March 2024

A New Stage

The National Merit Nine

Darci Lynne

ESPN Photographer

Reese’s Broadway Tour

What am I gonna do with this huge Back40 sign that hangs on our building over at Covell and Kelly? I suppose it could be repurposed as a coffee table.

Back in 2019, in my infinite wisdom, I bought, gutted, and remodeled a building to house my digital marketing agency and the Edmond Outlook. The remodel turned out awesome—we had a large open space for collaboration, a 25-foot whiteboard, seven offices, a full-sized eat-in kitchen, a patio, and two conference rooms (cause that’s how people used to meet back then). We moved in at the end of 2019. We were a team of nearly 20 designers, developers, and marketing professionals. It went well for about three months…

Then Covid happened and I sent everyone home to work remotely. Most never came back. Over the years, our in-office staff has been reduced to a designer, a developer, a project manager, and me— in 3,500 square feet. The rest of the team is remote. We’ve adjusted. And it's time for someone else to make use of this building because we clearly aren’t.

Our new location is over at Kelley Pointe. It’s a nice space, perfect for what we need now, but sadly no place to hang that big ol’ sign.

Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President

Gerald Leong is a freelance photographer for some of the biggest sports organizations in America: National Basketball Association (NBA), ESPN, and the College Football Playoffs. Ironically, he knew little about sports when he moved to America from Malaysia in 2016.

A recruiter from the University of Central Oklahoma had visited Gerald’s school and intrigued him with the idea of a photography degree. Gerald moved to America with the dream of becoming an architectural photographer. Sports was not even on Gerald’s radar until he started taking athletic photos for the student newspaper, The Vista.

“Malaysia doesn’t have high-level professional athletics, so except for playing some badminton, I knew little about American sports. My friends and clients think it’s funny that I’m not into sports. I don’t have a favorite team or players. Before a game, I usually ask which jersey number to be on the lookout for,” Gerald said. “To me, it’s not about being a fan, it’s about taking good photos.”

On the Field

With a college portfolio filled with sports images, Gerald interned in Florida photographing high school competitions and golf. His next assignment brought him to Oklahoma, assisting a photographer covering athletics at the University of Oklahoma.

“Being on the field, watching the game in real time, is exciting,” Gerald said. “It’s pretty chaotic. I can hear the players breathing and smack talking, and sometimes I feel the wind go past me when a ball comes too close.”

While sports photography has an elevated degree of danger compared to photographing buildings, Gerald believes that his initial focus on architecture gave him a good “eye” for framing. “Architectural photography is slow; sports is fast. You have just one moment to capture the action,” Gerald said, “but I use the same philosophy with both, by finding the leading line that draws attention to the main thing you want people to see.”

Teamwork for the Team

Gerald’s ability to photograph in a variety of situations has earned him a full-time career as a photographer for UCO, where he captures important moments on campus, from marketing images to the activities of President Todd Lamb. “Making UCO look good is my main commitment,” Gerald said. “Luckily, I have a flexible schedule that allows me to freelance on the side.”

Gerald has had an array of after-hours jobs, such as taking headshots for the San Antonio Spurs team roster and making photo edits for ESPN during College Softball World Series. He even did an hour-long photo session with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who co-owns the United Football League.

During National Championship games, Gerald works with a team of up to 15 other photographers. The stadium is set up with Ethernet cords at each end, so if Gerald captures a key moment or a “headliner shot,” he rushes to edit and submit it.

“I immediately get tingly goosebumps when I know I got a winning shot!” Gerald said. “I say, ‘Yeah!’ to the camera in front of my face. And about five minutes later, it hits social media.”

For Gerald, photography is a dream job that provides him with a high level of action and a chance to travel. “I’m grateful for this career, which I couldn’t have had in Malaysia. I’m happy to do my part for the team,” Gerald said, “and hopefully, someday I might earn a role as a photographer for a World Cup or even the Olympics.”

To see more, follow Gerald on Instagram at @Geraldtheleong or on his website leonggerald.com.

