Edmond Outlook - January 2020

January 2020

Trove of Jewelry Treasures Artisan Bryan Worthley Crafts Signature Silver Pieces for Locals and Celebs

20 in 2020: Edmond Trivia

The Power of 100 Gives Back in Numbers

Jerry’s Top Secret Photography of WWII

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Features

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ASK EDMOND

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VISIT EDMOND CALENDAR OF EVENTS

New Year, New You! Nah, I kinda like the old me. In fact, I like the old me so much - there may be more of the old me in 2020.

This year, I’m not setting myself up for any difficult resolutions or challenges. No, not for me, 2019 was hard enough. This year, I’m going to set the bar to something more attainable. I’m going to eat out more often.

Seriously. If you haven’t noticed, this year is sure to usher in Edmond’s golden age of restaurants. They’re popping up everywhere.

How will I succeed in this renaissance of local flavors? Simple, by pausing my “go to” restaurants - the ones I eat at over and over. I will be exploring… dining where I have not dined before.

Legends of Dixieland and Youth Impressions Art Show

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INTERNATIONAL FINALS RODEO

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LOCAL EATS: LIVEGRASS BUTCHER + BISTRO

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THE POWER OF 100

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Oklahoma’s largest professional rodeo, featuring contestants from around the world Locally sourced dining experience like no other 100 people donate $100 to support metro-area charities FRESH START DINNERS

Gina shares two colorful and wholesome recipes for the new year TROVE OF JEWELRY TREASURES

Artisan Bryan Worthley crafts signature silver pieces for locals and celebs

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ADVENTURES IN HOME RENOVATIONS

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JERRY BROWN

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What? You say an exercise goal would be healthier? Hang on. Exercising is dangerous. Seriously. When was the last time you were injured in a restaurant? I’ve never pulled a muscle ordering Shrimp Cargot at Charleston’s. Or thrown my back out wolfing down some Jalapeno Meatloaf from the Meathouse. Statistically, your chances of injury are close to none. I’ve done the research. Although, truth be told – I did bite my lip once really hard at Bricktown Brewery. That was totally my fault. I didn’t properly warm up for $5 pizza night.

If you’re setting healthy goals for 2020, I apologize. Do a couple of reps or squats or some cardio for me. I’ll be right there with you soon enough right after I’m done sampling the new and exciting fares of E-town.

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Dave Miller Back40 Design President

How has your life changed in the last decade?

The wit and wisdom of firsthand experience Jerry’s top secret photography of WWII 20 THINGS IN 2020

Fun facts, trivia and oddities about Edmond

Business

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HALL OF FAME AWARD WINNER ARMSTRONG AUDITORIUM

World class performance center was recently named to TripSavvy’s Hall of Fame

CADENCE EQUESTRIAN

Lesson, camp and training program enters its 14th year

Columns

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LOUISE TUCKER JONES

‘Compliment’ the New Year

ADVERTISING l Laura Beam at 405-301-3926 l laura@edmondoutlook.com MAILED MONTHLY TO 50,000 HOMES IN EDMOND/NORTH OKC 80 East 5th Street, Suite 130, Edmond, OK 73034 l 405-341-5599 l edmondoutlook.com l info@edmondoutlook.com January 2020 Volume 16, Number 1

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Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc.

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© 2020 Back40 Design, Inc.

PUBLISHER Dave Miller l ADVERTISING MANAGER Laura Beam l GRAPHIC DESIGN Adrian Townsend, Anne Richardson l PRODUCTION Rachel Morse PHOTOGRAPHY Marshall Hawkins www.sundancephotographyokc.com l DISTRIBUTION Edmond 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.

LOCALLOOK

Ask Edmond

A New Decade

How has your life changed in the last decade?

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Mandy Neahring Long Associate Project Manager at CFS Brands

Sara Knudsen Realtor/Advisor, Engel & VĂślkers OKC

Colin Michael Plant Operations Manager, Integrity Heat & Air

I have gotten married and became an instant mom, found sobriety, became a Nana, bought a house, started my MBA. My whole life has changed.

In the first part of the decade, I continued my stint as a stayat-home mom. Then I got my real estate license and now am enjoying growing my business in Edmond and the OKC metro.

Since 2010, I have married the love of my life, launched my career, and started a family. Looking forward to another decade of marriage, working, raising my girls, and experiencing all that Edmond has to offer.

Chris Sanford Documentation Specialist, Aero-Space Reports Aircraft Title & Escrow

Christin V. Mugg Attorney, Mugg Winston

Dave Rhea Marketing Director, Law Firm of Phillips Murrah

In the last decade I have met my father and siblings, built my dream car, lost some special people, adopted three dogs, and fell more in love with my wife.

I have gotten divorced, remarried, law firm has grown from three employees to fourteen, moved offices, moved homes, and sang karaoke for the first time!

The past decade entirely reordered my life. I lost a wife and found myself, raised two incredible boys, and changed from journalism to the legal industry. I’m finally happy!

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January Events @visitedmond | visitedmondok.com

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Gallery Opening: Jim Sharp

International Finals Rodeo

5-7 p.m.

Edmond Fine Arts Institute 27 E. Edwards Free

1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Lazy E Arena 9600 Lazy E Dr. $20

International Finals Rodeo

By Lea Terry

Scheduled for January 17-20, the International Finals Rodeo is Oklahoma’s largest professional rodeo, featuring the top 15 contestants from around the world in each of its events. The rodeo concludes the season for the International Professional Rodeo Association, and features team roping, bareback riding, cowgirls’ breakaway roping, cowgirls’ barrel racing, steer wrestling, bull riding, saddle bronc riding and tie-down roping.

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Broadway Tonight: Faith Prince

7:30 p.m.

UCO Mitchell Hall Theater 100 N. University Dr. $35

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Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel

7:30 p.m. (Show starts at 2 p.m. on Sunday) Upstage Theatre 844 W. Danforth Rd. $12 & $18

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David B. Hooten, Trumpeter: The Legends of Dixieland 7:30 p.m.

Armstrong Auditorium 14400 S. Bryant Ave. Tickets: 405-285-1010

Kicker ArenaCross 7:30 p.m.

Lazy E Arena 9600 Lazy E Dr. $18 - $30

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Statewide Youth Impressions Juried Art Show

8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed on Sunday) Downtown Community Center 28 E. Main St. Free 10

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Winter Williams, a junior at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, has competed in the IFR since 2016, making the finals for the first time in 2017. Williams first started roping at age 11, and competed in the International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR) before moving onto the IFR. She said her favorite event by far has been the breakaway roping competition, a type of calf roping in which the calf is roped but not tied or thrown.

Wiliams said her rodeo experience has brought her a lot of opportunities.

“I’ve met a lot of new people and made a lot of new friends,” Williams said.

Founded in 1971, the IFR was originally held at the Convention Center in Tulsa before moving to Oklahoma City in 1991. After being held at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds for several years, it recently relocated to the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, a move that enhances the spectator experience thanks to a close-up view of the action with ample seating close to the arena floor, and lights, video and sound designed to provide an immersive experience. There’s also free parking and plenty of RV hookups.

Ticket prices range from $20 to $35. The IFR will also be livestreamed on Wrangler Network, available online and via mobile app, and on 8 Seconds Radio.

For more information, visit www.lazye.com or www.ipra-rodeo.com/ifr or call (405) 235-6540.

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FOODLOOK FEATURELOOK

By Laura Beam

Livegrass Butcher + Bistro Contemporary Oklahoma cuisine, as fresh as it gets

Chefs Shelby Sieg and Josh Valentine

Farm-to-table cooking achieves a whole new level of freshness when you actually own the farm--and a whole new level of flavor when you farm responsibly. Who knew that raising livestock in a sustainable, humane and environmentally respectful way not only rewards your conscience but your palate as well?

called Contemporary Oklahoma Cuisine.” A peek at the kitchen at Livegrass hints at the deliciousness to come, with a large wood-fired grill and a wood smoker. Best of all, the chefs will be visible as they prepare the food, giving guests a taste of their vibrant, entertaining personalities before perfectly plating each dish.

Get ready, Edmond, for a locally sourced dining experience like no other.

Owners of Pecan Valley Ranch, Mark and Susan Goss, with years of research in their approach to raising superior beef, pork and chicken, will soon treat us to the fruits of their labor. Livegrass Butcher + Bistro will open this month in Edmond. If you like keeping it real with local foods, and doing it in an environment of elevated warmth and comfiness, this is your spot.

