A Girl's Game: Strike League Flag Football Festive Feasts
Johnnie’s BMW Isetta
After five years of life’s detours—thanks to COVID and my bout with blood cancer—I finally revved my engine and hit the open road with my motorcycle buddies. I was a little rusty, a little slower, and very mindful of my recent absence from the hobby. It was wonderful to feel the wind in my face and the power of twisting a throttle.
Cruising along the winding roads of Northwest Arkansas and Missouri, I rediscovered how motorcycling is not just about the thrill of the ride but also the camaraderie it fosters. The miles we traveled didn’t separate us, they brought this group of old friends together—all while we did our best to avoid road-crossin’ critters, corner gravel, and terrible coffee at roadside diners.
The roads were familiar, but the experiences were new, like finding that amazing slice of Oreo pie, snapping goofy group photos on the Peel Ferry, and enjoying Branson sunsets that seemed to stretch as long as our post-ride conversations. I had some catching up to do with this group.
So here’s to roads less traveled, to friendships rekindled, and to the sheer joy of getting back in the saddle. Because sometimes, the best therapy comes with a sense of adventure. Life is too short to stay parked!
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
EARC: Secondhand Stores, Firsthand Independence
By Taylor Bollinger
Each day, 55 Edmond residents with developmental disabilities wake up with an enhanced sense of purpose, belonging, and independence because of their involvement with Employment and Residential Centers (EARC).
For over five decades, EARC has operated to provide adults with developmental disabilities the support they need to lead successful lives, whether through employment, daily living support, or residential services. But local thrifters are most likely to recognize the non-profit from its three thrift store locations – two in Edmond, and one in Guthrie.
The thrift stores are staffed by employees who, because of a range of disabilities, may struggle to find employment elsewhere. But at EARC, they are met with the coaching, support, and environment to thrive. EARC Executive Director, Bonnie Wells, says that it’s less about the paycheck— although payday is always exciting—and more about the sense of individuality the opportunity develops.
“Our mission is to try and help our individuals have the best quality of life they can,” Bonnie said. “In 46 years of working in this field, I’ve learned that the best way to do this is to help them build independence, financially, and in every way possible. Imagine never being able to buy someone you love a gift, or not being able to contribute to household expenses or pursue your own hobbies and tastes—that is one of the things EARC is able to change for our clients.”
experience into teams that “hate to miss a day of work.”
In addition to employment opportunities, EARC offers assisted living, daily living support, group homes, and an intermediate care facility. These services expand the incredibly limited choices caregivers often face, especially once adults with disabilities have left the school system.
“Before Community Residential Programs like EARC were funded in the 1980s, caregivers who needed to work were left with limited options like state institutions or nursing homes for care,” Bonnie said. “But these aren’t always the best options for our clients, as young adults with long lives ahead of them.”
T he services we provide aren’t just to give people a place to live out their days, but to help them build a life.
EARC’s living options enable the adults they serve to live at varying levels of independence while transportation and outings equip them with skills like grocery shopping, paying bills, using self-checkout, and engaging with their community.
“The services we provide aren’t just to give people a place to live out their days,” Bonnie said. There is a difference between living in a community and being a true part of one. We are creating a structure where they can build their unique lives.”
The employees are supported by staff like thrift store manager Sandi Miles whose research and leadership maximizes the value of every donation, and job coach Rose Owens who has turned individuals with no prior employment
Those interested in contributing to EARC’s mission are invited to volunteer, donate used items, and the most fun form of contribution: shop! Find your nearest EARC location at earcinc.com.
Bonnie Wells EARC Executive Director
left to right: Reaschell Hicks, Sandi Miles, Bonnie Wells, Walter Carter, Damon Howard, Christopher Brennan
Festive FEASTS
Enjoy stress-free holiday dinners, parties, and office events with fantastic spreads that are a feast for the eye and the appetite. Wow your guests with stunning platters, tasty trays, and full holiday meals to feed a crowd. Let these local pros make your gatherings memorable, merry, and bright!
EDDIE’S
What better time than the holidays to share Eddie’s superior cuisine with your guests? Feed 10-12 people with the family turkey or spiral cut ham dinner, complete with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, salad, gravy, and rolls for $249. Or try the prime rib feast for 1012 people, with slow-roasted prime rib, mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, salad, rolls, and salted caramel brownies for $399. Add an apple or pecan pie for $16. Call or text orders to 405-8506491. Pick up is from 11-4 the day before Thanksgiving or Christmas. Ask about full-service custom catering for your holiday parties too! Visit eddiesdining.com.
