FOUR SEASONS
Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.
For more information, see page 4.
See Page 5
FRIDAY, MARCH 8
SATURDAY, MARCH 9 Partly Cloudy High 56° Low 35°
SUNDAY, MARCH 10
Sunny High 63° Low 41°
There are many activities and events just waiting for Edmond residents to enjoy and explore.
Above is a photo from the production “Wicked” which will be ending its successful run this week in the metro.
The popular stage event has charmed thousands since the curtain went up on the show last month.
Please see Page 6 for a full list of activities and happenings. They include the Edmond Farmers Market at Mitch Park, productions from Oklahoma Shakespeare
and the Oklahoma City Ballet.
And please don’t forget that this week, Edmond Memorial High School’s Performing Arts group will be presenting Disney’s enchanting story of “Beauty and the Beast.”
There will be shows March 7, March 8 and two on Saturday, March 9, See ad on Page 12.
And in Edmond, spring break officially will be March 18 to March 22.
Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, presented the Edmond North Wrestling team with a citation last week on the Oklahoma House of Representatives Floor.
The boys' wrestling team won the state tournament and the dual state championship, scoring unprecedented team points. They are the #1 ranked wrestling team for public schools in the United States and the most successful team in the history of Oklahoma high school wrestling.
It is the first time all wrestlers from the same team have medaled:
• 8 Wrestlers placed as State Champion
• 2 Wrestlers placed as State Runner-Up
• 4 Wrestlers place in Third Place
• 1 Wrestler received "Outstanding Wrestler"
"Achieving victory and earning a spot in the state championship demands skill, perseverance, and sheer determination," said Harris. "I would like
to congratulate the Edmond boys' and girls' wrestling team for representing their town so well, exemplifying these qualities, and achieving success."
The girls' wrestling team achieved impressive results in 2024. They were the state runners-up and the west regional champions. Three wrestlers became state champions, with one of them being undefeated and another being a 3-time undefeated state champion. Additionally, one wrestler placed third in the competition.
Harris said junior high wrestling Coach Evan Chada led the junior high team to victory at the junior high state tournament, underscoring Edmond's commitment to supporting and encouraging student-athletes.
Harris, a Republican, is in his first term representing House District 39 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced a resolution to express support for international religious freedom as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of US foreign policy amid concern over increased attacks on religious freedom worldwide. The effort is also cosponsored by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has identified thousands of incidents where religious freedom was violated around the world in 2023, including violence against Rohingya Muslims in Burma, attacks on Uyghurs in China, and persecution of clergy by Russians in Ukraine.
In 2023, USCIRF identified more than 2,200 individuals targeted by 27 different countries and entities for their religious beliefs, including Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs. USCIRF also identified the continued destruction of religious sites as an additional threat to religious freedom.
The resolution urges the US State Department to expand its support for religious freedom around the world, including by leveraging all diplomatic
and sanctions tools available to hold violators of religious freedom accountable, and encourages the State Department to promote religious freedom as a central tenet of US foreign policy implementation.
“The fundamental right of every person to have a faith, live your faith, change your faith, or have no faith at all must be recognized throughout the world. Countries like China, Russia, and Iran continue to target and persecute citizens for living this most basic freedom. The United States must continue its international leadership to defend religious freedom, which is why we are reaffirming our commitment to fight for religious freedom around the world,” said Lankford.
“The right to religious freedom is an American ideal and the cornerstone of our nation’s identity,” said Coons. “Protecting religious minorities must remain central to American foreign policy, and we must call out and condemn attacks on religious people and nonbelievers alike. I’m proud to join with a bipartisan group of colleagues in this effort to make clear that this must remain a priority for our country’s international relations moving forward.”
The Senate Appropriations Committee last week unanimously approved a bill from Sen. Roger Thompson, ROkemah, to better mobilize law enforcement when a child is abducted.
Thompson’s Senate Bill 1407 would authorize the formation of child abduction response teams to quickly engage federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement entities when a minor age 15 or younger is abducted.
Under the bill, a law enforcement agency that receives a verified report of a child abduction will notify the response team’s point of contact within four hours. Law enforcement agencies would also be authorized to use automated license plate readers as they search for the child.
“Time is of the essence when a
child is abducted,” Thompson said. “This bill will help law enforcement entities at all levels of government develop a quick and effective response to get a missing child home safely.”
Thompson said his bill would allow Oklahoma to form child abduction response teams similar to those operating in Georgia.
SB 1407 would appropriate $300,000 so a state coordinator could be hired to oversee the teams that will develop rapid response strategies in conjunction with all levels of law enforcement.
The bill passed the Appropriations Committee, which Thompson chairs, on a 20-0 vote. It now awaits a vote of the full Senate.
February 12, 2024, Edmond City Council meeting saw a seldom used ordinance put into play on an Edmond building. The three-story property that was at one time a well run and taken care of assisted living center was declared a public nuisance. Honestly, it is about time and the entire property needs to be torn down at the owner’s expense.
Ray Hibbard
Such an action is not done lightly by our city council, and I have never called for such an action, but it needs to be done. The property owners have shown that they cannot get the property in compliance with codes or the ability to keep what they do fix in shape. I believe there are over one hundred code violations still outstanding and that the number of unpaid fines as of the meeting was in the neighborhood of $30,000.
However, money is not the reason for my call to tear it down. The constant back and forth between the city and the property owners leaves the property to be dangerous on a number of fronts:
First, the folks living on the first floor are in constant danger from code violations which include a sprinkler system that had not been inspected at the time of the meeting. An injury or God forbid a death that happened from such violations would be tragic indeed. The question of turning residents out of the property, many are veterans, seems harsh but I would rather we help them find a place to stay then die at the hands of preventable code violations.
Secondly are my concerns for the first responders that have been called out numerous times to respond to different issues. Police officers get called to the building and they walk in not knowing what they will find. The property was supposed to have 24-hour security, but that requirement was not complied with by the building owners. By letting this property continue to operate we risk the lives of firefighters and police officers on each call.
Thirdly, such activity that has been alleged is a danger to the neighborhood as well. The allegations range from drug activity to fires being set and more.
A building that size going up in flames could endanger every property nearby along with the lives of our first responders.
It is a 90-room building with three floors. There are 30 rooms on the first floor which is the only floor cleared by the city to house tenants. The top two floors are still not able to be occupied and I would guess are in clear violation of many codes that could endanger lives.
Give them a chance? The owners have had chances over the last ten years to make this property safe and bring it up to code. It is literally a case of one step forward and two steps backward. They have had a number of lawyers come to represent them in front of the city council. The latest is attorney Danny Shadid, a good friend of mine. I felt like he walked into a hornets next that his client had not prepared him
for.
Right off the bat Shadid called for council member Tom Robins to recuse himself on the proceedings due to a post on social media he made. Robins laughed aloud at the request, and he did not recuse himself but asked important questions regarding property and the alleged criminal record of one of the staff members. The property is in Robins’ Ward. “I do not take this lightly in any respect, but I must ask that Councilman Robins disqualify himself,” Shadid said. “Councilman Robins has taken a stance on this matter.”
Housing veterans
There are veterans using vouchers to rent rooms at the property according to the conversation at the meeting. Representatives of the various veterans’ groups were in attendance to speak on the poor and dangerous condition of the property. One representative said that even with the horrible conditions that there was still advertising circulating inviting veterans to rent rooms from the property. The rooms rent for $850 per month. The groups have offered to help the veterans find different housing options since the process for VA approval of a new property can take up to 90 days.
A number of folks attending the meeting expressed concern about the need for the housing and their concern over the welfare of the veterans. I totally understand this, but my thought is the safety of the folks takes top concern. The back and forth regarding safety issues for all the folks living there takes priority for me. Many said that Edmond needed this affordable housing but when it becomes a matter of possible loss of life, I must side with tearing the property down. We need safer options folks.
An offer came from American Legion Post 111 and VFW Post 4938 to gather funds to help the veterans that need help in the facility. The council did not set a timeline for folks to be moved out and I think that was a mistake. The line in the sand needs to be drawn and not moved on these owners.
“We’re talking about the safety of the residents and the surrounding neighborhoods,” Ward 4 Councilwoman Stacie Peterson said. “We are talking about police calls, multiple police calls,
that are threatening the safety of the people in that building and around that building. We are talking about multiple calls, both false alarms, which take our fire department away from true calls for keeping them safe and legitimate fire department calls. This is terrible.”
Ward 3 Councilwoman Christin Mugg nailed the issue on the head when she said, “It just seems like there is this pattern of excuses. As the mayor said, we are in the same spot we were in 14 months ago. Things that were said are going to be done are not being done.”
According to the web site non doc, The Edmond City Council unanimously approved an abatement plan for the property, which includes:
A full inspection of the property this week.
A prohibition against adding new residents to the property.
Requirement for the property to come into compliance with Edmond Municipal Code by the next Edmond
City Council meeting, March 11.
Requirement for the property owner to install security cameras by March 11.
Requirement that the property owner hire a CLEET-certified officer to be on the premises 24/7 by 5 p.m. last Friday. (City must be sent the contract between property owner and officer.)
I would encourage our council to look at the overall big issue which is safety for everyone who touches the ground that property is on. The discussion gets down to detail that is not needed. One issue discussed was the definition of an abandoned vehicle. Shadid was making the case that it just had a flat tire and that did not fit the definition under city codes. Give me a break folks. There are potential life and death issues at the property.
The owners need to sell the property to someone that will take care of the building and grounds and make it safe, or it needs to be torn down. No more delays please!
(Ray Hibbard, publisher, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
“Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.
Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.
Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.
Kevin
of the National Sculptor’s
metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures.
100 percent recyclable.
For more information on Edmond public art, please visit
dok.com/public-art.php.
(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.)
Feb. 20
Kera Le Littlethunder, 30 of Midwest City. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Stephanie Nicole Forsyth, 39 homeless. Possess CDS.
Attiq Akhtar, 44 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Tommy Ray Steele, 59 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor 1st and 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
James Winters Ratliff, 37 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC.
Sierra Datil Cahall, 29 of Blanchard. Public intoxication.
Edward Alexander Nuncio, 29 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Antwan Alvin Stone, 45 of Oklahoma City. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and public intoxication.
Mark A. Taylor, 38 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Danny Allen Morgan, 27 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Feb. 21
Mason Lee Hamberlin, 28 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Amada Nicole Whalen, 32 of Edmond. Speeding (16-20 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Shiloh Wayne Haddox, 26 homeless. Public intoxication.
Jacob Lewis Sayre, 38 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant and aggravated possession of child porn (100 or more materials)
Valeria Aurora Sanchez, 32 of Edmond. Five misdemeanor warrants, reckless driving and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
John C. Fuller, 34 of Edmond. Two misdemeanor warrants, a felony warrant and public intoxication.
Mitchell Sebastian Thomas Jr., 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse/assault, assault or assault and battery, kidnapping and rape/first degree.
Kristopher Wade Mackey, 47 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.
Feb. 22
Levin Haze Moore, 25 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and felony DUI/APC.
Alexis Mac Samuels, 24 of Oklahoma City. Left of center and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Jesse Joseph Kehoe, 39 homeless. Trespassing.
Candice Fay Graves, 38 of Edmond. Felony warrant.
Kajuon Everett Newman, 33 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Carolyn Louise Odom, 44 of Oklahoma City. Reckless driving, assault – resisting officer and failure to yield to emergency vehicle.
Feb. 23
Edgar Miguel Cruz-Llanes, 42 of Oklahoma City. Speeding school zone (11-14 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Quinten Anthony Vann, 32 of Yukon. Possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to appear, Shelena Lanell McCain, 42 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting an officer and trespassing.
Michael Dewayne Nichols, 68 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Joana Margaretha Thompson, 42 of Edmond. Pedestrians walking along roadways and public intoxication.
Kristopher Wade Mackey, 47 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Jeremy Shane Norris, 36 of Oklahoma City. Ex-
pired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Adrian Ruben Camacho, Jr., 32 of Edmond. Public intoxication and trespassing after being warned.
Feb. 24
Jackson Berrett Wilson, 26 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Jonah Alexander Lillis, 26 of Edmond. Public intoxication .
Juan Rodriguez-Fuentes, 47 homeless, Public intoxication and (misdemeanor) purchase/display/possess identification card - illegal acts.
Shiloh Wayne Haddox, 26 homeless. (Misdemeanor value) receive stolen property.
Jewel Rafael Jackson, 37 of Edmond. Felony warrant.
Amari Jerome Henley, 31 of Oklahoma City. Disregard signal light, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.
Victoria Lynn Robinson, 40 of Crescent. Misdemeanor warrant.
Feb. 25
America Morales, 51 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Antwan Lashion Mayberry, 22 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and reckless driving.
William Albert Fisher, 70 homeless. Trespassing.
Rodney L. Chambers, 64 of Edmond. Failure to appear.
Madison Kaley Koss, 23 of Edmond. Felony warrant and false representation of an officer.
Syeda Masooma Abedi, 43 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Justin David Terpening, 40 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, no tag – improper tag and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
James Kalvin Owens, 47 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Weekend Calendar of Events March 7-10
---- In the Gallery
---- Edmond’s Social Fabric
---- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
---- Beer + Yoga
---- Texhoma Mounted Shooters Lazy E Classic CMSA Mounted Shooting
---- Jake’s Birthday Bash
---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
---- OKC Broadway presents: Wicked ---- Oklahoma Shakespeare on the Paseo presents: Twelfth Night
---- Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Future Voices
---- Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Craig Ferguson
---- Battle of Round Mountain Re-enactment
---- Claude Hall’s OKC Gun Show
---- Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Ben Bailey
Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Featuring “XO –The West”; Gallery opening for “XO -The West” – Thu, Mar 7; 5 – 7 p.m.; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com
Edmond’s Social Fabric
Location: Edmond History Museum
Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sun, Mar 31; free; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondhistory.org
Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Mon, Feb 26 – Fri, Jan 17 2025; Free; Mon – Thu: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. –4 p.m.; closed Saturdays; armstrongauditorium.org
Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
Location: MAC in Mitch Park
Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com
Beer + Yoga
Location: American Solera ---- Icehouse Project
Extra Info; Sun, Mar 10; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.;
americansolera.com
Texoma Mounted Shooters
Lazy E Classic CMSA
Mounted Shooting
Location: Lazy E Arena
Extra Info: Fri, Mar 8 – Sun, Mar 10; lazye.com
Jake’s Birthday Bash
Location: Showplace Theatre, Riverwind Casino
Extra Info: Thu, Mar 7; 7 p.m.; $30; riverwind.com
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Thu, Mar 7 – Sun, Mar 10 Choose Your Adventure & Explore the Code: Annie Oakley; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat, Mar 9 – Sun, Mar 10: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
OKC Broadway presents: Wicked
Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: Wed, Feb 21 – Sun, Mar 10; Tue & Wed: 7:30 p.m.; Thu & Sat: 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Fri: 8p.m.; Sun: 1:30 & 7 p.m.; okcbroadway.com
Okla. Shakespeare on the Paseo presents: Twelfth Night
Location: 2920 Paseo
Saturday morning shoppers enjoyed last weekend’s mild weather. The Farmer’s Market, weather permitting, is sometimes held in the parking lot at Mitch Park.
Extra Info: Thu, Feb 22 – Sun, Mar 10; Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okshakes.org
Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Future Voices
Location: Susan E Brackett Dance Center, OKC
Extra Info: Thu, Mar 7 – Sun, Mar 10; $20; Thu & Fri: 7 p.m.; Sat: 2 & 7 p.m; Sun: 2 p.m.; okcballet.org
Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Craig Ferguson
Location: Bricktown Comedy Club
Extra Info: Fri, Mar 8 – Sat, Mar 9; Fri & Sat: 7 p.m,. & 9:45 p.m.; bricktowncomedy.com
Battle of Round Mountain Re-enactment
Location: Jim Thorpe Park, Yale, OK
Extra Info: Fri, Mar 8 – Sun, Mar 10; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; facebook.com
Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show
Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park
Extra Info: Sat, Mar 9 – Sun, Mar 10; Sat: 9 a.m. –5 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okcgunshow.com
Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Ben Bailey
Location: Bricktown Comedy Club
Extra Info: Sun, Mar 10; 7 p.m.; $25 ---- $35; bricktowncomedy.com
Certain combinations of molecules in our blood may help identify those at highest risk of developing lupus, an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist believes.
Joel Guthridge, Ph.D., hopes to uncover those secrets of the autoimmune disease with a new $6.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The research project is called MONA-LISA, short for Mechanisms of New-Onset Autoimmunity-Longitudinal Immune Systems Analysis.
His goal is simple: “If we can better detect who will progress to lupus, we stand a far better chance of treating them early, perhaps even before their symptoms manifest,” Guthridge said. “On the flip side,” he said, “we hope to learn why some people who are at risk but are asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms never progress to full-blown disease.”
Lupus, a top-10 medical cause of death in young women, has puzzled scientists and clinicians for more than a century. It can affect any organ in the body, and symptoms can differ from person to person. Some common lupus symptoms include extreme fatigue, skin rashes, fevers, anemia, sensitivity to the sun, and joint pain or swelling.
Women – particularly those of childbearing age and of minority racial and ethnic groups – are at greatest risk of developing the most common form, systemic lupus erythematosus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lupus most often features periods of flares and remission. Its causes are not well understood, but scientists believe it is linked to genetics, along with environmental and other factors.
Existing drugs can treat lupus symptoms. However, no single test can detect the disease, which adds to
the difficulty of its diagnosis.
MONA-LISA is a collaboration between Guthridge and physician-scientist David Karp, M.D., Ph.D., at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and other team members. They will study existing data and samples from an earlier lupus-prevention study known as the SMILE trial.
To enhance the MONA-LISA study, OMRF is seeking new participants. To qualify, a person must have a positive test for antinuclear antibodies and at least one other lupus symptom. To participate in the study or receive more information, call 405-271-7221.
“With this new grant, Dr. Guthridge focuses on understanding what changes in a person’s blood when they are transitioning to a lupus patient,” said OMRF Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer Judith James, M.D., Ph.D. “I’m excited to see what we learn, as it could very well transform future lupus-prevention studies.”
Guthridge’s grant, No. 1U01AI176135-01, is from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the NIH.
Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an international philanthropic organization, recently held its Western District meeting in Shawnee. 13 chapters are involved with the Western District. All chapters took a silent auction item as a fundraiser.
Participants brought socks for the Shoes that Fit project. Several attendees won door prizes. Linh Sasser, a health and wellness LCP candidate for Cornerstone Counseling, was the keynote speaker. Her topic was Trust-based Relational Interventions.
Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee and Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur are state projects for ESA. St. Jude Children Research Hospital is ESA’s national project since 1972 when Danny Thomas asked the organization to help raise money for his hospital. A spokesman for St. Jude has said that Epsilon Sigma Alpha has taught St. Jude how to raise funds for their hospital. St. Jude has even named a wing of their research hospital after Epsilon Sigma Alpha.
Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, received approval last week for Senate Bill 1427, legislation designed to fund revitalization efforts related to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary Prison Rodeo. The Senate Appropriations Committee voted in favor of creating a revolving fund for the Department of Corrections and allocating $8.3 million to make repairs and enhancements to the rodeo arena.
“This event provides an incentive for those in the correctional facility as they must be in good behavioral standing to participate,” Hamilton continued. “This gives them something to look forward to and allows them to be involved in a positive community experience, aligning with the DOC motto of ‘We Change Lives.’ By being part of a team and taking part in a family-friendly community event, the goal is that those incarcerated will continue on the path to a better life, in turn reducing recidivism rates across the state.”
Hamilton shared that the City of McAlester, the McAlester Area Chamber of Commerce, Choctaw Nation, and the Agricultural Board of Directors have all expressed their support for the prison rodeo reboot.
The Department of Corrections has also directed $1 million of its budget towards the project, which is expected to take 18-24 months to complete.
