Father’s Day, 16 years ago. I opened a gift bag to find a sheet of paper covered in my five-year-old granddaughter Aubrey’s hand-drawn artwork. It was a Father’s Day card accompanied by a questionnaire her teacher helped her complete. Aubrey’s answers painted a portrait that was both wildly inaccurate and surprisingly heartfelt.
According to five-year-old Aubrey, I weighed a mere 70 pounds and stood a towering eight feet tall. I’ve never been a beanpole or a basketball player, but hey, I appreciate the description.
She got a few details right: My name is Dave, I do love to read, and my eyes are blue. But “washing dishes” as my favorite chore? Let’s just say that’s a creative interpretation of reality.
Then there was “Outlaw Pete” as my favorite song. I had played it a lot back then, so maybe Bruce Springsteen owes me for some early fan development. And “The Pink Panther” as my favorite TV show? Sure, I definitely remember introducing her to various comedy classics.
What stuck with me most wasn’t the facts she got wrong, but the ones she got perfectly right. I do say “I love you” often, and snuggling in the morning was one of our favorite rituals. The way she captured the heart of who I am — and who I strive to be for her — really hit home.
Raising Aubrey as my daughter has been the most unexpected and rewarding journey of my life. I stepped in, not just as her grandfather but as her dad. Although it wasn’t always easy, every challenge was outweighed by the joy of watching her grow.
Aubrey is 21 now and a junior at UCO, but that little girl’s love letter hangs in my office. It reminds me that the best part of fatherhood isn’t being “eight feet tall” or being “button shirts” stylish (apparently the answer for what I like to wear). It’s the hugs, the snuggles, and the simple joys we share.
The real gift was seeing myself through her eyes.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
On the Cover: Alice Jackson, photography by Leah Jackson
More Than a Game 26 Years of Triumph at the UCO Endeavor Games
By Taylor Bollinger
The 26th annual UCO Endeavor Games are set to take over Edmond from June 5–8, bringing with them a powerful mix of athleticism, community, and celebration. Hosted by the University of Central Oklahoma, this nationally acclaimed adaptive sports event invites athletes with physical disabilities from all over the country to compete, connect, and inspire – athletes like disabled veteran, Megan Lee.
“This will be my ninth year participating in the Endeavor Games,” Megan said. “I play sitting volleyball and shoot air rifle. I started off as a cyclist, first riding a regular bike, then moving to a recumbent bike for balance issues.” Megan is putting a temporary pause on cycling due to a recent brain surgery, but she hopes to resume the sport soon. “This year will be my first time trying swimming events and playing boccia.”
Megan spoke about the sense of belonging and purpose the Games provide. “I have found a lot of friends through the Endeavor Games,” she said. “Being a disabled veteran really puts you in a different position and meeting others who have been there and experienced the same challenges you’ve felt is an amazing experience.”
“I’ve met battle buddies from all across the country and we’re always supporting the hurdles in each other’s lives. It’s also really amazing to see the little kids who come out and compete. They don’t ever see themselves as different when we’re all together. It’s really inspiring. I look forward to the games every single year.”
From their humble beginnings in 2000, the Endeavor Games have grown into the largest multi-sport, multi-disability competition in the nation. The event joined forces with UCO in 2004, and a year later, the university became a designated U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site—still the only one of its kind among universities.
The Endeavor Games aren’t just about sports. They’re about resilience, inclusion, and making space for athletes of all levels— whether they’re trying adaptive sports for the first time or chasing a Paralympic dream.
Another Edmond competitor is high school student, Ryder Gibson. Born with spina bifida, Ryder is preparing to compete in his 13th Endeavor Games. Yes, that math is correct, he started competing when he was only two and has since competed in a handful of events including basketball and indoor air rifle.
“It’s great because he gets to compete against individuals in similar situations,” his mother, Christi, explained. “Ryder plays wheelchair basketball year-round, but the Endeavor Games give him the opportunity to compete alongside peer competitors. He loves that he’s not confined to just doing one thing.”
Those looking to witness the athleticism and inclusion of the Endeavor Games have four days to do so. The events take place at several Edmond venues, including UCO’s campus, Edmond North High School, and the Edmond Mitch Park YMCA. Events include sports clinics, competitive matchups, and community celebrations. All of it is free to attend and open to the public.
SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS
Thursday, June 5: Athlete check-ins, adaptive sports clinics, and a welcome party
Friday, June 6: Competitions begin across multiple sports
Saturday, June 7: Track and field events, team sports, and more
Sunday, June 8: Final competitions and closing events
The Games run on heart—and volunteers. From helping at clinics to keeping events running smoothly, community members of all ages are encouraged to get involved (kids under 14 must be accompanied by an adult). Early sign-up is recommended for the best volunteer assignments—and those popular event shirts.
Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or offering a helping hand, the Endeavor Games are an unforgettable reminder of the power of perseverance—and the strength of a community that shows up. To register as an athlete or volunteer—or to check the full event schedule—visit endeavorgames.org/edmond.
FEASTS AROUND TOWN
By Laura Beam
TEXLAHOMA BBQ
Give dad a break from the grill with Texlahoma’s new best deal! Monday through Friday from 11-4 enjoy a Pulled Chicken or Pulled Pork Sandwich with a side and drink for $10.50. June 1 through Father’s Day, get a free bottle of sauce with a $50 gift card purchase. Savor tender, tasty meats that are trimmed, seasoned, and smoked on site daily, like ribs, brisket, sausage, turkey, and their melt-in-your-mouth burnt ends! Open daily in Edmond at 121 E. Waterloo Rd., or dine or drive-thru at 2080 E. 2nd St., or visit texlahomabbq.com. Catering and food trailer available too!
S&B’S BURGER JOINT
Give dad the rock star treatment with lip-smackin’ burgers, wings, and tasty sauces that are always a hit. On June 15 only, buy dad’s burger or sandwich and get yours, of equal or lesser value, free when you mention this offer. He’ll love the nostalgic music videos, rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, large bar, pet-friendly patio at both locations, and creatively named burger combos that are sure to spur a few good dad jokes. Don’t forget S&B’s weekday $10 or less specials and $1.99 Tuesday Kids Meal too. Visit in Edmond at 2088 E. 2nd St. or 1000 NW 192nd or sandbburgers.com.
BRICKTOWN BREWERY
Already a fan fave since it kicked off last month, Bricktown Brewery’s limited time seasonal menu features classic dishes with a Bricktown spin that dad will love! Treat him to the Tomatillo Chicken Enchiladas, Mango Shrimp Tacos, Chicken Taco Salad, Bricktown Churros, Kickin’ Chicken Sliders, and Bricktown Cerveza–a crisp, smooth lager-style beer perfect for summer. From May 26-June 15, get a $10 bonus with every $50 gift card and eGift purchase, available in restaurants or online. And don’t miss their 2nd Street location special–half price pizza every Wednesday! Visit in Edmond at 1150 E. 2nd St. or 5516 W. Memorial Rd., or bricktownbrewery.com.
THE LOOKOUT AT KICKINGBIRD
Open to the public every day, year-round, The Lookout at Kickingbird Golf, requires no membership for the whole family to enjoy the laid back mood and fantastic food any time. With cool views of the golf course and OKC skyline, this delicious escape is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features American classics with a twist, like blackened salmon with avocado crema and pineapple pico, sweet and spicy shrimp tacos, and buffalo chicken mac and cheese. Generous portions and surprisingly affordable prices make this cool spot even hotter! Visit at 1600 E. Danforth Rd., Edmond, or thelookoutedmond.com. Event space available too.
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.
THE MULE
For a quick bite or casual hangout with dad, this lively eatery in the heart of Downtown Edmond has a fun energy and unique menu. The huge center bar area serves up an excellent selection of beer, wine, and seasonal cocktails, and the must-have–the mule. The menu is an attraction all its own, featuring ingredients like goat cheese, gruyere, brie, and braised short ribs. Locals love the Macaroni Pony Sandwich piled with Chipotle BBQ Pulled Pork and mac and cheese, on jalapeno cornbread. Soups, salads, apps, and Happy Hour specials round out the fun! Visit 16 S. Broadway, Edmond, or edmond.themuleokc.com.
EDDIE'S
Even if dad is cooking out, don’t show up empty-handed! Eddie’s fresh, traditional or boneless wings are legendary. The Premier Pickle Wings are the top pick, and incredible sauces and rubs give you endless, crowd-pleasing variety. And that same caliber of awardwinning wings for 10 years running goes into every dish they serve. Whether dining in or picking up to share, enjoy Eddie’s steaks, ribs, burgers and NYstyle pizzas too. Don’t forget Sunday Funday brunch, full-spread catering, and the panoramic patio at Chisholm Creek. Eddie’s is celebrating 10 years in Edmond–support local and stop in and say hi! For locations, hours, and menus, visit eddiesdining.com.
Alice Jackson’s Big Voice, Bigger Dreams
By Taylor Bollinger
At just 13 years old, Edmond’s Alice Jackson has already graced some of Oklahoma’s biggest stages — from singing the national anthem at OU baseball games and Thunder matchups to a performance at the Big 12 Softball Championship in May. But don’t let her age fool you: Alice is a rising country star with a classic sound, pink leather boots, and a dream as big as the world tour she’s already envisioning.
“I believe I was around eight and just started singing a lot more,” Alice recalls. “I was trying out tennis because I didn’t really have anything I was good at, and my mom suggested voice lessons. I loved it right away.” Her vocal coach recommended country music, and it clicked immediately. “My voice is well-suited for country, and I just fell in love with it.”
Alice’s voice may be young, but her influences are vintage. “I’m obsessed with Elvis,” she says, listing her Elvis candle, Elvis flag, and records with pride. “I want to be the girl Elvis.” She draws inspiration from legends like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash, and performs with an old-soul sound that belies her years. One of the first songs she ever sang? Dolly’s "Wildflowers."
A viral TikTok at age 10 – a playful rendition of the Folgers jingle before swim practice – first got her noticed online, racking up over 6 million views. Although the original account was frustratingly deleted by TikTok, she’s rebuilt her following by sharing her talent with the digital world.
“She’s an old soul, always has been,” says her mom, Leah, who now wears the unexpected title of “momager.” “I never thought I’d be one, but it’s fun because Alice and I get to spend so much quality time together. We’re making great memories.”
Alice performs live at least twice a month at The Truck Yard in Bricktown and is a member of the Oklahoma Opry. She has a selection of songs available on Apple Music — including “Slay,” written by the songwriter behind George Strait’s "Check Yes or No." However, she’s not one to stay still. Alice is working on new music and hopes to release original songs in the near future.
“My dream is to be a big name — like when someone says ‘Alice,’ and they’re like, ‘Oh, Alice Jackson?’” she says with a smile. She offers a word of advice to other aspiring artists: “Everyone says this, but most people don’t take it to heart: you have to just get out there, do what you love, be committed, and take every opportunity you can.”
Want to catch Alice live? Follow her on Instagram @alicejacksonmusic, on TikTok @alice.jackson.music or check upcoming performances at The Truck Yard at truckyard.com/tunes.
Photography by Leah Jackson
Album cover for "Oklahoma Home"
Alice at her Oklahoma Opry debut performance
Tiny Car, Big Bond
Dad's 3D Printed Mini Viper for Son
By Taylor Bollinger
Victor Silva’s love for cars started long before he ever got behind the wheel. Growing up near Brazil’s Interlagos racetrack, the roar of Formula 1 engines and the legacy of Ayrton Senna made cars feel like something more than just machines—they were alive. His grandmother noticed his early curiosity for how things worked and encouraged it, often buying him car magazines during quiet trips to the bookstore. “That kind of quiet support really stayed with me,” he says.
Most of the vehicles Silva saw as a child were small European models—Fiats, Peugeots, VWs. But in one magazine, he spotted the Dodge Viper. Bold, unapologetic, and designed with soul – to Victor, the Viper was everything those other cars weren’t. It became his dream car, a passion he carried into adulthood through toy models, video games, and a quiet hope he might one day drive one.
That dream became real in 2022. Silva and his wife Jill drove to Chicago to check out a low-mileage Viper listing. “I expected reason would win,” he laughs. But the moment he saw it, something shifted. “The Viper wasn’t built to solve problems. It was built around a feeling.” Despite its quirks—side pipes that burn your leg, a roof that barely counts—the Viper came home with them to Oklahoma.
Nine months later, the mini Viper was complete. By then, Theo had almost outgrown it—but that didn’t dampen the joy. “The real magic was seeing how he interacted with it—obsessed with the trunk, spinning the steering wheel for hours. He brought it to life in ways I hadn’t imagined.”
Through this project, Silva discovered that perseverance mattered more than perfection. “Things will go wrong. The real challenge is to stay curious and enjoy the process, even when it’s messy.” That mindset, he says, is the true gift he hopes to pass on—more than any finished product.
He may not remember the little car, but I hope he remembers the spirit behind it.
He’s already started designing the next version—a remotecontrolled “RC/12” (a 1:12 scale remotecontrolled car) tailored to Theo’s current play style. And while Silva has no plans to turn this into a business, he dreams of sharing the experience: “Imagine a website where families can build a car together, part by part, side by side. It’s that time together, the building, the learning, that really stays with you. And that’s the part I’d love to see more of in the world.”
That love inspired another project: building a replica Viper for his son, Theo, using 3D printing. A self-taught maker, Silva began with free tools like Photopea, Tinkercad, and Blender. With each layer of filament, he shaped not just a toy, but a bond. “Theo became my unofficial quality control. If a part was weak, he’d break it. And that showed me where to improve.”
With Jill’s support—often bringing her own design ideas to life through 3D printing—this hobby has become a creative outlet for the whole family. “We don’t always solve problems the same way, but that’s what makes us better together.”
Silva’s advice? “Start small. Build what you can today. And be the quiet supporter, like my grandma was. That encouragement—just the space to try—can mean everything.”
See Victor’s build process and Theo’s custom ride in action on Instagram: @theosviper.
Dozens of homemade 3D-printed Viper toy car parts, Theo (center), and Victor’s Dodge Viper.
The Silva family: Jill, Victor and Theo
Wired for Excellence: Edmond Linemen Go National
By Taylor Bollinger
Three linemen from the City of Edmond recently traveled to Roseville, California, to compete in the American Public Power Association (APPA) Lineworkers Rodeo – and no, it does not involve horses.
“When people hear ‘rodeo,’ they think of bull riding,” said Travis Matthews. “But we’re out here doing the everyday tasks of our job in a competitive, judged environment—with a heavy emphasis on doing it safely.”
Journeymen Chance Tipken, Tristan Stefani, and lead lineman Travis Matthews represented Edmond in a national event that tests safety training and features a skills-based competition. Oklahoma lineman David Trent acted as a judge at this year’s events. Held annually in a different host city, the 2025 rodeo featured 61 three-person journeyman teams and 115 apprentices from 52 publicly owned utilities across the country. Competitors are scored on how well they complete tasks like climbing poles, managing equipment, and rescuing injured teammates in simulated emergencies. Points are deducted for errors like dropping tools, skipping steps, or exceeding time limits. In each event, the exceeding “mean time” results in a two-point deduction, while exceeding the “drop-dead time” costs five points and ends the round.
One of the most intense and important events is the Hurt Man Rescue, a drill performed annually by Edmond Electric. In this simulation, a mannequin representing an unconscious or injured lineman is suspended from a pole. The task: Gear up, climb up, and safely lower the “injured” worker to the ground.
“We hope we never have to do it in real life, but we want to be great at it if we ever do,” said Matthews. “My best time is 2 minutes and 30 seconds, but the fastest at this year’s event was 1 minute and 27 seconds—from a Ponca City lineman, which was awesome to see.”
Connections matter—especially when mutual aid is needed during major storms or disasters.
Matthews has competed in four national rodeos and said the benefits go beyond the competition. “These events help us build relationships with other linemen across the country. Those connections matter—especially when mutual aid is needed during major storms or disasters.”
Edmond Electric currently employs 37 linemen, and while no apprentices competed this year, participation in the Municipal Electric Systems of Oklahoma (MESO) Rodeo in October is required to qualify for nationals.
Next year’s APPA Lineworkers Rodeo will be held in Huntsville, Alabama—and the Edmond team is already gearing up for an electrifying return in 2026.
Tristan Stefani, Chance Tipken and Travis Matthews
Sewing Hope Bringing Joy to Children Facing Illness
By Taylor Bollinger
For children facing serious illness, a small gesture can make a big difference. That’s the heart behind Ryan’s Case for Smiles, a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to delivering handmade pillowcases to pediatric hospitals. With 360 hospitals served across the country, the organization aims to bring a bit of comfort and joy to young patients under the motto: Helping kids feel better to heal better.
The Metro OKC Chapter
Debbie Wood leads the Metro OKC Chapter alongside cocoordinator Susan Florer. Their team meets once a month at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Edmond, where around 25-30 volunteers gather for a day of sewing, cutting, and ironing pillowcases. It’s a lively production line, with each volunteer playing a role in crafting these special gifts. After a potluck lunch, the finished pillowcases are prepared for delivery to OU Children's Hospital.
Each month, the chapter donates about 350 pillowcases, including contributions from home-sewers across the state. Many volunteers work from home, buying their own fabric and mailing their finished pillowcases or dropping them off at a designated location. "Our Metro OKC Chapter has produced over 65,250 pillowcases," Debbie said, humbly dropping the amazing statistic. In May, all the nation’s chapters celebrated their 3,000,000th pillowcase nationwide by delivering a specially embroidered pillowcase to OU Children's Hospital.
A Personal Touch
Every pillowcase is made from 100% cotton and features child-friendly patterns, from soft pastels to vibrant themes appealing to patients from infancy to 18 years old. “We choose patterns that we think they will enjoy, from popular characters, to sports, to whimsical patterns — and the children get to pick the one that appeals to them the most.”
Before delivery, each case is laundered, ironed, and filled with a small card with a heartfelt poem of encouragement.
“What we hope is that the cases bring a smile to their face,” Debbie said. “They go through so much, so much pain and illness that we just hope to brighten their day.”
While the volunteers don’t interact directly with the children, they take great care in ensuring that each delivery reaches the hospital safely. A designated hospital coordinator meets them outside to receive the pillowcases, making certain they get into the hands of the kids who need them most.
Get Involved
The Metro OKC Chapter always welcomes more into their force for good, and you don’t have to sew to join. Whether through fabric and thread donations, monetary contributions, or hands-on volunteer work, every act of generosity is greatly appreciated.
Find more information at caseforsmiles.org/oklahoma or email Debbie Wood directly at nanadeb1949@gmail.com.
Back row: Patsy Hoff, Paula Snider, Laura Morrison, Michele Digby, Darlene Badgett, Gina Sigl, and Marilyn Murphy. Front Row: Debbie Bradfield, Anne Winzenread, Kathy Opalka, and Vicki Toombs
Debbie Bradfield and Michele Digby
Hoop Dreams Oklahoma Siblings Shine in National Free-Throw Competition
By Amy Dee Stephens
Van Shea Iven remembers competing in the Elks National Hoop Shoot in the late 1970s. Little did he know that his children would far surpass his scores.
The children’s free-throw competition is simple: Take 25 shots at the rim and see who makes the most baskets. Nearly 100,000 competitors registered for the 2025 Hoop Shoot, but after school, local, district, state, and regional competitions, the field narrowed to 12 in each age group. Tenley (age 9), tied for first place in Oklahoma, which was a nice surprise to her parents, Van Shea and Summer. “Honestly, she couldn’t hit the bottom of the net when she first started last year, but she kept at it. I never dreamed Tenley would make it to the state level that first year, and she did it again this year,” Van Shea said. “One of Tenley’s balls got stuck between the backboard and the rim during the tiebreaker, so it counted as a miss. She didn’t get to move to the next level, but we are so proud of her.”
Turner (age 11), who plays a wide variety of sports, has placed 1st in state hoops competitions the last two years. This year, he won the National Regional in Dallas to advance to the finals in Chicago. “Shooting free throws is a very independent sport compared to team sports. I take a deep breath and concentrate really hard.”
The finals took place in a 10,387-seat arena in front of 2,500 silent spectators. All eyes were on Turner as he took his place at the free-throw line. Deep breath. Concentrate. Shoot. He made his first shot. Missed the second. Made the third. At the end of 25 shots, he had made 22 baskets--winning third in the nation! Tenley, his sister and biggest cheerleader, said, “I truthfully didn’t expect him to do that well, but I was super happy when he did!”
A Family Effort
Turner and Tenley’s successes are a family effort. During the three months before the competition, the Ivens practiced
shooting nearly every night. Van Shea and Summer take turns rebounding for the kids so they can each get in 150 to 250 successful shots every day. “They both plan to compete again next year, but we won’t love them any less if they don’t make it past the first round,” Van Shea said. “They’ve become great friends with the other competitors, cheering each other along.” Besides Turner, three other Oklahomans succeeded at the national Hoop Shoot: Pressley Page of Kingfisher, Amalyn Switzer of Leedey, and Cooper Thompson of Inola. Cooper won first place with a perfect score in his division. Cooper’s name will be added to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and each finalist gets personalized sports cards of themselves to trade with their friends.
“We joke that our elevenyear-old son took us on vacation to Chicago,” Van Shea said with a laugh. “But he spent many hours in the gym to make that happen.” Turner’s parents carried his 4-foot trophy onto the airplane back home, where airline staff found room for it in the wheelchair storage area. “The trophies get bigger at each competition,” Turner said. “I have about 20 in my room.” “We recently found my childhood trophies from when I used to compete,”
Van Shea said. “The kids knew that I scored well back then, but my mother had written my scores on the bottom. Maybe I didn’t do as well as I remembered. They’ve both out-shot me—by a long shot.”
Summer, Turner, Tenley, and Van Shea Iven
Into Space Indoor Playground
By Taylor Bollinger
Families in Edmond have a stellar new option for indoor fun with Into Space, a space-themed indoor playground and party venue for kids ages 0–12. Located at 224 Garage Dr., Suite 100, and opened in the fall of 2024, this 4,200-square-foot facility is already making waves as the first of its kind in North Edmond.
“We’ve lived in Edmond for over 20 years, and with young kids of our own, we knew how much this kind of space was needed in our part of town,” the owners shared. “Our goal was to create a place where kids can explore, play, and just be
themselves — and where parents can feel at ease.”
The playground’s centerpiece is a massive three-story structure packed with excitement: an obstacle course, donut slide, twisty slide, zip line, and more. For the under-three crowd, there’s a safe and colorful soft play area tailored just for toddlers. While the kids climb and zip, parents can enjoy complimentary coffee, relax in the cozy lounge, access free Wi-Fi, and use a private mother’s room.
“We wanted to offer a clean, safe and fun space — not just for kids, but for families as a whole,” the owners said. “It’s a place where children can develop physically and socially, while having an absolute blast.”
Walk-in open play with unlimited time is available on both weekdays and weekends. In addition to open play, Into Space offers memberships, 5- and 10-visit passes, and three party rooms for birthdays and private events. They even offer private facility rentals and three flexible party packages, plus a bonus perk: two free adult entries with every paid child admission.
Whether it’s a rainy day escape or a
big birthday bash, Into Space is designed with community — and kids — in mind. “We love Edmond, and we’re so thankful to serve the families here.” You can call or book parties online.
Into Space is open every day except Monday. Check their website for hours and options. Visit Into Space at 224 Garage Dr., Suite 100, or online at intospaceok.com or call 405-916-8042.
Optimum Care Partners
By Taylor Bollinger
Optimum Care Partners is transforming the way Edmond residents access healthcare. This patient-centered clinic combines primary care, urgent care, mental health services, occupational health, and personal injury care under one roof—making high-quality healthcare more convenient than ever.
“Our goal is to break down the barriers that often delay patient care,” says founder Dr. Muhammad Sanaullah. “By integrating specialists and primary care in one location, we ensure timely access to comprehensive services.”
What truly sets Optimum Care apart is its holistic, accessible approach. With
extended hours, walk-in availability, and a focus on fast, efficient service, the clinic is designed with both individuals and employers in mind. “We provide compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to each patient—regardless of income, background, or insurance status,” says Dr. Sanaullah.
The clinic offers a wide range of services, including infusion therapy, transitional home visits, outpatient X-rays and lab services, geriatric care, men’s and women’s health, and personalized weight loss programs. Affordable private pay options are available for those without insurance, and IV therapy and specialty care packages make quality treatment accessible to more patients.
Many people don’t realize that Optimum Care also helps patients avoid unnecessary hospital visits. “With our experienced hospitalists, we can manage complex medical needs right here in our clinic,” Dr. Sanaullah adds.
The clinic's commitment to convenience is evident in its extended hours: urgent care services are available Monday through Friday from
8 AM to 9 PM, and weekends from 9 AM to 9 PM. Primary care and mental health services operate Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Visit Optimum Care at 1501 E 19th Street, or call (405) 777-4726 Visit them online at optimumcare.net.
Opera for Everyone Painted Sky Opera’s Mission to Modernize the Classics
By Amy Dee Stephens
If you think opera is only high-brow music for an older crowd, then you haven’t met Painted Sky Opera company. Moving into its tenth year, Painted Sky is making opera more approachable for all ages.
This year’s season includes the classic Figaro, Figaro, Figaro (of Bugs Bunny fame), a recent opera about homesteaders in the 1870s, and, of all things, singing bananas!
The Painted Sky History
Painted Sky Opera was the brainchild of Rob Glaubitz and a fellow music professor at the University of Central Oklahoma, Barbara DeMaio. The two voice teachers shared their regrets that Oklahoma City didn’t have an opera company. “We have professional sports, an orchestra, a ballet, but no opera,” Glaubitz said. “Somehow, during that conversation, we decided to start one.”
Glaubitz remembers Painted Sky Opera’s first major production with triumph. “We had a sold-out performance of La Traviata in the little theater at the Civic Center! The audience’s great reaction gave us such strength,” Glaubitz said. “We’ve had more successful, higher-quality shows since then, but that was the first moment when we knew, ‘We have something here!’”
Back to the Bananas
Now, a decade later, Oklahomans can still experience classical music in new and traditional ways—with emphasis on teaching children about opera.
“We modify an opera for kids every year, which travels to libraries and schools,” said Glaubitz. “I adapted The Bartered Bride opera into a 30-minute show called The Bartered Banana. The Bartered Bride is not done much anymore, because the idea of bargaining for a bride is antiquated--but the music is wonderful. The new plot is about a banana who is separated from his bunch and trying to figure out who his friends are.”
The children’s productions are participatory, including chants, actions, and choose-your-own-adventure-style shows. The Bartered Banana includes a familiar
camp song about, of course, bananas. (“Peel banana. Peel, peel, banana.”)
According to school teachers, one of the impactful results of Opera 101 classes is that students explore strong emotions and career opportunities. “Students explore how to be artistic themselves, whether it is singing, acting, or creating costumes and scenery,” Glaubitz said.
Summer Season of Music
This summer, Painted Sky presents a concert of operatic gems called Overture. “It is a sampling of well-known pieces, ideal for adults who might not be ready to commit to a full traditional show,” Glaubitz said. “You’ll definitely hear the famous aria from The Barber of Seville and other songs that the general public would recognize.”
The Magic Flute is second in the line-up; both a shortened version for kids and the full show for all ages. “You can’t beat a fairy tale opera setting with evil queens, a heroic prince, and a man dressed like a bird,” Glaubitz said.
The third show of the season is a new opera being performed in Oklahoma for the first time, called Proving Up. It’s the story of a family who has settled in Nebraska during the Homestead Act. They must prove to the government that they have fulfilled their obligation to grow crops and build a house with a glass window. Several families purchase one piece of glass to pass around when the inspector comes to visit.
“Proving Up is a haunting opera about pursuing the American Dream and how settlement still affects us today,” said Glaubitz. “We are proud to share various forms of opera with new and returning audiences. Operatic music is a rare and remarkable art form. It’s storytelling at its best. We are proud to share opera with Oklahoma audiences.”
Visit paintedskyopera.org.
Valerie Bernhardt in Lizzie Borden Costumes by Chloe Mullin
The Bartered Banana
The Flying Dutchman. Costumes by Brian Butler
Photo by Michael Anderson
Photo by Michael Anderson
By Louise Tucker Jones
On May 29, 2025, my late husband, Carl, will have been in heaven for 14 years. A long time, and I’ve missed him every minute. But I’m thankful for the 45 years we had together and all the wonderful memories we shared. It’s the little things that mean so much in marriage. Day-today happenings that turn into years.
I love that we celebrated most of our wedding anniversaries with cheeseburgers and fries, our wedding night meal before Carl deployed overseas the very next day. Our beautiful children. My mind holds pictures of Carl lying on the sofa, holding our newborn babies to his chest, or cooking meals when the smell made my pregnant senses nauseous.
Vacations we took in an old blue van, stopping along the way at dozens of
tourist attractions that the kids just had to see. Things like albino rattlesnakes! Yep! Driving to the beach—even on the sand and getting stuck. Disney World. Cocoa Beach. South Padre. So many places. Even Hawaii— kids included—for my 39th birthday.
Little things that became cherished memories. Carl sending me flowers when I had a book published or won an award. Sitting beside me through nine surgeries. Writing secret love notes.
Affirming our sons from T-ball, Boy Scouts, and Special Olympics to high school and college graduations. Mentoring young men in his professional career. Helping our neighbors. Joining me in teaching Sunday School for children with special needs. Honoring our parents and being absolutely ecstatic over our grandchildren.
But what I remember most is how deeply Carl loved me when we were just teenagers trying to figure out our life together. Marriage at 20 years old! We knew so little yet loved so much. And oh, the many
prayers Carl prayed for me and our children through the years. And especially his tender request of God to give me extra strength as he took his eternal journey. What a gift!
These are the treasures I celebrate on this bittersweet anniversary. A tiny portion of the things I will love and admire forever about Carl Sherman Jones, my courageous and amazing heavenly husband.
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.
a look back Daddy & Daughter
Carl Benne and his one-year-old daughter, Kimberly, enjoy a concert in Stephenson Park during the summer of 1978. Carl was the main driving force of the Edmond Round Up Club and LibertyFest Rodeo for over 40 years. Kimberly, now Kimberly Benne-Gray, has been involved with the Club her whole life and continues her dad's legacy and passion for the Club and its members today.
Be sure to catch a new exhibit, This Ain't Our First Rodeo: the History of the Edmond Round Up Club, at the Edmond History Museum, May 20 - November 29.
Photo by Daniel Smith. Photos provided by Edmond History Museum. edmondhistory.org