NHINJA SUSHI & WOK
Impress your guests with Nhinja Sushi's party trays! Featuring a delightful selection of fresh, handcrafted rolls, their trays are sure to satisfy every guest. Perfect for any celebration, these showstopping trays are ready for pickup or delivery to make hosting a breeze. Plus, take advantage of their special offer: Buy a $50 gift card and receive a bonus $20 gift card—perfect for anyone who gets hungry. Visit 5 W. 15th St. or 13905 N. May. Order your sushi tray and snag this great deal at nhinja.com.
HOBBY’S HOAGIES
For 33 years, Hobby’s Hoagies has been serving up authentic East Coast hoagies and pizzas in Edmond. Today, their homemade Italian bread and pizza dough, along with prime ribeye steak, premium Boar’s Head lunchmeat, fresh veggies prepared daily, and crushed hot cherry peppers shipped in from Delaware are still a hit. Treat your holiday guests to a small, medium, or large party tray of tasty hoagies, or wow your crowd with a fun 6 ft. party sub. And don’t forget their popular Italian bread and rolls for your Thanksgiving feast. Boxed lunches and dessert platters are available too. Visit 222 S. Santa Fe Ave. in Edmond, 325 N Walker Ave. in OKC, or order and pay online at hobbyshoagies.com.
RUNNING WILD CATERING
Trust one of the metro’s most renowned catering companies to make your holiday party or gathering a memorable event. Running Wild is a full-service caterer that also offers drop-off and pick-up catering. Specializing in eclectic and seasonal cuisine served in abundant proportions, their creative, themed menus steal the show with exquisite presentation. Choose elegant skewers, shrimp cocktails, charcuterie, or an Italian, BBQ, or Mexican spread. Menus are customized to fit every need and want. Ask about their full-service professional bar service too. And when you mention you read about them here, you’ll receive free delivery! Visit runningwildcatering.com and get the party started.
THE BIG BISCUIT
This holiday season, let The Big Biscuit do the cooking for your friends and family! Their Bigger Better Breakfast Bundles are perfect for feeding a group, featuring 16 strips of bacon, savory sausage, breakfast potatoes, eight buttermilk biscuits, and a quart of sausage gravy. Enhance your spread by adding scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or coffee totes for the ultimate holiday celebration. Don’t forget about their signature Bonuts—biscuits dipped in French toast batter, fried to golden perfection, and dusted with powdered sugar. Or try their Sticky Biscuits, baked fresh in a delicious cinnamon swirl and then drizzled with creamy vanilla icing. Visit 1333 N. Santa Fe, Edmond or order at bigbiscuit.com.
THE LOOKOUT AT KICKINGBIRD GOLF
With its vacation-like mood and sweeping, scenic views, The Lookout is meant for a party! Rent their ballroom for large events, their boardroom for meetings, or have them cater your event. Whatever the occasion, you’ll enjoy a menu of delicious American classics with a twist, like the popular Blackened Salmon with avocado crema and pineapple pico. Shrimp Tacos, Buffalo Mac and Cheese, wings, burgers, steaks, pasta, salads, and appetizers offer a variety of tasty options. They will be offering pre-orders for Thanksgiving meals on their website, available for pick up the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, before 6 p.m. Visit 1600 E. Danforth Rd, Edmond, or thelookoutedmond.com.
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business? Contact her at laura@edmondoutlook.com
A Girl’s Game
Strike League Flag Football
By Taylor Bollinger
In 2022, Ben Ezugha encountered a video that stopped his scroll and started something entirely new for Oklahoma. "I saw a video of Mike Evans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers passing out scholarships to high school athletes, and some of those recipients were girls," Ezugha recalls. Intrigued, he discovered that girls had been playing flag football in Florida since 2002. But in Oklahoma, this sport was practically unheard of.
style schedule, culminating in playoffs where every team has a shot at victory.
Ezugha believes the rise of girls' flag football is part of a larger trend.
Motivated by this gap, Ezugha decided to act. “I googled to see if I could participate, but I realized there was nowhere here for girls to play.” As a former high school football coach in San Diego and a graphic designer, he had the skills to not only coach the game but also to create a brand and launch a league. "I thought, hey, if I were to start a brand, what would it look like?" And so, Strike League was born.
“I always kind of believed I’d find my way back to football, but I assumed it would most likely be with my future sons,” Ben explained. “But then I had three daughters and I realized this was the way it was meant to happen. It’s really ignited my passion for the sport again.”
Starting with free camps and a few volunteers, Ezugha worked to build interest. "We topped out with 48 girls, which amounts to six teams, roughly eight girls each." The league operates with a 5-on-5 format, and teams play a round-robin
But more important than a win are the benefits it brings to each player. Ben says, “It makes most of them a 2- or 3-sport athlete, building different skills and helping prevent burnout from their main sport.” He also emphasized the unique camaraderie that flag football fosters, where each position has a distinct role and teamwork is essential.
“They truly learn to rely on their teammates to do something that is unique to each position and it all has to happen in concert so you can succeed together. It’s a feeling that I don’t think any other sport provides.”
Ezugha believes the rise of girls' flag football is part of a larger trend. "In America, we have a love of the game, and men have been in this for a long time. But now, we’re starting to see female participation become more prevalent, and as a father of three daughters, I am proud to play a part.”
Looking ahead, Strike League plans to expand with a winter camp and even more teams in the spring. "I couldn’t wait for someone else to do it," Ezugha says. "I believe that with some time, and enough work, girls' flag football is really going to catch fire.
Visit strikeleague.co for scrimmage and camp information.
Coach Ben Ezugha
T he Campbell: Upscale Urban Living & Dining
By Taylor Bollinger
Downtown Edmond is experiencing a transformative wave with the introduction of a new mixed-use development situated between the University of Central Oklahoma and Broadway, just east of Boulevard. The Campbell, comprised of two newly constructed buildings totaling 84,000 square feet, is set to redefine urban living in the area.
The development is divided into two distinct buildings. The north building is dedicated entirely to residential apartments, catering primarily to young professionals. The south building offers a mixed-use environment with restaurants, retail, office spaces, and residential units. Both buildings are designed with luxury in mind, featuring one- and two-bedroom apartments with 10- to 13-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors, quartz countertops, and oversized windows.
“It’s an exciting place to work, live, and dine,” said Brandon Rader, the man behind the project, and owner of Rader Development. “The Campbell places guests and residents in the middle of what is sort of a renaissance for Downtown Edmond.”
One of the development's many highlights is the relocation of Signature Grill to the fourth level of the south building of The Campbell, opening in March of 2025. “We are looking forward to moving to the rooftop restaurant at The Campbell. After 16 years of business at our current restaurant home in Kickingbird Square, we have outgrown our current space,” said Jessica Falkner, Signature Grill owner.
“Even though the restaurant will double in size, we will maintain the cozy and intimate integrity of our guests' dining experience with this move to the Campbell. We still plan on having the chef's window which has always been a favorite of many. We will be
adding a bar and have patio seating available which we hope will alleviate some issues we currently have with being able to accept walk-in guests.”
Falkner looks forward to Signature Grill’s debut as one of the first rooftop restaurants in Edmond. “The views are gorgeous. We look forward to serving our wonderful city of Edmond and the surrounding metro area!”
More than just another development, The Campbell is a strategic addition to Downtown Edmond, designed to create a walkable, livework-play environment that has been missing from the area. It has amenities like the Bee Healthy Café, which doubles as a community space for residents and an open-to-the-public restaurant and cafe.
The development will welcome tenants like the upscale gift boutique, Millie Tucker, Wine to Water non-profit, and the new-toOklahoma concept: New Mom School. Residents will also enjoy exclusive perks, such as free membership at UCO's gym, free coffee, espresso, cold brew and tea daily at Bee Healthy Café, and access to other amenities yet to be announced.
The development is part of Edmond’s Downtown Tax Increment Financing District, which provides incentives for projects that enhance the urban landscape. Janet Yowell, Executive Director at Edmond Economic Development Authority emphasized the project’s value for the city, “I feel like what Brandon is doing for the north area of Downtown Edmond is really going to make a wonderful connection between UCO into our downtown area. The apartments and mixed-use areas are leasing quickly, and it will be exciting to see what comes next.”
