JANUARY 2024
Lost But Found
Homeless Sisters Find Hope Through Adoption The Great Gutowsky Reduce, Reuse, REFILL! Boys Ranch Town
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I’ve been using my favorite screwdriver for over 30 years. The only problem with it is - it's not mine. It’s Dan’s, my roommate from college, who now lives in New York City. I borrowed it from him in the ‘90s and never returned it. It’s a little gem of a tool. Has a built-in ratchet, and a little container for the different tool bits. Phillips, flathead, 5-star, etc. - it’s handy. It’s nothing special by today’s standards but, 30 years ago - it was pretty nifty. Unfortunately, this “permanently borrowed” screwdriver also comes standard with a little pang of guilt every time I use it. Admittedly, never returning it is a slight stain on my character and evidence that I’m not working a program of rigid honesty. Last year, Alison and I visited Manhattan for a few days. While there, we had the opportunity to meet up with Dan and his wife for an afternoon of museums, restaurants, and reminiscing. It was at the end of our visit that I confessed my decades-old transgression. He paused and said “What screwdriver? Keep it.” A little confession, a little forgiveness. Now every time I tighten a drawer handle, secure a piece of trim, or replace a tail light - I’m reminded only of our longtime friendship. Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
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Features 8 10 12 14 18 20 22 26 30
Boys Ranch Town Discover Local Cuisine Lost But Found On Tap at Frenzy 3rd Street Yoga Reduce, Reuse, REFILL! Edmond Animal Shelter The Great Gutowsky A LOOK Back
Business 24 25
People's Church Excell Private Care Services
Columns 7 28
In Other Words with Dave Louise Tucker Jones
On cover: Renlee and Savanah Patt. Photography by sundancephotographyokc.com ADVERTISING l 405-301-3926 l sales@edmondoutlook.com MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 50,000 HOMES IN THE EDMOND AREA 1024 W Covell, Edmond, OK 73003 l 405-341-5599 l edmondoutlook.com l info@edmondoutlook.com
JANUARY 2024 Volume 20, Number 1 l Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. l © 2024 Back40 Design, Inc. PUBLISHER Dave Miller l PRODUCTION MANAGER Alison Miller l ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE /EDITOR Laura Beam l GRAPHIC DESIGN Anne Richardson PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins sundancephotographyokc.com l DISTRIBUTION Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to over 50,000 Edmond area homes. Articles and advertisements in the Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Back40 Design. Back40 Design does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by the Outlook does not constitute endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.
LOCALLOOK
Building Life Skills at Boys Ranch Town By Taylor Bollinger “While educational programs are wonderful, the most important thing we can do is share the Gospel. The primary objective in everything done on campus is to show and share the love of Christ to these boys and their families." Boys Ranch Town is currently serving 30 boys – 23 in the cottage setting, and 7 who have moved from the cottage into an apartment on their own. Boys ages 8 to 15 are eligible for placement, but participants are able to continue to live on campus until they are 18. Those living independently on the campus can focus on college or careers while working closely with advisors toward the ministry’s overarching goal of successful, self-managed lives beyond the campus. “We want their experience to be as close to a traditional home setting as possible for these kids,” said OBHC Director of Communications, Heather Beard, who also expressed her personal passion for the ministry. “We hear stories of life change – and this is not an exaggeration – every single day. We see the difference these programs are making every day.” When considering the vast variety of experiences coming through the campus on a daily basis, Heather says it’s important to remember that success looks different for each child. “We want them to know the love of Christ and the love of a family,” she said. “But we also want them to be able to hold a job, pay rent, and make responsible life choices.” Supported entirely by the generosity of like-minded donors, the ministry invites the community to contribute in three powerful ways: pray, serve, or give. Learn more at www.obhc. org/ministries/campuses/brt/.
