with a Twist Lemonade served over ice in a tall mason Jar glass is the restaurant’s specialty.

Providing a variety of over 20 mixtures with their freshly squeezed beverage, guests are sure to find a flavor they’ll love. Linda said some of the current customer favorites are the Cherry Bomb with cherry pomegranate and lime, and the Mango Tango with peach and mango. Another favorite for kids and adults, is the Gummy Bear, bursting with blue raspberry and gummy bears.

Craving the original, tart classic? Customers can always opt for an old fashioned lemonade. The restaurant also offers sugar-free options. From time-to-time, themed lemonades shine. Bedlam lemonades and the Rumbling Thunder, a mixture of orange and huckleberry, are a hit among regulars and sports fans alike.

Updated American Classics From the open-face bar to the customer’s table or home, the lemonade is not the restaurant’s only bright spot in the community. The menu features more than 20 specialty 10

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burgers, including the 3-Cheese Mac-N-Cheeseburger, Maui Burger, Memphis King, and Philly Cheesesteak Burger. There is something for everybody: hot dogs, chicken tenders, tacos, quesadillas, salads, kids meals, fresh cut curly fries, onion rings, fried pickles and more.

Taco entrees are $2 off on Taco Tuesday, and from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, kids eat free. Drinks are half off during happy hour from 2-4 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday.

The restaurant’s bacon jam and homemade sauces set them apart from other burger restaurants in the area. Linda said, “one crown jewel is the maple mustard sauce, which is served alongside our waffle chicken bites.”

A Family Business Linda and Dennis have been married for 40 years, and before opening Lemonade House Grille, they owned and operated a food concession business called Kelli’s Kurlies & More. Linda has history working as a nurse auditor for Medicaid, and Dennis still works at Globe Marketing. He plans to keep the restaurant going strong with his family. Mark worked in restaurants for many years before becoming General Manager.

To maintain current safety guidelines, the restaurant utilizes QR Codes to provide touchless menus, keeps every other table empty and sanitizes regularly. The reservable room is available for parties and is free to reserve. Curb-side pickup and delivery is available through DoorDash, Grubhub and UberEats.

For more information visit www.lemonadehousegrille.com or Lemonade House Grille Edmond on Facebook.

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FEATURELOOK

Blue Star Mothers

By Amy Dee Stephens

Kim McCulley knows how unpredictable deployment can be for a family. Her husband, sons and children’s spouses have served military time. The pandemic added a new kind of uncertainty, however, when her son “got stuck” in Iraq.

“He was in a remote place, and the supply tent ran out of toiletries. I couldn’t get mail to him, and sometimes the Wi-Fi didn’t work,” Kim said. “When you know there’s nothing you can do to keep your kid safe—you want to help someone else’s kid.”

Kim decided to join Blue Star Mothers of America to provide support to active-duty members of the military. The patriotic organization started the World War II custom of hanging a service flag in windows, with a blue star for each family member serving in the war.

“I joined the local chapter last year when my youngest son joined the Army and was stationed in Alaska. I felt so restless and had empty nest syndrome,” Kim said. “Blue Star Mothers has been a good support group for me, because we check on each other about our family members.”

Sending Care Packages Providing service to the troops is the main activity of Blue Star Mothers. Care packages are regularly assembled, and Kim’s chapter in Edmond sends 140 boxes to military people in three locations.

“Lots of military personnel are stationed in the boonies, without access to much—so they depend on people sending them basic items,” Kim said “We’re not knitting stockings anymore like the women did during World War II, but they do appreciate socks and toiletries.”

Each Christmas, Kim’s chapter hosts a much-anticipated Soldier’s Day Out. Soldiers stationed at Fort Sill who are unable to go home are bused to Oklahoma City for a day of holiday cheer, which includes caroling, museum tours, and lots of food.

“We go out of our way to be a mom-figure to them, because some of them are homesick and some have little home support, so it’s nice to know that we can encourage them.”

Personal Service Projects Last year, Kim formed her own project by creating Christmas stockings for every soldier in her son’s company who was deployed. She gathered donations, and a boy scout troop helped with the stuffing. She received a letter from the Sergeant, who said that the stockings had been delivered to all the guard towers on Christmas morning. Kim felt gratified that they had some form of holiday love and spirit while serving on duty.