Learn more at campbellok.com.
Rendering by Rader Building Company
Rendering by HSE Architects
Aqua Well Drilling Your Water Well Pros
1. What is the benefit of having a water well at your residence?
Having access to free water. With Edmond paying some of the highest water rates in the state, it definitely makes sense for everyone to have their own well. Another benefit is that when we are in a drought and the city goes on water rationing, you don’t have to worry. You can still use as much water as you want, for as long as you want.
2. Besides drilling the well, what other services do you provide?
Having installed over 10,000 wells, more than any other drilling firm in the state, we have the expertise to design, drill, install pumps, provide 24-hour pump service, and install water treatment systems. In most cases, even before drilling, we can tell you how deep the well will be and how many gallons per minute it will produce. Our name is on the top of all the wells we install and they are drilled and built to last a lifetime.
3. Is the quality of well water better than tap water? In most cases, yes. It is drinkable right out of the ground.
4. Can a well be installed at a residence in a neighborhood or only at a rural home?
All residents have a right to have access to water for their own personal use. In other words, if you have enough room to get the drilling equipment on site then you are a candidate for a well.
5. Is there any maintenance required for a well?
All wells and well equipment come with a five or seven year warranty. The pump will eventually wear out after about 15 years and need to be replaced, but that is only the pump, not the actual well.
6. Does a well increase a property's value?
After the well pays for itself, it increases the value of the property. In most cases, the return on investment is 2-5 years. There’s no other investment you can make on your property to get that kind of return. It’s a no-lose investment.
Oklahoma’s Submarine Memorials
Reminders of Freedom
By Amy Dee Stephens
Although Greg Slavonic, RADM, USN (ret) and Tucker McHugh, CDR, USN (ret) never served under water during their Navy careers, both have played a crucial role in preserving the history of submarines connected with Oklahoma. Most recently, they spearheaded the USS OKC (SSN-723) Memorial Park, which is planned along the Oklahoma River. “We have a beautiful river, and it’s only right to have the submarine near water,” Slavonic said. “It’s important to remind Oklahomans we have a strong Navy.”
The park’s design, by architect Don Beck, will replicate the footprint of the submarine’s actual length, 362 feet, about the size of a football field. Additional nautical items are planned for the park, including artifacts from the previous USS OKC (CLG-5), a surface vessel in operation from 1944 to 1979.
Slavonic of Oklahoma City and McHugh of Edmond assisted in commissioning the second USS OKC, a nuclear-powered attack submarine, in 1988. When it was decommissioned in 2022, Slavonic and McHugh asked Governor Stitt and OKC Mayor Holt to write support letters for saving the main top sail and the dive planes, as other cities have done.
Before the 120-thousand pound sail and dive planes can be transported to Oklahoma, however, the decommissioned submarine will undergo a multi-year process to remove its nuclear components before being dismantled. Since the exact arrival date is unknown, a mock-up of the sail will be constructed for the park, which is funded with federal, local and private dollars.
Pearl Harbor’s Oklahoma Memorial
Raising money for a submarine memorial is not new to McHugh and Slavonic, who are also responsible for the USS Oklahoma (BB 37) Memorial at Pearl Harbor. In 2001, McHugh saw a documentary about USS Arizona sinking during World War II, resulting in the loss of 1,177 men. McHugh, who served 20 years in the Navy, was stationed in Hawaii during the Vietnam War, but he didn’t recall seeing a USS Oklahoma Memorial, which had the second highest number of lives lost, at 429.
McHugh asked Slavonic to double check while he was in Hawaii. Slavonic’s search for a USS Oklahoma Memorial was
fruitless, but he did observe the 40-foot tripod mast of the Oklahoma battleship, sticking up out of the water during low tide. “We decided, ‘That’s not right. Those sailors and marines deserve to be honored, too,’” said Slavonic. So, they began fundraising. Don Beck designed the memorial, with 429 white marble pillars representing each casualty. On December 7th, 2007, a date significant as Pearl Harbor Day and Oklahoma’s centennial year, McHugh and Slavonic attended the dedication ceremony to hear the reading of each man’s name.
The Purpose of Submarine Memorials
For both McHugh and Slavonic, their mission to create memorials is an extension of their Navy careers. McHugh, who tracked Russian nuclear subs in the Pacific Ocean, recently had a grandson serving on a ballistic missile sub. “We want observers to be reminded of what it takes to maintain freedom,” McHugh said.
After a 34-year Navy career, Slavonic served as the 18th Assistant Secretary and Acting Under Secretary of the Navy from 2018-2021, during which he was responsible for submitting Oklahoma as the name for a new submarine. Currently in production, the USS Oklahoma (SSN 802) should be christened by 2025. Slavonic’s wife, Molly, is named as the ship’s traditional sponsor.
“It’s important to remind Oklahomans we have a strong Navy,” Slavonic said. “The U.S. Navy is responsible for protecting, patrolling and keeping sea lanes open, because 90% of all products we use daily come via shipping from around the world.”
“It’s meaningful for everyone to know the important mission of our Navy in defending our Nation and especially remembering the City’s namesake ships/submarines,” said Slavonic. “Like it or not, our history has made us a country. It tells our story, and God willing, these memorials will help keep those stories alive.”
Learn more at ussoklahoma-ssn802.us. Tax-exempt donations can be mailed to USS OKC Park, Box 8693, Edmond, OK 73083 or made through the website.
Greg Slavonic, RADM, USN (retired)
Tucker McHugh, CDR, USN (retired)
Photos provided by US Navy
Movie Makeup Artist Hannah Gates
By Amy Dee Stephens
When Hannah Gates is working on a film set, she drinks a lot of coffee. As a full-time hair and makeup artist, it’s not unusual for her to work a 12-hour day or night. It’s a career filled with unexpected adventures made up of ever-changing directors, crew members, and storylines. Hannah embraces the opportunity to be artistically creative while transforming actors into characters. Her portfolio of movie makeovers includes adding prosthetic injuries, making murder victims look dead, altering facial hair, and covering lots of tattoos.
“Covering tattoos keeps me employed,” Hannah said with a laugh. “Tattoos create all kinds of copyright issues for filmmakers.”
Dirt, Grime, and Twisters
During the filming of Twisters, Hannah was employed to work with the background department, making sure extras and stunt performers had the right “look,” without being distracting to the main action. Her enduring memory of that movie filming is the amount of dirt and grime she kept layering on.
“My job isn’t always about high glam, although I enjoy creating beauty,” Hannah said. “I occasionally do side jobs such as prom or wedding makeup, but mostly I collaborate with directors to understand their vision for their characters.”
Hannah recently worked with director, Rick Warren, on Masterpiece, a murder mystery filmed in Edmond. Rick wanted the crime scene actress to look like she’d been dead for several hours. Hannah researched blood circulation loss to create the correct color palette: less red, more pale, more blue.
“I used to be squeamish about looking at those kinds of images,” Hannah said, “but it is necessary to get the most realistic result. Later, when I watch the screening of the movie, it’s so satisfying to see that I got it right.”
It’s been a dream come true for Hannah to take her artistic talents beyond working in a hair salon. She confesses to being the kid in kindergarten who got in trouble for braiding her classmate’s hair, and she still has the natural desire to help others achieve their ideal look, and in her profession, that perfect look often means adding wrinkles, wounds, dirt, and grime.
On the set, Hannah carries specific makeup bags for each actor, plus a “just in case” bag of extra supplies, bandages,
deodorant, and hand sanitizer. “I guess you could say I’m the unofficial caretaker of the cast and crew. I’m like a walking CVS.”
Breaking Into Show Business
After high school, Hannah enrolled in filmmaking at a community college in St. Louis, which taught her the craft of storytelling with a camera. In hindsight, Hannah believes this gave her valuable insight into directors’ preferences. Next, she made a spontaneous move to Los Angeles to study makeup and gain film industry experience. In 2019 she came to Oklahoma City, where she joined the local stagehand union. “When a show comes to town and needs extra help, I’m on the roster, so I often get called.”
In addition to Twisters, Hannah has worked on American Underdog, the 2021 multi-award-winning film, Minari, filmed in Tulsa, and the 2023 movie, The Line. She’s never sure what film will come next, which adds to the intrigue of her career. “It’s a really wild industry, but very rewarding. I love it! It can be very exciting, and I forget I’m working, and sometimes it gets very repetitive,” Hannah laughed. “Then, coffee helps.”
You can follow Hannah on Instagram @hannahgatescreates.
left: Hannah with actor Danny Trejo on the set of the film, Seven Cemeteries. above: Hannah finishes a special effects project using prosthetics and makeup.
Luminance Edmond
By Maria Veres
There’s no better way to brighten your holidays than strolling through Luminance, Oklahoma’s premier walk-through lighting display. Located at Edmond’s Mitch Park, this year’s celebration includes two special event nights and upgrades to several displays. Best of all, it’s free.
Something for Everyone
Edmond Electric has been lighting up Edmond with Luminance since 2018, and the event is popular with kids and adults alike. It’s a romantic date night, too. Several marriage proposals have happened there.
“We have a wide range of displays, everything from classic Christmas
themes to Santa Claus,” says Emily Harmon, City of Edmond's Parks and Recreation Marketing and Special Events Coordinator. Many visitors love the light tunnel at the front, and the Santa display is a favorite, too. There’s plenty of room at every display to take photographs.
Add Sparkle with Special Event Nights
Any time is a good time to visit Luminance, but two special event nights will offer added delights. The November 22 opening kickoff is sponsored by the Edmond YMCA, and a second event night takes place December 14, sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union. On those evenings, visitors can purchase gifts from local businesses at the Merry Marketplace and enjoy dinner from several food trucks. For the kids, there will be face painting, an arts-and-crafts pavilion, and of course, photos with Santa—all free of charge.
“Don’t let the cold weather deter you!” says Emily. “That’s part of the magic.” Hot chocolate, cider, coffee, and tea will be available for purchase on the special event nights.
Along with creating magical holiday moments, the event is a perfect way to support local businesses. “We want people to come and enjoy it at their leisure,” says Emily. “It’s a great memory maker.”
Luminance will run from 5-10pm, November 22-January 5 at Mitch Park, 1501 W Covell Road, Edmond. Learn more at edmondlights.com.
The Nutcracker Ballet
By Maria Veres
With stunning new sets and costumes along with an expanded cast of characters, Oklahoma City Ballet has elevated this season’s The Nutcracker to the next level. “It’s a perfect year to rediscover The Nutcracker,” says Whitney Cross, Director of Development and Communications. Performances begin December 14, and tickets are going fast.
A Brand New Look for a Classic Favorite OKC is growing, and Oklahoma City Ballet has grown, too. “We feel Oklahoma City deserves the highest caliber Nutcracker, something our community can be proud of,” says Whitney.
The organization engaged some of the best designers in the world to create the new sets, lighting, and costumes. “We’re grateful to our presenting sponsors Devon Energy and the Chickasaw Nation for making all this possible,” says Whitney.
To accompany the updated look, the ballet will feature new choreography (there’s even a food fight). Audiences will meet delightful new characters, from polar bears and snowflakes to fairies and fireflies. Performances include live orchestral accompaniment from OKC Philharmonic and vocals from Canterbury Chorale.
Ballet Is for Everybody
OKC Ballet’s goal is to make The Nutcracker fun and enjoyable for everyone. No tuxes, white gloves, or library silences are required. Some guests dress up, but many come in casual clothes. Audiences are encouraged to applaud and cheer during the performances.
The ballet is recommended for children age 3 and up. There will be several matinees and a sensory-friendly
performance created in partnership with Autism OKC.
“The performances will be full of fun and laughter, and magical moments, too,” says Whitney. “It’s going to be spectacular.”
The Nutcracker will run December 14-23 at Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, Oklahoma City. Learn more or purchase tickets at okcballet.org.
BMW Isetta: A Quirky Collectible Car
By Taylor Bollinger
Johnnie Massey is a car enthusiast through and through. Growing up on a 60-acre farm in Spencer, he picked up vehicle mechanics from his father. “I basically just figured out how to work on tractors and trucks with my dad,” he recalls, reflecting on the skills that would shape his career. His automotive journey took him through stints with Porsche and BMW, earning both ASE and BMW master certifications along the way.
In 1992, Johnnie stumbled upon a 1959 BMW Isetta in Oklahoma City, which became one of his most cherished finds. “I paid $650 for it back then, and now I’ve seen them go for upwards of $35,000,” Johnnie says with a grin. Originally designed by the Italian company Iso in the early 1950s, the Isetta was licensed by BMW in 1955 when the company needed an affordable, economical vehicle to revive its postwar business.“ Before the war, they made huge limos and cars for high-end folks, but after, no one could afford those anymore. The Isetta saved them from going under,” Johnnie explains.
After collecting many parts, including a seat cover from Australia that he found on eBay, Johnnie retired and finally had time to begin restoring the car. Of all the parts he had to collect, the tires were the most difficult to find because of their unusual size of 10 inches. “The car was in pretty rough condition when I bought it,” Johnnie admits. “It had three different colors of paint on it, but luckily, no rust. For the restoration, I took everything off, including the glass, bumpers, and trim. Then I had a good friend paint it for me. The hardest part of the restoration was putting the trim on the front and rear windshields.”
Between 1955 and 1962, it became the best-selling single-cylinder car in the world.
Now, the car that saved an entire company is a quirky collector’s piece and a popular attraction at regional car shows. It’s one that Johnnie enjoys sharing with interested onlookers. “A lot of people at shows won’t let you touch their cars. When I go, I let every kid who wants their picture taken get in it. There have been thousands.” Johnnie recalls one memorable moment when two big biker Harley guys hopped in for a pic—they had the biggest grins on their faces.”
Enter the Isetta – a tiny, egg-shaped car powered by a singlecylinder, four-stroke motorcycle engine. It had a distinctive front-opening door and could seat two passengers. Despite its modest 13-horsepower engine, the Isetta was efficient and could reach speeds of up to 55 mph. BMW produced the “bubble car” between 1955 and 1962, during which time it became the bestselling single-cylinder car in the world.
Though street legal, you won’t find Johnnie and his Isetta on the road. “It can go 55, but I wouldn’t do over 40,” he chuckles. Still, car lovers can hope to spot and even snap a pic in the tiny BMW at car shows around the metro.
Thankful Things!
By Louise Tucker Jones
I call November the “thankful” month. It’s pre-Christmas and post-Halloween and a great time to practice gratitude. No wonder we call it “Thanksgiving.” It’s a season I love because it’s everything family.
When I was young, my grandparents visited our farm home every Thanksgiving. I remember how my mother and grandmother seemed to enjoy fixing that big meal. I didn’t understand that then, but I do now. Cooking isn’t a chore when it’s shared with loved ones. Thankfully, my five siblings and I, along with our kids, had many cherished Thanksgiving meals together in our parents’ home.
My husband’s family had a reunion every Thanksgiving. Aunts, uncles and cousins gathered from in and out of state. So much food. So much laughter. So many hugs and tears on parting. So thankful to be part of such love.
But things change. It’s the way of life. Reunions cease. Loved ones leave for heaven. It has been thirteen years since I shared a Thanksgiving with my husband and this will be my second year without my youngest son, Jay. Life isn’t always easy, but blessed, just the same. So many beautiful memories. So much love stored in my heart.
And this year I have an unusual reason to be thankful. Having just been diagnosed with breast cancer, I am thankful for the imaging that caught this so early. Surprised! Shocked! Yes! Certainly not something I want to go through, especially alone. I wish my husband were here to travel this journey with me, but I’m thankful for friends and family who have stepped up to help and pray for me. Thankful for skilled doctors and nurses. Thankful for God’s love and protection over me during this time.
So, this month, when you gather for
your Thanksgiving bounty, hold hands with your loved ones as you bless the food and say a thankful prayer for each other. Pray for their home, health, and happiness as well as your own. In fact, let’s make a list of “Thankful Things.” I’ll start!
I’m thankful for you, my readers! You are a divine blessing in my life!
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
Louise’s Family
a look back Edmond Veterans
Edmondites Dale Hamilton, Charles Richmond, and Hal Adamson board a transport ship in Hokkaido, Japan en route to the Korean Peninsula in 1951. The three men were members of the Edmond-based 179 th Regiment of the 45th Infantry Division.
After the Korean War, Hamilton returned to coaching athletics at Central State College (now UCO). He also served as athletic director there; Hamilton Field House was named in his honor in 1993. Charles Richmond served as a Chaplain in WWII, the Korean War, and as the Division Chaplain of the Oklahoma National Guard for 20 years following Korea. Adamson worked at the Oklahoma State Military Department for 25 years, retiring in 1979.