Photo submitted
Since 1954, Edmond’s Boys Ranch Town has offered a childfocused campus for boys in need of a home. There, young men arrive seeking help, experience a home, and leave with skills to serve them for life. One of Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children’s (OBHC) many ministries, Boys Ranch Town is a 145-acre working ranch housing four cottage-style homes where up to eight boys can be placed under the care of a husband and wife pair serving as house parents. Within these homes, the boys’ material needs are fully met. But it’s also the intangible aspects of their life that the ministry aims to address. The ranch also has nine transitional living apartments. "When I first moved to Boys Ranch Town, it felt really big with a lot of new people and names to remember,” said Patrick, a Boys Ranch Town resident. “But I love the safe environment here. Lately, I have been learning to trust God with my circumstances. I am really proud of myself for growing in how I handle my emotions." While living at the ranch, the boys enjoy day-to-day life together, from meals to activities, chores, and homework. They attend Edmond Public Schools or on-campus schooling and are encouraged to participate in a variety of school, church, and campus activities. Boys Ranch Town makes activities like 4-H, animal programs, sports, crafts, trail rides, camp-outs, rodeos, auto mechanics, and a welding program easily accessible for residents, all with the goal of teaching responsibility, patience, and compassion. “I am excited about the ministry taking place at Boys Ranch Town. The programs on campus provide valuable opportunities for the boys to develop necessary life skills, preparing them for great success as they transition into adulthood,” said OBHC Executive Director, Michael Williams.
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FOODLOOK
Discover LOCAL CUISINE
Warm up to some hearty comfort foods and delicious dishes with a world of different tastes right in the neighborhood. Whether it’s a fun night out, casual lunch, take-out to enjoy at home in your comfy pants or a stellar catered event, treat yourself to the best!
By Laura Beam
GABRIELLA’S ITALIAN GRILL & PIZZERIA
Since 2009, Chef Vicki's family at Gabriella’s has delighted hungry guests with countrystyle, homemade Italian fare. Just as their grandparents and great-grandparents did it, they make their own Alfredo and marinara sauces, meatballs, ravioli, Italian sausage, pizza dough and mozzarella. Try their award-winning Shrimp Fra Diava featuring gulf shrimp in tomato and white wine broth, the Ossobuco – a veal shank braised in red wine and served on saffron risotto – and brick oven Neapolitan pizzas. Choose from a diverse selection of wine, craft beers, or signature cocktails made with house-made simple syrups and limoncello. Enjoy Gabriella’s for dinner Tues.-Sat. 4-10pm at 3601 S. Broadway, Edmond, or visit gabriellasokc.com.
RUNNING WILD CATERING
Planning a wedding? Explore all the superb catering options at Running Wild Catering. Since 1997, their expert staff has delighted guests with lavish, fullservice meals, fun taco bars, boxed meals, charcuterie boards, breakfast spreads and everything in between. Choose from a menu of Italian, Mexican, BBQ and old-fashioned comfort foods, appetizers and desserts, or create your own custom feast. Whether you want full-service catering or food drop-off, they make your special day a spectacular event to remember. Ask about their full-scale bar service, Spirits A-Go-Go, too. Visit runningwildcatering.com and book your free in-person or zoom consultation today!
AT EDMOND ICEHOUSE PROJECT
THE FRIED TACO
Discover bold Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisine with slow-simmered meats, housemade salsas, creamy sauces and crunchy slaws. Stuff all that goodness in a corn tortilla and fry it, and the light, crispy shell and melty inside will wow you every time. Try the slow-simmered brisket with cheddar cheese and house-made white BBQ sauce, dunked in purple Sriracha slaw, or the Old Fashioned Beef Taco with Puerto Rican seasoned ground beef. The beef empanadas, yuca fries and a signature Coconut Lavender Lemonade are fantastic too! Visit 119 W. 2nd St., at Edmond Icehouse Project or thefriedtaco.com. Catering and food truck bookings available too.
WOODWARD 'AUTHENTIC DETROIT STYLE PIZZA'
Satisfy your craving for delicious deep-dish pizza at Woodward’s! Each Detroitstyle pizza starts with a handmade dough that creates a thick but light crust and is topped with fresh high-grade Wisconsin cheese that runs all the way to the edges, creating that iconic caramelized bite. Try the Detroiter with cup-shaped pepperonis, seasoned ricotta, and fresh basil or the newly released marinated and smoked chicken wings. The breadsticks with garlic dip are perfect with your favorite draft beer, craft cocktail or wine. Visit at Edmond Icehouse Project, 119 W. 2nd St., Ste. 100 or woodwardpizza.com.
