Outlook August 2015

HERE FOR YOU. At INTEGRIS, we are proud to say we’re Oklahoma’s largest healthcare system. And because we have specialists in more areas of care, we make certain that you have access to The Most Challenging Healing ™.

INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND CAMPUS INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND HOSPITAL 4801 INTEGRIS Parkway Between 2nd & 15th on I-35 Access Road East 405-657-3000

PHYSICIANS BUILDING INTEGRIS ORTHOPEDICS EDMOND J. Keith Gannaway, M.D. John Gruel, M.D., Non-Operative Suite 150 | 405-657-3990 INTEGRIS JIM THORPE OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION Suite 100 | 405-657-3800 INTEGRIS CARDIOVASCULAR PHYSICIANS Azhar Amil, M.D. Timothy Daly, M.D. Lance Garner, M.D. Santosh Prabhu, M.D. Steven Reiter, M.D. Gary Worcester, M.D. Suite 150 | 405-948-4040 INTEGRIS EDMOND PHARMACY First Floor | 405-657-3900

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Justin Sparkes, D.O., Internal Medicine Chris Hayes, M.D., Family Medicine Douglas Riddle, M.D., Family Medicine Elizabeth Montgomery, PA-C, Family Medicine Suite 200 | 405-657-3950

Joel Grubbs, D.O., Family Medicine Emily Reed, M.D., Internal Medicine/Pediatrics Ashley Muckala, D.O., Internal Medicine 2916 N. Kelly Avenue 405-715-5300

INTEGRIS WOMEN’S CARE Elisa Sparkes, D.O., OB/GYN Julie Hansen, M.D., OB/GYN Daniel Tallerico, M.D., Gynecology Laura Stearman, M.D., Female Urology Suite 200 | 405-657-3950

INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND GENERAL SURGERY Patrick Bell, M.D., General Surgery Joshua Carey, M.D., General Surgery 1700 Renaissance Blvd.

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INTEGRIS ORTHOPEDICS EDMOND Michael Williams, M.D. Rice Handley, PA-C 2916 N. Kelly Avenue 405-715-5320

INTEGRIS FAMILY CARE EDMOND RENAISSANCE Grand Wong, M.D., Family Medicine Doug Haynes, M.D., Family Medicine Caroline Merritt, D.O., Internal Medicine Brooke Nida, M.D., Pediatrics Amie Prough, M.D., Pediatrics 1700 Renaissance Blvd.

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Outlook August 2015

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August 2015

My Getaway

I found the cool of the day. If you haven’t found it yet, I’ll share it with you. It’s on my front porch. It happens sometime after the sprinklers go off and before the sun comes up. It’s as peaceful and tranquil as my life gets. I’m out here almost every morning with my two cats and my trusted canine Bailey.

This particular morning, my wife Sandy is feeling well enough, so she’s out here gently swinging in her hammock. So technically this counts as a family activity. This was my summer vacation this year. I didn’t get two weeks off. No road trip to Colorado to ride our motorcycles. No visits to family in California. I stayed here and got my solid “hour and twenty minutes” everyday, every morning on the quiet of our porch.

26 Lake Life

Enjoy the last days of summer with activities at Arcadia Lake

This has been the summer of healing… of doctor appointments. Of hospital stays. Of worry. Of taking care of Sandy. And yes, I’m gonna say it—it’s been a summer of love.

The cool quiet gives way to my neighborhood waking up. Garage doors begin to lift. Dog walkers wave and say hello. Neighbors load their little ones off to camp and day care. And in the distance, I hear the traffic start to pick up on 15th Street.

The cool of the day is fleeting, the sun is beginning to peek over my neighbor’s trees and soon, this tranquil time will end. But not before I reposition myself behind a porch pillar that provides a not-so-generous swath of shade. I do this every morning. It allows me to write, read or meditate for a just few minutes longer. But being that I’m quite a bit wider than the shade provided, the attempt is short-lived and I help Sandy out of the hammock and we retreat indoors in short order. But it was another great porch morning.

8 Facts & Figures 10 Louise

A Kid’s World

13 Food

Fresh Like Fusion

Flavor seekers get their local fix

16 Business Enviro-Mist OKC Wellness

34 My Outlook

Even if you can’t take a vacation, you can still get away.

John Smith, most experienced teacher in Edmond

FEATURES

18 Vintage Threads

23 The ABCs of Nature

30 Hollywood

Local boutique transforms outdated outfits into inspiring ensembles

Comes Home

Tava Maloy Sofsky is making movies and music happen in Oklahoma

Front cover photography

by Marshall Hawkins

32 Prototek

A novel “makerspace” provides aspiring craftsmen the tools to develop their creations

To advertise, contact Laura at 405-301-3926 or laura@outlookoklahoma.com.

Dave Miller, Publisher/Back40 President

OUTLOOK

Keystone Adventure School and Farm teaches life and lessons in the greatest classroom, the outdoors

80 East 5th Street, Suite 130, Edmond, OK 73034

405-341-5599

www.outlookoklahoma.com

info@outlookoklahoma.com

Volume 11, Number 8 Edmond & North OKC Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2015 Back40 Design, Inc. PUBLISHER Dave Miller

PRINT PROJECT MANAGER Bethany Marshall

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Laura Beam PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com

Graphic Designer Ryan Kirkpatrick

DISTRIBUTION The Outlook is delivered FREE by direct-mail to 50,000 Edmond & North OKC 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.

