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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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V. 4, ISSUE 05, June 2012

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>>> Around Edmond

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM How can you not love the Oklahoma

City Thunder? We couldn’t have a more perfect group of players representing our city, or state for that matter. They’re young, enthusiastic, humble, friendly and extremely talented.

Aside from the Oklahoma City Bombing, nothing has brought this city or state closer together as the Thunder have. When the Thunder win, we all win. When they lose, we all feel it, but we also know that we can regroup to win another day. And when James Harden took and elbow to the head from the Lakers’ Ron Artest, it was a blow the whole city felt and we all wanted payback. But James handled it like the professional he is. He let his game do the talking and the Lakers went down in five.

Now our Thunder are in the NBA Finals for the first time since moving here from Seattle. For such a young team in a new market, to accomplish such a feat is almost unheard of. But for Thunder fans, it’s not all that surprising. We knew they had it in them and we know they can go all the way. There’s no quit in our team and there’s no quit in our city.

Durant, Westbrook, Harden, Perkins, Sefolosha, Ibaka, Collison and even Fisher (we forgive him for being a Laker) have been a breath of fresh air. They give us something to cheer for and they give us hope. Yes, we love our Thunder and the Thunder loves us back. There has never been a more prefect union between a basketball team and their city. Win or lose, that will never change.

Thunder Up!By Sherri Hultner

CELEBRITY WEEKENDMark Harmon, star of TV’s NCIS,

made his 12th annual trek to Edmond recently for his Stars & Strikes Celebrity weekend. Stars & Strikes consists of two celebrity sporting events, bowling and baseball.

The events benefit two charities; Anna’s House, an organization that places newborns and infants in good foster homes. And the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic.

For the past 11 years the baseball portion of the weekend was held in downtown OKC, but due to a scheduling conflict it was moved to the UCO campus.

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Metro Vibe <<<

Sublime With Rome at the Zoo Amp

Sunny Side Up’s Big Break

It’s always cool when a young local band gets a big break. It happened recently for Edmond’s own Sunny Side Up when they were asked to open for Sublime with Rome at the Zoo Ampitheater. It only seemed natural since Sunny Side Up is a Ska/Punk band, sort of in the same genre as Sublime. I say “sort of“ because Sublime is more Reggae than Ska. It was a good fit, nonetheless.

We’ve seen Sunny Side Up play a few times locally and they always put on a good, energetic show. We weren’t

expecting anything less from their performance at the Zoo Amp. Since this was their biggest venue and crowd to date you’d think they suffer from the jitters a little. Not these kids. They hit the stage like seasoned Pro’s and rocked the house. It was one of thier best shows ever and the crowd really dug them. The highlight of the show had to be when they played a Ska version of the Eagles, Hotel California. You gotta love a band with a sense of humor. To hear SSU for yourself go to www. sunnysideupska.bandcamp.com

Sometimes seeing a band years removed from their prime and missing their original singer isn’t such a good idea. It’s just not the same in most cases. But that doesn’t ring true with Sublime and their replacement singer, Rome Ramirez. In fact, Rome sounds so much like the late Bradley Nowell, that it’s almost erie.

We caught the Sublime with Rome show at the Zoo Amp and they were awesome. They played all their hits like Big Fish, Wrong Way, Santeria, Date Rape and What I Got. The band was tight and the crowd was along for the ride. If they swing around this way in the near future we definitely recommend hitting this one up.

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>>> My Fitness

Chocolate. This and other sweets are a source of frustration and concern among many of our boot camp participants, and surely, among you. Traditionally, athletes and others who work at an active lifestyle believe that eating just one chocolate treat that they are craving will sabotage their diet, make them gain several pounds, or lead to eating way more than just one. Instead, the focus goes towards snacking on “healthier” choices.

Although snacking on foods that provide you more nutritional content is the better choice, chocolate enjoyed in response to a craving can fit into a practical diet. Consuming chocolate (or whatever food you crave) can help you avoid the stronger cravings that can lead to eating a sickening amount. Although it can be perceived as being addicted to sugar, you are actually doing “last chance eating” before you go back to your self-defined food jail.

So what’s so bad about food cravings? Cravings are not addictions. When we eat food we enjoy and crave, our brain experiences a biochemical change that signals happiness. So can eating an appropriate portion (and not the entire thing) be such a bad thing?

The answer depends on whether or not you are eating the food for fuel or just mindlessly devouring it. If you find yourself eating half of a pizza, ask yourself, “Does my body need this quantity for fuel?” If you answer yes, then you need to educate yourself on how to prevent the triggers for such overeating. If you answer no, then ask, “Am I eating because of my feelings?” Binge eating is often done as a result of our emotions, loneliness, and boredom. This is using food for the wrong reason.

To overcome and be free from cravings, there are a couple of things you can do. First, eat a healthy and hearty breakfast. Don’t skip lunch. Fuel your body throughout the day. Next, change your attitude towards food. Also, the next time you crave a certain food, relax, savor it, and taste it. Learn to enjoy the treat in moderation and without feeling guilty. Doing so in moderation will not ruin your waistline. Learn your body’s responses to food.

Be free from your guilty perceptions towards food and don’t deprive yourself of foods you enjoy. Just be smart and aware.

Independence from Food Cravings and GuiltMelissa Cox, M.S. / The Shape Project

BOOT CAMP LOCATIONS:Mitch ParkHafer Park

Stars and Stripes Park

Contact Melissa Cox at 405-496-5891

www.shapeproject.comEmail: shapeproject@cox.net

twitter: @theshapeprojectfacebook:

www.facebook.com/TheShapeProject

In Business <<<

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My oldest daughter, Hannah, just completed her first grade year. Fortunately, her teacher obsessed with having her students learn about the U.S. Presidents and Founding Fathers. The class “travelled” and met with greats like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Hannah’s favorite, Abraham Lincoln.

As the presidents section continued, Hannah devoured any information she could find on Mr. Lincoln. Our kitchen buffett was scattered with books, articles, drawings, and other smattering of information about the great president. I’ve always had a fondness for this man, and the other men who shaped our great country, so Hannah’s love for Lincoln brought a subtle smile to my face.

When I think about the great sacrifices of these men, to stand for their beliefs, convictions, and knowledge of truth, I can’t help but clamour to yearn to sit silently in their company. Despite some of the grave misgivings that our “enlightened” age and “knowing” scholars thrust upon us, these men were honorable, diligent, and faithful to the country they loved.

On a recent business trip, I travelled to “the Land of Lincoln” and stood in the shadow of a nine foot statue of Abraham Lincoln. I marvelled silently at the accomplishments of one man, and his decisive and unifying decisions.

Independence, what great men fight and die for, I realized is one’s actions towards building and maintaining a common good. Those founding fathers, and the ones who also believed in

their cause, set examples for us of courage and fortitude in defending and maintaining so great a privilege as “independence”.

Our founders created and crafted a system, though sometimes imperfect, that guarantees rights, freedoms, and liberties other countries salivate for. Numerous countries since our country’s birth have drafted and adopted Constitutions that also guarantee the freedoms we enjoy.

These men, and the countless soldiers and leaders since, fought, and too often died, valiantly, courageously, and deserving of our upmost respect and admiration. These men and women salvaged for us a system we far too often neglect and take advantage of to our own demise.

As I stood in Lincoln’s shadow in the cool sunset, I couldn’t help but recall the opening stanza of The Gettysburg Address: “Four score and seven years ago...” But, it’s not the opening stanza that provides the greatest impact as we reflect on our liberty. No, the greatest impact of the speech comes from the carefully crafted reminder that, “[a] government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

My hope for you in this time of “independent” reflection is that you too will remember it’s each of us doing our part, which brings independence and liberty to these United States. I encourage you to reflect on Lincoln’s words, and carefully ponder what you can do as citizen in this great community and state to insure the

protections we have:Four score and seven years ago our

fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

In memoriam...To IndependenceBy Jeffrey Taylor, Attorney at Law

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>>>Metro Style

Love the feel of refinished furniture that lends to a casual

summer style?!

Stop By Serendipity Market on Danforth and next to Teds, where

you’ll constantly find a variety of unique, stylish & creative

pieces to decorate your home this summer!

Comphy Sheets (The name doesn’t lie!)Always wanted your bed to feel like your favorite B&B?

Now you can, and we think these are the best sheets we have found for summer time. Twin - King available at Arcadian Inn Gift Shop at 1st St. & University in Downtown Edmond.

Summer Gifts & Home Decor Beatriz Ball Salad Bowl

with Serving PiecesBeautifully Handcrafted &

won’t tarnish

Find this and other amazing pieces by Beatriz Ball

(perfect for wedding & anniversary gifts)

at I’m Just Sayin Gifts at Broadway & Waterloo!

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>>> Field Trip

Summer’s here and our Field Trip senses are flowing this month. We decided to find a place the entire family could enjoy on a budget and that was only an hour and a half away from Edmond.

Turner Falls boasts having Oklahoma’s Largest Waterfall and definitely has something for everyone whether it’s just an overnight camp out, a day excursion for those wanting to just relax in the water, a day trip for hikers complete with castles, trails and caves, or a fun day trip to help your kids cool off.

Turner Falls Park is part of the Arbuckle Mountains park system in Davis, OK and offers may things to it’s visitors in the form of outdoor fun. They have camping space for RV’s and tent campers, alike, they have bathrooms & shower facilities, there are cabins and screened in shelters along with first aid/police services, concessions & picnic areas, two natural pools, and a

Turner Falls

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Field Trip <<<

laundromat. Summer rates are $12 for adults (13 & up), $6 for Seniors.. &

Kids (6-12) and kids (under 5) are free. Campsite fees are $12.50 per vehicle plus park admission, Active Military Personnel (must show ID) are always $6, as well, they have 24 hour police patrols. Screened in Shelters are $40 per day plus park admission, RV Hookups are $25 per day plus park admission and Groups of 20 or more should call for advance rates (Mon-Thurs.) 580)369-2988.

We really enjoyed this month’s Field Trip to Turner Falls and think that this would make a fun trip for anyone wanting to get out this summer in the heat and enjoy what this state park has to offer!!! You can go to TurnerFallsPark.com for more information.

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>>> Metro Flavor

Oh Cupcakes of Summer

Cupcakes To Go Go at 2424 W. Edmond Rd. has the most amazing cupcakes, so good, in fact, that we had to feature them this month. Below are the Rolo, Cream Cheese Chocolate, and Leaning Tower of Peanut Butter.

Not one disappointed. Check for them at Facebook, where

you will find a flavor calendar with these selections & more custom goodness, as well as the Daily 8, listings to where the Big Pink Truck is at, and if you are in a hurry, Cupcakes To Go Go is the only cupcakery with a full service drive thru! Open M-Sat. till 7 pm.

Body Exfoliation / Body Treatments / Body Wraps And Masks / Experience Aqua Detox / Face

Treatments / Hair / Makeup / Massage / Nails / Solar Bronzing / Specialty Treatments / Waxing

Renaissance Salon & Spa |10440 North Broadway Extension | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73114

t (405)751-8888 | f (405)751-8787

Renaissance Day Spa

FUNKY MONKEYFun & Trendy

Clothing for Women & KidsFollow at Twitter @Funky_Monkey

& Facebook

14101 North May Ave

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ENJOY 4th OF JULY WITH A STAY AT ARCADIAN B&B

& GIFTS AT THE ARCADIAN GIFT SHOP

Reserve your room at the Arcadian Inn Bed and Breakfast now to have the best seat in the house this 4th of July for the Annual Fireworks Display at UCO!!! And be sure to visit the Arcadian Gift Shop for unique and beautiful gifts for your special someone! Conviently located at 1st and University. To book a reservation, which usually book up quickly this time of year, visit ArcadianInn.com or call 405-348-6347.

We offer affordable & stylish accents, re-styled furniture, fun jewelry, unique decor & gifts for every room and every taste!

Be sure to stop in to see the fun & original items the vendors have in stock for Summer!!!

Our Location: 917 E Danforth Rd, Edmond (Across from Ted’s Cafe Escondido) and you can call us at 405-340-8869

Arcadian Inn Bed & Breakfast

Paint Your Art Out is hands down Edmond’s party headquarters. This is a really fun place for your Girls Night Out, Kids Parties, Team Building exercises & corporate parties.

With artist lead sessions, absolutey anyone can be an artist! Visit PaintYourArtOut.net for their current calendar of paintings and to register online! Located at 100 N. Broadway right in the heart of Edmond! Go to PaintYourArtOut.net to register and follow at FB at PaintYourArtOut!

>>> Shop The Metro

POLE POSITION RACEWAYBe sure to stop into Pole Position Raceway in OKC on 2905 N.W. 36th St. in Oklahoma City,

OK to pick up your 2012 Season Pass, check the schedule for their Youth Camps, or give them a call at 405.942.2292 for track availability for personal or corporate parties! Great team building opportunity! Their hours are Sun – Thurs 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. & Friday – Saturday 11 a.m. – Midnight

MILLIES TABLE CATERING & MoreMillies is your Hot Meals To Go headquarters Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays! In

May, get your punchcard, after 5 meals, get the 6th for FREE!!! Meals include single serving entree, vegatable, starch and a roll! Give Millie a call at 330-9156 by 2 pm and your meal will be ready to go between 5 & 6pm! Located at 1333 W. Danforth Rd in Edmond! For more information, visit her website at www.MilliesTable.com

FUNKY MONKEYFor Funky, Trendy, Fun Clothing for everyone in family, stop in to Funky Monkey at 14101

N. May Avenue Ste 113! Save every Monday with FB Tote Day and while shopping online at FunkeyMonkeyClothes.com!

With designer clothing by Flowers by Zoe, Juicy & True Religion and 7 for All Mankind for Men & Boys, there’s something for everyone with amazing sales going on! Open Monday through Saturdays from 10 to 6 pm! Be sure to follow along at Facebook and at Twitter at @Funky__Monkey

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Remember Dad!!!

9346 N. May AveBritton & May

OKC, OK(888) 751-6275

810 W DanforthDanforth & Kelly

Edmond, OK(405) 359-8200

4405 SW 3rd St.I-40 & Meridian

OKC, OK(405) 949-9000

www.tbje.com Mon-Sat 10-6

Dry-Aged Steaks - Hand Made TamalesHerberts Cajun Specialties - Hot Sauces - Salsas

Dry Rubs - SeasoningsGiftbaskets Ready to Buy & Custom

“And as always...THE BEST JERKY ON THE PLANET!”

PATIO CREATIONS by MARK, INC.Mark A. Garvey(405) 751-6275

w w w. p a t i o c r e a t i o n s . c o m9346 N. May AvenueOklahoma City, OK

Visit Our Showroom at Britton & May

Patio Covers - Screen Rooms - Arbors - And More!

I’m Just Sayin’ Gifts and More carries candles, home accessories and decor, housewares, handbags & jewelry, and infants & toddler accessories, as well as full selection of fantastic for upscale, fun and unique gifts!!! You can also find amazing items from talented local artisans. Store hours are Monday - Friday 10:00a.m. - 7:00p.m. and Saturday 11:00a.m. - 6:00p.m.

Stop in to this boutique in North Edmond located at 121 East Waterloo Road at the corner of Broadway & Waterloo for some of the most unique items in Edmond! If you’re looking for something specific, call at 285.7210 Twitter @IJSGifts & at Facebook @Imjustsayingiftsandmore

RENAISSANCE SALON & SPARenaissance Salon & Spa is the perfect place to spring into spring with a facial, mani/pedi or

massage! This charming 100 year old farmhouse is located at 10440 N. Broadway Extension just off of

Britton. Give them a call to make an appointment at 751-8888 or visit them online at SalonRen.com for specials and to order gift certificates from the comfort of your own home!

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Be sure to stop in to Edmond’s own locally owned Sears store on 33rd St., just next to Charleston’s, where you can find appliances (great sales with installation!), generators, electronics, treadmills, tools, tv’s, and more! If they don’t have what you need, they can order it for you!

