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Outlook September 2015
ARMSTRONG FOUNDATION INTERNAT IONAL
CULTURAL
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September 2015
Outlook Turns Ten
In a strip mall on Memorial Road, a group of people sit on the floor amid boxes, computer equipment, cables and Braum’s burger wrappers. They are listening to someone who has a plan. It’s early September, the year is 2005 and this small group is planning to publish the first issue of the Outlook magazine. That’s how these things get started. And 120 issues later, here we are. A decade of publishing. Along the way, we did set up that equipment and accumulated some fairly plush office furniture. We also met some amazing people and it’s my sincere hope that we touched some lives. Print publishing… “That’s so old school. Everyone’s on the internet.” I won’t argue that. But you know why I still believe in the power of print? Because people like magazines. And people like being neighborly. Combine those two points and you have a niche publication that has legs. I know this is not very scientific, but its true—at least that’s what I’m gonna go with. This isn’t to say I don’t embrace digital media. My company, Back40, is all about digital media. utlook We build and host websites for dmond O E f o e issu The first businesses all over the country. 5 0 er 20 Septemb The fastest growing segment of our business is online marketing—creating engaging content for our clients and campaigns to increase results for their sites.
28 Back to School for Adults Sharpen your skills or learn a new hobby with a variety of local classes
8 Louise
A Summer Miracle
11 Food
Veggie Gardens There’s always next year
14 Business
Crossings Community Church Science Museum Oklahoma
FEATURES
16 Power Play
20 Hearts for Hearing
Conquering the obstacle course is just part of the fun of dog agility training Local nonprofit gives the gift of sound to all those in need
22 The Chemistry of Competition
Sixteen-year-old chemistry student wins silver medal at an international competition
What these two mediums have in common is storytelling. Communicating ideas through words and pictures. And now the fun part, do you have any stories we can tell? Something local and amazing please. Thanks neighbor.
26 Facebook Finds
Dave Miller, Publisher Back40 Design President
Online garage sales offer a convenient, at-home opportunity to buy and sell items
Front cover photo by Marshall Hawkins featuring Patrice Drummond and her schnauzer Gabe To advertise, contact Laura at 405-301-3926 or laura@outlookoklahoma.com.
OUTLOOK
80 East 5th Street, Suite 130, Edmond, OK 73034
405-341-5599
www.outlookoklahoma.com
info@outlookoklahoma.com
Volume 11, Number 9 Edmond & North OKC Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2015 Back40 Design, Inc.
PUBLISHER Dave Miller
PRINT PROJECT MANAGER Bethany Marshall
PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com
ADVERTISING MANAGER Laura Beam
DISTRIBUTION The Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond & North OKC homes.
Articles and advertisements in the Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Back40 Design. Back40 Design does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by the Outlook does not constitute endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.
outlookoklahoma.com
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Louise
A Summer Miracle by Louise Tucker Jones
I love September! It’s a month with two seasons. The first part is summer with triple digit heat and glorious Labor Day celebrations. When I was growing up near Henryetta, Oklahoma, I always attended the Labor Day parade followed by a picnic and afternoon rodeo. Nighttime brought a small carnival where boyfriends won teddy bears for the girls and fireworks filled the sky and football stadium. But by the end of the month, fall seemed to kick in and you might need a sweater or umbrella if headed to the State Fair. Our school always took a bus-load of students to the Tulsa State Fair—a favorite memory. My friends and I would roam the midway, play games and ride everything we could. Then at nighttime, my older sister, who lived in Tulsa, would meet me and I would spend the weekend with her. A great time! Today, I still find September to be a fun month. We never miss Disney on Ice at the OKC State Fair and if I’m lucky, I might grab an Indian Taco or Funnel Cake before going home. I gave up those thriller rides years ago and settled for entertainment and food. Actually, I’m kind of glad to see summer slip away. This year was a difficult one. It started well with a trip to Bella Vista, Arkansas with my son, Jay. We planned to stay a month at a private home in the area so we could spend plenty of time with my oldest son, Aaron and his family, who live nearby. And for the second year in a row, I met my high school girlfriends in Bentonville during that time and spent a few days reminiscing and
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Outlook September 2015
