The last council meeting brought plenty of bow ties to honor outgoing Mayor Darrell Davis and much emotional comment from out going council members Councilwoman Christin Mugg and Ward 4 Councilwoman Stacie Peterson. Mugg wanted to assure the council she did not want to rant but from what I could see, it was a fairly good size rant. I am sure she restricted herself and I do not blame her or any of the former council members. Peterson was more positive, but our community needs to take stock of how we treat our elected officials.
Newspaper folks must be tough skinned. A lady wrote in to tell me one time that my grandparents probably did not really love me when she disagreed with something I had written. I printed it with her name. It just rolls off me and I tell folks not to worry because after 45 years in journalism, you cannot insult me. Politicians need to be tough as well, but I put our city elected officials in a different category.
For the most part they are not politicians. Instead, they are good people that are sacrificing in their personal lives to serve Edmond. It is a hard and truly thankless job which most who run for city offices are award of but the tide has turned into being mean and making personal attacks on these folks. There is not a problem disagreeing with them, but they do not deserve threats and groundless accusations about their ethics. It just sets me on fire when I hear someone say, “They are just lining their pockets.” People who say that or post it to one of those awful neighborhood sites might as well put an “I am ignorant” sign above their head.
Our paper has been serving Edmond for twenty-five years come June 1st, 2025, and we watch for such things. We have not seen any council member who “lined their pocket” from serving on the council. We watch for that kind of thing folks and if we were to find it, we would out the person in a heart-
beat. Edmond Life & Leisure will never shirk its journalistic responsibility.
I understand that all the hate has been generated by national trends and got worse with COVID rules but please help me to remind folks that there is no need for that kind of hate here in Edmond. Disagree all day long but there is no need for ugly personal attacks or attacks on a person’s family. When it gets to the point where a council member feels the need to be escorted to their car by the police department because they fear for their safety or even death, that is not our Edmond.
Not to be an old timer but there was a time this did not happen. Plenty of vigorous disagreements took place but the same folks would sit together at fundraisers and ask how each other’s kids were doing. We can return to that with your help. We promise to out the haters and encourage constructive involvement in your city government. For goodness sakes folks, stay off or at least stop quoting from those social media neighborhood websites. It sure is easy to bash and be ugly from a keyboard but not so easy when you are face to face. If you look up “fake news” in the dictionary you will see a link to one of those sites.
Here is the information on the new folks coming in:
Mark Nash, who defeated former Councilmember Tom Robins in the April 1 municipal general election, and two new council members – Preston Watterson in Ward 3 and Phillip Fraim in Ward 4 – assumed their duties with the completion of the ceremony held in Council Chambers on May 5th, 2025. Watterson and Fraim were uncontested in this election cycle. Nobody wanted to run for the office except these two so that should tell us something about how people do not want the job. A giant thank you to these two guys for stepping up.
The Edmond City Council is a fivemember body, including the Mayor, representing the four Wards that make up the City of Edmond. Ward representative council terms are four years, and the mayor serves a two-year term.
Mayor Nash’s term runs through April 2027. The terms of Councilmembers Watterson and Fraim run through April 2029.
Currently, Maggie Murdock Nichols represents Ward 1. Murdock Nichols was chosen to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Robins, who stepped down in November 2024 to run for Mayor. Murdock Nichols will hold the position until the next election for City Council Ward 1 in May 2027. Barry Moore, elected in May 2023, represents Ward 2 and will hold the
position until the next election for City Council Ward 2 in May 2027.
Heard on Hurd this coming Saturday
Citizens Bank of Edmond’s Heard on Hurd is set to celebrate Military Appreciation Night this Saturday, May 17th, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Over 70 food trucks, pop-up retail shops, and local non-profits will line the vibrant streets of Edmond, while downtown businesses extend their hours to join the festivities.
“We are thrilled to honor our military veterans and active-duty service members at this month’s Heard on Hurd,” said Jill Castilla, President and CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond. “This event showcases our commitment to community and celebrates the heroes among us. It is uplifting to see our local businesses and residents come together to highlight the importance of supporting those who have served our country.”
Heard on Hurd aims to revitalize downtown Edmond while showcasing local talent and small businesses. Last year, the festival featured 75 unique food trucks, 24 performing artists, and 56 local retail vendors throughout the season. As an award-winning event, it has generated an impressive $75.5 million in economic impact, illustrating its crucial role in fostering local business growth and community connections.
The evening's entertainment kicks off with local artist Maddox Ross at 6:00 p.m., followed by Brandon Birdwell at 7:20 p.m. and YZMN at 8:40 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to immerse themselves in a night filled with
great food, music, and community spirit. To find out more about the event, follow Heard on Hurd on Facebook, Instagram and the website at mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd.
This is one of those events that brings people together. You see old friends and neighbors and enjoy a great evening. A tip of our fedora to Citizens Bank of Edmond and their staff for putting on this major event. Our community is blessed to have our downtown and locally owned and operated bank put this on. In full disclosure, I serve on the board of directors for Citizens Bank of Edmond, and they are a heavy advertiser for the paper, but I think anyone would tell you what a great event this is for our Edmond. It should be pleasant weather this coming weekend to enjoy it.
Two more events that we used to have that brought this community back together. One is the Mayors Prayer breakfast and the other is A Taste of Edmond. We will be collaborating with Mayor Nash and others to try and bring the prayer breakfast back. It used to draw over six hundred people for an early morning gathering that always offered a great speaker and lots of fellowship.
A Taste of Edmond was a fundraising event for LibertyFest and what we are lacking to get that started again would be someone to help put it on and organize it. If interested, please contact me here at the newspaper office.
(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Ray Hibbard
DAN O’NEIL
City council stop to pose for a photo with City of Edmond staff after the swearing in ceremony of the new mayor and council.
New council members Watterson & Fraim.
New Edmond Council seeking budget reform
By Richard Mize The Oklahoman
Worry over limited city resources dominated the race for mayor, the tone set last fall with voters' defeat of what most considered an ill-conceived push for a bond issue that would have raised property taxes.
Mayor Mark Nash, president of Pinnacle Partners West LLC, a management consulting firm, campaigned on reform and reiterated it in his first moments in office after being sworn in at a special meeting of the new Edmond City Council on May 5.
In fact, he said, the rancorous bond election propelled him to run.
"Our first and most urgent task is reforming the way we manage our city finances," said Nash, who was elected as Edmond's 57th mayor in the April 1 general election. "We must implement a budget process that is not only effective and compliant with state law, but is also understandable to every citizen.
"In the limited time we have — just three council meetings — we must pass a budget that reflects our values and sets a strong foundation for the future."
Edmond bond defeat cast a shadow over mayoral election
It is not quite a fun time to be mayor.
People are still grumbling about the negative Nov. 5 bond election, which was seen as something like an offer of expensive dessert cake rather than needed everyday sustenance — "extras" like park improvements when too many streets need repair.
Some people accused city officials of breaking the law by promoting the $231 million package for public
works, not just informing voters about it. It would have raised property taxes by 14.4%.
With sales tax collections down and staying down, the city finance planning process, including four council workshops, has led staff to propose a zero-growth budget and hiring freeze — except for utility positions, police and fire — for 2025-2026, the fiscal year starting July 1.
Streets were on Nash's mind during his first meeting with the council, which had no agenda besides resetting itself with new members and hearing their introductory remarks.
"As we prioritize budget reform, we will not lose sight of the broader challenges facing our city," he said.
"As we build our vision for Edmond's future, this council must take a hard look at our streets program.treets were on Nash's mind during his first meeting with the council, which had no agenda besides resetting itself with new members and hearing their introductory remarks.
"As we prioritize budget reform, we will not lose sight of the broader challenges facing our city," he said.
"As we build our vision for Edmond's future, this council must take a hard look at our streets program.
Nash, who defeated former council member Tom Robins, and two new council members — Preston Watterson in Ward 3 and Phillip Fraim in Ward 4 — took office with the completion of the ceremony in the council chambers. Watterson and Fraim were uncontested in this election cycle.
Nash’s two-year term runs through April 2027. Watterson and Fraim will serve through April 2029.
Mayor Mark Nash — sworn into office earlier this month.
Experts: Seniors run higher dehydration risk
The human body is ever-changing. Though it’s not often so easy to detect the changes the body goes through, such alterations may become more noticeable with age.
One age-related change that’s easy to overlook is related to thirst. The Cleveland Clinic notes seniors typically do not feel as thirsty as they once did. That compels seniors to consume less fluids, which in turn makes them more vulnerable to dehydration.
Why is my risk for dehydration higher now than when I was younger?
Seniors may ask this question, and body composition changes that correspond to age are often to blame. According to the Cleveland Clinic, seniors’ bodies do not demand water in the same way they did when they were younger. So people tend to drink less water as they age. Some also suffer from decreased kidney function that also compromises fluid levels in the body. These things mean many seniors have less water in their bodies than they used to, which increases their risk for dehydration.
How serious is this threat?
The threat posed by dehydration is serious. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic notes that dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization among adults age 65 and older. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality also notes that adults 65 and
over have the highest hospital admission rates for dehydration of any group.
How do I know if I’m dehydrated?
As noted, aging adults do not typically feel as thirsty as they did when they were younger. That’s important to remember, as the Cleveland Clinic notes that thirst might actually be a sign of early dehydration. The following are some additional physical signs of dehydration:
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or a loss of coordination
• Dry mouth and/or a dry cough
• Headache
• Muscle cramps, which can be caused by a loss of electrolytes through sweating
• Chills or heat intolerance
• Flushed skin
These symptoms are notable in their own right,
but some may make seniors vulnerable to additional issues. For instance, dizziness or a loss of coordination resulting from dehydration may make seniors more vulnerable to falls. Falls are a significant threat because they increase the likelihood of broken bones and other serious injuries, but a fall also can adversely affect mental health. A fall that causes injury may lead seniors to withdraw from certain activities, including recreational sports or other physical activities often performed alongside fellow seniors. Withdrawing from such activities can lead to isolation and depression.
How can I avoid dehydration?
The goods news is that hydrating is pretty easy, particularly when seniors are aware of their vulnerability to dehydration. The Cleveland Clinic urges seniors to consume sufficient fluids each day, even spicing up water with a fruit slice if necessary. In addition, seniors are urged to avoid caffeine, which can force more trips to the bathroom to urinate and thus lose fluid. Cucumbers, celery and, of course, watermelon also can be incorporated into seniors’ diets each day, as these foods are high in water content.
Dehydration poses a serious threat to seniors’ health. But that threat can be easily overcome when seniors make a concerted effort to stay hydrated each day.
Burden grows for caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients
The physical, emotional and financial burden of Alzheimer's and dementia on individuals and their caregivers cannot be overstated, says gerontologist and licensed social worker Dr. Macie P. Smith. And according to the latest statistics from the Alzheimer’s Association, that burden is growing — and growing fast.
“The latest statistics reveal that about 1 in 9 people 65 years of age and older has Alzheimer’s,” Smith said. “And nearly 12 million people in the United States provide unpaid care for someone with Alzheimer's or other dementias.”
For more than 25 years, Smith has been helping family caregivers and their loved ones navigate diagnoses of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Her latest book, A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey, is a concise yet comprehensive resource designed to address common questions and offer valuable insights throughout the caregiving journey.
“As we age — and as we live we are aging — we are going to need help with some level of support or care,” Smith said. “No one is exempt from pro-
to a new book.
viding care or from needing care, so being able to better understand what caregiving entails and how truly it is a blessing to be able to care for someone
else … you can never put a dollar amount on it.”
In her book, Smith takes readers through the logical progression of a dementia care experience, beginning with how to recognize potential symptoms before the diagnosis and what questions to ask the individual’s primary care physician. She then describes what to expect after a dementia diagnosis, answers common questions and details a range of care options available to dementia patients.
“Although there’s not a cure for progressive types of dementia, like Alzheimer’s, there is care — your care,” Dr. Smith added. “So, here’s to getting ahead of the journey.”
Emmy-winning TV host and bestselling author Leeza Gibbons said, “Macie has a unique way of supporting caregivers through real-world scenarios and practical guidance. I’ve seen her make the challenge much more manageable for many at the end of their ropes. If you need a basic starting position for dementia care, this book is for you.”
Amazon link: A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey. Paperback: 59 pages
The problem of dementia for patients and caregivers, is getting worse — according
(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.)
April 28
Ashley Nicole, Okereke, 34 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.
Ny’Kia Lashall Gray, 21 of Edmond. Assault and/or battery with a dangerous weapon and burglary in the first degree.
Djahra Chaitre Chatman, 25 of Edmond. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
William Lee Mason Jr., 20 of Haskell, Okla. Three counts of failure to appear.
Chad Lawrence Martin, 34 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.
Rochelle Denise Tahbone, 38 of Oklahoma City. Improper walking/running in roadway and public intoxication.
April 29
Ashley Nichole Macaulay, 35 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Koleyone Javery Nathan Walker, 22 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag – over three months, possession of marijuana, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Adrian Leroy Reeves, 30 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia, two misdemeanor warrants and possess CDS.
Stratton Alivia Bates, 21 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Jonathon Lynn Snow, 39 of Edmond. Possession of CDS, possess drug paraphernalia and (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property –presumption.
Ronald Bayardo Avila, 33 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license, fail to carry current security verification form in vehicle and (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property – presumption.
Colton Stone Jones, 22 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, expired tag - over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Jeanette Leigh Burley, 39 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Lamatha Gaines, 55 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned and shoplifting – petit larceny.
Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 33 homeless. (Misdemeanor) malicious injury or destruction of property, obstruction of police officer and trespassing after being forbidden.
Mark Christopher Thake, 62 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Michael Eugene Bliss, 41 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
April 30
David Gregory Alexander, 63 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Shaladre Deshay Johnson, 30 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Aliya Ann Eckhardt, 21 of Edmond. Child abuse neglect.
Wesley Dean Daniels, 21 of Edmond. Child abuse neglect.
Sherita Montgomery Manuel, 57 of Oklahoma City. False representation to an officer, shoplifting – petit larceny and trespassing after being warned.
Jayson L. Sabo, 46 of Syracuse, Ind. Public intoxication.
May 1
Richard John Cochren, 73 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.
Devin Paul Stuber, 29 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Zapporah Lynia Gibson-Jackson, 34 of Oklahoma City. Speeding (15 mph over), no proof of insurance, no tag – improper tag and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Kristi Jean Meierhoff, 43 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor value) receive stolen property – presumption.
Ocean Cha’yah Hudson, 22 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, assault and/or battery with a dangerous weapon and two counts of assault and battery/battery (felony) on a police
officer or correctional staff.
Allen Lynn Pharr, 26 of Guthrie. Stop sign violation and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.
May 2
Benjamin Mtyos Kipsitet, 22 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Asa Lamar Chandler, 37 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant, felony warrant and failure to appear.
Sean Wesley Edwards, 41 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.
Matthew Srock Frost, 34 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of failure to appear and public intoxication.
Jason Monroe Richburg, 46 homeless. No proof of insurance and operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license.
May 3
Aaron Daniel Banks, 41 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Ebony Shanay Carmen Harper, 42 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny.
Colton Stone Jones, 22 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.
Jamie Ryan Bradley, 35 of Moore. Public intoxication.
Zachery Wesley, Schwerdtfeger, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Hannah Elizabeth Andrews, 33 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, no proof of insurance, possession of marijuana and expired tag 1 to 3 months.
May 4
Windy Joy Day, 45 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.
Nathaniel Miguel Bruxvoort, 24 of Guthrie. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level or .08 or more.
Rohith Panaganti, 23 of Edmond. Expired tag 1 to 3 months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Lorri Dawn McQuade-Neal, 48 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Sydney Austin Luster, 30 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.
Extra Info: Through Thu, May 29; Ticket required; open daily: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Outdoor Grounds: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Civic Center Music Hall presents: “Much Ado About Nothing”
Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: Fri, May 9 – Sun, May 18; Fri: & Sat: 7 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okcciviccenter.com
Sip & Stroll
Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden
Extra Info: Fri May 16; 6 – 10 p.m.; okczoo.org
OKC Symphony Show House
Location: 6100 NW Grand Ave
Extra Info: Sat, May 10 – Sun, May 25; 11 a.m. –5 p.m.; okcphil.org
Submit events to infante318@cox.net
A generous year by ESA & Edmond chapter
Thirteen of Oklahoma’s 26 chapters of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an international philanthropic organization, fundraised a record amount of monies this year for their local non-profits.
These 13 Oklahoma chapters volunteered 23,627 hours. They donated monies and goods in the amount of $176,940.00 and drove 42,955 miles for their local projects. What an accomplishment!
The local Edmond Gamma Zeta chapter of ESA logged 3,699 volunteer hours. Actual money credited Gamma Zeta was $201,527.60. This included socks, shoes, and sweatshirts given to Shoes That Fit, canned good supplies, and sleeping bags given to No Boundaries, Int’l., sewn clothing, crocheted hats, shoes, hair bows, coats & winter hats & gloves, and stuffed animals for U R Special, dog & cat food, blankets given to Free to Live. Angel tree items were distributed for Salvation Army, and birthday cakes and school supplies given to Boys Ranch Town. Each of these non-profits also received monetary donations. Both the Oklahoma School for the Deaf and the Oklahoma School for
the Blind received donations for their 176 students. Edmond ESA volunteers drove 9,523 miles in these endeavors.
The local Gamma Zeta ESA chapter donated $193,037.62 to St. Jude. Altogether the 13 report-
Special Olympics scheduled at Oklahoma State University
Nearly 5,300 Special Olympics Oklahoma participants will take over the campus of Oklahoma State University this week to compete in the annual Summer Games. Special Olympics Oklahoma staff, thousands of volunteers, and law enforcement personnel are gearing up for three full days of competitions, Olympicstyle ceremonies, an Olympic Village, and much more.
During the spring, athletes competed in local area competitions to qualify for the upcoming state games. Currently, there are 283 delegations registered to compete throughout the week in 11 different sports.
“Our athletes look forward to competing in these Games – it gives them something to look forward to,” said Special Olympics Summer Games Director Paul Fox. “Athletes are not the only ones who benefit from this event and others similar. We are increasing opportunities for healthier communities by cultivating understanding and inclusion.”
Beyond competitions, several professional healthcare workers will volunteer their time to offer a range of complimentary healthcare services available to all participants. Professional healthcare providers will volun-
teer their expertise, offering dental screenings, hearing tests, eye exams, and mental wellness techniques through the "Healthy Athletes" program, promoting overall well-being among athletes. This will take place in Wes Watkins Center on Thursday, May 15 from 9am-5pm.
Additionally on Thursday, May 15, McDonald’s will serve over 8,000 free lunches to athletes, coaches, and volunteers. Local McDonald’s staff will set up in the Monroe Parking Garage to cook and volunteers from local schools will come out to help serve meals.
This is the 40th Summer Games hosted at Oklahoma State University (OSU) and the City of Stillwater (COS), and the 56th anniversary of Special Olympics Oklahoma. Oklahoma’s Summer Games are the largest Special Olympics event in North America, and the largest amateur athletic event in Oklahoma. Volunteers are still needed, and more information can be found at www.sook.org on how to register.
The 2025 Summer Games are presented by 918 Fully Involved, Cox Communications, Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Drumright Dental Center, Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Oklahoma, McDonald’s, and Bob & Liz Austin.
ing Oklahoma ESA chapters donated a total of $1,272,802.32 to St. Jude Children’s Hospital!!! What an accomplishment!!
If you would like to join this energetic group of people, call Jacci Gantz at 405-922-5954.
Thousands of athletes are competing in Stillwater this week.
Gamma Zeta won 33 awards at State Convention last week as well as the coveted Outstanding Oklahoma ESA chapter title
MLB fan becomes pope
Last week was interesting with the selection of Catholic Pope Leo XIV – who grew up in Chicago.
He becomes the first American Pope elected by the cardinals. But as Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York pointed out, the world doesn’t see it that way.
It goes back to a conversation we had in this column space a month or so ago. Most of the world sees the Western Hemisphere as America. You have North America, Central America and South America. Thereby, Pope Leo is the second American – with the recently late Pope Francis as the first American – being from Argentina.
Yet Pope Leo is the first born in the U.S. and that is unprecedented. When I was watching the process on television, the commentators were almost certain it wouldn’t be an American (U.S. citizen) and probably would never be an American for centuries.
But we know now that was wrong. In fact a video surfaced over the weekend – showing Pope Leo at
game one of the 2005 World Series –when the Chicago White Sox hosted the Houston Astros. It looked like the Pope, who was Father Robert Prevost in those days, was nervous. He wanted that last out against Houston – along with thousands of others in Chicago. And the White Sox did win and went on to sweep the World Series.
It’s odd to me that you can have some ordinary guy at a game – and 20 years later he’s named the pope. Can you imagine sitting behind that guy and elbowing your neighbor. “Hey. See that guy in front of you, Bob? He’s going to be pope someday.”
It makes me wonder if any other pope has even understood baseball or taken an interest in it? Probably not would be my guess.
Let’s all hope the pope is successful and we have a more peaceful and blessed world.
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Did you see highlights of former President Biden on “The View,” program the other day? The poor guy still doesn’t have a clue. He should just quietly retire and fade from the spotlight. Probably not much hope of that happening, though.
By Rep. Collin Duel I took part in a ceremony this week awarding the Oklahoma Cross of Valor to Richard D. Lawrence, of Wakita, at the State Capitol.
Lawrence was a flight maintenance gunner and ball turret gunner who flew aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress during World War II as part of the 2518th Army Air Force Base Unit in the European Theater, Hungary. He was shot down during a mission over Hungary and captured by enemy forces, spending almost a year as a prisoner of war from June 27, 1944, through May 2, 1945.
We were told that throughout his captivity, Lawrence endured harsh and inhumane conditions, including a grueling march of more than 500 miles without provisions. Yet, even in the face of such extreme adversity, Lawrence was noted for consistently providing leadership and support to his fellow POWs, never losing hope for their eventual lib-
Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, secured unanimous approval from the Senate for House Bill 1003, which raises the age of consent from 16 to 18 years of age.
Hamilton has been a leading proponent of legislation intended to enhance protections for children in Oklahoma, and stated he carried this measure to combat child sex trafficking and protect the innocence of children.
“Raising the age of consent will close loopholes in our current consent laws that predators have continued to exploit,” Hamilton said. “I’m grateful for my colleagues’ overwhelming support of this bill that will continue our efforts to protect the most innocent among us, while also ensuring our state stands strong against predators who target vulnerable youth.”
Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, is the House Author of the measure.
“This is a victory for Oklahoma families and for our children. By raising the age of consent to 18, we are drawing a clear line that reflects our state’s traditional values and our duty to protect young people. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the Senate for standing up for what is right, and I look forward to seeing this important measure become law,” Olsen said.
House Bill 1003 will take effect immediately after being signed into law.
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Senate Republican leaders are applauding the success of the Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP), which recently supported $82 million in private investment and helped create 967 new jobs across the state.
The program, administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce in partnership with the Oklahoma Finance Authorities, provides tar-
eration.
After returning home, he became a vital part of his community, serving on several boards, in several churches as an elder, and as a director of his hometown bank. He still manages his wheat and cattle farm, clearing fields from the seat of his Polaris.
It was such an honor to meet this dedicated and courageous veteran and to recognize him in this manner. I'm grateful for his sacrifice to keep his fellow citizens safe and free.
May is Military Appreciation month, which made this recognition all the more important to me. As a veteran, I know our country remains free and safe from enemy attacks because of the strength of our military. I'm ever appreciative of those who are serving or who have served in this capacity.
Last week in the House of Representatives, we heard numerous bills in advance of the third-reading deadline for bills from the opposite chamber.
I passed Senate Bill 250, which ensures Oklahoma's minimum wage law remains consistent with federal standards, while also preserving protections for workers to receive fair compensation through regulated tips and other benefits. This bill supports free market principles by recognizing the full value of compensation packages, while respecting the decisions of small business owners when contracting with their employees.
I amended this bill, so it now returns to the Senate for final consideration. Bills unamended in opposite chamber go straight to the governor for his consideration of signing them into law. He's already signed a number of bills. Also this week, we had the pleasure of welcoming the FFA Choir to the House. Students from across the state participate in this choir, and they show a phenomenal amount of talent. Their rendition of "God Bless America" was truly touching, and of course the song "Oklahoma!" drew an enthusiastic response.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at (405) 557-7350 or collin.duel@okhouse.gov if I can ever be of service to you.
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Collin Duel, a Republican, represents House District 31 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes parts of Logan and Oklahoma counties.
geted incentives to help existing Oklahoma companies modernize, expand operations, and invest in innovation. This year, 201 companies across 64 communities received funding.
Senator Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, serves as Co-Chair of the Legislative Evaluation and Development (LEAD) Committee, which is tasked with reviewing financing for individual incentive packages and providing oversight of economic development investments made by the state.
“This is exactly the kind of return taxpayers deserve,” said Thompson. “Through the LEAD Committee, we’re focused on making sure every dollar the state invests is backed by real data, real jobs, and real impact. The Innovation Expansion Program is a model of what smart, resultsdriven economic development should look like.”
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Legislation aimed at strengthening transparency and improving the stewardship of taxpayer dollars is now headed to the governor’s desk, following final passage of Senate Bill 491 carried in the House by Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa.
SB491 updates the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to allow public bodies to discuss the sale, lease or acquisition of real property during executive sessions. Under current law, such closed-door discussions are limited to purchases or appraisals only.
“This is a straightforward and necessary update to the Open Meeting Act,” Hildebrant said. “It ensures public bodies can handle all real estate transactions with consistency, confidentiality and care, while maintaining the public’s trust.”
Importantly, the bill does not alter existing legal requirements that all actions and votes must take place in open session.
“Today, many of these negotiations happen informally between a mayor and vice mayor, excluding the full governing body,” Hildebrant said.
UCO announces marshals for spring 2025
The University of Central Oklahoma has named five students as Class Marshals of their respective colleges for the spring 2025 semester, recognizing them for their academic excellence.
Students earn the title of Class Marshal for achieving the highest academic records within their colleges during their time at Central.
"Our Class Marshals are among the brightest University of Central Oklahoma students and a testament to the grit and dedication it takes to earn a college degree," said UCO President Todd
G. Lamb.
"These exceptional students have made a lasting impact on our campus, and we are confident they will continue to shape and strengthen their communities beyond UCO. We look forward to seeing these Bronchos succeed in their careers."
Hadley Carlin is a forensic investigations and criminal justice major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Liberal Arts. She is a native of Stuttgart, Arkansas, and graduated from Stuttgart High School in 2022. Carlin is a member of the UCO
Student Academy of Forensic Science, secretary of UCO’s Delta Delta Epsilon and a member of Alpha Phi Sigma. Due to her academic success, she has received the UCO Freshman Achievement Scholarship, Leed's Forensic Systems, Inc. Scholarship in Forensic
See Marshals, Page 12 Carlin
The University of Central Oklahoma has named five students as Class Marshals of their respective colleges for the spring 2025 semester, recognizing them for their academic excellence. Pictured, the marshals pose with UCO President Todd G. Lamb and First Lady Monica Lamb at a reception.
Science, W. Roger Webb Endowed Scholarship for Criminal Justice or Counterterrorism, UCO Incoming Student scholarship and was named to the UCO President's Honor Roll.
After graduation, Carlin hopes to become a forensic firearms examiner and potentially pursue a master’s degree in forensic science at UCO or attend law school.
After graduation, she plans to become an elementary school teacher, where she can positively impact young learners by helping them reach their full potential.
“UCO has been a great place for me to learn and grow, with so many opportunities and great people. My professors have always been very supportive and caring. I have made lifelong friendships and amazing relationships with my classmates and professors,” Carlin said.
Melanie Fuentes is an early childhood education major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Education and Professional Studies. She is a 2018 graduate of U.S. Grant High School in Oklahoma City. Fuentes has been named to the President Honors Roll and has received the Inspired to Teach scholarship.
“My time at UCO has been instrumental in shaping my journey toward becoming a teacher and making a meaningful impact on students' lives. It has inspired me and equipped me with invaluable skills and strategies, empowering me to grow into the best educator I can be,” Fuentes said.
Taylor Marie Harper is a nursing major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Mathematics and Science. She is from Edmond, Oklahoma, and is a 2016 graduate of Christian Heritage Academy. During her time at UCO, Harper was a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nurses and the Student Nurses Association.
After graduation, she will begin her nursing career as a trauma ICU nurse at OU Health.
“Throughout my journey in the UCO nursing program, I have had the privilege of meeting some of the most inspiring, compassionate and intelligent people. Each semester, we drew closer as we navigated the challenges of nursing school and the complexities of life's demands. These remarkable friends have not only encouraged me but have also challenged me to grow in ways I never thought possible. Their unwavering support and kindness have been a constant source of strength. I am also grateful to the incredible nursing professors whose dedication and guidance have shaped me into the graduate I am. Their passion for teaching and commitment to our success have made a lasting impact on my life,” Harper said.
Taylor Keys is a graphic design major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Fine Arts and Design. She is from Edmond, Oklahoma, and is a 2021 Deer Creek High School graduate. During her time at UCO, Keys received the Tinker Federal Credit Union Design Scholarship and Merit Scholarship for Illustration Minors and was a member of the Graphic Design Student Association.
After graduation, she plans to pursue a graphic design or illustration career.
“My time at UCO has been nothing but amazing. The staff have all been wonderful and have pushed me to become a better designer, student and person. One of the most memorable aspects of my time at UCO was the sense of community. I've met so many amazing people who have impacted my life in the best way through my classes, study tours and campus activities! Overall, UCO was a place of growth for me, and I will always look back and cherish these years and what they have taught me,” Keys said.
Sydney Shipman is a business administration major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Business. She is from Cleveland, Oklahoma, and is a 2022 graduate of Cleveland High School.
During her time on campus, Shipman was president of the Pre-Law Society, was on the President's Honor Roll, and received the Dr. Carl H. Guild Jr. and Dr. Thomas E. Guild Endowed scholarship.
After graduation, she will begin law school at Oklahoma City University School of Law.
“UCO has provided me with so many opportunities to grow and it has pushed me to be more resilient. I am so grateful for the professors who have helped me along the way and all the opportunities UCO gave me,” Shipman said.
First presented in 1994, the Class Marshal title has become a proud Central tradition. During the commencement ceremonies, each honoree will wear a bronze graduation gown and a special stole, signifying the highest degree of academic excellence.
For more information on UCO, visit www.uco.edu.
Grads
Fuentes
Harper Keys
Shipman
There is a lot to see and do in Joplin
By Elaine Warner
I’ve loved Thomas Hart Benton’s style since before I was old enough to know who he was. When I was a youngster, every August my mom would take me to downtown Kansas City to buy my school clothes. Harzfeld’s, one of our favorite shops, had a mural above the elevators. I didn’t know anything about the subject – references to Greek mythology and local history – or the artist, but I was fascinated by the sinuous curves of the figures and the luscious colors.
Since then, I’ve sought out Benton paintings wherever I go. Art museums, sure, but I’ve found some in unusual places. And that’s how we got to Joplin.
In the early 1970s, Members of the Joplin Council of Arts were trying to decide on a project for the celebration of the one hundredth anniversary of the establishment of Joplin in 1873. Their idea -what better than a painting by a Joplin homeboy who had become internationally recognized?
Thomas Hart Benton was born in Neosho, about 20 miles south of Joplin. As a teenager, he got a job working around the mines in the area. An acquaintance saw some of his sketches and suggested he apply for a job as an illustrator at a local newspaper, the Joplin American – earning his first paycheck as an artist.
The committee approached Benton and convinced him to visit the town. His reaction, “Every old codger likes…to recall his youth and, if he can get anybody to pay attention, tell stories about it. Here an opportunity was offered to tell some of mine….”The result was Benton’s last completed mural. (He was working on his final painting – “The Sources of Country Music” for the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville – when he died two years later.)
“Joplin at the Turn of the Century” hangs in the Joplin City Hall. Benton not only relied on his own memories but exhaustively researched the period. The mural highlights not only social and economic aspects but includes some very personal additions. Benton’s grandsons are pictured riding in a wagon and Benton himself appears as a young newspaper cartoonist.
Close to the Benton work, another painting, “Route 66, Joplin, Missouri” depicts the town in the 40s and 50s. The artist – Anthony Benton Gude, Thomas Benton’s grandson – gives another view of the town’s history and includes such figures as his grandfather and grandmother seated at a soda fountain.
City Hall itself is an interesting site. Built in 1910 as an upscale department store, it features impressive columns and elegant metalwork. The first floor has been divided into offices including the Joplin Visitor Center.
On the open mezzanine level, you’ll find an extensive display of materials about Thomas Hart Benton and the creation of the mural. One of the most interesting pieces is a painted, clay maquette he created to make sure he got the shadows and colors in the painting as he wanted them. During the first half of the 20th century, Joplin was a major center for lead and zinc mining. The
tri-state area was riddled with mines. It was said that one could walk from Joplin to Miami, Oklahoma underground.
To learn more about the industry, visit the Joplin History and Mineral Museum. The collections here range from local history to the National Cookie Cutter Museum and Merle Evans Miniature Circus. Other displays honor famous people associated with Joplin including actors Bob Cummings, Dennis Weaver and writer Langston Hughes, who was born in Joplin.
You’ll also find displays on the infamous Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, who, with Clyde’s brother Buck and his wife, in 1933, rented an apartment in Joplin for a little R&R between robberies. Neighbors became suspicious and reported them to the police. A raid and gunfight ensued. Two policemen were killed and the criminals escaped.
In their haste, they left behind a number of personal items including a camera with undeveloped film. Once the police developed the photos, they had their first positive identifying images of the couple. You can see the photos, camera and some of Bonnie’s jewelry in the museum. And later, you might want to drive by the garage apartment where they holed up.
The mineral section of the museum is entered through a replica of a mine adit. High quality geologic specimens on loan from the Smithsonian Museum are especially impressive. You’ll also learn about the mining culture.
Our time in Joplin was short and the weather was rainy, so we skipped some of the outdoor attractions like Grand Falls. Missouri’s largest continuously flowing waterfall -- a 12-foot cascade over a 163-foot-wide ledge of chert.
My choice for dinner would have been a restaurant I’d visited before – Wilder’s Steakhouse. Founded in 1929, in a 1908 building, the décor is still early-1940s. The steaks are amazing and a meal finished with their signature bread pudding topped with salted caramel, white chocolate and vanilla bean ice cream would have been a real treat.
Instead, we picked up sandwiches and ate in our room.
We ended our trip the next morning with a driving tour through the Murphysburg Historic District, Joplin’s oldest neighborhood. Elegant homes here display examples of many styles of architecture from Queen Anne and Craftsman to American Foursquare and Eclectic.
Our time here was too short, less than 24 hours. There’s more to see and do in Joplin – a great stop on a Route 66 road trip. And it’s a must if you are a fan of Thomas Hart Benton.
The living room of a wealthy Joplin citizen in the late 1800s might have looked like this. The box piano was purchased in 1873 and brought to Joplin on a covered wagon.
Elaine
The photograph featuring Thomas Hart Benton working on the Joplin mural is displayed in the exhibit on the mezzanine of the City Hall
Bonnie and Clyde only spent a few days in Joplin, but in the raid which chased them out, articles left behind included the first photographic images of the infamous couple
Review of movie ‘Another Simple Favor’
Storytelling struggles a bit in sequel
By George Gust
Seven years ago, “A Simple Favor” charmed audiences with its stylish mystery and biting humor, director Paul Feig returns with an Amazon Prime streaming exclusive “Another Simple Favor”. While the first film balanced its intrigue with sharp wit, this follow-up leans more into its glamorous setting and over-the-top twist which is a blessing and a curse.
“Another Simple Favor” follows Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) who reunite under unlikely circumstances. Emily, newly freed from prison thanks to her wealthy fiancé’s lawyers, invites Stephanie to be her maid of honor at her extravagant wedding. But as expected, murder and deception RSVP to the event, turning the picturesque getaway into a chaotic web of secrets.
One of the biggest draws of Another Simple Favor is its travel log setting and filmmaking style. The film fully embraces the beauty of Capri, offering stunning visuals that transport you to the picturesque location and can feel like an extended hyper stylized perfume commercial. If A Simple Favor was a suburban noir, this sequel is a full-
fledged European escapade, dripping in excess and intrigue.
The performances of Kendrick and Lively remain the film’s strongest assets. Kendrick’s Stephanie is still delightful navigating the chaos with her signature mix of earnestness and awkward charm. Lively, meanwhile, showcases her movie-star effortless cool, delivering biting one-liners with a smirk that makes you question her intentions throughout. Their chemistry remains electric, making even the most ridiculous moments entertaining.
While the film retains the stylish flair of its predecessor, it struggles with tone. The first movie balanced its mystery with humor, but “Another
Simple Favor” often veers into mean-spirited territory. The snarky exchanges between characters sometimes feel more cruel than clever, and the film’s reliance on insults and exaggerated caricatures can make it feel hollow and too cynical for its own good.
And the story itself becomes more convoluted than compelling. The twists pile up quickly, but rather than building suspense, they often feel like distractions from the film’s lack of emotional depth.
“Another Simple Favor” is a breezy, guilty pleasure that delivers on exotic locations and stylish escapism. While it lacks the balance and charm of its predecessor, it’s still an entertaining watch, especially if you’re in the mood for a glamorous mystery that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
“Another Simple Favor” is rated R for violence, sexual content, nudity, language throughout, and suicide.
2.9 of 5 stars
(Contact George Gust for comment about these awards,, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
Lively and Anna Kendrick
2018’s sleeper comedy/thriller “A
Carpenter Sq. sets production
Carpenter Square Theatre’s Season 41 continues with “Native Gardens,” an outrageous comedy by Karen Zacarias which enacts a backyard battle for the ages. Performances are May 23-June 8, 2025 at the theatre’s venue located at 1009 W. Reno in downtown Oklahoma City. With 10 performances scheduled over three weeks. Specific dates and times are:
8 p.m. Fridays -Saturdays, May 23-24, 3031, and June 6-7; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, May 29 and June 5; and 2 p.m. Sundays, June 1 and 8.
When expecting parents Tania and Pablo Del Valle move in next door to longtime residents Virginia and Frank Butley, a dispute over their yard’s property line spirals into an epic, flower-flinging war over taste, class, personal identity
Individual adult tickets are $30 with $25 tickets available for seniors aged 62 or older, military, and groups of ten or more. Reservations are highly recommended for the intimate theater. For more information, visit www.carpentersquare.co m. For tickets, visit www.carpentersquare.co m or call 405-232-6500.
Blake
in Amazon Prime’s “Another Simple Favor” a follow up to
Simple Favor”
Anyone who has ever gone to college can probably relate to the joy felt by this OSU grad as he takes possession of his diploma.
O-State marks its 150th commencement
Oklahoma State University celebrated a historic milestone with its 150th commencement ceremonies on May 9-10 inside Gallagher-Iba Arena.
The ceremonies marked the first commencement presided over by OSU President Jim Hess, who was named the university’s 20th president earlier this year.
The event featured Oklahoma House of Representatives Speaker Kyle Hilbert, a proud Cowboy alumnus, as the keynote speaker. Hilbert, who represents House District 29, became the youngest House speaker in Oklahoma history at age 30. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agribusiness and his MBA from OSU, where he served as Student Government Association president. Since his election to the Oklahoma House of
Arledge & Associates Q&A
Representatives, Hilbert authored more than 40 bills signed into law, championing infrastructure improvements, education funding reforms and greater budget transparency for the state.
The 150th commencement not only celebrated the achievements of the 2025 graduating class but also reflected on OSU’s rich legacy as a land-grant institution.
The university was created on Christmas Eve, 1890, when Territorial Gov. George W. Steele signed legislation establishing Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College in Payne County. Classes began on Dec. 14, 1891, inside the Stillwater Congregational Church, as the fledgling college had no buildings, books or formal curriculum. By 1896, OAMC celebrated its first six grad-
uates.
Over the decades, OSU grew alongside the state it served. Following World War II, enrollment surged, Veterans Village housed returning service members, and athletics thrived under legendary coaches like Henry Iba and Edward Gallagher. In 1957, OAMC officially became Oklahoma State University for Agriculture and Applied Science, signaling a broader academic mission.
Expansion continued as OSU established campuses in Okmulgee, Oklahoma City, Tulsa and the Center for Health Sciences.
Recent years brought record-breaking enrollment numbers, including a historic freshman class in 2024 and a combined Stillwater and Tulsa enrollment of more than 26,000 students.
Some tax questions by active duty military
By Jen Lindstrom CPA
For the active duty servicemember, moving comes with the job. However, relocating to different states and managing legal residencies can make filing state taxes confusing and stressful.
I’m active duty stationed at Tinker AFB. Where do I file my state taxes?
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), enacted in 2003, provides financial protections, including the ability to maintain legal state residency throughout a military career. The SCRA also limits taxation on military income to the resident state. If your legal residence is not Oklahoma, you do not pay Oklahoma state tax on your military income
What about my military spouse?
To further ease financial burdens, Congress passed the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) in 2009 amending the SCRA. MSRRA allowed spouses to retain legal residency if they originally shared the same resident state as the servicemember. It also expanded the provision for personal service income by the spouse to be taxed by the resident state only.
In 2018 the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act (VBTA) further expanded MSRRA protections, allowing military spouses to claim their servicemember’s legal residence even if they never physically lived there. This simplifies state tax filings for military families when both spouses have the same state of legal residence.
The Veterans Auto and Education
Improvement Act (VAEIA) of 2022 enhanced residency options, allowing both servicemembers and spouses to maintain residency in the civilian spouse’s home state, even if they no longer physically reside there. This provides more flexibility in choosing legal residency.
We live in Oklahoma, but my spouse and I maintain our legal residence in Arkansas. Do we file an Oklahoma tax return?
Income from services performed by the servicemember’s spouse in Oklahoma is not taxable to Oklahoma. In short, if your spouse is receiving a W2, the wages are only taxable to Arkansas. If the W-2 does not report Oklahoma withholding and this is the only income apart from your military wages, there is no filing requirement in Oklahoma. If Oklahoma withholding was applied, Form 511-NR, Oklahoma’s nonresident income tax return, must be filed to request a refund. Note that this does not apply to a servicemember’s civilian earned income.
My spouse has a job at a local retail store and they are withholding Oklahoma state taxes. Is there anything we can do?
Yes. A military spouse can file Form OW-9-MSE with their employer to exempt themselves from Oklahoma state withholding tax. Employers may also request an updates OK W-4 to allow exempt status.
Does that mean that all income earned in Oklahoma is nontaxable?
No. MSRRA only protects “income for services provided” by the servicemember’s spouse (50 U.S.C 571(a)(2)). Typically, this is wages reported on a W-2, but can also include
personal service business income such as childcare or landscaping. If the spouse runs a home business that makes, buys, or sells goods, such as a cake business, this income is taxable in Oklahoma and may also be reportable to the resident state. Additionally, rental income earned on Oklahoma property is always taxable to Oklahoma.
The SCRA, MSRRA, and VBTA, simplify state tax filings for military families. With the addition of the VAEIA of 2022, spouses now have greater flexibility in selecting their legal residence. Since tax laws evolve, consulting a tax professional is essential to ensure compliance and maximize financial benefits.
Jen Lindstrom, CPA, is a partner at Arledge, the largest locally owned accounting firm in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Arledge is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting.
This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
Lindstrom
AAA: Some 45.1 million to travel for May holiday
AAA projects 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day holiday period* from Thursday, May 22 to Monday, May 26. This year’s domestic travel forecast is an increase of 1.4 million travelers compared to last year. But despite the increase in holiday travel volume projections, and outside of the dramatic impacts on travel during COVID-19 in 2020, 2025 is projected to have the lowest year-over-year growth rate in nearly a decade (since 2016) for the Memorial Day holiday.
Economic uncertainties and concerns over rising prices are on the minds of travelers, however, many Americans say they’re taking advantage of the long holiday weekend to spend time with loved ones, even if the trips are closer to home.
“Memorial Day weekend getaways don’t have to be extravagant and costly,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “While some travelers embark on dream vacations and fly hundreds of miles across the country, many families just pack up the car and drive to the beach or take a road trip to visit friends. Long holiday weekends are ideal for travel because many people have an extra day off work and students are off from school.”
By Car: AAA projects 39.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend. Driving is the preferred mode of transportation during holiday travel periods, with 87% of Memorial Day travelers choosing to take
road trips. This year, drivers have the benefit of cheaper gas prices. Last Memorial Day, the national average for a gallon of regular was $3.59. This spring – thanks to lower crude oil prices – gasoline prices haven't seen typical seasonal spikes. With the unofficial start of summer kicking off the busy driving season, demand is expected to rise, and pump prices may creep up along with it. Gas prices typically peak in the summer and start coming down when schools go back in session in the fall.
For drivers who are renting cars over Memorial Day weekend, AAA car rental partner Hertz says Friday, May 23 is expected to be the busiest day for pickup. SUVs are some of the most popular rental vehicles for the long holidayENGLISH-25-1080-TRV_Memorial Day Forecast Chart.png weekend. Hertz says the cities seeing the highest demand for rental cars include Orlando, Denver, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Miami, and Seattle – all cities in AAA’s Top Destinations list.
By Air: AAA projects 3.61 million air passengers. While this Memorial Day weekend isn’t expected to set an air travel record (that was set back in 2005 with 3.64 million travelers), this year’s numbers are projected to surpass pre-pandemic levels by 12%. AAA booking data (based on what travelers paid when booking Memorial Day weekend flights) shows domestic flights are 2% more expensive compared to last year, with the average roundtrip ticket costing $850.
Edmond lawmakers part of three job growth bills
The Oklahoma House of Representatives has passed three major pieces of legislation sponsored by Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, the chair of House Commerce and Economic Development Oversight. These workforce focused bills are aimed at strengthening the state’s job pipeline, driving innovation, and positioning Oklahoma for longterm economic growth.
"Our children shouldn't have to move to Denver or Dallas to launch their careers," Hill said. "I'm proud to help lead a unified effort to align education, training, and economic development in a way that prepares Oklahomans for the jobs of tomorrow. By investing in strategic workforce priorities, we can lay the foundation for a more competitive and prosperous Oklahoma."
Senate Bill 324, by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, and Hill, would establish the Oklahoma Research and Development Rebate Fund and Program, which would incentivize privatesector innovation by offering a 5% rebate on qualified research expenditures. The annual rebate, to be administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and capped at $20 mil-
Trucking safety standards improved under new bill
The Oklahoma House of Representatives has passed a bill sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby, to improve road safety and protect Oklahoma’s commercial trucking industry.
Senate Bill 20, known as the Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025, reestablishes stricter requirements for non-domiciled commercial driver licenses (CDLs) to restore standards that were relaxed in 2016. The bill requires holders to present proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or valid passport) along with a valid work visa. It also prevents certain temporary visa holders from driving commercial vehicles and imposes fines up to $2,000 and vehicle impoundment for violations.
“Safety on our roads starts with qualified drivers,” Wilk said. “SB20 raises the bar by ensuring that only those who meet strict requirements—like proof of citizenship and work visa status—are allowed behind the wheel of commercial vehicles in Oklahoma.”
The bill also makes it illegal for companies to knowingly hire drivers who don’t meet the new requirements. It strengthens English proficiency standards—drivers unable to demonstrate sufficient proficiency will face a $5,000 fine, with the funds going to the Weigh Station Improvement Revolving Fund.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe on the road,” Wilk added. “By making sure drivers are properly qualified and companies are held accountable, we’re putting safety first—for all Oklahomans.”
Wilk expressed his appreciation to members of the house and the trucking industry for all their insight for SB20. He also thanked his House and Senate Colleagues for supporting the legislation.
SB20 passed the House 74-15. It was scheduled to return to the Oklahoma State Senate for a vote on the House amendments.
lion, would encourage job-creating investments in science, technology and advanced manufacturing.
Senate Bill 663, by Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and Hill, moves the Workforce Coordination Revolving Fund from Commerce to the newly established Oklahoma Workforce Commission, ensuring that resources are targeted more efficiently toward highimpact initiatives. The fund would provide grants for critical workforce needs aligned with economic development goals identified by the Education and Economic Development Working Group of the Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief Funding.
Senate Bill 662, also by Pugh and Hill, charges the Oklahoma Workforce Commission with implementing programs that expand work-based learning opportunities, support high-demand career pathways and foster innovation in K-12 education for workforce readiness. It would also establish the Commission as the centralized data hub for Oklahoma’s workforce efforts, providing policymakers and stakeholders with timely, actionable information through the Legislature’s Workforce & Infrastructure interactive map.
Sanderson named safety trainer
Jeff Sanderson has joined Francis Tuttle Technology Center as a Safety Trainer in the school’s Workforce and Economic Development program. Sanderson brings more than 20 years of experience in safety management and training, with a strong background in military and civilian sectors. Sanderson previously served as a Safety Specialist with the Oklahoma Military Department, managing safety programs, including the Basic Motorcycle Rider Safety Course and Accident Analysis Program. He is a certified instructor for the National Safety Council Defensive Driver Course and OSHA training programs. Sanderson also
holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and is credentialed in Professional Safety and Occupational Health by the U.S. Army.
“We’re excited to welcome Jeff to the team,” said Kirsten Lindsay, director of Workforce and Economic Development. “His expertise and leadership will enhance our safety training programs and benefit both students and industry professionals.”
Francis Tuttle’s Workforce and Economic Development Team is a group of professionals tasked with identifying workforce development needs and collaborating with employers to develop and deploy relevant initiatives to build a diverse and skilled workforce to grow Oklahoma’s economy.
Sanderson
No corporal punishment for special needs students
This is a great victory for Oklahoma’s students with special needs,” said Joe Dorman, CEO of the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA). Dorman was speaking about the fact that Senate Bill 364 became law last week, without the governor’s signature.
SB 364 makes it illegal for schools to use corporal punishment for certain students with special needs under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Gov. Kevin Stitt neither signed nor vetoed the bill, meaning that – under a provision in Oklahoma’s Constitution called "pocket passage"– it has become law. While the Legislature is in session up until their final five days of business, if a governor neither signs nor vetoes a bill within five business days, such a measure nonetheless becomes law.
“We are grateful that Governor Stitt allowed the ban on the use of corporal punishment on children with special needs to become law,” Dorman said. “This was a top priority of OICA this session, and the culmination of years of work by many dedicated child advocates across the state.”
One of the leaders of that coalition, Carolynn Macallister of Payne County, was quick to praise the bill’s sponsors, Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, and House Speaker Pro Tempore Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, for their hard work to get the bill passed.
“On behalf of the coalition, I am very thankful that students with special needs are protected thanks to the dedicated work of these leaders and legislators in both the House of Representatives and Senate who voted for the bill,” Macallister said.
It was a coalition of 24 organizations from across the state that came together to end the practice of
inflicting physical pain on students with special needs, some of whom might not have understood why they were being punished. Only a few dozen school districts still allowed physical punishment on special needs students.
“This was a manifestation of their needs and prevented them from getting their legally required fair and appropriate education,” Macallister said. “The stories we heard from parents were heartbreaking, with some of their special needs children being punished without the parents’ permission.”
Dorman said the stories echoed the events which led to the creation of OICA more than forty years ago. “OICA was created as a response to the state maintaining a system of abuse on children in its custody, to ensure that something like that is never re-
peated,” he said. “Now we know that these special needs students will be treated properly, and their parents can rest easy.”
While ending the practice of corporal punishment on special needs students in school, the bill does not impact parents’ right to discipline their children in whatever manner they deem appropriate under the law, nor does current Oklahoma law prevent school districts from using corporal punishment on other students.
Macallister thanked former state Rep. John Talley, R-Stillwater, who first carried the legislation two years ago. Dorman noted that former state Sen. Kay Floyd, D-OKC, was the original Senate sponsor.
As Macallister summed it up, “I just thank God that we got it done.”
