Simply Amish
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Builders Sale Ends September 27th
optional with self-storing butterfly leaf
Outstanding craftsmanship, friendly service & fine furniture.
3415 N. May | 942-1985 | www.haggardsfinefurniture.com Quality, American-Made Solid Woods
Free metro delivery - including Edmond! Mon-Fri to2014 6pm & Sat 9:30am to 5pm 2 Outlook9:30am September
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AND OUR #1 MISSION IS FIGHTING WOMEN’S #1 CAUSE OF DEATH
As women, we feel responsible for the well-being of our families, but keeping our kids healthy starts with our health. Many of us count calories, get regular exercise and never miss our yearly wellness exams, but you might have overlooked the largest threat to your health – heart disease. We tend to think of heart disease as a man’s disease, but the fact is it kills more women each year than anything else. And for women, the symptoms are different: in addition to chest pain, shortness of breath and upper body pain, unshakable fatigue and sleeplessness can also be signs of a heart attack. Whether you’re a patient of INTEGRIS Health Edmond or Lakeside Women’s Hospital, you have access to cardiologists from INTEGRIS Heart Hospital, and you can make an appointment now to see a cardiologist at either location. To schedule an appointment at the location most convenient for you, call 405.951.2277.
INTEGRIS Health Edmond lakeside-wh.com
integrisok.com/edmond-heart 405.951.2277
Building lasting
relationships
in the Community Ron Witherspoon is known to quote the Arvest mission, “People helping people find financial solutions for life.” He’s also known to hand you his card with an offer to help. Those are two of the many reasons Arvest Bank is pleased to welcome Ron as our new Oklahoma City President. Since joining Arvest in 1997, Ron’s work in Oklahoma and Arkansas has proven his dedication to that mission. He believes in building relationships and those relationships build a better community with one financially solvent family, company, or individual at a time. Join us in welcoming Ron and his wife Nicole to Central Oklahoma.
www.arvest.com
4
Outlook September 2014
Join us for
September 10 – October 29
Downtown Edmond Community Center - 28 E. Main, Edmond Catered Meal 5:30-6:30, $5 per person. Classes at 6:30
Mommy & Me Class
This class is designed to be a fun way for mom and child to get away and have FUN togetherl We have a great lineup of local storytellers, musicians and a few surprises in store! Open to moms, dads, step-parents & grandparents, Ages 12mo- 4yo. Space is limited. Register at stlukesedmond.org.
Classes for the entire family: Adult Bible Studies, Youth Activities, Kids 4yo-5th grade
Meeting Sundays at Sequoyah Middle School, 1125 E. Danforth Sunday School 9:30am. Worship 11am.
stlukesedmond.org | 285-2002
Nursery & Sunday School for birth–5th grade
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Armstrong
C O N C E R T – G O I N G
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Outlook September 2014
A S
Auditorium
I T ’ S
M E A N T
T O
B E
September 2014
Here’s a story about ALS with no buckets of ice water, no YouTube and no potential to go viral. It’s a story about my dad, Winfield Miller. My parents divorced when I was very young, so my memories begin with spending weekends with my dad. He was a musician. He could play anything—but the trumpet was his favorite. I remember how quickly his fingers would tap the pearl covered valves. And how his cheeks would puff out really big when he played. Over the years I remember father-son vacations, playing frisbee in the park, building models, fishing, hanging out at the studio where he taught and going to movies—even him giving me a few boxing lessons. When I was in 7th grade, something changed. We wouldn’t play frisbee or go to the park as much. I noticed my dad was having trouble getting in and out of his car. He was moving slower—more deliberately. After he dropped me off one Sunday afternoon, my mom told me she needed to speak with me. I could see she was upset. She explained to me that my dad had a disease. It was called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. I could never remember the name—but I always remembered the letters, ALS. She told me it was fatal. It was a lot to take in. Visits with my dad became less frequent as he sought treatment. I remember when he’d come to the door to pick me up—he’d use two canes, then months later he’d use arm crutches and not long after that I’d just go meet him at the car. Our weekends together turned to day visits. He couldn’t play music anymore, but we’d listen to records. We’d talk less. Venturing out became troublesome. I remember us going to the movie, Jaws. My dad was moving slow and we were running late. The theater was dark as we were getting to our seats. My dad fell trying to get settled. Some kind movie-goers helped get him back in his seat. That was our last visit out. I didn’t see my dad for a while after that. When I did see him, my mom would drive me to his place and pick me up. We’d play chess, he’d tell me Army stories about Korea or we’d just watch some shows. He couldn’t walk anymore. That’s how the visits went for a while. The disease had robbed him of his physique, his ability to make music and eventually the simple ability to play chess with his son. He was trapped inside a failing body. He was gaunt, his voice was raspy. The last time I saw my dad, all he could do was look around. He was in a nursing home and a ventilator was helping him breathe. He couldn’t speak, he whispered to me that he was sorry. For many, many years I was confused by those last words. But I understand now. To donate to the ALS Association, go to alsa.org
37 Bountiful Harvest
Doug & Sondra Williams are changing the world, one mushroom at a time
8 Facts & Figures 10 Louise
Black and White
17 Food
GameDay Faves
20 Business
Crossings Community Clinic One Focus Medical
42 My Outlook
Jan Clem, Owner of Klemm’s Smoke Haus Food Truck
80 East 5th Street, Suite 130, Edmond, OK 73034
12 Essence of Nature
22 Invisible Layers
Exploring the healing properties of essential oils Five autistic young men harness their creativity through filmmaking
27 Beauty through
Brokenness
Kyle Dillingham unveils the surprising sounds of broken instruments
30 Edfest
32 Ridin’ Gritty for 4150
Annual food & music festival is raising awareness & funds for Edmond Mobile Meals Front cover photo by Marshall Hawkins To advertise, contact Laura at 405-301-3926 or laura@outlookoklahoma.com.
Gerald Tims embarks on a 4,150 mile cross-country motorcycle race
40 Life After
Leavenworth
From service to solitude, former soldier Michael Behenna finds peace on a ranch in Oklahoma
Dave Miller, Publisher, Back40 Design President
OUTLOOK
FEATURES
405-341-5599
www.outlookoklahoma.com
info@outlookoklahoma.com
Volume 10, Number 9 Edmond & North OKC Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2014 Back40 Design, Inc. PUBLISHER Dave Miller
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Laura Beam PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com
PRINT PROJECT MANAGER Bethany Marshall
Account Executive Emily Hummel
Graphic Designer Ryan Kirkpatrick
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.
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Football season is here! Support your local UCO Bronchos in an affordable, family-friendly environment. Enjoy all the excitement of collegiate sports without all the travel. Don’t miss the first home game September 13th at 6pm. Visit Bronchosports. com for ticket information.