laughing so much I hurt. But suddenly, everything changed. Jay became extremely ill and I rushed him to the ER in Bella Vista where we were quickly transported to Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas via ambulance. It is frightening to see your child so sick, especially when he cannot tell you exactly how he hurts. After three days at Mercy, Jay was not responding to treatment as expected and was considered in urgent need of surgery but needed a cardiac backup team so was transported to OU Medical Center in OKC, arriving via ambulance around midnight on a Sunday night. Suffice to say, there were hundreds of people sending prayers to heaven from all over the country. What amazing news when the doctor at OU read Jay’s morning X-ray of the small intestine and announced, “The blockage is gone. He won’t need surgery.” That, my friends, is a miracle, especially since Jay’s severe heart disease puts him at an extremely high risk for anesthesia. Yes, Jay still needed treatment. Yes, he still needed to remain in the hospital a few more days, but God came down and touched my son yet again in a healing moment, giving us a beautiful summer miracle. Thankful is not a strong enough word. For all those who prayed, please accept my heartfelt thanks. For the doctors in Arkansas and Oklahoma, including Jay’s wonderful family physician in Edmond, a huge “Thank you.” For Aaron, who helped care for his brother in all three hospitals, “I love you beyond words, my precious son!” And a huge measure of gratitude to my family and friends who followed texts and phone calls night and day for a week and stormed Heaven’s gates with prayer. You are the best! Thanks to everyone for loving my son. Thank you for your help. Thank you for being Jesus with skin on. May God bless each of you!
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 2015
FOOD
Veggie Gardens ...there’s always next year
by Laura Beam
It was my first real foray into vegetable gardening at home this summer. Hopes were high, seed packets were cheap and spring temperatures were mild. I liked where this was going. Besides, it was just dirt and seeds, how hard could it be? After all, my husband and I had successfully landscaped our three homes and transformed each barren suburban lot into our own little outdoor escape. We’d built patios together, attracted songbirds with just the right feeders and grown tomato plants and little lemon trees. It seemed a natural transition to now try our hand at serious vegetable gardening. Enrapt with the organic food movement and the thrill of selfsustainability, we built two 4’x8’ plots of foodie paradise. Granted, I didn’t hammer together the wood, haul in the dirt or dig the holes, but I did help choose the seeds and put on my pretty pink garden gloves,
pull weeds, move rocks and plant flowers in a nearby garden. I also provided constant servings of ice water and snacks as we toiled, so technically, I helped. Beets, okra, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes and green onions— the lineup read like a favorite summer dinner. It was such an empowering moment when we plopped those little seeds and plants into our carefully crafted garden. Like a farmer who knows something about working the land could feed a family for months, I was overcome with visions of never having to push a grocery cart around a frigid grocery store again. My fabulous little earthen plot of nourishment seemed invincible. And then the rain came, and came. Finally, after the rain subsided, the sun shone and my tender green plants were able to lift their weary stalks out of their muddy continued on next page
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Veggie Gardens, cont.
week to gather enough for one night’s serving, we continue to hope for a harvest. The cucumbers are small but delicious. The beets still look like crusty, swollen acorns, but I will pick and eat one before the season ends, just because I must. I’ve consoled myself with the excuse that it has been an unseasonably wet and mild summer. Maybe veggies don’t like that. But a co-worker has repeatedly brought in surplus tomatoes from her garden because she can’t eat them all. Jealous, but unashamed, I snatch one up every time I can. On a recent trip to my mom’s house in Tulsa, we toured her veggie gardens. I stood aghast in front of massive, flourishing asparagus plants and picked one so perfect that I ate it right off the plant and took home a yellow squash so big it was an entire meal. Guess I can’t blame the rain forever. Laura’s home garden My little garden still yields modest pickings but as the season wanes, so do my hopes of a harvest. I’m giving in and going to the grocery store. Besides, I’m out of bath soap and abode. Every sun-drenched day brought hope and growth. Like eager butter. No garden is going to resolve that. And fall is coming. It will kids waiting for a science experiment to come to fruition, we paced be chili season soon. Football games and crock pot soups will be my about the garden beds each evening searching for abundance, for comfort. I’ll have all winter to Google and research and dream of dinner ingredients. next spring’s brilliant crop. In the meantime, Fritos and ranch dip are At long last, my first tomatoes ripened and there was a yellow abundant enough. squash ready for picking. Success! Nothing can compare to a homegrown tomato with low-fat cottage cheese topped with a sprinkle of Laura Beam is a business and food writer and green onions, alongside a serving of fresh, pan-fried squash. I thought 20-year advertising and marketing executive in we’d turned the corner, mastered veggie gardening and were on our radio, newspaper and magazines. Share new way to a healthy new diet and lifestyle. A couple of hours later, I was business tips and trends with her on LinkedIn dipping Fritos in ranch dip like it was my last supper. My healthy new or email Laura@outlookoklahoma.com. lifestyle had taken a serious hit. Grateful for each handful of okra we pick, even though it takes a
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Outlook September 2015
