Edmond Life and Leisure - December 28, 2023

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December 28, 2023 Vol. 24, No. 32

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.

It’s almost 2024

2023...

The DAR and the Rodkey House See Page 11

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29 Partly Cloudy High 48° Low 28°

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 Mostly Sunny High 48° Low 27°

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 Partly Cloudy High 48° Low 30°

Time is running out on the year 2023. Soon, the calendar flips and we’ll have 12 more new months — belonging to 2024. Edmond Life & Leisure wishes you happiness and prosperity in 2024. We will be here to chronicle the successes and dreams of the Edmond community., This week, please take time to read “From the Publisher” on Page 4 as Publisher Ray Hibbard looks at predictions in the past, which just didn’t pan out. Have a safe New Year’s Eve and get ready for the fun of 2024.


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Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 3

FAI to honor late-police officer raderie and bonds within the The Edmond Fine Arts Instiforce, especially as it related tute is honored to announce a to Sergeant Nelson. “Creating special dedication and gallery a lasting tribute to honor Seropening on Thursday, Jan. 4, geant Nelson's memory from 5 to 7 p.m. This event through my art felt like a will pay tribute to the late meaningful way to express Sergeant Christopher James my respect and gratitude,” (CJ) Nelson of the Edmond said Reian. Edmond Police Police Department and feaC.J. Nelson Chief JD Younger will grature the artwork of renowned ciously accept this artwork on artist Reian Williams. behalf of the department. On July 19th, 2022, Sergeant NelThe event will also showcase a seson tragically lost his life at age 38 lection of Reian’s artwork in the FAI while on police motorcycle duty, just Gallery. The Edmond Fine Arts Instia day shy of his 13th anniversary tute Gallery, open Monday – Thurswith the department. Remembered day or by appointment, offers as a loving husband, devoted father, monthly exhibits as part of its procherished son, beloved brother, and grams, supported by BancFirst and dedicated officer, his passing proother sponsors. FAI, a nonprofit comfoundly impacted the community. In a heartfelt gesture to honor Sergeant munity arts organization, provides a range of visual and performing arts Nelson's memory and legacy, Reian classes for all ages. Williams, known for his unique conWe invite the community to join temporary art and philanthropic inius in this special dedication to celetiatives, will be dedicating a portrait brate the life and service of Sergeant of Sergeant Nelson to the Edmond Nelson and to experience the inspirPolice Department. Reian, who reing work of Reian Williams. For more cently participated in the Edmond details, visit EdmondFineArts.com or Citizens Police Academy Program, contact us at 405-340-4481. was deeply moved by the cama-

Edmond Memorial pom team

Memorial pom team excels Edmond Memorial Pom made history December 10th in Tulsa when the team won the first ever GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP at the State Pom and Dance Competition. The team won their third 6A Mix state title with the highest scoring mix dance in the state with their “Dreams” themed performance. OSDTDA added a new GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP award this year and extended the competition. All 27 state champion teams who won a title, in every class and every style of dance, went head to head and competed again. Edmond Memorial’s Mix dance was the top score that day and the team was crowned the first ever Oklahoma state GRAND CHAMPIONS for 2023. Out of 123 dances that entered the weekend competition, Edmond Memorial Varsity Pom’s performance was the BEST! Brielle McCoy, a senior squad member, was awarded first place for her solo performance, beating 80 other dancers in the senior division solo competition. The squad also won 1st runner up for their Jazz performance and Sophomore Sailor Mills placed fourth in the intermediate (freshman and sophomore) division with her solo. It truly was a “DREAM Come True” weekend for the squad which is made of 11 seniors, 4 juniors, 5 sophomores and 2 freshmen. The squad is coached at Edmond Memorial High School by Teri Ogle (contact information below), and Johanna Belt; also Technique Coach, Tiffany Richards, and State Choreographer and Coach, Leslie Rutledge Syring.

Hoisting the big trophy.

The grace and skill of two of the team members.


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From the Publisher

Epic failed predictions of the past My mentor and friend Leland Gourley used to pride himself in making new year predictions. He was not right very often but he loved trying it. I do not have his energy for it but respected his effort. Also, there is a long-standing tradition among scientists, engineers, and industrialists. Every new year, they make predictions Ray Hibbard about the future. Is blockchain a major technology, or it is just a buzzword? AI vs Apps: who will win? Will this finally be the year that virtual reality stops giving people motion sickness? Well, technology has proven to be extraordinarily slippery over the past century. Despite the vast information that industry insiders have had at their fingertips, they have made some terrible forecasts over the years. The predictions that history remembers most are those that demonstrate spectacular misjudgment, misunderstanding, overly optimistic hyperbole, selfdelusion, or good old-fashion wishful thinking. Below are the very worst predictions, which show how even the titans of industry do not always know what they are talking about. Whether they were predictions about technological progress, adoption rates, or market potential, we can all agree that these predictions were dead wrong. Some are real head in the sand type thinking. 1876: “This ‘telephone’ has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication.” — William Orton, President of Western Union. 1876: “The Americans have need of the telephone, but we do not. We have plenty of messenger boys.” — Sir William Preece, chief engineer, British Post Office. 1889: “Fooling around with alternating current (AC) is just a waste of time. Nobody will use it, ever.” — Thomas Edison. 1903: “The horse is here to stay but the automobile is only a novelty — a fad.” — President of the Michigan Savings Bank advising Henry Ford’s lawyer, Horace Rackham, not to invest in the Ford Motor Company. 1921: “The wireless music box has no imaginable commercial value. Who would pay for a message sent to no one in particular?” — Associates of David Sarnoff responding to the latter’s call for investment in the radio. 1926: “While theoretically and technically television may be feasible, commercially and financially it is an impossibility.” — Lee DeForest, “Father of Radio” and a pioneer in the development of soundon-film recording used for motion pictures. He had over 180 patents. 1932: “There is not the slightest indication that nuclear energy will ever be obtainable. It would

mean that the atom would have to be shattered at will.” — Albert Einstein.

vented.” — Attributed to Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899.

1936: “A rocket will never be able to leave the Earth’s atmosphere.” — New York Times.

The last two years have had horrible results in stock market predictions. The formulas that folks had relied on for decades were out the window. Here is a new year prediction that really took the cake back in 1929. Irving Fisher was a noted 20th century economist. No less an authority than Milton Friedman called him "the greatest economist the United States has ever produced," and many of his contributions to economics, such as the Fisher equation, the Fisher hypothesis and the Fisher separation theorem are cited by economists to this day. Yet despite his intellect, he made one statement in 1929 that destroyed his credibility for the rest of his life. Yet one statement he made in 1929 destroyed his credibility for the rest of his life. Three days before the Wall Street Crash of that year, he claimed that “stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau.” When he was disproved 72 hours later, he tried to get out from under the statement, but months of putting a positive spin on developments only further eroded his reputation. And who does not remember this one 23 years ago?

1946: “Television will not be able to hold on to any market it captures after the first six months. People will soon get tired of staring at a plywood box every night.” — Darryl Zanuck, film producer, cofounder of 20th Century Fox. 1949: “Where a calculator on the ENIAC is equipped with 18,000 vacuum tubes and weighs 30 tons, computers of the future may have only 1,000 vacuum tubes and perhaps weigh one and a half tons.” — Popular Mechanics. 1957: “I have traveled the length and breadth of this country and talked with the best people, and I can assure you that data processing is a fad that won’t last out the year.” — Editor of Prentice Hall business books. 1959: “The world potential market for copying machines is 5,000 at most.” IBM told the eventual founders of Xerox. 1961: “There is practically no chance communications space satellites will be used to provide better telephone, telegraph, television or radio service inside the United States.” — T.A.M. Craven, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) commissioner. 1977: “There is no reason for any individual to have a computer in his home.” — Ken Olsen, founder of Digital Equipment Corp. 1981: “No one will need more than 637KB of memory for a personal computer. 640KB ought to be enough for anybody.” — Bill Gates, co-founder and chairman of Microsoft. 1981: “Cellular phones will absolutely not replace local wire systems.” — Marty Cooper, inventor. 1989: “We will never make a 32-bit operating system.” — Bill Gates, co-founder and chairman of Microsoft. 1992: “The idea of a personal communicator in every pocket is a “pipe dream driven by greed.” — Andy Grove, then CEO of Intel. 1995: “I predict the Internet will soon go spectacularly supernova and in 1996 catastrophically collapse.” — Robert Metcalfe, founder of 3Com, inventor of Ethernet. 2003: “The subscription model of buying music is bankrupt. I think you could make available the Second Coming in a subscription model, and it might not be successful.” — Steve Jobs, in Rolling Stone

Y2K When it comes to global catastrophes that were not, Y2K is one of the all-time greats. As the year 2000 approached, computer experts realized that a potential problem existed. Most software was written with the last two digits representing the year as opposed to all four digits, so “1998” was written simply as “98.” When the new millennium rang in, they feared, computers the world over would behave as if the year had changed from 1999 to 1900 — and there was no way to predict the possible consequent When the new millennium rang in, they feared computers the world over would behave as if the year had changed from 1999 to 1900—and there was no way to predict the possible consequences. While this situation was a particular problem for the financial industry, paranoia took hold in every sector. Some people believed that all their personal data would be compromised, that database snafus would cause food shortages and that nuclear missiles would launch themselves. Edmund X. DeJesus, editor of BYTE magazine, joined in the fray, stating that “Y2K is a crisis without precedent in human history.” I was working for a corporation at the time, and we had to be in the office at the turn of the year, ready for the disaster that was feared but never came. Fortunately, Jan. 1, 2000, came and went without major incident. A giant thank you to all our readers and advertisers that made it possible to successfully produce this weekly newspaper. We printed and produced over 1200 pages of material this year.

2007: “There’s no chance that the iPhone is going to get any significant market share.” — Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO. “Everything that can be invented has been in-

Happy New Year! (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside! ---- Smag’s latest recipe to try ..........................................................Page 5. ---- Weekend calendar ............................................................Pages 6 & 7. ---- Police booking report ................................................................Page 6. ---- Rotarians giving back to the community.....................................Page 8. ---- DAR helps commemorate historical marker ..............................Page 11. ---- Geprge Gust’s latest movie review............................................Page 14. ---- Crossword puzzle ..................................................................Page 14. ---- Business ..................................................................................Page 17. ---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18. ---- Church directory ......................................................................Page 19. 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 • December 28, 2023 • Page 5

Butter me up with some kickin’ chicken for 2024 By Carol Smaglinski Today, I am featuring a recipe from my files involving chicken breasts and an herb butter sauce. Years ago, after my late husband Paul took one bite, he said, “I love this chick!” Geeze, I hope he was talking about me and not the chicken. With shorter days and more evening hours to fill, a simple dinner after all the social and family obligations are done, there could be the answer. But then, there’s the butter part, which as simple as it is, can be a mystery. Nothing can top fresh bread and a slathering of butter. Is your choice a bread machine, a food processor or a standing mixer for making bread? The hard-working pioneers sure didn’t need one. Westward-heading folks used strong Conestoga wagons pulled by horses or mules that also helped in the bread-making process. The jolting and lurching movements of the stagecoach moved the ball of dough with each clip-clop of the animal’s hooves on the dirt, thereby automatically kneading the bread. Another benefit came with the production of butter as the cream in a container was being simultaneously churned to produce the needed butter. Your best bet these days from the many varieties offered is to buy sweet cream butter, unsalted, because salted butter can screw up a recipe with the addition of salt, which could be one to two teaspoons of salt per pound. Sweet cream butter is made from pasteurized cream. It has a slightly cooked flavor with a mild sweetness. American butter is made from cow’s milk today. The word is from the Greek “bouturon,” which is cow cheese. To assure freshness, look for the “sell-by” date stamped on the product. Just where to store the high-quality butter at home can be a problem as it can turn rancid quickly. Don’t use the butter compartment, but rather put it in the coldest part, way in the back of

“sell-by” date stamped on the product. When cooking, unsalted butter added at the end of cooking a sauce can give it a velvety texture and a rich sheen and in moderate amounts, can add to a healthy diet. In the following, butter is used at the start and there is no substitute. Celebrate the new year and make a wish for peace and harmony in the world. Herb Butter Sauce and Chicken Breasts Makes 4 servings

the appliance. Keep it well covered so it does not absorb the other flavors in the refrigerator and away from any light. Try not to reach for the aluminum foil to wrap the butter as contact with metal accelerates fat oxidation and this most often happens in salted butter. Note that butter freezes well for up to 6 months, so put a date label on it and be sure. To assure freshness at the store, check out the

¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley (or a teaspoon of dried) 1 Tbsp. each fresh rosemary and tarragon Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 4 (4 oz.- 5 oz. each ) boneless chicken breasts, skin removed Paprika A few sprigs of parsley, rosemary and tarragon for garnish Preheat the broiler. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic, onion and saute for about 3 minutes. Stir in the herbs and salt and pepper. Remove from heat and reserve. On a rack in a broiler pan about 3 to 5 inches from the heat source, place breasts side by side and baste tops with the herb butter. Do save some for basting during broiling. Allow to cook for about 7 minutes on each side. They are fully cooked when the juices run clear when pierced with a fork or be sure by using an instant read thermometer and it registers 165F. Place the cooked chicken on a serving platter and decorate with a sprinkling of the herb sprigs. Serve immediately.


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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.) Dec. 11 Daisha Lashai James, 25 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Levi Joshua Hall, 46 of Edmond. Pointing a firearm. Gary Quinton Patterson, 68 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant. Kimberly Anne Delami, 55 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Sherri Lyn Bramlage, 49 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication. Dec. 12 Elba Francisca Morales Romero, 29 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Jerry Don Bynum, 44 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Ronald Dean Manus, 45 of Stillwater. False personation of another and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked. Candi Lee Dickson, 43 of Stillwater. Non-assault resisting officer. Archie Whibbey Jr., 57 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Sherri Lynn Bramlage, 49 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication. Sabriyah Hadiah Perkins, 24 homeless. Receive, hold or conceal lost of mislaid card, public intoxication and trespassing after being forbidden. Dec. 13 Hui Yi Yu, 31 of Edmond. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Normandy Larie Ashton, 18 of Guthrie. Shoplifting. Anjewl Murillo Murillo, 18 of Guthrie. Shoplifting. Misty Gayle Naylor, 49 of Edmond. Possess CDS, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possess drug paraphernalia. Ronald Dwayne Baker, 42 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication. Yvonne Marie Quero, 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault. Dec. 14 Aflick Wayne Esa, 20 of Edmond. Minor in possession — intoxicating beverage, shoplifting and

public intoxication. Joshua Caleb Brewer, 24 homeless. Shoplifting. Dec. 15 Zuhran Khan, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol count level of .08 or more. Calvin Maurice Owens, 43 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, (warrant only) possession of marijuaqna and failure to appear. Mynor Siguenza-Alvarez, 32 of Oklahoma City. Disregard signal light, possession of marijuana, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Christina Diane Wilson, 42 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and failure to appear. Vanessa Renee Bray, 36 of Oklahoma City. Two counts possess CDS, trafficking in illegal drugs, possess drug paraphernalia and petit larceny. Dec. 16 David Deatsch, 49 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Robert Nicholas Peek 21 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle the influence of anything other than alcohol. Jairon Alexander Santos Cifuentes, 23 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication. Nelson Baldemar Gomez-Perez, 21 of Oklahoma City. Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Kelli Lynn Jenkins, 51 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess with intent to distribute CDS and possess CDS. Philip Chadwick Ballew, 38 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant. Daniel Dean Pearson, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Thomas Lee Meighan, 53 of Edmond. Possess CDS, (possession of a stolen vehicle) unauthorized use of vehicle or implement of husbandry and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Dezmon Dontez Parker, 28 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Dec. 17 Jeremy Raymond Hammons, 45 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Aaron Paul Ambriz, 29 of Edmond. Obstruction of a police officer and felony DUI/APC. James Thomas Duncan, 44 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence

of alcohol. Travis Don Horton, 29 homeless. Failure to appear. Alberto Pena, 22 of Oklahoma City. Trespassing after being warned. Princess Jackson Nicole Spencer, 22 homeless. Pedestrians walking along roadways and two counts of failure to appear. Dec. 18 Jennifer Jean Satterwhite, 59 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia, trafficking in illegal drugs and possess CDS. Clinton Lee Miller, 37 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia, trafficking in illegal drugs and possess CDS. Eduardo Alberto Maldonado, 36 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Jerry Don Bynum, 44 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Ernest Earl Bean, 72 of Choctaw. Assault &or battery with deadly weapon. Jaumar Ashford, 33 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license, possess drug paraphernalia, transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and two counts of possession of CDS. Amya Karlesse Taylor, 19 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and expired tag — over three months. Dec. 19 Jacob Wayne Chapmond, 20 of Norman. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol. Joshua Jonathan Vanmieghem, 27 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Douglas Eugene Lawson, 46 homeless. Public intoxication. Rudy Tojil Ambrocio, 22 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant. Kyler Timothy Sager, 18 homeless. Failure to appear. Kaleb Tyre Pennon, 20 of Ardmore. Shoplifting. Tykee Acareio Watson, 22 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting. Torren Michel Lottis, 19 homeless. Shoplifting. Elajah Michele Pickett, 22 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting. Cody Joe Hooks, 34 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Robert Lee Rogers, 23 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of CDS possession, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property, gang-related offense as condition of membership in criminal street gang and possess firearm after conviction of felony.

Weekend Calendar of Events, Dec. 28-31 Weekend Calendar of Events Dec 28-31 ---- In the Gallery ---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ---2020 ---- Edmond’s Social Fabric ---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Live Music at Frenzy ---- Riverwind Casino Events ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Downtown in December ---- Limo Holiday Lights Tours ---- Winter Glow ---- OKC Broadway presents: “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” ---- A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas ---- Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Damon Wayans Jr ---- Cattlemen’s Congress ---- Adele Wolf’s New Year’s Eve Follies Extra Information In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring Reian Williams; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jul 1 – Sun, Dec 31; visitedmondok.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 Beginners Pickleball Club Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.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 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 Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Nov 17 – Mon, Jan 1; 5 – 10 p.m.; edmondlights.com Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com

Live Music at Frenzy Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Dec 29: Brandon Laib @ 7:30 p.m.; Sun, Dec 31: New Year’s Eve Bash with the Mighty Green @ 9 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com Riverwind Casino Events Location: Riverwind Casino, Showplace Theatre Extra Info: Sat, Dec 30: Ron White @7 p.m.; Sun, Dec 31: Midland @ 9 p.m.; riverwind.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Dec 30 ---- Sun, Dec 30: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Oct 6 – Tue Jan 2; tcaa.nationalcowboymuseum.org Red Earth Treefest Location: BancFirst Tower, OKC Extra Info: Wed, Nov 15 – Fri, Dec 29; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; redearth.org Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 16 – Sun, Feb 4; various events; downtownindecember.com Limo Holiday Lights Tours Location: Citywide, OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 23 – Sat, Dec 30; viplimo.net

See Calendar, Page 7


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 7

Girl Scouts team up with First Americans Museum Oklahoma Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma (GSWESTOK) has announced the creation of a new patch designed to help girls learn about the contributions of First Americans to the history and culture of Oklahoma. Developed in partnership with First Americans Museum Oklahoma (FAM), the OKLA HOMMA patch highlights Indigenous People and their numerous contributions to the state. Girls within the council may earn or work toward completion of the patch by visiting FAM (or other museums about First Americans located around the state) and completing the requirements outlined in the curriculum guidelines. Among the requirements are identifying the materials and techniques used in artforms common among First American makers, choosing a tribe and learning about its government and attending a First American event open to the public, such as a powwow or cultural festival. “The Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma programs team learned there were several girls interested in

earning a Native American Heritage Month patch; however, our team realized the past curriculum needed a refresh,” said Ashley Elkins, GSWESTOK director of programs. “The FAM team was gracious to collaborate with us on this program to ensure this new curriculum is respectful of all Indigenous Peoples and accessible to Girl Scouts in various parts of the state.” FAM has launched a dedicated web page for Girl Scout troops to book visits at the museum as they work toward completion of the patch. “FAM is pleased to work with Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma to provide girls with accurate and impactful learning experiences about the 39 tribal nations in Oklahoma today,” said FAM Director of Learning & Community Engagement Adrienne Lalli Hills (Wyandotte Nation). Girl Scout patches are worn on the back of vests or sashes, giving girls the opportunity to display their interests and accomplishments.

Calendar From Page 6 Winter Glow Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 30; Mon – Thu: 4 – 8 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 8 p.m.; Sat: 1 – 8 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 6 p.m.; riversportokc.org A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas Location: Cottonwoods Flats, Guthrie Extra Info: Sun, Nov 26 – Mon, Jan 1; Mon – Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 5 – 11:30 p.m.; Sun: 6 – 9 a.m.; travelok.com OKC Broadway presents: “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Tue, Dec 26 – Sun, Dec 31; Tue, Wed & Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun:

1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; okcbroadway.com Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Damon Wayans Jr Location: Bricktown Comedy Club Extra Info: Fri, Dec 29 – Sun, Dec 31; Fri: 7:30 & 10:15 p.m.; Sat: 7 & 9:45 p.m.; Sun: 7:30 & 10:30 p.m.; bricktowncomedy.com Cattlemen’s Congress Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Sat, Dec 30 – Thu, Jan 11; cattlemenscongress.com Adele Wolf’s New Year’s Eve Follies Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sun, Dec 31; 10 p.m.; adelewolf.com

Please send items to infante318@cox.net


Page 8 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Birthdays & bell ringing for Edmond Rotary Club There’s a benefit to becoming older each year and the Edmond community is the beneficiary. Rotary Club of Edmond is in its second year of a unique birthday club that raises funds for its foundation to support community efforts and projects. The birthday club has raised thousands of dollars and the effort is now a more consistent source of income for the organization. “We did it several years ago,” said Natalie Bonney, the board member who oversees Edmond Rotary Club Foundation Inc. “We thought a birthday club was a good way to recognize its participants on the Rotary Club of Edmond’s birthday in March.” So, in 2022, members revived the effort and began collecting a dollar for every year of a person’s age. Since then, the foundation has collected more than $3,300 from participants. 31 members were recognized

on the club’s birthday this year. “It has had a good response. We wanted it to be kind of a fun thing and show appreciation,” Bonney said. Bonney said some people even round up their contributions for more of an impact. The club’s birthday is March 28. Rotary Club of Edmond was chartered in 1938. During this year’s celebration, participants were recognized with specially made cookies. Rotary Club of Edmond also enjoyed its annual tradition of ringing bells for The Salvation Army. About 35 members took shifts at both of the city’s Walmarts on I-35 and Danforth and Kelly on December 13. It was a full day of fulfilling the club’s motto of “Serve Above Self” and helped raise hundreds of dollars in donations. Members rang bells from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Also showing up to assist was Rotary Club of Edmond president Chris Berry.

Kathy Reeser and Randy Taylor ring the bells at the I-35 Walmart in Edmond — earlier this month.

Helping the cause was Whitney Randall.

Rotarian Tom Rooser stepped up and helped the Salvation Army.


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 9

Chamber luncheon Higher education was the subject at a recent member luncheon of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce. On hand were, from left, spnsor representative Jan Moran of AT&T, UCO president Todd Lamb, Sherry Jordan, president and CEO of the Edmond Chamber, Chancellor John deSteiguer of Oklahoma Christian and Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis.

Letter to the Editor

Reader questions OP/ED cartoon I am very disappointed to see the Edmond Life & Leisure publish the cartoon that is in the paper of Dec. 14, 2023. The cartoon shows Donald Trump in a positive light which is untrue in most every sense. Edmond Life & Leisure should not support a known criminal of the past (Trump University for instance) and one with 91 present indictments. Many citizens of Edmond are of the opinion that Donald Trump is a dishonest person and one who has done tremendous damage to the United States of America. Additionally, on the list attributed to Democrats, historical inaccuracies are cited. President HW Bush as well as Presi-

Cartoon of Dec. 14 dent George W Bush were in place during the Middle Eastern military operations. Please assure that editorial cartoons do not support right wing indoctrination and provide fair and accurate representation of facts. COLLEEN WALKER

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.


Page 10 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

The value of working By Steve Gust One of my favorite video clips is from the Dr. Phil television show. It involves a very spoiled teen girl and her reaction to possibly getting a job. Her first impulse was to cry and say Steve Gust “no” over and over again. Phil McGraw gives an incredible look of astonishment to her reaction. He brings up the idea again to the girl and she again says “no.” This time she adds, “it’s too much work.” The audience laughs. This is about the reaction I would expect. Yet, I read the comments online and, surprisingly enough, most of the people were on the girl’s side. They agreed work was hard and one writer called work “abusive.” Then there were the complainers – who bemoaned working in general and the toll it took on them. Some complained about their supervisors and added that not working equaled freedom. I guess I would probably like unlimited money and a chance to do what I wanted, when I wanted. I know if I did have unlimited money, I’d continue to

write books. Many of the comments were from admitted younger people. I don’t get it. Don’t they realize our society relies on people working? Who is going to grow food or transport it if nobody is does it? If one of the complainers gets sick, who is going to take care of them? It will probably be someone who worked like heck to get a medical degree and then had 50-hour or 60hour intern shifts. Who is going to get them gasoline for their cars – if nobody wants to work? Who will sell a car or repair one? What they don’t realize is that work is more than a paycheck. It gives many people a mission and identity in life. For young parents, it helps them raise a family. If you have extra money, you can help a charity. If you’re young and healthy, you should thank God you can work. If you’re not happy and fulfilled with your job, then get the skills for a better job or start your own business. Every day isn’t going to be joyous. That’s a given. But you can control your reaction. The bottom line is that honest work is honorable and builds character. (Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)

Lankford reviews some items he’s addressed Editor’s Note: The following is from a letter Sen. James Lankford sent to his constituents. Helping the Families of Veterans – My team and I worked to update the Veterans Burial Administration’s burial benefits form to assist funeral homes and cemeteries in Oklahoma as they care for unclaimed veteran remains. Great news: we got the national paperwork problem fixed. This will ensure veterans get the dignified care they deserve. Bringing Down the Cost of Rx Drugs for Oklahomans – I continue to push the Senate to unravel the complicated price structure of our prescription drugs so we can actually bring down the costs at the pharmacy counter—especially for senior adults on Medicare. I recently offered a proposal that will address the Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) practice of placing lower cost drugs on the same price “tier” as the higher priced name-brand counterpart. That makes costs higher for senior adult patients at the pharmacy counter by blocking access to lower-cost prod-

ucts. CLICK HERE to read more about this and other proposals I’m working to get fair competition and reduce the cost of Rx drugs. Protecting Rural Oklahoma Pharmacies from Extra Fees Beginning in January – As a quick update to an ongoing issue, I am working to keep our rural and independent pharmacies from seeing additional fees—on top of the fees they already are forced to pay—to the pharmacy middlemen in the first quarter of 2024. A new Biden Administration rule kicks in on January 1, 2024, that could leave some local pharmacies in jeopardy. I am working to get this resolved to make sure our rural and independent pharmacies can keep their doors open and serve patients. Establishing a National Monument in North Tulsa – The Historic Greenwood District/Black Wall Street area in North Tulsa deserves its place among our nation’s significant historic locations. I worked with multiple community leaders in North Tulsa in the past to secure designations on the National Registry of Historic Places and on the Civil Rights Trail. Last week, we released bill text to establish a national monument for the Historic Greenwood District. North Tulsa is growing. The community leaders there know how to demonstrate for the nation reconciliation, overcoming adversity and how to move from tragedy to triumph. CLICK HERE to learn more about my bill to establish a national monument in North Tulsa. Getting More Time to Authorize the FAA – Last week, the Senate voted to extend the current FAA’s authorization until March 8 to give us more time to negotiate provisions in the bill. The FAA reauthorization updates the nation’s aviation system for travelers, airlines, and manufactures. It is necessary that Congress reauthorize the scope of the FAA to keep up with technology and innovation. Oklahoma proudly hosts an essential aspect of the FAA: the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. I will work to make sure the FAA reauthorization early next year provides stability for the operation of the Center and for the many Oklahomans who serve our nation in this critical work.

Bill would up fine for guns at schools Senator Jessica Garvin, R–Duncan, has filed legislation to increase the state penalty for carrying an illegal firearm onto school property. Senate Bill 1254 changes the already illegal infraction from a misdemeanor to a felony offense, increases the fine to $2,500 and allows state prosecutors to seek up to a year in prison if the individual carrying the weapon is found guilty. In response to increased gun violence in recent years, Garvin said her bill will better protect children, teachers, and others on school campuses across the state. She worked with school, law enforcement and public safety officials in drafting the measure. “The horrific tragedy that rocked our state earlier this year at a Choctaw high school football game, along with other instances led to conversations with local officials to figure out how we can better protect our children and others on school campuses. While it’s already illegal to carry a firearm on school grounds, we determined the current state punishment is nothing more than a slap on the wrist. Senate Bill 1254 will hopefully deter those who want to cause harm in our schools,” Garvin said. “I’m pro-Second Amendment and have voted continuously to uphold this right for Oklahomans. I’m also in strong favor of protecting the lives of children and others on our school campuses.

This bill is about stopping this illegal activity and giving prosecutors the power to pursue more significant charges.” The bill will be up for consideration when the legislative session convenes in February. Four Okla. Democrats part of White House meeting Four Oklahoma State Lawmakers attended the White House Legislative Convening on Gun Violence Prevention this month. The members attending were Rep. Forrest Bennett (D-OKC), Jo Anna Dossett (D-Tulsa), Rep. Jason Lowe (D-OKC), and Rep. Amanda Swope (D-Tulsa). “Like many communities across the country, Tulsa is not a stranger to gun violence,” Swope said. “I appreciate the Biden Administration’s willingness to host this event and engage in this needed conversation. We can’t continue to ignore the multiple mass shootings or the connection between guns and domestic violence. We can’t keep burying our heads in the sand and pretending these problems will disappear.” The lawmakers worked in small groups with legislators and policy experts nationwide to discuss potential policy solutions. Bennett commented on the difference

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or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste). Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034. or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

in conversation compared to those in the Oklahoma Legislature. “It has been refreshing to be around other state legislators who lie in reality, understand that the second amendment matters but so do victims of gun violence and that states have a role to play to protect our people,” Bennett said. ACLU not happy with Governor’s DEI decision This month Governor Stitt issued an Executive Order prohibiting state agencies from funding or requiring diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Despite the University of Oklahoma’s statements, the order does not require that Oklahoma universities eliminate all DEI offices. Exceptions and limiting language appear throughout the order, leaving universities with ample room to continue the necessary work of DEI, if they have the will to do so. The following statement is attributable to the ACLU of Oklahoma, the American Civil Liberties Union, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP: “Like House Bill 1775, this Executive Order is yet another attack on inclusive education in Oklahoma’s universities and seeks to undo the hard-fought improvements to university culture advocated for by professors and students. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”) efforts foster the empathy, understanding, and historical context necessary for all students to learn in an effective, safe environment. Undermining DEI work robs all students of the education necessary to live in our multi-racial and multicultural world. While the harm falls on all students, these attacks disproportionately harm gender diverse students and students of color. Without DEI offices working to ensure students see themselves represented in the student body, faculty, and coursework, gender diverse students and students of color feel isolated and excluded, both feelings that science has proven undermine educational success.


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 11

DAR dedicates Rodkey House historical marker By Tammy Ross The Cordelia Steen Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution dedicated a Historical Marker commemorating Edmond’s historic Rodkey House. The dedication was held earlier this month. Presiding over the ceremony was Cordelia Steen Chapter Regent Tammy Ross, along with Chapter officers Mary Poulain, Meagan Bobo, Debbie Adams, Gwen Kinney, Gail Hamill, Jan Beattie and Sheila Everett. Also, speaking during the ceremony were Edmond city officials and community leaders: Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis, Edmond businessman Brad Reeser (son of the late Mr. Pete Reeser), Amy Stephens Director of the Edmond History Museum, and Nicole Willard Senior Director of the University of Central Oklahoma Max Chambers Library. All speakers expressed heartfelt words about the house, the Rodkey family, Mr. Pete Reeser, and the importance of preserving Edmond’s history. A letter from Mr. Ken Rees, the great-grandson of Isaac and Catherine Rodkey, was read on behalf of his family. The Rodkey House is believed to be the oldest house in the city of Edmond. It was built in 1900 by Isaac Rodkey, owner of the Eagle Milling Company which produced Rodkey’s Best Flour. He and his wife, Catherine, raised their three children

Bess, Earl and Don in the home. In 1927, Don Rodkey purchased the home and resided in it until 1961. Edmond businessman, Pete Reeser, saved the house from the wrecking ball in 2007 by donating it to the City of Edmond on the condition that it would be moved from its original location at 30 Campbell Street. The city, local organizations, and private donors contributed the funds to have the house moved to its new location at 401 S. Littler Avenue in the historic Stephenson Park. The house underwent a complete restoration in 2016 and is now maintained by the Edmond History Museum. It’s new purpose is as a community event center used for numerous functions. The DAR Historical Marker stands at the entrance area of the house. The inscription tells the story of the house’s history and of the great community that continues its preservation. It is an honor for the Cordelia Steen Chapter to install this marker which promotes DAR’s objective to Historic Preservation by commemorating the Rodkey House. The Cordelia Steen Chapter, NSDAR, is a non-profit, non-political, volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism. To learn more about the chapter visit their website www.cordeliasteennsdar.weebly.com

The Reeser family attended the event. Pete Reeser, who recently died, donated the house to the city in 2007. Among the family members, are, Steve Reeser, third from left and Brad Reeser, on the right.

Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis in front of the beautiful home.

Amy Stephens, director of the Edmond History Museum.

Cordelia Steen Chapter members include Jan Beattie, Karen Moseley, Debbie Adams, V. Regent Mary Poulain, Regent Tammy Ross, Gail Hamil, Gwen Kinney, Meagan Bobo, Sheila Everett and Jan Bohannon.


Page 12 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

The University of Central Oklahoma Opera’s production of “The Consul” was selected as the American Prize in Opera Performance, smaller program, 2023 winner. The American Prize is among the few national awards recognizing outstanding college opera programs. Pictured, the 2022 performance of “The Consul.”

UCO’s production of ‘The Consul’ wins American Prize The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music’s opera production of “The Consul” was selected as the American Prize in Opera Performance, smaller program, 2023 winner. The American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts is a comprehensive series of contests to recognize and reward outstanding performing artists, directors, ensembles and composers across the United States at the professional, college/university, community and high school levels. “The American Prize is one of the few national awards that recognize outstanding college opera programs. I’m especially honored that UCO Opera was chosen as the 2023 recipient,” said Rob Glaubitz, D.M.A., “The Consul” director and professor of Music at Central. “Even more so, I’m overjoyed that the hard

work and artistry of the UCO students, faculty and staff who performed or worked behind the scenes on this production has been rewarded. ‘The Consul’ is truly one of the most special productions I’ve ever been a part of. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the singers, instrumentalists, directors, designers, technical staff and support staff who made it possible.” Glaubitz also received the American Prize in Directing, titled The Charles Nelson Reilly Prize, smaller programs, for 2023. This accolade recognizes and awards the best stage directors of theater, musical theater and opera in America. Housed within Central’s College of Fine Arts and Design, the School of Music offers six undergraduate majors including jazz performance, musical theatre, vocal performance, instrumental performance, music education and music. Additionally, Central offers two

graduate degrees in music—Master of Music and Master of Music in jazz studies. The UCO School of Music is recognized nationwide as one of Oklahoma's foremost institutions for preparing professional musicians in all fields with alumni singing professionally nationwide, including at the Metropolitan Opera, as well as locally at Oklahoma City’s Painted Sky Opera and the Tulsa Opera. The School of Music maintains a high level of commitment to its students, alumni and musical community, and is dedicated to assisting them in meeting the challenges of an ever-broadening and diversifying musical world. For more information about the UCO School of Music, visit music.uco.edu. For more information about the UCO College of Fine Arts and Design, visit cfad.uco.edu.


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 13

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Swapan Nath, Ph.D.

OMRF receives grant to study genetic links to lupus disease The National Institutes of Health has awarded an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist $2.9 million to better understand how genetic variants contribute to the autoimmune disease lupus. Scientists discovered the connection between genetic variations and lupus more than half a century ago. However, diagnosing and treating the disease remains challenging, in part because researchers can’t trace it to a single telltale genetic variant, said OMRF scientist Swapan Nath, Ph.D., who received the four-year grant. “Not only do different genes play roles in lupus, but even when the same variants are shared by two people with lupus, they can exhibit significantly different clinical manifestations,” Nath said. In lupus, the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. It can cause damage to the joints, skin, kidneys, heart and lungs. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, about 1.5 million Americans – primarily women – have the disease. Lupus disproportionately affects African Americans, American Indians, Latinos and Asians, and it tends to be more severe among those ethnicities. Nath, who holds the William H. & Rita Bell Chair in Biomedical Research at OMRF, will investigate genetic variants sourced from repositories of samples donated by people with lupus worldwide. He expects to identify five

to 10 common or ethnicity-specific variants and then focus on those in future research. “We’re looking for genetic variants that could be affecting a normal and beneficial cellular process known as autophagy, which is like a recycling system within the body,” Nath said. “This process operates daily throughout our body as cells discard defective parts or fight infections.” Autophagy is essential for maintaining the balance and proper functioning of our cells. When functioning correctly, it safeguards against diseases, but any dysfunction can contribute to disease development. Recent genome-wide studies conducted by Nath’s lab and others have uncovered a link between autoimmune diseases and variants in genes that control autophagy. Nath’s grant enables him to test his hypothesis that ethnicity-specific variants in those genes predispose a person to lupus. If successful, future research could focus on how the disease manifests differently through those variants among various ethnicities. “If Dr. Nath’s hypothesis is correct, this area of study could be a gamechanger in lupus research,” said OMRF Chief Medical Officer & Executive Vice President Judith James, M.D., Ph.D. “His research promises to narrow the focus, aiding our understanding of which genetic variants contribute to this disease.”

During the 2024 primaries, runoffs

Democrats will allow independents to vote State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced last week that he has been notified by the Oklahoma Democratic Party that it will allow Independents to vote in its primaries and runoff primaries during the 2024-2025 election years. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Republican Party notified the Secretary that it will keep its primaries closed to Independent voters. The Libertarian Party did not formally send a notification; therefore, by default, the Libertarian Party primaries will remain closed as designated by state law. More information about political parties is available on the State Election Board website. Oklahoma is a closed primary state. However, every odd-numbered year between November 1 and November 30, all recognized political parties in Oklahoma must notify the Secretary of the State Election Board as to whether or not they will allow registered Independents to vote in their party’s primaries and runoff primaries during the next two election

years. If a party chooses to open its primaries, the deadline is extended to December 15 for the other recognized parties to respond or change their response. The State Election Board reminds voters that whether voting in person or by absentee ballot, Independent voters must request to receive Democratic primary ballots. These cannot be automatically issued. Voters who have already requested absentee ballots for the 2024 election year can update their absentee ballot request online using the OK Voter Portal. Voters who would like to change their party affiliation should do so before April 1, 2024. State law prohibits party affiliation changes April 1 through August 31 of even-numbered years. Party affiliation changes submitted during the closed period will be processed on September 1, 2024. Changes can be made online through the OK Voter Portal. To learn more about Oklahoma elections visit the Oklahoma State Election Board website.


Page 14 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Might be some Oscar buzz with ‘Maestro’ By George Gust When Netflix transitioned from a DVD disc subscription service into the streaming service behemoth we know today they tried to gain credibility with audiences and their peers by courting the biggest creative names in Hollywood. Now nearly a decade into their push to be respected along with the other traditional studios of Hollywood their efforts have fallen short of the elusive golden statute for the big categories of Best Picture, and Best Actor/Actress. This year’s slate of Netflix Oscar hopefuls appears to be headed by this week’s new release “Maestro” from writer/director/star Bradley Cooper. “Maestro” tells the story of the complex love story of Leonard (Cooper) and Felicia (Carey Mulligan), a story that spans over 30 years-from the time they met in 1946 at a party and continuing through two engagements, a 25 year marriage, and three children. Coming into “Maestro” with a very limited knowledge of Leonard Bernstein expecting this film to be a traditional music biopic. However, you’d be surprised to find that instead of a chronical of the musical icon’s life and music “Maestro” is far more concerned with the highs and lows of Leonard and Felicia’s complex relationship over the years. Instead of the clichéd

Answers on Page 19

early life through the success and accolades and the bumps along the way that we’ve seen a hundred times, “Maestro” serves as a clear runway from an in depth and moving character study with two phenomenal performers in Mulligan and Cooper with some truly beautiful scenes of filmmaking sprinkled in for good measure. The showcase to Maestro is the two performances of Mulligan and Cooper, with both being Oscar nomination level. Cooper gets the room to play both understated moments as well as more showy moments of conducting that would fit perfectly as a scene

played during the Oscars to showcase the nomination. And while Cooper is thoroughly engaging in his performance, there are moments that you can feel that it is a performance and it can take you out of the world the film is presenting. And while Cooper’s performance is Oscar nomination Mulligan’s performance is the one that is surprisingly the more compelling and Oscar winning worthy. She’s able to play the tension in the relationship in a way that rings true and is the thing that you come away from the movie remembering. Overall, “Maestro” is a fine work of Oscar bait, with powerhouse performances and brilliant cinematography it’ll find its way onto a lot of top 10 lists of the year. The use of black and white and then color screams for the artistic attention that the Academy loves. And while Netflix might still be left out of the Oscar winning this awards season, Cooper’s efforts in the director’s chair and in front of the camera are commendable. “Maestro” is rated R for some language and drug use. Now available to stream on Netflix. 4 out of 5 stars

Bradley Cooper writes, directs and stars alongside Carey Mulligan in ‘Maestro’ a stirring portrait of the highs and lows in the life of iconic conductor/composer Leonard Bernstein.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: ZODIAC SIGNS

ACROSS 1. NASDAQ's TSLA 6. Meme dance move 9. Feudal laborer 13. Plant louse 14. Inflated feeling 15. Signaling flare 16. She turned to stone, Greek mythology 17. Barn call 18. L in AWOL 19. *Zodiac sign for those born on Halloween 21. *Ford "Zodiac" 23. Cash machine, acr. 24. Island 25. Short for although 28. Cul de ____, pl. 30. Owing something (2 words) 35. Argo's propellers 37. Mature 39. Passed 40. Guilty, e.g. 41. Presidential promises, e.g. 43. Those against 44. Waker-upper 46. Skin infection 47. King of beasts 48. *1960s California serial killer 50. Address a deity 52. Short for ensign 53. Hoodwink 55. New Zealand parrot 57. *Fish sign 60. *Half man/half horse sign 64. Blood vessel 65. This is well if it ends well 67. Body trunk 68. Move like ivy 69. Grazing field 70. Plant with liquorice-flavored seeds 71. Catch one's breath 72. Trim the lawn 73. Roebuck's partner DOWN 1. Sun kisses 2. Colossal 3. Pest command 4. *Zodiac sign or Don DeLillo's 1988 novel 5. One who is skilled at something 6. Visual presentation 7. "Four score and seven years ____" 8. Dora the Ex-

plorer's simian friend 9. Court petitioner 10. Genesis twin 11. RPMs 12. Extra charge 15. Like a native speaker 20. Insect, post-metamorphosis 22. Prince in Disney's "Aladdin" movie 24. Heavy hydrogen, e.g. 25. *Birthstone for some born under Scorpio or Sagittarius 26. Hello, alt. sp. 27. Mountain nymph 29. *Cancer crustacean 31. Lentil soup 32. Golfer Els 33. Take a chance (2 words) 34. *Gemini 36. Delhi dress 38. Sound of a fan

42. Satisfy, as in thirst 45. Eccentric one 49. Pool tool 51. Gossipy ones 54. Religious song 56. Make amends 57. Skin opening 58. Wraths 59. Proofreader's mark 60. Old-fashioned bathtub foot 61. Vocal piece for one 62. Brezhnev's domain 63. Fish eggs, pl. 64. Acronym, abbr. 66. *#47 Across, in the sky

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Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 15

State House announces annual agency budget request hearings The Oklahoma House of Representatives is continuing its standard practice and tradition of fiscal transparency this year with upcoming agency performance reviews and budget request hearings. Each year, House Appropriation & Budget subcommittees hold hearings prior to the legislative session in which state agencies, boards or commissions that receive state funding come before the appropriate committee to present reports on prior year spending and to detail their budget requests for the next fiscal year. House members of each subcommittee are encouraged to ask detailed questions of the agencies as they will be charged with negotiating state appropriations for each entity during the annual budget process. The public is invited to attend every meeting or to watch online on the House website. "These meetings, which are held each year in the House per state statute, give anyone interested a chance to hear how taxpayer dollars are appropriated to various programs that serve the needs of Oklahomans," said Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, the chair of the House Appropriations & Budget Committee. "If the public is interested in hearing how schools used money to pay teachers or on classroom expenses, or if they want to know how transportation dollars were utilized to improve roads and bridges, or how we funded hospitals, health care and human services, or any other of the plethora of uses of state funding, then these hearings will prove invaluable." The House each year holds performance reviews and budget hearings in the House Chamber for the agencies that receive the largest portion of state appropriations. In the past, this has included the State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education. However, this year, these agencies will present the same week along with all other A&B Education subcommittee agencies on January 10. The House full A&B Committee will have the remaining four largest appropriated agencies present in the House Chamber. All House members are invited and encouraged to attend these meetings to ask questions of the agencies that receive the largest amount of state dollars. These meetings also are open to the public and available to watch online.

This year, A&B subcommittee chairs will preside over the following in the House Chamber: Office of Management and Enterprise Services, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, Rep. Judd Strom, RCopan, chair of A&B General Government. Oklahoma Health Care Authority at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, Rep. Marcus McEntire, R-Duncan, chair of A&B Health. Oklahoma Department of Human Services at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, chair of A&B Human Services. Oklahoma Department of Transportation at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, chair of A&B Transportation. The full schedule of A&B subcommittee performance reviews and budget request hearings are as follows: A&B Natural Resources and Regulatory Services Subcommittee (presented jointly with Senate) 9 a.m. Dec. 18-19, Senate Room 535, Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, chair A&B Public Safety Subcommittee, 9 a.m., Jan. 8, Room 450, Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, chair A&B Education Subcommittee, 9 a.m. Jan. 9, 9:30 a.m. Jan. 10, Room 4S5, Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, chair A&B General Government subcommittee, 8:30 a.m. Jan. 11, Room 206, Rep. Judd Strom, RCopan, chair A&B Transportation Subcommittee, 9 a.m. Jan. 19, Room 450, Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, chair A&B Health Subcommittee, 8:30 a.m., Jan. 22, Room 206, Rep. Marcus McEntire, R-Duncan, chair A&B Human Services Subcommittee, 9 a.m., Jan. 23, Room 206, Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, chair A&B Judiciary Subcommittee, 8:30 a.m. Jan. 23, Room 4S5, Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, chair A&B Finance Subcommittee, 2 p.m., Feb. 5, Room 450, Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee, chair Meeting times, dates and rooms are subject to change. A calendar of all meetings can be found on the House website, OKHouse.gov, under News & Media Live Events: https://sg001harmony.sliq.net/00283/Harmony/en/View/UpcomingEvents/.

College celebrates teaching profession The University of Central Oklahoma recently celebrated the achievements of six Oklahoma educators at the annual Honoring a Noble Profession (HANP) banquet with the 2023 Joann McCarthy Inspiring Educator, the UCO Inspiring Early Career Teachers Award and the Outstanding Teacher Mentor Award. Additionally, Central’s newest graduating class of 116 teacher candidates and distinguished alumni in the field of education were recognized. Rebecka Peterson, a high school math teacher at Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the 2023 National Teacher of the Year, provided the keynote address. The recipients of the Dr. Joann McCarthy Inspiring Educator Award, which recognizes innovative alumni who have inspired students, colleagues, schools and communities throughout their professional career, are Kamber Clark, a third-grade teacher at Heritage Trails Elementary in Moore Public Schools; and, Erika Vasquez, a dance teacher at the Classen School for Advanced Studies High School at Northeast in Oklahoma City Public Schools. The recipients of the Inspiring Early Career Educator Award, which honors educators with less than three years of experience in the classroom who carry on Central’s mission of transformative learning through leadership, are Travis Miller, a music teacher at Carl Albert High School in Mid-Del Public Schools; and, Andrew Rosko, a history teacher at Edmond Santa Fe High School in Edmond Public Schools. The recipients of the Outstanding Mentor Teacher Award are Lindy Hanneman, a second-grade teacher at Oakdale Elementary School in Oakdale Public Schools; and, Sherry Dew, a history teacher at Southeast High School in Oklahoma City Public Schools.

Rebecka Peterson, pictured, the 2023 National Teacher of the Year, provided the keynote address at UCO’s annual Honoring a Noble Profession event Wednesday, Dec. 13.

“HANP is a celebration of the foundational role that public school teachers play in our diverse, democratic society,” said Kim Pennington, Ph.D., assistant dean of Central’s College of Education and Professional Studies and director of Educator Preparation. “Oklahoma’s teachers enter their classrooms every day and change lives. This event is an opportunity to reflect on the many ways that teachers contribute to the development of strong citizens and healthy communities. UCO is thrilled to celebrate our newest graduating class of teachers and to welcome the National Teacher of the Year and Oklahoma’s own, Rebecka Peterson.” For more information about UCO’s Jolene Schwind Office of Teacher Education Services, visit www.uco.edu/ceps/teacher-education-services.


Page 16 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Understand mental health parity & insurance coverage By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready Often, when we discuss health insurance, we focus mainly on physical health benefits for operations, hospital visits or medication and don’t mention another important component of well-being: mental health. More than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Around the same percentage of Oklahomans (almost 790,000 people) experience a mental illness every year. This is a topic I hope enters the conversation more, and I want Oklahomans to understand mental health parity and insurance coverage. What is parity? First, it’s crucial to understand what parity is. In this case, mental health parity means mental health coverage under an insurance plan is equal to physical health coverage. Mental health hasn’t always been treated the same as physical health coverage, with this issue addressed by multiple laws over the decades. In 2008, Congress passed the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA), which generally prevents group health plans and health insurance issuers that provide

mental health or substance use disorder benefits from imposing less favorable benefit limitations on those benefits than on medical/surgical benefits. In Oklahoma, we passed SB1718 in 2020, which requires carriers in the state to offer mental health and substance use disorder coverage in parity. Is my plan included under mental health parity? All fully insured health plans sold to individuals, small employer groups and large employer groups must include benefits for mental health and substance use disorder services. Self-funded health plans (commonly provided by large employers) aren’t required to cover these services. If they do

include this coverage, it must be provided in parity with benefits for physical illness. In general, parity rules apply to: Private-sector employment-sponsored group health plans with 51 or more workers Private plans of smaller employers that started offering health insurance benefits or made major changes to their health insurance plans after March 23, 2010 Plans sponsored by non-federal governmental employers with 51 or more workers (although selfinsured non-federal governmental plans can opt out if they follow certain procedures) Most health insurance coverage sold to individuals, including coverage sold through the Health Insurance Marketplace Most, but not all, Medicaid managed care programs and all Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) programs However, parity does not apply to Medicare feefor-service or Medicare Advantage plans. What if my health insurance plan doesn’t treat mental health and physical health equally? Review your health insurance plan and look closely at your benefits. If you determine your insurer does not meet parity but does meet the above criteria, contact us at the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 800-522-0071 or visit oid.ok.gov. We can help review policies and contact insurance companies on your behalf to ensure compliance with state and federal parity laws. For immediate mental health assistance, call or text Oklahoma’s Mental Health Lifeline at 988.

Upcoming Philharmonic performances announced The Oklahoma City Philharmonic begins the second half of its season with Classics, Kids, and Camperos! The music begins Saturday, Jan. 13, with “Rachmaninoff," part of the Inasmuch Foundation Classic Series, 8 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall, featuring guest conductor JoAnn Falletta. “Joann and I go way back,” said Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate. “It was during my time living in New York City when I was driving in our little Geo Metro listening to the radio. For some reason the program really caught my attention. I was so drawn in, I had to drive the car to the side of the road to finish listening to the performance. The announcer said it was JoAnn Falletta, the first female conductor leading a major American orchestra!” Mickelthwate says he met Falletta a few months later, and is now excited to welcome her to the OKCPHIL, along with pianist George Li. On the program will be Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, and Zemlinsky’s “The Little Mermaid.” The next day, Sunday, Jan. 14, the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Discovery Family Series continues, 2 p.m. at the Civic Center. The Discovery series is affordable fun geared toward children, with lobby activities, followed by a concert with the Sugar Free Allstars. They are a “family funk super duo” from Oklahoma City and have been named one of Time magazine’s top 12 family music acts in America. “Discovery is a fun way to introduce children to orchestral music,” Mickelthwate said. “It will be a great way for the entire family to spend a cold January afternoon. And the Sugar Free Allstars are amazing!” The Chickasaw Nation Pops Series continues in January with Grammy Award winning Mariachi los Camperos, performing two shows Jan. 26-27, 8 p.m. at the Civic Center. “We brought Mariachi los Camperos to the OKCPHIL several seasons ago,” Mickelthwate said. “They were such a hit with our audience we wanted to bring them back once more. They have been around since the early 1960s and have performed at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Now they’re performing with your Oklahoma City Philharmonic!” Tickets for all performances are available at okcphil.org or by phone at (405)842-5387.

Ticket sales at (405) 842-5387


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 17

Effort to train technicians

College partners with manufacturers Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is partnering with Hyundai and Genesis Motor America to train the next generation of automotive service technicians. "With Hyundai and Genesis becoming one of the fastest growing automotive manufacturers in the world, there is a deficit of service technicians qualified to service and repair the technologically advanced vehicles," said Brad Walker, department chair for automotive technology at OCCC. "Our program helps meet the workforce demand for these skilled automotive technicians." Beginning in Spring of 2024, OCCC will incorporate Hyundai and Genesis specific curriculum into the existing Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP) so students can earn

Hyundai and/or Genesis factory specific certifications which will better prepare them to work in Hyundai and Genesis service centers. OCCC's ATIP is available for students to start at any time of the school year and is offered with day and night classes. Classroom and lab experiences emphasize hands-on training, and students are required to work in an independent shop, a franchise, fleet shop or dealership to fulfill the on-the-job training part of the program. “Automotive technology is one of many programs here at OCCC working to meet the industry demand for a skilled workforce," said John Claybon, OCCC dean of business and information technology. "Our programs are flexible and affordable, our

National debt cost has Lankford and others in senate worried

OCCC — helping to train the next generation of auto technicians.

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) to lead a group of their Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), highlighting their concerns with the rising cost of servicing the nearly $34 trillion national debt. “Driven by out-of-control federal spending and rising interest rates,

UCO professor is appointed Accounting Endowed Chairperson The University of Central Oklahoma College of Business recently appointed Bambi Hora, J.D., professor and chairperson of the Department of Accounting, as the inauHora gural Drs. Robert L. and Katherene P. Terrell Endowed Chair in Accounting. It recognizes an individual in the Department of Accounting who has demonstrated excellence in teaching and service to the department, the College of Business, UCO and the accounting profession. The holder adheres to the educational philosophy of the university and exemplifies the high standard of both teaching and service set by the Terrells. “It is a great honor to recognize the leader of our UCO accounting department as the newest endowed chair at UCO, while concurrently paying tribute to two legendary UCO professors, Robert and Katherene Terrell,” said Jeremy Oller, J.D., Ph.D., UCO College of Business dean. “Bob and Kathy served the UCO College of Business for 58 combined years and were instrumental in the department’s past and present successes. Dr. Hora has been equally responsible for maintaining the standard of excellence

in our accounting department along with the Terrells, so it is fitting that she is the first recipient of the Drs. Robert L. and Katherene P. Terrell Endowed Chair of Accounting at UCO.” Hora has taught at Central since 1990, primarily teaching courses in taxation. She serves on various committees within the university and cosponsors the Accounting Club, Ethics Club and Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society. Hora holds membership in the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants, the Oklahoma Bar Association, the American Accounting Association (AAA) and the North American Accounting Society (NAAS). She has served in leadership roles in AAA, Delta Mu Delta International and the NAAS. The Bachelor of Science in accounting at UCO is for students who want to work on the financial side of business, communicating financial information to internal and external stakeholders. The UCO accounting program prepares students to meet the needs of potential employers, particularly those in the metropolitan area of Oklahoma City and surrounding regions, ultimately contribute to the state’s workforce demand for accountants and auditors. For more information about the accounting program, visit www.uco.edu/programs/cob/program-accounting-major.

Boeing gives UCO $100,000 grant The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation received more than $100,000 from Boeing to support both the OKA+ Schools Institute at the University of Central Oklahoma (OKA+ Schools) and programs aimed at recruiting and retaining militaryconnected students. The most significant portion of the grant, $80,000, will support the fifth year of OKA+ Schools’ “Creating STEAM Career Paths for Elementary Learners,” an innovative science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) program for second-grade classrooms in eight area

elementary schools. The grant will pay for instructional materials and books for students as they explore concepts of STEAM careers. “Watching kids learn and grow through this STEAM program is truly inspiring,” said Sandy Kent, OKA+ Schools Institute at UCO executive director. “OKA+ has enjoyed partnering with Boeing and is excited to continue the program in several new schools as well as those with which we have worked in the past. This impactful grant is a testament to Boeing’s continued partnership and commitment to education.”

the US spent $659 billion on servicing the federal debt in Fiscal Year 2023, a $184 billion increase from the previous year and nearly double the cost from just three years ago. Since March 2022, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates 11 times, pursuing such an aggressive rate-hiking campaign in an effort to combat the out-of-control inflation that has hung over the US

economy for years as a result of trillions of dollars in reckless partisan spending passed by congressional Democrats and signed into law by President Biden. Future rate hikes and higher-for-longer rates are likely as elevated inflation remains a major concern for American households who continue to see the purchasing power of their wages erode,” the Senators wrote.


Page 18 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

How students & parents can take action on cyberbullying Millions of students around the country are on holiday break. While they may get away from some of the bullying on school grounds, it won't be the end of bullying. Over the holiday break, cyberbullying will kick into high gear. With most kids having access to platforms where cyberbullying can take place and others getting new electronic devices as gifts this season, it is an issue that should be on parents’ minds. "Parents must know about cyberbullying so they can help protect it and end it when it happens," says Kirk Smalley, co-founder of Stand for the Silent. "It is an issue that we all need to know about because we are just about all online at one point or another." According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 6 high school students report having been cyberbullied. Those in middle school tend to experience the

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highest amounts of cyberbullying, followed by those in high school. They note that 33% of middle school students have been cyberbullied. While elementary students do not experience it nearly as much, 5% still report having been cyberbullied. It is an issue and concern that stretches across all academic years. Add to that the results of a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal that says social media can affect adolescents' selfview and interpersonal relationships. They report that this is because there is a comparison and negative interaction that takes place, including cyberbullying. Plus, they say that social media normalizes and even promotes self-harm and suicidality among youth. Knowing the dangers and realities of cyberbullying is the first step for parents. The next is learning how to

See Bullying, Page 19


Edmond Life & Leisure • December 28, 2023 • Page 19

Bullying From Page 18 identify it taking place and what to do about it. Most adolescents are not going to tell their parents they are being cyberbullied, so parents must pay attention to the signs they may be displaying. Cyberbullying happens in an online format (i.e., social media, texting, etc.) and can include threats, rumors, accusations, embarrassing posts, false posts, etc. Some of the signs that may point to a child being cyberbullied include: • Pulling away from using technology when they used to like it • Being secretive about being online or on their phone • Quickly turning a screen off when a parent enters the room • Behaving nervously when using technology • Begins avoiding usual behaviors that they typically enjoy • Being upset or mad after using their phone • Withdrawing from their family or friends • Deleting their social media accounts or creating new ones •. Noticeable changes in their mood or having difficulty sleeping Parents who suspect that there may be cyberbullying taking place will want to start by creating a safe space for their child. Their child needs to know that they are not being judged, that they are not at fault for someone's cyberbullying, and that they can discuss the issue with you. It is also recommended to record all details and save them be-

cause they may be needed later. Report all cyberbullying to social media outlets and speak with the other parents and schools about the issue. Threats of violence should also be reported to the police. "We have to get this issue under control, especially with more electronics in the hands of our youth," adds Smalley. "This takes a community effort, and parents take the issue seriously. We have helped many communities take this issue on, and we have no plans of stopping.” Smalley and his wife, Laura, started the organization following their 11-year-old son, ending his

own life due to bullying. They turned their pain and loss into a mission of helping others. He travels the country giving presentations about bullying to schools, providing bullying prevention, giving out scholarships, offering intervention strategies, and more. Those interested in getting involved can start a chapter of the group in their area, obtain a free K-2 bullying prevention curriculum or cyberbullying handbook for parents, host a presentation at their school, and donate to help support the cause. To get more information, visit the site at: https://standforthesilent.org/

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. Ple Please ease check with h your house of o worship for more m informati information. ion.


Page 20 • December 28, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure


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