Edmond Outlook APRIL 2010

Hoarders

Prisoners of Possessions

Arts Festival

Downtown Edmond Gears Up

Full Throttle Race Track Challenge

13431 N Broadway EXT, STE 104 Oklahoma City, OK 73114

www.edmondoutlook.com

3

web • print • logo design

405-478-4080 4

www.back40design.com www.edmondoutlook.com

www.edmondoutlook.com

3

4

www.edmondoutlook.com

APRIL 2010

22 departments

features

6

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Downtown Edmond Arts Festival

25 SHOPPING GUIDE

Spring Fling Specials

8

LETTERS FROM LOUISE The Great Train Ride

28 WHITE FIELDS

A Place to Call Home

10 SPORTS

Full Throttle Race Track

30 SOCIAL MEDIA

Online Marketing for Businesses

12 BEST OF EDMOND

Full Circle Health Clinic

& Heartland Outdoors

32 HOARDERS

Prisoners of Possessions

15 DINING GUIDE

Zarate’s Latin Mexican Grill

Follow Us On Twitter

18 HOME & GARDEN

Home Staging

Become a Fan on Facebook

22 FINE LIVING

Edmond Fashions in Full Bloom 27 HEALTH & FITNESS

Keys to Healthy Nutrition 31 AROUND TOWN

Publisher

Dave Miller

Operations Manager

Stacy Brasher

Production Manager

Joshua Hatfield

Advertising Sales

Design

Joshua Hatfield

Production Design

Krystal Harlow Joshua Hatfield

Managing Editor

Rebecca Wulff

Photography

Randall Green

Writers

Distribution

Edmond Outlook

Laura Beam JR Ross

Radina Gigova Louise Tucker Jones Lindsay Whelchel Nathan Winfrey Mindy Wood Rebecca Wulff The Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct mail to 50,000 Edmond homes and businesses.

Additional copies available at the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau, & Back40 Design office.

13431 N. Broadway Ext., Suite 104 Oklahoma City, OK 73114 405-341-5599 Fax: 405-341-2020 Website: www.edmondoutlook.com E-mail: info@edmondoutlook.com

To Advertise Call 341-5599

www.back40design.com

(Volume 6, Number 4) Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2010 Back40 Design, Inc. Articles and advertisements in Edmond 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 Edmond 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. Edmond Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

www.edmondoutlook.com

5

A rts & Entertainment

Artist Stephanie Carel’s Jewelry, from Silver Leaf Gems

by Nathan Winfrey

A

n unmistakable sign of spring is the annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival, a three day celebration of visual, performing and culinary arts.

“It’s going to be a great show - one of the best,” said Bryanne Wallace, festival co-director. Wallace and Co-chair Becky Crow have been running the show for the past few years.

Each year, more than 100 artists line the streets.

Many are from Edmond, but some travel from as far away as Florida or California. Oil and acrylic artwork, photography, jewelry and pen and pencil sketches are just a few of the media represented. Designer crafts like mosaics, glasswork, leatherwork and pottery are

Rory Morgan, Artist featured in the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival

6

www.edmondoutlook.com

also on display and for sale. This year will feature 15 new artists and many returning favorites. The celebrity artist is Edmond photographer, Patrick Hall.

“None of the art is commercially made; it is all done by the artists themselves,” Wallace says.

“Everyone has their own technique, we never see two paintings alike. There is a huge variety.”

Jewelry artist and longtime festival participant, Stephanie Carel, will present her work again this year.

She and her mother Diana Pate, and sister Sondra Reid, comprise Silver Leaf Gems. “We do everything from turquoise to freshwater pearl, coral and different kinds of sterling silver pieces,” Carel says.

Eight-year veteran, Rory Morgan will be submitting his landscape and wildlife paintings. “It’s a good show,” he says. “There’s always anticipation. People are always in a hurry to get down there and see what’s new.”

Morgan will present 35 new pieces at the festival.

“I paint mostly realistic things. I like things to look like they really are and I think that’s why people like my stuff,” he says.

Morgan participates in a variety of festivals, but he appreciates the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival in particular. “The mark of a good show is if people want to come back — customers and artists. If the artists don’t want to come back, something’s wrong,” he says. “The fact that everyone wants to come back each year is a good testament.”

“Our visitors enjoy our festival because we have affordable art and a kid-friendly environment,” says Leah Kessler, Downtown Edmond Business Association promotions manager.

“We always have a lot of new art and there’s always new food,” Wallace said. “There will be more food this year than we’ve ever had before.”

More than 20 food vendors will offer Indian tacos, catfish, funnel cakes, German food, pizza, smoothies and other festival favorites. Guests age 21 and older will be able to enjoy wine tastings from Oklahoma wineries.

The festival boasts a large children’s area with a ferris wheel, climbing wall, moonwalk, large slide, pony rides, face painting, crafts and more. Free activities, like a beanbag toss and duck fishing, will also be available.

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic will be performing that Friday with local favorites. Music on the Plaza participants include Edgar Cruz, Justin Echols, Stephanie Jackson and many more. Latin American folk musicians Inkapirka will return this year to wow audiences, as will “Bronze Man” Troy Scott and Chef Mike Varnell’s ice sculptures.

“We will have some wonderful storytelling, great bands, singers, dancers, piano players — all kinds of things and, of course, it’s all free,” Wallace says. “It’s great family entertainment.”

Businesses along the street will be open, and many will have special sales within the stores, Wallace says. “It’s a wonderful way to spend a great weekend in downtown Edmond.”

Now in its 31st year, the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival is sponsoring Parents Helping Parents. The nonprofit organization reaches out to parents who believe their children may be using alcohol or drugs.

The festival runs from Friday, April 30 through Sunday, May 2. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. No pets are allowed and admission is free.

For more information about the art festival, visit www.downtownedmondok.com or call 249-9391.

www.edmondoutlook.com

7

L etters from Louise

by Louise Tucker Jones

I

KLA HO

MA EST. 1 9

99 8

www.edmondoutlook.com

t was the trip of a lifetime! Our third grade class taking a train ride. No matter that we were boarding a small mail car, bound for a destination just fifteen-miles away. We were as excited as if we were boarding the Orient Express, not that we had ever heard of the infamous train.

Our teacher, Miss Vincent, was a first year teacher and new to our little farming community. She wasn’t satisfied with the ho-hum, everyday run-of-the-mill kind of teaching. She wanted her students to experience more of life and under her tutelage we did.

On this particular day, we packed picnic lunches and rode seven miles to the little train station in Henryetta where we pressed our young faces against the windowpanes, anxiously watching and waiting for the mail car. Finally, it arrived and Miss Vincent shooed her brood of eight-year-olds into the small train car for the short ride to Dustin, where we found an open field to run, play and spread our picnic lunches in the Oklahoma sunshine.

I don’t even remember the season, whether we wore sweaters or short sleeves. The joy was in the ride itself, hearing the clickety-clack of metal wheels on rails and doing something I had never dreamed of doing in my young life. After our lunch and some outside games, we boarded the same mail car and returned to our depot of departure, getting back to school in time to catch the bus home and tell our families about our great adventure. I’m sure Miss Vincent had us write a report about the trip but such details are lost forever. Only the adventure of the

train ride and a teacher who was willing to step out of the box remain in my memory.

When I began my teaching career, I wanted to be like Miss Vincent. In fact, even in college I had the opportunity to do something similar with a group of ten-year-old boys in San Marcos, Texas, where I held a summer job and attended a Spanish speaking church.

It was for my own benefit that I attended the church.

I was majoring in Spanish and thought it would be a good way to practice the language.

When the pastor’s wife asked me to teach a small group of boys, I agreed.

Several weeks into the summer I found that some of the boys had never been swimming at the city park—a river running through town that was roped off in areas for safety. I decided to take them.

We chose a meeting time and place. The boys were waiting when I arrived, so excited they could hardly stand it. On our outing we had ice cream cones, soft drinks and lots of crazy antics.

I could hardly believe these kids had never experienced such a trip. So much like me on that third grade train ride. I loved seeing the boys’ excitement and on that day, I became their hero. On that same day I realized I was no longer at La Iglesia Bautista for my own benefit and just how difficult it was going to be to leave these young boys when I went back to college—and it was. I cried as they gave me small gifts on my last Sunday with them.

During my first year of teaching, I cried again as I left my 7th grade students behind after they gave

“Teaching is a tough job, but the rewards and blessings last a lifetime.”

me a surprise baby shower, knowing I would never teach these children again. On another assignment, I laughed along with my high school students when one of the boys revealed a coal black, furry kitten hidden under his jacket. He had sneaked it in for my son’s second birthday.

And so it went with each class I taught. They left joy and tears in my heart and I left knowledge and love in theirs, and hopefully, something unique like a swimming trip, a baby shower or a train ride.

I hope every teacher reading this will find a way to do something special with his or her students, and that every parent would give their kids’ teachers a huge hug, a compliment and a smile. Teaching is a tough job, but the rewards and blessings last a lifetime.

about the author Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author and inspirational speaker.

Author and co-author of three books, her work has been featured in numerous publications. Mother of four and grandmother of three, Louise resides in Edmond with her husband, Carl and son, Jay. Contact her at: LouiseTJ@cox.net or www.LouiseTuckerJones.com.

405-202-8003

2000 15th Street, Building 150, Suite A www.jonrothmd.com

www.edmondoutlook.com

9

by Nathan Winfrey

H

allett Motor Racing Circuit not only gives drivers the experience of screaming down a track in excess of 100 miles an hour without worrying about police officers, stray cows or light posts, but it also teaches motorists how to handle their vehicle on city streets.

“People are going to want to drive their cars fast,” says Edmond resident Mark Humphreys. “At Hallett, they can do it in a safe, controlled environment.”

“We try to make it as family-friendly and fan-friendly as possible,” says Owner Scott Stephens. There’s an ambulance, tow truck and fire truck onsite at events and everyone drives the same direction.

Located near Jennings, between Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Hallett has been in operation for 30 years. Mike Langof and his mother, Connie Langof, have owned the course since 2000, but they have been running the track since 1988. The track accommodates auto, motorcycle and go-kart racing, as well as high-speed touring, which allows motorists to bring street cars to the course for fast, noncompetitive driving.

The 1.8-mile, 10-turn track at Hallett can be reversed to challenge drivers in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. “That’s pretty unique. It’s not something that’s done with a lot of new tracks,” Stephens says. “It makes it more fun for repeat customers.” The track boasts elevation changes of more than 80 feet, providing drivers with course variety.

“Motor sports in general are a lot of fun,” Stephens says. “We try to make it as easy as possible.” Hallett offers racing school, street car school and highperformance school.

10

www.edmondoutlook.com

“You’re driving the car — nobody else,” Stephens says. “If you’re not comfortable driving at 100 percent, you don’t have to. You drive the speed you’re comfortable with. We will work with you and help you become a better driver.”

Humphreys frequently takes his Mazda Miata to the track and has been an instructor at the course for two years.

“It’s more about driver education than going fast on a track,” Humphreys says. “The neat thing about high speed touring is that any regular car can come up there and the driver can learn what their car can do and, more importantly, what it cannot do. It’s not that you want to race on the road, but if someone cuts you off and you need to change lanes, this will let you know what your car is capable of.”

“The biggest thing about Hallett is there’s room for error. If you run off the track, you’re not going to run into a tree; you’re going to run into the grass,” says Langof.

“We get up to some high speeds out there, but it’s in a controlled environment. For me, riding at Hallett is more fun than riding on the road.”

