Edmond Life and Leisure - 09-21-2023

Homecoming Nears for UCO

The University of Central Oklahoma invites the community to celebrate its 2023 homecoming with a week of events, beginning Sept. 23.

This year’s theme is “Rock ‘N Roll ‘Chos,” which highlights Central’s beloved rally cry to bring students, faculty, staff and alumni together for a week of festivities.

“Homecoming is a special time for our university community to come together and celebrate the bonds we share as proud alumni, students, faculty, staff, fans and friends of UCO,” said Art Cotton, vice president for advancement and president of the UCO Foundation.

“It is always a joy to see familiar faces and hear about the wonderful things they’ve been up to since their time on campus. We look forward to seeing everyone and making new memories together.”

The week’s events culminate Saturday, Sept. 30, with the Homecoming Festival and tailgating beginning at 10 a.m., on the west side of Chad Richison Stadium, featuring festival

booths, face painting, games, inflatables, food trucks, a DJ and more. At 2 p.m., the Bronchos take on Missouri Southern State University in the annual homecoming football game.

Additional Homecoming activities include:

Central 5K, 3-4:30 p.m., Sept. 25, Plunkett Park: UCO faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members are invited to walk or run in the Central 5K. Registration is required.

Student Leadership Reunion, 5:30 p.m., Sept. 27, Jones Assembly, 901 W. Sheridan Ave., Oklahoma City: A UCO Homecoming reunion event for alumni of Central’s Leaders of Tomorrow, President’s Leadership Class and UCO Student Government. Registration is required at www.centralconnection.org/leadershipreunion.

Distinguished Alumni Awards, 7 p.m., Sept. 28, Nigh University Center, Grand Ballrooms: Join UCO Alumni Engagement as they honor

this year’s recipients of the highest award given to Central alumni. To purchase tickets, visit www.centralconnection.org/daa.

Golden Bronchos’ Reunion Brunch, 10:30 a.m., Sept. 29, Nigh University Center, Ballroom A: UCO Alumni Engagement invites graduates from 1973 or prior for a complimentary reunion brunch. Graduates from 1973 will receive special recognition and a commemorative gift to celebrate their 50th anniversary of graduating from Central. Register at www.centralconnection.org/goldenbronchos.

Rock the Block, 5-9 p.m., Sept. 29, Buddy’s Lawn: Join the UCO community for an outdoor block party with live music, food, drinks and family-friendly festivities.

For more information or to register for alumni events, visit www. centralconnection.org/homecoming.

For a complete schedule of events hosted by the Homecoming Activities Board or to register for the 5K, visit www.uco.edu/homecoming.

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

The Marines were part of Heard on Hurd’s “Salute to the Military” last Saturday.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The UCO student body has a lot to celebrate when homecoming rolls around. This year’s events start on Saturday, Sept. 23 and conclude a week later with a big football game against Missouri Southern State University at Chad Richison Stadium on Sept. 30.

The

A Salute to the Military

City project updates

New projects

Signal work at 1st and Broadway: Signal maintenance at 1st Street and Broadway this week will require the temporary shutdown of the traffic signal at that intersection. While the traffic signal is out of commission, “Stop” signs will be placed in all four directions, turning that intersection into a four-way stop. Crews will replace the damaged breaker panel that feeds power from the alley to the signal cabinet. This work is scheduled to be completed by the end of the day Wednesday, with cooperative weather.

On-going projects

Main and Littler closures: Physical demolition of the Downtown Community Center (DCC) and the Planning and Public Works (PPW) building has begun. Demolition of the DCC could mean periodic short-term closures of Main Street. Littler Avenue, between First and Main streets, is closed and will remain closed through the demolition and construction processes. Except for periodic short-term closures, Main Street will remain open through the end of this year. Beginning January 2024, Main Street will close from the Littler intersection to half a block west of the four-way stop and will remain closed for the duration of the City Center Com-

plex project work. Several parking areas near the construction site are closed, including the Littler Lawn parking areas, the east parking lot behind the PPW building, and a portion of the Cityowned parking lot on the northwest corner of Littler and Main. Work to complete the project and open all street and parking closures is expected to be completed by March 2025.

Boulevard lane closures: Boulevard southbound between 9th Street and 15th Street will continue to have intermittent lane closures as part of water line construction for the FY20 water line improvements project.

Main Street closure: Main Street is closed west of Broadway at the railroad tracks to N. Santa Fe Street while work is being completed on the Oxlley multifamily project, as well as streetscape and additional on-street parking on Main Street. With cooperative weather, the street will reopen in early December.

Fourth Street parking closure: As part of the Stephenson Park improvements project, Fourth Street between Boulevard and Littler Avenue is now open. While the road is open, the parking stalls along Fourth Street will remain closed while work on the park continues.

Water rates up

The Edmond City Council voted 4-1 Sept. 11 to approve a series of water rate increases to fund capital improvements to the City’s water and wastewater systems as well as costs for ongoing operations and maintenance.

The changes will help cover the cost of more than $350 million in water system improvements, including the ongoing water plant expansion and waterline replacements, as well as more than $50 million in wastewater system improvements.

A study conducted in 2017 identified the need for a readjustment of water rates. The current rates for water and wastewater services were adopted in 2019, with a base charge of $16.05 for water and a base charge of $5.28 for wastewater.

Under the plan approved by Council, the water rate plan for residential customers establishes a base charge of $16.86 effective this November, then increases to $17.36 in November 2024, $17.88 in November 2025 and $18.42 in November 2026.

The usage charge per 1,000 gallons up to 10,000 gallons also will increase annually from $7.95 to $8.35 this November, to $8.60 in November 2024,

$8.86 in November 2025, and $9.12 in November 2026. The use charge for 10,001 to 20,000 gallons will increase from $9.19 to $9.65 this November, $9.94 in November 2024, $10.24 November 2025, and $10.54 November 2026. The use charge for more than 20,000 gallons will increase from $11.48 to $12.05 this November, $12.42 November 224, $12.79 November 2025, and $13.17 November 2026.

The plan also calls for increases in all nonresidential rates.

The new residential wastewater rate plan means a base charge increase from $22.01 to $22.67 beginning in November, $23.12 November 2024, $23.99 November 2025, and $24.06 November 2026.

The usage charge per 1,000 gallons will increase annually from $5.28 to $5.44 this November, $5.55 November 2024, $5.66 November 2025, and $5.77 November 2026.

A breakdown of the rates and the rates for the City of Edmond utilities can be found online at www.EdmondOK.gov/663/Utility-Rates.

Tips for effective water use and conservation are available at www.EdmondOK.gov/694/Conservation-University.

MELINDA INFANTE

The 77th Army Band performs at Heard on Hurd with singer Sgt Brittany Simmons. Heard on Hurd was held last Saturday evening in downtown Edmond.

theme of the evening was a ‘Salute to the Military.’ The street party, sponsored by Citizens Bank of Edmond, ends its 10th season of Heard on Hurd next month on the Saturday of the month. In October it is Oct. 21.

Western hero series this Nov.

Yellowstone has become one of TV’s biggest hits. The Taylor Sheridan drama has seen some behind-thescenes issues that have led to the announcement it will soon be ending. However, the show has spawned a new franchise with the spin-offs 1883 and 1923. Now, it will tackle a unique tale bringing one of history’s most amazing figures to life.

Ray Hibbard

The Yellowstone universe is expanding this fall with the new spin-off Lawman: Bass Reeves that will more then fill the gap and the drama will be place right here in Oklahoma and Arkansas where Reeves did most of his work and lived most of his life.

First some background from the Oklahoma Historical Society:

Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves (1838–1910), born as a slave in Arkansas, grew up in Lamar and Grayson counties, Texas, where he belonged to Col. George R. Reeves, later to become the speaker of the house in the Texas legislature. As a young man Bass Reeves escaped north into the Indian Territory, and he became acquainted with the Cherokee, Creek, and Seminole. It is believed he served as a soldier with the Union Indian Home Guard Regiments during the Civil War. After the war Reeves settled down in Van Buren, Arkansas, as a farmer.

On occasion he would serve as a guide for deputy U.S. marshals who worked out of the federal court at Fort Smith, Arkansas, into the Indian Territory. Reeves had once boasted that he knew Indian Territory "like a cook knows her kitchen" and, as a result of his skills and his knowledge of the territory, he was able to make substantial money as a scout and tracker for peace officers.

In 1875, when Judge Isaac C. Parker took over the Fort Smith federal court, Parker commissioned Reeves as a deputy U.S. marshal. He is believed to be one of the earliest African Americans to receive a commission as a deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi River.

Reeves worked for thirty-two years as a deputy marshal in the Indian Territory. He was the only deputy to begin with Parker's court and work until Oklahoma statehood in 1907. Reeves, standing six feet, two inches tall and weighing 180 pounds, became a celebrity during his lifetime in the Indian Territory. Muskogee Police Chief Bud Ledbetter said about him, "The veteran deputy never quailed in facing any man." Reeves became an expert with pistol and rifle. Territorial newspapers stated that he killed fourteen outlaws during his career as a peace officer.

When Reeves began riding for Judge Parker, the jurisdiction covered more than seventy-five thousand square miles. The deputies from Fort Smith rode west to Fort Reno, Fort Sill, and Anadarko, a round trip of more than eight hundred miles. When a deputy marshal left Fort Smith to capture outlaws in the territory, he took with him a wagon, a cook who served as guard, and at least one posse man.

Reeves transferred to Wetumka, Indian Territory, in 1897 and then to Muskogee in 1898 after fed-

eral courts opened in the territory. The Chickasaw Enterprise on November 28, 1901, reported that Bass Reeves had arrested more than three thousand men and women for violating federal laws in the territory.

Newspapers praised Reeves's reputation often. On November 19, 1909, the Muskogee Times Democrat wrote that "in the early days when the Indian country was overridden with outlaws, Reeves would herd into Fort Smith, often single handed, bands of men charged with crimes from bootlegging to murder. He was paid fees in those days that sometimes amounted to thousands of dollars for a single trip, trips that sometimes lasted for months."

When Bass Reeves died on January 12, 1910, the Muskogee Phoenix wrote of the legendary lawman, "In the history of the early days of Eastern Oklahoma the name of Bass Reeves has a place in the front rank among those who cleansed out the old Indian Territory of outlaws and desperadoes. No story of the conflict of government's officers with those outlaws, which ended only a few years ago with the rapid filling up of the territory with people, can be complete without mention of the Black person who died yesterday. During that time, he was sent to arrest some of the most desperate characters that ever infested Indian Territory and endangered life and peace in its borders. And he got his man as often as any of the deputies."

The greatest testimony to his devotion to duty was the fact he brought his own son in for murder once he received the warrant. Bass Reeves was one of the greatest peace officers in the history of the American western frontier.

The long-awaited series on Paramount+ finally has a release date of November 2023. The series is set to be a new anthology series from Taylor Sheridan, with each limited series focusing on a different historic law enforcement figure. For the inaugural version, they have chosen Bass Reeves, the Black sheriff who overcame the bigotries of the time to capture over 3,000 criminals.

The show will focus on Reeves as he manages post-Civil War America and some of his biggest cases and manhunts.

Lawmen: Bass Reeves will bring the legendary lawman and outlaws of the Wild West to life. Reeves, known as the greatest frontier hero in American history, worked in the post-Reconstruction era as a federal peace officer in the Indian Territory, capturing over 3,000 of the most dangerous criminals without ever being wounded. Lawmen: Bass Reeves is an anthology series with future iterations to follow featuring other iconic lawmen and outlaws who have impacted history.

Who stars in Lawman: Bass Reeves?

David Oyelowo (Selma) plays Reeves with Dennis Quaid as a U.S. Marshal who becomes his ally. The supporting cast includes Barry Pepper, Garrett Hedlund, and Donald Sutherland as the “Hanging Judge” Isaac Parker.

David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves

Dennis Quaid as Sherrill Lynn

Forrest Goodluck as Billy Crow

Lauren E. Banks as Jennie Reeves

Barry Pepper as Esau Pierce

Check out what’s inside!

“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.

Grantham Coleman as Edwin Jones

Demi Singleton as Sally Reeves

Garrett Hedlund as Garrett Montgomery

Donald Sutherland as Judge Isaac Parker

The show will have eight episodes total, which fits for the other Yellowstone spin-offs and a good binge to enjoy on Paramount+.

The Taylor Sheridan phenomenon has transformed into a small screen empire over the last couple of years, with Paramount+ buying heavily into the man who created the Yellowstone universe. Whether it be with Yellowstone prequels in 1883 and 1923, or separate projects like the Sylvester Stallone-starring Tulsa King, Jeremy Renner’s Mayor of Kingstown, or Special Ops: Lioness with Zoe Saldana, Sheridan’s fascination with Americana and a modern Western style has produced some of the most compelling shows on TV over the last few years.

While his stories have covered everything from modern crime families to Westerns to military special operations, his newest upcoming project promises to be a fascinating story in its own right. Lawmen: Bass Reeves will likely have all the hallmarks of a Sheridan Western style, but the true story of the life of Bass Reeves is something that is so dramatic and fascinating on its own that it needs no cinematic embellishment at all in order to make it compelling.

Cannot wait for this one folks!

(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

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

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Edmond’s Pelican Bay Water Park splashes into success

By Jennifer Thornton

Tourism Director

If you think Pelican Bay is a pretty cool place to find lots of summertime fun, you’re not alone.

The popular City of Edmond-owned aquatic center, located at 1034 S. Bryant Ave., attracts thousands of visitors annually and its popularity and fun options earned accolades recently from a variety of “best of” recognition. “Our commitment to entertaining Edmond residents and visitors with a safe and fun aquatic experience is our main priority,” said Marina Melrose Wells, General Manager.

Locally, online magazine Metro Family in its 2023 Family Favorites poll, Pelican Bay was voted as favorite place to swim. Also, the facility was voted Best Attraction in the 2023 Best of Edmond

Award selections. The Edmond Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Edmond area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

On the website Three Best Rated, Pelican Bay was chosen as one of the top three amusement parks in the Oklahoma City Area. According to that site, based on a “rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence,” Pelican Bay was called “perfect for hot summer days.” The review also noted “state-of-the-

art facilities, including two 150-foot water slides, a lazy river and a slide splash pool, providing plenty of water fun for all ages.”

Pelican Bay is nestled in a central location next to A.C. Caplinger Sports Complex and local dining and shopping. “Partnering with Pelican Bay helps us create fun ways for visitors to experience Edmond. For example, we provide $5 passes for large groups," said Jennifer Thornton, Director of Tourism.

Open traditionally from Memorial Day weekend until early September, Pelican Bay boasts colorful cabanas surrounding a water playground. For more details about the center including hours, fees, lessons, facility rentals and more, please visit their website or you can call (405) 216-7649.

Water slides at Pelican Bay provide lots of fun for youngsters.

Pelican Bay is the place to cool off during the summer.

Weekend Calendar of Events, Sept. 21-24

What’s Happening This Weekend Sept. 21-24

---- In the Gallery

---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 -2020 ---- Beginners Pickleball Club

---- Farmer’s Market ---- Red Day Run

---- Live Music at Frenzy

---- UCO Jazz Lab

---- Joe Nichols & Tyler Farr

---- Brown Bag: Brummett Echohawk: Pawnee Thun-

derbird and Artist

---- Lyric Theatre presents: Concerto

---- Oklahoma Shakespeare Presents: Romeo and Juliet ---- Oklahoma State Fair ---- Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

---- OKC Broadway presents – Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

---- UCO Department of Theatre Arts presents –

August: Osage County

---- Guthrie Ghost Walk ---- Fright Fest

---- Rock the Block ---- VegFestOKC

---- Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring David Padgett; 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

Beginners Pickleball Club

Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center

Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.com

Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place & Farmers Market

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15 – Sat, Oct 28; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.gov

Red Day Run Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23; 8:30 a.m.; $20-$40; downtownedmondok.com

Live Music at Frenzy

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 21; Brandon Birdwell @ 7 p.m.; Fri, Sep 22; Carter Combs @ 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Sep 23; Maddox Ross @ 8:30 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com

UCO Jazz Lab Location: University of Central Oklahoma

– UCO Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 22; Pablo Masis Quartet @ 8 p.m.; $15; Sat, Sep 23; Miss Brown to You @ 8 p.m.; $15; calendar.uco.edu

