Edmond Life & Leisure - January 30, 2020

January 30, 2020 Vol. 20, No. 36

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.

Lots of activities & events await the public

Edmond Chamber hands out awards See Page 3

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 Mostly Sunny High 53° Low 34°

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Sunny High 60° Low 41°

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Mostly Sunny High 69° Low 50°

PHOTO PROVIDED

The National Folkloric Ballet of Mexico will perform at Armstrong Auditorium Feb. 13.

There’s a lot more going on in February than just the big Super Bowl football game this Sunday.

Lots of entertainment and events await those in Edmond. And they all come with a price tag lower than the average $10,000 ticket for the Super Bowl.

At Armstrong Auditorium, on Feb. 13 experience the acclaimed National Folkloric Ballet of Mexico, directed by Silvia Lozano. It will deliver one of the most exhilarating displays of choreography and rhythm. That show starts at 7:30 p.m.

“Ballet Folclórico Nacional is an immensely talented company whose performances convey a sense of vibrant jubilation and passion,” Armstrong Auditorium Concert Manager Ryan Malone said.

For addition information, please see Page 7.

The Oklahoma City Zoo has many special programs and events in February.

It starts this Saturday in a benefit, which helps gorillas.

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is looking to the community-at-large to help save gorillas by donating old or used cellphones to the Zoo for recycling as part of Gorillas on the Line from Saturday, Feb. 1 through Thursday, April 30.

The Zoo is also home to 10 western lowland gorillas, five males and five females, ranging in age from 34-year-old Emily to 19-month-old Finyezi. The species is critically endangered with only about 350,000 individuals remaining in the wild.

For additional details, please see Page 9.

February also marks the begin-

ning of the Edmond Public School community service programs at Edmond North, Edmond Memorial and Edmond Santa Fe. The student body has an annual program, which helps a non-profit.

Up first is Edmond North and their BALTO or Bring a Light to Others cause. This year’s funds will support the Children’s Center Rehabilitation program, which helps children and teens.

This Saturday is the BALTO 5K and fun run. It’s at Mitch Park starting at 8:30 a.m. Proceeds benefit BALTO. As always, Edmond Life & Leisure published a Weekend Calendar of Events, to provide you with the latest happenings in the area.

This week’s is on Page 9.

Look for something fun to do and please enjoy your February.

Page 2 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 3

Chamber Banquet

Edmond Chamber CEO, Sherry Jordan, presents former governor and UCO President George Nigh with his induction into the Edmond Hall of Fame.

Nigh was part of a five person class inducted at the annual awards banquet last Friday evening.

Other inductees include Avilla Williams, Steve Murdock, Claudette Dills and Ray Hibbard.

Both past and current inductees into the Edmond Hall of Fame gather for a group photograph at the Annual Edmond Chamber of Commerce banquet last Friday evening. Inductions are made to the Edmond Hall of Fame every five years.

Sherry Jordan, left, and Leslie Buford, right, present the OU Medical Center Edmond Tayo Fichtl Young Professional of the Year award to Sara London.

Kim Swyden, left, visits with Edmond Chamber Board of Directors member Jim Denton before the annual awards banquet held at the new Edmond Conference Center last Friday evening.

Edmond Economic Development Authority Director Janet Yowell receives the Citizens Bank 2019 Citizen of the Year award. Helping to present the award is Josh Pape, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of Citizens Bank of Edmond.

Page 4 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Credit where credit is due It was a humbling honor to be inducted into the Edmond Hall of Fame last Friday night. I was surrounded by friends and family as I was being inducted. It was also amazing Ray Hibbard to be included in such an incredible group of inductees, all were friends of mine. If you are known by the company you keep, this was company that was way above my pay grade folks. At the top of the list was Gov. George Nigh. What a fantastic life of service he has led.

As the saying goes, you have to give credit where credit is due. While I am honored that the selection committee thought enough of any contributions to our community I may have made to be worthy of such an honor, we all know that it takes support and help from others to make anyone’s life work possible. I certainly am no exception so here are a few among many that deserve the credit and share the honor of the induction with me.

Chris Hoke and his family made the idea of Edmond Life & Leisure being a locally owned and operated newspaper even possible. Their dedication to having a true hometown newspaper for Edmond is the only thing that allowed us to operate and serve this community. When I left the corporate newspaper world, Chris and his family made it possible for me and my family to stay in Edmond and practice our craft of community journalism. We are proud he is still our partner in this newspaper and our friend. We are thankful for all he has done to help us along the way.

We owe a giant thank you to our advertisers. They made it possible to get off the ground and to keep us in business. The newspaper industry has made some sharp twists and turns, mostly downward, nationally but our local advertisers have continued to support the paper and provide us with the ability to give back to our community in many ways. You can look through our pages and see the major businesses and organizations that support our efforts. There are two companies that are in the background but have been major contributors in our success.

The first one is the national advertising agency of Ackerman McQueen.

They are big time players in the state, region and our nation. Some of the best advertising in the country has

PHOTO PROVIDED

Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Sherry Jordan with Edmond Life & Leisure publisher Ray Hibbard.

been created by this national firm.

Yet, they are quick to include our newspaper for many of their clients.

While it must be a good marketing choice for their clients, our friends at Ackerman McQueen are quick to support community journalism. They have helped us in so many ways and have always been supportive of what we do for Edmond.

The second may come as a surprise but it is The Oklahoman. Some might think we are competitors with the state’s major newspaper, but we are not. Instead, we are partners with this important vendor. We have had a longstanding relationship with them that transcends three ownership groups. They print our paper and help in our distribution. We also have an important news exchange. They are professionals in every way and like our advertisers, they believe in community journalism. It is an honor to have them as a partner in what we do.

Naturally, you, our readers, are the most important part of what we do.

This is your newspaper and from day one we offered it up free to anyone who wants it. You care about your

community and choose to read these pages from beginning to end. You either get it at your home, pick it up in one of our rack locations or read us in digital format. The number of you reading us online is growing by leaps and bounds. You don’t always agree with our editorial pages and that is great. We love to have those who agree and especially those that don’t agree write in to express their opinion. Editorial pages are like social media but without the fake news or Russian interference.

Both the present and past staff members here at Edmond Life & Leisure deserve my thanks for their help in running this place. It allows me time to go and participate in so many community activities. There is not a business in the world that operates without the help of great team players. Our staff, past and present, are family and it is a joy to work with them every day. We thank them for all they do. Our longtime editor, Steve Gust, deserves special thanks.

He has been with this paper since day one and we couldn’t have done it without him.

No person exceeds in business or in life without help from others. I was lucky enough to have a trilogy of mentors that represent the best in community journalism in this state.

The first are my longtime mentors Leland and Vicki Gourley. I worked for the Gourley’s for 14 years starting when I got out of collage at FRIDAY newspaper. They put up with many mistakes that were made on their dime when I was learning this business, but they were always kind about it. Leland used to catch some grief for some of his ideas in the newspaper business but as it turns out he was just ahead of his time.

We lost Leland in 2012 at the age of 96 and I miss him greatly. The good news is that Vicki is still going strong and FRIDAY newspaper is part of the shrinking ranks of independent, community newspapers in this country.

I did work for Richard Hefton. He owned the set of papers in Eastern Oklahoma County and practiced community journalism at its best. My favorite saying that Dick used was “I think it is time for some Quid Pro Quo.” That was back when it was a good thing. I served on a printing company board with Dick. He taught me much about printing and the art of negotiation. The good news is that he is alive and well folks. I can pick up the phone and get advice from him still. He always delivers that advice with a good amount of humor and a story to help you get the point.

Of course, Ed and Marcia Livermore are mentors I owe much thanks to and that share the award with me.

Ed was inducted into the Edmond Hall of Fame about 20 years ago. He and his family ran what was the local newspaper in Edmond for 28 years.

To say they set the standard for what we do on a day to day basis here in Edmond would be a giant understatement.

I came to work for the Livermore family in 1996. I left a great job at the Oklahoma Press Association to do so but working for this family was my idea of the dream job. I learned so much and hopefully gave back some value to their business. Most of all, I remember having fun with the Livermore family including Ed’s dad and sisters.

My appreciation to the Edmond Chamber of Commerce and their selection committee for a great honor.

Most of all a giant thank you to all the folks in my life who were inducted right along side me.

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

Check out what’s inside! n Columnist looks at justice in America ..........................................Page 8. n Weekend Calendar of Events........................................................Page 9. n Some good news for scouting ....................................................Page 11. n Sports ........................................................................................Page 13. n George Gust reviews movie on the pain of divorce ....................Page 15. n Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15. n Governor’s travel ban to California ............................................Page 18. n Lawmaker wants gun law repealed ............................................Page 18. n Worship directory ......................................................................Page 19.

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 April Burgess, Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Account Executive Bryan Hallman bryan@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Dave Farris, Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design April Burgess Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2020 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 30, 2020 • Page 5

EPS will hold Teacher Job Fair Feb. 25 & 27

PHOTO PROVIDED/EPS

Taylor Belote, right, looks over data with Heritage Elementary principal Cathey Bugg. Belote attended the EPS teacher job fair last year and was hired as a third-grade teacher at Heritage.

Edmond state senator wants inmates to succeed on outside mate. SB 1463 creates As work continues to the Transition Assistance reform the state’s crimiProgram (TAP), which nal justice system, Sen. authorizes the DOC DiAdam Pugh has filed rector to formulize and two bills to ensure inimplement a plan for remates are better preentry for each eligible pared to re-enter society. offender no later than The Edmond Republi12 months prior to an can said his plans will anticipated release date. improve community rela“As Benjamin Franklin tions, protect public said, ‘if you fail to plan, safety and lower recidiyou’re planning to fail.’ vism rates by providing As a state, we must do offenders with a plan of State. Sen. Pugh better at finding out action and the tools what causes offenders to commit needed to become independent, crimes and create individual plans to productive citizens. address those issues while they’re in “Helping individuals successfully re-enter society takes a multifaceted prison whether it’s through counselapproach. Most offenders have very ing, education, job training, parent counseling or other areas. Otherlittle, if any, education or job and wise, it’s likely they’ll end up back in life skills training and may lack famprison because they aren’t properly ily or other support systems to help prepared,” Pugh said. “Offenders’ them get back on their feet,” Pugh said. “We need to build strong part- time in prison should be utilized in a manner that helps prepare them nerships with communities, busimentally and emotionally to be betnesses and nonprofits to help those ter parents, spouses, workers and who have paid their debt to society citizens. This will not only improve start a new life by providing them their lives but will protect and imthe tools they need to be self-suffiprove public safety and build cient, responsible citizens.” stronger communities.”

SB 1456 directs the Department The bills will be assigned to commitof Corrections (DOC) to annually retee and up for consideration when the view its inmate rehabilitation case legislative session begins on Feb. 3. plans with every parole-eligible in-

State monitoring Chinese virus The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is actively monitoring the outbreak of a 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), which originated in Wuhan, China and has resulted in cases detected in several countries, including two laboratoryconfirmed cases in the United States.

Public health officials at the OSDH remain in contact with local, state and federal partners including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as they monitor the rapidly evolving situation. Both confirmed cases are individuals who travelled to Wuhan, China and returned to the United States. The CDC advises the public to avoid all non-essential travel to the area; and recommends people traveling to China practice health precautions like avoiding contact with people who are sick and practicing good hand hygiene.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some can cause respiratory illness in people. Many patients in the current outbreak were initially

linked to a large seafood and live animal market in Wuhan, China, but the recent patient did not report exposure to the animal market, which suggests person-to-person spread is occurring.

Transmission is likely occurring via respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing around close contacts. Common symptoms of illness will include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

The primary factor of concern is travel history to the affected area or being in close contact with a laboratory-confirmed patient.

Anyone who may have travelled to Wuhan, China, and is experiencing symptoms, should report their symptoms to a health care provider before seeking treatment so that proper evaluation and infection control measures can be put in place. In the event of a suspected case in Oklahoma, public health officials will work collectively with county health departments, health care providers and hospitals to arrange for testing with the CDC.

Edmond Public Schools is hosting a teacher job fair from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Thursday, Feb. 27 at the district’s administrative headquarters, 1001 W. Danforth. The Feb. 25 fair is for people interested in a job in elementary education. The Feb. 27 fair is for people seeking a teaching job in middle school or high school.

Participants should bring several copies of their resumes and be prepared to meet with principals for brief interviews.

Recognized by The Oklahoman as a Top Workplace for the last five years, Edmond offers teachers a starting salary of $41,745. Health, life and disability insurance, and district-paid retirement contributions push a first-year teacher’s total compensation and benefits to $52,374. A teacher with 10 years of experience and a bachelor’s degree will make a base salary of $46,370 and $57,809 with compensation and benefits.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to provide teachers with highly competitive compensation and benefits to balance their work-life needs,” said Associate Superintendent for Human Resources Randy Decker.

“In addition, teachers can expect extensive peer mentoring and unmatched community support here in Edmond.”

A full list of teacher benefits can be found on the district’s website www.edmondschools.net. No registration is necessary to attend the event.

For more information, call 340-2913.

Page 6 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

‘Parents Helping Parents’ meeting is set for Feb. 4 The speaker on Tuesday, Feb. 4 for Parents Helping Parents is Judge Ken Stoner, Oklahoma County Drug Court.

His topic is “Understanding Addiction: The Hijacked Brain." The Edmond Chapter of Parents Helping Parents meets at McLaren's Pantry located at 3414 South Boulevard in the Boulevard Shopping Center located in the SE corner of 33rd and Boulevard in Edmond. The restaurant is closed to the general public at 6 p.m. The meeting is from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. We provide support, resources and hope for parents of addicted children (any age child).

This is an anonymous meeting and no cost or reservations required. For more information please call 405-642-8198.

Health officials’ message: Not too late for a flu shot four different strains There is still time to thought to pose a threat. get a flu shot Early reports show that This year’s flu season is while the vaccine may not still ramping up, but it’s prevent B/Victoria flu, it is shaping up to be one of a good match for other the worst in recent memstrains that might arise ory. With 20 deaths this season, including statewide already in the H1N1, also known as 2019-20 flu season and “swine flu.” more than 1,000 hospi“The flu is always mutalizations, experts urge tating and changing as it Oklahomans get the anmigrates across the globe,” nual vaccine if they said Chakravarty. “That’s haven’t already. why you need a flu shot “There is no downside annually.” to getting the shot: it’s The Centers for Disease free in many cases, and it Control and Prevention eslowers your risk of getOklahoma Medical Research Foundation physitimates between 13 and ting the flu considerably,” cian-scientist Eliza Chakravarty, M.D. 18 million Americans have said OMRF immunoloalready had the flu this season, and as many as gist Eliza Chakravarty, M.D. 17,000 people in the U.S. have died, as of Jan. 11.

Typically, the vaccine provides 40 to 60 percent protection. However, according to the National Insti- That puts this flu season on track with 2017-18, when more than 40,000 Americans died from flu. tute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, to date, this Even if you contact the flu after vaccination, year’s vaccine hasn’t shown to be a very good for there’s often benefit to having received the flu shot. one of the primary strains in circulation.

This is shaping up to be particularly dangerous for More often than not, said Chakravarty, vaccination leads to a less severe version of the flu because your children, who are particularly susceptible to the immune system already has a leg up in preparation. strain, known as B/Victoria. Still, said Chakravarty, To protect against flu, wash your hands and use that doesn’t mean you—or your children—shouldn’t hand sanitizer as often as possible. But, said get the shot.

Chakravarty, “Getting vaccinated is the first and “The vaccine isn’t perfect, but some protection is most important step in protecting you – and everybetter than no protection,” she said. one around you.”

The vaccine is quadrivalent, meaning it combats

Francis Tuttle students are now patent holders Two teams of Francis Tuttle Technology Center Engineering Academy students were recently granted separate patents for inventions created as part of their senior capstone projects.

The patents were awarded by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Including these two new patents, Francis Tuttle students have received 14 patents for inventions created while part of the engineering program.

Engineering graduates Samuel Johnston, Ethan Reed and Aaron Wuchterl, all from Edmond, received a patent for their collaborative invention of an in-line urine filtration system that neutralizes urine and other biologicals within water systems.

A patent was also awarded to Nicholas Crowder of Edmond and Anthony Mills and Jack Scherlag of Oklahoma City for their invention of a continuous, portable indoor air quality monitor that measures the surrounding air and displays results on a touchscreen display. The monitor detects particulate matter, including harmful gases, volatile organic compounds, CO2, temperature, hu-

midity and atmospheric pressure.

“We are continually impressed by the ingenuity and hard work of our students,” said Audrey Lee, Portland campus director. “Our goal is to provide our students with the instruction, support, tools and technology they need to succeed while in our program, as well as the workplace.

These patents show that we are reaching that goal.”

Francis Tuttle will soon be calling on community members to assist with this highly successful program, said Lee. “We are planning to host an ‘Idea Fair’ this spring to help students identify community needs to be solved and products to be developed,” said Lee. “Those interested in collaborating with the program may contact Engineering Academy instructors, Brad Sanders or Jared Keester, at (405) 717-7799.”

Francis Tuttle Technology Center serves high school students and adults in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area with career-specific training, in support of developing and maintaining a quality workforce for the region

Policy designed for accountability

By Kevin Calvey County Commissioner Since taking office over a year ago, I have maintained a promise to work hard protecting use of the county’s hard-earned taxpayer dollars.

To improve transCalvey parency, we recently proposed a policy that would require Board of County Commissioner’s approval for private, forprofit use of county property. Some have claimed this is an attempt to constrain off-duty jobs of Sheriff’s deputies, which is not true. This policy does not impact the ability of deputies to have second jobs. It only adds accountability over taxpayerfunded property and protects taxpayers from liability.

According to the county budget, last fiscal year, the Sheriff’s office had 311 vehicles, including 252 cars.

That’s more cars than they have fulltime law enforcement officers! The need for oversight, transparency, and accountability over county property is evident.

This policy would add language to county policy that prohibits the use

of Oklahoma County property “unless approved in advance by the Board of County Commissioners." Commissioners are the officials who have to respond to lawsuits against the County, and decide whether to settle or litigate claims, and are thus the appropriate body to decide on the use of County property. This wording is comparable to policies of several nearby jurisdictions, as well as jurisdictions in Texas. In no case would such language inhibit law enforcement officers from working offduty jobs, nor does it prohibit the use of county equipment in appropriate circumstances.

Approval and oversight from the Commissioners is what we are aiming for!

It’s a shame that some continue to spread misinformation that hinders our ability to protect county taxpayers financially, just as they spread misinformation in opposing the new Jail Trust. I appreciate the hard work of our sheriff’s deputies, on and offduty. Let’s work together to improve transparency and accountability of county operations, and protect taxpayers from liability.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 7

National Folkloric Ballet of Mexico

Armstrong performance to put Mexican culture on display The acclaimed National Folkloric Ballet of Mexico, directed by Silvia Lozano, will deliver one of the most exhilarating displays of choreography and rhythm to ever grace the Armstrong Auditorium stage on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

“Ballet Folclórico Nacional is an immensely talented company whose performances convey a sense of vibrant jubilation and passion," Armstrong Auditorium Concert Manager Ryan Malone said. “Armstrong Auditorium is thrilled to host its unique presentation of Mexican culture through music and dance. The evening promises to be an unforgettable experience, and our audience will be exhilarated by the festival atmosphere.”

Charming audiences with authentic regional dances of Mexico under the direction of Silvia Lozano, Ballet Folclórico Nacional pays homage through its performances to the Mexican heritage from which it draws inspiration.

Ballet Folclórico Nacional concerts feature vividly brilliant costumes, traditional whirling dances, stomping rhythms and festive music. The company's performances are crafted to preserve and promote Mexican her-

Scheduled for Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. itage, bridging cultural barriers and bringing entertainment to diverse audiences across the globe.

Founded in 1952 by Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folclórico Nacional quickly grew to become a national sensation with weekly appearances on the television program, Function of Gala. In 1959, the ensemble gained international recognition by preparing a unique program to represent Mexico at the Pan American Games in Chicago, IL. In the decades since, Ballet Folclórico Nacional has continued to further its mission of promoting Mexican culture through performances in Mexico and around the world.

Tickets to Ballet Folclórico Nacional de Mexico de Silvia Lozano range from $31 for balcony seating to $71 for orchestra seating. For more information about ticket options, subscriptions, group rates or current exhibits, 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 sep-

arate the stage from the back wall, allowing the 823-seat theater to boast a nine-millisecond 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.

Page 8 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

When justice misfires Get counted in U.S. census I saw a documentary about the wrongful murder conviction of Ryan Ferguson.

In 2004 Ferguson, and another man, were convicted in connection with the 2001 killing Steve Gust of a sports editor, Kent Heitholt in Columbia, Mo. To briefly summarize, Heitholt was killed late one night outside of the newspaper office. In a bizarre twist, two years later Ferguson's friend, Charles Erickson, claimed he had a dream he was involved in the crime.

He also implicated Ferguson who was 17 at the time of the killing.

It was a high-profile case and officials were under heat to solve it.

They got a identification on Ferguson from Erickson and an eyewitness who was a janitor at the newspaper.

There was no physical evidence linking either Ferguson or Erickson to the crime.

Another eyewitness took the stand but was not asked if she saw the men. She would have said Ferguson wasn't the man she saw. Ferguson's family, particularly his father, fought like heck for a new trial. The appeal

was denied multiple times. At one court hearing, the janitor and Erickson both recanted their identifications. There was some speculation the janitor was told by the state in 2004 to implicate Ferguson or he would have his probation revoked from another case and would go to prison for two years. Despite the janitor and Erickson recanting, the state still wouldn’t budge and reverse the conviction. Finally an appeals court vacated the verdict in 2013 effectively freeing Ferguson. He is now 35.

I bring up this story because it seems to me some officials can convict someone, regardless of guilt.

I must add here I have the utmost trust in the honesty of our county prosecutor David Prater as well as his predecessors Wes Lane and the lateBob Macy.

And it also reminds me of this ongoing impeachment trial. The trial is being held on two articles of impeachment, which aren't based on a violation of any specific laws.

In essence the government has proven it can make the life miserable for someone like the president.

It’s not so much of a stretch to think they could do the same to anyone else.

By Sen. Greg Treat There’s plenty of opportunities for Oklahoma’s growth and success as we enter a new year and a new decade. One of the issues of great importance in 2020 is something not pending before the state Legislature.

The 2020 Census has a huge impact on Oklahoma and it’s important we do all we can to get a full count. Obviously, federal funds are distributed based on the results of the census.

It is estimated every person not counted in the Census costs the state approximately $1,800 per year in lost federal funding. An undercount of just 2 percent could cost the state up to $1.8 billion over a decade. But census data also drives decisions of businesses looking to relocate or enter new markets.

The Oklahoma Sen-

ate has set up its own committee to encourage census participation. Senate Democrats and Republicans have joined in the effort. A lot is riding on this census, and each of us needs to do our part to ensure a full count this census.

In the next Legislative session, the Oklahoma Senate will capitalize on the successes of 2019 to keep our state’s momentum heading in a positive direction.

It cannot be overstated the importance of establishing a financial oversight office that serves only the Legislature. Before the creation of the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency, the Legislature depended mostly on executive branch agencies for data on the outcomes of state programs. That’s not the best model of accountability.

LOFT will provide the

Legislature with more information that will guide our decision making as we set spending priorities and write the budget. For 2020, we’ll make sure LOFT continues down a successful path and gets off the ground running.

In the next session, expect to see more agencies come under the governance model established in 2019 that gives the governor and Legislature more oversight authority. The Legislature’s move to grant the governor more appointment authority of the directors of top agencies brings more accountability to the system. It also empowers whomever sits in the governor’s office the chance to truly act as the state’s “chief executive” and install a team to carry out his or her vision.

Senate confirmation of agency heads and Senate and House appointees on governing boards serves as a proper check and balance.

We remain cautiously optimistic about the budget for 2020. Some economic factors bear close watching such as the prices of oil and gas; however, the performance of the service sector is a bright spot especially when considered with moves made in recent years to strengthen our position to weather the cyclical nature of commodities.

We will continue to monitor economic conditions and plan accordingly as the Fiscal year 2021 budget comes into shape.

There are other highprofile issues such as pension COLAs, health care, and criminal justice reform. Senate Republicans plan to lead with clear eyed focus on making decisions that keep Oklahoma’s momentum moving toward our destination of becoming a Top 10 state.

Why Gov. Stitt wants new gaming compacts

By Gov. Kevin Stitt When I came into office, I inherited letters from two Oklahoma tribes concerned that their Model Gaming Compact would expire on Jan. 1, 2020.

They explained that their compacts were “dated” and “unsuitable for the current and future business environment of gaming in Oklahoma” and asked that the State begin negotiating new gaming compacts.

I took those letters seriously and consulted numerous legal experts to learn more. They all agreed the compacts expired on Jan. 1, 2020. Therefore, in July 2019, I invited all Oklahoma tribes to discuss new gaming compacts. Our goal was to update compact terms to be more responsive to market conditions and to better account for the State’s interests while protecting economic growth and development for our tribal partners.

I still hold to that mission today.

I believe that a new compact should more equitably allocate fees among tribes. It should include protections to require vendors not to exceed national

market rates. And it should address changing market conditions.

The past 15 years have proven the exclusivity promised by the State to be more valuable than anyone anticipated. But that value has not been enjoyed equally by all tribes or shared appropriately with the State. Increasing fees at the highest market revenue levels to better support our public schools and mental health services while reducing fees to benefit the tribes operating smaller gaming operations ought to be a topic for discussion.

And 15 years ago, the parties knew that. They promised to renegotiate fees and exclusivity, regardless of whether the compacts renewed or expired.

Unfortunately, most tribes have refused to renegotiate any part of the compact, unless the State first conceded that the compacts automatically renew indefinitely.

I have tried to protect tribal gaming, the public, and our schools. The State attempted to initiate negotiations four times since the dispute started. The

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tribes have repeatedly refused to even listen to a proposal. The State proposed arbitration to resolve our disagreement. The tribes refused. We offered an 8month compact extension that preserved everyone’s legal arguments to create more time for productive conversations. All but two tribes refused.

I was deeply disappointed that our most successful gaming tribes, the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Cherokee Nations, rejected the State’s desire to resolve this outside of the courtroom as well as the eight-month extension, choosing instead sue my office on New Year’s Eve. At no point had the state attempted to disrupt gaming operations. No advantage is gained by harming tribal economies or compromising school funding while this dispute is being resolved.

With respect to the lawsuit, we will defend our interpretation of the compact expiration provision. The State has not authorized any electronic gaming since 2004, when Oklahoma voters approved the TribalState compacts. I will work to enforce that expiration term because not doing so would allow the administrative acts of unelected officials to dictate state policy and effect significant changes in state governance.

As this lawsuit progresses, I will continue to pursue negotiations of a new gaming compact that enhances opportunities for Oklahoma’s tribes, of all sizes, to fairly compete for business to ensure that no party is adversely impacted once the court rules. I am ready to meet with the tribes, as I have been since July.

When we are all committed to listening to each other and coming together to one table, I am confident we can achieve a win-win for all four million Oklahomans today and well into the future.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 9

Travis Kirkpatrick named director of Medical Marijuana Authority What’s Happening This Weekend Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 Thursday, Jan. 30 ---- In the Gallery ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat Friday, Jan. 31 ---- In the Gallery ---- Jessica Tate ---- River Gypsies at Cee Gee’s ---- Warhol and the West ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- Painted Sky Opera presents: Glory Denied ---- PBR Express Ranches Invitational Saturday, Feb. 1 ---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond North High School Balto 5K ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Stars ---- Hearts for Art ---- Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Pinch Pots ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat ---- PBR Express Ranches Invitational ---- Guthrie Maker Days ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: From the Dramatic to the Sublime ---- Lunar New Year in the Gardens ---- Honoring the Beat of Life Powwow Sunday, Feb. 2 ---- In the Gallery ---- Candygrams for a Cause ---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat

Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring artwork of Jim Sharp; Beginning Feb 6 featuring artwork of Stacy Haggard; Gallery Opening for Stacy Haggard will be Thursday 6th; for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com

Candygrams for a Cause Location: Downtown Edmond, Broadway north of 2nd Street Extra Info: for more information go to downtownedmondok.com Stars Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 9 p.m.; for more information visit then at riverwind.com Warhol and the West Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Hearts for Art Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Pinch Pots Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Lyric Theatre presents: The Cat in the Hat Location: Plaza Theatre Extra Info: for information go to lyrictheatreokc.com Painted Sky Opera presents: Glory Denied Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for showtimes and tickets go to okcbroadway.com OKC Philharmonic presents: From the Dramatic to the Sublime Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for more information go to okcphil.org PBR Express Ranches Invitational Location: Chesapeake Energy Arena Extra Info: for more information go to chesapeakearena.com

Jessica Tate Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: $10; 8 p.m.; for more information go to ucojazzlab.com

Guthrie Maker Days Location: Various Locations Extra Info: for more information find them on Facebook

River Gypsies at Cee Gee’s Location: Cee Gee’s Club Extra Info: 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.; for more information find them on Facebook

Lunar New Year in the Gardens Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: for more information go to calendar.oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

Edmond North High School Balto 5K Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: $15 -$60; 8:30 a.m.; for more information go to balto---5k.com

Honoring the Beat of Life Powwow Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: 1 – 11:30 p.m.; for more information find them on Facebook.

Oklahoma native Travis Kirkpatrick is the new director of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority. Kirkpatrick has served as interim director for the last 90 days. Health Commissioner Gary Cox said he made the decision based on Kirkpatrick’s leadership at the authority over the last few months.

“We are excited about the leadership of Travis and his focus on being an efficient and effective organization that serves the citizens of the state," said Cox. "During his three months, Kirkpatrick has reopened the call center, which is now handling approximately 300 calls a day, hired a compliance manager to ensure the dispensaries across the state are in compliance with state laws, and worked to open the lines of communication with the business community and the patients.”

Kirkpatrick praised the staff for its passion and dedication saying “that is something that drives me every day as I seek to innovate and lead us toward the goals we have been provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Health leadership and the Governor. My goal is to continue to work with the patients, dispensary owners and growers as this authority

meets the guidelines set out by the voters and by the Legislature.”

The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority was created by a vote of the people, July 26, 2018. The state question allowed for both licenses to sell and to purchase medical marijuana with a physician’s prescription.

Additional regulatory authority was written into the “unity bill” passed by the legislature just months before Kirkpatrick’s arrival. There are currently more than 246,000 patient, caregiver, grower, processor, dispensary, and transportation licenses for marijuana in Oklahoma, all handled

by OMMA. Travis Kirkpatrick is a Public Administration professional with more than 15 years of service to the State of Oklahoma. He brings a multitude of experience in bureaucratic process gained via his roles in several state agencies.

A native Oklahoman, Kirkpatrick holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Oklahoma. In his spare time, he volunteers on several community nonprofit boards and enjoys watching his children play soccer.

UCO will mark Black History Month The University of Central Oklahoma’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion will celebrate Black History Month with a series of events throughout February to honor the history and accomplishments of African Americans and examine current issues within the community.

The month’s events will reflect the theme “Then and Now…Looking Back to Move Forward” and will kick off at 2 p.m. Feb. 4 in the Nigh University Center, Ballroom A, with keynote speaker Deborah Jenkins, executive director of the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency.

At the kickoff for UCO’s Black His-

tory Month, the African American Faculty and Staff Association will honor Central employee Damita Kennedy with the Making a Difference Award. This award recognizes community members or employees who have made a positive impact at Central. Additionally, the Black Student Association will recognize their peers with the Barry Lofton Leadership Award and the Dr. Paul Lehman Award. These awards recognize outstanding students who continue to provide outstanding leadership within the Black Student Association.

For a complete schedule of UCO’s Black History Month events, visit www.uco.edu/bhm.

Page 10 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Scouting said to be thriving across central Oklahoma

PHOTO PROVIDED

The Gilbert family are among the many advocates of scouting.

Last year marked record membership growth for Boy Scouts throughout central and southwestern Oklahoma.

The Last Frontier Council, Boy Scouts of America reported a 5.1% youth membership growth with a year-end total of more than 12,400 youth registered in Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturing, and Exploring programs. Included in this record growth are more than 1,500 newly joined girls, as Council Commissioner Art Schmidt explains: “The response in Central Oklahoma has been exciting, we had folks ready to start the first day.” He continued, “The numbers tell the story, we are leading the nation, which means people support the Scouts BSA program.”

Off the heels of a national decision to allow girls to join Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts many families joined the adventure of Scouting as a full family.

“Being able to share this together has brought us even closer and I’m so grateful to this program for giving me more time with my sweet kids since time goes so fast” says Scouts BSA mom Nikki Gilbert. Nikki, her hus-

band, and their two children are taking advantage of Full Family Scouting. “Girls can and should camp and learn these outdoor skills. If it wasn’t for Scouts, BSA I wouldn’t get to hang out with my sweet family half as much as I do now.”

Compared to other Boy Scout councils of similar size across the country, the Last Frontier Council have the most Scouts BSA girls-specific Troops, the most Scouts BSA girls participating, and are second in the number of Cub Scout girls registered. Nationally, we are in the Top 20 for Scouts BSA membership and the number of troops available to girls.

More than 3,700 volunteers, continue to ensure that young people join an active and high-quality program, full of outdoor adventure and values-based character development through the Boy Scouts of America.

The Last Frontier Council of the Boy Scouts of America includes 24 counties in Central and Southwest Oklahoma. The Council serves over 12,000 youth, who annually record more than 400,000 service hours.

Governor looks back on accomplishments Governor Kevin Stitt released last week the 2019 Stitt Administration Annual Accomplishments Report.

The inaugural report focuses on the Stitt administration's progress thus far and displays the work being done to improve transparency, accountability and efficiency in state government.

“Oklahomans gave us a mandate to deliver more accountability in State government and to protect taxpayers by strengthening the state’s fiscal transparency,” said Gov. Stitt. “We have made great progress and continue to build the road map for delivering a better state government that moves Oklahoma towards Top Ten status.”

Highlights of the report include: Agency Accountability: Gov. Stitt signed into law legislation that allows the governor to hire the directors at five of the 12 largest state agencies. Past governors have produced blue ribbon studies showing that responsibility and power is spread so far and thin across state government that essentially few can truly be held accountable by the voters. Within the first two months of the Stitt administration, the governor and the Legislature worked together to produce historic reform that delivers much-needed accountability for the delivery of critical services and the management of billions in tax dollars.

Since being sworn in last year, Gov. Stitt has been a part of hiring 18 new agency directors and making more than 410 appointments across state government.

Largest Savings Account in State History: Gov. Stitt led the state to build its largest savings account in state history.

The cornerstone of Gov. Stitt’s budget was centered on setting aside an additional $200 million, beyond the Rainy Day Fund’s automatic collection, while also increasing funding for core services by more than 5%. As a result, the state has more than $1 billion in savings, allowing Oklahoma to better protect the taxpayer and core services during inevitable and unforeseen changes in the economy.

Teacher Pay Raises: Gov. Stitt called for and signed into law another teacher pay raise, for a second year in a row, and increased the state’s spending in public education to a historic high of $3 billion in state revenue annually.

Historic Commutation Release: Gov. Stitt signed the largest single-day commutation in U.S. history.

On Nov. 1, Gov. Stitt signed 523 commutations, with over 450 immediately released, that were sent to his desk by the Pardon and Parole Board under the HB 1269 docket, giving hundreds of nonviolent, low-level offenders an opportunity at a second chance. This historic commutation docket was the result of months-long collaboration between the Department of Corrections, Pardon and Parole Board, 200 nonprofit volunteers and many more. On Nov. 4, Gov. Stitt and First Lady Sarah Stitt greeted the 55 women at the Dr. Eddie Warrior Correctional Facility who were released

through the HB 1269 docket.

Top Ten Cabinet Tours: Gov. Stitt launched the Top Ten Cabinet Tour to engage with Oklahomans across the state.

The Stitt administration is committed to listening to and working with the people of Oklahoma to deliver a Top Ten state, which is why the governor took cabinet members on the road to hold public meetings and tour local businesses and state field offices. The Top Ten Cabinet Tour made stops in Woodward, Owasso, Lawton and McAlester.

Digital Transformation: Governor Stitt appointed the state’s first Secretary of Digital Transformation to help accomplish a vision to bring Oklahoma state government fully into the digital age. By leveraging technology, the state will become more transparency, efficient, and customer friendly. Since the beginning of 2019, Oklahoma has begun to implement digital transformation measures by: n Launching checkbook.ok.gov, moving the state’s online budget transparency ranking from 47th in 2018 to seventh place at the end of 2019. n Launching the Oklahoma Mobile ID application, allowing Oklahomans to have their licenses accessible on their smartphone devices. n Modernizing state parks by making it possible for parks to accept credit cards in the field for the first time in state history. n Beginning the process to modernize the administrative rules website to make it more user friendly and transparent.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 11

Silverback gorilla at OKC Zoo

Photo by Andrea Johnson

‘Gorillas on the Line’ at OKC Zoo

Donate old or used cellphones and help save gorilla habitats When gorillas are on the line, it’s up to us to answer the call! The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is looking to the community-at-large to help save gorillas by donating old or used cellphones to the Zoo for recycling as part of Gorillas on the Line from Saturday, Feb. 1 through Thursday, April 30.

The Zoo is home to 10 western lowland gorillas, five males and five females, ranging in age from 34-yearold Emily to 19-month-old Finyezi.

The species is critically endangered with only about 350,000 individuals remaining in the wild.

“Small electronics like cellphones frequently contain a substance called coltan and 80 percent of the world's supply is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, an area also home to many gorillas,” said Stephanie Smith, OKC Zoo senior primate caretaker.

“Mining for coltan threatens the habitats of gorillas, chimpanzees, okapi and other endangered species. When individuals donate used phones or other electronics, the coltan from those devices is re-used and reduces the need to mine for the compound in gorilla habitats.”

Schools, organizations, businesses and individuals are encouraged to collect as many cellphones and electronics as they can in support of gorilla conservation. Last year, over 260,000 people were engaged in the campaign, collecting 12,486 devices

that were recycled and raising $6,055 for gorilla conservation. For 2020, Gorillas on the Line hopes to collect 20,000 cell phones for recycling and engage 200,000 children and other community members in gorilla conservation action. Any kind of cellphone will be accepted – even the big, heavy ones from years ago that wouldn’t come close to fitting in your pocket now. Acceptable small electronics include: iPods, iPads, tablets, MP3 players and handheld gaming systems. These items can be dropped off for recycling in the Zoo’s Guest Services office in the entry plaza.

An added incentive: those who bring an old cellphone or small electronic device to donate to “Gorillas on the Line” will receive two Zoo general admission passes valid through April 30, 2021. Guests are welcome to donate additional devices, but will only receive two Zoo passes as a thank you for helping save gorillas.

Connect with Wildlife Challenge – Sunday, Feb. 2 Here’s a wild idea–disconnect from your cell and reconnect with nature at the Oklahoma City Zoo! On Sunday, Feb. 2, in exchange for free general admission, the Zoo is challenging guests to unplug from their mobile phones during the duration of their

See Gorilla, Page 12

Page 12 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Gorilla From Page 11 visit. Guests who feel up to the “Connect with Wildlife Challenge” can securely check-in their cellphones at the Zoo’s Guest Services office (located in the entry plaza) before exploring the park.

“Collectively, we have become so reliant on our smart phones that we fail to engage with the world around us,” said Greg Heanue, OKC Zoo chief marketing officer. “It’s our hope that guests who participate in the challenge will be more present and better connect with friends, family and the amazing wildlife that surrounds them. For those that take the challenge and value their wildlife connection, perhaps they’ll be inspired to go screen-less more often.”

Get back (and give back) to nature at the OKC Zoo! Located at the

crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Regular admission is $11 for adults and $8 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Effective Saturday, February 1, regular admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and by visiting Our Stories. To learn more about other happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.

Stipends are available Through the OKC Community Foundation The application process for Oklahoma’s largest private scholarship program is underway, and nearly $2.5 million is available to hundreds of high school seniors and college students from Central Oklahoma and throughout the state.

The Oklahoma City Community Foundation offers students more than 150 scholarship opportunities supported through contributions from countless private donors dedicated to enriching educational opportunity for thousands of young Oklahomans.

“Each year, we award scholarships to more than 800 students,” said Nancy Anthony, Oklahoma City Community Foundation president.

“Through the support of our donors, the community foundation has established itself as the place to find scholarships in Oklahoma.”

The community foundation has developed an online application system that places students in consideration for the scholarship programs available. The online system evaluates each application to match students with the most appropriate scholarship opportunities. The average scholarship is $2,000, and they benefit students with many interests and backgrounds.

Some scholarships target academic achievement, while others consider community service contributions.

There are scholarships for students who attend specific colleges or universities, and there are others for students in certain fields of study.

There’s even a scholarship program for students who are the first in their

families to pursue higher education.

Chris Coronado graduated from Oklahoma City’s Southeast High School in 2016 and moved on to the University of Oklahoma as the first in his family to attend college. The community foundation provided him with a New Opportunities Scholarship, a scholarship designated for first-generation students, as well as the Frierson Scholarship, a scholarship awarded to sophomores, juniors and seniors. Now Coronado is a senior with plans to enroll in medical school after graduation.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the community foundation’s support for me and other students who are like me,” Coronado said. “They have stood with us, helping to open the doors to opportunities for education, careers and successful lives.”

While most community foundation scholarships do not cover the entire cost of a college education, they can ease the financial burden for students and their families. On average, students at OU borrow $33,000 in loans over four years, and students at Oklahoma State University, take out $25,000 in loans, according to College Factual, an advocate for reducing the cost of college.

“Our scholarship programs are among the most fulfilling things we do,” said Community Foundation President Anthony. “We are grateful to our many benefactors, who share the same value for education and the same enthusiasm for the future of our state.”

Visit OCCF.academicworks.com to apply.

Shelter sponsoring a scholarship This spring, the Shelter Insurance Foundation will award a $2,000 scholarship to a graduate of Edmond North High School. Shelter Agent Steve Shed sponsors and partially funds this scholarship.

A committee of local high school officials and community leaders will select the local recipient. The committee will consider each applicant’s scholastic achievements, educational goals, citizenship, moral character and participation and leadership in school and community activities. The scholarship is given without regard to race, disability, religion, national origin or gender of applicants. The name of the recipient will be announced at the close of the school year.

The student may apply the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees, or campus housing for any course of study beginning the fall after the recipient’s high school graduation and

leading to an academic degree at any accredited college or university. The Foundation makes payment directly to the school the recipient selects.

Applications and additional information about the Shelter Foundation Scholarship will be available in January and should be completed and returned to the school official serving on the selection committee by March 31st. For more information, interested seniors should contact their high school counselor or principal or Shelter Insurance Agent Steve Shed.

One purpose of the Shelter Insurance Foundation is to fund scholarships within the operating territory of Shelter Insurance. It is sponsored by the Shelter Insurance Companies, headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Shelter offers auto, home, life, farm and business insurance services via a network of local insurance agents in our operating territory.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 13

Sports

PHOTO PROVIDED

From left are Alijha Dunn, Harvey Gray-Adams, Zerrik Best, Esa Ali, Paxton Kysar, Logan Rozon, Boston Carter, Koda Oden-Teehee and Wade Lyon. Not pictured is Andy Rankin.

Youth coach likes to see progress of young players (Editor’s Note: Coach Angie Oden leads a 9 and under boys basketball team at the YMCA. Below, the coach discusses some of aspects of the team.)

This is my fourth winter season with YMCA youth basketball.

Five of the boys have remained with me most of the time, three joined us two seasons ago, and two began play this season. They have fit right in like they belong, and they compliment our team.

I, as coach, enjoy it as much as they do. I enjoy teaching them a skill

and watching it being utilized in a game. It’s nice to see the progress of the players. But mostly, I like to see them have fun.

The Y is a great avenue to assist in youth development and to create a love of a healthy, active lifestyle. I hope! Additionally, everyone deserves an affordable place for themselves, for their kids, and for the community to stay active, and the Y accomplishes that goal.

And I love the Thunder/YMCA partnership!

--- COACH ANGIE ODEN

Dalton Abney of UCO

Abney named ‘Wrestler of the Week’ Central Oklahoma's Dalton Abney has been named Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Wrestler of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday.

The redshirt freshman 197-pounder had a dominating week on the mat for the Bronchos in going 5-0.

Abney had an 8-0 major decision in UCO's dual win over Newman last Friday and then rolled to the championship at the Jet Invitational Sunday with three first-period falls and a 6-0

finals win over No. 9-ranked Augustus Boyd of Ouachita Baptist.

Abney is 9-0 on the season after getting a late start while recovering from a knee injury suffered while redshirting last year.

He was a state champion and twotime runner-up at Cascia Hall in Tulsa.

As of late last week, the sixthranked Bronchos, were having a successful wrestling season posting an 8-1 mark.

Page 14 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Miss Black UCO to be crowned at on Feb. 15 The University of Central Oklahoma’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion will host the annual Miss Black UCO Scholarship Pageant Saturday, Feb. 15 in the Nigh University Center’s Constitution Hall located on Central’s campus. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the pageant begins at 7:30 p.m.

The pageant is an annual celebration of diversity and the unique cultures and talents of African American women at Central.

Winners of Miss Black UCO will be eligible for tuition waivers, with the overall winner receiving $1,600, divided into $800 per semester. Additional awards include the People’s Choice Award, Talent Award, Lyndale Walls Jr. Director’s Award and Photogenic Award.

Admission is free for students with a valid UCO ID and $7 for all others.

Tickets can be purchased at the door with cash, no credit cards or checks will be accepted.

Those vying for this year’s honor This year’s eight contestants, followed by hometown, classification and major are: Domonique Bruner Oklahoma City Sophomore Funeral Services Erika Burkett Dallas Sophomore Musical Theatre

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion will host the annual Miss Black UCO Scholarship Pageant Saturday, Feb. 15 in the Nigh University Center’s Constitution Hall located on Central’s campus.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the pageant begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free for students with a valid UCO ID and $7 for all others. Pictured here is Miss Black UCO 2019 Jesujomiloju Olayinka.

Tyshael Friday Oklahoma City Senior Business in Marketing Doriane Kimou Edmond

Junior Forensic Science

Nutrition and Food Science

Destiny Long Oklahoma City Sophomore Biomedical Science

Jada Wells Norman, Oklahoma Junior Forensics and Biomedical Science

Kristi Rose Oklahoma City Senior Forensic Science and Psychology Mandisa Sobers Oklahoma City Graduate Student

For more information about this year’s Miss Black UCO, contact Alivia Henry with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at 405-9743111 or e-mail ahenry12@uco.edu.

NEA investing in Oklahoma art projects The National Endowment for the Arts has announced investment in four Oklahoma projects totaling $115,000 as part of the federal arts agency’s first round of funding for its 2020 fiscal year. The grants will serve Oklahomans across the state.

“This round of National Endowment for the Arts’ funding will make possible several projects that have deep and meaningful connections to Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Arts Council Executive Director Amber Sharples. “Funding will benefit students statewide whose creative futures are boundless. It will empower the creation of a ballet that, in commemorating the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, memorializes one of our state’s most defining moments. It will invest in preserving the only authentically American approach to architecture, established right here in Oklahoma. And, it will support a landmark exhibition of artwork that reflects the creative achievements of a group of remarkable Native American women artists, includ-

ing several Oklahomans. We are grateful that the National Endowment for the Arts recognizes the merit of supporting of these projects.”

Oklahoma projects earning grants are: Oklahoma Arts Institute ($40,000) – to support the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain. The summer institute is a nationally recognized two-week residential school that provides professional training to Oklahoma high school students across artistic disciplines. Faculty artists include winners of the Pulitzer Prize and Academy, Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Awards.

Oklahoma City Ballet ($10,000) – to support the creation and presentation of choreographer Robert Mills’ “A Little Peace,” a work that commemorates the 25th anniversary of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building in Oklahoma City in 2020.

University of Oklahoma ($20,000) – to support the creation of an interactive online architectural

history database about the American School of Architecture. In the 1950s and 60s, the school developed what is considered the only authentically American approach to architecture.

Philbrook Museum of Art ($45,000) – to support the exhibition and related programming of “Hearts of Our People: Native Women Artists,” the first major thematic show exploring the artistic achievements of Native women. In organizing the groundbreaking show, the Minneapolis Institute of Art relied on collaboration with a group of Native artists, curators, and Native art historians that included numerous Oklahomans. The show features more than 115 works of art including “Women’s Voices at the Council,” a painting from the Oklahoma State Art Collection by Joan Hill (Muscogee Creek/Cherokee).

The next deadline for National Endowment for the Arts grant applications is Feb. 13 in the Grants for Arts Project category. Oklahoma organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Jim Thorpe award handed out Feb. 4 Grant attended Lamar High Paycom Jim Thorpe Award School. Delpit was a standout winner Grant Delpit, a memathlete at Lamar and transber of the National Champiferred to IMG Academy in onship Louisiana State Bradenton, Florida where he University team, will tour excelled on the football field. the Jim Thorpe RehabilitaHe finished his senior year at tion facility at Integris SouthIMG with 47 tackles, five interwest Medical Center on ceptions and six pass breakups.

Tuesday, Feb. 4, starting at Delpit He returned two interceptions 10 a.m. Delpit will visit with for touchdowns and was a conpatients and sign autosensus four-star prospect. Following graphs before attending a luncheon being held in his honor at the facility. high school, Grant attended Louisiana State University, (LSU) on The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is an athletic scholarship. given annually to the top defensive As a freshman at LSU Delpit played back in college football. Grant Delpit in all 13 games for the Tigers. He fingrew up in New Orleans, Louisiana ished fourth on the team with 60 before his family was displaced by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The DelSee Thorpe, Page 15 pits moved to Houston, Texas where

Genealogy group to meet Feb. 19 showing her research from President's Day is the day Oklahoma back to Illinois, not we honor two of our past far from Springfield, Lincoln's Presidents, George Washhome and burial place. ington and Abraham LinJune has spent 50 years coln. doing research and belongs to Both had tremendous imthe Oklahoma Genealogical Sopact on the development of ciety, Daughters of Union Veterour nation. On Wednesday, ans of the Civil War, Daughters Feb. 19, at 10:15 a.m., the Stone of 1812, Daughters of the AmerOklahoma Home and Comican Revolution and Colonial munity Education GenealDames. ogy group will meet in the Fischer The OHCE Genealogy group meets Board Room at the Oklahoma Histhe third Wednesday of every month tory Center to hear June Stone presto encourage, share and teach the ent "My Journey to the Land of history of our ancestors and their Lincoln."

June is a fourth generation Oklaho- lives. The meetings are open to the public and more information can be man with eight ancestors in Oklafound at our website www.ohcegehoma or Indian Territory before statehood. She has always been inter- nealogy.com or find us on Facebook: ohcegenealogy, ested in family history and will be

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 15

Strong emotions shown in ‘Marriage Story’

By George Gust From writer/director Noah Baumbach, "Marriage Story" follows a stage director (Adam Driver) and his actor wife (Scarlett Johansson) as they struggle through a grueling, coast-to-coast divorce that pushes them to their personal and creative extremes.

Nominated for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Laura Dern), Best Actor (Driver) and Best Actress (Johansson), "Marriage Story" is a powerful film about the emotional trauma of divorce and the underlying love of the family through it all. "acting" scenes. In somewhat contrast to the heavy With this film, Baumbach has meticulously recreemotional beats of the movie, Dern and Ray Liotta ated both sides of a messy divorce from the munplay the humorously callous lawyers on either side dane everyday details of life to the big emotions of the divorce to lighten up the proceedings. Dern that come with the dissolution of a once happy especially was a standout for her ability to be marriage. Through the writing, directing and perequal parts empathetic to her client and ruthless in formances "Marriage Story" portrays fully formed her legal tactics rightly earning Dern an Oscar characters that have perspectives and motivations nomination for best supporting actress. that are endlessly relatable even though their expeOverall, "Marriage Story" is a moving and perriences can feel brutally painful at times. sonal look at the fallout of a marriage splitting up, It's difficult to describe "Marriage Story" in a few but a family staying together. While the content of sentences as there's no real 'hook' to the story, but the film is heavy and painful at times, there is a instead you get a personal glimpse of a tumultuous sweetness in underlying familial love that remains time in these characters' lives. This personal apafter the pain of divorce, brought to life realistiproach gives way for the phenomenal performcally and powerfully by the performances of Driver ances of Driver and Johansson. There are several and Johansson. scenes in the film where Baumbach uses limited “Marriage Story’ is rated R for language throughcamera work that gives the appropriate time and out and sexual references. space for the performances to breathe to great suc4.7 out of 5 stars cess. There's not a lot of time to cut away to flashbacks showing the audience the good times of the marriage, instead we hear the good and bad through the characters' own voice in way that makes the audience feel like they're listening to a friend.

"Marriage Story" is a showcase for the incredible acting talent of Driver and Johansson. They can handle the big emotional scenes where they get to shout and cry as well as the more subtle glancing PHOTO PROVIDED looks that are able to Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson star in Oscar Nominated ‘Marriage convey just as much emo- Story.’ Writer/Director, Noah Baumbach's searing and bittersweet portion as the more obvious trayal of love, family and divorce available to stream now on Netflix.

Thorpe From Page 14 tackles and recorded one interception and nine passes defended.

He had at least one tackle in every game during his freshman season. Delpit continued his stellar play for the Tigers as a Sophomore, finishing the 2018 season as a consensus AllAmerican and First Team All-SEC and a finalist for the Nagurski Award. He led the SEC in interceptions with five and finished number two in the league in passes defended with 14. Delpit wrapped up his sophomore year with 74 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, nine pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery setting up what would become a memorable junior season.

Grant entered the 2019 season as one of the top defensive backs in the country and would finish it as one of the best DBs to ever play at LSU. A consensus All-American at safety, Delpit became the first LSU player named first team Walter Camp All-America in consecutive seasons since running back Charles Alexander in 1977-1978.

The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame will honor Delpit at the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet on Tuesday night, Feb. 4 in Oklahoma City.

The banquet will be held at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: BE MY VALENTINE ACROSS 1. *Abelard to Heloise 6. C.E.O.'s degree 9. a.k.a Snowmobile 13. Make amends 14. Over, poetically 15. Garlic unit 16. ____ lazuli 17. New, prefix 18. Bumpkin 19. *St. Valentine's Day Massacre city 21. James Bond's drink of choice 23. Building annex 24. Galsworthy's "The Forsyte ____" 25. MD, familiarly 28. Land of Nod, in relation to Eden 30. Hire for work 35. Part of an eye 37. Feudal laborer 39. Request from Amazon 40. Waterproofed canvas 41. Bunch of bees 43. Black cat, e.g.

44. Apollo of "Rocky" 46. Roofed colonnade 47. X in a letter 48. Medicinal herb 50. Tangerine-grapefruit hybrid 52. Tennis barrier 53. Hold as a conviction 55. End of a fuse?

57. *____ Valentine, a.k.a. humorous Valentine 61. *One of star-crossed lovers 65. Beyond's occasional partner 66. E.T. transporter 68. Wombs 69. Hansen's disease patient 70. Young canine 71. *Flirt 72. *They used to be each other's Valentines 73. Attempt 74. Passover meal

DOWN 1. Barber's supply 2. Arizona's neighbor 3. Serengeti antelope 4. *Like a bottle of champagne 5. "Goodwill Industries" business 6. *Unfortunate consequence of kissing?

7. Busy as a what?

8. *Pleasant bouquet smell 9. Vegas bandit 10. Mischievous Norse deity 11. ____-tempered 12. Sub station 15. *Roxane's pen pal 20. "Heart of ____," Blondie's hit 22. Well-kept secret, for some 24. Strata, sing.

25. *Go ____, or split the cost of a date 26. Estrogen maker 27. The smallest dwarf planet 29. Uses a Singer 31. Get the picture 32. Short for administrator

33. Goslings, when they grow up 34. *German artist or Young's partner 36. "Singes" in "La PlanËte des Singes" 38. *Mr. Right, pre-kiss 42. Tiny European republic 45. Jackie Robinson, e.g.

49. Princess tester 51. "My two cents," pl.

54. Do like Vesuvius 56. *Heloise to Abelard 57. Wide river valley 58. Wild goat 59. Uh-uh 60. "The Three Faces of ____," pl.

61. Printer button 62. Old paint hazard 63. Gaelic tongue 64. *Wedding cake layer 67. "___ Elise"

See Answers on Page 19

Answers Page 19

Page 16 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Ken Humphries, Ph.D.

Study looks at link with diabetes & the heart The healthy heart thrives on flexibility, using any available nutrient source for fuel. But in diabetes, that flexibility stops.

Scientists at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation are investigating why this inflexibility occurs with diabetes and, ultimately, what can be done about it.

“The healthy heart has a dynamic capacity to respond and adapt to changes in nutrient availability — it’s an omnivore,” said OMRF researcher Kenneth Humphries, Ph.D. “The problem with diabetes, though, is the heart’s inability to use or make insulin, a hormone that allows your blood to use sugar.”

In diabetes, either you’re not making enough insulin or it’s not working properly, said Humphries.

This increases the heart’s reliance on fats to meet energy demands, which can lead to damaging effects and even death.

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in diabetic patients, and it can result in a specific type of heart disease called diabetic cardiomyopathy.

“So far, there are no effective treatments for this type of heart disease,” said OMRF graduate student Maria Newhardt, who contributed to the research.

“We are trying to increase our fundamental understanding of heart metabolism and how it is disrupted in diabetes so better therapeutic treatments can be developed.”

Humphries and his team conducted a study to see if they could increase flexibility in the hearts of diabetic mice by introducing the complications of obesity.

“Obviously, regulating blood sugar would be the ultimate goal, but we’re looking fundamentally at how the heart responds to differences in nutrient availability,” said Humphries. “We decided to try to force the diabetic heart to use more sugar and see if that made the diabetic heart go back to its normal function.”

The team uncovered a previously unknown form of metabolic regulation. They discovered that two cellular switches in the heart that determine what nutrients the heart will use are interrelated, rather than independent, as previously thought.

These switches need to be able to turn on and off, but in diabetes, one is constantly turned on.

Newhardt said this basic finding is a next step in understanding how diabetes impacts heart health and how interventions—future drugs and therapies— might be used to treat the effects of diabetes on the heart.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 17

Insurance Commissioner looks back on first year

Business marks 20th anniversary Back40 Design and Outlook Magazine recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their relocation and 20-year anniversary.

Back40 is one of Oklahoma’s most established and trusted full-service design and digital marketing firms. Since 2000, they have been creating award-winning digital marketing projects while providing secure website hosting for upwards of 650 clients across the country.

Back40 doesn't just produce digital designs. They also design and publish the monthly Edmond Outlook magazine, which is focused on promoting local people, places, and events. The magazine is mailed to over 50,000 homes in seven Edmond area zip codes from Guthrie to Gaillardia and from Deer Creek to Arcadia.

For more information, visit www.back40design.com.

Edmond Housing Market at a Glance

In 2010 Realtors sold 2,940 homes in Edmond. Last year that one-year total shot up to 4,714 homes --- almost 2,000 more sales than 2010.

Edmond’s billion dollar market

By Brian Preston We finished the year for Edmond, Deer Creek and Oakdale School systems with 4,714 closed residential closings!

That is 304 more transactions than last year for an increase of 7 percent Way to go Edmond!

And being last year was a record setting high, that big increase is the new record.

We were on our way to record setting year at the end of the third quarter, but the last three months were the best for last six years and maybe ever. Making even a better record year by up 7% instead of 2%. We had seven months in 2019 that were the best in last six years.

Total sales volume for the area was $1.44 billion, with $354.56 million in new construction. So existing homes alone hit the $1 billion sales volume for the first time.

Another first, was the annual average price was over $300,000 for the first time, with an year ending amount of $306,944. Median price for the year was $257,000, the first time over $250,000.

Active inventory is still down overall at 1,073. Even though we have more homes than usual in the upper

price ranges, we have absorption rates lower in this price ranges compared to previous years. because more are selling. We had 49 homes sell for over a $1 million, just missing that 50 milestone. And we still have quite a few homes under contract in the higher brackets to start off the year. We’ve come a long way from 1995 when highest sale was around $730,000.

New homes had a good year in 2019 as well, coming back from the record year of 2014. It was still not a record but the first up year since 2014.

New home Sales 2014 ---- 1118 2015 ---- 1079 2016 ---- 945 2017 ---- 907 2018 ---- 869 2019 ---- 1057 It helped having five months this year with over a 100 closings for the month, including December. the last such 100 closing month was in 2015.

Congrats to everyone on the record year highs and hopefully we can break it again in 2020.

(Brian Preston is an Edmond Realtor who closely follows the market.)

In January 2019, Glen Mulready became the state’s 13th insurance commissioner. With Commissioner Mulready’s vision to become a Top 10 insurance department, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) began a top-to-bottom review and accomplished great results in 2019.

During his first year, Mulready and his team have tirelessly worked to improve OID’s services by adapting best practices, modernizing its systems and practicing clear communication. He implemented the rebranding of OID, identified more cost savings, launched the new website, moved to electronic filing systems, upgraded the facility, became an Insurance Business Transfer (IBT) global leader and launched the “Mulready Says Get Ready” campaign.

“Our goal is simple: we should work for the people,” Mulready said. “Everything we do is to protect consumers and ensure a fair, competitive marketplace. Our efforts have helped us reduce paper processes, process licenses quicker and resolve consumer complaints faster. And more changes are ahead because I believe well-run organizations always evolve. We can always work better.”

Mulready said making changes is difficult, but it is essential to keep up with the industry they regulate that continues to develop and utilize innovative technology. He also said the department is learning the most modern tools to maximize their abilities and resources. In his view, having a team that understands the importance of going above and beyond is of the utmost.

“We’ve made great progress, and I’m so proud of what our team has accomplished,” he said. “We’re focused on training our staff to have the most modern skill sets and creating a culture that is based on our five core values: being competent, trustworthy, client-focused, positive and a team player. Our team is willing to go the extra mile, and that’s how we transformed OID. That’s why we’re one step closer to a Top 10 insurance department.”

One of his priorities for 2020 is visiting rural parts of Oklahoma and meeting with citizens through “Coffee with the Commissioner.” He’s made it clear he intends to keep making changes to improve OID and says he’d like to maintain this momentum as he heads into his second year.

See First Year, Page 18

Page 18 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Lawmaker wants gun law repealed State Rep. Jason Lowe (D-OKC) has filed two pieces of legislation focused on making public spaces safer for Oklahomans.

House Bill 3357 would repeal last year’s permitless carry legislation.

“There is no doubt in my mind that if people got to vote on whether firearm safety training should be necessary to carry a firearm in public, where our children are, permitless carry would not be the law,” Lowe said. “This legislation is a product of the hundreds of conversations I have had personally with Oklahomans who don’t want irresponsible gun owners to carry firearms in public.”

House Bill 3897 would ban long-barrel firearms from Oklahoma restaurants. This legislation is meant to make these spaces safer and more welcoming to citizens.

“Having patrons carry long-barrel firearms into a restaurant isn’t good for business or the mental health of the restaurant’s patrons,” Lowe said. “Oklahomans, especially children, veterans suffering from PTSD, people suffering from mental illness, should have the ability to enter a restaurant in Oklahoma and not feel threatened or endangered by the presence of military-style weapons.”

While public safety is paramount, a byproduct of Lowe’s legislation would be a fix to an unintended consequence caused by the passage of permitless carry.

“The business owners I have spoken with don’t like being drug into this highly controversial issue,” Lowe said. “When we told store owners that they could decide who could and couldn’t carry in their place of business, we forced them to pick sides and alienate customers. Our government should make laws that help small businesses not hurt them.”

Governor has a travel ban for California As millions of people across the United States come together last week for the National March for Life, Gov. Kevin Stitt announced a ban on state-funded travel to the State of California.

“California and its elected officials over the past few years have banned travel to the State of Oklahoma in an effort to politically threaten and intimidate Oklahomans for their personal values.

Enough is enough. If California’s elected officials don’t want public employees traveling to Oklahoma, I am eager to return the gesture on behalf of Oklahoma’s pro-life stance. I am proud to be Governor of a state that fights for the most vulnerable among us, the unborn,” said Gov. Stitt The most recent government action from California came from the City of San Francisco in October 2019, which banned city-paid travel to the Sooner State, citing Oklahoma’s laws that protect and ensure the right of an unborn child’s life.

EO 2020-02 bans all non-essential travel to the State of California for all state employees and officers of agencies that is paid for by the State of Oklahoma. The executive order provides an exemption to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce in order for the agency to continue its recruitment efforts to bring more job creators to the business-friendly state of Oklahoma.

There are exemptions for sports and business however.

Department of Commerce staffers are allowed to travel to California to recruit businesses. It also includes exceptions for state athletic teams and support personnel to travel to California for games.

In The Oklahoman newspaper Friday, state Democrat lawmakers, as well as an official with Planned Parenthood, were critical of the move by Gov. Stitt.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Construction will soon start on a new eSports arena at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford. The arena and eSports program will be located in the Wellness Center.

College embraces eSports program Southwestern Oklahoma State University is joining of the fastest-growing segments in sports and entertainment by starting a competitive (or scholastic) eSports program on the Weatherford campus.

Construction will soon start on a new eSports arena that will be located in the Wellness Center.

It is expected to be finished by the Fall 2020 semester with construction beginning this spring. eSports, or electronic sports, is a competition that involves team-based video games. With the new eSports program, SWOSU is excited to offer students another means of re-enforcing student engagement while collaborating within teams. eSports connects people from around the world through gaming.

“This phenomenon engages younger, tech-savvy students and SWOSU will be part of the excite-

ment being established at universities and K-12 schools across the world,” said SWOSU President Randy Beutler.

Directing the SWOSU program will be Dean of Students Joshua Engle. Coach of the eSports student competitors will be SWOSU Computer Science faculty member and Computer Club Advisor Hayden Harrington.

SWOSU expects to compete in the following games: Super Smash Bros, Rocket League, League of Legends, Overwatch and Counter Strike.

“The main goal is to create a team headquarters for gamers on the SWOSU campus and to let people learn more about eSports,” Harrington said.

“We plan to help shape the eSports competition in western Oklahoma and other areas, providing students with insight into the kind of skill sets that will be useful,” Engle said.

United Way reports raising over $17 million United Way of Central Oklahoma celebrated the close of its 2019 fundraising campaign Friday night with its 19th annual Snowflake Gala at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

United Way revealed a grand total of $17,501,030 was raised through more than 700 employee workplace campaigns, corporate gifts, individual donors, and initiatives. This year’s campaign had more than 30,000 generous donors.

This year’s goal simply could not have been met without the generous support of our top community partners, which include Chesapeake Energy Corpo-

ration, Devon Energy Corporation, OGE Energy Corp., Loves Travel Stops and Country Stores, Inc, American Fidelity, The Chickasaw Nation, E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Enable Midstream Partners, Bank of Oklahoma, and Midfirst Bank.

“We are incredibly lucky to be connected with such strong community partners,” said Debby Hampton, President and CEO of United Way of Central Oklahoma. “When there’s a need, our community leaders always step up to help make a difference in central Oklahoma,” she said.

“This is what it means to be a good community partner,” said

Bill Lance, Secretary of Commerce for The Chickasaw Nation and campaign co-chairman along with co-chair Sherri Lance. “In difficult times like these, central Oklahomans need help from the United Way more than ever and we are very appreciative of the tremendous support the community has shown for the United Way and its Partner Agencies.”

“The Chickasaw Nation is pleased to continue its longstanding commitment to United Way of Central Oklahoma. We are proud of our leadership role in funding the resources needed to assist the most vulnerable citizens of this community,” added Lance.

First Year From Page 17 Some of his accomplishments include: Total cost savings: $329,485 Completion of the new building that will save $15 million over the next 20 years Investing in workforce development Using clear and simple language and formats that are easy to read and understand Providing Oklahomans with more insurance options Improving the insurance business climate through a free-market approach

Passing the first IBT transaction approved by an insurance commissioner in the country and awaiting the court approval Launching the new website with a simpler design that works better on mobile devices To learn more about his efforts, read the OID’s 2019 Annual Report.

If you have questions about other insurance issues, contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071 or visit their website at www.oid.ok.gov.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 30, 2020 • Page 19

Ronald McDonald House ‘Kid Governor’ & others help foster children Through the Foster Care program, Sunbeam works Last month, the community joined Oklahoma receives beef donation Last week Jesse Bierig, a beef producer from Major County and member of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association (OCA) delivered just over 400 pounds of beef to the Ronald McDonald House Charity in Oklahoma City.

"I was honored to deliver Oklahoma raised beef to the Ronald McDonald House on behalf of the Major County Cattlemen's Association," said Bierig.

The Ronald McDonald House Charity in Oklahoma City allows families with sick children to stay together and near the medical care they need.

Helping a sick child fight their illness takes a big enough emotional toll on a family. Adding a financial strain can make it almost too much to bear.

The Houses offer all of the comforts of home.

"Volunteers from the community prepare home cooked meals for dinner each evening for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House. I was a member of OCA's Cattlemen's Leadership Academy last year where I had the opportunity to serve as a guest chef alongside fellow cattlemen," said Bierig. We cooked steaks for the families and then sat and ate supper with them. I saw an opportunity for our local chapter, the Major County Cattlemen's Association, to help families in need while sharing part of our livelihood. So we put a steer on feed and made plans to donate the beef to this worthy cause."

Because cattlemen care, OCA is helping coordinate beef donations to the OKC and Tulsa Ronald McDonald Houses. Each Ronald McDonald House uses 2-3 beefs per year. Let us know if you'd like to help feed families going through a tough time by emailing chanson@okcattlemen.org or calling the OCA office at 405-235-4391.

Kid Governor Luke Peterson in supporting children in foster care. Through “Luke’s Nighttime Supplies” drive, more than 100 pairs of new pajamas and 125 books were donated to Sunbeam Family Services. Local businesses Orthodontics Exclusively and The Bankers Bank participated as drop-off partners.

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who made my Nighttime Supplies drive a success!” said Peterson. “Because of your generosity, we can help Oklahoma children in foster care have books and pajamas to call their own. Although these supplies seem so simple in nature, they will provide a huge impact for the kids receiving them. I encourage everyone to remember this is a year-round need and their contributions will help children in foster care with a sense of security, and hopefully provide sweet dreams for each of them.”

In Oklahoma alone, nearly 8,000 children are in state custody and in need of a loving home.

with families in Canadian, Cleveland, Grady, Logan, McClain and Oklahoma counties to provide a safe home for children.

“Children are often unable to bring their personal possessions with them when initially entering Foster Care,” said Midge Woodard, director of Foster Care at Sunbeam. “Children must have their basic needs met at placement, but it’s easy to forget about items like books and pajamas. Luke’s drive was important to help us meet this need.”

Sunbeam’s Foster Care program serves children from birth to 17 years old. Foster Care staff are available 24/7, which means foster parents can call at any time for assistance. Sunbeam foster parents must be at least 21 years old and can be single or married.

To learn more about becoming a foster parent, or how to support Sunbeam’s Foster Families, visit sunbeamfamilyservices.org/fostercare or contact Simyra Cooper at (405) 609.8931.

Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi Good Shepherd Anglican Church (Traditional Episcopal) 1000 N. Broadway, Edmond •314-8715 Sundays - Holy Communion 8:00 & 10:00am Animal Friendly Parish “If you have people who exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have those who deal likewise with their fellow human being.”

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

www.anglicancgsedmondok.com 1928 Book of Common Prayer • anglicancgesedmondok.com

SCRIPTURE • TRADITION • REASON

Page 20 • January 30, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure