edmond outlook august 2011

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6 PIZZA & GLASS?Father-and-son team Chris and Micah McGahan giveus an inside look at their new Edmond glass blowing studio, Bella Forte and Italian Jim's Pizzeria.

FEATURES20 Our Sisters' ClosetTime to clean out your closet for

this Edmond resale shop benefiting

Oklahoma's battered women.

27 Gourmet SalsaEdmond couple Mamma Dee and

Jerrie Sporn turn up the heat with

their award-winning gourmet salsa.

28 Gifted KidsIs your child gifted? Check out what

characteristics local educators are

looking for.

DEPARTMENTS11 SHOPPING Back to School

16 BUSINESS Dance Phase Sears Hometown Store

18 HOME HGTV's Edmond DesignStar

32 MY EDMOND OUTLOOK Cardboard Boat Regatta Competitors

6 ARTS Glasswork...By the Slice

8 SPORTS Phyz Edmond

10 LOUISE A Dog Named Mona

12 FOOD First Watch Dining On The Go

To advertise, call Laura at 405-301-3926

August 2011

22 Grass TaggingSpray painting your grass? These

logos for your lawn are taking school

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(Volume 7, Number 8) Edmond Outlook is a publication of Back40 Design, Inc. © 2011 Back40 Design, Inc.

Articles and advertisements in Edmond 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 Edmond 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. Edmond Outlook assumes no responsibility for

unsolicited materials.

PUBLISHERDave Miller

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING MANAGERKrystal Harlow

EDITORErica Smith

ADVERTISING SALESLaura Beam

Lauren Wheat

PRODUCTION DESIGNERChad Phillips

PHOTOGRAPHYMarshall Hawkins

www.sundancephotographyokc.com

DISTRIBUTIONThe Edmond Outlook is delivered FREE by direct mail

to 50,000 Edmond homes and businesses.

13431 N. Broadway Ste. 104 OKC, OK 73114Office: 405-341-5599 Fax: 405-341-2020

[email protected]


Have you ever seen art created from

the comfort of a pizzeria table?

Most likely you haven’t. But that’s

all about to change. Fifteen years

ago, Chris McGahan and his wife, Linda, set out on

a new adventure: opening a tiny pizza shop called

Italian Jim's. Before they knew it, repeat customers

were driving dozens of miles for pizza made from

unique recipes passed down from Linda’s father,

Jim, the restaurant’s namesake.

Perhaps it was that same adventurous spirit

that led the McGahans to take their restaurant in

a direction that no one could have guessed. Italian

Jim’s Restaurant has come to Edmond and features

an expanded menu that includes steak and other

tantalizing options, but the most distinctive change

is the presence of the Bella Forte Glass Studio.

For years, McGahan and his son, Micah, have

sold their artistic glasswork, but this is the first

time the studio and restaurant have been under the

same roof. Furthermore, glass-blowing has been

integrated into the dining experience. Visitors can

watch the father-and-son team fire, stretch, and

mold glowing-hot glass while they eat. They can

even schedule time in the “hot shop” and pick out

colors for a piece made in front of them. “We’re the

only place in the United States that you can make all

that happen in one place,” McGahan says.

Glass-blowing lessons were a birthday gift from

Linda seven years ago, and since then McGahan has

taught Micah. Together, they’ve filled the restaurant

with gleaming chandeliers and pendant lights inlaid

with dazzling designs, as well as a variety of colorful

glass decorations. Redento raffinato, which means

“redeemed elegance,” is a signature creation that

resembles a large yet graceful vase, but may appear

almost floral in design.

“It takes a long time to be able to make

something like that – you have to break a lot of

glass,” McGahan admits. “I love the response of

people when they see its beauty and I love to be

able to do something that very few people can do.”

Optimal glass-blowing temperature is 2,100

degrees Fahrenheit, and patrons at Italian Jim’s can

watch the glass get that hot while they eat. Before the

glass gets “cold,” which is 1,000 degrees, McGahan

and his son use iron “punty” rods to put the glass

into a furnace they’ve named “Hell’s Fridge,” which

gets up to 2,400 degrees.

Glass-blowing is considered an Italian art.

Six years ago, McGahan dreamed of combining

glass-blowing with a pizza restaurant. “We have

been pursuing that diligently ever since,” he says.

“Bella” is Italian for “beautiful” and “forte” means

“loud” or “strong.” McGahan describes their work

as “beautiful glass that is loud in presentation and

color and strong in design.”

The first place to carry Bella Forte glass was

the Dean-Lively Gallery in Edmond. It was that

relationship that lead to Italian Jim’s moving from

Yukon to its new Edmond location. Owner Barry

Rice was in the process of restoring 15 and 13 S.

Broadway to historical integrity. “Our vision of

urban loft décor and his vision meshed perfectly,”

McGahan says.

Over the last year, they’ve taken out two

suspended ceilings, one of which was nearly 60

years old, to expose the original, riveted trusses.

They’ve also taken down part of a wall to restore

the large door used when it was a garage. The door

now swings open to show what’s happening in the

glass studio.

Chris McGahan creating a wall platter

by Nathan Winfrey

GLASSWORK...BY THE SLICE

Rene Sims, Front House Lead, Italian Jim's Pizzeria Micah McGahan creating a Bella bowl


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While the space the McGahans moved their business into was

being upgraded, so was the restaurant itself. The new front-of-house

manager makes sure things run smoothly. Kitchens at earlier Italian

Jim’s locations sported little more than a pizza oven and a makeshift

table. Now, they have a char grill and an improved baking oven. They

have a cook line and an executive chef – U.K.-born Stephen Gooding,

who worked with world-famous chef Gordon Ramsey, an infamous

perfectionist, for two years. Gooding also worked as a staff cook at

Buckingham Palace in England for two years. The variety on the new,

expanded menu reflects these changes.

“We’ve radically changed our operation, but we still do the pizza

like we’ve always done it,” McGahan promises. “That hasn’t changed.”

Pepperonis in neat rows; green, red, yellow bell peppers cut into rings

and high-quality cheese that nukes just fine in the microwave the

next morning are traits all lovers of Italian Jim’s pizza expect. “We do

not buy premade pizza sauce and we do not buy frozen dough that

someone else made,” he says. “Our goal is to make the best-quality

pizza for a fair price.”

And McGahan keeps his business a family affair. “We could not

make this operation work without my wife and kids,” McGahan says.

His son, Micah, and his daughters, Kim and Krista, have helped with

the restaurant since it started in 1996. “Without (Linda), I would not

be in the pizza business. Without her, I would not be blowing glass,”

he admits. “Without the people around me, I would be in complete

obscurity.”

“Ever since we started in the pizza business, even before I thought

about glass-blowing, our desire was to have our pizza place be more

upscale,” McGahan recalls. He and his family made the decision to let

go of the Yukon location and focus all of their attention on the new

place. “We did not want to dilute the family’s efforts,” he says. “This is

our home.”

Italian Jim’s and Bella Forte are open Monday - Saturday from

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and located at 13 and 15 S. Broadway.


Kids now have a Fitness Center to call

their own. Edmond resident Brandon

Myrick started a kids program

through his indoor Phyz Edmond

fitness facility for kids who want a workout program

to gain an edge for their sport or to simply stay fit.

“Edmond is a family oriented city,” Myrick

says. “I've lived in the OKC/Edmond area my entire

life. Many kids in this area need a structured fitness

program whether they play sports or not. The parents

in this area value activity for their kids, but sports

alone aren’t enough. That's where Phyz Edmond

comes in.”

Myrick was introduced to sports at a young age

and played baseball, basketball and tennis growing

up. He became fascinated with fitness and weight

training going into his freshman year in college. “I

was only in decent shape when I played sports, but

it wasn’t enough. I started weightlifting and enjoyed

getting stronger and healthier. I've always been very

personable so I checked into how I could combine

these aspects to make a career. I got my foot in a local

gym and never looked back,” Myrick recalls. “When it

came to this business, I asked myself ‘what is a need

that isn't being met?’ Once I realized there was this

specific need for the kids, I researched to see if anyone

else was doing it. I found a few good places on the East

and West coasts but not here. Then I started trying to

put my model together.”

Myrick says Phyz Edmond is not just about

making the kids of the community more physically fit.

He said kids want and need a place where they can be

encouraged, be respected, work hard and have fun. “I

simply want to pour into the lives of the kids in this

community. I want them to leave every day with a big

smile on their face and feel better about themselves

than when they walked in. My own personal gain

doesn't fit into the equation. It's all about the kids.”

Myrick emphasized that his goal is not to make sure

kids are at a certain body fat or weight. He acknowledged

that obesity is a real issue and wants Phyz Edmond to have

an impact on this epidemic, but he doesn’t want kids to

feel singled out if they are overweight and coming through

the program. “The main thing we're trying to accomplish is

building healthy and balanced lifestyles. The idea is that the

children will see exercise as tough, but also fun and enjoyable.

This will lead to a positive experience which will lead them to

stick with it through adulthood,” Myrick said.

A membership with Phyz Edmond covers the kids

bootcamp class and a yoga class twice a week. Myrick teaches

the Phyz Fit personally and it covers speed, agility, strength,

and cardio. The yoga class is taught by Lisa Veach. Myrick’s

classes and the yoga classes are an hour each. Kids can take

advantage of getting a full exercise program four times a week.

Eventually, Myrick would like to expand the program

to areas all around the metro. “There are much larger plans

I would love to implement, such as facilities, programs,

equipment, but I have to wait until I have the resources to do

so,” he said. “I believe 100 percent in the vision and I know it's

going to be a huge success.”

He also currently does one-on-one personal training and

bootcamps for adults out of his two studios at Phyz Edmond.

“I've worked with adults for the last seven years and I really

enjoy working with them. Healthy parents will yield a healthy

young generation as well,” Myrick said.

Phyz Edmond is located at 21477 N. Western between

Covell and Coffee Creek. Look up Phyz Edmond on Facebook

and Twitter or go to www.PhyzEdmond.com.

"I want them to leave with a big smile on

their face. "

by Emily Anderson

Tanner Holliman running front hurdles

Photo: (Left to Right) Brandon Myrick, Alex Davis, Korbin Jones, Tanner Holliman, Rachel Schaefer, Jacob Burns,

Jackson Ford, Kiean Veach and Dallas Myrick

FIT FOR A KID

A community music program for students grades 4-12 who love to sing!

Auditions - Aug. 15, 22, 295:30-7:30 p.m. at First Christian

Church of Edmond

974-5754 • www.yccok.org

YOUNG CHOIRS OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA


we stopped for Cokes, Mona had to have a small

portion of crushed ice and during thunderstorms or

fireworks, Mona hid under the bed. I wish every boy

and girl could have a dog like Mona. She brought love,

joy and a ton of memories to our family.

Aaron is now grown with children of his own,

and yes, they have a loving dog. And in case you’re

thinking about getting a cuddly puppy for your little

one, you might want to rethink that. Preschoolers and

puppies aren’t always a good mix. But you might find

a gentle, two-year-old mutt at the animal shelter who is

longing for a family and a home. In fact, you just might

get lucky and find a dog like Mona.

We should have known that our

son, Aaron, was too young for a

pet, but being young and naïve

ourselves, my husband and I

thought the lab puppy would be a perfect companion

for our two and half-year-old son. We were wrong.

Bridgette was already six months old and had

outgrown that cuddly puppy stage. Instead, she

was the picture of ADD in the dog world, running,

jumping, knocking Aaron down, scratching his legs

with her claws. She didn’t mean to hurt him; she

was just being a pup, a rowdy one. Needless to say,

Bridgette found a new home.

So it was more than a little surprise when my

husband came home from work one day with a

doghouse and a two-year-old mutt named Mona.

The one thing we didn’t need was another dog. Carl

explained that the family was moving out of state and

couldn’t take the dog with them, nor could they find

a family to take the motley looking canine. When his

co-worker mentioned putting Mona to “sleep,” Carl

decided to take her, being certain we could find her

a good home.

I wasn’t so sure. The gray, black and white mongrel

was a strange looking mix—half schnauzer and half

beagle. She wasn’t exactly photogenic with her low,

round belly and bearded chin, but she was congenial

and loving so I accepted Carl’s plan. We definitely

needed to find her a home. But somewhere along

the way, while we were waiting for that special family

to come along, Mona slipped right into our hearts. I

would often look out the kitchen window and see her

lying on her belly, legs extended on the cool concrete

of our back porch. She barely took notice when Aaron

plopped down on her back for a “horsey” ride. He

pulled her ears as if she were a furry stuffed toy and

Mona simply nuzzled closer to him. They became

inseparable companions, roaming our half acre yard

and sitting in the middle of our small orchard sharing

apples that fell to the ground.

Once, the front gate was left unlocked and Aaron

wandered out of the yard. Nearly hysterical when I

found him missing, I ran toward the traffic area calling

his name over and over but he didn’t answer. Finally,

I yelled “M-o-n-a!” She barked and I could see Aaron

on the other side of the highway with Mona shielding

him from crossing back over the street at the sound of

my voice. I darted across the busy thoroughfare and

scooped Aaron into my arms, so thankful for his safety.

The three of us made our way back to the house. Mona

had definitely found her forever home!

When we moved to another town, Mona moved

with us. When we took trips, Mona went along. When

“While we were waiting for that special family to

come along, Mona slipped right into our hearts.”

by Nathan Winfrey

About the AuthorLouise Tucker Jones isan award-winning author and inspirational speaker. Author and co-author of four books, her work has been featured in numerous publications. Contact her at: [email protected] or LouiseTuckerJones.com.

Louise Tucker Jones

A DOG NAMED MONA

Louise's son Aaron with Mona

Dear Readers,Thank you for the numerous e-mails, cards and calls concerning the death of my husband, Carl. I so appreciate your kind words and prayers. During this time of overwhelming grief, I am sharing some of my “classic” stories that have never been published in my Edmond Outlook column. Hope you enjoy them.


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Oasis Pools & Spas offers quality maintenance, repair and remodeling for your swimming pool or spa. Whether you have an in-ground or above-ground pool, our trained technicians will keep it running beautifully. Stop by our store and enjoy 15% off all toys, pool floats and games with this ad. Exp. 8/31/11 1333 N. Santa Fe • 340-6442

Visit Edmond’s only plus-sizeconsignment shop, ReDesigning

Women, for quality clothing in sizes14 & up, shoes and accessories at greatprices! With new inventory arriving daily,

you’ll want to shop often. Open Tues. - Sat.10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 2nd & Kelly • 844-0505

Un-GrocerySave yourself the hassle of enduring a hot car, traffic, parking, crowded aisles and long check out lines at the grocery store each week by calling Un-Grocery! We’ll take your shopping list to the store of your choice and deliver your groceries right to your door. Visit our website for rates and services or call us at 471-9144. No minimum required. Mention this ad for $5 off!

Hip & Swanky has everything you’ll need to head back toschool in style including cuteand trendy dresses, jewelry, hats & boots. Located at 1247 E. Danforth (Kickingbird Square) 341-3066www.hipandswanky.com

Make a difference by shopping at Our Sisters’ Closet,an upscale Edmond resale shop benefiting batteredwomen and children in Oklahoma. We stock only quality resale women’s wear, shoes, purses and jewelry at incred- ible prices. You can shop, donate clothes, money or just volunteer. We’d love to see you! Located 3 blocks Northof 2nd, half way between Broadway & Boulevard at 101 E. Hurd. • Open Tues - Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 348-2442 • www.ywcaokc.org • Find us on Facebook!

Beaucoup Boutiques is Edmond’s newboutique market! You’ll find over 25

vendors offering an array of gorgeousclothing, purses, hand-made jewelry,children’s items and decor with evenmore vendors to come. Interested in

renting booth space? Call us! 471-912714400 N. Lincoln (between Memorial & 33rd)

242-6451 • www.beaucoupboutiques.com

Spend the Dog Days ofSummer at Paint Your art Out! • Private Parties • Onsite Events• New Original Art Each Month • Adult Art Party Sessions Nightly • Paint Your Pet Sessions Available Each Month Bring you, your friends and a bottle of wine and we’ll supply the canvas, paint, wine glasses and fun! Located at 100 N. Broadway in Edmond • 513-5333 • Register at www.PaintYourArtOut.net

Anabelle’s GalleriaStop by Anabelle’s this month for all your school spirit needs or that perfect back to school gift! Join us on August 11th for our Back-to-School Night starting at 5 and open late till 9 p.m. with lots of great specials and sales! Located at 1201 NW 178th • 359-1189Find us on Facebook!


Edmond Rd. & Santa Fe 348-2214 Mon-Sat 10:30-9, Sun 11-3

325 N. Walker (Downtown OKC)

605-3131 Mon-Sat 10:30-9Delivery Available

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Now serving Boar's Head meats & cheeses on allhoagies. Also available by the pound!

Authentic Philadelphia Cheesesteaks,Italian Subs & New York Style Pizza

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FREE HOAGIE!BUY 1 HOAGIE GET 1 FREE


Answering the call for a café that only served

early breakfast, brunch and lunch, First Watch

opened its doors 28 years ago and now has 87

cafés nationwide. In January, First Watch de-

buted in Oklahoma City under the ownership/management of

Ghassan Dabbour. As a restaurant franchisee, Dabbour wanted to

spend more time with his family and traded 18 years in a 24-hour

restaurant business for the mornings

he loves. “While visiting friends in

Kansas, we ate at First Watch and en-

joyed it immensely. I called corporate

before leaving the parking lot and

told them I saw myself doing this and

here we are,” said Dabbour.

First Watch has fresh food and

low-calorie options that meet the

demands of a nation becoming more

health-conscious. “Healthy choices is a trend I want to be a part

of. We cook it fresh every day starting at 6 a.m.” And First Watch

boasts excellent customer service which includes greeting every

customer with a fresh pot of coffee and a smile. “We like to im-

press our customers with an experience that’s memorable and dif-

ferent,” he said.

Nijim, Dabbour’s son, is regional manager and Noalle, Dab-

bour’s daughter, is the assistant manager and a cook. “Our em-

FIRST WATCHby Melanie Phillips Clemens

Nijim Dabbour, Regional Manager

Daily Happy Hours2:30 - 5:30 p.m.

1/2 Off All Appetizers!$2 Beer & Sake

$4 Wine by the glass

285-2396

ployees are the channel between me and my customers so I create

a good environment for them. We help one another by treating

the restaurant as one station and we all serve the customers,” said

Dabbour.

With a motto of “If we can, we will,” there are no substi-

tution charges for anyone wanting to ‘tweak’ their order and no

charge for sharing meals. They’ll even bring extra plates. Quick

service has food at your table within

10 minutes of ordering and a specials

board is visible to every table. “Our

menu is set by corporate but we have

fun with the specials board featur-

ing some of our own creations,” said

Nijim.

“We love the ‘wow’ effect when

customers order our Fruity Chicken

Salad with diced green apples, raisins

and water chestnuts. It truly is an explosion of deliciousness,” said

Nijim of one of his favorite menu items.

First Watch is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and only

closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is located at 2328 W.

Memorial, between Pennsylvania and May avenues in Quail

Springs Marketplace across from Quail Springs Mall. For more

information, call 748-EGGS (3447), visit www.firstwatch.com or

find First Watch on Facebook and Twitter.

3209 S. Broadwayin Edmond

Call 844-0909

Offer valid on select products. Cannot be combined withany other offers. Offer code must be used when placing

the order. Offer expires: 8/31/11 Code: EDOU0552

www.EdibleArrangements.com


DININGON THE GOby Krystal Harlow

Kang’s Asian Bistro understands the demands on your time and the importance of having a great meal quickly. They use only the highest quality ingredients and prepare your meal fresh to order. Try their famous Baby Gecko roll stuffed with fresh salmon, cream cheese, jalapeno, spicy mayo and scallions or the Grilled Beef Tenderloin wok’d with steamed asparagus and a sake soy reduction. Place your order online at kangsok.com or call 285-8300 and pick it up at their convenient drive up window. Or Kang’s will even deliver it to your door! 2080 E. 2nd Street

Kang's Asian Bistro

Millie’s new ‘Hot Meals to Go’ option is the perfect dinner solution for your busy schedule. Every Tuesday and Thursday, shop the ‘Hot Meals to Go’ menu online for your meat entrée, roll and choice of veggie, rice or potato, then call by 1 p.m. to place your order (no online orders) and pick up between 5 and 6 p.m. Meals are $8.62 per person, including tax. While you’re there, pick up Easy Bake Entrees from the freezer and ask about catering for events. Open Mon. – Sat. at 1333 N. Santa Fe. Visit milliestable.com or call 330-9156.

Millie's Table

This mobile smoke house is serving up the finest smoked brisket and pork ribs you'll ever eat. They specialize in corporate events, holiday parties, weddings and all types of catering, but you’ll also find them setting up shop in and around Edmond throughout the week. Grab a pulled pork sandwich or a bowl of their famous brisket chili and choose from mouthwatering sides like homemade potato casserole, cole slaw or seasoned green beans. To find out where they’ll be next, check out their calendar at thesmokinokies.com or call 615-6830.

Smokin' OkiesIn a rush, but in the mood for great café dining? The fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch specialties at First Watch are just the ticket! With their 10-minute ticket service on dine-in or takeout, you’ll enjoy pancakes, omelettes, soups, sandwiches and exciting specialties like Crepeggs and the Chickichanga in short order. Now through Aug. 31 Take $2 Off your order (with ad, dine-in only, limit one per visit) Open daily 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at 2328 W. Memorial. Call 748-EGGS (3447) or visit firstwatch.com or find them on Facebook and Twitter.

First Watch

Enjoy fine dining on the fly with takeout, catering or a quick, sumptuous lunch or dinner at Mr. Sushi. At this favorite Edmond hot spot, each delectable sushi and sashimi selection is made fresh to order. Indulge every craving with a wide assortment of sushi, sashimi, Nigri Sushi, Temaki and specialties like the crabstick Volcano Roll topped with baked seafood and a trio sauce. Best of all, the prices are as palatable as the menu! Call 285-7310 or stop by their convenient location at 214 S. Santa Fe Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Visit mrsushiok.com.

Mr. Sushi

Find us on Facebook!

Still the most affordable treat around, Daylight Donuts on Danforth now offers even more delicious options! Visit edmonddaylightdonuts.com, to place an order online and pick it up at the drive-thru the next day. Orders of 5 dozen or more receive 10% off – perfect for schools or offices. Check out their new Birthday Donut Letters customized with your child’s name or party theme for classroom birthdays. All donuts are hand-cut, hand-dipped in house each morning with over 50 choice varieties. Stop by 730 W. Danforth near Hobby Lobby Tues.-Sun. 5 a.m. – noon.

Daylight Donuts on danforth


121 E. Waterloo, Ste 13

With ad - Minimum $10 purchase Dine-in or carry out only - Exp. 8/31/11

359-3900

CHEESE STICKS!

2$ .99

ET’s BBQCatering & Custom Smoking330-4343121 E. WaterlooMon - Thurs11am - 9pm Fri & Sat11am - 10pm

with this ad

834 W. Danforth Rd.(SE Corner of Kelly and Danforth)

4 OFF$15 minimum purchase. Exp. 8-31-11

348-1555

$

M - Th 11am - 8pm Fri - Sat 11am - 9pm Sun 11am - 3pm

Buy 1 EntreeGet 1 FREE!

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One coupon per customer. Cannot becombined with any other offers. Exp. 8/31/11

844-7667M - Th: 10:30 am - 8 pmF - Sat: 10:30 am - 9 pm

Serving Ice Cold Beer!Edmond Rd. & Santa FeFind us on Facebook!

511 S. BroadwayWith this ad -1 per table Exp. 8/31/11

1Off ANYMEAL

$

Breakfast & Lunch, Mon - Sat 6:30 am - 2:30 pmKIDS BACK IN SCHOOL? TIME TO TREAT YOURSELF

TO BREAKFAST OR LUNCH AT COLBY’S GRILL!


DANCE PHASE

As a 5-year-old dancer, Lisa Motsenbocker

could’ve never imagined the impact dancing would

have in her life. “In high school, my dance instructor

asked me to help teach. That’s when I knew I wanted

to have my own dance studio. I graduated from OKC

University with a dance management degree. In the fall

of 2009, I started living that dream when I purchased

Dance Phase from my friend, Tiffany Warford.”

Dance Phase seeks to build self-esteem in their

dancers through encouraging a love of dance, and

fun age-appropriate classes. “We teach dance not

for the trophies or medals but because we love it.

That’s the difference we impart to our students,” said

Motsenbocker. Although recognition isn’t their focus,

they win awards at every competition they attend

including Stage One, Showbiz Talent and Dance

Showcase USA. They also performed at Dancers

Against Cancer, raising $750 toward the cause.

Each dance teacher has professional training and

many of them dance with Oklahoma City Ballet.

“Everyone on staff has a college degree or are working

towards one. We stay updated with the latest trends,

techniques and choreography. We attend conventions

that have inspired some of our teachers to pursue

dance careers,” said Motsenbocker.

Dance Phase offers a variety of dance classes for

boys and girls age three to adult. “Our adult fitness

class, a mixture of different dance types, works great

for parents who want to come at the same time as their

children. We try to make it extra special for all of our

dancers and get to know each one of them. It’s not just

a business, it’s family,” said Motsenbocker.

Parents of Dance Phase dancers wholeheartedly

agree. “We love Dance Phase because the teachers and

staff treat their students like family and are willing to

go the extra steps so the students become the best

dancers they can be,” said parent Sandy Prewitt.

Alison Hunt agrees. “Our daughter has been a

student for two years, and thanks to Miss Lisa and

Dance Phase, we have watched her truly blossom.

Not only do the teachers do an amazing job teaching

dance techniques, they also instill within the students

self-confidence, tenacity and the ability to express

themselves in a beautiful manner,” she said.

“In the past two years, we’ve grown so much due

to advertising in Edmond Outlook and referrals by

our wonderful parents. As a result, we are relocating

to a larger studio and will be adding classes to

accommodate families with different age siblings or

conflicting activities. We try our hardest to go above

and beyond, for the love of dance,” said Motsenbocker.