“Bringing back the prison rodeo is something the McAlester community and many Oklahomans are excited about,” Hamilton said. “Under the current plans, the enhancements to the rodeo arena would make it suitable for a variety of events such as professional rodeos, concerts, and sporting events, effectively creating opportunities to generate revenue for the state, Corrections, and a number of local businesses.”
Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today released the following statement after Senate Bill 2035 unanimously passed through the Aeronautics and Transportation Committee.
Senate Bill 2035 was authored by Pro Tem Treat in the wake of a tragic accident that involved his son, Mason. He was driving legally with proper documentation but didn’t have a car tag because the sale of the vehicle was from a private individual. Current state law requires a private seller of a vehicle to retain possession of a motor vehicle tag after the sale of a car.
The pro tem is currently working with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, Department of Public Safety, Service Oklahoma, licensed operators, new and used auto dealers and various associations to implement a better process.
“I appreciate the bipartisan support from my Senate colleagues on this important piece of legislation,” Pro Tem Treat said. “My son Mason’s life was almost taken from our family, as well as the life of a sheriff’s deputy, because of a law that required him to drive without a license plate. Luckily, and by the grace of God, both Mason and the deputy are recovering.
“Mason was in compliance with the current law. But he didn’t have a tag on his car because of the law. I am determined to get this legislation passed. I don’t want to see any other Oklahoman’s life and safety compromised as a result of the inadequacy of the current law. This bill will save lives and help law enforcement focus on vehicles that are truly out of compliance.”
It’s March, which means it’s spring break somewhere, and the Arcadia Round Barn is ready to welcome visitors of all ages.
Travelers from across Oklahoma and neighboring states make March one of the busiest months of the year at the Round Barn, as visitors enjoy time off for spring break and Easter break. The barn is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers an historical museum, stunning loft and welcoming grounds with picnic tables and a restroom building that is heated and air-conditioned.
The Round Barn Ramblers, an acoustic Americana and bluegrass band, will provide live music from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday in March in the downstairs museum.
On March 30, Oklahoma City harpist Jessica Tate will present a free concert from 1 to 3 p.m. in the loft of the barn. Singing and accompanying herself on her lever harp, Tate will offer a program of Celtic, bluegrass, Americana and folk music.
Kids who visited the barn last year will find a new scavenger hunt game with updated questions. Through March 17, scavenger hunt players can opt for a “Luck of the Irish” bag filled with green prizes.
Admission and programs are free, but donations are accepted for the maintenance of the barn, which was built in 1898. The suggested donation is $2 per person. The museum gift shop offers new Round Barn and Route 66 merchandise as well as donated vintage collectibles, books including Western novels and gentlyworn clothing with an emphasis on denim shirts and jackets.
The Round Barn is six miles east of Interstate 35 on historical Route 66. For more information about music at the barn or to arrange a guided tour, call Joe Baxter at 405-833-1350.
Our Attorney General Gentner Drummond defended public education, and its 700,000 students statewide, saying they were being “inappropriately attacked.”
Having covered the Edmond Board of Education, General Drummond probably has some valid points. It’s not easy to educate thousands of students. There are many moving parts. And a school board has to give attention to students, teachers, parents, staff, administrators and the public. That’s a lot of balls to juggle in the air.
My problem with public education is how sensitive everyone is to the mere mention of God. Yet if you oppose something controversial taught in school, then you’re intolerant and hateful. (Please know I’m not suggesting for a moment it’s like that in Edmond.)
It seems to me that ugly attacks on Christianity, and Catholicism in particular, are somehow acceptable. And for the record, it shouldn’t be. The intolerance, and at times bigotry, isn't right. We might be living in a time where people of faith may become the new counter culture.
—The federal government has a lot of work to do. I wonder at times why a lot
of their work isn’t farmed out to the private sector?
I just don’t think the one-size fits all approach works. Another problem people have is that they put too much faith in the government to solve all their problems. That’s never going to work.
— Here a few years ago, destruction of statues of American statesmen, and others, was all the rage. I believe the statue vandals should have gone to jail – but that’s apparently not a popular notion.
What is odd is that we have new monuments. They are cities and states, which are monuments to the failure of liberalism. They are places like California – which lost a Congressional seat in the last census, because the state lost population. (Without illegal immigration they may have lost more seats) Many people don’t want to live in the high-tax state, which seems to accept shoplifting in certain cities.
The best story was when Florida GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis held a debate with Calif. Gov. Gavin Newsom. DeSantis told Newsom of an older guy who had moved to Florida to get away from California’s many problems. It turned out the guy was Newsom’s father-in-law.
(Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)
The American people have put up with setback after setback from the Biden administration. From increased business regulations for job creators to higher grocery bills for families— Biden has proven nothing is off-limits. Now, college-bound students are the latest victim of the administration’s negligence.
The Biden administration recently announced that it will delay the transmission of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) information to colleges and universities until mid-March. This delay is significantly hurting Oklahoma’s college-bound students, giving them less time and fewer resources to make important
admission and financial aid decisions prior to the college and university deadlines. The national average cost of attendance at a state university is over one hundred thousand dollars for four years. No family should be pressured to commit to a college or university without having ample time to consider all financial aid options.
FAFSA is a mandatory application for students seeking federal financial aid and is used by colleges and universities to determine financial assistance for students. In 2020, Congress passed an updated FAFSA with the intention of making financial aid more accessible for all students by streamlining the application process. The bill gave the Department of Education three years to revamp the program. At the Biden administration’s request, this deadline was extended a year. However, despite having three years notice, Biden’s Department of Education still failed to implement the updated FAFSA program before the deadline, meaning many students will have to make admissions decisions without knowledge of their need-based aid.
Nearly 27,000 students across Oklahoma applied for FAFSA for the 2023-2024 school year. It’s unacceptable for the Biden administration to expect students and their families to make this decision without knowing which schools the student can or cannot afford to attend. Further, my office has heard from college presidents around the state that the delay is impacting their ability to send financial aid offers in a timely fashion—further constraining our students.
While the Biden administration wastes time imposing unconstitutional student loan transfers onto hardworking Americans, they neglected to do their job in launching the FAFSA program on time as re-
See Biden, Page 12
Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) to introduce the Protect Our Communities From DUIs Act, legislation to both prevent illegal immigrants who have committed DUI from entering the US and to automatically deport illegal immigrants who commit DUI within the United States. Representative Barry Moore (R-AL) introduced companion legislation in the US House of Representatives, which passed the House with the support of all Republicans and 59 Democrats.
President Joe Biden has drastically decreased deportations, even saying that he would fire ICE agents who deported criminal illegal aliens who have not committed felonies because, in his view, ICE agents should “only arrest for the purpose of dealing with a felony that’s been committed, and I do not count drunk driving as a felony.”
The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Deb Fisher (R-
NE), Mike Lee (R-UT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
“Oklahomans have experienced first-hand the family consequences of an illegal alien who drives under the influence and kills one of our citizens, including an Oklahoma police officer last year,” said Lankford. “Their lawlessness leaves a family and our state grieving over the tragic, avoidable loss of a loved one. Every person in our nation must respect our laws and ensure their behavior does not put others at greater risk to our nation and our families.”
“Our nation is seeing a surge in violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants, and they are not being held accountable,” said Hagerty. “It is unconscionable that illegal immigrants that break our laws and endanger our communities are allowed to remain in the US President Biden and Democrats’ willingness to pursue far-left immigration policies at the expense of Americans’ safety must end, and I’m pleased to introduce this commonsense legislation that would strengthen our ability to hold illegal immigrants accountable and protect our citizens.”
“President Biden’s open border policies have incentivized lawlessness and turned every state into
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a border state,” said Blackburn. “This week alone, we have seen an uptick in avoidable violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants with prior records. This legislation by Senator Hagerty takes an important step toward restoring law and order by requiring the immediate deportation of illegal immigrants who endanger communities by driving under the influence.”
“Supporting law and order includes keeping dangerous individuals who harm our citizens out of our communities,” said Budd. “No alien who drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol should be admitted to the US, and must be deported if that person is already in the US. That’s a commonsense step we can take to keep our communities safe.”
“The catastrophic policies put in place by President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas have allowed for illegal immigrants crossing our southern border to face virtually zero consequences for their actions, and in several cases, have resulted in the death of American citizens,” said Capito. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation, which will hold individuals convicted of driving under the influence accountable.”
“Drunk drivers pose a danger to both themselves and everybody else on the road,” said Cotton. “Illegal immigrants who are caught drunk driving should face no less than immediate deportation.”
“Driving under the influence is a serious danger to our communities no matter who is driving,” said Cramer. “Illegal aliens have already committed a crime by being here. Our immigration laws need to be enforced, but at a minimum the public hazard of a DUI must be added to the list of inadmissible and deportable offenses.”
“Current law allows illegal immigrants to commit multiple DUI offenses before they can be deported—that’s insane,” said Fisher. “The Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act would curtail the flawed policies that allow these criminals to evade justice.”
Want to invest in something that will last? Plan a trip. Invest in memories.
My memory was jogged this week when I saw a 10-minute video on Facebook. It featured Welsh choirs in a variety of settings – including some I had visited 10 years ago. It took me back to my trip with a wonderful combination of music and sites. I took about 1500 photos on that trip and I’ve reviewed every one. And it reminded me what an amazing country Wales is.
Out journey began in Cornwall where our daughter lives. It was about a four hour drive to our first stop to Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Wales is a sort of appendix affixed to the west side of middle England.
One of my missions on this family trip was to visit filming locations related to Dr. Who. Cardiff was the setting for a number of episodes of the popular BBC series.
We started with Cardiff Castle. It was originally the site of a Roman fort. On the grounds is a later structure, a post-Conquest Norman castle. Over centuries, more buildings were added. Most of what we toured was the result of an 1866 overhaul – a Victorian palace. The castle was the setting for several Dr. Who episodes, as was nearby Llandaff Cathedral, St. Fagans National History Museum and Castle Coch, north of Cardiff.
We visited another castle, Carreg Cennen, ruins situated on a high point overlooking miles of countryside. If you’ve seen the movie “Pride,” you’ve seen Carreg Cennen.
In Aberystwyth, midway up the west coast, home to the National Library and a holiday favorite for its long stretch of beach and a pleasure pier, we bought tickets for the Vale of Rheidol Railway. Passengers ride in vintage carriages pulled by a steam locomotive. On the 11-and- a-half-mile, hour-long trip the train ascends 700 feet to a site with three scenic stone bridges and a stunning waterfall. Legend has it that the lowest bridge was built by the Devil himself! The Welsh detective series “Hinterland” featured Aberystwyth as police headquarters with the first episode filmed at Devil’s Bridge (available for purchase on Amazon Prime Acorn).
Further north we arrived at Portmeirion – one of the country’s most unusual spots. (And one featured on the video I watched – link at the article’s end.)
Portmeirion was the creation of architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who purchased the coastal property in 1925. Here he built a village unlike any in the United Kingdom. It was his contention that any style could be utilized while adapting to the landscape. Dotted throughout the village are an Italianstyle campanile, Baroque buildings with pantiled roofs and scroll-sided gables, a Gothic pavilion, even a classic colonnade from a 1760 British bath house. Clough was an architectural scavenger, rescuing many pieces from buildings due to be demolished, and repurposing them in some of the buildings.
No one lives in the village – it is strictly a tourist attraction. Though we didn’t do it, it is possible to stay in many of the buildings. Two hotels also cater to guests. Shops on the property carry gifts, books and Portmeirion Pottery seconds. Two full-
service restaurants and several smaller eateries provide sustenance for visitors.
Continuing north, we visited the National Slate Mining Museum, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, “Landscape of Northwest Wales.” This Victorian facility, loomed over by a hill with great slabs of slate, has turned into a living museum.
That afternoon we hit more World Heritage properties, Caernarfon, Beaumaris and Conwy Castles, three of four castles constructed by King Edward I of England. He actually built 17 castles in Wales, but these are considered the masterpieces.
The Welsh in the 13th century were an independent and unruly bunch and it took a lot of castles, men and money to subdue them. To appease the populace, King Edward promised them a prince – the Prince of Wales. One of Edward’s sons was born at Caernarfon in 1284. Upon Edward I’s completion of Welsh conquest, Edward II was invested as Prince of Wales in 1301.
Beaumaris, the last of Edward’s castles, built in 1295, is considered one of the most beautiful. It appears as a ruin, but was actually never completed.
Conwy, home of the third castle, was another of my favorite places. The castle is huge and, like the others, without furnishings. I was castled out by this time. Jack and Zoe opted to explore more while I checked out the gift shop. I purchase very few items when I travel but I couldn’t resist a couple of CDs with the Morriston Orpheus Male Choir.
Welsh choirs are justifiably famous. Many towns have choirs and several of them allow visitors at rehearsals. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to do that. But I have the next best thing with my purchases. For more info, Google www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/read/articles/welsh-choirs. Rick Steves is my guru and I never travel to Europe without one of his guidebooks.
A walk on the Conwy city walls is a must – as is a visit to Plas Mawr, the finest Elizabethan town
house in Britain. Built between 1576 and 1585, it’s furnished with historically accurate items. It also contains interesting panels on Elizabethan life. If you want to know about medicine and sanitation in those times, you’ll find out here. And, if you walk outside the city walls, you’ll see the 13th century idea of port-a-potties.
Our stay in Conwy was far too short. We were only there one afternoon and until lunch the next day. That afternoon we made one stop – in Holywell -- to visit one of the Seven Wonders of Wales as identified by an anonymous18th century English poet. Site of a resurrection miracle, St. Winefride’s Well has been a pilgrimage destination since the 11th century. This place, with its 15th century chapel, was the perfect Amen to a heavenly trip –which I’m still enjoying.
`If you’d like to see the video which inspired my recollections:
www.facebook.com/watch/?v=89059414923165
3. Enjoy the music and a quick visit to one of my favorite countries.
quired by law.
I also support my colleague, Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee in his efforts to encourage the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to open a formal investigation into this delay. Further, HELP Committee Republicans have launched a website where students, institutions, and others can report any issues with the new FAFSA form: https://www.help.senate.gov/FAFSA.
Caseworkers in my office are looking into the situation and are on
From Page 10
standby, ready to assist families who are having information and verification issues with the new FAFSA system. Please call my Tulsa Office at 918-921-8520 if you and your family need help with this issue.
There is no excuse for this failure. The Biden administration had three years to prepare for the FAFSA rollout and has fallen short. The Biden administration is out of touch with the needs of most Americans. Plain and simple. This isn’t the first time their policies have hurt Oklahoma families; I am certain it won’t be the last..”
Sen. Jo Anna Dossett, D-Tulsa, won approval last week in the Senate Judiciary Committee for her legislation to better prepare individuals stepping into the role of guardian of an individual with dementia. Senate Bill 1751 would require training specific to dementia, including understanding the disease, communication techniques, and information about resources for caregivers.
Dossett said the legislation was requested by the Alzheimer’s Association to better prepare caregivers, such as guardians, and help reduce caregiver stress and depressive symptoms.
“It’s projected that from 2020 to 2025, we’re going to see an increase of 13.4 percent in Oklahomans with Alzheimer’s, which is the most com-
mon of about 100 types of dementia. These are illnesses that can take an unbelievably heavy toll on caregivers, and that includes guardians,” Dossett said. “Helping those guardians better understand the disease’s unique challenges, how to better communicate with someone with a dementia diagnosis, and where to turn for support is vital. That’s what my legislation will do.”
Dossett said the training would be provided at no cost through the Alzheimer’s Association and would cover all topics specified in the bill in about an hour. Training would be available online and would provide those completing the training with a certificate of completion.
SB 1751 now moves to the full Senate for a vote.
The Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) announced today that three seniors have been named as Oklahoma’s 2024 Academic All-Staters. Awarded by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence (OFE), the list consists of the top 100 public high school seniors from 71 schools in 64 Oklahoma school districts.
The OSSM students are Ojas Lakhotia (Oklahoma City), Jacob Meng (Edmond), and Adrian Pan (Edmond).
To qualify for the Academic-AllState scholarship, students must meet one of the following criteria: An American College Test (ACT) composite score of at least 30 or a combined SAT evidence-based reading and writing and math score of at least 1,370; or selection as a National Merit semifinalist. This year’s class of Academic All-State students averaged a 33 ACT score and had an average grade point of 4.39.
The students will be honored at the 2024 Academic Awards Celebration on May 4 in Norman and receive a $1,500 merit-based cash award, an honor cord, and a medallion.
“These seniors have accomplished a great deal in their high school career,” said Tony Cornforth, president of OSSM. “We congratulate them for this achievement of being among the state’s most academically talented high school students.”
The Academic Awards Program launched in 1987 and has since recognized 3,800 high school seniors from 336 school districts.
About OSSM
Nationally ranked as the No. Five public high school in the United States, OSSM provides a college-level, academically advanced curriculum in science and mathematics to juniors and seniors across the state. For more information, visit www.ossm.edu or call 405-521-6436.
Seventy-five Oklahoma CareerTech students met at the state Capitol Feb. 27 to speak to legislators about how career and technology education helps teens prepare for careers and college.
“This visit is important because it allows CTSO officers to share their firsthand experiences with career and technology education with our state legislators,” said Brittani Phillips, FCCLA state adviser at Oklahoma CareerTech. “By sharing their stories, these officers can help lawmakers understand the positive impact that CTE has on students’ lives and encourage them to continue supporting CTE programs. CTSO officers represent the future of the skilled workforce. By meeting with legislators, they can help ensure that CTE programs continue to meet the needs of the ever-changing job market.”
State officers from FCCLA and Oklahoma CareerTech’s other six cocurricular student organizations -Business Professionals of America, DECA, FFA, HOSA, SkillsUSA and Technology Student Association -- attended the CareerTech Student Organization Day at the Capitol, visiting with legislators from their districts. The students were also recognized on the floor of both chambers.
“It is so pivotal to talk with lawmakers and to talk about the things and the policies that are being put in place,” said Brandon Weibel, Oklahoma FCCLA president.
Oklahoma HOSA President Maira Arshad said she wanted to let legislators know that CTSOs really do change students’ lives.
“I don’t think I would be where I am today without CTSOs, and I don’t think I would be as confident as I am today without CTSOs,” she said.
Caleb Horne, Oklahoma FFA president, echoed her thoughts, saying that he welcomed the chance to
meet with legislators personally to share his story “so they can see the true impact” of all the CTSOs.
The students also heard from Skye McNiel, Oklahoma Association for Career and Technical Education executive director; Gina Hubbard, CareerTech director of statewide outreach; and Rep. Anthony Moore, chairman of the House Higher Education and CareerTech Committee.
CTSOs give students opportunities for personal growth and scholastic achievement, as well as the chance to develop skills in public speaking, planning and organizing. Members work on various community projects, competitive events and leadership activities and meet other students who share similar interests.
More than 105,000 Oklahoma students are members of one of the seven co-curricular CTSOs: Business Professionals of America; DECA; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; FFA; HOSA; SkillsUSA; and Technology Student Association.
Oklahoma CareerTech:
Education that works for you
The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 60 campuses, 397 PK-12 school districts, 16 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 32 adult education and family literacy providers.
The agency is governed by the State Board of Career and Technology Education and works closely with the State Department of Education and the State Regents for Higher Education to provide a seamless educational system for all Oklahomans
In 2021 when “Dune: Part One” was released, it was part of the extreme streaming strategy for the then called HBO Max releasing both on the streaming service and in theaters. Which likely produced more exposure to general audiences but seeing director Denis Villeneuve’s striking vision on home screens (and sound systems) takes away from the magnitude of the epic story of Dune that has captivated reading audiences for decades and the rich visual mastery of Villeneuve. Now with the release of “Dune: Part Two” there’s no simultaneous home release and the theater experience of this film reminds us of the palpable difference of seeing movies on the big screen.
Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) unites with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent at terrible future only he can foresee.
Many of the criticisms of “Dune: Part One” were related to the dense story and slow pace of the film. In Part Two the length remains epic, but the pace and scope has been amped up to another level from Part One. This film has all the grandeur and action that you would want from this kind of “Star Wars”
meets “Lord of the Rings” meets “Lawrence of Arabia”, so for those of us in the audience who have a hard time following the intricate history of Shakespearian warring houses on an alien planet fighting for an mythical substance called ‘spice’ there are plenty of action set pieces and visual mastery to hold your attention.
The cast of “Dune: Part Two” is a veritable who’s who of actors in Hollywood, from steady and stalwart presences to the up-and-coming group of actors bound to fill the box office for the next decade. The successful chemistry between Chalamet and Zendaya goes a long way to drawing the audience into the
emotional aspects of the film amidst the beautiful scenery and cinematography. Zendaya is conveys so much even with such limited dialogue while Chalamet turns in a weighty and compelling performance that is a far cry from “Wonka.” And while the laundry list of character actors is a long as the humongous desert sand worms in this film, Javier Bardem stands out and you can feel a joy that he brings to his performance that leaps off the screen.
Overall, “Dune: Part Two” is a feast for the senses that is best experienced on the big screen (IMAX if you’re able) and reminds us that there is an extra element to the theater experience that you can’t quite replicate at home. When the first overtures of the film’s score wash over you, it’s a sound that you can feel which you can’t get when you’re watching a movie on your tv while you have your social media of choice pulled up on your phone.
“Dune: Part Two” is rated PG-13 for sequences of strong violence, some suggestive material and brief strong language.
4.5 out of 5 stars
(Contact George Gust for comment at gust.george@gmail.com)
A new exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center Museum opens on Saturday, March 30, in the ONEOK, Inc. Gallery on the first floor. “Into the Mirror” will present a view of Indigenous people from the perspective of Indigenous artists. It challenges concepts and allows the artists’ work to speak for itself. A special membersonly reception will be held on opening day at 1 p.m. in the Chesapeake Event Center. It will include a lecture by Leon Natker, director of the Oklahoma History Center Museum and curator of this new exhibit. Members should RSVP online due to limited space.
The exhibit will close on January 30, 2025. The Oklahoma History Center Museum is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Please call 405-522-0765 or visit okhistory.org/historycenter for admission costs and group rates.
To become a member of the Oklahoma Historical Society, visit okhistory.org/membership. An OHS membership supports the creation of exhibits, educational programs, special events and publications that bring our history to life. M
I saw a video the other day that showed footage of people walking around in New York City in the early 1900s.
It was very fascinating in general, The clothing was nice, Women wore dresses and many men wore suits and/or slacks with button up shirts for the most part, People were walking around in a hurry, much like our society today. What was very interesting was that I didn’t see any obese people, Now, I am sure there were a few but I didn’t see any, We need to wake up and pay attention to what has happened in the U.S, We are obese and many people don’t realize they fit in that category.
There are a few ways to define obesity, The Body Mass Index (B.M.I.) tends to be the standard in the U.S. and you can look your self up on a few sites by searching “Body Mass Calculator” and one of the options is at www.aarp.org. Your B.M.I. is a “a ratio of your weight to your height and it helps to determine a healthy weight.” It is divided into categories of underweight, healthy weight, overweight and obesity, For most people, this is a very good indicator of where you are, Calculate yours and get a current baseline. I bet you will be surprised, I say this is good for, “most people” because muscular people will not be accurately displayed since it only factors in weight and does not factor in ratio of fat to muscle within your weight, As a Professional Trainer, I calculate body fat percentage versus weight for a more accurate range for me and my clients.
I teach about ideal body fat percentage and for men, it is 15% and women is 23%, Ideal indicates for “general health” and not necessarily to win a bikini contest or bodybuilding show. We also have essential body fat levels to have. Obesity, with this method, is defined as 10% over the “ideal” body fat percentage. For women, if you are 33% or more you are defined as obese and men, you
must be 25% or more to meet the criteria. Men and women have different standards because a woman’s body is designed to carry babies and they need more body fat. Women should not go below 12% and men around 3%, Understand that the margin of error is about 3% as well.
Looking at the fact that my clients are building muscle, I don’t like focusing too much on the scale. I have clients that may only drop 5 pounds on the scale in a couple months but have gained 3 pounds of muscle and what that really means is that they dropped 8 pounds of fat while gaining 3 pounds of muscle and that showed a net loss on the scale of only 5 pounds total. Hence the reason that weight doesn’t mean everything for those that exercise.
We already know that obesity is a concern but recent data from the CDC showed that in 2022, 22 States had at least 35% of adults with obesity, which is up from 19 states in 2021, To give you an idea how bad it has risen, understand that 10 years prior to the study, NO STATE had an adult obesity rate at or above 35%! We have a culture of obesity issues and frankly, a culture of excuses and people that rationalize why they don’t workout and eat correctly.
Oklahoma is great at college sports and N.B.A. basketball, topping the charts throughout the years with all of them, Unfortunately, we are also great at topping the charts with our unhealthy, obese population, The recent data showed that Oklahoma is one of the 4 States where we showed a prevalence of obesity of more than 40% of our population!
I encourage you to self-evaluate your lifestyle, choice, and priorities, Do you know where you are in the obesity chart? Understand that there are over 33 diseases associated with obesity and obesity is considered a PREVENTABLE disease, Do your part, Open your eyes and pay attention to what matters most. It should be your health.
(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)
Stockyards City Main Street and the Oklahoma Irish Heritage Society invite you to come to Historic Stockyards City, in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, March 16th for the annual St. Patrick’s Parade! It is a celebration of Oklahoma Irish heritage and the western culture of Stockyards City! This family friendly event begins at 10:00 a.m. You won't want to miss this!
The parade will be led by the Slash O Ranch Longhorns, brought to you by Presenting Sponsor John Ireland & Son Funeral Home. You can see St. Patrick, bagpipes, Irish dancers, the Shriners, cool cars, community groups, equestrian entries and much more.
This year's Grand Marshal is Anita La Cava Swift, John Wayne's granddaughter. Ms. Swift is a life-long, passionate supporter of the Western way of life and Stockyards City. Following the parade, McTeggart Irish Dancers will be performing at Rodeo Cinema, 2221 Exchange Avenue. The McTeggart School of Irish dance is Oklahoma's first accredited school of Irish dance. They have countless dancers who have competed at the regional, national and world championship level.
Some fun activities for kids will be
held, such as balloon art, face painting, and a photo booth.
Admission to the event is free. Come to Stockyards City for the St. Pats fun and stay for the day! Visit the shops, have a great meal, and enjoy the authenticity of the area.
The parade route begins at the intersection of Exchange Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, it will head west to Agnew Avenue and then go south to S.W. 15th Street.
Seniors Helping Seniors marks first anniversary
Seniors Helping Seniors recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their first anniversary at 100 NE 5th Street.
At Seniors Helping Seniors® Central Oklahoma, the core values drive every aspect of service provision. The organization believes in the power of seniors helping each other age happily and gracefully. Through a unique matching process, less active seniors in need of assistance are paired with mature, active individuals who have a genuine passion for helping others. This distinctive approach ensures that both caregivers and care recipients benefit equally, fostering meaningful relationships and companionship.
Unlike traditional in-home care agencies, Seniors Helping Seniors® Central Oklahoma focuses on employing seniors aged
50 and above as caregivers. These dedicated individuals, often retired and seeking to stay active, possess a wealth of life experience and a deep understanding of the aging process. Their compassionate care and attention reflect their firsthand knowledge and enable them to provide unparalleled support to their clients.
Seniors Helping Seniors® Central Oklahoma offers a range of in-home services, including companionship, personal care, and household assistance. With reasonable hourly rates for clients and competitive wages for caregivers, the organization strives to make quality care accessible to all seniors in the community.
To learn more about Senior Helping Senior, check out their website, https://shscentralok.com/ or give them a call at 405-562-6000.
Gas prices up as month ends
INTEGRIS Health Medical Group welcomes Richard Dees, D.O., to their team. Dees is an orthopedic surgeon with INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital.
Dees treats patients 14 years old and up and provides an array of comprehensive services from nonsurgical treatment options to surgical management. The goal of his practice is to take care of his patient as a whole person to get them back to doing what they love the most in their life. His areas of interest include shoulder replacement, arthroscopic rotator cuff and labral repair, knee arthroscopy, ACL reconstructions, sports medicine, hand and wrist surgery and general orthopedics and fracture care.
ago, when the national average was $3.35. The upward trend is likely to continue as travelers start heading out of town for Spring Break.
In Oklahoma, the gas average was $2.94
gery residency at SSM St. Anthony Hospital and went on to complete his Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Fellowship in San Diego. He offices at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Edmond, located at 4833 INTEGRIS Parkway, Suite 150. For more information, call 405-657-3990.
New physician at Integris Coffee Creek
She graduated from Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Tulsa and completed her residency at the Eastern Connecticut Health Network Family Medicine Residency Program. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, diabetes, high blood pressure, women’s health and preventive medicine.
She offices at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Coffee Creek located at 2916 N. Kelly Ave. She is accepting new patients. Call 405-715-5300 for more information.
State making effort to ‘Buy American’
“This is about supporting American jobs and American businesses,” said Hicks, D-Oklahoma City. “Manufacturing is crucial to our economy, but it’s an area we’ve seen decline in this country. My legislation would give those companies and workers the first shot at providing the goods and equipment needed as our state, counties, cities, and school districts invest in critical infrastructure.”
SB 1212 would apply to any contract for the construction, reconstruction, repair or maintenance of a public building or public work with an estimated contract price exceeding $100,000. All materials to be used in the completion of that project must be manufactured or produced in the United States. Hicks said there would be exceptions to address concerns such as product availability and significant cost differences.
“I greatly appreciate the support of everyone on the committee for their yes votes on my ‘Buy American’ legislation. I’m excited about the opportunity this gives us to really invest in America and its citizens by supporting U.S. manufacturing companies,” Hicks said. “I look forward to bringing this bill to the full Senate so that all our members can join in supporting this important effort.”
The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), celebrated 20 years of progress for the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline with an event at the state Capitol today. This milestone event honored two decades of progress in tobacco cessation efforts and highlighted the significant impact the Helpline has made in improving the health and well-being of Oklahomans.
"It’s an honor to commemorate 20 years of progress and success in our ongoing efforts to combat tobacco use in Oklahoma," said Julie Bisbee, executive director at TSET. "The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline is a beacon of hope for countless individuals on their journey to a tobacco-free life, and we are deeply grateful for the dedicated partners and Oklahomans who have contributed to its success."
Since the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline started in 2003, it has contributed to the lowest adult smoking rate in state history by providing free resources, support and counseling services to thousands of individuals
striving to quit smoking and tobacco use. Through evidence-based interventions and innovative outreach initiatives, the Helpline has played a pivotal role in reducing tobacco-related disparities, saving lives and fostering healthier communities across the state.
The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline has received over 590,000 registrations, and more than 13,000 have come from women who are considering pregnancy, currently pregnant or postpartum.
The anniversary celebration featured distinguished speakers and guests, including state officials, public health advocates and individuals whose lives have been positively transformed through the assistance of the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline. Attendees had the opportunity to hear inspiring success stories, learn about the Helpline's impact and discover more about how TSET is raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and the resources available for those seeking to quit.
There are many consequences of being bullied, most of which leave a lasting impression on the person and family members. While it can lead to poor self-esteem and withdrawal from school and everyday activities, it can also lead to self-harm and suicide. Parents must know all they can about bullying. What they don't know about it could be hurting their children or, at the very least, not helping them get through it healthily. The more parents know about it, the better off their children will be in the fight against it.
"We all know that bullying exists, but most of us are not sure how to identify it or what to do about it," says Kirk Smalley, co-founder of Stand for the Silent. "We have to improve as a nation in preventing and addressing it so that our children don't suffer."
Smalley knows all too well the suffering that bullying can lead to. His 11-year-old son committed suicide due to bullying, which led him to start the organization to help raise awareness for other families. The facts surrounding suicide and our youth are eye-opening and something that everyone should be aware of.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is a severe public health challenge. It is the second leading cause of death in those ages 10-24, making up 15% of all suicides. From 2000 to 2021, there was a 52% increase in the number of suicides among this age group, and there is also a high rate of emergency department visits for self-harm.
There are things parents, teachers, and others in the community need to know about bullying so they can help protect kids and teens. They must know
how to recognize it, what actions to take when they identify it, how to discuss it with their kids, and where to get additional support. Stand for the Silent offers the information parents need to help navigate the situation, including giving community talks and seminars and offering downloadable guides on their website.
Here are crucial signs that your child may be being bullied and what to do about it:
Sudden changes in school attendance, avoiding recess, or being withdrawn.
Complaining of headaches, stomach aches, or a loss of appetite before going to school and returning home.
Having difficulty concentrating, displaying signs of
anxiety or depression, or talking about running away or suicide.
Has a noticeable difference from other students or a learning disability.
Lacks the ability to be self-assertive or has insufficient social skills and body language, reflecting low self-esteem.
Has injuries and does not provide clear explanations of how they obtained them.
If a child is being bullied, be prepared to take action. First, ensure the child is okay and remove them from the situation. Ensure they know they are supported and cared about and in a safe space. Next, get the facts about what happened and document them. Then, take action to report the bullying to the school and possibly authorities.