At each Blue Star Mothers meeting, members share their personal situations and plan for the next service project—but there is always the sobering moment when the list of military deaths is read. “That’s especially hard. It’s sobering to be constantly aware of the sacrifices that soldiers are making and what families are going through. That’s why it feels so good to know I’m doing something to help another mother’s son or daughter have a better day. I know, because my son is out there right now.”

Contact bsm4edmond@gmail.com to learn more.

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FEATURELOOK

Saving the “Little Old Houses”

By Amy Dee Stephens

David Chapman walks four miles through downtown Edmond every morning. Not only does this keep him connected to the town he loves, he’s checking on the many properties that he owns in the area. He specializes in historic real estate, but his niche is unique, because he and his wife, Julie, love to restore “little old houses” that are old, neglected and unnoticed—places that most people would demolish and rebuild.

“One or two room homes along the railroad have made great Airbnb homes for us. Our sweet spot seems to be buildings from 1905 to 1920. I really like that time-period, and people love staying in them.”

He recently bought two houses on West Edwards Street that were little more than shacks. One was empty and boarded up, and the other had so much termite damage that David described the wood as cardboard. “The value is that this street is the only place that African Americans were allowed to live at the turn-of-the-century, so there’s a story in that architecture,” David said.

“I wish the walls could talk. Unfortunately, the only thing holding up the walls was the roof, so we jacked it up, re-poured the foundation, pulled the walls over, and screwed the baseboard into the new foundation.”

David finds that each building has some redeeming feature.

One of his properties still has the tiny detached garage built for a Model-T Ford; others have great hardwood floors or sliding pocket doors. Once a building is done, he and Julie decorate it with period pieces they find at antique stores.

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“I’m not a stickler about keeping everything original,” David said. “I like to keep the buildings’ footprints, but sometimes aspects are unusable or a maintenance nightmare.”

He once saved a two-story house with an original one-way light switch on the stairway. “Renters kept calling to tell me that the stair light didn’t work, not realizing that you had to turn it on or off at the same location.” So he replaced it with a modern twoway switch.

Currently, David is restoring a property along Boulevard that has been empty for years, but it has two redeeming qualities: a stone fireplace in the center and its location along Boulevard with a creek running behind it. Although the building was completely rotten, David is recreating it wall-by-wall in order to create a vintage-style retail space that he describes as “micro-retail,” with three sections that can be rented by smallspace businesses.

“I’m trying to save it because it’s a great location in a walkable area. The challenge is to retain character, and at the same time, modernize it to make it relevant to today’s generation,” David said. It’s a concept he reflects upon often as a member of Edmond’s City Council; trying to move the city forward while retaining its small-town charm.

“We have unbelievable architecture and history in this town, and we shouldn’t lose sight of where we came from,” David said. Every morning as he walks the streets, he marvels at the gorgeous old schools and the growing number of art sculptures.

And he sees something “new and intriguing” every day--even if it’s a little old house that no one else would bother to save.

Visit www.realty1ok.com to learn more.

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FEATURELOOK

Stitching Family Stories

By Amy Dee Stephens

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The value of a family’s hand-pieced quilt is measured by memory. Martha Spark specializes in helping people restore these important heirlooms so that the story can carry on for future generations. With a thirty-year background in the museum field, Martha’s work goes much deeper than that of a skilled seamstress—she does detailed textile restoration in her home studio.

“Right now, I’m working on a quilt made of various feed sack patches from the 1920s,” Martha said. “Two of the fabrics have become so fragile that they’re almost non-existent, so I’m restoring those patches with pieces from my stash of original period fabrics.”

Martha spent six months on a 1950s butterfly-block quilt in which a family member had cut up the bottom two-thirds to make teddy bears. Luckily, another family member rescued remnants of the original fabric, so Martha is reattaching the missing portion.

Martha’s goal is to make the quilts look whole again, in a way that no one can detect her work from the creator’s work. It’s a technique revealed to her in the basement of a museum. “An elderly gentleman, working amidst shelves of liquids and tools, had a small-scale sailboat made of rosewood with motherof-pearl inlay. He said to me, ‘See if you can find the areas I restored.’ I looked closely and never found any. That was the moment I knew I wanted to be that invisible individual who restored objects.”

