Edmond Life and Leisure - January 21, 2021

January 21, 2021 Vol. 21, No. 36

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Plans ongoing for Edmond’s 18th elementary school

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.

SF teams host & beat Stillwater See Page 9

Evan Dargen name Redbud principal FRIDAY, January 22 AM Showers High 51° Low 40°

SATURDAY, January 23 Cloudy High 52° Low 47°

SUNDAY, January 24 Showers High 63° Low 40°

PHOTOS BY ERIECH TAPIKA

The Edmond Board of Education has named Evan Dargen the new principal of Redbud Elementary, the district’s newest elementary school scheduled to open in August of 2021 The Edmond Board of Education has named Evan Dargen principal of Redbud Elementary, the district’s newest elementary school scheduled to open in August of 2021 at the intersection of Douglas and Coffee Creek.

Dargen has been with the district since 2011 serving for the past two years as principal at Angie Debo Elementary. She previously served as an assistant principal at both Angie Debo and Cross Timbers Elementary Schools. She also has many years of experience as a teacher and counselor.

“Evan Dargen is one of the most energetic, and innovative educators working in Edmond schools,” said Superintendent Bret Towne. “She is highly skilled at building a school culture focused on positive relationships and collaboration. Her

boundless enthusiasm makes her the perfect choice to open our newest elementary school.”

Dargen says it’s a dream come true to open a new school.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to lead Redbud Elementary School in the 20212022 school year,” said Dargen.

“Developing and fostering a new community with a vibrant culture will be a team project, and my staff will be empowered to leverage their experience and creativity in a collaborative environment. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with staff, students, parents, administration and community members as we together build and create the legacy of Redbud Elementary.”

Dargen has a master’s in counseling from Oklahoma City University and a bachelor’s in

elementary education from the University of Oklahoma.

Her move to Redbud creates a vacancy at Angie Debo. Superintendent Towne expects to name her replacement in the new few months.

Redbud is the first school the district has constructed east of I-35 and will be the district’s 18th elementary. Attendance area assignments for the school will be announced this spring.

Edmond, one of the fastest growing school districts in the state, usually adds between 400 and 500 new students each year. Although district officials say that has fluctuated this year because of the virus.

Enrollment this year is 23,600.

In addition to 18 elementary schools, the district also has three high schools and six middle schools.

Page 2 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 3

Mark Jenkins

Mark Jenkins due return performance this Feb. 2 at Armstrong Auditorium Oklahoma native Mark Jenkins will return to the Armstrong Auditorium stage for his triumphant third appearance on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at 7:30 p.m.

Fellow musicians will join him to deliver jazz favorites as a tribute to the late Ellis Marsalis.

“Mark is truly one of Oklahoma’s musical gems,” Armstrong Auditorium Concert Manager Ryan Malone said. “His versatility of styles and skills is unmatched compared to the many musicians I’ve worked with.”

Born to a musicians' family, Jenkins has performed alongside such greats as Branford Marsalis and Brian Stokes Mitchell. His resume of awards and experience includes being the first-place winner of the University of Oklahoma's 1998 concerto competition and first place in the 1999 Music Teachers Nationals Association collegiate state piano competition as a classical pianist. He has made a name for himself as a jazz singer, pianist, composer, arranger and recording artist.

Jenkins studied voice under the distinguished Oklahoma baritone Thomas Carey, founder of Jazz in June and Cimarron Circuit Opera Company.

Nine albums have featured his classical and jazz work with the Herbert W. Armstrong College music faculty, and he has starred in leading roles in five musicals at Armstrong Auditorium.

Tickets to Mark Jenkins and Friends range from $30 to $55 for orchestra seating. A live streaming option will be available here for $15 per household. For more information please visit Armstrong Auditorium’s website or call (405) 285-1010.

The award-winning Armstrong Auditorium has established itself as a world-class center for the arts in Oklahoma since 2010. The theater has hosted acclaimed local and international performances from a vast array of genres, including classical, jazz and folk music, theater, classical ballet, folk dance and more.

Designed to provide an exceptional acoustic experience, only 75 feet separate the stage from the back wall, allowing the 823-seat theater to boast a ninemillisecond initial time delay gap – a measure of remarkable acoustic intimacy. Armstrong Auditorium’s exquisite beauty and warm atmosphere continue to make it an extraordinary venue worthy of its numerous accolades.

Governor, state officials tweak virus protocols for Oklahoma schools Gov. Kevin Stitt announced last week that Oklahoma schools following safety protocols, including mask-wearing and social distancing, will be permitted to forgo the mandatory two-week quarantine period for potential COVID-19 exposures.

Gov. Stitt and Commissioner of Health Dr. Lance Frye emphasized the new Oklahoma State Department of Health policy is intended to keep students and teachers safe in school while also incentivizing mask usage and other precautions for school districts across the state.

“We need to put our students first, and we need to get them back in class,” said Gov. Stitt. “Refusing to offer in-person school is jeopardizing our kids' education; it’s jeopardizing teachers' careers; and it’s jeopardizing the future of the State of Oklahoma. Today, we’re announcing a new policy that will help us keep schools open safely. It will also help encourage and reward mask wearing in schools across the state.

Moving forward, schools that enforce the use of masks will not have to quarantine students that were potentially exposed

to COVID-19 unless they are showing symptoms.”

As part of the new policy, schools should continue to require quarantines for exposed students in situations where masking and distancing protocols were not followed. Additionally, the updated quarantine guidance does not apply if the exposure occurs during after-school activities, including sports. Anyone

who tests positive for COVID-19 must continue to isolate regardless where they contracted the virus or were wearing a mask.

The State is prioritizing vaccinations for teachers who are 65 and older this week and next and will open vaccinations up to all teachers as soon as vaccine availability allows. The state will also double the amount of rapid antigen tests pro-

vided to schools to encourage frequent testing to catch any positive cases early.

“As a physician, I follow the science, and it’s been critical to our COVID-19 response to do so,” said Commissioner Frye. “But it’s also important to look at factors on the ground, and schools have proven to be one of the safest places for most of our students.”

Page 4 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Holloway: Restaurant icon & friend one’s perfect. And God knows there’s something special about people who aren’t.

So, to all of you who loved Peter as I did; “Let’s open another bottle, better than the last!”

Edmond lost one if its best citizens and friends last week to the COVID-19 virus. Peter Holloway, creator of Café 501, Boulevard Steakhouse and Sparrow Italian was a friend to so many in our community. I asked our mutual friend, David Hornbeek, to please write about Pete so that those that did not know him might have the Ray Hibbard chance to know this kind and gentle man. His thoughts are below, and we are happy to yield our weekly space.

Acknowledgements/Footnotes; I am compelled to add the following:

My friend, Pete Holloway

By David Hornbeek I was honored to be asked to write something about Peter Holloway, and blessed when given permission to do so by the Holloway family.

There are others, I know, with a longer and deeper relationship with Peter than mine. Still, I’m truly humbled to do so, not so much to speak only for myself, as to simply represent the thousands of Edmond and Oklahoman patrons for whom Peter Holloway was the “Oklahoma Standard” for hospitality.

He had the uncanny ability to not only embrace his competitors in the industry, but to encourage them and eventually make them his friends and confidants. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people got their start because of him, and they all still remember the advice and expertise that he passed on to them as a mentor, not an employer.

And more than that, he was a presence in our lives - to whom we had an emotional attachment so strong and lasting that it defies logic. Peter never acknowledged it, because he didn’t ever sense it, this enduring connection and affection from people whom he simply hosted in his restaurants. Maybe Pete was uncomfortable with it, not just because of his basic goodness, but because he was always too honest to regard himself as someone special. For a huge portion of the people in the Edmond community, Peter Holloway was an iconic giant. And for reasons that no list of accomplishments and no recitation of the facts can possibly capture, he was one of the most compelling people, and friends, I have ever known. He was the symbol of hospitality at a time when eating at restaurants was temporarily forbidden and frowned upon because of a pandemic outbreak that would change our lives … and eventually take his own.

