At our house, Thanksgiving dinner rarely includes the traditional turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, and something made of yams. We’ve served ham a few times, which was always easier. Last year, we decided to try something non-traditional and simple: a big pot of chili with a full “chili fixins” bar. It was relaxed and delicious with minimal cleanup. Alison called it her favorite Thanksgiving ever and joked that if chili was this easy, maybe we’ll do pizza for Christmas.
Our most successful “non-traditional” feasts are my homemade lasagna Thanksgivings. Since this multilayered deep-dish effort is quite a production (at least for me), I make two trays—one for dinner and one for the freezer. This meal has earned universal praise from my in-laws, stepkids, godkids, and my lovely wife—and has been the benchmark ever since.
We’ve had our fair share of cooking disasters, too. There was the year the oven door hinge broke, and we had to wrap a bungee cord around the oven while several casseroles baked. Then there was the year we found a paw print in the cornbread casserole. We were transporting side dishes to dinner at the in-laws when Mac, our dog, jumped into the car and then into the casserole. Yet, the favorite disaster story that gets retold every year is undoubtedly the legend of the hamloaf. Alison got adventurous with a “can’t go wrong” holiday recipe, and it did. That year, our side dishes became the main course, and we learned that “loaf” should only follow “meat” and never ever “ham.”
This year, we’ll gather around the table to give thanks. We’ll bow our heads in gratitude before the meal, and after dinner and a little time on the couch, many of us will bow our heads again—for a well-earned nap.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
Stories, Art, and Imagination Edmond Fine Arts Launches Creative Beginnings
By Taylor Bollinger
Edmond Fine Arts is bringing a new, engaging educational resource to the Edmond Community. Last month, the nonprofit debuted Creative Beginnings: Stories and Art for Families, a free program that blends literacy, art, and play for children ages 3-6 and their caregivers.
The idea began with Lainee Copeland, an Edmond Fine Arts instructor who saw how powerful it could be to bring parents and children together through creative activities. “The Creative Beginnings program is all about learning and connecting through play and creativity,” Copeland said. “I hope it introduces many families to the amazing programs that Edmond Fine Arts has for children and adults.”
Development Consultant and Edmond City Council Member Maggie Murdock Nichols helped bring Copeland’s vision to life. “When I heard about this idea, I immediately started thinking about how we could fund it and make it accessible to all families.”
That opportunity came through a grant from the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness, with sponsorship support from Tinker Federal Credit Union. The timing, Nichols said, couldn’t have been better. “We’d already been dreaming up this program. Research shows that kids are coming into school not knowing how to play or use their imagination. This program helps bridge that gap for kids and caretakers.”
Creative Beginnings is modeled in part after EFA’s successful Playful Dramatics program, which launched in Edmond Public Schools in 2023. That initiative introduced imaginative storytelling into Pre-K classrooms, complete with costumes, instruments, and acting out books. Teachers noticed a ripple effect in creativity, confidence, and social-emotional growth. Nichols has seen it firsthand. “My own Pre-K child’s artwork completely changed after that program,” she said. “Her creativity just blossomed.”
Creative Beginnings will continue offering several sessions on the second Saturday of November and December—all at no cost for families. “The program will continue past this grant period, with TFCU as the ongoing sponsor,” EFA representatives explained. “The OPSR grant is the reason it’s free for the coming months, and we can’t express enough appreciation to community partners for making art and learning more accessible to our community.”
Each session will follow a similar spirit of exploration. Families will enjoy a themed storytime, art project, and play-based activities. Every child will take home the featured book, their artwork, and a resource kit filled with crayons. The kit also includes a prop or instrument to enhance play at home, a craft to complete with their caregiver, and information connecting them to local partners such as Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the Metropolitan Library System, and UCO’s Child Study Center.
“We want to put real tools for creativity in kids’ hands,” Nichols said, “When they can express themselves through art and imagination, you can actually measure that development. It’s incredible to watch.”