Langof takes his Suzuki GSXR-750 motorcycle racing once or twice a month during the active season. “A lot of people might be intimidated at first because they think it’s only for racers, but it’s a great place for them to go out and learn their bike,” Langof says. “Once you get the butterflies out of your stomach, you have a blast, and then you get hooked, like I did.”

“The people at Hallett are very cool,” Langof says.

“They make you feel like family. It’s a nice, family atmosphere. My son goes with me and he’s two years old. My wife has really gotten into the sport, as far as watching.”

The season runs from March to October. April holds major events at Hallett. The Sports Car Club of America is the largest amateur road racing group in the country and will take to the course April 10 and 11. Corinthian Vintage Auto Racing, which is comprised of cars from 1972 and earlier, will tear up the track April 17 and 18.

The Competition Motorsports Association, Hallett’s own racing organization, will thrill spectators April 24 and 25.

For more information about the Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, visit www.hallettracing.com.

$

3 off

Full Service Oil Change With this ad - Exp. 4/30/10

www.edmondoutlook.com

11

Best of Edmond

by Rebecca Wulff

D

isease, illness, pain and suffering seem to be all around us. An aging population has begun to seek out alternative means of health

and healing.

In light of recent healthcare changes, many people are finding it’s advantageous to stay healthy, even through “unconventional” means.

12

www.edmondoutlook.com

“Not all medicine is in a pill,” says Dr. Mary Schrick, Full Circle Health Clinic owner. Full Circle is an integrated naturopathic and allopathic clinic.

As an example, Schrick says allopathy is a biological approach to killing the virus and naturopathy restores the body’s function using natural remedies. Together, these measures ensure patients are as healthy as possible.

“Healing is innate; it’s in your body,” says Dr. Schrick. “Because we are made in the image of God, the body heals itself when toxins are removed and the right nutrients are assimilated.”

Although Full Circle Health Clinic cares for a long list of diseases, some of their primary concentrations are cancer, diabetes, hypertension, hormone imbalances, Hepatitis C and allergies. Their allergy testing is unique in that they test for 45,000 different allergens. “You’re not allergic to tomatoes; you’re allergic to something in the tomatoes,” said Schrick.

The clinic focuses on finding out what the body is missing, instead of numbing the symptoms.

Dr. Schrick believes pain and discomfort exists

for a reason and finding the root cause is her main objective.

“Symptoms are viewed as the language the body uses to signal for help,” says Schrick. “Symptoms should not be simply covered up, but are used to assess why they came forth.”

Dr. Schrick says her motto is “test, don’t guess.”

A slogan put to good use by Full Circle’s extensive blood, saliva and urine tests. “If we can’t make measurable changes, you’re wasting your money.”

Some may consider alternative or natural healing as a last resort, but the truth is it should be a priority before other symptoms and problems arise, according to Full Circle Health Clinic’s philosophy.

Six days a week, Dr. Schrick hosts live interactive radio shows. Listeners can call in their questions to the radio broadcast Third Opinion on KTLR 94.1 FM and 890 AM Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., or on Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on KOKC 1520 AM. To schedule an appointment at Full Circle Health Clinic, call 753-9355.

by Rebecca Wulff

L

ocal gun and archery enthusiasts are thrilled to see Heartland Outdoors open a new gun and archery range in Edmond.

“Our gun range is unlike any other Oklahoma gun range,” said owner Barry Bryant. There are 14 lanes, each 25 yards long. It features a ventilation system with Hepa filtration that instantly carries gun smoke to the opposite end of the range, which is also climate

controlled. “There is no getting too warm in the summer or freezing in the winter and you don’t have any black stuff in your nose when you finish,” he said.

Bryant has spent the last 40 years in the oil and gas industry and owns a commercial fishing lodge in British Columbia. When he was approached by two acquaintances to start up the store, it peaked his interest. Heartland was unlike anything he had done previously and it fell in line with his attraction to the outdoors.

“I love to spend the summers in Canada catching fish and the winters exploring my land at Luther and watching the wildlife,” Bryant said. “Being an owner in a hunting store and an avid hunter is almost too good to be true.”

When the store opened, Heartland Outdoors invited Lee and Tiffany Lakosky, hosts of the television show The Crush, to greet customers who came from miles away to talk to them. “Lee and Tiffany stood there for almost 14 hours with nothing to eat and only went to the restroom once all day due to the enthusiasm from the crowd,” Bryant said.

Bryant’s employees are avid hunters themselves and know the inside and out of each gun or bow Heartland sells. “They’re doing what they love and making a living at it,” Bryant says. “When you ask a question, they don’t get a strange look on their face.”

“We’re all very excited to see the gun range open,” said Will Massad of Heartland Outdoors.

“It’s been really fun and we’re having a great time with it.”

The bow staff customizes each bow to fit the buyer. After being outfitted with accessories and professionally sized arrows, they can practice in the archery range.

“Most of our customers have been very appreciative of the attention we give them as well as our expertise,” said Bryant. “If we don’t have it we will certainly get it for them. I believe that we should treat everyone like they are more important than us. That is what is in the scriptures and it certainly works in the retail business as well.”

Visit www.heartlandoutdoorsok.com to take a 360 degree tour, or stop in at 1444 N. Kelly.

www.edmondoutlook.com

13

14

www.edmondoutlook.com

D ining Guide

J

by Rebecca Wulff

orge Zarate grew up in Peru and spent much of his childhood cooking with his mother in their Peruvian kitchen.

Although Jorge has worked in many restaurants around the city and in all positions, his favorite place to cook has always been in his home kitchen with the recipes his mother taught him as a young boy. Nearly all the Latin meals served at Zarate’s Latin Mexican Grill have come from his home fare.

“I worked 10 years in the food industry and I paid close attention to everything,” said Jorge. “I worked hard to learn the kitchen, serving, managing and running of a restaurant. I knew my passion was to cook and I would someday open my own restaurant.”