Her tools of invisibility include small needles, scissors, and a variety of surgical instruments. “Quilt restoration is a lot like doing surgery, except on fabric instead of flesh. It’s precise, microscopic work that can involve snipping one tiny thread. It harkens me back to my early days at a natural history museum when I was helping mount mollusk radula (a structure like a tongue) onto specimen slides.”

After working in museums around the country, from natural history museums to the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, Martha is very aware of the power of a single object, big or small. “When you spend years working intimately with objects, you can’t help but be drawn to them. I enjoy knowing these things are tied to a past era.”

Few quilt projects have affected Martha as much as a fourpatch polyester quilt from the 1970s owned by a man in hospice care. “It wasn’t a valuable quilt, but it was special to him. His mom had made it from family clothing scraps. His request was that the quilt be laid on him in his casket at his funeral.”

Martha still becomes emotional as she remembers working long hours to restore the quilt in time. “The outer edges were stained and frayed from use. I had to rush at the end, because he passed away sooner than expected. I later received a picture of the family members holding the quilt at his service. I have so much satisfaction at having worked on the material object that sent him into the next world,” Martha said. “It’s rewarding to help folks save their family textile heirlooms, and I plan to continue as long as I possibly can.”

To learn more, email mspark@frii.com, Instagram @quiltrestor4all or Facebook.com/martha.spark.12

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FEATURELOOK

By Maggie Murdock Nichols

Biking Around Edmond Did you know there are more than 40 miles of multi use trails in Edmond? In fact, you could travel nearly the breadth and width of our city by bike using sanctioned trails. With ever improving infrastructure and growing interest, Edmond is a local cycling haven and has become a cycling destination with a notable bike tour on the horizon.

The Association of Central Oklahoma Government’s (ACOG) pedestrian count revealed that cycling in Edmond increased 115% percent in May 2020. In times of pandemic, weekday cycling has remained flat while weekend cycling has skyrocketed.

Arcadia Lake’s Spring Creek Trail provided adventure for more than 80,000 pedestrians and cyclists from March to August 2020. It’s clear that Edmond is eager to experience the outdoors, and many have chosen cycling as the preferred activity. ACOG’s Jordan Evans is thrilled to see the increase in cycling but cautions, “There are many new, less experienced cyclists on the roads.

It’s important for drivers to be extra cautious and patient when passing or encountering a cyclist.”

A Rekindled Romance or Newly Discovered Love As the pandemic required distancing and extra time at home, Edmond residents went the distance on two wheels. For some, cycling was routine; for others, cycling was discovered as a way to get out of the house.

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Duncan family enjoying Edmond bike trails

Henry Holasek, owner of Al’s Bicycles, says in his 35 years of ownership, he’s never seen a boom like this. He says, “After a month of being closed, it was like a feeding frenzy, everyone wanted a new bike. We saw a lot of people dragging their bikes out of their garages. They needed new tires, tubes, helmets and other gear.” Henry is thrilled to see the increased interest in cycling and remains committed to taking care of Edmond’s cyclists.

Infrastructure with Intention Since 2006, the members of the Edmond Bicycle Committee have played a vital role in making Edmond safer and more inviting for cyclists. The City of Edmond Planning Department remains committed to identifying and addressing the needs of the urban cyclists and those who ride for leisure.

Jason Duncan, an avid cyclist and advocate, commends the City of Edmond for their commitment to alternative transit.

“Cycling is for everybody. It’s for those interested in fitness and endurance and also for families to get to parks and enjoy the outdoors. These trails provide a place for me to ride with my kids and a place to safely get to dinner, work, and parks, or even complete a 15-20 mile ride.” Jason also affirms, the progress made for the good of Edmond cycling is something to be celebrated.

Edmond Bike Trails Mitch Park Trail features a 2.8 mile paved outer trail with 1.8 miles of inner trails.

Fink-Hafer Trail’s 1 mile path leads through lush forest and shade to Hafer Park.

Hafer Trail offers a 1.7 mile ride through the park among towering trees.

Bickham-Rudkin Trail takes cyclists through an urban pollinator prairie on it’s 1.25 mile trail which connects to Eagle Trail.

Eagle Trail circles 2.5 miles around Oklahoma Christian’s campus.

Arcadia Lake Park holds a 6.5 mile multi-use trail, which is great for mountain bikers.

Spring Creek Trail is 2.5 miles with dedicated cycling and pedestrian lanes.

