Edmond Life & Leisure - February 6, 2020

February 6, 2020 Vol. 20, No. 37

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

For more information, see page 4.

BALTO 5K Run held See Page 13

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Mostly Sunny High 50° Low 31°

PHOTO BY DEEN VAN MEER

Caroline Bowman as Elsa and Caroline Innerbichler as Anna in the Frozen North American Tour.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Partly Cloudy High 48° Low 31°

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Partly Cloudy High 55° Low 38°

The relatively new year is blessing Edmond and the surrounding area with several entertainment events.

Elementary schools, high schools and colleges all have some kind of stage productions in the works.

It’s a great opportunity to support the various groups.

In addition some major productions are coming to the metro as well. Last week, the Nederlander and Civic Center Foundation Presentation announced its 2020 2021 season lineup. The six-Show 2020-2021 Season Ticket Package includes “Mean Girls,” Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” “My Fair Lady,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Frozen,” “Pretty Woman” and “Wicked. “

Many of these productions are from national touring companies.

For more information on the shows, please see Page 16.

If you can’t wait that long, The University of Central Oklahoma’s Department of Theatre Arts will present four performances of “Tribes” this week at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 9 in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus.

This comedic drama follow the story of a young deaf man born into a dysfunctional, yet loving, family.

Please note it is for mature audiences.

Later this month on Feb. 11, the Oklahoma Christian students will put on “Cabaret,” a musical performance featuring songs from various musicals. This is an annual produc-

tion by students there. It will be held at the Judd Theater starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. Please check the college’s web page to buy tickets.

Don’t forget also Karla Bonoff will be appearing at the UCO Jazz Lab, as part of the Tres Amigos production. The talented singer is in the intimate Jazz Lab setting on March 28, beginning at 8 p.m.

For tickets call 340-8552.

If you’re looking for a real unique experience, check out Riverwind Casino on Feb. 14. William Shatner, Capt. James Kirk himself, will appear. The Star Trek motion picture “Wrath of Khan,” will be shown.

Afterwards the famous actor will give his insights on the filming.

More details are on Page 12.

Page 2 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 3

The University of Central Oklahoma’s School of Music presents a Faculty Artist Concert Series performance. Two of the concerts have already been held this week including the Brisch Center for Historical Performance at the UCO Jazz Lab. Three other concerts will be presented throughout February. Pictured are Brisch Center members from left Ted Honea, Ph.D.; Hong Zhu, D.M.A.; Brian Lamb, D.M.A.; Emily Butterfield, D.MA.; Sallie Pollack, D.M.A.; Margaret Brisch; Natalie Syring; KaDee Bramlett, D.M.A.; Theodora Morris; Ralph Morris, D.M.A.; Michael Geib, D.M.; Meryl Geib; Tess Remy-Schumacher D.M.A.; and, Peggy Moran, D.M.

Faculty Artist Concert Series ongoing UCO’s Voice Faculty will hit the Jazz Lab stage at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11 in an evening titled “Toujours l’amour.”

“Because this FACS is so close to Valentine’s Day, the Voice Faculty will be performing selections with the theme of love and romance,” said Barbara Streets, Ph.D., music professor at Central.

“The concert will feature music in multiple languages describing love lost, love longed for and love found.”

The final FACS performance of the month will feature The Civilized Tribe Dixieland Band at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25 for

their Fat Tuesday concert at the UCO Jazz Lab. The original Civilized Tribe Dixieland Band performed as a UCO jazz ensemble more than 20 years ago and featured Central alumni and faculty members. This concert is an annual crowd favorite of FACS. Proceeds from the series generate scholarship funds to support UCO School of Music students. Tickets are free for students with a valid UCO ID and $10 for all others. Tickets may be purchased at the door, online at ucojazzlab.com or by calling 405-974-5004.

Page 4 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Netflix series & historical viewpoints This winter has not offered up a bounty of cold and snowy days to stay inside and get caught up on your favorite streaming series.

The weather this last weekend was incredible and made for being outside. We were sitting in the backyard with short sleeve shirts and shorts this last Sunday.

Given the choice, I’d much rather Ray Hibbard be outside.

By the time you read this column, it is supposed to be cold and snow on the ground according to our local weather wizards. If that is the case, I have a couple of Netflix streaming suggestions for you. These streaming services have far surpassed the national networks in quantity and quality of original programming. It put them to shame and is better than anything they offer now or have offered in the past.

Not wanting to step on the toes of our movie critic, George Gust, I have a couple of suggestions he may have missed. Lisa and I love the historical movies and always end up learning more by checking on the historical accuracy of these movies. Netflix has a couple of great ones that seem to stick to recorded history.

The first one is a series called Rise of the Empires: Ottoman. It is a Turkish historical docudrama consisting of six episodes. It deals with the Ottoman Empire and Mehmed the Conqueror and tells the story of the fall of Constantinople from the Turkish perspective as part of the wider spread of Islam across Asia Minor and into South East Europe. Constantinople is the city that becomes modern day Istanbul, Turkey.

They do have a historian pop on the screen to explain more about what is behind what you see in the drama part of the show. This is something that I usually don’t care for but, in this case, it is a good thing. There is so much complexity to the true story that it needs help in explaining history.

It is an epic campaign to take the Byzantine capital and it shapes the course of history for centuries.

We watch modern events in that region of the world and as westerners we don’t always understand why things are done as they are but learning the history of the people and what has taken place over the centuries can help give a better understanding. If you have traveled to Istanbul, there will be names of icons such as the cathedral of Hagia Sophia that will be familiar to you.

The city of Constantinople had a protected harbor but was protected by three walls and two moats on the portion that faced land. There was a giant iron chain that blocked invading boats from entering the harbor to attack the walls that faced the sea. The Roman capital had been attacked by 23 armies over the last 1100 years but each one failed to conquer the Byzantine city. The Ottomans began employing gunpowder weapons from the 1380s at the latest. By the 1420s they were regularly using cannons in siege warfare. The conquest of Constantinople in 1453 is seen as the symbolic moment when the emerging Ottoman state shifted from a mere principality into an empire therefore marking a major turning point in its history. The Ottoman empire would last until 1922

Scene from ‘Rise of the Empires: Ottoman, on Netflix.

when the Sultan was outed, and it became modern day Turkey.

Roman Emperor Constantine XI was holding on to the last of the empire by a thread. He and his city defenders led by Giovanni Giustiniani braved the siege and the pounding of the walls by the Ottomans never ending cannon fire bravely but in the end were overtaken by the overwhelming force.

Constantine was the Roman that brought Christianity to the empire mostly because of his mother who had converted to Christianity long before Constantine. The Christian account of how he ended his life was that he was last seen charging into the final battle never to be seen again. The Ottoman account has him shedding his armor and fleeing only to be killed by a wounded Ottoman soldier.

The west was supposed to be sending help to rescue the Christian strong hold but help never arrived. Following the capture of Constantinople, Mehmed built the Topkapı Palace in 1462 and moved the Ottoman capital there from Adrianople.

Hagia Sophia was converted into an imperial mosque, as eventually were numerous other churches and monasteries. The rights of non-Muslim inhabitants were protected to ensure continuity and stability for commercial activities.

When I was visiting Istanbul and Hagia Sophia it was interesting that the Sultan did not have the Christian mosaics destroyed. They did cover them, but it left the incredible art preserved and they were able to be restored. Modern day Turkey dealt with the conflict of whether these sites should belong to Christians or Muslims by making them all national museums. The importance of the location of the city is that it sits right on the Bosporus River which is the only water way that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. It still plays an important roll including being the only city that is

divided by Europe on one side and Asia on the other.

The second suggestion is one I have mentioned before in my column. It is The Last Czars and is a six-part English language docudrama series. It too uses history experts and narrators to explain what is taking place. Once again, I don’t normally like this technique, but it is extremely useful to those of us who are a little slow on the uptake as my dad used to say. It provides a clarity needed to understand the action.

The plot is about the Romanov family which was the last royal family of Russia. They ruled until the Bolshevik Revolution finally deposed the last czar, Nicholas II in 1917. The series starts with his accession to the throne and is followed by the Russian revolution. It tells the story of Russia’s role in WWI which I had no understanding of before. It ends with Nicholas II’s eventual ejection from the throne.

The involvement by a character named Rasputin is fascinating and something I was not aware of before. He was either a Saint or the devil depending on the viewpoint of the person describing this incredibly complex person. What is known for sure is the hold he had on the royal family and the way one man was able to influence history. It was not for the better from the way I see it. I’d have to lean toward the evil side for Rasputin.

I love cheap and cheesy entertainment just as much as the next guy. But once and a while, I like to learn more by watching these historical docudramas. History has always been of interest to me.

Learning about these events and what formed modern nations is a good way to understand current events. I hope you take the time to watch both series.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside! n n n n n n n n n

UCO Honor Roll ..........................................................................Page 6.

Weekend Calendar of Events........................................................Page 6.

Commentary Page ....................................................................Page 10.

BALTO Run images ....................................................................Page 13.

George Gust looks at foreign film that has Oscar buzz ..............Page 15.

Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15.

Sports ........................................................................................Page 19.

Business of the week ..................................................................Page 22.

Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.

See if you can find ‘Four Seasons’ “Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.

Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable.

For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production April Burgess, Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Account Executive Bryan Hallman bryan@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Dave Farris, Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design April Burgess Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2020 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 5

Bill stresses legislative transparency State Rep. Ben Loring (D-Miami) has introduced legislation to promote transparency in the legislature.

House Bill 2914 would require that both the state House and Senate follow the Open Meetings Act. Currently, the legislature has exempted itself from the law that allows the public to know, in advance, when and what each body is going to be doing.

“At the end of the day, this is the People’s House or it isn’t,” Loring said. “I strongly believe that it is, and therefore, I believe Oklahomans have a right to know what is happening in their House.”

This isn’t the first time Loring has

Northern Hills Elementary School Counselor Tracy Hill reads a book to students about how to let go of worry. A grant to the district from an anonymous donor will make possible the hiring of two additional Elementary Counselors as well as pay for teacher training and other supports

For students’ mental health

Anonymous donor gives EPS $350,000 Edmond Public Schools has received a $350,000 gift from a private donor to fund additional personnel, training, and support to help the district improve students’ social and emotional well-being. The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, has given two previous gifts to the district totaling $413,000.

“We are humbled by this donor’s profound generosity and deeply moved by their continued commitment to preventive measures which will benefit students for a lifetime,” said Superintendent Bret Towne. “We extend our gratitude to the donor for this most recent gift and look forward to implementing the training and support programs this grant will make possible as we work together to better meet the needs of our students.”

The historic gift, given to the EPS Foundation and passed through to the district, will fund the hiring of two additional elementary school counselors and two school-based therapists who will work with the district’s innovative Fresh Start programan intensive behavioral remediation program benefiting students who act out due to having suffered trauma.

Additionally, the gift will fund three two-day Conscious Discipline workshops for teachers, and cover the cost of substitutes while 200 teachers attend Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) training at the district headquarters, two programs with proven track records of sustainable results.

“A growing body of research points to the importance that educators play in cultivating inner strength and

resilience in children,” said Towne.

“The above-mentioned training will equip more of our educators with the skills to integrate social-emotional learning, discipline, and self-regulation in the classroom, helping to enhance students’ personal and interpersonal readiness.”

A spokesperson for the donor says the organization is focused on funding initiatives that promote a culture change in the community and in schools with regards to mental health.

“A lot of research went into approaching the needs of helping our community,” said the spokesperson.

“Based on ongoing communication with EPS district personnel, we were able to select funding options that, when implemented, will have the greatest amount of impact over time.

In addition to programs, we opted to fund additional school counselor positions. We know additional counselors are needed for our growing district.”

The spokesperson says the donor is delighted with how Edmond Public Schools has used the grant money and believes the funded initiatives have made a difference in the lives of teachers and students.

“We are very pleased with the commitment EPS has demonstrated to mental health and prevention. We know our donor dollars have been put to work. The feedback from teachers, counselors, administration, and parents has been heartwarming.

We understand that knowledge is power, and ongoing training is necessary to meet the current needs of students and faculty.

filed proposed legislation pertaining to the open government. He hopes his last term in office is an opportunity to gain some traction on the issue.