YUCK!
on a 1937 motorcycle in the Motorcycle Cannonball. Read about his plans for adventure on page 32.
r
Celebrate healthy & happy pets at Pet Medical Center of Edmond’s Pet Health Fair on Saturday, September 6th from 10am-2pm. Benefiting Paws for Life, this free event is fun for the whole family—including leashed pets! 1001 W. 15th St. in Edmond.
Learn more at infantcrisis.org.
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Leaves change colors in fall because trees stop photosynthesis as they prepare for winter.
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The term pigskin was coined when footballs were originally made from an inflated animal’s bladder. This term is no longer accurate as footballs are now typically made of cowhide or vulcanized rubber.
Silver Leaf Gems Gallery is hosting a Haunting Art Show October 3rd at 5:30pm. Guests will enjoy Fall and Halloween themed art with a portion of each sale benefiting the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond. 19 N. Broadway, Edmond, silverleafgems.com. Join St. Augustine Episcopal Church for their Fall Festival with a medieval twist! The Canterbury Faire will be held Saturday, October 4th from 9am-4pm and includes artwork, crafts, specialty goods, food & more. 14700 N. May Ave. OKC.
New Styles Arriving Daily! K ĹTĩ ĹĻŇĩîËî»Ĺŀ¤ Celebrate with us Sept. 26 & 27. Gifts, refreshments & more!
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Outlook September 2014
Specializing in Women’s Sizes 4-12 & Widths S-N-M-W
Louise
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When I was in grade school in the mid fifties, a teacher walked up to my friends and me on the playground and told us we would be having a new student and she wanted us to be nice to her. As she walked away, we looked at each other in confusion. Why wouldn’t we be nice to her? Once we got inside the classroom and settled into our seats, the teacher introduced the student. Gwendolyn was as skinny as I was and a little taller. She also had darker skin but I thought nothing of it. Much of our little community consisted of people of Native American heritage so what was the big deal about having a student with African American heritage? Gwen became friends with all of us and as we entered high school, her height made her one of our star basketball players, guarding the goal against our opponents. We were a team and none of us thought about color until one night coming home on the bus from an out of town a ic n Mo a ughte r, r gra n d d game. As was our habit, the bus e h & e is Lo u pulled up to a restaurant. The coach ran inside to make sure they had room for us—both girls and boys teams traveled together. On this particular night, he got back on the bus and told the driver to find another restaurant. But something was different. He was angry and finally word filtered back to the players that the eating establishment was segregated. Call me naïve, but that was the first time I had heard that word and was shocked at what it meant. Whoever heard of not serving someone because of color? As a young child I had seen water fountains in department stores marked “white” and “colored.” I always wanted to drink the colored
White by Louise Tucker Jones
water, having never seen such a thing, but my mother never allowed it and didn’t explain the meaning of the signs. Just before the 11th grade, Gwen transferred to an all black school. We girls were devastated. We had been friends since we were eight years old. I couldn’t imagine why she would leave and finally asked the reason. Always the tease, Gwen laughed and remarked, “I want to date!” Well, there it was! This was before cross-cultural dating in our community and nearby towns, so as a 16-year-old, I definitely understood and reluctantly hugged my friend goodbye. I’m grateful to have had this experience early in life. To learn that friendship doesn’t depend on race, color or any outward appearance. It’s the same with families. Love isn’t confined to heredity. Though most children are born to their parents, many come by adoption as did our daughter, a four-year-old little girl of Hispanic and Native American heritage. When she grew up, she married a man of African American heritage and gave us a beautiful granddaughter, Monica, who stole our hearts the minute we saw her. I write all of this because I think the world is tired of racism. I think most of us are quite comfortable with people of other races and nationalities. Racism is not really a “black and white” issue. It’s actually a matter of the heart. Unfortunately, our adopted daughter dealt with an attachment disorder her whole life and eventually abandoned her family, including her lovely daughter. But Monica still remains in my heart and in my life. She is my granddaughter and I will always be her grandmother. Nothing will change my love for her. And just for the record, you can put that in black and white.
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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Outlook September 2014
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medications and hasn’t needed to visit a doctor in 23 years. Skala uses the traditional healing methods to maintain her health—herbs, essential oils, nutritional foods and massage therapies. But her handy iPad and advanced knowledge of biochemistry lend credibility to her message that healing comes from plants. “This is not new information—it’s very old information that’s been used throughout the ages,” Skala said. “People are starting to realize the value of what by Amy Dee Stephens was practiced by the Egyptians, the Israelites and the ancient Chinese cultures.” A Native American legend tells of a wise woman who found a Skala shares her craft by teaching a variety of classes precious gemstone and gave it to a weary traveler. At first the and offering her therapies. She starts with some basic tenets traveler left rejoicing, but he soon came back and said, “I’m of health—that people need to stay hydrated, they need to returning this to you for something more precious—to move and they need to eat nutrient-dense foods. “Let food be your understand what enabled you to give me this stone.” medicine,” Skala said. “Right now, I have chicken bones cooking on my stove for a family member who’s recovering from a hip replacement. Living on an acreage near Guthrie, Bone broth is an old, but effective remedy.” Oklahoma, is a modern-day wise woman. In addition to nutrition, Skala has studied other alternative Elizabeth Skala, 77, has spent 25 years learning the healing methods, which range from acupuncture to aromatherapy. arts of natural healing. She has traveled the world, studied Lesser-known techniques she has used include light therapy and the ancient techniques and sat at the feet of brilliant scientists—and ancient art of vibrational medicine. The method gaining the most she shares her gemstones of knowledge with others. attention lately is the use of healing oils. Skala lives alone in a log cabin which she built for herself at the Skeptics might label Skala as a witch doctor or a New-Ager, but age of 62. She maintains her own garden, rides her bicycle daily, doesn’t she’s a God-fearing woman who is quick to point out that healing wear reading glasses, has an impeccable memory, takes no prescription oils are referenced hundreds of times in the Bible. “There’s a reason the wise men brought frankincense and myrrh to Christ. Oils were regularly used in anointing rituals,” Skala said. ”Scientists know that oils have a small enough molecular structure to get into the cellular level. There’s nothing witchcraft about that.” Skala shares that sentiment with several local doctors who are finding success in treating illness with essential oils. Dr. H. K. Lin, a medical researcher at the University of Oklahoma, has long-term proof that frankincense oil can kill cancer cells. In Edmond, Dr. Michael Cheng is one of two dentists in the country finding success in eliminating early-stage cavities with a blend of herbal oils. During Skala’s twenty years of training in botanical therapies, she has become involved with Young Living Essential Oils, a company that grows, harvests and distills their own plants. They openly provide Elizabeth Skala information about the uses of essential oils—topics which Skala Continued on Page 14
12
Outlook September 2014
Don’s Floor Gallery
2320 S. Kelly • 340.8226 donssoorgallery.com
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The Essence of Nature, cont.