The Route 66 Trail, a project led by ODOT, is part of the overall plan to complete a trail system around Arcadia and is expected to open this fall.

For more information and maps go to www.edmondok.com/418/Trails

Edmond Cycling Events Edmond Cycle 66, a rural and urban bicycling tour, will begin in Edmond and lead cyclists 10, 33 or 66 miles along Route 66. The virtual kick off and route announcement for the tour is planned for November 11. Cyclists are encouraged to sign up for the tour to be held in Spring 2021.

Bike to Work Day will be held on Friday, the 25th at the Festival Marketplace. Social distanced festivities will begin at 7:30am and a short celebratory ride will take place at 7:45am.

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FRESHLOOK

Teff Chocolate Chip Cookies These are one of my all-time favorite cookies, and they came about by complete accident. I impulse-bought teff flour while on a failed search for rye, threw it in cookies, and my life was changed forever. The hearty teff makes a perfect pair with another ingredient I adore, Valrhona chocolate feves. Valrhona is a high-quality chocolate made in France. Most of my favorite chocolate shops seem to use Valrhona as the foundation for their recipes. I love the elevated flavor and unique oval shape of the feves. They’re a lovely substitute for regular chocolate chips.

I always keep a bag on hand for extra-special recipes, and this is one of them. Give these a try for your Labor Day celebrations!

Ingredients Makes about 2 dozen cookies • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened • 1-3/4 cups brown sugar, packed • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1 large egg • 1-1/4 cups teff flour • 1 cup all-purpose flour

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1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 2 cups chocolate feves or chocolate bar squares, bittersweet (around 66%) • coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Directions: 1. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the vanilla and egg and beat until well combined.

3. In a clean bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix until just combined. Stir in the chocolate.

5. Chill the dough for 30-60 minutes.

6. Heat the oven to 350F. Use a cookie scoop and place each ball of dough about 2 inches apart, with dough on the bottom and chocolate peeking out of the top. Bake for about 14 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Immediately sprinkle lightly with coarse sea salt. Let cool.

Gina is a long-time food blogger, Back40 Design web developer and professional eater. Find more of her recipes on her Instagram @gina.chong.

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BIZLOOK

Kennedy Tire & Auto Service

By Maria Veres

Kennedy Tire & Auto Service works on 10,000 vehicles every year. But you’re never just a number at this 46-year-old, locally owned business. Owner Tad Kennedy maintains a deep commitment to meeting the individual needs of each customer.

Quality, Integrity, and Honesty “Our core philosophy is helping people,” says Tad, who has owned the family business since 1987. They service all makes of cars and trucks. Each job repair or installation includes a warranty of 48 months or 50,000 miles, far beyond what

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most dealers and repair shops provide.

“We’re able to offer that because we invest in high quality parts and service,” says Tad. Some drivers hesitate to use an independent local shop in case their car breaks down away from home. Tad addressed this concern by joining an alliance with auto and tire centers across the nation—55,000 in all. Customers can take their vehicle to any location within this huge network.

As another way of taking care of customers, Kennedy Tire & Auto offers extended warranties for new and used vehicles. It’s a more comprehensive, lowercost option than the plans offered by dealers. Tad developed this new program himself, along with a group of partners.

Caring for Customers in a Pandemic Kennedy Tire & Auto has developed extreme safety and cleanliness measures to protect customers and employees.

They offer contactless and low-contact options for dropping off or picking up cars.

Technicians wear gloves and masks while they’re handling vehicles.

Tad Kennedy, owner To help customers who are struggling during the pandemic, the business just unrolled new financing options. They now offer seven different plans and will work with customers to find the best fit.

When COVID-19 is behind us, Tad and his team will continue to do what they’ve always done best—put customers first.

“We have opportunities every day to go beyond what people expect,” says Tad. “Customers aren’t having a good day when their car breaks down. Our goal is to turn it around and make it a good day.”

Visit Kennedy Tire & Auto Service at 530 West Edmond Road and online at kennedytireauto.com.

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

If you’ve been missing your favorite frozen yogurt treats, there’s no need to deprive yourself any longer. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt has fully reopened, with safe dine-in and take-out options—all at pre-pandemic prices.