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BUSINESS
Crossings Community Church by Morgan Day Worship service at the Venue at Crossing Community Church
Twelve years ago, Robin and Matt Anderson were considering a move to Edmond and were won over by the feeling of family in the community. They encountered the Oklahoma spirit —a sense that once you’re here, you’re family. They also found that same warm, inviting vibe when they walked through the doors of Oklahoma City’s Crossings Community Church, where Matt now works as the Preaching Associate. He said the church was “a picture of grace and hope—a big family.” “There were signs hanging up around the building that said ‘You belong here,’” he recalled. “That phrase is found in the New Testament in Ephesians: ‘You’re no longer strangers or outsiders. You BELONG here… God is building a home. He’s using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building.’ I think it’s a great picture of Crossings—a community where God is bringing restoration, hope and peace.”
Make a timeless
STATEMENT
3224 S. Boulevard | 340-1519
OPEN Mon-Fri 10-5:30; Saturday 10-2
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Outlook September 2015
On Sundays, Crossings gathers in three diverse worship services: “The Venue,” described as a modern and contemporary service featuring a band; “The Sanctuary,” a more blended service with choir and orchestra; and “The Chapel,” a liturgical or more traditional service. The goal in each is the same: to create a safe space where people can turn their hearts and minds back to God and be reminded of what is most important in the world. Senior Pastor Marty Grubbs has led the church since 1985 and has created a church community that always wants to deal with the realities of life rather than hiding behind masks. That is one reason the CareSeries is such a vital part of the church. On September 14th, Crossings kicks off a full lineup of recovery/ support groups and classes (on Monday nights), which provide opportunities for individuals to find hope by participating with others who are
facing similar life challenges. There are a variety of groups offered, such as: Anger Management, Boundaries, Cancer Support, Depression/Bipolar Support, Divorce Recovery, Miscarriage/Infant Loss, Survivors of Suicide, and many others. The church also aims to give back to the community in many ways. It runs a free medical clinic which provides medical, vision and dental care, as well as counseling for the uninsured and underinsured. “Crossings wants to take the blessings God has given and share those with others,” Matt said. “It’s the idea that when we receive something, we don’t hold onto it with clenched fists, but we open our hands and share with anyone in need.” Crossings Community Church is located at 14600 N. Portland Ave, Oklahoma City. Learn more by visiting crossingsokc.org. Visit the clinic at 10255 N. Pennsylvania Ave. in Oklahoma City.
Science Museum Oklahoma by Austin Marshall Science Museum Oklahoma
The day-to-day routine of modern life—the morning commute, housework, errands—makes it easy to overlook the awe-inspiring complexity of life on Earth and beyond. Science Museum Oklahoma, now in its sixth decade in Oklahoma City, allows adults and kids alike to experience childlike wonder at the natural world and rekindles the human spirit of discovery. Oklahoma has a proud history of native scientists. Gordon Cooper was one of the first Americans in space; Edwin Gilliland developed several innovative techniques in chemical engineering; Shannon Lucid was the first American mother to be selected as an astronaut. Today, the spirit of scientific inquiry continues at Science Museum Oklahoma. Located in Oklahoma City’s Adventure District, the museum houses fascinating exhibits showcasing a variety of scientific phenomena in the natural world. “Science Museum Oklahoma
plays a vital role in science education in Oklahoma,” says Linda Maisch, the museum’s Vice President of Community Engagement. “The museum channels everyone’s inner curiosity and playfulness into learning about science and the world around them.” The 9,600 square foot “Science Floor” anchors the museum with dozens of interactive displays. The Tinkering Garage is a combination of science, design and art, which allows visitors to experience hands-on science in a workshop setting. For those with iron stomachs, the 2,500 square foot Grossology exhibit focuses on the science behind body odor, runny noses and other unsavory aspects of the human body. The museum and planetarium first opened in 1958 at the State Fairgrounds. The planetarium allows visitors to explore the night sky. The museum moved to its current location in 1978. The museum’s latest exhibit—appropriately
named CurioCity—is a 20,000 square foot showcase filled with a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can construct paper airplanes and toy cars, explore a cave dwelling with interactive water features, and do other activities all constructed to encourage interest in the natural sciences. “Beyond making science fun, our goal is to show kids the way science education is applied and put into motion in their everyday lives.” Maisch says the museum tries to cultivate a lifelong fascination for science in Oklahoma’s children. “We love to inspire kids to explore science further, and maybe even pursue a career in the sciences. More importantly, we want Science Museum Oklahoma to fascinate, educate and inspire each person who walks in the door, because science is for everyone.” For more information, call 602-6664 or visit sciencemuseumok.com.