When Zarate’s first opened its doors, their menu was entirely Mexican. Through popular demand and a strong family desire to present their true Latin culture and cuisine, Jorge added his favorite Peruvian dish to the menu; the Lomo Saltado. As Latin lunches

and dinners become more popular, he continued to add unique dishes. The restaurant now boasts 25 different Latin entrees.

Zarate’s most popular dish is still the Lomo Saltado with grilled steak, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, Peruvian spices and yellow peppers. It’s sautéed over an open flame with red wine and served with white rice, sweet plantains and yucca fries.

Other popular dishes include their Cuban pork chops, mango salsa tilapia, Jamaican jerk chicken, Brazilian chicken and shrimp BBQ, Peruvian ceviche and Honduran beef tamales.

“We are planning to add new dishes because of our customer’s requests,” said Jorge. “Customers are always asking us to cook something from their home town in Central or South America, or because they went on vacation and ate something really delicious. We listen to every customer and the menu will reflect that.”

Zarate’s also offers a rare variety of International soft drinks from Puerto Rico, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and more.

The Edmond restaurant is a unique cultural experience and offers diverse live music every Wednesday with specials, like $1.99 margaritas. They also treat

birthday guests to a free meal as a thank you to their Edmond patrons for their support. Additionally, students and teachers can take 10 percent off their meal with ID. “We have met such nice people and in return we will do everything to keep the best quality, service and delicious flavors of all the Latin countries,” says Jorge.

Zarate’s Latin Mexican Grill proudly creates homemade flavors and prepares their dishes from scratch. Stop in for lunch or dinner at 706 S. Broadway.

5

$

www.edmondoutlook.com

15

D ining Guide

by Rebecca Wulff

This Japanese restaurant has a unique spin on their sushi specials. Fuji’s intriguing menu includes creative sushi names like the Marilyn Monroll, Y2K Roll, Rainbow Roll, 911 Roll, Valentine Roll and the Rocky Roll. The Marilyn Monroll is made with crispy deep fried shrimp, snow crab, Massago, cucumber and bean sprouts. Fresh spicy tuna, cucumber and avocado in a soy bean wrap make up the Rocky Roll.

The Rainbow Roll is a delicious California roll that’s topped with five varieties of sashimi. Stop by Fuji Japanese Restaurant at 2805 S. Broadway for lunch or dinner. Sushi Happy Hour is every Tuesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7p.m.

16

www.edmondoutlook.com

The best selling sushi roll at Tropical Café is the Tiger Roll and it’s easy to see why. Crunchy coconut shrimp, fresh cream cheese, avocado and crab are topped with homemade eel sauce and spicy mayo.

It’s hard to pass up this refreshing dish. The whole family can find something delicious on the menu with seven different categories of food, which include self-serve frozen yogurt, smoothies, crepes, French toast, omelets, sandwiches, wraps and more.

Stop in to Tropical Café Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 304 S. Kelly. Call to check summer hours.

The house special sushi roll at China King Buffet is deep fried with eel, spicy salmon, tuna, cream cheese and caviar. There is an amazing variety of sushi on this super Chinese buffet – you’d normally pay much more for this kind of variety. Not only does the large restaurant serve a wide variety of sushi, they also offer an extensive buffet, which includes 200 popular Chinese, Japanese, American and seafood choices. Stop in at China King Buffet and Grill is located at 13220 N. Pennsylvania Ave. and open daily, Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m.

www.edmondoutlook.com

17

H ome & Garden

by Rebecca Wulff

S

taging your home could be the difference between receiving an immediate offer and waiting on the market for months.

“In this buyer’s market, it’s critical that a home is accurately priced and show ready,” said Edmond realtor and resident, Kay Pratt. “It’s a fact that staged homes sell quicker and for more money.”

Competition is strong and home staging could be your key to a quick and successful sale. “The biggest benefit of home staging is that prospective home buyers are able to see themselves living in a home rather than the current owner and it will often sell faster,” said Edmond Home Stager and Realtor, Kristyn Grewell.

The first impression of a home starts with the front yard. “Studies show that good curb appeal carries a strong to moderate impact on the salability of a home,” said Pratt. “Not only is good curb appeal restful and makes a buyer feel welcome, it can also bring as much as 15% more value to your home.”

Keep the front of your home clean and manicured.

“Approach your house from all angles to see it from a buyer’s perspective,” said Grewell.

“While your home is on the market, consider hiring someone to maintain the yard and landscaping,” Pratt says. “It’s easy to put together a fabulous container of flowers for the porch or replace a drab mailbox with a dramatic new one.” The front door is often the focal point of a home, so consider painting it an inviting color or replacing it.

“Approach your house from all angles to see it from a buyer’s perspective.”

18

www.edmondoutlook.com

When staging your home, you’ll first want to de-clutter and de-personalize. This is the least expensive and yet the most challenging home staging suggestion. It can be difficult to remove your personal stamp, but it’s an important strategy in helping buyers see themselves living in the home, instead of you.

Since you’re planning to move anyway, simply box all the family photos up along with any collectibles and put them in storage. “Keep a basket on hand to gather odds and ends that accumulate throughout the day,” says Grewell.

Second, remove unnecessary furniture and make sure your décor is updated and appealing to the general public. “A few large accessories in a room are much better than many small, individual accessories,” Pratt says. She recommends using an attractive display of candles, a tall urn with natural bamboo shoots or a large colorful rug, which adds warmth to a room. Use furnishings that are in good repair and store the rest. Add luxurious pillows and throws to drape over sofas and chairs.

Continued on page 20 www.edmondoutlook.com

19

Continued from page 19 You’ll also want to deep clean your home, windows and carpet. Polish woodwork and perhaps paint the walls a neutral color.

Before a showing, turn on several lamps, set the dining room table and pull furniture in and away from walls to create a cozy atmosphere. Clear small appliances from the countertop, take down menus and schedules from the refrigerator, and keep all personal hygiene items in baskets under the sink.

