Back40 News
"You think she lived out in the panhandle when Donna talks about her drive to and from the office," explains Peyton Stovall, print project manager. Donna Walker rants "My drive takes forever! There are lots of hills and it's rural – and it's really dark out there at night." Yet the dedicated account executive gets up everyday, packs up her supplies, checks the gas gauge and points her Toyota south. That's dedication. Thanks Donna. BTW, Donna's house (1 mile north of Waterloo- MLS#) is for sale. We understand that she is looking to move closer to office – either that or Norman. Go figure.
Neill Harmer, web project manager, swears its not a diet, he just calls it eating better. "Whatever I'm doing, I feel great! Yesterday when I was chowing down on some apple slices and yogurt, Peyton walked by and said ‘Those look good' – wow, my first Peyton approved lunch."
It's official all of the Back40 programmers have motorcycles. Matt Ledford, who is generally inaudible, quietly confessed to owning a 1968 Puch 250. The trio is currently deciding on names for their gang/club. Popular favorites are Linux Angels, Server Slaves, Bytes on Bikes, and PHP Riders v2.0 leading the favorites.
Jaimi Aycock, Graphic Designer, has moved for the 4th time since she's been at Back40. "I'd like to give up this nomadic existence, but I keep finding better apartments. Last week I was visiting a friend's place and I noticed they had really nice window treatments." Do we hear the open road calling Jaimi again? "No, I just signed a lease."
Managing Editor Teddy Burch had an unfortunate dining experience recently. It's been reported that while out on a business lunch, the restaurant's server somehow dropped what can best be described as a "cheesy spoon" onto Teddy's lap. Traumatized and slightly stained, Teddy hopes that with the support of fellow Back40 staffers that he can somehow put this hilarious incident behind him. Good luck with that Teddy.
Another intern converts to staffer. This month we are pleased to announce that Sarah Bailey, our UCO intern, is staying on for the rest of the summer as a "paying gig." "She's awesome. Focused on task and ready to take on all types of work. The web department could learn from her. Oops, did I just say that. I thought I just thought it." mumbles Dave Miller, CEO.
It's official. Debra Farley has surpassed programmer Chris Logan's coffee brewing skills. Chris reluctantly retired his java master title after repeatedly being out brewed by Back40's office manager. Chris adds "She's the best. But we both may be out of a job with the new Starbucks opening on Memorial and Bryant.
"Never underestimate the hypnotic power of a black marker and large pad of paper," explains Dave Miller, CEO. Dave's referring to his recent presentation to Shawnees Tourism Advisory Committee. "My presentation was followed by three people in suits with laptops, but we were awarded the contract, I guess we had the goods." Back40 will be designing the 2008 marketing materials including the marketing brand, visitor guide and all related print media projects. "This is our second year in a row to be chosen. What I don't understand is how I can nail a presentation like that – but yet, I am continually challenged by a little mini-Altoids container. I can never get it open. Can someone help me?"