Sandy Miller & Elizabeth Skala
Classes will be taught at Energetic Wellness 501 E. 5th Street, Ste. 500C, Edmond. For more information about our free classes, email sandy@essentialoilsokc.com.
incorporates into the classes she teaches. Students have seen dramatic changes in their health and mental well-being after trying Skala’s therapies. One student shared her story of extreme fatigue and depression, which left her facing a lifetime of medications. Sandy Miller attended Skala’s class two years ago, and she is now medicine-free and feels twenty years younger. The effect was so profound that Miller is completing her degree in holistic health and is starting to co-teach classes with Skala. “I had to take responsibility for my own health,” Miller said. “Our bodies can’t handle so many chemicals. We’re masking symptoms instead of listening to our bodies. Now, my medicine cabinet consists of plant-based oils—and they work better.” According to Miller, bacteria is quickly becoming resistant to synthetic antibiotics, making it “a race between science and the super bug.” Unlike the precise recipes of prescription drugs, essential oils vary slightly in their composition because they are grown in different soil and weather conditions— making it tougher for bacteria to become universally resistant. Both Skala and her apprentice can share endless success stories of using peppermint for headaches, lavender for insomnia or fennel for digestion. “And if an oil doesn’t work perfectly—at least you know it’s not going to harm you, either,” Miller said. Despite Skala’s incredible health, she has no illusions about aging. She takes more rests than she used to—but one can’t deny the miracle of living an active, pain-free life in one’s seventies. This 21st century wise woman attributes her wellbeing to her lifestyle of nutrition, essential oils, spending time with nature…and passing along these gemstones of knowledge to others. “It’s my mission to share that awesome healing power with others,” Skala said. “It’s wonderfully satisfying to realize how beautiful and bountiful nature can be.”
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Outlook September 2014
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Outlook September 2014
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GameDay Faves
by Laura Beam
There’s no denying it. Something comes over you when you hear that first stadium cheer, feel the electricity pulse through the crowd or chatter with friends excitedly in front of the big screen. Football is more American than mom’s apple pie and just as much a warm and welcomed tradition. It ushers in a season of sweatshirts and saucy foods that only those coveted gridiron weekends can condone. Whether you savor the day with a hotdog in hand amidst roaring thousands or gab with your girlfriends over queso dip at the kitchen island, football season sparks a fun food line-up that signals the kick-off of fall. Dig in and relish some winning options from locals who’ve definitely got game! BBQ. Bring it.
By tailgate or TV, BBQ never fails to fire up hungry sports fans. The smoky aroma alone is enough to make anyone ditch their weekday diet plan without a second thought. It’s hearty, tangy and served in abundance—what’s not to love about this saucy mainstay? Whether you plan your game day gathering in advance or at the last minute, Earl’s Rib Palace rises to the occasion with fast service and
sumptuous fare no selfrespecting fan can resist. At this celebrated BBQ joint, meats are slow-smoked on premise for that one-ofa-kind, deep hickory flavor. Ordered by the pound, favorites like ribs, pulled pork, brisket, turkey, polish sausage and hot links are always a hit. Try mild or fiery chicken wings, too. Pair your choice meats with exceptional sides that eat like a main continued on next page
Over 30 Options of Sushi & Sashimi | Grilled-at-your-table Steaks & Salmon Lava-Rock | Gourmet Desserts
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GameDay Faves, cont.
attraction—baked beans loaded with brisket, green beans with smoky bacon and plump fried okra nuggets perfect for munching. Catch the games on TV at Earl’s six metro locations, too!
Greek is GameDay Chic
Game On The Go
Bring something new to the huddle when it’s your turn to host the game day festivities. Ethnic foods like Let’s Do Greek’s Mediterranean specialties are a tasty trend. Fresh veggies, succulent meats and spot-on spices have taken Middle Eastern fare mainstream, in a big way. Kick-start the party with spicy Thunder Hummus and pita bread or todie-for Spanakopita—flaky Filo dough stuffed with spinach and Feta cheese. With more than 30 years of expertise, this award-winning family restaurant takes appetites of all tastes on a global adventure. The Oregano Chicken—sliced, breaded chicken tossed with grilled onions, virgin olive oil, herbs and lemon juice—is sensational atop a Greek salad, stuffed in cornmeal bread or piled on a sandwich or basmati rice plate. Order the Oregano Chicken or famous Gyros meat by the pound with a bag of pita bread and tasty sides like Feta Fries or Tabouleh for the ultimate to-go party fare.
Get ready for a unique adventure! The Bricktown Bike Bar—a 100% pedal-powered mobile party on a giant bicycle—offers the ultimate game day or special event excitement. Led by a party facilitator who steers a group of 10 pedalers and six loungers around downtown OKC, the tour or beertasting tour is “a great way to see Bricktown from a unique perspective,” says manager, Nick Oxford. “Passengers love the looks they get from people on the street. It almost feels like you’re in a parade.” The standard tour lasts two hours and the beer tasting tour lasts two and a half hours. Groups can bring their own 3.2 beer and snacks on board the bike. The beer tasting tour includes a stop at Bricktown Brewery and two other bars on the Bike Bar beer plan. Oxford notes that it’s a great way to enjoy time with friends before watching a game at a bar in Bricktown. An on-board stereo also allows guests to enjoy the game as they tour the city. For more information, visit earlsribpalace.com, letsdogreek.com and bricktownbikebar.com. Laura Beam is a business and food writer and 20-year advertising and marketing executive in radio, newspaper and magazines. Share new business tips and trends with her on LinkedIn or email Laura@outlookoklahoma.com.
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Outlook September 2014
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BUSINESS
Crossings Community Clinic by Sandina Heckert Steve Turner, Director of Crossings Community Clinic
Walking into the Crossings Community Center and Clinic, one gets an immediate feeling of welcoming and peace. The center’s director, Steve Turner, shows an obvious passion for helping other people in service of the Lord. To him and the volunteers who donate their time and talent to providing care to uninsured Oklahomans, they believe that being a follower of Christ means serving the community. To date the clinic has seen more than 32,000 patient visits and provided more than $12 million in medical and dental care. In January of next year the clinic will move to its final location at 10255 N. Pennsylvania Avenue. According to Steve, the clinic’s goal is to become the primary care provider to uninsured individuals, and to “be a ministry until Christ returns, to
show people in a tangible way the heart of Christ through our service.” The clinic and community center employs one full-time PA and one parttime MD, and relies on more than 650 volunteers, including licensed physicians, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, eye care providers and mental health providers, as well as volunteers from the community. Marie Bockus, DDS is one of the many community members who volunteers with the clinic. “It’s amazing to use my hands, my talent and my knowledge to help patients who can’t help themselves,” she said, “And they’re so grateful for the care they receive.” The clinic also provides fitness and wellness programs for its patients through a partnership with the north side YMCA, and when Crossings’ new facility opens,
patients of the clinic will receive discounted fitness plan options. With help from the Oklahoma City County Health Department, the community center provides health education programs on subjects like diabetes and hypertension. Counseling services are also offered at the clinic. The clinic’s services are free for uninsured or under-insured individuals who come seeking help. The center welcomes support from the community in the form of volunteer hours, financial contributions and donations of over-thecounter health care products. Crossings’ deep roots of faith call their staff and volunteers to help others in Christ’s name, who are inspired by the verse in Matthew 25:36, reminding them that God asks His people to serve others in need. For more info, visit crossingsokc.org/clinic.
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Outlook September 2014
One Focus Medical by Amy Dee Stephens Dr. Davenport, Owner of One Focus Medical
Dr. Jeffrey Davenport is offering a new approach for people who are frustrated with typical medical insurance. He has eliminated insurance from his practice and offers his services for a fixed monthly membership fee. “It’s like a gym membership,” Davenport explained. “For a flat fee, you have 24-hour access to my cell phone, whether you’re sick once a month or ten times a month.” As a family practitioner for eight years in Edmond, Davenport found himself justifying his every move with insurance companies. He felt that when a doctor and patient made a health decision, an insurance company shouldn’t say no. “It wasn’t good enough to have the letters MD behind my name, I had to justify everything. It wasn’t fair to me or my patients. Being ‘insurance-
less’ is a free-market approach, and it means that my patients get more personalized care, save money and save time.” Davenport, who is following a model he observed in Kansas, formed One Focus Medical six months ago. He describes the business plan this way: “If my patient feels sick, he can call me anytime, and I will either help over the phone or say, ‘How fast can you get here?’ There is no waiting for an appointment or sitting in a waiting room.” How is this possible? Because Davenport only accepts 600 patients— which is far fewer than the 3,000 patients most doctors take. According to Davenport, most doctors see 20-30 people each day in 15-minute slots. With lower overhead and dramatically less paperwork, Davenport is free to deliver high-quality, personalized care. “If you cut your hand and need stitches
on Saturday night, call me, and I’ll take care of it—no need to go to an emergency room.” The fee structure for One Focus Medical is based on age and is typically: $50/month for ages 20-50, $75/month for ages 50-65, and $100/month for 65+. Children of patients are $10 a month. With the rising rates in deductibles, many of Davenport’s patients have found cost savings—including multiple small businesses and individuals— that still have traditional insurance. “My fees are probably less than your cable bill each month. It’s time for Americans to rethink medical care and remember that the relationship between doctor and patient is sacred. One Focus Medical gives patients control over their health care.” To learn more, visit onefocusmedical.com or call Dr. Davenport at 405-285-7568.
*8” decorated cake pictured
It’s Like Asking For A Pony And Getting A Unicorn. Oklahoma City 2520 W. Memorial Rd. Ste. B (405) 751-8066 nothingbundtcakes.com outlookoklahoma.com
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by Kent Anderson
A
utism is a mystery. The developmental condition affects one in 68 children in the US, according to a 2014 study by the US Centers for Disease Control. Yet there is still much about autism that is not understood. What we do know is that those on the higher-functioning end of the autism spectrum may be challenged by communication and social interaction. They may also have above-average intellect and tend to have intensely focused interests. They possess abilities and talents that may not be readily visible, due to their difficulty with social situations. Invisible Layers Productions, a model program of Autism Oklahoma, brings together a group of five young men on the autism spectrum guided by a mentor—all are young adults with an interest in filmmaking. The results are creative, entrepreneurial and rather eye-opening. Melinda Lauffenburger, founder and Executive Director of Autism Oklahoma, describes Invisible Layers another way. “It’s magic,” she said. Magic, indeed. The program has been up and running for barely a year, and it has already become almost self-supporting, which is the goal for this model program. Invisible Layers has several
business clients, and each month these five young men involved in the organization, all between ages 20 and 30, produce a new video for customers. It’s all accomplished under the direction of Zac Davis, who brings a background in film—he studied in the acclaimed film program of OKC Community College—and experience in producing videos of many Autism Oklahoma events over the last few years. After Davis produced a film about one of the organization’s other programs, The Big Swanky Art Show, Lauffenburger approached him about going a step further. “We decided to explore with Zac whether he would like to be a mentor for a group of young men who were interested in filmmaking,” she said. “So we started a pre-employment club for them. They all want to make film and video a part of their careers.” Davis came on board, and with a small group of families who were already involved with Autism Oklahoma, the groundwork was laid. Now, the participants are engaged in every aspect of producing film and video, and each brings his own specialty to the process. They shoot the video, conduct interviews, provide voice-overs and handle editing and post-production. One of the members of Invisible Layers is a musician who does sound design, and composes original music for the productions. Another is
“This is a model of what we can do to make a difference in the lives of young people with autism.”
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Outlook September 2014
interested in animation and motion graphics. Invisible Layers produces agency-quality videos, such as a recent project for Youth and Family Services of El Reno. The organization, which sustained damage to its building during the 2013 tornado, asked Invisible Layers to put together a production that would welcome the public back to its renovated building, at the same time thanking the community for its support over the past year. “We used ‘before and after’ footage, did interviews and filmed several of their events,” Davis said. Another project involves producing a video for the YouTube
channel of Oklahoma City’s new professional soccer franchise, the Energy. But while Davis and the young men he mentors are producing top-quality business videos, they aren’t stopping there. Creative work is on the horizon as well. “We have a common interest in films and movies,” he said. “In the future we’d like to move toward doing some short films, and from there we hope to move on to features.” Likewise, the parent organization Autism Oklahoma sees Invisible Layers as a springboard. “We want to do more programs in an entrepreneurial spirit,” Lauffenburger said. “These are programs that can be self-sufficient and give young people who have autism an opportunity to work together in their areas of interest.” Any ambitious program faces challenges, and one of the biggest Invisible Layers has encountered to date has been a simple matter of space, of not having sufficient room to store equipment. But Autism Oklahoma has recently received use of a donated building in downtown Oklahoma City, and Lauffenburger and Davis dream of a new studio space for Invisible Layers, as well as room to grow and create more interest groups for young people with autism. Lauffenburger returns often to the word she believes best describes Invisible Layers. “It’s a magical experience,” she said. “The magic happens when Zac and the guys are working together, with the quality of what they are doing. This is a model of what we can do to make a difference in the lives of young people with autism.” Davis smiles when he thinks about how far the program has already come and the changes in the lives of the young men with whom he works. “The most rewarding thing is seeing the guys blossom, the friendships they make. They grow. Their confidence grows.” And the name, “Invisible Layers?” It grew from a conversation Davis had with the mother of a young man with autism, a conversation about the young man’s unusual eating habits and how he would not eat foods if he could not see all their layers. It is a part of the autism mystery. “It’s a beautiful metaphor of what it is like for a person with autism to struggle,” Davis said. “On the outside, they have a social struggle to talk to people, but on the inside, there are all these other things going on that you don’t get to see. Invisible layers. I knew that’s what I had to name this program.” More information is available at www.autismoklahoma.org and www.invisiblelayers.com.
Zac Davis, John Cooper Ross, Dustin Collins and Tyler Frederickson
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Stop the Snoring! Dr. David Minyard at the Oklahoma TMJ & Sleep Therapy Clinic treats sleep apnea and problems that stem from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). He wants you to know the causes of these problems and how they are treated.
Understanding Sleep Apnea Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is stopping breathing while sleeping. It is caused by your airway being obstructed during sleep, usually by the tongue and other structures that fall back in the airway closing it off. OSA can be treated with a variety of methods. OK TMJ & Sleep Therapy Clinic utilizes oral appliances to open the airway so you can breathe during sleep. Obstrutive Sleep Apnea is associated with high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, morning headaches and automobile accidents just to name a few. It can improve, especially with weight loss in some individuals, but it never just goes away without some change or treatment.
Understanding TMJ Problems TMJ problems are many and varied—as is their cause. In order to effectively treat the problem, patients need to have an accurate diagnosis. Most patients will say they “have TMJ.” However, that is just the name of the joint. If all you have ever been told is that you “have TMJ” you probably have not been fully diagnosed. TM joint problems are painful and progressive and usually are a trigger for headaches, difficulty eating and constant pain. Problems with the joint can be treated with a variety of methods, including simply taking medication, physical therapy, oral appliances, joint injections and surgery as a last resort.
Find Relief Today! 330−9444 24
oktmj.com • 950 Medical Park Blvd. in Edmond
Outlook September 2014
Q&A with Dr. Penwell of Immediate Care Do I need to get my child a physical before school starts? There are several reasons to obtain physicals. One is a preparticipation physical that is usually required by the school for an activity of sports. It’s usually required before the sport starts, not necessarily before school starts. Another type of physical is the need for child immunizations. As the child continues to grow, different immunizations are needed. Check with your pediatrician as to when your child is due for their immunizations. It’s always a good idea to see your pediatrician every year and have a well-child check up.
diet is crucial to boosting your immune systems. There are also some over the counter supplements shown to boost your immune system. But one of the most important things you can do is diligent hand washing. Teaching your students to wash hands to rid of viruses and bacteria will cut down on the spread of illnesses. Things like coughing into your elbow and not your hands, wiping down surfaces and doorknobs are also crucial to staying healthy.
Dr. Kevin Penwell, DO is the President and Founder of Immediate Care of Oklahoma. You may catch Dr. Penwell at one of five locations across the metro with two in Edmond.
I’m a teacher and when school starts, I’m always first to get sick. Any suggestions?
Teachers, like medical personnel, over time develop immunities to many viruses. Getting adequate rest and eating a balanced
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Outlook September 2014
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by Mari Farthing
“There’s still a soul, so there still must be hope.” Kyle Dillingham was speaking of violins when he said this, specifically a box filled with violins deemed “broken beyond repair.” The instrument he held could hardly be called a true violin anymore. No strings, no pegs and even the sound post within the violin—l’âme du violon in French, literally the soul of the violin—rattled within its worn, stripped body. But Dillingham was able to find the music within the broken instrument, and recalls the day when he came upon it. “I was heading out the door and I pulled this violin,” he says, holding up the stringless piece. After looking it over that day, he thumped the fingerboard and was rewarded with a lovely sound. When he shook it, he realized the sound peg—the soul—had come loose but was still intact. He took it with him that day and played “How Great Thou Art,” the song that seemed to be hidden in it. The song that resonated within the broken instrument reached out to each person in the audience. “It was more of a response than I could have imagined,” says Dillingham.
Perspect ive
Whether speaking of musical instruments or even people, it can be easy to want to overlook those in need of major repair, the ones that seem the most broken. But when you realize that we’re all a little bit broken—that can be a big moment. And it just takes a small shift in perspective to realize that something “broken beyond repair” might just need a different approach to heal. Dillingham has played violin most of his life, in over 30 countries across the globe and currently serves as the Musical Ambassador in Residence at UCO. Back in 2003, he traveled to Africa on a business trip and took time off to visit an orphanage in Togo. Upon returning to Oklahoma, this visit stayed in his mind. One day, when he walked past a box of broken violin parts at Inner City Violin—something he had done every day, for years—he looked at them in a different way. “I began seeing the faces of those children,” says Dillingham. “I started messing around with the violins, and it was like God was saying ‘just pick one up, pull one out and play on it.’ When I put it under my chin and began to play, it sounded like a little cry, a fragile little voice. I thought, I’ve been playing the violin all my life and I’ve never heard this sound.” And that’s when Dillingham realized that broken beyond repair didn’t just apply to old musical instruments. continued on next page
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Beauty Through Brokenness, cont.
violin in front of the audience and started playing ‘Amazing Grace.’ “It just came to me.” In return, the audience responded and found themselves in those broken instruments, in that haunting melody. From there, Dillingham was asked to share his broken violins with other groups—and he quickly realized that the brokenness he related to those orphans and the addicts also struck a chord with the homeless, the hungry, those healing from disease or grieving a loss. Every group he reached had a similar response. “They all said ‘this is us, this is us, these violins,’” says Dillingham. “It connected with everyone—everyone can relate to the brokenness.”
Connect ion and Healing
Not Beyond Hope
A few years later, he was asked to play his broken violins at a beans and cornbread fundraiser for FIRSTEP, a recovery program for men and women. While he had continued to work with the broken violins over the years, he had never played them officially for anyone. The owner of Inner City Violin knew the potential these instruments had and asked him to play for this group. Dillingham took his broken
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Outlook September 2014
“I realized that I needed to do more with this—the message of healing,” says Dillingham. It’s clear that the broken beyond repair box of violins doesn’t just represent a collection of useless objects to Dillingham, but rather a box of individuals, each with their own potential. He looks at each piece more carefully now, to find its voice. “Just like each one of us, created uniquely and beautifully in God’s image, each one of these instruments is unique, beautiful and of value,” says Dillingham. “Our instinct is to fix them—I wonder if we could fix this?—and we could, we could fix them all, make them perfectly playable, but that’s not what we need to do,” asserts Dillingham. “Fixing them would take away their beauty.” Dillingham is currently recording a full-length album featuring the “broken beyond repair” instruments, scheduled for release in November. He can be reached through his office 405-808-8804, info@horseshoeroad.net or www.horseshoeroad.net.