Menchie’s has always been meticulous about cleanliness and safety, and now they’ve raised the bar even higher. Selfserve yogurt dispenser handles are re-sanitized after every group of guests.

Toppings come pre-packaged in closed containers. Guests sanitize their hands upon entering, employees wear masks, and the restaurant complies with all local safety rules. “People can be assured that everything is clean and safe,” says owner and operator Melissa Tarpley.

Menchie’s fundraisers are also returning this fall. For every customer who mentions a school or group on its designated fundraising day, Menchie’s donates twenty percent of sales back to the group.

Serving Edmond Safely In business since 2012, Menchie’s is a popular gathering spot for families, parties, sports teams, and other groups.

Tables in the large dine-in area have been placed farther apart so guests can safely distance. For people who prefer outdoor dining, the spacious, shaded patio also allows room to spread out.

Healthy and Delicious All Menchie’s yogurt is sourced from the same dairy in California, so the taste and quality stay consistent. The yogurt contains live and active cultures, delivering the health benefits of probiotics with every bite. The menu always includes dairy-free and low-sugar varieties. “If you’re looking for a sweet treat that won’t

By Maria Veres

BIZLOOK

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt blow your diet, we’re a far better option than ice cream,” says Melissa.

Guests can also enjoy Menchie’s yogurt in the form of a three-layer frozen cake. It includes two layers of yogurt, optional toppings, and a cake layer in the middle. Flavors and toppings are fully customizable, making the 8-inch round cakes a great addition to any party or celebration.

Menchie’s is open year round, seven days a week. Flavors rotate regularly and include seasonal specials, so every visit is a new adventure.

Visit Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt at 205 S. Santa Fe Ave. or online at menchies.com.

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BIZLOOK

Eileen’s Colossal Cookies

By Maria Veres

If you live in or near Edmond, you’ve probably enjoyed Eileen’s Colossal Cookies at events and parties. But you may not know these tempting, melt-in-your-mouth treats are made from scratch right here in town. Linda and Rick Engel, owners of the Edmond Eileen’s franchise, have been supplying the community with their favorite cookies for almost two decades.

Sweet Success Linda became a fan of Eileen’s cookies while living in Nebraska, where the franchise is headquartered. When the couple moved to Oklahoma for Rick’s work

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as a Thoroughbred racehorse trainer, she realized Edmond would be a perfect place for an Eileen’s store.

At first, Linda assumed the dough was pre-made at headquarters. She got a shock when franchise founder Eileen Harman briefed her on the mixers and other equipment she needed. “I told Rick, ‘We may have gotten ourselves in a little trouble here,’” Linda recalls. But their venture paid off. The Edmond location became a top-selling store, and the Engels later opened a second location in Nichols Hills.

Every cookie is mixed, baked, iced, and decorated by Linda and her team. One secret to their popularity is the quality of ingredients. “We don’t skimp,” says Linda.

“We buy top-label ingredients. I think that’s one reason we’ve done so well.”

Parties, Fundraisers, and More Customers can purchase individual cookies at the Edmond and Nichols Hills stores, or they can place custom orders for fundraisers and events. Cookies can be decorated with team colors or a variety of

Linda Engel, Eileen’s Colossal Cookies

designs. The store also sells pre-packaged frozen cookie dough for fundraisers.

Along with the high quality of their product, the Engels take pride in providing many jobs for Edmond residents.

Dozens of local high-school students and homeschoolers have received their first work experience at the bakery. Some adult employees stay on for years.

“I want to thank everyone for giving us their business,” says Linda. “Edmond and the surrounding towns have been very good to us.”

Visit Eileen’s Colossal Cookies at 1333 N. Santa Fe, Suite 103 in Edmond or online at eileenscookies.com.

Blocworks Climbing Community

By Maria Veres

Most of us will never stand on Everest.

But now Edmond residents can enjoy the rewards of climbing without ever leaving town. Blocworks Climbing offers rock-wall adventures for climbers of all ability levels.

Rising to the Challenge Blocworks focuses on bouldering, or ropes-free climbing. There’s no special equipment except climbing shoes, which can be rented. The rock walls have thick pads below them to cushion any falls.

Climbing may seem intimidating, but almost anyone can learn the basics. Each Blocworks course is marked with a unique color-coding system according to difficulty.

Courses change at least once a week, so the climbs never grow stale.

Bouldering is a great full-body workout.

It also hones patience, problem-solving skills, and persistence. Climbers learn how to fail and how to handle fear. “I think the mental benefits are even greater than the physical benefits,” says Evan Small, who co-owns Blocworks with his wife Mariah.

Adventures for All Ages Evan and Mariah have a special place in their hearts for young adults. Their goal is to make Blocworks not just a climbing gym, but a supportive community. The facilities include a spacious patio where people can socialize, sip a nonalcoholic beverage, or use the free wi-fi to work.

For climbers who want to try bouldering outdoors, the Smalls will lead free community outings to prime bouldering sites around Oklahoma this fall.

For younger climbers, the gym is launching recreational youth programs with the goal of forming a competitive team. Through these programs, the

BIZLOOK

Blocworks on S. Broadway Smalls hope to give children and teens a rewarding lifelong skill. The gym also offers “Little Blocs” sessions for the eightand-under crowd.

Although Blocworks only opened in February—a month before the pandemic forced gyms to close—Evan and Mariah are already building the community they envision. On a typical evening, Evan loves to see climbers not only scaling walls, but also chatting on the pads or relaxing on the patio. “It’s a very unique atmosphere,” he says. “We feel blessed to provide that.”

Blocworks is located in Edmond at 104 S. Broadway and online at climbblocworks.com.

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FEATURELOOK

From left to right: Jenny Landes, Michelle Gregory, Ford Duncan, Caleb McCaleb, Terri McCaleb, Kylie Byford

Victory Cottage:

Fundraiser home for sale in Parade of Homes

By Katie Standlee Vying for the heart of a new homeowner in this year’s Parade of Homes is the Victory Cottage from Turning Point Ministries and McCaleb Homes.

The home is located in Legacy Station, Turning Point Ministries’ first neighborhood, next to the playground at 308 Victory Road.

The 900 square foot home is listed for sale at $199,900 in the Parade of Homes as a fundraiser, with all of the funds benefiting Turning Point Ministries.

Tour the Home Living and relaxing are easy in this Modern Farmhouse home called the “Victory Cottage.” This charming, cozy cottage welcomes guests into the entry that flows into the living room and oversized kitchen to make entertaining a breeze. The living room has a vaulted ceiling accented with beams and an abundance of natural light from the windows. Guests will be in awe of the Pinterest-worthy kitchen with a large island, quartz veined countertops, matte black pendants, farm sink, olive green beveled subway tile and an adorable barn door on the pantry.

Modern staircase railing leads you to the open concept bedroom loft that is highlighted with shiplap!

The Victory Cottage will be showcased in the Parade of Homes from 1-7 p.m. everyday from September 19-27.

Building Affordable Edmond Housing Turning Point Ministries is a local faith-based nonprofit, and was founded in 2008 by Bob Turner, Dick Freeman, and John

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Gruel. The organization builds affordable housing for families in Edmond.

The Victory Cottage is the first fundraiser home they have built, but they hope to spread word about their mission and sell the home before the Parade’s end. This home is completely open to the public, and the proceeds go toward building more homes for Turning Point Ministry clients.

The nonprofit’s Executive Director Michelle Gregory said 80% of everything done on the home was donated, and the build increases property value for current Legacy Station homeowners.

Jenny Landes, member of the board of directors for Turning Point Ministries, said, “Our mission is to provide a hand-up to homeownership.” Families who qualify take required financial and homeowner classes and donate 200 hours into the home’s build.

“Edmond is an expensive place to live, and there just are not a lot of homes in the price range we offer,” Jenny adds. “Certainly not brand new homes with new appliances and new roofs, so I think we fill a niche for people that have a modest income and work really hard.”

Turning Point Ministries has two neighborhoods, Legacy Station and Heritage Village, and plans for a third are in the works.

McCaleb Homes is a family-owned business with a long history as a builder in Oklahoma City metro. They have built other homes to benefit non-profit organizations, including a home they built two years ago for the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Caleb said the focus of McCaleb Homes is on what they can give back. “The best way for us to give back is to provide a sense of place.” That’s what he hopes for this home and the funds raised.

For more information about Turning Point Ministries visit www.turningpointoklahoma.org or about McCaleb Homes visit www.mccalebhomes.com.

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ALOOKBACK

If I Could Have ‘Do Overs’

suddenly experienced loss all over again.