The program also gives parents a chance to engage in the learning process. “The craft projects require hands-on help from a caregiver,” Nichols said. “It’s all about connection and helping parents feel confident playing, creating, and learning alongside their kids.”
For EFA, that family connection is at the heart of everything. “Our organization was created more than 40 years ago by Edmond moms who wanted access to the arts,” Nichols said. “Creative Beginnings continues that mission: removing barriers, celebrating imagination, and giving families a space to create together.”
Families can register for the free program at edmondfinearts.com/creative-beginnings.
A Taste of the Season Holiday Dining Holiday Dining Holiday Dining
By Laura Beam
THE BARLOR
Discover why everyone is talking about The Barlor! This celebrated metro catering company, featuring exquisite charcuterie spreads, decadent desserts, and custom menus, will open its own wine and cheese bar in Edmond in December. Book now for bartending and charcuterie for Christmas, and look for the Christmas pop-up they will be hosting in December. And be sure to reserve your spot early for their grand opening celebration on New Year’s Eve. Whether you need a fruit, veggie, and cheese grazing board or a menu of carved ham, a mashed potato bar, and fun desserts like tiramisu shooters, The Barlor is ready to serve. Follow them on Facebook. Opening in December at 26 W. Hurd, Edmond.
NHINJA SUSHI & WOK
Impress your guests with Nhinja Sushi’s custom party trays! From elegant rolls to creative displays like this stunning sushi snake they crafted for a nonprofit Board of Directors meeting, each tray is freshly made to wow your crowd. Standard sushi trays start at $32, and custom designs begin at $600. Perfect for any event, these artistic trays are ready for pickup or delivery to make hosting easy throughout the holiday season. Email Kang@nhinja.com or visit nhinja.com to order. Dine at 5 W. 15th St., Edmond or 13905 N. May Ave. or other metro locations.
COBBLESTONE KITCHEN
For gifts or gatherings, nothing says fun like a party in a box! Cobblestone Kitchen’s delicious mail-order cookies are made with 100% real butter and no preservatives, creating a cookie that is crispy on the outside and chewy in the middle. The Original Cobblestone Cookie, their signature flavor, features two kinds of chocolate, brown sugar, oats, and crushed pecans–delicious! Fantastic vegan and gluten-free options are available too. In business for over 30 years, they specialize in corporate and personal gifting, handling the production, execution, and delivery for large corporations, small businesses, and parties. Personalized messaging can be included with each order. Visit cobblestonekitchen.com.
BRICKTOWN BREWERY
Put Bricktown Brewery on your guest list and it’s sure to be a party! Their holiday party platters are perfect for casual gatherings and large groups. Order online, in the BTB Fan Club mobile app, or by calling the restaurant, and treat your guests to tried-and-true menu favorites that are always a hit. Party platters feature shareable portions of items such as Big Mike’s Meatloaf, Bricktown Cobb Salad, and Yardbird Chicken Mac & Cheese. And don’t forget, Bricktown Brewery six packs are available for takeout and are great for stocking the cooler with craft beer for get-togethers! Visit 1150 E. 2nd St., Edmond, or bricktownbrewery.com.
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 FROSTED MUG
Planning a casual get-together or special event? The Frosted Mug brings the party to life with tasty foods everyone will love. Reserve their private party space or meet your crew at this fun neighborhood sports bar for hand-cut steaks, burgers, wings, loaded Frito chili pie, flatbread pizza, and a variety of delicious sides. Enjoy the 60-person bar, multiple big screen TVs, and a spacious patio with TVs. Or take the party home with 24-hour advance notice catering available for pickup or delivery. Choose from sandwich, wrap, or chicken tender platters, a taco or burger
YOLKIZZ CAFE
Make every day festive with Yolkizz Cafe’s seasonal hit–Pumpkin Pancakes! One bite of these fluffy faves and you’ll know why customers look forward to them each year. Pair them with a selection of cozy winter drinks like a Pumpkin Spice Latte, Chai Latte, or Peppermint Mocha. They’re the perfect addition to holiday gatherings too. Ask about fantastic Holiday Specials for family gettogethers, office parties, and catering events. Everything you love about this family-owned cafe of comfort foods, from the signature homemade sausage gravy and chicken and waffles, to grilled pork chops and homemade soups, is sure to be a crowd pleaser at your gathering. Visit 737 W. Danforth Rd. or yolkizzcafe.com.
Little Dirt’s Mullet with a Mission
By Taylor Bollinger
Seven-year-old Slade Smith means business—in the front, that is. The back, however, is now a nationally recognized party after the Edmond second-grader was named runnerup in the USA Mullet Championships Kids Division.
Slade’s signature style began years ago in Pre-K with a mohawk haircut. After seeing an old photo of his dad as a kid with a mullet, Slade challenged himself to “grow a better one.” His mom, Kindall, said, “He never wanted to cut it. We just kept growing it.” Eventually, the mohawk haircut turned into a fullfledged mullet, and when Kindall saw the contest on Facebook, the next natural step was to enter.
The Smith family went all out to drum up votes. “We organized fundraisers, held a raffle, baked cookies to sell, and created flyers and business cards,” Kindall said, “We did everything we could to get people involved and voting.”
The community rallied around Slade, especially when his “Little Dirt” theme—an ode to the movie Joe Dirt , of course—made its debut.
I’ll grow it ‘til I step on it.
“He did so well, it really took us all by surprise,” Kindall said. “It was a lot of hard work, a lot of posting and rallying people to get votes and donations.” The hard work paid off, as Slade finished second out of 141 kids in his category.
While the contest focused on hair, it was driven by heart. Contestants raised money for Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors, a nonprofit that builds mortgage-free homes for wounded veterans. “We’ve got some vets in our family,” Kindall said. “But really, Slade just loves to help people. He has such a giving spirit, and it made the whole thing even more meaningful.”
Slade’s signature look has made waves in Edmond and beyond. He’s been featured on the news, spotted around town, and even recognized by strangers. But more important to the seven-year-old than a headline on Yahoo! is the resounding peer review: “The mullet is really cool.” When asked whether he plans to cut it anytime soon, Slade’s answer was a firm “No.” He went on to say, “I’ll grow it 'til I step on it.”
With his sights now set on winning the 2026 USA Mullet Championships, it’s clear that Slade Smith is just getting started. Follow him on his Facebook fan page: Slade Smith“A Little Dirt.”
Museum Celebrates History's Oldest Feathered Friends
By Amy Dee Stephens
As the pigeon flies, The American Pigeon Museum & Library is about a mile off Route 66, not far from the Oklahoma City Zoo. The building, which opened in 2014, resembles a large pigeon coop, with square window boxes. Inside, pigeon paintings, prints, and posters cover the walls in every style imaginable. Various rooms branch off the main hall to delve into specific topics, such as pigeon racing, fancy breeds, and pigeons as portrayed in art and culture.
The museum’s mission is to create awareness about domestic pigeons, why they exist, and how they help humanity.
America’s Hero Birds
“The exhibit that wows people the most is about homing pigeons passing secret messages along during wars,” said Ashlee Mikesell, the museum operator. “Today, people are more familiar with pigeons eating french fries off the sidewalk. But no, they had jobs. They were useful!”
In World War II, 54,000 pigeons served in the U.S. Army
Pigeons have served as messengers for thousands of years. In American history, homing pigeons successfully delivered messages 95% of the time during World War I, and in World War II, 54,000 pigeons served in the U.S. Army. Several individual pigeons, such as Winkie and GI Joe, were awarded for specific acts of military bravery.
Fancy Meeting
You Here
Another favorite exhibit of museum visitors is the row of cages inhabited by a dozen live pigeons of all shapes and sizes. These “fancy” breeds, all descended from rock doves, are surprising - featuring a diverse range of colors, unusual feather patterns, and even unique body shapes. The museum’s ambassador birds, who normally live at a separate habitat on the property, rotate through the museum during visiting hours, sunning themselves near a row of glass windows.
The birds are accustomed to being “oohed and aahed” over, and often Ashlee takes the birds out for visitors to touch and photograph. Having grown up in the country, she is very comfortable with birds. On occasion, Ashlee travels with the pigeons to schools, libraries, and senior centers, where attendees can learn about the pigeons’ place in history. Pigeons Popping Up in Pop Culture
Pigeons have a surprising presence in modern culture. The museum has collections of pigeon-themed beer flagons,
quilts, cartoon drawings, and movies. Because the late Queen of England had a strong interest in pigeon racing, the museum also has a case of her photos and pigeon artifacts.
“The museum’s collection keeps growing because of historically significant artifact donations from pigeon fanciers, prominent members of the hobby, or when someone has passed away with unusual pigeon items,” Ashlee said. “There are a surprising number of people who grew up with these amazing birds, but our non-pigeon visitors seem to really enjoy learning about them, too. Pigeons are man’s oldest feathered friend.”
The museum is free, and people are visiting from all over the world, especially Route 66 travelers seeking unusual experiences. Where else might a visitor encounter a wall of wooden clocks used to time pigeons as they race across 600 miles? Or a collection of tiny, Chinese, bamboo whistles attached to pigeons’ tails to create music during flight? Or a pigeon-inspired Pokémon card?
To learn more, visit TheAmericanPigeonMuseum.org. The museum is open limited hours Thursday through Saturday.
Ashlee Mikesell, Museum Operator
Lucky Enough
The Story of Connie and Eddie Beesley
By Amy Dee Stephens
Connie and Eddie Beesley are both survivors of the Vietnam War, in very different ways. While they still confront the hardships of their past, they dedicate their days to encouraging other veterans to seek help, find companionship, and keep going.
The Vietnam Years
Connie grew up in a military family, watching her father suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after serving in three different wars. After high school, she joined the United Service Organization (USO) to make life better for soldiers. She volunteered over 600 hours writing letters of encouragement, making home-cooked meals, and dancing with deployed soldiers at social events.
Eddie was a Marine serving in Vietnam when he stepped on a landmine. He lost both of his legs. “The explosion was tremendous,” Eddie wrote in his biography, Lucky Enough. “The force threw me up and back over the twelve-foot hedge…I’M STILL ALIVE, I thought... I looked down and saw that both trouser legs were tattered and torn.” Eddie described the bones sticking out where his feet used to be. “I am not ready to die! Suck it up, Marine.”
During his emergency medical flight to a hospital, his helicopter was shot down. After the rescue, the hospital where he was taken was also attacked. It was nearly a month before he was transferred to a military hospital in California for recovery and rehabilitation. Like many Vietnam veterans, he faced anger and indifference upon his return to America, even though he had sacrificed his ability to walk.
Eddie said that during his eight-month stay in the hospital, God sent an angel to rescue him. She was one of the young
Fifty-nine years later, we’re still on the same mission—helping others survive.
ladies who brought cookies and magazines to lift the spirits of the veterans. Her name was Connie.
Marriage and Mentoring
Connie and Eddie fell in love during those hospital visits, and now they are celebrating 59 years of marriage. Although their love story is inspiring, it came with silent challenges and difficulties. “Just like my dad, Eddie suffered from PTSD. Sometimes it was hard to understand what was in my husband’s head,” Connie said, "but then, I’ve never had a bullet fired at me. That changes a person forever. Being married to someone with PTSD takes a lot of patience and understanding.”
Due to Eddie’s injuries, finding a career was challenging. He studied elementary education at Central State College (now UCO), but schools did not hire teachers with disabilities. Eddie eventually started his own business, building vehicles designed for accessibility.
“I had to teach myself to survive,” Eddie said. “I started doing wheelchair sports back when no one else was doing it, and I started a non-profit called Lucky Enough, Inc. to visit newlyinjured soldiers in hospitals. Doctors can heal bodies, but they can’t always help with mental trauma. I lived that firsthand, so I have a lot to share with other veterans returning home.”
Connie talks with the wives of injured military members, sharing coping methods for living with a suffering soldier. She also sews patriotic Quilts of Valor. “They came back to an unfriendly country, but it’s not too late to make them feel important and cared for,” Connie said.
Survival Ambassadors
Although the Beesleys are now in their seventies, they work as full-time troop ambassadors for Lucky Enough, Inc. He and Connie travel across the country visiting hospitals, speaking at schools and civic organizations, and attending military ceremonies. They are active at Edmond’s American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post, as well as with national organizations.
“It’s important to connect with other veterans. I attend yearly reunions with my battalion. We share many of the same memories. Being with those who have served together or have the same experiences can help people more than any psychiatrist. I encourage all younger military members from recent wars to stay in touch with their units, too,” said Eddie. “It’s one of the best ways to deal with PTSD.”
Talking about mental health has become a focal point of the Beesleys' mission, as they frequently visit veterans who feel hopeless. “It breaks my heart that so many young people contemplate suicide,” Eddie said. “I know firsthand that there is still life after injury. I even found my wife after being injured. Now, Connie and I are privileged to be an example of how to overcome and endure.”
Eddie is often approached by deeply depressed veterans, and he is always willing to share his story or give them a free copy of his book. He frequently hears that his book saves lives. “One veteran told me he had sat down with his gun, ready to end his life-but his eyes caught a glimpse of my book on the bedside stand. After reading it, he decided, ‘If Eddie made it, I can make it, too.’”
“In more recent wars, veterans returned home as heroes, but not in my generation,” Eddie said. “People tried to beat us. They hated us. Called us names. We had to survive that.” In his book, Eddie wrote one of his secrets for survival. “Connie and I choose happiness, even when our world is complicated and difficult. Guilt, sorrow, and loss are burdens I must bear, but after seeing death up close, I am grateful for the many joys and satisfactions in my life…I’m not living the life I visualized, but if you are lucky enough to be a United States Marine, you are lucky enough.”
The Things I Hear
Art &
Words of Infertility
By Taylor Bollinger
“Everything appears to be normal.”
“I’m praying for you.”
“It’s called an HSG.”
“It’ll happen.”
“Don’t stress so much.”
“The doctor will be in shortly.”
“Have you tested your progesterone levels?”
“Cortney, we tried for you for over three years.”
These are some of the words that have echoed around Cortney McConnell for years as she has navigated infertility. The well-meaning statements have followed her along a journey that is both isolating and shared by one in six people worldwide.
Through a process she describes as both difficult and healing, Cortney has gathered these fragments and transformed them into art. Her piece titled Unexplained Infertility: The Things I Hear turned seemingly ordinary phrases into a powerful visual statement that was recently displayed at the Melton Gallery at the University of Central Oklahoma, where she teaches drawing.
Cortney emphasizes the deeply personal nature of this piece. “The height of everything corresponds to me,” she said. The installation features a hand-built pedestal that rises just below her navel. On it rests a box that, when opened, reveals an unexpectedly deep interior— symbolizing the unseen layers of what she has endured.
“It relates back to my womb,” McConnell explained. “Infertility is such a vulnerable experience. You’re trying to care for yourself while constantly being examined. I wanted to express that private aspect people don’t always see.”
Every inch of the pedestal’s surface is covered with text—comments from doctors, instructions, words of hope, and offhand, often unsolicited advice. “If it looks like a lot, that’s because it feels like a lot,” she said. “I wanted a holistic balance of the things that discouraged me and the things that gave me courage.”
McConnell’s process was slow and emotional. The writing alone took between fifteen and twenty hours. “Some days felt factual. Other days, it hit deeper than I expected,” she said. “By the end, I felt grateful. These words represent people who love me, even if they are loving me imperfectly.”
Much of her art and perspective is shaped by her faith and family story. She and her husband adopted their three children before facing infertility, a journey she describes as “mostly just God.” She says their life is a reminder that motherhood and meaning come in many forms. She adds, “It’s encouraging to be appreciated for who I am, now the mother, the aunt, the mentor I am today—not just who I might be someday.”
For McConnell, art is a way to honor that truth. “There’s freedom in expressing things we don’t always say out loud,” she said. “I’m letting people read what surrounds me, but not my inner thoughts. Those are mine alone.”
Follow Cortney’s inspiring work at cortneymcconnell.com.
Top: Detail of hand-lettering. Left: Visitor interacts with exhibit. Right: Cortney McConnell
Photography by
UCO
Photography Services
Nhinja Sushi Named One of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses
By Amy Dee Stephens
In September, Kang and Mary Nhin's business, Nhinja Sushi, was named one of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a prestigious honor that recognizes their hard work, resilience, and impact on the community. This year, honorees were selected out of more than 12,500 applicants.
The First Restaurant
The Nhins opened Edmond’s first sushi restaurant in 2005. It was the result of significant financial sacrifice after thirteen banks rejected their request for a $65,000 business loan.
A FSBO (For Sale By Owner) situation allowed the Nhins to finance a building and open Kang's Asian Kitchen on 2nd Street near Bryant Square.
“Kang had the dream of owning a restaurant when we got married, and it became my dream for him,” Mary said. “We both shared a love for sushi and wanted to bring it to our hometown, and the Edmond community opened their arms to us.”
Kang's was a sit-down Chinese and sushi restaurant, which Mary described as “swanky.” With Kang’s success, however, came 12 to 16-hour work days, seven days a week, for the first four years. “When you’re not working, you are still always thinking about your business; what to change, upgrade, and improve,” Mary said. “It takes work ethic and mental toughness to own a business. That’s what got us through.”
Rethinking the Business
The Nhins’ second restaurant was the result of a lightbulb moment in 2008. The family was eating at Kang's, and Mary remembers feeling embarrassed by the behavior of her two young boys at such a nice restaurant. “I realized the need for a more casual setting, a place where busy families could
feel comfortable. That’s when Nhinja Sushi was born, with an order counter and take-out options.”
The first Nhinja Sushi opened in 2010, and the family now has five locations. Each site offers quality food and Southern hospitality that generates word-of-mouth business. Mary describes it as, “Sushi made with love.” Mary also developed a thriving educational company during COVID called Grow Grit Press. To date, she has written 423 titles and sold over four million copies of her books. Her popular Ninja Life Hacks series, which teaches children helpful life skills, has expanded into a product line and may soon appear on television or movie screens. “I first wrote these stories for my three boys, to teach them about hard work and persistence,” Mary said.
Big Award for a Small Business
The Nhins attended the award ceremony in Washington, D.C. Mary described the experience as surreal: “Meeting Daymond John from Shark Tank was such a full-circle moment. Hearing his story reminded me of all the late nights, the rejections, the people who said we’d never make it. Standing there, I thought about our team back home, our family, and our community, who believed in us even when it was hard.”
The Nhins say the recognition isn’t just theirs, it’s for every small business owner who’s ever dreamed big from a small town. “Kang’s family came to this country with almost nothing. My parents immigrated to America, too, and their belief in the American Dream was passed down to me.” Mary adds, “It’s proof that grit, faith, and heart really can take you anywhere.”
Owners Kang and Mary Nhin with Daymond John from Shark Tank
St. Luke’s Methodist Church
When Rev. Josh Attaway first helped launch St. Luke’s Edmond Campus in 2014, he envisioned a place where faith and community could grow side by side. What started with humble beginnings at Sequoyah Middle School has grown into a vibrant congregation that has gathered in its beautiful facility since October 2016. St. Luke’s has an additional campus in Downtown Oklahoma City.
“Our mission has always been simple,” says Rev. Attaway. “To share God’s love and bring hope to the world.” That mission shines through in everything the church does, from worship and education to outreach and service.
One of St. Luke’s most impactful ministries is its commitment to feeding the hungry. Through Meals on Wheels and the Community Market, the church provides more than 250,000 meals each year to individuals and families in need. In addition, their Wednesday Night Alive program offers free weekly classes for all ages, including children’s and youth choirs, Bible studies, grief support, parenting and marriage workshops, and much more.
a presence of hope in our schools and community,” says Rev. Attaway.
The church is also home to a five-star accredited childcare center, serving around 200 children from birth through kindergarten each week. It’s a place where faith, learning, and care come together in a nurturing environment for young families.
St. Luke’s impact extends beyond its walls through its partnership with Will Rogers Elementary School in Edmond. Volunteers, known as Wildcat Buddies, work with students on literacy, assist teachers in classrooms, and lend support wherever it’s needed. “We want to be
As St. Luke’s looks to the future, the church remains focused on growth, connection, and service. “We’re always exploring new ways to serve Edmond and beyond,” Attaway adds.
St. Luke’s Edmond Campus welcomes everyone to join Sunday worship at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., where faith and fellowship come together to create a true sense of home.
Visit St. Luke’s online at stlukesokc.org or in person at 900 N. Sooner Rd.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Heart of Oklahoma Design
For Kevin Merrell, owner of Heart of Oklahoma Design, woodworking isn’t just a trade, it’s a legacy. Since founding his company in 2017, Kevin has been dedicated to carrying on the timeless craftsmanship he learned from seasoned carpenters who instilled in him a deep respect for precision, integrity, and pride in every build.
Kevin’s journey began in the Oklahoma City construction scene, where he honed his skills at a highend cabinet shop and later worked alongside an interior designer specializing in home renovations. Those experiences sparked a bigger dream - to create a company where he could blend
artistry and craftsmanship into every project. That dream became Heart of Oklahoma Design, a business built on hard work, heritage, and hands-on excellence.
Specializing in handmade cabinetry, custom woodwork, and kitchen and bath remodeling, Heart of Oklahoma Design stands apart because Kevin isn’t just the owner, he’s the builder. Every piece that leaves his shop carries his personal touch and commitment to quality. “We don’t cut corners,” Kevin says. “We enjoy the work, and we take pride in it. That dedication makes a big impact long term.”
In an industry often pressured by speed and cost-cutting, Kevin’s approach is refreshingly steadfast. He focuses on creating designs that stand the test of time, ensuring each client’s investment holds long-term value. By continuously refining his techniques and using only high-quality tools and materials, he honors the old-school methods while embracing innovation. Looking ahead, Kevin plans to expand with a new shop and eventually offer classes on cabinet building, tool
tutorials, and basic carpentry skills. He wants to pass along the craftsmanship values his grandfather taught him to a new generation of tradesmen.
At Heart of Oklahoma Design, every project tells a story of tradition, quality, and the heart of true Oklahoma craftsmanship. You can find examples of Kevin's work on Facebook at Heart of Oklahoma Design. Contact Kevin by phone at (405) 210-9985 or email heartofokcarpenter@gmail.com.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Kevin Merrell
A Johnnie’s Original Doug Cunningham Reflects on 52 Years Behind the Counter
By Taylor Bollinger
When Doug Cunningham clocked out of Johnnie’s for the last time, it marked the end of an incredible era. After 52 years, Cunningham, 65, finally hung up his apron—though he admits he’ll still be in for an iced tea or two.
“I’d just left junior high when I started,” he said. “I was 13, turning 14, washing dishes six nights a week from five to eleven. That’s not even legal now,” he laughed.
What began as a teenage job turned into a lifelong calling. Cunningham stayed through high school and college at UCO, and when he got married at 21, he stepped into management. “That was 1981, the same year we opened the Edmond store,” he said. “At that time, there were just two Johnnie’s locations. Eventually, we grew to eight.”
Cunningham credits founder Johnnie and his sons with shaping his work ethic. “Johnnie came from a different generation. It was ‘my way or the highway,’” he reflected, smiling. “He was straightforward, but he taught us to take criticism, work hard, and not be thin-skinned. We learned that when you work hard, you earn your place and have something to be proud of. Hard work is always rewarded.”
Those lessons carried him through five decades in the restaurant industry and into countless friendships. On his last Friday, regulars filled the 325-seat dining room to say goodbye. “It was unbelievable,” Cunningham said. “I could tell you most of their first names and a little something about each one. It’s rare these days, that Cheers-like environment where everybody knows each other.”
Some customers became like family. “I was feeding the fourth generation of some families,” he said. “I’ve seen people through loss, through celebrations. It became a ministry of sorts, taking people under my wing.”
Cunningham’s warmth became a signature part of the Johnnie’s experience. “People always mentioned my smile,” he said. “I just tried to make everyone feel at home.”
He laughs when asked if he’s tired of burgers. “Not at all. My favorite’s the #9, Theta with cheese. And nobody beats our onion rings. As for pie, I tell myself banana counts as fruit, but chocolate’s the top seller.”
On his last Friday, regulars filled the 325-seat dining room to say goodbye.
Cunningham says that retirement feels a bit strange, but he plans to stay busy. He’s active in his church and hopes to spend his newly free time volunteering. “It’s a little scary stepping away, but I’ve been very blessed. I’ve got a wife, two kids, and a great life,” he said, attributing much of his personal success to his professional path with Johnnie’s.
So what’s the secret sauce? “Family,” Cunningham said simply. “Johnnie’s sons took me in and made me part of theirs. That family relationship extends to our customers, too. We take care of each other. That’s what kept me here all these years, and I am grateful that I can still be a part of that family, off the clock.”
My Vintage Diary
By Louise Tucker Jones
While going through some old treasures, I was surprised to find a fiveyear diary I received for my 12th birthday. So much fun reading those short snippets, some even into my 15th year. Although most described simple things like going to school or church and daily farm chores, others gave me a memorable look into my youthful years. Who would have thought that I would be reading those entries some sixty years later?
I had to laugh at things like my friend and I going fishing and accidentally falling into the water. Oh, sure! Or when I rode the horse with my brother and he intentionally made it buck, but I hung on and boasted that I didn’t get bucked off.
And the time that four of us girls decided to ride the horse together. Needless to say, the horse didn’t agree so no bragging on what happened then.
My little, red diary described snowball fights and snow ice cream in the winter and fun, roller-skating parties in the summer. I wrote how my girlfriends and I would often spend the night with each other and trade clothes to wear to school.
Sweet vignettes from the past like school programs, weddings, pie suppers, donkey ballgames and even stormy nights in the community cellar with other families. And of course, basketball games. Something our little school was known for. I played basketball all through high school. We were good! We were champions! Yes, true bragging rights there!
Reading my diary felt like walking down old country roads where I grew up, gathering sweet treasures like wildflowers along the way. Everything from painting china dolls during Vacation Bible School to going on hayrides with my first boyfriend, and holiday celebrations with my family.
I’m thankful that very few unhappy
entries made it into my beloved memoir. My young life was full of simple pleasures like riding horses and bicycles and wading through cool, shallow creeks with lifelong friends.
My heart hurts for those who didn’t have this kind of life. But I’m so grateful for my family, friends and the loving community where God planted me. My life is rich with memories!
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.
ABOUT
a look back Edmond High School Football
Football has been a popular high school sport in Oklahoma for well over a century. Four members from the 1924 Edmond High School football team, Milo Hartacker, Rex Standifier, Clarence Frazier, and Floyd Scarlett, pose in front of the high school on Boulevard.
Photo provided by Edmond History Museum. edmondhistory.org