outlookoklahoma.com
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Gather your friends and family and head to the second annual EdFest—an evening of live music from local bands and the best food, beer and wine in town. It’s not just a fun night out, it’s a way to raise money for Edmond Mobile Meals, a local nonprofit serving nearly 1,000 people each week who are unable to prepare meals for themselves. Edmond Mobile Meals has been providing meals for homebound elderly and disabled Edmond residents for 40 years. The dedicated staff and team of 350 volunteers work diligently to prepare and deliver hot, nutritious meals daily to the residents in the program – often providing the only caring interaction they receive during the day. “Edmond Mobile Meals provides more than food for our clients. We bring friendship, hope and a sense of security to their lives,” said Piper Riggs, Edmond Mobile Meals Executive Director. “There are many people in our community who have to choose between keeping the lights on, paying for medication or buying food. They are our friends and neighbors, and we believe no one should have to make that choice.”
by Jennay Lutomski
Working toward their mission, Edmond Mobile Meals has set out to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. And now they’re asking for your help. Serving almost 200 meals per day isn’t an easy task. To meet the increasing needs and costs of the program, Edmond Mobile Meals board members, volunteers and staff developed an exciting annual fundraiser that aligns with their locally focused mission, EdFest. “We wanted EdFest to focus on local services and vendors because we want to give back to the community that gives to us,” said Riggs. During its premiere last October, EdFest raised $26,000 to help cover program costs with more than 250 in attendance. This year, with the addition of more family-focused activities, they are hoping for an even larger crowd. “EdFest is our biggest fundraiser of the year, but, it’s more than that. It’s a chance for us to raise awareness about Edmond Mobile Meals among the entire community,” said Riggs. “With this event, we
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Outlook September 2014
are able to reach a part of the community that might not be too familiar with our program including those people who can’t volunteer or use our services.” Spend the night listening and dancing to popular, family-friendly covers and original music from local blues and jazz band Souled Out. The party doesn’t stop there. Guests 21 and older will be able to delight in local craft beers and wine from Tall Grass Brewing Co., Bricktown Brewery, Shiner and Mustang Brewing Company. The drinks are free, but any donations will go directly to Edmond Mobile Meals. “For just $5.15, you could sponsor a meal for one of our residents in need; for $25, they could eat for a week,” said Riggs. Food trucks—including Roxy’s Ice Cream Social, The Meat House, Truckburger, 2 Brothers Bistro, Crepe Brewers and Mim’s Baker—will be lined up ready to serve guests their favorite local cuisine. And that’s not it. Children will have a section all to themselves. Bounce houses, balloons, face painting and more will also be available to entertain the younger crowd. Admission is free, and all proceeds from the event will support Edmond Mobile Meals. EdFest will be held on Friday, October 3, 2014, from 6 to 10pm at the Edmond Farmers Market Pavilion, 26 W First. Individual children’s activities wristbands will be available for purchase at the event for $10 per child. Monetary donations can also be made online at edfestokc.com or in person at EdFest. To find other ways to support Edmond Mobile Meals, visit edmondmobilemeals.org.
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Gerald Tims prepares to ride 4,150 miles in the cross-country Motorcycle Cannonball race. by Heide Brandes
Imagine racing across the country in 17 days through blistering heat and biting cold on the saddle of a pre-1939 motorcycle. All this to earn the top spot in the most exciting motorcycle race in the country. The infamous Cannonball Run, made popular by the movies starring Burt Reynolds, shows a wild and outlaw-type race from one end of the country to the other in sports cars, but this year, the Cannonball Run is giving the glory to the two-wheeled road warriors. Gerald Tims of Oklahoma City, owner of Performance Cycles and co-founder of the Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum on Route 66, will be among the 105-plus competitors in this year’s Motorcycle Cannonball Run, held September 5 to 22. The cross-country race starts in Daytona Beach, FL, and ends in Tacoma, WA. This isn’t Gerald’s first run. He raced in 2012 and was just a day and half from the finish line when his 1929 Harley Davidson suffered a fatal parts failure. This year, he plans to go all the way. “I made it so far that year,” Gerald said. “I thought, ‘I’m so close, I could literally get off and push it.’ Not really, but it was frustrating. Of course I have to do it this year. I have to finish it.” On September 5, more than a hundred bikes will line up to race along the lonely back roads of America on a quest for glory, victory and just plain fun. “I’m a motorcycle addict,” said Gerald. “My whole life I’ve ridden, raced and done just about everything with a motorcycle.” This year’s race is the third time to involve motorcycles rather than cars. The first Motorcycle Cannonball Run was in 2010 and began at Kitty Hawk, NC and ended in Santa Monica, CA. This year, the age
for bikes is 1937 or older. “There are 105 people signed up from six or seven different countries this year,” Gerald said. “Three are women and one rider is 70 years old.” Each competitor gets a route sheet every day and a time frame in which he or she has to reach the finish point that day. Although each gets an hour leeway, if you go over, points are taken away. It’s easy to go over the time limit. Pre-1937 bikes aren’t meant to go across country in such a grueling race. They break down, and each night, riders spend time fixing and repairing broken parts. Each competitor has a chase truck filled with parts and supplies, but the trucks aren’t allowed on the same highway as the motorcycles. The Cannonball Run organizers also have chase trucks to help those riders with fatal breakdowns. Those happen—of the 69 who started in 2012, only 39 were able to finish. “You stay off the main highways and travel the back roads,” said Gerald. “It’s a great way to see America, but on the longest day, you’re going 350 miles! You rebuild your motorcycle from front to rear to prepare for it, but every night you have to do maintenance on the bike.” The race isn’t like the movies. No one is out to sabotage anyone else, and a sense of fellowship infiltrates the event. Other riders help fix bikes, loan out parts and encourage each other on. “The people you meet become friends for life,” Gerald said. “There is a great deal of camaraderie in the evenings when you stop. This is more about doing something you can be proud of—it’s about finishing. Everyone has the same goal.” Of the competitors who finish all the miles, the tie-breaker goes to the one with the oldest bike. If that’s a tie, the title goes to the oldest rider. So far, the winner of the last two races won on the basis of his 1913 Excelsior motorcycle.
Gerald is no stranger to races. He’s raced
To sponso
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Outlook September 2014
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in motorcycle races south of the border and throughout America. Once, while racing in Mexico, he crashed and was stranded for hours in the blazing desert heat with a broken leg before help arrived. He knows the Cannonball Run will be safer, but just as grueling. “You don’t get to sleep too much,” he said. The race draws big crowds, and in some of the overnight towns, thousands of people show up to see the bikes and riders. However, the sights along the way are the biggest draws for Gerald. “Last time, I got to see Mount Rushmore. That was incredible,” Gerald said. “We also drove past Woodstock. It’s an amazing way to travel America.” Gerald bought his 1929 Harley approximately eight years ago. He and his friend Phil Matthews completely rebuilt the bike, but still retained the aged look. “I wanted it to look old and rode,” Gerald said. “I did nothing for the aesthetics, just the parts.” Like the first year for motorcycles, the 2014 Cannonball will be coast to coast. The routes pass through Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Idaho and Washington. The path offers some of the best scenery America has to offer. “I’m looking forward to it,” Gerald said. “It’s quite a trip.”
nnonball Run, c Learn mo ontact him at Perf o re about the race a rmance Cycles, 7 8 t motorcy clecanno 7-4688. nball.com .
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(minimum of 300 sq. ft.)
Time to say out with the old tile and carpet and in with new wood floors. Are you dreaming of new wood floors, but dread the mess associated with tearing out your tile? Are you tired of your 70’s carpet, but the thought of working with unreliable installers stop you in your tracks? Kregger’s Floors and More is here to help. Not only does Paul Kregger and his crew offer outstanding friendly and dependable service, but they have also created a system that elimnates many of the hassles most associated with tile removal. Their new dust collection system minimizes the dust. Although their technique is not dust-free, Kregger says it is “light-years ahead of the rest.” With most companies, replacing tile can take a week or more. Besides eliminating much of the dust, with Kreggers, your floor can be free of tile and prepped for new flooring in no time. “Most people think that the task of replacing tile is more construction than they want to deal with. With our manpower and no ‘middle man,’ your tile can be gone in as little as one day!” said Kregger. The installers are what set Kregger’s apart. This ensures customers are getting someone who knows and shows skills he’s familiar with to install their flooring. “In some stores the installers are folks the store has known maybe a day, maybe a year. It’s hard to say. At Kregger’s all of our installers are long-time
employees or family members.” Edmondite Christy Dowell says, “We have a home full of Kregger’s floors! New wood floors, tile floors, rugs, a shower and soon to be carpet. Paul and Chris and the rest of their crew have been a pleasure to work with; always courteous, respectful and punctual. They are also very trustworthy. We left our home to them for a week and came back to beautiful wood floors. It seems to me that ‘satisfaction’ is their number one goal...and I am completely satisfied! I highly recommend Kregger’s Floors and More.” Kreggers is now offering an unbeatable $5.99 psf on genuine Mohawk hand-scraped wood
Must mention Outlook. Exp. 09/30/14 34
Outlook September 2014
floors installed. “What every customer is looking for is great quality at a great price. With our low overhead environment, they always get a great price and workmanship that’s second to none.” For more information call 348-6777 or stop by the store at 2702 S. Broadway in Edmond.
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Outlook September 2014
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by Heide Brandes
Tucked away among the oak forests in Perkins, OK, Doug and Sondra Williams are trying to change the world, one plump mushroom at a time. In greenhouses surrounded by Oklahoma scrub forests, hundreds of cut logs stand in criss-crossed diagonals in long rows, kept company only by the blood-thirsty Okie mosquitos. Each log has a secret, a mission. They are inoculated with shiitake mushroom spawn, and when soaked in clean water and left out, those logs become covered in the fungus. Doug and Sondra sell mushroom log kits to home growers, but those mushrooms also have a higher mission. Sondra and Doug use their experience to help farmers in Ghana, West Africa combat poverty and hunger. Owners of the Lost Creek Mushroom Farm, the Williams’ are lending their expertise in mushroom farming in Ghana, helping the BemCom Youth Enterprises Association in training poor African farmers—mostly women—in how to grow, harvest and sell mushrooms.
“My neighbor showed me a picture of these logs that had mushrooms on them,” said Doug. “My mind lit up like a Christmas tree.” Doug immediately ordered a kit to start growing shiitakes on logs and experimented with different wood. “We had so many,” Doug said. “The mushrooms grew like crazy. Now, we don’t farm the mushrooms anymore— we instead sell mushroom kits. It’s easier to sell the kits, because they grow high-quality mushrooms.” Throughout their experiences growing and selling mushrooms, the Williams’ had a bucket list dream of visiting Africa one day. One day, the opportunity came to combine these interests. “It was March 2007 when the phone rang. A woman from Opportunities Industrialization Centers International called and said, ‘You wouldn’t want to go to Africa as mushrooms consultants, would you?’” Sondra said. “They were looking for small-scale agricultural entrepreneurs to help consult with mushroom farming. I said yes, of course.”
Doug & Sondra Williams empower poor farmers with sustainable mushroom farming
Sprouting Success
Doug Williams has always loved eating and cooking with mushrooms. When he and Sondra married, they met a neighbor who grew his own mushrooms, and that’s all it took for Doug to get hooked.
A Mission for Ghana
At the age of 19, Bempah started a farm in Ghana, West Africa. Within a year, he had a larger vision for his people—to teach other farmers to raise small livestock and oyster mushrooms, and BemCom was founded. The oyster mushrooms are rich in protein and easy to grow. In June continued on next page
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Bountiful Harvest, cont.
For more information, visit shiitakemushroomlog.com. 2007, the Williams’ contributed their love and lore of shiitake mushrooms to continue Behmpah’s mission at the BemCom Training and Resource Center in Techiman, Ghana. The center had the oyster mushroom production operation, but also taught beekeeping, livestock management and more. For the Ghana farmers, their average income was less than
$1 a day. The farmers are now making from $2 to $10 a day and more, with more than 3,000 farmers relying on BemCom to supply them with the tools and spawn to grow. However, the oyster mushroom spawn wasn’t performing the way it should— contamination was a problem, and the Williams’ were brought in to try to find a solution. “The contamination reduced the production load by 35 percent, and there simply wasn’t enough spawn to meet the demand of the farmers,” said Sondra. “We provided them with better levels of sanitation and care.” The Williams’ also raised money to bring farmers to the United States to learn about mushroom farming and to also build a small lab. Sondra’s dream is to increase the number of spawn labs in Africa so more and more people can grow the food source. “If you have more than one crop type of mushroom, there is less failure,” Sondra said. “We also put in a research project to identify which trees in the area can be used to grow shiitake mushrooms.” After their work in Africa, the Williams’ gave ten percent of all their sales to another foundation in Ghana. Today, they have created a new non-profit organization called the Mushrooms for Well Being Foundation, which promotes education about the health and nutritional benefits of mushrooms, mushroom production and mushroom consumption worldwide. “We were making presentations all over that province in Ghana,” Sondra said. “I think people are shocked when they discover how good mushrooms are, and how easy they are to grow,” Sondra said.