The pain that ripped my heart open at his death suddenly returned with a vengeance. The grief wails that I never voiced for fear of upsetting my children now poured from my soul and my lips. I

By Louise Tucker Jones was plunged into new mourning, not just from losing Carl’s ring, but from missing Last month, I lost my late husband’s my husband of 45 years. wedding band. A ring he had worn since In the years since Carl’s death, I have the day I placed it on his finger in a little thought of hundreds of things I might Army chapel 54 years ago. He was being do differently if I could have ‘Do Overs.’ I deployed overseas for a year and half would always kiss him goodbye, even for and we were determined to get married grocery shopping. I would tell him how before he left. much I respected him and thank him for The ring symbolized both our marriage fixing all sorts of things and for keeping and our “forever love” for each other. It gas in my car. never came off his finger until a tragic I would cuddle more on the sofa, in Sunday morning in ICU when Carl took spite of our kids teasing, and cherish his last breath on earth and his first in each whispered sentiment. I would heaven. It was then that I slipped his write more love notes, sing more songs, wedding ring from his finger onto mine and dance more to our Golden Oldies. and have worn it these nine years without I would remind him what a wonderful him. father he was to our children and how I have no idea when his ring slipped glad I was that God chose him for my from my index finger. All I know is that I husband.

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You see, I actually did all these things, but if I had ‘Do Overs,’ I would do them more often with more gratitude and joy in just being together. And if it were possible, I would love even deeper, hug harder, kiss longer and hold the memory of his laughter in my heart forever.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows.

LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.

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FEATURELOOK

Q&A with Actor Mark Adam Goff Interview By Maggie Murdock Nichols

Mark Adam Goff was born in a hospital above Edmond’s Broncho movie theatre. Was the location of Mark’s grand entrance a premonition of what lay ahead for him? Mark gives us an inside look at his acting career and what to watch for next.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Edmond. I graduated from Edmond High School in 1979.

Was acting a lifelong dream?

I was always intrigued by acting. As children, my cousins and I would put on shows. I would often watch actors on T.V. and jokingly say, “I could do better.”

How did your acting career begin?

My wife, son and I were in Guthrie, OK and saw a line of people. We went over and discovered they were waiting to sign up as potential extras in a film. We put our names down and had our photos taken as a sort of “I will if you will” family dare. I got a call back, my wife and son did not.

What was your “first big break?”

I don’t think I’ve had my big break, yet (he laughs). The first film I appeared in was The Gray Man as an extra. A notable role I played was Steven Avery in Murder Made Me Famous. It had an international reach and gave me great exposure. I’ve played roles in various Indie films and Oklahoma made films.

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What projects are you looking forward to?

I recently joined the Screen Actors Guild in hopes of broadening my horizons. Casting should begin soon for a notable Oklahoma film, and I really hope to make it. I am scheduled to shoot Out of Exile directed by local filmmaker Kyle Kauwika Harris later this fall.

Tell us about your life outside of acting?

Well, I have a fulltime job as a Project Superintendent for Lippert Brothers. I’ve worked with them for 37 years. I use my vacation time to film, so I haven’t had a lot of downtime. Acting doesn’t feel like work to me. I can’t believe I get paid to do it!

What do you love most about acting?

It’s hard to describe. I feel a sense of euphoria. I love character development, getting to be who I’m not if just for a while.

Who would you like to work with?

The opportunity to work with Robert Duvall is high on my bucket list. I’ve gotten to work with some really great people like Travis Fimmel (before he was Ragnar on Vikings), Martin Landau, and Barry Corbin. I enjoy working with other Oklahoma locals. I will work with Ryan Merriman later this fall.

Any advice for an aspiring actor that may be reading this?

You are capable of more than you think you are. Be open to opportunities and accept feedback. Training definitely helps, but it’s not necessarily a prerequisite to landing your first role.

What has led you to stay in Edmond?

My family has deep roots in Edmond, my grandmother once owned the Wide Awake Cafe. I’ve seen tremendous growth in my time here. I chose to raise my two sons here, and they’ve chosen to raise my six grandkids here as well. It just feels like home. I like the pace here. One of my favorite places is the Edmond Farmers Market.

To learn more, follow Mark at www.facebook.com/mark.a.goff

1024 W Covell Rd., Edmond, OK 73003