You know how coastal trends usually take a while to arrive in Oklahoma? Like gluten-free bakeries, bike lanes, or those mixed-use neighborhoods where you can live above a juice bar and walk to hot yoga? Yeah—well, they take even longer to reach my household.
Which brings us to pickleball. Alison and I are finally pickling… paddling… or playing—whatever it’s called. If you’re not familiar, it’s a strange little game with its own vocabulary, tiny paddles, and a wiffle ball that moves just fast enough to hurt your feelings.
We’re not exactly early adopters. While the rest of America discovered this socially distant sport during the pandemic, I was on the couch recovering from chemo, and Alison was caretaking. By the time I felt human again, pickleball had become a full-blown movement. Our neighborhood tennis courts were repainted with pickleball lines, and “couples of a certain age” were becoming diehard enthusiasts.
Alison, who admits she's no “sporty spice,” surprised me by buying a set of paddles and a dozen little “air missiles.” So we gave it a shot.
At first, the rules were optional. We were just happy to hit the ball over the net. But soon, our early morning play dates turned competitive. Alison’s “let’s just have fun” attitude shifted to exploiting my weak backhand return. Yeah, I’m working on it.
Somewhere between missed serves and sideline disputes, we’re laughing. We’re moving. We’re doing something new— together. We may be late to the party, but we've arrived. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I might try listening to a podcast. I’ve heard those are catching on.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
Eirech Tapia,
Disc Golf Takes Flight
By Taylor Bollinger
What started with a bunch of uncles ditching a Christmas gathering to hit the course has turned into a weekly community tradition for Dylan Kuehni, who now helps lead the charge for Edmond’s growing disc golf scene.
“I married into a family that’s been disc golfing since the ’80s,” said Kuehni. “One Christmas, all the uncles just left the house, and I said, ‘Where’d they go?’ Disc golfing.”
Kuehni tagged along the next time, and he’s been playing ever since. Since 2015, Dylan’s been hooked. He quickly found himself entering tournaments, sharpening his skills at Edmond’s Tye F. Cunningham Memorial Disc Golf Course at Mitch Park, and connecting with other enthusiasts across the OKC metro. He now volunteers with the Oklahoma City Disc Golf Association, helping to organize local tournaments and promote the sport in partnership with the parks and recreation departments.
Though disc golf has been around for decades, its popularity exploded during the pandemic. “The sport was immature, but when COVID hit, it took a huge turn and now it’s super popular,” said Kuehni. “Still immature compared to traditional golf, but growing fast.”
What makes it so appealing? For one, the barrier to entry is low. “It’s free and easy and quick,” Kuehni said. “Even at 7 p.m., you can go play a quick nine holes and be back for bedtime with the kids.”
Courses like Tye F. Cunningham Memorial offer a familyfriendly atmosphere, and Kuehni is always eager to introduce new players. “If we see a family with kids, we try to talk the sport up and encourage them to try it or keep playing,” he said. “I keep
a bunch of discs in my truck, so when I have extras, I’m happy to give them out to introduce people to the sport.”
Kuehni now hosts a mini-doubles tournament every Tuesday and runs a winter putting league at Patriarch Craft Beer House in Edmond. The league is listed on UDisc.com, a popular site for tracking rounds and finding local events, as well as numerous courses around the world.
“People don’t realize most disc golf courses are free and cityowned,” he said. “It’s an unknown gold mine; you can go play whenever you want.” Dylan encourages new players to check out PDGA.com for rules and etiquette as an introduction to the sport. As far as Edmond goes, he says Arcadia, Oklahoma Christian, and Mitch Park can’t be beat.
For Dylan, the joy of the sport is in both the challenge and the community. “When you see a disc fly perfectly through a narrow gap, hitting a spot as big as a door from 100 feet away, it’s rewarding. It takes weeks and months of practice, but it’s worth it.”
And the clink of chains? The sweet sound of success. “It’s a great thing to hear. Even when you hear someone else sink a shot, it’s a very positive sound.”
From toddlers in junior divisions to adults playing in advanced leagues, Edmond’s disc golf community is growing fast, and with leaders like Kuehni, it’s as welcoming as ever.
To learn more, follow patriarchputtingleague on Facebook or search “disc golf” on visitedmondok.com.
Daniel Workman
John Murray throws while Daniel Nimmo and Dylan Kuehni watch.
Arcadia Farmer's Market General Store Edmond
By Laura Beam
When you step into the new Arcadia Farmer’s Market General Store in Edmond, there’s a good chance you’ll leave with something fresh, something delicious, and maybe even something unexpected. What started as a seasonal farmer’s market in 2018 evolved into a year-round brick-and-mortar venture with the opening of the original Arcadia Farmer’s Market in 2020. In May of this year, owners Jodee McLean and Linda Simonton, along with manager Jesse Waltrip, debuted their fresh, locally sourced foods in Edmond. “My mom always had a garden, always cooked,“ Jesse comments. ”Growing up, we rarely ate out. That passion for home-grown food is what shaped this business. We wanted to create a place where clean, locally sourced food is easy to access.” And it’s never been more convenient with this tasty hub now right in the neighborhood!
Go to the Source
The exploding trend in recent years of taking interest in the source and quality of the foods we eat makes the farmer’s market store concept more popular than ever. “People today are able to see the difference in the quality of local products,” Jesse says. “A lot of the things you buy in large chain stores have more preservatives and chemicals to keep them from spoiling and give them a longer shelf life.”
One key vendor at the market is R&R Cattle Co., offering grass-fed and grass-finished premium beef. Locally raised in Jones, OK, by owners Todd and Rachel Thomas, the quality cuts of meat are sealed fresh and delivered. “The company was created as a direct-to-customer operation,” Todd says. “The taste of the meat is absolutely superior. Once you try it, you’ll get it. It’s the true taste of Oklahoma beef.” Ethically sourced from sustainably raised cattle, the fantastic burgers, ribs, steaks, and ground beef offer endless options for grilling, roasting, or stocking up on family favorites.
What’s for Dinner?
Though Jesse says many customers come in knowing exactly what they’re after, others come in just to explore, be
inspired, and learn about the difference of locally sourced food. Throughout the rustic, chic space modeled after California markets, customers discover a variety of products. Shoppers love the free-range eggs, fresh milk and produce, local honey, delicious breads, granola, pickles and other jarred goodies, pasta and sauce, nuts, and baked goods.
Having worked with hundreds of vendors over the years, Jesse knows all the best items to stock, including an assortment of prepared foods, ready to eat or take and heat. “Staples that we almost never run out of–and we hear about it from customers if we do,” Jesse laughs, ”are chicken salad, chicken spaghetti, and enchiladas.” And there’s no need to make another stop at a store for necessities like mayo and mustard–they’ve got you covered! “Our ultimate goal is to help you feed your family better and not make it any harder to do it,” Jesse explains.
Feed it Forward
As much fun as these foods are to eat, they’re even better to share! Who doesn’t love a jar of sweet fig jam, cherry chocolate chip sourdough bread, packaged soup mixes, or maple bacon pecans? Add in unique candles and soaps and you’ve got the perfect gift basket. “We are here to serve our community and bring quality food to everyone,” Jesse says. “Our owners and employees are consistent customers. We all eat the food. We feed it to our families. We believe in what we are doing.”
Visit 130 NE 150th St., Edmond, just east of Santa Fe, or AFMGeneralStore on Facebook. Open at 10 a.m. daily, noon on Sunday.
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business?
Email laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Jesse Waltrip, manager
Stuck on Style
Teen’s Duct Tape Gown Wins National Attention
By Taylor Bollinger
Eighteen-year-old homeschool graduate and longtime crafter, Brittany Blackwell is gaining attention for her unique creation: a full-length ball gown made entirely out of duct tape.
This endeavor is not merely recreational. Her masterpiece is an entry to Duck Brand’s Stuck at Prom Scholarship Competition, which awards $15,000 to one standout entry. The dresses must be wearable and made completely from Duck Brand duct tape.
“I heard about the scholarship from someone on my rowing team,” she said. “I thought it sounded fun, and I love crafting, so I went for it.” Though she’d never worked with duct tape before, she was no stranger to creativity. “I crochet, sew, make stuff out of clay, just whatever I can,” she said. “I remembered watching a TikTok several years ago on how to make duct tape flowers, so I tried it out and it worked.”
Her gown features almost 500 handcrafted flowers made from baby pink, baby blue, white, navy, and gold duct tape. She spent one to two hours each day in her room working on it, slowly building the gown from the bottom up. “I knew I wanted flowers and roses at the bottom,” she said. “But I had no clue what to do with the top. That took a lot of trial and error.”
All in all, the dress took around 500 hours to complete. “There were definitely some tears,” she admitted. “The hardest part was just continuing. It takes hours and hours, and sometimes you think, ‘This is all for nothing.’ There are so many beautiful dresses out there. But I just had to have faith in myself and the process.”
Despite the ups and downs, she found joy in the process. “Taking pictures and seeing the end result – it was all worth it,” she said, adding that her family was a huge source of support throughout the grueling hours of detailed duct tape construction.
Hundreds entered, but Brittany was one of only five finalists selected. If she wins, the dress will be held by Duck Brand. If not, she plans to keep it as a memory. Her advice for other young artists? “Just do what you love. Don’t force yourself to follow a pattern. Create it how you want it.”
Visit @_b_rittany_ on Tiktok to see how Brittany documented the process.
The dress took around 500 hours to complete.
Brittany Blackwell
Legacy Painting, Inc. Where Local Means Loyal
What services does Legacy Painting provide?
Legacy Painting offers residential and commercial painting services throughout Edmond and the Oklahoma City metro. That includes both interior and exterior painting, with every job completed entirely by our own team. We’re committed to top-quality craftsmanship and long-lasting finishes that elevate any space.
How long has Legacy Painting been in business and what is the company’s approach to customer service?
Kevin Calmes founded Legacy Painting in 1999. After 26 years, his mission remains the same—serve people first, then paint. His approach to customer service is rooted in connection. Kevin believes in taking time to understand each client’s needs and making every interaction feel personal. His goal is to inspire friendly experiences that last well beyond the job.
What makes Legacy Painting unique?
Legacy Painting is rooted in Oklahoma and our culture! What truly sets us apart is our people. Many of our team members have been with us for years and are known just as much for their kindness as for their skill. Our slogan says it all: L.I.F.E. Legacy Inspires Friendly Experiences. For us, painting is personal.
Manager Jeremy, Owner Kevin & Office Manager Khristy
What design trends are you currently seeing/incorporating into your painting?
Beige and grey colors are going away to a rise in bold, earthy colors, with accent walls, and paint is a tool to create cozy, defined spaces. Clients are also gravitating toward soft whites, deep greens, and charcoal accents. We work closely with homeowners to find colors and finishes that feel fresh while still timeless.
How does your company address common homeowner challenges?
Homeowners often struggle with reliability and quality control from contractors. That’s why we don’t subcontract. We give written and verbal communication throughout the whole process of the painting project. Our team handles every aspect of every project, so clients always know who’s in their home and what kind of service to expect—friendly, respectful, professional, and honest.
How do you connect with and make an impact on the community?
“Where local means loyal” isn’t just a saying—it’s how we operate. We sponsor events, support our employees’ community involvement (like our team member who’s also an OKC firefighter for 25 years), and give back in personal, meaningful ways. We’re proud to call Edmond home and serve the people who live here, and we are members of the Edmond Chamber.
Why choose Legacy Painting for your next project?
With 26 years of experience, a strong community reputation, and a team that treats every job like it’s their own home, Legacy Painting is a name you can trust. We don’t just want to finish your project—we want to be part of your story. Because for us, it’s about more than paint. It’s about Legacy.
POLICE
By Amy Dee Stephens
The newest vehicle in the Edmond Police Department's fleet is a classic car. It’s not equipped with the latest crime-fighting technology. It doesn’t even have air conditioning. But the purpose of the vintage 1941 Ford Tudor is clear—to start conversations.
“I’d call this car an ice-breaker,” Officer Randy Payne said. “It’s only been at public events for a few weeks, and so many people have talked to me about it; people who might never have talked to an officer before.”
“The car is a tool for helping someone feel comfortable approaching an officer,” Chief J.D. Younger said. “Talking about a car leads to conversations about life and kids. Trust with public safety officials is built through these simple interactions at coffee shops, schools, and car shows, not during traffic tickets or crime reports.”
Edmond’s First Police Car
When Chief Younger joined Edmond eight years ago, he noticed a photo of an early 1940s police cruiser displayed in an office. The caption read: Edmond’s First Police Car. As a self-proclaimed “history nerd,” he did some investigating.
“There’s a 1930s newspaper article in the Edmond Sun referencing a police scout car––so that caption was wrong,” he said, “but the photo is the first-known published image of an Edmond police car. I thought it would be cool to still have that car.”
After some musing, Younger approached Bruce Graham about finding a similar car to restore. Graham, who manages the city’s fleet, is a car buff himself. He enlisted help from another enthusiast in public works, Bobby Masterson, and they identified the car as a 1941 Ford.
Two years ago, a very similar car surfaced on Facebook for $10,000. “An 85-year-old man in Louisiana was selling
the car,” Younger said. “When communicating through technology became too challenging for the gentleman, Bruce contacted the local police to explain why we wanted it. Luckily, the family liked the idea.”
Graham drove a trailer to Louisiana and was happy to find the car running and in good condition, with a recently refurbished interior. He and Masterson rebuilt the flathead V8 engine as a side project when time allowed.
Edmond is the car’s fourth owner. It was first purchased by a woman in Missouri who kept it for 40 years. It later changed hands twice before ending up in Louisiana.
Old-Style Driving
Only a handful of officers are authorized to drive the old-time car––mostly because so few know how to drive a manual. “Not all officers would enjoy it. Nothing’s powered. No roll-down windows or air conditioning,” Payne said. “The car is a little finicky, but I’m getting the hang of it.”
“It has a three-speed manual transmission meant for cruising, so I had to keep the clutch pushed down during the LibertyFest parade,” he added.
“I view the car as a unique form of police work,” Payne continued. “It’ll mostly be used for public relations at ceremonies and events like the Route 66 Centennial, but we might occasionally park in front of a coffee shop, too.”
“This car is so nostalgic. It symbolizes a time when life was slower. Although Edmond has an eye to the future, the community also appreciates its past,” Younger said. “Every time someone says, ‘That’s a neat car,’ it’s a conduit for conversation.”
SIRENS OF THE PAST
Sergeant Josh Pratt
SIRENS THE PAST FI RE
By Amy Dee Stephens
The oldest fire engine in the Edmond Fire Department dates back to 1929. Chief Lothar Smith traded in a horse-drawn pumper wagon and paid almost $9,000 for Edmond’s first “horseless” fire truck.
Nearly 100 years later, although no longer in service, it remains part of the fire department's fleet. Old ‘29 is now reserved for delighting the public at city events such as car shows, Touch-A-Truck, and the LibertyFest parade. The current Fire Marshall, Jesse Benne, enjoys the crowd reaction when he drives the old truck, but he wouldn’t describe the driving as easy.
“It’s huge and loud. Everything vibrates and rattles,” Chief Benne said with a laugh. “It’s a cool old truck-- it has an open cab, a synchronized clutch, and no air conditioning.”
Saved From the Scrap Pile
The engine barely escaped the junk yard after it was deactivated in 1966. A men’s social club took over the truck and drove it in parades, but the truck did not fare well under their care, so the fire department reclaimed it, with intentions of fixing it up again. An eager Boy Scout troop offered to tackle the remodel, and Old ’29 was disassembled, but the project proved too big for the scouts. The truck and its parts rusted away in the yard of a firefighter for years.
No one could quite stomach the idea of hauling it off to the scrap yard, so in the early 1980s, the truck once again landed in the city garage. The shop superintendent, Dave Smith, convinced his workmen to restore the exterior for display, but after spending hours on repairs and searching for authentic parts, the team found the determination to get Old ’29
running again. Lothar Smith provided its original bell, and the manufacturer, Seagraves, sent detailed images of the truck’s original gold trim patterns. By 1984, Old ’29 was ready to begin touring in parades again, and continues to do so today.
A Pair of Trucks
In 2024, the Edmond Fire Department added a new old truck to its fleet. Private citizen, Robert Williams, was downsizing to a smaller home in Edmond. Earlier in his life, Williams had fully refurbished and modernized a 1936 Dodge Fire Truck that he had purchased in Grand Rapids. Williams offered to donate the vehicle to the fire department as a special events truck.
“Mr. Williams hopes it will be used for years to come,” Chief Benne said. “He was looking forward to seeing it driven down the road in this year’s LibertyFest Parade.”
Although the 1936 Dodge is just a few years younger than the 1929 truck, Benne says the drive is completely different. “It’s been retooled with disc brakes, so it stops on a dime. It also has regular tires, power steering, and an automatic transmission. Seriously, the difference between the two is like driving a Model T versus a modern truck.”
The public can expect to see both of the vintage fire engines making appearances around Edmond. Benne and the other drivers are gratified by the reactions from people, especially youngsters, whose eyes light up at the sight of the massive trucks. “At car shows, it’s a big no-no to touch other people’s cars, but I get to say, ‘Sure, you can touch it.’ They’ve survived nearly 100 years. These trucks are firemanproof, so they are certainly kid-proof!”
Seagrave Pumper Fire Engine.
Eirech Tapia,
Equipped for Success Project 66 Prepares 1,000+
By Taylor Bollinger
The Project 66 Food & Resource Center is gearing up for its annual Back-to-School Resource Fair. Held on Saturday, August 2, the event aims to equip more than 1,000 local students with the tools they need for a successful school year.
While the event has grown significantly in recent years, the mission remains the same: meet families where they are and ensure every child walks into school confident and prepared.
“This event actually predates me,” said Executive Director Neil Tate. “Our founders realized that many of the families coming to our food pantry were also struggling to afford school supplies. So they thought, ‘Why not ask the community to provide school supplies along with food?’ That simple idea has grown into something much bigger.”
Now held at First Christian Church in Edmond to accommodate the growing crowd, the resource fair offers free backpacks filled with age-appropriate school supplies. They pack everything from pencils and crayons to notebooks and glue sticks. The supplies are divided into two main categories: elementary and middle/high school.
Students for Back-to-School
Project 66 relies on donations and partnerships to make its initiatives a success. Local churches and businesses pitch in by providing large quantities of a specific item, such as highlighters or pens. Sports Clips is offering free haircut vouchers as an added confidence boost for back-to-school.
“Donations have covered all the supplies this year, which is amazing,” said Tate. “Now we’re just needing more help covering the cost of the backpacks themselves. We’re also accepting donations of bottled water and kid-friendly snacks to keep families hydrated and happy while at the event.”
Coordinated through the City of Edmond, participating organizations include the Edmond Public Schools Foundation, local libraries, mental health providers, and various city services, such as police and fire. As an extra bonus, the Edmond Police Department will be handing out popsicles.
“We want every child to start the school year with everything they need to be successful,” Tate said. “This event puts them on even footing and helps them show up confident, prepared, and ready to learn on the first day of school.”
The event is open to all families in need. Children must be present to receive supplies. To support the effort or make a donation online, visit Project66.org/donate.
Fast Lane Future Simon Kline’s Road to NASCAR
By Taylor Bollinger
Twelve-year-old Simon Kline isn't your typical middle schooler. He's a pro-level go-kart racer, traveling the country to compete in high-speed, high-stakes events, and he’s currently the only Oklahoman doing it.
Simon races in the Mini Swift class, a competitive circuit for young drivers using 2-stroke go-karts that hit speeds up to 70 miles per hour. He’s already placed second in national races, earned pole position, and this fall, he’ll transition to Legend Cars, which top 100 miles per hour. His long-term goal is to become a NASCAR driver, and his family is all in.
The Klines know what it means to turn a passion into a profession. His father, Derik, is a storm chaser and CEO of Hailtrace. The same drive that pushed him to follow the weather is now fueling Simon’s racing journey. His dad says the family’s theme is simple: “Figure out what lights you up, and find a way to do it for a living.”
Simon showed early interest in the fast life. “Car” was one of his first words. By the time he was seven, his parents started searching for a way to get him on a track. “We visited a go-kart club at JRP Speedway in Tulsa and bought a used kid kart,” his dad explained, “Simon was lapped multiple times in his first race, but he loved it.” They raced locally for more than a year before realizing there was a whole world of racing beyond their backyard.
Today, Simon trains and competes across the country,
from Wisconsin to North Carolina. He works with a professional team that provides coaching and mechanical support, and he practices between races using a racing simulator in his bedroom. His helmet, custom-painted by an artist in Ukraine, reflects his two biggest interests. One side features storm-chasing imagery, while the other features racing. The muscle car on the helmet was painted by Simon’s late grandfather, tying together generations of family and passion.
Racing at this level takes intense skill. “The hardest lesson to learn, especially at this stage, is that slow is fast,” Derik said. “Hitting a corner too quickly causes the kart to slide, which costs time. It’s better to slow slightly and accelerate out smoothly. On the national stage, where fractions of a second separate first from fifth, those details matter.”
Despite the high speeds and national competitions, the focus remains on growth. “If we aren’t winning, we’re learning” is a regularly repeated phrase in the Kline household. That mindset has helped Simon build confidence and resilience, and it’s a lesson his family hopes he’ll carry throughout his life, all the way to his NASCAR seat.
To learn more follow @simonjackracing132 on Instagram.
Simon Kline and parents, Derik and Leah
Photo:
Mr. Handyman
If your drywall, doors, or deck need attention—or that painting project just keeps getting delayed—skip the stress and call the pros at Mr. Handyman.
Thomas Fiordelisi, owner of Mr. Handyman, serves Edmond and North Oklahoma City, and leads his team with a strong focus on professionalism, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Unlike “Chuck in a truck,” Mr. Handyman operates as a bonded and insured franchise with a trusted reputation and skilled service professionals who arrive on time, fully stocked and ready to work.
Mr. Handyman offers a wide range of residential and commercial services—
from drywall, carpentry, and painting to tile, flooring, windows, decks, and more. Technicians aim to repair rather than replace when possible, preserving the character of older homes and saving homeowners money.
With a strong emphasis on accountability, every job includes before, during, and after photos, and work is backed by a one-year Done Right Promise. Customers can expect transparency, punctuality, and attention to detail every step of the way.
Thomas also has a strong presence in the local community. From their June 2024 ribbon-cutting at their new location at 185 W 15th St to active involvement with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Alliance, Thomas and his team are committed to giving back. They’ve been nominated for Small Business of the Year, hold an A+ BBB rating, and are certified by Age Safe America and Angi’s 2024 Super Service Award.
As Mr. Handyman celebrates continued growth and client satisfaction, Thomas remains committed to high standards and hands-on leadership. “We treat every home like it’s our own,” he says.
To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit mrhandyman.com or call 210-256-9699.
Mr. Handyman – A Neighborly Company.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Thomas Fiordelisi
Crew member, Tyler
Kuykendall Dermatology
Since opening in 2009, Kuykendall Dermatology has been a cornerstone of compassionate, expert care in Edmond. Founded by Dr. Tracy Kuykendall, a board-certified dermatologist with deep roots in both medicine and community, the practice was born out of a desire to break away from the impersonal nature of corporate healthcare.
"After working in corporate medicine, I wanted to create a space where every patient is treated as an individual— not just a number in a system," says Dr. Kuykendall. That philosophy is at the heart of her clinic, where each patient is personally seen by Dr. Kuykendall
herself. “We make it a priority to follow up on every issue, respond to phone calls, and see urgent concerns as soon as possible—often the same day.”
In an industry increasingly dominated by large healthcare corporations, Kuykendall Dermatology proudly stands out as a distinct and independent practice. "The trend in medicine is corporate takeover, and we’re proud to remain an individual practice focused on our patients, not profits,” she says.
“We treat everything from acne and eczema to psoriasis and more,” says Dr. Kuykendall. The practice also performs surgical procedures, including the removal of skin cancers and moles.
In addition to medical dermatology, Kuykendall Dermatology offers a range of cosmetic services, including chemical peels, neurotoxin treatments, and dermal fillers. To support healthy, radiant skin at home, they also carry science-backed SkinCeuticals products designed to help you look and feel your best.
Exciting changes are on the horizon as Kuykendall Dermatology prepares to move into a brand-new building—just across the street from their current location. “We’re building out a space that
will help us better serve our patients,” Dr. Kuykendall shares. “It’s a big step forward and something we’re really looking forward to.”
For those seeking thoughtful, thorough dermatologic care from a doctor who listens, Kuykendall Dermatology is more than a medical office—it’s a place where patients are known, respected, and treated with the care they deserve.
Visit kuykendalldermatology.com or call (405) 301-8010 to make an appointment.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Dr. Tracy Kuykendall
subURBAN Revival: How Edmond Reimagined Its Downtown
By Amy Dee Stephens
No one has studied the revitalization of Edmond’s downtown like J. David Chapman, PhD. Chapman has authored a newly published book that chronicles the history and recent transformation of Edmond, from a quiet downtown into a lively, walkable cityscape.
As a professor of urban planning and real estate development, a weekly columnist for the Journal Record, and the owner of Realty1, Chapman has the academic credentials to accurately describe Edmond’s redevelopment. What makes this book special, however, is that subURBAN! Reimagining the Suburban Downtown is written as a personal narrative. Chapman not only witnessed the last decade of change firsthand, but his family also served as both catalyst and collaborators in the process.
The Chapman Story
Chapman began his career as an engineer with the Air Force. During his travels, he observed cities around the world and pondered the ways they thrived or struggled. He and his wife, Julie, eventually bought an acreage in east Edmond, which he described as the “quintessential suburban dream.”
While teaching at the University of Central Oklahoma, he felt compelled to reduce his urban-sprawl lifestyle, which relied heavily on driving. So, the Chapmans toured revitalized hotspots in Oklahoma City, looking for a neighborhood with character, walkability and social engagement. None felt quite like home.
“That’s when it hit me,” Chapman wrote. “Could we have the urban fabric we were looking for with the advantages of a suburb right here in Edmond?”
David and Julie knew that downtown Edmond wasn’t perfect, but it had good bones. In 2015, they bought a lot at Ayers and Broadway to build their three-story house.
According to Chapman, the downtown area “had the makings of a Hallmark movie set,” but there wasn’t much vibrancy. He believed that for a renaissance to happen, city council would have to embrace the principles of growth.
In 2019, Chapman was elected to city council and encouraged decisions that strengthened the city’s urban planning. He spoke in favor of restoring historic properties, he voted for more public art, and he fought to silence the deafening train whistle that caused business to come to a halt.
The KatiBugs Impact
A turning point in downtown’s vibrancy happened when Chapman was approached by a mother-daughter team with a 1950s travel trailer, from which they sold shaved ice and hot chocolate. Chapman saw the KatiBugs business as a chance to
create a mini-park environment on one of his vacant properties.
Various zoning regulations and public criticisms had to be overcome, but Chapman was encouraged by the results. “I would walk over nightly to watch KatiBugs' impact,” Chapman said. “It was incredible to see a line of customers waiting for service, grandparents and parents playing games on the turf under the glow of string lights. It felt like a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting.”
Chapman was witnessing the very thing he had taught about: the creation of an informal gathering place. Places like coffee shops, bookshops, cafes, breweries, and parks brought “regulars” and newcomers together. Events like Heard on Hurd and VIBES bolstered pedestrian traffic, and pandemic “streateries” became downtown staples.
“Neighborhoods where people know their neighbors— because they pass them on porches, gather in shared parks, or meet at corner cafes—are more likely to check in on each other, share resources, and organize quickly in emergencies,” Chapman said.
Throughout subURBAN, Chapman names familiar events, businesses, and individuals who propelled life into Edmond’s once-sleepy downtown. Anyone involved in Edmond’s recent evolution will feel a personal connection to the story Chapman shares through his own personal lens.
“What makes a city resilient is a series of small, determined decisions,” Chapman said. “Edmond is proof that cities are living organisms.”
Chapman’s book can be purchased at Amazon.com.
J. David Chapman, PhD
Summer Camp
By Louise Tucker Jones
It’s August, my birthday month, so that brings some memories my way. As an adult, my special day was always spent with family, but I have memories of longago celebrations, and summer camp was one of my favorites.
As a teenager, I spent a few birthdays with our church-youth-group at Falls Creek Baptist Assembly near Davis, Oklahoma. I even had my “sweet 16th” birthday there. And hot! Oh my, it was scorching hot! Our cabin had no AC and neither did the openair tabernacle where we met for morning and evening services, along with classes held at outdoor pavilions. Of course, I had no AC at home so was a little more acclimated than today’s youth.
At Falls Creek, we would push our beds up to the window to catch the slightest breeze, and we definitely hit the refreshment stand for cold drinks during afternoon breaks. But the heat didn’t keep us from meeting new friends and hiking those beloved Arbuckle hills. And on some rare occasions our counselor took us down the road to Turner Falls for a swim. What a treat!
I even spent my 21st birthday at Falls Creek as a sponsor to some young, teenagegirls from my church. So I can definitely empathize with the adult sponsors watching over their youth at today’s summer camps, even though they have air-conditioned accommodations. However, just being outside in August warms the body more than the soul.
But those weeks at Falls Creek are fond memories. We made new friends from other churches, and most of all, listened to God speak to our young hearts. I’m thankful my own children also attended Falls Creek and Super Summer and other youth programs as teenagers. I’m grateful for the dedicated adults who watched over my kids and provided a healthy, spiritual environment, along with a time of fun.
I also realize I’m old school and today’s
churches use much more exciting terms than “church camp,” but the desired results are the same. To provide an environment for youth to learn about the God who loves them. That definitely makes me happy. It just might be my August birthday gift.
is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Louise Tucker Jones
Turner Falls circa early 1960s
a look back Edmond High 1946 Pep Club
Edmond High School Bow Wow cheerleaders practice leading a cheer in front of the old Edmond High School on Boulevard. The cheerleaders, Kathleen Snelson, Pat Doxsie, Melba Bullard, and Carlita Kemnitz, were the leaders of the 1946-47 EHS Bow Wow Pep Club. The club was created in 1922 to help cheer on the Bulldogs during athletic events and to promote school spirit.