Guests will also love the large wine wall and community table where you can’t help but make new friends over superb food and great wine. The refined warmth of the dining room, designed by nationally recognized OKC designer Malia Tate, accented with exquisite woodwork by OKC’s own Jameson Brothers Design, adds to the inviting atmosphere.

Serious Chef Cred

A butcher shop, cooking classes, and chef tasting menus? It’s everything the aspiring foodie needs in their life right now. Livegrass is making it happen by stocking the highest quality beef, pork and chicken. They will also offer “a carefully curated selection of handmade charcuterie, unique pastas, rich stocks and broths, rubs, spices and specialty items to satisfy the most discerning home chef,” Skip notes. And what home cook doesn’t want to hone their skills, even if we never hope to beat Bobby Flay? As Skip says, “You can look forward to classes in the future that will help you improve your own chops (yes, pun intended).”

“We’re all about raising animals to the highest standards, including grassfed, grass-finished beef, but we are even happier that when you follow those principles, the result is deliciousness,” Mark says. And what would the best ingredients be worth without the best chefs to bring out the full goodness of that food? Food TV fans, get pumped and prepare to enjoy the tasty talents of celeb chefs Josh Valentine and Shelby Sieg. “Both OKC chefs are Cordon Bleu trained and have worked in some of the best restaurants in the world,” says Livegrass managing partner Skip McKinstry. “And they are highly committed to the values of Oklahoma farm-to-table cooking.”

If you haven’t enjoyed their cuisine locally, you’ll likely recognize them from their stellar food TV appearances. Josh was a finalist on season 10 of Top Chef and Shelby made the final round of Guy’s Grocery Games in 2018 and went on to actually beat Bobby Flay in 2019--now that’s doing it like a boss!

So what’s for dinner...or lunch or breakfast?

While menus are still top secret, the two expert chefs tell us they are “preparing a celebration and re-imagining of the rich cultural traditions of Oklahoma food--a blend of old favorites and adventurous culinary creations 12

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A foodie paradise

Look for Livegrass Butcher + Bistro opening in January at 3601 E. 2nd Street in Edmond or follow them on Instagram @livegrassok or visit www.livegrassok.com.

Laura Beam is a writer and advertising manager with 25 years in radio, newspaper and magazines.

Connect with her on LinkedIn or Facebook.

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FEATURELOOK

The Power of

provide healthy food to the needy in their community. She was in tears, and it made me cry too,” Callie said.

“When the Care Center won, they didn’t know anything about being nominated,” Nikki said. “We posted it on Facebook and tagged them. They were so taken aback to read that they’d been awarded $10,000, so that was fun.”

The group comes together for one hour, four times a year. Each member who commits to Power of 100 OKC is allowed to nominate an established non-profit of his or her choice. Three names are pulled out of a hopper. The nominator speaks on behalf of the charity, and it’s put to a vote.

By Amy Dee Stephens

“Checks are written to the charity on the spot. It just takes one hour—which is great, because we are busy people who might not have a lot of money or time to volunteer,” Callie said.

It was during an early-morning walk through their Edmond neighborhood that Callie McKinzie and Nikki Griffin decided to start a Power of 100 group. The concept was simple: 100 people donate $100 each and put the full $10,000 toward a metro-area charity.

“We do eat and socialize when we get together, so it’s a fun way to make new friends and give to a common cause,” Nikki said. “Those who can’t afford the $400 a year commitment are able to form teams, although each $100 receives one vote. Power of 100 is always accepting new members. There are no dues, and the events are free, too.”

“We didn’t invent the idea,” said Callie. “I heard about it from a co-worker who had a chapter in another state. I liked the idea of combining our money to make a big impact for a worthy non-profit. So, we promoted it on social media and begged our friends to jump on the bandwagon.”

When that first Power of 100 group assembled to vote, they selected Faithworks of the Inner City as their first charity of choice. Since then, they’ve supported a variety of organizations, from foster care to pet care, from food pantries to cancer fighters. The non-profits, who have no idea they are about to receive such a generous donation, are always surprised and grateful.

“I remember how powerful it was when the Manna Pantry in Yukon won.

One of their volunteers was in attendance. She talked about their mission to

“The events are also a great way to get a sneak peek into the various nonprofits in the area,” Callie said. “Once we award a charity, we deliver the checks and take a tour.

Callie and Nikki take great satisfaction in the fact that in less than two years, they’ve helped generate nearly $70,000 for local charities. Now, when they take their morning walks, they are discussing the site of their next event and the impacts yet to be made. “We’ve touched a lot of different types of groups, from babies to seniors,” Callie said. “We have strength in numbers. It’s the Power of 100.”

For more info visit www.powerof100okc.org.

Be sure to follow us @edmondoutlook.

Nikki Griifin and Callie McKinzie

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FRESHLOOK FOODLOOK

Fresh Start Dinners

I always feel disappointment after the holidays are over, but it’s quickly swallowed up in the excitement surrounding a new year full of fresh starts. This month, I wanted to share two recipes that represent how I hope to describe my new year: colorful, wholesome, and satisfying. What’s great about my scallop and herb pasta is that the zucchini noodles aren’t necessarily included to lower guilt, they add a pleasant texture to the dish.

And the chicken fingers are a favorite because they’re crispy and munch-able even though they’re baked rather than fried.

Scallop and Herb Pasta • • • • • •

1/3 c corn oil + extra for scallops 10 oz zucchini noodles 1/4 c shallots, finely chopped 1/4 c parsely, chopped 1 lb cherry tomatoes 3 cloves garlic smashed

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10 oz linguine 15-20 scallops 1 lemon, halved 1/4 cup basil, chopped salt & pepper

Instructions: Pat scallops dry and let sit at room temp. Cook linguine according to instructions. Place a large pan over med-high heat with 1/3 cup oil. Once oil is hot, add the garlic and shallots. Stir about a minute until garlic is fragrant.

Add the tomatoes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper. Once the tomatoes have all popped, add the zucchini noodles and toss. Cook 3-4 minutes. Toss in the linguine and herbs. Taste, and add salt and pepper as desired. Set aside.

Place a heavy pan over high heat with about 2 Tbs of oil. Once hot, add the scallops. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook 2 minutes on each side and remove. Place pasta in bowls and top each with 4-5 scallops. Squeeze lemon juice over each dish, garnish with parsley.

Coconut Crusted Chicken Fingers • • • • •

2 lbs chicken tenders, sliced to half thinness 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 c panko bread crumbs 2 c unsweetened coconut flakes Sweet Thai chili sauce for dipping

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1 c flour 2 c buttermilk 2 large eggs, whisked 2 tsp salt

Instructions: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt and pepper. Place chicken tenders in the mixture and set in fridge for 2 hours.

Heat oven to 350F and line two pans with aluminum foil. Prepare 3 shallow bowls. Place the flour in one, the eggs in another, and combine the panko and coconut in the last. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then the egg, then the coconut mixture, and place on a baking sheet. Bake 20-25 minutes or until the center of the chicken reaches 165F. Turn oven to low broil and place each pan on the highest rack for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them until they reach your desired level of brown before removing. Serve with sweet Thai chili sauce. Serves 5-6 16

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Gina is a long-time food blogger, Back40 Design web developer, professional eater, and new resident of Oklahoma. Find more of her recipes on her Instagram @gina.chong.

Be sure to follow us @edmondoutlook.

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FEATURELOOK

Trove of Jewelry Treasures

By Amy Dee Stephens

Bryan Worthley started designing jewelry for himself, because the men’s accessory market was made of either high-end designer pieces or “cheesy skulls,” without much in the middle. He now owns Trove Jewelry Co., and he designs jewelry that he describes as “rugged, aged-looking pieces that are not as refined as fine jewelry, but still highquality.”

His work has caught celebrity attention. “I was working at an art show in Tulsa. My brothers started talking to a guy, and I thought, from his conversation, that he was one of the backstage roadies for the band playing in the arena,” Bryan said. “He bought some of my jewelry for himself, and then he said he was also buying gifts for Kenny Chesney and Jake Owens. As he was leaving, he handed me some concert tickets to come see him perform.

It was Chase Rice! Although I didn’t recognize his face, I knew some of his songs.”

Chase Rice, country music performer, purchased an anchor pendant and a cannon pendant from Bryan to add to the dog tag necklace that he regularly wears to honor his late father, a military man. The anchor and canon are seen in several photographs of Chase Rice and made the cover of one of his singles.