LAURA BEAM Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business? Contact her at laura@edmondoutlook.com 10
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FEATURELOOK
Lost But Found
SHOCK #1: There’s a homeless child at my work! Savanah Patt was just 29 years old when she made the quick decision to adopt a homeless child. The girl was hiding behind a recliner at a nursing facility where Savanah worked as an administrator. The child was filthy, lice-ridden, and had no shoes. Savanah was shocked to see her. “Who is this?” she asked. The resident said, “She’s my granddaughter.” Nine-year-old, Renlee, had been dumped in her grandma’s room, where she’d been hiding for over a week. Renlee’s parents had lived a life of addiction, forcing Renlee to panhandle and dumpster dive, and they eventually abandoned her. Savanah felt a fierce and immediate love for this little girl whom she calls her World Changer. “She had my heart. I had no doubts about adopting her,” Savanah said. Culture shock followed, however, as Savanah learned to parent a child with extremely delayed training and social skills. Renlee had missed a year of school. She was riddled with infections from years of poor hygiene. “I never wanted her to feel shame, because it wasn’t her fault,” Savanah said. “I was so excited to be a mom, but I didn’t understand that my gain had come because of extreme tragedy for her.” This revelation came to Savanah on her first Mother’s Day. “I planned to dedicate her at church that day, telling the world I had committed to being her mom forever. I was so excited, but Renlee became very distraught over the loss of her birth mother. I remember sitting against a tree, sobbing, and then, I literally heard God’s voice say, ‘I made you her mother for her sake, not for your sake.’ I suddenly stopped crying and realized, this wasn’t about me—this was about her!”
By Amy Dee Stephens
Shock #2: There’s a sister, too!
Savanah Patt and Renlee
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Renlee occasionally mentioned an older sister who was “accidentally adopted.” Savanah eventually requested assistance from the Department of Human Services and an investigator, and sure enough, they found Cheyanne, age 13, living with a guardian. “I requested visitation so that Renlee and Cheyanne could get to know each other,” Savanah said. “On that third visit, I bought Cheyanne a new outfit for her birthday. Little did I know that six weeks later, Cheyanne, my future Heart Warrior, would come to live with me.” When Savanah got the call that Cheyanne’s guardian had abandoned her at a gas station, she made an emergency call to her attorney and raced to the gas station. Once again, Savanah had no doubts. Her “I’ve got this!” attitude was in full force. “Cheyanne was still wearing the outfit I bought her six weeks ago,” Savanah said. “I pulled up and said, ‘Hey, do you want to live with me?’ Cheyanne said, ‘Yes.’”
Savanah made a whirlwind trip to buy Cheyanne clothes, shoes and bedding; a trip that was overwhelming for Cheyanne, who usually dug clothes out of a dumpster. Back at home, Savanah told Renlee, “I have a surprise!” But Renlee’s reaction upon learning that her newly-found sister was moving in was not positive. Renlee thought she was being replaced. Not only was Savanah having to teach all the basic life skills to another girl, Renlee’s fears caused her to regress, too. It was over a year before Renlee and Cheyanne started getting along. The sisters finally bonded at Mitch Park. As a single mom and career woman, Savanah had the girls walk from Cheyenne Middle School to the YMCA after school. That winter, they skated every day at the ice rink and soon became inseparable. “That’s when the three of us became the most incredible, beautiful, God-made family.”
Shock #3: The Past is Still Present Ten years have passed. The girls have graduated high school and become young adults. The Patts decided to share their story, and Savanah is frank about the anger, struggles, and feelings of unworthiness they faced and sometimes still face. “I feel like this is the highlight reel where everyone says, ‘You were such a hero to save them.’ No! We’ve had successes and we’ve taken steps back, but their story proves that they are fighters. I did the best I could, but there’s no playbook for helping a child who was abandoned at a gas station.” “My daughters experienced neglect and chaos so long that sometimes it’s more comfortable to them than being healthy,” Savanah said. “At Cheyanne’s adoption, the girls’ birth mom told them, ‘This is your chance, girls, to break the chain and not be an addict.’ But that doesn’t erase the pain of losing their first mom. They will face the consequences of their childhood throughout their life.” “Adoptive parents and foster parents are so needed, but make no mistake—you’d better be tough. It can cause you the most pain you’ll ever experience and more love than you can possibly imagine. I may never see all the seeds I planted, and I don’t have to see them---but my commitment to Renlee and Cheyanne is for always, and I won’t ever give up on these amazing girls. They have my heart.”
Cheyanne, Sava
nah and Renlee
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FEATURELOOK
On Tap at Frenzy: By Amy Dee Stephens As Frenzy Brewing Company approaches its fourth anniversary in Downtown Edmond, Matt Conner reflects on his unexpected journey. Not only was Oklahoma’s craft beer industry in its infancy back in 2018, Matt could never have predicted that Edmond would be receptive to a taproom—but things started to fall into place. “The Patriarch had already proved that Edmond was ready for a craft beer place. When the alcohol laws changed, allowing children in taprooms, we thought about how family-oriented Edmond is. Not only would we be the first brewery within city limits, it could work for families,“ Matt said. The very first site Matt looked at in Downtown Edmond was the building where Frenzy opened shop. Being in a historical location was not his focus, but he quickly realized its significance. “The history is part of the atmosphere. We didn’t want to lose the 100year history by covering up the brick walls and arched wood ceiling, so we left it exposed.” Growing Up Brewing Matt Conner Matt grew up in California, which embraced craft beer back in the 80s. Matt remembers how his dad’s interest in brewing developed into a hobby. “He took a college class at a professor’s house and then he bought the equipment,” Matt said. “I was in high school and thought it was pretty weird, because Dad stored the bottles in the crawlspace under the house, where it stayed a constant temperature.” Fast forward into the 90s, Matt’s family moved to Oklahoma. Once Matt’s dad retired, brewing became a way for he and Matt to spend more time together. “I joined Red Earth Brewers and started winning medals at brewing competitions,” Matt said. “My wife, Beth, and I thought, ‘Who better to open a brewery than home brewers?’ As we got deeper into the business plan, we realized we needed more help.” Jeremy Estle came on as an investor, but quickly turned into a business partner. Jeremy’s experience with homebrewing 14
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©Visually Bias Photography
Trivia, Tunes and Tenacity complemented Matt’s skill set. Now, all of Frenzy’s beers, a diverse collection of malt-based beverages, are made on-site at their location on Broadway. Frenzy Friendly Frenzy Brewing is uniquely one of the largest taprooms in Oklahoma, and is open to families and dog owners. Even non-drinkers can enjoy a variety of flavored waters and sodas. Although no food is served, people are welcome to bring their own or have food delivered from nearby restaurants. “We try to keep the atmosphere fun by providing entertainment most nights of the week,” Matt said. “For decades, everyone in Edmond went to Oklahoma City for entertainment. We’re helping by providing that here.“ Beth is the creative force behind the events schedule. Monday night is always Sing-O, a bingo card with music and song titles, and Wednesday is always themed trivia night. Other nights feature a changing schedule of live artist performances. According to Matt, Frenzy has been successful in Downtown Edmond, but not without its challenges, like the effects of the pandemic and current inflation. “I have to be truthful and say that it’s tough right now,” said Matt. “It’s getting more expensive to produce beer, and some of the craft breweries in Oklahoma have closed recently. If you like your local brewery, please support it.” Despite the industry downturn, Matt remains positive about Frenzy’s place in Edmond. “Our future is bright, because of the new development downtown and the future apartments that will increase foot traffic. Meanwhile, we’re trying to strategize, stay relevant, and dive into new products,” Matt said. “I think we’re most proud of our community engagement, however, because we support Edmond art and history, we welcome new musicians, and we provide entertainment for families.” Visit FrenzyBrewing.com to learn more.