“If an occupied home is being shown, it’s imperative that the homeowners be gone from the property,” says Pratt. “Buyers feel hesitant to see a home as potentially theirs when the current homeowner is around, even if they’re outside in the backyard.”

Grewell agrees, “I always recommend that homeowners leave the house show ready; beds made, blinds open, counters wiped down, lights on, etc. I think it is

20

www.edmondoutlook.com

best for homeowners to not be home during showings and allow buyers privacy while previewing the home.

If that is not possible, sellers should step outside or take a short walk.”

Selling your home can be frustrating, stressful and overwhelming at times. It’s difficult to emotionally detach from your home, but taking advantage of useful staging tips from the experts could get you moved into your new home sooner.

“Experience tells me that it’s better to have a home completely ready than to risk losing a single buyer if a home is shown before it’s time,” said Pratt.

“My advice to a seller is always this: less is more. It’s important not only for a home to be clutter-free but to be pleasantly appealing to the eye so exhausted buyers can mentally move in.”

To list your home with Kay Pratt, call 641-5754.

To reach Kristyn Grewell for home staging or listing assistance, call 615-2796.

www.edmondoutlook.com

21

F ine Living

by Radina Gigova

O

wners and managers of the trendiest boutiques in Edmond know the hottest spring fashions and can help you find a favorite outfit this season.

“I definitely think Edmond is very trendy,” said Lauren Owsley owner of Retropolitan.

One of spring’s many delights is that you don’t have to sacrifice chic for comfy. From feminine pastel colors and soft silhouettes, to modern exotic prints the key is to feel fabulous.

“What is always in style are clothes that compliment your figure and a style that makes you feel confident,” says Frencesca’s manager, Reem Bahouth.

TOPS

“Naturals and blushes are in. Lots of shades of cream, beige, blush pink and feathery tops,” said Bahouth. “Soft pastels, weightless fabrics, delicate lace and ruffles.”

“Red, white and blue is in, as always,” Bahouth added. “Lots of classic American denim, stars and stripes, and the girl-next-door attitude with some nautical styling.”

“Racerback tops and boyfriend, baggy t-shirts are two really big styles for spring,” said Owsley. “We are also seeing a lot of crushed tops with beadwork and all kinds of appliqués.”

22

www.edmondoutlook.com

D RESSES “Floral is definitely in, from prints on skirts, to rosette appliqués on dresses, to floral accessories,” said Bahouth of Frencesca’s at 1470 S. Bryant.

“Shorter (dresses), anything with an appliqué, like ruffles or a flower on it, a bow,” said Owsley of Retropolitan at 1489 E. 15th. “We are seeing a lot of ethnic-type print dresses. Stripes are really, really big for spring.”

J EANS “In the spring, you’re going to see extremely destroyed denim. That’s going to be a huge trend,” said Carrie Boevers, owner of Lush at 14101 N. May. “Boyfriend jeans are big again, and actually they are now promoting boyfriend shorts, which are kind of a baggy Bermuda short,” said Owsley. Another item she likes are rompers. “They have ruffles; they are casual-cute and comfortable. It’s like a jumper but with shorts.”

SHOES “Gladiator sandals, flip-flops with details and beads,” are spring essentials said Amanda Syed, owner of Rock Angel at 16614 N. Pennsylvania Ave. “Open-toe flats, wedges,” added Kelsie Petree, owner of Pink Sugar Boutique at 1389 E. 15th. “Bright pink with croc texture or even the leopard pattern is still big.” One of her favorite pairs are black leather Mary Janes with peep toes and a little orange flower on the side.

Continued on page 24

www.edmondoutlook.com

23

Continued from page 23

A CCESSORIES “Oversized is still really popular. We are also seeing a lot of over-the-shoulder satchels in brighter colors.” said Petree.

“One of the top trends in accessories right now is wrap bracelets. Also big, oversized shades,” said Owsley. She says bucket bags and chain-strap purses are also a must-have.

“We have amazing headbands with bright silk poppies and roses to add some excitement to your hair. We also have some great wide belts with big flowers on them, perfect to go over a tunic and jeans or a flirty spring dress,” said Bahouth.

C HILDREN

Christin Linch, owner of Lil Dudes and Divas at 1448 S. Bryant Ave. sees boys wearing classic golf-inspired outfits and girls in bright, vibrant party dresses.

Linch’s favorite outfit is a multicolored polka dot dress, paired with a cropped jean jacket and a ribbon.

Linch says bright pink Converse shoes are the most popular item right now.

M ATERNITY

“A lot of ruffles, bright vibrant colors and animal prints. Plus tons of necklaces to match,” says Christin, co-owner of Pickles and Ice Cream at 1450 S. Bryant Ave. “Skinny jeans for expecting moms, as well as trouser jeans,” said Tim Kilkenny, owner of Bella Blu Maternity at 323 N. Blackwelder Ave. “Wrap dresses are still the style for spring, there’s no doubt.”

“For the most part, there are two colors and they are soft, like yacht teal and cream. That has been a big combination,” said Kilkenny. “All black as well - it’s the most popular color for maternity.”

24

www.edmondoutlook.com

Make every day Mother’s Day with less time in the kitchen.

Choose from sweet Baked Praline French Toast or Sunday Brunch Brie Strata, tender sourdough layered with melted brie accented with onions and bell peppers at Super Suppers.

1333 N. Santa Fe • 330-9156 • www.supersuppers.com

Nancy’s Pamper Mom for Mother’s Day with a facial, pedicure or massage from Jon Ric! 285-4560 • 3209 S. Broadway #117 On the NW corner of Broadway & 33rd (Behind On the Border) www.JonRicEdmond.com

Selma’s Cakery

Every girl’s first love has always been SHOES! Jack Rogers sandals, available in your school colors.

Northpark Mall • 122nd & N. May • 748-7227 Mon-Fri 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. & Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Hand & Facial Rejuvenation just in time for spring! For your hands try Laser Resurfacing, Dermal Fillers, or Laser Therapy.

For your face try Juvederm® & Radiesse,® Botox,® Laser Resurfacing, or a PhotoFacial. Mention this ad for 10% off any of these procedures with Dr. Scott Newbrough.

3824 S. Blvd. Ste 110 in Edmond www.restoreplasticsurgery.com Call 715-2227

gourmet bakery

Be SWEET and surprise mom on Mother’s Day with a beautiful cake, cupcakes, or cookies from Selma’s Cakery.

16317 N. Santa Fe, Ste C 509-6091 • selmascakery.com

*model

Take 15% off your prom shoe purchase at Pink Sugar Shoe Boutique. Must present student ID. Located at 1389 E. 15th St. in the Spring Creek Shopping Center. 359-0044

Spring cleaning? Check out the wide array of Caldrea homecare products at Sterling’s Home Décor and Gifts. The Ginger Palmelo fragrance is perfect for freshening every room in your home.

105 S. Broadway • 844-7465 Downtown Edmond

European Antiques and treasures to love. 25% off any item with this ad.

1201 S. Broadway • 340-2400 www.elksalley.com

Spring F ling

Rock Angel Spring into fashion with great looks from designer jeans to flirty dresses. Enjoy $5 off your $40 purchase, $10 off your $80 purchase or $15 off a $100 or more purchase. 16614 N. Penn (Fenwick Plaza) 359-5188

www.edmondoutlook.com

25

FULL CIRCLE In Timberbrooke Offices

26

www.edmondoutlook.com

15th Santa Fe

Western

164th

HEALTH CLINIC 3601 S. BROADWAY, STE 200

753-9355

H ealth & Fitness

A

healthy diet is an important factor in achieving fitness goals and preventing chronic diseases. However, trendy fads and long lists of dos and don’ts can become overwhelming. Following too many complicated rules could lead to defeat.

“You truly are what you eat, so eat right, feel strong and live long,” says Umo Ekpenyong of Transformations Fitness Center in Edmond. She is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian with a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science from University of Oklahoma.

Ekpenyong’s passion is to educate and guide people in achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through good nutrition habits.

The first step is to gather information about nutrition from reliable sources. “The more you know about good health and good nutrition, the more you’ll know what to look for,” said Ekpenyong.

Another secret to success is no secret at all: be consistent. “Any change that you make is not going to be easy at first,” said Ekpenyong. Transformations like this take time. Make small, realistic goals that will prevent you from giving up. Once you have accomplished a small goal, like eating one serving of vegetables with every meal, move to something bigger.

“When people feel that they have to go coldturkey with everything they want and desire, you are just setting yourself up for a failure,” says Ekpenyong.

Fruits and vegetables are a staple to any diet, but they can expire rather quickly. Grocery shopping on a regular basis is important to keep your food fresh.

Ekpenyong recommends establishing a grocery budget for the week which will limit costly junk food and encourage healthier food purchases.

by Radina Gigova Always look at nutrition labels, Ekpenyong advises. Knowing exactly what is in the product will help you determine if there are enough nutrients and energy for the calories that will be consumed.

In addition to eating right and getting educated, it might be beneficial for you to find a partner.

Switching to a healthier lifestyle with a partner or significant other might feel easier than if you’re doing it alone. “If you have someone else who is trying to

“Yes, some things might be really good and taste great, but healthy food is good too.” accomplish the same goals as you, you can help each other out,” Ekpenyong says.

It can be difficult to get your family on board with a healthier lifestyle, so find creative ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables in meals. “Kids like things that are appealing, that look fun. A really good tech-

nique for kids is maybe having them actually create things,” said Ekpenyong.

Working moms can plan ahead for their busy week by stocking up on healthy options and packing small snacks for everybody in the family. After a long day at work, many of us probably don’t have the energy to start chopping, washing, baking and mixing healthy ingredients. In that case, being prepared in advance is smart. “Otherwise you’re just going to grab anything that’s around you,” Ekpenyong said.

Good nutrition doesn’t mean you have to cook at home every day. If you are eating out, just choose healthier options, even if your friends don’t. “Thinking about the long-term effects of eating healthier foods is definitely going to help people make better decisions,” said Ekpenyong.

Another important component of a healthy lifestyle is moderate physical exercise. Not only working out at a gym, but doing yard work or taking the dog for a walk could be enough as long as you have some type of physical activity for 30-60 minutes a day.

Set your own pace and maintain a positive attitude. Taking extreme measures, like working out too much or taking too few calories, are a recipe for disaster.

“It takes a lot of practice, not everybody is perfect,” says Ekpenyong. “Yes, some things might be really good and taste great, but healthy food is good too.”

Visit Umo Ekpenyong at Transformations Fitness Center, located at 14701 N. Kelly Ave.

Umo Ekpenyong, Transformation Fitness

20

%

OFF www.edmondoutlook.com

27

by Lindsay Whelchel

T

here are some people who are simply called toward a certain duty. For Tom Ward, CEO of SandRidge Energy, you might expect that duty to be a business venture or major corporate challenge.

So it may surprise you to learn that Ward and his family have taken on a far greater challenge to help some of Oklahoma’s most abused and neglected children at White Fields.

“This is just what my family believes is our calling.

We were given the opportunity to try to help these children and it’s really been our goal and now there’s a number of other people who’ve decided this is something they’ve been led to do,” says Ward who, along with his son Trent, began researching ways to get involved in the issue of child abuse and neglect in 2000.

Of those led to get involved in White Field’s mission, Frank Alberson knows firsthand the long and difficult journey the boys at White Fields have taken to get there.

Born to a drug addicted mother and alcoholic father, Alberson suffered years of abuse, a failed adoption, severe burns and spent his teen years at a military boarding school. He ended up attending Anderson University where Ward’s son Trent was also

28

www.edmondoutlook.com

studying. “He saw that I had no family, and we became good friends. He invited me home for Christmas and they kind of adopted me unofficially,” says Alberson.

This friendship, along with six years of research by the Wards, led to the opening of White Fields in 2006.

“What we try to instill in our boys is that they’re loved and they have a place to stay."

Things came full circle when Alberson first began mentoring a child at White Fields and then was asked to come on board as the facility’s co-director.

The White Fields campus sits amid the broad and beautiful expanse of a wheat field not far outside of Edmond. The grounds have beautiful buildings, a skate park, playground, basketball court and a twoacre fishing pond.

What is truly impressive are the programs and ideas at work within White Fields’ walls. The children receive a wide range of services. With individual therapy, group therapy, art therapy and personal

enrichment activities such as golf and bowling, they learn to heal and grow as individuals.

All of these programs ride on a continuum of care model. The innovative aspect of White Fields is that they provide all of these services under one roof and the program becomes a permanent home for the boys that arrive.

“The idea of permanency is really the solid foundation of White Fields,” says Ward. “What we try to instill in our boys is that they’re loved and they have a place to stay. They’re not going to be moved. They can be a whole person and get well.”

White Fields takes boys aged eight to 12 that are of the most serious cases of abuse. All of the boys have been in other placements that have failed.

They currently have 13 boys in the program and the capacity to hold 40. White Fields is a young organization and intentional about growing slowly so they maintain the level of care they are able to provide.

The boys attend the facility’s accredited school until they are ready to go into public school. Currently, five of the boys attend public school.

As they move through the program and become ready, the boys have the opportunity to move into the facility cottages where they live with house parents within a family setting.

Tom and Trent Ward,

Founders of Whitefields

Ultimately, White Fields is offering these kids hope and a chance at a better life. For Ward, and everyone else involved, this calling has become a long-term commitment to the boys. “Our goal is to continue to be a family to them as long as we can see in the future,” he says. For White Fields, home really is sweet.

In addition to donations, White Fields is currently in need of three male mentors and other volunteers. White Fields offers tours of their program and facilities. Please visit www.whitefieldsok.com for more information.

www.edmondoutlook.com

29

W

hen it comes to branding and visibility, small businesses need to think outside the box. We’ve become a technology savvy society and advertising has reached a new level with the World Wide Web. Competition for a business to succeed amidst the uphill battle of a recession has encouraged the need for business owners to bring their “A” game in advertising.

A marketing website that is based on user-generated content and participation is often categorized as a “social media” site. Small businesses often use social networking to create a buzz about their company.

Promotions and incentives exclusive to your network fan-base can be a way to develop online loyalty.

“Social media is an integral part of our overall communications strategy,” said Ken Moore, CEO of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. “It gives us another vehicle to communicate our message to our members. It seems to be especially effective in reaching our many younger supporters such as those participating in our Edmond Young Professionals.”

Social Media sites include LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and many others, which require interaction to be effective. Even though each of these sites share a common requirement of user participation, each one is unique.

LinkedIn, for instance, is the world’s largest “professional” network with over 60 million users. It allows users to connect with business-minded professionals to exchange ideas and create forums to discuss a variety of topics in all areas of business.

By forming an online network of your personal connections, you are able to view their networks

30

www.edmondoutlook.com

by Tess Mack and possibly gain an introduction to someone you’re interested in meeting. It can then be used to find and fill jobs or seek out new business opportunities.

Facebook is another popular social media platform. Although it has proven to be very effective on a personal level, many businesses are taking advantage of its professional features. Facebook has provided a means for businesses to connect with their clients by posting updates and useful industry information for its “friends” or “fans.”

Businesses can use their Facebook page to post pictures, contact information, sales promotions, industry news, helpful links and more.

“Social networks encourage visibility, name recognition and establish brand awareness.“ Twitter, a mico-blogging social networking site, has been around since 2006. Founder Jack Dorsey created the site to allow communication between small groups of people. It’s a simple way to let users know your “status” or what you’re doing and enable you to quickly spread information with a “retweet” button. Twitter also allows businesses to announce sales, specials and deals 24/7.

In the course of 2009 alone, registered Twitter accounts grew more than 1,500 percent, according to Nielson ratings. Twitter has exploded within the last year and businesses are taking notice.

Edmond’s own Safe and Green Pest Control has embraced the Twitter world and owner Daryl Willmon can attribute some of his new clientele to the site.

“Social networks, Twitter to be specific, is a great way to let people know where you are and what specials your business is currently running,” said Willmon. “I can let the twitterverse know what area of the city I am in. They can shoot me a tweet and get services right then and there.”

Social networks encourage visibility, name recognition and establish brand awareness. Ideally, you would want to incorporate these sites in your print materials and advertising. Without a proper website and advertising, potential customers won’t know how to find you.

If you want your business to be on the cutting edge, join these social networks and get involved.

Keep in mind, social media is meant for the masses, whereas the old-school press release was a formal announcement with wordy jargon meant for the news media.

Learn how users are interacting on each of these sites and try to avoid endless self-promotion. Users prefer something useful – a tip on an emerging industry trend or a coupon that saves them money - instead of hearing about how great your company is over and over.

Many business owners find they don’t have the time to keep up with social media trends in addition to their daily operations. They often call on an expert to help them navigate through the jungle of social media. If you need guidance in these emerging trends or to learn more about how social media can help your business, visit www.socialmediamack.com.

APRIL 10 CELEBRATE READING Heartland New Day BookFest features over 85 authors, illustrators and publishers with books for sale or autograph at Edmond First Nazarene Church, 3001 S. Blvd.

Lousie Tucker-Jones will also be in attendance.

APRIL 17 WYNONNA JUDD Purchase your tickets at www.firelakegrand.com to see Wynonna Judd in concert at 7 p.m. at Firelake Grand Casino.

APRIL 17 CAR CARE CLINIC Single mothers and the elderly are invited to Church of the Harvest at 16000 N. Western for free vehicle fluid checks, oil change, interior detailing and a car wash.

APRIL 17 BICYCLE FESTIVAL Enjoy burgers, beverages, bands, Roller Derby Girls, bike games and door prizes at Flatire Burger. Call 974-2786 for more information.

APRIL 25 MENDELSSOHN’S “ELIJAH” View this orchestra performance at 3 p.m. at the Armstrong Auditorium, 14400 S. Bryant. Call 285-1010 for more information.

APRIL 29-MAY 1 ONE-ACT FESTIVAL UCO seniors direct several one-act plays at 7:30 p.m. in the UCO Liberal Arts Building. Free admission.

APRIL 30–MAY 2 EDMOND ARTS FESTIVAL Over 100 artists, music, food, children’s activities and a silent auction. Located in Downtown Edmond from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. for one weekend only.

MAY 7 TOT TROT Christian Services is hosting a 5K run and 1-Mile walk at Mitch Park to raise funds to support adoption, foster care and maternity programs. Register online at www.christian-adoption.org/tottrot.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Celebrate 20 years in business with Coffee Creek Golf Course. The Millennium Players Card includes 50% off all green fees with free green fees after 7 p.m., plus many other discounts and specials. Call 340-GOLF for rates. Although renovations are planned sometime in the next few years, the course is fully operational and in great shape as always.

Change a child’s life. Shiloh Summer Camp is in need of volunteers. To sponsor a child, a meal or a program, call 858-7011.

Shop The National Cowboy Museum Store online for unique merchandise. Your purchase helps the museum fulfill its mission to educate the public.

See More Events: www.edmondoutlook.com

www.edmondoutlook.com

31

I

by Mindy Wood

32

www.edmondoutlook.com

f you’ve ever heard of someone who calls themselves a “hoarder”, you may be surprised to find their home and their life is far more complex than you realize. Beyond clutter, these homes are typically stuffed from room to hallway, floor to ceiling, from porch to backyard and often confine their residents to one area or tiny room of the house.

These compulsive hoarders are usually fractured by loss or trauma while they live in fear and social isolation as a prisoner to their possessions.

By definition, compulsive hoarding is a mental disorder marked by an obsessive need to acquire a significant amount of possessions, even if the items are worthless, hazardous or unsanitary. Over time, the debts and the stuff mount up and back their owners against a wall.

Certified Life Coach, Rhonda Harryman, M. Ed, CLC of Grace Life Coaching, says compulsive hoarders acquire possessions as coping skills to deal with stress and the effects of devastating experiences. “It usually has something to do with a background of trauma and loss which triggers emotions that cause them stress.

They don’t have the coping mechanism to regulate their stress levels, so they develop destructive habits.”

“I worked with a couple in their 50’s whose marriage was severely affected by hoarding,” Harryman says. “They lived physically separate lives within their upscale home. Although their income

allowed for any type of help they might need, there was a deeper problem leading to the hoarding of various insignificant items, making it extremely difficult for either of them to live in peace.” Harryman referred the couple to a trusted counselor while working simultaneously on creating a healthier environment for them.

“We help relate to healthy living based on what’s real and true instead of the lie that things can fill us and make us secure.”

Becky Keever, professional organizer and owner of Reclaim Your Space says clients realize the limits their possessions place on their lives and are ready for change. “They often experience feelings of guilt, failure and embarrassment but they are usually ready to take the first steps to regain control of their spaces.

They just don’t know what their steps are. As their decisions become more complex, I coach them to the finish line.”

For most, that first step is changing the way they think. “The client and I begin step by step to recog-

nize thinking patterns that don’t line up with reality,” said Harryman. “Then I coach them to faithfully put their priorities in place. For many that’s their faith, marriage, relationship with their children, career, ministry and their physical health. We task analyze everything that needs to be done, then help them relate to healthy living based on what’s real and true instead of the lie that things can fill us and make us secure.”

Keever once worked with a client who lost a loaded gun in their home. This was a very dangerous situation to be in and the client was frantic. Keever says, “We switched the focus of the day to finding the gun.”

While not everyone who lives with clutter and disorganization is a compulsive hoarder, things pile up and cause chaos. For those clients, Keever says changes in a person’s work or home life usually produce the problem and often the previous ways of completing tasks no longer function. “Unfortunately things can get out of control quickly and, regrettably this often leads to frustration and self reproach.

I want people to know that they didn’t fail; their systems did and we can find a new system that will produce results in their new circumstance.”

What are the signs of a compulsive hoarder?

Harryman says, “There is a distinct odor to these homes because they tend to be unhealthy and

unkempt by the owner. Some people will appear to be clean in public but at home it’s a different story.

Also you’ll notice very protective habits or they have a different excuse every time you show up at their home. The predominant sign is they never let you in their space.”

Harryman recommends an intervention, which begins with access to their hearts before you tackle their home. “Anyone can make physical changes but if it’s not an inside-out job, it will reoccur. If you are not someone they trust, your efforts will never work. Understand their world, where their stresses are and then talk about that. A friend is great, and then, if necessary you can refer them to a professional.”

According to Harryman, freedom from hoarding is like lifting a burden. “This is an unbelievable weight on their shoulders that has been there 10, 20, even 50 years in some cases. That’s a long time to be held captive. It means freedom to them because they are truly in bondage before that point.”

The good news is there is life after hoarding.

Whether a person just needs organizational assistance or counseling for a more serious problem, there is hope for anyone wading through clutter and chaos.

For more information on compulsive hoarding, visit www.compulsivehoarding.org.

15%

www.edmondoutlook.com

33

34

www.edmondoutlook.com