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Life off Broadway & 33rd in Edmond takes a turn for the best

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Outlook August 2015

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Around Town

Attend the Perfect Wedding Guide’s Fall Bridal Show on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015 at the Oklahoma History Center in OKC from 1-4pm. OKC’s finest wedding professionals from the Society of Event & Wedding Professionals will showcase everything from flowers to photo booths. Tickets are $6 online or $12 at the door. Visit okcpwg.com or call 206-2931.

Martial Arts Ministries announces its new location at 1408 S. Fretz Ave., Suite 3 in Edmond! Students from three years-old to adults of all ages gain skills in focus, discipline and self-control while learning martial arts in a Christian facility.

For more info about the new space and expanded programs, visit maministries.com or call 326-4515.

Support your community at the annual Arcadia Lake Sweep clean-up event Saturday, August 8 from 7-10am at Spring Creek Park (2.5 mi. east of I-35 on 15th St.). Participants receive a free t-shirt, while supplies last, and brunch. Bring your own gloves!

For more info and large group registry, call 216-7470 or visit edmondok.com.

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Louise

A Kid’s World

by Louise Tucker Jones

If you attend most any church during the summer, you are probably aware of Vacation Bible School. For those unfamiliar with the term, it’s a place where grade school kids gather for a week to learn about God. What makes VBS unique is that all learning activities are paired with something exciting. Music. Activities. Games. Basically, it’s a kid’s world of fun.

I’m thankful that I was exposed to Bible School, as we called it, when I was young. Growing up in a small farming community, we had only two churches in the area and they made certain their VBS programs were different dates, giving kids in the community the opportunity to attend both events. I remember doing fun things like china painting on plates to give as a gift to my mother. We also painted plaster molds of praying hands and more. One year, the girls in my group made poodles out of cleaning bags. What that had to do with church, I don’t remember but it was fun.

The thing is, I never outgrew VBS. As a teenager, I helped with attendance records and saw that teachers had supplies. In my little country church I was always expected to take a leadership role.

When it was time for the young girls in our church to go to camp, one of the ladies felt I would be the perfect sponsor. So at the ripe old age of 16, I sponsored half-dozen grade school girls to their first sleepover camp just a few miles from home.

There were tears that first night but by the end of the week, no one wanted to leave.

I also attended a church camp for young adults when I was in my teens. Falls Creek is one of the largest church camps in the state, in fact,

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Outlook August 2015

one of the largest in the world, and I spent a week there a few summers as an attendee then as a sponsor when I was in my early twenties.

I’m thankful for the time I spent in VBS and summer church camps. I learned things that stayed with me throughout my life. One important lesson is that you don’t have to be in a church sanctuary to learn about God or Jesus. It can happen while painting in a VBS classroom or playing games outside. You can learn spiritual truths at a beautiful waterfall, an open tabernacle, at cabin devotions or even at a snow cone stand. God is everywhere. He made everything. What better way to share these truths with our children than to let them explore their world and God’s creation in a Christian environment?

Today, I still have some painted praying hands hanging in my office. No, they aren’t from my early days. They are from my own children’s days in Bible School. Like me, they attended not only our own VBS program but their friends’ church as well, learning how others worshiped. They also went to church camp. In fact, they attended the same one I went to plus a few more. And since my youngest son needed something other than the “typical” VBS program, I developed a class for kids with special needs several years ago because no one should miss such a fun time!

So if you find yourself with a few extra hours some summer, try helping at your church’s VBS program. And if you’re really brave, you might even consider sponsoring a group of kids or teenagers to camp.

Prepare to be spiritually stretched and extremely sleep deprived. But most of all get ready to be abundantly blessed!

About the Author Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker and founder of the organization, Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. Email LouiseTJ@cox.net or visit LouiseTuckerJones.com.

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Outlook August 2015

FOOD

Fresh Like Fusion Flavor seekers get their local fix

by Laura Beam

In our post-Cronut and chocolate-covered-bacon food revolution, who knew the recent suggestion of adding green peas to guacamole could ignite a national foodie firestorm? Can’t all the veggies just get along?

Blending traditional fare with unexpected ingredients, spices or cooking techniques from different global regions is a good thing, a great thing. It’s a fusion thing. And the big-city trend is not lost on us locals. We may not crowd into the subway or a taxi at the end of the day, but we know good food when we find it, even if we get there in the comfort of our SUVs. That’s Oklahoma sensibility at its finest, a fusion all its own. Discover some of Edmond’s ingenious restaurateurs who bring global fare to the neighborhood every day.

Asian Fusion at Covell Park

This contemporary new north Edmond gem is comfy enough for families but metro-glam enough to seriously impress a date. Owners and American natives, Nam Nguyen and Trong Le, bring a modern twist to Asian home-cooking with an exquisite blend of ingredients that appeals to even the pickiest eaters. Appetizers like mussels in a

The duck at Covell Park

lemony sausage sauce, caramelized Brussels sprouts and tasty chicken lollipops are an instant attraction.

The sushi is a masterful blend of sustainable seafood, non-fried ingredients and low-sugar sauces accented with fennel, apple, soy tomatoes and inventive flavors you never even knew you loved. Other highlights are the duck with pickled butternut squash and the pork chop topped with caramelized Brussels sprouts. And Vegans, rejoice!

The tofu with a grilled, caramelized topping brings unprecedented variety to this mainstay.

Seriously, save room for dessert. The pan-seared carrot cake with cream cheese gelato, lacy candied carrots and pecans is unlike anything you’ve ever had. And waffles for dessert? Oh yeah! This gorgeous dessert shows off with hunks of light taro root waffle, pistachio ice cream, handcrafted, charred marshmallow and candied pecans for extra fabulous dipping.

1200 W Covell Rd, Suite 100 • covellpark.com continued on next page

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Fresh Like Fusion, cont.

Zarate’s Mexican Latin Grill

European-American Cuisine at Café 501

As colorful as its distinctive blue

Café 501’s refined dishes and bakery building on Broadway, Zarate’s equally items blend the diverse tastes of France, electric cuisine stands out from the Italy, South America, Morocco, Germany crowd. The menu reads like a vacation and Austria. Their seamless merge of global map of exotic culinary adventures with influences in each dish creates an exciting stops in Peru, Mexico, Jamaica, Brazil, menu of designer salads, soups, sandwiches, Argentina, Puerto Rico and more. brick oven pizzas, Saturday breakfast, Sunday A casual décor adds to the carefree brunch and magnificent dinner entrées. Even Crab Enchiladas at Cafe 501 coastal feel. Peruvian-born owner, if you’ve dined at this lively corner café many Jorge Zarate says the growing appeal times, you always have your eye on the next of fusion foods, especially Peruvian, must-try dish. is due to a well-traveled population with expanded tastes. For eight

For dinner, the hummus duo features a lemon garlic hummus years, his restaurant has treated locals to the international flavors they and a Tunisian hot chili pepper paste with black beans, Feta cheese, crave. roasted red pepper and cucumber, served with crispy pita chips. The

Though many first-timers come in for their favorite Tex-Mex crab enchiladas with Cilantro rice and Oaxacan corn casserole are entrées like enchiladas, their heads quickly turn as a steamy plate of another favorite. For comfort food with punched-up spice, try the Jamaican shrimp curry or Chilean tilapia passes by the table. The most Tequila-lime shrimp and spicy grits with Cilantro cream sauce. Finish popular dish is Lomo Saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry. Grilled skirt steak is every meal with delicious pastries, pies, cakes, cookies or specialty sautéed in a wok over an open flame with tomatoes, onions, potatoes confections. You won’t be sorry. and peppers and tossed with a Chilean wine sauce. Also known for 501 S Boulevard, Edmond & 5825 NW Grand Blvd, OKC • cafe501.com their fantastic selection of beers like Nicaraguan and Brazilian imports, Zarate’s also serves a mean Sangria Swirl, so I’m told.

706 S Broadway • zarateslatingrill.com Laura Beam is a business and food writer and 20-year advertising and marketing executive in radio, newspaper and magazines. Share new business tips and trends with her on LinkedIn or email Laura@outlookoklahoma.com.

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Outlook August 2015

Nancy Dobbs INDEPENDENT C O N S U LTA N T

INDEPENDENT SUPER STAR CONSULTANT

341-3107 elegantcandlegifts.com outlookoklahoma.com

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BUSINESS

Enviro-Mist

by Morgan Day Technician at Enviro-Mist

Great news for the germ-conscious: a spray that wipes out everything from mold spores and bacteria to the flu virus is now available for residential use.

Enviro-Mist, an Oklahoma City-based disinfecting, sterilizing and mold-killing company, uses a hydrogen peroxide-based solution to kill fungi, MRSA and more in homes throughout the state. Previously used in only hospitals and other health care facilities, the service is now gaining popularity among homeowners—and for good reason.

“There have always been superbugs, viruses, diseases and mold, but now there’s actually a company that will respond to industries outside of health care,” said Dave Salas, owner of Enviro-Mist, which also has branches in Dallas, Denver and Kansas City.

Salas said the corrective and preventative service

is not only effective in health care systems, but it’s great for families who have a sick child and fear the virus will spread to other family members or classmates.

“We’ll respond to businesses that want to cut down on missed sick days, schools that want to ensure no one else gets sick, and households where maybe someone has had an operation, is undergoing chemotherapy or dialysis and that patient needs a sterile environment.”

“We look forward to the day we’re doing more disinfecting and sterilizing in people’s homes,” he said. “I think in a couple years, that’s going to be as common as any other service you have in your home, from carpet cleaning to air duct cleaning. I think our public consciousness is just moving that way.”

Enviro-Mist makes disinfecting look easy with its portable equipment, quick-drying

A SHORT TRIP WELL WORTH YOUR TIME

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405-341-2770

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Outlook August 2015

mist and simple science. The company uses a low-percentage hydrogen peroxide solution that’s run through a 1,7000 volt cold plasma arc, creating what they refer to as a six-log kill (a 99.999 percent reduction, or completely sterile environment).

The system has an interesting background, according to Salas. “Our technology was developed by the defense department to eradicate weaponized Anthrax.”

Setting themselves apart from other cleaning and disinfecting services, everything about Enviro-Mist is green and environmentally friendly. The technology is able to kill superbugs, while only leaving behind a residue of water and oxygen.

Enviro-Mist responds to homes, schools and businesses. Book an appointment by calling 510-0080. Visit enviro-mist.com to learn more.

OKC Wellness

by Austin Marshall Dr. Ashleigh Muse, owner of Chiropractic Arts & Wellness Clinics

“A wise man ought to realize that health is his most valuable possession.” -Hippocrates

Dr. Ashleigh Muse, owner of Chiropractic Arts and Wellness Clinics, recalls a patient with excruciating hip and back pain after an injury.

The young woman—a competitive dancer—had a national contest weeks away and was barely able to move. “She not only felt better in time for her competition, she took first place and won Miss Congeniality,” Muse recalls.

Stories like this are common at Chiropractic Arts and Wellness Clinics. The clinics offer the full spectrum of health services: chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, stretching and massage therapy are all available at the clinic’s six metro locations. Based on principles of chiropractic medicine, the practice uses a holistic approach to improve wellness. “As a chiropractor, I am trying to restore function by

aligning joints to reduce stress on the body and nervous system,” Dr. Muse explains.

Modern American life can be hostile to health, for a number of reasons. Office jobs entail sitting for extended periods of time. In addition, poor posture and an inadequate diet can wreak havoc on the body’s musculoskeletal system.

“I always knew I wanted to help people and have a career in the medical field,” Dr. Muse recalls. “I visited a chiropractic school in Dallas and found that the scope of practice incorporated physical medicine, diet and exercise. This seemed to align with more of what was important to me in my life. I realized I could help people through a preventative approach and improve their quality of life.”

Dr. Muse offers sound advice for anyone wanting to live a healthier lifestyle. “Stretch!

Keeping muscles flexible and balanced can

reduce stress and trauma on joints. Practicing good posture while sitting and standing is also a simple way to improve health.”

Dr. Muse also emphasizes the need for proper diet. “Getting proper rest, nutrients, water and daily movement are the keys to leading a healthy lifestyle. Eat foods as close to their natural state as possible. Avoid foods which have been boxed, canned or genetically modified. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store for the freshest produce and meats.”

Dr. Muse and her colleagues love seeing patients completely transform their lifestyles.

“People improving their quality of life and feeling the benefits are what give me the most satisfaction.”

Chiropractic Arts and Wellness Clinics operate six locations in the metro. More information can be found at okcwellness.com.

outlookoklahoma.com

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Vintage Threads A local boutique transforms clothes from the 50s-80s into modern ensembles

by Lance Evans

Out with the old, in with the new. It’s simple logic that we’ve all heard before, but does it really apply to fashion? Sure, there are numerous lists constructed by fashion editors around the globe that all aim to tell us what we should being doing to our closets. What happens when those lists start to recycle? Yesterday’s out can quickly turn into tomorrow’s in. Through upcycling—fashion’s new craze on old clothes—Cassie Neahring is finding hidden gems in what most people are tossing out of their closets.

What exactly are upcycled clothes? Imagine taking an outdated or tarnished garment and transforming it into something trendy and stylish. This is the concept of upcycled clothing and the theme of Cassie’s store, Out On a Limb.

Today, Cassie is busy sewing up new items for her store. It’s too early to tell what the garment will end up being, but it’s already starting out as a rave review. As new potential customers look on, Cassie flings the garment across her design table. The thin, floral print fabric dramatically whisks through the air before perfectly landing in place on the table. Cassie’s fingers slowly trace the floral print. As she lifts the print from the table, her eyes closely examine the item’s current structure. Her intense gaze lets you know that she has much bigger plans for the unassuming piece. As Cassie moves from the

Cassie Neahring, owner of Out On A Limb Boutique

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Outlook August 2015

table straight to the sewing machine, she starts to sew and give the dress a new life. What was once a tossed dress in the half off bin is now turning into a trendy and chic fashion statement.

It’s in these moments where you realize the magic of Cassie’s store: not only are you able to feed your shopping addiction, but you’re also given a front row seat to experience the brilliant mind and creative hands behind the garments. “This is some really interesting stuff,” one customer says. Cassie nicely offers her thanks and begins to talk about the entire process. “I spend about eight plus hours a week searching through thrift stores, garage sales and estate sales,” she says. “I imagine what each piece can become before purchasing and excitedly bring each dress or skirt home. Most of my pieces are from the late 50’s to the 80’s—I only upcycle vintage and retro items.”

Like so many bargain shoppers, Cassie can count on finding uniquely stylish finds in thrift stores. What she wasn’t expecting was for her love of thrifting to lead her down a new career path. “I love scavenging for unique items,” Cassie says. “I decided to start buying items in all sizes to sell to others. I then quickly realized that many clothes have good bones but need altering or restructuring. I then found my calling—saving pieces from being otherwise ignored or thrown away for good.”

Cassie is all about helping women rediscover the beauty in clothing. The process starts by shuffling through items at thrift stores and bargain shops. Once Cassie finds a fabric that catches her eyes, she starts to examine it and give it a story. What was once a retro dress, fit for an office filled with 70s décor is re-imagined to a trendy and contemporary piece conceived for the runway.

“I pick up each piece and give it a quick look over to see what I have to work with,” she says. “I then pull back sleeves, pull up hems and imagine the dress or skirt taking a new shape. Some items I immediately have a vision for, others I buy because they just have such a great color or print and I have to figure out how I will alter it with a second look.”

Cassie continued this process for years until she had enough items for a store. “I began sewing seven years ago,” she says. “After I made my first few skirts for friends and myself, I took a batch to DNA Galleries and then a few other local boutiques and vintage stores.”

After spending time in the Plaza District and watching the area grow, it started to feel like home to Cassie. It wasn’t long before she decided to leave her own mark on the up-and-coming neighborhood. “I found the perfect location in the Plaza District.”

The upcycling process can be extensive. While some pieces

may call for just a few alterations, Cassie also completely transforms pieces by altering their look, shape and style. Sometimes the final product doesn’t always turn out as planned. “Trial and error is part of creativity,” says Cassie. “If I start upcycling a piece and see it isn’t working out the way I had hoped, I just stop and re-imagine what it could become.”

One of Cassie’s greatest creations was a 70’s floral/plaid dress that she re-imagined into a one-of-a-kind wrap dress. “It had big pockets on the front, two layers of ruffles around the shoulders and ruffles on the bottom of it at knee length,” she says. “In addition, it had some rickrack around the pockets and shoulders. I decided to turn the dress around, make the back the front. So I removed the pockets, all the ruffles, the rickrack and shortened the length to mid-thigh. I then went through and secured all of the seams, gave it a new hemline and finished all the edges. It ended up being the most adorable one-of-a-kind mini wrap dress!”

A vivid imagination is needed to do Cassie’s job. She says that she likes to work with individuals who like to dream along with her.

“Making people happy with my craft makes me happy. Out On a Limb is a space that lets other local artists and makers share their pieces with the city. I am constantly in awe of the fact that I get to sew all day for a living!”

Cassie is already dreaming up her fall collection. She says that it will feature handmade items in addition to the upcycled clothing that she’s known for. She’s expanding beyond the Plaza District by starting her own online boutique. She says that her customers shouldn’t worry though, she’ll stay in her space and continue to alter the way we see clothes.

Visit Cassie’s store, Out On a Limb, at 1710 NW 16th in OKC or shop online at outonalimbboutique.com.

Model wearing upcycled creation. Left image, dress before upcycling. Right, cover dress before upcycling.

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Outlook August 2015

The

ABCs of Nature

Keystone Adventure School & Farm offers a unique learning experience

by Amy Dee Stephens

The scene at Keystone Adventure School and Farm is unlike any elementary school you’ve ever seen. It’s a 16-acre working farm in which the learning takes place largely outdoors. Nestled in west Edmond, the site is surrounded by lush landscaping, a spring-fed creek and lots of trees.

“It’s a great balance between wild areas and manicured areas.” said John Duhon, Keystone founder and educator. “The indoor building doesn’t look like a school—it’s designed to flow like their home, so it’s immediately familiar to children.”

“It’s alive with activity, like a bee hive,” agreed Jenny Dunning, cofounder and educator. “You’ll see pockets of children working together in groups. In some ways, it models the adult workplace—where groups work together and seek help from each other.”

Students of all ages, from three-years-old to fifth graders, work with one another to accomplish group projects—from barn repairs to harvesting. In some aspects, it resembles growing up with a large family on a farm. Each day the students of Keystone feed, groom, clean up after and love on the animals. Some children feed and brush horses while others gather eggs from the ducks, geese, guineas and chickens.

The children especially enjoy the baby llamas, born each spring to aptly-named parents, Romeo and Juliet.

Because curiosity is the main component of learning, children bustle around in various states of exploration, helping direct their own learning paths in an organic way, on their own developmental timescale. Daily recess lasts an entire hour.

“Children might be outside climbing trees, building stick houses, digging tunnels in the sand, and if a teacher is on pond duty, they can fish off the dock or ride paddleboats.

It’s very active y a Each d g farm. d in with the sounds n rk a o r real w up afte ne is a , clean m of childhood o Keysto ro ,g als. ts feed the anim studen n o laughter, song e v lo

and questions,” said Dunning. “If you listen, you also hear pockets of silence where reflection is going on.”

Dunning describes the campus as a place where kids can ‘wander and wonder.’ “Unstructured time outside is valuable, magical. It’s what awakens their sensorial learning systems, calms them and allows them to observe and question their world.”

It sounds fun, but what about academics?

Formal instruction is intermingled among the work and play of Stud e childhood. Each multito wo nts from a ll rk on age classroom has 12-18 proje levels joi n tog c ts t h thou eth g at h t-pro students per teacher, vokin are engag er g ing, a n d fu but only a small n. percentage of time is spent in agegroup lessons. Most of the skill-based instruction takes place one-on-one with a teacher or specialist.

“It takes an army of teachers to have such individualization,” Duhon said. “We have specialists who teach art, physical education and technology, plus a variety of assistants. It brings the child/adult ratio to 6 to 1.”

Don’t expect students to undergo standardized testing, however.

“We don’t believe in standardized testing, and we aren’t interested in this ‘right answer’ business,” Dunning said speaking emphatically.

“The process of questioning, in which the child provides his or her own answer, is what’s important here. Children have to build emotional and social maturity before they begin to build academic understanding—so our students reach the benchmarks, but in a more appropriate way.”

According to Duhon, most schools label children in order to put them into a class where the students can all be taught the same way at the same time. In settings with a set curriculum, a child is either on track, bored or falling behind. Kids who don’t fit into the “right” age group get labeled differently, and then their confidence plummets.

“We embrace diverse learners. The truth is, we all have our own internal timetable, and when you force concepts at an inappropriate time for that child’s timetable—it sends them into self-doubt,” continued on page 24

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23

ABCs of Nature, cont.

Dunning said. “When they move forward at their own pace, they are they hire, and no one takes unnecessary breaks. “The teachers go home actually moving forward. So many parents come to us saying, ‘I want exhausted, but they come back the next day with my child back,’ because the labels have caused their child to fresh openness in their heart.” pull in for protection.”

“People say that we have great Over the last ten years, patience and tolerance to work at a place the school has focused on like this—but what we have is a great creating a safe environment understanding of what it’s like to be a child. where students ask questions Instead of downplaying childhood and and solve problems without making school an adult-like place, we think being spoon-fed the answers. it should look like kids are there,” Duhon Statements like, “Try again,” and said.

“How can you make that better?”

“From a bird’s eye view, it probably are common. looks like chaos—but that’s what “As teachers, our mindset is learning looks like,” Dunning said. “It’s to interact with the students and an honor to be part of these children’s facilitate—and then get out of their lives. It is difficult to define joy, but joy way as they start discovering. We are erupts from children, and being close in there with them, learning beside to that is a real gift.” them and from them. That’s the beauty Keystone Adventure School and Farm ts of aspec ll a . h g of individualized instruction.” is located at 19201 N. Western Ave. in on wit o gardenin a nd st h ls k a r o Dunning admits that this type of im Edmond.

For more information, visit nts w rm an Stude om fa r f l, o teaching is exhausting because they are keystoneadventureschoolandfarm. ho the sc “covered up with children from 7:45 to com or call 216-5400.

4:30.” They are super picky about who

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Outlook August 2015

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25

Lake Life Spend the last days of summer enjoying Arcadia Lake

Model Sheridan Williams

by Heide Brandes

26

The water whispers under the oars as the kayaks cruise like sleek fish through Arcadia Lake, located just on the outskirts of Edmond.

Blue herons and white egrets squawk irritably as the kayaks disturb them from their important task of fishing, but the human fisherman and his son wave cheerfully as the watercrafts glide by.

Swimmers at Arcadia Lake’s beaches also wave, and in late summer, Edmond’s lake waters seem as close to Heaven as one can get.

With summer almost over, you may have missed your chance to visit the beach, but it’s not too late to enjoy a watersport and outdoor adventure at one of the best hidden treasures in Oklahoma. Arcadia Lake, located on the Deep Fork River, offers water-oriented recreation opportunities in an urban setting.

Who needs to travel hours or days to relax? Oklahomans can take a jaunt right up the road to enjoy a “staycation” that includes picnicking, camping, swimming, water skiing, boating, disc golf, as well as hiking, biking and equestrian trails. A fishing pier and a heated, covered dock is provided year-round for fishing for bluegill, channel catfish, blue catfish and largemouth bass.

Welcome to your last blast of summer!

WATER FUN

Arcadia Lake is a youngster as far as lakes go, constructed as a cooperative effort between the City of Edmond and the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1987. The lake has 1,820 surface acres and 26 miles of shoreline.

“You don’t have to drive for hours to get to those big lakes when we have all the same amenities right here, just minutes from the metro,” said Nicole Offutt, administrative supervisor for Arcadia Lake. “There’s literally something for everyone.”

In addition to three swimming beaches, Arcadia also offers full service campgrounds with concrete tables, fire rings and lantern hooks. The park is home to 18 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails, a Frisbee golf course, water sports and more.

“We really are a diamond in the rough,” Offutt said.

The price for a staycation at Arcadia is pretty sweet as well. Entrance fees are $6 per car Monday through Thursday and $7 on the

Outlook August 2015

weekends. Those with personal watercraft will pay an additional $6 and $7 per watercraft. The city ordinances for personal watercrafts like jet skies have changed in the past year, now permitting the boats access to the entire lake from Monday to Thursday, only restricting use on the busy weekend. “Boating and watercrafts are popular on this lake,” said Offutt. “We see a lot of boating activity, especially on the weekend.”

A PERFECT WEEKEND

If you’re planning a vacation to Arcadia Lake, a perfect weekend starts with picking out the best campsite on Friday afternoon. The wooded areas around the lake offer deep shade from the hot sun, but also easy access to swimming areas, trails and restrooms.

Start out Friday afternoon with a round of Frisbee golf or rent some mountain bikes at the University of Central Oklahoma Outdoor Adventure Recreation Center (OAR) located at the east entrance of the lake on Second Street.

The facility provides rentals of kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards and mountain bikes. While the facility and equipment are free for UCO students, faculty and staff, the public can also rent all equipment for a fair price, and take advantage of a UCO alumni discount. The OAR staff also leads hiking and backpacking trips and the facility is available to rent for large events.

When you rise and shine from your tent early Saturday morning, plan to take a hike along the many trails at the lake. Mornings are the best time for hiking or biking as the late summer days get hotter.

After an invigorating hike, visit the OAR Center to rent kayaks for a trip around the lake. The fishing enthusiasts can rent or bring fishing gear for kayak or canoe fishing in some of the hard-to-reach prime fishing areas.

Those seeking more of a challenge can try stand-up paddle boarding. Cool off from an afternoon of kayaking and fishing by taking a dip in the three swim beaches around the lake. As the sun sets, light up a campfire and cook dinner the outdoorsy, rustic way.

Everyone agrees that food tastes better when cooked on an open fire.

Sunday brings a full day of activities before heading home, thanks to Arcadia Lake’s close proximity to Edmond and Oklahoma City. Since you don’t have to spend hours driving home, you’ll have an extra day to repeat all the favorite activities.

“We really do have a little bit of everything, and what we have is close to home,” Offutt said. “You’ll have more time for recreation and spend less gas money to do it.”

For more information on Arcadia Lake activities, visit edmondok.com or call 216-7470. For information on renting equipment and the UCO OAR Center, visit uco.edu/wellness/sr/outdoorrecreation or call 844-4560.

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Outlook August 2015

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Car trouble is never good news, but visiting a mechanic doesn’t have to be an overpriced experience. The technicians at Certified Auto Specialists are successfully beating the stereotype that having your car repaired includes false or needless charges.

Want proof? “Our ticket has no hidden costs,” said owner Tim Hayali. “You shouldn’t be charged for shop supplies—that’s part of doing business. And have you ever been charged an oil disposal fee? There are several companies that perform this service at no charge.”

The greater proof, however, comes in the form of reputation. Hayali has been pleased by the number of customers who’ve followed him to his new shop, which has now been open for one year.

“My name is important to me,” said Hayali.

“I’ve been working on cars in Edmond for 25 years. When I work on your vehicle, my name is on that vehicle. And I want a good name.”

Hayali knows customers can be taken advantage of because they don’t understand the technology of their vehicle. He speaks in layman terms and will email pictures to his clients so

that they have an understanding of each repair.

Working directly with Hayali is Kyle DeForest. Originally from Topeka Kansas, he moved to Oklahoma in 2008 to pursue a career as an automotive technician. Prior to his move, DeForest graduated at the top of his class at WYO TECH in automotive technology and chassis fabrication with high performance engines.

While working in Oklahoma for the last eight years, DeForest became ASE Master Certified as well as Nissan master certified. In the spring of 2014, DeForest left a local dealership to work with Hayali.

Certified Auto Specialists is proud to offer a clean shop, but above all—they are proud of their reputation and their good name.

Call 753-4113 to schedule your appointment today.

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Hollywood Comes Home

by Amy Dee Stephens

Homegrown music and locally produced films seem to be all the rage in Oklahoma. Festivals are popping up all over and street corners are alive with musicians. This year alone, six major film projects have taken place. It’s not happening by accident.

The Oklahoma Film and Music Office helps attract, orchestrate and advertise the television, film, and music industries for the state.

According to Tava Maloy Sofsky, its

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Outlook August 2015

influential director, Oklahomans can be proud of the state’s attention, but the impact goes much further than entertainment value.

“When a movie or music video is filmed here, it brings an extraordinary amount of business to the local community,” Sofsky said, “because the crew needs lodging, food, and gas stations. They’ll often hire local people for jobs ranging from hair stylist to technical support. We also help them find the perfect backdrop, whether it’s a water scene at Turner Falls, a farmhouse in Guthrie, or a desert setting at Little Sahara State Park.”

This type of behind-the-scenes networking is nothing new for Sofsky, although she has only been in her current position for a year. For the past twenty years, both she and her husband worked as freelance filmmakers in California.

Sofsky, originally from Ada, had no interest in being in front of the camera. Her talent lay in coordinating day-to-day-operations such as scheduling, budgeting and managing the set. After working commercials, she was promoted to movie production assistant on the sets of Money Train and Drop Zone. Next, she moved up to production supervisor for Beyond Borders and The Fast and the Furious.

In 1998, she became the associate producer for The Mask of Zorro. scores. It is one more example of assisting filmmakers, while bringing It was a career highlight for several reasons. First, actor Anthony business and acclaim to local musicians.

Hopkins directly reported to her for any problems he was having.

“Music in Oklahoma is really getting attention lately,” Sofsky Once the filming was done, he invited her and two other staff members said. “From big names to newcomers, you can find someone playing in to dinner because, “We were his favorites.” a café, on a street corner or at a music festival in downtown Oklahoma Secondly, on the set, she hired Brian Sofsky, dated him and agreed City or in Tulsa’s Brady District nearly every weekend. It’s a great time to marry him by the end of Zorro. They honeymooned in Belize at a to be a musician here.” lodge owned by filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, best known for The

She’s excited that film festivals, too, are experiencing popularity Godfather movies. never before seen in Oklahoma. Her office

Two-and-a-half years ago, the Sofskys moved sponsors and advertises these events, such as the back to Oklahoma. Brian was doing an on-location We’re helping put deadCENTER film festival, which had its highest film, and she stayed home with their three children attendance this year. To top it off, Oklahoma films musicians, actors, and “soaked up family.” While hosting a film won a number of awards. camp for students last summer, Tava visited the “If you want to embrace any part of the film or filmmakers and Oklahoma Film and Music Office to get permission music industry, visit our website to see what films fans to work from the director, Jill Simpson, for the students to are gearing up. We post upcoming casting calls for film at Myriad Gardens. musicians and for good ole’ Okies who might want

“The day after camp, Jill called to ask if to have a role as an extra in a film. A lot of things I was looking for a job, because she was leaving. We had similar are in the queue right now that I can’t talk about yet—but let’s just say backgrounds and had worked in the trenches for some of the same that if a certain television series comes here, it will be gigantic!”

Hollywood producers. I accepted, and it’s been a blessing. Because of

Sofsky is proud of her past, and she’s using her experience to my past, I can relate to filmmakers and their challenges.” influence Oklahoma’s economy and entertainment industry.

Despite Sofsky’s track record with filmmaking, she has strong “Oklahoma has been the site of so many great films, like The music connections as well. Her grandparents sang and performed Outsiders and Twister. It’s hard to predict the success rate of Country/Western music, and her brother, Zac Maloy, formed the wellthe newest ones—maybe Heartland or The Veil?” In all cases, known Oklahoma band, The Nixons. there are a lot of eyes on Oklahoma, and we’re helping put

Sofsky has successfully convinced visiting film producers to musicians, actors, filmmakers and fans to work. ” hire Oklahoma composers and musicians to write and perform movie To learn more, visit www.ok.gov/oklahomafilm.

Primrose School of Edmond

15000 N. Western Ave., Edmond, OK 73013 405.285.6787 | PrimroseEdmond.com

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Protote k

In a warehouse building at the corner of 10th and Hudson, mad scientists are at work.

A giant robotic arm sits nestled among the guts of electric wheelchairs, which make great bases for robots. A 3D printer melts lines of weed eater string to create hard plastic parts and creations while another area smolders with the hot smell of woodworking and electronics work. A digital photo lab displays vibrant photos of yawning hippopotamuses and a large-scale printer churns out blueprints and logs.

Welcome to Prototek, a mishmash collection of some of the most impressive equipment used to create, dream and inspire. Prototek is a “makerspace,” a collaborative effort that gives members 24/7 access to machines like laser cutters, 3D printers, tools, woodworking

by Heide Brandes

machines and more. Any member can walk in and use any piece of equipment to create, design and manufacture for $50 a month.

“Imagine a community college that has been made into grandpa’s workshop,” said Matt Wilkes, one of the founders of Prototek. “We have 11,000 square feet with every cool machine you can imagine. It’s all about making, creating and building.”

Prototek began in 2013 when Matt and a few friends decided to pool their resources in order to have a place to create. “Basically, it all started because our garages were filled to capacity,” Matt said. “A couple of us who have an affinity for creating things decided to get together. This guy had this tool over here, another guy had that tool over there, and that’s how it all started.”

The concept of a “makerspace,” isn’t a new one. In fact, it’s not even a new concept in Oklahoma. Matt and his friends began as members of another collaborative makerspace. When that group closed, they opened their own in 2013.

“It started with five or six people who already had some of the equipment,” said Matt. “We actually started in a dungeon. It was in a really sketchy part of town, and you had to go through an alley to get there. There were no windows or bathrooms.”

Membership grew, and Prototek needed a new home, which they found in Oklahoma City’s thriving Midtown District. “We were more excited about the three bathrooms and not having to worry about being mugged,” Matt laughed.

Since then, creativity has been blossoming. Members of Prototek have created everything from gorgeous wooden chairs and a food truck to a piece of medical equipment designed to protect premature babies. The access system members use was even designed at Prototek.

“We have a couple of items and equipment on loan, but everything else is owned by Prototek or me,” said Matt. “We purchased a lot of equipment that was broken, and we were able to fix it so it is better than new.”

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Still, despite the growing popularity of the collaborative work space, everyone still has a day job, Matt said. Most of the magic happens in the evenings and over weekends. “We have an open house to the public every second Tuesday and during H&8th Food Truck Festivals,” Matt said. “It’s really easy to be a member. You come, check it out, and we decide if Prototek would be a good fit with what you are trying to do.”

The group also holds classes for hobbies like woodworking and welding. If you want to learn how to do it, chances are someone in the group can teach you. “We’ve done a few photography classes, some metal-smithing and things like that,” Wilkes said. “What else can I say? This is just a place where people dream up ideas and build something creative!”

For more information on Prototek, visit PrototekOKC.com. Or, visit the second Tuesday open house at 401 NW 10th St. in Midtown OKC.

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MY outlook

John Smith, Most Experienced Teacher in Edmond

by Bethany Marshall

How long have you been a teacher? I’ve been teaching 43 years total, 33 years with Edmond Public School.

What year did you start teaching? I started in the fall of 1969.

What do you teach? I’m a band instructor at Cimarron Middle School and Memorial High School. My personal instrument is the trumpet.

What is your favorite part about being a teacher? Personally, I feel that playing an instrument is one of the most enjoyable things one can do. Passing that enjoyment on to students makes teaching fun. Teaching is never boring, because each class has its own particular personality, regardless of which instruments are involved. Watching them “learn by doing” is one of the strengths of band. Everything they learn will be used every day. Nothing becomes obsolete.

How did you get into teaching? The neighborhood that I grew up in had a large number of kids.

Some were older than me and some were younger. I noticed that there were times when I could help some of them learn how to do stuff they didn’t know how to do. That’s when I first thought maybe teaching would be a good thing to do.

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Outlook August 2015

What is your favorite teaching memory? My favorite memories come from dealing with students with great character traits. I attribute this to their parents, beliefs and life experiences.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned as a teacher?

One greatest lesson has been learning to not react to a negative situation and also to realize that there is a good solution to almost every situation. A lot of students go through a “goofy” period, but a year or two later, they have become caring and more responsible individuals. This is a favorite observation.

How have things changed from when you first started teaching?

The only thing particularly different is technology. That has been a mixed blessing. There have been changes creating new challenges for students, but the students seem to be pretty much the same.

Is there anything that helps you most while teaching? The band boosters at Edmond Memorial are the greatest group of parents.

They have made parts of my job so much easier, as well as physically less work. Not only for me, but they have been so supportive of the band over the years that they have become referred to as the Dream Team Parents.”

How has technology changed the way you teach? Technology has helped with the entering and organizing of students’ grades. Parents now have access to their child’s grades at any time.

This has gradually developed over the past several years and is significant.

How do you work to reach students who don’t seem as interested in learning what you are teaching? Students who don’t seem to be interested are usually waiting to see if they are going to have some success before they make up their minds. So I watch to see which things they are able to do and then plan a simple situation where they will be able to “shine” in front of everyone. Sometimes it works quickly. Patient repetition over time may also sway them.

What advice do you have for someone who is interested in pursuing teaching as a career? Learn your subject area well. You are not going to be your favorite teacher. You have to find a way to do it well as yourself.

Anything else you would like to share with us? I enjoy playing trumpet in the Henderson Hills Church orchestra. Also, my wife Grace is a teacher with Edmond Public Schools Indian Education and is an alternative teacher at Boulevard Academy. She plays the flute in the Henderson Hills Church orchestra as well.

80 East 5th St., Ste. 130 Edmond, OK 73034