Peter Holloway had those dual qualities so seldom seen in people anymore. He exuded optimism and excitement, at the same time he could provide a comfort that touched and healed your wounded heart. There was a significance about him, and a vulnerability too. He was simply a good guy. It’s been said that the truth is never pure and rarely simple.

Pete Holloway was too humble and honest to believe the whole truth about him. But emotional truths have a power that transcends objective fact. That’s why we smile today, recalling those

Pete Holloway

elegant evenings and wine dinners when he’d have one of Napa’s greatest wine makers come to your table and his whole family would make you feel like you were are part of theirs.

My phone’s been blowing up with texts the past few weeks as Peter fought for his life. I’ve heard from people I hadn’t seen or talked to in years. All were inquiring because they had heard something about him, and they figured I might know more about his situation.

In the last year, Peter faced more than most of us could possibly endure. He was diagnosed with cancer, had all of his restaurants essentially closed by government decree, and tested positive for the coronavirus.

And, in the end, he looked at everything, including life itself, as far more meaningful. He felt the love from the relationships he had cultivated, love for how he made us feel, and love for the humanity and sweetness that was always there mixed with the pain from the incestuous disease that was eating at him within his body. Every day, there was the total absence of self-pity, only the simple eloquence and honesty of his pleas to others to “be a little kinder.”

His closest friends watched in admiration. He was, in many ways, the most remarkable patient they’d ever seen. His courageous honesty so blunt and real that even doctors and nurses, used to seeing people in dire circumstances, where moved by his example.

And our last memories of Pete are as laudable as the first time we ever met him. None of us, Pete included, would want to be held to account for every moment of our lives. But how many of us could say that our best moments were as magnificent as the last days of his life? Peter was not perfect, he was just the perfect friend.

I know God has a place for him where he can be the consummate host once again. Where he can play practical jokes on his friends and flash that boyish smile, that erupted when he was about to start “stirring the pot.” God knows, no

Peter Holloway and I attended Hoover junior high school and overlapped for one year. Our paths crossed again at the University of Oklahoma in 1972 through 1976. But, Brenda and I really didn’t get to know Pete until he started 501 Café in Edmond twenty years later in 1996 with his wife, Sheree. They had four children, Andrew, Jeffrey, Alex, and Hirst – we had two. Our relationship between the couples began to magnify as they opened Boulevard Steak House, the Martini Bar, 501 at Classen Curve, Park House, the Ice House, and most recently Sparrow Italian Restaurant. But the relationship between us really began to manifest itself in Feb 2008 when I was invited by Verej Jazivar (Petroleum Club / Petro Club Deli / Hot Tamale) to take Greg Gawey’s (Jamil’s) place and attend a “Premier Napa Valley” Charity Wine Auction in Napa Valley, CA. From that trip I met and began cultivating several friendships with the following gentlemen that last to this day: Phil LaRue, Mark Veazey, Bill Morris, Rick Naifeh (Premium Brands Wines), Alex Kroblin (Thirst Wines), and Scott Witherby.

Back in Edmond this group asked me to join them for their weekly Saturday morning breakfast. That group got named “the Royal Order of the Georges” and founding members include Don “the Godfather” Plugge, Robert “Big Bob” Grace (died of Covid19 - 28 Dec 2020), Jeff Holloway, Flip Ayela, Bob Plugge, Kent Chrisman and Shannon Fetz. Frequent visitors were Ban Nguyen (Jimmy’s Egg / Rivière Modern Bánh Mì), Michel Buthion (La Baguette / Bellini’s / McClintock’s), David Egan (Cattleman’s Restaurant), Luke Corbett, Adrian “AC” Cole, Marty Grubbs, Dr. Avinash Vyas, Dr. Ram Singh, Kenny Kaaiohelo, and Ray Hibbard. More recent members include Andy Brooks, Ron “Doc” Sutor (our inside man when Peter was in the hospital), Bob Thompson, Brad Workman, Dr. Jason Bellak, Greg Womack, Lance Ruffel, Kent Sams, John Lopez, Jr. and Shane Plugge. I want to public acknowledge all of these gentlemen knew and loved Pete as much as me. Finally, I need to also recognize Bobby Kennedy, Ted Kennedy and Bob Costas for enlightening me as to why it is important for family members and friends, and providing me with the purpose and inspiration, to eulogize someone when they are truly loved and truly legendary.

Family Wishes: In lieu of flowers, the family asks to consider a donation to the Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s Hospitality Foundation in Peter’s name. To do so, please visit their website or contact jim@okrestaurants.com. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date when it is once again safe to gather.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

---- Senior news..........................................................................Pages 6 & 7.

---- Police arrest report ......................................................................Page 8.

---- Scenes from Santa Fe High School basketball ..............................Page 9.

---- Columnist addresses Cancel Culture ..........................................Page 10.

---- Elaine’s trip to Kansas City ................................................Pages 12 &13.

---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14.

---- George Gust reviews ‘Locked Down’ movie ..............................Page 14.

---- Business news ............................................................................Page 17.

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 21, 2021 • Page 5

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Bill due consideration next month

Pugh: Military retirees should not have retirement taxed While Oklahoma has one of the highest active and retired military populations in the nation, it has been ranked as one of the least tax-friendly states for military retirees.

Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, believes one way to help make Oklahoma more attractive to military veterans is to eliminate the income tax on their retirement. With Senate Bill 401, Oklahoma would join 30 other states in exempting military retirement from state income tax.

“A majority of states already exempt military retirement from state income, and if Oklahoma wants to truly be a pro-veteran and militaryfriendly state, we need to stop taxing the pensions of these brave men and women,” Pugh said. “Having these heroes retire in our great state will bring so much to our local communities, economy and workforce. Let’s join the 30 other states who are already honoring our military veterans by allowing them to keep all of their retirement that they sacrificed so much for.”

Currently, retired servicemembers in Oklahoma may deduct the greater of $10,000 or 75% of their retirement income from state income tax.

While nine states have no income tax including Texas, 21 others have exempted military retirement pay from state income taxes -- among

those are bordering states Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri. The only other states in the region to tax military pensions are New Mexico and Colorado.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA), Oklahoma is home to more than 36,000 retired veterans.

Pugh, a strong advocate for workforce development and licensing reform, said this would be a great opportunity to bring in more highly qualified professionals in critical, much-needed industries.

“These retirees bring extensive high-level work experience from their military careers that could help meet the state’s needs in numerous industries. These are engineers, aviators, communication specialists and other professionals that companies are desperately seeking,” Pugh said. “The jobs are already here—we just need the highly trained professionals to fill them, and I think our military retirees can meet that demand and help attract more companies to Oklahoma.”

In November, Kiplinger ranked Oklahoma as being the eighth worst tax-friendly state for military retirees in the nation behind California, Vermont, Washington, D.C., Arizona, Montana and New Mexico.

SB 401 will be considered when the legislative session begins in February.

State program helps ease transition from nursing home to community Do you have a loved one in a nursing facility that needs assistance transitioning back into the community?

Oklahoma Living Choice Program may be what you are looking for. The Oklahoma Living Choice Program assists Oklahomans wanting to transition out of a nursing home and back into the community in a residence of their own.

The populations served are individuals 65 and over, and individuals 19 and up with a physical disability.

To qualify for the Oklahoma Living Choice Program one should meet the following: • Be at least 19 years of age • Qualify for SoonerCare (Oklahoma’s Medicaid Program) for at least one day prior to transition • Have lived in an institutional setting (nursing home) for at least 90 consecutive days • Voluntarily want to transition back into the community • Be willing to play an active role in his/her plan of care Depending on the individual’s needs there are many services that

the Oklahoma Living Choice Program offers, such as: assistance finding a new home, home delivered meals, transportation, skilled nursing, therapy services, personal care, medication management, and there are transitional funds (a one-time allotment of up to $2,400).

