Edmond Outlook - April 2021

April 2021

Edmond Eats at the Railyard On Track with a Variety of Flavors

100 Year Old Hero Ask Edmond: Your Local Candidates Reading with Tammi

Admittedly, Alison and I have fallen into some routines. The “repetitive” and the “familiar” have comforted us through the last year. Breaking out of routines takes perseverance. We’re trying but we are not there, yet.

Every night, after knocking off work around 6, we commute to the kitchen from our respective home offices. While we prepare our separate meals (she’s Keto and I’m carbs), we flip on the national news. Our conversations are loud - louder than the news and are usually punctuated by me voicing “what?” multiple times.

Dinner is served, and we dine in full view of the news.

Our rut, or rather our routine, continues as we segway into one of the greatest time-sucks of our happy little existence: Shark Tank. We’re obsessed. If you aren’t familiar with the show, don’t start. We’ve lost many evenings as we stream back-to-back episodes. I enjoy the entrepreneur spirit of the business-building participants, and Alison likes to order the products they pitch to the billionaire sharks.

Her impulse shopping adds an element of drama to our nightly routine. I don’t know if Alison is simply scrolling or ordering what’s being pitched realtime in our den. Sometimes I get a heads-up from her “I just ordered that,” other times mystery packages simply arrive.

Every night she watches/scrolls/shops. And every night I dream up products I can someday pitch to the Sharks. My latest sure-fire million dollar product idea is good for the environment reusable dog poop bags. On second thought - yuck. Maybe not a Shark Tank deal.

But that product concept does pause the routine. We’re reminded it’s dog walking weather again. Alison and I break our Shark Tank viewing cycle and venture outside with our doggies. We quickly find ourselves walking that same familiar neighborhood loop.

Sometimes you need to break a routine with another routine.

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Features 8

Ask the Candidates

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Reading with Tammi

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New Home on the Range

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Trait’s Trace of History

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Edmond Eats at the Railyard

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Wagons Ho! with Mr. Bowers

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100 Year Old Hero

Business 22

Chisholm Creek CycleBar

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SYNLawn Oklahoma

Columns 28

Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President

Louise Tucker Jones

Cover Photography by Marshall Hawkins

ADVERTISING l 405-301-3926 l sales@edmondoutlook.com MAILED MONTHLY TO 50,000 HOMES IN THE EDMOND AREA 1024 W Covell, Edmond, OK 73003 l 405-341-5599 l edmondoutlook.com l info@edmondoutlook.com April 2021 Volume 17, Number 4

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Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc.

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© 2021 Back40 Design, Inc.

PUBLISHER Dave Miller l EDITOR Jennay Wangen l ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Angie Clemens Byers l GRAPHIC DESIGN Adrian Townsend, Anne Richardson PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com l DISTRIBUTION Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond area homes.

Articles and advertisements in the Outlook do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Back40 Design. Back40 Design does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by the Outlook does not constitute endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The Outlook assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

Ask the Candidates

LOCALLOOK

Edmond’s general election will take place Tuesday, April 6, and all Edmond residents are eligible to vote in each race.

What makes you uniquely qualified for this position?

Mayor Candidates

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Ward 3 City Council Candidates

Ward 4 City Council Candidates

Darrell Davis Adjunct Instructor Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Sheryl Janis Owner Autoworks Japanese Car Service and Repair Facility

“I have 25 years of experience building relationships working with Boards and Commissions, Edmond Public Schools, and citizenry. Raised 3 successful children who are contributing to their communities. Approachable to the community. Actively listening to understand concerns, ideas, and perspective.”

“I am a problem solver and I work well with others finding solutions to common and uncommon problems. I often look outside the box to come up with ways to make things work. I believe upholding the constitution and our personal freedoms is very important and should be protected by the city government.”

Nathan Walters President MassaRossa Luxury Homes

Christin Mugg Attorney/Owner Mugg Winston

Stacie Peterson Co-Owner Paragon Homes & Remodeling

“Being a small business owner and a home builder has taught me how to be a leader of people as well as listen and be understanding of my customer’s needs. I love Edmond and have such a passion for its future.”

“I love learning, people, and the City of Edmond. That passion along with my experience as a small business owner, commercial building owner, estate planning and tax attorney, law school professor, and mother of two EPS graduates make me especially qualified to serve as Ward 3 City Councilwoman.”

“I have lived in Edmond since 1973.

My passion for the city is strong! I will always support a free market, small and local business, sustainable economic development and the rights of the individuals and businesses of this great city.”

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David Miller E-Commerce Integration Specialist Heartland Payment Systems “I have 11 years experience on the Council. I know the way things work and the processes involved. I have relationships in place with our State and Federal delegation. I spent 40 years in upper to C-Level management of customer service organizations, I know how to listen without filtering.”

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FEATURELOOK

Reading with Tammi

By Maggie Murdock Nichols

While studying elementary education in college, Tammi’s professor pulled her aside and said, “You have a gift with words. You should pursue publication.” Tammi’s childhood dream was to be a 3rd grade teacher. Though she was an avid journaler and loved writing, she’d never considered it as a career. Tammi says, “Knowing that she believed in me put me on a new path. Those few words changed my life.”

Writing for Kids While Raising Kids Tammi became a pre-k teacher and later a library media specialist as she continued writing on the side. With two children at home, Tammi left teaching to become a stay-athome mom. During their afternoon nap, Tammi would research and write. This is when her writing came alive. No laundry or phone calls, magazines or TV shows. Tammi explains, “I think it’s really important for moms to have something that is all their own. I had to put the time in to be successful.”

Inspiration came from everywhere as she raised two kids in Edmond. Ideas presented themselves through pets and family outings, and memories resurfaced from her own childhood living on a farm in a small town. Once, inspiration even came knocking at her door the time a young boy came selling newspapers to raise money for “Cowboy Camp”, which became the title of a book.

A Bunch of Books Tammi’s newest book “Not Now Cow” debuts April 6th, making it her 30th picture book with 8 more on the way. She has traveled the Edmond school circuit in addition to schools around the country, public libraries and Disney World reading her stories to children. Tammi’s books have earned numerous and noteworthy awards. Though flattering and advantageous to her career, there is no greater reward than captivating a child as she reads her books aloud. She once received a note from a child that said: You make me light up like Christmas lights.

Tammi says, “As I walk down the hall, kids see me as a celebrity, waving and saying ‘There’s Tammi Sauer!’” She has shifted to virtual classroom visits during the pandemic and looks forward to the opportunity to get back to reading in person.

When asked how to encourage kids to read, Tammi says, “Parents can show their kids how to love reading by setting aside dedicated reading time for it or even by letting their kids catch them reading.” Tammi’s books cover broad topics. She suggests finding topics that interest kids and choosing books that foster that will encourage a love for reading, too. Best of Books in Edmond was one of Tammi’s earliest supporters and has a wall dedicated to her books.

Read Across Oklahoma Read Across Oklahoma is a reading event for young children held each year in April, National Reading Month. This year, 1800 copies of “Wordy Birdy” will be distributed to preschool children across the state. Tammi says, “This is a great way to get books in little hands.” This is the fourth book that has been chosen as a theme for the initiative. The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden will host a virtual event this year and distribute books to children visiting on April 13th while supplies last.

Visit www.tammisauer.com and find her on social media to stay up to date on Tammi’s newest releases.

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FEATURELOOK

Bullet and Peggy

New Home on the Range

By Gina A. Dabney Bullet, an American Quarter Horse, was a winning show jumper in his youth. Now Bullet enjoys time on an acreage with his owner Peggy Paine who adopted him from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Regional Equine Support Center located in Edmond.

“He developed some medical issues that were completely treatable, and I can tell you Bullet has plenty left to give,” said Peggy Paine.

The adoption program is just one of the support services offered by the ASPCA Regional Equine Support Center, a network collaborative helping at-risk horses. Tom Persechino, Director of Equine Welfare, heads up this pilot program which opened in July 2019. The majority of horses that arrive at the facility may only need some training to be suitable for adoption by a new owner and for a new career. For example, Quarter Horses that were once career animals can transition to trail horses or beginner 4-H horses.

There is a misconception that once horses are surrendered, they are not fit for adoption. “That is simply not the case,” Persechino said. “Sixty to Sixty-five percent are good candidates for adoption.” And, there is not always a problem with the horse. Sometimes the reason for a horse being surrendered is that the owner is moving, sick or has died.

In recent months, a large group of miniature horses were surrendered and all of the horses were moved to new homes.

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Pilot Program The ASPCA Regional Equine Support Center, which receives horses, mules, and donkeys, is a pilot program and the first in Oklahoma. In 2018, the ASPCA Regional Support Center in Dallas helped nearly 60 equines receive care, according to ASPCApro.org. The Edmond facility, which is open to the counties of Oklahoma, Logan, Kingfisher, Canadian, Grady, McClain, Cleveland, Pottawatomie, and Lincoln, is in high demand.

“We’ve helped 225 horses.” Tom Persechino said. “That number does not even include those that have been helped through the supplemental program.

The supplemental animal feed program offers a safety net for owners who need assistance during a crisis like an unexpected medical bill or COVID-19. The supplemental program may be utilized until the crisis passes and the owner can resume care of their animal. An additional service offered by the ASPCA Equine Center is veterinarian care for the time when a horse is suffering or in pain and euthanasia is the answer.

“We offer help in an unbiased, open-arm way,” Persechino said.

Forever Home On Paine’s acreage, Bullet is friends with a neighboring horse. When the gate is open between pastures, the horses play together. And Bullet loves swimming in the pond.

“He is a happy old gentleman and this 76-year-old lady who takes care of him couldn’t be happier,” Paine said.

While the ASPCA Regional Equine Support Center can always use volunteers and donations, they find that many in the community don’t know about their services.

“Spreading the word is super helpful,” Persechino said.

Call 405-423-1461 or email equinesupport@aspca.org.

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FEATURELOOK

Trait’s Trace of History

By Amy Dee Stephens

Trait Thompson took off his hard hat when he took the job as executive director of the Oklahoma History Center in January. For six-and-a-half years, he had overseen the restoration of the Oklahoma State Capitol, the state’s largest historic structure. During the first month at his new job, he traded his safety vest for traveling shoes as he hopped into a car and visited many of the 26 smaller historic sites and museums he now manages.

During his month-long road trip, he discovered the many treasures that Oklahoma has to offer. “There are so many great places to experience in our state. Maybe you want a change of scenery, a weekend trip or just want to learn something new—it’s only a few hours drive to see something completely different.”

Trait’s tour guide was retiring director, Dr. Bob Blackburn, the Oklahoma Historical Society’s director for 41 years. “It was amazing being with Dr. Blackburn for a whole month, hearing him tell the history and background of each site. Few agency directors get that good of a transition.”

Although Trait has a “keen and curious interest in history,” his background is in finance, public administration and public policy. “I don’t have a museum degree, but administration skills are necessary for such a far-flung operation. I’m already surrounded by the best museum professionals. My job is to shepherd our sites into the future. We have to utilize our assets, deal with deferred maintenance issues, and evaluate how to reach people in the digital age.”

As a family man and nature lover, Trait had visited many of the sites in his care before his journey with Dr. Blackburn.

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Trait Thompson, Executive Director Oklahoma History Center

His wife and children were already fans of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum and the Pioneer Woman Museum. Now he’s excited to bring more lesser-known sites to the public’s attention. “One of my favorites is the Spiro Mounds, which is one of the underappreciated gems in Oklahoma. If you can’t drive to southeast Oklahoma right now, visit the Spiro Mounds traveling exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.”

Trait has lived in the Edmond area for nine years, where he has enjoyed seeing the renaissance of downtown, with its new murals and railyard restaurants. He visits parks, regularly kayaks on Arcadia Lake, and is a fan of LibertyFest.

“The mission of the Oklahoma History Center is to collect, preserve and share Oklahoma History. It’s hard to feel like you belong to a place until you know its story. Oklahoma is my adopted state, so I’ve had to learn its story,” Trait said.

Working at the State Capitol gave Trait a front-row seat to both history in the making and history from the past. “I will always nostalgically consider the capitol renovation as ‘my baby,’ even though it’s not finished yet. I’m very proud to have helped bring that building back to life,” Trait said. “Central Oklahoma has a story like no other, springing up overnight with people who worked tirelessly, enduring adverse conditions, to make a life for themselves. So, visit your local museum, learn about the challenges the minorities and women have faced. Get to know your community, and then insert yourself into the story.”

To learn more, visit www.okhistory.org

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FOODLOOK

Edmond Eats at the Railyard With multiple restaurants all under one roof, the Edmond Railyard offers an open-dining concept as unique as its food! This nextlevel dining experience can accommodate everyone in your party. Be sure to grab an easy to-go order, or sit down and enjoy a meal with family and friends.

Railyard Hott Wings - www.edmondeddies.com/hott-wings

Gogi Go! - www.gogigo.co

Tell us about Railyard Hott Wings It’s a spin off of our Eddie’s location in Edmond. We have had the best wings in Edmond for 7 years running.

Tell us about Gogi Go! Started in 2018, Fast-casual Korean BBQ in a rice bowl!

Operating out of 2 locations, Midtown OKC and Downtown Edmond. A new way of enjoying your favorite Korean flavors!

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

Cool little family atmosphere with a cocktail flair in the background. If you want to watch sports or just kick back...we are your spot.

What are some of the crowd favorites?

Onion rings and garlic Parmesan wings

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How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

Customizable experience where you control every aspect of your meal. Flavors ranging from savory and sweet to spicy.

Classic Korean tastes with some new twists as well.

Any specials we should know about?

Wild Wing Wednesday $0.76 wings

What are some of the crowd favorites?

Bulgolgi Beef with Kimchi Fried Rice. Spicy Pork with Japchae noodles. Sous Vide Egg. No-Gogi! Tofu (Vegan and GlutenFree). Korean Fried Chicken. House made Kimchi.

1884 at The Railyard - www.railyard1884.com

Taqueria EL Camino - www.taqueriaelcamino.com

Tell us about 1884 at The Railyard 1884 is the Edmond Railyard’s go-to nightlife spot. We’re an all-ages restaurant, serving 70+ wines, signature cocktails, draft beer, and a full food menu!

Tell us about Taqueria EL Camino Taqueria El Camino is locally owned and operated by Happy Plate Concepts. When tacos are good, life is good. At Taqueria El Camino, we live “The Way of The Taco.”

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

1884 brings high end drinks to casual dining -our menu features everything from craft beer to high end wine and everything in between. Cigars are available upstairs too!

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

Unique, familiar, classic flavors and vibrant originals. It’s our spiritual calling to bring everyone together in a funky, festive atmosphere to share the love of tacos.

What are some of the crowd favorites?

Kentucky Daisey, The Georgia O’Keefe, Old Fashioned, Blanton’s Bourbon, E.H. Taylor Bourbon, Charcuterie Boards, Crab Dip, Stuffed Mushrooms, Brushetta Caprese.

What are some of the crowd favorites?

Green Chile Chicken Taquitos, Green Chile Chicken Burrito, Brisket Barbacoa Taco, vegan/plant-based tacos, Frozen Strawberry & Pineapple Jalapeño, Coconut Tres Leches Cake

Any specials we should know about?

We have rotating monthly cocktail specials, “Wine Wednesday” weekly with 15% off of all wine by-the-bottle, and a monthly Wine Class led by Madi Franklin!

Any specials we should know about?

The Hour of the Taco: Monday–Friday 2-5pm and all day on Tuesday! $8 Taco Combo: Available anytime. Taco Kits: Available anytime, Serves 4-6 people, $35

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Cities Ice Cream - www.citiesicecream.com Tell us about Cities Ice Cream Cities Ice Cream is the brother concept of Capitals Ice Cream in Midtown OKC! We serve custom-swirled ice cream and made from scratch cookies!

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

We’re SWEET! Our ice cream is a unique experience where we blend real ingredients to get our flavors. We love swirling pies, cookies, cereal and fruit into our ice cream!

What are some of the crowd favorites?

CoOKIES & Cream is always a crowd favorite! Our customers also love any ice cream that involves a pie swirled in! Our chocolate chip cookies are always a treat!

Any specials we should know about?

We keep our customer favorite specials year-round and add seasonal flavors throughout the year! We’re currently using Key Lime Pie as our seasonal pie ice cream!

Oak City Pizza Co - www.oakcity.pizza

BlueJ’s Rockin’ Grill - www.bluejsrollingrill.com

Tell us about Oak City Pizza Co Matt and Matt started spring of ‘17 in the pizza trailer. Early 2019 began construction at the Railyard. Next month we open our second location!

Tell us about BlueJ’s Rockin’ Grill We love what we do, which is bring you an unforgettable dining experience! Our combined love of American culture, food and music takes tradition to another level!

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

We use only oak wood to cook our pizzas. The dough is made daily, NEVER EVER FROZEN, using our 1.5 year old mother yeast. Simple and fresh toppings.

How would you describe the “flavor” you bring to the Railyard?

A nontraditional, upscale take on one the most loved American Classic Cuisines - Gourmet Burgers & Gourmet Grilled Cheese.

What are some of the crowd favorites?

Angry Bee: a Classic pepperoni w/goat cheese, hot honey.

Pesto Pizza: In-house made three cheese blend pesto topped with sun-dried tomatoes fresh mozzarella bacon Basalmic glaze.

What are some of the crowd favorites?

BlueJ Burger, BubbaJ Burger, HeavyJ Burger, SmokeyJ Burger, Cheesey Pig Grilled Cheese, Truffle Fries

Any specials we should know about?

Monday all-day $5 Margherita pizza. 10% off for veterans/ military and first responders.

Any specials we should know about?

Bring this Outlook page in for your choice of FREE FRIES with any combo purchase! *Excluding Kid’s Meals, 1 fry per page, per order.

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BIZLOOK

CycleBar

By Maria Veres

Bright lights, upbeat music, fun with friends—it sounds like the recipe for a perfect party. But at CycleBar, you won’t just have a good time, you’ll get an energizing full-body workout, too. “It’s like nothing else in the fitness industry,” says owner Pat Fitzgerald.

Putting a Positive Spin on Fitness If working out isn’t your idea of fun, indoor cycling at CycleBar just might change your mind. Workouts are choreographed to custom playlists and coached by expert instructors who also serve as DJs and cheerleaders. Many riders form lasting friendships at the studio.

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The workouts are challenging but also beginner friendly, and riders can modify them to meet their needs.

Classes include segments that tone the entire body, including optional weight work. There’s also a mental component, giving riders a chance to reflect on the “why” that brings them to class.

Lifting Up the Community An Oklahoma native, Pat is a former Disney and iTunes executive. He and his wife Barb recently returned to Oklahoma from California to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

CycleBar is a family business for the Fitzgeralds, chosen because it embraces the values that matter most to them—building up the guests and the community, adding value to the community, and giving back. Barb is General Manager of the Chisholm Creek studio. The family also owns

a Norman studio, operated by Pat’s daughter-in-law, Amanda Fitzgerald.

After months of pandemic restrictions, Pat and Barb look forward to welcoming a larger group back into the studio. Riders can purchase monthly memberships or packages of individual rides. “We have riders of all ages and abilities,” says Pat. “It doesn’t matter who you are, you’re welcome here.”

Visit CycleBar Chisholm Creek at 13220 Pawnee Drive, Suite B, OKC, and online at www.cyclebar.com.

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BIZLOOK

SYNLawn

By Maria Veres

If you’re looking for a top-quality synthetic lawn installation, horticulture expert Sayre McNeil has you covered. He’s Oklahoma’s authorized representative for SYNLawn, a leading American-made turf that’s perfect for all commercial and residential uses.

A Green Investment SYNLawn is low maintenance, stays beautiful year round, and is tough enough to stand up to Oklahoma weather. It doesn’t overheat or fade in the sun. “If you calculate the costs of mowing, fertilizing, watering, and treating for pests, SYNLawn pays for itself in four to six years,” says Sayre.

The turf normally lasts twenty years or even longer.

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of synthetic

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grass, you’ll be pleasantly surprised

by SYNLawn’s commitment to sustainability. The company has replaced most of the petroleum in its products with soybean oil. All components are 100% recyclable.

SYNLawn is a safe, durable surface for playgrounds, decks, putting greens, and more. The polymer-coated sand infill doesn’t harbor bacteria or microbes, making it especially good for odor control in pet areas.

Covering Oklahoma Sayre holds a horticulture degree from OSU and was a lead horticulturist for Myriad Gardens before starting his own landscaping company. He began installing SYNLawn five years ago when a customer wanted a putting green. The demand for the product has grown so high that Sayre now focuses exclusively on SYNLawn.

As a synthetic grass specialist, Sayre knows how to do installations right. “We don’t cut any corners,” he says. Products come with a fifteen-year warranty.

Sayre McNeil & Family

You can see examples of SYNLawn’s workmanship all across the state.

The company installed the turf at the Oklahoma Science Museum playscape, and they’re currently resurfacing the playground at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School in Edmond.

SYNLawn handles residential and commercial projects throughout Oklahoma. Contact Sayre at 405-8886520 or www.synlawnoklahoma.com.

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FEATURELOOK

Steve Bowers and his 1885 Newton wagon

By Amy Dee Stephens

Wagons Ho! with Mr. Bowers Steve Bowers is only 75, but he has vivid memories of seeing the 1889 Land Run. “There was nothing like seeing all those wagons going downhill, bouncing along, ridin’ the brakes hard,’’ Steve said. “The tires were bright, shiny and new, not rusty like the ones in museums.”

Steve was an “extra” on the set of Far and Away, a 1992 movie about the Oklahoma Land Run. “I stayed a week, riding my horse in the scene where everyone was lined up with their wagon teams, waiting for the bugle so we could bolt forward.

We did that scene so many times that my horse would bolt, turn around, sigh, and get ready to go again. I didn’t even hold onto the reins.”

Although Far and Away was Steve’s first foray into films and documentaries, reenacting history was a natural fit for this history buff. He was a founding member of the Cavalry unit in Logan County, established to prepare for the 100th anniversary of the Land Run in 1989. A few years later, he played the roles of both a Confederate and a Union soldier in the 1995 television movie, Buffalo Girls.

Steve’s interest in the 19th century also led him to collect historic wagons and carriages. “I always wanted a stagecoach, but they are expensive and hard to haul. My friend owned an 1870 surrey that was used in my daughter’s wedding. It was smaller, and I bought it.” After that, he collected ten carriages and wagons, which he brought out for events and school visits. His family’s 1885 Newton wagon made an appearance at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum during this year’s spring break.

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“The Newton Company wagon was stored for more than a century, and it was in good shape, but then someone bought it as a yard decoration. In two short months, it took a beating, so I bought it,” Steve said. “I found a skilled Amish man who fixed the damaged wheels beautifully. When I olive-oiled the old wood, the Newton name, which had been lettered in yellow paint all those years ago, suddenly popped out.”

People are initially surprised by the wagon’s narrow width, at only 3 feet across. “There were also bigger military-style wagons, and those are mostly what you see on TV, but this one was originally a grain wagon, and it wasn’t uncommon for a farm family to convert grain wagons for traveling west. The family’s food and linens were stored inside the wagon and bows were added to make the canopy tent.”

Steve’s Newton wagon has appeared in several Trail of Tears documentaries and in the 2010 film, Pearl, based on a true story about a Chickasaw girl who was mentored by pilot, Wiley Post, after he landed in her family’s field. “In Pearl, my son drove the wagon through town, which was supposed to look like Marlow, but was filmed in Guthrie.”

Something about the Newton wagon “speaks” to Steve. “I loved horses, and I love knowing the truth of history,” Steve said. “Life in a covered wagon was tough! The people who settled in Oklahoma--now, they had grit! I’m glad my wagon helps people see what life was really like back then.”

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ALOOKBACK

Birthday Boys

By Louise Tucker Jones

Within the space of three weeks, I get to celebrate both of my boys’ birthdays.

One born in March. The other in April. My oldest and youngest—eight years apart.

These sons of mine bring me pure joy! With the pandemic and residing in different states, we “party” through FaceTime. Though not my preferred type of celebration, I’m thankful for such technology.

A space of eight years can sometimes hinder a sibling relationship, but lucky for me, these brothers have always loved and supported each other. Aaron, the eldest, is forever the protector of his little brother. Of course, in their younger days,

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he was also responsible for teaching Jay some of his ornery tricks.

Jay, being the baby of the family, reveled in all the attention and made his brother proud by mimicking him and his friends who often hung out at our house. Once Aaron taught Jay to “burp on command,” as I called it. The “gang” collapsed in laughter each time Jay burped aloud like the big guys when he was just a little tyke.

Then there was the time when Jay exclaimed, “Oh bull!” in the middle of a church service. Wonder where he learned that! The whole pew shook with Aaron’s laughter while I ducked my head and pretended not to know either of these kids.

Yep, that’s what it’s like being a mom to boys. But I’m happy and content to be one. You see, when I was still in my teens, a doctor told me I might never be able to have children. But God changed that prognosis, knowing my greatest desire was to be a mother.

The Bible says, “Children are a gift from the Lord.” (Psalm 127:3) One

version says, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord.” I totally agree and so would their heavenly dad.

For sure and for certain, these grown boys make my heart sing. I love watching their eyes light up with mischief and admiration for each other when they are together. The Lord has truly blessed me with these sons.

Happy Birthday, Aaron and Jay! You are loved more than you know!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows.

LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.

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FEATURELOOK FRESHLOOK

100 Year Old Hero

By Amy Dee Stephens

Lt. Col. Oren Lee Peters celebrates his 100th birthday this month, but his most vivid memories are the ones from 80 years ago when he became a “kid soldier.” He was still a junior in high school when his National Guard unit was called into active duty, and it seemed very exciting until the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Peters has stories about crawling on his belly along a foreign beach and staring into a tank while facing an infantry unit. He looked death in the face, he talked to God for the first time, and God sent a P38 to his rescue. He still cries for the guys he served with who didn’t make it.

After spending a record 511 days in combat, serving under General George S. Patton, Peters returned home to Edmond to finish high school. A few years later, he rejoined the National Guard to fight in the Korean War. Peter’s many military medals during his 43 years of service are a testament to his heroism.

This combat hero has always had the heart of a teacher.

Peters taught riflemen, was a National Guard trainer, and spent his lifetime working with the Boy Scouts. One of his regrets about reaching 100 years is that his declining health makes it more difficult to teach. “I loved visiting the 5th grade classes to talk about scouting topics and my military career.

I think about that a lot,” said Peters, but in his determination to continue sharing his story, he has adjusted to modern 30

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technology and has become a Zoom user. Most recently, he gave a Zoom talk to the Edmond Toastmasters Club, of which he was a founding member.

Peters has received numerous honors, including the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame—but the proudest moment on his mind while approaching 100 years of age has to do with basketball. “When I was in college at Central State Teachers College, I organized Edmond’s first junior high basketball team. I had lettered in basketball during the army and really wanted to coach, but then I went back into active duty. While I was in Korea, that group of junior high boys became seniors in high school, and their superintendent said he couldn’t find any better coach than I had been. I was proud of that.”

He’s also proud of the tenacious spirit of his ancestors.

“I’m from one of the first families of Edmond. My greatgrandfather made ‘the run’ to claim land in Indian Territory.

Today, I live next to the property he claimed, which was on the corner edge of town back then. I was born very close to where I live now. I like the people of Edmond, and I enjoy living here.”

“I love this country, and I’d do anything for it,” Peters said.

“It’s my home. If they walked in the door now and said ‘We need you,’ I’d get my walker and say, ‘Which way?’”

1024 W Covell Rd., Edmond, OK 73003