Joe Nichols & Tyler Farr

Location: Riverwind Casino – Showplace Theatre

Extra Info: Fri, Sat 22; 7 p.m.; riverwind.com

Brown Bag: Brummett Echohawk: Pawnee Thunderbird and Artist

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage

Museum

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 21; 12 – 1 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Lyric Theatre presents: Concerto

Location: Lyric at the Plaza

Extra Info: Wed, Sep 13 – Sun, Oct 1; Wed & Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 2 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com

Okla. Shakespeare Presents: Romeo & Juliet

Location: Shakespeare Gardens

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 14 – Sun, Sep 24; Thu & Sun: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; okshakes.org

Oklahoma State Fair

Location: Oklahoma State Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 14 ---- Sun, Sep 24; okstate-

fair.com

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 15 – Sun, Nov 5; Wed – Fri: 1 p.m. – dark; Sat: 10 a.m. – dark; Sun: 12 p.m. –dark; parkhurstranch.com

OKC Broadway presents

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 21; 7:30 p.m.; okcbroadway.com

UCO Department of Theatre Arts Presents – August: Osage County

Location: UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 21 – Sun, Oct 1; Thu – Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; uco.edu

Guthrie Ghost Walk

Location: Apothecary Garden, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 22 – Sat, Sep 23; 7:15 p.m.; guthrieghostwalk.com

Fright Fest

Location: Frontier City

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23 – Sun, Oct 29; Thu & Fri: 6 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 12 – 11 p.m.; Sun: 12 -10 p.m.; sixflags.com

Rock the Block

Location: Dolese Support Services Center, OKC

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; dolese.com

VegFestOKC

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; vegfestokc.com

Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm

Location: Orr Family Farm

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23 – Sat, Nov 11; orrfamilyfarm.com

Democrats upset Speaker won’t investigate Walters

Lasst week at his press conference, the Oklahoma Speaker of the House indicated that he will not meet the request of Democratic legislators to create a special bipartisan House committee to investigate whether sufficient grounds exist for the House of Representatives to exercise its constitutional power to impeach the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

“I am very disappointed with the Speaker’s decision. As each day goes by without action from the House of Representatives, the Superintendent is emboldened to continue defunding and dismantling our public education system because he knows he won’t be held accountable. It is our constitutional duty to protect our public schools and Oklahomans are demanding accountability from both Republican and Democratic legislators. The decision not to exercise our authority to create a special bipartisan House committee to simply look into his behavior ignores the concerns of frightened parents,” House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, DOklahoma City said.

The request from Democrats came amid a slew of bomb threats in Tulsaarea schools believed to be connected to the State Superintendent’s consistent pattern of incendiary videos and comments aimed at public education teachers.

“We respect our democratic process and understand that Mr. Walters is an elected official. However, due to his consistent pattern of inflammatory language aimed at our public education teachers, outright lies and targeted attacks on local control, along with the continued criminal investigations into the potential financial mismanagement of OSDE funds and continued refusal to cooperate in good faith with lawmakers, House Democrats believe we have reached the point to use our authority,” Leader Munson said.

House Democrats sent a formal request to the Oklahoma Speaker of the House to use his authority to create a special bipartisan House committee to investigate the State Superintendent on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

Team schedules Thunder Fan Fest

The Oklahoma City Thunder is hosting Thunder Fan Fest, Sunday Oct. 8 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. in downtown Oklahoma City in advance of the preseason home opener Monday, Oct. 9 against the San Antonio Spurs.

The fun includes appearances by Rumble the Bison, Thunder Girls, O’City Dance Crew, Storm Chasers and Thunder Drummers. Skills challenges and dunk contests will also take place for prizes on a newly redesigned court from local artists Dusty Gilpin and Tony Thunder.

Also, Ryan Williams, Andrew Hutchinson and the Nitro Circus BMX team will be showing off their skills in a live demo.

Food trucks will be on-site high-

lighting local eats and a kids activity zone provides fun for the whole family.

“It’s time to get ready and get loud for the 2023-24 season,” said Michelle Matthews, director of Fan Development and Retail. “We’re excited to highlight local food, art and entertainment and give fans a glimpse of what’s in store.”

The first 1,000 fans to scan their ticket at the gate will receive a free Thunder hat, in collaboration with Shop Good OKC.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. General walk-up admission will be available; however, fans can skip the line by claiming a digital ticket. To see the full event schedule and claim tickets, visit okcthunder.com/fanfest.

The Oklahoma State Fair continues this week in the metro.

Keeping senior citizens safe from falls

It’s National Fall Prevention Awareness Month and a great time to talk about and show tips to help keep our seniors safe and out of the vicious cycle of Fall. Hospital. Rehab. Repeat.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 seniors fall every year, or 3 million adults 65 years and older. These falls can be life-altering accidents.

The CDC reports falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths for seniors. And that number has doubled in the last 20 years!

The CDC says women are 3x more likely than men to be hospitalized from a fall. The CDC says 1 in 5 falls result in serious injuries such as head traumas, hip fractures, or other broken bones. (A fall caused Mitch McConnell’s concussion).

The experts at our local Senior Helpers, a company that takes care of seniors in their homes, including patients with dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, can help you tell this story with visual Do’s and Don’ts.

The most common places for falls at home are the bedroom, bathroom, stairs, and kitchen – and we are sharing the Top 5 Risks sending local seniors from their homes to the hospital!

We can demonstrate these dangers for you in a local home OR in our local Center of Excellence (great for live shots!) -- a realistic simulation of a client’s home used to train caregivers – and your audience - to identify hazards and risks, and how to keep seniors’ homes safe.

We invite you to come inside!

Top 5 Risks sending local seniors from home-to-hospital (and how to reduce risk):

Shower:

Need tub bench (not shower chair), non-skid tape (inside and outside of the shower), handheld shower head, properly installed grab bars (no suction cups).

Stairs:

Stairs should be well-lit, add nonskid tape if needed, remove clutter/decorations, handrails on both sides, use tape on front edge of stairs if stair color blends together. Consider stairlift, if needed.

Bed mobility and transfers:

Beds that are too high (remove box spring) or too low (add box spring or furniture risers) put clients at risk. Consider adding bed rail, pivot pole, trapeze bar, or switching to an electric hospital bed.

Kitchen items too high:

How do you know if an item is too high for a senior to reach? If you stand up straight and can reach your arm out to the item without leaning, reaching, or changing your center of gravity, then that item is safely within reach. If a senior must lean forward and reach, step on a stool, etc. then the item is too high and should be moved lower. Not monitoring vital signs as prescribed by physician/taking medication as prescribed:

Very often seniors have falls that look like it was caused by something in

the environment when really it was caused by not properly managing their medical condition. Example- a senior with high blood pressure (hypertension) wakes up one morning and their blood pressure is 90/60 (low blood pressure). They do not check their blood pressure before taking their

blood pressure medicine, causing their blood pressure to drop further (70/40). They go to use the restroom and when they stand up from the toilet, they fall because they got dizzy. This fall was not caused by them going to the bathroom, but because they are not properly managing their pills.

CareerTech Hall taking nominations

The Oklahoma CareerTech Foundation is looking for the next class of inductees to join the 86 people already in the Oklahoma CareerTech Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame honors Oklahomans for exemplary achievement, leadership and service in career and technology education, said Gina Hubbard, Oklahoma CareerTech director of statewide outreach.

“The individuals in the Hall of Fame reflect the strong foundation on which our system was built and those who continued to provide outstanding leadership to fulfill our mission to prepare Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education and in life,” she said.

Anyone wishing to nominate someone for the honor should submit at least one letter of recommendation.

Nominees must have shown extraordinary contributions to career and technology education for at least 20 years, and their contributions should be specified at local, state and national levels. The nomination letters should illustrate nominees’ contributions in teaching, administration, legislative or private sector support and should specify contributions that advance the broader cause of career and technology education.

Nominations will be accepted until Dec. 31. Any nominations made prior to 2020 must be resubmitted. Nominations may be sent to Gina Hubbard, Oklahoma CareerTech Foundation, 1500 W. Seventh Ave., Stillwater, OK 74074, or gina.hubbard@careertech.ok.gov.

National Merit semifinalists

Last week. offi cials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®) announced the names of more than 16,000 Semifi nalists in the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,140 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be off ered next spring.

To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifi nalists must fulfi ll several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition.

About 95 percent of the Semifi nalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and approximately half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title.

NMSC, a not-for-profi t organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifi cally to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 320 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants.

The nationwide pool of Semifi nalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifi nalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

To become a Finalist, the Semifi nalist and a high school offi cial must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifi nalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A Semifi nalist must have an outstanding academic record

EDMOND

DEER CREEK H. S. Ogee, Jordan

EDMOND MEMORIAL H. S. Bell, Anderson P. Bennion, Isabella G. Bouma, Amy Burgess, Andrew Fullmer, Lincoln B. Hackett, Mitchell W. Halsell, Rowan C. Hanan, Caleb M. Hollrah, Simon T. Kodali, Neha Kowshik, Gautam R. Marshall, Carter G. Nguyen, Kyle A. Schmidt, Delaney L. Snyder, Elisabeth F. Stewart, Joanna C. EDMOND NORTH H. S. Donovan, Grant L. Guerra, Marco V. Hall, Katherine M. Kehoe, Liesel S. McCoy, Anna M. Pollot, Kate S. EDMOND SANTA FE H. S. Hawkins, Joseph L. Hoang, Ethan C. Pham, Daniel D. MERCY SCHOOL INSTITUTE Khan, Ziyam A. OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 000 Emlaw, Zachary C. OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Freiberg, Alexander Nichols, Addison G.

Edmond Arts group to meet on Sept. 25

Guests & public urged to attend

The Edmond Arts Association (EAA) will hold its September 25th meeting at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 3100 N. Broadway, Edmond OK. The Church is north of Covell on Broadway. The meeting will start at 7 pm.

Alisa Nelson, artist, art teacher, business owner, wife, and Mom of three will be doing a demo using the medium casein. Casein paint has been around quite some time and is a milk-based, water-soluble, opaque paint.

Alisa’s love of art came from her parents’ art backgrounds and their encouragement. Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, she regularly had a marker or paintbrush in hand – drawing, painting, and creating.

Abilene Christian University graduation in 2001 led to certification in elementary school teaching with a specialization in art.

Mrs. Nelson has taught art in a variety of capacities including public and private schools, private lessons, and at the Edmond Fine Arts Institute in Edmond Oklahoma.

In 2013, Alisa began teaching after school art classes and it has grown into Alisa Nelson Studio,

LLC, offering art classes and camps to children in the Edmond Oklahoma Community. “Art is the universal language that everyone can speak – it brings people together, allows communication barriers to be broken and is a voice for joy, positivity and inspiration” she says. Every year of sharing creativity with others and watching young artists bloom reconfirms that creating art and sharing art is her passion and calling.

More information about Alica’s studio can be found on the website: www.alisanelsonstudio.com

Or check out her Facebook page - @alisanelsonstudio

The EAA meeting is open to the public and guests are welcome.

The EAA meets on the fourth Monday evening of most months, with speakers on subjects of interest to artists of all media. There are no meetings in the summer months – June, July or August. Membership is open to anyone interested in the arts.

For more information, please visit www.edmondart.org and like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/EdmondArtAssociation.

AAA works to increase coverage

AAA is excited to announce a new partnership with Apple to provide Emergency Roadside Service for iPhone users in remote locations. Specifically, Apple has shared that users of the newly introduced iPhone 15 lineup, as well as the iPhone 14, will be able to connect to AAA for Roadside Assistance via satellite, even when there is no Wi-Fi or cellular service.

“At AAA, safety is at the core of who we are. This new partnership with Apple takes our commitment to the next level by providing roadside service to motorists previously unreachable,” said Thomas Vaughan, Executive Vice President, Membership, Strategy and Growth, AAA Club Alliance. “Thanks to iPhone’s satellite capabilities, we can now help drivers stranded in remote locations, when they need us most.”

AAA and Apple partner for Emergency Roadside Service

iPhone users reques ting roadside assistance can be connected via satellite with AAA after answering a few questions to capture important details. Users will receive clear guidance on how to stay connected to a satellite, so they can message with a AAA agent and get important information about

the status of their request.

As one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA responds to approximately 30 million calls for roadside assistance annually and serves more than 63 million members. Apple’s satellite infrastructure is an innovative solution that will allows us to extend our emergency support to iPhone users.

“Rescue options are limited for stranded drivers without cell service and getting to an area that has connectivity or Wi-Fi might require walking several miles,” Vaughan said. “We are proud to work with Apple to offer safety and protection to anyone in need, regardless of their location.”

Roadside Assistance via satellite* will be available to all iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 users in the United States, regardless of whether they are a AAA member. Once the questionnaire is received, AAA members will be verified and service will be provided**. Non-members will be responsible for payment upon completion of the service. Roadside Assistance via satellite is built on the groundbreaking technology that powers Emergency SOS via satellite, launched by Apple in 2022.

Integris honors courageous trio

The INTEGRIS Health Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Courage Award was established in 1994 to recognize and honor individuals who have overcome disabilities caused by injury or illness, by facing the physical and mental challenges of rehabilitation with courage and determination. The award is named after the man known as the World’s Greatest Athlete, Jim Thorpe, and is presented annually.

This week, INTEGRIS Health Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation was scheduled to host the 2023 Courage Award Luncheon to celebrate three inspirational individuals:

Rylea Kilburn of Okarche was just 26 weeks pregnant when she suffered an aortic aneurysm. She needed two open heart surgeries to survive, but had to have an emergency c-section before she could have the procedures.

Kilburn

During rehab, Rylea made it part of her therapy to visit her daughter in the NICU twice a day. They were fighting separate battles but were both victorious in

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.

the end.

—— Richard Gray lives in Norman. He experienced a stroke that stole his ability to communicate at even the most basic level. He fought extremely hard to reclaim his words and his voice. Today, he is back on his bike and back in his bible study class –thankful for what this experience has taught him.

—— Charlotte Lankard survived an incredible fall in her youth, but the accident took a toll on her body requiring a difficult back surgery later in life. After the procedure, she was unable to stand or walk. She credits aquatic therapy for helping her to regain her strength and independence. All three winners were scheduled this week to accept their awards at the INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute.

Your vote matters

By Steve Gust

I’m always a bit intrigued in the voting process. Just what is it that makes a person vote a certain way?

Last week there were a lot of elections in the state. One of them was a $75 million bond issue for the Canadian Valley Tech Center. I read somewhere where the place had to turn away students because they simply didn’t have the facilities for them.

There were about 102 precincts in different counties voting on the measure. If it had been a regular election, the “yes” side would have been very disappointed with the results. Since it’s a school vote they needed the 60 percent majority.

Just over 5,000 people voted. The “no” side got 46 more votes.

You often hear people say “what difference does my vote” make? For the presidential elections, there might be some truth to that. Because of the electoral college, and voting patterns, you can probably put Oklahoma’s seven electoral votes in the GOP column now. The only drama next year will be if the Democratic nominee can win one of Oklahoma’s 77 counties. It hasn’t happened since 2000.

But in these smaller elections, your vote is huge. I figured out that in the Canadian Valley election, all you have to

do is switch one vote in only 24 of the 102 precincts. Like I said, the supermajority requirement made sure the minimum majority didn’t matter. But they could have turned 10 or so votes per precinct and probably won.

A lot of the other elections saw people making sales tax decisions. One municipal election had about 30 total votes. You’d think a sales tax issue, even in a Mayberry-size town, would get more voters than that.

I hope everyone, who can vote, will. But one caveat to that. Please educate yourself on the candidates and/or issues.

Speaking of voting, I saw something in The Oklahoman, where they were thinking about maybe studying “secondplace” voting for candidates in Oklahoma. They do that in Alaska and it’s a dumb idea. Lisa Murkowski is a senator there and was about to be voted out last year. She’s in the GOP but hopelessly liberal and part of the D.C. swamp. Some think she couldn’t have survived the traditional system. Others say the “secondplace” voting allowed her to win. Don’t ask me to explain voting there. The whole system seems complicated and corrupt to me. And it’s not something Oklahoma should consider,

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

Mullin fighting back against EPA overreach

Last week, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin’s (R-OK) legislation to restrict the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing Clean Air Act (CAA) waivers to states which seek to ban or otherwise limit the sale of internal combustion engines passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Mullin’s bill, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, passed the House with bipartisan support where it will now advance to the Senate.

“We cannot allow California’s costly and extreme Green New Deal agenda to eliminate consumer choice for hundreds of millions of American families,” said Senator Mullin. “Our bill, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act is an important step in rejecting the far-Left’s attempt to control every aspect of Americans’ lives– including what car they drive.

I’m thrilled that my colleagues in the

House recognize the importance of protecting consumers and maintaining competition in the automotive industry, and I look forward to this bill’s consideration in the United States Senate.”

U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (RKS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Barrasso (R-WY), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and John Hoeven (R-ND) joined Mullin in cosponsoring this legislation. Representative John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) led introduction of the companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Background:

In August 2022, the California Air Resources Board adopted its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) regulation that would require all light-duty vehicle sales to qualify as “zero emission” by 2035 but cannot enforce it unless EPA approves a waiver for California to do so. In March 2023, California was granted two EPA waivers to implement more stringent medium and heavy-duty vehicle emission standards than what is federally mandated. This bill follows California’s anticipated application to EPA for another waiver to implement its ACCII regulation to ban the sale of new vehicles with internal combustion engines by 2035.

The Clean Air Act (CAA) is the U.S.’s primary federal air quality law that authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cars and trucks.

Section 209(a) preempts states from adopting and enforcing their own motor vehicle emission regulations.

Section 209(b) allows states to petition for a waiver from the prohibition to enforce stricter motor vehicle emission regulations than the federal government if specific requirements are met, including demonstrating that the waiver is needed for “compelling and extraordinary condition s”.

Lankford: Why does FBI target Catholics?

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) along with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Mike Rounds (R-SD) sent a letter to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after new evidence surfaced in August contradicting FBI Director Wray’s March 8, 2023, testimony to the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

In February, FBI’s Richmond Field Officed pushed a memorandum titled, “Interest of Radically or Ethically Motivated Violent Extremists in Radical Traditionalist Catholic Ideology Almost Certainly Presents New Mitigation Opportunities."

When the memo first leaked, Lankford lead a letter with several of his colleagues on why the agency was targeting Americans based on their religious beliefs. Lankford also questioned Directory Wray in March during a rare, unclassified Intel hearing about the memo.

In response, the Republican Members of the Senate Intelligence Committee sent a letter to FBI Director Wray requesting a written explanation about the matter:

“Not only did this memorandum make outrageous and sweeping generalizations about the Catholic faith and millions of Americans, but the memorandum also

relies on wholly unsubstantiated news sources, a leftwing organization, and biased and partisan definitions of hate groups in the United States. Given new revelations regarding inter-FBI coordination of this assessment, we request that you provide a written explanation of the steps that FBI has taken to effectively preclude such unconstitutional products going forward, as well as a briefing to this Committee on that written product no later than September 29, 2023.

“The mission of the FBI is ‘to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States.’ This memorandum, and its underlying processes, neither protect the American people, nor uphold the Constitution. The FBI does not exist to harass law-abiding Americans, nor will Congress permit the FBI to do so. Instances like this only serve to weaken the public's faith in institutions critical to our nation's security and safety.”

You can read the full text below.

Dear Director Wray:

We write with deep concern regarding the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) targeting of Catholics under the pretext of investigating racially or ethnically motivated extremists and have many questions about the underlying processes that FBI employed to develop such errant analysis.

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On January 23, 2023, the FBI field office in Richmond, VA published an eight-page memorandum titled, "Interest of Racially or Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremists in Radical Traditionalist Catholic ("RTC") Ideology Almost Certainly Presents New Mitigation Opportunities." The memorandum suggests that "FBI Richmond relied on the key assumption that [racially or ethnically motivated extremists] will continue to find RTC ideology attractive and will continue to attempt to connect with RTC adherents, both virtually via social media and in-person at places of worship." On March 8, 2023, you testified before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence that this memorandum was an isolated product of only one field office. We are deeply troubled to learn that documents shared with the House Committee on the Judiciary in July revealed that the FBI relied on information from around the country including a liaison contact in the FBI's Portland, Oregon Field Office and reporting from the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office—to develop its assessment. As such, we are concerned that this new information contradicts your March 8, 2023, testimony before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

Not only did this memorandum make outrageous and sweeping generalizations about the Catholic faith and millions of Americans, but the memorandum also relies on wholly unsubstantiated news sources, a leftwing organization, and biased and partisan definitions of hate groups in the United States. Given new revelations regarding inter-FBI coordination of this assessment, we request that you provide a written explanation of the steps that FBI has taken to effectively preclude such unconstitutional products going forward, as well as a briefing to this Committee on that written product no later than September 29, 2023.

The mission of the FBI is "to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States." This memorandum, and its underlying processes, neither protect the American people, nor uphold the Constitution. The FBI does not exist to harass law-abiding Americans, nor will Congress permit FBI to do so.

Exploring the wonders of Chickasaw Country

By Elaine Warner

As a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, I’m often invited to visit other states to discover their treasures and pleasures.

Recently, the Western States Chapter of SATW brought its annual conference to Oklahoma – and graciously invited members from other chapters to attend. I jumped at the chance to see more of my own state. So early one very rainy July morning, my husband dropped me off in downtown Oklahoma City to meet a group of writers for a pre-convention trip to Chickasaw Country. There were seven of us on this particular pre-trip – writers from Arizona, Colorado, Texas, New York, and me.

Our first stop was a sweet twosome – the Chickasaw Welcome Center and Bedré Chocolates at the Davis exit off I-35. This is a great legstretcher stop – and a chance to get goodies. Usually you can see into the factory but it was temporarily closed as new equipment is being installed. We tasted some samples – then spent money.

I came away with Twists (little cornucopias dipped in white chocolate) to take home as a treat for Jack (oops, they didn’t make it home) and a 16-ounce bottle of dark chocolate syrup (which did). The syrup is made from cocoa, cane sugar and natural vanilla and is scrumptious – especially poured over Hiland Dairy’s Outlaw Run Ice Cream.

Next stop – the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Plan on several hours when you visit. Start with the admission building to check on the schedule for daily activities. We were there on a day when they were showing a film, First Encounter,” which relates the

story of the Chickasaw people and early European explorers. This is one of several films which are scheduled in the Anoli’ Theater.

Because of the rain, the demonstration of a Stomp Dance was moved from the Village grounds to the theater. The emcee explained each dance and invited audience members to participate.

From there, we moved to the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center (one of the few sites on the campus for which there is an admission charge). Exhibits range from history and traditional living patterns to sports, warfare and the role of women. A dimly-lit hall, the Removal Corridor, is lined with sculptural figures indicating some of the hardships of that unhappy journey.

Two large exhibits stand out. The interior of a Chickasaw Council House serves as an introduction to tribal structure and is used as a gate-

way into the Spirit Forest. The largest, single exhibit area, the Forest is an immersive experience into the relationship of the Chickasaws to nature and spirituality.

Be sure to wear your walking shoes – there’s a lot of territory to cover in a thorough visit to the Cultural Center.

From the Exhibit Center, there is a walkway which leads to the Sky Pavilion, overlooking a recreation of a traditional Chickasaw village in their Eastern homelands before Removal.

On dry days, you’ll want to explore the village with its examples of summer and winter dwellings, the council house, stomp dance grounds, stickball field, the Three Sisters Gardens and more. For those who really like to hike, the more includes a path across a bridge into the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Also on good days, you may see tribal members demonstrating crafts, dancing, or playing stickball.

This wasn’t one of those days –but, as with any press trip, we never have enough time to see everything anyway. Now it was time for lunch in the Aaimpa’ Café. Menu items include bison or elk burgers, and venison stew. The Chickasaw Special features an Indian taco with homemade fry bread, pashofa (a soup of cracked corn and pork), and grape dumplings.

I was wearing my Weight Watchers’ hat (after that chocolate at Bedré) and ordered the Three Sisters Salad (the sisters are corn, beans, and squash). There are also other items, including children’s favorites like mac and cheese. FYI: You can find some interesting recipes and a variety of other videos at www.chickasaw.tv.

By the time we finished lunch, the rain had stopped, the sky cleared, and the summer sauna started up. Our next stop was the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, where we had time for a visit to the nature center, followed by free time to hike. I opted for the shortest, most scenic hike available – across the road from the entrance to the nature center parking lot. Little Niagara Falls on Travertine Creek is one of the prettiest – and probably the park’s busiest spot on a hot, summer day.

It was a relief to get back in our air-conditioned bus – and even a greater relief to check into the Artesian Hotel in Sulphur. Once in my room, I could see the trees of the recreation area from my window.

We’d had a busy day. My new, out-of-state friends had gotten a small sample of Oklahoma weather, Oklahoma scenery, and Oklahoma cuisine, thanks to an obligatory barbecue dinner. It was already evident, that, despite what they’d heard about Oklahoma from the news, this really is a special place – and a great tourism destination.

The swimming hole at Travertine Creek’s Little Niagara is a cool spot on a hot day.

Elaine

The Artesian in Sulphur is a luxury, boutique hotel, a reincarnation of an earlier hostelry on the site. Features include a small casino, spa, and shops and proximity to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area.

The Arrival, by Mike Larsen, depicts the end of the journey during the Removal and represents hope and resilience,

Chickasaw dancers in traditional dress demonstrate a major element in tribal culture – the stomp dance.

Top STEM, science employers meet at UCO

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Mathematics and Science recently hosted top industry leaders from around the Oklahoma City metro for a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industry careers panel.

Panelists participated in moderator-led, Q&A sessions followed by industry-focused, break-out groups to share career journeys and advice on how to prepare for career opportunities in various STEM fields. More than 100 students attended the discussion and break-out groups.

The break-out groups focused on biotechnology, computational sciences, health professions, engineering and environmental sciences. Students had the opportunity to ask questions and share information relevant to their future career goals.

“The STEM careers panel discussion was a great opportunity for students to interact with professionals in a wide variety of STEM fields and learn about specific careers,” said Bob Brennan, Ph.D., associate dean of the UCO College of Mathematics and Science.

“By listening to the impactful stories of our

panelists, students started to understand what next steps to take in the direction of their educational and professional career.”

The event concluded with a networking reception for students and professionals to continue building connections.

“Events, such as the STEM industry careers panel, align with our college’s mission to prepare students to become productive members and leaders of the STEM workforce and contribute to the health and economy of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area,” said Gloria Caddell, Ph.D., dean of the UCO College of Mathematics and Science.

STEM employers represented on the career panel included:

ALK — OKC Allergy Supplies, Inc.; American Fidelity; BeSpoke Vision; Bethany Children’s Health Center; Boeing; Coop Ale Works;

Cytovance Biologics; Edmond Water Resources; Edmond Family Dental Designs; FSB Architects and Engineers; IMMY Labs; LoFi Dental; McBride Orthopedic Hospital; Oklahoma City Public Schools; Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality; Oklahoma State Department of Health; Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation; OU Health; Paycom; Saint Francis Health Systems; Southwest Orthopedic and Reconstructive Specialists; The Chickasaw Nation Medical Center; Tinker Air Force Base; and, Tronox.

For more information about the UCO College of Mathematics and Science, visit www.uco.edu/cms/.

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Mathematics and Science hosted top industry leaders from around the Oklahoma City metro for a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industry careers panel. Pictured, panelist Travis Reed, Tronox, answers a question from the audience.

Epsilon Sigma Alpha is good friends, good works, and good times. We create activities and support causes that let us surround ourselves with welcoming, positive people who enjoy making a difference and having fun together. Community projects include Boys’ Ranch Town, No Boundaries, Int’l., UR Special, Free to Live, and Salvation Army. State projects are

Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Ok. Our national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Come help us make a positive impact on the causes that matter to you.

If interested, call Jacci Gantz at 405-9225954.

Program given on tipping

Deb Kukuk presented Gamma Zeta’s September educational. Her topic was “Why Should We Tip Service Workers?

Some people tip to help the server, to supplement their income and make them happy. Some people tip to get good future service while others tip out of a sense of duty. A tip is not expected for a one-time service call. However, if you rely on the same person repeatedly, show your appreciation depending on the frequency and efficacy of the work.

This is the social pressure theory of tipping, an idea first put forward by anthropologist George Foster. This theory explains why we tip some people but not others. We tend to tip in places where we are having a lot more fun than the people who are serving us: bars, restaurants, cruise ships, salons, etc.

Tipping is generally considered a good-natured prosocial thing to do, but the choice is yours.

Gamma Zeta pledge ceremony-new pledges with their sponsors; left to right - Sponsor Jacque Cantrel with Anita Palmer and Rayne Tubbs, pledges; sponsor Billye Putnam with Ruth Foote, pledge; pledge Debby Hagedorn with her sponsor Debbie Scott. Liz King presided over the ceremony.

Jacque Cantrel presenting Debbie Scott with her first pearl in Epsilon Sigma Alpha. The first pearl helps new members become involved in a wide variety of chapter activities during their first year of membership.

Deb Kukuk

Activities, events are keeping ESA members busy

Director/actor Branagh hits the mark

By George Gust

It finally feels like fall in Oklahoma! Football is in full swing and a slight chill in the air, while at the movies we’ve exited the spectacle and bombast of the summer and making the turn towards spookier and awards-minded offerings.

Enter “A Haunting in Venice” the third in the recent series of film adaptations of Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot novels by director/star Kenneth Branagh. After the middling and borderline cheesy movies “Murder on the Orient Express” and “Death on the Nile” would “A Haunting in Venice” prove to be more of the same or an opportunity to take the franchise in a different direction?

In post World War II Venice, Poirot (Branagh), now retired and living in his own exile, reluctantly attends a séance. But when one of the guests is murdered, it is up to the former detective to once again uncover the killer.

When it comes to this kind of ensemble murder mysteries the atmosphere is so integral to the overall success of the film.

One of the strengths that Branagh and crew achieved in “A Haunting in Venice” is capturing

this old Hollywood haunted house milieu that is both eerie and cozy at the same time. Where “Murder on the Orient Express” and “Death on the Nile” brought an arch and broad tone, this movie brings in more of an earnest tone with its paranormal elements and the ambiguity between whether there are true ghostly elements or if this is solely the work of human actors.

In terms of performance, Branagh is once again brilliant as Poirot. Blending the eccentricities with the genius detective elements of the character, Branagh

Answers on Page 19

turns in an entertaining performance that has a surprising amount of humor as well as famous detective gravitas. And in support, the all-star laden cast is doing good work with an arched eyebrow and mysterious motives, but Tina Fey was the standout among the talented cast. For an actor known for her comedic roles on Saturday Night Live and the like I was expecting Fey’s inclusion in the cast to be distracting, but in a pleasant surprise she was utilized to great effect here.

Overall, “A Haunting in Venice” is the most successful in the series of new Poirot films in the way it creates an appropriately haunting atmosphere through some impressive visual choices by Branagh as director and a bevy of entertaining performances for this kind of murder mystery.

“A Haunting in Venice” is rated PG-13 for strong violence, disturbing images, and thematic elements.

3.7 out of 5 stars

To reach George for comment on this review or any for others movie reviews, please e-mail him gust.george@gmail.com

Group seeks lower BAC levels

Amid a recent surge in traffic deaths and dangerous driving behaviors, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has updated the Policies and Priorities that guide the organization’s work to prevent traffic crashes, injuries and deaths on U.S. roads. The changes reflect GHSA’s support for lower state Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limits for impaired drivers.

Specifically, GHSA’s Policies and Priorities express the association’s support for state legislation lowering the per se BAC limit from .08 to .05. Only one state – Utah –currently has a .05 BAC limit. A 2022 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study found that after Utah enacted a lower BAC limit, traffic deaths decreased and more drivers said they arranged for safe rides home. Meanwhile, researchers did not find any negative economic effects of the lower BAC limit in Utah. Impaired driving deaths in the U.S. have surged 31% in just two years, from 10,196 in 2019 to 13,384 in 2021.

Crossword Puzzle

Kenneth Branagh (and his mustache) return to the mysterious world of Agatha Christie in front of and behind the camera in “A Haunting in Venice”

Edmond FFA officers at leadership conference

Officers of the Edmond FFA chapter participated in the 2023 Oklahoma FFA Chapter Officer Leadership Training Conference Sept. 5 at the Embassy Suits in Norman.

The eight state FFA officers planned and conducted this year's conference, which was based on the theme "Empower." Elected officers from each of the 67 high school FFA chapters in the Central area attended the conference. The event aims to encourage students to know their role, identify their strengths, and carry their weight as chapter FFA officers.

Kelly Barnes, from Edmond, Oklahoma, served as the keynote speaker for the conference. Barnes is an accomplished professional speaker and lead-

ership coach who served as the state FFA president in 2003-2004.

"In today's society, individuals are presented with a multitude of opportunities to lead," said Caleb Horne, state FFA president. "However, we often lose confidence in ourselves to step up and take action. This year's COLT Conference theme, 'Empower,' aims to equip students with the confidence they need to be leaders in their local communities and FFA chapters. We all have special gifts and talents. As future leaders, it is imperative that we empower our youth to make the most of every leadership opportunity they are given so that they, in turn, can empower others to do the same.”

‘Life in the Faith Lane’ written by Bea Sprouse.

Edmond resident writes and releases faith book

Longtime Edmond resident Bea Sprouse has penned a new book called “Life in the Faith Lane.” She took time recently to talk about the book.

“Life in the Faith Lane” is a story of hope.There’s so much room for positive if we just look for it.

Bea also explained her time in Edmond.

“ My husband and I moved up here from southern Oklahoma to go to Central State College years ago. We completed our bachelors and masters degrees living in married student housing on campus (which of course is now a parking lot on

Chowning) and have just planted ourselves in Edmond ever since. We love this city. We founded and operated Edmond Christian Academy for 30 years.

My husband made his transition from this earth in 2013. In the last 10 years I’ve learned to live a life without him. In 2017 I purchased a home on Boulevard built in 1910; I always enjoyed sitting on my porch there and watching the world go by on Boulevard.

“Life in the Faith Lane,” out for a few months, is available at Best of Books in Edmond or on Amazon.com.

Officers attending from the Edmond m chapter were: Kailey Nader, president; Bethzy Paxtor Alvarez, vice-president; Grayson Crum, secretary; Payton Deramus,treasurer; Addison Sheppard, reporter; Chance Kennedy, sentinel; and Mason Jones,, Jeremy Schmich and Cody Dean advisors.

COLT Conference is sponsored by Public Service Company of Oklahoma as a special project of the Oklahoma FFA Foundation. FFA is an integral part of the agricultural education division of the Oklahoma Department of CareerTech Education. There are 29,213 Oklahoma FFA members in 367 high schools statewide. For more information visit www.okffa.org.

Two state FFA officers met with Edmond FFA officers attending a recent conference in Norman. Sitting in the front row, far left, is Caleb Horne, Morrison, state president. Sitting in the front row, far right, is Trey Myers, Perkins-Tryon, central area vice-president.

Retail giant broke the law?

ST. LOUIS – Multinational retailer Walmart violated federal law when it failed to provide effective means of communication to two employees with disabilities, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit filed today.

According to the EEOC, the two employees were hired by Walmart as overnight stockers at a store in Olathe, Kansas. The employees, both of whom are deaf, required an interpreter for communication during key times, such as orientation, training, and meetings. The pair also needed day-to-day tasks to be communicated in writing. In response, Walmart refused to hire a qualified person to serve as an interpreter, and management routinely refused to communicate with the two employees in writing. The EEOC further alleges that the employees were forced to quit because of Walmart’s refusal to provide effective, on-the-job communication.

Such alleged conduct violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires employers to make reasonable accommodations to allow employees with disabilities to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment. The EEOC filed suit (EEOC v. Walmart, Civil Action No. 2:23-cv02395) in U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement via its conciliation process. The EEOC seeks back pay and compensatory and punitive damages, as well as injunctive relief

to prevent future discrimination.

“The purpose of the ADA is not just to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities, but to ensure that they receive reasonable accommodations so they can be successful, productive members of our country’s workforce,” said Andrea G. Baran, regional attorney for the EEOC’s St. Louis District office. “These accommodations are not only required by law, but they are good for businesses, our communities, and our economy.”

David Davis, director of the EEOC’s St. Louis District office, said, “Even now, over 30 years after passage of the ADA, some employers still fail to provide necessary accommodations for deaf workers. We need to encourage all businesses to provide reasonable accommodations so these individuals can fully participate in our workforce and provide for themselves and their families.”

More information about disability discrimination is available at https://www.eeoc.gov/disability-discrimination.

The EEOC’s St. Louis District Office is responsible for receiving and investigating charges of employment discrimination and conducting agency litigation in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and a portion of southern Illinois, with area offices in Kansas City, Kansas, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

The EEOC advances opportunity in the workplace by enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. More information is available at www.eeoc.gov. Stay connected with the latest EEOC news by subscribing to our email updates.

DAR sets membership event this Saturday

Edmond’s DAR chapter, Cordelia Steen, is sponsoring a Find Your Patriot Day this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This will be a chance to become a member and let DAR, Daughters of the American Revolution, find supplemental ancestors.

The event will be a t the Frank H. Collins Post No. 111 American Legion Hall, 101 E. 5th in Edmond. There will be genealogists available to help.

Need to know more?

E-mail mcordeliasteennsdar@gmail.com

UCO comeback falls short

A furious second-half comeback was stifled by a late touchdown that gave Missouri Western a 34-31 win over Central Oklahoma in an MIAA game Saturday afternoon at Chad Richison Stadium.

UCO trailed 20-0 with two minutes left in the first half before a late fieldgoal made it 20-3 at halftime. The Bronchos had a first half they'd love to forget and forget they did. In the third quarter, Central Oklahoma put up 14straight to cut it to one score, then scored back-to-back touchdowns again in the fourth quarter to go in front 3127. The final score by the Bronchos came with 4:39 to play. Then Missouri Western went down the field, 10 plays for 65 yards, before scoring the gamewinning touchdown with 1:25 left on the clock.

UCO got to midfield quickly, but an interception with 39 seconds left sealed the win for Missouri Western.

"We shouldn't have put ourselves in such a big hole early," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. "We saw what we are capable of, but we have to play at that level for all four quarters. The guys did a great job of responding in the second half. Just a tough one to lose."

UCO put up 408 total yards of offense Saturday, with 240 yards passing to go along with 168 yards rushing. The Bronchos had a 100yard rusher in Trevon Woolfolk and a

College Football

100-yard receiver in Jacob Delso.

However, 452 yards of total offense by Missouri Western, 270 passing and 182 rushing, was too much. And the 2-0 line in turnovers, in favor of the guests, added to the task UCO was forced to overcome.

Woolfolk posted his second 100yard rushing performance in three weeks. The athletic running back had 124 yards on 14 carries and scored two touchdowns. His 30-yard touchdown in the third quarter ignited UCO's second-half rally. He scored from 10-yards out to put the Bronchos in front 31-27 in the fourth quarter.

Stephon Brown took almost every snap for the Bronchos on Saturday. He was 15-for-23 passing with 223 yards.

Brown connected with Delso five times for 103 yards. Terrill Davis also had five catches for 22 yards. Oscar Hammond had two catches, including a game-long of 42 yards that was part of Central's final scoring drive in the fourth quarter.

Central Oklahoma drops to 1-2 on the season and now faces a tough road test in Week 4 at Emporia State. The Hornets, who routed Northeastern State Saturday night, are 3-0 and ranked No. 12 in the country in this past week's poll.

First American Title opens new branch in north Edmond

First American Title has opened another branch in North Edmond. Their office is located at 3133 N Sooner Rd, close to I-35 & Covell.

First American Title offers comprehensive title insurance protection and professional settlement services that enable the efficient transfer of real estate across Oklahoma and beyond.

As one of the largest and most respected title insurance companies in the nation, First American Title helps ensure every transaction is as smooth and stress-free as possible thanks to our smart solutions, innovative tools and technology, and high standards of customer care.

First American Title has two escrow closers at their new branch, Jennifer Heim and Stephanie James. To learn more about First American Title, check out their website, https://local.firstam.com/ok/ or give them a call at 405-216-4296.

Broadband office to get $167.7 million from the feds

The Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) has been allocated $167.7 million in additional federal grant funds for high-speed internet expansion throughout the state, Executive Director Mike Sanders announced.

The OBO has received official notification by the U.S. Department of Treasury of the allocation through the American Rescue Plan Act’s Capital Projects Fund (CPF).

The funding will be used to further expand reliable and affordable high-speed internet service throughout the state.

“We will invest these funds in areas of the state where broadband infrastructure expansion has his-

torically been cost prohibitive due to low population density and geographic constraints,” Sanders said. “In other words, rural Oklahoma will be the biggest beneficiary.”

CPF will fund a competitive grant program designed to reduce the financial barriers for internet service providers (ISPs) to build out high-speed internet service.

ISPs that seek subgrants to conduct the expansion work will be required to participate in the Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which helps ensure low-income households can afford high-speed internet. ACP provides a discount of up to $30 per

Chamber looking for ambassadors

The Ambassador Council is made up of business men and women in the Edmond community who engage members through personal contact, networking opportunities and information distribution. Ambassadors play a vital role in member retention, recruitment and communication.

Ambassadors attend ribbon cuttings,

make follow-up phone calls with new and existing members, and attend monthly meetings at the Chamber to stay informed about upcoming Chamber events and activities.

If you are interested in joining our council please contact Aubrey for more information at (405) 3412808.

Carter completes OBA school

Nina Carter, with Kirkpatrick Bank, of Edmond, recently completed the Oklahoma Bankers Association Compliance School in Oklahoma City.

Carter was among 47 participants at the school, which was held Aug. 21-25 at the OBA Harris Event Center.

The OBA Compliance School, conducted annually, trains bank employees to deal with the many laws and regulations that affect bank lending and deposit functions. The school is designed to provide an extensive body of knowledge and information on consumer compliance, which can contribute to the development of

compliance officers. Students return to their banks equipped to deal with compliance regulations that impact lending practices and deposit functions as well as other related federal and state law regulations.

The OBA conducts more than 70 educational programs and seminars each year, which reach more than 5,000 bankers across the state. The Association represents approximately 200 banks across the state and serves as the primary advocate for the banking industry. It’s also heavily involved in fraud training and prevention as well as legal and compliance services and communications for its member banks.

State gives assistance to those pursuing life insurance claims

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready announced today that the Oklahoman Insurance Department (OID) has helped Oklahoma consumers find and collect more than $49 million from lost or unclaimed life insurance policies using the Life Insurance Policy Locator (LIPL) in 2022. The total of $94,673,994 in life insurance policies matched 4,872 Oklahomans since he took office in 2019.

“Unclaimed life insurance policies are more common than you would think. In some cases, beneficiaries may not even know the policies exist,” Mulready said. “I encourage anyone trying to find unclaimed ben-

efits to use our policy locator to get the help they need.”

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), millions of dollars in life insurance benefits go unclaimed annually.

The LIPL requests are secure, confidential and free. Any matches found by participating insurers are reported to state insurance agencies through the LIPL. The companies are then responsible for contacting beneficiaries.

If you believe you may be the beneficiary of a deceased loved one's lost or missing life insurance policy but don't know where to start your search, please contact us at 800-5220071 or visit

month, or up to $75 per eligible household on Tribal lands, which is approximately two-thirds of Oklahoma.

Current data show more than 728,000 Oklahomans currently lack access to reliable high-speed internet service with the majority living in rural areas of the state.

CPF is the third federal infrastructure grant program approved for administration through the OBO.

The others are the ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, at $382 million, and BEAD, the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment fund, at $797.4 million.

First American Title in north Edmond — opens their latest office near I-35 and Covell.

OKC Philharmonic preps for two fall concerts

As summer wanes, folks will be trading their swimsuits, shorts and sandals for sweaters, jackets and boots, with thoughts turning to cooler weather. Soon, everything will be pumpkinspiced, falling leaves and shorter days. Getting into the autumn spirit, Oklahoma City Philharmonic presents two fall-themed concerts in the Inasmuch Classics Series.

“Gothic Midnight” is an early Halloween treat on Saturday, Oct. 7, 8 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall, featuring music from Bach, Liszt and Berlioz. Guest artist is acclaimed Ukrainian pianist Dmytro Choni, and guests are invited to dress in their best elegant gothic attire.

“I’m fascinated by two very different things—Halloween and the French composer Hector Berlioz,” said Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate, OKCPHIL Music Director. “In this program, I’m putting them together. Although Halloween will be at the end of October, we will celebrate a bit early.”

“Gothic Midnight” features masterworks with otherworldly associations, Mickelthwate said.

“The roots of Halloween stem from

the early Middle Ages,” he said. “On All Hallows Eve, Christians placed flowers on the graves of their loved ones. In the Gaelic culture, the end of October marked the end of harvest. Spirits and fairies were supposed to be more active, and many different traditions developed—all the way to our time of witches, skeletons, and ghouls.”

Composer Hector Berlioz was born in 1803, just after the French Revolution, and his “Symphony fantastique” will be a large portion of the “Gothic

Midnight” concert.

“Berlioz is the first completely independent composer, who’s creativity had nothing to do with his faith in God, the church, financial dependence on dukes or duchesses, or a sense of symmetry and beauty of the ancient Greeks,” Mickelthwate said. “Instead, the topic of his most famous work, the Symphony fantastique, are his love escapades and opium trips, ending with the famous ‘Witches Sabbath.’”

Then, on Nov. 11, three-time Grammy Award-winning fiddle player

and composer Mark O’Conner and wife Maggie headline “Folk Roots.”

“Mark combines bluegrass, country, jazz, and classical,” Mickelthwate said.

“I worked with him in Winnipeg several years ago and was so blown away that I thought it’s time to have him here in Oklahoma. Recently, I met country recording artist Pam Tillis, who told me Mark played on her first album many years ago,and is considered a genius among studio musicians.”

The first half of “Folk Roots” focuses on musical roots in the Americas, featuring music from Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz and O’Conner. The second half features Hungarian composer Bela Bartok.

“It’s fascinating to discover the musical roots of composers,” Mickelthwate added. “What are the musical roots? Why would a certain piece of music only have been written by a certain composer at a specific time in history? I think audiences will love what they hear.”

Tickets for both concerts are on sale at okcphil.org or by phone at (405) 842-5387.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

UT & OU rivalry spreads to food banks

Throughout the month of September, the University of Oklahoma Food Pantry will be competing with the University of Texas’s food pantry, the UT Outpost, to see which pantry can receive the most shelf-sustainable food.

The competition has been named the “Red River Food Fight” and the winner will be named the “Red River Food Fight Champion.”

Matt Marks, campus care coordinator and director of the OU Food Pantry, said they are hoping this competition will help both universities as they try to combat the above-average rates of food insecurity within each of the respective states.

“It's a fun way to celebrate a historic rivalry,” Marks said. “There's a lot of competitiveness on the football field, but we are coming together to combat food insecurity and hunger, which plagues both our states. Texas and Oklahoma are two of the hungrier states in our nation and this is a great way to come together to take steps to solve this problem. We've got a great relationship with the pantry down in Texas, and just had great conversations with them to bring this together and unite around a very heated game to try to take care of people within our communities.”

Royce Coleman, sophomore biochemistry major in the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences and OU Food Pantry associate director of campus engagement, said he began having conversations with UT last fall.

While there was immediate interest, the timeline was too near to effectively execute the drive. But this year, the timing was right.

“The initial goal of the competition was to utilize our historic rivalry and our extremely passion-

ate fanbases toward benefiting both of our food pantries, which in turn would allow us to better provide for our students and staff,” Coleman said. “We are hopeful that the many fans of this rivalry (the greatest college rivalry in the nation, if I may say so myself) will join us in promoting this competition and help us combat the food insecurity that exists on our campuses.”

Valeria Martin, assistant director for basic needs at the University of Texas at Austin, said there was no hesitation when the OU Food Pantry representatives approached them.

“We were so excited when the OU Food Pantry team approached us with the idea to collaborate in a friendly competition for the benefit of our

campus pantries,” Martin said. “Our goal for the Red River Food Fight is to raise awareness about UT Outpost in our community. Drawing on the rivalry and competition helps energize our campus around supporting UT Outpost and keeping the pantry stocked while making more students aware of UT Outpost as a resource.”

The winner of the Red River Food Fight will be announced on Oct. 7, the day of the Red River Rivalry football game. Boxes to donate canned goods and shelf-sustainable food to the OU Food Pantry have been scattered across campus; donations also may be made directly to the food pantry. Other items and monetary donations are always welcomed.