Edmond Life and Leisure - November 24, 2022

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to friends and neighbors of Ed mond Life & Leisure newspaper.

Thanksgiving is a centuries old celebration with Presi dent Washington marking it in 1789 “as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledg ing with grateful hearts the many and signal favors off Almighty God.”

great holiday for you and your family. Please also see “From the Publisher,” on Page 4 as Life & Leisure publisher Ray Hibbard looks at the holiday and some trivia questions surrounding Thanksgiving traditions.

And one more note also. Edmond Life & Leisure, at 107 S. Broadway, will not be open Thursday or Friday

Dr. Andrew Benton to lead UCO during interim

The Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) board of regents last week approved Andrew Benton, J.D., as the interim president of the University of Central Oklahoma at their regularly scheduled meeting. Benton will step into the leadership role in January, following current UCO President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar’s announced departure after three and a half years as president and 15 years with the university. The board of regents also has initiated the national search process for the next president of UCO.

“Andrew Benton’s national reputation for excellence in higher education makes him an exceptional choice for interim president of Central,” said Connie Reilly, RUSO board chairperson.

“As an Edmond resident, he is familiar with the university and the community. He has a keen understanding of UCO’s strengths and the value the university brings to Oklahoma.”

Benton has worked in higher education for 45 years. Most notably he served as president of Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, from 2000 until his retirement in 2019.

During that time, he served as chairperson of the American Council on Education, on the board of the Council on Higher Education and as chairperson of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Prior to his presidency, Benton served in various leadership roles at Pepperdine including vice president for administration, vice president for university affairs and executive vice president and chief operating officer from 1984 through 1999. Early in his career Benton spent 10 years in administration at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond.

“While I did not anticipate being

offered such a fine leadership opportunity upon returning home to Edmond, I am grateful to be able to give back to the community in which my wife and I now live,” Benton said.

“The University of Central Oklahoma has a very bright future, and I am delighted to be able to play a strategic part.”

Benton attended the University of Kansas, Oklahoma Christian University and received his Juris Doctor from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. He is a member of the Oklahoma Bar, the United States Supreme Court Bar and the American Bar Association. He currently serves on the board of directors of The Christian Chronicle and Ensysce Biosciences.

Founded in 1890, the University of Central Oklahoma is the third-largest university in Oklahoma, connecting nearly 14,000 students annually to undergraduate and graduate programs. For more information about Central, visit https://www.uco.edu/.

Engagement, Wedding notices

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

Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Andrew Benton

Thanksgiving was my mom’s favorite holiday. For her, it was all about the food. This wonderful woman spent decades showing her love for her family by cooking all their favorites for us, day in and day out. Since we were all long gone from home, Thanksgiving became the time of year she could share her love for us all over again. Granted, it was by stuffing us just like the Christmas goose, but she always worked herself to the bone so that every dish would be perfect.

Mom liked Christmas too but there were distractions from her mission of cooking. We had presents, Christmas cards and oh, it is the birth of our Lord and Savior. On Thanksgiving, God let her concentrate on the food, and it is that way in many families. Thanksgiving is really a time for families to sit together, break bread and reconnect from their otherwise busy lives.

I have commented on this before, but my feeling is that if you could get countries that seem to hate each other to sit down for one of my mom’s Thanksgiving dinners, all troubles would be solved. It is hard to hate when you are enjoying traditional holiday fare or especially the Lebanese food my mom would prepare. Sharing pecan pie is a peace-making event. Actually, if you put the grandmothers in charge of world troubles they would be solved in a week.

I have been blessed to travel the world and people in every country want the same thing. If you sit down and have a cup of coffee with them, you discover that world domination is seldom on their minds. They want the same thing for their family as you want for yours. Good health, a decent job and time with their family is almost always at the top of their list.

There can be a difficult side of Thanksgiving dinners as well. Not all relatives get along when discussing politics or religion. Here is some fun trivia that can help you take the place of such subjects while you are waiting for the dinner to be served.

Question: What town canceled Thanksgiving because they couldn't make pumpkin pies?

Answer: Colchester, Connecticut

A frigid bout of cold weather in the middle of October led to the Connecticut River freezing, so settlers couldn’t get their usual liquid sugar shipped on time from across the pond. Thus, the townspeople decided to postpone the holiday for a week in 1705. It was so legendary; Rose Mill Powers actually wrote a poem about it in a July 1908 issue of Good Housekeeping.

Question: What professional football team has played almost every Thanksgiving since 1934?

Answer: The Detroit Lions

George A. Richards, a former owner, purchased the Portsmouth Ohio Spartans in 1934 and moved them to Detroit. Rebranded as the Detroit Lions, George decided to host a Thanksgiving Day game against the world-champion Chicago Bears in hopes of attracting fans. The team has always played on Thanksgiving except between 1939-1944 due to

World War II. The Dallas Cowboys also joined in on the Turkey Day tradition in 1966 and have played every Thanksgiving except in 1975 and 1977.

Question: What city is home to the oldest Thanksgiving parade?

Answer: Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Gimbel Brothers Department Store parade in 1920 had only 50 people, 15 cars and a fireman dressed as Santa Claus. The parade ended with Santa on his sleigh, signifying the arrival of the holiday season. Today, it’s much bigger and called the 6abc Dunkin’ Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade instead. It was the inspiration behind the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Day Parade which started in 1924.

Question: What did President Calvin Coolidge famously receive as a Thanksgiving gift?

Answer: A live raccoon

In November 1926, Vinnie Joyce of Nitta Yuma, Mississippi, sent the 30th President of the United States a live raccoon to be served as Thanksgiving dinner. However, the President became so smitten with the furry animal that he pardoned it and adopted it as a pet. He named it Rebecca.

Question: What's the only area in Australia to celebrate Thanksgiving?

Answer: Norfolk Island

The tradition started when American whaling ships would make frequent stops on the island during the late 1800s. The tiny territory, home to fewer than 2,000 inhabitants, typically celebrates the American holiday with a meal that combines classic Thanksgiving foods like pumpkin pie and cornbread blended with Norfolk Island cuisine. Many also celebrate by attending church services.

Question: How long was the first Thanksgiving?

Answer: Three days

Hunker down for a bit of the rich history of Thanksgiving. Today, Thanksgiving takes place over one decadent day — maybe two if you count Black Friday history. But the original Pilgrims really went all out. In November 1621, the settlers' first corn harvest proved so successful, Governor William Bradford reportedly invited the Plymouth colonists' Native American allies to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Members of the Wampanoag tribe came bearing food to share. They had so much bounty, the revelers decided to extend the affair.

Question: What food did the colonists and Native Americans not have at the first Thanksgiving?

Answer: Turkey

While most of us enjoy turkey as the centerpiece of our table, no one can say for sure whether it was even on the menu back in 1621. However, the original guests did indulge in other foods like lobster, seal and swan. The Wampanoag also reportedly brought five deer to the celebration. If you also enjoy venison at your table, consider yourselves perfectly aligned

with a longstanding tradition.

Question: What area of Massachusetts still looks just like it did in the 17th century?

Answer: Plymouth, Massachusetts

If you want to see what Thanksgiving was really like back in the 1600s, the historic attraction Plymouth (or Plimoth) Plantation stays true to its historic roots. You can even celebrate Thanksgiving at the site, which is modeled after a colonist's home and a Wampanoag site. Guests and members can order advance tickets (which include two-day admission) to attend a Thanksgiving dinner. The tablegroaning feast features authentic courses like a corn pudding and fish fricassee, tales of colonial life and old-timey songs.

Question: What president refused to declare Thanksgiving a holiday?

Answer: Thomas Jefferson

Presidents originally had to declare Thanksgiving a holiday every year, up until Lincoln made it a national holiday during his tenure. However, Jefferson refused to recognize the event, because he believed so firmly in the separation of church and state. Since Thanksgiving involved prayer and reflection, he thought designating it a national holiday would violate the First Amendment. He also thought it was better suited as a state holiday, not a federal one.

Question: What do Thanksgiving and the song "Mary Had a Little Lamb" have in common?

Answer: They were both created by the same woman — sort of.

Writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale convinced President Abraham Lincoln to officially declare Thanksgiving a national holiday after three decades of persistent lobbying. The author also founded the American Ladies Magazine, which promoted women's issues long before suffrage. She wrote countless articles and letters, advocating for Thanksgiving to help unify the Northern and Southern states amid gathering divisions. Hale kept at it, even after the Civil War broke out, and Lincoln wrote the proclamation just a week after her last letter in 1863, earning her the name the Mother of Thanksgiving.

Question: What wasn't part of the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: Balloons

If you can't imagine the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade without giant floats featuring your favorite characters, you'd barely recognize the first parade in the early 1920s. It did have puppets riding the iconic floats, as well as singers and celebrities and of course, Santa Claus. That said, when the Thanksgiving parade made its big debut in 1924, it did have something that might be even crazier than balloons: animals from the Central Park Zoo.

HAPPY THANKGIVING FROM THE ENTIRE TEAM AT EDMOND LIFE & LEISURE!

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

“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.

Ray Hibbard

(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.)

Nov. 7

Christopher Clay Roach, 48 of Jenks, Okla. Misdemeanor warrant, possess firearm after conviction of a felony, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Samara L. Ramos, 43 of Yukon. Speeding (18-20 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jeremy Lenear McMullen, 38 of Edmond. Sexual battery.

Zopon Edwin Williams, 34 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Nov. 8

Archie Dean Hill Jr., 50 of Oklahoma City. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Krystina Michellle Tapley, 35 of Edmond. Obstruction of a police officer, possess CDS, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property and burglary/theft from a motor vehicle.

Nathan Matthew Barnhill, 39 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Chadd Antonio Gaines, 29 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Nov. 9

Jefferson Oliver Avery, 28 of Shreveport, La.. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of schedule one chemical or controlled substance and possess CDS.

Zackery Montrell Lynn, 30 of Shreveport, La. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, possess CDS and public intoxication.

Nicolle Jean Davis, 31 of Edmond. Malicious injury or destruction of property, arson in the first degree and burglary in the first degree.

Ruby Florez, 36 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Travis Don Horton, 28 homeless. Trespassing.

Torin Ashlee Brown, 22 of Choctaw. Two misdemeanor warrants.

Ryan Joel Lawrence III, 35 homeless. Malicious injury or destruction of property and public intoxication.

Nov. 10

Curtis Blake Collins, 54 homeless. Public intoxication.

Randall Coy Gifford, 52 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Nov. 11

Jessie Coleman Wiley, 37 of Edmond. Resisting arrest and (possession of a stolen vehicle) unauthorized use of vehicle or implement of husbandry.

Lillian Grace Morris, 19 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Nov. 12

Lawana Sue Laseur, 70 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana, public intoxication and two counts of failure to appear.

Nov. 13

Michael Wayne Martin, 18 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Caleb Andrew Noble, 18 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Jared Michael Crowe, 31 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Andrew Christopher Tretiak, 34 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Nathan Lee Griffin, 28 of Guthrie. Misdemeanor warrant and two counts of failure to appear.

Weekend calendar of events, Nov. 24-27

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Civic Center Music presents: Blue’s Clues & You

---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Downtown in December ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- The Polar Express ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights

---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

---- Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors ---- Nerf Battles

---- PAMBE GHANA’s Global Market

---- Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll

---- Indoor Winter Market

---- Rising Stars Calf Roping ---- Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner

---- Edmond Turkey Trot

---- The Pan American Nutcracker Suite

---- Small Business Saturday ---- Signature Tour

---- NRHA Futurity & Adequan North American Affiliate Championship

---- Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol”

---- Red Earth Treefest

---- Tellers Thanksgiving Feast

---- Holiday Pop-Up Shops

---- Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol

---- Union Station Illumination

---- Winter Glow

---- The Great Christmas Tree Lighting

---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Home Alone in Concert

---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: Blue’s Clues & You

---- A Territorial Christmas Celebration

---- Guided Walking Tour

---- Oklahoma Gun Show

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; Free; edmondfinearts.com

Edmond Ice Rink

Location: Mitch Park

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 5 – Sun, Jan 15, 2023; hours vary; edmondicerink.com

Downtown in December

Location: Downtown OKC

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 3 – Jan 27, 2023; downtownindecember.com

Devon Ice Rink

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11 – Sun, Jan 29, 2023; downtownindecember.com

The Polar Express

Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 – Tue, Dec 27; okcthepolarexpressride.com

OKC Zoo Safari Lights

Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 – Sun, Jan 1, 2023; okczoo.org

Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31, 2023; edmondhistory.org

Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Extra Info: Sun, May 1 – Sat, Dec 1; edmondhistory.org

Nerf Battles

Location: The Hive Basketball Complex

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 2---- Sat, Dec 17; 6 – 8 p.m.; $13/hr or $20/2 hr; arena51fun.com

PAMBE GHANA’S Global Market

Location: Northpark Mall

Extra Info: through Sat, Dec 24; 10 a.m. -6 p.m. daily; pambeghana.org

Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: From, Nov 21 – Sun, Jan 1, 2023; 5 –10 p.m.; Free; edmondlights.com

Indoor Winter Market

Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 18, 2023; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov

Rising Stars Calf Roping

Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Thu, Nov 24 – Sun, Nov 27; lazye.com

Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO Nigh Center Extra Info: Thu, Nov 24; Free; 11 a.m. ---- 1 p.m.; facebook.com

Edmond Turkey Trot

Location: Downtown Community Center Extra Info: Thu, Nov 24; $0 to $26; 8 a.m.; runsignup.com

The Pan American Nutcracker Suite

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Fri, Nov 25 – Sat, Nov 26; $30; 8 p.m.; cfad.vbotickets.com

Small Business Saturday Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26; downtownedmondok.com

Signature Tour

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26 & Sun, Nov 27; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

NRHA Futurity & Adequan North American Affiliate Championship Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 3; nrhafuturity.com

OKC Philharmonic presents: Home Alone in Concert Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26: 8 p.m.; okcciviccenter.com

Location: Hudiburg Chevrolet Center, in Midwest City Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26: 2 p.m.; okcciviccenter.com

Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” Location: Harn Homestead

Extra Info: Wed, Nov 16 – Fri, Dec 23; lyrictheatreokc.com

Red Earth Treefest

Location: BancFirst Tower

Extra Info: Mon, Nov 21 – Fri, Dec 30; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; redearth.org

Tellers Thanksgiving Feast

Location: 120 N Robinson Ave

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 24; 12 – 9:30 p.m.; tellersokc.com

Holiday Pop-Up Shops

Location: 399 NW 10th St, OKC, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 25 – Sun, Dec 18; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; okcpopups.com

Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol

Location: 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 25 – Fri, Dec 23; thepollard.org

Union Station Illumination

Location: Scissortail Park

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 25 – Sun, Jan 1,2023; 6 – 10 p.m.; scissortailpark.org

Winter Glow

Location: Riversport OKC

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 25 – Fri, Dec 30; riversportokc.org

The Great Christmas Tree Lighting

Location: The Great Hall at First National Center, in Oklahoma City

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 25; 4 – 6 p.m.; facebook.com

A Territorial Christmas Celebration

Location: Historic District Downtown, Guthrie, Ok

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26 – Sat, Dec 10; guthriesterritorialchristmas.com

Guided Walking Tour

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26; 10 – 11 a.m.; myriadgardens.org

Oklahoma Gun Show

Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 26 ---- Sun, Nov 27; Sat: 9 a.m. ---- 5 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; oklahomagunshows.com

If you have an event for the Weekend Calendar of Events, please e-mail to infante318@cox.net

Filing for EPS & council seats

Individuals interested in running as a candidate for Seat No. 3 on the Edmond Public Schools Board of Education may file Dec. 7-9, 2022 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Oklahoma County Election Board located at 4201 N. Lincoln Boulevard.

The primary election, if more than two people file for election, will be held on Feb. 7, 2023. If no more than two people file for election, the general election will be held on April 4, 2023.

Edmond’s school board has five members, one from each election district. One board member’s term expires each year. The current school board members are Lee Ann Kuhlman, Seat No. 1; Courtney Hobgood, Seat No. 2; Jamie Underwood, Seat No. 3; Cynthia Benson, Seat No. 4; and Marcus Jones, Seat No. 5. Underwood’s five-year term for Seat No. 3 is expiring. She is seeking re-election. Boundary lines for District No.3 can be found by going to edmondschools.net.

To be eligible to be a member of the Board of Education a candidate must live in the district, be a registered voter in the district, have a high school diploma or equivalency, and not have any felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions involving embezzlement. In addition, a candidate may not be employed by the district or have immedi-

ate family members employed by the district.

City Filings also

The filing period for individuals interested in running for one of three positions on Edmond City Council is Dec. 5-7. Seats up for election are Mayor, Ward 1 and Ward 2.

Filing is done in person at the Oklahoma County Election board offices, 4201 North Lincoln Boulevard in Oklahoma City, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and questions regarding the process can be directed to 405-713-1515.

To be eligible for office in Edmond, the City Charter requires the following criteria be met:

Legal citizen of the United States.

A minimum of 25 years of age.

A freeholder (landowner) and resident of at least one year prior to selection to serve.

A qualified voter of the City of Edmond and of the Ward in which the candidate is running, except for the Mayor seat, which is an at-large position representing the entire city.

Elections for Edmond City Council are non-partisan. For seats in which more than two candidates file, a primary election will take place Tuesday, Feb. 14. The general election will be held Tuesday, April 4.

Senior education majors can meet with officials of the Edmond Schools

Soon-to-be college graduates who plan to enter the field of education should make plans now to attend Edmond Public Schools’ Graduating Teachers’ Recruitment Reception. The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29 at the district’s Administrative Center, 1001 W. Danforth.

The event will give college seniors who expect to graduate with education or special education degrees in the fall of 2022 or spring of 2023 an opportunity to meet school principals and learn more about the competitive pay and benefits as well as enhanced mentoring

opportunities offered by the district. The district is looking to hire several teachers both to fill current openings and to replace educators who plan to retire at the end of the current school year.

Area merchants have provided generous door prizes for the event and there will be food and beverages. The event is free but participants are encouraged to register by clicking on the following link and filling out the form.

For more information about the reception, please contact claire.leasau@edmondschools.net.

Gobble up guilty-free, greedy cuts — It’s turkey time

By Carol Smaglinski

For many years, Thanksgiving turkeys have been cooked by grannies and moms, who rose at the crack of dawn to present their delicious specialties in time for dinner along with making precious memories.

The classic butter-drenched moist turkey was served with traditional accompaniments such as cranberry sauce, cornbread stuffing, heavenly mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes and biscuits. Then the spotlight would shine on alluring apple or pumpkin pies for the comforting family feast, which gave us all a chance to say, “Thanks,Mom,” between bites. If you are not going to follow the ways of the Pilgrims who cooked their wild turkeys over a blazing fire while slurping hot cider, try another way, rather than roasting. The recipe below using turkey parts suggests frying, not on an outside fryer, but in a heavy-bottomed skillet in the kitchen. Dust off your largest skillet as the “tom” (male) and the “hen” (female) can be huge.

Turkeys were not alway so big-breasted. But because most Americans prefer the white meat to dark, things had to change. I discovered that because turkeys have been bred for the preferred white meat, growers have had to use artificial insemination because the turkey couple could not get close enough to each other to mate.

These days, turkeys are mostly the Holland White variety and can weigh up to 70 lbs. While turkey is now being eaten year-round and not only on Thanksgiving, shoppers are able to purchase fryer-roasters that tip the scales between three to eight pounds.

Nowadays, the feather plucking and hard work is done for us and the most imperative thing about cooking a turkey is using an instant-read thermometer to be sure when the

turkey is done so your guests will not think they are eating a rubbery old boot.

Take the big bird out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before frying, so its temperature will adjust and it will be evenly cooked through the whole part and just not the outside.

Note that dark meat takes longer than white meat to cook. So when frying, put the legs in first and then add the breasts. .

Fried Cut-Up Turkey

Makes about 6 to 8 servings ½ cup flour (all-purpose) 2 teaspoons paprika (or your own favorite spices and herbs - you’re in charge!)

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Parts from one turkey, a fryer-roaster 3-6 lbs., thawed and ready to cook

Mix the flour with the seasonings in a bowl. Rub onto turkey skin.

Place on a rack and allow the coating to dry.

Heat a large skillet and add fat or oil, about ½ inch deep. Heat until a drop of water sprinkled on the oil sizzles.

Add pieces, skin side down and brown pieces a few at a time, keeping them separated. Allow them to brown slowly. Try not to turn them too much, by browning one side at a time, using tongs. The browning part should take 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove the browned pieces and cook the others. Or, use two large skillets and do it all at once.

When browned, reduce the heat, and carefully place all the pieces into the skillet. Cover and add a bit of water if the skillet is dry. Cook until the turkey is tender and the thermometer reaches 170 degrees, about one hour.

Uncover for the last 10 minutes and let the pieces crisp. Give thanks! You're done.

Okla. Humane Society hires Eby as new president & CEO

The Oklahoma Humane Society’s Board of Directors has announced the hire of Mark Eby as OK Humane’s new President & CEO. Eby brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience, as well as extensive animal welfare knowledge to his new role, officially beginning Monday, December 5.

Upon the departure of OK Humane’s previous President & CEO, Dana McCrory, in September, OK Humane’s Board of Directors created a special task force to re-hire the position with a search that extended nationwide. “We are thrilled to have found a candidate with both nonprofit and animal rescue experience right here in Oklahoma”, said Matt Chesnut, OK Humane’s Chairman of the Board. “Our search committee was extremely impressed with Mark Eby, and I know he will lead OK Humane with compassion and dedication, hallmarks of OK Humane’s ethos. Our board has every

confidence that OK Humane will continue to thrive and grow under Mark’s guidance.”

Eby’s career boasts many leadership roles, most recently as CEO of the Oklahoma City Police Athletic League for the past two years. Prior to that, he was the CEO of the Kansas Humane Society for over eight years, and spent seven years with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Eby is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, and is married with two children and two rescue dogs.

"I'm so excited to return to helping animals, and I believe OK Humane is poised to make an even bigger difference in our city and state”, said Eby. “We are prepared to find even more homes for animals, and expand our services to help everyone in our community. I know our staff and board are ready to take us to the next level and be a model for other humane organizations to follow."

Mark Eby

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

A few more voting observations: Part two

By Steve Gust

a

Just

few more thoughts about our past election.

Last Thursday or Friday, I was checking on some of these congressional races, which hadn’t been called. And there were STILL votes out there, which hadn’t been counted.

In California, one of the races had 25 percent of the votes not counted yet. Nine days after an election and a quarter of the vote hadn’t been counted!

I wonder what some of the voting officials are thinking. “Yep, we got a bunch more of them ballots back there we haven’t counted yet, but we’ll be getting around to it before too long. Don’t you worry about that.”

I heard one term last week that I haven’t heard a lot before. It is called “ballot curing.” It’s a cousin to that other 21st century liberal election

term, “ballot harvesting.” With ballot curing. people are called who didn’t fill out their mail-in ballot correctly. A signature or something is missing.

When I think of “ballot curing,” I think of something else. I imagine a government official calling me.

“Mister Gust. This is the county election board and we need you to come down and cure your ballot.”

ME: “What’s wrong with it?”

“Well for one thing you didn’t vote for the right people, Steve. Just come on down or better yet give us permission right now and we’ll fix it right up for ya.”

It’s ridiculous how the nation goes about voting these days.

And if you question any of it you’re an “election denier.” If you’re an election denier, who owns a business, the cancel culture can ruin you and your business.

What the liberals forget is that most of them were election deniers in 2000, 2004 and 2016 when GOP candidates won. If fact Hillary still be-

lieves Donald Trump didn’t win honestly.

There is a solution.

You need to have an election with a paper trail for the ballots and end the counting on election day. There should be no more counting mail-ins that are postmarked by election day. That’s ridiculous.

And don’t have drop boxes, ballot harvesting or ballot curing. Make those a crime and then have the Department of Justice actually prosecute the people who break the law. That’s the way it used to be when the country was sane.

——

One clarification. Last week, I said 70 percent of Republicans vote a straight party ticket. What I should have said, is of all the straight party voting, 70 percent is done by Republicans.

In other words, of all the Republicans who voted earlier this month, there were not 70 percent of them voting straight party.

I hope I made that clear as mud. —-

Are they going to have a birthday party next month for Hunter Biden’s laptop. The FBI has had it for three years, next month. The FBI needs to either charge Hunter or clear his name. Our federal government has some serious issues.

——

And by the way, in case you don’t think the “cancel culture” is real, consider the case of John Gibson.

He was the former CEO of a video game company called Tripwire Interactive.

Why was he canceled?

Mister Gibson sent out a tweet in 2021 showing his support for a Texas pro-life law.

For expressing his opinion, he was canceled by people in his own company.

Is this where we’re at now? If you’re opinion doesn’t adhere to the party line then it’s OK to ruin your livelihood?

Doesn’t seem right to me.

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

House members take oath

Ninety-four members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives took their oaths of office Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the House Chamber.

The oath was administered by the Honorable Richard Darby, Chief Justice of the Oklahoma Supreme Court. The remaining seven members will take their oaths of office on a later date.

The House will consist of 81 Republicans and 20 Democrats. There are 16 new members and 85 returning members.

The full House will officially convene for an organizational day on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, and the First Session of the 59th Legislature reconvenes on Monday, Feb. 6.

Lankford against woke military training

While Russian aggression, Chinese belligerence, and other threats jeopardize international stability, the Biden Administration devotes valuable taxpayer funding and resources to woke diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the US Department of Defense (DoD). As part of this effort, the administration has created a Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) position within the DoD.

Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the Restoring Military Focus Act to eliminate the position of CDO and prohibit federal funds from being used to establish any similar office.

Lankford and Rubio were joined by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Mike

Crapo (R-ID).

“The men and women serving our nation in the military do not need to be focused on ‘woke’ training practices. Their job is to be ready for the call to protect our nation—not to be up to speed on the latest ‘woke’ terminology. We need to focus on national security,” said Lankford.

“Our military should be focused on protecting our national security, not on promoting woke nonsense. The current direction we are heading in is dangerous. If we don’t reverse course, we risk jeopardizing our military strength, national interests, and security,” said Rubio.

“Americans expect the Department of Defense to focus on maintaining our military as a combat-ready force capable of defeating and killing our enemies. Instead the Biden administration has transformed the Pentagon into a laboratory for woke policies. The result is breathtakingly irresponsible and reckless,” said Cruz.

“The US military should be focused on confronting the New Axis of Evil — not telling our troops they are racist, teaching CRT or pushing gender pronouns.

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Our brave warriors should be evaluated solely on their merit,” said Blackburn.

“The Restoring Military Forces Act takes the right steps to protect our military from toxic, un-American ideologies and put the focus back on the number one priority: defending our nation’s security,” said Hawley.

“The Department of Defense having a ‘Chief Diversity Officer’ is unnecessary. Young Americans join the military to learn how to defend our country, not learn about radical ideologies. It’s no wonder our military is facing a recruiting crisis under the Biden Administration,” said Cotton.

“The spread of gender and race ideology at the Department of Defense is toxic and diminishes our fighting force. Our military is not a place for social experimentation. With the rise of severe military threats from China and Russia, any step forward in improving our national defense must include rooting out these corrosive ideas and improving quality of life for our troops,” said Wicker.

US Representative Chip Roy (R-TX) introduced the legislation in the US House of Representatives in July 2021.

State resources spent on campaign?

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, sent a letter last week requesting that the Oklahoma Ethics Commission investigate whether state resources were used to further a gubernatorial candidate's campaign during the 2022 election cycle.

Humphrey pointed to an investigation by the Washington Examiner which found that the Oklahoma State Dept. of Education's website included links to Superintendent Joy Hofmeister's social media pages promoting her campaign for governor.

The report, published Oct. 27, also states: "There are numerous instances in which the Oklahoma education department's Twitter account has both retweeted Hofmeister's campaign account and tagged her campaign, a review of posts found."

Oklahoma Ethics Commission Rule 2.4 says, "No person shall use or authorize the use of public funds, property or time to engage in activities designed to influence the results of an election for state office or a state question, except as permitted by law or these Rules."

Lankford

Steve Gust

Cordelia Steen Chapter, DAR of Edmond hands out awards

By Andrea Wallis Aven

On Saturday, N ov. 12, at the First Christian Church in Edmond, Cordelia Steen Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, presented three DAR awards to outstanding Oklahomans.

Former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb was presented with the DAR Medal of Honor, Christian music singer Sandi Patty was honored with the DAR Women in American History Award, and Edmond genealogist Gerri Pfieffer received the DAR Community Service Award.

The DAR Medal of Honor, presented to former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb by Chapter Regent and Americanism Committee Chair Tammy Ross, is the DAR’s most prestigious award. The criteria for the award include that the recipient must be an adult who is a U.S. citizen by birth, and has demonstrated extraordinary qualities of leadership, trustworthiness, service, and patriotism, and made a lasting impact on our American heritage through contributions to his or her community, state, or country.

Lamb, born in Enid and now an Edmond resident, earned his bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and his law degree from Oklahoma City University School of Law. In 1993 he was a staffer for Gov. Frank Keating, and in 1998 he left to join the United States Secret Service where his duties included work on the 9-11 Investigation, and protection assignments for U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.

Lamb then segued into the political arena, serving as a state senator from 2004-2011, and as lieutenant governor from 2011-2019. As lieutenant governor, his wide range of experiences provided opportunities to work with workers’ compensation legislation, school security, and international economic development. Lamb also worked with Oklahoma's Native American tribes as an ex officio advisor for the Native American Cultural and Educational Authority, and as a member of the Red Earth Advisory Board. Currently, Lamb is a business attorney with the McAfee & Taft law firm in Oklahoma City, and is a co-host of Oklahoma City’s KFOR-TV’s “Flash Point.”

After an introduction by DAR State American History Committee Chair Connie Tate, Cordelia Steen Chapter Regent and Chapter American History Committee Chair Tammy Ross presented the Women in American His-

tory Award to five-time Grammy Award winner and Oklahoma native Sandi Patty.

The DAR Women in American History Award honors those women who have made a difference in their communities in the fields of intellectual, educational, social, religious, political, scientific, or cultural achievements or innovation.

As one of the most-awarded female vocalists in contemporary Christian music history, Ms. Patty’s awards include five Grammys, and 40 Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association. She has released over 30 albums, and in 2004 was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Patty honored those in attendance at the event by singing, “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the opening exercises, and later sang “How We Love.” Patty first came into the public eye in 1986 for her rendition of the national anthem at the rededication of the Statue of Liberty. Her performances of the song have been a part of numerous patriotic celebrations, including “A Capitol Fourth” with the National Symphony, the Dedication of Evergreen Chapel at Camp David, and ABC-TV’s “Fourth of July Special.” The New York Pops, the Boston Pops, the Houston Symphony, and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic are some of the symphonies with whom Ms. Patty has performed.

A published author, Patty has penned seven faith-based books including the bestseller, Broken on the Back Row, which received the 2006 Silver Angel Award from the Faith and Fellowship Book Festival. She is currently the Artist in Residence at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City.

After the presentation of the DAR Award, Cordelia Steen Chapter Registrar Jan Beattie presented Ms. Patty with her family tree, detailing her direct

lineage back to five patriots of the American Revolution.

The final award, the DAR Community Service Award, was presented to genealogist Geri Pfeiffer of Edmond by Cordelia Steen Chapter Vice Regent and Community Service Awards Committee Chair Mary Poulain. The award recognizes an individual or organization who has contributed to the community in an outstanding manner. The contribution can be through voluntary heroic, civic, or benevolent service, or by organizing or participating in community activities.

In 2020, Ms. Pfeiffer set out to ensure that the information of the more than 10,000 persons buried at Edmond’s Gracelawn Cemetery was entered into the well-known research site,

Find a Grave. The site provides valuable information to genealogists and researchers which has dates and locations of birth and death, obituaries, and more. When Pfeiffer began her project only 6,400 of the burials at Gracelawn had Find a Grave profile. At the time of the DAR award, that count was 10,380. Once the entries at Gracelawn are completed, Pfeiffer plans to work on the 40,000 burials at Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City.

The chapter also recognized Sharon Ogden, a junior history major at the University of Central Oklahoma as the second recipient of the Cordelia Steen Memorial Scholarship. The $2,000 annual award, sponsored by the Steen’s descendants and the DAR chapter, includes in its criteria that applicants must have a major or minor in history, and are to write an essay on preserving American history.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a volunteer women’s organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. For more information go to the Cordelia Steen Chapter website at: https://cordeliasteennsdar.weebly.com/.

PHOTO/ANDREA AVEN

From left are State American History Chair Connie Tate, Sandi Patty, and Regent Tammy Ross.

PHOTO/ERIECH TAPIA

Todd Lamb and Regent Tammy Ross.

PHOTO/ERIECH TAPIA Vice Regent and Community Service Awards Committee Chair Mary Poulain, Geri Pfeiffer, State Community Service Awards Committee Chair Gayle Demeyer.

State invests in park upgrades for bathrooms

The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department saved taxpayers $30 million as the agency completed a multi-year process of upgrading the facilities at Oklahoma State Parks. The additions have also improved park visitors’ experience and align with the agency’s goal of consistent improvement at all Oklahoma State Park facilities.

The upgrades netted a 64.3% reduction in cost per unit compared to the previous restroom replacement units. In comparison to previously used models, the prefabricated option the agency selected generated cost savings of approximately $225,000 per unit.

“Since we began the State Park renovation projects, we’ve seen a steady increase in park attendance and sales tax revenue. Last year alone, visitors to Oklahoma State Parks spent $354.2 million in the communities surrounding the parks,” said Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, who also serves as Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage. “I look forward to welcoming visitors to our newly renovated bathroom facilities, now upgraded with heat, air, and elevated privacy. These upgrades will not only improve the parks but also the communities they are in.”

The facilities receiving upgrades were decaying, multi-stall bathrooms without climate control.

The new single-stall bathrooms are equipped with climate control settings ensuring year-round temperature consistency. Epoxy coating on the floors makes the facilities easier to clean and maintain.

"It's exciting to walk into an accomplishment like this as our state parks are consistently improving," said OTRD Executive Director Shelley Zumwalt. “The future savings the agency will see from this project will help ensure this trend of improvement continues.”

The project included 117 replacements and renovations in 21 state parks and 77 campgrounds.

To book a night at an Oklahoma State Park or to learn more, visit TravelOK.com/Parks.

The big crane was brought in to move new restrooms into place at an Oklahoma State Park. Officials say they were able to accomplish the task with a savings for taxpayers.

2022 Distinguished UCO Alumni announced

The University of Central Oklahoma Alumni Association recently celebrated the achievements of six recipients for its Distinguished Alumni Award during the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Awards Banquet.

The six recipients include Michael Chandler, D.D.S., Maria Krey Gibson, Lauren Luckowski, David Mitchell, Ph.D., Helen Pitts and Steven Williams.

Chandler graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in biology in 1996, and owns a private dental practice, Edmond Dental Center, which has been in business for more than 18 years. He has completed hundreds of hours of continuing dental education to stay current with the changing pace of modern dentistry.Chandler established the Louise Chandler Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Mathematics and Science at Central to give back to the community and honor his late grandmother.

Gibson was recognized with the Emerging Leader Distinguished Alumni Award. She is currently the dance director at Putnam City High School, where she established a new dance program. Gibson was previously an educator in Oklahoma City Public Schools, where she created the first dance program at Frederick Douglass MidHigh School. She was also named Oklahoma City Public Schools Site Teacher of the Year in 2018-19.

Gibson earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance education from Central in 2011, as well as a Master of Education in secondary education in 2018.

Luckowski is a senior project manager and senior interior designer at FSB Architects + Engineers. She also serves as the operations manager for a project based in Mobile, Alabama. Her portfolio includes the Will Rogers World Airport Terminal Expansion, the Mobile Airport Authority New Passenger Terminal, as well as projects located in Texas and Florida.

Luckowski earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior design with a minor in art history from Central in 2009.

Mitchell has launched businesses that range from the technology sector to economic housing development. Additionally, he has served as an instructor within the psychology department at Central for 18 years and continues to work with companies of all sizes to provide leadership development expertise.

Mitchell earned a Master of Education in counseling psychology from Central in 1975.

Pitts is the head of customer advocacy for a global cybersecurity technology company. She was previously the head of global customer advocacy for human capital management at Oracle Corporation. Before her current role, Pitts served as the

Pitts earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism –public relations from Central in 1987.

Williams earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Central in 1996 and is currently the CEO of PepsiCo Foods North America. In this role, he leads a $20 billion snack and convenience foods business that includes Frito-Lay and Quaker Foods. A 25-year PepsiCo veteran, he has served as senior vice president and chief commercial officer for Frito-Lay’s U.S. organization, overseeing all selling and commercial activities for national field sales, customer teams and headquarter commercialization.

A committee selected the Distinguished Alumni Award recipients based on peer recommendations and notable accomplishments in one of three categories: professional impact, community service and university service. The UCO Alumni Association has given the awards annually since 1952, except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We look forward to honoring a new slate of distinguished alumni every year,” said Art Cotton, vice president of the Office for Advancement at Central.

he University of Central Oklahoma Alumni Association recently celebrated the achievements of six recipients for its Distinguished Alumni Award during the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Awards Banquet. Pictured, left to right, Helen Pitts; Maria Krey Gibson; Steven Williams; Lauren Luckowski; Michael Chandler, D.D.S.; and, David Mitchell, Ph.D., at the banquet.

head of public relations at Valero Energy. Pitts currently serves on the UCO Strategic Communications Advisory Board to provide industry insight to current Central students.

By George Gust

With Thanksgiving here and the Holiday season officially begun we’re finally exiting a fallow period of film offerings and turning the corner into prestige awards movies and fun/sappy family films. While having a prolific awards presence in the animated category, the latest Disney+ original movie “Disenchanted” falls squarely in the fun/sappy family film category.

“Disenchanted” is this year’s later follow up to 2007 Disney meta commentary film “Enchanted” and sees the main cast returning to the Disney + exclusive. Fifteen years after her happily ever after, Giselle (Amy Adams) questions her happiness, inadvertently turning the lives of those in the real world and Andalasia upside down in the process.

When “Enchanted” was released it was a transitional time for Disney movies, especially the princess films they’d had massive success in for decades upon decades.

Coming long after the 1990’s boom of smash success films like “Beauty & The Beast” and “Aladdin” but before the next boom of films like “Tangled” and “Frozen” which all but reset the animated princess

film genre. Back then it was cute and clever to send up the tropes of the classic princess tale and bring those oft criticized elements to the ‘real’ world. Now as time has gone on and we’ve been in the biggest content boom of Disney’s history, the constant metatextual commentary and self-referential humor has lost its steam.

That is not to say that “Disenchanted” is a cash grab name recognition sequel. On the contrary, “Disenchanted” has more production value and clear effort from the film’s stars than you would expect from

a direct to streaming sequel. The cast all around is charming and engaging, with the inclusion of more screentime for the voice of Elsa herself, Idina Menzel, as she has an undeniable screen presence and gained considerable name recognition since 2007. Also adding to the proceedings is the ever brilliant comedic stylings of Maya Rudolph in an antagonistic role, who fits seamlessly into this enchanted world.

Overall, “Disenchanted” is a fun yet expectably expendable Disney sequel that is an easy watch for families over the holiday break. “Disenchanted” brings back the 2D animation to great effect throughout the film, and as someone who grew up with that style of filmmaking, it strikes the right nostalgia chords, but doesn’t overstay its welcome.

“Disenchanted” is rated PG for mild peril and language. Now streaming on Disney+

3.3 out of 5 stars.

To reach George Gust for a comment on this review, please send an e-mail to him at this address gust.george@gmail.com

Paseo event on Dec. 2

The Paseo Arts Association is excited to announce the next three exhibitions for December’s First Friday Gallery Walk. First Friday is the monthly event where patrons come to enjoy an evening of special themed exhibits, guest artists and live entertainment, all within walking distance.

Ten restaurants and other merchants round out the Paseo’s distinctive atmosphere. These exhibitions will open with a reception on Dec. 2 and will run until December 26.

Gallery I will feature the works of Lauren Midgley in a show entitled, “Dreamscapes.” Midgley is a fine art photographer specializing in surrealist and conceptual self-portraiture. Midgley self-taught herself photography while raising a family. Her brilliant use of vintage techniques and modern technology allows emotional exploration through bizarre imagery. “Dreamscapes” is a collection of other-worldly landscapes created through photo manipulation. Midgley states these pieces are derived from the dream worlds of artists and are intended to challenge the viewer’s sense of imagination and reality.

Amy Adams returns to the magical world of Disney in

action send up of Disney princess movies.

Looking at the power of ‘no’

By Amanda Beck Edmond Family Counseling

Relationships with others can come with so many wonderful benefits but for some, there can also be challenges.

One area I see time and time again with people is an unfamiliar relationship with boundaries. Boundaries are the limits or rules we set for ourselves within relationships. A person with healthy boundaries would be able to be assertive when necessary and say “no” to others when they want to, but these people are also able to engage in close connection and intimacy. They also tend to value their own opinions and do not compromise values.

To understand how to set boundaries for yourself though it’s important to recognize the different types of boundaries. Individuals with rigid boundaries may have few close relationships, avoid intimacy, may be protective of personal information, and might keep others at a distance. For others, boundaries may be more porous. Individuals with porous boundaries tend to overshare, are quick to adopt others’ problems and opinions, avoid conflict by giving in to others, and often have difficulty saying “no.”

Most people are a mix of different boundary styles, and it can often depend on setting. A person may be more porous with spouse relationships and more rigid at work. It would also be reasonable to consider setting in terms of what would be appropriate to share. For example, you may not share the same information with your best friend as you would with your boss. Similarly, there can be cultural differences that may play a role in de-

termining what is and is not appropriate to discuss in a public setting.

Now that you can identify different types of boundaries it’s important to recognize which areas of your own life you may have healthy, porous, or rigid boundaries. From there you can develop boundaries that feel the most comfortable for you. There are some great tips for healthy boundary setting including knowing your own limits and values and listening to your emotions.

If you are involved in a situation, it’s important to know what is or is not acceptable for you. This is often determined by values. If a person knows they value family it would be easier to set a limit on how late you will stay at work and away from family. Similarly, acknowledging your emotions can help determine healthy and appropriate boundaries by being able to identify feelings like resentment or discomfort.

If a person values family and feels resentment toward staying late, they may struggle more with both work and home life. Another tip to consider is practicing assertiveness. Assertiveness is advocating for your own wants, needs, and values while being honest and respectful of others. Don’t be shy when it’s time to set a boundary. Often times people feel as though being assertive by telling

Diabetes awareness month

American Diabetes Month is an annual event sponsored by the American Diabetes Association. This year’s theme – “Today’s Diabetes Hits Different” – aims to raise public awareness about risk factors and how the disease’s complications have changed due to the pandemic.

“The risk of severe symptoms or a serious complication from COVID is higher for diabetic patients,” explains Jeff Cruzan, M.D., the president of INTEGRIS Health Medical Group. “When their diabetes is in good control, the risk of a serious complication is lowered.”

Diabetes is the word used to describe the three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes (occurs during pregnancy). This chronic disease is all about how our body makes and/or uses insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Without insulin, the body’s cells would be starved, causing dehydration and the destruction of body tis-

sue.

In the United States, approximately one in ten Americans have diabetes. Of those, 95 percent have type 2 diabetes. About 12 percent of adults in Oklahoma have diagnosed diabetes; an additional 93,000 have diabetes but don’t know it yet, greatly increasing their health risk. Another 35 percent of Oklahoma adults have prediabetes, with blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.

At INTEGRIS Health, we fully support American Diabetes Awareness Month and encourage everyone to know their risk factors. Non-modifiable risk factors such as family history, race or ethnic background, age and gestational diabetes cannot be changed. Modifiable risk factors, however, can be managed. These include obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, stress and poor diet.

someone “no” is rude. This is not always the case and although things like tone, attitude, and body language can affect how a “no” is delivered, it is not an inherently bad answer in all situations. If “no” always feels uncomfortable, something to consider is making a compromise that still holds true to your values. If the answer is no, consider alternatives that might meet a similar goal.

This can often help others to swallow a “no” a bit easier. A simple example might look like a group of friends trying to decide on what to eat. If a friend suggests pizza and you had that for lunch it would be appropriate to say “no”, but it’s also appropriate to offer another restaurant in its place. The last tip is to consider

the long-term gain that comes from boundaries. Consider how a healthy boundary might benefit a person down the road.

Consider a previous example where a person values their family so does not want to work late. This may limit some places as potential job options, but the long-term consequence of not holding that boundary may negatively impact a person’s life and mental health. Ultimately, boundaries can hold a helpful role in your life, along with a simple “no”, and with a little trial and error you may find just the right balance for you.

Amanda Beck M.A. LPC

Edmond Family Counseling Staff Therapist

Bank Celebrates Re-location and Grand Opening in Edmond

Great Plains

Great Plains Bank recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their re-location and re-grand opening at 1489 E. 15th Street STE 172. Great Plains Bank is excited to announce the re-location and grand opening of their new Edmond location. With the re-location, the branch is fully operational including cash services. Hours of operation have changed to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more about Great Plains Bank, visit www.gpbankok.com

Wohl named Edmond Market president for Regent Bank

The Edmond branch offers full-service banking and products for both personal and business customers, including: digital banking, deposits, commercial and residential lending, locally decided loans, insurance, and treasury services. Regent also offers private healthcare banking, and cannabis banking, to name a few.

“The Edmond community has seen amazing growth over the years and we plan on growing right with it,” Wohl said. “I’m looking forward to bringing a business-focused bank to our quickly growing Edmond community, and developing long-lasting friendships with our customers.”

“I am so excited to welcome Kenneth into the Regent Bank family,” Oklahoma City Metro Market President Darin Kent said. “His passion for Edmond, work ethic and desire to help his clients achieve their dreams makes him the perfect person to lead this market for us. I am extremely excited to partner with him to provide unparalleled service to the businesses and families in our community.”

Wohl has worked in residential lending since 2005. For the past nine years, Wohl has worked for RCB as VP/Sales Manager for Oklahoma and Kansas, and he has been one of the top volume producing loan officers in Oklahoma during this time.

Wohl has been married to his wife Lori for 17 years, and they have one son. Wohl has been a City of Edmond Planning Commissioner for the past 10 years, Central Edmond Urban Board member and past vice-chairman, AMBUCS member, Edmond Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Founding member of the Edmond Young Professionals and a member of Anna's House Board of Directors.

Regent Bank was founded in 1898 in Nowata, OK, and was acquired by Regent Capital Corporation 14 years ago. The bank has grown to seven locations in Oklahoma and Missouri including Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Broken Arrow, Edmond, Bartlesville and Nowata as well as Springfield, MO. It also has mortgage and insurance divisions.

Okla. Railway Museum adds spice to holidays

By Alexx Reger Business Editor

The holidays are here and you may be looking for some fun, festive, family time to celebrate.

Oklahoma Railway Museum has all of the holiday cheer and is just a good time for the whole family.

“Oklahoma Railway Museum is a non-profit and was founded by a group of railroad enthusiasts with interests in modeling, photography, historic preservation, and riding trains,” says Museum Administrator Anne Murray Chilton. “They built the museum to be an outlet for sharing their hobby with the public. It also is a central repository and display space for the many artifacts and equipment the group was collecting.”

The museum has now been open for 22 years. They offer train rides the first and third Saturdays of the month from April though August as well as special trains for Easter, Halloween and Christmas.

Financial firm’s promotion & hire

Hughes Warren, a fee-only financial planning firm in NW Edmond, is proud to announce the promotion of Tori Jones to Vice President, while also welcoming Cassie Scoggin as the new Assistant Director of Client Relations.

Jones joined the firm in 2020 and was previously the Director of Marketing & Client Relations. In her new role, Jones will oversee client relations, operations, and marketing for the firm. Prior to joining our team, she spent time in marketing, client relations and community outreach for a multitude of industries including banking, oil and gas, and tourism. She holds a bachelor's degree in Public Relations/Advertising from Oklahoma Christian University and is a 2020 NextGen Under 30 award recipient.

Scoggin has been hired to support the team by providing client service on

a daily basis and ensuring client needs are met. Prior to joining Hughes Warren, she spent several years dedicated to assisting attorneys and clients throughout Oklahoma, with a primary focus of oil and gas law, family law and estate planning.

Scoggin also spent nine years in retail management, providing customer service to clients in Oklahoma City and Kansas City.

“I am thrilled to have both Tori and Cassie on my team, as they are a key part of our company growth and success,” said Ted Hughes, President of Hughes Warren. “Their skills and talents will allow us to continue to provide outstanding service to our clients.”

Hughes Warren is an independent registered investment advisor and feeonly financial planning firm, located in Edmond,

dancing chefs. A must for any family this Christmas season.

“We are one of the only places in Oklahoma where you can actually ride a train,” says Chilton. “We love interacting with the public and providing educational opportunities.”

Chilton adds that Oklahoma Railway is expanding and creating a prototypical functioning railroad site that will serve as teaching tools for visitors.

“As we create our museum complex, we will continue to host events that engage and benefit our community.”

Oklahoma Railway Museum also offers birthday parties, group tours, teaching trunks and Merit badge programs.

The Oklahoma Railway Museum is located at 3400 NW Grand Boulevard in Oklahoma City. For more information call 405-424-8222 or visit www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

Jones

Scoggin

The Polar Express Train Ride is going on now through Dec. 27. This magical ride is set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack and is a one-hour trip to meet Santa! You will be served hot chocolate and delicious Walkers Shortbread by

Kenneth Wohl

Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant

Join us for the annual Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant! This is a free event.

Location: Boys Ranch Town

Dates: Dec. 2 - Dec. 4 Time: 7:00-9:00pm Extra Info: 341-3606 or obhc.org/BRT/ ChristmasPageant

Canterbury Christmas

A musical rite of the hol iday season, Canterbury Voices presents Handel’s Ba roque-period oratorio Messi ah. One of the most beloved holiday traditions, it begins with the phrase “Comfort ye my people. In a year when people need comfort more than ever, Canterbury Voices joins with the OKC Philhar monic bringing to life this beloved masterpiece.

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Date: December 4 Time: 7pm Extra Info: 232-SING or canterburyokc.com

Chickasha Festival of Lights

The Chickasha Festival of Lights has been recognized as one of the top ten holiday light shows in the nation and are sure to please visitors again this year as they are celebrating their 30th sea son.

Location: Shannon Springs Park 2400 S. 9th Street, Chickasha, OK Dates: No vember 19 - December 31

Extra Info: 261-9505, visit Chickasha Festival of Light on Facebook

Christmas at Crossings Church

Celebrate Christmas at Crossings with your friends and family at one of our Christmas Candlelight ser vices at Crossings OKC,

Crossings Edmond or online. Friday, December 23 Services

OKC Sanctuary: 5pm, 7pm

OKC Venue: 6pm OKC Chapel: 8pm* Friday, December 24 Services

Edmond Venue: 1, 3, and 5pm

Edmond Community Center: 5pm

OKC Sanctuary: 1, 3, and 5pm

OKC Venue: 3 and 5pm

OKC Chapel: 12*, 4* and 7pm*

*Services Unavailable Online

Location: OKC, Edmond campuses Extra Info: https:// crossing.church

Christmas in Downtown Edmond Shop Edmond for terrific Holiday shopping. Experi ence the wonder of the sea son as you step back in time with FREE wagon rides every Saturday from 11am – 3pm starting on November 26 through the Saturday before Christmas, weather pending.

Location: Downtown Ed mond Extra Info: downtowned mondok.com

Devon Energy’s The Nut

cracker: Short & Sweet Oklahoma City Ballet’s tra ditional version of The Nut cracker has been enchanting audiences for decades, and this year will feature all new choreography by Acting Artistic Director Ryan Jol icoeur-Nye. Tchaikovsky’s spirited and familiar score evokes warm childlike mem ories in the most glorious way as this colorful and extravagant ballet takes the stage once again this holiday season.

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Date: Dec. 10 - Dec. 18

Extra Info: 848-8637 or okcballet.com

Devon Ice Rink

Join us for another great winter of out- door ice skat ing at Downtown in Decem ber’s premier attraction.

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: downtownindecember.com

Downtown in December Downtown in December, presented by Devon, is a series of holiday events and attractions in the heart of Oklahoma City.

Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: 235-3500 or downtownindecember.com

Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink

Location: Mitch Park

Dates: Nov. 5 - Jan. 15 Extra Info: 923-8345 or edmondicerink.com

Candy Cane Christmas Tea Party

You’re invited to a special afternoon tea time with fam ily and friends at Inspirations’ Annual Christmas Tea Party! Enjoy elegant three-tiered trays filled with holiday inspired savories and sweets accompanied by fine teas! Reservations are required and seating is limited. Call today to book your tables and for more information.

Location: Inspirations Tea Room Time: Available by reserva tion Extra Info: 715-2525 or vis it Inspirationstearoom.com

An Old-Fashioned Holiday Hop Hop to historical sites for FREE cocoa, crafts and Santa photos! Plus a train exhibit at the museum!

Date: Dec. 3 Time: 1-4pm Extra Info: edmondhistory.org

LuminanceAn Enchanted Stroll Luminance is a walk-thru

holiday light display that will be open to the public in Mitch Park. Residents and visitors will get to experi ence a one-of-a-kind holiday lighting event that will for sure get you in the holiday spirit. With Edmond being the premier city to have 3D lighted displays, you are sure to see something you’ve never seen.

Location: Mitch Park Dates: Nov. 18 - Jan. 1

Lyric’s A Christmas Carol: Presented by Devon Energy Closing the year, Oklaho ma’s favorite holiday tra dition, Lyric’s A Christmas Carol, returns for its 12th year – November 16 to December 23. In Charles Dickens’ timeless tale, three magical ghosts whisk the mi serly Ebenezer Scrooge away on an unforgettable adven ture of transformation and redemption. Jacob Marley, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, The Fezziwigs and a host of un forgettable characters spring to life in Lyric’s spectacular production sparking the holiday spirit in audiences of all ages.

Location: Harn Homestead Dates: Nov. 16 - Dec. 23 Extra Info: 235-4058 or lyrictheatreokc.com

Memorial Road Church of Christ Christmas Eve Ser vice

Let the Weary World Rejoice! Join us on Sunday mornings at 8:15am or 10:45am and for our Christ mas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24 at 5pm.

Location: Memorial Road Church of Christ Extra Info: 478-0166 or mrcc.org

Peppers Ranch Foster Community

Peppers Ranch Foster Community presents Hol iday Market! This Giving Tuesday bring your best friend and enjoy a great

evening of fun! With this event all of your Christmas shopping will benefit one amazing cause! Festive food! Holiday Games! Date: November 29 Time: 4-8pm (come and go)

Location: Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Extra Info: www.pep persranch.com

The Polar Express Train Ride 2022

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away

on The Polar Express for a magical one-hour trip to the North Pole. Once on board, your car hosts will work their way through the coach and punch your golden ticket before hot choco late and delicious Walkers Shortbread are served by dancing chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg.

Location: Oklahoma Rail way Museum Dates: November 12 –December 27 Extra Info: 424-8222 or oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

Thousands said to be at pecan event in Luther

By Richard Stephens

Pecans. Car show. A sunny, cold, fall day. And 10,000 visitors spending money with ninety-one merchandise, service, and food vendors.

That’s Luther’s 5th Pecan Festival in a nutshell, last weekend.

It’s a huge community festival – Luther’s population grows sixfold over the weekend. Vendors filled three downtown streets; 13 cars and one motorcycle waited on Top 10 Car Show trophies; and delicious pecan and other pies won prizes.

Dawn Shelton, Luther Register News publisher and editor, organized the fun, nut fete to raise money to keep the town’s online newspaper publishing. She explained why. “Producing events is a way for news organizations to diversify revenue, especially in the digital publishing world, and as traditional news business models have collapsed.”

To kick-off the festival, Shelton, Luther Mayor Terry Arps, and Deputy Commissioner for Oklahoma County District 3, Myles Davidson, cut a pecan pie. Arps said, “The festival celebrates the Town of Luther in association with the pecan harvest. We’re happy to see it grow.”

Pecans are the centerpiece – the focus – of the festival. Sitting on Route 66, the Couch Pecan Orchard sells 20,000 to 40,000 pounds of pecans between Nov. 15 and Jan. 1.

It’s a family business; Mark and Teri Stroud bought the orchard in 2020. “Business is excellent; we like the location,” Mark said, standing in the orchard. "Fortunately, when we bought the place, we inherited a good, loyal business, a lot of the people who purchase here have been buying for 30 years. We sell our crop right out of location.”

Midday on Saturday, Shelton gave an update. As she looked at hundreds of shoppers under vendor tents, she said, “It’s a great turn-out. I’m so grateful from the bottom of my heart that they came.”

Trio helps the needy

PHOTO

From left Luther Register's Dawn Shelton, Commissioner Myles Davidson,

Mayor Terry Arps and a boy cut a pecan pie at Luther's Pecan Festival.

ELAINE WARNER

At 6 a.m. every Saturday morning, these three Edmond residents, Mark Sanders, Mike Wellington and Jerry Elwell, members of Community of Christ Church.1200 E. Danforth, meet at Braum's to load up containers of hot breakfasts for homeless people in Oklahoma City. Camping out at 5th and Walker, they feed between 80 and 100 people each weekend. They began their mission through Jesus House over a decade ago but have continued on their own for the last several years. They also handle donations of seasonal clothing, personal items and toiletries through their church. To donate, call Mark at 405-990-1902.

Groups Gather to Mark Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, the Edmond Community gathered at the Gracelawn Veteran's Memorial to honor the nearly 1,400 veterans buried in the Gracelawn Cemetery (Est. 1889).  Members of Edmond Kiwanis Club, American Legion Post 111, VFW Post 4938, Edmond Military Order of the Purple Heart, Edmond Band of Rangers, UCO Jazz Lab, Edmond North ROTC Color Guard and the Cordelia Steen Chapter DAR were represented. Pictured from left are Rex Rice American Legion, Post 111, Boyd Barclay, Edmond Military Order of the Purple Heart, Ken Wyatt, American Legion Post 111, Janis Schwager, VFW Post 4938, Tammy Ross, Regent Cordelia Steed Chapter DAR, Jerry Bohannon, Edmond Kiwanis Club, Jan Bohannon, Cordelia Steed Chapter DAR, Buford Ford, VFW Post 4837, Dan O'Neil, Edmond Kiwanis Club and Chris Ruhr, Director UCO Jazz Lab .

(Photo by Sheryl Janis)

Focus on Home founder due honor

Joli Sanders, Founder & CEO of Focus on Home, is a 2022 Visions Award Winner. Joli will receive the The Rodney Bivens Innovation Award from the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits at the 2022 Visions Awards on Nov. 29 (Giving Tuesday) at The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Joli Sanders won The Rodney Bivens Innovation Award for establishing Focus on Home in 2014. This award honors Joli for being a visionary leader in the charitable sector who burst on the scene with a new, dynamic, innovative and exciting program that changes lives.

https://okcnp.org/page/Visions.

Focus on Home assists low income families who struggle to provide a home for their children. Focus on Home fills a void by providing donated, repurposed furniture to families who struggle to create a livable home.

Our volunteer-led organization solicits donations of gently-used, unwanted furniture and repurpose those items for families who do not have the means to create a comfortable, dignified home for their families.

For more information on Focus on Home please visit https://focusonhome.org

Local news?

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Health programs in state reap grants from TSET

The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) Board of Directors approved grants for seven organizations to support innovative health programs across the state at its quarterly board meeting Thursday.

“Many organizations in Oklahoma are working to improve health and quality of life for the people of this state,” said Michelle Stephens, TSET Board of Directors chair. “TSET is proud to partner with these grantees and support effective, impactful programs that align with our mission to improve the health and wellness of our state.”

TSET Discovery Grants support emerging oppor-

State having a weekend sale

Shoppers who want to jump-start their holiday shopping can take advantage of the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department's Black Friday weekend sale. Oklahoma Tourism Information Centers and Oklahoma State Parks are offering a 25% discount on merchandise from Friday, Nov. 25 through Sunday, Nov. 27.

Many state parks sell merchandise inspired by their outdoor attractions for adventurers from clothing to accessories and even toys for little ones. To contact a park about its gift shop options or discover your next adventure, visit TravelOK.com/Parks.

Eight Tourism Information Centers throughout the state have wide selections of Oklahomathemed products and souvenirs, including many products made in Oklahoma.

“We couldn’t be more excited for Oklahomans to shop this year’s Black Friday sale and experience what our travel information centers have to offer,” said OTRD’s Executive Director, Shelley Zumwalt.

tunities to partner with organizations to improve the health and lives of Oklahomans. These grants are aimed at immediate, impactful programs relating to the agency’s Constitutional areas of focus of tobacco cessation and prevention, health care access, senior health and improving the overall health of all Oklahomans. The grants will last 3 years to awarded organizations.

Across Oklahoma, newborns will receive better emergency care because of a TSET grant for up to $863,934 to the OU Health Sciences Center. The project, called Saving Tiny Sooners, will develop a telemedicine program to train and support health

professionals in rural areas in the critical skill of newborn resuscitation. Oklahoma has the fifth highest infant mortality rate in the country, and nearly 25% of neonatal deaths worldwide are caused by asphyxiation.

In Tulsa, the River Parks Authority will receive up to $2.1 million to improve the Turkey Mountain trail system. Planned improvements include developing 12 miles of new sustainable trails that are wider to allow greater accessibility and repairing erosion and other hazards on older paths. Turkey Mountain has more than 1.2 million people visit each year for events, fitness and recreation.

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