Stay in Edmond & save on name brands such as Kenmore, Craftsman & more! Follow them at Facebook @Sears Hometown Store Edmond, OK or at Twitter @ SearsHTEdmondOK

Renaissance Day Spa

>>> Shop The Metro

Edmond Antiques is located at 17 S. Broadway in Downtown Edmond. Stop in and say hi to Pam, she has some very unique antiques, estate sale items and home decor just in time for the Valentine’s Day & spring decor! Stock is always changing, so be sure to stop in often. Follow Edmond Antiques at Facebook and if you are in need of something specific, give them a call at 405-471-5555.

CUPCAKES TO GO GO

Cupcakes To Go Go is Edmond’s only locally owned and operated cupcake bakery with a drive thru, mobile cupcake van that can deliver to your next event and is oepn M-Sat. until 7 pm! For Events & Catering with custom cupcakes coordinated just for you or the traveling cupcake shop requiring a min. of 2 dozen cupcakes, contact them at 405)330-2190 or stop into their shop at 2424 W. Edmond Rd. just west of Santa Fe in Edmond.

Follow at Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter at @CupcakesToGoGo!

JAMBERRY NAILS

Jamberry Nails are non toxic vinyl nail shields that are available in 200+ colors and styles. They are waterproof and very economical, and are just as attractive. Give Karena Nichols a call to set up your appointment to see this newest trend!

Contact Karena Nichols at (405)642-3220 Email her at Karena_Nichols@Yahoo.com or visit her site for more information at www.ConfettiNails.com

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EDMOND WINE SHOPWhether you are looking for unique beer and wine selections for your Thunder watch parties, or if

your are new to selecting wines and are looking for something amazing for patio time or grilling out, the employees at Edmond Wine Shop are all very helpful and educated on every wine they carry, so don’t be shy, ask away! Keep your eye out for them at Twitter & Facebook @EdmondWineShop! Located on 15th & Boulevard and open Mon– Sat. till 9 pm!

THE BEEF JERKY EMPORIUMThe Beef Jerky Emporium is your grilling headquarters with 2 inch dry rubbed steaks, spices, rubs,

cobbler fillings & more! Their giftbaskets make great gifts for the guy who has everything! Also, stop by the Edmond store which is located at 810 Danforth, next to Hobby Lobby, for an amazing selection of anything you may need for the upcoming grilling season and for Father’s Day Gifts for the guy with everything! And check for them online at Facebook @TheBeefJerkyEmporium!

LOTSA NOODLESLocated on Memorial just south of the AMC Theaters Quail Springs

Mall, Lotsa Noodles is a great place to stop with your family for a casual & fun dining experience. From their Kids Eat Free Mondays to the deliciously diverse menu of asian, american, italian choices, along with pizza, sandwiches, salads & soup at terrific prices, Lotsa Noodles will become a family favorite!

They also have catering available for your party or corporate needs! Their food is freshly prepared and they have anything from pasta, sandwiches, salads ~ You’ll love the casual atmosphere!

You can follow Lotsa Noodles at Facebook & Twitter @LotsaNoodles for daily upates & specials!

SWEET PEACEStop by Sweet Peace to see the amazing selection of candy bouquets or arrange your own custom

bouquet.Great for corporate gift giving! There are tons of amazingly affordable gifts for all ages including jewelry, tshirts, hoodies & caps, stuffed animals & more from Peace Frog! As well, Sweet Peace is the only place in Edmond to find all 8 flavors of Jelly Belly Sodas!

Sweet Peace is located on Danforth Rd. just west of Santa Fe at 1333 N. Santa Fe Avenue, Suite 111. Their hours are Tues - Wed: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Thurs - Fri: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm and Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Follow Sweet Peace at Facebook & Twitter, too!

Shop The Metro <<<

Enjoy the start of summer in the country at any one of the 5 amazing cottages at Aaron’s Gate Country Cottages located in Guthrie, just a few minutes north of Edmond. Located on a beautiful wooded 10 acre property, you can relax with the outdoor jacuzzi’s or just relax indoors in front of the cozy fireplaces and with a massage spa package, a candlelit breakfast and more. To book a reservation, visit Aaronsgate.com or call 405-282-0613. April is Tax Free!!!

Aaron’s Gate Country Cottages

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>>> Exceptional People

It’s not very often that you meet a kid with the confidence and courage to get up in front of a room full of strangers and talk about his weight problem or the fact that he was bullied throughout elementary school for being fat. It’s also not very common for a kid to walk down the streets of his neighborhood with a bullhorn, call out his neighbors to come walk with him. But for Mason Harvey these are just his ways to spread the word about childhood obesity and to get people off the couch and get them motivated to lose weight and live healthier.

Over the course of the last year Mason set his mind to lose weight and become more active. He has accomplished that goal and he’s inspiring others to do the same. We sat down with Mason to get his story and learn about his project, Strive For 85.

How much weight have you lost?I’ve lost 85 pounds.How long did it take you to loose that much

weight?It took about 10 months to take the weight off.Did something happen to make you want to

make such a drastic life-change like that?For me it was a couple bullies that I had attached

to my back from the 3rd grade through the 6th grade. A couple teachers tried to help get them off my back. And when it started in the third grade I got transferred out of their class, but they still found time to call me names and harass me.

In the sixth grade, whenever I decided to change my eating habits, I knew I was going into the seventh grade and that there would be older kids there who would bully me as well.

What kinds of things did you change at first?The change was very difficult. The first thing that I

did was I told my parents that I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. They said, “Alright, we can help you lose the weight, but you’d better be sure that you are dedicated to this and you want to lose the weight. I told them I was, so we started going to the gym more often and they put me in more sports. I like to play football, baseball and basketball--those are my three favorite sports. I tried to play soccer when I was younger, but it was very difficult to do when I was heavier. I couldn’t do all the running and be able to breathe. So I put that sport away for a while. I would like to go back to it and give it another try. I’m very active now, and I was then, but it was very hard to breathe. I would have to take breaks and ask the coach if I could come off the field to get a drink and catch my breath.

What were your eating habits like?Back then I would come home from school and get a

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Exceptional People <<<

snack, but it wouldn’t be something like a ham-and-cheese sandwich, it would be a bag of chips or maybe a McDonalds burger. That’s what my parents would bring home for dinner too--fast food.

This year I decided to cut back on that and stop drinking pop. Now all I drink is Gatorade and water. I’m also eating a lot more fruits and vegetables. Last year I wouldn’t want to eat carrots without some type of dressing to go with it. I would usually eat them with Ranch, or broccoli with Ranch. Now I eat them straight. I eat a lot more apples, oranges and banana’s than I used to.

One of the hardest things to do when you are first trying to lose weight is figuring out how to lose weight. Where did you get your information on how to lose the weight?

There actually wasn’t a lot of information out there for me. I’ve seen a lot of movies where people lift weights and go to the gym a lot to lose weight, and it takes them like three days to get buff. I know it’s not as easy as it is in the movies. I decided to start going to the gym more often. It actually took a lot longer than 3 of 4 days, it took about a month and a half to get it going and actually start losing the weight. I also knew that getting involved in sports would help. Football is my favorite, because you have a 100 yards to run back an forth on. I also got involved with the YMCA in Guthrie playing Basketball. My top priorities were getting involved in sports, working out more and changing my eating habits.

How is the bully situation now that you’ve lost all the weight?

The bully situation is a lot better now. I know a couple bullies that are now bigger than me. Now they say, “Mason, it’s a whole new you!” But really it’s not. I lost a lot of weight, but I’m the same kid. When they want to be friends with me know, it just doesn’t make sense, because I’m the same kid with the same personality, but I have a different appearance now.

Have they really tried to friend-up to you?

They have, actually. A couple of them have come up to me and asked if I wanted

to hang out with them after school or sleep over. I just tell them I have to go home.

How do you deal with the temptations?

The temptations are the hardest. Everyday we take the highway home from school and we’ll pass through the city and I’ll see Long John Silvers, Arby’s or Braum’s. That’s when the dedication and the effort kick in. If you’re not able to stick to it, the weight is just going to come back. I just kind of shut them out of my way of seeing things. I look down the path of healthy living, instead of going back to the way I used to live.

How did you feel once you started dropping the weight?

It felt way better and I definitely felt a change. In football I wasn’t stopping for breath and I didn’t need to stop for water as often. Now I actually stay up with the front of the line in practice, instead of being at the back. At one of the last baseball practices we had, we were running laps and I actually went from the front to the back to help another kid who was having a problem. My dad almost broke down when he saw me do that. A year ago I wouldn’t have been able to that, I wouldn’t even want to run back then.

Tell us about Strive For 85?Eighty five is now my magic number,

because of all the weight I lost. Basically it’s a mission to get other kids across the world to be healthy and get active and off the couch. That’s one of the main things right now. A lot of the kids out there have Dish Network and cable and satellite TV and X-Box and the PS3. One of the main thing I did was put away the X-Box and went outside and got active. That’s what I want the kids to do. I want them to see how it feels to go get active. I would help them a lot to put away the video games and see what outside life is like. I know back in the day they didn’t have all the electronics we do today, so those kids were outside and getting active. But now our main priority is to come home and play video games, watch TV, eat dinner and go to bed.

How are you getting your message out there?

It all centers around the number 85. We’re looking for 85 missions to get the word out there. I’m trying to meet 85 important or influential people. I’m trying to inspire or have an impact on 85 kids. I’m trying to do things in the 85 theme. I’m putting them all together and hopefully it will be a big help for a lot of people.

Are you using the web and social media?

I have been. And I’ve been on a couple news channels and newspapers. I’ve also met some pretty influential people like the Mayor of Guthrie, the Mayor of Oklahoma City. A couple weeks ago my father and I went to Washington, DC and met the First Lady, Michelle Obama at the White House Easter Egg Roll.

How did you get invited to go the White House and meet the First Lady?

I guess one of her secretaries hear about me and passed it on to Mrs. Obama and she invited us to the Easter Egg Roll. When we met with her we didn’t think it would be a long meeting. We thought it would just be a handshake and hello, because she is so busy. But we actually got to sit down with her and have a 10 minute conversation. It was an amazing experience.

What’s your ultimate goal with Strive For 85?

I just want to get the word out. I don’t care how many people it reaches, I just want it to make an impact on someones life. My main focus is on childhood obesity. It doesn’t seem like anyone else is really focusing on that. Most parents don’t see that there is a problem with their child being overweight. My parents never saw me as fat. They loved me for who I was. Parents don’t really see the problem until their kids come to them and say there’s a problem with their weight. I want to get the parents to see that there is a problem and get them to help their kids with it.

For more information on Mason and Strive For 85 go to www.strivefor85.com

Mason Harvey: Strive For 85 By Chris Hultner

20 edmondactive.com

>>> My Yard

Last month we had an expert explain what & how to apply

the best practices of planting in your pots this summer.

While I was carusing Pinterest, I noticed an abundance

of potted examples with spikes and the light green delights,

potato vines. These were never as poplular in California

as I have seen here in Oklahoma, and throughout the last

7 seasons have been looking for an excuse to use them

somewhere.

As well, for the last 12 years I have tried to create a

patriotic theme within my gardens and potted scenes,

and honestly, have just not hit the mark. In my early

gardening experiences, I amused my neighbors by planting

backwards and it came out like a French patriotic theme.

Twice. Whenever I have attempted this in potted scenes, I

couldn’t quite get the combination of plants down right and

something in the selection inevitably died.

This year, for the first time, and partially thanks to

Pinterest, I think I hit the jackpot!

I took a small geranium, 2 small potato vines, 1 spike,

a blue lobelia and (no name available) the most amazing

white flowering plant that has the appearance of exploding

fireworks.

After removing the old potting soil in the pots, I used

TLC’s potting soil (hoping my pot stays lovely like their

potted displays) and placed the plants to my liking. (Trying

to acheive the American, not French, patriotic layout!).

The plants below are all low maintenance enough that

even if you don’t have a green thumb, you should still be

able to acheive this look and for approximately $30 for both

pots combined at TLC Nursery on Memorial & Santa Fe!

Happy 4th of July, enjoy yourselves, and your families

& friends!

Potted Fireworksby Sherri Hultner

edmondactive.com 21

Now you can shop at Sears without heading to the Mall!

Appliances • Tools • And Much MoreLocally Owned & Operated By

Daniel & Susan Bercaw

3409 South Broadway, Suite 100 In Edmond (405) 286-3440 Follow Us On FaceBook & Twitter

My Yard <<<

Located in Highwater Business Park on the North side of Waterloo between Sooner and Coltrane!

Please contact Kristin@pleasantpooch.com Or Call 405-513-PAWS to set up a reservation for one or more of our services.

Canine ConciergeBathing and Spa Treatment

Pet Sitting/Day VisitsDog Walking

Boarding & Training Open Monday - Saturday 11-7 Closed Sundaywww.cupcakestogogo.com 2524 West Edmond Road In Edmond

Cupcakes: Mini / Standard / JumboWe Do Catering!

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Call Us For Your Next Event Event!(405) 330-2190

We Deliver Too!

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22 edmondactive.com

>>> Exceptional People

The Running Man:Brendan Brustad

By Chris Hultner

edmondactive.com 23

Exceptional People <<<

On April 29th, of this year, more than 25,000 runners staged in front of the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial site to run in the 12th Annual Memorial Marathon. Just before the start of the race there was 168 seconds of silence--1 second of silence for each victim of the bombing.

Among the runners was a man honoring the victims of the bombing in his own way. He was dressed in his military uniform, complete with combat boots and a backpack. The backpack was filled with 168 pounds of weights--one pound for each bombing victim. His name is Brendan Brustad.

Brendan is no stranger to making bold statements with his running. He’s done other tribute runs to honor the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing. A few years ago he ran from Altus to Oklahoma City, then to top it off he ran the OKC Marathon. The total mileage of that run was 168 miles--one mile for each person lost in the bombing.

Then he set a world record for running on a treadmill. He put in 600 miles in a week. There are 168 hours in a week.

We caught up with Brendan after his latest challenge in the OKC Marathon to see why he pushes the limits with his running. Here’s what he had to say.

Where did the idea to run the OKC Memorial Marathon with a 168 pound backpack come from?

Ever since I ran from Altus to OKC a few years ago I had this idea swirling around in my head. The number, 168, really struck a chord with me. Every year I try to challenge myself. Like what can I do that was harder than last year? It’s not really hard to come up with an idea, but the actual act of doing it was a lot tougher than I imagined it would be. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.

You did the half Marathon, right?

Yes, with a 168 pound pack. I don’t think anyone was meant to carry 168 pounds on their back.

Did you have any issues after the race, like back pain?

Not really with my back, but I did

with my feet. I’ve never really had a problem with blisters before. I had to stop at the medical booth a couple times, so they could tape up my feet. Running in combat boots doesn’t help.

You ran in combat boots?I ran in full military uniform. I had

to go big, or go home.What’s the farthest you’ve ever

run in combat boots?The half marathon was it.What’s your usual Marathon

time?I’m a casual 4 hour Marathoner. I

like to keep it at a 9 or 10-minute mile. I like Ultra’s more. Like 100-mile races. If it’s not physically challenging I don’t like to do it.

You said before that the number 168 had been nagging at you. What was the genesis of that?

The OKC Marathon was my fifth Marathon in 2007. The 168 seconds of silence that they do before the start of the race was very moving for everyone there. It’s such a moving and emotional experience. It just ignited something in me. I had to do something to commemorate those 168 lives.

Where were you when the Murrah building was bombed?

I was 9 and living in Long Island New York. What New York and Oklahoma share, is tragedy. I joined the Air force because of 9/11. It’s amazing how fate works. If 9/11 wouldn’t have happened, I wouldn’t have joined the military and I wouldn’t have gotten into running. It’s tough for me to explain, the way things worked out, it’s just right. This is where I should be.

Where were you on 9/11?I was in my third period history

class, in the 10th grade. I could see everything from my school. My uncle was in one of the buildings. He got out, thank God. I knew right then what I was going to do. I could have gone to college, but at that moment I knew I needed to serve my country. There were a lot of people that took that call. Obviously I couldn’t join while I was in the 10th grade, so I joined right out of High School. I’ve been in for 7

wonderful years now.What do you do in the military?Right now I’m an Air Force

recruiter. When I joined I decided I was going to I was going to do everything I could; I was going to volunteer for everything. Now I have almost every major Air Force award. I volunteer in the community. I’m in Airmen Against Drunk Driving. I was president of the Airmens Council. I gave as much back to the community as I could. Then I got into running and realized I was pretty good at it. I figured I could use my gift to help out people and inspire people. My motto is running is my way of changing the world, one mile at a time. Throughout the years I’ve developed as a runner and as a person and as an Airman.

When my daughter was born, your situation changes a little; why you do things and what’s really important? I’m doing all these physical things, but I have to make sure I’m doing them healthy, because I have a daughter at home that wants a good three hours of playtime. This year I came up with the idea of breaking 19 records for the 19 children lost in the Murrah bombing. And on top of that, still stay true to the 168.

What World Records did you break?

Things like heaviest weighted triceps dip, squat thrusts with 40 pound pack, step ups with an 80 pound pack, basically every calisthenic in the book, I can do it. I really think I tested my physical limits.

Did you train at all with the 168 pound pack?

That was my first time running with it.

What was your time in the half Marathon?

Five hours and twenty five minutes.

What was the reaction you got from the other runners?

I’ve never heard so many “Thank You’s.“ And that just brought it all home as to why I do this. It was tough, but with that kind of support it made it all worth it.

24 edmondactive.com

40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

June 23-24Rodeo @ 300 N. Kelly - Carl Benne Arena

44th Annual LibertyFest Rodeo is sanctioned by: TCRA/KPRA/WPRA/UPRA & Open $8.00 Adults (12 & over) and $5.00 Children (11 & under) Rodeo starts at 8:00pm both nights.&#8232;Events are: Bareback Riding, Barrel Racing, Bull Riding , Calf Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping

June 28Concert in the Park @ UCO 7:30 PM Outdoors at the UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre

The concert will feature a mixture of light classics, marches and patriotic music. The one hour concert will include a range of traditional “concert in the park music” that will appeal to all. The band numbers approximately 75 with members from area high schools, college students, and community members. The band is conducted by Dr. Brian Lamb, UCO Wind Symphony Conductor. Following the concert the audience will be treated to free watermelon and ice cream on the lawn in front of Mitchell Hall Theatre. The concert will be performed inside Mitchell Hall Theatre if it rains.

Edmond’s Biggest Party Of The Year!There’s one thing that Edmond does better than most other cities in the country and that is

throwing a 4th of July bash that you won’t soon forget. In the National media our LibertyFest has been ranked as one of the top 10 4th of July celebrations in the country. LibertyFest is a

week-long festival that has something fun for everyone in the family. And it’s topped off with the best parade and fireworks display in the state. Here you will find all the events that take

place during the week before and during the 4th of July.

edmondactive.com 25

40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

June 30Car Show 8 AM - 2 PM @ Hafer Park (New Location)

Each year cars are judged separately by class (either by decade, make or specialty group). FREE T-Shirt & Dash Plaque are awarded to the first 125 entries. Trophies are awarded to first and runners-up in all classes, plus sponsor trophies and Best of Show.

June 29Chalk It Up 10:00am @ The Festival Market Place

All Ages - FREE! Enter the Chalk Drawing Contest using a variety of chalk to express your artwork under the Festival Market Place pavilion, make and take a 4th of July Craft

for the kids, get your Face Painted, Sing Your Favorite Song With Live Karaoke, Make a Big Splash at the Dunk Tank, Jump in the Moon Bounce and more! Food and Drinks will be for sale to enjoy! There are four categories for the Chalk It Up contest. Most Artistic, Most Colorful, Best Use of Space and Best Overall Chalker. Participants may draw as an individual, or as family and friends. Registration for the contest is at 10:00am. The contest is from 10:30 - 11:30. Chalk Contest Spaces are limited! Prizes will be awarded at 12:00 pm.

26 edmondactive.com

40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

June 30Scholarship Pageant @ UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre Teen Pageant 2:30 pm ~ Miss Pageant 7:00 pm.

Tickets are $10.00 The Miss Edmond LibertyFest scholarship pageant will be at 7:00 p.m. at the UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre. The pageant will sponsor both a Miss representative to Miss Oklahoma and a Teen representative to Miss Oklahoma’s Outstanding Teen. Both of the state competitions will be held in June of 2012.

Miss Edmond Libertyfest Seeks ContestantsIndividuals interested in participating in the pageant can receive information by e-mail at misslibertyfest@aol.com or by calling 405-922-6061.

June 30-July 1KiteFest @ Mitch Park Saturday 9:30-5:00 pm. After sundown there will be a lighted night flight. Sunday 9:30-4:00 pm

2012 is the 22nd Anniversary of the KiteFest. Admission is free. KiteFest will include many activities for the experienced flyer as well as the novice. The sky will be painted with hundreds of kites flown by anyone who wants to “go fly a kite.” There will be team demonstrations by experienced kiters. The two-lined kites are flown in synchronized figures and patterns by three or more kiters. There will also be kiters flying four-lined kites in patterns never dreamed of by the kiters of yesteryear. KiteFest will offer kite making for even the youngest kiter and a place to fly their new kite. Candy drops from a large kite will occur several times during the day for the kids. Large bags of candy are released from a kite in the sky and the kids may scramble for their share.

edmondactive.com 27

40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

July 1A Taste Of Edmond 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm @ Festival Market Place

Over 25 restaurants from around our area will provide visitors with lip-smacking delicacies and comfort food that is beyond compare. A Taste of Edmond is a fundraiser for LibertyFest, ensuring the festival for years to come. $10 per person with children 10 and under FREE.&#8232;$15 per person day of event.&#8232;Your donation will allow you to sample food from each restaurant. You may make your donation and receive a Taste Of Edmond wristband in advance from the following businesses in Edmond:&#8232;• Edmond Convention & Visitor’s Bureau 1030 S Bryant Beginning June 1st. • Edmond Historical Society 431 S Blvd&#8232;• Fashion Boutique 104 S Broadway&#8232;• Fields Jewelry 12 S. Broadway&#8232;• Gourmet Gallery 1532 S Blvd&#8232;• Parsons Jewelry 24 S Broadway&#8232;• Patti’s Hallmark 3216 S Broadway (next to Hobby Lobby)&#8232;• Sacred Heart Catholic Gifts 15 S. Broadway &#8232;• LibertyFest Car Show June 30th in Hafer Park $15.00 wristbands will be available at the event beginning at noon -- July 1st. &#8232;Credit and Debit Cards will be accepted at the event.

July 1Road Rally 11 am till 3 pm @ City Administration Parking Lot, corner of Blvd. & 1st St Entry Fee is $10 per vehicle

The Road Rally is designed as a fun family event and really easy to participate in. It is just like a scavenger hunt on wheels. Instructions are given to you as you leave the launch site and you are directed all around the city answering questions as you go. The course lasts from one to two hours. The car with the most correct answers and having the closest time and mileage to the ideal time and mileage is declared the winner. It is important to realize that this is NOT a race but a timed event. Finishing too fast is just as bad as finishing too slow. The rally is also not an old car exclusive. People have come in old cars, but everything from pickups to station wagons and motorcycles have been entered in the past. If it runs and can go 35-65 miles without stopping, it will work!

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40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

July 4Parade 9:00 am Downtown Edmond

Over 50,000 spectators line the 1.5 mile Parade route in downtown Edmond to watch the greatest July 4th parade in Oklahoma. Bands, floats, marching groups, antique cars, clowns, round-up clubs, Shriners and more provide color and excitement to our annual parade. This years Parade route will start at University and Ayers and go West down Ayers, South on Broadway and East on Second Street.

edmondactive.com 29

40th Annual LibertyFest Guide

July 4ParkFest 6:30 p.m. @ UCO

If you are looking for a fun 4th of July for the family, ParkFest is the place to be! Free watermelon (while supply lasts). The Festival will begin at 6:30 p.m. The kids will enjoy our 60’ Mega Obstacle Course, 18’ Giant Slide, Beagle Belly Bounce, Toddler Time and a Jitterbug Swing ride. Guaranteed to provide safe fun for your children! Also, plan to visit the LibertyFest booth that will provide; temporary hair coloring and faux tattoos (while supplies last).

July 4Fireworks @ UCO Fireworks start at 10:00 pm.

Watch the Fireworks and listen on KCSC radio FM 90.1 The fireworks are synchronized to the music on the radio! You will love the Grand Finale of our Festival! It’s the largest fireworks display in the metro area (featured as being among the top ten in the nation by CNN & USA Today). Bring your entire family to witness the spectacular fireworks show provided by Extreme Pyrotechnics. You will want to bring a blanket or lawn chair; sit back and enjoy the fireworks beginning around 10:00 p.m. Seating will be available throughout UCO’s scenic campus (2nd Street/University Drive). Please note that seating will not be available in Wantland Stadium.

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03 04 05 06

10 11 12 13- Summer Activity Week for Kids @ Best of Books- Jr. Golf Tournament @ KickingBird Golf Club- Farmer’s Market @ Festival Market Place

17- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall

18 19 20

24- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall- LibertyFest Rodeo @ Carl Benne Arena

25 26 27- Farmer’s Market @ Festival Market Place

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAYJu

ne 2

012

>>> Events Calendar

01 02

07 08 09

14- Summer Activity Week for Kids @ Best of Books- Concerts in the Park @ Hafer Park Stage

15- Summer Activity Week for Kids @ Best of Books- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall

16- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall- Farmer’s Market @ Festival Market Place- Walk To Remember @ Hafer Park

21- Concerts in the Park @ Hafer Park Stage- Willy Wonka @ MAC

22- Willy Wonka @ MAC- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall

23- Willy Wonka @ MAC- MUSIC MAN @ Mitchell Hall- Farmer’s Market @ Festival Market Place- Golf - Family Fun Night @ KickingBird Golf Club- LibertyFest Rodeo @ Carl Benne Arena

28- LibertyFest Concert in the Park @ Mitchell Hall- Outdoor Concerts in the Park @ Hafer Park Stage- Willy Wonka @ MAC

29- Willy Wonka @ MAC- Chalk it Up for LibertyFest @ Festival Market Place

30- Willy Wonka @ MAC- LibertyFest KiteFest @ Mitch Park- LibertyFest Scholarship Pageant @ Mitchell Hall- LibertyFest Car Show @ Hafer Park

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Events Calendar <<<

edmondactive.com 31