“I truly believe that sunshine is the antidote to corruption,” Loring said.

“I have worked at multiple levels of government, and there is no good reason as to why the state House and Senate can’t be just as transparent as we require every other Oklahoma government entity to be. We owe it to the people that not only send us here to represent them but also pay for us to be here. Oklahomans deserve a transparent government.”

Page 6 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Northern Hills Elementary helped by Edmond Summit Rotary Club Edmond Summit Rotary members delivered new books recently to Northern Hills Elementary School in recognition of recent speakers at the club. Pictured left to right are Northern Hills Principal Michele Milner, Media Director Julia Cohlmia, Summit Rotarian Julie Hovis, Assistant Media Director Amy Richter and Summit Rotarian Suzy Thrash. Recent Rotary speakers honored through book donations include Ted Streuli of Peaceful Family Solutions, Kevin Richardson from Feed the Children, Richard Alltizer from Edmond YMCA, former state Rep. Wayne Pettigrew and UCO Professor Tom Jourdan. Edmond Summit Rotary meets every Tuesday morning at 7:15 at Citizens Bank.

Journalism Hall of Fame 2020 class Ten journalists, two Lifetime Achievement Award winners, and 10 posthumous inductees will be honored during the special 50th anniversary gala and banquet of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame.

The gala will be at 6 p.m. Friday, April 24, at the Oklahoma History Center.

“The 50th anniversary gives us an opportunity to celebrate the many historic accomplishments of journalists who have made an impact in Oklahoma and nationwide,” said Joe Hight, director. and Edith Kinney Gaylord Endowed Chair of Journalism Ethics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

“To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the hall, the selection committee decided to not only have a regular class of 10 inductees but to honor 10 posthumously for only the second time in the hall’s history.”

The hall of fame inductees are Clytie Bunyan, director of Business & Lifestyles at The Oklahoman; Al Eschbach, longtime reporter, sports director and talk radio host on WWLS; Rusty Ferguson, publisher of The Cleveland American, The Hominy NewsProgress, and owner of the Pawnee Chief; Lori Fullbright, longtime reporter for KOTV/Tulsa News on 6; Rochelle Hines, 22-year reporter for The Associated Press; Michael McNutt, reporter and editor for more than 30 years at The Oklahoman; Michael Sims, executive director at ABC News and general manager of the Network News Service; Tony Stizza, photojournalist for more than 25 years at KTVY and KFOR; Scott Thompson, longtime news an-

chor at KOTV/Tulsa; and Yvette Walker, assistant dean for student affairs at OU’s Gaylord College.

Posthumous recipients are B.A. Bridgewater, sports editor at the Tulsa World for 37 years; Tim Chavez, business writer, TV columnist, and syndicated political columnist; Charles Cagle, publisher, general manager and advertising representative for Neighbor Newspapers in suburban Tulsa; John A. Ferguson, Jr., sports writer for the Tulsa World for almost 50 years; Don Gammill, The Oklahoman editor and columnist; Helen Holmes, reporter, teacher and former Guthrie mayor; William E. Lehmann, Guthrie Daily Leader publisher and community leader; Marjorie Paxson, longtime reporter and editor for multiple publications; Andrew J. Smitherman, African American press pioneer and owner of the Tulsa Star; and William Russell Moore, war correspondent who gave his life helping wounded American soldiers in Korea .

Two Lifetime Achievement Awards will be awarded to Dr. Bob Blackburn, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society, for his state leadership and influence as an author; and to Robert (Bob) K. Goodwin, of The Oklahoma Eagle for his community leadership, and national service in civil rights.

“All of these journalists, including the two Lifetime Achievement honorees, have contributed to the rich journalistic heritage in this state and nation. They range from important community leaders to journalism pioneers and innovators to a war hero.

I’m proud of this year’s selections,” he said.

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 7

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Donald Betz STEM Research and Learning Center received national recognition as an honoree of Interior Design's 14th annual Best of Year Awards in New York City in December. For the ‘Higher Education’ category, Oklahoma City-based Rand Elliott Architects was honored for the design. In the inset is what the building looks like from behind.

The look of UCO’s STEM building wins honor at NYC design awards Representing some of the best architecture for 2019, the University of Central Oklahoma’s Donald Betz STEM Research and Learning Center received national recognition as an honoree of Interior Design's 14th annual Best of Year Awards in New York City in December.

For the “Higher Education” category, Oklahoma City-based Rand Elliott Architects was honored for the design of the Donald Betz STEM Research and Learning Center. The design is one of 609 finalists in 137 design categories, selected from a list of 2,638 buildings.

“We are proud to be one of the honorees recognized by Interior Design magazine’s Best of Year Awards for the University of Central Oklahoma Donald Betz STEM building and are honored to represent Oklahoma on this list of globally recognized architectural firms,” said Rand Elliott, principal and

founder of Rand Elliott Architects.

With approximately 56,000 square feet of learning space for the university’s various science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs, including biology, chemistry, engineering, forensic science and nursing, the building was designed with collaboration in mind.

The design concept unites the different disciplines together and features several spaces where students and faculty can collaborate and innovate together.

Transformative Learning classrooms with moveable furniture and high-definition displays provide flexible spaces that adapt to each discipline’s needs.

“Our goal was to offer the student an experience that enhances their education – to create a place that stimulates creative thinking and inspires innovation,” Elliott said.

Page 8 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond residents

UCO Honor Roll The University of Central Oklahoma recently announced the students named to the university’s honor rolls, a distinction given to those who achieve the highest academic standards.

For the fall 2019 semester, 1,454 students were named to the President’s Honor Roll, an honor achieved by those who recorded a “straight-A” or 4.0 GPA. In addition, 1,979 students were named to the Dean’s Honor Roll, a list of those who achieved a 3.5 GPA or better for the semester and no grade lower than a B. To be eligible for the President’s or Dean’s lists, students must complete at least 12 hours of on-campus class credit for the semester.

With strong connections throughout the Oklahoma City metro, the University of Central Oklahoma is dedicated to developing in students the confidence to succeed through transformative learning experiences.

Central prides itself as a smart investment for success, preparing future leaders in an opportunity-rich environment, with access to more than 200 student organizations and the internship, employment, entertainment and cultural offerings of the rapidly growing Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

Founded in 1890, Central connects its nearly 15,000 students to unmatched value found in 122 undergraduate areas of study and 78 graduate majors from its main campus in Edmond and facilities throughout the metro area. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

For more information about Central, visit www.uco.edu.

Edmond (President's Honor Roll) Melissa Abercrombie; Joshua Ryan Ables; Samantha R. Ackerman; Haleigh Adams; Lucy Nyambura Adika; Eric Matthew Adkins; Sahil Agarwal; Isaac Ahlert; Baraa Wajdi Ahmad; Tahani Ali Alahmar; Fahad Alakkas; Grace Caroline Alexander; Brandon Allen; Madison Allen; Jessica Linn Altz; Dylan Amend; Jade Anaya; Connor Ryan Andersen; Jonathon Taylor Anderson; Emiley Nicole Armer; Sara Ashley; Greta Asmenaite; Olivia G. Autry; Amber Nicole Bailey; Philip Alan Bailey; Prashannata Bajracharya; Sai Vivek Bala; Tatiana Balls-Suarez; Callie J. Bangasser; Megan Lynn Banner; Juliana Baptistella; Phoebe K. Barnes; Bridget Areial Barnett; Sagar Basnet; Sanjana William Bathini; Emily Rae Batterson; Madison E. Baugh; Ryann Lee Baxter; Samuel Mason Bayless; Lauren P. Beardsley; Chloe R. Becker; Faith Bible; Abigail Joy Bickle; Sarah E. Blank; Jinxin Bo; Kelsey Ann Booker; Cortlyn Michele Borchers; Noah Botkins; Tyler Banks Boykin; Elizabeth Margaret Boyles; Cyan Marie Branson; Frances Elizabeth Brenneman; Adam Reese Brewer; Evan Odell Brown; Courtney Buchanan; Mattison Ivy Bullard; Shelby E. Bush; Trevor Alexander Byrkit; Bethany Jo Calhoun; Jaima Carder; Abigail Victoria Carr; Kassidy Nichole Carsten; Joseph Case; Kruti Sureshchandra Chaliawala; Sujana Chamarty; Alicia Chambers; Bailey D. Chance; Seonja Chang; Roshaniben Dasharathbhai Chaudhari; Marcela Sofia Checketts; Oswah Sajid Cheema; Yiwen Chen; Sowjanya Chennuri; Yi Yao Cheong; Calee Ann Choate; Soo Jin Choi; Shaoren Chuah; McKenna Renee Clanton; Brooke A. Cochenour; Bri'elle Cocheran; Sonia Coleman; Maya M. Cook; Tracy Rose Cooper; Jessica Nichole Couch; Madeleine Omalene Cox; Stephanie L. Cox; Thomas Charles Craft; John William Creter; Lindsey Crouch; Jesus Monserath Cruz; Connor Rylie Cummings; Carley R. Dancer; Michaela Dee-Anne Daniels; Zahra Daouk; Logan Day; Charlena Marie De Leon; Dylan DeBorde; Alwyn Decoteau; Kylie Delgado; Emelia Kate Denham; Megan E. Dequasie; Laury Nguessan Diamidia; Felipe Ignacio Díaz; Paris Victoria Dirksen; Khue Tu Tran Doan; Devin Lynn Doutaz; Hailey D. Drylie; Brittani Ann Dugan; Jacob Aaron Duncan; Alexander Durbeniuk; Hannah Danae Durland; Benjamin Ecton; Easton Q. Edwards; Jayd Nickole Egner; Ligia Espinoza Martinez; Hannah G. Esquibel; Audrey Marie Estes; Kaydn Ann Estes; Samantha Jane Ethridge; Sarah D. Everhart; Holly Fatkin; Brooke E. Ferman; Michael Allen Fetters; Makenzie L. Ford; Morgan Catherine Ford; Madison Michelle Forman; Cord Fox; Rebekah A. Frank; Kailyn Christine Frias; Wendy Fuller; Margaret Rebekah Futrell; Garrett Gage; Jenna Elizabeth Gallagher; Beatriz Idalia Garay; Alexis Erin Gass; Jessica Blackburn Gebhart; Kevin Ghale; Stephen Paul Gilstad; Ariana Elena Gomez; Rebecca Denise Gonzales; Nelson Alejandro Gonzalez; Jaanumathe Govindasamy; Michael Gray; Sierra Lynn Gray; James Daniel Griffin; Rebekah Lynn Sison Guancia; Alexis P. Guerrero; Yeonhong Ha; Sydney E. Haas; Zarmeen Habib- Khemani; Tyler M. Hallett; Chance E. Hammack; Bjoerg Nikolajsen Hansen; Annabel Marie Hanson; Alex C. Harper; Stephanie Michelle Harrison; Bridget Mawn Hatch; Douglas R. Hatch; Sarah Ruth Heath; Sarah Marie Heiselbetz; Darah May Henley; Baylee Blain Henry; Destiny Nijay Henry; Riley Nicole Henson; Rebekah Marie Higginbotham; Skyler Rae High; Jenna R. Hill; Makenzie Ellen Hill; Lacy Jane Hillis; Katelyn A. Hines; Zoie Ruyii Hing; Hallie Elizabeth Hinton; Henry Hoffmann; Ryan Anthony Holcomb; Victoria C. Holland; Kayla Hood; Corey S. Horton; Gretchen Avery Houk; Samah Houmam; Chyan Makenzee Houston; Nathan J. Howard; Deighton A. Howell; Bailey Reasha Huff; Mary Kaitlynn Huff; Jaxon Humphrey; Zoe Elizabeth Hungate; Sarah Grace Ingalsbe; Karen E. Inselman; James Garrett Jacobson; Amber Joelle James; Bomi

Jang; Youngyu Jang; Sidra Jawaid; Olivia P. Jenkins; Brooke M. Jensen; Chloe Elizabeth Caroline Jenson; Joseph Jeong; Caroline Anne Johnson; Lydia Grace Johnson; Ryleigh Nicole Johnson; Benjamin Thomas Jones; Jhayla TvfuAvli Jones; Jlecia Gigi Jones; Kaitlyn B. Jones; Sarah Kay Jones; Alexandra K. Jury; Vaishnavi Kachamgottu; Victoria Kakala; Rohith Kalisserrysasi; Caroline Kamau; Susmitha K. Kancharla; Mitchell Karasek; Karim Casey Kari; Harman Kaur; Ganesh Sai Uttej Kayala; Mohamad Keblawi; Brandy Leigh Kemp; Rebecca Elizabeth Kern; Jessica Kersey; Brittany Kersh; Chandler Haley Kessler; Beomseo Kim; Mojung Kim; Sangryong Kim; Seongmin Kim; Suyoung Becca Kim; Yujeong Kim; Judy Niccetta Kimani; Faith Kimbler; Kiersten K. Kinghorn; Tanja Knezevic; Kalli M. Knox; Nicole Marie Koehn; Stephanie Koishor; Dohile Balla Kone; Jani Marie Kopman; Mitsuko Marie Kosik; Ryland Michael Krase; Elizabeth Susan Krestoff; Seong Juin Kwong; Phuong Thao Lam; Peter P. Lang; Caroline Elizabeth LaQuerre; Caroline G. Larson; Maci Danielle Lawrence; Hayley Paige Lawson; Kamrynn Brooke Lawson; Danny Phuong Le; Olivia Virginia Leal; Ji Sun Lee; Jun Sheng Lee; Ren Jian Lee; Samantha Leintz; Benjamin Joe Letourneau; Xiting Lin; Alexander J. London; Alexis Loudermilk; Sydney Elise Loyd; Han Seth Lu; Raegan L. Mach; Bailey Nichole Mackey; Jia Xuan Mak; Mackenzie R. Maly; Sean Launico Mamaed; Karissa Paige Marion; Lakyn Alexandra Massengill; Timi Sheree Matlack; Victoria Nashert Mavros; Donna Garrido McAuley; Julia L. McCabe; Chace A. McCoy; Jennifer Nicole McGhee; Chloe G. Mckinney; Vincent Gregory McLain; Connor K. Mcpherson; Aimee Ryanne McRorie; Erin Anne Michael; Emma L. Mills; Julia Moore; Aliya Colette Morehouse; Elisha Morse; Kathryn Noel Morton; Madison Motil; John Muchinsky; Rocio Mullaney; Tanner Ryan Mullins; Jesus David Munoz; Alina Elena Munteanu; Matthew Don Myers; Katalin Nagykaldi; Ami Nakano; Surya Teja Nandipati; Ashley Elisabeth Navarro; Muhammad Subhan Zahid Nazir; Zachary William Nelson; Olivia Grace Newman; Derek Rafer Newsome; Esther Wing Yih Ng; Bao Lin Da Nguyen; Thi Han Vy Nguyen; Thu Nguyen Thuy Anh; Elizabeth M. Noel; McKenna Elizabeth Nolin; Ameera N. Noon; Mckinsey Gayle Norton; Alexandra Nicole Novak; Nazgul Nurbyek; Chiemeziem Godsfavour Nwaiwu; Imuseoluwa Adeola Obembe; Hannah Michelle Oden; Shatshruthi Oggu Venkata; Abidemi Omolola Olaoye; Shem F. Oloyede; Anna Lee Olson; Sarah Ann Olson; Valary Akinyi Omollo; Eng Kit Ooi; Allen Junior Opoku; Rodrigo Oroza; Charmaine Tingyan Pang; Jueun Park; Sungeun Park; Yongwoo Park; Olivia Parkinson; Lauren Ashley Parmley; Tanner Bryce Parton; Kayley Arnell Pate; Taylor James Patry; Melissa Patton; Jody Anne Pedigo; Kaycee Dea Peterson; Clayton Petty; Tai Dinh Pham; Laura Phan; Nicole Mary Phillips; Samuel Jordan Phillips; Tori LaRee Irene Phillips; Vincent Ray Pinion; Kaitlyn Lindsey Plemons; Britney Lea Pointer; Frank Adusei Poku; Makenzie Jo Potts; Fatemeh N. Pourmalek; Sousan Najafabadi Pourmalek; Caitlin Allison Pratt; Tyler Prescott; Tyler G. Prewett; Timothy F. Privrat; Helga Progri; Wyatt A. Pryor; Wei Qianxue; Christopher George Raines; Natalie Ramirez; Ariadna Ramirez Macias; Raimie Ann Rasmussen; BradlieAnn Redding; Gabrielle Love Reed; Karson Amber Reeder; Suzanna Kathleen Reinhardt; Michael J. Relland; Payton Richards; Cassidy N. Riley; Swati Rimal; Deralin Dawn Ritter; Madison Renee Roberts; Mason Roberts; Jane Elizabeth Robertson; Alixandrea Suzette Robinson; Lexus Dawn Robinson; Mason Grey Robinson; Michael Christopher Robinson; William Mason Robison; Marissa Lauren Rocha; Adrian Josue Rodriguez; Elizabeth Anne Rogers; Katherine Marie Rogers; Kelly May Rogers; Caitlin M. Rush; Claire Sabby; Nii Aflah Djormor Sackey; Serah Nashipae Salau; Sophia Salazar; Mykal Victoria Sanchez; Yukina Sato; Antonio Nicolas Savage; Sarah Grace Savage; Grant Riley Schamburg; Raphael Alan Schwarz; Leonard Bittle Scott; William R. Scott; Julia Lynn Seely; Randy Jeanne Seiter; Ana Carolina Selaibe Alves; Govinaash Selvantiran; Zachary Minus Selvidge; Emilie Semo; Yujin Seo; Aubrey L. Sharp; Breanna Nicole Sharp; Madeline Paige Shirey; Anastasiia Sibirtseva; Amanda Yen Kei Siew; Christian C. Sigler; Kristen Simson; Celeste Singleton; Chloe Grace Singleton; Michael Joseph Sinkankas; Brooke Annamarie Sivard; Sabrina Sivigliano; Torri Slawson; Jordan Smith; Macy K. Snyder; Yana Son; Wonjae Song; Olamide Peter Sonubi; Giulia St Peter; Trenton Grant Starkey; Brandy L. Steelman; Melissa Sue Stephenson; Amanda Marie Stevens; Faith Megan Stewart; Benjamin David Stire; Holly Stoll; Lauren Grace Stoll; Kolby Wayne Streller; Lacey Nichole Stricklin; Kiersten Ann Strout; Jeanthe Strydom; Zachary W. Stults; Katie Elizabeth Sturm; Rajendra Subedi; Sangeet Subedi; Lisa F. Sun; Wenshan Sun; Vinay Vasantpuri Swami; Vivek Vasantpuri Swami; Sean Russell Sweeney; Sarah Renee Szukala; Anna M. Talley; Mengni Tan; Nicole Marie Taticzek; David J. Taylor; Tat Wei Teh; Tyre Terry; Travis Thill; Joshua D. Thompson; Ariel Thorne; Xinke Tian; Alyssa Ashlen Tipton; Nate Powell Trotter; Olivia Jean Trout; Mukesh Tumbapo; Katelyn Rae Tunnell; Colin Donnelly Turpin; Abasi-ama Bassey Udeme; Nathan Daniel Unruh; Anil Chowdary Vallabhaneni; Kamren Bryce Vanbuskirk; Ashley Villarreal; Giovanna Corinne Visalli; Andrew Dalton Wade; Chloe Walcher; Jordan Waldenville; Adriauna T. Walker; Stephanie Nichole Walker; Morgan J. Wallar; Mengdie Wang; Yifei Wang; Helen Abigail Weathers; Allie Weber; Mason S. Werth; Gabrielle Elese Westbrook; Bailey Thomas White; Hannah Grace Whitten; Gabrielle Aubree Williams; Landry Ann Willis; Meagan Nicole Wilson; Vanessa Winnie; Maegan E. Witham; Kevin Wolfgeher; Yie Yin Wong; Rebecca Aden Wood; Franklin Daniel Worsham; Grace Olivia Wray; Summer A. Wray; Cailin Joan Wright; Sydney Jean Wright; Rohan Kumar Yadav; Emily Jayne Yannatone; Ashton Kent Yeargin; Junggyong Yi; Sunjip Yim; Jing Hao Yong; Ri Hao Yong; Mi Kyoung Yoo; Edward Yoon; Rebecca Kay Young; Jinyao Zhang; Hongming Zhao; Enzhe Zheng; and Kui Zhuo

Editor’s Note Dean’s Honor Roll will be published in next week’s edition of Edmond Life & Leisure.

What’s Happening This Weekend Feb. 6 to 9 Thursday, Feb. 6 ---- In the Gallery ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Galentine’s Sip Sip Hooray!

---- Grant Jenkins Author Event ---- Tribes ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- OKC Broadway presents: Come From Away ---- The Prairie Classic ---- Pool & Spa Show Friday, Feb. 7 ---- In the Gallery ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Valentine Art Project ---- Dustin Lynch ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- OKC Broadway presents: Come From Away ---- The Prairie Classic ---- An Affair of the Heart ---- Painted Sky Opera presents: Glory Denied ---- Pool & Spa Show Saturday, Feb. 8 ---- In the Gallery ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Tribes ---- Valentine Art Project ---- Banana Seat ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- OKC Broadway presents: Come From Away ---- The Prairie Classic ---- An Affair of the Heart ---- Pool & Spa Show Sunday, Feb. 9 ---- In the Gallery ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Tribes ---- Read the West Book Club: True Grit ---- Drop ---- In Drawing: Afternoon of a Sheepherder ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- OKC Broadway presents: Come From Away ---- The Prairie Classic ---- An Affair of the Heart ---- Pool & Spa Show ---- Round Barn Rendezvous Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Gallery Opening for Stacy Haggard will be Thursday Feb. 6th; for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com Galentine’s Sip Sip Hooray!

Location: Mainstream Boutique of Edmond Extra Info: 5-7 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Grant Jenkins Author Event Location: Best of Books Extra Info: 6-7:30; for more information find them on Facebook

Tribes Location: UCO – Mitch Hall Theater Extra Info: $10 to $20; 7:30 p.m.; Sun 2 p.m.; For more information find them on Facebook Valentine Art Project Location: Cinnamon Bears Extra Info: Free; 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Candygrams for a Cause Location: Downtown Edmond, Broadway north of 2nd Street Extra Info: for more information go to downtownedmondok.com Banana Seat Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 9 p.m.; for more information visit then at riverwind.com Dustin Lynch Location: Showplace Theatre, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 7:30 p.m.; for more information go to riverwind.com Read the West Book Club: True Grit Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 2 to 3 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Drop ---- In Drawing: Afternoon of a Sheepherder Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat Location: Plaza Theatre Extra Info: for information go to lyrictheatreokc.com OKC Broadway presents: Come From Away Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for showtimes and tickets go to okcbroadway.com Painted Sky Opera presents: Glory Denied Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for more information go to okcciviccenter.com The Prairie Classic Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for more information go to mane ---- events.com An Affair of the Heart Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; for more information go to aaoth.com Pool & Spa Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for more information go to aquahavenspas.com Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Round Barn, Arcadia Extra Info: 12 – 5 p.m.; for more information go to

Selected events at OKC Zoo THURSDAY, Feb. 6 AND FRIDAY, Feb. 7: HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS – AROUND THE WORLD, EUROPE Enjoy experiences beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom with the OKC Zoo’s homeschool programs.

Calling all explorers! Discover animals from around the world with animal encounters, zoo exhibit tours, and hands on activities. This Spring on our yearlong Around the World series, meet the animals who call Europe home! Enroll today for Thursday, Feb. 6 from 12:30 p.m. or Friday, Feb. 7 from 1-2:30 p.m. or 3-4:30 p.m. Cost per student: $10 for ZOOfriends members, $12 for non-members. For additional information or to register, click here.

FRIDAYS, Feb. 7, Feb. 21 & Feb. 28 FROM 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM: PROWLERS: AN AFTER-HOURS FAMILY EVENT

Fall in love with the Oklahoma City Zoo in a totally new way when you take a night hike with your family at the Zoo! From becoming a frogsicle to digging a den, animals are excellent at surviving the blustery winter months.

Grab some hot cocoa and explore the Zoo after dark with a guided tour and fun activities to learn all about coldweather animal adaptations. Ages: 4 and up. Cost: $12/ for ZOOfriends members, $15/person for non-members. For additional information about this program or to register, click here.

Feb 12, Feb 20 & Feb 29 FROM 10 AM TO 11 AM: CUB CLUB – FERRET FRENZY Bring your little cub to experience the OKC Zoo’s Cub Club programs! These monthly classes are geared to introduce youngsters, 2-5 years of age, to the natural world around them. Join in the frenzy to learn all about ferrets

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 9

Lankford among those wanting better worship security Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism and members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement applauding the signing by the President of the Securing American Nonprofit Organizations Against Terrorism Act of 2019, companion legislation to a bipartisan bill they both cosponsored.

“It is critical that Congress take action to assist houses of worship as they work to increase the safety and security of all worshipers — in our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other houses of worship. Americans of all faiths should not have to live in constant fear and persecution as

they join together with their congregations, communities, or church groups to pray,” said the Senators. “Over the past few years, we have seen a dangerous increase in threats and attacks on all types of houses of worship, including the deadliest attack against the Jewish community in modern American history at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. This legislation will provide resources to help non-profit locations to increase their security because of the unique risks they currently face. We will continue working on bipartisan solutions to ensure that all houses of worship are safe and secure since they continue to be the targets of threats and acts of violence.”

The bipartisan Securing American Nonprofit Organizations Against Terrorism Act

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Benjamin Miller, Ph.D.

Some health advice for the golden years Every day, researchers across the globe search for answers to diseases of aging, but you don’t have to be a scientist to get a leg up on the aging process.

In fact, said Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation physiologist Benjamin Miller, Ph.D., some of the best methods for preventing diseases of aging are simple: diet and exercise.

But getting people to follow them, said Miller, can prove difficult.

Want to age gracefully? Try these simple tips: Stay active Research shows even 30 minutes of exercise and light weight training daily not only helps you avoid packing on the pounds, it also lowers blood pressure, strengthens bones, improves mood and helps maintain muscle mass. And light weight training can improve balance, which can help you avoid falls and injuries.

“If you start exercising, even a little, it will make a big difference,” said Miller.

Stay engaged Like exercise, staying mentally and socially active can have a slew of long-term brain benefits, as well.

Alzheimer’s is the fifth-leading cause of death in Americans over the age of 65. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 6080 percent of all cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Scientists increasingly believe it is wise to read, work puzzles, play

games and socialize to help improve memory,” said OMRF Aging and Metabolism Research Program Chair Holly Van Remmen, Ph.D. “It keeps the brain healthy and perhaps delays the onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. So grab a good book or head out to a bingo night.

It’ll be good for you.”

Stay moderate When it comes to diet, moderation is key. Eating too much can have negative health implications from heart disease to type 2 diabetes and arthritis. But as people age, many find they eat too little.

“Over time, your body requires fewer calories, but it needs just as many nutrients,” said Van Remmen.

And, she says, don’t skimp on protein. Adequate protein — 45 grams of protein for women and 55 grams for men — helps your body maintain muscle mass even when your appetite wanes.

None of these tips are rocket science, said Miller. “Everyone has heard them, it’s just that many people don’t do them. Start now, whatever your age, and you’ll be glad you did.”

formally authorizes in the Department of Homeland Security a nonprofit security grant program, under which the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shall make grants to eligible nonprofit organizations (tax-exempt organizations and those determined to be at risk of a terrorist attack), through the state in which they are located, for target hardening and other security enhancements to protect against terrorist attacks. Lankford and Rosen are cosponsors of identical bipartisan companion legislation, the Protecting Faith-Based and Nonprofit Organizations from Terrorism Act. This legislation passed the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in September 2019.

Sen. Lankford

Page 10 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Super Tuesday March 3 Stitt’s second yr. agenda I got my absentee ballot in the mail the other day.

It's for the Super Tuesday presidential primary on March 3.

And to my surprise, they have tacked on a legal Steve Gust question to answer.

It asks whether liquor stores should be able to be open on Sunday. Currently they aren't.

Seems to me it probably makes sense since so many other stores can legally sell wine now. Let’s face it though. There are few things as complicated as alcohol laws.

But it is odd to see the question on the same ballot as presidential candidates.

I didn't recognize too many of the Republican presidential nominees for president, with of course the exception of Donald Trump.

I wonder what makes someone decide to spend money to file against an incumbent president? That has to be a real long short effort. it's not cheap either.

One filing fee figure I saw listed the cost at $5,000. Maybe it's an ego thing.

"Oh yeah, I ran for president against Donald Trump."

Being president, or running for president, would never be my idea of fun. I suspect a lot of successful businessmen, like Trump, sit back and are convinced they can do the job better than any bureaucrat. Then once they get into office, they find out it's probably not as easy as they thought it would be.

Then again a billionaire needs a challenge in life.

---Seems to have been a lot of controversy over the Super Bowl halftime show. Apparently the dancing was considered, by some, to not be very family friendly.

It seems like every year, the NFL halftime entertainment is subjected to criticism.

I have an idea. Eliminate the entertainment. My preference during the Super Bowl is to watch football and maybe chuckle at an ad or two.

In the early days a guy using a jet pack to fly around was the halftime show. Now that was entertaining.

Why don’t they bring that guy back?

(Steve Gust may be reached by email at news@edmondpaper.com)

Letter to the Editor

A big tip of the hat to OnStar as well as Edmond first responders EDITOR: I was rear-ended big-time Friday and the first voice I heard was a voice saying this is OnStar, are you hurt?

OnStar came with my new Buick six months ago, but I have never used it and was surprised when I heard her voice. She notified the police and then called my wife and put us in a threeway call.

The Edmond fire department arrived in about 3 minutes followed by the police and ambulance. The firemen were great.

Hooked me up to portable

equipment and asking questions checking me over and taking caution with me.

Guess I was a little rattled as I said Bush was president. The ambulance people were very careful with me and Mercy hospital also did a great job.

I am very grateful to our first responders who took such wonderful care of me. I am very proud to be a resident of Edmond where these professional men do such a great service to the citizens of Edmond.

PATRICK FEDDE EDMOND

By Oklahoman Editorial Board Throughout what proved to be a successful campaign for governor, Kevin Stitt promised voters a departure from governmental status quo and for the most part he followed through. Attempts at further disruption can be expected in year two.

In his second State of the State speech, which came Monday to begin the 2020 legislative session, Stitt made it known he would like to see the position of state schools superintendent be made appointive instead of elective (doing so would require a vote of the people), and that he’d like to merge the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.

Neither idea is new — they’ve been intermittently for years — but Stitt’s interest in pursuing them will provide re-

newed impetus and perhaps change, something the governor places at a premium.

The governor’s office now can hire the heads of several of Oklahoma’s largest state agencies, the result of legislation Stitt sought and the Republican-controlled Legislature approved in 2019.

Stitt used that clout to name new bosses at the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, the Department of Corrections and ODOT. Add to that list the recent departure of Terri White, highly respected commissioner of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. White’s sudden departure has left many to wonder what hand Stitt had in it and what his plans are to fill those very big shoes.

Shakeup within the DOC and the state Pardon and Parole Board contributed to the un-

precedented release, on one day, of more than 450 nonviolent inmates following their commutations by Stitt.

Stitt, as he vowed he would, signed legislation that lets most Oklahomans 21 and older carry guns without a license. The “permitless carry” bill was deemed unnecessary and potentially dangerous by opponents, who continue to fight it.

Stitt appointed a “secretary of digital transformation” to help further modernize state government. The state introduced its mobile identification app, which lets users put their driver’s licenses on their smartphones, and launched a budget website checkbook.ok.gov to improve transparency.

Working with the largest budget in state history, $8.3 billion, Stitt signed a bill providing another round of pay raises for teachers, and persuaded lawmakers to put aside $200 million and place it in the state’s savings account, which now exceeds $1 billion. Some lawmakers groused about the latter move, and remain upset about it, but doing so will help when the next economic downturn inevitably occurs.

Stitt’s boldest call for change casts a large shadow over the early days of 2020 — his insistence on renegotiating gaming compacts with Oklahoma’s Indian tribes. Stitt says the 15year compacts expired Jan. 1; the tribes, and their many supporters, contend they renew automatically.

The dispute is creating a black eye for our state and could have been approached in a more civil, respectful way. Oklahoma and the tribes have had a lengthy and strong working relationship to the benefit of all involved.

The dispute has resulted in bitter back-and-forth.

We hope 2020 brings swift resolution.

Voters to decide Medicaid issue Gov. Kevin Stitt’s proposal to use federal block grants to fund Oklahoma’s Medicaid program is the antithesis of what’s being sought in a pending state question that would significantly expand coverage.

Voters — at some point — will make the ultimate determination.

Backers of State Question 802, which if approved would expand Medicaid to roughly 200,000 Oklahomans, collected more than 313,000 signatures, the most for any initiative petition in state history.

Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

That indicates a public desire for the proposal, which would expand Medicaid to cover adults younger than 65 whose income doesn’t exceed 133% of the federal poverty level.

The Affordable Care Act allows states to add ablebodied adults to Medicaid, with the government covering 90% of the cost and states 10%. Supporters of Oklahoma expansion say the inflow of federal money will improve individual health outcomes and help medical providers, especially rural hospitals.

Stitt and others who oppose full expansion worry about rising costs to the state, as has happened elsewhere — estimates for Oklahoma have ranged from $150 million per year to about $375 million. Opponents also note that better health outcomes and economic growth from full expansion aren't a given.

Stitt joined members of the Trump administration Thursday in announcing his plan, called SoonerCare 2.0,

as part of the administration's block grant program that lets states request a set amount of federal funding to spend on Medicaid, instead of the state getting reimbursed by the government based on a funding formula. The goal is to better control costs.

Stitt says SoonerCare 2.0 will do that by, among other things, changing to a system that rewards health outcomes and better performance in care, and moving away from a "fee-for-service" model. The state will look to implement requirements that enrollees eiither work, attend school or a certification program.

Legal challenges to the Trump administration’s policy are likely. “It’s very hard to square the Medicaid statute with a true block grant proposal,” Nicholas Bagley, a health law professor at the University of Michigan, told Bloomberglaw.com. Stitt's plan will elicit criticism as well.

Oklahoman Editorial Board

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 11

Governor’s remarks at Medicaid event Gov. Kevin Stitt last week joined Trump administration officials, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, in Washington, DC to announce the Healthy Adult Opportunity (HAO), which is an optional demonstration initiative by CMS to gives states unprecedented tools to design innovative health coverage programs for adult beneficiaries under age 65 for whom Medicaid coverage is optional.

In Governor Stitt’s speech, he laid out his new Oklahoma healthcare plan, called SoonerCare 2.0.

He shared how the state will reclaim Oklahoma’s total federal Medicaid funds without new taxes and how the State will position itself to become one of the first in the nation to leverage the Trump administration’s new flexibility to deliver personal accountability and improve health outcomes in Oklahoma.

The copy of the text, as prepared for delivery, is below: “It is an honor to be here with you today, Secretary Azar and Administrator Seema Verma.

For the past several months, my administration in Oklahoma has been working on a healthcare plan for our State. As governor, I have cast a vision that in all things, we will pursue Top Ten status. Currently in Oklahoma, we have battled for generations with bottom ten healthcare outcomes. It’s time for that to change.

I have sought Oklahomans’ input in crafting my administration’s healthcare plan. They have told me that they want more access to care in rural Oklahoma; they want us to address wait times for basic healthcare services for our most vulnerable populations; and they want better care, quality care – not excessive care.

I am also here today, because Oklahomans want

their federal tax dollars to be returned to the state and put to work. But efforts to do this through amending our Constitution to force Medicaid Expansion are wrong and will be ineffective and will fail to fix our problems.

We’ve been studying the best practices in all 50 states; and we’ve learned a lot about what is working and what isn’t. And one thing we know without a doubt is that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to delivering better healthcare and better outcomes. Every state has their unique challenges, their unique climates, and their own cultures.

That is why the Trump administration’s announcement today is a game changer.

My administration has been working on SoonerCare 2.0 to capture our total federal dollars under Medicaid in a way that is more stable and accountable. Healthy Adult Opportunity couldn’t come at a better time. This initiative will now allow Oklahoma maximum opportunity to achieve what we were envisioning. Thank you, Administrator Verma and Sec. Azar for your leadership.

When I return home, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority will begin taking next steps on implementing SoonerCare 2.0 by applying for additional federal funds and the HAO flexibility waivers.

We will be seeking flexibility through HAO in order to innovate the delivery of services in the following ways: We will achieve cost containment by changing our Medicaid system to focus on rewarding health outcomes and stronger performance in care. We will navigate away from the government-run, fee-forservice model that 40 other states have already abandoned, and we will focus this reform first on those that will become eligible under SoonerCare 2.0.

We will seek approval under HAO to push the

UCO names Donna Cobb dean University of Central Oklahoma faculty, staff and students at the College of Education and Professional Studies entered the spring 2020 semester with new leadership. Donna Cobb, Ed.D., former kinesiology and health studies professor and interim dean, was named the new dean for the college.

“I am honored to represent a college that is filled with hardworking and passionate faculty, staff and students,” Cobb said.

“We have a proud history of delivering programs and preparing successful professionals to meet the needs of communities in our state, and I look forward to collaborating with others to continue this mission.”

Cobb has held various administrative roles in the college for nearly two decades as a department chairperson, assistant dean, associate dean and interim dean. In her role as associate dean, she has served as the chief operations officer for the college, facilitated grant development and monitored the college budget among many other duties.

“Cobb is highly regarded across campus and throughout the state, for the professionalism and expertise she brings to every project,” said Charlotte Simmons, Ph.D., co-interim vice president for Academic Affairs.

“Her many years of experience,

Donna Cobb thoughtful and calm demeanor, budgetary and planning processes expertise, and tireless work ethic will continue to serve the college well.”

Cobb received her bachelor's degree in health, physical education and recreation, and a master's degree in secondary education in health and physical education from East Central University. She received her doctorate in higher education with a specialization in leisure studies and physical education from Oklahoma State University.

For more information about the UCO College of Education and Professional Studies, visit www.uco.edu/ceps.

New bill would mandate compliance with the feds over immigration law Rep. Sean Roberts (R-Hominy) filed legislation recently that would require sheriffs, wardens, and other operators of detention facilities to comply with federal immigration officers.

House Bill 4115 requires operators of state, city, and county detention facilities to honor federal immigration detainers of an inmate for no less than 48 hours after the inmate would otherwise be released.

"The need for this bill became apparent recently when federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) publicly criticized Oklahoma County Sheriff P.D. Taylor as a Sanctuary Sheriff for releasing a rapist illegal alien in the middle of the night, after only 90 minutes notice to ICE at their Dallas office. Oklahomans deserve better, and this bill will ensure that Oklahoma is not a sanctuary state."

A $50,000 fine would be issued for each failure to comply with a detainer. The amount of each fine shall not exceed 1% of the total annual budget for the detention facility. Proceeds from such fines would be deposited into the State Treasury for the use of restitution for victims of crimes committed by people illegally in the United States.

“This measure will put teeth behind the requirement that employees at detention facilities across the state comply with federal immigration officers as these situations arise,” Roberts said. “Our corrections facilities are full of people who are in this country illegally. This measure will make sure these people are answerable to our laws and ensure their victims see justice served.”

The second session of the 57th Legislature began this week.

A $50,000 fine would be issued for each failure to comply with a detainer. The amount of each fine shall not exceed 1% of the total annual budget for the detention facility.

limit of innovation and set up a program that creates expectations for able-bodied individuals to see this as a true trampoline to their future.

With flexibility, we will seek to establish moderate premiums to prepare members for the responsibility of transitioning to private health insurance coverage.

With flexibility, we will seek to establish work requirements that encourage Oklahomans to be engaged in activity that advances their personal potential – whether it be education, certification programs, work, or community involvement.

With flexibility, we seek to establish programs that better address Oklahoma’s unique rural needs, such as enhancing provider reimbursement, authorizing telehealth services, and reimagining “hospitals” to expand care options in areas with limited populations.

And with flexibility, we will seek to expand targeted treatment for opioid addiction and substance abuse.

Oklahoma is in the midst of establishing a worldclass research institution on opioid addiction. With HAO flexibility, we will be able to more quickly support our communities and implement lessons we are learning and discovering.

CMS and the Trump Administration have been listening to the needs of States like Oklahoma. From my constituents, I am here to say, “thank you”.

Thank you for listening, thank you for innovating, and thank you for putting healthcare back to where it belongs – with the States.

I look forward to continuing to work with this administration, and I am committed to positioning Oklahoma as one of the first states in the nation to take advantage of the Healthy Adult Opportunity initiative as we pursue SoonerCare 2.0 in the coming weeks.

Page 12 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 13

BALTO Benefit Run

Last Saturday the BALTO 5K benefit run was held at Mitch Park. The event is a benefit for North’s BALTO or Bring a Light to Others, event. BALTO is a community project by students. This year’s proceeds go to help The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital. Later this month students will announced the grand total raised.

Brian Hunter and Hudson Myers with BALTO. Alexis Sweeney with her dog Wrigley ready to participate in BALTO 5k run.

Photos by Melinda Infante

Page 14 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

‘Cure FA Soiree’ benefit set for May 16; Sponsors sought Many of the 2019 Cure FA Soirée Performers including Thomas Gehr, top left, and Michael Gehr, seated.

The third annual “Cure FA Soiree,” a musical evening for all ages benefiting the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance, is May 16 at the Edmond Conference Center.

Attendees will enjoy performances by local artists, stories and information about Friedreich’s ataxia, dinner, drinks

and dessert, a silent auction and wine pull. The organizing committee seeks sponsors from businesses, foundations, families and other entities.

Four sponsor levels are available. Reserved tables with eight tickets are also available for $1,000.

Friedreich ataxia (also called FA) is a rare inherited disease that causes progressive nervous system damage and movement problems.

For more information, go to curefasoiree.org. To be a sponsor, call 503-5875 or email eric@gehr.org.

Hearing organization grants scholarships

Peter Hardt and Haleigh Scott

Hearing Loss Association of America Central Oklahoma Chapter (HLAA COC) is proud to introduce this year's two scholarship recipients.

Haleigh Scott and Peter Hardt. Each was granted $1,000 to assist with this year's college expenses.

Haleigh is the daughter of Crystal & Derek Wilson. During Haleigh's public education she never attended any special classes but learned early to sit up front and listen carefully. Haleigh faced what many people with hearing loss learn to deal with; questions, isolation, and feeling somehow different. She is attending University of Central Oklahoma and is pursuing a degree in Crimminal Justice and a minor in Forensics. While at UCO Haleigh is also on the cheerleading squad and is active in campus life. She has overcome those feelings insecurity & embarrassment.

Peter Hardt is on track to graduate the Univer-

sity of Oklahoma after the Fall 2020 semester with a degree in Accounting and a minor in Political Science. While at OU Peter has been appointed to be the Director of the Department of Exterior for Oklahoma Student Government. Peter was the first child to have their hearing loss detected by the infant and new-born hearing screening in the State of Oklahoma. Throughout his life he has spoken to parents, been on panels, a summer camp counselor, and has been held up as an example of what a person with hearing loss can do. Peter is the son of Jan & Michael Hardt of Oklahoma City.

HLAA COC is offering scholarships of $1,500 each for the upcoming school year. Applications must be made by April 6, 2020. For more information visit the website, WWW. OKCHearingLoss.org.

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 15

Review of movie ‘Parasite’

Unique foreign film may be Oscar contender

By George Gust As Oscar season comes to a close with the forthcoming 92nd Academy Awards this weekend there's still time to catch the best films of 2019.

With many of the streaming options we have these days, it makes it easier to catch films you might have missed during their theatrical run.

One of these films for many American audiences is the Best Picture nominated "Parasite" from Korean writer/director Bong Joon Ho. "Parasite” follows the intertwining lives of two families; the Park family- the picture of aspirational wealth, and the Kim Family- rich in street smarts but not much else. A symbiotic relationship forms between the two families. The Kims provide luxury services while the Parks obliviously bankroll their entire household.

When a parasitic interloper threatens the Kims' newfound comfort, a savage, underhanded battle for dominance breaks out, threatening to destroy the fragile ecosystem between the Kims and the Parks.

Foreign language films can sometimes difficult to get into for some American audiences. The sub-

titles, the cultural differences and lack of familiar movie stars can be a barrier for some people.

However, "Parasite" is the kind of film that breaks through those barriers with engaging performances and stunning visual style that makes you forget that all the dialogue is spoken in Korean.

The trick that writer/Director Bong Joon Ho was able to pull off with "Parasite" is the seamless transitions in tone going from darkly comedic to tension filled in a heartbeat. There was a moment in the middle of the film to which I had a compulsory and audible "oh no" as the stakes skyrocket in the

matter of moments. And for some of the unsavory bad behavior displayed by the lower-class Kim family and as their subsequent crimes continue to escalate you understand their perspective and why they choose to be parasitic to this upper-class family.

Overall, "Parasite" is a unique film that is a beautifully drawn pitch-black fairy tale about the differenced and ultimate similarities between the rich and the poor. And even though the film comes to us by way of Korea, the themes and situations are relatable and are endlessly engaging the further you get entrenched with struggles and tragedies of the two families. Undeniable the front-runner to win the Best International Feature Film, and a dark horse Best Picture nominee, "Parasite" is a film that is well worth your time.

“Parasite” is rated R for language, some violence and sexual content, and now available for home rental and still in theaters.

4.4 out of 5 stars To reach George Gust for comment, please email George Gust gust.george@gmail.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Best Picture Nominee, Director Bong Joon Ho's (‘Snowpiercer’), ‘Parasite’ enthralls and thrills in a darkly comedic film about trust, money and class.

Theater helps the food bank In nine years, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma patrons have raised more than $178,000 for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma during the holiday season run of "A Christmas Carol," presented by Devon Energy.

Since 2011, audiences have been invited to donate to the Regional Food Bank following each production of the show. During the 2019 holiday season, patrons donated $16,071 to the fight against hunger.

"We end each season with Lyric’s ‘A Christmas Carol,’ to not only celebrate the holiday season, but it reminds us all of the importance of community, family and the need to open our hearts to those in need," said Michael Baron, producing artistic director at Lyric Theatre. "I am so thankful to the staff at Lyric and our patrons who joined us this year for giving so generously to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma."

One in six Oklahomans live with food insecurity every day. Last year, the Regional Food Bank distributed more than 51 million pounds of food to its partners in central and western Oklahoma.

"We are so appreciative to the Lyric Theatre and their generous patrons who each year have been so dedicated to the fight against hunger in Oklahoma," said Kendra Loper, chief community engagement food bank officer.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: U.S. PRESIDENTS ACROSS 1. Frenzied 5. Between fathers and sons?

8. Not fake news 12. Black-tie occasion 13. Pupil's place 14. Whatchamacallit 15. Similar 16. Nessie's lake 17. Poet T.S. 18. *He called his residence the White House 20. Dashing style 21. Opposite of cathode 22. No-goodnik 23. Same as Danzig 26. Inside information, pl.

30. Antonym of keep 31. Data input device 34. ____ Madrid Club de F˙tbol 35. Anomie, alt. sp.

37. Stupid person 38. First M in MGM 39. Narcotics agent, for short 40. Jennifer Lopez' 2019 movie swindle 42. Band aid 43. Hiked the Inca Trail, e.g.

45. Threat, two words 47. H+, e.g.

48. "Fences" actress Davis 50. Long forearm bone 52. *His epitaph doesn't mention his presidency 56. Abracadabra, e.g.

57. *First Lady of the US for only one month 58. Milano moolah 59. *Where JFK's "Honey Fitz" spent time 60. Two of a kind, pl.

61. Winglike 62. Ringaround-the-rosy flower 63. "C'____ la vie!"

64. *President during Mexican-American War

DOWN 1. Petri dish filler 2. Kind of shark 3. Assortment 4. Dorothy Gale, e.g.

