Edmond Life and Leisure - January 7, 2021 by Edmond Life and Leisure

January 7, 2021 Vol. 21, No. 34

In This Issue 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.

Virus survivor part of vital research See Page 3

FRIDAY, January 8 Partly Cloudy High 45° Low 30°

SATURDAY, January 9 Partly Cloudy High 46° Low 30°

SUNDAY, January 10 AM Snow Showers High 42° Low 27°

Looking back on 2020, it’s hard to imagine someone who may not have been touched some way by the COVID-19 virus. Already in 2021 the virus will remain a challenge although we are encouraged by a few vaccines, which have started to make the rounds. In addition to the virus, this past year will probably be remembered more for the events, which did not happen, rather than the ones, that did during a “normal” year. Edmond’s signature happenings, such as LibertyFest and Downtown Edmond Arts Festival were scrapped as were many, many others. Many busiinesses were shuttered in March following government shut down orders. After a few weeks, most shops returned. Some of them suffered economic losses. And sporadic spreads of the virus quarantined a few businesses long after reopen orders. The City Council was ground zero for mask mandates. Eventually the council did opt to have a mask mandate in an effort to stem the tide of community spread. Spring sports were canceled in March as were the end of the winter sports. The University of Central Oklahoma scrapped the football season

as well as the other fall sports. Edmond schoolchildren did not return to in-class instruction after spring break. Edmond Schools also went to partial classroom instruction. The first pandemic, in just over 100 years, changed many other aspects of life, including church worship as well as even family get togethers. The virus wasn’t the only thing making news. In political news, Republican Stephanie Bice replaced Kendra Horn in Congress. And Tommy Johnson, a former Norman Police officer, became Oklahoma

County’s first African American sheriff. The home market, fueled by lower interest rates, exploded as Edmond set records for homes sold. Edmond also bid farewell to community leaders who passed, including former state lawmakers Marian Hood, formerly Marian Cooksey and Mark Snyder. Former Chamber Executive Director Ken Moore died in fall and the complications from the COVID-19 virus claimed the life of longtime community planner Leah Kessler.

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Edmond Life & Leisure • January 7, 2021 • Page 3

Virus survivor now a research volunteer When Covid-19 hit James Richardson, it hit him hard. Now, the 45year-old physical therapist is using his experience with the virus to help others. A distance runner who also regularly lifts weights, the Oklahoma City resident didn’t fit any of the traditional risk factors associated with Covid-19. But shortly after a work exposure at his clinic in March, the virus had him fighting for his life. Following his recovery, he’s now participating in antibody research at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. “It was such a miserable experience. If there’s anything I can do to help others avoid that or experience it less severely, that’s what I’m going to do,” he said. Infected by a patient in his physical therapy clinic, Richardson soon developed a fever of almost 103 degrees and blacked out repeatedly. He was admitted to the emergency room at Integris Baptist Medical Center and moved to isolation in the hospital’s Covid unit. “It felt like my chest was tightening more with every breath, like I had a constrictor snake wrapped around me,” he remembered. For a week in the hospital, he cycled in and out of consciousness. The low point came when his oxygen levels crashed, and the ventilator team was called. “I was able to

Oklahoma City physical therapist James Richardson still feels the effects of Covid-19 nine months after testing positive for the virus. He is participating in OMRF’s Covid-19 antibody study, helping researchers understand the body’s immune response to the virus.

muster the word ‘no’ when they asked to vent me,” he said. “I was afraid of the long-term consequences.” Fortunately, Richardson pulled through without the ventilator. But nine months later, he continues to feel the lingering effects of the virus. “I’m still dealing with things that

Tree recycling information Christmas trees can be recycled by dropping them off at designated locations in either Hafer Park or Mitch Park by Jan. 25. Trees are chipped, and free mulch is available for residents to pick up at Mitch Park after Jan. 29. Drop off locations will be: 1. Hafer Park - upper-level parking lot adjacent to Bryant Avenue 2. Mitch Park – in the north parking lot adjacent to Marilyn Williams The trees will be chipped, so please remove all tree stands, nails and ornaments. Commercial accounts, Christmas tree lots and other businesses will need to dispose of their trees by dropping them off at one of the two drop-off locations. If You Can’t Drop Off The Tree: • If you can't drop off your tree, residential customers can schedule a special, free collection the week before January 8. Call the tree-cycling hotline at (405) 359-4701 between January 4 and January 8 to be placed on the schedule. Collection will be

provided during the week starting Monday, January 11 and ending Friday, January 15. • When placing your tree out for collection, please do not cover your water meter. • Trees may not necessarily be picked up on normal trash collection day. So, those who have called the hotline must place their tree at the curb before 7:00 am on January 11 to be included in this collection. If You Miss the Special Collection: • Cut your tree into smaller pieces and place it in your cart for regular collection. • Schedule a monthly, bulk collection for January by calling Utility Customer Services at (405) 359-4541 beginning January 4. The bulk collection fee is $10 per cubic yard for the first 2 cubic yards and $5 for each additional cubic yard. • Take your tree to the Transfer Station located at I-35 & Covell Road for disposal. The charge for disposal of a Christmas tree is $5.

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.

don’t feel right. I can’t breathe well, and some of the cognitive effects are scary,” said Richardson. “I find myself trying to explain something to a patient or a colleague and can’t find the words; I just want to slap myself on the back of the head and yell, ‘Spit it out already!’” Once he’d cleared the virus from

his body for a sufficient period, Richardson began donating plasma to the Oklahoma Blood Institute for use in treating other Covid-19 patients. He also volunteered for research at OMRF, where scientists are studying his antibodies as part of a two-year federal grant. “Our goal is to understand people’s differing immune responses to the virus,” said Linda Thompson, Ph.D., one of the leaders of the project at OMRF. Using blood donated by volunteers, the scientists are looking for biological clues that might identify those individuals most likely to experience a severe response to the virus. This information can be used to develop potential treatments and to inform vaccine design and improvement over the coming years. “Someone like James volunteering isn’t just valuable,” said Thompson. “It’s crucial in helping us understand the effects of antibodies in fighting this virus.” When Richardson learned what taking part in the OMRF research entailed, he says the decision to participate was easy. “All I need to do is show up to help and give a little blood?” he said. “Count me in!” If you’ve recently recovered from Covid-19 and are interested in volunteering for OMRF’s antibody research study, please call 405-271-7221.

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From the Publisher

Kindness is like coffee My friend Vickie Nichols from Nichols Travel posted my headline on social media. It went on to read, “It awakens your spirit and improves your day”. My friend shares my belief that the only reason water exists is to make coffee. I’ve had coffee issues since 2001 when my travels to Europe started. Those folks under- Ray Hibbard stand both the art and importance of coffee. I have a small, commercial espresso machine in my house. My bride, Lisa, doesn’t drink coffee but she likes me to steam her milk for her tea in the mornings. A cup of coffee is greater then the sum of its parts. It is a gathering drink. It is more social than any other beverage I can think of and it is a universal drink. No matter where I have traveled in the world, sitting down with someone for a cup of coffee brings you closer together even if you don’t speak the same language. I did find some interesting facts about coffee that were new to me. In the spirit of more kindness for 2021 and more coffee, I hope you enjoy what I found. 1. You'll get more caffeine from drip coffee than espresso As an avid drinker of espresso this was a shock to me. You might think that because espresso is so concentrated, you'll get more caffeine from it than from regular old drip coffee. But you'd be incorrect! One espresso shot has around 100 milligrams of caffeine, while a cup of drip coffee has around 128 milligrams of caffeine. If you really want to take things to the next level, add a shot of espresso to your drip coffee to make a red-eye drink that should get you through that Zoom meeting. 2. Light roast coffee has more caffeine than dark roast Talking about caffeine myths, this is another common coffee misconception. You might think that bitter, dark coffee contains the most caffeine, but the opposite is true. Light roast coffee has more caffeine because it's roasted for a shorter time. 3. Coffee is full of antioxidants If your coffee-loving parents instilled in you that coffee is good for you, they're not wrong (unless you load it up with sugar, that is). Coffee's powerful antioxidants can help protect your body from disease.Coffee is particularly rich in an antioxidant called chlorogenic acid, which has been linked with helping to reduce cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood sugar levels. 4. The caffeine extracted from decaf coffee is sold to soda makers Have you ever wondered what happens to the caffeine that's taken out of decaf coffee blends? It turns out, it's in high demand. That caffeine is sold to soda companies as well as pharmaceutical ones. This one took me by surprise.

ticed his goats were more energetic after eating a certain type of berries. The goat herder took his findings to a monastery, and at some point after that, people started using the plant to make a drink. My thought is the good monks needed to create something for the morning after tasting the new wine they produced. 11. Chock Full O'Nuts doesn't have any nuts You might think it's obvious that a coffee brand doesn't have nuts in it. So then…why is it called that? Chock Full O'Nuts started as a nut roastery in New York City, then pivoted to coffee. The name stuck; the nuts didn't. 12. Boston really, really loves Dunkin' The first Dunkin' location was in Massachusetts, and New England has a lot of hometown pride for Dunkin', especially its iced coffee drinks. Just ask your Boston friends, and they'll probably have some niche Dunkin' memes to share. There's even a Saturday Night Live sketch about it. 5. You can order a "short" drink at Starbucks Is a tall drink still too much coffee for you? Starbucks has an off-menu "short" size that's smaller than a tall. (Conversely, there's also "trenta," which is larger than a venti.) Still better to frequent a locally owned coffee house. 6. There's a Guinness World Record for the "fastest time to drink a cup of coffee" Many of us savor each sip of that morning coffee. But if you want to set a world record, you'll barely even taste the stuff. Andre Ortolf of Germany set the record in 2019, downing a coffee in just 4.35 seconds. I think I could beat that with my cup of espresso. 7. There's a car that runs on coffee Yes, really! The so-called "Car-puccino" is a 1988 Volkswagen Scirocco that was modified to run on leftover coffee grounds. I would have to see that to believe it. 8. The world's most expensive coffee costs up to $600 a pound If the price alone isn't enough to deter you from trying kopi luwak, what about the fact that it's colloquially called "cat poop coffee"? Believe it or not, this coffee comes from beans previously digested (and pooped out) by civet cats. It's been criticized for animal cruelty, and in addition to that, coffee just isn't worth a $100-plus price point. I’m out on any food or drink that has been previously digested. 9. The world's first webcam was created to watch coffee This is something my engineer son would have created. He has coffee issues as well as his old dad. Researchers at the University of Cambridge set up a webcam to watch the coffee pot in their computer lab so they wouldn't walk to the break area only to find an empty pot. Necessity is the mother of invention, after all. 10. Coffee was reportedly discovered by goats As legend has it, a goat herder in Ethiopia no-

13. Americans spend a lot on coffee each year One Amerisleep study from 10,000 respondents found that women spent an average of $2,327 on coffee each year, while men spent an average of $1,934. Other research puts the average coffee spend at $1,100 for Americans. Since I order my beans from Spain, my expenditure is way over the average for a year. 14. Starbucks was founded by two teachers You might think that Starbucks was founded by businessmen, but its founders were two teachers and a writer, according to Thrillist. But, really, who needs coffee more than teachers as many parents who had teacher duty in 2020 will tell you. 15. There's a scientific reason whipped coffee works so well Dalgona coffee was a huge trend at the beginning of the pandemic. But how do instant coffee crystals turn into a frothy drink? It all has to do with the ratios of the ingredients. "The repeated viral whipped coffee recipe is to use two tablespoons each of coffee, sugar, and water. For most instant coffees, a prescribed 'cup' of coffee is one teaspoon of crystals mixed into six ounces of water," Popular Mechanics explains. By using six times more crystals in onetwelfth the water, then adding two tablespoons of sugar 'glue,' we're really doping the chemical reaction in favor of building foam." Aside from the fact that the whipped coffee recipe uses a lot less water than you'd typically use with instant coffee, the sugar is more than just a flavoring. It helps hold everything together, giving you that Instagram-worthy, sippable texture. There you have it my friends. Enjoy that next cup of coffee and the new year. Don’t forget the cup of kindness! (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside! ---- 2020 A Look Back ................................................................Pages 6 & 7 ---- Stay safe still in 2021 ................................................................Page 10. ---- Please try to help Foster Care system ........................................Page 10. ---- Elaine Warner’s trip to Kansas City ............................................Page 12. ---- George Gust reviews ‘Tenet’ ......................................................Page 14. ---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14. ---- Business News ............................................................................Page 17. ---- Schedule on debris pickup..........................................................Page 18. This and so much more in this week’s edition

See if you can find ‘Four Seasons’ “Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011. Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable. For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved. Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 7, 2021 • Page 5

2020 A look back

The events Edmond residents have come to love over the years were canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 virus. Among the many, many activities were two major events. That included the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival in May, above, and an array of happenings associated with the the LibertyFest celebration associated with the July Fourth celebration. LibertyFest’s massive parade, right and below, drawing thousands, was not held in 2020.

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2020 A look back Prepandemic months of January, February & part of March

Superintendent Bret Towne congratulated David Barker, Head Custodian at Charles Haskell Elementary School, on being selected the 2020 Support Personnel of the Year. Barker received his award at the Celebration of Excellence sponsored by the Edmond Public Schools Foundation. After the pandemic began the school board met online and handshakes were discouraged. Towne also made news later in the year when he announced he would be retiring at the end of the spring semester.

Last winter the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce was able to hold its annual awards banquet. Also at the event, citizens were enshrined into the Edmond Hall of Fame. Among them was former Oklahoma lawmaker, Lt. Governor, Governor and UCO president George Nigh. Giving him the plaque was Sherry Jordan, chamber leader.

All three Edmond schools were able to hold their community fundraisers. Above, Edmond Memorial High School hosted its annual Swine Week celebration. The Memorial kids raised more than $600,000 for Halo Project and Cleats for Kids. After this event, the students went on spring break and did not return for in-class instruction the rest of the semester. High school graduations were held outdoors with limited attendance.

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2020 A look back

There were no restrictions when the BALTO 5K benefit run was held at Mitch Park. The event was a benefit for North’s BALTO or Bring a Light to Others, event done by North High School. Hundreds of thousands of dollars were raised for the Children’s Rehab Hospital in Bethany. ABOVE, The traditional lighting of cell phones was done to mark sharing a light with others.

SF’s Double Wolf Dare Week

Hugs abounded at Santa Fe as $360,000 was raised for its cause.

Many 2020 photos by Melinda Infante

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2020 A look back

In late summer, officials with the Edmond Publid Schools sought to reassure patrons that measures were being taken to keep students and staff safe for in-person learning. A special press conference was held showing the in depth cleaning done on buses as well as other facilities in schools.

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Drive by events, such as this one by Heritage students, showed EPS teachers they were still appreciated.

There was now chalk art work outside Touchmark at Coffee Creek. Residents, particularly vunerable to the virus, were able to see this from many vantage points. Emma Stockman, Lesley Mora, Davis Needham of Touchmark vowed to always be a friend, ally and giver to the residents. The trio went the extra mile to brighten the days of residents.

Dan O’Neil, Edmond Mayor, announced in 2020 he would not seek re-election to his post. O’Neil will be wrapping up his second term as Mayor this year. Elections for Mayor, two city ccouncil seats, and one school board seat will be this spring.

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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

2020’s challenge lingers when we can relax and not Can you believe 2021 is worry as much about the outhere? break. We still don’t have any It is interesting how much the flying cars yet. scientific world keeps learning Putting together this about COVID-19. The Oklahoweek’s issue on 2020, it is pretty amazing how the man had an article on some peovirus changed our lives so ple they call “long haulers.” dramatically. These are folks who suffer The information we got on Steve Gust with the virus for a month or so the virus evolved quite a bit and then get better. Then after a as the year went along. few weeks, they suffer the same sympWe were told masks shouldn’t be toms again for another month. The worn and might actually be bad for us. cycle, for one woman, repeated itself That message took a complete 180- four times. degree turn before the year was out. She has asked medical professionals Last I saw, Edmond still had a mask if she’ll ever be okay and they don’t mandate. I urge people to wear your know. masks. I saw another report where a doctor I hope the vaccination process had the sniffles for a day. About a moves along a bit quicker. I’d like to month later he had bloodwork done see the “normal” life return. As it is and discovered he had anti-bodies for now, I’m not so sure we won’t be look- the virus. In other words, that case of ing at even more cancellations this the sniffles was the virus. year. Just incredible. Does anyone remember the beginAgain, please be safe in 2021 and ning of the pandemic last year? We help those who may be having some were told it might stretch to May or challenges. June and everyone just couldn’t believe it. (Steve Gust may be reached at It would be nice if 2021 is the year news@edmondpaper.com)

The foster care need remains great in state By Oklahoman Editorial Board In a recent op-ed in The Oklahoman, local attorney Lorenzo Banks issued a call made on these pages many times through the years — for Oklahomans to consider becoming foster parents or adopting. The need is as great as ever. According to Oklahoma Fosters, which coordinates foster care recruitment efforts among faith, nonprofit, government and other groups, 500 Oklahoma children are waiting for their “forever families.” Nearly 8,000 children are in Department of Human Services custody — an improvement from the 11,000 in custody five years

ago, but still far too many. Banks noted in his article that the COVID19 pandemic has produced delays with virtual court appearances, put home inspections on hold and led to longer approval times, “all making it more difficult for families to finalize adoptions. Children, in turn, are waiting longer to find their homes.” In addition, he said, people often are not sure how they can help. He suggested “providing relief care, a cup of coffee or finally hitting ‘send’ on that application to become a foster parent …” The Oklahoma Fosters website provides answers to many ques-

tions regarding foster care. For example, applicants must be at least 21 and may be married, single, legally separated or divorced. Parenting experience is a plus, but not a must. Are your other children already grown? Not a problem. “Empty nesters often make great foster parents and find it to be a rewarding experience,” the site says. Foster parents do not have to own a home — many foster or adoptive parents rent their dwellings. The state covers most of the adoption expenses; foster home assessment and training are provided at no charge. Applicants need to be in good physical and mental health to provide for a child’s needs, must provide acceptable transportation and have a phone. They must have sufficient income to meet current expenses, but certainly do not have to be wealthy. Becoming a foster parent involves submitting to background checks and, once licensed, completing 12 hours of continuing inservice training each year. Most of all, however, it involves a willingness to help a child in need. “Applicants must have the ability to love, understand, care for and accept a child to whom they did not give birth,” Oklahoma Fosters says. As 2021 dawns, consider becoming a foster parent or adopting. More information is available at www.okfosters.org, or by contacting the Department of Human Services at (800) 376-9729. From Oklahoman.com

Past generations had years worse than 2020 By Ryan Young Insidesources.com Humans don’t rule the world, it turns out. COVID-19 is too small to see, as President Trump pointed out. It has still killed more than 300,000 Americans in less than a year. It also ended the longest economic boom in American history and threw millions of people out of work. Millions of people who kept their jobs had to adapt to working at home — while also making sure their remote-schooling children paid attention to their on-screen teachers. COVID-19 meant people were mostly unable to go to movies, concerts or sporting events in 2020. And yet, by historical standards, it was a good year. COVID-19 is a novel disease. No human caught it before 2019. Scientists created effective vaccines in about a year. By comparison, smallpox has been around since at least Ancient Egypt in the third century B.C. The earliest evidence of inoculation dates to 10th century China. That’s more than a thousand years between smallpox’s first appearance and its first effective treatment — for a disease with a 30 percent fatality rate. But inoculation was rarely practiced until the 18th century, so it didn’t help very many people for its first 900 years or so. When Abigail Adams had her children inoculated in 1776, it was still a scary, new technology for most people. It was an act of courage for her to set a positive example like that. And it took an additional two centuries for smallpox to be eradicated altogether, in 1977. Our generation’s

COVID timetable is unimaginably better than with which our ancestors had to deal. That does not mean COVID is not a serious disease with serious economic and social consequences. Yet, it does mean that 2020 was not the worst year ever. Not even close. COVID has taken a huge toll on millions of lives. For people who didn’t get sick, isolation was often the hardest part of 2020. Depression, suicide rates and addiction problems all worsened in 2020. Stress from falling behind on bills and rent could have lasting consequences for millions of people. But we also have ways to stay in touch and give comfort to each other that previous generations never had. Telephones existed during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, but phone companies limited them to emergency use only, because the women operating manual switchboards in crowded offices kept getting sick. Radio, television and email did not exist. The Postal Service was even slower than it is today. Today, isolation is still hard. But at least we have Zoom, Netflix, Facebook, text messages and operator-less cell phones. Online food, grocery and retail delivery were all growing before the pandemic hit. Thankfully, some of that infrastructure was already in place coming into 2020, because we needed all we had and more. Go back just a few generations, and the best you could do was the Sears catalog. Thanks to the removal of net neutrality regulations in 2017, an explosion of investment in networks generated enough new capacity to handle exploding

new bandwidth demand from widespread videoconferencing and streaming. It is important to learn the right lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. If we do, we can ensure that 2020 will be the worst year any of us have to face in our lifetimes. The most important lesson is that openness is important. Scientists need to be able to communicate across national borders without restrictions. Supply networks need to be as open and frictionless as possible, without trade barriers and nationalist chauvinism getting in the way. Regulatory agencies need to be more open to new innovations and approaches. The FDA’s rapid COVID vaccine approval should be the norm, not the usual process that averages a decade of waiting and $1.3 billion per drug. For ordinary people and for small businesses that need to adapt to quarantines on short notice, it is important for regulators to get rid of excessive permits and other requirements. If a regulation is not needed during a pandemic, it was probably never needed in the first place. Some heavy regulatory housekeeping is in order as we emerge from the pandemic. This was a difficult year. The new year will have its own challenges. But previous generations had it far worse. Our job going forward is to make sure our pandemic experience is far worse than anything our grandchildren will have to endure. Ryan Young is a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute. He wrote this for InsideSources.com.

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2020 A look back

Entertainment became one of the most impacted businesses of the pandemic. Movie theaters shut down. Most are still closed. Officials with Armstrong College did offer some live shows including ‘Celtic Throne.’ The event was so successful that two more shows were added in October.

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Kansas City’s most notable fountain once graced the estate of a New York millionaire.

Put KC on your ‘must see’ travel list By Elaine Warner Even though this isn’t the time to travel, it’s a perfect time to plan for future trips. High on my list is my old home town, Kansas City. For those unfamiliar with this bi-state beauty, the metro area is made up of Kansas City, MisWarner souri, Kansas City, Kansas, and a variety of suburban cities. Growing up on the Kansas side, I have to say we were always kind of the kid brother. There was no state of Kansas when Kansas City, Missouri was incorporated. The town’s name was chosen because it was situated at the mouth of the Kansas River (where it merges into the Missouri River). In my experience, those of us born on the west side of the state line never say we were born in Kansas City, Kansas. We just say Kansas City and hope no one will ask. That’s not fair to today’s KCK, which, with the Kansas suburbs, offers lots of attractions. But it wasn’t that way when I was growing up – and, going back, I head for some of my old favorites on the Missouri side. Known as the “City of Fountains,” the city is only surpassed by Rome for the number of watery wonders. My personal favorite is a beautiful fountain just east of the Country Club Plaza shopping district. Created in Paris in 1910, it features four larger-than-life horses and riders said to represent four famous rivers – the Mississippi, the Seine, the Rhine and the Volga. It was brought to Kansas City in the ‘50s by the Plaza’s developer, J.C. Nichols. Nichols was responsible for some of Kansas City’s most beautiful residential areas and the Plaza, the nation’s first shopping area created for automobile traffic in the 1920s. The fountain, once named the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain, is in the process of being renamed. As powerful and creative a developer as he was, Nichols was also a racist whose properties were off-limits to a large portion of the city’s population. There’s so much to see and do in Kansas City, this article is just part one. Here I’ll concentrate on several – though not all – of the attractions in and around the Plaza area. Influenced by the towers, tiles and balconies of Spain, the 15-block Plaza reflects an appreciation of Old World art and architecture. Highlights include the 130-foot-tall Giralda Tower, inspired by the eponymous tower in Seville, Spain, a reproduction of the Florentine Il Porcellino, and the Mermaid Pool whose sea-loving sirens of Carrara marble are over 300 years old. Growing up in the area, window shopping on the Plaza was a family favorite on summer evenings. A highlight was stopping at Topsy’s Popcorn Shop. Bags of caramel corn in hand, we’d walk and talk and listen to the nighthawks calling from the dark sky. To this day, when I hear a nighthawk, I’m ten years old and wondering where my caramel corn is. Topsy’s is still there – along with a number of other tasty venues. My favorite Kansas City stay is the boutique Raphael Hotel overlooking the Plaza. Its old-fashioned elegance and superior service make it a desirable pied-a-terre. My reasons for loving it are more sentimental – it’s where my dad and

mom would stay when they visited the city. That – and it’s close to an eatery that is equally dear to my heart – Winstead’s. It was a real treat when my dad would take us to the cute drive-in with its Art Deco exterior. You could drive through but we never did. On every trip to K.C., I look forward to sliding into a turquoise, Naugahyde booth and listening to the tunes coming from the juke box. My order – every time, over the last (cough, cough) years – a double steakburger and a cherry soda. The burgers are high-quality beef with no additives, the patties so thin they’re almost lacy. The ice cream is rich and made locally. Tip: breakfast is the biggest bargain you’ll find in town. No fancy-schmancy choices, but, like their burgers, everything is top quality and made with lots of TLC. As you can tell, even writing this article is a trip down my memory lane. I grew up regularly visiting the magnificent Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The old north entrance led into the massive Kirkwood Hall, a huge room flanked by twelve, huge, black, white-veined pillars. I fantasized growing up and living there! I haven’t gotten used to the contemporary Bloch addition to the classic structure – but it does provide space for more art and visiting exhibitions. The Chinese collection is superb. My favorite spot is the Chinese Temple Gallery with its 12th century, polychrome and wood figure Guanyin of Members of First Christian Church of Edmond shared the Southern Sea, said to be the finest of its kind a Skyscraper shake at Winstead’s in Kansas City outside of China. The European collection ranges from Middle Ages through the great masters and a nice Impressionist collection. American highlights include paintings from almost-local George Caleb Bingham and the largest public collection of works by Thomas Hart Benton paintings and drawings. The grounds are extensive and feature a number of sculptures and an interesting glass maze. Plan on a day including lunch in the attractive Rozelle Court. Their chicken salad is a real treat. North of the Plaza, visit the home and studio of Thomas Hart Benton. His studio is as it was when he died. He was just finishing a small mural for the Country Music Hall of Fame. When you see that painting in Nashville, you can see that he didn’t complete the painting – there are no telephone wires connected to poles. South of the Plaza, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is a must-see for all ages. The toy collection is extensive but it’s the miniature collection that blows me away. Collected by the daughter of Joyce Hall, founder of Hallmark Cards, the detail and quality of the exhibits is stunning. For example, one piece, a jardinière, only a few inches high, is made up of pieces of wood as small as an eyelash and took the artist fourteen years from commission to delivery. Most of the exhibits are in a newer part of the building, the front portion of which was a large home owned by a prominent Kansas City businesswoman. It was also the scene of her dramatic kidnapping. Here comes a shameless plug – read the whole story of Nell Donnelly in my book, More than Petticoats: Remarkable Missouri Women. You can have an entire vacation just exploring this part of Kansas City. Watch for more later European armor for a man and horse (circa 15th or 16th century) is on display at the Nelson-Atkins Muthis month. seum of Art

Edmond Life & Leisure â&#x20AC;˘ January 7, 2021 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 13

2020 A look back

A time for prayer in the spring In June, following recent national events, Pastor Ronnie Ladd, right, reached out to the Edmond Police Department to hold a morning of prayer in downtown Edmond. It was early morning early in front of the Edmond Safety Center. Unlike other cities, Edmond suffered no widespread violence and there no moves to defund the police, which continues to enjoy widespread support in the community.

Page 14 • January 7, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

‘Tenet’ doesn’t quite hit expectations By George Gust We always knew there would be a drag on the theater going experience with in-home options become more readily available, and accelerated exponentially by the year that was 2020. However, in the before-times legend told of a filmmaker whose original (imagine that!) auteur movies would always rise to levels of “I gotta see this movie in huge theater” on par with only the Marvel spectacle. His movies always felt like an event that pushed the boundaries of practical large-scale movie making on the largest screens, his box office returns always impressed and his name was Christopher Nolan. Now in a post theater world we’ve been given his most mind-bending cryptic adventure yet in “Tenet” but would the big screen experience of Nolan’s film translate to small screens across America? Armed with only one word, Tenet, and fighting for the survival of the entire world, a Protagonist (John David Washington) journeys through a twilight world of international espionage on a mission that will unfold in something beyond real time. Even for all his accomplishments and illustrious film career, “Tenet” is as ambitious a film as he has made, but the results this go around are mostly mixed upon first viewing. Throughout the film I found myself wide eyed and locked into the time bending espionage narrative, as I try to make sense of the physics and cavalcade of world building time travel rules. An

experience that was both gripping with its use of visually interesting action sequences made up of practical effects and baffling as I continually failed to truly grasp the stakes and mechanics of the proceedings. And as a recommendation, if you’re viewing this movie at home it would do well to turn the captions on as the sound of the dialogue is constantly either muffled by a mask on the character or drowned out by the cacophony of bombastic score and sound effects. “Tenet” is a cerebral puzzle box of a film with the trappings of an international spy thriller a la James Bond, but the rules of Nolan’s time bending world don’t allow for much in the way of Bondian charm. Washington as our protagonist has a fun screen presence and can push the story forward, but the screenplay full of world building and rule setting doesn’t

allow for Washington to display any amount of personality or charisma that we know he has from his prior performances (see “Blackkklansman”). However in supporting roles, Robert Pattinson and Elizabeth Debicki bring a humanity to the film. Debicki especially has an empathetic character arc that ends up being the emotional core of a movie filled with robotic action execution. Overall, “Tenet” doesn’t live up to the expectation of being the film that got people back into theaters with its dense time travel world building and lack of character charisma. However as time passes and the context of the pandemic fades away there could be a reevaluation of this film as more people get a second viewing and have more time to digest this film’s big ideas. “Tenet” is a big swing by Nolan, that for some will spark a deeper interest and for others miss completely. The real-world practical filmmaking and stunning visual style Nolan implements in all of his films is there, but “Tenet” is a film that will reward only those who want to dig deeper into its world, as the first viewing can be jarring and mind melting at times. “Tenet” is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some suggestive references and brief strong language. Now available on demand. 2.9 out of 5 stars

PHOTO PROVIDED

John David Washington and Robert Pattinson star in writer/director Christopher Nolan's latest time bending spy thriller ‘Tenet.’

Answers appearing on Page 19

Dems protest health policy Several Oklahoma House Democrats sent a letter recently to Oklahoma Health Commissioner Lance Frye after the state Department of Health decided to allow schools to quarantine students on site who have been exposed to COVID-19. The letter, which was written by members of the Oklahoma House Democratic Education Policy Team, asked about the absence of data in justifying the mass quarantine of children. “We all agree the best place for quality learning is via in-person schooling – but we cannot risk student and staff safety nor health for a study,” said Rep. Melissa Provenzano. “This surprise decision feels like a plan which was developed in a vacuum with little to no input from experienced education professionals, nor with evidence to support its implementation. Our children are not test subjects.” The group asked who would supervise students in quarantine. Districts are already experiencing teacher and substitute shortages due to COVID19. “We all want our children back in school and learning in person,” the letter said. “That is clearly not the main motivator here,” Provenzano continued.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: FAMOUS DUOS ACROSS 1. *Timothy Q. Mouse's friend, in Disney classic 6. River in Germany 9. Bridle parts 13. Whatsoever 14. Like tuna tartare 15. Forearm bones 16. Plural of #3 Down 17. Hardware store 18. "Gladiator" setting 19. *Ferb Fletcher's stepbrother 21. *Mr. White's unfortunate student 23. Welcome spot for weary traveler 24. It shall, for short 25. Cul de ____ 28. Young herring 30. Dieter's cuisine, for short 35. Gator's cousin 37. French "place" 39. Chunk of iceberg 40. St. Louis monument 41. Like new TV set 43. Front of ship 44. Singular of loci 46. Additional 47. Reality TV's Spelling 48. *Assistant to regional manager Michael Scott 50. Missing a limb 52. More, in adrid 53. Like acneprone skin 55. Pimple fluid 57. *Shirley's roommate and fellow bottle-capper 61. *Rory Gilmore's mom 65. Make an effort 66. Legal org. 68. Long stories 69. Scottish valleys 70. Doctor Dolittle, e.g. 71. *One of The Carpenters duo 72. Bone-dry 73. Opposite of WSW 74. Red or orange announcement DOWN 1. Slightly wet 2. *Malone and Stockton of the ____ Jazz

3. Skirt length 4. Shrovetide dish 5. *Mary-Kate and Ashley 6. Geologists' studies 7. *____ and cheese 8. Moved under the rug 9. "All ____, no bite" 10. Footnote word 11. *Amy Poehler's comedic partner 12. Welsh alternative to Siobh·n 15. Was almost out of gas, e.g. 20. Source of indigo dye, pl. 22. "____ Be Home For Christmas" 24. In the best possible way 25. Coffee burn, e.g. 26. *Bow and ____ 27. Spherical bacteria 29. *Corona's main squeeze? 31. What willow did 32. Read-only chip 33. Greek bazaar 34. *Clark's fellow traveler 36. College party chant

38. Celestial bear 42. Dancer's beat 45. Daisy dukes, e.g. 49. "Wizard of Oz" man 51. Archimedes' exclamation 54. Furlough 56. Flower part 57. Frog delicacy 58. Wheel shaft 59. Swerve 60. European sea eagle 61. *David and Paul on the "____ Show" 62. Italian currency, pl. 63. Maple genus 64. Negative contraction 67. *Jerry's fellow treat-maker

See Answers Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 7, 2021 • Page 15

Edmond Police report (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.)

Ronald Lee Taylor, 33 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts possession of CDS and two counts of failure to appear.

Dec. 21 Zachary Addison Quickel, 27 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol. John Lewis Bullard, 60 of Oklahoma City, Two counts of failure to appear. Luis Fernando Lopez-Perez, 24 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid driver's license, speeding and no proof of insurance. Kimberly Jean Stealer, 46 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and three counts of failure to appear.

Dec. 23 Sierra Alena Lucas, 23 of Edmond. Trespassing and petty larceny. Devin Dewayne Bennett, 23 of Edmond. Lawful access by misappropriated unauthorized use of a vehicle or implement of husbandry. Kidnapping and felony domestic abuse involving assault and battery.

Dec. 22 Michael Richard Dees, 35 of Oklahoma City, failure to appear.

Dec. 24 Charise Anderson, 34 homeless. One count of failure to appear. Tiffani Nicole Nooner, 35 of Oklahoma City. Petty larceny.

More 2020 Images

An Immy Co. nurse gives a drive-thru PCR COVID-19 test to a community member during the fall. Tests were offered at both the University of Central Oklahoma and Okahoma Christian University.

Believe it or not, it’s been more than two months since a once-in-a-lifetime ice storm hit central Oklahoma on Oct. 26. Limb debris pickups continue. See Page 18 for details.

Brandon Jude Billus, 24 of Louisville, La.. Misdemeanor domestic abuse assault. Dec. 25, Joseph Adam Martin, 42 of Wagoner, Okla. Public intoxication. Jeremiah James Littlesun, 33 of Edmond. Discharging a firearm, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol and obstruction of a police officer. Dec. 26 Sergio Augusto Kellog, 45 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Aaron Joseph Jones, 40 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. Daniel Owen Watson, 55 of Shawnee. Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Debra Jean Taylor, 27 of Edmond.

Trespassing. Dakota Joe Ryan Mammedaty, 30 of Midwest City. Non assault resisting an officer, indecent exposure and public intoxication. Dec. 27 Courtney Brenell Taylor, 41 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Juan Ramon Cervantez-Valdez, 32 of Edmond. Misdemeanor first offense of domestic abuse assault in the presence of a minor child and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Jaydee Anthony Bradley Jr., 19 of Oklahoma City, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and carrying a harmful weapon. Kevin Scott Hutchings, 46 of Edmond. Three counts of failure to appear.

Page 16 • January 7, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

2020 A look back

The football success of the Santa Fe Wolves ESF WR Angelo Rankin (23) breaks outside for a 60 yard touchdown run against Westmoore during the state class 6A-1 playoffs. The Santa Fe High School Wolves had one of their best seasons in school history, reeling off many wins and being crowned state runnerup in the playoffs. May 21, 2020 Vo ol. 21, No. N 1

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

ur Seasons, by Kevin Box, in l life is located in front of the Cenfor Transformative Learning on UCO campus, but this week is den somewhere in our paper. ail contest@edmondpaper dmondpaperr.com . h the correct location to be ered in the weekly drawing. more information, see page 4.

New travel column See Pag age 14

FRIDAY, May 22

SATURDAY, May 23

SUNDAY, May 24

By Steve Gust Edmond dmond Lif Lifee & Leisurre’s unique community approach to prresenting e the news continues to be as appealing todaay ay as it was when it ﬁrst beg gaan 20 years ago. This week the locally owned and oudl operraated Edmond newspaper prro ou y marks its 20th year of operation. Its publisher, Ray Hibbarrd, d announced last week in his “From o the Publisher’s” column that the publication was looking fo orwarrd to many more years of oper perraation. He also looked back at the begin beginning of the operration a and his vision fo or Edmond ond Liffe & Leisurre. e “We started the newspaper 20 years ago with the idea that the best community journalism comes frrom o a locally owned and operated neewspaper. That has cerrttainly turned out to be true Leiin Edmond with Edmond Liffe & Le surre, e ” Hibbarrd said. “Toge o ether with our parrtn tner, Chris Hoke, we haave worked harrd to maintain the trust of our reeaders and uplifftt the community. While we would never shirk frro om our journalistic we also believe ther responsibilities, eespo erre is

far a morre good news that deserves to be coverreed in Edmond Edmon than bad new ws. Good news about people, places and events in Edmond was our editorial goal when we started the paper and it remains e our gyroscope todaay.” Liffe & Leisurre has also made new ws over the years as Hibbar bbarrd in 2005 conducted one of the first intter e views with Michael Brown, for o mer Edmond resi e dent and FEMA dirreector. The interview Hurricane Katrina came shortly afteer H plowed into the Gulf Coast, causing massive damagee. Brrown was criticized by some for o the government’s response. Brrown go ot to give his side with Liffe & Leisurree. While that story remained e big news, it’s the commonplace items that fill our s. pagees and enterrttain our reader e The promo otion t of events, benefits and recognitions arre usually what’s featur e red e with Liffe & Leisurre. e Community and business leaders also took the time to comment on the paper’s milesto one. “EL&L gives Edmond a wonderful sense of the quality of liffe that makes our community so special,” said Janeet

Yowell,, dirrect e or of the Edmond Economic Development Authority. Concurring with that was Edmond City Manag Manageer Larry Stevens. ‘We value the strrong o relationship that the City of Edmond has had with EL&L over the years,” Stevens said. “The consistent support of our Edmond com comh been b e t and d much munityy has apparrent apprreeciat ec ed. We also value their candor in exprreessing opinions, and we believe they value our candor as well.” Edmond mond Councilman Josh Moorre agreeed. eed “Congratulations ELL on 20 years!! Fro om honor h ing our homeetown heroes to covering local evvents, I’m thankful or our community fo or all that you do fo communit ,” Moorre said. “Herre’s to a bright futurre of opportunity and success.” Also o beneﬁtting arre scores of adverr-tisers who haave used L&L to help grow their businesses. One of them is Brreent Gibson, wnn, a residential e designer and own er of the successful Brreent Gibson Classic Cla Home Design. The Edmond Liffe and Leisurre publicaa-tion has been valuable new wspaper fo or continued on Pag a e3

A strong local newspaper Edmond Life & Leisure marked a special event in May, 20 years of publishing. Life & Leisure publisher Ray Hibbard vowed to continue to provide local events and coverage to the vibrant Edmond community.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 7, 2021 • Page 17

Edmond has positive news

Despite challenges, economy strong By Janet Yowell EEDA director This past year, 2020, has been an unprecedented year in so many ways. Fortunately, Edmond has seen some positive news in comYowell mercial and residential activity. Commercial permits are up 50% from this time last year. This year’s permits include a new McDonalds on the west side of I-35 and Covell with SSM Health (St. Anthony’s) and Integris beginning construction on the east side of I-35. A Neighborhood Jam restaurant in the Shoppes on Second Street development and office buildings in Fairfax and Astoria office parks are also under construc-

tion. Highland 55, a residential community on Bryant for those 55 and older, is in the process of building 72 units with over half of them already leased. This last month, the Ice House development received permits for 14,000 square feet of restaurant and entertainment space in five buildings just north of Edmond Road, west of the railroad tracks. This development has a scheduled opening for the summer of 2021. New residential permits have surpassed 2019’s total through 10 months of 2020, with 509 homes constructed or under construction. The average value of a new home is approximately $395,000. Currently, there are 2,203 lots available for construction in neighborhoods across Edmond. The existing home market is on course to have another record

year for homes sold. Absorption rates—days on the market— is being measured in days versus months in certain price ranges. The average price of an existing home is approximately $335,000. Sales tax collections are not only a critical component in how the city of Edmond operates, but they also represent how businesses are performing. Edmond has been on a positive trend for several months. For Edmond’s fiscal year to date, which runs from July through June, the latest report shows an increase of 7.25% over this time last year for sales tax and use tax (internet tax) combined. According to the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), consumers plan to spend over $862 billion this holiday season despite the

pandemic and economic downturn it has caused. That would be an increase of 1.9% over holiday spending in 2019. Consumers are estimated to spend an average of $655 per person on holiday-related items, and 81% plan to make purchases in a physical store. Let’s support Edmond businesses this holiday season and shop local. Edmond restaurants and retailers are prepared to help their customers shop safely, and there are many ways to do this. Follow EEDA on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn for daily information on specials that will keep your money local.

Janet Yowell is the executive director of the Edmond Economic Development. Authority.

Edmond resident lands Aeronautics appointment

Blake Raney

Blake Raney of Edmond has been appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt to serve on the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission through 2026 representing the Fifth Congressional District. Raney is active in both the aviation and business community throughout Oklahoma. He is the owner of Red Falcon Aviation, where he provides aviation brokerage services, management, and consulting. He also holds ownership in several service companies and real estate. “Blake Raney is an experienced pilot

and businessman who has worked in the aviation industry for over a decade,” said Gov. Stitt. “I look forward to seeing his expertise and knowledge on display at the Commission to help ensure Oklahoma remains a leader- both nationally and globally- in the aviation and aerospace industry.” Commissioners serve as a voting body representing their respective districts, airports, and users of the Oklahoma Airport System and play an integral role in the accountability of the agency. They approve

New general counsel named interests of employers. Jason Gov. Kevin Stitt announced has not only successfully litilast week the selection of gated cases to a conclusion in Jason Reese as his new gennumerous courts and adminiseral counsel following current trative agencies, but also has general counsel Mark Burget's assisted his clients in solving decision to return to Search problems outside of the courtMinistries after fulfilling a house, whether by carefully two-year commitment to the crafting policies and procegovernor. Reese dures or through prompt ac“Over the past two years, tion before litigation is filed. Mark Burget's wise counsel Reese previously served as an atand legal expertise has helped guide our office through historic challenges torney at various law firms, including Resolution Legal Group, Reese Law facing the State, and I am thankful Firm and Hall, Estill, Hardwick, for his dedicated service to our team," said Gov. Stitt. "As Mark tran- Gable, Golden & Nelson. Reese's diligence and commitment sitions out of the office, I look forto excellence has been recognized by ward to welcoming Jason Reese as SuperLawyers, which named him a Rismy new general counsel. Jason is a ing Star in Labor and Employment Law longtime litigator and former Oklahoma House of Representatives attor- each year from 2011 through 2018. ney with more than 15 years of The Journal Record named Reese one experience, so he’ll bring a robust un- of its “40 Under 40” honorees in 2018. derstanding of law and policy to the In January 2020, he was appointed by office. He will serve my administraGovernor Stitt to serve as Special Comtion well as we continue to work tomissioner of the Oklahoma Workers' ward becoming a Top Ten state.” Compensation Commission. Jason Reese has served as a PartReese graduated with a Bachelor ner at Edinger, Leonard & Blakley, of Arts from the University of OklaPLLC since 2014. From discrimination homa in 2001 and a Juris Doctor litigation and workers’ compensation from the University of Oklahoma Colproceedings to employment dishonlege of Law in 2004. He currently reesty provisions of financial institution sides in Oklahoma City with his wife bonds, Reese primarily defends the Jessica and their four children.

OCCC gets interim president with Interim President Oklahoma City ComThomas, and the two munity College (OCCC) make up the Executive rang in the new year with Team which guides the a new interim President: college’s policies and Dr. Jeremy L. Thomas asplanning. sumed the role effective “We have full confinow and continues in his dence in [Interim Presiroles as Provost and Vice dent] Thomas, Ms. President of Student AfRose and their cabifairs. net,” said OCCC’s ReInterim President Thomas gent Chairman, Mr. Thomas signed a 12Devery Youngblood. “[That] gives us month contract, ensuring OCCC faculty and staff stability and continuity the luxury to be very deliberate and inclusive in our transition to a new while the Board of Regents conducts its search for a new, permanent Presi- administration. We owe it to our faculty and staff, and of course to our dent. Chief of Staff Danita Rose restudents, to get this right.” mains a key decision-maker along

the Airport Construction Program at the agency’s bi-monthly meetings, and review airport projects within the 108 airports in the Oklahoma Airport System. “I am thrilled to serve on the Aeronautics Commission to serve my state in a business sector that I truly love. Coming in as the new commissioner, I am excited to work alongside the six other commissioners and the Commission staff, who I know are dedicated to ensuring that Oklahoma’s aviation and aerospace industry is

See Raney, Page 18

Page 18 • January 7, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Raney From Page 17

STAYCATION ST TAYC CA ATIO T N RETREA RETREAT! AT! T

IC ICONIC ONIC O OAK AK TREE N NATIONAL ATIO TI T NAL

viable and thriving. Oklahoma has a rich aviation history, and I am looking forward to helping our state continue that legacy during the next six years,” Raney said. An Oklahoma native, Raney says he has always had a passion for aviation and business. A licensed pilot, Raney has been involved in the aviation industry for 10 years. He received his private pilot license in 2011, and later, his instrument rating. He has over 1,200 hours of flight time with hundreds of hours of tailwheel time. Raney served on the board for the Oklahoma Engineers Flying Club and

CASUAL CASUAL ELEG ELEGANCE ANCE

OAK O AK A TREE

is a member of the Oklahoma Pilots Association, AOPA, & EAA. He often attends Oklahoma airshows and annually flies to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for the largest airshow in the world. He makes his home in Edmond with his wife Anna, and enjoys recreational flying in their Cirrus and open cockpit biplane. “We are extremely pleased to see the appointment of Commissioner Raney,” State Director of Aeronautics Grayson Ardies said. “As pilots, Blake and I share a passion for planes, and his aviation business experience will be very helpful in achieving the Commission’s mission and goals.”

UCO has intrasquad dual ABBEY PL PLACE ACE

11TH GREEN OF O OAK A AK TREE N NATIONAL! ATIO T NAL!

GRAND TIMBER

IN THE HEAR HEART RT OF EDMO EDMOND ND

13TH F FAIRWAY AIR RWAY - O OAK AK TREE BEA BEAUTY UTY

WONDERFULLY RFULL LY MAINT MAINTAINED! TA AINED! WO NDERFULL

AMAZING REMODEL!

FABULOUS F AB A ULOUS O ON N THE 9TH F FAIRWAY AIR A RWAY

SOLD!

GRAND TIMBER

OLDETOWNE!

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME!

HIDDEN TREASURE

THORNBROOKE

6 CAR GARAGE

LUXURIOUS “LOCK-N-GO”

IMMACULATELY KEPT!

SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!

CHARMING IN EDGEWATER!

SOPHISTICATED IN ESPERANZA

BARRINGTON

VALENCIA

SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!

LO LOTS TS & ACREAGES ACREAGES

matches. Ryder Ramsey earned the Blue’s first win in the second 141-pound match of the dual when he came out on top of a wild scramble with Gage Gomez for a takedown and a 10-8 victory with 16 seconds left in the first OT period. And in the final match of the day, Judson Rowland of the Bronze edged Christian Arriola 31 on a takedown with 15 seconds remaining in the first sudden-victory period. The Bronchos, ranked third in the preseason NCAA Division II poll, is scheduled to officially open the season Saturday with three duals in Hays, Kan. UCO will make its home debut Jan. 15 against Emmanuel and Ouachita Baptist. Bronze 30, Blue 9 125 – Garrett Steidley, Bronze, dec. Studd Morris, 4-1. 133 –Thaddeus Long, Bronze, major dec. Von Gray, 15-5. 141 – Nate Keim, Bronze, tech. fall Kobey Kizarr, 16-1. 141 – Ryder Ramsey, Blue, dec. Gage Gomez, 10-8 (SV). 149 – Gabe Johnson, Bronze, dec. Brik Filippo, 6-5. 149 – Brady DeArmond, Bronze, dec. Dylan Avery, 4.2 157 – Reggie Redus, Bronze, dec. Garrett Messimore, 8-4. 165 – Anthony DesVigne, Blue, dec. Dayton Garrett, 5-3 (SV). 174 – Gage McBride, Bronze, dec. Tre’Vaughn Craig, 3-1. 197 – Kalin Winkler, Blue, dec. J.T. Stambeck, 14-8. Hvy – Braden Morgan, Bronze, dec. Korbin McLaughlin, 3-2. Hvy – Judson Rowland, Bronze, dec. Christian Arriola, 3-1 (SV).