November 9, 2023 Vol. 24, No. 25
In This Issue FOUR SEASONS
Bike blast
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.
Edmond Wine Shop marks 50 years. See Page 13
Hundreds participate in Cycle 66
PHOTOS BY RICHARD STEPHENS, JR.
Cycle 66 takes off! 209 cyclists on the 66-mile route start at 800 on Nov 5, 2023, from downtown Edmond This group of 66-mile bikers climb a hill at the corner of East Danforth and Westminster Roads, Arcadia. PGCriterium races are fast, intense, and short, The Men’s Crit A racers round a corner at Cycle 66, Edmond
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Partly Cloudy High 60° Low 36°
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Mostly Sunny High 60° Low 41°
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Mostly Sunny High 65° Low 38°
By Richard Stephens, Jr. Whether whizzing through Criterium laps in a box shaped track or slowly pedaling straight ahead in a one-mile fun ride, 694 cyclists from 12 states chose a 1, 10, 33 or 66-mile route or Criterium race best suited to their fitness and experience level at Edmond’s third Cycle 66 on November 5th. “Every ride to me is all about quality rest stops and the scenery. This ride has plenty of both,” wrote Tina Walton of Choctaw. Edmond’s Mayor Darrell Davis came “to have fun and support the community.” Davis and Lt Governor Matt Pinnell provided opening remarks. Pinnell said, “Thanks for supporting Edmond and the race.” Two hundred and nine cyclists started the 66-mile course at 8 a.m. Randy White of Edmond pedaled with 19 other group members. “We kept everyone together. Safe. We go fast on downhills and flats.” Other 66-milers like Walton and
White agreed East Danforth and Sorghum Roads were tough (rolling hills and inclines). A large group of 33-milers, 271 strong, rode east on North Eastern Avenue, south on Martin Luther King (MLK) Avenue, west on NE 4th Ave, north on Lincoln Blvd (Route 66) past the State Capitol, then back home via MLK. Al’s Bicycles and Phat Tire Bike Shop hosted a rest stop at the Oklahoma Science Museum. Henry Holasek, who owns Al’s Bicycles of Edmond, and Jan Fees, Edmond City Planner, determined where rest stops were placed. His store bought “all the food for all the rest stops (six).” Numerous riders thought the rest stops were well supported. “Snacks are great,” said Lyle Kinley, adding, “Gorgeous weather.” The sun beamed brightly, warming the air to 80 degrees. Larry Wolverton of Tulsa, age 79, rode 33 miles. “I’m fine. Awesome rest stop.” Maggie and David Nichols of
Edmond rode the one-mile course with their two girls, Corrie, 6, and Merritt, 3 years old. Why did they come? “We just want to be together as a family that day,” she replied. Spectators were awed at the high speeds of the six adult Criterium (Crit) races on the 1-mile, four-block long by two-block wide course. Crits are short, intense, and exciting. Cycle 66 partnered with OKC Velo, a local cycling non-profit, to hold them. A Junior (age 11-18) and Kids (ages 10 and under) Crit Race were offered. Men’s and women’s Crit rides get longer, faster and more competitive as one moves up from “C” (category 4/5) to “B” (3/4) to “A” (1/2/3). There were 121 racers. Preston Ronck, age 15, of Rogers, Arkansas, won the Men’s Crit C race. “I’m happy that I won and I accomplished what I came for.” In the Men’s Crit B, Liam Olson, age 18, of Littleton, Colorado, won. continued on Page 3
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Cover From Page 1 Competitors rode 25 mph for 16.6 miles. Afterwards, Phil Wolfe said, “It was hard…You save your energy until the last lap.” The last race of the day was Men’s Crit A – the best trained amateurs and professionals. Evan McQuirk of OKC came in first. How did he feel? “Great. Couldn’t ask for a better day to finish my season with a home race.” Jennifer Thornton, Cycle 66 Board Chair and Edmond Tourism Director, said the event was a success. “This is the thing for Edmond. We’re riding for a purpose.” This year, they added Volunteer and Community Engagement Chairpersons, offered “Prime” business gifts to Crit riders and earned USA Cycling Championship designation. Plus - no one got hurt. She estimated 5,000 people attended. Thornton gave special thanks to Shannon Conner, Bree Edmonds and J.D. Younger. Non-food stores open downtown included Blocworks Climbing Community, Bluebird Books and Native Summit Adventure. Lots of eateries were open, including Frenzy Brewing Company, Empire Slice House and Evoke
Coffee Eatery. They were packed with customers.Children played in one bounce house and had their faces painted. Cycle 66 is hosted by Visit Edmond and sponsored by 13 companies, including Mercy, Oklahoma Complete Health, Walmart, Tinker Federal Credit Union, Oklahoma ER and Hospital, Humana, and Remington Park Racing and Casino. The day’s registration fees were donated to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, Bike Club OKC and the Velo Cycling Club. President Rhys Martin of the Route 66 Association and Samantha Extance manned a booth. He wrote, “Thanks to the support of Cycle 66, the…Association has been able to refresh Roadside Attraction signage across the state and support a variety of preservation projects.” Yes, registration dropped from 823 to 694 – yet those who came left happy. Barry and Deb Carrington of Mustang texted, “It was our first event, great weather, rest stop support was amazing, everyone was so friendly at start and finish…bottom line: see you in 2024!”
RICHARD STEPHENS, JR.
All 33 mile and 66 mile cyclists rode by Oklahoma's State Capitol on Lincoln Blvd during Cycle 66 on Nov 5,
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.
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From the Publisher
Edmond business celebrates 50 years Edmond Wine Shop held a ribbon-cutting with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce at 1520 South Boulevard in Edmond. The well-known shop was celebrating 50 years in business in Edmond. Edmond Wine Shop is a full-service wine, spirit & beer retailer in Edmond. Edmond Wine was ahead of it time being one of the first retail- Ray Hibbard ers in Oklahoma who designed a store set around wine. Today, the store is known for its broad selection of wines, spirits, and beers. Their specialty is customer service, and their product knowledge provides customers with an ever-improving local resource for “every day” items as well as collectible merchandise. The store was founded in November 1973, by Vance Gregory who believed that Edmond consumers deserved to have a local fine wine resource modeled after similar shops located in California's Wine Country. It has grown from its original 1200 square feet size to over 6000 square feet of retail space. The shop stresses customer service, selection and competitive pricing on all products sold. I love these folks. You can consult them about small amounts of wine or a big party you want to throw. They have expensive wines, but they also have great quality wines that are more affordable. They find out what you like and are quick to give
Owner Vance Gregory
you suggestions and keep you on a budget. Edmond Wine Shop perennially finishes in the top tier of consumer-driven polls of Best Retail Wine & Spirits Shops in local publications such as Edmond Life & Leisure as well as The Oklahoman's Community Choice Awards. They are one of the few shops in Edmond that has one every year we have held an Edmond Favorites event. The retail liquor industry has taken many hits over the years. What keeps them coming back to Edmond Wine in the face of tough competition is the service. It is also what has kept them in business for the last 50 years. To learn more about Edmond Wine Shop, visit https://www.edmondwine.com/ Time change still being debated Along with each change back and forth between daylight savings time and not goes a good deal of debate about its value, if any. This year was no exception but like in previous years, nothing gets done. In the United States, Daylight Saving Time (DST) began on Sunday, Mar. 12, 2023, at 2am with clocks “springing forward” one hour, and ended on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, when clocks “fell back” to Standard Time. In 2024, DST will begin on Mar. 10 and end on Nov. 3. DST was implemented in the United States nationally on Mar. 31, 1918, as a wartime effort to save an hour’s worth of fuel (gas or oil) each day to light lamps and coal to heat homes. It was repealed nationwide in 1919, and then maintained by some individual localities (such as New York City) in what Time Magazine called “a chaos of clocks” until 1966 when the Uniform Time Act made DST consistent nationwide. DST has been “permanently” implemented nationwide twice, once during World War II and once in the 1970s. As the war ended, only 17% wanted to keep “war time” (DST) year-round. In the winter of 1973-1974, DST was used to conserve fuel during the energy crisis. 53% opposed keeping DST, probably because in some parts of the country (primarily western edges of time zones) wouldn’t see the sun rise until after 9am. Sixty three countries used Daylight Saving Time in 2022, while 10 countries used DST in some jurisdictions and not others (like the United States), and 174 countries did not use DS. In the United States, 48 states participate in Daylight Saving Time. Arizona, Hawaii, some Amish communities, and the American territories (American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands) do not observe DST. 55% of Americans said they are not disrupted by the time change, 28% report a minor disruption, and 13% said the change is a major disruption. A 2020 poll found 40% of Americans would prefer to stay in Standard Time all year and 31% would prefer to stay in Daylight Saving Time all year, eliminating the time change. 28% of Americans would keep the time change twice a year. However, a 2022 Monmouth University poll found 61% of Americans would stop changing time twice a year, of whom 44% would keep DST and 13% would stay on standard time all year. 35% would keep the time changes. On Mar. 15, 2022, the U.S. Senate unanimously
approved a bill that would make DST permanent as of Nov. 20, 2023, if approved by the House and signed by President Biden. The delay is meant to give airlines and other transportation providers time to adjust to the change as they set schedules months ahead of time. However, no action has been taken in the U.S. House of Representatives to advance the bill. That is not much of a surprise. Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican from Florida, has been one of the most vocal champions of the switch, arguing that Americans shouldn’t have to suffer the sleep loss or hassle that comes with changing the clocks twice a year. Brighter afternoons, he and other senators have said, will make people more productive, well rested and happier. One 2019 study, which looked at how light affects people at opposite ends of a single time zone, found that an extra hour of natural light in the evening led to an average of 19 fewer minutes of sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a range of health conditions, like obesity, heart disease and diabetes. This “mismatch” between your internal clock and environmental cues, said Dr. Anita Shelgikar, a professor of neurology and director of the sleep medicine fellowship program at the University of Michigan, can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Light cues from the sun also regulate metabolism, insulin production, blood pressure and hormones. And your circadian clock helps to control your immune system, so being out of whack during daylight saving time can wear down your body’s natural defenses. “The idea is that you’re off-kilter,” said Dr. Beth Malow, a professor of neurology and pediatrics and the director of the sleep division at Vanderbilt Medical Center. While no study has proved that standard time is best for human health, most experts agree that circadian misalignment can carry higher risks of some serious health conditions, including obesity, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular issues, depression and even cancer. A loud chorus of sleep researchers even suggest that resetting the clocks by just one hour during daylight saving time could trigger those same outcomes. What the future holds The movement to enact permanent daylight-saving time is gaining momentum. More than a dozen states have passed legislation that would adopt permanent daylight saving time and are now waiting for a federal greenlight. (Hawaii, most of Arizona and U.S. territories like Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are already in permanent standard time.) But if history is a guide, a widespread and permanent switch to daylight saving time would not last long. The United States already tried it, in 1974. After widespread discontent, the country went back to flipping the clocks twice a year. Russia tried it more recently, too, but ended the policy as public support of the change plummeted. Odds are that this same debate will take place in the spring when we “Spring Forward”. (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Check out what’s inside! ---- Weekend Calendar ....................................................................Page 6. ---- Police booking report ................................................................Page 6. ---- A look back at American history ................................................Page 7. ---- Smag’s dish for tailgate parties ................................................Page 11. ---- It’s a golden milestone for Edmond Wine Shop ......................Page 13. ---- George Gust reviews ‘Quiz Lady’ movie ..................................Page 14. ---- Crossword ................................................................................Page 14. ---- Business ..................................................................................Page 17. ---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18. This, and so much more, in this week’s edition
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 Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Reger alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Patty Miller, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante
Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2023 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 • November 9, 2023 • Page 5
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(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law. Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.) Oct. 23 Saul Olvera Jr., 20 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication. Espoke Lee Long, 23 of Oklahoma City. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more. Shatara Jewell La Shae Thomas, 30 of Oklahoma City. Stop sign violation and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Oct. 24 Travis Don Horton, 29 homeless. Vandalism. Kysia Dienye Jaja, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Oct. 25 Matthew Gregory Hatcher, four counts of failure to appear. Sabriyah Hadiah Perkins, 24 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. Daniel James Bloch, 32 of Grand Junction, Colo. (Misdemeanor value) obtaining signature or property by false pretenses. Sabrina Dawn Elliott, 44 of Okla-
homa City. Failure to carry security verification form in vehicle, expired tag, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, possess CDS and possess drug paraphernalia. Oct. 26 Cortilliaus Dawan Plunkett Jr., 20 of Choctaw. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more. Victor Muiruri, 35 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Sydnee Anne Massey, 28 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Whitney Nicole Akins, 32 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. Leslie Joe Morrow, 33 homeless. Failure to appear. Zoee Grace Burleson, 22 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property and (misdemeanor) purchase/display/possess identification card — illegal acts. Ricky Lee Caldwell, Jr., 43 of Edmond. Fourteen felony warrants and 10 misdemeanor warrants. Yessica Keyla Kiera Wiggins, 27 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault. (Deadly weapon) Carlos D. Mora, 48 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Gerardo Silva Gonzalez, 51 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Oct. 27 Jessie Stuman Jr. 25, of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Tiffany Brooke Mershon, 37 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Calob Connor McElroy, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication and minor in possession of intoxicating beverage Martin Renn Teuscher, 45 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Monty Warren Goodin, 39 of Thomas, Okla. Felony warrant and misdemeanor warrant. Gary Allen Maldonado, 52 of Edmond. Assault and battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff and public intoxication. Ricky Lynn Sluder II, 46 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Oct. 28 Michael Jasper Williams, 22 of Arcadia. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, possess CDS, expired tag, failure to maintain compulsory insurance, operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under then influence of anything other than alcohol. Derik Estuardo Espinoza, 35 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle with improper equipment and operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license. Todd Raymond Elms, 34 homeless. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol. Chad Wesley Schwerdtfeger, 51 homeless. Public intoxication and failure to appear. Oct. 29 Charles Shae Sadler, 35 of Edmond. (Drug related) possession of
contraband in penal institution, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS, (possession of a stolen vehicle) unathorized use of vehicle or implement of husbandry, obstruction of police officer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, two counts of failure to appear and a felony warrant. Ishmael Andreas Garibay, 28 of Edmond. Public intoxication, no tag — improper tag, no proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, disregard red signal light, speeding 11 to 14 mph over, driving without proper/valid driver’s license, two felony warrants and two misdemeanor warrants. Vallon Shunice Burris, 25 of Edmond. Shoplifting. Ma D. Perez Fraire, 58 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and shoplifting. Aity Enchy, 26 Edmond. Public intoxication. Tr Enchey, 38. Child endangerment, failure to stop — accident involving personal injury and felony DUI/APC. Oct. 30 Keith Donnell Doolin Jre., 34 homeless. Two counts possess CDS, (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution, possess drug paraphernalia and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked. Elias Gomez Hernandez, 38 of Bethany. No proof of insurance and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.
Weekend Calendar of Events, Nov. 9-12 Weekend Calendar of Events Nov. 9-12 ---- In the Gallery ---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875-2020 ---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights ---- Barrel Futurities of America World Championships ---- University of Central Oklahoma International Festival ---- Aaron Lewis ---- Flatland Cavalry ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale ---- Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm ---- PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market ---- American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show ---- Oklahoma Shakespeare presents: Born With Teeth ---- Scissortail Park Night Market ---- Guthrie Ghost Walk ---- Guided Gardens Tour ---- The Polar Express ---- Holiday River Parade
University of Central Oklahoma International Festival Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; free; uco.edu Aaron Lewis Location: Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Thu, Nov 9; 8 p.m.; riverwind.com Flatland Cavalry Location: Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10; 8 p.m.; riverwind.com Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 4 – Mon, Jan 15; $10 ---- $14; edmondicerink.com Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10 – Sat, Jan 29; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu ; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10 ---- Sat, Nov 11: Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend & Persimmon Hill Holiday Open House; Fri, Nov 10: Small Works, Great Wonders; 6 – 9 p.m.; Sat, Nov 11 ---- Sun, Nov 12: Signature Tour; 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020 Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jul 1 – Sun, Dec 31; visitedmondok.com
Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Oct 6 – Tue Jan 2; tcaa.nationalcowboymuseum.org
Beginners Pickleball Club Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.com
Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm Location: Orr Family Farm Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23 – Sat, Nov 11; orrfamilyfarm.com
OKC Zoo Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Sun, Jan 1; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org
PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market Location: Northpark Mall Extra Info: Through Sun, Dec 24; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pambeghana.org
Barrel Futurities of America World Championships Location: Lazy E Arena, Guthrie Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Sat, Nov 18; lazye.com
American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Thu, Oct 26 – Thu, Nov 16; aqha.com
Extra Information
Oklahoma Shakespeare presents: Born With Teeth Location: Oklahoma Shakespeare on the Paseo Extra Info: Thu, Nov 9 – Sun, Nov 19; Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okshakes.org Scissortail Park Night Market Location: 300 SW 7th St, OKC, OK Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10; 5:30 – 10 p.m.; scissortailpark.org Guthrie Ghost Walk Location: Apothecary Garden, Guthrie, OK Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10 – Sat, Nov 11; 7:15 p.m.; guthrieghostwalk.com Guided Gardens Tour Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Sat, Nov 10; 1 – 2 p.m.; myriadgardens.org The Polar Express Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Wed, Dec 27; Showtimes: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m.; oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Holiday River Parade Location: Boathouse District Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11; 6 – 8 p.m.; riversportokc.org
Veterans Day is Nov. 11
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Quilt exhibit at museum The Edmond History Museum presents the exhibit: Edmond’s Social Fabric opens November 10th and runs through the end of February 2024. The exhibit displays 16 meaningful quilts made throughout Edmond’s history, dating from 1890 to 2021. The exhibit was sponsored by the Edmond Women’s Club. Whether beautiful and just functional, each quilt conveys a story of life in Edmond. Some are purposefully stitched by a single woman, but many were stitched collectively by friends, students, or members of an organization. Many of the quilts relay a cause, tell a personal story or document a moment in history, such as the Land Run. Exhibit Highlights: · Grandmother’s Basket Design pieced together from four feed sacks, date unknown. · Temperance quilt, made as a fundraiser for the Edmond Women’s Christian Temperance
Union, with stitched names of those who advocated for the abstinence of alcohol, 1929. · World War II Victory Quilt, stitched by Edmond’s American War Mothers, naming veterans serving in the war, 1943. Edmond Centennial Quilt, commemorating the Land Run through quilt squares and em-
broidered images, 1989. · Blue Hippo Quilt, created by community members and the Edmond Quilt Guild during the Route 66 Blue Hippo Festival, hosted by the museum in 2021. Visit the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org or by calling the museum at 405-340-0078. Museum admission is free.
Deck the Downtown nears The Downtown Edmond Business Association would like to invite you to our inaugural Deck the Downtown Event. It will be Nov. 14 from 5:30 to 8 p.m at 1st & Festival Market in Downtown Edmond Help us celebrate the season with a lighting of Downtown Edmond! See our new 20 foot tree, Santa & Mrs.
Claus, free horse drawn wagon rides, kids & family activities, family photo area, live reindeer, hot cocoa, live music & sing-a-long and lots more. This special event is sure to become a tradition in Downtown Edmond. For more information, contact Stephanie Carel at info@downtownedmondok.com or 405-4712348
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Integris Edmond touts skills of surgical robot INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital is thrilled to announce the successful integration of our latest cutting-edge Stryker Mako surgical robot. This state-of-the-art technology is revolutionizing the field of orthopedic surgery, enhancing precision, reducing recovery times and improving patient outcomes. The surgical team at INTEGRIS Health Edmond has performed a series of surgical procedures with the assistance of the new surgical robot and the results have been remark-
able. Patients undergoing surgeries using this advanced technology are experiencing shorter hospital stays, minimized post-operative pain and faster return to their daily activities. Key advantages of the new surgical robot include: Precision: The robot's high-definition imaging and precise <image008.jpg>instruments allow surgeons to perform intricate procedures with unparalleled accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Minimized Invasiveness: Smaller incisions mean reduced scarring and a quicker return to normal activities for patients. Enhanced Visualization: Surgeons benefit from 3D visualization, providing an immersive and detailed view of the surgical site. Improved Ergonomics: Surgeons can operate comfortably, reducing fatigue and enhancing their ability to focus during lengthy procedures. "Our commitment to delivering the best possible care to our patients has driven us to adopt this state-of-the-art surgical robot," said Jon Rule, chief hospital executive at INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital. "We are dedicated to staying at the forefront of medical technology to provide the highest quality of care and to ensure the best possible care for its patients. David Rhodes, M.D., is a fellowship-trained board-certified orthopedic surgeon at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Edmond, with expertise in shoulder, knee and hip replacement surgery. He expressed enthusiasm about the robot’s success stating, “The Stryker Mako robot has transformed the way we approach joint replacement surgery. Its precision allows the surgeon to place the implant in the appropriate position and alignment every time. We have seen our patients achieve better results in their recovery and
greater satisfaction.” Gerardo Myrin M.D., a board-certified, fellowship-trained hip and knee orthopedic surgeon with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Central, who has performed more than 1,300 robotic hip and knee surgeries added, “This technology allows for the placement of the correct implant in the ideal position for less pain and better outcomes as well as fewer complications. The Stryker mako system helps to achieve excellent, reproducible results for our patients.” The success of this new surgical robot highlights INTEGRIS Health Edmond's ongoing dedication to innovation, patient-centered care and maintaining our position as a leader in the health care industry.
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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Some odd U.S. history By Steve Gust Every now and then, someone asks me if I still write books. The answer is yes. I’m working on my 33rd book on the Old West. When I write these, I like to mention the names of real politicians or military leaders. Then again, politics is deeply involved with the military. Politics is involved now and it really was during the Civil War days. Last week I wanted to know who the Governor of Texas was in 1866. What a lot of people don’t realize is that the former Confederate states were not allowed to officially rejoin the union immediately after the war. It took years for them to be formally re-admitted to the union during the Reconstruction era. One of the last states to rejoin the union was Texas in 1870. So from the end of the war to 1870, the union military was basically in charge of Texas. Shortly after the Civil War, President Johnson appointed a fella named Andrew Jackson Hamilton as Texas Governor. By August of 1866 he quit. What surprised me is that Texas actually decided to have an election for governor. You’d think Johnson or someone would have named another governor. But there was an election. The Democrat in the race was James
Edmond lawmaker wants better business retention
W. Throckmorton. He crushed the Republican Elisha Marshall Pease with more than 80 percent of the vote. Vice Chair Sen. Kristen Thompson, RAfter a year, Throckmorton had thorEdmond, released the following stateoughly angered the military and they ment last week regarding the Senate removed him from his duly elected ofSelect Committee on Business Retenfice. The military claimed Throckmortion and Economic Development’s ton was too lax with ex-Confederates meeting on the announced closure of and didn’t advance civil rights. Throckthe Michelin plant in Ardmore and the morton was a Confederate war veteran state's economic development efforts. himself – so it probably made sense he “Today’s meeting was enlightening, showed them leniency. My research and we appreciate Lieutenant Governor also showed some people in modern Pinnell, the Department of Commerce Texas want a statue of the man reand community leaders from Ardmore moved. sharing about their efforts to support But at the time, Throckmorton was the business community and boost ecopopular with Texans. That didn’t stop nomic development. Union war hero Philip Sheridan from re“I’m unsure if there was anything we moving the governor and appointing could do to change the unfortunate dePease to the office. The guy who couldcision to close the Michelin plant in n’t get 20 percent of the vote wound Ardmore. However, it’s apparent from up with the job. Although to be fair, Pease had served as Governor before the war. Last week, the Homeland Security I wonder how it would go over today Committee held our annual “Threats if the military voided elections and into the Homeland” hearing to talk stalled political leaders with less than about the foreign and domestic 20 percent of the popular vote? It’s kind of a scary thought but don’t forget threats to American national security. During the hearing, something. People study history so it I stayed laser-focused on the potendoesn’t repeat itself. tial terrorist threats we face because (Steve Gust may be reached at of our wide-open southern border news@edmondpaper.com)
our discussions that in order to better compete with other states, we must create a better statewide economic development structure. We’re not properly optimizing our state’s talent or assets. “Most of our state’s focus has been on recruiting rather than retention. If we want to compete nationally and globally, we must be more intentional in supporting our smaller and medium-sized Oklahoma businesses that are already here and investing in our local communities. They are the backbone of our state’s economy, and we need to do more to help them grow and expand. “I’m looking forward to sharing a new vision for economic development in the upcoming months.”
Lankford: Open border dangerous and the rise in antisemitism across our nation. We need to secure our border and help local law enforcement protect our Jewish friends and neighbors. The witnesses at the hearing were Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Director of the National Counterterrorism Center Christine Abizaid. I reiterated to Secretary Mayorkas that at a hearing in April when I asked him if our immigration system was broken and being abused, he responded, “Senator, yes, the asylum system is broken, and our entire immigration system is broken. There is unanimity about that, and it is our continuing hope that Congress will reform a broken system…” Now in November, very little has been done to actually stop the flow of unvetted people into our nation. One issue I continue to press about our wildly insecure southern border is specifically about the people being allowed into our nation known as “special interest aliens,” meaning we do not know their background except that they are from nations with known terrorism. In fact, we’ve seen 70,000 special interest aliens across our border in recent years—70,000 people from countries where terrorism is very prominent. We have also apprehended more than 150 individuals on our Terrorist Watchlist attempting to cross the border. That is more than the last five years combined.
Lawmaker not happy with time change Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, last week commented on the time change Oklahomans experienced when they "fell back" from daylight saving to standard time at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. "The only way to lock the clock in Oklahoma and to stop this twice yearly time change is to switch to permanent standard time," West said. "I've long advocated for this and after my recent interim study on the issue, I realize it is as important as ever to continue my efforts." West said the aim of his study was to raise awareness among legislators about the history of daylight saving time and to detail the benefits of moving the state to permanent standard time. He invited experts to discuss the science of time change and the detriments of changing the clock twice yearly. West said he's been asked why the state doesn't just adopt permanent daylight saving time yearround instead of standard time. Federal regulations, however, specify states can exempt themselves from daylight saving time but not standard time.
Some states have sought a waiver to be allowed to adopt daylight saving time year-round but without success. West also pointed to the Sunshine Protection Act in Congress, which would make daylight saving time permanent, but the act has not passed the last two years, and exemptions for some states would still remain. States that choose not to opt out of daylight saving time are required to set their clocks forward an hour at 2 a.m. the second Sunday of March each year and back an hour at 2 a.m. the first Sunday of November. The U.S. Congress first implemented daylight saving time through the Standard Time Act in 1918 during World War I as a way to "add" more daylight hours to conserve energy. The act also established five time zones across the U.S. The Uniform Time Act in 1966 mandated the country use daylight saving time but allowed states to opt out and to stay on standard time year-round. The thought behind daylight saving time is that by setting the clocks back an hour in November,
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more daylight time is gained in the early mornings. When an hour is added in March, more daylight is gained in the evenings. Permanent daylight saving time was enacted in 1974, but Oklahoma and other states petitioned the federal government to repeal it because of problems caused by it being dark until after 8 a.m. in the winter. There were complaints of children going to school in the dark and employees starting the work day before the sun rose. The permanent act was repealed in 1975. West said there are additional concerns such as health-related risks, increased auto accidents and work-related injuries that rise when daylight comes after people start their day. West said he's received an enormous amount of positive feedback from Oklahomans who support not having to change the clock twice yearly, specifically noting the time it takes to adjust to the change. He's run legislation in the past to move the state to permanent standard time. It's something he'll consider again for the upcoming legislative session that starts in February.
Walters endorses Trump Last week, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters endorses President Donald J. Trump for President of the United States. “There has never been a time that we’ve needed President Donald J. Trump more. Our education system is riddled with liberal extremist activists who believe in indoctrination rather than education,” said Superintendent Walters. “President Trump has the leadership, vision, and the undeniable drive to end the stranglehold of evil that national unions have on our classrooms, our kids, and our country. President Trump will destroy the false foundation that is our modern education system and return the focus back to reading, writing, and a love for our country.”
Edmond Life & Leisure • November 9, 2023 • Page 11
Always a favorite for any football tailgate bash By Carol Smaglinski Planning a tailgate party, but can you take the heat? Make chili. It’s simple, satisfying, and gives a warm and tingly flush. Note that with a few rare exceptions, the more a person eats hot peppers and chilies, the more immune one’s sensory receptors become to the hot, hot, lip scorching bite of the fiery items. Today’s featured recipe uses chili powder, a mixture of many types of ground hot peppers and spices but it needs you to spike it up with additional cayenne. Chili that is made the day before allows the flavors to marry overnight. Ahead of the kickoff, food is imperative and the main course might feature delicious smoked brisket, spicy sausage, tender roast turkey or pizza, chicken wings, cuts of pork, beef, meatballs, and everything in-between. Tailgating goes back to the time when people owned pickup trucks and station wagons and arrived several hours before the start of the game. An infinite variety of food was served on the folded-down tailgate. If not, they used card tables and covered them with tablecloths and piled on the edibles. Appetizers featured anything wrapped in bacon, a myriad of variations of salsa served with chips and gooey dips with a cream cheese base. Crowds noshed on rows and rows of deviled eggs, fresh fruit and desserts. Don’t risk tummy troubles:wash your hands and keep hot foods hot and pay attention to how long the food is left out. So, kick off your own tailgate with a knock-out hearty chili, a real macho meal that ladies love, too, and homemade cornbread. Don’t be afraid to add your own special ingredients, but taste as you go along. Chili with Beans Makes about 12 servings 2 Tbsp. corn oil 2 onions, in ¼-inch pieces 1 red or green pepper, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 lbs. ground beef 2 cups beef broth 1-28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes 3 Tbsp. tomato paste 4 Tbsp. chili powder (or your tolerance level) 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. cayenne pepper 1-16 oz. can of pinto or red kidney beans, drained Salt and pepper, to taste Add oil to a preheated large skillet and add onions and peppers, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until moisture has evaporated. Then add garlic and 2 minutes later pile all the ingredients into a large Dutch oven or a soup pot. Meanwhile, heat up the skillet again with a Tbsp. of oil and add just one pound of the beef. Brown the meat for 5 to 6 minutes, then drain fat in a large strainer or a colander. Finish with the other pound of beef. After about five minutes, add all the ingredients to the big pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a low heat and cook for 45 minutes stirring now and then. End by adding beans and simmer for about 15 minutes more. Taste and correct seasonings. If you want, add a can of mild lager, such as Budweiser, with its light hoppy flavor, and offer toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped jalapenos, or sour cream.
Transport chili to the site by wrapping the pot in layers of newspaper (yes, you can use your already well read Edmond Life and Leisure). Tape the newspaper sheets shut with masking tape. This trick will insulate the chili pot and keep it hot for a couple of hours. Or, use a thermal heat bag. Better yet, reheat it later on a propane-fueled burner. Another way is to use a small charcoal grill for reheating.
Page 12 • November 9, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Samantha Cowan
Coralie Egloff
Arledge firm adds new hires Local accounting firm Arledge recently announced the internal promotion of Ryon Fields and the hire of new employees Samantha Cowan, Coralie Egloff and Emma Grilley. Fields, formerly a senior assurance associate with the firm, has been promoted to audit manager. Fields has worked in corporate finance since 2014. Previous roles include sales management at Paycom and budget analysis for the Bellevue School District in Washington. He holds degrees in accounting and finance from the University of Central Oklahoma. Cowan joined the Arledge team as a senior tax associate. She holds a Master of Accountancy degree and Bachelor of Business Administration from Oklahoma Christian University. She has worked in financial services since 2017. Egloff was hired as the firm’s office manager. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Administration Management with emphasis in Human Resources from the University of Calais, France. Egloff brings more than 10 years of experience to the role. Grilley will serve as a tax administrative assistant. She has worked in similar roles since 2020. “Expanding our team at Arledge is a tremendous opportunity to hire outstanding additions to our firm,” said LaDonna Sinning, partner. “Promoting from within is also an important part of the corporate culture we pride ourselves on at Arledge. We look forward to serving our clients with the Emma Grilley combined perspectives and experiences of a diverse workforce.” Arledge is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax preparation and planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting.
Craft classes are offered at The Pioneer Woman Museum The Pioneer Woman Museum will host three interactive glass fusing classes called “Glass and a Glass” on Saturday, November 18. Artist Audrey Schmitz will lead the sessions at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Participants will make an original holiday tree ornament to take home. Attendees will learn about making fused glass while enjoying a complimentary drink. In addition to a wide array of colorful art glass, other materials like frit, wire, dots, millefiori and stringer glass will be available for individual tree ornaments. Additional holiday tree ornaments can be made for an extra fee. “Glass and a Glass” is designed for ages 18 and up. No prior experience is required. The cost of the class is $20. It includes all materials. Please call the Pioneer Woman Museum at 580-765-6108 to reserve a spot. The Pioneer Woman Museum is located at 701 Monument Rd. in Ponca City. The Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.
Edmond Life & Leisure • November 9, 2023 • Page 13
Employees celebrate 50 years of doing business in Edmond, left to right Taylor Halko, Erica Sanford, Vance Gregory (owner), Ted Deeds (in back), Amanda Jenkins, LeAnn Calhoun, Bob Utrecht (in back) and David Earnest.
In Business for 50 Years Edmond Wine Shop Earlier this month, Vance Gregory, left, marked 50 years of bringing fine wine to the public. He marked the golden milestone with employees as well as many well wishers. The event was at Edmond Wine Shop, 1520 South Boulevard.
Photos by Melinda Infante
Many people came to wish Edmond Wine Shop a happy 50th.
Page 14 • November 9, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Review of movie ‘Quiz Lady’
Endearing comedy & its Hulu home By George Gust “Quiz Lady” is the latest release from 20th Century Studios, exclusively streaming on Hulu and follows a game-show obsessed woman (Awkwafina) and her estranged sister (Sandra Oh) who must work together to help cover their mother’s gambling debts. “Quiz Lady” is an R-rated comedy that you don’t find as often in multiplexes across America these days but has found new life on the various streaming platforms hungry for content. Most of these kinds of low to mid budget comedies featuring a couple of comedy stars made for streamers have the attitude of ‘I’m just here to cash the check’ from their stars (looking at you Kevin Hart and Netflix). However “Quiz Lady” is quite the opposite of this lazier approach to filmmaking, with a couple of well-rounded and well written main characters and truly winning performances from the main cast. “Quiz Lady” is a female led comedy that dances on the tonal line between no holds barred comedy and heartwarming human characterization similar to the runaway success of
Answers on Page 19
“Bridesmaids” all those years ago. The strength of this film comes from the layered and surprisingly nuanced performance of Awkafina as the camera-shy trivia master whose family history has put her in a shell of bored loneliness. She was able to both bring the relatable emotions behind the relatable character and deliver on the wilder comedic sequences. And Oh as the devil may care older sister is electric as the broadly drawn character and flexes her comedic strengths more than what she’s known for in past roles. The chemistry between the sisters leaps off the
screen as they’re able to both be antagonist against each other as well as play the believable base of underlying sibling love that comes from being raised in hard circumstances. Overall, “Quiz Lady” finds the right balance of humor and heart and is a gem amidst the noise of the constant onslaught of film and tv offerings. While a lot of the brisk 90 minute runtime features sketch style scenes, “Quiz Lady” doesn’t feel disjointed, but rather utilized the shorter vignette style to feature fun performances from smaller characters throughout including some fun cameos from Jason Schwartzman, Will Ferrell and one of the final on screen appearances of the late Paul Reubens. “Quiz Lady” isn’t the high stakes Oscars film of the Fall, but its just the kind of endearing comedy that’s missing from the box office these days. “Quiz Lady” is rated R for some drug use and language. Now available to stream on Hulu. 4 out of 5 stars. To reach George for comment on this review or any for others movie reviews, please e-mail him gust.george@gmail.com
PHOTO PROVIDED
Sandra Oh and Awkafina star in “Quiz Lady” a Hulu exclusive R rated comedy with loads of humor and heart.
Philharmonic sets a holiday performance ‘Tis the Season for all things merry and bright, and your Oklahoma City Philharmonic kicks off the holidays with an all-new extravaganza, “A Very Merry Pops,” Dec. 1-2 at the Civic Center Music Hall. Headlining this year’s concerts will be Grammy Award winning gospel group Take 6 and Oklahoma’s own Sandi Patty. “Our new ‘A Very Merry Pops’ is really standing on the shoulders of the past 30 years,” said OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate. “Our founder and Music Director Emeritus Joel Levine produced a show that was simply fabulous. When I first saw it in 2017, I thought I was at New York’s Radio City Music Hall.” This year, while still bringing an all-new production, the show will draw upon audience favorites from Christmases past. “Last year was our first attempt at creating something new,” Mickelthwate said. Tickets are on sale now at www.okcphil.org or by phone at (405) 8425387.
Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Thanksgiving
ACROSS 1. "If all ____ fails..." 5. End of philosophical system 8. Center of our orbit 11. Indian flatbread 12. Take down, as in a dragon 13. Yemeni neighbor 15. Homer's "Iliad", e.g. 16. *Copper coin with issuer of Thanksgiving Proclamation 17. A sign or symbol, archaic 18. *A certain famous Mayflower rock 20. *5K, a.k.a. Turkey ____ 21. Blair or Hayek 22. Spy org. 23. Like hikers' camps 26. Tourney grid 30. Beehive State native 31. Casual top 34. Money in Milan 35. Belches 37. Roth ___, acr. 38. Low-ranking workers 39. Old Norse texts 40. Major Black Sea port 42. Dog command 43. Resize 45. *Thanksgiving, a.k.a. ____ Day 47. Baby goat 48. Subway entrance 50. Parting words 52. *Massachusetts' contender for first Thanksgiving celebration 55. Oyster gem 56. One thing on a list 57. Of two minds 59. Sonnets and such 60. Mastercard rival 61. Carve in stone 62. Ted Turner's "baby" 63. Lt.'s inferior, in the Navy 64. "James and the Giant Peach" author DOWN 1. Compass dir. 2. Arctic native 3. Flying jib, e.g. 4. Enclose in a cyst 5. Part of small in-
testine 6. *Traditional occupant of the last parade float 7. *Pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving, e.g. 8. Asian food thickener 9. *Tbs. or tsp., in Thanksgiving recipe 10. Zip 12. Chews out 13. Ostium, pl. 14. *"____ on 34th Street" 19. '90s TV sitcom "Boy ____ World" 22. TV tube in days gone by, acr. 23. *Sweet one or russet one 24. Short musical composition 25. Smart candy? 26. Women's undergarments 27. Newsstand, e.g. 28. "Sesame Street" Muppet 29. *Dinner exclamation?
32. Sweep under the rug 33. Fury 36. *Lions' opponent this year 38. ____ exclusion principle in physics 40. Like something for a wedding day 41. Bad rep 44. Supermarket walkway 46. Let for money 48. Form of civil disobedience 49. Lock of hair 50. Past participle of "be" 51. Knitter's ball 52. Long live, in French 53. Itty-bitty bit 54. Like part of McDonald's logo 55. Rubber substitute, acr. 58. Stanley Cup org.
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Edmond Life & Leisure • November 9, 2023 • Page 15
Guess what? Distracted driving still a deadly problem The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and General Motors (GM) are advancing their work together to end the persistent and deadly problem of distracted driving by supporting innovative new ways to address this dangerous behavior. As part of GHSA and GM’s continued collaboration focused on changing the social norm, GHSA is awarding two grants to create and evaluate local distracted driving prevention programs in the District of Columbia (D.C.) and Washington state. A third grant is supporting youth journalists in diverse and underserved communities who will highlight how distracted driving endangers everyone on the road. Distracted drivers killed 3,522 people and injured another 362,415 in 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). But the numbers are likely higher due to chronic underreporting. Distracted driving impacts everyone on the road, not just drivers and their passengers – and is especially dangerous for people walking, biking or scooting. Nearly one-fifth (644) of these deaths in 2021 were people outside a motor vehicle. While looking at or typing on a cell phone are the most common forms of distracted driving, it also includes eating, grooming, changing the radio or navigation system, engaging with passengers, reaching for objects in the back seat and other activities that take the driver’s mind and eyes off the road. To combat this persistent yet preventable problem, GHSA has awarded two grants of $87,500 each to the State Highway Safety Office (SHSO) in D.C. and Washington state to create, implement and evaluate holistic initiatives focused on eliminating distracted driving. Washington state and D.C. will use the grant funds in a variety of ways: The District Highway Safety Office (D.C. HSO) will implement a three-
pronged approach to combat distracted driving. This will include developing and implementing neighborhood-specific campaigns for each of the District’s eight Wards to raise awareness of the danger distracted driving poses for people outside the vehicle. An evidence-based, peer-to-peer micromobility education program for middle school students will be initiated in partnership with Impact Teen Drivers, a nonprofit working to create a distraction-free culture. The D.C. HSO will also explore the feasibility of expanding the District’s automated traffic enforcement program to include equipment that can detect distracted drivers. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) will use a multidisciplinary approach to pilot and evaluate a distracted driving prevention project in Pierce Co., the state’s second most populated county. Preintervention data will be collected in the county’s 23 cities and at least three active school zones to determine the extent and nature of the distracted driving problem. WTSC will use this information to conduct high visibility enforcement, develop and implement community-specific distracted driving campaigns that include the innovative use of driver
feedback signs that detect cell phone use, and engage local leaders and partners in outreach efforts that promote adoption of a positive traffic safety culture where distracted driving is socially unacceptable. WTSC will evaluate the project’s effectiveness to determine the feasibility of using federal funding to implement it statewide. GHSA also is partnering with Youthcast Media Group (YMG), a nonprofit that trains high school and college students from underserved communities, more than 95% of whom are youth of color, to write about and report on often overlooked health and social issues, such as traffic safety. YMG will work with student journalists at high schools in Connecticut, D.C., Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Virginia to highlight data illustrating the extent of the problem and show the personal toll of distracted driving through profiles of victims and their families. Youth working with YMG will also develop a digital toolkit that includes social media posts that SHSOs and their partners can use to engage with 16- to 24-year-olds. Empowering youth to speak up about distracted driving and other
traffic safety concerns can help change the social norm around distraction and safe road use. The data show young drivers – the most dangerous age group on the road – are more likely than their older counterparts to use a cell phone while behind the wheel. NHTSA’s National Occupant Protection Use Survey, which measures observed electronic device use by drivers, found that 5.4% of 16- to 24-year-old drivers were observed manipulating a handheld device in 2021. This is notably higher than other age groups (3.4% for 25-to 69-year-olds and 0.4% for drivers 70 and older). “Distraction is a ‘dirty little secret’ that few drivers want to talk about. Distracted drivers kill people every day, yet surveys show most drivers think others are the problem, not themselves. We need creative solutions and new ways of thinking to meaningfully shift public opinion on this deadly behavior,” said GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins. “I’m pleased to see GHSA and GM expand our collaboration to include evaluating local prevention programs and empowering youth in areas that have historically been impacted by traffic violence to use their voices to speak up about this preventable problem.” These initiatives build on GHSA and GM’s shared focus on eliminating distracted driving and changing the social norm. In 2022, GHSA and GM released a comprehensive report that examined data shortcomings and other obstacles impacting efforts to reduce distracted driving, reviewed SHSO initiatives and the challenges impacting those efforts, and offered 29 recommendations to help combat this deadly driving behavior. Last year, GHSA and GM also awarded $210,000 in grants to seven SHSOs to implement recommendations in the report. More information about each state’s efforts is available on the GHSA website.
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Purposeful social media starts with strategy By Candice Black Price Lang PR As anyone who uses social media on a regular basis can attest, we are bombarded daily with pitches, ads, photos and memes. Social media platforms are cluttered with information, and for many organizations, this clutter Black can cover up the stories they are trying to tell. A thoughtful and strategic digital communications plan can help make your organization’s social media content more relevant. Consider these three tips for reaching your audience in the digital and social media space. Define your ideal audience and understand what they want: Before you can effectively reach your audience, you need to identify who they are. Define the strengths of your business and know the audi-
ence that would benefit from your product or services. Consider demographics, interests, behaviors and values as you refine your audience. This approach will help you customize content to their specific needs, wants and preferences. Even the best content will not perform well if it does not reach the right audience. Engage with your audience: Building relationships with your audience should be a priority. Respond to comments, answer questions and invite feedback. These interactions help create a sense of community and can lead to increased loyalty and engagement. As you routinely engage and build relationships with your audience, your team will have a better understanding of when and how to effectively reach an audience primed for your content. Utilize paid advertising: With more than 240 million social media users nationwide who spend an average time of two hours and 16 minutes per day on social media, there is tremendous potential for paid
advertising to yield positive results for your business. When creating your social media strategic plan, be sure to include a budget that allows for paid advertising and/or boosts to better define which demographics to seek out. Each social media platform offers a variety of paid advertising options that allow you to reach specific audiences based on demographics, interests and behaviors. Investing time on these items before creating your content can improve your digital and social media audience outreach and ensure your content is reaching the desired users. Finally, remember to continually evaluate and adjust your strategy as needed to maximize your results. In this ever-evolving digital landscape, the content that resonates today may fall flat tomorrow. Candice Black is social and digital media content strategist at Price Lang Public Relations.
City facing tough decisions on Pelican Bay By Jack Money Oklahoman.comj City leaders have a lot to dive into later this year as they consider how to handle a seemingly ever-growing list of projects needed to keep the community's quality of life from sinking. One pressing need, they recently learned, is fixing Edmond's popular Pelican Bay attraction — the only cityowned pool in town. The pool leaks water. A lot of water. But when potential costs to fix it —
anywhere from an estimated $3.5 million to more than $12 million — get added to an already-lengthy list of high-priority issues, Edmond faces more than $120 million of needed work. Unlike Oklahoma City and many of its neighbors, Edmond does not rely upon revenues provided through voter-approved general obligation bonds to pay for upgrades/improvements to city-owned parks, roads, streets, bridges or buildings/pools. Council members already know Ed-
mond has only limited funds available through revenues collected by two capital improvement sales taxes to address priority projects. A budget adopted by Edmond council members this year predicts it will bring in about $51.9 million through sales taxes. Only about $29 million of that is available for capital improvements, and $11 million of that already is obligated to pay toward debt Edmond incurred to build its new City Center complex. Could voters be asked to consider other options? —— Pelican Bay, a city-owned pool operated by a third-party contractor, has existed in its current configuration for about 20 years. More than 50,000 visits were made to the 17-acre aquatic wonderland by area residents during the summer of 2023. It also hosted 89 birthday parties and two dozen full-facility rentals during this year's swim season, earning an income of $449,368.73, council members were told. After expenses, the operation earned a net income of $145,735.41. But the pool has been showing its age amid all that success. Edmond installed new filters to keep the pool's water clean, new controllers for regulating the water's chemical composition, a new chlorination system and a new acid injection system before it opened in 2023. Those were all priorities after a summer swim season in 2022 where the operator had to close the deep end of the pool daily during most of the season because the water, while not posing a health risk, simply was too murky to safely allow anyone into that area. The city also installed an autofill system to regulate the pool's water level. After all that, Pelican Bay leaked more than 20,000 gallons of water a day this year, officials said. "There's a lot of good news about Pelican Bay to share, but there are also some challenges with the aging facility," said Brad Raney, Edmond's parks and recreation director. ——
Edmond already hired a company to study the pool's water loss issues. The study did not pinpoint a specific cause. It hypothesizes it could be leaching out through the pool's shell, from its gutter system, from cracked substructure pipes and through a degraded pool deck. Escaping water does not pose an environmental risk. But bedrock underneath the pool tends to trap water there. The pool's shell, when empty, can be damaged as that water contracts or expands over time, the study states. "Finding the source of leaking is difficult," Raney said. —— The consultant hired by Edmond to evaluate Pelican Bay's problems was not hired to provide detailed estimates on what it would cost the community to fix the pool. But rough estimates were provided. Edmond could: Replace Pelican Bay's concrete decks and gutters and re-plaster and paint the pool's shell at a cost of roughly $3.5 million. Replace its concrete decks, gutters and the pool shell at a cost of roughly $5 million, leaving its existing slide towers, cabanas and the pool's mechanical systems in place. Build an entirely new pool at another location at an estimated cost of about $12 million (depending upon associated land costs). Raney told council members those options have been reviewed by Edmond's parks board, which recommends the second option be pursued. If that plan were adopted by council members, the current pool would operate normally in 2024 and then be replaced after it closed for the season. Edmond currently is seeking a consultant to help it develop plans. "It (the water loss) is going to get worse if something isn't done to correct it," said Marina Wells, Pelican Bay's manager for operator Sports Facilities Cos. Council members made no decisions when they received a report on the pool's issues in a workshop held in late September. But several said they would like to keep it where it is.
Edmond Life & Leisure • November 9, 2023 • Page 17
Dozier named Downtown Transformation Manager As Edmond continues to grow, and the center city district evolves, the City of Edmond is investing in those partnerships, announcing the hiring of Leana Dozier as the first Downtown Transformation Manager. A new position with the City, the Downtown Transformation Manager is responsible for improving the downtown area through strategic programs and partnerships. This highprofile position has a high level of responsibility for project supervision and administration for the downtown area and is accountable for creating overall development objectives, action plans, and other developmental activities. “Bringing public and private entities together to foster partnerships that will bring vital projects to fruition is essential as Edmond’s already thriving downtown continues to grow and evolve,” Dozier said. “I am excited to be a part of everything that is happening both in downtown
Jr. Achievement is partnering with Chesapeake Energy
To play big role in future development
Leana Dozier and across Edmond and look forward to working with all our partners as we move forward.” With the Alliance since March 2019, Dozier coordinated, managed, planned and implemented OKC’s GOLT Bonds, TIF districts, retail strategy and
Junior Achievement of Oklahoma (JA of Oklahoma), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people to own their economic success, is thrilled to announce its capital campaign for the establishment of the JA Experiential Learning Lab in Oklahoma City. The innovative facility, set to open during the 24-25 school year, will be located on the Chesapeake Energy campus, made possible through a visionary partnership with Chesapeake Energy. "Chesapeake Energy is honored to
partner with Junior Achievement of Oklahoma, and we commend their dedication to fostering financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship among young Oklahomans,” said Usha Turner, Chesapeake Energy’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “By opening the doors of this facility, we are creating a space where students can learn, grow, and explore their potential. We believe that investing in the education and development of our youth is paramount to building a prosperous and thriving com-
Affecting Oklahoma schools
State studying options to handle loss claims Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa, released the following takeaways after holding an interim study to evaluate the viability of a state-supported property insurance program for government property. Tedford organized the study in response to escalating property insurance costs and deteriorating conditions. It was set to determine whether the state could fund a risksharing pool for insuring government property or assisting public entities with the high retention they are experiencing on the private market. "The global property insurance market has seen a surge in catastrophic losses, with the U.S. experiencing consecutive years of billion-dollar losses," Tedford said. "Oklahoma, too, has faced significant losses due to natural disasters." The study examined Oklahoma Schools Insurance Group (OSIG), which Tedford said currently has a near-monopoly on insuring public schools in the state, with almost all
schools insured through them. Despite some competition within the program, shrinking capacity makes it difficult for any single carrier to offer the comprehensive coverage needed for large property insurance buyers. In 2023, OSIG reported property value and rate increases, with most public schools carrying low wind-hail deductibles due to limited funds for substantial losses resulting primarily from convective storms. According to Tedford, OSIG is wellmanaged, but its near-monopoly raises concerns about market stability in the event of problems, as well as low deductibles and roof conditions that drive up costs. Although a state risk management program is considered as an alternative, it is not preferred due to the need to build up reserves and loss of local control involved. "There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and a multifaceted approach is needed to address rising insurance costs in the public school sector," Tedford said.
Using a pro for holiday lights? The holiday season is fast approaching. Now is the time, according to outdoor holiday lighting expert Katie Prout of Christmas Decor of N OKC in Edmond, to decide whether you are going to tackle your outdoor holiday lighting chores yourself or turn the job over to the professionals. "There are a lot of factors that should go into this decision," says Prout. "Successful outdoor holiday lighting installations require a variety of skill sets ranging from design expertise and electrical knowledge to ladder safety and safe storage planning. When you consider how diverse these requirements are, it's not surprising that for convenience, safety, and reliable eye-catching results, home and business owners are in-
incentives. She managed, planned and implemented urban renewal areas and redevelopment programs, and developed and administered programs for local governments assisting small businesses with grants and technical assistance using CARES Act funding and ARP funding. “We are excited that the City has made this commitment to downtown with this new position,” said Michelle Schaefer, Treasurer for the Downtown Edmond Business Association. “It gives businesses downtown a dedicated, single point of contact for questions and concern. They will be an advocate who understands Downtown Edmond and a resource for us to turn to as we continue to grow.” Dozier comes to the City after more than four years as the Director of Policy, Planning and Partnerships for The Alliance for Economic Devel-
creasingly turning this annual chore over to professional outdoor holiday lighting experts." Prout advises property owners who are considering using a professional to look first for a company that offers an end-to-end lighting solution that includes design, installation, maintenance, take down, and storage. Then, confirm that the company's decorators are trained to execute professional-grade lighting displays on high roofs, ladders and in tricky situations, without damage to moldings, roofing, architectural elements. For more information on having Christmas Decor decorate your home or business check out www.christmasdecor.net.
opment in Oklahoma City. The Alliance was formed in 2011 to better coordinate land, incentives and economic tools with the goal of making Oklahoma City even more attractive to companies and developers. “We are excited to have Leana join our team,” said Scot Rigby, City Manager for the City of Edmond. “She has a wealth of experience and a proven track record, and those skills will be essential as we work with private partners to not only complete the projects already underway in the downtown area but also plan for collaborative and successful projects in the future.” Dozier holds a bachelor's degree in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma. Before joining the Alliance, she worked for the City of Oklahoma City for 13 years, where she started as a Project Manager and ended her time there as a Construction and Engineering Prequalification Manager.
munity in Oklahoma City." The JA Experiential Learning Lab is poised to become a pivotal educational resource for urban and rural Oklahoma students, providing an immersive environment where they can gain invaluable skills and practical knowledge essential for their future success. This state-of-theart facility will house Oklahoma City's first JA BizTown, a hands-on simulated city that engages young minds in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and realworld business scenarios.
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Genealogy group to present ‘Secret Agents in Hoop Skirts’ memberships in several other In every conflict, nations genealogical organizations. A have employed spies to gain native Californian, she has lived an advantage over the in Oklahoma for over 35 years, enemy. A well-known spy and has been researching her of today is the fictional family for over 40 years. James Bond. However, hisMrs. Beattie is passionate tory has revealed that spyabout her family history, their ing for your country was place in history and sharing not limited to the male genJan Beattie that passion by inspiring and der. On Wednesday, Nohelping others explore their own vember 15th, the Oklahoma Home and Community Ed- family history. The OHCE Genealogy Group ucation Genealogy Group will host meets at the Oklahoma County ExJan Beattie as she presents “Secret tension Center, 2500 NE 63rd St., at Agents in Hoop Skirts…Female Spies 10:00 a.m. on the third Wednesday in the Civil War”. of the month. Their meetings are Jan is the President of the OHCE open to the public and visitors are alGenealogy Group and President of ways welcome. the Edmond Genealogical Society. More information can be found on She is Registrar for Cordelia Steen their website: D.A.R. Chapter in Edmond and a www.ohcegenealogy.com or on Facemember of the Oklahoma D.A.R. book: OHCE Genealogy Group. State Speakers Staff. Jan also holds
More information at www.ohcegenealogy.com
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Hi and Lois
Blondie
Shoe
Hägar the Horrible
Zits
Edmond Life & Leisure • November 9, 2023 • Page 19
More than $1 million raised to help feed kids The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Food for Kids Match raised more than $1 million to fight childhood hunger in central and western Oklahoma. The Food for Kids Match was made possible thanks to the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, Chesapeake Energy, Mark and Beth Brewer, Dolese Bros. Corp, Energy Transfer, David Gorham, David and Lezlie Hudiburg and Marathon Oil. KOCO News 5, official television sponsor of the Food for Kids Match, promoted the match with special programming dedicated to fighting childhood hunger in Oklahoma. "At home or at school, it is imperative that we help the next generation of Oklahomans thrive. Thanks to the generosity of Oklahomans through the Food for Kids Match, we will be able to provide nutritious meals to children living with food insecurity," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "We are so grateful for our generous match sponsors for making this campaign a success." Every donation to the Regional Food Bank's Food for Kids Programs was matched up to $300,000 during August and September, thanks to match sponsors like the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma. “The Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma and Masonic Lodges across the state were honored to commit our efforts to the Food for Kids Match campaign again this year,” said John Logan, executive director of the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma. “Supporting the Food for Kids Programs ensures food-insecure children in our communities have a reliable resource for nutritious meals through-
out the year. Together we can feed our children and support the future of Oklahoma.” In total, the 2023 Food for Kids Match raised $1,043,007. The Food for Kids Programs are the most expensive programs offered through the Regional Food Bank, costing more than $2.5 million a year to operate. Last school year, the Regional Food Bank provided over 2 million meals through its four Food for Kids Programs: The Backpack Program, the School Pantry Program, Kids Cafés and the Summer Feeding Program. KOCO joined the Food for Kids Match as the official broadcast partner for the second year in a row. As the official broadcast partner, KOCO featured stories highlighting the impact of the Food for Kids
Programs and promoted the match during newscasts. In addition, KOCO employees also volunteered at the Regional Food Bank, helping package children's meals. Learn more about the Regional Food Bank's Food for Kids Programs by visiting rfbo.org. About the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is leading the fight against hunger in 53 counties in central and western Oklahoma and envisions a state where no one goes hungry. Founded in 1980, the Regional Food Bank is the state’s largest domestic hunger-relief 501(c)(3) nonprofit that distributes food through a network of community- based partner agencies and schools.
In light of CO COVID OVID 19 for the e time being, some s worship services suspended online. servi ces may be su uspended or on nline. Please information. Ple ease check with h your house of o worship for more m informati ion.
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