Anyone can refer a potential individual that resides in a nursing home for the Oklahoma Living Choice Program by accessing the online referral form http://www.okhca.org/ReferralHome.aspx?ref=LC If you need more information or have questions about the Oklahoma Living Choice Program you can contact 888-287-2443 or email Oklahoma.livingchoice@okhca.org If you have a loved one in a LongTerm Care facility and have any questions regarding any concerns you may have, you can contact an ombudsman to assist you.

Areawide Aging Agency Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the needs of residents in LTC facilities serving Canadian, Cleveland, Logan, and Oklahoma Counties. You may contact us at (405)942-8500.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 7

Dementia delusions can challenge caregivers Approximately 2.4 million people or 30 percent of people living with dementia in the U.S. may experience hallucinations and delusions associated with dementia-related psychosis.

These symptoms might include seeing something that isn’t there or believing something that isn’t true and can be frequent, persistent and recur over time.

According to advocates, improving management of these troubling symptoms starts with recognizing and understanding what patients are experiencing. To learn more, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) and Acadia Pharmaceuticals, surveyed patients and their caregivers. Findings highlighted important, infrequently discussed, considerations for caregivers: 1. Symptoms can happen frequently: The most common symptoms of dementia-related psychosis reported by surveyed patients were visual hallucinations (89 percent), auditory hallucinations (54 percent) and distortion of senses (54 percent) and such symptoms can happen frequently. Of patients who reported recent visual hallucinations, 61 percent indicated they occurred at least weekly. In addition, the majority of care partners (77 percent) reported paranoid delusions as occurring at least weekly.

“Given their potential frequency, being prepared to recognize, report, and manage these symptoms is critical,” says Theresa Frangiosa of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, one of the survey authors. “My mom experienced these kinds of symptoms associated with her Alzheimer’s disease and in talking with other caregivers, many people think this could never happen to their family until it does.”

2. Dementia-related hallucinations and delusions greatly impact a patient’s overall health and quality of life: Most surveyed patients said their activities of daily living (75 percent), sleep (63 percent), family life (56 percent), and safety (about 56 percent) were affected by dementia-related hallucina-

tions and delusions. Care partners reported that symptoms make it difficult for their loved ones to know what is real and what is not real, contributing to their anxiety, and impacting their personal relationships.

Jo Anne, 70, from Maryland, was surprised by her husband’s hallucinations. “Before Ed was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, he would tell me that he saw mice or insects in the house so, of course, I’d go check!

When these experiences increased in frequency, I knew that we needed to talk to his doctor about why he was having persistent hallucinations.”

Research shows that these kind of neuropsychiatric symptoms may pose challenges. For example, studies show that presence of psychosis in Alzheimer’s patients was also associated with 1.5 times increased likelihood of death.

3. Care partners are affected too: Dementia-related hallucinations and delusions are symptoms that can be associated with all forms of dementia such as Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease dementia, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Unfortunately, caregivers of people with dementia compared to non-caregivers can experience high rates of emotional and physical stress as well as depression, an increased likelihood of comorbid conditions, hospitalizations, and doctor visits. In fact, caregiver burden is associated with increased desire to place people with dementia in long-term care.

4. Getting help as early as possible is key: Living with dementia-related hallucinations and delusions takes a toll on both patients and caregivers.

That’s why advocates urge caregivers to get educated about what to expect from dementia-related psychosis and find support.

“If you see your loved one exhibiting new symptoms, then take the initiative to tell their health care provider, who can offer advice on how to cope,” urges Frangiosa.

For more information, visit usagain-

stalzheimers.org. UsAgainstAlzheimer’s is an advocacy and research-focused organization pushing for expanding treatments and research for Alzheimer’s disease. Additional education is available from

LBDA at www.lbda.org.

While the symptoms of dementiarelated psychosis can be hard to recognize at first, reporting symptoms is the first step to finding support.

From Metro NewsService

Page 8 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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.)

Jan. 4 Chardell Lamont Gill, 30 of Edmond. Charged with failure to appear.

Garmon Thomas Justis III, 35 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana and two counts of failure to appear.

Jan. 5 Fortunato Herbert-Garcia, 29 of Bethany. Disregard signal light and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Brandy Dawn Beavers, 33, of Guthrie. Public intoxication.

Jan. 6 Cedric Jerome Carr, 55 of Edmond.

Disregard signal light, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Felecia Monique Shanks, 39 of

Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and trespassing.

Jan. 7 Shiloh Wayne Haddow, 23 and homeless. (Misd. value) receiving stolen property.

Rogelio Marquez, 20 of Edmond.

Driving without a proper/valid driver's license and stop sign violation.

Kevin Michael Berggren Jr., 20 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Jacqueline Sue Hardee, 26 of Houston, Texas. (Misd. value) Possess incomplete credit cards or tools to reproduce cards, (misdemeanor) purchase/display/possess identification card, illegal acts, present false ID for purpose of committing felony, misleading officer, avoid prosecution and conspiracy.

Jan. 8 Ricky Lee Ritchey, 41 of Edmond.

Unlawful carrying of weapon, possess drug paraphernalia, obtaining property by false pretenses (UPC price tag or sales receipt switching/reproduce.), (misdemeanor first & second offense) larceny of merchandise and public intoxication.

Shannah Lynn Vandever, 45 of Edmond. Obtaining property by false pretenses (UPC price tag or sales receipt switching/reproduce.), (misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer and public intoxication.

Jan. 9 Adam Kalee Baker, 21 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jacqueline Rachelle Buckley, 23 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to appear.

Susan Denette Natt, 33 of Oklahoma City. Petty larceny.

Melvin Andrea Turner, 39 of Edmond. (misdemeanor) Personal injury accident while under the influence.

Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or combination of chemical of CDS. Dakota Morgan Neighbors, 24 of Edmond. Trespassing.

Cheyenne Kathryn Harding, 28 of Edmond. Two counts of possession of marijuana or CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia and grand larceny.

Jamel Anition Burton, 24 of Norman. Possession of marijuana of CDS

Traffic deaths rose even though there were fewer drivers on the road due to the COVID-19 pandemic – a troubling trend as traffic volume returns to normal. Far too many people are dying on America’s roadways. The vaccine for unsafe driving is available to every American right now – slow down, buckle up, stow your phone and never drive impaired.

Jan. 10 Dakota Morgan Neighbors, 24 of Edmond. Disorderly conduct.

Kevin Michael Berggren Jr., 20 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Daqula Leshon Jackson, 44 of Spencer, Okla., (Drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution, failure to stop, accidents involving damage to vehicle and felony DUI/APC. Shelbie Ashlynn Garrrison, 28 of Edmond. Obtaining property by false pretenses (UPC price tag or sales receipt switching/change/reproduce), (misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

Brandi Nichole Pool, 30 of Edmond.

Obtaining property by false pretenses (UPC price tag or sales receipt switching/change/reproduce) (misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

Daquan Toreon Ervin, 24 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Stats from State Election Board

Traffic fatalities showing a spike Today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 11,260 people were killed on U.S. roadways in the third quarter of 2020, a 13.1% increase compared to the same period in 2019. Looking at the first nine months of 2020, the data show that 28,190 people died in crashes, a 4.6% increase from the year before.

and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs of a combination of chemical or CDS.

Registered GOP at 50.1 percent; Dems at 32.9 The Oklahoma State Election Board released annual voter registration statistics last week showing 2,272,252 Oklahomans are registered to vote. Oklahoma’s official voter registration statistics are counted every year on January 15.

According to Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax, the largest number of Oklahoma's voters are Republicans, who make up 50.1% of registered voters. Democrats are the second-largest party with 32.9% of registered voters.

Independents, or voters not affiliated with a party, make up 16.3% of Oklahoma voters. The Libertarian Party, which gained recognition in 2016, now has 15,734 registered voters.

Oklahoma’s registered voters: JANUARY 15, 2021 DEMOCRATS

748,222….32.9%

GOP

1,138,947…..50.1%

LIBER.

15,734…….....0.7%

INDES TOTAL

369,349…….16.3% 2,272,252

The State Election Board also reminds voters that today (January 15) is the last day to register to vote or update your registration before the February 9 Board of Education Primary Election and Special Elections, which includes the race for State Senator District 22. Forty-nine counties have elections in February.

Party affiliation and address changes made within the same county can be made online using the OK Voter Portal. New Voter Registration Applications are available on the State Election Board website, at your County Election Board, most tag agencies, post offices, and libraries.

Applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered to the applicant’s County Election Board no later than January 15.

For more information on voter registration OR to view or compare voter registration statistics since 1960, visit our website at oklahoma.gov/elections.

UCO to temporarily shift to a virtual instruction mode The University of Central Oklahoma will adjust campus operations for the start of the spring semester and temporarily shift most in-person classes to synchronous virtual delivery through Jan. 31 due to the surge in reported cases of COVID-19 and related hospitalizations and deaths in Oklahoma County. Classes for the spring semester are set to begin Jan. 19.

The temporary shift to virtual instruction will not include classes such as labs, clinicals and fine arts, which will continue in-person as scheduled.

Faculty will contact students regarding specific arrangements for their classes. Online classes will continue as planned.

Campus facilities will remain open, including the library, campus housing, residential dining, Wellness Center and athletics locations. Most campus services will continue to offer in-person options, including enrollment, admissions and financial aid.

Central will also adjust working arrangements as needed to reduce campus density. Campus events of

25 people or less or those with administration approval may continue as planned with required COVID-19 protocols in place. Athletic competitions will continue, following MidAmerica Intercollegiate Athletic Association guidance, with no spectators.

Campus operations will be reassessed prior to Feb. 1 to consider a return to in-person classes. The university is encouraging students, faculty and staff to continue reporting COVID-19 exposures and positive test results as well as practicing mitigation measures, including wearing a face mask, washing hands and social distancing when around others on and off campus.

This temporary shift follows the university’s COVID-19 decision-making framework for campus operations adopted last year. UCO will continue to provide updates, as needed, as the situation is monitored and conditions change.

For more information, visit www.uco.edu/coronavirus.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 9

Wolves defeat Stillwater in basketball

The Santa Fe Wolves hosted Stillwater in basketball action last week. Both the boys and girls teams won, beating the visitors by about 20 points in both games. The games had restricted attendance with parents allowed. The parents, due to health concerns, sat apart from each other.

Kaysan Gipson (15) passes the ball down the court

Photographs by Melinda Infante

Devyn Woods (23) brings the ball down the court, left, and Meagan Harris (15) drives toward the basket

Mike Reeves (24) looks to pass the ball to Kaysen Gipson (15)

Jayda Holiman (3) drives the ball down the court

Page 10 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Cancel Culture disturbing

By Steve Gust Edmond L&L Editor Liberal Cancel Culture is something that concerns me almost as much as free speech infringements.

Actually the two concepts appear to be cousins.

Cancel Culture is when a group, mostly on the left, decides you need to be punished for criticizing their views or having views, which conflict with theirs.

We've seen this recently with Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas. Their great crime was to officially question election integrity.

For that breach of common sense, some lawmakers, including the always entertaining AOC, want the two expelled from the U.S. Senate. Others want their college degrees revoked.

Hawley also had to get a new book publisher after Simon & Schuster put the brakes on his project.

A lady online told me she was fired from her Realtor job in Minnesota because she went to the Trump rally in Washington D.C. She didn't join any of the idiots who invaded the Capitol.

She just went to the rally to hear Trump speak. For that she was fired.

I'm sorry, but that just isn't right.

We live in a time where everything we say or believe seems to be put under a microscope. And heaven help you if a group doesn't like what you believe.

Can we not just have a "live and let live," attitude with each other? Some of my immediate family are rabid liberals. I don't hold it against them.

They're family. I shudder to think what kind of a world it would be if we all agreed on everything. It would be boring and there wouldn't be much opportunity for growth.

It seems like one of the left's favorite arguments is to just declare that the debate is over. Former VP Al Gore loves to say this when defending his environmental beliefs. If the debate is over than why did former President Obama spend millions on a coastal mansion?

Didn’t Al tell him sea levels are going to put that under water soon?

But where does all of this end?

Are we going to stop providing utility service for people who don't vote, or think, the "right" way? Maybe we can limit their driving privilege.

Some how we're going to have to do a better job of getting along.

Looking to get out?

Enjoy Edmond sights

By Jennifer Seaton Spring: Getaway Summer: StaycaTourism Director tion/vacation Feeling cooped up?

Now is the time Are you one to Breakaway. Get of the lucky outdoors on sunny ones who redays, order take ceived a vacout from local cine? restaurants and Considering experience virtual a staycation? events.

At Visit EdSeaton mond, we Local tips: can help re-connect -Rent bikes, kayaks, with your hometown paddle boards at the when you are ready.

According to a Janu- University of Central Oklahoma Outdoor ary 6 travel webinar Adventure Recreation presented by Joe located East on Route Veneto of Veneto Col66 in Edmond Park at laboratory, a destinaArcadia Lake. tion development and -Take a self-guided experiential tourism exart tour by foot or bipert, there will be cycle https://visitedthree phases of travel mondok.com/art.php in 2021.

-Try new paved routes on the Spring Winter: Breakaway

Creek Trail and Route 66 Trail -Eat outdoors at The Edmond Railyard or our many streeteries Whether you have family in town, recently moved here or looking for something new to do, you’ll find it in the new 2021 Edmond Guide: http://visitedmond.inf o/2021Guide. We changed the name from Visitor Guide to Edmond Guide because more than visitors use it. Newcomers and Edmondites access it year-round.

The Edmond Guide is digital-only for now.

Scroll over these topics in the new digital guide and click for details: • upcoming events • art tours • outdoor adventures • new cuisines • historic Route 66 sights • shopping (from boutiques to thrifting) • live music • indoor activities • staycation ideas There are many opportunities to stay right here and join in the Edmond excitement!

Contact me at jseaton@visitedmondok.com or 405-2167781.

Visit our refreshed website at www.visitedmondok.com Follow us on social media @VisitEdmond

CORRECTION: In Dr. Vedala’s column last week on the COVID-19 vaccine, the number of doses for the Moderna virus was incorrect. The Moderna vaccine requires two doses as does the Pfizer vaccine.

Big Tech actions are indeed ‘problematic’

By Owen Canfield Germany’s chancellor, Angela Merkel, deemed it “problematic” that Twitter had kicked President Trump off its platform forever. Problematic, indeed.

The move by Twitter, and by other large tech companies in recent days, should concern people of all political persuasions because they underscore these companies’ enormous clout in being able to direct and control public discourse.

Yes, Twitter is a private company, and as such can set rules that, if broken in the company’s eyes, can mean sanctions. Trump has a media team to help promote his message, and people can always go elsewhere or even create their own social media company if they want, the argument goes.

This is precisely what the founders of Parler did.

Yet this site, which has become a popular alterna-

tive to Twitter for Trump supporters, saw Google and Apple remove Parler from their app stores over the weekend. Amazon followed by withdrawing the cloud service Parler uses to store data. The startup is reeling.

And, Parler had recently doubled the number of volunteers it uses to moderate content on the site and had offered other enforcement steps. The Wall Street Journal noted in an editorial that Twitter and Facebook blocked legitimate reporting about Hunter Biden last fall, but, “Now an informal confederation of web gatekeepers is methodically destroying a competitor that was created to accommodate their views.”

Merkel’s spokesman, Steffen Siebert, said Twitter was right to flag Trump’s inaccurate tweets about the 2020 election, but that “the right to freedom of opinion is of fundamental importance.”

Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

Amen.

For a time during 2020, Democrats and Republicans alike in Washington had their eyes on Big Tech and sought to rein in these companies. Yet the suspensions of Trump’s accounts have prompted little, if any, outcry from Democrats in D.C. That’s telling.

Kudos to the ACLU, which said everyone should be concerned “when companies like Facebook and Twitter wield the unchecked power to remove people from platforms that have become indispensable for the speech of billions — especially when political realities make those decisions easier.”

These moves should renew efforts in Congress to look at protections for tech firms included in Section 230 of the federal Communications Decency Act. Trump unsuccessfully vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act in part because it didn’t include revocation of that section.

Meantime, it’s worth noting the reaction of Alexei Navalny, whose work advocating for democracy in Russia led to him being poisoned last year.

Navalny isn’t buying the argument that Twitter banned Trump for breaking its rules. “I get death threats here every day for many years, and Twitter doesn’t ban anyone,” he tweeted.

Twitter is a private company, Navalny said, but “we have seen many examples in Russia and China of such private companies becoming the state’s best friends and enablers when it comes to censorship.”

Problematic? You bet.

From Oklahoman.com

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 11

Lankford, others oppose public funding for Planned Parenthood Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), along with 29 of their colleagues, last week in a letter to US Small Business Administrator Jovita Carranza to stop Planned Parenthood affiliates from receiving loans from the second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

The program is targeted to assist businesses with the highest need. Lankford called for DOJ to investigate improper funding to Planned Parenthood from the first round of PPP last year.

In the letter, the Senators state, “The coronavirus relief package Congress passed on December 21 authorizes a second round of PPP loans for certain small businesses and non-prof-

its that received and fully spent a PPP loan earlier this year. Eligibility requirements for these “second-draw” loans are similar to the requirements for initial loans authorized under the CARES Act. Generally speaking, applicants for the initial waves of PPP loans had to employ no more than 500 employees across all of their affiliates in order to be eligible for a loan; applicants for a second-draw loan must have no more than 300 employees across all of their affiliates.

Planned Parenthood employs about 16,000 people nationwide.”

Lankford and Cotton were joined by several other Republican senators.

Busy year for library system Metropolitan Library System (MLS) announced last week that it reached a record-breaking two million digital book checkouts in 2020. This accomplishment illustrates the continued growth and importance of library digital lending of ebooks and audiobooks, especially in a year with building closures due to the global pandemic. MLS is one of 102 public library systems worldwide that surpassed one million checkouts (complete list here).

MLS has been providing readers 24/7 access to ebooks and audiobooks for several years through OverDrive and its award-winning Libby reading app. Reader interest and usage has grown every year.

“We're so excited to reach this milestone,” said Chris Kennedy, Deputy Director of Public Services at Metropolitan Library System. “This has been a tough year for everyone and this achievement shows us how much the community values the Library.”

The highest-circulating title MLS readers borrowed through OverDrive in 2020 was Where the Crawdads

Sing by Delia Owens. The top-circulating genre, romance, represents the most popular in a vast catalog that also includes thrillers, biographies and children/young adult.

The top 5 ebook titles borrowed through Metropolitan Library System’s digital collection in 2020: 1. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens 2. Educated by Tara Westover 3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling 4. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng 5. The Guardians by John Grisham The top 5 audiobook titles borrowed through Metropolitan Library System’s digital collection in 2020: 1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling 2. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens 3. Becoming by Michelle Obama 4. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling 5. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

Page 12 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

ELAINE WARNER

The Liberty Memorial features a 217-foot-tall tower flanked by two veiled sphinx. This one, Future, has its eyes shielded from an unknown future; the other, Memory, is shielded from the horrors of war.

More amazing finds offered in Kansas City

By Elaine Warner The steamboat Arabia left St. Louis on August 30, 1856, to travel up the Missouri River to Sioux City, Iowa carrying some 200 tons of cargo – from beads and bourbon to tons of tools and hardware. Hitting a hidden snag in the river, the boat sank and the Elaine largest cache of pre-Civil War items lay mired in mud for over a century. The story of the discovery and reclamation of the wreckage is just one of many stories visitors will find in Kansas City’s amazing museums.

In the city’s historic market district just a few miles from the Arabia’s last stop, the Arabia Steamboat Museum tells the tale of a family adventure which culminated in the museum and its displays of thousands of items used by pioneers on the frontier. Visitors see exhibits and videos of the arduous task of rescuing the cargo from its resting place a half-mile from the present course of the

river – and 45-feet under a cornfield.

The task of preserving and restoring items has been going on since the first find in 1988 – a rubber shoe with raised letters on the bottom, Goodyear Rubber Co. patent 1849 – and continues to this day. Hopefully, the task will be completed in the next five years. So there’s always something new to see here. For a cool souvenir, buy a bottle of perfume created from chemical analysis of perfume found on the Arabia.

On a hill just south of downtown, a tall tower, flanked by two, massive, Assyrian sphinxes, overlooks the city. The Liberty Memorial was built in the 1920s to commemorate and honor those who served in World War I. Today an impressive museum, opened in 2006, lies beneath the memorial.

A Walk of Honor descends to the entrance to the National World War I Museum. Guests enter into a spacious lobby. To access the exhibits, they walk across a glass bridge over a field of 9,000 red poppies. Each flower represents 1m000 combatant deaths during the conflict.

In addition to a 14-minute film, the first exhibits

give a comprehensive look at world events and conditions leading up to the war. Dramatic settings like a recreated trench give a glimpse of war conditions. Immersive displays offer hands-on experiences and listening stations feature personal stories. The Horizon Theater incorporates a widescreen, multi-image presentation on America’s decision to enter the war combined with a life-sized tableau of soldiers in No Man’s Land.

Every American should see this museum. This was to be the War to End All Wars. The lessons were obviously not learned. Unlike many presentations, this does not glorify military victory but provides a clear-eyed view of causes and effects.

A visit here is a must.

East of downtown, the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum feature exhibits highlighting the talent which came out of the Black community. In addition to honoring musical greats like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Charlie Christian and Ella Fitzgerald, a whole section, complete with hands-on exhibits, explores

See Kansas City, Page 13

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 13

Kansas City From Page 12 the construction and production of jazz. Post-COVID, jazz lovers will enjoy live music in a re-creation of the Blue Room, a club which was an entertainment hot spot in the ‘30s and ‘40s.

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is packed with artifacts and information on great Black baseball players. Visitors pass through a series of exhibits, including a section called “Breaking the Barriers.” A highlight here is a jersey signed by Chadwick Boseman who was here for the opening of the film 42 in which he played Jackie Robinson. The museum’s centerpiece, the Field of Legends, is populated with statues of some of the most prominent Black players.

Unlike the previous venues, Kansas City’s Crown Center area is a collection of interesting attractions. Once a warehouse area on the south side of downtown, Crown Center was founded and anchored by the Hall family of Hallmark Cards. In addition to two hotels and shopping area, it includes the Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium and LEGOLAND© Discovery Center.

It’s also Hallmark headquarters. The Hallmark Visitor Center has great displays, company history, and a video including many of the commercials (take a Kleenex). If you’re traveling with children, check JASON DAILEY out Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope. And don’t miss a visit to Halls – an upThe Field of Legends is the centerpiece of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum scale store with clothing, décor and more.

Just north of Crown Center is Kansas City’s monumental Union Station – host to major exhibits. In June, Auschwitz. Not Long Ago. Not Far Away., the most comprehensive Holocaust exhibition about Auschwitz ever exhibited in North America will open.

The century-old station is also home to Science City and a planetarium. Science City has over 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space and over 300 exhibits. There are areas for all ages from infants up. Mr. E Hotel incorporates optical illusions sure to intrigue. Nature Works features displays of live animals along with special demonstrations. Perhaps the most exciting opportunity (temporarily closed) is a bike on which visitors pedal along a wire 30 feet above the floor of the museum.

More excitement for the future – the Kansas City Museum will reopen after a redesign of purpose and renovation of their location, a magnificent mansion on the city’s near northeast side. The building, Corinthian Hall, built in 1907, fills a city block with the 70-room mansion, stables and grounds. Exhibits center on the history and culture of the city. Tentatively, the museum will open in late summer. In the meantime, enjoy a virtual tour of a satellite exhibit on clothing and accessories worn to political events. www.kansascitymuseum.org/events/ and see updates at www.facebook.com/kansascitymuseum.

If all you do is go to museums, a good visit to Kansas City still calls for a multi-day stay.

And there are so many more attractions beyond these formal institutions – a great zoo, a cool distillery tour at J. Rieger & Co., barbecue tours, major league baseball and football – I could go on and on. Trust me, everything IS up-to-date in Kansas City. If you’ve never been, you need to go.

ELAINE WARNER If, like me, you’ve visited many times, you’ll be itching to go again.

An exquisite etched glass piece is on display in the Hallmark Visitor Center.

Page 14 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of the film ‘Locked Down’

Movie captures early days of pandemic

By George Gust “Locked Down,” follows Linda (Anne Hathaway) and Paxton (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who just decided to separate, but shortly find life has other plans when they are stuck at home in a mandatory lockdown.

Co-habitation is proving to be a challenge, but fueled by poetry and copious amounts of wine, it will bring them closer together in the most surprising way.

“Locked Down” is a strange artifact of a movie that feels both timely and dated at the same time.

Perhaps the speed at which the film has become available on HBO Max and the freshness of the onset of the ongoing global pandemic setting that makes it harder to process in an escapist entertainment way.

The advertisements for “Locked Down” would have you believe this is a fun romantic drama caper, but in practice, “Locked Down” is heavy on the drama and light on the fun. Especially given the dour tone and the self-serious attitudes and dialogue of the film’s protagonists, “Locked Down” can be a gloomy experience of a movie, albeit well-acted by a couple of supremely talented actors.

Where “Locked Down” is most successful is in the push/pull relationship between Ejiofor and Hathaway.

You get a lot of time devoted to the resentments and reminiscences that come along with their long running relationship. With only the stray zoom call with socially distant friends and celebrity cameo co-workers there’s plenty of screen time for Eijofor and Hathaway to flex their acting talents.

Both actors are given long monologues describing their current mood and exacerbations which could come off as pretentious in different hands, but with these two its feels like an interesting

emotional exploration of the mindset many people had last March.

Overall, “Locked Down” is an instant relic of life in the early days of Covid that doesn’t exceed the sum of its parts. “Locked Down” succeeds with sharp performances from Eijofor and Hathaway and a handful of comedic cameos via zoom call, but the heist plot felt undercooked and tacked to add intrigue to a mostly slowly paced character study. As an intriguing look at an interesting time in recent history, “Locked Down” is worth a watch, but if you’re not interested in revisiting the stress inducing days of lost jobs and rampant uncertainty, “Locked Down” doesn’t bring enough fun to provide an escapist heist thrill.

“Locked Down” is rated R for language throughout and some drug material.

2.9 out of 5 stars.

To comment on this film review, or any other movie review, please e-mail George at gust.george@gmail.com Check out George’s previous reviews on www.edmondlifeandleisure.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Anne Hathaway and Chiwetel Ejifor star as a troubled couple dealing with the stresses of Covid quarantine and become aware of a once in a lifetime opportunity to pull off an unlikely heist.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD Theme: THEME: SUPER BOWL

Answers appearing on Page 19

Mary featured In conjunction with Gamma Zeta’s educational theme of Prominent Women in History, Laura Howells (pictured) agreed with Life Magazine’s biography of Mary of Nazareth, the blessed mother of Jesus, that she is one of the most fascinating women in history, revered by billions of people throughout the world. Howells gave commentary from several of the world’s foremost Bible scholars, told the message artists seek to convey in art and sculpture, and explained stories of where Mary has been sighted. In the 20th century alone, 386 sightings of Mary were reported at a level beyond local rumors. Bishops study these apparitions and have authenticated locations where apparitions have been confirmed: in Guadalupe, Mexico—the French Alps— Lourdes, France,— Ireland, --Portugal, --Italy, -Belgium and Rwanda, to name a few. Millions of people each year pilgrimage to these locations to worship. Gamma Zeta’s educationals this year have been so informative!

If you are interested in joining the comaraderie and fun in our Epsilon Sigma Alpha activities, contact Deb Kukuk at 405-226-4473.

ACROSS 1. *Starr of Super Bowl I and MVP 5. Epsom or …vian-les-Bains 8. Mexican money 12. Gulf V.I.P. 13. Biblical pronoun 14. Competitive musher, e.g.

15. Saintly glow 16. From the sky and often damaging 17. Early anesthetic 18. *Halftime show performer 20. Photo editing option 21. T. S., poet 22. Chi forerunner 23. *Team with most consecutive Super Bowl appearances 25. Swindles 29. Even, to a poet 30. Slanting characters 33. Cough syrup balsam 34. Travels by air 36. "What's up ____?", asked by Bugs Bunny 37. Southeast Asia org.

38. German currency 39. Wb, pl.

41. 9 to 5, e.g.

42. Substitute, two words 44. Express a thought 46. Hitherto 47. Winter "fever"?

49. Brown on "Doctor Who" 51. *He has most Super Bowl appearances as a coach 55. Plural of #38 Across 56. Norse deity 57. Joie de vivre 58. *3-time Super Bowl champ, Russ ____ 59. Pasturelands 60. Ready for picking 61. Black and white treat 62. *Another form of Super Bowl entertainment 63. Command, with "at"

DOWN 1. Thai currency 2. Wet nurse 3. Rub the wrong way 4. Gardener's little helper 5. British soldier's parade hat 6. *P in PAT 7. "____ Lang Syne" 8. *Team with most Super Bowl appearances 9. Reverberating sound 10. Slowly leak 11. NHL great 13. Opposite of atheist 14. Short version 19. ____ Island off Manhattan 22. Nervous twitch 23. Knockout 24. Below, prefix 25. *Player with most Super Bowl points scored 26. Warm down-slope wind 27. Distress signal 28. Phoenix team 29. Flock members 31. Port of Yemen

32. Tennis shot 35. *Jim Nantz's partner 37. Savory jelly 39. A must for a comedian 40. Williams and Wright 43. Natural theology 45. Answer to "Where are you?", two words 47. Surrendered land 48. Spy's other name 49. Feline vibration 50. Albany-Buffalo canal 51. Cowboy's necktie 52. Pelvic parts 53. Big letters 54. Proposal joint 55. "I" mania

See Answers on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 15

Page 16 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Group urges infrastructure improvements The Association of Oklahoma General Contractors (AOGC), an 85-yearold trade association who represents Oklahoma road and bridge builders, urges legislators to maintain the 2021 construction budget despite funding from the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, to keep the construction work plan on target to provide state and local jobs.

The COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020 provides a placeholder budget for transportation agencies nationwide. This funding helps pro-

vide relief from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by including provisions that help create jobs for Oklahomans currently.

Additionally, Amid a decreased demand for oil and gas, Oklahoma families that rely on the industry are hurting and are dependent on other jobs to sustain an income. Because of the consistent need for improvements to Oklahoma’s transportation system and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) 8 Year Plan, roads and bridge construction person-

nel are in high demand. As Oklahoma is the crossroads of America, our interstate system is used by Oklahomans, visitors and corporations moving goods and services through our state which establishes a higher demand for these workers to help create safe and reliable roads and bridges.

Transportation is the most used core function of Oklahoma’s State government and is in constant demand and in need of repair and improvements. It provides jobs, puts money into our economy and provides an opportunity for our state.

With the existence of the 8 year plan, ODOT has the only, long-term, accountable, transparent financial plan in state government. This plan outlines how much money is spent in each county, every year, over an eight-year period. The projects in this plan are based on the safety of the traveling public.

“Thank you to our legislators for making the construction work plan a priority and a special thank you to

Senator Inhofe for the additional work on behalf of ODOT,” AOGC Executive Director Bobby Stem said.

“Both of these moves will help not only keep the construction work plan on target but will also accelerate jobs.”

While Oklahomans will benefit significantly from the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, it does not solve the lingering need for funds to ensure the implementation of the 8 Year Plan. “Last year the Oklahoma legislature took more than 30% of the ODOT construction budget to balance the budget. They have, and need to remain, committed to replacing those dollars in this session.

Oklahoma depends on strong roads and bridges to help stimulate our economy through jobs, and to keep motorists safe. We look forward to working with the leadership of Senator Pro Tempore Treat and Speaker McCall, along with all state legislators this session to ensure state funding is not cut.

Nominations sought for ag awards Agriculture Day at the Capitol is notorious for honoring the Governor’s Outstanding Achievement Award in Agriculture. Upon receiving this award, the individual is inducted into the Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame.

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is now accepting nominations for this award through Monday, Feb. 22 at 5 p.m.

The award winner will be announced at a recognition ceremony on March 23, 2021, at the State Capitol as part of the annual Oklahoma Ag Day celebration.

The Outstanding Achievement in Agriculture Award is the highest award given by the Governor to

honor distinguished Oklahoma agriculture producers. This prestigious award honors leaders in the agriculture industry who exemplify personal values, performance and achievement.

Nominee’s should have high standards of conduct, leadership, innovation, and accomplishments in agriculture and should be a role model for young Oklahoma agriculturists.

The deadline for all nominations is 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 22. Applications can be submitted electronically via email to Tandy Kidd at tandy.kidd@ag.ok.gov or can be dropped off in person at the ODAFF building.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 17

Starts this year at Francis Tuttle Tech Center

‘Design Thinking’ will help CEOs adapt to economy The fourth industrial revolution is well underway, and is changing the landscape for employers and employees. In order to jump this hurdle in modern education, Francis Tuttle Technology Center leaders decided to adopt a new concept, Design Thinking, for its new Danforth Campus, Every space in the new Danforth Campus is designed to bring which is opening in people together to share ideas and solve problems creatively, such as the main foyer that faces south.

August of 2021.

“We saw the lution where fusion is kind of the key concern from CEOs from different comword. Barriers between distinct disciplines panies that technology is changing things are falling,” Scott said. “You need to be so fast and they’re fearful because they’re able to bring people with different discinot sure what tomorrow will bring,” Assoplines together, bring their expertise to ciate Superintendent Dr. Jaared Scott the table in a creative fashion to solve said. “How do they remain competitive? some of these problems.”

We needed a way to teach students how Danforth will house all of Francis Tutto be innovative.” tle’s high school academy programs – EnDesign Thinking is built into the Dangineering, Biosciences and Medicine, forth Campus in every way. Through this Computer Science and Entrepreneurship – methodology, creativity and innovation as well as Cosmetology, Pre-Nursing and from multiple disciplines are brought toflexible health programs for adult stugether to find human-centered solutions dents, Automotive Service and Interactive to every day problems. This matches curMedia, a new program that lets students rent trend of different industries coming experience multiple digital media formats. together in the name of innovation and Design Thinking and entrepreneurship will creative problem solving. serve to unite the students from different “Here we are in the 4th industrial revo-

See Economy Page 18

PikePass marks its 30th anniversary in business This year, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) celebrates the 30th anniversary of its electronic toll collection system, PIKEPASS. Oklahoma was the first state to create an all-electronic toll system in 1991. The technology is now used in all 50 states and internationally.

“Oklahoma led the effort of paving the way for the future for not only our state but around the world,” Secretary of Transportation Tim Gatz said. “The development of PIKEPASS speaks volumes to the people of Oklahoma, recognizing a need and fulfilling it to the greatest ability.”

PIKEPASS was initially developed by former OTA Executive Director Richard Ridings to improve the traffic flow along Oklahoma turnpikes, further enhancing motorists’ safety as they make their way to their destinations. Former Secretary of Transportation Neal McCaleb, former OTA Executive Directors Tim Stewart and Holly Lowe, Assistant Executive Director of Finance and Administration Alan Freeman and Assistant Executive Director of Customer Service and Toll David Machamer also played a part in the development and groundbreaking of PIKEPASS. “This anniversary marks more than just 30 years of electronic tolling,” Gatz continued. “It represents Oklahoma’s innovative efforts to keep motorists safe while driving, which has been and always will be a top priority.”

Currently, Pikepass has nearly 882,000 account holders and over 2.7 million Pikepasses on the road.

Pikepass also offers account holders up to nearly 20 percent in discounted

travel over posted cash rates. In the near future, OTA’s cash collection system will take on a different look. No more coin machines or red and green thank you lights.

Continuing upon the technological advancements made possible by PIKEPASS, the use of Oklahoma’s allelectronic tolling system known as PlatePay, is the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s big step towards cashless tolling. Currently in operation at the Peoria/Elm Interchange exit on the Creek Turnpike in Jenks, Okla., the PlatePay system replaces the cash collection method at the toll plaza and uses an invoice mailed to the customer for payment. Motorists will be able to continue through toll plazas without stopping to pay a toll, whether they have a PIKEPASS or not. The cashless tolling system will create a free flow of traffic that will save drivers time and money while providing a safer and more efficient means of travel.

Oklahoma Turnpike’s rollout of PlatePay will expand to select toll plazas along the turnpike network in mid-2021 and is on course to be adopted network-wide in the coming years.

“This initial step in a long-range strategy to convert the entire turnpike network is yet another milestone for the Turnpike Authority and the state of Oklahoma,” Gatz said.

For more information about PIKEPASS, PlatePay and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, please visit www.PIKEPASS.com, www.PlatePay.com or www.drivingforwardok.com.

Gourmet Gallery schedules sale The Gourmet Gallery, located in Edmond Market Place at 3325 S. Boulevard, Suite 107, will have a PreInventory Blow Out Sale on Friday, Jan. 22 and Saturday, Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The staff will be available to make suggestions for comfort food for the upcoming Super

Bowl game.

A 20 percent discount off storewide will be offered. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up and try something new.

For more information please contact The Gourmet Gallery at 7153663.

New CFO for OU-Medical OU Health Edmond Medical Center welcomes David Jamin, MBA, who will serve as chief financial officer beginning Jan. 25.

With strong Oklahoma ties, Jamin brings a proven track record of strategic financial success to the position. He joins Edmond Medical Center, having most recently served as CFO at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Enid, where his expertise contributed to a reduction in operating costs and improved collections for the 229-bed facility.

He was also instrumental in bringing an array of new services and capabilities to St. Mary’s, including · Cancer treatment program David Jamin · Adult behavioral unit · Robotic surgical options · A range of new diagnostic imaging services · State-of-the-art cardiac cath lab Jamin’s background includes work at a number of medical centers and physician practices across Oklahoma and Texas. He gained his early experience in the field of healthcare as a senior accountant at Midland Memorial Hospital, Midland, Texas.

“I’m delighted for this opportunity to serve the Edmond community as CFO at OU Health Edmond Medical Center,” Jamin said. “Together, we can realize growth and greater success through innovation, for the benefit of our patients in Edmond and adjacent areas.”

Lisa Wilson, president, OU Health Edmond Medical Center said, “Along with the entire Edmond Medical Center family, we welcome David’s presence on the leadership team. We’re confident that his considerable talents will enhance every aspect of our work and ultimately improve our ability to provide the most excellent care for our patients.”

Jamin earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in accounting and information systems from the University of Texas Permian Basin. He completed a master’s degree in Business Administration Management with a concentration in finance from the same institution.

Jamin and his wife Jenny have five adult children and numerous grandchildren. They look forward to becoming an integral part of the Edmond community. Jenny also will continue her active participation co-managing a family ranching operation near Duncan.

Page 18 • January 21, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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several years’ time that new programs will be needed, and those can be fit into the same Design Thinking model as the current programs that will launch there later this year.

“I think you’ll find that campus will be evolving probably more so than most educational institutions, because that’s kind of how we created it,” Dr. Michelle Keylon, Francis Tuttle Superintendent, said. “It was created to not stay the same, but to keep up, and in some ways to look into the future and say what is coming next and be that group that leads the community into what’s coming next.”

Visit Francistuttle.edu/Danforth to learn more about the new campus.

Broncho women cruise past Lincoln, 93-71

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programs and disciplines, bring the Francis Tuttle community together to find creative solutions, and encourage the development of future business concepts.

“I feel like the Design Thinking is that added component to our programs that will bring entrepreneurship to the table for the campus,” Scott said. “It will unleash human potential, but it will also help students learn how to create the future. Because the best way to predict the future is to create it.”

This method of instructing students and uniting the community also enables Danforth to respond to future industry needs. It is possible in

Brooke Rayner scored a career-high 23 points and Kelsey Johnson and Caley Young both posted double-doubles to lead the University of Central Oklahoma to a 93-71 victory over Lincoln Saturday afternoon at Hamilton Field House.

Central, which has won four in a row and is now 6-3 on the season, also got a season-high 11 assists from Taylor Dement to aid the Bronchos to a season-high 93 points.

“I thought we played really well altogether as a team again today and that is always so helpful,” UCO head women’s basketball coach Guy Hardaker said. “Brooke played great and Kelsey and Caley were really good, but a lot of girls played really well. We can still improve though, we turned the ball over way too much.

But overall it was good and we got a win so we’ll take it.”

Rayner not only posted her first career 20-point game but did so with ease. The junior guard hit 8 of 9 shots Saturday afternoon, including 3 of 4 from behind the arc. She also made all four free-throws she took.

So a near perfect outing on the offensive end.

Rayner did most of her work in the first half. She hit all three shots she took in five minutes of action in the first quarter – two of those were 3pointers – and led the Bronchos with eight points. In the second quarter she went 3-for-4, hitting another 3pointer, and two free-throws. She led all scorers with 17 points at halftime.

She reached 23 points with 2:27 to play in the third quarter on a pair of free-throws.

Johnson, who has led the Bronchos in almost every game this season, still do so Saturday even though she wasn’t the leading scorer. The senior forward put up 18 points and 11 rebounds for her fifth double-double in nine games this season. Johnson is the only player in the MIAA that averages a double-double. She now has 11 career double-doubles after posting six last season.

Johnson hit 6 of 10 shots Saturday and all six of her free-throw attempts.

She added three blocks and one assist in a season-low 21 minutes of action.

Young posted season-highs in both points and rebounds as she joined Johnson in the double-double crowd.

The freshman scored 10 points and pulled down 12 rebounds. She had five rebounds in the first quarter, one more in the second, five again in the third quarter, and then one more in

the fourth.

Young finished 5-for-7 and also had three steals.

Jaci Littell and Kaci Richardson both scored eight points to help the Broncho effort. Clary Donica and Megan McClendon both scored six points. Dement, along with Maddie Harelson, both scored four points.

Avery Allen, Aliyah Llanusa, and Tayler Factor each scored two.

Central Oklahoma didn’t lead wireto-wire in Saturday’s blowout. Lincoln scored the game’s first basket to take a 2-0 lead with 9:34 to play in the opening quarter. But Johnson answered with a jumper to tie it, 2-2, then Rayner hit her first 3-pointer to give Central a 5-2 lead with 8:58 to play in the first quarter. The Bronchos led every moment of the game after that.

UCO hit 10 of 19 shots in the opening quarter, including two Rayner 3-pointers, and also held Lincoln to a measly 22.7 percent from the floor on 5 of 22 shooting to gain the early edge. Central led by as many as 10 in the quarter and held a 24-18 lead at the first break.

Central led by as many as 11 in the second quarter, going up 37-26 when Rayner made a pair of free-throws with 5:19 to play in the first half. Lincoln did cut the lead to five with just under four minutes to play in the quarter, but UCO ended the half on a 6-1 run to take a 43-33 lead into halftime.

Lincoln made its best move in the third quarter. The Blue Tigers opened the half on a 10-4 run in 2:09 of play in the quarter to cut the lead to four.

The teams stayed level for the next three minutes as Lincoln cut it to four again, this time with 4:33 left in the quarter, but Central closed the half on a 10-2 run to retake its commanding lead into the final frame.

And that’s where Central blew it open.

The Bronchos made 12 of 15 shots in the final 10 minutes, including three 3-pointers, to turn a 12-point game to a 22-point blowout.

Donica and McClendon both scored six points Saturday and all of them came in the fourth quarter.

Donica had two layups and a jumper.

McClendon hit two corner 3-pointers.

Central Oklahoma finished the day shooting 56.1 percent from the floor.

It’s the first time this season UCO has shot over 50 percent in a game.

The Bronchos made 37 of 66 attempts and went 6-for-16 from 3point range.

Spectators restricted The University of Central Oklahoma announced last week it will temporarily not allow spectators at any of its upcoming athletic events through Jan. 31 in accordance with the latest university protocol regarding COVID-19 and the health and safety of faculty, staff, students, and fans.

Following its COVID-19 decisionmaking framework for campus operations, the university is temporarily shifting to Level 4 in light of the recent surge in reported cases of COVID-19 and COVID-19 related

hospitalizations and deaths in Oklahoma County.

Fans who already purchased tickets to any of those events, or any other upcoming events in January, may call the UCO ticket office (405-974-2140) for more information on refunds.

The changes for athletic events are effective immediately and will run through Jan. 31. The situation will be reassessed prior to consider whether or not the changes should be extended. An announcement will be made at that time on bronchosports.com.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 21, 2021 • Page 19

Hunger remains a need for vulnerable in metro Kick off the new year by doubling your impact in the fight against hunger with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma's Holiday Match, presented by APMEX with additional support from the Cresap Family Foundation.

All donations to the Holiday Match are matched dollar for dollar, up to $700,000. The match ensures that each dollar donated to the Regional Food Bank helps to provide eight meals to Oklahomans living with food insecurity. After the match is met, every dollar still helps provide four meals.

“Because I experienced hunger as a child, I know the huge difference the Regional Food Bank makes in peoples’ lives,” said Scott Thomas, founder and president of APMEX. “APMEX employees and other generous Oklahomans have come together to support their neighbors in need, and we hope more people will contribute before this campaign match ends.”

One in six Oklahomans live with food insecurity.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Regional Food Bank and its community-based partner agencies have seen a 30% increase in clients receiving food assistance for the first time.

"The support we receive from APMEX, the Cresap Family Foundation and all Oklahomans is so important right now as we work to provide meals for a growing number of Oklahomans seeking food assistance," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "Please take the opportunity to participate in the Holiday Match and double the impact of your donation."

Donations help Oklahomans like Debra, who reached out to the Regional Food Bank for food assistance after losing all the food in her refrigerator and freezer during the October ice storms.

"I have taken care of myself since I was 15 and now I really struggle to do so," Debra said. "This is such a big help. I really appreciate the support."

Help deliver hope by making a tax-deductible donation at rfbo.org/give or by call 405-600-3161.

Donations may also be mailed to: Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma Holiday Match P.O. Box 270968 Oklahoma City, OK, 73137-0968

Edmond Electric ..... at a glance Edmond Electric is Oklahoma's largest community-owned electric utility. Edmond Electric has served the community since 1908. Today, Edmond Electric provides electric services to more than 93,000 residents within the City of Edmond corporate city limits.

As a municipally- owned power company and a city department, Edmond Electric returns profits to the community annually. The profits of the organization support vital City of Edmond services such as police, fire, streets and parks.

Because of Edmond Electric's support, our community maintains a high quality of living. Additionally, Edmond Electric provides outstanding reliability.

In light of COVID 19 for the time being, some worship services may be suspended or online.

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • January 21, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure