Have you heard about macros? No, it’s not short for macaroons or macaroni. I know—disappointing. Macro is short for macronutrient: the three main categories of nutrients you eat the most—protein, carbohydrates, and fats. And if you like math, you’re going to love macros because there’s a lot of counting involved.
This might be the next phase of my health journey. I was blaming my age for the weight I couldn’t seem to lose until my friendly YMCA trainer pointed out the obvious: “Burn more calories than you take in,” he said, “and you’ll lose weight.” What? Mind. Blown.
Alison and I have been strength training, cycling, walking, and playing pickleball too. But counting macros could be a real challenge. The problem? I love my snacks.
Snacking is maybe the best part of being an adult. There’s no one to tell me no. If it’s 10 p.m. and I’m craving Triscuits, I have some. If I’d like to balance out those salty wicker squares, I chase them with some Trader Joe’s mango slices or a Nutter Butter.
With the kids grown and out of the house, I no longer have to hide snacks or sneak out to the garage with my Pepperidge Farm Goldfish. Far from hiding, I even have a “snack closet.” Technically, it’s the pantry—but the easyaccess shelves are devoted to my edible enjoyment.
So here I am, a man with a snack closet and a membership at the Y. I’m not chasing “perfectly healthy,” I’m chasing healthish —strong enough to lift weights, smart enough to eat protein, and still human enough to have a Nutter Butter now and then.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
Lilyfield Standing in the Gap for Oklahoma Families
By Taylor Bollinger
What started as a small adoption agency has grown into a multifaceted nonprofit supporting families across Oklahoma. For the past 25 years, as an Oklahoma-based nonprofit, Lilyfield has walked alongside women facing unplanned pregnancies, families navigating foster care, and children at risk of entering the child welfare system.
“Our focus is on keeping kids stable within their families whenever possible,” said Executive Director Holly Towers. “Foster care is sometimes necessary, but it’s not without trauma. We want to intervene earlier, before separation becomes the only option.”
In 2008, Lilyfield expanded beyond private adoption to include licensing foster families and placing children in state custody. Over time, staff observed patterns – certain zip codes had disproportionately more foster care placements. That realization prompted a deeper shift in their work.
Lilyfield shifted its focus not only to where children go but also to where they come from. By partnering with DHS and community leaders, the team launched family resource centers in high-risk areas, one in South OKC and one in North Tulsa. These centers now provide early intervention, parenting programs, after-school care, and wraparound support for any family in need—biological, foster, grandparent-led, or otherwise.
“There’s no single picture of a family,” Holly shared. “What matters is that children have a safe, nurturing place to grow.”
Each Lilyfield location serves a unique role in that mission. The Edmond office offers mental health services for children and caregivers, while the South OKC and North Tulsa offices focus on front-end prevention work. Programs range from clinical counseling to early childhood support for pregnant women or parents of children under 3.
And the work isn’t possible without community involvement. Lilyfield consistently needs foster families, especially those open to sibling groups or older children. They also rely on volunteers. Whether it’s reading to preschoolers, helping with after-school care, or simply showing up to build relationships, volunteers play a vital role.
“The challenges our families face are the same ones we all face,” Holly said. “The difference is the resources available to meet them, and there’s something powerful about being part of someone else’s story.”
Lilyfield is opening its doors to the community for their 25th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, September 18th from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lilyfield Exchange Office in South OKC. Learn more at lilyfield.org.
From the moment they came into our lives we just had a feeling that these boys were meant to be ours forever. Sure enough, July 31, 2020 was the best day of our lives! We got to adopt our twin boys and we became a forever family! —Josh & Michelle
Before EmpowerOKC, I was stressed and worried my kids would fall behind in school. I didn’t understand computers, and they weren’t getting the help they needed. Now, you help me a lot by picking them up from school, giving us groceries on Fridays. It’s such a relief. And the kids? They’re happier. Even when I’m off work on Fridays, they still want to come here!
—Esther, Lilyfield EmpowerOKC client
This organization saved my life! The stability and mentors I had as a part of this program were just what I needed. I know future foster alumni will benefit from this newly revamped program and I cannot thank them enough.
—Beatrize
EVERY BITE SCORES BIG!
By Laura Beam
DONATOS PIZZA – NOW TWO EDMOND LOCATIONS!
For your next football gathering, get Donatos famous thin crust pizza with edge-to-edge toppings or hand tossed, thicker crust, or cauliflower crust pizza. Enjoy fresh veggies, aged smoked provolone, Romano cheese, and a choice of toppings. And with any large pizza, add Pizza Pals for just $5 – oven-roasted wings, oven-baked subs, fresh salads and more. Or celebrate or commiserate on Mondays with their Monday Madness $4.99 individual pizzas all day. Franchise owners and Edmond natives Will and Matt McLain invite you to make Donatos your fanfavorite choice! Visit 1148 S. Bryant Ave. or 2929 NW 178th Street or donatos.com. Eat in, delivery, or pick up available.
CAFE ICON SUSHI & GRILL
Come see what’s new at Cafe Icon and take home an exquisite platter of sushi that will be the hit of your party! This ultracontemporary, kid-friendly spot has been an Edmond favorite for 11 years, and owner Patrick Mok–”The Sushi Guy”–is updating and growing again. Enjoy the chic atmosphere and games on TV while you feast on sushi, sashimi, hibachi specialties, and lava stone grilled entrees. Try the Filet Mignon Steak Rolls, Maine Lobster topped with bluefin tuna, and fantastic cocktail selection. Discover why this Edmond gem was awarded Restaurant Guru’s 2025 ”Best Sushi!” Visit 311 S. Blackwelder Ave. (2nd & Bryant) or thecafeicon.com.
S&B’S BURGER JOINT
If gourmet burgers like the Sir-Bac-A-Lot and Smashing Onions don’t put a smile on your face and a song on your lips, you’re just not trying! S&B’s unique flavor combos, showstopping sauces, hand-breaded chicken tenders, wings, and more, make game day planning fast and easy. Treat your hungry fans to S&B’s daily specials, $1.99 Tuesday Kids Meal, and Rock Hour all day Monday and 2-6 pm Tues.-Fri. The fun music videos, bar, and pet-friendly patios at both locations are always a hit. Try their catered burger bars and more too! Visit in Edmond at 2088 E. 2nd St. or 1000 NW 192nd or sandbburgers.com.
TEXLAHOMA BBQ
Nothing says tailgate time like saucy, mouthwatering BBQ, and Texlahoma does it right! Dive into slow-smoked, flavorpacked meats that are trimmed, seasoned and smoked on site daily, like their famous ribs, brisket, turkey, burnt ends, and new, smoked chicken! Feed your crowd with Pork or Brisket Family Meals ranging from 1.5 lbs of meat and two large sides to the ultimate with 4 lbs of meat, a rib rack, and five large sides. Enjoy catering options too, like the BBQ Buffet, Sandwich Special, and Nacho Bar. Open daily in Edmond at 121 E. Waterloo Rd., or dine or drive-thru at 2080 E. 2nd St., or visit texlahomabbq.com. Food trailer available too!
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business? Email laura@edmondoutlook.com.
THE FROSTED MUG
Make this lively neighborhood sports bar your game day headquarters! They bring the fun to life with a massive 60-person bar, multiple big screen TVs, and a spacious patio with TVs. Order hand-cut steaks, fish and chips, Philly Cheesesteaks, Chicken Fried Steak, Southwest Egg Rolls, and their popular wings. Sip from a selection of 28 beers on tap and creative cocktails. Or choose catering with 24 hours advance notice, and feed your group sandwich, wrap, or chicken tender platters, a taco bar, wings, salad bar, or BBQ. Visit 1333 N. Santa Fe Ave., Edmond, or frostedmugedmond.com. Online orders, pick up, and delivery are available.
EDDIE’S
With Eddie’s new tailgate packages, it’s game on! Their legendary traditional or boneless wings, available in a variety of sauces and rubs, will fire up your hungry crowd. Whether dining in and watching the game, kicking back on the panoramic patio at Chisholm Creek, or picking up food to share, enjoy steaks, ribs, burgers, and NY-style pizzas. And look for the Four Horsemen coming to Edmond this fall. This cozy neighborhood tavern is an ode to sports greats and will be your new favorite spot! Plus, stay tuned for exciting expansion news that the whole city will be rooting for. For locations, hours, menus, and catering, visit eddiesdining.com.
Officer Lindsey Brings Home the Gold
By Taylor Bollinger
Have you ever gotten a traffic ticket from a world champion wrestler? For Edmond drivers, that's now possible since Officer Josh Lindsey brought home the gold at the 2025 World Police and Fire Games.
Josh made his return to the mat this summer in Birmingham, Alabama, as he faced competitors from over 50 countries—and won. Josh started wrestling at age five, thanks to a flyer from his elementary school. It wasn’t love at first match, but with encouragement from his dad, he stuck with it, developing a love for the sport that carried him through high school and on to University of Central Oklahoma’s team.
Now well into adulthood and his career with the Edmond Police Department, Josh reasonably assumed wrestling was behind him. “That was until I got an email about the World Police and Fire Games,” Josh said.
admitted. “I hadn’t competed since 2018. But I just wanted to get back on the mat and represent first responders.”
The final match pitted Josh against the defending champion from Cambodia. “I went into it just hoping to place,” he said. “But once we started wrestling, I thought, this is going to be a tough one. I had to dig deep.”
If you love something, don’t give up on it.
Josh signed up, and with only seven months to train, he wasted no time shaking off the dust. He jumped into the gym with old teammates, guys at the station, and anyone willing to wrestle.
In June, Josh and his wife Mackenzie boarded a plane to Birmingham, and the competition began. The tournament was bracket-style. Josh received a first-round bye, then defeated a wrestler from India. “It was all a little nerve-racking,” Josh
With his family cheering from the stands, Josh clinched the gold medal that he now proudly displays in a shadow box at home, alongside his shoes and singlets. On my first day back at the station, the guys gave me a standing ovation. Now I often hear, ‘Here comes the world champ,’” he laughed.
Josh aims to defend his title at the 2027 games in Australia. Until then, he’ll continue training. He hopes his story motivates others to rediscover their passion.
“I know it sounds cliché,” he said, “but if you love something, don’t give up on it. I’ve had injuries and setbacks, but God has given me the ability to step back on the mat. That’s a blessing.”
Officer Josh Lindsey
Scotch’s Incredible Journey
By Amy Dee Stephens
When the Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park opens, visitors will see a bronze statue of a dog rising from the ground. The sculpture, named “A Hero’s Journey,” depicts the true story of an Edmond woman and her dog, Scotch. Their harrowing experience now symbolizes the hope that emerges when a community comes together to support two lost souls.
Jennifer Fields was in the midst of a personal crisis. On her way out of town, Jennifer dropped her dog off at her mother’s house. Scotch was special. The cutest dog she’d ever seen, and a rare breed to boot.
The Coton de Tuléar, known for their cotton-like coats, are considered royal dogs in Madagascar. The Coton (kuhtawn) is an extremely loyal companion dog, and Scotch was no exception. He had bonded with Jennifer and was a bright spot during her dark time. When Jennifer heard that Scotch had darted out the front door of her mom’s house and disappeared, she was devastated.
“I was struggling to put one foot in front of the other in that moment, but other people came through for me,” Jennifer said. “Scotch’s photo was shared on Facebook and Paw Boost. People I didn’t even know started looking for him and sending me words of support. I was offered a thermal camera drone, a pet detective, and search parties were held. Their investment meant the world to me—but no one found Scotch.”
A month later, Jennifer was moving into a new home. As a realtor, she knew it would be a fresh start. And then, Jennifer got an unexpected call from two young boys.
“Ma’am?” said one of the boys. “I have your dog. I’ve never found a dog before.”
“Okay,” Jennifer said, feeling numb. “Can I talk to your mom? Can you text me a picture of the dog?”
The photo came through.
“That’s him! That’s Scotch! Is there a safe place to meet?”
The boys had found Scotch near a barn in their Edmond neighborhood, five miles from Jennifer’s mom’s house. As soon as Jennifer arrived at the entrance of the neighborhood, she ran to the boys, thanking them as she scooped up a very shaggy Scotch.
Scotch was in shocking condition. After 28 days, the twelvepound dog now weighed seven pounds. He was covered in wounds and “stuff was growing out of him.” Jennifer rushed Scotch to her vet, but the diagnosis was not hopeful. He might not survive. He might have gone feral.
“It’d been so long since he’d eaten, I could only feed him a teaspoon of food an hour so he wouldn’t bloat,” Jennifer said. “Seeds germinated under his skin for nearly eight months, which had to be carefully removed. But he fought his way
back, and he’s perfectly healthy now! It’s like he never left.”
What happened to Scotch? Based on breed behavior and speculation, Scotch had buried himself. Cotons will dig themselves into a hole for long periods of time to hide and camouflage in the wild, and Jennifer had seen Scotch himself dig down into the mulch before.
Once again, strangers poured out love to Jennifer and Scotch, sending “welcome home” presents and messages, checking on his progress. Feeling grateful, Jennifer commissioned A Hero’s Journey. The artist, LaQuincy Reed, listened to Jennifer’s story and developed the concept of Scotch, rising up out of the ground that was holding him down.
“Scotch came out of hiding just in time,” Jennifer said. “I think his survival became a symbol of my own healing, because he showed me that we can endure when people have failed us––but there are still good people in the world. The people of Edmond gave selflessly of their time to search for my dog––just because they love dogs and our community. They renewed my hope in humanity.”
Jennifer Fields and Scotch
Mr. Handyman of North Oklahoma City and Edmond
Tell us about you and your business.
I’m Thomas Fiordelisi, Owner & CEO of Mr. Handyman of North Oklahoma City and Edmond. I opened our location on December 7th, 2020—“a day that will live in infamy.” After 27 years in the U.S. Air Force working in aircraft maintenance, I was inspired by my mentor, Armand Burleigh, to lead a business that puts skilled hands to work serving our community.
What motivated you to open a local Mr. Handyman franchise?
I’ve always been energized by the trades and guiding talented professionals. Mr. Handyman is a 30-year-old franchise with over 200 locations across the U.S. and Canada, and our Edmond/OKC location allowed me to blend craftsmanship, leadership, and service to support homeowners and local businesses.
What services do you provide, and what makes you stand out from competitors?
We are really “handy” for repairing, restoring, or replacing doors, drywall, siding, decks, windows, floors, gutters, fixtures, carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, patios, painting, and more. Our advantage is that we attempt repairs first, preserving original design—especially important in older homes where matching materials can be difficult to find. Every job is supported by our Done Right Promise.
Thomas Fiordelisi
What trends are shaping your industry, and how are you responding?
Homeowners are increasingly seeking specialized services such as smart home installations or aging-in-place upgrades. Labor shortages and DIY culture make professionalism more important than ever. Since opening, we’ve earned nearly 800 Google reviews with a 4.8/5 rating—customers praise our punctuality, professionalism, and care for seniors.
How do you connect with the local community?
We celebrated our June 2024 relocation with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce at our new offices, 185 W. 15th in Edmond. We stay active in local business groups and have received recognitions like A+ BBB accreditation and the 2024 Angi Super Service Award. We hire veterans, support local causes, sponsor community events, and keep strong civic and church ties.
What’s new for your business?
We’ve expanded our service area to cover Yukon, Mustang, Piedmont, Bethany, The Village, and Nichols Hills.
What else should people know about Mr. Handyman of North Oklahoma City and Edmond?
Our team—including office staff and service professionals—has decades of combined experience and shares a passion for helping people. Whether it’s a small repair or a major renovation, we treat every home like our own and work hard to ensure each project is completed correctly, on schedule, and with full transparency.
Our clients call Mr. Handyman, because the Handyman "Can."
When Delmar Smith talks, he looks straight at you. Not with mere politeness, but with intensity. The 99-year-old has the uncanny ability to size up people or dogs, at a glance.
Delmar, who was born at the beginning of the Great Depression, has worked with dogs and horses since he was a “pup” on a cattle farm. “When the men left for WWII, we kids and the women ran the farm. I’ve worked with dogs and horses ever since, and I’ll never retire, it’s never felt like a job.”
Famous Dog Trainer
People in Edmond will recognize his name from the Delmar Smith Kennels along Memorial Road. It’s the business Delmar took over in 1950 for his late father-in-law. He still remembers the rolling hills where he hunted wild quail.
Delmar raised his three sons to work with dogs. Sadly, Delmar lost his son Mark in a tragic accident, but his remaining two sons, Tom and Rick, along with his nephew, Ronnie, now manage the business, but Delmar still reports to work at the kennel.
People around the world know Delmar as the best-selling author of books about training hunting dogs. His techniques have influenced dog owners to set aside harsh methods in favor of gentle coaching.
“You’ve got to be honest with your animals so they can believe in you,” Delmar said. “It’s the same with people. Humans are the only animals that lie. Animals don’t lie. A dog will tell you before he bites. A cow shakes her head before she charges, and she means it.”
Friendship Over Fame
Delmar has trained dogs for presidents and royalty, but he values the joy of training over fame.
The Delmar Smith Method has taken him to 14 foreign countries. He’s been called a “sage, mentor, icon, pioneer, born
Life Lessons from Delmar, Champion Animal Trainer
By Amy Dee Stephens
teacher and cowboy preacher,” but most often, simply “friend.”
“I’ve made fantastic friends all over the world because of my hobby. It doesn’t matter who they are, a president or whoever,” Delmar said. “People are just people, and dogs are just dogs.”
Delmar, his sons, and his dogs have countless awards and honorary statues across the country. He’s a five-time winner of the National Open in hunting dog field trials and U.S. Open Brittany Championships.
Helping with Horses
It surprises some people to know that Delmar is equally known in the rodeo world as a horse trainer, champion roper, and chute master. For 43 years, he’s been the gateman at the Lazy E Arena. At 99, he still climbs to a padded seat above the cattle gate to signal when the cowboy and horse are ready for the calf to be released. Delmar then signals for the gate to open. He still finds it thrilling, and it’s another hobby that helps him make friends.
Thirty years ago at the Lazy E, Delmar rode with children who had terminal cancer. A girl who hadn’t spoken in over a year sat in his lap on his horse, Roanie. After two slow laps, she whispered “Roanie.” Delmar still wears the champion buckle he won that night—every day for 30 years—in her honor.
Delighting
in Each Day
For Delmar, each day brings the delight of new encounters. “I’ve still got that burning to get up and get going every day— just like a dog with his tail wagging in the air,” Delmar said. “The Lord’s been good to me my whole life, and I depend on Him a lot. I haven’t just lived a good life—I’m still living a good life.”
From Edmond to Hollywood Jhey Castles Steals the Spotlight
By Taylor Bollinger
Even if you don’t know her name, Jhey Castles says she’s probably sold you something before. Her down-to-earth, somewhat self-deprecating humor conceals an impressive resume of movies, TV shows, and over 100 commercials. In reality, Jhey is living the life that many only dream of. And it all started with one question: If you weren’t afraid of anything, what would you do?