Sports Photographer Makes the Big League

By Amy Dee Stephens

Photo by Abigail Dean

The Frosted Mug Bar & Grill

By Laura Beam

Like that favorite restaurant you discovered on your last vacation, The Frosted Mug entertains you with an electric atmosphere while satisfying your every food craving. Now open for a year in Edmond, the lively neighborhood sports bar is owned and operated by a few Edmond locals who are passionate about excellent food, superb drinks, and the coldest beer in town. It’s built right into the name, with all mugs served frosted to deliver the ultimate-tasting beer.

Food Meets Fun

Inspired by visits to restaurants, bars, and grills across America, the owners sought to bring the best of all those places into one unforgettable spot. “We wanted to create the feeling of being on vacation all the time, a place you don’t want to leave,” says co-owner Chad Shoemaker. With food and drink specials on tap nearly every day of the week, live trivia with a comical host, live music on weekends, live music bingo, and made-from-scratch brunch with a Bloody Mary bar on Saturday and Sunday, this hot neighborhood spot has something for everyone. Visitors also enjoy the Golden Tee arcades, shuffleboard, kids vending machines, a photo booth, and Touch Tunes to choose all the best songs. And the excitement doesn’t stop inside. A spacious patio offers comfy seating, TVs, Jenga, and Cornhole.

If there is an occasion to be celebrated, you can bet The Frosted Mug has it covered! Fans flock in during March Madness to enjoy all the games on countless large-screen TVs. And there’s no better place to meet friends for a St. Patrick’s Day party with food and drink specials and prize drawings.

At the center of it all, a massive 60-person bar illuminates and enlivens the scene. Here, the engaging and friendly staff serve up their popular Espresso Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Frozen Jack and Cokes, and Strawberry Lemonade Vodka

Cocktails. A large selection of whiskeys and bourbons and 28 beer taps are always crowd-pleasers too.

Game-Changing Menu

A collaboration among experienced chefs and the business partners, and lots of food tastings, helped develop the diverse menu. “We are very proud of our delectable food that has gotten even tastier and more varied since we opened,” Shoemaker comments. In addition to top choice items like hand-cut tender steaks, fish and chips, Philly Cheesesteaks, chicken fried steak, gourmet burgers, fried chicken, grilled salmon, Southwest Egg Rolls, and their famous wings, impressive new items are continually making their menu debut. Sweet potato waffle fries, shrimp scampi, the Black and Blue Burger, mac and cheese, and made-from-scratch soups are all popular newcomers.

Whether you want to hang out with friends, entertain the kids, catch the latest sports event, or just grab a great lunch or dinner, The Frosted Mug is right in the neighborhood and ready to serve. There’s something fun brewing every day of the week with Mule Monday and Kids Eat Free on Monday, Taco and Tecate Tuesday, Whiskey Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, and Friday Steak Night. “We strive to be a top-notch establishment, a place you can’t wait to tell your friends about and come back to again and again,” Shoemaker says.

Visit 1333 N. Santa Fe Ave. in Edmond or frostedmugedmond.com. Online orders, pick up, delivery, and catering are available.

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

photo provided

Darci Lynn e : A New Stage

By Amy Dee Stephens

Darci Lynne Farmer was just 12-years old when she charmed audiences on the America’s Got Talent (AGT) stage. Her mastery of ventriloquism was a surprise, but her versatility as a singer who could yodel, sing opera, croon jazz, and belt country music—with her mouth closed—helped seal her win on AGT in 2017.

Last May, the hometown celebrity graduated from Deer Creek High School. While she’s trying to forge her way into a music career, her audience is trying to adjust to the fact that she’s no longer 12. “I’m like any other 19-year-old trying to figure out life,” Darci Lynne said. Unlike most 19-year-olds, however, she spent her teen years touring the country, headlining in Vegas, making television appearances, and co-starring in the 2022 movie, A Cowgirl’s Song.

The AGT Stage

In February, Darci Lynne was invited for one of many repeat performances on the AGT stage, this time as a Fantasy League contestant. “It was crazy different being on that stage from when I was 12,” Darci Lynne said. “Back then, I had no expectations of where it might lead. It feels different now.”

Against the judge’s advice, Darci Lynne began to ease away from her puppets, and on February 5th, she boldly walked onto the stage by herself and introduced the world to the release of her first solo single, “Push Our Luck.” Although some reacted with dismay, most applauded her decision to embrace her next stage as a performer. “I’m not closing the door on puppets, but I am opening another door and trying something new,” Darci Lynne said.

“It was crazy different being on that stage from when I was 12.”

The Experimental Stage

Darci Lynne grew up loving a broad range of musical styles, which she shared through the personalities of her puppets. During the pandemic, she began learning piano and guitar, and she experimented with composing. Shortly afterward, she met Oklahoma recording artists Maggie McClure and Shane Henry during the filming of A Cowgirl’s Song. With their help, one of her songs, “Just Breathe,” was added to the soundtrack.

The team also helped her bring “Push Our Luck” to the finish line, along with Nashville sound engineer, Stephen Leiweke. The song’s coming-of-age storyline is based on the true-life experience of when Darci Lynne and her former boyfriend pushed the curfew boundary. The song clearly leans into her love of country music, but Darci Lynne is not ready to be locked into the genre just yet.

“One day I’ll write a country rock song, and the next day I’m writing soulful pop,” Darci Lynne said. “Honestly, my songs just come out of me, based on things that I’ve experienced. I’m still figuring out which sound I like best.”

The Grounding Stage

Recently, Darci Lynne and her best friend moved into their own place. “We didn’t realize how hard it was to live on our own, but we’re learning together,” Darci Lynne said. Although she plans to visit Nashville and immerse herself in the music scene more often, she loves her Oklahoma roots.

During the last seven years, Darci Lynne has earned many fans but also faced tough criticisms. She has relied on her biggest cheerleaders, her parents, to keep her grounded. “I grew up in a faith-based family, and that’s been crucial to getting through some hard times. My personal faith is a huge part of who I am and who I’m becoming.”

Darci Lynne made it clear during her last AGT performance that she’s adding singer/ songwriter to her talent roster, and she’s willing to take risks for her future, a move that even Simon Cowell complimented. As Darci Lynne finished belting out her song, leaving no doubt that she was proud of her adult performance, she flashed the same sparkling smile she showed as a 12-year-old. It reminded viewers that she may be growing up, but she’s still Darci Lynne.

“I don’t always understand it, but God placed me in entertainment for a reason, and I find peace in that. I couldn’t be more blessed.”

Darci Lynne’s song “Push Our Luck” (and future songs) are available on Apple Music.

Photo by Joseph McClure

The National Merit Nine A Record-Setting Class from Crossings Christian School

By Taylor Bollinger

Of the 1.6 million juniors who take the PSAT each year, only one percent will qualify as National Merit Semifinalists. The numbers make it look like a long shot, but for nine Crossings Christian School (CCS) students, it was the next achievement in an altogether illustrious academic career.

Not only did each of the nine seniors qualify as semifinalists, they were all selected as National Merit Finalists. The implications of this accomplishment are incredible, earning the students full-ride scholarships to 27 colleges, including The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, University of Tulsa, and Oklahoma Christian University.

The National Merit Scholars from the CCS senior class are pictured above,

“My parents are really happy I’m going to Tulsa for free,” joked Will, one of the nine finalists. While many of the students said this accomplishment was a byproduct of their other academic achievements, Allison said for her, it was a specific goal. “I am grateful for the teachers who have pushed me to reach past my limits and achieve my full potential,” she said.

National Merit Scholars have to be academically gifted but are also intentional students.

Will Sutton, Brandon Daniel, Jake Williams, Dennis Daniel, Allison Hickey, Braden Asbury, Shawn Bebee, Ben Power, Nate Rouse. CCS Director of College and Academic Counseling, Keri Shields, offered insight into the shared characteristics that set these students up for success.

“National Merit Scholars have to be academically gifted but are also intentional students,” she said. “They understand that high effort yields high rewards. Interestingly, our National Merit recipients are also actively involved in either athletics, fine arts, or both.”

Keri was right. The multitasking amongst this group of students is vast. While talking with the students, their lists of extracurricular activities quickly added up: jazz band, National Honor Society, Academic Team, football, class chaplain, cross country, the school’s mental health awareness group, and more. When it comes to future plans, engineering emerged as the most popular path to pursue, with many already settled on a college and degree program.

Many students listed curiosity and a love for learning as contributing qualities to their success. “A big part of it was just a curiosity to learn, taking advanced classes whenever you have the chance, and having great teachers who make the process fun,” Will said. Others, like Brandon, recommended practical steps like SAT and PSAT prep courses to students hoping to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. A common thread is the learning environment CCS creates for many students throughout their school years. “The outcome of nine National Merit Finalists in this year's graduating class at Crossings Christian School is not the result of an intense effort over a year or even a handful of years,” said Head of School, Dr. Jason Nave.

“It is the culmination of an extended, well-developed process of curriculum design, informal and formal assessment, best teaching practices, strong study habits, invested students and parents, a supportive and encouraging student body, and dedicated teachers who have consistently delivered the mission of our school. We are exceptionally proud of these students and their accomplishments. It takes years and years to arrive at this level of achievement.”

Though no one knows exactly what the future will hold for these students, Keri put it best. “Understanding that less than 1% achieve this feat should help them realize that there are no limits to what they can achieve.”

from left to right:

photo provided

Left to right: Will Sutton, Brandon Daniel, Jake Williams, Dennis Daniel, Allison Hickey, Braden Asbury, Shawn Bebee, Ben Power, Nate Rouse

Dancing Across America

Reese Spencer

Embarks on a National Broadway Tour

By Taylor Bollinger

Reese Spencer started dancing at five years old and hasn’t stopped since. But now, rather than joining her Edmond North pom team on the floor, or taking first in the Oklahoma State Pom Solo competition, she joins the cast of “Jesus Christ Superstar” each night as part of the show’s North American tour.

This break came after two years of New York living, where Reese was on scholarship at NYC’s Pace University as part of their commercial dance program. “Attending Pace felt like a huge first step,” Reese explained. “It was so exciting living in the city, having access to all of the auditions, and constantly learning and meeting new people.”

Regularly responding to casting calls was part of Reese’s pursuit of experience and exposure. “There are even online submissions, which is what I did for this role,” she said. “I sent my information, and some dance and singing footage.” Shortly after, she was on to the next

long dance history to pick up the choreography at such a fast pace, but submersion into the new schedule and culture still came as a slight shock.

“I am used to picking up choreography pretty quickly,” she said. “But with this being such a huge production, I was sort of shocked at the rehearsal process being only one month. But when you are working with professionals with this much talent, it makes sense that they move quickly.”

Reese Spencer as the "Mob Leader" during rehearsal of "Jesus Christ Superstar" in New York City

Dance photo by Lee Gumbs

Reese calls the experience exhilarating. “Every week is different. There are some performance schedules where we are staying in one city for a week or two, and then some like this week, when we travel to a new city each day and perform every night.”

The show itself is high-energy, and the show’s choreographer, Drew McOnie says it was “made to exhaust.” Reese described the importance of staying fueled and fit for the tour. “It is one and a half hours straight of singing and dancing. Considering how physically demanding it is, I make sure that I am eating enough, getting enough sleep, and really stretching and preparing my body before each show to exude as much energy as I can while also staying safe.”

Reese credits her castmates for making the experience as exciting as it is. “It is really inspiring to be around this group of people. I remember when I first got to rehearsals, I was blown away by the talent. They are just a really fun group to be around and learn from.”

Now making a living as a professional dancer, Reese is living the dream many dancers share, but fewer pursue. To those aspiring artists, Reese says to take the first step. “A lot of people say, ‘Oh yeah, I’d love to do that.’ But they think it seems too far-fetched and get scared away from pursuing it. Just take the first step – whether it be moving to NYC or submitting your first audition. Once you move out of your comfort zone, that automatically puts you ahead of everyone else who is scared to do it.”

See Reese in action and follow her journey on Instagram at @ReeseSpencer_.

Oklahoma Christian University

By Maria Veres

Combining spiritual values, academic excellence, and a caring family atmosphere, Oklahoma Christian University has shaped Christian leaders since 1950. "We are a Kingdom university. We are a place where students can develop a deeper relationship with Christ and Christian values are shared," says Dr. Ken Jones, President of OC.

Growing Academic and Spiritual Leaders

Along with an outstanding education, OC offers a close-knit community. With just over 2,000 students, it’s a place where

teachers know their students by name and pray for them daily. “You aren’t just a number,” says Melinda Brookshire, whose son is a freshman at OC this year.

Many of OC’s academic programs have a well-deserved reputation for excellence. The education and nursing schools have a near 100% job placement rate, and the gaming and animation program is one of the top in the nation.

OC’s mission statement reflects the Christian values that shape its ministry: “As a community of surrendered followers of Jesus and with a commitment to expand His kingdom, Oklahoma Christian University educates, mentors and inspires learners to fulfill their God-given potential.”

Making a Difference

"We are very driven to make an impact on the community and the world," adds Dr. Jones. Students have many opportunities for service, from volunteering in the community to group outreaches with social service clubs.

Local residents are always welcome to enjoy OC’s many performances, art exhibits, and athletic events. The

campus includes a popular walking trail, and gym memberships are open to the public. OC offers professional development classes and programs designed for working adults to complete their degrees.

High school students can explore OC during “Eagle for a Day” events or individual visits. OC is a place where students can write their own story and ultimately find God’s purpose for their lives.

Oklahoma Christian University is located at 2501 E. Memorial Road, Edmond. Learn more at oc.edu.

Armstrong Auditorium Exhibit

Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered

By Maria Veres

Experience the splendor of ancient Israel through Armstrong Auditorium’s new exhibit, Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered. The world premiere exhibit showcases almost fifty artifacts from the tenth century BC, in an immersive display for the whole family to enjoy.

Bringing Biblical History to Life

“As far as Biblical history goes there are no greater figures than Kings David and Solomon,” says director Brad Macdonald.

The exhibit features authentic artifacts from the era of these kings, including pottery, textiles, iron, and steel. One centerpiece is an inscription demonstrating that trade took place between Israel and modern Saudi Arabia, where the biblical Queen of Sheba resided.

“We have tangible proof that the biblical text is accurate,” says Brad. “We have much more tangible evidence than most people are aware of.”

An Immersive Experience for the Whole Family

The exhibit includes a 3-D model of Jerusalem and a replica of King Solomon’s palace. There’s a virtual reality section where you can tour Jerusalem as it is today. “It brings the history of David and Solomon alive,” says Brad, “and will show that the Bible is more than ink on a page. It's living history!”

Brad and his team worked for months to create the majestic setting of the exhibit. Along with a core crew of seven or eight people, the effort involved families, children, and students at Herbert W. Armstrong College. The

goal is to recreate the grandeur of the kings’ reigns, bringing it to life for attendees.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. “It’ll be like walking through the Bible,” says Brad. “I think people will love it.”

Armstrong Auditorium is located at 14400 S. Bryant Ave, Edmond. The exhibit will run through January 17, 2025, and is open every day except Saturday. To learn more, contact them at (405) 285-1010 or visit armstrongauditorium.org.

New Life for Edmond's Oldest Mural

By Amy Dee Stephens

If you’ve seen any historical murals painted on Edmond buildings, then you are probably looking at the art of Dr. Bob Palmer. Palmer started teaching mural painting classes at the University of Central Oklahoma in 1995. He has painted scenes in towns all over Oklahoma. His style is recognizable because his murals nearly always feature old-fashioned scenes.

“I’m hired to convey a message to the public,” Palmer said, “and often it’s a story about the history of the area. Murals do a good job of providing an instant story. You don’t have to read a history book; you just drive by and understand the character and patriotism of the community.”

In Edmond, his murals are on the exterior walls of W&W Tire and InterBank downtown, and many are located inside of Edmond public schools, churches, the Edmond History Museum, Othello’s Italian Restaurant and Uptown Grocery.

Schoolhouse Mural

Dr. Bob Palmer

"That’s one thing I like about murals —they become bigger than just the client and the artist. They become claimed by the whole community.”

In February, Palmer was invited to touch up Edmond’s oldest mural, “Edmond Station’s Land Run Settlers” on the building next to the 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse on 2nd Street. The paint was peeling after a roof leak. The mural, which Palmer originally painted in 2002, is a collage of images taken from 1890s photographs of Edmond.

Palmer’s team, mostly former students, helped during the two-day restoration by re-outlining the images for clearer definition and adding brighter colors. Palmer also gave the mural something he felt was missing from his original work: the

1889 Territorial Schoolhouse itself. “I usually finalize the murals with the background and finishing details. My students call that Palmerizing,” Palmer said with a laugh. “For this one, I filled in the empty spaces with sky and trees. Afterward, I learned that early Edmond didn’t have trees, so my artistic interpretation was not perfect.”

While the team painted, they were surprised by the community’s engagement. “People kept dropping by or honking from the street,” Palmer said. “That’s one thing I like about murals--they become bigger than just the client and the artist. They become claimed by the whole community.”

Mural Legacy

At age 73, Palmer is reflective that some of his murals will outlive him. “At least I hope so. Each mural is my baby, but I understand that they get painted over for various reasons.”

Looking back at his 40-year career, Palmer is grateful to have enriched communities through his art, even if it is temporary. “God gave me this talent, and I have to keep giving it back,” Palmer said. “I’m proud to say that many of Edmond’s new murals were done by my former students, and I recently painted a cafeteria mural with my 8th-grade grandson at Western Oaks Middle School. So, I guess you could say I have passed on the torch.”

To learn more, email palmerstudiosinc@gmail.com or read Dr. Palmer’s biography, Painting Oklahoma & Beyond.

College and Karate!

By Louise Tucker Jones

Years ago, as a young college student, I took my share of PE classes—archery, tennis, dancing and more. Having played basketball all through school I enjoyed staying active. But what I really wanted to learn was karate. My boyfriend (future husband—Carl) had taken karate and ju-jitsu in Tulsa from his friend, Gary, who just happened to enroll at Northeastern State College where I attended.

I begged Gary to teach me karate. He was reluctant—had never taught girls and no place to practice. But he finally agreed when the men’s basketball coach offered us a little space in the gym with a mat. The guys thought it was funny until they saw my friends and

me slam our instructor to the floor. We felt empowered!

A few of us met regularly, learning and practicing the skills of karate and ju-jitsu. We took some hard falls. We got our share of bruises. But I loved the sessions. Students on campus began to take notice and someone notified the Tulsa World about a group of girls learning self-defense at NSC in Tahlequah, a first for women on campus. The newspaper sent a reporter who took pictures and interviewed us. It was exciting!

However, I intentionally hadn’t told my mother what I was doing. If I had bruises from my practice sessions, I just didn’t go home that weekend. I didn’t count on my grandmother seeing her granddaughter’s picture on the front page of the Tulsa World.

Yep, there I was—front and center— putting a “karate chop” on my instructor. Grandmama called my mother and said, “Have you read the paper today?” Not the best way for my mom to find out about her daughter’s latest escapade.

Recently, Grandmaster Gary Dill, who has been teaching martial arts for more than 50 years, sent me that old photo

from the Tulsa World via Facebook with a note saying, “There you are, whipping my butt.” The years melted away as I looked at that young college coed with such stubborn tenacity. It definitely made me smile.

Aren’t memories and old friends wonderful? Hope you have both!

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.

a look back The Interurban Trolley Car

The Interurban was a trolley car that ran between Oklahoma City and Edmond from 1911-1946. In the beginning, few people owned cars, so walking and riding horses had been the predominant mode of transportation. For 25 cents, citizens or college students could catch the hour-long ride to either city.

The Interurban ran on a track, powered by an electric power line overhead. This early photograph shows the Interurban carrying both a flatbed of coal and a passenger car, located in front of Edmond’s Interurban Station at Broadway and Main. Photo donated to the Edmond History Museum by Rex Standifer.

Photo provided by Edmond History Museum, edmondhistory.org