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Outlook September 2014
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F
by Austin Marshall
ormer U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant and Edmond native Michael Behenna has been the subject of intense media scrutiny since he was first charged and convicted of premeditated murder of an Iraqi insurgent with ties to Al-Qaeda. He was sentenced to a 25-year sentence, which was later reduced to 15 years. Behenna served five years at the US Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth before being released this year. For Behenna, his parole represents a second chance at civilian life and an opportunity to reconnect with his Oklahoma roots. While his story is one of military service, perseverance and redemption, he is ready to return to a quiet, civilian life. Behenna felt the call to military service after the September 11th terrorist attacks. “I wanted to serve my country and knew that President Bush was going to invade Iraq. My mind set at the time was I wanted to go help as soon as possible,” Behenna explained. He attended Edmond North High School and the University of Central Oklahoma. He participated in the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) while attending UCO. After completing ROTC training, Behenna attended Infantry Officer Training and was selected to attend the U.S. Army Ranger Training School. Behenna was deployed to Iraq in 2007 and commanded a platoon known as ‘Mad Dog 5.’ On April 21, 2008, the platoon was investigating Ali Mansur, an insurgent, when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated near their convoy, injuring and killing several of Behenna’s men. Mansur was subsequently detained and further interrogated by US Army intelligence officers for ten days. Despite their investigations, intelligence officers could still not definitively tie Mansur to the attack on Behenna’s platoon. Unhappy with the findings of the intelligence officers, Behenna believed Mansur to know more than he was revealing. On May 16, 2008, Behenna drove Mansur to an isolated part of the Iraqi desert for additional interrogation. According to Behenna, Mansur attempted to attack Behenna and apprehend his firearm. Behenna later told investigators that he shot Mansur in the chest and head as an act of self-defense. Behenna was court-martialed and charged with premeditated murder, receiving his parole in March. Since returning to civilian life, Behenna has begun ranching in Medford, Oklahoma, and has found the long days on the ranch to be a wonderful contrast to the harsh conditions at Fort Leavenworth. “So far I really enjoy the wide open spaces,” Behenna said. “I wake up at 7:00 am and get to work about 8:00 am. I work many nights until sunset. Once I’m finished checking on the fences and cattle, I go home, fix dinner and sit outside on the front porch. I want to live a peaceful life helping my neighbors and being with my family. ”
Behenna received financial and emotional support from friends and family during his trial and time at Fort Leavenworth. “It meant everything to me. I knew that my family and friends would support me but I didn’t realize how many people I didn’t even know were behind me,” he said. “It showed me that there are people out there who care about soldiers and will stand up for them and the difficult decisions we make in battle.” Behenna received financial support from a group called United American Patriots, which helps soldiers and Marines who are charged with murder in combat to pay for their legal expenses. Behenna’s loved ones made routine visits to Fort Leavenworth during his sentence. “As for my friends who took the time out of their lives to visit me in Leavenworth… I can’t thank them enough. I won’t forget their kindness and love.” Behenna understands the value of the second chance he has received. While the public only knows him for his military service, there is a personal side to the former solider that few seldom see. “I don’t want to let life pass me by waiting for next week or the next holiday or next year. I want to enjoy each and every moment life has to offer,” Behenna said. “I value the quietness of life and the songs of nature I hear while sitting on my porch. I don’t believe that I have to fill each moment of my life with noise— radio, TV, iPhones and text messages.” His new life has allowed him to seek quiet and solitude after years of media scrutiny. He seems to be enjoying it tremendously. “I am teaching myself to play the Native American flute. It’s peaceful.” Behenna continues to advocate for soldiers incarcerated under circumstances similar to his own. A group of soldiers known as the Leavenworth 10 continue to serve sentences for murders in the field of combat and Behenna advocates for their releases. “They are all really good, dedicated men who need to be rejoined with their families. Unfortunately, I am no help to them on their appeals or legal work, but they have my full support and I will continue to spread the word about these men in hopes that they will soon be released,” he said. “If we can release Taliban combatants now that the war in Afghanistan is coming to a close, surely we can release our own prisoners.” Behenna is a man ready to embrace the next chapter of his life. His journey from Edmond native to military leader, prisoner and now civilian is one that reminds us of the intense pressure our soldiers encounter in service to their country. Behenna understands his second chance is not one that every soldier in similar circumstances will receive. He is dedicated to making the most of his newfound life as a rancher on Oklahoma’s sweeping plains. Learn more about the Leavenworth 10 at l10freedomride.com.
I want to live a peaceful life helping my neighbors and being with my family.
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Outlook September 2014
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Jan Clem, Owner of Klemm‘s Smoke Haus Food Truck
MY outlook
How did you get into the food truck business? We always wanted to have a restaurant. My son and my husband decided that they were going to do this. My husband always cooked and my son likes to cook, too. Our food truck has been on the streets since March. What is the first thing people ask when they find out you run a food truck? “Do I have fun?” I tell them it’s a blast! What is it like running a food truck? it is very exciting, It’s also very hot! What’s fun is that we get to see the same faces and new people. We get to pick and choose where we want to be. People constantly call us wanting us to come out to their businesses, and they are excited we are there—that’s the most fun part of all. What are some of the biggest challenges? Just keeping everything going. My husband John and my son JJ put the whole thing together. They bought the truck—it was just a shell. They put the plumbing and machinery in it while making sure it was up to code. It took a lot of detail work and a lot of researching. We are very particular about everything we do.
JJ & Jan Clem
What are the best benefits? We are a family that gets to be together all the time and we work well together. How do you do the actual cooking? Our food truck is our kitchen. We have a smoker in it, we hand cut our own fries, make our own brats, mustard—everything is all done right there. It’s crazy how it all works. We make brisket, pork, chicken and more. It’s fun to offer new things all the time. We also bring in homemade items that no one else has. German and BBQ is an interesting combination. What inspired you to serve those types of food? My husband has a German background. The Germans were actually some of the first people to cook meat BBQ-style. When we were coming up with the concept, we knew we wanted to do BBQ but wanted a different flair to stand out. What is your favorite thing on your menu? Loaded fries. We can go through 400lbs of potatoes a day. We put any of our meats on there—brisket, pork, brats or chicken—and top it with our famous cheese sauce and more. We load them up! What happens when you run out of food? The hardest thing is gauging how many people you are going to feed. We have run out of food before. When that happens we just have to close up. We are realizing that people will eat whatever we cook. Anything else? We came up with all our recipes ourselves and everything is made from scratch. We use many secret ingredients! Also, five years ago, none of us would have thought we’d be running a food truck. Now, our family and friends get to see our dreams coming true.
To find out more about Klemm’s Smoke Haus visit their facebook page.
by Bethany Marshall
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Outlook September 2014
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80 East 5th St., Ste. 130 Edmond, OK 73034