outlookoklahoma.com
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Power Play Agility training provides fun, excitement and competition for dogs and their humans by Austin Marshall
Few things in life are more natural than a dog at play. Humans and dogs share a unique bond in the animal world, serving one another with a fidelity unseen between other species. Humans are drawn to a dog’s ability to find joy in their work and in their unending enthusiasm for everything. A trip to the local dog park will demonstrate the ability of dogs to make physical and emotional connections with their human counterparts. Dogs connect us to the animal world, yet retain so many traits that we identify as human: strategy, loyalty, emotional intelligence and an ability to follow direction. Few things about dogs are more impressive than their athletic prowess. Dog agility contests, in which dogs traverse an obstacle course guided by their trainers, allow owners to test the capabilities of their canine counterparts. The first agility trials were modeled on horse obstacle courses. Its popularity soon spread around the world, with thousands of contests now held across the world. Agility trials in the United States are sanctioned by many organizations, including the American Kennel Club (AKC).
started, the team moves through the obstacles in the class as quickly as possible, striving for accuracy and speed. The top accolade is the Master Agility Champion, awarded to teams who earn an “Excellent” title and continue to compete. Although the club now runs several events per year, its early history was less certain. The AKC maintains rigorous standards for affiliate clubs and requires completion of a demonstration period prior to approval. “We did some AKC service events and seminars and
Macaroni, Dalmatian
Dude, Miniature Schnauzer
Agility in OKC
Red Dirt Agility Club is the metro area’s AKC affiliate for agility trials. Founded in 2009, Red Dirt Agility Club holds trials at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo in Shawnee and Soccer City in Oklahoma City. “Hosting an agility trial is a complex process, and we Patrice Drummond with rely on our dedicated volunteers,” Gabe, Standard Schnauzer explains Gayle McNish, the club’s President. McNish is the proud owner and trainer of Alex, a border collie who loves competing in the agility trials. Border collies, like so many other breeds, thrive when given a task to accomplish. Agility trials are a wonderful way for McNish and Alex to bond and work off the incredible energy border collies are famous for. A typical agility course guides the dog through jumps, weaves, and other obstacles of varying height and construction. “Each course is unique and is designed to meet AKC standards for the class,” McNish explains. Owners are allowed eight minutes to walk the course with their dogs before the competition and strategize. Once the event has
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Outlook September 2015
Alex, Border Collie
were approved for an ‘A’ match, our first real test to prove to AKC that we were able to put on trials of our own,” explains Toni Toole, a founding member of the club. By March 2009, the club was fully operational and planning its first fully sanctioned event. Dianne McFarlane, a veterinarian and longtime member of the club, had her interest piqued after watching an agility contest on TV. “My dogs and I train a little bit every day, weather permitting. Our sessions are very short, usually no more than 15 minutes per dog,” she
says. “Having a well-qualified trainer, especially when you are new to the sport, is important.”