For more information on the classes offered call

478-3464, visit www.dancephasestudio.com or find

them on Facebook. An open house at their new

location, 3900 S. Broadway, Bldg. 3, is planned for

August 15-18, from 3 to 7 p.m.

by Melanie Phillips Clemens

Lisa Motsenbocker, Co-Owner of Dance Phase

For the Love of Dance


Sears, Roebuck and Co., officially formed in 1893,

has forged a new concept in personal customer service

by setting up Hometown stores here in Edmond

and throughout the United States. Sears Hometown

combines independent ownership with high-quality

products in a family atmosphere. These ingredients

contribute to the concept’s success.

The principle behind this endeavor resonated

with Dan and Susan Bercaw and a partnership with

Sears ensued. “With my former job, I was commuting

weekly from OKC to Victoria, British Columbia,” said

Dan. “I opened this business because I wanted to do

something different and wanted to be home more

with my family. Our store opened in Edmond in May

2010, and was the first model for future stores. They’re

quickly establishing new Hometown stores and now

have 1200 nationwide.”

With a struggling economy and a competitive

consumer market, the Sears Hometown store model

positively impacts communities. “With a couple

million in sales yearly, our sales volume is still low

enough that we remember what everyone who walks

through our door has purchased. Our customers like

the personal service we offer,” said Dan.

The Sears Hometown store is not a franchise, but

a dealership model with a contractual arrangement

between Sears and independent owners. “We had to

meet Sears’ strict requirements for them to trust us

with their name and inventory. What’s great for the

consumer is that we’re a small store with a solid brand

people value,” said Susan.

Customers who visit the store will find a good

selection of high-end appliances, a complete line of

lawn and garden equipment, tools, vacuums, water

softeners and the latest electronics, including 3D

televisions. The Hometown store is not a clothing

store or an outlet store. Even though they have a small

selection of parts in stock, they are not a parts store.

“This is a family business that takes everybody

in the family to operate. We personally know our

employees. They each have multiple years of retail

experience with at least a bachelor’s degree to their

SEARS HOMETOWNby Melanie Phillips Clemens

Dan & Susan Bercaw, Owners of Sears Hometown

credit. They enjoy working in this type of environment

because its family oriented,” said Dan.

The customer service the Bercaws provide goes

above and beyond the status quo. “We had an elderly

couple purchase a small window air conditioner

recently on a Saturday. We went to their home and

installed it the same day to get them out of the heat.

That’s the level of personal service we’ll go to. They

came back the following Monday and bought another

one. We’ve gained the loyalty of our customers because

we don’t mind helping,” said Susan.

Edmond’s Sears Hometown store is located at 3409

S. Broadway on the SW corner of 33rd and Broadway.

Call 286-3440 or find them on Facebook for coupons.

Lisa Motsenbocker, Co-Owner of Dance Phase

Big Name, Small-Town Feel


by Lindsay Whelchel

If life is a canvas, then Kellie Clements knows

that we are our own artists. The Edmond

interior designer and mother of two learned

all about taking charge of her own palette

when she auditioned for, and won, a spot in HGTV’s

sixth season of “Design Star” which is airing this

summer.

The show puts design professionals to a series of

challenges where they utilize their skills and talent to

create a thing of beauty. And when it comes to beautiful

creations, Clements is no stranger. She studied design

at the University of Central Arkansas and comes from a

long line of artists. Her parents were artists. Her father

owned an art gallery and her grandfather was an artist

in the field of carpentry.

It is from this lineage that Clements molded her

design style, self-described as warm, modern and

eclectic. She says she likes to use a lot of color and one-

of-a-kind pieces in her designs. “I like to use unique

pieces, things that kind of tell a story about (the

client’s) life. I like to make the rooms very personal,”

Clements says.

And though originally from Arkansas, Clements

has been hard at work designing here in Oklahoma for

the past ten years. She mainly does residential work in

the Edmond area and stages new homes for a building

company while using an educational approach.

“I don’t just tell people what looks good, I tell

them why, because I can’t be with them all the time and

they’re going to want to make a purchase of something

for their home in the future. I give them little tips and

tools that will arm them with information so they can

make the right decision,” said Clements.

And that approach seems to be working. Her

business has grown strongly through word-of-mouth

and she explains that she loves to work directly with

homeowners. “My favorite part is the people. When

I do work for someone that is local, I get to see how

what I did for them has impacted their lives,” she

says. And it is the changing of lives that really interests

Clements. “I love design, but I love people more and

design is just a vehicle through which I’m able to

impact peoples’ lives.”

When it comes to impact, Clements’ opportunity

with “Design Star” is just about as life-changing as

it gets. “It’s still kind of surreal to me that it’s even

happened,” she says and describes the undertaking as a

very important move she had to make as a professional

and as a mother of two young children.“It’s a struggle

just being a working mom to find that balance. Me

being gone and participating in something like ‘Design

Star’ was a big risk for me because of my children,”

Clements says, crediting her husband’s commitment to

help care for the children in her absence.

The sacrifices were worth it to Clements. “I feel

like not pursuing that goal of mine was also a risk

because I have to be an example to my children, and

even my husband, of how to not just talk the talk but

walk the walk.”

The courage to take that first step came after a

difficult year for Clements and her family. She had

watched every season of the show but had never

taken the chance to audition until now. “Our family

overcame a lot of things and it changed me. I decided

I was going to stop thinking about ‘Design Star’ and I

was going to really pursue it,” she says. And pursue it

she did. The casting process was in depth according to

Clements. It included more than one trip to Dallas and

even a trip to meet with producers in New York City.

The prospect of being on the show kept Clements

going. “I am a competitor at heart. The thought of

competing in my own arena, interior design, has

always been appealing to me,” she says. Ultimately it

was the ever present desire to be an example to her

children that helped Clements deal with the challenges

of grueling competition and being far from home.

She wants others to not be afraid to do the same.

“Go after what you want to go after. I have kids and a

family but I’m still an individual and one of these days

my boys are going to ask me if they should take the job

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overseas or if they should start their own business and I have to be able to

tell them yes and give them examples of why.”

And Clements will certainly have stories to tell her children about her

time on the show. “It was a life experience, not a design experience,” she

says and adds that she made strong friendships with her fellow designers.

“We’re all so different but we share that same passion for design. Our time

together was very concentrated. We lived and worked together. We cried.

We laughed together. So, the friendships that you make in that short amount

of time are priceless,” said Clements. She's also grateful for the interaction

she had with some of the industry’s top designers like Nate Berkus.

But there were difficulties too, Clements admits. “I’m used to competing

as a team. I’m an encourager by nature and in a scenario like ‘Design Star’ it’s

not always beneficial to play as a team. It’s an individual competition,” she

says. “Finding that balance between when to help other designers and when

to put myself first was very difficult for me.”

But the competition aspect was a learning opportunity. “You definitely

have to think on your feet. There’s no time for second-guessing. Sometimes

something goes wrong in a challenge. You may pick the wrong paint color

but it’s too late, so you have to make a decision and make it the right

decision,” she says.

And lessons can be learned on both sides of the television screen.

Clements says that while the producers of the show did a good job of

incorporating educational design opportunities for the show’s audience, she

hopes viewers will take away deeper lessons as well. “I really want people,

whatever it is they’re thinking they want to do, I want them to go for it,”

she says. “I feel like in life we have an obligation to take responsible risks.”

Clements says she is embracing the journey and is excited to see where

the path will lead. “Design Star,” the hour-long reality competition series

shot in New York City, airs at 8 p.m. on Mondays through September.

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The U.S. Department of Justice estimates

that 95% of the victims of domestic violence are

women. These women often leave their homes with

nothing more than the clothes on their backs. The

Oklahoma City YWCA provides programs that help

abused women regain their dignity, self-esteem and

lives. One program, Our Sisters’ Closet, began in

Oklahoma City in 2007 and expanded to Edmond

in October 2010. The YWCA’s vision was to meet the

clothing needs of battered women and to establish

a sustainable source of revenue for the YWCA while

offering a unique shopping experience for the OKC

and Edmond communities.

The YWCA’s international mission is “empowering

women and eliminating racism” and each branch

focuses on different aspects. Oklahoma City’s YWCA

is the only certified emergency shelter in Oklahoma

County and it deals with domestic violence and

sexual assault issues concerning women. Cindy

Reynolds, OKC Director of Retail Development for

the YWCA, said, “It’s a sad reality that people in all

walks of life are made to feel unworthy. Many of our

clients walk away from everything, but thankfully

they walk away with their life. The misconception is

that it’s always low-income or young women. We’ve

had older women walk away from beautiful homes

and a life where they never had to want for anything.

It takes courage to walk away from an abusive

relationship. We provide shelter and meet their needs

while helping them take the right steps to regain their

lives.”

The YWCA helps these women through Our

Sisters’ Closet, a resale clothing boutique that

operates through donations from the community.

“People’s lives change for different reasons. We love it

when ladies clean out their closet. We take the same

quality clothing and household items you’d want in

your home or closet. We research the items and price

accordingly because we’re also in business to help

fund the YWCA.” We are a high quality resale shop

offering stylish clothing in excellent condition,” said

Reynolds.

The YWCA clients, with aid from their advocates,

receive clothing and household items at no charge.

For these women, beautiful, quality clothing often

makes a difference in their outlook on life. “We’ve

had clients share with us the different ways Our

Sisters’ Closet has impacted them; women who’ve

escaped with only the clothes on their back and

mothers without school clothes for their children

until we provided them. One of the most memorable

moments was a young lady that came to us needing

court-appropriate clothing. She literally looked like

she had clouds hanging over her head. We gave her

a stylish Harold’s blazer, heels, earrings and black

slacks to put on. When she came out, tears were

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streaming down her pretty face and it was like the

sun was shining on her. We all noticed, applauded

and cried with her. She went to court and won. It’s

amazing how clothes can empower a woman at a

difficult time in their life. We’re proud of what we

do even though it’s the simplest of things. We also

want to provide a pleasant shopping experience for

the public. Maybe you’ll find that Ann Taylor shell

and pay $8 instead of $80,” said Reynolds.

Our Sisters’ Closet is just one way the YWCA

helps women. The YWCA provides immediate

emergency shelter for more than 300 women and

children every year with individual services to more

than 14,000 from Oklahoma as well as women from

other states and countries. They also offer transitional

housing, counseling and advocates to help clients get

their lives back.

Even though the YWCA receives funding from

the United Way and private benefactors, and is

awarded grants for specific programs, the demand

for their services has steadily increased. “Our stores

have brought more awareness to the community

about the YWCA services. The response from the

Edmond community has been welcoming and

supportive. When women find out what we do,

it’s a magnet that draws them to us. Most of our

customers know someone who’s been in that kind of

situation. You never know who’s going to knock on

your door and need our help,” said Reynolds.

Donations are welcome at both locations:

In Edmond at 101 E. Hurd three blocks north

of Second Street, halfway between Broadway and

Boulevard. Phone: 348-2448 Tues-Sat. 10-5

In Oklahoma City at 2209 W. I-240 Service Road,

the northwest corner of I-240 and Pennsylvania in

the Walnut Square Shopping Center. Mon-Sat. 10-6

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For more information about the YWCA, call

948-1770 or visit www.ywcaokc.org.

Additional resources:

The Oklahoma State Safe Line: 800-522-7233

YWCA Domestic Violence Hotline: 917-9922

YWCA Sexual Assault Hotline: 943-7273

Cindy Reynolds, OKC Director of Retail Development for the YWCA at Edmond's My Sisters' Closet


in life got to thinking about it again.” After researching

the market, Gnagy realized no one offered the service

and decided to move forward. “I kind of felt there was

a business niche there,” he said.

Blake Barkley, who manages the operations

in the Amarillo, Texas area, said homeowners often

call their buddies to watch while the turf is being

painted. “People get really excited about it, because

it’s something new and something really interesting.”

Other times, he added, “people will be just driving by,

and then they’ll drive by again, till they finally stop

and ask what is it?”

The process is simple. It takes about 30 minutes

to an hour to get the job done. The paint is water-

based and non-toxic, doesn’t hurt the grass when

applied properly and is safe for pets. Gnagy said grass

could be a challenging medium and the best results

are achieved a day or two after the lawn is mowed.

Once the paint is dry, customers don’t have to do

anything to maintain it. “You can treat it as a normal

lawn as if the paint job wasn’t even there. It grows out

If you consider yourself a superfan, you

may have wished the logo from your

favorite college’s football field would

magically appear on your front lawn

and turn the Sunday game into a real sensation.

Alan Gnagy, founder of Grass Taggers can make that

dream a reality. When it comes to painting turf logos,

Grass Taggers has done it all, from college logos to

engagement messages, birth announcements and

birthday surprises. “Anything is possible,” Gnagy

said. “If you can think of it and it's within a five color

scheme or less, we can put it down. I’ve had requests

for TV and comic-book characters, you name it.”

Grass Taggers, based in Edmond, started as a

small company with just a few employees but rapidly

expanded to neighboring states. Gnagy said business

keeps growing and he plans to open more offices

nationally and even internationally. The company is

fully licensed for all NFL and Major League Baseball

logos and is working on NBA, Nascar and NHL. They

are also continually adding to their library of license

marks for college and high school sports teams.

Having a license not only grants them the right to

legally reproduce the logo, but also offers the exact

color set for the stencil so the image looks perfect

every time. “We get a lot of cooperation from the folks

at Major League Baseball and NFL, and especially the

local colleges here,” Gnagy said.

Gnagy got the idea for the service about 10 years

ago while working in the golf and turf business. “I saw

an advertisement painted on the turf and I thought it

was kind of interesting. I kind of shelved it and later

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with the grass,” said Gnagy.

The logos last from two to four weeks, depending on the

season and how fast the grass grows. After each mowing the

pattern gradually fades away. “You can’t really harm it other

than ripping it up, and that’s happened before,” Gnagy joked,

“you put a logo out on a lawn, and sometimes it sparks up a

neighborhood football game right on top of it.” However, Grass

Taggers offers deals on touch-ups, always trying to keep sports

fans happy - including those who want their favorite team logo

on their lawn all season long. Logo sizes vary from 52 inches

to 13 feet or even larger, and range in price from $100 to about

$300. The company also works on bigger projects at schools

and sports clubs. In fact, they offer wholesale pricing packages

for booster clubs and fundraising groups.

Grass Taggers makes custom designs but has a strong

policy about what is appropriate. “We definitely don’t want to

ruin anybody’s birthday parade,” said Gnagy. “We try not to do

anything that requires censorship.” So, if you want to prank a

friend or relative by ordering the rival’s team logo, think again.

“We are sports fans and we like to pride ourselves on good

sportsmanship,” said Gnagy. “There are certain lines that are

crossable and there are lines that are not crossable.”

But if you lost a bet, now that’s a different story. “If we are

talking about a message or something that is all fun in nature…

we’ll gladly paint whatever they want,” said Gnagy. He would

even offer a deal to paint the lawn green the next day just to

get the logo off. “We keep our rules flexible, but always try to

be fair.” Continued on page 24

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Grass Taggers is hiring and other than a good attitude, there are

no special requirements for those who want to join the team. “We are

nice guys who work hard, so we are looking for those people,” Gnagy

said. “If you are a sports fan, it helps but if you are not, while working

for us you’ll become one.” Graffiti artists are especially welcome. “We

need to get those kids to stop doing graffiti on rail cars and come do

them on lawns. They can make tons of money.” He said that would

be a much safer way to create masterpieces while keeping the city’s

walls clean.

If you would like your lawn “tagged,” or if you want to become

a grass tagger, visit their website at www.grasstaggers.com or call

Alan at 996-8104.

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SOME LIKE IT HOT

Years of sun, snacks, summers at the lake and an endless quest for a fresh

summer salsa led native Oklahoman Dee Sporn to think, “I can make salsa better

than this.” So she did—and she’s been making it ever since. Sporn, also known as

Mamma Dee, spent years perfecting her recipe, which would eventually become

a “hot” commodity.

Friends and family would rave about Mamma Dee’s salsa, encouraging her to

sell it and sparking the idea that she might have something special. She started

entering the salsa in food competitions and often came away with first prize. After

the salsa knocked off a long-time favorite from the top spot to win an award in

Albuquerque, NM, she said to herself, “we got something here we need to move

forward with.”

That’s when she, along with husband, Jerrie, and daughter, Deitra McClure,

decided to make a business out of it, and Mamma Dee’s salsa has now been on the

market for three years. When it came to deciding to market her salsa, Mamma Dee

says, “the biggest challenge was knowing where to go and how to do it.”

Taking a food course at Oklahoma State University about starting a business

was the family’s first step. There they learned the most cost-effective way to go

about selling their product. They were told that to be successful, they had to either

make or sell their salsa—they couldn’t do both.

So they started on their journey, but not

without a few challenges along the way. Demand

soon started picking up which meant they were

quickly running out of room. Plus, they started out

only making salsa using fresh vegetables, but the

need for fresh salsa to be refrigerated compromised

its shelving ability. The salsa would have to be

jarred. The Sporns developed a jarred version of

their salsa that matched the fresh in every way —

the only difference was the vegetables were cooked

instead of fresh, but the taste and flavor didn’t

change. With the shelf-stable version of the salsa,

the Sporns were able to get their foot in the door

with many local grocery stores. “Now they tell us our salsa is better than any other

that they carry,” says Jerrie. The shelf-stable version also made the salsa shippable,

landing it a spot in a couple of restaurants.

The next decision, to turn the making of the salsa over to a professional mass

producer, was easy—especially when they learned about co-packers. The co-

packer takes care of producing and jarring the salsa from start to finish, and is

able to produce the salsa at a commercial level. Once entrusted with Mamma Dee’s

secret recipe, the co-packer was quickly churning out jars of salsa as if they were

made by Mamma Dee herself.

So what’s the salsa’s secret? “The whole formula makes it unique,” says Jerrie.

“Anyone can throw vegetables together and call it a salsa. But it’s the spices that

makes ours distinct.” Any further prompting on the Sporns’ spices only elicits a

comment about “trade secrets” and “I’d have to kill you” from a chuckling Jerrie.

It also helps that Mamma Dee’s salsa can satisfy anyone’s heat threshold. The

DreamCatcher Farm Gourmet Salsa comes in four different temperatures: Mamma

Dee’s mild, medium (the original), pretty hot and “Jr.’s super duper hot.” The last is

“habenero hot” and has won several awards in competitions across the nation.“If I

can get it in their mouths then they will buy it,” says Jerrie. “It sells itself.”

Dee and Jerrie Sporn live on a miniature horse farm; the name of which,

“DreamCatcher Farm,” became a natural title for the famous salsa that was

formulated in the Sporns’ kitchen. The accountant/horse trainer/salsa seller has

an unexpected spunky side that once led her to trade in her Mercedes for a Harley,

which she used to ride to work. The Sporns, who’ve spent the better part of the

past 50 years in Oklahoma, say Edmond is the most “appetizing” place for them

to live. You'll find them at local farmers’ markets or festivals like the Edmond Arts

Festival or Affair of the Heart. Jars of the Sporns’ special salsa can be found at

Simply Southwest at 1 N. Broadway in Edmond or in Gourmet Gallery, Crescent

Markets and Red Dirt Emporium.

by Rachel Dattolo

Dee & Jerrie Sporn at the Edmond Farmer's Market with their award winning salsa


Some things are in the eye of the beholder,

but the Edmond School District is a bit more

objective. In fact, there’s specific criteria that

determines if a child will be labeled as gifted in

the academic realm.

“The percentage of gifted kids for the

(Edmond) district is about 31 percent…which

is pretty high. Most districts do not have that

many identified. The parents in Edmond have

just worked really hard to provide opportunities

and experiences to their kids and we just have

a higher percentage and a great program,”

said Glenda Choate, Educational Services

Coordinator for Edmond Public Schools.

So how exactly does a child get in to that 31

percent? Testing is one means the district uses.

A district abilities test gives a general idea of

what a child’s IQ could be. “We test all of our

second, fourth and sixth-graders. It is a group

test called the Cognitive Abilities Test. If they

get close, then we go back through and mark

them as ‘prospects.’ Those names are given to

the enrichment teachers at their school and then

they talk to the parents and ask if we can test

them further individually,” explains Choate.

“The testing is all about using reasoning.

Analogies, what goes together, patterns,

deductive and inductive reasoning, vocabulary,

seeing what other words they can figure out,”

says Choate. Students have to hit the 97th

percentile in the overall test to qualify for the

enrichment program. Another measurement is a

multi-criteria matrix – points based on several

tests, teacher recommendations, classroom

performance, etc. If the points add up, they can

qualify for the gifted program.

And Choate emphasizes that giftedness isn’t

always as obvious as good grades. “It is not

only possible to not make good grades and be

gifted, but it’s usually the case. Gifted students

tend to get bored. They need to be challenged

in some way,” she said. “We also have students

who perform highly in class who are not gifted.

An abilities test is about how they think, how

they process. And they may not do that very

well. High achieving kids don’t always qualify

as gifted.”

With all 15 of Edmond’s elementary schools

participating in the enrichment program, many

parents wonder how young children can be

before they show signs of giftedness. “Sometimes

parents know very early on that their child is

gifted, sometimes at age 3 or 4,” said Choate.

“Early talkers, understanding more than just

counting, making connections at a very early

age. But that doesn’t always mean they are overall

intellectually gifted. We are real, real careful

with using the word gifted with young kids.”

And when it comes to the age-old question

of nature vs. nurture, Choate says, “You can

by Erica Smith

GIFTED KIDS

Most parents at some point in their children’s lives wonder, “Is my child gifted?”


improve an IQ a bit. But (giftedness) is really about abilities.

Parents in Edmond have such high expectations, they have helped

to cultivate it. They have helped develop the potential. I think it’s a

combination. We genetically inherit who we are, and our IQ is part

of that, but the nurture is a big part of it.”

So if nurture is a factor, how young is too young to start nurturing

these gifts and talents? One Edmond preschool aims to nurture

giftedness from the moment students come through the doors.

Mayittho Acuna, who opened Marymount Preschool in March 2010,

starts preparing the children in her care as early as 2 years old.

Her goal is “to ensure the child will get into a good private school

when they are 5 years old,” said the native Colombian. “It was

difficult when I came to America and found mainly day cares where

my children could socialize. After my children started elementary

school and struggled with language skills, it caused me to want to

do something about it.”

So when Acuna opened Marymount, her vision was to provide

“the best resources, curriculum and education while focusing on the

gifts, talents and abilities of each child.” The school’s Montessori

approach places the children together but teaches on different

levels. “We teach the children on their own level and set up goals

for them individually,” said Acuna.

Yet on the other side of the coin are teachers and parents who

don’t think giftedness is something you can test for. “There really is

no test for gifted children,” said Sharon Tanner, owner of Primrose

School of Edmond and parent of children who were labeled “gifted”

during their school years. “There are children who possess the

ability to learn and retain large amounts of information who may not

test well on a standardized test. Standardized tests are subjective. A

gifted child has a natural intelligence which is usually enhanced by

a unique ability to remember great detail.”

To show an example, Tanner highlights the paths of two boys

at Primrose. “Sam and Gavin are two young boys who attended

Primrose and were given the options to skip first grade after they

graduated from kindergarten. Sam’s parents allowed him to skip

ahead whereas Gavin’s parents decided to have him enter first

by Erica Smith

GIFTED KIDS

continued on page 30

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"High achieving kidsdon't always qualify as

gifted."


grade. They are both gifted, but flourish in different ways. Sam

tends to conceptualize what he is learning. He will listen to all

the facts and decide his answer by deduction. Gavin is outwardly

inquisitive. He asks many questions in a rapid manner because

he tends to be more impatient about deciding what the end result

should be. He and Sam eventually come to the same conclusions

but use very different methods. Both possess all the qualities of a

gifted student. This is why tests are subjective and cannot truly

measure one student’s learning abilities over another.”

When it comes to nurture, she also sees the environment as

a key factor in a child’s success. “Any person has the ability to

learn, but gifted children learn quickly and retain large amounts

of knowledge, said Tanner. “A person can be born with a gifted

mind but may never have had a catalyst to expose him/her to a

certain array of subjects which would allow that trait to surface.”

So for many parents, being their children’s “catalyst” and

giving them a head start can begin at home. “Give your kids a

lot of opportunities, a lot of experiences and be equal,” advises

Choate. “Don’t just focus on physical agility, but also have them

reading, or being read to. Make a math problem out of everything.

Help the child think and not with just the obvious answer. The

more parents do that, the more students have the opportunity to

use those higher thinking skills.”

For more about Marymount Preschool, call 341-8166 or visit

35 E. 15th St. For more about Primrose School of Edmond, call

285-6787 or visit 15000 N. Western. For a list of characteristics

commonly found in gifted children, visit our blog at

www.edmondoutlook.com.

continued from page 29

335 S. Blackwelder(Off 2nd & Bryant, west side of Super Target)

844-282615220 N. Western

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348-4826


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Names: Lance Phillips, Matt Stapleton

Lake Arcadia Cardboard Boat Regatta Competitors

What exactly is a Cardboard Boat Regatta?The city of Edmond puts it on and basically you build aone or two person boat entirely out of corrugated cardboard and duct tape and then waterproof it with a coat of varnish. There are awards for all sorts of things, but you and your boathave to make it out to a predetermined line and back withoutsinking. Unless you're going for the Titanic Award in whichcase, sink as dramatically as possible.

This is your third year to compete, what awards have you won? We won 2nd Place Team Division and the Pride of the Fleet Awardour first year. And then we won the Team Spirit Award last year.We hope to win even more this year. What was your inspiration for the Viking boat and theme? We really wanted to stand out and be the most extremeteam at the regatta. Plus we like the hats.

How long does it take to build the boat? Approximately 3-4 weeks

Has your team changed from year to year?No change, but we have picked up a sponser, Dan's Pizza. We've kept the same crew, just increased our team support.

Where do you get all the cardboard? We've been guilty of some dumpster diving. Or we checkwith home improvement, furniture or appliance stores.

Who has been your toughest competitors? Being middle aged and out of shape, we competewith our own inner demons.

Any words of wisdom for those thinking about competing?Have fun and make it a family affair. It's a blast.

When is the event and how do you register?This year's Cardboard Boat Regatta is Saturday, August 27. For more info or to register, visit edmondok.com/parks/rec/regatta or call 359-4630. All applications and payments are dueby August 19.

MY EDMOND OUTLOOKby Krystal Harlow

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edmond outlook august 2011

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