In This Issue
2025 Gift Guide
See Page 17 - 20
Getting into the spirit Historical Holiday Hop this Saturday
Experience an old-fashioned Christmas as you “Hop Around” to three historical sites near Stephenson Park in Edmond, OK on Sat, Dec 6th from 3-7:00 pm.
Stroll to three historical places in Edmond for FREE holiday crafts, Santa photos, and old-timey atmosphere. The three locations are within a few blocks of each other, near Downtown Edmond.
Locations and activities include:
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5
Mostly Sunny High 49° Low 28°
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Partly Cloudy High 53° Low 29°
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
Partly Cloudy High 46° Low 27°
Edmond History Museum (431 S. Boulevard): Toy trains, miniature dioramas, and children’s activities. Plus, view the museum exhibits, including Edmond Fire Department History and Close to Home: Vietnam’s Effect on Edmond .
1889 Territorial Schoolhouse (124 E. 2nd St): Enjoy old-fashioned games and crafts.
Victorian Rodkey House (410 S. Littler): New--the house will be decorated like Santa’s workshop, including Santa photos and Christmas activities.
Model trains are provided by Oklahoma N-rail and Marcus Mead is bringing his hand-made architectural dioramas. The museum has also arranged for snow to fall every hour on the hour!
Holiday Hop is sponsored by Regent Bank and hosted by the Edmond History Museum, Edmond Historical Preservation Trust, and the Edmond chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
invited to save 10% on all gift shop purchases. Local businesses along 5th street will be offering holiday shopping specials.
Old-fashioned and homemade presents are available in the museum gift shop for purchase. Attendees are
Catch Me If You Can!
Further Information: Edmond History Museum hours are 10:00 to 5:00 PM Mon – Fri and 1:00-4:00 Sat. Admission is free. More information at EdmondHistory. org or by calling 405-340-0078. The 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse is open yearly on Saturdays from 1-4:00. More information about the Schoolhouse can be found at edmondhistoricaltrust.org. Located at 124 E. 2nd Street, Edmond Ok 73034.
Downtown Edmond Business Association’s Gingerbread men are hidden this week somewhere in our paper. Image in DEBA ads excluded. If you catch them Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.
set to be at UCO Jazz Lab
You do not need to be much of a Jimmy Buffet fan to know the name Mac McAnally. He is a superstar among parrot heads. His talent and musical abilities go much further so we have written about McAnally below. He is scheduled to appear at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) Jazz Lab Feb. 21, 2026.
It is part of the Tres Amigos Production series for 2026. You can get tickets by calling or sending a text to (405) 6416380. Amigo David Hornbeek will get you the best seats possible but you need to hurry because seating is limited and tickets will go fast.
The UCO Jazz Lab lets you enjoy these artists in an intimate setting. Performers like it as well. Tickets are $175 each. You can enjoy a full cash bar and order food from Hideaway before and during the concert.
Tres Amigos Productions is a not-for-profit organization in Edmond, OK, that books concerts by nationally known musicians at the UCO Jazz Lab to raise money for UCO Jazz Music program scholarships. They have supported the Jazz Lab since 2002, attracting artists such as Judy Collins, Boz Scaggs, and Lindsey Buckingham. The producers do not take a salary; all profits go to the scholarships.
Mission: To build scholarship endowments for deserving students in the UCO Jazz Music program by hosting concerts and using any profits for scholarships.
Activities: Books and hosts concerts featuring well-known musicians at the UCO Jazz Lab.
Upcoming events: Look for the concert calendar on their website or Facebook. The web site is www.thetresamigos.org.
Here is more about McAnally:
McAnally: The Quiet Architect of Country Music Lyman Corbitt “Mac” McAnally Jr. was born on July 15, 1957, in Red Bay, Alabama, and raised in Belmont, Mississippi. His father was a high school principal, and his mother played piano and organ at their church, fostering a home environment rich in music and learning. By age three, McAnally was singing gospel hymns alongside his mother at the First Baptist Church in Belmont. Piano lessons soon followed, and by fifteen, he had written his first song and was performing professionally in clubs along the Mississippi-Tennessee state line.
McAnally’s early exposure to both sacred and secular music provided a diverse foundation for his eclectic style. His first record purchase was “Let It Be” by The Beatles, and he cites bluegrass legends like Doc Watson and Emmylou Harris as formative influences.
At seventeen, McAnally moved to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a legendary hub for American music. He began working as a session musician and songwriter at Wishbone Production and Publishing. His talent quickly caught the attention of producers, leading to a recording contract with Ariola Records in 1977. His self-titled debut album featured the single “It’s a Crazy World,” which reached No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his entry into the national music scene.
Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, McAnally
released a series of albums, including “No Problem Here,” “Cuttin’ Corners,” and “Nothin’ but the Truth.” While his own recordings garnered critical acclaim, it was his songwriting for other artists that began to define his career. He penned hits for Alabama (“Old Flame”), Shenandoah (“Two Dozen Roses”), Jimmy Buffett (“It’s My Job”), and Ricky Van Shelton (“Crime of Passion”), among many others.
McAnally’s songwriting is characterized by its emotional honesty, Southern wit, and vivid storytelling. His ability to capture the essence of the human condition with grace and detail has made his songs favorite among both listeners and fellow musicians. His compositions have been recorded by a who is who is who of country and pop music, including Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, Charley Pride, Kenny Chesney, and Hank Williams Jr. Notably, McAnally’s “Back Where I Come From” became a Top 40 country hit in 1990 and was later popularized by Kenny Chesney. His collaboration with Chesney on “Down the Road” reached No. 1 on the country charts, further cementing his reputation as a master craftsman.
While McAnally’s songwriting is legendary, his musicianship is equally revered. He is a multi-instrumentalist, known primarily for his guitar and piano work. As a session musician, he has contributed to recordings by Dolly Parton, Don Williams, Keith Whitley, Lyle Lovett, Linda Ronstadt, Amy Grant, and many others.
As a producer, McAnally has worked with Sawyer Brown, Restless Heart, Jimmy Buffett, and Marty Stuart, among others. His approach is marked by humility and a commitment to serving the music and the artist above all else.
A pivotal chapter in McAnally’s career has been his long association with Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band. Joining the band in 1998, McAnally became Buffett’s go-to person, contributing as a songwriter, musician, and producer. After Buffett’s passing in 2023, McAnally took on a leadership role, guiding the band through tours and new projects.
McAnally’s contributions have been recognized with a remarkable array of awards. He is a tentime Country Music Association (CMA) Musician of the Year, tying the legendary Chet Atkins for the most wins in that category. He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2007 and is also a member of the Mississippi Musicians and Alabama Music Hall of Fame
In 2025, McAnally received the ACM Poet’s Award, honoring his outstanding and longstanding contributions as a songwriter. He has also been nominated for a Grammy Award and has a star on the Music City Walk of Fame.
His songs have McAnally’s influence on country music is profound yet understated. His songs have expanded the emotional and lyrical range of the genre, blending Southern storytelling with universal themes. As a session musician and producer, he has shaped the sound of countless records, often working behind the scenes to elevate the work of others.
His humility and dedication to craft have made him a beloved figure among peers. Kenny Chesney, for example, has praised McAnally’s “craftsmanship and the heart of his work,” noting that his melodies and lyrics “move through you, make
you feel what he’s singing about.”
Despite his many achievements, McAnally remains grounded. He describes himself as “the guy who accompanies the singer for the first verse ‘til the rest of the band kicks in,” emphasizing his role as a collaborator rather than a star. “You never regret doing your best,” he says, a mantra that has guided his career.
His approach to songwriting is similarly self-effacing: “I don’t dictate how you should interpret my songs; instead, I offer a glimpse of a picture, leaving you to complete the final strokes.” This openness and generosity have endeared him to artists and audiences alike.
Now in his late sixties, McAnally shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to write, produce, and perform, selling out shows across the nation and mentoring the next generation of musicians. His journey from a small-town church in Mississippi to the heights of the music industry is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a deep love for the art of song.
McAnally is a quiet giant of American music—a songwriter’s songwriter, a musician’s musician, and a humble architect of the country sound. His story is one of artistry, collaboration, and enduring influence, making him a true treasure of the genre.
(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure , may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Mac McAnally
(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.
Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)
Nov. 17
James Christopher Jones, 36 of Oklahoma City. Failure to wear seatbelt, operating a motor vehicle with improper equipment and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Lawrence Gaillard Jr., 25 of Oklahoma City. Trespassing after being warned.
Constance Ann Morgan Cook, 43 of Crescent. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and two counts of failure to appear.
Austin Alonzo Anderson, 33 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned.
Nov. 18
Joseph Michael Mendoza Jr., 48 homeless. (Drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution, obstruction of police officer and a misdemeanor warrant.
Tina Lynn Cipponeri, 52 homeless. Felony warrant and obstruction of police officer.
Aaron Kevin Lewis, 41 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and shoplifting –petit larceny.
Alison Michele Williams, 60 of Edmond. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Kendall Deasean Washington, 30 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Ronald Joseph Langston King, 29 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Henry Martin Fairbanks, 27 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Pruthvi Raj Prodhutur, 27 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and expired tag – over three months.
Jesus Soto, 20 of Guthrie. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license, operating motor vehicle with improper equipment and no proof of insurance.
Colton Stone Jones, 22 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer.
Nov. 19
Jimikay Gray, 45 of Proctor, Okla. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .08 or more.
Scott Anthony Lehman Jr., 40 homeless. Two misdemeanor warrants and trespassing after being warned.
Donna Jean Hinton, 52 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.
Brandan Vincent Fontaine, 30 of Edmond. Failure to appear.
Louis Raymond Johnson, 54 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, felony warrant and two counts of failure to appear.
April Patince Novotny, 47 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Justin Gabriel Johnson. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Bryan Chad Hallman, 58 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, expired tag – over three months, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and four counts of failure to appear.
Adreon Davon Phillips-Knox, 30 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Billy Kalin Johnson, 40 of Edmond. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and possess CDS.
Eddie Spoummonte Carr, 32 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked
Kayden Armond Brown, 19 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned.
Nov. 20
Demarco Jordan Fails, 29 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Cara Diane Kennedy, 30 of Edmond. Two misdemeanor warrants.
Nora Kaysen Hale, 18 of Verden. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Nov. 21
Da’Tavius Lee Mar Ford, 24 of Clinton. Stop sign violation and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Sean Francis McCarrie, 43 of Elkins Park, Pa. (Felony) Create/sell/display identification card — illegal acts, (felony acts) obtaining by false pretense, trick or deception and (misdemeanor) identity theft — intents to lend, sell or offer for use one’s own name/address/DOB and SSN.
Mark Michael Moore, 49 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.
James Daniel Watson, 48 of Sapulpa. Possess CDS, possess drug paraphernalia and a felony warrant.
Nov. 22
Joseph Alexander Hinton, 20 of Edmond. Failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and obstruction of police officer.
Brian Isaiah Bueno, 22 of San Antonio, Texas. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Matias Arturo Saez Poblete, 23 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Justin Aaron Hicks, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Jonathan Marsical Sinaloa, 33 of Sherman, Texas. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.
Chad Eugene Stone, 48 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation).
Nov. 23
Dominic Lloyd Morgan, 28 of Yale. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Yair Uriel Resendiz, 22 of Stillwater. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Ashton Alan Willson, 46 homeless. Public intoxication.
Marcus Konrad Calloway, 62 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license.
Colton Anderson Kerr, 31 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
45 Booking reports
Weekend calendar of events, Dec.4-7
Weekend Calendar of Events
Weekend Calendar of Events Dec. 4-7
---- In the Gallery
---- Indoor Farmer’s Market
---- Edmond Patriot Market
---- Board Game Night
---- Weekly Game Night
---- Karaoke Thursdays
---- Karaoke Night
---- Beer + Yoga
---- Books + Board Games
---- Saturday Morning Music Sessions
---- Watch Party
---- Coffee & Guitars
---- Book Swap
---- Frenzy Magic Night: Casual Commander
---- Edmond Ice Rink
---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance
---- Devon Ice Rink
---- Downtown in December
---- Holidays in Downtown Edmond
---- Pancakes & Hot Cocoa with Mr. Grinch!
---- Claus Crawl
---- Girls Night Out Christmas Shopping Spree
---- UCO WinterGlow: Enchanted Edmond
---- Evergreen & Embers
---- Make Merry Music
---- Holiday Hop
---- Holiday Carriage Rides---- Jake’s Jingle Jam
---- PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market
---- Kids Take Over The Cowboy: Holidays at The Museum
---- Deck the Hall Featuring Bob Willis’ Texas Playboys
---- National Reining Horse Association Futurity Championship Show
---- Sample Oklahoma’s Gifting Gallery
---- Red Earth Treefest
---- The Polar Express
---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights
---- SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
---- Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol
---- Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Jane Austen’s “Christmas Cracker”
---- Holiday Pop-Up Shops
---- Lights on Broadway
---- A Territorial Christmas Celebration
---- OKC Philharmonic presents: A Very Merry Pops
---- A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas
---- Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant
---- First Friday Gallery Walk
---- Victorian Walk
---- Distinctive Homes Tour
---- Candy Cane Course
---- Saints Santa Run
---- Cowboy Christmas Parade
---- Show Me Reptiles & Exotics Expo
---- Sleigh Bells Market
Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: First Thu of every month Gallery opening: 5 – 7 p.m.; Free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring Reian Williams; edmondfinearts.com
Indoor Farmer’s Market
Location: MAC in Mitch Park
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 1 – Sat, Mar 28; Saturdays 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov
Edmond Patriot Market
Location: 425 Fretz Ave, Edmond
Extra Info: Recurring last Saturdays of the month; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; free; facebook.com
Board Game Night
Location: MAC in Mitch Park
Extra Info: recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday through Sat, Dec 6, 2025; edmondokcivicrec.com
Karaoke Thursdays
Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com
Karaoke Night
Location: The Gin
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; 7 p.m.; theginok.com
Beer + Yoga
Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project
Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com
Books + Board Games
Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; americansolera.com
Weekly Game Night
Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Saturday Morning Music Sessions
Location: Arcadia Round Barn
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Saturday; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Watch Party Location: The Gin
Extra Info: Recurring weekly every Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Coffee & Guitars
Location: Edmond Music
Extra Info: Every Saturday morning; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Book Swap
Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project
Extra Info: Recurring every 2 months on the first Sunday; 2 – 5 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Frenzy Magic Night: Casual Commander
Location: Frenzy Brewing Company
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 6 p.m.; Free; Instagram.com
Students, Homeless Alliance help the needy
Students and staff at Francis Tuttle Technology Center and Homeless Alliance volunteers combined efforts to provide Thanksgiving turkeys to those in need.
Last week, they continued the annual tradition of preparing turkeys for the Homeless Alliance to provide during its annual Thanksgiving dinner. Staff, students, and volunteers used workstations and ovens in the Culinary Lab kitchens at the Rockwell Campus to prepare the turkeys.
The Homeless Alliance offers a meal on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to those who might otherwise go without.
Chef Anna Banda, Francis Tuttle Culinary instructor, guided both students and volunteers in the preparation, cooking, and carving of dozens of turkeys. Culinary students worked alongside volunteers and offered a helping hand.
Some of the needy enjoyed a turkey dinner — thanks to some students at Francis TuttleTech Center.
See Calendar for other Holiday Happenings Page 4
Think ahead before picking out a kid’s
The holiday season presents plenty of opportunities to spread cheer and bring joy into the lives of others.
Well-meaning adults and even older kids anxious to give a younger sibling or cousin a coveted gift must remember to keep safety in mind when shopping for especially young children. Certain toys may pose a threat to children age five and under. As holiday shoppers begin to search for gifts for children in that age group, they might want to avoid the following types of toys.
· Toys with lots of small pieces: Toys with small, detachable pieces can be hazardous to kids age five and under because kids might intentionally or mistakenly put the tiny pieces into their mouths, which increases their risk of choking. Legos are a wildly popular gift come the holiday season, but it's important that shoppers read the package and purchase a Lego set that's age-appropriate. According to a recent report from Consumer Product Safety Commission, 9 percent of toy-related injuries in kids age four and younger occurred while the children were playing with building sets. Though building sets provide a host of benefits, not the least of which is the fun children get from playing with them, it's imperative to purchase ageappropriate sets.
· Toys with an electronic component: Toys with electronic components can pose a number of dangers to children five and under. Such products can heat up, potentially causing burns. And wire coverings can fray over time and thus expose children to electrical currents. When shopping for children five and younger, skip toys with an electrical component.
· Motorized gifts: Motorized gifts like scooters, cars and non-traditional bicycles also pose a threat to children five and younger.
METRO NEWS SERVICE
Edmond Ice Rink
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sun, Feb 1; $10+; Mon –Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 10 p.m.; Sat: 12 – 10 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 9 p.m.; edmondicerink.com
Edmond Electric’s Luminance
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 21 – Thu, Jan 1, 2026; 5 – 10 p.m.; edmondlights.com
Luminance: Merry Marketplace
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 21; 4 – 8 p.m.; edmondlights.com
Devon Ice Rink
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 14 – Sun, Feb 1; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Downtown in December
Location: Downtown OKC
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 13 – Sun, Feb 1, 2026; downtownindecember.com
Holidays in Downtown Edmond
Location: Downtown Edmond
Extra Info: Mon, Dec 1 – Thu, Dec 25; recurring daily; 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.; downtownedmondok.com
Pancakes & Hot Cocoa with Mr. Grinch!
Location: The Gin
Extra Info: Sat, Dec 6, 13 & 20; $15; 8 – 11:45 a.m.; theginok.com
Claus Crawl
Location: Icehouse Project
Extra Info: Thu, Dec 4; Free; 6:30 – 9 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Girls Night Out Christmas Shopping Spree
Location: Spring Creek Plaza
Extra Info: Thu, Dec 4; Free; 6 – 8 p.m.; springcreekplaza.com
UCO WinterGlow: Enchanted Edmond
Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Nigh Center
Extra Info: Fri, Dec 5; Free; 6 – 9 p.m.; visited-
mondok.com
Evergreen & Embers
Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Jazz
Lab
Extra Info: Fri, Dec 5 – Sun, Dec 7; $10 ---- $17; 7 – 9 p.m.; calendar.uco.edu
Make Merry Music
Location: Edmond Music
Extra Info: Fri, Dec 5 – Sat, Dec 6; Free; 9 a.m. –6 p.m.; edmondmusic.com
Holiday Hop
Location: Edmond History Museum
Extra Info: Sat, Dec 6; 3 – 7 p.m.; edmondhistory.org
Holiday Carriage Rides
Location: Downtown Edmond
Extra Info: Sat, Dec 6 – Sat, Dec 20; 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; recurring weekly on Saturday; downtownedmondok.com
Jake’s Jingle Jam
Location: Riverwind casino – Showplace Theatre
Extra Info: Thu, Dec 4; 7 p.m.; riverwind.com
PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market
Location: 7908 N Western Ave
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 1 – Wed, Dec 24; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pambeghana.org
Kids Take Over The Cowboy: Holidays at The Museum
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Sat, Dec 6; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Deck the Hall Featuring Bob Willis’ Texas Playboys
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Sun, Dec 7; 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
National Reining Horse Association Futurity Championship Show
Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds
Extra Info: Mon, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 6; okcfair-
This Christmas please support local businesses
Integris & Turkeys
For the past two weeks, INTEGRIS Health has been celebrating one of its most beloved traditions, Turkey Toss. Each year, this event gives Integris the chance to show its appreciation for the caregivers, physicians, volunteers and board members who serve our communities with such dedication. This year, they distributed 7,820 turkeys across the INTEGRIS Health metro system, with an additional 1,759 turkeys for caregivers in Enid, Grove, Miami, Ponca City and Woodward.
Winter’s Night at Children’s Safety Village
Sponsored by Edmond Fire Department
The Edmond Fire Department invites the public to come out and enjoy a Winter’s Night at the Children’s Safety Village on Dec. 5 and Dec. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free to the public with most activities geared for children ages 10 and under.
Families will want to bring a camera because Santa himself will be available for pictures on an antique Fire Truck. Other activities include free s’mores, carnival games and much more at no charge!
Guests will be welcomed by free hot chocolate as they enter the village which has been transformed by festive Christmas lights. From there, children have an opportunity to build a toy in Santa’s Workshop and ride pedal cars! Attendees are encouraged to bring a toy for donation to Integris Children’s Center. A list of items needed can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist.
Hangry Halo Donut Co will provide a special holiday menu for purchase at this event!
The Children’s Safety Village is located adjacent to Fire Station #5 at 5300 East Covell Road, just east of I-35. The village consists of a complete miniature city including buildings, traffic signals, a park, streets and vehicles. Regular programs focus on life-safety education where children can learn in a hands-on environment.
For more information about this event or other programming at the Children’s Safety Village please call 216-7300 or email FirePrevention@edmondok.gov.
Holiday parade at Stockyards
Stockyards City Main Street would like to invite everyone to come to historic Stockyards City for the annual Cowboy Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 6th
The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. The parade will include antique cars, community groups, law enforcement, pageant royalty, the famous Cowboy Santa, and much more!
We are excited to announce that Pake McEntire will be the Grand Marshal for this year’s parade! Pake McEntire is a country artist and accomplished steer roper whose Oklahoma roots run deep. Born and raised in Chockie, he grew up on the family ranch where hard work, rodeo, and music were part of daily life. Alongside his siblings, including his sister Reba, Pake began performing in the family group, 'The Singing McEntires'.
In 1986, he signed with RCA Nashville and quickly made his mark on the charts. His debut single, “Every Night,” landed in the Top 20, followed by the hit “Savin’ My Love for You,” which rose to number three. Pake went on to release several albums, showcasing his rich voice and heartfelt storytelling.
Beyond music, Pake earned recognition on the rodeo circuit as a competitive steer roper, a skill that reflected the same grit and dedication he brought to his performances. Whether on stage or in the arena, he has stayed true to his Oklahoma heritage, carrying forward a legacy built on family, faith, and tradition. And to this day, he still loves picking up his fiddle and sharing the music that has always been a part of him.
The parade will begin at Pennsylvania and Exchange, head west on Exchange to Agnew, turn south on Agnew to S.W. 15th Street.
Car Hits Downtown Barber Shop
The Edmond Barber Shop at 8 W. First, had a car strike it last week in downtown Edmond. Barber Kevin King said he wasn’t there but reported it happened around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. King wasn't sure what caused the driver to smash into the building but he noted the danger of the situation. ‘If anyone had been there they would have been killed,’ he said. King is contacting window and brick vendors and is hoping to have the business open again sometime in the next two weeks.
RAY HIBBARD
Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Never too early for politics
Can you believe the amount of attention already being given to the fall 2026 election?
If you got five dollars for every political ad that’s run — you’d have a nice little chunk of change in your pocket.
Steve Gust
Former House speaker Charles McCall has an interesting ad, involving a banana and something to do with gender surgery. I try not to think too much about it.
It’s still be about seven months or so before voters get a chance to cast a ballot in the primaries. If you’re keeping score at home — the primaries will be held June 16.
So get ready for lots and lots of ads. A lot of these people want name recognition and they’ll spend a lot of money to get it.
It will be interesting to see how the mid-terms play out next November.
There was a lot of discussion of how California and Texas carved up their Congressional districts.
About three months ago, I saw a
New York representative discuss the Congressional races.
In case you’ve forgotten, House members stand for re-election every two years.
This New York lawmaker said that there are only about 35 of out 435 seats that are even competitive.
——-
Speaking of primaries, I’m not a big fan of having open primaries — people from other parties involved in selecting nominees.
Right now that’s in the initiative petition process. We’ll be hearing more about that later.
It sounds like the California system and I’m not a proponent of that.
At least it’s not as bizarre as the Alaska method where you vote for for one candidate and then a second choice.
It’s called ranked choice voting and really seems odd to me.
One person described it as the process to save Sen. Lisa Murkowsk.
The liberal Republican senator was in trouble the last time — but the ranked voting saved her.
(Steve Gust may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com)
With the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits set to expire next month and new reporting indicating that the White House is preparing a healthcare framework that includes a two-year extension of the subsidies along with new eligibility limits, Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare (OKFAHC) is urging Congress to act quickly to protect Oklahoma families and small businesses from major premium spikes.
According to multiple reports, the White House is expected to soon unveil a proposal that would extend ACA subsidies for two years, cap eligibility at 700% of the federal poverty line, require minimum monthly premium payments, and authorize funding for cost-sharing reductions to lower out-of-pocket costs. According to Politico, the plan would also allow some enrollees to receive part of their tax credit in a tax-advantaged savings account if they shift to a lower-premium plan.
It’s past Thanksgiving. If you’re like me, you wanted your Christmas tree up when the first leaf fell off a tree early this fall, but now the holiday season is really getting into full swing, and Christmas lights are going up around our state.
In all the bustle of the holidays, I pray no one loses sight of what’s really important about the season: giving thanks for our many blessings, coming together as families, looking for ways to serve others, and most importantly for me and my family, celebrating the birth of Jesus on Christmas. I hope you will take time to rest and feel encouraged about our days ahead as a state and nation. We are at our best when we are hopeful, engaged, and steadfast in our values.
Keeping the US Open
Here is something to be thankful for: the government shutdown is behind us. After 15 votes to reopen the government over five weeks, we are open. If you want all the detail on the shutdown and my work to get us back open.
Five years ago, I proposed to the Senate that we never have a shutdown again. I offered a simple bill to keep the government open if we did not pass the appropriation bills on time, which would require the House and Senate to be in session seven days a week until we resolve our budget issues. That would mean no federal employee, SNAP recipient or airline would feel any effect of the funding debate, only members of Congress. My bill received 57 votes during the last session of Congress, just three votes shy of becoming law. I’m getting close to shutting down shutdowns forever. I will keep working.
What’s Next?
In the coming days and weeks before the end of the year, the Senate has plenty of work to complete. Thankfully, Senate Republicans began working earlier this year on the National Defense Authorization Act (known as the Defense Bill) to finish the important work of providing for our nation’s heroes before January—which Congress has
policy
The emerging framework comes as congressional Republicans remain divided over how to handle the looming premium tax credit deadline.
Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare (OKFAHC) is calling on Oklahoma’s congressional delegation to act quickly to protect Oklahoma families and small businesses who rely on these tax credits. “These tax credits are what keep families covered and prevent financial hardship for small businesses,” said Julie McKone, OKFAHC’s Executive Director, adding that nearly 300,000 Oklahomans depend on them to afford healthcare coverage. “Congress must ensure that Oklahomans do not face catastrophic increases in their premiums on January 1. Our communities simply cannot absorb these cost shocks.”
If the tax credits expire:
A 40-year-old in Oklahoma City earning $31,000 would see premiums jump 200%, from $622 to $1,249 a year.
A family of four in Tulsa earning $80,000 would see costs nearly double, from $3,119 to $6,041 a year.
A couple in Seminole in their 60s would see premiums rise from $6,632 to over $25,000-consuming more than a quarter of their income.
A single mom in Norman earning $50,000 would pay $3,664 a year, up from $1,782.
More on Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare (OKFAHC): Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare is a non-partisan organization dedicated to lowering healthcare costs, increasing transparency, and ensuring that every Oklahoman, regardless of income or location, has access to affordable, quality healthcare. Learn more at https://www.okfahc.com/
A 40-year-old in Oklahoma City earning $31,000 would see premiums jump 200%, from $622 to $1,249 a year.
been able to get done every year since the end of World War II. I work every year for our Oklahoma military installations and our national defense.
In the next few months, we need to pass at least five more appropriation bills to fund the government before January 30, 2026. We also need to finish the second half of the Farm Bill, pass energy permitting reform, finalize the transportation bill, and confirm at least 70 more nominees for President Trump.
Addressing the Cost of Health Care
When Obamacare passed in 2009, Democrats promised that healthcare costs would drop by 25%. We are still waiting for those healthcare cost savings. In reality, the opposite was true. Once the bill was fully implemented, from 2013-2019, the cost of commercial health insurance in Oklahoma went up 29% and the cost of the Obamacare marketplace plans went up an astounding 198%. Everyone’s healthcare costs have skyrocketed.
During the COVID pandemic in the first year of the Biden Administration, Democrats passed a four-year emergency COVID bonus payment to insurance companies on top of the Obamacare healthcare subsidy for about 10 million people. Four years later, as the bonus payment was set to expire, there were 19 million people getting the subsidies, some making over $500,000 a year. Democrats devised a system to send money directly to insurance companies so they could get around the law that prevents federal tax money from paying for elective abortions. Most Oklahomans I meet do not want their hard-earned tax dollars being used to pay for someone’s elective abortion or subsidizing the health insurance of people making half a million dollars.
The answer to rising healthcare costs in America is not sending more and more money to insurance companies.
Red Cross urges public to avoid holiday mistakes
Home fires increase significantly during the holiday months, often sparked by cooking accidents, unattended candles or unsafe decorations. The American Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma urges everyone to take simple steps to stay safe while celebrating – from keeping a close eye on what’s cooking to checking holiday lights and decorations for hazards. By taking precautions now, families can help prevent tragedies and enjoy a safer, happier holiday season.
“One in five people the Red Cross assists after home fires are helped in just the holiday months,” said Loida Haffener Salmond, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma. “Home fires can strike quickly, leaving you with as little as two minutes to escape. Help protect your loved ones by practicing your home fire escape drill until everyone can get out in less than two minutes.”
To help prevent holiday decorationrelated home fires, follow these safety tips from the American Red Cross:
Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. Check to make sure you have the right lights for where you are decorating.
Replace any light strings with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands you can safely connect.
Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords don’t get damaged.
TREE SAFETY If you plan to decorate with a real tree, pick one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
Add water to the tree every day.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree and always turn off the tree
lights before leaving home or going to bed.
If buying an artificial tree, look for a fire-resistant label. When putting it up, keep it away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat.
Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
CANDLES AND HOME FIRES
Candles are cozy, but they can also cause home fires. Remember, a candle is an open flame; it can easily ignite anything that can burn. Think about using flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.
Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
Avoid using candles in bedrooms or other areas where people may fall asleep.
Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn.
Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily. Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
Light candles carefully.
Don’t burn a candle all the way down. Put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for more information.
HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES
LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,519 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.
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Lots to see & enjoy in Lubbock
By Elaine Warner
What’s to love about Lubbock? It sits on the largest mesa in North America, land so flat the city looks like a pat of butter melting on a pancake. No majestic mountains pierce the blue sky; no rushing rivers offer cooling waters. Few large trees offer shade. It’s not on a main interstate highway – just a short piece of one which drops from Amarillo to Lubbock and stops. It’s not really on the way to any major city. So why do I keep going back to Lubbock? Because it has a lot to love.
One of the largest things I love about Lubbock is Texas Tech University. That may sound strange after the whopping OSU got from the Red Raiders, but, football aside, the school is pretty special.
First off, an Oklahoma favorite son is celebrated on the campus. A statue of Will Rogers on Soapsuds stands at the entrance to Memorial Circle on the east side of the campus. Several legends surround the statue. One is that it was erected in gratitude for Will Rogers’ donation of the school’s first band uniforms. Nice story, but the truth is, the sculpture (dedicated in 1950) was actually given to the school by wealthy Fort Worth businessman Amon Carter, who had been a friend of Rogers and felt that his legacy as a cowboy was appropriate for Tech.
The other legend is that the horse was positioned so that the rump would face arch rival, Texas A&M. There could be some truth there. Originally the statue was supposed to face west with Will riding into the sunset, but that would have put the backside facing downtown Lubbock, so it was rotated 23 degrees. Is it a coincidence that that’s the exact direction of College Station? There’s no substantiation, but there is school rivalry to be considered.
The campus is huge with 1,839 contiguous acres. That provides a lot of land to display an impressive collection of public art – more than 100 pieces.
The Museum at Texas Tech features a number of galleries from paleontology and biodiversity to fine art. I visited the William C. and Evelyn M. Davies Gallery of Southwest In-
dian Art. It’s a real stunner with arts and handicrafts from 20 Southwest Native American tribes. The Moody Planetarium close by presents shows on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
The National Ranching Heritage Center, also part of the university, is a 19-acre historical park with examples of homes and other structures from different periods of Texas ranching settlement. Their newest addition – which I’ll write about in the future – is the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center featuring Hank the Cowdog.
there are several fine wineries to visit in and around Lubbock, among them McPherson Cellars in town and Adelphos Cellars on the south side of town.
I have to admit I have a plebian palate where wine is concerned. My favorite sip – and I asked for more – was the Apple Cider Sangria at Adelphos. The city isn’t short of places to eat, either. It’s hard to pick my favorite. La Diosa Cellars is always high on my list. Their tapas menu gave me an opportunity to try some things I wouldn’t normally order – like broiled, Spanish petite sardines with roasted garlic butter, lemon and dry sherry on toasted baguettes. They were good – and nothing like the little oily ones in the cans at the grocery store.
Cameron West’s restaurant, Dirks, features unique takes on chicken –from chicken tenders to Nashville Hot and Korean Fried. The walls feature artwork from Cameron’s grandfather, Dirk West, a prominent cartoonist and Texas Tech fan.
Barbecue is king at Evie Mae’s – the line out the door tells the tale. Cast Iron Grill is famous for pie for breakfast – and our press group made short work of several kinds before returning to reality with biscuits, gravy, sausage and eggs.
Because we were a group, our dinner at The Nicolett was served in a beautiful, little greenhouse. Award-winning Chef Finn Walter brings international experience to Lubbock with an innovative menu but adds a Texas touch with fry bread with honey butter.
Lubbock was the birthplace of Buddy Holly, rock and roll star, who, in his short career inspired musicians Elton John, Bob Dylan and the Beatles. His museum is a Lubbock mustsee and his name graces a magnificent performance center, the Buddy Holly Hall.
The area around Lubbock is noted for wine grapes, producing close to 90 percent of the wine grapes grown in Texas, which is the fifth largest winegrape growing region in the United States. While many of the grapes are shipped to other parts of the state,
There’s so much more to experience in Lubbock – from exciting art opportunities to the unique Silent Wings Museum, a tribute to glider pilots in American military history. Visit a prairie dog town, explore Lubbock Lake Landmark, an important archaeological site and natural history preserve or learn how windmills made ranching possible in an arid land.
You can tell we were kept busy on this trip, but one of the other best things was coming back at night to the Cotton Court Hotel. An homage to an important local crop, the design and décor tell a whole story. From the yarn spool tables to the sewing machine desks, symbolism is everywhere. And the comfort level is first class.
So, don’t ask me why I keep coming back to Lubbock. Visit – and discover Lubbock yourself.
Elaine
The Buddy Holly Hall is an impressive setting for live theater, Ballet Lubbock, the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra and other performances.
Julian Voss-Andreae’s sculpture, Agave Dreams, is one of many art pieces on the Texas Tech campus. Appropriately, the statue is located between the Biology Auditorium and Biology Greenhouse.
Movie review of ‘Zootopia 2’
A film both kids & adults will like
By George Gust
The long weekend after Thanksgiving is prime family-movie time, and “Zootopia 2” arrives to comfortably fill the time, bright, warm, and built to be enjoyed by viewers of all ages together. It’s the kind of film that gets kids buzzing on the drive home and gives adults something to laugh at that isn’t just slapstick. If you’re looking for a holiday outing that keeps everyone engaged, this sequel is a solid pick.
“Zootopia 2” catches up with brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers. Along the way they encounter fresh faces and familiar landmarks, and the case grows into something that asks bigger questions about identity, community, and responsibility.
The sequel does a commendable job expanding the original’s world without getting lost in nostalgia. The city feels lived-in and larger in scope, with new districts and cultural textures that add depth rather than clutter. Visually, the animation remains
crisp and inventive: small details like crowd choreography, environmental gags, and expressive character animation remind you why the first film felt so alive. Importantly, the story resists the trap of leaning too heavily on callbacks; it honors the past while pushing the setting forward in meaningful ways.
Bateman and Goodwin return with the easy chemistry that anchored the first film, balancing warmth and comic timing in scenes that range from tender to absurd. New additions could have upset that balance, but Ke Huy Quan’s Gary
DeSnake is a welcome counterpoint, quirky, grounded, and unexpectedly affecting. The supporting cast lands most of the film’s best laughs and quieter moments, and the voice work keeps the emotional beats honest without ever feeling overwrought.
“Zootopia 2” is a family movie that aims for heart and lands it more often than not. It mixes mature storytelling with broad comedy in a way that keeps adults entertained without sidelining the kids. There are familiar sequel beats here, but they’re handled with enough care to feel comforting rather than derivative. For a post-Thanksgiving crowd looking for something that both kids and grown-ups will enjoy, this one’s a winner.
“Zootopia 2” is rated PG for action/violence and rude humor.
4 out of 5 stars
(Contact George Gust for comment about this movie, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
The Fall migration of birds
This fall, Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge invites visitors to experience the fall migration of Sandhill and Whooping Cranes. Thousands of these cranes and other waterfowl stopover at the refuge’s ecologically important salt flats and wetlands to rest and refuel before continuing south for the winter.
The refuge will be hosting two free, guided nature walks, called Sandhill Strolls, on November 29 and December 7. Refuge staff will help identify species and provide educational information with binoculars and a spotting scope. Meet outside the visitor center: 71189 Harper Road, Jet, OK 73749 at 5pm.
Hundreds of thousands of Sandhill Cranes migrate through the refuge in the fall. Standing at four feet with a six-foot wingspan this large grey bird can be heard calling from 2.5 miles away. The best viewing opportunities are at sunrise and sunset, especially on Eagle Roost Trail, Cottonwood Point, Jet Recreation Trail, and Hoot Owl Loop.
Disney's post Thanksgiving offering of "Zootopia 2" is the main course for families enjoying a long holiday weekend and beyond.
OMRF seeks people with arthritis for blueberry study
If eating fruit every day could reduce your arthritis symptoms, would you do that? The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is seeking volunteers who answer “yes” to that question.
Physician-scientists Matlock Jeffries, M.D., and Hal Scofield, M.D., need 40 people with osteoarthritis and 40 with rheumatoid arthritis between the ages of 45 and 75 to participate in a study testing the effects of blueberries on their disease. Participants will consume a freeze-dried powder containing the equivalent of one cup of blueberries per day, while others will receive a placebo. After 12 weeks, the two products will be switched for a second 12-week testing period.
“We’ll be asking participants to continue taking their current medications during the study,” Jeffries said. “But what we learn from this research could shape future conversations about arthritis therapy.”
To qualify, participants need a doctor’s diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Those with osteoarthritis also need X-ray evidence of moderate disease in one or both knees.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition and the most common cause of joint replace-
ments. It affects an estimated 32.5 million Americans. According to the World Health Organization, its prevalence more than doubled between 1990 and 2019, largely due to an increase in obesity.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting an estimated 1.5 million Americans. It is often mistaken for osteoarthritis due to shared symptoms like joint pain and stiffness.
This research, funded by the Wild Blueberry Association of North America, also involves scientists at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
It seeks to build from an earlier study in which people with knee osteoarthritis showed a significant reduction in pain, stiffness and difficulty performing daily tasks following daily blueberry consumption.
“We’ve long known that berries reduce inflammation and are good for your heart,” said Scofield, who also serves as assistant chief of staff for research at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center. “This study promises to expand what we know about the connection between arthritis and our diet.”
Interested in joining the study? Go to omrf.org/blueberry or call (405) 271-7221.
Lawmaker takes aim at board that approve state pay raises
Rep. Molly Jenkins, R-Coyle, has sent a letter to Attorney General Gentner Drummond requesting a formal opinion on whether the Oklahoma Legislative Compensation Board's executive session violated Oklahoma’s Open Meeting Act.
“If the executive session was unlawful, the public deserves to know,” Jenkins said. “And if it was permitted under a loophole, then we need to fix that loophole immediately.”
Her request follows the recent decision by the board, which met in executive session before approving salary increases for state politicians, including legislators who are among the highest-paid part-time lawmakers in the nation.
State law allows boards to meet in executive session, which is a private discussion of
salaries of their own employees, but Jenkins says legislators are not employees of the compensation board.
“I was heartbroken to hear that the Legislative Compensation Board entered an executive session, which I do not believe is authorized by Oklahoma law, before voting to award these massive raises,” Jenkins said. “This is not transparency, and this is not the Oklahoma way.”
According to Jenkins, the circumstances surrounding the meeting “do not pass the smell test.” She noted that the board had twice declined to raise legislative salaries in previous meetings, and then, after members were replaced, the board met behind closed doors and abruptly “changed its mind.”
“At a time when Oklahoma taxpayers are struggling under
soaring insurance premiums, rising property taxes and higher utility rates, the last thing they should be forced to do is pay more for their politicians, especially under such regrettable and suspicious circumstances,” Jenkins said.
Depending on the attorney general’s findings, Jenkins may introduce legislation to ensure a situation like this “can never happen again" in the form of a constitutional amendment.
For the 2026 Legislative Session, Jenkins says the amendment she is working on could abolish the Legislative Compensation Board altogether and could freeze legislative salaries at their current level, before the newly approved raises, unless voters themselves approve future increases.
“For too long, this
board has ensured that Oklahoma’s part-time Legislature remains the highest paid in the region, and one of the highest compensated part-time legislatures in the nation, even as our state trails far behind in so many other metrics,” Jenkins said. “Only the voters should have the final say on legislative compensation, not an unelected board of bureaucrats who never have to face the vote of the people.”
Dr. Hal Scofield
Oklahoma History Center schedules annual holiday sale
The annual holiday sale at the Oklahoma History Center Museum Store is expanding to three days in 2025, allowing you even more time to shop for the special people on your list.
The Museum Store will host its annual holiday savings event from December 11-13. The shelves are full of wonderful things like charming Oklahoma-made items, fascinating books, fun historic toys and beautiful gifts that celebrate our state’s spirit. All proceeds from the Museum Store help fund and support the mission and programs of the Oklahoma History Center Museum.
Oklahoma Historical Society members receive a 25% discount on merchandise, and the general public will receive a 10% discount. Several items
will be marked down for this sale. There is no charge to visit the Museum Store.
For those hard-to-shop-for friends and family, consider giving the gift of history by gifting them an Oklahoma Historical Society membership. Store associates can help you purchase an OHS gift membership. The family membership is on sale for $50 (regularly $75) if you join before January 31, 2026.
For more information, please contact the Museum Store at 405-522-5214 or museumstore@history.ok.gov. The Oklahoma History Center is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Oklahoma History Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and is an accredited member of the American Alliance of Museums. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit okhistory.org.
Christmas light display also helps to feed the needy
The Downs Family Christmas Light Ministry is raising food and funds to benefit the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. The annual holiday light display kicked off last week and runs through the end of the year.
Regional Food Bank provide millions of meals to Oklahomans living with hunger.”
In 2024, visitors donated $17,630 and 5,310 pounds of food. Since 2007, visitors have donated more than $514,000 to the Regional Food Bank.
The annual holiday light display, located in Norman, features more than 18 miles of lights synchronized to holiday music.
The display is free, but visitors are encouraged to make food or monetary donations. 100 percent of those donations will go toward the Regional Food Bank.
“Each year, we are amazed by the giving spirit of the Downs family,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “Not only are they helping create memories for all ages but also helping the
The display is open nightly, and visitors can enjoy the lights and music from their vehicles. Learn more about the display by visiting downsfamilychristmas.com.
About the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is leading the fight against hunger in 53 counties in central and western Oklahoma and envisions a state where no one goes hungry.
Tour highlights Guthrie
The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library will be part of a tour showcasing some of Guthrie’s most distinctive homes and historic buildings on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Visitors will hear tales of the early days of Oklahoma’s first capital. Wassail will be served at the Carnegie Library to warm the hearts and hands of tour participants. Tickets are $20 and are being sold by the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation. Tickets can also be purchased in person on Monday, December 1, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Guthrie City Hall. Pre-purchased tickets are nonrefundable.
To learn more about all the festivities, contact Guthrie’s Territorial Christ-
mas Foundation at 405-394-1947 or info.gtcf@gmail.com. The Oklahoma Territorial Museum is located at 406 E. Oklahoma Ave. in Guthrie.
The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information visit www.okhistory.org.
Holiday Gift Guide
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO EDMOND LIFE & LEISURE
We hope the gift suggestions in our Gift Guide help you with your joyous holiday shopping. The text and art was provided by each advertiser. In the event any of the copy should contain a typographical error or omission, store price and policy prevail.
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S hopLocal
Shopping Local for the Holidays
Millions of people enjoy shopping for gifts and loved ones each holiday season. The spirit of giving is alive and well each December, and that can extend to giving back to one’s own community.
In addition to supporting local charities when making donations during the holiday season, shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains. The decision to do so can benefit communities in myriad ways.
• Small businesses inspire young entrepreneurs. The United States Department of Commerce reports that nearly half of all small business owners in the U.S. in 2018 were 54 or younger. Six percent of those owners were 34 and under. Young entrepreneurs at the helm of thriving local businesses provide inspiration to the next generation of innovators.
• Thriving small business owners can send a positive message to traditionally underrepresented groups. The National Women’s Business Council Annual Report for 2022 indicated women-owned employer firms increased by nearly 17 percent between 2012 and 2019. Similarly, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Annual Business Survey found that there were more Hispanic-owned and minority-owned businesses in various sectors than a decade earlier. The
Gift Over $500 Ideas
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success of women- and minority-owned businesses sends a positive message to young entrepreneurs and locals who are part of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in business. That can help to create a more diverse and inclusive Main Street, the success of which depends heavily on locals’ willingness to patronize locally-owned businesses.
• Shopping local supports many small business owners. Family meals and social gatherings with friends and coworkers are a big part of the holiday season, and it’s not uncommon to break bread and share a few drinks during a night on the town. Choosing to gather at a locally owned restaurant or tavern instead of a chain restaurant can have a ripple effect on an assortment of local businesses. Local restaurants often source their ingredients from local farms. A family meal at such a restaurant benefits both the restaurant owner and the hardworking local suppliers of the food that ends up on the plate. Local restaurants also are more likely to list locally produced wines and craft beers on their menus than national chains. That adds to the ripple effect of celebrating the holidays at a locally owned restaurant.
A thriving small business sector is vital to a strong local economy. Shoppers can keep that in mind and patronize local businesses during the holiday season.
Luxurious Jackets - Man’s coyote zip jacket Women’s Crystal fox sweater jacket
Official: Keep your home safe
By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready
Our homes are often our biggest investments and protecting them should be everyone’s priority. Making our homes stronger and safer prevents damage and saves money on our insurance premiums. Commissioners at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) have discussed and prioritized this issue, and we all agree that mitigation is key.
The Power of Mitigation
“Mitigation” means taking action before disaster strikes. It’s about strengthening your home so it can better withstand storms, fires, or other damage. These improvements lower your risk of future losses, which helps keep insurance costs down.
I’ve put together some simple steps that every homeowner can take:
Installing security systems, adding alarms, smart locks, and monitored systems, can earn discounts of 5% to 20%.
Upgrading your safety devices, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems, can lower fire risks, which may also reduce your premiums.
Using smart home technology and looking into leak sensors that shut off the water main. These can prevent major water damage, a top cause of insurance claims.
Updating wiring and plumbing by replacing old systems helps prevent fires and leaks.
Performing regular maintenance, cleaning gutters, and removing dead trees help protect your home from future damage.
Depending on where you live, like Oklahoma, you can go even further:
Upgrading to an impact-resistant roof protects your home from hail and high winds and may qual-
ify you for a discount while helping you avoid expensive roof repairs.
Using fire-resistant materials and keeping brush clear around your home can make a major difference in protecting it from high winds and approaching fires.
Elevating utilities and adding proper flood openings can reduce flood losses and lower your flood insurance rates.
Oklahoma knows severe weather. From convective storms to tornadoes, our homes face tough conditions year after year. That’s why the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) launched the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) Grant Program earlier this year. This program helps homeowners replace their roofs with FORTIFIED roofs, which are built to keep the roof on and the rain out.
Hundreds of Oklahomans have applied in the last six months, and we are completing projects across the state. Homeowners who install a FORTIFIED roof can save an average of $700 to $800 per year on their homeowners insurance. That’s real savings, knowing your home is safer and more secure.
Integris pharmacist honored
Recently, the Oklahoma Hospital Association (OHA) Advocacy in Action Award was presented to Edmond’s Alexis E. Ngo, PharmD, director of pharmacy business services at INTEGRIS Health. The award was presented at the OHA’s 106th annual statewide conference.
In her role at INTEGRIS Health, Ngo oversees the 340B Drug Pricing Program, infusion services, and outpatient comprehensive medication management program.
Ngo is strong advocate for the patients served by the 340B program. She rallied like-minded colleagues to engage in a grassroots advocacy effort in support of state legislation, which included the development of collateral materials such as talking points and one-pagers for lawmakers. Ngo and her colleagues provided vital subject matter expertise to lawmakers and lobbyists to successfully defend the program and the bill against baseless attacks from the
pharmaceutical industry.
Originally from Waterloo, Ill., Ngo earned her pharmacy degree from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, and a master’s degree in jurisprudence in health care law from Loyola University. She also received a master’s in business administration from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Powers at Law, LLC: Celebrating 25 Years of Dedicated Service
Powers at Law, LLC proudly marked its 25th anniversary on November 13, 2025. Over the past quartercentury, the 2-member firm has built a legacy of dedication and service to its community and clients.
Don Powers, an Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam, brings a wealth of experience to the firm. His professional background includes service for the City of Dallas, the Kansas City, Missouri school district, and as Director of Airports in Tulsa. Don is committed to supporting businesses and business owners and reminds his clients that it is much easier to address contractual issues before signing than after. His guiding principle is “to be part of the solution and not the problem.”
G. Kay Powers, Ph.D., had a notable academic career at the University of Central Oklahoma as a professor, department chair, and college dean. Outside academia, she built homes, raised Hereford cattle,
A Stronger, Safer
Oklahoma
Every Oklahoman can contribute to creating a safer, more resilient state. Investing in home mitigation today, you protect your biggest asset, reduce future losses, and help keep insurance costs reasonable for everyone.
To learn more about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program, visit oid.ok.gov/okready and see how you can strengthen your home today. OID is here to help. Contact us at 800-5220071 or oid.ok.gov.
Protect your home. Understand your coverage. Find ways to save.
and ran an antiques store and auction. She graduated from the Oklahoma School of Auctioneering and the Fullerton Modeling and Casting Agency. Now, she advises clients on estate planning-wills, trusts, and probate-believing a well-planned estate is one of the best gifts parents can give their children. Her motto is “to achieve and inspire excellence.”
Don and G. Kay are proud Edmondites and active members of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, the Edmond Rotary Club, and their church. They work together in the same office, cherishing the best parts of each day-hug breaks. To their wonderful clients and all citizens of Edmond, Don and G. Kay say, “Thank you for providing us with twenty-five of the best years a company can have. Contact us for your estate planning and business transaction needs and experience ‘the power of two working for you.”’ 1420 Bond Street • Edmond 405-359-5999 www.powersatlaw.com
Alexis Ngo
Lawmaker is recognized
Recently, the Oklahoma Hospital Association (OHA) presented an Outstanding Achievement Award to Rep. Preston Stinson. The award was presented at the OHA’s 106th annual statewide conference.
Rep. Preston Stinson represents District 96 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He currently serves as chair of the Appropriations & Budget Subcommittee on Public Health and is also a member of the Full Appropriations & Budget Committee, the Judiciary Civil Committee, and the Health & Human Services Oversight Committee.
During the 2025 state legislative session, Rep. Stinson stood firm in his belief that the federal 340B program was worth protecting for patients and caregivers, despite a barrage of attacks from the pharmaceutical industry. This resulted in the passage of House Bill 2048 in support of hospitals.
In the House, Rep. Stinson focuses on building a healthier and more fiscally responsible Oklahoma. As chair of Public Health A&B, he leads efforts to direct state resources toward improving care access, strengthening
the health workforce, and ensuring accountability in how public dollars are spent. His legislative approach is guided by data, transparency, and a strong belief in government that works efficiently for the people it serves.
Before entering public service, Rep. Stinson founded and managed several Oklahoma businesses, gaining firsthand experience with budgeting, regulation, and job creation. That private-sector background continues to inform his work on fiscal policy and economic development. Known for his pragmatic leadership and collaborative style, he works across the aisle and across the building to find practical solutions to complex policy issues.
A graduate of Edmond Memorial High School, he holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Central Oklahoma, and a Master of Business Administration from Oklahoma Christian University.
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Stinson
A Red Cross reminder to help during times of need
In 2025, local volunteers became a lifeline for thousands of neighbors reeling from disasters in the Kansas and Oklahoma Region.
In a powerful display of community, volunteers from the region responded alongside partners to provide safe refuge, hot meals, emotional support and basic health services for families devastated by wildfires in Oklahoma, tornadoes in Kansas and hundreds of local home fires. The Red Cross also distributed over $2 million in financial assistance directly to thousands of households recovering in 2025 from disasters of all sizes in the Kansas and Oklahoma Region.
The need for this support shows no sign of slowing down. In the U.S., Red Cross home fire responses spike nearly 20% during the holidays, when families face increased fire risks such as cooking and heating.
Just in our region, over 1,000 people rely on the Red Cross after home fires in a typical November and December.
“Disasters don’t take holidays, and neither do our volunteers,” said Loida Haffener Salmond, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma. “Thanks to generous donations, they have the resources to deliver comfort, hope and support to help people recover. Through these simple acts of giving, we come together as a community to bring light to a family’s darkest days, right when it’s needed most.”
This holiday season, visit redcross.org to make a financial donation or to give back through volunteering. You can also make an appointment to give blood. The need for blood is constant — and just like disasters, medical emergencies don’t take holi-
days.
Also in 2025:
Dozens of local volunteers delivered aid for major disasters across the country, including the Los Angeles wildfires and flooding in Texas. Volunteers even deployed to Canada to help respond to massive wildfires. Responding to disasters is a team effort, and as they become more frequent and intense, families are relying on volunteers for support.
Over 45,000 local blood and platelet donors helped save lives in Kansas and Oklahoma and across the country, including people facing lifethreatening conditions like cancer, sickle cell disease, childbirth complications and traumatic injuries. Patients rely on a consistent blood supply
to survive and heal — and it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families.
The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.
For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
“WHEN YOU ARE KIND TO OTHERS, IT NOT ONLY CHANGES YOU, IT CHANGES THE WORLD” - HAROLD KUSHNER