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FEATURELOOK
Rachel Lawrence Mor in her 3rd Street Yoga Studio
Getting Back to "the Calm"
Rachel Mor’s 3rd Street Yoga Celebrates 20th Anniversary By Amy Dee Stephens Rachel Lawrence Mor suffered from significant anxiety “It was just the atmosphere I was looking for!” Mor said. attacks as a teenager at John Marshall High School in “I fell in love with the large front windows with colored Oklahoma City. Her reason for entering the high-stress glass across the top. The room is expansive, with tall career of an attorney only becomes clear as her life story ceilings and cedar plank walls dating back to the 1920s. And unfolds---and she attributes it all to yoga. when you look out the windows, you feel like you are still in “I needed help,” Mor said, speaking in her strikingly rich, small town America.” deep voice. “I found an older woman who taught yoga at Mor opened 3rd Street Yoga in April 2003. Having the fairgrounds, and she taught me how to breathe. That recently celebrated her 20th anniversary, she believes it is helped me deal with the anxiety attacks.” the oldest continually-operating yoga studio in Oklahoma. After graduating from the University of Central She thinks one of the best classes is called The Big Relax, Oklahoma with a teaching degree in the 1970s, Mor moved which is taught by the studio manager, Emily Naifeh. Each to California to teach English. There, week, Mor reserves the pleasure of she moved into a yoga ashram, a I’ve taught football teams. teaching a few sessions herself. community where people studied “I’ve taught football teams. I’ve I’ve taught people who’ve meditation and yoga. After a twotaught people who’ve had brain year move to Israel, she returned to surgery, hip replacements, and had brain surgery, and all Oklahoma City and entered law school. all kinds of trauma and physical kinds of trauma. Everyone Soon, Mor had a rigorous career with injuries. Everyone who walks in the a heavy stress load. She turned to her door is carrying some kind of stress who walks in is carrying yoga training to ease her anxiety. load,” Mor said. “They are all seeking some kind of stress load. “Yoga helps me cope, because help and a supportive community. breathing erases stress,” Mor said. They don’t always say what they “Whether it’s a bad mood or a health issue, we all face are struggling with, but it usually shows--especially if it is crises in our lives. Yoga helps us get back to calm.” anxiety or depression.” When Mor moved back to Edmond, she began seeking “I like to say, ‘Lay on the floor and let it go,’” Mor said. “I property to open a yoga studio. She happened down 3rd think it takes real courage to step through the door and try street and saw a lease sign at the old Buell Lumber Yard, yoga, even though it has become more accepted in the last where a cowboy boot store had just closed. The small shop, 25 years. Yoga helps people. It helped me. I can actually previously the lumberyard’s general store, was nestled say that what I receive from practicing yoga makes my life between industrial buildings and across the street from better.” the old Rodkey Flour Mill silo. To the west was an old house Learn more at 3rdStreetYogaStudio.com. with large trees and to the east was the railroad track.
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FEATURELOOK
Reduce, Reuse, REFILL! By Amy Dee Stephens Gena Money used to recycle so faithfully that she filled two recycle bins and half a trash can. At some point, however, she realized that she was still generating a lot of unneeded packaging. How could she reduce her recyclables as well? Julie Chamberlain grew up with parents who were mindful about repurposing household items. Julie continued the tradition, even choosing to shop at second-hand stores. She was later immersed into her in-law’s “granola and essential oils” lifestyle. As a teacher, Julie wanted to teach others to live a healthy life. Then, Gena and Julie met on an airplane ride. They quickly realized that they had the same core values. Because both had family members struggling with food sensitivities, eating “clean” and using non-chemical products was a priority. Gena and Julie remained in touch off and on, building a friendship. “I lost my job, so my daughter sent me a video about a store focused on non-toxic living,” Julie Owners Gena Money said. “She told me, ‘Mom, you should open a and Julie Chamberlain store like this.’ I liked the idea and shared it with Gena.” The concept went beyond organic food or locally-sourced products to also include the elimination of packaging and teaching others to reduce their The most unique aspect of Bulk Refillery, however, is the chemical intake. “I didn’t know such a store existed!” Gena “Bring a Jar, Take a Jar” community shelf. Any customer can said. “The way I was already living could be accessible and bring in spare, clean, glass jars for other customers to use. affordable to others!” Customers weigh a jar before filling it with product, and that weight is subtracted from the total weight at check-out. Bring a Jar, Take a Jar Gena and Julie began brainstorming. They wondered: How A Bulk Following many jars of spaghetti sauce are we buying each month? Bulk Refillery carries local kombucha, honey, and according What if those jars could be filled with other things instead of to Gena, the only certified organic elderberry syrup in being recycled? What if you could go to the store with your Oklahoma. The store also offers composting and classes on clean spaghetti jar and refill it with laundry soap or salt? topics ranging from gardening to sourdough bread-making. Then they wondered about finding bulk products and Gena and Julie quickly gained a following of customers natural products made in America. Or better yet, Edmond. seeking to live a cleaner life. They chat with nearly every Could they truly open a store with a reduced carbon customer about their individual journeys. “Most people footprint? who come in the door share our passion for changing the In September, they made the dream a reality when they environment,” Julie said. opened Bulk Refillery, a name dreamed up by Gena. One “People can feel overwhelmed, but we suggest that they just section of the store has large pump bottles of detergents change one thing at a time,” Gena said. “Just replace expired and hand soaps. Another section has bulk spices and seasonings or fill a jar with soap. I love it when people bring toothpaste tablets (yes, toothpaste tubes can be eliminated their old containers and refill them. I clap my hands like a giddy too). There is a “cut your own soap” table, plus, various two-year-old because that’s why we’re here!” organic products and sustainable household items. Visit them at 239 S. Coltrane Rd., Edmond or go to “If you’d told us natural deodorant would be our best BulkRefillery.com to learn more. seller, I’d have said you were crazy,” Julie said with a laugh. “And garbage disposal bombs.” 20
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LOCALLOOK
Another Chance at Life By Alexandria Williams It’s Christmas morning and a volunteers to take dogs out of the family member presents their loved shelter to explore the community for one with a sweet dog or cat as a a day. Christmas gift. But what happens The connection an animal can after the magic of Christmas is over make with a human in a short time is and the family realizes they may not powerful. It made all the difference have the resources to take care of for a sweet dog named Arnold, a this special gift? black and tan mix breed who was first Kaleigh Osela That’s when shelters like the surrendered by his owner after nd Edmond Animal Shelter offer years of mistreatment. crucial help. Supervisor of On a daily basis, Kaleigh Animal Services Unite, Kenny Oseland, Animal Shelter Stevenson, explains that January Coordinator, spends many is a challenging month because hours with dogs like Arnold. people surrender or return She explained that it is vital animals they may have adopted for people to understand that from the shelter. This creates “for some dogs like Arnold, strain, not just on the shelter and patience and trust could mean its resources, but for the animals the biggest difference when and the staff caring for them as trying to make a connection.” well. After years of waiting, During the holiday season, the Arnold was given another Edmond Animal Shelter houses up chance at life. An elderly Kenny Stevenson to 50 percent capacity, but shortly couple, who had just lost after, the capacity rises nearly their dog to old age, asked to 25 percent due to dogs and cats get to know Arnold in hopes being surrendered. “New pet owners may he would become part of their experience financial difficulties or lifestyle family. “He didn’t bond with challenges they hadn’t initially anticipated them right away,” Oseland said, when owning a pet,” Stevenson said. “so they just sat patiently with When owners decide to surrender him for an hour. We explained their pet, it also places enormous stress to them that Arnold probably on the animal. The staff has to work to wouldn’t come up to them right help the animal feel safe again after away or be very playful, and he changing their environment, routine may even appear to be timid or and the people caring for them. fearful.” The couple continued to Jackie Ga rcia, Kaleig For those who don’t adopt a pet, spend hours with him while they h Oseland , & Chase Kirk there are other ways to help the read magazines. Eventually, Arnold shelters by donating, specifically food and felt more comfortable. toys. The Edmond Animal Shelter staff is grateful for the A week after his adoption, Arnold’s new family called the continual, generous donations they receive for grown cats shelter to inform them that Arnold is loving his new home and dogs, and in the future, hopes to see donations of muchand is the perfect addition to their family. “That’s really all needed wet and dry puppy and kitten food. it takes,” Oseland added, “for someone to interact with a Many people volunteer their time instead. The Edmond troubled dog and work with them through counseling and Animal Shelter is run by a staff of volunteers who donate their understanding.” time to see that the animals feel loved and cared for and get For more information visit edmondok.gov. enough outside playtime. The shelter recently introduced a new program called the Doggy Day Out Program, allowing
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BIZLOOK
People’s Church By Maria Veres More than twenty years after it began in the Quail Springs Mall AMC Theater, People's Church is coming back to Edmond. The thriving, familyfocused church recently opened its sixth location, currently meeting at Edmond Santa Fe High School. A Place for Families People's Church was founded in 2002 by Pastors Herbert and Tiffany Cooper, who still lead the congregation. As the parents of four children, they have always had a passion for ministering to the next
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generation. "Our vision is to offer a place where kids and teenagers can flourish in their relationship with God, all while making great friends and having a blast." says Communications Director Andy Wynn. People's Church has dynamic and engaging services, and a strong focus on seeing lives changed by the power of Christ. They offer small groups for members of all ages, where people can form deep relationships as they mature in their faith. "I've seen God change so many lives at People's Church over the years, and it never gets old" says Andy. "It's exciting to know that we are still just getting started." Serving Families in Edmond and Beyond The first service at the new Edmond location took place in September, 2023. More than 700 people attended. Services take place every Sunday at Santa Fe High School, at 9:15 am and 11:00 am. "We are so excited to be a part of the
Pastors Herbert and Tiffany Cooper
Edmond community," says Andy. Later this year, they will break ground on a 23acre permanent Edmond campus. People's Church has several other campuses, located in Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Mabel Bassett Correctional Facility, and Indianapolis. They also partner with many ministries across the nation and around the world. People's Church Edmond meets at Santa Fe High School, 1901 W 15th Street. Learn more or worship online at peoples.church.
Excell
Private Care Services By Maria Veres When you or a loved one needs extra support with daily living tasks, Excell Private Care Services is here to help. Serving Oklahoma since 1996, Excell offers everything from weekly visits to full-time assistance in clients’ own homes.
Expert, Customized In-Home Care Excell Private Care provides a wide range of non-medical services, from housekeeping and companionship to bathing and medication reminders. Care is personalized for every client. Excell’s dedicated, compassionate staff members are fully trained, licensed, and insured. Each care plan begins with a visit from a registered nurse, who talks with the client and family about their needs. If a client’s condition changes over time, the amount of care can be adjusted. Sometimes people need help temporarily, such as after surgery. Excell will work with clients for whatever time frame is right for them. If a client requires nursing or medical care, Excell’s sister agency, Excell Home Care and Hospice, can step in to provide continuum of care. Serving Veterans, Medicaid Recipients, and the Whole Community Private care is covered under VA benefits, and many of Excell’s clients
BIZLOOK are veterans. Veterans can call their local VA to learn about homemaking benefits through care in the community. Excell also works with Medicaid recipients, and they accept private-pay clients and some insurance plans. Compassion and excellence are at the heart of Excell’s mission. Team members are supported in many ways, allowing them to offer the highest level of service to every client. Headquartered in Edmond, Excell serves clients in Edmond, Northwest OKC, and throughout the metro area. Whether you and your family are looking for occasional, shortterm help or daily visits from trained professionals, Excell will work with you or your family to develop a plan that meets all your needs throughout all stages of life. Excell Private Care Services is located at 2120 S. Broadway in Edmond. Contact them at (405) 6393939 or online at excellpcs.com.
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FEATURELOOK
The Great Gutowsky
Life & Death of an Edmond Oil Magnate By Amy Dee Stephens
Photo submitted
Kim Gutowsky van der Wal didn’t know much about her came loaded with personality. Assaph heard about the fertile farmland in a new state called Oklahoma. He traveled there grandfather until Edmond erected a bronze statue of him at to embark on farming and raise four children with his wife, Mitch Park in 2014! Augusta Ladwig. A few years later, Assaph caught “oil fever.” He “In 2014, I got a call from a friend, Mark House, who told me traveled across the Midwest, making about an oil derrick statue honoring and losing small fortunes as he Assaph “Ace” Gutowsky for discovering searched for black gold. one of the largest oil finds in Oklahoma Augusta passed away history,” Kim said. “I rushed over to see unexpectedly in 1932, which left this huge statue, and sure enough, it him devastated. In 1935, Assaph credited him for producing the oil that married again, to a seductive helped the Allied Forces win World War green-eyed siren named Marie, and II.” then he began working like a man Feeling shocked, Kim was determined possessed. He was convinced that to learn more about this influential, Edmond had oil, despite 30 years but unknown, relative from her past. of geological testing that proved What she found was akin to striking oil, otherwise. He adopted the use of because she uncovered a phenomenal a mystical machine for finding oil, story. Gutowsky’s life had all the called a doodlebug, which operated elements of a blockbuster movie: an much like a divining rod for finding immigrant who took wild risks in order water. Oil companies refused to to strike it rich, rising to world power support him, calling him a “crazy during wartime, and a seductress who Russian,” but Assaph didn’t give up. undid him in the end. In 1943, after drilling deeper into “This was my grandpa, and I never the ground than had ever been done knew about it!” Kim said. “I feel like I’ve before, he hit a gusher. Oil shot into been on a magical mystery tour for Assaph Gutowsky and wife Augusta the sky, and Assaph’s reputation ten years as I uncover more and more rose sky-high, too. He earned a about him. I’ve scoured newspapers, new nickname, Ace, and a new title, King of the Wildcatters. visited history centers, and interviewed relatives. Not only was Bank deposits jumped 50 million in 90 days, and the economic he famous, his discovery of the West Edmond Oil Field dealt impact was felt immediately. By the war's end, his drilling Hitler the biggest blow by providing enough oil to make D-Day company was valued at 100 million dollars. Ace leased a fancy possible.” office in the newly-built First National Bank in downtown The Doodlebug Millionaire Oklahoma City, and he and Marie began living lavishly. In 1902, at the age of 16, Assaph fled Ukraine and arrived Then, mysteriously, Ace died of a heart attack in 1945. in America. He had only three cents in his pocket, but he After multiple doctors pronounced Ace officially dead for 20
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minutes—he awoke with new conviction. He decided to sell his industry, give the money to charity, and return to farming. He also became suspicious of Marie, whose five previous husbands had died from unusual circumstances, leaving her higher on the social ladder each time. A few years later, Ace died of another mysterious heart attack. And his millions disappeared. Moving Toward a Movie Assaph’s story is so riveting, that Kim, like her grandfather before her, has launched her own big dream; not to find oil, but to produce a Hollywood-quality movie. Kim’s career in horticulture did little to prepare her for such an undertaking, but her grandfather’s spirit of boldness runs through her blood too. “I want to scream it from the rooftops, ‘This was my grandpa!’” Kim said. “I’m recruiting the right team of people to make this movie, and scriptwriting has begun. It’s uncanny how my journey into movie-making parallels Assaph’s journey of discovering oil. There are highs and lows—but there’s no 'if' in this for me. I will get this done. I’m his only remaining bloodline, so this is now my life’s work. Thanks to a statue in Mitch Park, I’m glad I’m finally getting to know my grandfather.” Learn more by visiting TheGreatGutowsky.com.
"West Edmond Oil Field" located in J.L. Mitch Park
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ALOOKBACK
Family Traditions By Louise Tucker Jones I’ve never been great with New Year’s resolutions, but I love family traditions. And what better time to pass on treasured gems like stories, recipes or tangible items than the New Year? When I was growing up, my mother fixed chocolate gravy for breakfast every morning. I thought it was normal until my girlfriends started spending the night with me just to have Mama’s chocolate gravy. After I had children, I fixed chocolate gravy for them and my son, Aaron carried on the tradition with his children. And recently, I had the joy of teaching my grandson how to fix our family recipe for his culinary class. Another tradition I started when my children were young was hanging
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streamers in their doorway for them to wake up to on their birthday. Imagine my surprise and delight when I saw streamers hanging from my granddaughter’s bedroom door on her first birthday. Traditions don’t have to be spectacular. It can be music, stories, memories, or a skill. My daddy passed on his love of old-time gospel and country music to us kids, even teaching my sister how to yodel. A simple phrase can become a tradition. When my husband was overseas during our first year of marriage he always added a special PS to his letters, “I love you more today than yesterday but less than tomorrow.” That became our mantra through 45 years of marriage. Some traditions just happen. Before our first child was born, my husband’s dad pulled Carl’s old wooden high chair from the attic. I loved it. We took it home, restored it, and used it with all of our babies and grandbabies. An antique fold-out desk from Carl’s youth was also passed on to us. After I painted it, our son claimed it and used
Aaron in his dad’s highchair
it all through school. After he left home, we totally refinished the desk and it is now ready to pass it on to our grandson. I have a feeling everyone has a tradition to pass on. A song, picture, memory, or just a special way to say, “I love you!” What a fun way to celebrate the New Year. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
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Photo provided by Edmond History Museum, edmondhistory.org
ALOOKBACK
a look back 1920s Rodkey Flour Mill Family Earl and Emma Rodkey pose for a photo with their daughter, Eloise in the early 1920s. The family is bundled up in winter clothes in front of their house at 19 N. College Street in Edmond. Earl’s father, Isaac, had purchased the flour mill in 1897. In 1913, Earl joined his father, buying one-half interest in the mill, which was producing 300 barrels of flour a day. The Rodkey Mill was one of Edmond’s most successful businesses for decades, and it did not close until 1970.
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1024 W Covell Rd., Edmond, OK 73003