It was an exciting and flattering moment for the artisan, who takes satisfaction in creating silver jewelry that is meaningful. Bryan enjoys designing signature pieces that symbolize a cause or serve as a daily reminder for people. One customer asked for the canon piece to be custom-designed into a cigar cutter on the end, and that has become a popular request in his men’s line. Last year, he added a women’s line of birthstone charms and “grandma monograms” under the name Sentiment Silver Works.

Bryan initially became involved with jewelry design in high school when he was making seed bead and hemp necklaces for his friends. During college, he worked at a Texas jewelry store called Gholson Originals. The owner taught him much about the craft of jewelry-making, and Bryan began investing in equipment. He moved to Oklahoma City, and then Edmond, where he set up his studio.

“I didn’t have my style nailed down at that point, but I was creating prototypes and starting to sell at art shows. I won’t say I was a starving artist, because I’ve been too blessed— but I did design my trade show booth to fit in one half of my truck’s camper shell. I slept in the other half so that I wouldn’t have to buy a hotel room.”

Bryan Worthley

Over the last eight years, Bryan has gradually increased his online sales.

Although he still takes on odd jobs, he’s basically designing jewelry full-time out of his studio. “It’s a barn that I basically work and live out of—but I’d like to open a storefront studio soon.” In the meantime, he’s using the quiet time at his workbench to listen to audio books and watch documentaries about creativity and business practices.

“My customers always comment that my designs are different than commercial products and very affordable. More men, and not just bikers, are accessorizing with necklaces, bracelets, rings, and occupational charms.

They want significant pieces that make a statement. Doors keep opening up for me, and honestly, it’s because I’m making stuff that I would want to wear.”

For more info visit www.trovejewelryco.com or www.sentimentsilverworks.com 18

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FEATURELOOK

By Mustafa Kujo

Adventures in Home Remodeling When my wife and I moved back into our Edmond home in 2017, we knew it would take a lot of work to make our house livable again. The house was built in 1978, we bought it in 2003, lived in it for a few years, then it became a rental until I retired from the Air Force in 2017.

my contractor hadn’t paid him yet. My only leverage was the 10% I hadn’t paid. The kitchen was finally completed (I withheld payment until I received lien releases from all subs) and the contractor is now bankrupt…no surprise there.

I’m the first to admit that I am not a handyman. I flew AWACS for 30 years, planned air campaigns, and amassed over 1000 combat hours. But I can’t lay tile, or plumb a sink, and please don’t ask me to fishhook electrical wiring behind drywall.

Insist on a detailed breakdown of costs in the bid and the scope of work in the contract

I hire people…professionals that know what they’re doing. Over the past two years I’ve hired contractors to: put up new siding; install 22 new windows and 4 doors; build a 1000 sq ft deck; remodel a kitchen, four bathrooms, a bedroom, the living room, and an attic. Here’s what I’ve learned.

Find and hire the right person

This would seem intuitively obvious. I commanded small & large outfits in the Air Force and hiring the right person for the job was oftentimes my main job. Finding the right contractor was infinitely more difficult. I used AngiesList, Houzz, Homeadvisor, Google, Yelp…all of the wonderful tools available on a computer. In the end, I found the best people the old-fashioned way - recommendations from friends and neighbors…and other good contractors. If you find a contractor you like, ask them for recommendations.

Good contractors like to work with each other.

Never pay in advance

Our first major job was the kitchen remodel. Our kitchen was still 1970s vintage with an original, built in Amana Radarange. These days I like to tell people that we have a $30K kitchen that cost me $45K. After an extensive internet search, numerous bids, interviews, and checking of references, I hired a company with a slick office, replete with cabinet displays, tiles, sinks, countertops, etc. Upon signing the contract, they wanted 50% up front, another 40% at the mid-point of the remodel, and the final 10% upon final inspection.

It was a disaster. Our kitchen took nine months to complete. Weeks would go by and I’d never hear from the contractor. Sub-contractors complained about the general contractor, and one of the subs put a lien on my house because 20

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I finally found an awesome general contractor after asking our siding guy for recommendations. The difference in the bids and contract that he gave me compared to our kitchen contractor was astounding. He broke down and finely detailed all costs, the scope of work for demolition, electrical, painting, hauling off debris, framing, cabinetry work, dry wall, tiles, etc. He also took NO MONEY UP FRONT. We set up a payment schedule based on phasing of work completed. I hired him for every other job in my house!

Make allowances in your budget and schedule for changes

No contract survives first contact with the sledgehammer. Especially for older homes, there will always be unanticipated changes once you find out what is behind the wall or above the ceiling. And you will likely want to change things as you see the work progress, maybe different fixtures, lighting changes, materials, etc. So…

Keep the lines of communication open and clear with your contractor

They should ALWAYS freely and easily explain to you what they are doing and why…if not, they may be the wrong contractor. If the changes are made, have them draft a contract addendum detailing the scope of the change and the cost. Both of you should sign a copy.

Make the best of the turmoil

We’ve had strangers destroy and rebuild parts of our home on and off for 20 months. It’s not very pleasant to have dust everywhere, hammering, sawing, and drilling, but we kept our eye on the future by going out to eat, going to the movies often, and planning the guest list for Thanksgiving dinners. No matter the job, remember that it will have an eventual end date.

Be sure to follow us @edmondoutlook.

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BIZLOOK

Armstrong Auditorium

By Maria Veres

Anyone who has attended a performance at Armstrong Auditorium knows what a treasure this venue is. Now the world beyond Oklahoma knows it too.

Top of the World Armstrong Auditorium was recently named to TripSavvy’s Hall of Fame. It is one of only 200 destinations worldwide to achieve that honor. The award goes to attractions that receive the highly selective Editor’s Choice designation two years running.

“We were notified by letter. I had to read it a couple of times before it sank in,” says Armstrong’s marketing director Shane Granger.

The honorees were chosen from among more than 60,000 destinations across the globe. TripSavvy’s

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writers and staff personally visited and vetted the top choices before naming the winners.

The award is only the latest in a string of honors for the organization. Armstrong Auditorium won the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association’s Redbud Award for “Outstanding New Attraction” in 2014. The Armstrong International Cultural Foundation’s archaeology exhibit “Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered” received the 2019 Central Oklahoma Frontier Country Awards for “Outstanding Temporary Exhibit”.

Building from the Ground Up The Armstrong Performing Arts Series has come a long way in twenty-one years. Its first concert was held in a business condo complex. “I think we could squeeze about fifty or sixty people in that room,” says Shane. “But the vision was big.”

The series progressed to rented spaces around the OKC metro as it grew. In 2010 the foundation’s sponsor, Philadelphia Church of God, opened the multi-purpose Armstrong Auditorium and the series moved to its permanent home. The series now features world-renowned performers across many genres. Upcoming concerts this season include Ballet Folclorico de Mexico, the

(seated) Concert Manager Ryan Malone, (left) Marketing Dir. Shane Granger, and (right) VP Wayne Turgeon showing Armstrong Auditorium’s TripSavvy Award.

Siberian State Symphony Orchestra, and the vocal ensemble Chanticleer.

Shane is pleased with the honors that have come Armstrong’s way, but the goal has never been to win awards. “We work very hard to be customer focused,” says Shane. “We’re honored that more people are finding out about us.”

The Armstrong Auditorium is located at 14400 South Bryant Road in Edmond. To view the performance schedule or purchase tickets, visit armstrongauditorium.org.

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BIZLOOK

Cadence Equestrian Center

By Maria Veres

Starting its 14th year in business in February, Cadence Equestrian Center has grown to be the leading lesson, camp, and training program in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

Achieving a Dream The Center was started in early 2007 when Owner, Christina Buchanan saw a need in the community to offer a place for children to learn to ride and learn about horses in a safe and family-friendly environment, as well as a topnotch boarding and training facility.

“It was actually a dream of mine since I was a young girl to own and operate a horse facility,” said Buchanan. “For as long as I can remember I wanted to have a place where people could enjoy horses and learn to ride.”

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Christina earned a Bachelor of Science at OSU and worked in the field of Public Relations and Development for many years. When both her daughters followed her passion and became extremely involved in riding and showing, it launched her into the decision to finally pursue that long-ago dream by purchasing the 50 acre property in northeast Edmond that is now Cadence.

Today, Christina’s oldest daughter Rebecca is a USHJA Certified Trainer & Instructor at the facility and a vital component to the management and operation of the facility.

Bringing the Joy of Horses to Everyone Lessons and camps are the heartbeat of Cadence, but the Center offers much more including professional training, boarding, horse shows, and birthday parties.

The Cadence Riding Academy is the largest in the state of Oklahoma with 35 school horses and seven professional instructors specializing in the English hunt-seat discipline.

The Center meets high standards of excellence.

It is certified and recognized by the United States Hunter Jumper Association, and is also a Time To Ride Program Facility. Most recently the Cadence Riding Academy also became

A student rider at Cadence Equestrian Center

a Pony Club Riding Center. The facility and instructors had to meet strict requirements to earn these distinctions, including their instructors having Safe Sport certifications.

“Kids today can have a tough time with social media and electronics,” says Christina. When you come to Cadence all of the electronics go away and they can just be around nature and around horses.”

The biggest reward of her work is seeing the impact that horses have on the students. “Just being around these big, beautiful animals is life changing, she says. “It is really powerful being able to see the positive influence horses have on both kids and adults.”

Visit Cadence Equestrian Center at 14150 S. Pine Street or cadenceequestrian.com.

FEATURELOOK

Jerry’s Top Secret Photography of WWII

By Amy Dee Stephens

Jerry Brown, age 98, remembers World War II in vivid detail. She was doing top secret work developing aerial photographs taken by bomber planes. These photographs allowed the military to determine if an air strike was successful or not. Back then, it took days, not moments, to determine if a battle went as planned. Jerry was the one who held the photographic evidence in her hand.

On August 6, 1945, when the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, Jerry’s Army Photo Intelligence team was waiting with armed security at the Pentagon, anticipating the photo footage. They had to wait 24 hours for the plane to cross the ocean and deliver the negatives.

rolls of film were huge, 10x10” with 360 negatives per roll, because once a plane loaded and left, you couldn’t stop and change film mid-flight,” Jerry said.

Jerry found the work exhilarating, although she confesses to a high level of optimism, even during the darkest of times. “And I spent a lot of time in the dark,” Jerry quipped, referring to her time developing in the dark room.

Jerry already had her teaching degree when she enlisted in the Women’s Army Corp. During the war, she was one of many women who entered the workplace as men shipped overseas. For a Chickasaw woman to receive such high military training and clearance would have been unheard of a decade before. Jerry remembers wearing military-issued dresses made of white-and-green striped fabric, complete with bloomers. “Bloomers are like a pair of shorts, except they have elastic at the bottom. That way, if you bent over a bunch of negatives at work, you weren’t ‘exposed.’”

“It was intense,” Jerry said. “We had to develop the negatives with just the right amount of light to burn through the smoke and the clouds to get to the ground images and find the devastation. I said, ‘Come here, look at this!’ Everyone gathered around, because these photos were so important.

If the photo showed that the bomb didn’t hit the target, a pilot might have to risk his life to go bomb it again.”

The photographs revealed the entire process of the bomb dropping, followed by the mushroom cloud, and then the damage. Although it was rare for her photographs to reach public view, these were released to newspapers the next day. Jerry describes each step of the work she did 75 years ago in incredible detail. Back then, a “mapper” plane was first sent to do a research flyover and take informational photos of an area. Based on the images, the next plane could then bomb the right spot.

The planes had three cameras attached to their “bellies.” One angled left, one angled right and one was centered. All three cameras lined up so that together, they made a continuous photo, much like a panoramic photo. “The 26

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Jerry Brown

It is likely Jerry’s sense of humor has contributed to her long life. “I learned early on, when my father was killed, that you could make good out of bad things or let them ruin you. Being in the military was great for me. I traveled the United States and did exciting work.”

Jerry has survived everyone in her squadron. “And I’m going to be very mad if I don’t make it to 100-years-old, after making it this long!” she declared. At this point, she’s the only remaining person left with a first-hand memory of the aerial view of that first atomic bomb, because even the pilots who actually dropped the bomb from the Enola Gay B-29 bomber are also gone. Fortunately, photographic evidence of that moment in history will exist into the future—and it’s because of Jerry’s efforts.

Be sure to follow us @edmondoutlook.

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27

ALOOKBACK

‘Compliment ’ the New Year

By Louise Tucker Jones

Many years ago, I received a compliment that changed my life. It wasn’t earth shattering. In fact, the benefactor probably had no idea her words touched me so deeply. But as a 15-year-old girl on the threshold of becoming a young woman, it made a world of difference.

Growing up, I was one of those little girls that today I would call “slender.” But others called me “skinny.” And in most folk’s eyes, even mine, I was exactly that. I realize today that no harm was meant by such comments, but to me it meant I wasn’t pretty.

Fortunately, my schoolteachers thought I was smart and my family and close friends loved me so my ego was not damaged. But as teenager, I

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wanted to look in the mirror and see a reflection of something that said, “Pretty.”

Attending a small country school definitely has its advantages and on one particular day, when a teacher had only a handful of girls in her class, she decided to give us lessons in “poise and posture.” She took us to the hall and stairwell and instructed us how to walk with poise and grace.

“Don’t bounce down those stairs,” she exclaimed, as we jogged up and down the steps. “You glide down the stairs.”

Then one by one, she stood us against the cloakroom wall as we sucked in our tummies and held our shoulders back until we stood with perfect posture. When she walked over to me, she gently pushed my shoulders to the wall and lifted my chin, then stood back and remarked, “You have a darling figure!”

What! Me! A darling figure! No, I was the skinny one. At least that’s what I thought. But somehow she helped me to see myself differently. I learned a great lesson that day. When you change your inward thinking, your attitude and outward actions follow.

Louise at 15 years old

I’ve never forgotten that teacher or her words.

It’s been said that one compliment can impact a person for life. With this New Year upon us, let’s resolve to bless others with heartfelt compliments.

It just might change someone’s life. It did mine.

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

20 in 2020:

The John Steen family

Edmond legend has it that college students snuck

was the first and only family to have lived in Edmond from 1897 until the 1889 Land Run. The Steens lived in the pump house that serviced the railroad.

a cow up the bell tower of

Highlighted Edmond as the #1 City in America for “Worktirement” Worktirement

(1947-67) was located above the movie theater in downtown where Othello’s is now located. Men could watch a movie downstairs while their wives gave birth upstairs.

Arcadia Lake was the last lake

constructed in the state of Oklahoma. The lake opened in 1987. Its three main purposes are flood control, water resource, and recreation.

Our Medical Marijuana Stats 55 Dispensaries 37 Growers 19 Processors

Edmond is home to two Statue of Liberty replicas. Only 200 were issued and

Edmond is home to one of only three US

The National Guard armory at 4th &

Boulevard served many purposes before becoming a museum. The drill hall once served as an indoor roller skating rink on the weekends in the 1950s and 60s.

Darci Lynn Farmer won first

place in Edmond’s talent show before winning NBCs America’s Got Talent in 2017. Look for an exhibit featuring the Edmond area ventriloquist this spring at the Edmond Historical Museum.

Edmond high schools

raised $1.6 million for their selected charities in 2019.

2nd busiest Panera location in the United States. Our location is

second only to New York City’s Times Square location.

81 ribbon cuttings in 2019

Stephenson Park is the

oldest park in Edmond, first established in 1892. Originally called “South Park,” it was renamed for City Manager Fred M. Stephenson in 1934.

Edmond is home to the The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce conducted

Broadway into Boulevard and Boulevard into Broadway...

can be defined as aging workers scaling back their hours or taking on a less stressful job.

sold for the Boy Scouts of America 40th Anniversary in 1950. The first statue was damaged, so it was retired to the Edmond Historical Society & Museum. A replica was cast and now stands at Boulevard and 2nd Street.

Edmond’s first hospital

This sign magically turns

Old North in 1909.

Edmond’s first auto

was reportedly purchased and owned by Dr. O’Toole in 1905. The vehicle was described as an 8-horse power gasoline engined Tonneau runabout (July 20, 1905 edition of the Edmond Enterprise).

Edmond Facts, Oddities and Trivia

Chamber 5-Star Accredited Chambers in Oklahoma.

In 1906 the City Council mandated a

speed limit of 5 miles an hour in town.

Edmond Memorial High School 2019 Swine Week raised a history breaking $587,952 for the Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County.

The center of Gracelawn Cemetery

was designed in the shape of a wagon wheel. The graves inside each spoke-shaped area were reserved to honor the 1889er settlers.

Back40 is 20!

Edmond’s web and digital marketing agency turns 20 years young in 2020.

20 Thank yous to Edmond Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Economic Development Authority, Edmond City Councilman Josh Moore and Edmond Historical Society & Museum 30

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