In This Issue
Edmond a Big Part of upcoming National Tourism & Travel Week
By: Jennifer Thornton
Tourism Director Visit Edmond
Did You Know Edmond has:
13 Hotels
FRIDAY, MAY 2
Partly Cloudy
74° Low 52°
SATURDAY, MAY 3
Partly Cloudy
77° Low 56°
SUNDAY, MAY 4
AM Thunderstorms
76° Low 61°
Celebrating the Power of Travel National Tourism Week: May 4–10, 2025
Each year, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) shines a spotlight on the importance of travel as a driver of economic growth, community development, and job creation. In 2025, we are celebrating a $2.9 trillion industry that supports 15 million American jobs—and Oklahoma is proudly contributing to that impact. In today’s economy, staycations are becoming more popular. Edmond, as a destination along Route 66, is a place to relax in 33 parks, cool off at splash pads and Pelican Bay, enjoy 40 attractions including annual two cinemas, Arctic Edge Ice Arena, History Museum, Festival Market Place, and year-round sports and performances at University of Central Oklahoma.
Why Welcoming Visitors Matters in Edmond
When visitors come to Edmond, they shop, dine and play and pay sales tax that helps fund parks, streets and other amenities. Visitors who spend the night pay lodging tax which funds Visit Edmond to bring more conferences, tournaments and events and market Edmond as a destination. Every overnight brings an estimated additional $275 for food, transportation and shopping.
National Travel and Tourism Week isn’t just about industry stats—it’s about celebrating the people and places behind the numbers. From hotel housekeepers and front desk teams to tour guides, restaurateurs, and event planners, travel touches every corner of our community.
Whether you’re road-tripping along Route 66, relaxing at Arcadia Lake, exploring downtown Edmond, or attending annual festivals like Arts Festival, Cycle 66, Heard on Hurd, Storybook Forest, and LibertyFest, your travel dollars are supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening our city.
140 Vacation Homes
50 Creative Venues
27 Sports Facilities
Oklahoma’s Travel & Hospitality Industry:
By the Numbers
As we celebrate #NTTW25, let’s take a look at how travel and tourism fuel Oklahoma’s economy and local communities:
Hotel Industry Highlights:
•$63.8 billion in wages & salaries across Oklahoma
•$131 million in taxes collected from lodging
•$6.2 billion in hotel guest spending in the state
•89,888 jobs provided through Oklahoma’s hotel industry
•1,028 hotel properties with 77,189 guestrooms statewide
Travel Industry at a Glance:
•$12.3 billion in travel spending across Oklahoma
•108,270 travel-related jobs statewide
•$875.3 million in state & local tax revenue generated
•24.2 million visitors choosing Oklahoma as a destination
•Hospitality ranks as the 3rd largest industry in the state
These numbers tell a powerful story—one of opportunity, growth, and the value of welcoming people to experience everything Oklahoma has to offer.
Join the Celebration
Let’s show our pride in the people and places that make visiting Edmond unforgettable. Help us by thanking the hospitality and tourism partners who make it all possible on your next visit to restaurants, retail stores and attractions. Share your stories, tag @visitedmond and support your favorite local spots. Get ready to celebrate big during #NTTW25, May 4–10, 2025.
Want to explore more? Visit VisitEdmondOK.com for ideas on where to dine, shop, stay, and play.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
The Visit Edmond office knows that the city’s many golf courses bring several tournaments and players to town. Happy Hippo, on Broadway, is getting ready with Visit Edmond to welcome visitors to town.
DAR honors senior girls See page 7
Welcome to our DT Edmond Arts Festival
It is one of the biggest weeks of the year for celebrating our Edmond downtown area. It is being held this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This is the 47th annual arts festival put on by the Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA). This is put on by volunteers folks and it is spectacular.
It is important that you know where the shuttle car park is going to be. This will make your time at the festival much easier, and you will not have a long walk back to your car after seeing all the incredible vendors and eating your fill of fantastic food. The City is not going to let us put out yard signs directing people to pick up the shuttle location at 1st and University. I am not sure why, but we will be asking. It seems like letting some temporary signage would be a no brainer especially since it is in support of an event that brings so much revenue to Edmond. These vendors all remit sales tax so folks coming to the festival from outside of the area support our city services when they make purchases. Then, they go home so it is the best kind of revenue a city can receive. The economic impact is estimated at over $ 1 million.
If you are coming to the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival but dread driving around finding a parking space, they have made it easy for you. You can park at one of two UCO parking lots on the west side of 1st and University, and board a shuttle bus. After a short three-minute ride you will be dropped off just a block away from the arts festival.
The service will be free, thanks to sponsorship by CityLink, Visit Edmond, the Edmond Chamber and the Edmond Economic Development Authority. The bus will run about every 15 minutes from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm on Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3, and from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm on Sunday, May 4.
“We often heard of visitors frustrated with the lack of close-up parking, especially from parents of young children and those with mobility issues,” said Michelle Schaefer, Arts Festival co-chair. “We want to make it easy for anyone to be able to attend without worrying about walking several blocks in the heat and wind.”
Schaefer is a rock star folks when it comes to help-
ing not only downtown arts festival but also many other organizations in town. She is tireless and has helped since 2003 even when she has had knee problems. She and I have had knee surgery on both knees, so we are good to go walking around. She helps with logistics to design to marketing and we appreciate her so much. If you know her, I hope you will thank her for her dedication to Edmond. She is a true gift to the community so thank you Michelle! We have been blessed to produce and publish the official program for this event for the last 22 years. It was inserted in last week’s newspaper. Thanks to Schaefer’s efforts the program has won awards in national competitions. There are still these programs out and about at our office and other locations during the festival. You can also go to our website, www.edmondlifeandleisure.com, to see the print replica on your phone. It has artists, maps and more information.
Our advertisers in the program include Integris Health Edmond, Edmond Electric, Francis Tuttle, City of Edmond and Visit Edmond just to name a few help make the program possible. The advertisers in
this official program are great corporate citizens and I hope you will thank them for using this opportunity to promote themselves to support a local event.
There are 21 food vendors at this year's event so you will not go hungry. It is hard having an office downtown during the festival because you get to smell all the great food. The hard part is deciding what to eat. When I used to weigh 300lbs I could eat more so making the right decision was not so important. A hundred pounds less makes it more difficult to choose just the right food booth, but it is a wonderful problem to have.
You should also keep in mind that if you are not an eat outdoors kind of person, downtown Edmond has plenty of indoor places to pick from these days. Not the least of which is the newly restored Old Icehouse. They have brunch there on Saturday and Sunday. We tried it out last weekend and it was fantastic. The house made biscuits were to die for and I know my biscuits.
Prime Time Travel Celebrates Anniversary and Relocation in Edmond
Prime Time Travel is and has been for 25 years the official travel agency for Edmond Life & Leisure. They do advertise with us, which is a sign of intelligence, but they also offer great service and experience. If they were not the best in town, we simply would not recommend them so highly. They held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their anniversary and relocation.
Prime Time Travel, a full-service travel agency in Edmond, is dedicated to creating personalized travel experiences. The company is proudly celebrating 45 years in business. Since its founding, it has been a trusted local partner in planning individual, group, and corporate getaways, helping clients explore the world and create lasting memories.
With a steadfast commitment to exceptional customer service, Prime Time Travel ensures every journey is tailored to each client’s unique preferences. Whether it is a relaxing tropical escape, a cultural exploration, or a custom-designed worldwide itinerary, the agency’s expert advisors bring decades of experience to every trip.
As Prime Time Travel celebrates this milestone, the agency looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence and helping clients create lifelong memories through extraordinary travel experiences. They have experts in all kinds of travel, but their strongest suit is Europe. These days you really do not want to plan a trip out of the country without the help of a travel agent.
The one time I tried to book a hotel in Italy without the advice and help of Prime Time was a disaster. We ended up in a room that had a drain in the middle which should tell you a lot. The shower not only flooded but it also would not turn off. That is when I figured out what the drain was for my friends. I called a different hotel and explained my problem and where we had checked in. The lady on the other end of the phone said, “Oh my God, I am sending a cap to pick you up right now. My thought in the cab on the way to a paradise of a hotel was that I would never go to Europe again without using Prime Time.
For more information visit https://www.primetimetrvl.com/ or give them a call at 405-340-1120.
(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Ray Hibbard
More than 500 volunteers visited 35 worksites across Edmond and the Oklahoma City metro to say “thank you” through acts of service during the University of Central Oklahoma’s annual Big Event.
UCO students making a difference at Big Event
University of Central Oklahoma students made a big impact during this year’s Big Event, the university’s largest student-led day of service. With more than 500 volunteers participating, teams spread out across 35 worksites throughout Edmond and the Oklahoma City metro to give back to the community through service.
UCO’s Big Event allows students to say “thank you” to the surrounding community through hands-on volunteer work. From painting and landscaping to litter and general clean-up, students tackled small but meaningful projects for local homeowners, nonprofits, schools and churches—all within 20 miles of the Edmond campus.
“Big Event allows us to truly see the heart of what we do. In these moments, the long hours, the planning and the behind-the-scenes work all
come to life. We get to witness our service's impact—not just in a practical sense, but in how it touches people emotionally,” said Madison Fischer, student executive director of Big Event.
“Seeing the joy on their faces, the gratitude in their eyes and knowing that, in some small way, we helped create that—that’s incredibly powerful. It reminds me why I do this work in the first place. It’s more than just an event—it’s a chance to connect, to give back and to be part of something meaningful that leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved.”
Central’s Big Event allows students to participate in community engagement by giving back to the community through service. Additionally, students may apply to serve as team leaders, giving them the option to serve as the lead for an assigned site
in the community. Team leaders oversee communication with assigned site volunteers, coordination of site the day of the event and tool/supply pick up and drop off and develop their leadership skills.
Volunteer locations included the HOPE Center of Edmond, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, City Care, Twin Cedars Campgrounds, the Edmond YMCAs, OKC Ballet, the Redbud Classic and many local residences and organizations.
The UCO Office of Community Engagement, which oversees Big Event, empowers students to become active citizens and develop a responsibility to their communities through service and volunteerism, community partnerships and connections, intentional learning opportunities, and a focus on civic engagement and critical societal issues.
Pictured, a UCO student volunteering by stocking shelves with nonperishable food items during Big Event.
Keeping the traffic flowing
From City Source Edmond
Mobility is a challenge for growing cities – and Edmond is no different.
With the steady population growth comes more people moving around streets and neighborhoods. The challenges are something City staff is well aware of, and they are in the midst of a technological upgrade that can help ease some of those challenges.
The City of Edmond’s Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) began taking shape back in 2006. Today, almost two decades later, the City is equipped with some of the best systems in the industry.
“ITS is traffic signal technology that enables complex signal programming, safety enhancements and real-time feedback,” said Steve Lawrence, Di-
SPOTLIGHT: ITS traffic technology upgrades help Edmond move safely, efficiently in the future
rector of Engineering for the City of Edmond. “ITS implementation reduces vehicle delays at intersections by 40 percent during rush hour and by 75 percent during off-peak hours. Implementation of earlier ITS phases has reduced collisions by 50 percent at those intersections.”
ITS includes the use of field devices, communications infrastructure, and computer systems to improve traffic safety and mobility during congested periods, construction activities, maintenance activities, and incidents such as traffic collisions and other emergencies. ITS assists in the overall monitoring of the roadway network for failures and pro-
vides tools for allowing the changing of traffic patterns.
“It’s all about creating a connected network that can think and react in real time,” said Corson Smith, Senior Transportation Engineer for the City of Edmond. “The field devices, signals, cameras, and fiber optic communications all work together to give us a live picture of what’s happening on the roads. That allows us to respond instantly to congestion, be able to adjust signal timing, and even prioritize emergency vehicles—all from the Traffic Management Center. It’s a smarter, faster way to keep traffic flowing and people safe.”
The Traffic Management Center (TMC) – soon to be located in the Engineering Department section of the new City Hall – is where traffic will be
See City Source, Page 5
The Operations Desk keeps a close eye on traffic in Edmond.
City Source
monitored for traffic incidents and other traffic congestion issues. The monitoring is accomplished through a network of fiber optic cables that will allow information to flow from the traffic lights to the TMC and back to the traffic lights.
If an incident or congestion issue is detected the situation will be evaluated and if an adjustment can be made to help move traffic away from or around that situation then an appropriate adjustment will be made.
Other benefits include school zone times and devices on firetrucks that “preempt” traffic signals to turn green for approaching emergency vehicles. This technology has improved the response time for first responders. The system also notifies the engineers about equipment failures.
“ITS technology allows signals to be programmed to allow pedestrians a ‘head start’ to cross for safety,” Lawrence said. “Leading-pedestrian intervals are proven to increase pedestrian safety. Real-time feedback to Edmond traffic engineers enables traffic signals to be controlled around events such as sports tournaments, construction and collisions. It also allows data collection to further enhance traffic flow and safety.”
Work on Phase IV of ITS began in March. This phase targets 19 intersections along the 33rd Street corridor from Broadway to I-35, as well as key stretches along Bryant Avenue (15th Street to
Danforth Road), Boulevard (33rd Street to 2nd Street), and Danforth (Boulevard to Bryant Avenue).
As part of the ongoing ITS upgrade, the contractor will start by installing conduits for fiber optic cables along the Danforth corridor. From there, they will move south on Bryant Avenue towards 15th Street, then proceed along the 33rd Street and Boulevard corridors.
To minimize disruptions to daily commutes, the contractor will replace traffic signal cabinets on Sundays. This strategic scheduling ensures that major work is done when traffic is lighter, reducing the impact on travel plans.
“We are making steady progress on the project and currently anticipate completion in August 2026,” Smith said. “At this stage, we have finished approximately 20 percent of the conduit and pull box installation, and overall, the project is about 5 percent complete.”
The upgrades include installing 16 miles of fiber optic cable, 43 miles of electrical cables, 19 new traffic signal cabinets and controllers, 8 school zone systems, 39 flashing yellow left-turn signals, and 197 ADA-compliant pedestrian signals with audible messaging for the visually impaired. Additional features include CCTV cameras, radar vehicle detection, bicycle detection, emergency preemption, and 27 battery backup units.
These improvements will align the intersections with the National Transportation Communication for Intelligent Transportation System Protocol (NTCIP) standards, connecting them to Edmond’s TMC via fiber optics and the wireless network established in Phase I. Upon completion, 85 percent of Edmond’s traffic signals will meet modern standards, leaving just 15 percent operating on outdated technology.
The $12.57 million project, awarded to Traffic and Lighting System, LLC by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), is funded with 80 percent ($10.06 million) coming from federal grants and 20 percent ($2.51 million) provided by the City of Edmond through its 2000 Capital Improvement Sales Tax Fund. With a 450day timeline, the project is being overseen by Freese and Nichols engineering firm, with daily inspections and a City representative ensuring adherence to plans.
“We recognize that some roads and intersections also need to be widened,” Lawrence said. “However, ITS allows the most traffic to flow through any given area and is the best value for the taxpayer.”
Learn more about the ITS project at www.edmondok.gov/ITS.
Learn more about what’s happening around the City at www.edmondok.gov/CitySource.
The city knows right away if traffic is sailing along or if there is a problem.
WHERE ONE
DAY
(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 14
Edward Savannah Jr., 38 of Renton, Wash. Obstruction of police officer and operate (DUI or APC ) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Carlos Avery Hicks, 27 of Midwest City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, no tag -- improper tag and possession of marijuana.
Michael Anthony Nix, 51 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Terrell Demontre Frederick, 26 of Edmond. A felony warrant and six counts of failure to appear.
Billy Kalin Johnson, 40 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, trespassing after being warned and failure to appear.
Lakeysa Shanick Agers, 49 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver's license and failure to appear.
Ny'Kia Lashall Gray, 21 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Alexandra Nichole Grow, 33 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.
Dontray Altorris Smith, 30 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor 1st off) domestic abuse assault (in the presence of minor child) , assault and battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff, breaking & entering, disturb the peace, obstruction of police officer and public intoxication.
Robert Allen Schnitker II, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
April 15
Amelia Dawn Ridgeway, 44 homeless, Failure to appear.
Mario A. Gregory-Koplos, 35 of Oklahoma City. Driving with license canceled, suspended or
revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Tony Lee Melton, 47 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.
Lydia Opal Justis, 41 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.
Rachel Dee Mass, 30 of Tulsa. Obstruction of police officer, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Sereen Mohammad Ourani, 26 of Edmond. Shoplifting -- petit larceny.
April 16
Kristen Raquel Foy, 26 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.
Ra'Mone Terell Yarbrough, 31 of Spencer. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Cooper Chamberlain Bell, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Shannon Leslie Bacus, 43 of Edmond. Two felony warrants and two misdemeanor warrant.
Danielle Renee Morgan, 28 of Edmond. Failure to appear.r
April 17
Tyler Jon Wennersten, 22 homeless. Public intoxication.
Adriann Pam Carr, 19 of Oklahoma City. Accessory to murder.
Kenneth Lee Ray Seals, 19 of Oklahoma City. Burglary in the first degree and accessory to murder.
Alayjah Marie Stewart, 22 of Oklahoma City. Accessory to murder.
Jabraeil Fard Yousezadeh, 68 of Edmond. Nonassault resisting officer and embezzlement/value less than $1,000.
Jacob Patrick Deegan, 26 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Anthony Jacob Dempewolf, 59 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
April 18
Derrick Joseph Ivory, 40 of Oxnard, Calif. Possession of drug paraphernalia , speeding (16-20 mph over), possession of marijuana, no proof of
insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Brett Nelson Hail, 35 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.
Talisha Lynn Fields, 50 homeless. Larceny from building -- petit larceny, possess drug paraphernalia and obstruction of police officer.
David Phillip Spielman, 37 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer.
Sarah Christine Bragner, 49 of Oklahoma City. Larceny from building -- petit larceny, possess drug paraphernalia, possess DS and felony warrant.
Manuel Robert Avila, 60 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Kristal Lynn Shirley, 42 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Chamon Lenore Tucker, 47 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.
Anthony Michael Gilpin, 35 of Norman. Felony warrant.
April 19
Brandon Terrell Whitfield, 40 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC ) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.
Phillip Lee Perry, 42 of Wichita, Kansas. Possess CDS and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked.
Tonya Jean Lesseg, 52 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Charles Derek Hodges, 34 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Chad Lynn McClain, 43 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation.)
Kelyn Karvon Hinds, 29 of Edmond. Failure to appear.
April 20
Artis T. Thomas, 60 of Norman. Speeding (11 to 14 mph over ) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Sidney Wayne Adams, 31 of Edmond. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
James Roscoe Swing, 33 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and four counts of failure to appear.
Weekend Calendar of Events May 1-4
--- In the Gallery
--- Edmond’s Farmer’s Market
--- Saturday Farmers Market at Scissortail Park
--- Board Game Night
--- Karaoke Thursdays
--- Beer + Yoga
--- Books + Board Games
--- Saturday Morning Music Sessions
--- UCO Bronchovision
--- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
--- Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival
--- Arts On the Rocks
--- Edmond Jr. Rodeo
--- Family Fun Day
--- Celtic Throne II
--- Jake’s MayDay
--- Patti LaBelle
--- Code of the West Discovery Table: Ikua Purdy
--- Indigenous Foodways
--- Myriad Gardens Crystal Bridge Conservatory presents: “Landscape, Spirits” Exhibit
--- OKC Broadway presents: & Juliet
--- USRowing Central Youth Championship
--- Cinco de Mayo
--- Taste of OKC
--- First Friday Gallery Walk
--- Red Brick Nights
--- Red Dirt Rodeo featuring Cowboys of Color
--- Breakfast with the Animals
--- VDubs on Auto Alley
--- Oklahoma Orchid Society’s 75th Anniversary Show & Sale
--- Oklahoma History Symposium
--- BikeFest
In the Gallery
Extra Information
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Gallery Opening: Thu, May 1, 5 – 7 p.m.; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring artwork of Kyndall Rainey; edmondfinearts.com
Edmond Farmer’s Market
Location: Festival Market Place
Extra Info: Sat, Apr 12 – Sat, Oct 25; Free; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; * No Market on 3 May due to the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival; edmondok.gov
Saturday Farmers Market at Scissortail Park
Location: Scissortail Park
Extra Info: Sat, Apr 5 – Sat, Oct 25; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; free parking: 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.; scissortailpark.org
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
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
Saturday Morning Music Sessions
Location: Arcadia Round Barn
Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Saturday; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
UCO Bronchovision
Location: University of Central Oklahoma, Communications Bldg, Room 120
Extra Info: Thu, May 1; Free; 4 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Recurring daily until Thu, May 15; Free; armstrongauditorium.org
Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival
Location: Downtown Edmond
Extra Info: Fri, May. 2 – Sun, May 4; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; downtownedmondok.com
Art On the Rocks
Location: The Gin
Extra Info: Fri, May 2 – Sun, May 4; Free; at the Arts Festival
Edmond Jr. Rodeo
Location: Edmond Round-Up Club – Carl Benne Arena
Extra Info: Fri, May 2 – Fri, May 3; 7 p.m.; Adults: $5; 18 & younger: $1; edmondroundupclub.com
Family Fun Day
Location: 51 E 30th St Edmond
Extra Info: Sat, May 3, Free; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; thehousefm.com
Celtic Throne II
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Sun, May 4; from $35; 2 p.m.; armstrongauditorium.org
Jake’s MayDay
Location: Riverwind Casino, Showplace Theatre
Extra Info: Thu, May 1; 7 p.m.; $30; riverwind.com
Patti LaBelle
Location: Riverwind Casino, Showplace Theatre
Extra Info: Fri, May 2; 8 p.m.; $80 --- $93; riverwind.com
Code of the West Discovery Table: Ikua Purdy
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Thu, May 1; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Indigenous Foodways
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Thu, May 1; 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Oklahoma Orchid Society’s 75th Anniversary Show & Sale
Location: Will Rogers Gardens Exhibition Center
Extra Info: Sat, May 3 – Sun, May 4; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okorchidsociety.org
Area high school seniors honored by the DAR
The Samuel King chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recognized five outstanding area 2025 graduating seniors with the DAR Good Citizens Award. Honored were Sophia Stone, Edmond North High School; Ally Owen, Edmond Memorial High School; Sara Hassan, Edmond Santa Fe High School; Sadie Payne, Crescent High School and Raley Hooper, Guthrie High School.
The DAR Good Citizens Program and Scholarship Contest is designed to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship: dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. This program is open to all high school seniors enrolled in accredited public or private schools. The faculty of each school selects one senior class student per year to honor as its DAR Good Citizen.
Once selected as their school's Good Citizen, the student is then eligible to enter the DAR Good Citizens Scholarship Contest. Several chose to participate in the optional essay contest. Their task was to write a maximum 550-word essay on a topic provided by the National DAR, to be written during a 2-hour time-period and proctored by a faculty member. The topic was not provided to them in ad-
vance.
Sophia Stone, Edmond North High School, was selected as the Samuel King essay winner and also named the Capital District essay winner, one of only five district winners in the state. This year’s essay focus question was “Service is an essential attribute of a good citizen. Discuss how service can foster a strong sense of community and strengthen our American identity?”
The five students, along with their parents and school counselors, were recognized at the April 17th Samuel King general meeting, held at the First Presbyterian Church of Edmond. Each Good Citizen awardee received a DAR Good Citizens pin, certificate, wallet recognition card, cash award and gift bag with additional specially selected items, honoring them for being named their respective High School’s DAR Good Citizen for 2024-2025.
DAR Good Citizen Chairperson, Dr. Carolyn Cotton, stated, “These outstanding young ladies join a very elite group of individuals, as only one senior per year can be recognized and receive the DAR Good Citizens Award from their respective high school. From this day forward, I hope they realize the honor and prestige that this award affords
them and that they continue to exemplify throughout their lives the traits of Dependability, Service, Leadership and Patriotism.”
DAR is one of the largest women’s lineage based, patriotic nonprofits in the world, with 190,000 members and approximately 3,000 local chapters in the United States and internationally. Since the founding in 1890, over one million members have carried out the mission to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. The women who make up the membership are varied and come from all walks of life yet share a common bond of tracing their ancestry back to those who helped gain our nation’s independence. Any woman 18 years or older-regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background-who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. They are committed to honoring our nation’s past by serving our communities today.
The Samuel King Chapter of DAR was established on April 17, 1976, in Edmond and merged with the Guthrie Chapter in 1998 to form a single chapter. The Samuel King Chapter currently has over 200 members.
Joni Mabry, Samuel King Vice Regent and Sophia Stone, Edmond North HS, Samuel King Chapter and Capital District Good Citizens essay winner.
From left, Dr. Carolyn Cotton, Samuel King - DAR Good Citizens Chairperson, Sadie Payne, Crescent HS; Sara Hassan, Edmond Santa Fe HS; Ally Owen, Edmond Memorial HS; Sophia Stone, Edmond North HS, Carolyn Rawlings, State OSDAR Good Citizens Chair and Dr. Mary Meritt, Sameul King Chapter Regent. Nor pictured is recipient Raley Hooper, Guthrie HS.
Registration is open for participants and volunteers for the 26th annual University of Central Oklahoma Endeavor Games, an opportunity for athletes with physical disabilities to participate in various competitive sporting events, June 5-8, on Central’s campus and throughout the Edmond, Oklahoma, community.
Registration is open for participants and volunteers for the 26th annual University of Central Oklahoma Endeavor Games, an opportunity for athletes with physical disabilities to participate in various competitive sporting events, June 5-8, on Central’s campus and throughout the Edmond, Oklahoma, community.
The UCO Endeavor Games is the nation’s largest multi-sport, multi-disability event. The 2025 games include 11 sports—air rifle, archery, cycling, powerlifting, sitting volleyball, swimming, track and field, table tennis, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair softball and, for the first time since 2009, boccia.
The registration cost to participate in the games is $40 through Wednesday, May 14, and will increase to $55 Thursday, May 15.
“We are honored to host the 26th annual UCO Endeavor Games this year and welcome participants from across the country to Central’s campus,” said Leigha Pemberton, assistant director of partnerships and events at UCO.
“These games would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and community partners who all come together to support our athletes throughout this fun weekend.”
Volunteers are needed for various positions, including multiple sports clinics, packet pick up, goodie bag prepping, special events and more. Volunteers under 14 need to have a parent or guardian volunteer with them. Volunteers are encouraged to register before Monday, May 5, to guarantee the preferred T-shirt size.
The games will open Thursday, June 5, with a day of sports clinics and camps for aspiring athletes. The competition kicks off Friday, June 6, with powerlifting, archery, cycling and wheelchair basketball in the morning, air rifle shooting throughout the day and an evening of swimming at the Edmond Mitch Park YMCA, 2901 Marilyn Williams Dr.
Saturday’s events feature track and field at Edmond North High School, 215 W. Danforth Road, boccia, followed by sitting volleyball at the UCO Wellness Center and an athlete celebration at the UCO Nigh University Center. The games conclude Sunday, June 8, with wheelchair softball at the Hamilton Field House parking lot and indoor archery and table tennis at the UCO Wellness Center on Central’s campus.
Competitions will be at seven sites across UCO and Edmond. All events are free and open to the public.
Central is an official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site and host training site for the U.S. Men’s and Women’s Sitting Volleyball teams.
For more information about athlete and volunteer registration or a complete schedule of events for the 2025 UCO Endeavor Games, visit www.endeavorgames.org/edmond/.
For more information about the UCO Endeavor Games, contact Pemberton at lpemberton@uco.edu or 405-974-3160.
After months of dedicated fundraising and four energetic hours of dancing, University of Central Oklahoma students celebrated a major achievement— raising $30,667 for the Children’s Health Foundation during the annual BronchoThon Finale, April 12. Pictured, UCO students holding up the final total raised for BronchoThon this year
UCO students dance their way to $30K for Children’s Health Foundation
After months of dedicated fundraising and four energetic hours of dancing, University of Central Oklahoma students celebrated a major achievement—raising $30,667 for the Children’s Health Foundation during the annual BronchoThon Finale, April 12.
BronchoThon, UCO’s take on the national collegiate dance marathon movement, brings together
students, families and the community to support children receiving care at the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital. The finale serves as the ending celebration—featuring music, dancing and connecting with children and their families—to honor the countless hours nurses spend on their feet and the daily challenges faced by children in hospitals.
“We would love to thank the UCO and Edmond
community for helping us raise money for children right here in Oklahoma. The BronchoThon Finale was the perfect year-end celebration of changing lives and embracing community,” said Chloe Clinton, a senior psychology major from Edmond, Oklahoma, the executive director of BronchoThon.
For more information about BronchoThon, visit uco.edu/bronchothon.
Rich Strike — a great horse
There aren’t too many events that celebrate money and spring like the Kentucky Derby.
Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side ‘Obscene’ acts
The Super Bowl of horse racing will be this weekend at the iconic Churchill Downs in Louisville. It will mark the 151st running. A scant 150,000 will be on hand – sipping on their mint juleps. And, unlike most every other event, a lot of folks will actually be dressed nicely. That includes those hats the women wear.
What’s amazing is that it’s already been three years since Edmond had a big impact on the “most exciting two minutes in sports.”
In case you forgot, Rich Strike, owned by Edmond’s Rick Dawson, won the derby. It was the second greatest upset in the history of the race. Rich Strike was an 80 to 1 longshot. And only a last-second scratch allowed Dawson to enter the horse.
I remember watching the race as it unfolded. What makes the race
even more exciting is that most of the people bet on the outcome. And one of the great Gust axioms of life is that nothing gets people more excited than money.
So, someone who bet $2 on Rich Strike, won $163. I’m still looking for a time machine that works. I’d gladly put money on the race - but it would be more than $2.
The broadcast of the Kentucky Derby is hours of hype. But that’s kind of interesting also. Most of the horse owners are multimillionaires.
The year Rich Strike won, Donald Trump was among the huge crowd.
When I saw the race, I was absolutely floored by what happened. And then later, I found out about the Edmond connection and was even more flabbergasted. It’s like finding out the Super Bowl MVP is a member of your church.
It’s going to be hard to duplicate Rich Strike’s amazing story, but it will be a heck of a day in Kentucky.
Also the 2009 Derby was memorable also.You might watch it on Youtube. Mine That Bird, a 50 to 1 longshot, won that race. They even made a movie about it.
(Steve Gust, editor of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at
The Senate Judiciary Committee last week approved legislation from Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, aimed at prohibiting obscene adult performances on public property or in any location where minors could be present.
House Bill 1217 makes it illegal for a person to engage in an adult performance that includes obscene, sexual material in a public place or any place where children are present. Furthermore, the bill also prohibits localities from permitting or organizing such a performance on public property or in a place where a minor will be exposed to the performance.
Obscene content is defined as any representation, performance, depiction or description of sexual conduct, which is found to be patently offensive by the average person.
“This legislation is about setting clear boundaries for what’s appropriate in public places, especially where children are present,” Bullard said. “Public spaces should be places of common decency, where families can feel secure and kids are protected from sexually explicit or offensive material. There is no excuse for exposing children to crude or inap-
By Brent Haken
In a fast-changing economy, one thing remains constant: the value of skills.
Whether it’s advanced manufacturing, health care, information technology or the skilled trades, the need for trained professionals has never been greater.
That’s why recent executive orders issued by President Trump that emphasize career training and workforce development are not only timely, they are essential.
Trump’s orders to modernize America’s workforce programs call for federal investments in workforce development and apprenticeship expansion. Oklahoma CareerTech would play a starring role in the president’s plan because CareerTech is the state’s hub for registered apprenticeships. We customize apprenticeship programs for employers’ specific needs and provide tai-
lored experiences for apprentices.
Trump’s plan would support more than 1 million apprenticeships per year.
These orders signal a renewed federal commitment to the belief that a four-year degree isn’t the only path to success.
By prioritizing career and technical education, apprenticeships and skills-based hiring, the administration is underscoring what many of us in CareerTech have known all along: Opportunity is built on training, and training must reflect the real-world needs of business and industry.
CareerTech can and should play a key role in a growing skills-based economy.
Here in Oklahoma, CareerTech is already leading the way. With more than half a million enrollments annually across our technology centers, K-12 programs, adult education and business and industry training, we see every day
Letters to the Editor policy
propriate content in environments that are meant to be safe and family friendly.”
Anyone who violates HB 1217 could be charged with a misdemeanor and face up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.
The bill introduced by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, and coauthored by Senator Bullard is now eligible to be heard on the Senate floor.
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Sen. Mark Mann, D-Oklahoma City, has won unanimous approval from the Senate Education Committee for House Bill 1601, a bipartisan measure to allow teachers to use up to six weeks of accrued sick leave to extend their six-week maternity leave. Mann is the Senate principal author of the legislation.
“Oklahoma already provides six weeks of maternity leave for teachers,” Mann said. “Allowing educators to use the sick leave they’ve saved to extend that maternity leave by up to six more weeks will give both mothers and babies an even healthier start, plus it’s a benefit that will help with teacher recruitment and retention.”
Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City, is the House principal author of HB 1601.
"In Oklahoma, we take care of those who care for our future," Gise said. "Supporting House Bill 1601 is about honoring Oklahoma’s educators with the same respect and dignity we expect them to give our children. No teacher should be forced to choose between bonding with their newborn and the profession they love. This bill strengthens families, supports life, and reaffirms our commitment to a pro-family, pro-education future."
The measure now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.
House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, comments on the appointment of Dr. Jim Hess as the next President of Oklahoma State University:
"I am thrilled to hear of the official appointment of Dr. Jim Hess as the next President of OSU. His experience and dedication to student success and the university make him well-suited for this role. Since stepping in as interim president, he’s been a great partner to the Legislature, and his official appointment brings stability to the university as it prepares for continued growth and future success."
how practical, hands-on education transforms lives and drives local economies.
President Trump’s focus on aligning education with workforce demands mirrors our mission at CareerTech: to prepare Oklahomans to succeed in their careers and strengthen our state’s economy. His executive orders call for streamlining the pathways from education to employment, expanding apprenticeships and supporting skillsbased hiring in the federal workforce. These are ideas we’ve embraced in Oklahoma, and we stand ready to help lead the charge nationally.
Oklahoma is regularly recognized by other states for having one of the best CareerTech systems in the nation. T
hat’s because we’ve built a reputation for being inclusive and breaking through silos that traditionally separate the academic subjects from the skills and knowledge provided by career and technical education.
As state and national leaders work together to rethink the role of education in economic development, Oklahoma CareerTech is committed to staying ahead of the curve. We’re building stronger partnerships with industry, adapting curriculum to meet emerging needs and expanding access to training across rural and urban communities alike.
In short, the message is clear: America needs a workforce that is ready to work -- and ready to lead. Career training is no longer a secondary option. It is central to our nation’s future. We welcome this national focus on skills and look forward to working alongside leaders in Washington and across the country to ensure every American has the opportunity to build a rewarding, in-demand career.
Brent Haken is the state director of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education.
Steve Gust
Where the KFC empire got its start
By Elaine Warner
You can argue all day about which came first, the chicken or the egg, But without a doubt, Colonel Sanders was first to put fried chicken on the national fast-food map. And it all started in Corbin, Kentucky.
Harlan Sanders was born in 1890 in Indiana. His father died when he was only six and his mother had to work to support the family. Harlan, as the oldest of three children, was given the responsibility of taking care of his siblings. This included cooking.
When he was 40, he moved to Corbin and operated a service station on the Dixie Highway, Highway 25. He cooked lunch and dinner for his family, but, occasionally, when a hungry customer came by, he would sell them his meal, and then cook another for his family.
In 1931, he built a combination service station and café on the other side of the highway. He’d always cooked fried chicken, but it was here that he developed his secret blend of 11 herbs and spices.
While chefs had been using pressure cookers since the late 1600s, an American inventor, Alfred Vischer, made an improvement on the implement in 1938. Sanders began using the new pressure cooker to prepare the chicken more quickly. Modifications he made to the cooker made it even faster – instead of 30 minutes, he could cook the chicken in nine minutes. This was the birth of the American fast-food industry.
Travelers to Corbin can visit this original restaurant, the Harlan Sanders Café and Museum. On the National Register of Historic Places, the café is just as it was in Colonel Sanders’ day; including a model motel room he built onto the café to increase business at his nearby motel (now gone).
Sanders Park in downtown Corbin features a life-size statue of the Colonel (an honorary title given to Sanders by the Governor of Kentucky), a secret recipe herb garden and informational panels. The city even celebrates the heritage with an annual Finger-Lickin’ Chicken Week.
Our press group spent the afternoon exploring the shops and businesses on Main Street. I have to admit, although I did contribute to the local economy in the cute Enchanted Boutique (clothing, jewelry, purses, accessories), I blew my allotted time for exploration in the Pinball Museum of Corbin.
Chalk it up to my deprived childhood. When I was growing up, pinball machines were usually found in bars and a variety of spots my mother wouldn’t let me visit. So, turned loose with a day-ticket in a spot with over 100 pinball machines, I went wild. I ignored the large number of video games and other features. I played everything from a Popeye pinball to a Super Mario version. I never got very good – but I had a great time!
I barely made it down Main Street to The Wrigley Taproom and Eatery in time for dinner. The restaurant has a warm vibe – wood floors, brick walls with original old advertising signs. The name came from a Wrigley chewing gum ad. Owner and chef Kristin Smith has been named a James Beard Foundation Fellow and the restaurant has been featured in publications including Time Magazine, Food and Wine and Forbes.
The restaurant specializes in burgers, sandwiches and salads – fresh and local when possible. There’s also a rotating menu. This included a couple of great hot dog choices. A well-dressed dog (onions, bacon and cheese) and a big Coke was a hit after my pinball high. Several of us shared a Big Ass Pretzel with beer cheese and house-made mustard.
From Corbin, our group took a 30-minute drive to Cumberland Falls State Park. We spent the night at the rustic lodge. While the room was comfortable, the lodge was built before ADA restrictions and there was no elevator to the rooms. A cane, a suitcase and stairs – not a good combination. Like Blanche DuBois, I was frequently dependent on the kindness of strangers. (Update: I took this trip last fall. I got my new hip March 13 and I’ve now ditched my cane – although I miss it for punching elevator buttons and turning on light switches!)
The lodge and restaurant will close this fall for muchneeded renovations. Cabins in the park will still be available.
As the name implies, the highlight here is the falls. Sometimes referred to as the Niagara of the South, Cumberland Falls, 125-feet-wide, cascades 68 feet over sandstone rock to the continuation of the river below.
That alone would make it special, but its particular attraction is a moonbow – the only regularly appearing bow in the Western hemisphere. The moonbow, a white rainbow, can only be seen on clear nights during a full moon. The park publishes a schedule of nights when, depending on weather, it can be seen – about five nights each month.
We weren’t there on one of those nights, but on a previous visit, I was fortunate to catch a daytime rainbow in the falls. The approach to the falls is over natural rock – a real challenge with my limitation. I got a great view of the top of the falls but had to skip the rock steps to the base.
Like many of the stops on this press trip, our visit here was brief. For visitors with more time, the park has 17 miles of trails. Fishing, rafting, camping, picnicking, birdwatching, hiking, swimming and horseback riding are available seasonally.
Our breakfast at the lodge came with an added bonus. The sun was just coming up. Although it was chilly, we all went outside on the large observation deck to watch the light show.
The leaves were just beginning to change. The combination of a few over-anxious trees and the rising sun highlighted the natural beauty that is Kentucky. Even though this trip was a challenge for me – I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
Elaine
Sunrise over the Cumberland River can be spectacular. Photo by Elaine Warner
Tributes to Colonel Sanders can be found throughout the town . Photo by Kristie Wooldridge
The Wrigley Taproom and Eatery serves fine pub fare with a rotating selection of craft beers, 60 plus Kentucky Bourbons and craft cocktails. Photo by Elaine Warner
It’s a busy time at the State Capitol
By Rep. Collin Duel
Last week, I was fortunate to have members from Leadership Guthrie visit me at the Capitol. This is a fantastic program for emerging leaders from all sectors to learn more about the local Guthrie community and how they can interact with state government.
I also have some constituents from Edmond. On Monday of last week, we recognized a large group of people for Edmond Day at the Capitol.
It's always great to have visitors from our House district come to learn more about the legislative process or just to discuss local concerns.
We also recognized agricultural producers from across the state on Ag Day at the Capitol on Tuesday. Wednesday, we welcomed students who are members of 4-H.
This is a phenomenal organization that helps prepare youth for future careers and leadership opportunities. It's always nice to see the next generation step forward.
Last week, we wrapped up committee work in the both the House and the Senate. We now have until May 8 to complete voting on bills from the
opposite chamber.
In the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee, I passed Senate Bill 250 which clarifies how tips, gratuities, meals or lodging would be counted toward meeting the minimum wage requirements within the Oklahoma Minimum Wage Act. Under this bill, every employee would still make minimum wage – even if it increases in the state – including the minimum federal cash requirement. But this allows the free market to work as intended with employers and employees – not the government – determining individual agreements on what constitutes as fair compensation.
At the same time, two of my House bills passed in Senate committees this week.
House Bill 1563 would allow the same due process for discoverable materials for criminal defendants as civil litigants enjoy. This includes timelier access to body, vehicle-mounted and traffic camera videos, law enforcement incident reports and field sobriety tests.
House Bill 1565 would require referrals received by the Department of Human Services (DHS) hot-
Engagement, Wedding notices
Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.
line alleging abuse or neglect towards a child to be immediately reported to the appropriate local law enforcement entity. Criminal investigations could then occur simultaneously to DHS investigations, so children can be better protected.
I have two additional bills that previously passed committee and are awaiting a vote on the Senate floor.
House Bill 1566, would establish the Oklahoma Elder Exploitation and Abuse Act. This would create a cause of action for civil damages that a family member or a similarly situated individual can bring on behalf of an elderly or incapacitated person if there is exploitation, abuse or neglect.
House Bill 2836 would protect veterans from unfair third-party fees when they are seeking help with their disability benefits.
With committee deadlines passed, work will increase on the House floor. At the same time, we're continuing work on our state budget. I will have updates on that process soon.
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.
Job Fair set for Friday
Francis Tuttle Technology Center will host its annual Community Job Fair open to the public during the first week of May.
Dozens of area employers will be available to speak to prospective employees from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 2, at the Francis Tuttle Reno Campus Diesel Technology Building, 7301 W. Reno Ave., in Oklahoma City.
No less than 65 companies have registered to participate in the event. Employers range from energy and electricity providers to healthcare providers, construction companies, retailers, automotive dealers and service providers, manufacturers, trucking and shipping
companies, and hospitality.
Companies who have registered include Mercy Healthcare, Warren Cat, OG&E, Citgo Petroleum Corporation, TA Travel Centers of America, and Hobby Lobby. Representatives from Oklahoma colleges and universities will have information available, as well as recruiters for the US Marine Corps.
The full list of confirmed companies and organizations can be found at Francistuttle.edu/campusevents/community-job-fair.
There will be signs pointing attendees toward the Job Fair. The best spot to park is on the west side of campus.
A scene from last year’s job fair. Many potential employers will be at Francis Tuttle on Friday.
Allison DoddLauren Patton
Edmond girls named Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma 2025 Gold Award recipients
Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma has named its 2025 Gold Award recipients. Addison Dodd and Lauren Patton of Edmond are two of 12 Girl Scouts recognized for their outstanding leadership and community impact achieved through a handson project.
“Girl Scout Gold Award winners are changemakers. They proactively identify issues in their communities and work to create sustainable solutions. Along the way, they develop the essential life skills needed to succeed in college, career and beyond,” said Kat Marran, interim CEO of Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma.
Dodd’s project focused on building an inclusive playground at Orvis Risner Elementary. She installed a Gaga pit, a sound garden and an accessible swing so all children could play together. Dodd also introduced inclusive games, partnered on a
kindness rock garden and collaborated with teachers to ensure the playground remains a welcoming space for years to come.
Patton’s project addressed a pressing need at her local, donation-funded animal shelter. With equipment frequently deteriorating due to constant use and exposure to the elements, the shelter struggled to keep up with replacements. Lauren constructed a durable, weather-resistant storage structure with a sturdy frame and angled plastic roof to protect the traps from rust and extend their usability. Her project helped extend the lifespan of essential equipment, reduced long-term costs and supported the shelter’s ability to continue its important work.
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn. It acknowledges the passion, creativity and time commitment behind each recip-
ient’s dedication to changing their local communities.
According to the organization’s statistics, Girl Scouts are more likely than non-Girl Scouts to graduate from college, take on leadership roles and engage in community service activities.
Gold Award recipients, along with Bronze and Silver Award recipients, will be recognized at Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma’s Highest Awards Ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 3, 2025, at Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City.
About Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma
Located in 39 Oklahoma counties in the central, southwest and northwest region of the state, Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.
Review of movie ‘Sinners’
Director’s mark on film called ‘masterful’
By George Gust
“Sinners” is the latest film by writer/director Ryan Coogler (“Creed” “Black Panther”), set in the sultry Mississippi Delta of 1932, the film follows twins, Smoke and Stack (both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan), as they return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.
“Sinners” stands out in a landscape dominated by either well-established intellectual property like “Snow White” and “A Minecraft Movie” or underperforming and transient original movies that come and go from theaters like “Mickey 17” and “Novocaine.” Being the rare genre bending and ambitious film that is endlessly engaging while still feeling like the full realization of Coogler’s artistic vision. On paper, one would think a Southern Gothic horror epic that intertwines themes of race, ambition, and the haunting legacy of the American South would not be the must see movie of late spring/pre summer blockbuster season.
At the heart of “Sinners” is the extraordinary performance of Michael B. Jordan as twins, Smoke and Stack. Jordan's performance is a mar-
vel, as he embodies two distinct characters—one rigid and calculating, the other suave and devilmay-care. Once you get adjusted to seeing Jordan as two people you forget that the twins aren’t two different actors being a testament to the combination of Coogler’s filmmaking and Jordan’s performance.
From the advertising, you go into “Sinners” with an expectation of intense 1930s vampire action, but Coogler keeps you waiting through the first hour setting up the complex relationships and themes. There are times during this set up when you feel like the movie should move things along at a quicker pace, but when the ac-
tion hits all that early set up helps bring you further into the stakes of the film and gives the brilliant ensemble cast their moments to shine.
Overall, “Sinners” is an intense original theatrical experience and a triumph for original movies. Coogler's direction is masterful, balancing all the cinematic elements that make “Sinners” feel like a special film of the day. The visual palette of the film does an incredible job transporting you to the oppressive heat of the 1930’s Delta and has other visual tricks up its sleeve throughout. And the way in which Coogler uses the musical traditions of the South, and the time of the film are astounding bring the film together in a way that feels completely unique. With all those elements operating at a high level in the R rated environment, “Sinners” is successful and plays phenomenally to its grown-up audience.
“Sinners” is rated R for strong bloody violence, sexual content and language.
4.5 of 5 stars
(Contact George Gust for comment about these awards,, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
UCO shows student films
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Department of Mass Communication will host Bronchovision, a showcase of student-produced short films, beginning at 4 p.m., Thursday, May 1, in the Communications building, Room 120, on Central’s campus.
Bronchovision will celebrate the achievements of UCO students, several of whom have earned prestigious awards this year. Two student-led productions each received an Award of Excellence at the 2025 Broadcast Education Association Media Arts Festival, while multiple others were recognized by the Oklahoma Broadcast Education Association.
“I’m proud of the originality and craftsmanship these students brought to their projects,” said Milos Ajdinovic, M.F.A., assistant professor of mass communication at UCO.
“Bronchovision is a celebration of the creative energy and love for cinema growing here at UCO.”
For more information about the event, email Megan Cox, assistant professor of mass communication at UCO, at mcox18@uco.edu or Ajdinovic at majdinovic@uco.
Michael B. Jordan leads a talented ensemble in writer/director Ryan Coogler’s elevated gothic horror that is equal parts challenging and entertaining.
Members of the Leadership Francis Tuttle class.
Staff members grow skills in Leadership Francis Tuttle
Throughout this school year, members of Leadership Francis Tuttle’s Class XXII have developed leadership skills through professional development and team-building opportunities. The program culminated in a graduation ceremony on April 9. Leadership Francis Tuttle is open to instructional and operational staff from across the district who have been with the technology center for at least 18 months. Each year, participants are selected through an application process.
Over the course of seven sessions, participants get an in-depth look into Francis Tuttle’s programs, industry partners, and community connections.
“This helps people develop and hone their leadership skills, sometimes people who maybe didn’t realize they had leadership skills,” explained Erin Bellamy, Professional Development Coordinator for Francis Tuttle. “It gives people a great opportunity for professional development and growth. It also gives them a strong foundation to go out into the community and be great ambassadors for Francis Tuttle and serves as a springboard for them to go
into other programs like Leadership Oklahoma City or Leadership Edmond.”
The members of Class XXII are:
•Bonnie Allen
•Nathaniel Beck
•Ana Beck
•Jason Brunk
•Bradley Chisolm
•Amanda Duncan
•James Edwards
•Gabriela Garza
•Robin Hedges
•Marianne Hosler
•Jan Kreuzberg
•Dustin Moss
•Kathy Phelps
•Lamar Schmidt
•Jeff Wooden
Activities included a team-building bake-off and table decorating contest, tours of industry partners, and participation in the True Colors Temperament and Personality Typing program.
Spring time can be your fitness time
By Brian Attebery
Spring is here and for many, that means the reality of summer and swimsuits are almost here. Not everyone starts their fitness program in January or maybe you did, and you fell off the wagon. Welcome to being human. How do we approach getting back into shape now?
Many people associate warmer weather with being fit because they prefer doing things outdoors as well. Regardless ofwhether you do all your workouts indoors or outside, you need to pace yourself and build back into it slowly. One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting back into a workout is doing too much at first. You must look at what you have been doing to what you are doing now. If you haven’t run at all, doing 1 mile x 5-6 days per week is 5-6 miles more than last week. That is 20-24 miles more this month than last. Way to go! The same applies to weight training. If you have not done a chest workout in months or years, then doing 4-5 sets of bench press x 3 days this week is 12-15 sets of chest more than last week. That is a huge difference, and you need to think of it that way and not about your last workout 2 years ago when you did 4-5 sets of 3 separate chest exercises. You are not in shape for that and do not need to do that much yet. Work back into a more advanced level slowly so that you don’t burn out.
Finding inspiration in fitness is a huge factor for your motivation and success. Many of you will be inspired
by the recent memorial marathon. Maybe you will never run a marathon but seeing people do a 5K is something you can wrap your mind around. Maybe you have knee, hip, or feet problems and running is never going to be in the cards. That doesn’t mean you can’t do other things. Years ago, I had a client tell me how frustrated he was for gaining 20 pounds over the last year due to an Achillies tendon injury. He blamed the weight gain on the fact that he was unable to run anymore. I suggested that he do the elliptical machine since he couldn’t run and that would be an excellent non-impact form of cardio. He responded with, “I justdon’t think it does as much as running.” I proceeded to point out that perhaps that was so but how much is ZERO cardio doing for him? He conceded my point and accepted that his fitness process needed to be redefined since his body was dealing with this injury.
We must take things and be progressive with our fitness. We must recognize our limitations and needs. Sit down and write your goals for the year for fitness and health. Look at your schedule and see when you can make it happen. Think of all the reasons you can succeed and what you can do, and don’t focus on your limited schedule and physical limits. Those are just obstacles that creep up in your mind and leave you unhealthy and mentally down as well. Spring is a great time for renewal for many things. Your health needs to be top of that list.
(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)
Happy Birthday
Earlier this spring there was a special birthday party for one of Edmond’s special citizens, Frances Bryan above, She poses with guitarist Edgar Cruz, who performed at her 90th birthday party. She was married to Don Bryan of Edmond for 55 years. The Bryan family has been in Edmond for over a 100 years and has played a big role in the history and development of the town.
Attebery
Physician honored
The Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians (OAOP) is pleased to announce Dr. Evan Dunn as the 2025 Young Optometric Physician of the Year. This award recognizes an exceptional optometrist with fewer than ten years in practice who has already made a remarkable impact on the profession.
Dr. Dunn practices at Omni Eye Center – Laser Vision in Edmond, where he is known for clinical excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to patient care.
He is certified in therapeutic lasers and has built expertise in specialty contact lenses and dry eye management.
“Dr. Dunn exemplifies what it means to be a rising star in optometry,” said OAOP President Dr. Justin Lindsey. “He brings talent, humility, and heart to everything he does, and we’re proud to recognize his achievements.”
Dr. Dunn has also been an active member of the OAOP, serving on the Congress Committee, participating in Special Olympics Opening Eyes, and completing the Leadership Optometry program. His passion for the profession began in an anatomy class and continues in his clinic as well as through his mission work in Honduras—experiences that continue to shape his patient-first approach.
In accepting the award, Dr. Dunn said, "Optometry has been an incredibly rewarding path, and I’ve been fortunate to work with great mentors and amazing patients. This recognition is a reminder to keep learning, serving, and helping people live better through better vision."
The OAOP congratulates Dr. Dunn on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to his continued leadership in the field.
Celebrating Chamber membership
The Garage on Covell held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their membership.
The Garage was created when three men sat down one day and decided to produce the best tasting hamburgers and fresh-cut fries in town. Come join them and experience the fun, welcoming atmosphere they offer at Smitty's Garage, they have a wide variety of menu options ranging from burgers, tacos, salads, and more!
Edmond chamber visits Capitol
The Edmond Chamber of Commerce hosted Edmond Day at the Capitol on earlier this spriong! A special thank you to Senator Adam Pugh and Representative Mike Osburn, and their staff, who helped make the experience so informative and seamless.
With Leadership Edmond Class 39, Leadership Edmond Alumni, and members of our Government Relations Council joining us, our group totaled almost 90 attendees. From
the early morning tour to the final session with Justice Rowe, the day was full of insight, inspiration, and meaningful conversations.
Highlights of the day included presentations from Senate Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, Appropriations Chair Senator Chuck Hall, Chair of Health and Human Services Senator Paul Rosino, UCO President Todd Lamb, and Oklahoma Chancelor for Higher Education Sean Burrage.
Even more savings for state
Governor Kevin Stitt last week commended the continued work of the Division of Government Efficiency (DOGE-OK) for identifying millions in cost savings through strategic modernization and collaboration with state agencies. So far, the DOGE-OK savings are estimated at $51,912,746.67.
“Every week, DOGE-OK demonstrates that Oklahoma is committed to smarter government,” said Governor Stitt. “We’re focused on reducing waste, investing in efficiency, and delivering better services to Oklahomans without raising costs.”
DOGE-OK works hand-in-hand with agencies across the state to identify and implement projects that improve operations and cut costs. These results are shared transparently on the public DOGE-OK website, showcasing projects that launched in 2024 or 2025 and are actively generating measurable savings.
Highlights from recent updates include:
Reduced real estate: The Oklahoma State Department of Health eliminated 16,367 square feet of state property in Delaware County, saving $300,000.
Nursing staff: The Department of aCorrections negotiated a reduced rate for its temporary nursing staff contract, resulting in savings of $77,759.12.
Utilization of forfeited Pathfinder employer contributions: The Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System is using unvested employer contributions from separated employees to pay for administrative costs of the plan and to offset current year employer contributions, with projected savings of $3 million.
Beyond the dollar figures, modernization efforts have also freed up thousands of work hours. State employees have eliminated more than 80,000 hours of manual processes, paving the way for a more responsive and future-ready government.
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Edmond lawmakers greeted chamber officials.
Employees of The Garage restaurant greet chamber officials.
Dr. Dunn
Veterans getting help
Governor Stitt signed into law the creation of the State of Oklahoma Veterans Foundation—a transformative step for Oklahomans and, most importantly, for our Veterans.
This landmark legislation establishes an official state-overseen nonprofit organization, enabling it to accept and manage donations from residents, other non-profits, and supporters. These resources can now be directed to assist Oklahoma Veterans in impactful ways beyond the scope of Federal or State funding.
Authored by Senator Kelly Hines (R) and Representative Nicole Miller (R), SB 530 empowers the Foundation to receive private donations and contributions, enhancing the state’s ability to provide services and programs for veterans. The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take immediate effect upon signing.
“This legislation marks a significant step forward in our commitment to Oklahoma’s veterans,” said Senator Hines. “By establishing the Foundation, we can leverage private support to supplement state resources, ensuring our
veterans receive the care and recognition they deserve.”
Representative Nicole Miller added, “Oklahoma’s veterans have earned more than our gratitude— they deserve sustained, meaningful support. This foundation gives us a powerful new tool to bring additional resources to those who’ve served, and I’m proud to stand behind this initiative.”
The bill received unanimous support in the Senate, passing 47–0 on March 10, 2025, and was approved by the House Veterans and Military Affairs Committee on April 10, 2025.
The Foundation will operate as a private, not-for-profit organization, incorporated under Oklahoma law, and will work in coordination with the OVC and the ODVA to identify and address the needs of the state’s veteran population.
On behalf of Oklahoma’s Veterans, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Stitt for his steadfast support, as well as to Senator Hines and Representative Miller for sponsoring this significant legislation.
Hi and Lois
Shoe
Zits
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Blondie
Hägar the Horrible
Dems object to academic standards Ryan Walters wants
Members of the Senate and House Democratic Caucuses are stepping up their call for votes on joint resolutions to reject Superintendent Ryan Walters’ social studies standards. If the Legislature fails to act in the coming days, those standards will take effect in the 2025-26 school year. Senate Joint Resolution 19 and House Joint Resolution 1030 disapproving the social studies standards were filed in March.
Democratic lawmakers said Walters’ standards include concepts that are too advanced for the ages of students and contain material that is politically charged and biased.
Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt said the social studies standards would not address the educational needs of Oklahoma students and schools.
"Oklahoma teachers and community leaders devoted a year to thoughtfully updating our social studies standards, only to have their work thrown out and replaced by the superintendent's out-of-state political hacks, who put their politics above the educational needs of our children," said Kirt, D-Oklahoma City. "We have time to fix this, but that window is quickly closing."
House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson emphasized that Walters continues to neglect his duties to Oklahoma students, teachers and families.
“We rank 49th in the nation for public education and last in the region for teacher pay and per-pupil spending. The superintendent is not focused on improving education outcomes or increasing funding for our public schools,” said Munson, D-Oklahoma City. “He is solely focused on boosting his partisan political agenda. The House Democratic Caucus made six requests to Republican leadership to form a committee to investigate the actions and inactions of the Superintendent, and we have now made two calls on them to listen to the concerns of Okla-
homa’s teachers and parents regarding the social studies standards. It has become clear that the political pressure the superintendent has placed on House leaders has more power than our constituents – it is disappointing, concerning, and dangerous for the future of public education for our children.”
Sen. Mary Boren, D-Norman, said the extreme nature of the social studies content would preclude the use of academically accepted and appropriate textbooks.
“The Ryan Walters social studies standards are so radical that normal textbooks can’t be used to teach them,” Boren said. “This year the Legislature will give schools millions of dollars to spend on social studies textbooks. We don’t want to pay for propaganda to teach MAGA conspiracy theories. Teachers and stu-
dents deserve mainstream social studies standards and textbooks that aren’t driven by political agendas.”
Assistant House Democratic Leader Melissa Provenzano said parents and teachers deserve to know that the standards were vetted correctly and carefully.
“The desire to push through and ignore that call from parents and teachers should concern us all,” said Provenzano, D-Tulsa. “Further, we hope that OMES will fully vet any curriculum request for purchase that comes based on these standards and exclude vendors who have ties to the members of the executive committee that made changes to them before they came to the board of education for a vote.”