Her answer? Move to California and act. At 27, she moved to Hollywood, immersed herself in acting classes and auditions, and eventually broke into the industry as the host of a country music countdown show.
“I don't recommend this to everyone,” she laughed. “The decision came with a lot of naivete.” Still, her leap led to success. She’s known for titles like the 2022 film, “Two Tickets to Paradise,” and household names like “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “Magnum P.I.”
“One of my early roles was as an extra in a movie, and I also got to work on the crew,” she explained. “I was a production assistant for the rest of the film, which allowed me to learn so much about every department and really see how the whole machine runs.”
She says her true turning point came with commercials. “I started booking like crazy,” she said. “It kept me creatively engaged, well-traveled, and most importantly, fed. LA ain’t cheap.”
Castles now has experience across nearly every medium, including new media, film, television, and commercials. Though she loves it all, film remains her favorite. One of her most memorable jobs was working alongside LL Cool J. “Getting to talk about music with him for hours in between takes? That was a pretty spectacular time,” she said. That moment was especially meaningful to Castles as a musician. She plays the ukulele, sings, and writes music, merging her creative worlds whenever possible.
Of all her roles, her lead in the Lifetime thriller titled The Pom Pom Murders is a favorite. “I got to explore the finer details of a woman having a breakdown,” she said. “It was a dark role, but one I really enjoyed diving into.”
In the next phase of her career, Castles hopes to lean more
into comedy. Her recent comedic film, The Rewrite, premiered in June, demonstrating to casting directors that she can cry big tears and deliver punchlines. “You lean into your strengths, but they have to be honed,” she said, admitting that comedy feels most natural, but she's become adept across both genres.
For aspiring actors, Castles offers this encouragement: “Talent doesn’t have a zip code, and there’s definitely never been a better time to be an actor outside of LA.” Be warned, however. It doesn’t come easily. “It takes a lot of hustle, focus, and determination. But I believe that if you stand in line long enough, it will eventually be your turn.”
Follow the Edmond-rooted entertainer on Instagram @JheyCastles or online at jheycastles.com.
Jhey Castles
On set of "End of the World"
Mardel
For over four decades, Mardel has been a trusted resource for faith-based products, educational supplies, and meaningful gifts—serving communities with a mission to inspire spiritual growth and provide valuable support.
Founded in 1981, Mardel quickly became a household name in the metro area, with the Edmond store opening just three years later in 1984. Today, the company operates multiple locations throughout the Oklahoma City metro, each dedicated to meeting the needs of customers seeking quality products with a purpose.
At the helm is CEO Jay DePalmo, who has been with the company for an impressive 26 years. Under his leadership, the company continues to
focus on its core mission: supporting communities with faith-based products that inspire spiritual growth. Popular offerings include a wide selection of Bibles, educational supplies, apparel, and gifts—items that reflect Mardel’s commitment to encouraging learning, faith, and meaningful connections.
Mardel’s influence reaches far beyond its store shelves. The company offers employment opportunities at a living wage, supporting the economic stability and well-being of the communities it serves. This dedication to both customers and employees stays central to the Mardel experience.
Growth is also part of Mardel’s story. While there are no major changes expected in the near future, the company is steadily expanding its presence. As new opportunities arise, Mardel continues to open stores across the United States, enabling more people to benefit from its mission and products.
One of Mardel’s most significant contributions is its partnership with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Each year, the company donates 10% of its annual profits to fund the first-edition printing of Bibles in newly translated languages. This
effort helps ensure that people around the world—many for the first time—can read the Bible in their native language.
From its humble beginnings in 1981 to its position as a respected leader in faithbased retail today, Mardel remains deeply dedicated to faith, family, education, and community. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, resources to support learning, or ways to grow spiritually, Mardel is here to assist.
Shop 3300 S. Blvd., Edmond or visit mardel.com.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Edmond’s First Baptist Church
For over a century, Edmond’s First Baptist Church has been a cornerstone of faith in the community. Senior Pastor Blake Gideon, who has led for 13 years, says the church’s mission is simple but powerful: to connect people to Christ, His Church, His Word, and His mission—for His glory.
The church’s story began in downtown Edmond in the early 1900s. As the congregation grew, it expanded into several buildings before acquiring land at 33rd and Bryant, where the current facility was constructed between 1990 and 1993. While this location remains the church’s only campus, its vision reaches far beyond
city limits, equipping and sending out leaders as church planters both locally and globally.
Edmond’s First offers ministries for every stage of life, from birth through senior adulthood. This includes active men’s and women’s ministries, a Parents Day Out program that blends early education with biblical teaching, and the Bridges Ministry for children with special needs. Every ministry is designed to reflect Christ’s love while sharing biblical truth.
The church is actively involved in the local community. Every Thursday, a dedicated team visits homeless communities in Edmond and Oklahoma City to provide care and share the Gospel. Connection Groups (Sunday school classes) collaborate with local nonprofits such as Hope Pregnancy Center and Boys Ranch Town, and seasonal events, like a school supply drive for Orvis Risner Elementary to address both physical and spiritual needs. The upcoming Family & Marriage Conference will help strengthen families in our community.
This year marked an exciting milestone: the complete renovation of the church’s
30-year-old sanctuary, creating a more welcoming and effective space for worship. The mission work continues to grow through support of church planters and mission trips to Southeast Asia, South America, and across the United States.
For Edmond’s First, the church is more than just a building—it’s the people. Every Sunday, the facility hosts four congregations, including a Hispanic Baptist congregation led by a former member and a Bangla Baptist Church. The heartbeat of Edmond’s First is clear: Pastor Blake says, "The sun never sets on the ministries of Edmond's First."
The church is located at 1300 E. 33rd St., in Edmond. Learn more at fbcedmond.org.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
The Story of Outlook Magazine
By Amy Dee Stephens
Publisher's note: When we decided to do a story about Edmond Outlook’s 20-year journey, my first thought was, Well, I’ve been here the whole time—I should probably write it. But after over a decade of working with Amy Dee Stephens and seeing her skill at capturing the heart of a story, I knew this one was better in her hands.
Outlook Magazine exists because of a designer named Dave Miller. His career has taken many directions—industrial design, illustration, writing, cartooning—but his love of storytelling has stayed the same. For 20 years, Dave has published Edmond Outlook every month, highlighting stories about everyday people living interesting lives.
The Rising Young Cartoonist
Dave earned a degree in industrial design from Rhode Island School of Design, but always freelanced cartoon illustration on the side while working in automotive design in Southern California. Regularly published work for The Santa Monica News eventually led him to the animation industry, where he became a storyboard director for Saturday morning cartoon shows. Tribune Media later nationally syndicated his comic strip DAVE, which was inspired by his life as a single twentysomething.
Suddenly a Family Man
After meeting and marrying Sandy, the couple moved to New England, and Dave worked as a senior designer for Hasbro Toys in Rhode Island. Then tragedy struck. “My sister-in-law died in a car accident in Chandler. She’d always said that if something happened to her, she wanted us to take care of her kids. So, we became parents to our two-year-old and five-year-old godchildren.”
As his syndication contract ended, Dave was laid off from Hasbro. Dave and Sandy took the opportunity to move the kids closer to family. “We moved to Prague, Oklahoma. When we pulled up in the U-Haul, we discovered a rodeo was located behind our house, and we could hear the announcer very clearly.” Dave laughed. “I embraced the culture, but I was definitely the only New Jersey guy in Prague.”
Building Edmond Outlook
In 2000, after a brief stint working for The Oklahoman building websites, Dave started Back40, a web design business serving Oklahoma businesses and non-profits. While visiting clients around the metro area, he discovered Edmond, which led to his move in 2004. “Edmond is where I wanted to live
and raise my kids, and they didn’t have a community magazine. I thought, 'Why not start one?'” Dave said. Putting together our first issue was easy because we had months and months to plan. For the future issues, we were on a strict 30-day schedule. It was tough, but we figured it out.
Living The Monthly Deadline
As the publisher, Dave is always thinking about the next month’s issue. He enjoys creative design, but advertising is what makes the stories and photos possible. “We have many long-time advertisers who like the magazine and see business results,” Dave said. “They make it possible for 50,000 Edmond homes to receive the Outlook in their mailboxes every month.”
In 2013, Dave introduced a column called “In Other Words With Dave.” It is a running storyline of Dave’s life experiences, complete with one of his cartoon drawings. “I’ve been transparent about my life. I’ve written about raising my granddaughter, my sobriety, my wife’s illness and death, my cancer, dating in my 50s, marrying Alison, and other everyday stuff from my life.”
After twenty years of monthly publishing, Dave reflects, “Print publishing hasn’t always been easy, but I find the creative process and the people very rewarding. We run a small team. Laura Beam manages sales. Anne Richardson develops the print production of ads and editorial design. My wife, Alison, handles the business side, and Kasey Toliver is our digital designer. Thanks to our talented writers, Amy Dee Stephens, Taylor Bollinger, and our longtime columnist Louise Tucker Jones, the magazine captures the heart and soul of the Edmond community and personalities as only Edmond locals can do. For photography assignments, we have the talented Marshall Hawkins of Sundance Photography. He’s been our go-to photographer for nearly 15 years. Amazing.”
Through the years, Back40 has continued to thrive, and Edmond Outlook has proudly published 240 issues. “The joy of creating far outweighs any challenges,” Dave says. “I’m deeply thankful to have built a career centered on sharing stories that inspire and connect people.”
Edmond Outlook Magazine can be read online at edmondoutlook.com.
Anne Richardson, Kasey Toliver, Alison Miller, Laura Beam, and Dave Miller
Past and Present
By Louise Tucker Jones
I sometimes find myself comparing today’s world with the past, back when I was young, growing up on a farm. Living in a tin-roof house with my parents and five siblings. No indoor plumbing. No phone. No TV. And it felt very normal. It was life as we knew it and it was good. I went to a country school with the same kids from grade one through twelve and still have those precious friends. I wouldn’t trade those long-ago years. They helped shape my personality, my values, even my future.
Today I live in a modest brick home with modern conveniences. Certainly not a palatial house, but my 10-year-old self would have thought it a mansion. I
think about such things and how life changes through the years.
I remember how tight money was as newly-weds with me just out of college at a brand-new teaching job and Carl just out of the Army. We lived in a small, furnished duplex with one car to get both of us to work. Then add a baby and things got complicated. But you know what? We made it work.
Sometimes it’s good to look back on tough times. Hopefully, we see the good and not just the hard stuff. I remember a time when I had to watch every penny I spent at the grocery store, but we still found a way to share with others. We held friends and family close, never taking them for granted. Those difficult times helped shape our lives, our marriage, commitments, and more.
And I wonder if we do the same today. Do we still cherish our vows to God and each other? When helping someone in need, do we also share our beliefs and the tenacious spirit that helped us through those tough times?
Today’s younger generation is hungry for stories of how we held onto happiness and joy in the midst of difficulties. They need a mentor, a guide, in a world that is not always kind. So let’s savor and share the wisdom with which God gifted us in life’s hardships. I think we will all be blessed.
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 Edmond Outlook's First Issue
This was the very first Edmond Outlook issue, published in September 2005. The cover story featured the Blue Star Mothers of Edmond, sending “Freedom Boxes” to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The smiling faces—Boy Scouts, volunteers, community members—captured what our publishing team wanted this magazine to be: a celebration of Edmond’s people, stories, and heart. Back then, we didn’t know the journey ahead—thousands of stories, hundreds of covers, and 20 years of connecting neighbors. Looking back, this cover reminds us why we started: to share the everyday heroes among us and highlight Edmond’s community spirit.