5. Gordon Gekko: "____ is good" 6. Bridal path 7. "Hey, over here!"

8. *He installed library at the White House 9. Marco Polo's destination 10. "Oh ____!"

11. Little squirt 13. Conjure up 14. "Faster!" to a horse 19. Glorify 22. *Announce presidential ____ 23. *He established Yellowstone as 1st national park 24. 1/100 of a rial 25. "I love you" or "J'____" 26. *Only one to hold position in Executive and Judicial branches 27. Prenatal 28. Orwell's animals' turf, pl.

29. North face, e.g.

32. "You had" or "you would" 33. Baryshnikov's step 36. *First president to campaign by telephone 38. Dixon of "The Walking Dead" 40. Farm layer 41. Body scrubbers 44. Bear Down Under 46. Hearing organ cover 48. Second planet from the Sun 49. "____ ____ me, then who?"

50. Machinating 51. Not more 52. Green gem 53. Storage cylinder 54. Face-to-face exam 55. Police informer 56. Tree juice

See Answers on Page 23

Answers Page 23

Page 16 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED/DEEN VAN MEER

Caroline Innerbichler as ‘Anna.’

Includes ‘Oklahoma!’ revival

Theater group names upcoming season shows phenomenon that has taken not only Broadway and the entire country, but the world, by storm.

Disney Theatrical Productions is legendary for bringing the most spectacular, heartwarming productions to the stage, and joining us in the 202021 Season is their newest Broadway smash “Frozen.” The spring will bring “Pretty Woman: The Musical,” brought to life by a powerhouse creative team representing the best of music, Hollywood, and Broadway.

Back in OKC by popular demand is the Broadway sensation “Wicked,” to complete the Season Subscription package. An all-new tour of “Blue Man Group,” will come to the Civic Center in November and can be added to any season ticket package!

“The 2020 - 21 Season is unprecedented. There is no other word for it.

Not only are OKC Broadway and the Civic Center Music Hall honored to launch the National Tour of the Tony Award-winning “Oklahoma!,” but this season’s shows are all either currently playing on Broadway or have just closed within the last year—which speaks directly to our mission to bring the very best of Broadway to the Civic Center Music Hall and OKC patrons as soon as possible,” said Elizabeth Gray, Executive Director of the Civic Center Foundation and General Manager of OKC Broadway.

OKC Broadway is the presenter of the nationally touring Broadway shows and is a partnership between the Nederlander Organization, known for presenting live theatre and concerts worldwide; and the Civic Center Foundation, who in its 19year history has donated millions to the Civic Center Music Hall for improvements to heighten the performance experience for both performers and audiences. The sixShow 2020-2021 Season Ticket Package includes “Mean Girls,” Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!”

“My Fair Lady,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Frozen,” “Pretty Woman” and“Wicked.

“Blue Man Group,” is an added special production and may be added on to a PHOTO PROVIDED/DEEN VAN MEER season ticket package.

Caroline Bowman as ‘Frozen’ character ‘Elsa.’

A Nederlander and Civic Center Foundation Presentation is delighted to announce its 2020 - 2021 Season lineup.

Oklahoma City theatre-goers at the Civic Center Music Hall will experience a season unlike any other when OKC Broadway hosts the National Tour Launch of last year’s Tony Award-winning Best Revival of a Musical and presents shows including the 2017 Winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical and two weeks of Disney’s newest theatrical smash hit. Plus – four more hits direct from Broadway and one of the most family favorite events that is back with an amazing new tour!

The 2020-2021 Season begins with “Mean Girls,” the hilarious hit musical direct from Broadway with the awardwinning creative team, and continues with the National Tour Launch of the musical revival EVERYONE is talking about, “Oklahoma!” The acclaimed new production straight from Lincoln Center Theatre of Lerner & Lowe’s “My Fair Lady,” is next followed by “Dear Evan Hansen,” the theatrical

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 17

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Department of Theatre Arts presents “Tribes,” the story of a young deaf man born into a hearing family and his grappling of his own identity at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 9 in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus.

A comedic drama

Four performances of ‘Tribes’ scheduled at Mitchell Hall The University of Central Oklahoma’s Department of Theatre Arts will present four performances of “Tribes” at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 6-8 and at 2 p.m.

Feb. 9 in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus.

The British comedic drama by Nina Raine follows the story of Billy, a young deaf man born into a dysfunctional, yet loving, hearing family. After meeting Sylvia, a hearing woman born to deaf parents who is now slowly going deaf herself, Billy realizes how his family has sheltered him. Billy finds himself torn between his biological family and his newfound place in the Deaf community. In 2012, “Tribes” won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play. “’Tribes’ is fast-paced, funny, clever and heart-

breaking,” said Emily Heugatter, M.F.A., associate professor of theatre arts at Central and director of “Tribes.”

“The award-winning play takes a hard look at how we treat those who are differently abled, even when we fiercely love them.”

Gavin Thomas Drew is the assistant director of "Tribes" and plays the lead role of Billy. He is a deaf professional actor who works with a cochlear implant.

“This show is important because it’s rare for deaf stories to be told on stage. This cast is fantastic and giving their all. You won’t want to miss this one,” Drew said.

Select performances will be interpreted into American Sign Language, and all performances will have both assistive listening technology and closed-cap-

Crawford named to medical post University of Oklahoma College of Medicine announces family medicine physician Steven Crawford, M.D., as the Senior Associate Dean and director of the newly formed Office of Healthcare Innovation and Policy.

The Office of Healthcare Innovation and Policy was launched to harness resources within the col- Dr. Crawford lege and across the academic healthcare enterprise to address the social determinants of health – the social factors that significantly impact health conditions among Oklahomans. Crawford has been serving as chair of the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine for 20 years and brings a background and dedication to helping people achieve better health in their own communities.

“As part of an academic health center, a significant part of our mission at the OU College of Medicine is to create partnerships with communities across the state, whether rural or urban, to help people get the resources they need to improve health,” said John Zubialde, M.D., Executive Dean of the OU College of Medicine. “Approximately 75% of the care we provide is for people with chronic illness. Once they leave the doctor’s office or hospital, they must manage their conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, in their home and community settings. We want to work with communities and health systems to find innovative solutions to support those patients.”

Crawford will begin his role with the Office of Healthcare Innovation and Policy by taking an inventory of the numerous resources across campus and coalescing them in a strategic fashion. Crawford has extensive experience with many such projects, including Healthy Hearts for Oklahoma, begun in 2015 with a $15 million federal grant from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. OU’s healthcare providers worked with approximately 300 small primary care clinics across Oklahoma to incorporate and standardize four guidelines known to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease: low-dose aspirin in high-risk patients;

tioning available.

Tickets for “Tribes” are free for students with a valid UCO ID and range from $10$20 for all others.

To purchase tickets, call the Mitchell Hall Theatre box office at 405-974-3375 or visit www.mitchellhalltheatre.com. This production features mature themes, adult language, drug references and suggestive dialogue.

For a complete listing of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit cfad.uco.edu.

Page 18 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Dodgers schedule tryouts for national anthem singers Registration is now open online for the 10th annual Oklahoma City Dodgers National Anthem Tryouts.

The OKC Dodgers will host open auditions Saturday, March 28 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark for musical performers to sing or play “The StarSpangled Banner” before Dodgers home games throughout the 2020 baseball season.

National Anthem Tryouts will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 28 in conjunction with OKC Dodgers Fan Fest. The tryouts will be held on the ballpark’s outer Johnny Bench Plaza, located at the corner of South Mickey Mantle and Reno Avenues.

“Our National Anthem Tryouts bring out many talented performers each spring and pairing the auditions with our annual Fan Fest has become an exciting way to kick off our season,” Oklahoma City Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “This is the 10th straight year we have held auditions in front of a live audience, and the second straight year at Chickasaw Bricktown Ball-

Call (405) 218-2182 park. We look forward to previewing what these skilled individuals and groups will showcase throughout the upcoming baseball season.”

The first 125 people to register online will have a guaranteed audition. The tryouts will be open to the public and registration begins today online at: okcdodgers.com/anthemtryouts.

Registration slots typically fill well in advance of the scheduled event each year, so interested performers are encouraged to register early. The auditions draw a wide variety of performers from the Oklahoma City area, as well as from across the state of Oklahoma and even a handful from surrounding states.

Performers will take the stage to audition in front of a live audience and a judging panel consisting of city officials, community leaders and OKC Dodgers front office staff. Winners will be selected based on voice quality, creative style and

stage presence.

Winners will perform the national anthem at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark throughout the upcoming 70-game home schedule. The grand prize winner will have the opportunity to perform as part of the OKC Dodgers’ Independence Day celebration July 3.

Those who do not register online will still have a chance to audition on a standby basis the day of the event. If the tryouts run ahead of schedule, or if a performer does not show up for a scheduled time, those in the standby line will be chosen to audition.

Standby performers are encouraged to arrive early and will be selected on a first-come, firstserved basis throughout the day.

Additional details about 2020 OKC Dodgers Fan Fest will be released soon. For more information about OKC Dodgers National Anthem Tryouts, 2020 season ticket packages or group outings, call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.

Calls rules for four-day school week ‘unfair’

Lawmaker not happy with education board Rep. Ty Burns (R-Morrison) last week commented on new rules released by the Oklahoma State Board of Education (OSBE) to govern schools wishing to continue four-day school weeks.

Last year, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 441, which allows school districts, beginning in the 2021-22 school year, to adopt an hours-only schedule – 1,080 instructional hours (and less than the 165-day minimum otherwise required) – for individual schools if those schools meet waiver requirements from the OSBE under rules to be proposed to the Legislature this year. Districts seeking a waiver for their schools are asked to prove that the schools are performing above average in certain student performance measures and saving money as a result of the four-day schedule.

“We expected reasonable waiver rules, and we want academic accountability,” Burns said, “but we think the rules proposed are unfair and unobtainable.”

Burns said he’s been assured by the State Department of Education that the formula is fair between rural schools that might have as little as 16 students in a grade vs. for urban districts that could have hundreds of students in the same grade, but he still has concerns.

“We want to ensure these measurements are comparable and that we have a level playing field for our rural districts,” he said. “We think the four-day schedule is working in rural Oklahoma for many of our schools.”

Burns said he’s not opposed to a district being required to operate on a five-day schedule if they are performing low in multiple areas, but that is not the case for many schools in his district. He said several schools in in district received an overall grade of A on the Statewide A-F School Re-

port Card but might have received a D in the academic growth measurement in math or English. These schools would not be able to continue to operate on the four-day schedule, he said.

If the rules are approved by the Legislature in its upcoming session, districts would need to apply for the waiver beginning with the 2021-22 school year.

To keep a four-day-a-week schedule under the proposed rules, elementary and middle schools would have to score at least a C in academic growth for math and English language arts on annual Oklahoma State School Report Cards. Early childhood centers would need to feed into an elementary school that also meets eligible criteria.

High schools would have to score a C or higher in academic achievement, which is based on state test scores, and in post-secondary opportunities on their annual report cards. Their four-year graduation rates would have to meet the state average or 82%.

No school that scores in the bottom 5% on state report cards would qualify for shortened school weeks.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Education, using 2019 scores (the most recent available), 46 percent of the almost 200 schools that meet fewer than 165 days would be able to request a waiver from the State Board of Education. Criteria for the 2021-22 school year cannot be set until 2020 testing data is available.

Burns said he will recommend changes be made to the rules before a vote on them.

---Ty Burns serves House District 35, which includes Creek, Noble, Osage, Pawnee and Payne counties, in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Bill would benefit police State Rep. David Perryman (DChickasha) has filed legislation to protect the pension benefits of officers injured while serving their community.

House Bill 3330 would change the disability percentage for officers disabled as a result of a violent act while on duty to 100 percent.

“This is one of those laws where Oklahoma should be ashamed that it hasn’t already been done,” Perryman said. “No officer, faithfully executing their oath to serve the public, should have their financial future jeopardized due to being injured in an act of violence.”

Currently, disabled officers who can no longer work in law enforcement are often not eligible for their full pension benefits.

“If an officer serving his or her community, is injured as a result of a violent act in the line of duty to the point that he or she cannot continue as a law enforcement officer, it is wrong to penalize that officer by limiting pension benefits,” Perryman said. “Pensions aren’t a safety net but a plan for financial security. An officer shouldn’t lose that security due to being shot while protecting the public. It is wrong and this legislation aims to fix that.”

Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph.

Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 19

Sports

PHOTO PROVIDED

Coaches, include, assistant Coach Tyler Miller, left, and head coach David Kirby. Team members, top row from left, Kylie Miranda, Malia Griffin, Ella Scharf, Presley Randal and Kollyns Kirby. On the front row are Addy Hubbart, Harper Miller, Maddie Hill and Emmy Hubbart.

YMCA Team of the Week

Practices full of fun Editor’s Note: Coach David Kirby outlines his approach to coaching for his eight and under girls basketball team at Edmond’s Y. Our team has been participating in the YMCA basketball program for three years now.

This year is our first year to be in the Spirit League. The girls have learned so much in this time and have improved their skills. Each year we have added new girls to our

team. The girls are very welcoming and quickly become great friends.

I believe the practices for the girls should be full of skills development and fun.

We enjoying participating in the YMCA because the environment is great for learning while allowing everyone to participate and develop skills at their own pace. The facilities for practice and games are very nice well run gyms. All provided at a low cost so anyone can participate.

UCO lead doesn’t hold up over the weekend, 63-60 A 10-point third-quarter lead turned into a seven-point fourth-period deficit in the span of seven minutes and Central Oklahoma went on to drop a 63-60 Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association decision to Northwest Missouri Saturday afternoon at Hamilton Field House.

UCO appeared to seize control of the game after going up 44-34 on Brooke Rayner’s layup with 1:54 left in the third only to see the Bearcats hit three straight 3-pointers to get within one by the end of the period.

NWMSU then outscored the Bronchos 12-4 to open the final stanza in going ahead 55-48.

Central battled back, but ultimately fell short. Head coach Guy Hardaker’s crew fell to 15-6 on the season and 9-4 in the league.

“We didn’t shoot the ball very well and just made too many mistakes,” Hardaker said. “They hit some tough shots in the second half. It’s a tough loss, but we can’t dwell on it and just need to get ready for the next one.”

The Bronchos shot just 33.8 percent (23-of-68) from the field and was just 6-of-26 (23.1 percent) from 3-point range.

Kelsey Johnson led UCO with 16 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals. Micayla Haynes was the only other player in double figures

with 15 points to go along with six steals, while Jaci Littell chipped in eight points, six rebounds and three steals.

The Bronchos led 24-21 at halftime and then got seven points from Johnson in a 12-4 spurt that turned a 3231 lead into the 44-34 cushion late in the third. NWMSU then buried long 3-pointers on three straight possessions go make it 44-43 heading to the fourth.

The Bearcats hit three more treys in going ahead 55-48 with 4:58 left and it was 58-50 at the 3:32 mark.

Central didn’t go away, getting five points from Haynes and a Littell layup to get within 59-57 with just 33 seconds remaining. Haynes followed two NWMSU free throws with a long bomb from the wing to make it 61-60 at 0:11.

The Bearcats made two more foul shots with seven seconds left to go up 63-60 and Haynes’ tying 3-point try with four ticks remaining was just off the mark.

Neither team could buy a bucket in a low-scoring first half that ended with UCO on top 24-21.

The Bronchos missed eight straight shots during one span in the first quarter, but trailed just 9-3 at that point and was down 10-8 after the opening 10 minutes.

KickingBird Ladies Golf Association sets organizational meeting Feb. 17 KickingBird Ladies Golf Association will hold its annual coffee to kick off the 2020 golf year at 9 a.m., Monday, Feb. 17 at KickingBird Golf Course, 1500 E. Danforth Road Edmond.

New and existing members are invited to the coffee.

The KWGA annual dues are $30.

If you are unable to attend the coffee but would like to join the association, registration forms are available at Kickingbird.

The first play day begins at 9 a.m., Monday, March 2.

Page 20 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

University names a new police chief

Members of the Edmond City Council, Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce and Edmond Economic Development Authority joined the owners and employees of The Morrison Group for a ribbon cutting and open house to celebrate the company’s recent expansion in Edmond.

Officials mark company’s relocation The Morrison Group, an Edmond based branding and distribution company that serves retailers across America with branded foodservice supplies, held a ribbon cutting and open house Thursday, Jan. 30 to celebrate the company’s recent relocation to 3400 S. Kelly as well as its successful acquisition of Creative Container, Inc. The move provided an additional 60,000-square-feet of space to accommodate the company’s continued growth.

“We are pleased to celebrate The Morrison Group’s expansion into approximately 100,000square-feet of space,” said Edmond City Councilmember and Edmond Economic Development Authority Board Trustee Nick Massey. “The direct and indirect impact of this local company will likely total more than $4.5 million annually.”

The Morrison Group is comprised of two business segments: Morrison Cup Solutions and Morrison Point of Purchase. Morrison Cup Solutions closely partners with its customers to completely meet their cup and accessory needs by offering custom cup accessories, inventory warehousing, custom design and distribution.

Morrison Point of Purchase is a one stop shop for convenience store point of purchase marketing

and promotional signage.

The Morrison Group’s acquisition of Creative Container, Inc., an Oklahoma City based custom cup printing company, was finalized in May 2019.

After nearly one year of talks, approximately 14 new employees joined The Morrison Group, bringing its total to 35.

“With the recent acquisition of Creative Container, Inc. The Morrison Group is able to supply our customers with more branding options and shorter lead times,” said The Morrison Group President Ryan Morrison. “In other words, the joining of these two companies will make having your own customized artwork on your restaurant or store’s cup easier than it has ever been.”

Regarding The Morrison Group’s new manufacturing and distribution facility, Morrison added “Our new facility is much better equipped to efficiently handle our manufacturing and distribution processes as well as provides us the space to grow.

Externally, being based out of Edmond and experiencing the support of the City, Chamber and community has made the location of our move one of the wisest decisions we've made.”

For more information, visit morrisononline.com.

Closure of farmers market irks some

By Steve Lackmeyer Oklahoman.com When Brad Williams, president of Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, announced in December his decision to close the campus farmers market, he caught the vendors by surprise, and some remained unaware until the following Saturday market day.

Jody and Burt McAnally, owners of the historic Farmers Public Market, worried Williams’ decision to move the market to Scissortail Park would hurt their three-year effort to revive Saturday markets at their historic Farmers Public Market at 311 S Klein Ave. They were wrong.

“My phone was ringing off the hook starting that Saturday,” Jody McAnally said. “I had a few before that on the day it was announced. And then the rest of the week was crazy.”

Several vendors already have made the move to Farmers Public Market while even more have reserved space to make the move when the OSUOKC market closes in February. The Scissortail Park market, meanwhile, won’t open until April and will be closed every October through March.

For farmers like Chad Ward, owner of Ward Family Farms in Pawnee, the loss of business for that long of a stretch dampened what had been a celebrated acceptance into the OSU-OKC market last year.

“We make quite a drive,” Ward said. “We’re about two hours from home. It made our business being at OSU-OKC. And then a year later, it’s gone.

I’m closer to Tulsa. I was driving an hour more to be down here because it was so much better than in Tulsa.”

Ward’s first thought was to make the move to Scissortail Park, where the market will be outdoors compared to the enclosed pavilion at OSU-OKC. But as time passed, Ward took a closer look at the Farmers Public Market and made the move two weeks ago.

“We were interested in Scissortail Park, but they just got more and more inconsistent about what was going on,” Ward said. “They couldn’t address the need to be year-around. We have to sell all year.

My electric company wants money in December, too.”

Farmers Public Market revival Farmers Public Market opened on June 16, 1928, on what had been the site of Delmar Gardens Amusement Park. The market, a two-story, 40,000square foot mix of Spanish architecture with terracotta ornamentation, was built by John J. Harden in response to farmers selling their produce on downtown streets. The first floor was used by farmers selling produce, while the second floor hosted con-

See Market, Page 22

Major Dexter Nelson of the Oklahoma City Police Department has been named chief of police at Oklahoma City University, President Martha Burger announced today.

Nelson will assume the role at OCU on March 1, following the university’s national search for the position. Police Director Bill Citty, Dexter who has been serving as OCU’s interim chief of police during the search process, will continue to consult with the Oklahoma City University Police Department and will help ensure a smooth transition for the department.

Nelson has served in law enforcement for 33 years, joining the Oklahoma City Police Department in 1987. He has worked in numerous disciplines of law enforcement including patrol operations, homicide, internal affairs, media relations, gang enforcement, narcotics investigations, Will Rogers World Airport, and the hostage/crisis negotiations unit. He also has supervised and commanded many specialized units consisting of special events, the bomb squad and tactical unit, and air support.

Nelson holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology/Christian ethics and is a graduate of the 246th FBI National Academy.

Major Nelson’s extensive experience in law enforcement and community relations will serve him well as he leads the OCU department forward, President Burger said.

Director Citty observed, “Dexter Nelson has demonstrated an openness and willingness to engage the people he serves, while providing strong leadership through collaboration with police officers and stakeholders.”

Nelson said he is looking forward to building on the OCU Police Department’s role and mission of service to students, faculty, staff and university constituents.

“I will accomplish this by means of collaborative problem solving, transparency and accountability,” he said. “Campus police officers serve in a manner different than that of a traditional police agency. They should embody the concepts of community policing, cultural diversity and fairness. My job is to ensure this and to make sure everyone is treated with respect.”

Museum to show film Our history on the big screen! Join The Cowboy for Dinner and a Movie: The Grapes of Wrath (1940) Thursday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

“Movie-goers will enjoy an introduction by film historian Elizabeth Anthony and dine on comfort foods inspired by famous diners along Route 66 prepared by The Petroleum Club,” said Museum President & CEO Natalie Shirley. “And unlike the Great Depression era, Prohibition will not be enforced and a cash bar will be available.”

The Grapes of Wrath (1940) is adapted from John Steinbeck’s controversial, Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about the Joads, an Oklahoma family who loses their farm during the Great Depression and heads to California along Route 66 in search of work and a better life. This film by Academy Award winning Director John Ford was the only film about the great Dust Bowl migration at the time and was among the top box-office hits the year of its release.

The film is being shown in conjunction with the Dorothea Lange: Politics of Seeing exhibition, the film, like Lange’s photographs, captures the hardships Americans faced during this challenging time.

The Grapes of Wrath (1940) was the winner of two Academy Awards and is included on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 best American movies.

Following the film, attendees will be treated to an exclusive after-hours walk through the Dorothea Lange: Politics of Seeing exhibition.

Cost is $35,$40 for museum members. Reservations required by Feb. 17. For more information or to register to attend, visit https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/event/dinner-and-a-movie-the-grapesof-wrath-1940/.

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 21

Tough year in energy field

By Adam Wilmoth Oklahoman.com Last year was a rough year for the oil and natural gas industry.

Even as oil and natural gas production hit record highs both in Oklahoma and nationwide, layoffs mounted as Wall Street money fled the sector and companies struggled to pay down debt and operate within dwindling cash flow.

A report this week from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) highlights the trend, pointing out that bankruptcies surged among exploration and production companies last year.

A total of 42 exploration and production companies filed for bankruptcy in 2019, representing almost $26 billion in debt, double the $13 billion in bankruptcy-related debt filed in 2018.

“We’ve been watching these companies flounder under mounting debt and negative cash flows for many years,” Kathy Hipple, an IEEFA financial analyst and author of the brief, said in the report. “It’s getting harder and harder for these companies to

find investors to keep them afloat and avoid imploding.”

Companies searching for natural gas in the country's Appalachian region struggled the most in 2019 as natural gas prices in the region fell by onethird, the report stated.

But 2019's financial challenges were not limited to Appalachia or to exploration and production companies.

“We are seeing slowdowns and negative cash flows spill over into the oil services sector that relies on the E&P companies for their business,” Hipple said. “And heavy hitters such as Schlumberger and Halliburton recorded significant losses in 2019.”

So far, 2020 doesn't look any better for the industry. The IEEFA report found that more bankruptcies are likely this year as companies are scheduled to repay or refinance more than $100 billion over the next few years. “Under present conditions, it’s difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel for oil and gas producers,” Hipple said.

College of Business names interim dean

Jeremy Oiler

The University of Central Oklahoma has named Jeremy Oller, J.D, Ph.D., professor and chairperson of the Department of Economics, as the College of Business’s interim dean.

“The College of Business will continue to focus on our quality education, faculty engagement and our relationship with the Oklahoma City metropolitan area community,” Oller said.

“Providing students with the best educational experience possible will always remain our top priority and our AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) Accreditation will continue to be an important asset to

the College of Business.”

Oller has served as the Department of Economics chairperson since 2012 and is highly regarded across campus for this collegial and effective leadership style, his passionate support of students and commitment to the continued AACSB Accreditation. He holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Oklahoma, a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma and a B.B.A. from the University of Central Oklahoma.

For more information about the UCO College of Business, please visit www.uco.edu/business.

For Insurance Department

Official names chief of staff of Staff for Speaker Jeff HickOklahoma Insurance Comman in the Oklahoma House missioner Glen Mulready has Representatives and Chief of named Brian Downs to serve Staff and Director of State as Chief of Staff for the Oklaand Federal Policy at the homa Insurance Department Oklahoma State Department (OID). A native Oklahoman, of Health.

Downs currently serves as the “Commissioner Mulready State Health Information Excontinually challenges the Dechange Director and Special partment staff to strive for Assistant to the Governor’s Downs their best as they serve the Front Porch Initiative.

“Brian’s leadership experience, pro- public. He’s not afraid of changes and he’s dedicated to making OID a fessionalism and his tireless commitment to Oklahoma citizens make him Top 10 insurance department. Following his example, I will champion a perfect fit for this position,” MulCommissioner Mulready’s vision and ready said. “He has built a level of do my best to serve Oklahomans in trust and respect with state and nathis role,” Downs said. tional leaders on both sides of the Downs began his new role last aisle. I am confident that his leaderweek. ship will maintain the positive moIf you have questions about other mentum as we continue to move forward with our team’s vision of be- insurance issues, contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1coming a Top 10 insurance depart800-522-0071 or visit our website at ment.” www.oid.ok.gov.

Downs previously served as Chief

Museum leader no longer ‘interim’ Anderson said, “I am honFollowing a national ored to serve as the next search led by board chairleader of this historic instituelect Meg Salyer, Dr. Michael tion. I am looking forward to Anderson has been named building on the Museum’s President & CEO at the Oklamany years of service to the homa City Museum of Art. community. Our 75th anniverAnderson, previously director sary in May will kick off a year of curatorial affairs, has been of exciting announcements interim president & CEO of Anderson and events. I sincerely appreciOKCMOA since July 2019. ate all the hard work the Mu“I would like to thank seum staff has put in to this year’s Michael, the OKCMOA leadership programs and exhibitions and am team and the Museum staff for runthrilled to lead us at such a monuning the Museum smoothly and efficiently during this time of transition,” mental time in the Museum’s history.” said Cynda Ottaway, OKCMOA During his tenure at the Museum, board chair. “I also appreciate the Anderson has continued to develop many hours of time that our board the Museum Film program, bringing members volunteered to assist in the the best in independent, foreign lansearch process, especially Meg and guage and classic cinema to the Oklaher efforts in the national search. I homa City community. He has am confident in Michael’s abilities to curated and managed numerous exhilead us through our upcoming year bitions including “Our City, Our Colthat includes the celebration of the lection,” “Matisse in His Time” and Museum’s 75th anniversary in May “Apichatpong Weerasethakul: The and into the future.”

Shaw named CEO of information firm Land Information Services, LLC (LIS) recently named Edmond’s Jim Shaw, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Oklahoma Citybased company.

Founder of the company, Wade Brawley will continue serving the company as CEO and CFO, while positioning the company for future growth and Shaw leadership.

Shaw has served LIS for more than seven years in a variety of capacities, most recently as Executive Vice President, overseeing software development and client implementations.

“Jim’s move to this new role is an affirmation that our strong growth through working capital has been a winning formula for the company, and provided a foundation for continued growth and success,” stated Wade Brawley. “Moreover, it underscores our long-term commitment to our Brawley staff, clients, industry and community as we continue to develop our best-in-class Land software and outsourcing services.”

Land Information Services was founded in 2009 with business process and management consulting as the foundation of the company. Today, Land Information Services is the premier Land back-office provider offering outsourcing services alongside the company’s LandVantage software platform to help companies turn data into meaningful information, facilitate property administration and paperless workflows.

Page 22 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Mortgage Matters

Homeowners New Year’s resolutions: Part two NOR NORTH TH SECTIO SECTION N

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By Kenneth Wohl It’s not too late to make a New Year’s resolution. Make the easy choice and commit to your home.

Energy Efficiency Audit Wohl You bought the home of your dreams, but it was built in 1955.

Now your home is colder in the winter, hotter in the summer and requires more water to do the dishes and the laundry. This increase in utility costs, such as gas, electric and water can add up over time. Newer homes have fewer gaps to leak air, better insulation, energy-efficient windows as well as more cost-saving appliances. Having a professional examine your home for inefficiencies could save you money in the long term.

Emergency Fund Owning a home requires foresight.

An emergency fund allows you to prepare for the unexpected. If your heating goes out in the middle of the night or your dishwasher floods the kitchen, you will appreciate the extra money. If you do not have an emergency fund, start small and work toward $500. Once there, continue to increase this to cover the cost of more expensive appliances and home repairs.

Refinancing When a television advertisement features interest rates lower than what you currently pay, your impulse may be to rush to the bank and get that lower rate. However, there are

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Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of Kenneth Wohl and meant for generic illustration purposes only. RCB Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151. Kenneth Wohl NMLS #453934.

SOLD! Don’t let joint problems

several factors to consider. First, refinancing often costs thousands of dollars in fees and closing costs. It may not cost you anything out of your pocket, but those fees will typically be bundled into your new loan. You may want to think about getting the lowest overall cost, not just the lowest rate. Consider how much refinancing saves you in overall dollars rather than only in interest.

How much you have currently paid on principle will also affect your new loan payments and how beneficial they are to your pocketbook. You may refinance and save money on your monthly payment, but not necessarily save money over the life of the loan. Every situation is different and you should talk with a banker before making the decision to refinance.

Property Tax Assessment Every year, the county assessor will determine the value and taxability of your home. Are the homes around you selling for less, but your taxes have continued to increase?

With the appropriate documentation, you may be able to argue that your home should be assessed at a lower value, which saves money in the long run.

I am here to help, even if you are not an RCB Bank customer. Feel free to call me at 405-608-5291 or email me at kwohl@bankrcb.net.

By Brian Attebery Working out can be painful sometimes. The aches and soreness of freshly worked muscles that are trying to figure out what exactly you did to them! This is all a normal process but what about sore joints? How do we tell the difference? How do we work around them?

What we must understand is that joints are completely useless without muscles that move and provide stability for them. In order for your joints to function at max potential, you must keep your muscles Attebery strong. Arthritis, inflammation, old injuries and other factors such as genetics can contribute to joints hurting. While there are different levels of joint problems, most can be worked around to do “something” to maintain your strength. The question is what are the “somethings” you can do?

Knees are a very common joint to have problems with. We can’t really avoid using our knees. We must move, walk, climb and sit up and down in life to function.

You may have had previous injuries in sports or simply have “bad knees” but there is always a reason. The quadriceps in the front of thigh, hamstrings in the back of your thighs and your glutes (butt muscles) all contribute to allowing you to have strength in your knees. When you have bad knees, you still must exercise but you need to make changes.

Cardiovascular work such as running, jogging, walking, biking and elliptical all use the knees. You must avoid impact type exercises that pound the knees. The bike is the most common choice for those with bad knees. Once you build your stamina up, the Elliptical or A.M.T. Trainer are my preference for a more effective workout that still limits pressure on the knees.

Not only does the cardio strengthen your heart and lungs but you also burn calories which can lead to weight loss.

For every pound you lose, you take 3-5 pounds of pressure off the joints. Imag-

ine being 100 pounds over-weight. If you lose that weight, you take 300500 pounds of pressure off your joints!

How could you not feel better? What if you only lost 10-20 pounds? That is 30-100 pounds of pressure 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. A proper diet and supplementation program will also be essential for that to happen since you are limited on how much you can do. If you don’t take some form of Glucosamine, you should be. There are other vitamins, minerals and herb that can work in conjunction with helping your joints relieve inflammation.

Meticulous weight workouts will be vital to strengthen the knees. The hamstrings typically can be worked aggressively with knee issues because there is not direct pressure compressing the knees. Light leg presses or limited range of motion step ups can also be an option. Many people have issues with their kneecaps tracking properly.

There are techniques that teach the medial portion of the quadricep to function better, pulling the kneecap into alignment and taking pressure off the joints.

I see this condition a lot in my female clients but that is an entire article I can write about later. There is always something you can do with proper guidance and as time goes on, your body will get stronger leading to the potential of adding new, advanced exercises. You must walk before you run in the figurative sense.

It can be frustrating to feel limited due to joint issues but don’t let that keep you from exercising. Make sure you have your Physician give you a proper diagnosis with your condition.

We all will have various levels of aches and pains due to life. You must simply be honest with yourself and realize while you may not be able to do some of the things you did in the past, you can do many things but just in a modified form. Doing nothing is never an option.

Make the choice today.

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)

Edmond Life & Leisure • February 6, 2020 • Page 23

State seeks to honor those preventing child abuse The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is accepting nominations for awards to recognize individuals and organizations for their demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to child abuse prevention in Oklahoma.

Nominations are due by close of business on Monday, March 2.

Commissioner of Health Gary Cox said it is important to recognize those who are working to protect Oklahoma’s children from abuse.

“We want to recognize those dedicated individuals and organizations who are going above and beyond to reduce the incidents of child abuse in our state,” said Cox. “These awards are to honor those who work at multiple levels to help strengthen families and relationships in our communities.”

The six categories for nominations are: n Outstanding Home Visitor Award to recognize a professional working as a home visitor who

has demonstrated a high commitment to quality service and tremendous dedication to those served. n Outstanding Elected Official Award to recognize an elected official for distinguished service focused on the prevention of child maltreatment and/or support of vulnerable families. n Marion Jacewitz Award to recognize an individual in Oklahoma who has made significant contributions to the prevention of child abuse and strengthening families on a statewide level. n Mary Ellen Wilson Award to recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the prevention of child abuse and strengthening families at a community level. n Outstanding Child Abuse Prevention and Strengthening Families Program Award to recognize an exceptional program that focuses on the prevention of child maltreatment and supports vulnerable families.

n Julie L. Bonner Nurse Home Visitor Award to recognize a nurse home visitor who empowers parents to care for themselves while creating safe, healthy, nurturing relationships and environments for children.

Nomination forms may be downloaded directly from the OSDH website at https://go.usa.gov/xdYhe. Awards will be presented during a special ceremony, Tuesday, April 14, at 11 a.m. in the Blue Room at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

Email completed nomination forms to sheriet@health.ok.gov, or mail a copy of the printed form to: Sherie Trice, Family Support and Prevention Service, OSDH, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73117-1299.

For more information, or to request printed forms, call the OSDH Family Support and Prevention Service at (405) 271-7611.

Market From Page 20 certs, dances, boxing matches and roller-skating.

Before the start of its slow demise in the 1970s, the market also housed a grocery, meat market, candy store, bakery, cafe and a drug store. Legends like Hank Williams Sr., Count Basie and Bob Wills played in the second-floor auditorium.

The market inside the the building shut down in the 1970s and was replaced with an antique mall, though farmers still operated permanent stands surrounding the main building. The farmers stands continued to operate through the 1990s, but they virtually disappeared when the OSU-OKC market opened in 1996.

Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi Good Shepherd Anglican Church (Traditional Episcopal) 1000 N. Broadway, Edmond •314-8715 Sundays - Holy Communion 8:00 & 10:00am Animal Friendly Parish “If you have people who exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have those who deal likewise with their fellow human being.”

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

www.anglicancgsedmondok.com 1928 Book of Common Prayer • anglicancgesedmondok.com

SCRIPTURE • TRADITION • REASON

Page 24 • February 6, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure