February 8, 2024 Vol. 24, No. 38
In This Issue FOUR SEASONS
Edmond Favorites back
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.
GOP lawmakers map out education goals See Page 10
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Sunny High 64° Low 41°
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Partly Cloudy High 60° Low 38°
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Partly Cloudy High 51° Low 33°
The 2024 Edmond Favorites are here and voting has started. This is your opportunity, as a reader, to help recognize a business, service or other group, which does a great job for the Edmond community. Our goal is to highlight and celebrate the number of quality people, places and businesses that we have in our town. Don’t forget. Edmond Life & Leisure is your
home of the original Edmond Favorites. This week’s ballots are on Pages 15 to 18 in this week’s edition, as well as next week’s. Voting ends February 28, 2024. Readers may vote by dropping off their ballot at our offices, by mailing their ballot in, or online at: edmondlifeandleisure. com. Results will be published in the March 7th issue of Edmond Life & Leisure.
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Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 3
Who knew toasting was a part of Valentine’s Day? By Carol Smaglinski As you sit back anticipating a lovely St. Valentine’s Day dinner and your partner needs help in the kitchen, just pick up your glass, and give him or her a toast of, “Sorry, honey, too many cooks spoil the broth.” But later, as you clink your glasses together and are looking deeply into each other’s eyes, you might repeat what Mae West once said: “I never worry about diets. The only carrots that interest me are the number you get in a diamond.” And a good comeback might be this old proverb: “The most dangerous food is wedding cake.” Whether it’s a wedding celebration where the best man gives the toast, a particular holiday or just welcoming windblown neighbors into a comfy spot at your table, you can make an impression on any occasion if you are suddenly asked to make a toast. Don’t “wine” about it, just be prepared and some toasts are so pleasant that it feels like a sprinkling of fairy dust in the room.
From the classic “Here’s to You,” or the simple “Cheers!,” or perhaps a congratulations to a fellow employee, be aware that toasting does not require an alcoholic beverage. It can even be done with a glass of water, if you’ve already sniffed the cork and sipped all the wine away. Toasting often is a signal to start dinner and at times, at the finish to express thanks to the host and hostess for their hospitality. Just try to sound as sincere as you can be. In a popular pub in London decades ago I watched groups of celebrants stand up, raise their glasses, while saying “Cheers!” Others in the tavern around them shouted “Hear, Hear!” Note that large groups do not clink glasses, and if you are seated too far apart, simply touching glasses gently should be sufficient In different languages, toasting is one of the oldest gestures known to mankind. Oklahoma City Author Bradley Wynn recently told me one his grandfather used to say: “Never go swimmin’ with bow-legged women.”
See Smag, Page 5
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From the Publisher
2023 Chamber award recipients The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2023 Annual Awards Banquet last week presented by Arvest Bank to honor individuals and local businesses whose civic and professional contributions make an impact on the Edmond community. The formal awards were presented at the banquet on Thursday, February 1 at the Edmond Conference Center. “Edmond is fortunate to have citizens who go above and beyond for the community,” said Edmond Chamber President and CEO Sherry Jordan. “We are thrilled to recog- Ray Hibbard nize these individuals and businesses who have made a difference in our city.” Citizens Bank Citizen of the Year: Stephanie Carel - The 2023 Citizens Bank Citizen of the Year is Stephanie Carel. Stephanie strives to make Edmond a better place to live and visit by improving the Downtown Edmond District and events. She has been volunteering for over 40 years with community service as her true calling. Stephanie is co-owner Silver Leaf Gems, Executive Director of Downtown Edmond Business Association, Past Chairman of Edmond Historic Preservation Trust, Teacher at Edmond Fine Arts Institute, and Member of Edmond Homeless Alliance. She loves helping whenever she can at her favorite organizations: Hope Center of Edmond, Free to Live Animal Sanctuary, and Fostering Sweet Dreams. The Citizen of the Year award is the most prestigious award given to an individual who has made an impact on the Edmond community. First United Bank Small Business of the Year: Pampered Pets Veterinary Clinic and Spa The 2023 First United Bank Small Business of the Year is awarded to Pampered Pets Veterinary Clinic and Spa. The team at Pampered Pets provides the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly, compassionate service. Their team members are composed of a group of highly trained, experienced animal lovers who are devoted to giving patients the best care possible. To develop their core values, the Pampered Pets team asked every staff member to write down 5 different qualities. The top 5 qualities picked to encompass Pampered Pets were: Dedication, Excellence, Compassion, Teamwork, and Integrity. The Pampered Pets team is committed to the best standards in providing the best care for each pet along with the highest quality of service to help people and their pets. Prosperity Bank Woman of the Year: Dr. Angela Grunewald The 2023 Prosperity Bank Woman of the Year is Dr. Angela Grunewald. Dr. Grunewald was named the first female superintendent in the district’s history in June 2021. She leads Oklahoma’s third largest public school district with nearly 26,000 students and over 3,100 employees across 30 campuses. Now in her third year as superintendent, Dr. Grunewald’s leadership includes the implementa-
tion of several new initiatives aimed at helping the district’s students and employees. This includes the successful opening of the EPS Employee Childcare Center in August of 2023 making it possible for employees to enroll their children in low cost, reliable daycare while they are working for the district. OU Health Edmond Young Professional of the Year: Shane Luebbers-Jones -The 2023 OU Health Edmond Young Professional of the Year is Shane Luebbers-Jones. Shane is a lifelong Oklahoman. After spending 6 years in ministry, Shane made the transition into the insurance business. He joined Michelle Early's Insurance Agency in 2016 and has been there ever since. Shane is a full-time sales producer where he specializes in real estate investors and life insurance. Shane is currently serving as the 2024 Chair for Edmond Young Professionals and continues to strive to uplift and mentor young professionals in the Edmond community. Oklahoma ER & Hospital Leadership Edmond Alumni of the Year – Dr. Krista Jones The 2023 Oklahoma ER & Hospital Leadership Edmond Alumni of the Year is Krista Jones. Krista is a retired Dentist and was well known for her successful dental practice in Edmond for 39 years. Krista served as an officer in many of her professional organizations, including the following: former President of the Oklahoma Dental Association, President of OK County Dental Society, and the third President of Oklahoma Association of Women Dentists. She was the inaugural mayoral appointment to the Edmond’s Visual Arts Commission and was instrumental in helping kickoff the Public Arts Ordinance which resulted in over 200 pieces of Public Art in Edmond. Krista was named the Edmond Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year in 2012 and was inducted into the Edmond Chamber Hall of Fame in 2010. Krista participated as a celebrity dancer in the Edmond Chamber’s Dancing With The Stars event in 2021 and was selected “Star of the Show.” RCB Bank Philanthropic Business of the Year: CEC The 2023 RCB Bank Philanthropic Business of the Year is CEC. Their team is more than a multidiscipline engineering firm. Because of their purpose to Get Stuff Built Right®, they have a responsibility – and a passion – to give back to communities beyond services and projects. CEC’s Corporate Giving Program is an internal organization created and run by CEC® team members, and it is the backbone of their culture. Since 2013, they have served more than 250 of their own team members in need, over 50 nonprofits, and touched thousands of lives. CEC celebrated 10 years of philanthropic service in May 2023. CEC is active in giving back to the Edmond community. They sent a group of 22 volunteers to help at Hope Center, serving for more than 80 hours as well as giving a monetary donation. Their team has also volunteered at Wings, and the Cycle 66 event. They also sponsored Luminance in Mitch Park this past season. Integris Health Edmond Volunteer of the Year: Tony A. Scott The 2023 Integris Health Edmond Volunteer of
the Year is Tony Scott. Tony serves as Director of Business Development for Arledge and Associates, P.C. He also serves as a CPA and lawyer. Tony’s current community activities include Board service with Oklahoma Schools of Character, the Oklahoma City Estate Planning Council (President 2023-24), the OSCPA Educational Foundation (Vice President 2022-24), and Goodwill Ambassador for the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. A cancer survivor, Tony recently served as an Executive Cattle Baron for the American Cancer Society (2021-23). Tony helped raise funds to create an operational endowment for the Chad Richison Hope Lodge, a 34-suite long-term cancer patient/caregiver residential facility in Oklahoma City. Tony has been a volunteer for the Edmond Chamber since becoming an ambassador and continues to exceed what is asked of him. The Edmond Chamber is thankful for Tony’s service over the years and is thrilled to honor his hard work. Mercy Ambassador of the Year: Angie Clemens Byers The 2023 Mercy Ambassador of the Year is Angie Clemens Byers. Angie is a passionate advocate for local businesses, community involvement, and ambassadorship in Edmond. As a member of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce through First United Bank, she serves as the Ambassador Council Chairperson. Through her roles in the Edmond Chamber of Commerce and various community initiatives, she continues to make a positive impact and inspire others to contribute to the growth and success of Edmond. Angie exemplified tremendous service for the Edmond Chamber in 2023 to achieve this award. Angie attended 120 chamber events over the past year, made over 150 Goodwill check-ins with members, and had 100 more ambassador points than any other ambassador. Tinker Federal Credit Union Non-Profit of the Year: Arise Single Moms The 2023 Tinker Federal Credit Union NonProfit of the Year is Arise Single Moms. Arise Single Moms is a global nonprofit, serving as one of America’s leading advocates for single mothers raising children alone. In 2002, Pam Kanaly and Shelley Pulliam co-founded Arise whose mission is to help single mothers navigate life. They serve a variety of women: widows, single again, never married, grandmothers raising grandchildren, and women who have adopted or their husbands are incarcerated or in rehab. The Arise Single Moms grassroots effort that began in Edmond twentyone years ago has grown to serve 10,000 women a year in Oklahoma. More than a half million single mothers from around the world have utilized Arise’s free, specialized online resources. Arise Single Moms has been a recipient of the Hobby Lobby Passion Award and recognized by The Journal Record as a top ten organization making a difference. Chairman’s Award – Evan Comer Each year, the Chairman of the Board for the Edmond Chamber of Commerce is given the opportunity to select and recognize an individual for his/her outstanding service and commitment to
See Publisher, Page 5
Check out what’s inside! ---- Police arrest report ....................................................................Page 6. ---- Weekend calendar ......................................................................Page 6. ---- Business Page ............................................................................Page 8. ---- Columnist points out an odd sourvenir ....................................Page 10. ---- GOP women to meets ..............................................................Page 11. ---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 12. ---- Geprge Gust reviews new sports movie....................................Page 14. ---- Crossword puzzle ....................................................................Page 14. ---- Business ..................................................................................Page 17. ---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18. ---- Church directory ......................................................................Page 19.
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 © 2024 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 8, 2024 • Page 5
Smag From Page3 That was somewhat like the “Here’s to swimmin’ with bow-legged women.” from the movie Jaws in 1975. How about this? “A toast to your anniversary. You've had many good years together, either that or one heck of a pre-nup.” Simple food like simple toasts are always the best; so why not some French Toast along with a breakfast toast? “A toast to bread, because without bread, we would have no toast.” However, this needs thick slices of bread, so use a loaf that you can slice yourself. Be sure to reach for that serrated-edged knife. French Toast Makes 5 to 6 servings 3 eggs, at room temperature cup half and half ¼ cup honey cup orange juice, milk, rum or brandy ½ tsp. each ground cinnamon and nutmeg
Pinch of salt 8 slices bread, whole grain or white, at least a half inch thick ¼ cup butter Confectioners sugar for dusting Additional honey, jam or pancake syrup Preheat the oven to 250 degrees. Beat eggs in a medium shallow bowl. Stir in the half and half, honey, orange juice. Add cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Reserve. Meanwhile, cut the crusts off of the sliced bread, then cut each slice diagonally. Melt butter in a large skillet and quickly but gently, dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture, then fry in the pan, flipping once to fry both sides until each is a golden brown. Take out of the pan and blot on paper towels. Place on a cookie sheet and keep warm in the oven until all bread is complete. Serve immediately with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar done through a strainer.
Publisher From Page 4 the Chamber. The 2023 Chairman’s Award was presented to Evan Comer. Evan is a Payment Processing Professional serving small businesses and organizations throughout Oklahoma. He has the unique opportunity to help local businesses simplify operations, reduce costs, and streamline payments. Evan has been a member of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce for 8 years. During this time, he has volunteered on the Ambassador Council
and served as Chair of the Council from 2019 to 2021. Evan has attended hundreds of ribbon cutting ceremonies while on the Ambassador Council! He was also recognized as Ambassador of The Year for 2019, Volunteer of the Year in 2021, and currently serves on the Chamber's Board of Directors. See Photos, Page 6 (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
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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.)
The 2023 Chairman’s Award was presented to Evan Comer. Evan is a Payment Processing Professional serving small businesses and organizations throughout Oklahoma. He’s been with the chamber for eight years.
The 2023 Oklahoma ER & Hospital Leadership Edmond Alumni of the Year is Krista Jones. Krista is a retired dentist and was well known for her successful dental practice in Edmond for 39 years.
Jan 23 Javier Concepcion Sandhez, 30 of Edmond. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and felony DUI/APC. Clinton Lee Miller, 37 homeless. Felony warrant. Tanner Ryan Stephens, 21 of Oklahoma City, Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication. Elvin Joel Osorio Mendoza Lagos, 35 of Oklahoma City. Failure to maintain compulsory insurance, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, (misdemeanor) purchase/display/possess identification card illegal act and felony warrant. Kristi Ann Chambers, 53 of Guthrie. (Misdemeanor) possession of another’s debit card, possess drug paraphernalia and two misdemeanor warrants. Brianna Powline Melanson, 28 of Guthrie. Misdemeanor possession of another’s debit card, possess drug paraphernalia, failure to matinain compulsory insurance and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked. Jan. 24 Sonny Darnell Phillips, 25 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Leroy Antowion Glover, 46 of Edmond. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & batter. Bret James Matheson, 32 of Guthrie. Public intoxication.
Chamber Winners Left, the 2023 Prosperity Bank Woman of the Year is Dr. Angela Grunewald, left. She is the superintendent of Edmond Public Schools.
Jan. 25 Anthony Troy Mishion, 43 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and 10 counts of failure to appear. Reyes Amador Godínez-Amador, 38 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid ID and expired tag —one to two months. Paula Diane Kemavor, 58 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked , improper right turn and no tag — improper tag. Nadiya Yesenia Dorsey, 22 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant, contributing to the delinquency of minors, false personation of another and (misdemeanor 1st and 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Pavan Kumar Bollineni, 32 of Saint Augustine, Fla. Driving without proper/valid ID, no tag — improper tag and no proof of insurance. Kristen Brianne Brown, 30 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Chrislyn McKenna Reneau, 23 of Moore. Misdemeanor warrant. Jan. 26 Marshez James Hooks, 26 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, expired tag — 1 to 3 months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Noah Brian Keith Owens, 25 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Bakr Muhamed-Ali Mohsin, 37 of Edmond. Assault and battery/battery (felony) on a police officer or correctional staff, public intoxication and obstruction of a police officer.
See Police, Page 7
Weekend Calendar Weekend Calendar of Events Feb. 8-11 ---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond’s Social Fabric ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Our Town ---- Galantine’s Day Party ---- PCRA Extreme Bull Riding ---- Bullnanza ---- Board Game Day at Frenzy ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Braum’s An Affair of the Heart ---- Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Giselle ---- Mix-Tape V-Day Bash ---- Lunar New Year Celebration ---- Adele Wolf’s Valentine’s Day Follies ---- LOVE on the Plaza ---- Round Barn Rendezvous Extra Information In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Gallery Opening: Thu, Feb 8; 5 – 7 p.m.; meet the artist Brad McNeill; Featuring Brad McNeill; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com Edmond’s Social Fabric Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sun, Mar 31; free; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondhistory.org Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com Our Town Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Mitchell Hall Theater Extra Info: Thu, Feb 8 – Sun, Feb 11; 7:30 p.m. & Sun: 2 p.m.; calendar.uco.edu Galantine’s Day Party Location: Venue 102 at Farmers Grain Extra Info: Fri, Feb 9; $45; 7 – 10 p.m.; resy.com
The 2023 Integris Health Edmond Volunteer of the Year is Tony Scott. Tony serves as Director of Business Development for Arledge and Associates, P.C.
PCRA Extreme Bull Riding – Bullnanza Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Fri, Feb 9 – Sat, Feb 10; $20 ---- $125; 6 p.m.; etix.com Board Game Day at Frenzy Location: Frenzy Extra Info: Sat, Feb 10; 12 p.m.; Free; facebook.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
See Calendar, Page 7
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Police From Page 6 William Ian Abrevaya, 44 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Aaron Robert Morehead, 40 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Benjamin Steven Douglas Tisserland, 34 of Edmond. Petty larceny. Rebeca Chase Brand, 32 of Oklahoma City. Speeding (11-14 MPH over), no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Christopher Lee Anthony, 37 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC. Jan. 27 Alexis Josephine Owens, 31 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Adriana Abel Roman Rivera, 24 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Cesar Alejandr Garcia Pereira, 26 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of al-
cohol. Mattthew Joshua McCoy, 28 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Brayden Eugene Bertwell, 24 of Edmond. 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 .08 or more. Andy Becker Kimbrell, 47 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Jamie Louise Jackson, 49 of Eufaula. Felony warrant. Jan. 28 Jewel Rafael Jackson, 34 of Edmond. Failure to stop — accidents involving damage to vehicle and felony DUI/APC. Alex Clay, 25 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Austin Thomas Bowers, 26 of Edmond. Possess CDS, possess firearm
Calendar From Page 6 Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Feb 8 – Sun, Feb 11: Choose Your Adventure & Explore the Code: Bill Pickett @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat, Feb 10 – Sun, Feb 11: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Braum’s An Affair of the Heart Location: OKC Fairgrounds Extra Info: Fri, Feb 9 – Sun, Feb 11; Fri & Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; aaoth.com Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Giselle Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Fri, Feb 9 – Sun, Feb 11; Fri & Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okcballet.org Mix-Tape V-Day Bash Location: Mix-Tape at Factory Obscura Extra Info: Sat, Feb 10; 7 – 10 p.m.; factoryobscura.com
Lunar New Year Celebration Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Sat, Feb 10; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; myriadgardens.org Adele Wolf’s Valentine’s Day Follies Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sat, Feb 10; Doors open: 7:30 p.m.; Showtime: 8 p.m.; adele-
wolf.com LOVE on the Plaza Location: NW 16th between Classen & Penn Extra Info: Sun, Feb 11; 12 – 4 p.m.; plazadistrict.org Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Round Barn Extra Info: Sun, Feb 11; 12 – 4 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com
after the conviction of a felony, use firearm while committing a felony, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, assault and battery/battery (Felony) on police officer or correctional staff, obstruction of police officer and public intoxication. Kevion Oshea Williams, 19 of Edmond, Assault and battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff, (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault and obstruction of police officer. Dawawn Quantay McCoy, Jr. 18 of Bixby. (Felony value) receive stolen property. Alyssa Maria Saenz, 30 of Edmond. Simple — child abuse by injury. Leland Eugene Hemrick II, homeless. (Felony) Publication, distribution or par-
ticipation of obscene material or child pornography — unsolicited mailings and aggravated possession child porn (100 or more materials) Charles Derek Hodges, 33 homeless. Possession of marijuana and trespassing after being warned. Adam David Hutchinson, 39 of Edmond. 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 .08 or more. Steven Jason Diaz, 41 of Edmond. Violation of protective order, public intoxication, (misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse (in the presence of minor child) and domestic abuse assault (dangerous weapon.)
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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Lankford wants to nix fetal tissue research
One dandy souvenir By Steve Gust Sometimes there are some real head scratchers, when it comes to articles in the news. I saw an interesting item in The Oklahoman Sunday. Near Seattle, police were inspecting a military grade rocket found in a residential garage. The name of this inert rocket was a Douglas AIR-2 Genie. Steve Gust Our military developed the rocket back in the 1950s. This kind of a rocket was designed to deliver a nuclear warhead and one like it was actually tested in 1957 at 18,000 feet over Nevada. Now this rocket in question was just rusting and there was no chance it could work or pose a danger. The rocket was found in the garage of a guy now deceased. A neighbor reported it. A museum in Ohio now wants to clean it up and display it. Still, I just wonder how someone was able to walk off the job with a military level kind of a rocket? Maybe the guy had a conversation like this. “Yeah, Sarge, I’m just taking it home to show my wife. I’ll bring it
back Monday morning. I swear.” And then he forgot. I sure hope someone else didn’t do the same thing with the nuclear warhead. —— Some of the presidential polling is surprising to me — on both sides. Some polls show Trump with good leads in swing states. And yet others show Biden leading in a head-to-head matchup. I would assume most Democrats are quite reasonable people, who believe in a different kind of way of governing. And that’s fine. But how do they make a good case that Biden should be the candidate and president for four more years? Look at the cartoon below this column. That’s been the result of the past few years. The immigration mess is ridiculous. There are laws the administration are simply ignoring. Trump isn’t Mr. Nice Guy, but is does the nation really want another term of Biden? Oh well. Like I said a few weeks ago, do your best in life regardless of who is president. A president can’t do everything. (Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)
Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (RMS) reintroduced the Protecting Life and Integrity in Research Act to end federal taxpayers’ support for research involving human fetal Lankford tissue obtained from abortions and to close loopholes in the law that have allowed the trafficking of the body parts of aborted children to persist. “No matter where Americans stand on the issue of abortion, we should agree that the buying and selling of the remains of aborted babies is wrong. It is appalling that after a procedure like abortion, children’s bodies are trafficked with taxpayer dollars and mutilated in federally-funded research. This bill will make sure that taxpayers’ money is not used to enable this heartbreaking practice,” said Lankford. “The harvesting and trafficking of the body parts of unborn babies killed through abortion is heinous and unethical.” Hyde-Smith said. “Taxpayer dol-
The cartoon has been published before
lars for medical research should be spent on research that will deliver results for enhancing quality of life, instead of devaluing life for the sake of research. This legislation would stop the Biden administration’s gross abuse of taxpayer funds.” The legislation comes amid the ongoing federal investigation into the University of Pittsburgh harvesting of tissue from aborted children for research; the Biden Administration’s National Institutes of Health (NIH) move in 2021 to eliminate Trump-era NIH restrictions and ethics advisory board involving human fetal tissue from abortions; and NIH plans to spend another $61 million on human fetal tissue research in 2024. The bill would prohibit all federal agencies from conducting, funding, approving, or otherwise supporting research involving human fetal tissue obtained from abortions, and close loopholes in federal law that the abortion industry has exploited to sell the body parts of aborted children for research. The bill only applies to fetal tissue from abortions. Research on human fetal tissue from stillbirths and miscarriages is still permitted. As the Senate’s most pro-life member, Lankford has been a leading voice in Congress for the protection of life. Lankford continues to stand up for children of all ages and at all stages of development. In 2015, Lankford delivered an impassioned speech on the Senate floor about a Planned Parenthood video that showed their abortion practices to harvest body parts, and ahead of the 2024 March for Life, Lankford delivered another speech on the importance of standing with every woman and for every child. Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Tom Cotton (RAR), John Thune (R-SD), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Lee (R-UT), Jim Risch (RID), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), and John Kennedy (R-LA) are original cosponsors of the legislation. The measure is supported by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Americans United for Life, Catholic Vote, March for Life Action, US Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on ProLife Activities, Students for Life Action, and Concerned Women for America LAC.
GOP lawmakers roll out education goals Members of the Oklahoma Senate Education Committee last week laid out their education initiatives for the upcoming regular session that begins this week. Chairman of the Senate Education committee, Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, was joined by fellow members Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, RMuskogee, Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond and Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore to lay out a robust plan that includes additional teacher pay raises, advanced reading criteria, initiatives to get more teachers into the classroom and reforms to higher education. “This plan is ambitious and will build on the successes we had last year,” Sen. Pugh said. “If we want to get to where we need to be to improve education in Oklahoma, we must put our priorities in the right places. This slate of legislation is targeted and will put us on the right trajectory to what Oklahoma kids deserve, while rewarding teachers working in our classrooms and deliver much needed reforms. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to see these measures come to fruition.”
Education Appropriations Subcommittee Vice Chair Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, discusses the Senate Republicans’ education priorities last week at the State Capitol, including her Senate Bills 466,1558, and 1768.
“I’m proud of the work we’ve put into this year’s education agenda. We are addressing important issues from teacher retention and recruitment to improving student outcomes,” Sen. Thompson said. “Oklahoma students deserve a
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high-quality education, every single day, so they are college, military or career ready when they graduate.” “This comprehensive agenda will help strengthen our education system by better supporting our teachers, finding innovative ways to get more highly trained educators into the classroom, and providing more learning opportunities for our students,” Sen. Pemberton said. “This will continue to build on the tremendous accomplishments we’ve made in recent years for Oklahoma’s students and schools.” “I’m looking forward to building on the momentum we started last session to strengthen and reform education in Oklahoma,” Seifried said. “This plan focuses on critical areas to improve classroom learning and student outcomes, address the ongoing teacher shortage, and help support our local school districts and families.” Editor’s Note; The new legislative session for Oklahoma lawmakers officially started on Monday this week.
Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 11
Upcoming Edmond GOP Women’s Club meeting
Women’s Golf Association signup
The Kickingbird Women’s Golf AsVerified voting, Electoral College sociation is taking new members. to be touted by speaker England Registration is Monday, Feb. 19 at The February meeting of Edmond Republican Women’s Club will be held on Monday, the 19th, in the Gaylord/Minendes Event Center of Oklahoma Christian University, 2501 E. Memorial Rd, Edmond. Doors open at 11:15 a.m, with a lunch buffet served at 11:30. The meeting begins at approximately 11:45 am. Our sponsor for this months meeting is StopRCV (Ranked-Choice Voting), created by co-chairs Trent England, Executive Director, Save our States, and Jason Snead, Executive Director, Honest Elections Project. Trent and Jason believe in the traditional American democratic process, and they want transparent elections that can be verified by hand recounts and audits. "That's not too much to ask when it comes to the foundation of our system of government". Our speaker for the month of February is Trent England with the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. Trent is the David and Ann Brown Distinguished Fellow at OCPA, where he previously served as executive Vice President. He is also the founder and executive director of "Save Our States", which educates Americans about the importance of the Electoral College Story. Trent is a producer of the feature-length documentary "Safeguard: An Electoral College Story." Trent has appeared three times on Fox & Friends and is a frequent guest on media programs from coast to coast. He is the author of "Why We Must Defend the Electoral College" and a contributor to "The Heritage Guide to the Constitution" and "One Nation Under Arrest: How Crazy Laws, Rogue Prosecutors, and Activist Judges Threaten Your Liberty". His writing has also appeared in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Times, Hillsdale College's Imprimis speech digest, and other publications. He for-
the Kickingbird Event Center, The event starts at 9:30 a.m. that day.
England merly hosted morning drive-time radio in Oklahoma City and has filled in for various radio hosts including Ben Shapiro. He previously served as Executive Vice-President of the Freedom Foundation in Olympia, Washington, where he developed and directed the Foundations's constitutional studies and activism programs. Trent was also a Publius Fellow of the Claremont Institute, a candidate for the Washington State House of Representatives and a legal policy analyst at The Heritage Foundation. He holds a law degree from The George Mason University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in government from Claremont McKenna College. Trent lives in Oklahoma City with his wife and their three children. At the present time, our members are busy campaigning for Erick Harris, who is the Republican candidate for the vacated House District 39 seat. The special election will be held Feb. 13th. If you would be interested in attending the meeting or would like more information about the club, contact us at ERWC1787@gmail.com and we will get right back with you. Cost for the lunch and meeting is $20, and meeting only is $5. We would very much like to hear from you.
Membership is $30 for the year. Pay by check or cash only. Organizers say if you can’t attend the registration, then forms will be available later in the Kickingbird Pro Shop.
Page 12 • February 8, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Hi and Lois
Blondie
Shoe
Hägar the Horrible
Zits
Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 13
Page 14 • February 8, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Review of ‘The Greatest Night in Pop’
Film looks back on one star-filled night By George Gust “The Greatest Night in Pop” is the newest Netflix documentary the details the famous charity single “We are the World.” On January 25th, 1985, dozens of the era’s most popular musicians gathered in Los Angeles to record a charity single for African Famine relief. Setting egos aside they collaborated on a song that would make history. “The Greatest Night in Pop” is a nostalgic documentary that harkens back to a time when there was one pop culture where the top of the charts meant something and were filled with the same group of stars. For those that lived through time in pop music it is an interest behind the scenes trip down memory lane, but for those younger folks in the audience, it is an interesting slice of life of a different time in music and culture. In terms of style of documentary, the filmmakers employ a straight-forward retelling of the events of that (very long) night of musical collaboration between the biggest egos in music. With interviews from stars of the 80s like Cindi Lauper, Huey Lewis, Kenny Loggins, and Bruce Spring-
Answers on Page 19
steen. However, this documentary is led by Lionel Richie, who was the driving force behind the creation of the song and organizing the event. In this Richie’s likeable “American Idol” personality shines through and while there’s nothing too controversial that comes out of “The Greatest Night in Pop” Richie doesn’t seem to pull too many punches in his retelling providing a likable but believable presentation of this unique situation. Overall, “The Greatest Night in Pop” is a docu-
mentary that does exactly what it sets out to do – tell the story of a once in a generation musical event in an entertaining way. However, having some background information on the music of that time goes a long way to enhancing the enjoyment, there is some context provided by the filmmakers to be a light introduction to those unfamiliar with the major players of the time. “The Greatest Night in Pop” as a documentary is similar to the pop music of the time, giving an optimistic view of the world while not challenging you too much. Clocking in at around 90 minutes, this documentary is a quick and easy choice if you’re inclined to tap a toe to the 80’s radio station on Spotify or the music streaming platform of your choice. “The Greatest Night in Pop” is rated TV-MA for language. 3 out of 5 stars (You may reach George Gust for comment at gust.george@gmail.com)
Netflix invites you back to the 80s when all the biggest stars in Pop music set their egos aside for a noble cause in the new documentary ‘The Greatest Night in Pop;
Wrestlers romp A trio of first-period falls helped give Central Oklahoma a big early lead and the top-ranked Bronchos went on to crush No. 21 Central Missouri 41-11 Sunday afternoon at Hamilton Field House in a MidAmerica Intercollegiate Athletics Association mismatch. UCO got quick pins from 141 Dylan Lucas, 149 Dylan Brown and 157 Gabe Johnson in racing to a 27-0 lead and the Bronchos coasted in from there in staying perfect (46-0) against the Mules while improving to 12-0 on the season and 3-0 in the league. "We came out ready to go and got off to a great start," said head coach Todd Steidley after UCO's 19th straight win. "Our guys were pretty focused today. We had a great crowd and everybody was intent on wrestling well. UCO had six bonuspoint wins on the day, also getting technical falls from 174 Anthony DesVigne and Hvy Shawn Streck along with a major decision from 197 Dalton Abney. The Bronchos picked up a forfeit at 125 and 133 Peter Rolle earned a decision, with UCM's two wins coming against backups.
Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Love ACROSS 1. Zagreb native 6. Not St. or Blvd. 9. Tucked in 13. Whatchamacallit 14. Robert Redford's Sundance ____ 15. In a cold manner 16. Tiny island 17. Mad King George's number 18. Hearing, e.g. 19. *Love's late Nirvana husband 21. *Star-____ 23. *Air Supply's "Making Love Out of Nothing at ____" 24. Elementary particle 25. Tire meas. 28. Land of Israel 30. *Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes: "Love lifts us up where we ____" 35. Ladder crosspiece 37. Frenzied 39. London's Thames, e.g. 40. ____-European language 41. Call it quits 43. Very bright star 44. What procedural and epidural have in common 46. Crosby's and Still's partner 47. Mountain valley 48. Final words 50. Future J.D.'s hurdle 52. Food scrap 53. Tax 55. Pen point 57. *"All You Need Is Love" band, with The 61. *Letters to Juliet destination 64. Habituate 65. NHL surface 67. Ancient marketplace 69. Like many bathroom floors? 70. Blunderbuss, e.g. 71. Entrenched (2 words) 72. Whirlpool 73. Volleyball court center 74. English homework assignment DOWN 1. Computer-related imaging acronym
2. CISC alternative 3. Capital of Norway 4. Single-cell protozoan 5. Bottom lines 6. Similar 7. One of the Tudors 8. Authoritative proclamation 9. Single pip cards 10. The Container Store purchase, pl. 11. "What ____ can I say?" 12. T-shirt, after tied 15. Chemical cousin 20. Homer's epic 22. Actor Lowe 24. Deviation from the norm 25. *U2's "In the Name of Love" song 26. First light of day 27. Lemur from Madagascar 29. Damien's prediction 31. Ding-a-____ 32. Convex molding 33. *"Love means ____ having to
say you're sorry" 34. *"Love Actually" star 36. Hockey score 38. *True Love's ____ 42. Feudal lord 45. Loafed 49. "Holy moly!" 51. Rant 54. "Peace" with fingers (2 words) 56. Phony 57. Teeth mark 58. Children's writer Blyton 59. Old, in Scottish 60. Three pointer 61. Heater outlet 62. Wooden pegs 63. Rigoletto's "La donna mobile," e.g. 66. Pool tool 68. One or some
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Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 15
D N O EDM
S E T I R O V FA 2024 VOTE ONLINE! EDMONDLIFEANDLEISURE.COM Simply answer each question below. Feel free to elaborate on a separate piece of paper! We will announce your Edmond Favorites in our March 7 issue. Ballots can be mailed to:
EDMOND FAVORITES, 107 S. BROADWAY, EDMOND, OK 73034
You are welcome to drop your ballot at our office (same address as mailing address above).
DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28
AT LEAST 50% OF BALLOT MUST BE COMPLETED FOR YOUR VOTE TO COUNT! PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY AND COMPLETELY.
Vote For Us
BEST BREAKFAST
FAVORITE FOOD / RESTAURANT: Asian Food
Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt
__________________________
__________________________ 11 SOUTH BROADWAY (405) 341-5414
Bakery
Italian Food
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Barbecue
Lunch Spot
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Breakfast / Brunch
Mexican Food
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Brewery
New Restaurant
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Burger
Night Spot
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Caterer
Pizza
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Chicken
Sandwiches / Subs
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Coffee House
Seafood
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Desserts
Special Occasion Restaurant
__________________________
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Ethnic Food
Steak
__________________________
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Food Truck
Sushi
__________________________
___________________________
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D
N O M ED
S E T I R O FAV 2024 FAVORITE PLACE TO BUY: Antiques
Home Decor
___________________________
___________________________
Appliances
Jewelry
___________________________
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Athletic Shoes / Apparel
Mattresses
___________________________
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Books
Men’s Clothing
___________________________
___________________________
Children’s Clothing / Accessories
Plants / Landscaping
___________________________
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Consignment / Resale
Shoes
___________________________
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Flooring
Sporting Goods / Outdoor Gear
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Furniture
Tires
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___________________________
Gifts
Wine & Spirits
___________________________
___________________________
Groceries
Women’s Clothing / Accessories
___________________________
___________________________
Hobby Supplies __________________________
Shop Dine Support your local Edmond Favorites!
Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 17
DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28 VOTE ONLINE! EDMONDLIFEANDLEISURE.COM Simply answer each question below. Feel free to elaborate on a separate piece of paper! We will announce your Edmond Favorites in our March 7 issue. Ballots can be mailed to:
EDMOND FAVORITES, 107 S. BROADWAY, EDMOND, OK 73034 You are welcome to drop your ballot at our office (same address as mailing address above).
PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY AND COMPLETELY.
FAVORITE BUSINESSES/SERVICES: Automobile Repair
Fitness / Health Club
___________________________
___________________________
Barber
Florist
___________________________
___________________________
Birthday Parties
Golf Course
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Car Wash
Hair Salon
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Cellular Provider
Home Maintenance
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Chiropractor
Insurance Agent
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Custom Framing
Lawn Care
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Dance Studio
Live Music Venue / Live Music Spot
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Dry Cleaning
Massage
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Esthetician
Nail Salon
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Eye Care
Oil Change
___________________________
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Financial Planner
Park
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___________________________
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D
N O M ED
S E T I R O FAV 2024 VOTE ONLINE! EDMONDLIFEANDLEISURE.COM FAVORITE BUSINESSES/SERVICES (CONT): Pet Grooming
Senior Living Community
___________________________
___________________________
Pharmacy
Travel Agency
___________________________
___________________________
Physician
Veterinarian
___________________________
___________________________
Romantic Place To Stay The Night
___________________________ OTHER:
Check back soon in our March 7th edition, for the results of your: D
N EDMO
FAVORITES 2024
Best Customer Service
Locally Owned Business
___________________________
___________________________
Most Attractive Building
Long Term Business
___________________________
___________________________
Civic Organization
Public Art Piece
___________________________
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Edmond Event Or Festival
Special Event Venue
___________________________
___________________________
Edmond Life & Leisure • February 8, 2024 • Page 19
Adjust your mindset & get healthy By Brian Attebery The first of 2024 has brought a few weather obstacles with the ice storms. These storms shut down businesses, schools and yes, our workouts sometimes. Isn’t such a great example of how life’s “storms” keep us from accomplishing, inhibiting, Attebery or delaying some of our goals? Your health and fitness goals are very receptive to those storms. As a professional trainer for 27 years, I have noticed these situations do take an impact on people’s schedules but more importantly, they take an impact on our mindset. Mindset is the number one reason we fail or succeed at fitness. A basic fact in the fitness industry with gyms is that you ideally need a membership and tp commit. The problem with that for many people is they start thinking about their schedules, life and the obstacles that will come their way. If you think that way and say to yourself, “Well, I may be busy and not have as much time to come…so, I hate to commit to a membership.” I have news for every single one of you. ALL of us don’t have “time” to get to the gym all the time. That is not a reason to not join a fitness center and start pursing your fitness goals. Making a lifestyle of something means to understand that life has ups and downs and fitness goals are no different. By the way, marriage expectations fail too if you go into it with an unrealistic mindset that you will “always” have marital bliss etc. “For better or for worse” needs to apply to your workout efforts and gym membership. Years ago, I had a women call to cancel her membership. I told her I hated to hear that and asked why. She explained that she had not been making it in for several months. I told her, “Welcome to being human.” I went on to ask her questions about her goals for the future. Did she still want to be healthy and fit and pointed out that at age 37, she had a lot of time to get going again and that a few months was a drop in the bucket compared to the rest of her life. That quitting would assure that she never got in a workout. I suggested using one of our personal trainers for awhile to have accountability and better use of the time that she had available. The trainer would also provide the
expertise and guidance for lifestyle of fitness in general. She accepted the challenge and in one year, she lost 100 pounds! I know that is an incredible story and not common to have that level of success but what if she had gone ahead and put her cancellation in a quit? What if I had not taken the time to ask some tough questions about her decision to call and cancel? Sometimes it takes some hard questions and self-examination of where we are in our health journey. We must be honest about our priorities and where they are currently. I un-
derstand finances can be tough, but obesity is associated with over 33 major illnesses and the cost of health care for such patients can be astronomically higher than any gym membership. Personal Training can be more expensive but there are multiple options that are way more affordable than you may think. At least from my perspective, and how I run my fitness center. The client of ours that lost 100 pounds spent money on personal training and the benefits provided were way more substantial than just the physical benefits. She felt incredible about herself, and it is hard to put a price on that. If you have not started your fitness journey, have quit it recently or fell off the wagon, that is okay. Welcome to being human. Find the reasons when you can make it happen, andembrace the successes of those aspects instead of focusing on what you have not accomplished. Chasing goals should never change because your goals, needs, schedules, and life will change and fitness must change to accommodate all of it. Quit saying, “I can’t afford it” or that you “need to cut some expenses” as you order food to your front door and have a $10 cup of coffee every day. You can’t afford to quit and be unhealthy. Change your mindset and change your health for the better. (Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)
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