Tactical Training
Training differs based on the needs and abilities of each breed, McFarlane explains. “Some dogs like to chase balls or toys. That can be used to teach a dog to run ahead of the handler. Others are very foodmotivated and will train best for treats. Some dogs fear heights and may need a more gradual introduction to the obstacles.” Dogs can get distracted easily, so variety is important in training. “We usually have a skill we focus on for a week or so, but we change how we practice the skill each day.” McFarlane’s three year-old bullmastiff, Nattie, has a flair for the dramatic. “She literally drags me to the start line. She loves when the crowd cheers and claps for her and can be a bit of a ham when the crowd is loud.” Patrice Drummond, the club’s Vice President and member since 2011, first learned about the club at an obedience class for her dog. “I decided to check it out and I was hooked.” Like other club members, she spends a lot of time training. “Foundation skills are imperative. Training is an ongoing process, and you’re always working to perfect your skills. No dogs or breeds train the same—each dog has its own skill set, strengths and weaknesses.” Drummond trains and competes with Gabe, a three year old standard schnauzer. She’s training a 20 month-old standard schnauzer named Emma, as well. Drummond is always amazed by the sense of community at agility trials. “Most handlers are very supportive and willing to share advice.” The process to stage an agility contest begins six month before the event, when the club submits its application to the AKC. Red Dirt Agility must obtain the services of an approved judge, select a venue and appoint a chair of the trial before it submits its application. Once approved by the AKC, the club forms a committee who oversees planning of the event. “At each trial, almost all of the club’s membership will assist with various volunteer jobs. Most competitors will volunteer for at least one more or of the 200 positions that must be filled during the trial,” she adds. Red Dirt Agility Club holds three to four trials per year. Each trial typically attracts 100 to 150 competitors. Dogs of all breeds may compete—the club allows mixed-breed or “All-American” dogs to participate. Three levels are used to separate competitors based on skill: Novice, Open, and Excellent. The club will be adding a new top level this year— Premier—for dogs with prior success in the Excellent class. Becky Raines, who competes with her miniature schnauzers Dude and Jewel, says winning isn’t the only concern. “Some people take competing very seriously, but for me its about developing a bond with my dogs. They just want to please us, and nothing makes them happier than their owner’s pride.” Red Dirt Agility Club is open to anyone with a passion for dogs and their capabilities. The club and its members are a close-knit community with a common enthusiasm for man’s best friend. While the trials are competitive, the camaraderie makes it feel like a team sport with a common goal of celebrating the profound connection between humans and the dogs they love. If dogs could smile, they’d be beaming during an agility trial. To learn how to get involved with Red Dirt Agility, visit their website at reddirtagility.org. Be sure to check out their event on September 5th-7th at Soccer City in OKC. outlookoklahoma.com
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Hearts for Hearing by Mari Farthing
It’s so easy to take our abilities for granted. For the majority of us, we don’t question what our senses do for us—we touch, taste, see, smell and hear the world around us from the moment we are born into it. But for some, these abilities aren’t something they are born with.
Reacting to Sound
Photo by Laura Vanderzee Photography
When Amanda Watson gave birth to her daughter Nora eight years ago, she and her husband didn’t anticipate any problems. “You never expect anything to be wrong with your child,” she says. However, Nora didn’t pass her newborn hearing test and was referred to the nonprofit Hearts for Hearing for further testing when she was four weeks old. Hearts for Hearing then performed an automated brain response test on Nora. “They Nora Watson, put electrodes recipient of on her head hearing aids provided by and monitored Hearts for how her brain Hearing reacted to sound,” explains Amanda. In this way, Nora’s hearing loss was determined and she was fitted with hearing aids at six weeks old. Further genetic testing revealed the cause of Nora’s hearing loss—a gene was found which causes the small hairs inside the hear to not move as much as they should, causing them to not collect sound as they should. Nora’s mild-to-moderate hearing loss has now been completely corrected with hearing aids, and she continues to receive regular appointments with an audiologist to monitor her hearing. Six years later, when Nora’s younger brother Klein was born,
there was no question as to how to handle the situation when he failed his newborn hearing test. “We took him to Hearts for Hearing and he was diagnosed at less than one week old.” His slight-to-mild hearing loss is also completely corrected through hearing aids. Both children are improving and showing progress comparable to their peers. Amanda credits Hearts for Hearing with her children’s ability to work through their hearing loss. “Early intervention is the only reason we are where we are today. There’s no way Nora would be where she is if we hadn’t been referred to Hearts for Hearing.” It’s clear that this organization has had a big impact on the life of this family, beyond standard medical care. “Our speech therapist is now like a part of our family,” said Amanda. “I will forever be indebted to Hearts for Hearing.”
Making A difference Hearts for Hearing has been providing this service to the community since 2003, growing in size and services offered each year. What started as a program to fund the initial set of hearing aids for children with hearing loss in Oklahoma has grown to be a comprehensive health program for children and adults. Last year, Hearts for Hearing served over 2,000 children and nearly 800 adults across Oklahoma, providing comprehensive diagnosis, funding and financial aid for hearing aids, cochlear implant support, comprehensive audiological testing, therapy and education for individuals and their families, and so much more. The organization’s core values drive their mission: families should be given all options for communicating with a child with hearing loss; babies who are born deaf can typically learn to listen and talk; cost should not limit ability; good outcomes aren’t good enough; adults with hearing loss should have the opportunity to hear again. “The opportunities for children born with hearing loss today are truly miraculous,” says Rachael Odor, Hearts for Hearing Marketing Coordinator. “The fact that a child born deaf can learn to listen and talk, be mainstreamed in their neighborhood school and reach their full potential in life is a dream come true for parents. The gift of a child being able to listen and talk with their parents is available to many more Oklahoma families just like Amanda’s.” To learn more about Hearts for Hearing, visit heartsforhearing.org.
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Outlook September 2015
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the Chemistry of competition by Amy Dee Stephens
synthesizing compounds. Lofty as it sounds, Sooraj doesn’t walk around spouting out formulas. He’s just a regular teen who enjoys hanging out with his friends. Nor does he claim to have had an interest in chemistry his whole life, since, as he said, “You don’t even take chemistry until high school.”
Accepted at OSSM
For most people, chemistry is puzzling. For 16-year-old Soorajnath “Sooraj” Boominathan, “Chemistry is like a puzzle, and I enjoy solving puzzles.” Sooraj’s problem-solving ability landed him a coveted spot on the United States team that competed in the International Chemistry Olympiad in July—where he walked away with a silver medal. As the Olympic-sounding name suggests, Sooraj had to earn top scores in various qualifying rounds to be selected for the fourperson team. Various exams tested his knowledge of chemistry, while lab simulations proved his skills at practical application, such as
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Outlook September 2015
The tipping point for the Deer Creek student came when Sooraj was accepted into the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) for his junior and senior year. The two-year residential school, funded by the Oklahoma legislature, is free to selected students, but acceptance is highly competitive. “I was excited to attend, because being there meant I could take science classes I couldn’t take at a regular public school,” Sooraj said. “Instead of one basic chemistry class, I could take organic chemistry, bio-chemistry and physical chemistry.” OSSM has sent students to the international competition before, but none in recent years. When Sooraj expressed an interest, one of his professors, Dr. Fazlur Rahman, shared his knowledge of the process and helped Sooraj work through the beginning levels of the event. First, Sooraj took a general exam, which narrowed the field from 16,000 to 1,000 students in the United States. Further exams and lab tests narrowed the field to the top 20 students, who attended a training camp at the US Air Force Academy. Although Sooraj made it into the top 20 last year as a junior, this year, as a senior, he secured his spot as a finalist. “I’m pretty focused when I need to be, but I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I’d make it so far,” Sooraj said.
At The Olympiad
The 47th International Chemistry Olympiad took place at the Moscow State University in Azerbaijan, Baku. The scene of the competition was much what one would expect: an austere, modern laboratory with stainless steel work tables for the lab test, and a typical university classroom for the exam.
“Nerve-wracking” is the phrase Sooraj used to describe his feelings the week of the competition. “After working so hard, it all came down to a few hours of testing: five hours of test taking and five hours in the lab,” Sooraj said. “The lab part didn’t go too great for me because of my nerves and the time pressure. The theoretical exam was on a different day, and once I settled into the test, my heart stopped racing and my mind cleared.” Even so, Sooraj placed 48th out of 290 students from 79 different countries. According to Sooraj, he felt enormous pressure being surrounded by so many brilliant students during the test, and yet, he enjoyed great camaraderie with them during the down times. “The main thing I took away was that kids from around the world each have a unique culture, but we aren’t all that different. I had perceptions of what people are like from different countries—but we struggle with many of the same things.”
Sacrificing for the Silver
Despite Sooraj’s natural aptitude for chemistry, there’s no denying that his abilities came with hard work. He spent two years preparing for the competition. “I like hanging out with my friends and watching TV, but I had to cut way back and stay home to study,” Sooraj said. He expressed appreciation for the sacrifices his parents made. His parents, who moved to Oklahoma ten years ago from India, both have a background in science. His father works in computer science and his mother is a former biology teacher. d le tt Once I se Prior to high school, Sooraj enjoyed y m , st mathematics—but in chemistry, into the te ed p he found an avenue to use creative heart stop y m deduction, uncover clues, and experiment. racing and . d re a As he learned about pioneers in the field le c d in m of chemistry, he came to admire the way they used both logic and creativity to solve problems and invent solutions. In the opening ceremony of the International Chemistry Olympiad, the organizers tasked the students with becoming the new pioneers by solving current mysteries of science in order to protect humanity. Sooraj isn’t sure where his path will lead, but this fall he will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “I’d love to eventually develop cutting-edge nanotechnology products,” Sooraj said. “Will I change the world? It’s hard to say where I’m headed yet, but there are lots of options in this new field that could potentially change the world. I know I’m grateful to OSSM for preparing me to compete in the Olympiad. The experience has given me self-confidence, opened my eyes to new cultures and proved to me that hard work does pay off.”
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FacebookFinds Local group organizes online garage sales
by Lance Evans
You know what they say about someone else’s trash, it can the internet, you had to get up, get dressed and go look for what easily turn into another person’s treasure. Garage sales are the you want,” said Rhonda Digby-Bussell, the online moderator of the perfect examples of this age-old theory. The garage sale used to be Facebook group Edmond Buy, Sell, Trade Furniture. “Now you can the weekend gem that you surprisingly found on your way around order from your pajamas.” town. It would provide the perfect detour in between Rhonda’s group was created a year-and-a-half those Saturday morning errand runs. You can always ago in hopes of bringing online bargain shoppers The online justify the unnecessary splurges at the garage sale— together to sell and trade furniture. Over time the group “Edmond small idea turned into a huge following that has the reasoning is all in the price. The true joy of purchasing items at a garage Buy, Sell, Trade recently grown to over 13,000 members. “Everyday sale was always hidden in the value of the items 50 to 60 people ask to join,” said Rhonda. And people Furniture” has being sold. Items found at these spur-of-the-moment aren’t just browsing items, they are actively buying neighborhood shopping sprees can help set your and selling. Users are encouraged to post furniture grown to more home apart from the traditional décor pieces sold items that are available for pick up near the Edmond than 13,000 at popular furniture stores. Like all other forms of area. Pictures of the item, including measurements, shopping, the internet has also revolutionized garage price, location and quality of the item for sale are members sale shopping. Now, sellers across Oklahoma are required for each posting. taking advantage of easy ways to clear clutter, earn cash and discover So what exactly is the appeal of shopping online for used hidden treasures. furniture? Consider the overall cost of moving. Deposits, down Despite the fun of happening upon a garage sale on the drive payments, closing costs, movers and other obligations can at times put home, many saw a need for access to quality used items without your desire for new home furnishings on the back burner. Resale sites having to wait for the neighbors to put up a yard sale sign. “Before allow you to bid for high-end items at extremely low prices. Burnhardt,
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Pottery Barn, Century and other luxury furniture pieces can set you back an entire month’s mortgage. The typical price to furnish one room with Ethan Allen furniture is around $10,000. Many bargain shoppers are opting for gently used items that still carry the quality name without the hefty price tag. These high-end items add to the appeal of shopping at online garage sales. It’s easy to let the thrill of new furniture lure you to the site. Before long, a few clicks can easily turn into hours spent shuffling through décor pieces. Cara Taylor moderates the Deer Creek Edmond Garage Sale group on Facebook. She said that the secret to keeping members clicking through items is constantly engulfing them with new must-have items. “I have made the site successful by keeping the garage sale site up to date with items that only stay listed for a month and deleting sold items and advertisements that don’t belong,” she said. Cara sees no end to the online garage sale craze. “I think that most people flock to the online garage sales opposed to the traditional ones because it is fast, convenient, and a person can make more money from an item online versus selling it all at the same time out of their garage.” Online garage sales have also become a hot commodity for families. Cara’s group not only sells furniture, but clothing items as well. The site easily allows moms to get rid of clothes that their children may have outgrown. The convenience of photographing items and selling them online initially drew Cara into creating the sales site.
“I know for myself I am a very busy mom of six kids and work a full time job,” she said. “It is not always easy to throw together a garage sale to be able to get rid of items no longer needed. It is also a plus that a person can make a little bit of extra cash on their items to help out with family needs or any extra expenses they may have.” Search for Edmond Buy, Sell, Trade Furniture and Deer Creek Edmond Garage Sale on Facebook
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Back to School s t l u d A for by Heide Brandes
As school children across the metro area strap on shiny new shoes and sturdy backpacks to head back to school, adults are left with some free time to learn something new on their own. Classes and courses for adults generally bring up images of continued education or MBAs, but many grown-ups are finding courses offering everything from dance to jewelry-making to cooking and more. For those dreaming of learning a new hobby or skill, the metro area offers dozens of classes for every interest. Now is the perfect time to go back to school. Check out these four fun courses just for grown-ups.
Get Cooking
Ever wanted to learn how to make the perfect sushi roll? Thought about creating those sweet and mystical dessert concoctions you only see at fancy restaurants or cooking up an exotic Thai dish? At Francis Tuttle Technology Center, adults can enroll in cooking classes that cover all the flavors of the world. In addition, new this year, students can also audit the culinary school professional courses to pick up cooking techniques taught to aspiring chefs. “Everyone likes someone who can cook,” said Marc Dunham, director of culinary arts at Francis Tuttle. “Beyond that, it’s a neverending educational process and it’s never dull. We have a ton of classes, but the dessert, pastry and bread classes are very popular. Sushi class fills up quickly, too.” Students ranging from young adults to senior citizens can explore a world of tastes without ever leaving the country. Classes range from Taste of India to making Baba Ghanoush to Filipino cooking. “People like to branch out and try different cuisines,” Dunham said. “You get
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the chance to explore the world without having to actually take the trip. Cooking classes are extremely popular.” For more information, visit francistuttle.edu/classofferings and click on the adult and career development link for a catalog view.
Need for Speed
If you’ve ever dreamed of driving a real racecar on a real racetrack as fast as you want, you’re in luck. Hallett Motor Circuit in Jennings, OK, offers small classes with experts on racecar and racetrack driving. Whether you’re just looking for a thrill or wanting to become a serious competitor, the Hallett Racing School lets you get behind the wheel of Spec Racer Fords for the High Performance Driving School. Even if you don’t become a NASCAR star, the school also improves everyday driving skills. In fact, the most important part of the school is teaching students how to handle a car properly. The car, the proper safety equipment, fuel, tires, instruction, on-track experience, lunch and a framed certificate upon successful completion are all included in a course. “People who come to the school love the thrill,” Stephens said. “Adrenaline is the most natural drug in the world.” For racetrack information or class details, call 918-356-4816 or visit hallettracing.net.
Pottery Pastime
For many adults, taking an arts class just for fun could seem like a mere luxury. At the Edmond Fine Arts Institute, however, flexible classes and skilled instructors make learning an art like pottery a fun and challenging endeavor for adults.
Tim Louis Haller Jr., the pottery instructor, says adults can learn to make a simple coffee mug or cylinder piece on a spinning wheel or a slab roller in as little as one to three classes. “You can choose to do a one-time class for up to six weeks,” said Haller. “We have students who repeat, but we make sure to add on to techniques they already know. For absolute beginners, we start with the basics of using two techniques, and then we build up to composite pieces like tall vases or teapots and then experiment with glazing and other techniques.” “This class is popular with families, teens, couples and retired individuals,” he said. “We help you along every step of the way.” For information or to enroll, visit edmondfinearts.com or call 340-4481.
Etiquette for Execs
Today’s professionals can boost their career and personal relationships with a few simple classes and tips on proper behavior in work settings, networking events and business meetings. Research shows that 85% of success in the business world is based on soft skills like etiquette while only 15% rests on technical skills. “Many people do not take the time to invest in the most critical part of their professional training, the crucial social skills that enhance your ability to communicate, negotiate and lead,” according to Carey Sue Vega, founder of Expeditions in Etiquette. The Executive Success Series is for action-oriented, self-motivated professionals. It’s a three-part, oncea-month class that focuses on the proper etiquette for formal business dinners, daily business and the oh-sonerve-wracking networking event. “The workshops give you the tips Photo by Creel McFarland and tricks and tools to make more meaningful business relationships,” said Vega. “If you know what to do, then you can focus on business instead of worrying which fork to use.” Although registration for the current series closed Aug. 31, those interested in enrolling can email info@ExpeditionsInEtiquette.com or visit expeditionsinetiquette.com.
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