March 7, 2019
Vol. 19, No. 41
In This Issue DIRECTIONS
DREAM HOME
GROUNDBREAKING Annual benefit to help St. Jude’s Directions, by Joe Slack, in real life is located in front of OnCue, at 15th and I-35, 4100 E. 15th Street, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email c o n te s t @ e d m o n d p a p e r. c o m with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.
The results are in! Find out who your 2019 Edmond Favorites are on page 19!
PHOTO PROVIDED
FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Mostly Cloudy High 51° Low 38°
SATURDAY, MARCH 9 Showers High 51° Low 32°
SUNDAY, MARCH 10 Mostly Sunny High 44° Low 29°
Members of Edmond’s Epsilon Sigma Alpha service organization took part in a recent house groundbreaking that will benefit St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital. ESA’s Gamma Zeta members recently attended the annual St. Jude Dream Home groundbreaking ceremony. Seen in the photograph are members, from left, Liz King, Tietje German, Jacci Gantz, Sandi Robinson, patient Micah and his mom Nikki Oraene, and member Laura Howells. Epsilon Sigma Alpha members join Cadence Homes in the fight against childhood cancer as they celebrated together the groundbreaking of the new lot for the 3,000 square foot St. Jude dream home. This year’s home is located in Arcadia close to Second and Hiwassee Road. Tickets are $100 and go on sale June 6. For more information contact Titiana Cannon at 405-519-3090. ESA is an international philanthropic organization. Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s and its Edmond Gamma Zeta chapter is about inspiring leadership and service by bringing people together to pursue programs and
projects that make a positive difference locally, nationally and internationally. Other Edmond projects include Project 66, UR Special, All Things Baby, Free to Live, Mobile Meals, and Baptist Boys’ Ranch Town. State projects include Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Okla. and School for the Blind in Muskogee, Okla.
ESA’s national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. If interested in joining this active group, please call Linda Coniglio at 405-919-2052. Last year Richard Healy of Oklahoma City won the 2018 Oklahoma City St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway
house. The home is at 2300 NW 220th Terrace, Edmond. The house and other prizes were given away on Aug. 29. The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in Memphis, Tenn., was founded in 1962 and is a pediatric treatment and research facility focused on children’s catastrophic diseases, particularly leukemia and other cancers. The hospital costs about $2.4 million a day to run, and there is no cost to the patient to be treated.
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Santa Fe Double Wolf Dare Week
FILE PHOTO/ MELINDA INFANTE
This year students at Edmond Santa Fe High School helped to raise money for Anna’s House, a group which helps children in state custody. A snow day last week forced Santa Fe to move back their final Double Wolf Dare Week assembly to Monday of this week. Because of deadline issues, we were not able to report the final number raised for the worthy cause. However, the students’ efforts will be profiled in the March 14 edition of Edmond Life & Leisure.
Gov. Kevin Stitt signs the ‘Constitutional Carry’ bill into law.
‘Constitutional Carry’ law goes into effect Nov. 1 Gov. Kevin Stitt last week signed House Bill 2597, which establishes “Constitutional Carry” in the state of Oklahoma. “Oklahomans are strong supporters of the Second Amendment, and they made their voice known as I traveled across all 77 counties last year,” said Stitt. “I would like to thank Representative Jon Echols and Senator Kim David for championing this piece of legislation and for finding balance for both private property owners and our Second Amendment rights.” HB 2597 establishes “Constitutional Carry,” allowing the concealed or unconcealed carry of firearms by any person who is at least twentyone years of age or at least eighteen years of age and in the military, if the person is not otherwise disqualified to purchase a firearm. Provisions in the bill include the
following: n Under the bill, you cannot carry a concealed or unconcealed handgun in public and private schools K-college, public or private sports arenas, gambling facilities, government buildings, and private businesses, unless allowed by owner. n The bill maintains current law that you must pass a background check to purchase a gun. n The bill maintains current law that you must disclose guns in your possession when requested by law enforcement officer. n The bill maintains current law that those convicted with a felony cannot own or buy a gun. n Gun owners can still obtain a license in Oklahoma, with reciprocity recognized in multiple states across the nation. HB 2597 goes into effect Nov. 1.
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From the Publisher
Frenzy Brewing Co. to launch in Edmond There has been much in the news about new businesses coming to Edmond, especially businesses that are locally owned and offer great things to eat or drink. The good folks at Frenzy Brewing Co. contacted us about more good news. They have plans to open their brewing operation in Edmond city limits. Ray Hibbard I could be completely incorrect, but I don’t know if Edmond has ever had their own craft brewing company or any kind of brewing company. We will do some research on it and let you know but feel free to email me if you know of one. This company could be making Edmond history. However, when it comes to brewing and beer, first things first. Folks want to know about the product before they get interested in where it will be brewed in the future. The good news is that you can find out about the quality of Frenzy Brewing products this coming Saturday, March 9 at The Patriarch Craft Beer House in downtown Edmond. They are holding a launch party at noon. Frenzy will launch with a trio of beers: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah (‘Cause I’m a Blonde) Belgian Blonde, Unspeakable Things New England IPA and Pink Thing Cherry Milkshake IPA. The launch serves as the culmination of numerous years of homebrewing and planning by Edmond homebrewer Matt Conner, and his wife, Beth. The duo worked together to brew and pour their beer over several years, enjoying increasing success on the homebrew circuit and in brewing competitions. In 2016, they branded their homebrew operation Frenzy Brewing Co., and last year brought fellow homebrewer and business partner Jeremy Estle into the fold. With a product launch scheduled, the team now looks forward to its ultimate plan which is opening the first brewery in Edmond city limits. “Edmond is about to undergo a renaissance and Frenzy is going to be a big part of it,” said Conner, a bank branch manager in Edmond who has received dozens of awards for his homebrewed beer. “Historically Edmond has been lacking for new and locally owned entertainment. Currently the trend around the country is for hyper-local.” “Oklahoma City has seen this in the multitude of districts that have popped up, like Plaza, Uptown, Midtown and Film Row. Edmond residents have had to visit Oklahoma City to experience what these districts offer. We are starting to see the hyper-local trend in Edmond,” Conner added. Frenzy is currently brewing its beer under contract at Angry Scotsman Brewing Co. in Oklahoma City while plans are finalized on its Edmond location. Estle, a customer support manager for a local telecommunications firm, and a homebrewer since the 1990s, said Frenzy had considered Oklahoma City. Ultimately, Estle and Conner, both long-time Edmond residents, knew delivering a brewery to Edmond would mean more. “Having a brewery in Edmond will only serve to enhance this community and provide a destination where people can come together over a cold beer,” Estle said. “Edmond is very near and dear to my heart. Having grown up here and raised my family
RAY HIBBARD
Jeremy Estle, left, and Matt Conner will launch a trio of beers at their launch party to be held at The Patriarch Craft Beer House in downtown Edmond this Saturday, March 9 at noon.
here, I want the best for Edmond and to do what I can to keep Edmond as one of the premier places to live in Oklahoma. Being able to express my passion for beer and build community in my hometown will be my way of providing the city I love more entertainment options,” he said. The pair plans to brew a mix of beer styles to cater to a wide variety of tastes. “Nothing will be off limits,” Conner said. “We have no plans to be a niche brewery. Bars and breweries that have an eclectic mix of styles are our favorites and we want to provide that to our customers. We plan to brew somewhere around six to eight year-round offerings, with four to six more one-offs and variants on tap always. Our taproom will offer American, English, Belgian and German styles.” Following the launch at The Patriarch, consumers can expect to see Frenzy beers on tap at bars and restaurants around the metro by late March. An announcement on plans for the Edmond taproom is expected in the coming months. “It is an exciting time to be in Edmond,” Conner said. “The lack of a brewery is an obvious void that needs to be filled. We are both long-time Edmond residents and take pride in our city. We
can’t wait to be a part of the great things coming to Edmond.” My guess is the zoning and license process to open a brewery or even a tasting room in Edmond, OK. must be long. I do like that they are launching their product first. This will let folks know what kind of beer they are brewing and decide if they are going to be a fan or not. My hope is that they locate Frenzy in or close to downtown Edmond. Walking distance would be good. Those of you older than 40 might remember the place we had to drink beer here in downtown. You certainly would not call it a craft brew pub. It was more like what folks used to call a “beer joint.” It was right behind our offices in the area that is now to the north of the Festival Market Place or Farmers Market. In fact, the city purchased the property and knocked it down to make way for the plaza that now sits on the property. It was painted all green and we used to call it the Green Hog. I honestly can’t remember the real name. When I was working at the Edmond Sun for the Livermore family, we would take breaks at 5 p.m. to go have a cold beer before returning to work. We didn’t get intoxicated, but we were just a little happier in our work for the rest of the evening. Downtown Edmond has made so much progress and is full of some great locally owned businesses. We are on the cusp of getting more. The next two years should be exciting. See you on March 9 at the Patriarch.
(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Check out what’s inside! n Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 9. n It’s that crazy basketball time of year ........................................Page 10. n Dave Farris column ....................................................................Page 11. n How to handle grief ..................................................................Page 14. n George Gust looks back at Marvel movies ................................Page 15. n Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15. n Edmond Favorites winners ..........................................................Page 19. n Business news ............................................................................Page 21. n Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.
See if you can find ‘Directions’ “Directions,” in real life is located in front of OnCue, at 15th and I-35, 4100 E 15th Street, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. E-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Local artist Joe Slack created the sculpture to draw the public in. “I just want to engage,” said Slack, “And for it to be part of the landscape.” At it’s tallest point of 17 feet ‘Directions' is the largest sculpture Slack has ever attempted. It features three huge faces with a rust patina. Located along I-35 it is certain to draw travelers in to engage with just one of the pieces of public art Edmond is known for. 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
Cover Design April Burgess Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2019 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax)
Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com
Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083
Advertising Account Executive Chris Thomas chris@edmondpaper.com
All rights reserved. Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing.
Contributing Writers Dave Farris, Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante
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Edmond Life & Leisure • March 7, 2019 • Page 5
Artist Gaylon Thompson
Edmond FAI will host a Plein Air workshop En plein air is a French expression that means “in the open air.” It is used by artists to describe the art of outdoor painting, capturing landscapes and views in natural light. ... Plein air painting is about leaving the four walls of your studio behind and experiencing painting and drawing in the landscape. The practice goes back for centuries but was truly made into an art form by the French Impressionists. Join artist Gaylon Thompson for this one day workshop at the Fine Arts Institute. Gaylon has taught painting and drawing classes at Tinker AFB for 20 years, and has been plein air painting for the last 15 years. This is an introduction to Plein-Air Painting. Open to all media. You are
not expected to have all the equipment listed. Just bring what you have. Workshop will be held at the Fine Arts Institute, 27 East Edwards. Weather permitting, additional locations will be enjoyed. Saturday, March 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $77. For more information please visit edmondfinearts.com or call the FAI at 340-4481 For 34 years, the Fine Arts Institute has been Edmond’s nonprofit community arts organization offering educational enrichment for adults and children in the visual and performing arts. Located at 27 East Edwards across for the downtown post office, the FAI is the place for all ages to discover, create and perform.
Many events at UCO will help mark Women’s history month The University of Central Oklahoma will host a variety of events throughout March to mark Women’s History Month, celebrating women’s contributions throughout history and empowering Central’s community of women – students, faculty and staff. With “Unity” as the theme for 2019, events will highlight the accomplishments women have achieved by working together. “We hope that the events of this month will inspire and empower students, staff and faculty on campus to continue to work in unity to carry on the legacy of our incredible historic ‘sheroes,’” said Liz Tabak, graduate assistant for the Women’s Outreach Center. Additional Women’s History Month events include: n Wear Red for Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, March 11: In cooperation with the Native American Student Association, the campus community is encouraged to wear red in re-
membrance of murdered and missing indigenous women. n Wear Women’s and Gender Issues: An Interactive Discussion, 6 p.m., March 27, Thatcher Hall: The Women’s Research and BGLTQ+ Student Center offer an interactive discussion about women and gender issues. n Wear Exceptional Women’s Brunch, 11 a.m., March 28, Nigh University Center, Will Rogers Room 421: This brunch and awards ceremony will celebrate the accomplishments of women at UCO. Ellen Stackable, executive director of Poetic Justice will be the keynote speaker. The event is open to members of the UCO community. This event is STLR-tagged for Global and Cultural Competencies. n Selena Film and Karaoke Night, 5 p.m., March 28, Nigh University Center Heritage Room 326: the S.T.A.R.S. Multicultural Honors Society and the Women’s Outreach Center will commemorate late global pop star Selena.
A sample of Gaylon’s landscape art
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OKC Philharmonic & upcoming season The Oklahoma City Philharmonic, announces details of the 2019-2020 season, in preparation for Alexander Mickelthwate, Music Director’s second season. Audiences will relish the experience of popular compositions in the classical music genre that are sure to please, and will equally look forward to the fresh and unique pairings of Alexanders programming choices. For Season Ticket Information call (405) 842-5387, M-F 9AM5PM. The Classical Season Classics Opening night, Sept. 14, 2019 features the beloved Beethoven Symphony No. 5 in C minor, op.67 and includes selections that celebrate the contrasting spirit of the 21st Century, with an intriguing dash of Oklahoma history. The opening arrangement will highlight Oklahoma’s cultural heritage, and will feature Tim Nevaquaya, Native American Flute and John Hamilton, drummer and singer. A first for the OKCPHIL, Arutiunian’s Trumpet concerto will spotlight Matilda Lloyd, trumpet. Oct. 5, 2019 classics is inspired by the magical film music from the movie “Life of Pi”. Several compositions beacon the listener to journey with the music to distant lands. Included in this program are South Asian musicians, including Academy Award nominated, Indian Carnatic music vocalist Bombay Jayashri. Additionally the program includes Britten’s Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes, op.33a; Michael Danna’s Suite from “Life of Pi” with flute and Poorvalur Sriji, kanjira, Wijerante’s Yatra, and a special feature from young composer Dacey Tietz from the El Sistema Oklahoma program, Adventurous Voyage for full orchestra. Rounding out this rich musical program is Debussy’s beloved master piece La Mer. Nov. 2, 2019, the third classics in the series will delight audiences with a program featuring “Italian Gems” with the Godfather trilogy as a point of inspiration for Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate. Included in the program are Paganini’s Violin Concerto No. 2 in B minor, op. 7 with Benjamin Schmid, violin; Respighi’s Fountains of Rome; Verdi’s Te Deum with special guests Canterbury Voices and men from Oklahoma City University’s choral music program as well as Morricone’s Gabriel’s Oboe from “The Mission”. The fourth classics concert on November 23, 2019 features guest conductor Gerard Schwarz. He is best known as Music Director of the AllStar Orchestra, an ensemble of top musicians from America’s leading orchestras featured in television programs that have aired throughout the United States. The program features Berlioz Overture to Béatrice et Bénédict; Shostakovich Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-flat major, op. 107 with Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt; Ravel Suite No. 1 from Daphnis and Chloe; Ravel Suite No. 2 from Daphnis and Chloe.
“Minimalism in a Big New World” is the title of the fifth classics program on Jan. 11, 2020 featuring Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 in G major, op. 88; Glass’s Violin Concerto No. 1 featuring renowned artist Jennifer Koh, violin, and a daring choice Zappa’s The Dog Breath Variations of which Mickelthwate says, “American cult musician, Frank Zappa, draws inspiration from Jazz, Blues and Rock, and his Dog Breath Variations for orchestra is absolutely fun and refreshing.” On Feb. 1, 2020 audiences will enjoy a program that takes us from the dramatic to the sublime. It features Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, op. 21 with Ingrid Fliter, piano; Kancheli’s Dixi and closing out the program is R. Strauss’s Death and Transfiguration, a piece which seems to musically portray death transcending into a more beautiful version of life. February 2020’s classics seven program entitled “Colliding Contrasts” features Anna Clyne’s RIFT with special choreography by New York based choreographer Larry Keigwin, and the massive, awe inspiring, Bruckner Symphony No. 7 in E major. Closing out the season audiences will thrill to the OKCPHIL premiere of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, a work that created a musical scandal in 1913 with its raw, hypnotic, exciting score. This will be partnered on the program with Jonny Greenwood’s Grammy nominated Suite from “There Will Be Blood”; and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, op. 23 featuring Alain Lefèvre, piano. The Pops Season The Pops season opens with Broadway star Megan Hilty as the headliner on Nov. 8-9 2019. Come enjoy an evening of Broadway, TV and classics movie favorites with star Megan Hilty. With a vibrant career which includes playing Glinda both on Broadway and in the National Tour of WICKED, as well as the star of the TV show SMASH, Hilty is celebrated for her vocal versatility and commanding stage presence. Says Limelight Magazine “Exceptional voice. Staggering versatility”. On Dec. 5-7 audiences will delight in The Christmas Show everyone’s favorite family holiday tradition. Enjoy the OKCPHIL, Santa, the POPS Chorale and the Mistletoes as well as Santa’s jolly helpers and Broadway star Max von Essen. Come welcome the holiday’s season in OKC Style. This musical theater style production is sure to warm your heart, lift your spirits and create memories to last a lifetime. Jan. 24-25, 2020 we welcome Raiders of the Lost Ark played live to the epic score by composer John Williams. The film that gave the world one of its greatest movie heroes, Indiana Jones, is back and better than ever before! Re-live the magic on the silver screen with the original big screen adventure complete with our full symphony orchestra!
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Important tax questions to ask this year Do you know where things stand with your 2018 taxes? For many taxpayers, the first time they will see the overall impact of some significant provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) will be in their 2018 tax return. Do you know how the new laws will affect your tax situation and what tax planning issues you need to address in the new year? The Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants (OSCPA) reviews some important questions to ask as well as timely answers. n Is your withholding on track? If an employer withholds income taxes from your paycheck, your take home pay might have already been affected by lowered tax rates and new tax brackets. If you have not reviewed and possibly revised your withholding since the new laws were put in place, that means you may receive a larger refund than usual this year. That’s good news, but also consider adjusting your withholding so that you take home more money in each paycheck in the future. It’s also possible that
you may owe more than you have in the past because of caps on or elimination of some deductions. Once again, a reassessment of your withholding will protect you from a surprise in the next tax year. n Should you still itemize? Under tax reform, the standard deduction jumped to $12,000 for single filers and $24,000 for married couples filing jointly in 2018, a $5,650 and $11,300 increase from the previous year. For many taxpayers, that means tax time will be a little less taxing, since you may no longer need to itemize if your deductions add up to less than the standard deduction. n What can I deduct? As noted, a number of deductions now have new limits or are no longer available. For example, if you live in a high-tax state, the new $10,000 limit on state and local income, sales and property tax deductions might reduce what you can deduct and raise your taxable income. In addition, you can no longer deduct unreimbursed work expenses, moving fees when you relo-
cate for a new job or alimony payments for divorce or separation agreements executed or modified after Dec. 31, 2018, and personal casualty and theft losses must now be attributed to a federally declared disaster. The law also ended personal exemptions. Your CPA can analyze your situation and offer the best advice to simplify the process and minimize your tax bill going forward. n How are families affected? The child tax credit was doubled to $2,000 for children under 17 (with increased modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) limits) and up to $1,400 of that credit can be a refundable credit, which means you can collect that amount even if you owe no federal income tax. A new credit of up to $500 is also available for each qualifying dependent who is someone other than a child who can be claimed for the child tax credit. The existing education tax breaks are unchanged, and now you can also withdraw up to $10,000 from your Section 529 education savings plan
federal income tax free for tuition at a public, private or religious elementary or secondary school, if allowed by your plan. n What about small businesses? There are lots of tax and business planning opportunities as small businesses take stock of how tax reform has affected their tax returns. For those that do business as C corporations, the tax rate dropped from 35 percent to 21 percent. The new tax law also includes a 20 percent tax deduction for qualified small business owners that use passthrough taxation models such as partnerships, S corporations and sole proprietorships. As you get ready to file your tax return, your CPA can help you understand how the new law affects you in 2019 and beyond. Turn to him or her with your financial questions. In Oklahoma, you can get a free CPA referral and free 30-minuted consultation from www.FindYourCPA.com. For more money tips, visit www.KnowWhatCounts.org.
Andrea Aven
Genealogical Society will look at Irish ancestry Do you have Irish ancestry? Today, more than 10 percent of the population claim Irish ancestry. Over four million Irish immigrants arrived on America's shores between 1820 and 1930. However; due to the loss of many records, Irish genealogical research can be challenging and is notoriously difficult. The Edmond Genealogical Society will meet Monday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the LDS Church, 1351 E. 33rd Street in Edmond. Our program, Researching Irish Genealogy, will be presented by EGS President, Andrea Aven. Andrea's program will discuss Irish history and why it's pertinent to researchers of Irish genealogy, and to find the townland, parish and county of Irish ancestors. She will also discuss some of the top websites and resources to use to find Irish genealogical information. Andrea Wallis Aven first became interested in genealogy through her great uncle, John Rider Wallis, a well-known family historian in Dubuque, Iowa, who published numerous articles and books about the Wallis family. Andrea has continued her great uncle’s research on the Wallis family line, as well as on her mother’s side of the family, the Stewarts. Andrea has conducted significant research on the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), with special interest in the career of her aunt, Jane Wallis Burrell (1911-1948), a member of both organizations. Andrea worked directly with a CIA historian to create a web page on the CIA website about her aunt. A graduate of Duke University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Andrea is the recipient of a Masters in Health Education and a Masters in Educational Administration from Montclair State University in New Jersey. She is a retired public school administrator and a former University
of Central Oklahoma adjunct. Andrea has written numerous articles about health and wellness, and in 2016 she published a family history book about her great aunt, Ellen Dohrmann, titled Doris' Story. Andrea recently had an article published in the Butte County (California) Historical Society’s journal, “Diggin’s”, about her three times great-grandfather, Ralph Bird, a 49er who founded the town of Oroville. Andrea is a volunteer genealogist with the Edmond Historical Society and Museum, a Find A Grave volunteer, and a public speaker on a number of historical and genealogical topics. She belongs to the Samuel King Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Oklahoma Historical Society, the Edmond Historical Society and Museum, OHCE Genealogy Group, the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society, and the Rockland County, New York Historical Society and is President of the Edmond Genealogical Society. Her current projects include an article about her great-great grandfather, Eli Gurnee, the man who built the actress Helen Hayes’ home, “Pretty Penny,” in Nyack, New York; a book about her aunt, Mary-Burton Wallis, an American Red Cross worker in World War II in the European Theater of Operations; and development on a movie about her aunt, Jane Wallis Burrell. The April 15 program will feature EGS Board Member Sara Memmott who will present Records Available at the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. Genealogical research assistance is available at 5:30 p.m. prior to the meetings. Visit our website http://www.rootsweb.com/~okegs and find us on Facebook: Edmond Genealogical Society. Our meetings are open to the public and we invite you to join us.
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Thursday March 7 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- OKC Broadway presents: A Bronx Tale ---- Transcendence: Contemporary Op Art by Jason Wilson ---- UCO Wind Symphony: Fantastic Circuitry, and Sounds Friday March 8 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Timed Event Championship ---- OKC Broadway presents: A Bronx Tale ---- Oklahoma City International Auto Show ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship ---- Transcendence: Contemporary Op Art by Jason Wilson ---- Brian Gorrell & Jazz Company ---- Clint Black Saturday March 9 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Timed Event Championship ---- OKC Broadway presents: A Bronx Tale ---- Oklahoma City International Auto Show ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship ---- Botball Regional Tournament ---- OKC Land Run Antique Show ---- Transcendence: Contemporary Op Art by Jason Wilson ---- Frenzy Brewing Launch Party ---- Kim Ventrella, Brad McLelland, & Melanie Sumrow Book Signing ---- Monica Mancini ---- Weaving with Rachel Denbow ---- Jason Young Band ---- Special Exhibition Tours Sunday March 10 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Timed Event Championship ---- OKC Broadway presents: A Bronx Tale ---- Oklahoma City International Auto Show ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship ---- OKC Land Run Antique Show ---- Transcendence: Contemporary Op Art by Jason Wilson ---- Andy Griffiths at Best of Books ---- Jason Young Band ---- Special Exhibition Tours Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring works by Zonly Looman, for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com/ Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Free Admission; an archaeological exhibition that will enable visitors to discover the history of ancient Judah’s most famous king-prophet pairing—a story which illuminates how Jerusalem escaped annihilation at the hands of King Sennacherib’s Assyrian army at the end of the 8th century B.C. For more information visit armstrongauditorium.org. Cinch Timed Event and Jr. Ironman Championship Location: Lazy E Arena, Guthrie, OK Extra Info: For more information visit lazyetec.com OKC Broadway presents: A Bronx Tale Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: for information go to okcciviccenter.com Oklahoma City International Auto Show Location: Bennett Event Center, Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for information visit okcautoshow.org Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship Location: Chesapeake Energy Arena Extra Info: for information visit chesapeakearena.com Botball Regional Tournament Location: Cox Pavilion, Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., for more information visit kipr.org OKC Land Run Antique Show Location: Fairgrounds Expo Hall, Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Sat, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Adults $6, Children 9 – 12 $3, 8 & under free. For more information visit heritageeventcompany.com Transcendence: Contemporary Op Art by Jason Wilson Location: UCO – Mitchell Hall Theater, Krottinger Family Gallery Extra Info: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., these paintings, inspired by his grandmother’s quiltwork, take the eye into the transcendental world of highly constructed designs and color-field shapes. For more information visit them on Facebook. UCO Wind Symphony: Fantastic Circuitry, and Sounds Location: UCO – Mitchell Hall Theater Extra Info: 7:30 – 10 p.m., for more information visit them on Facebook. Frenzy Brewing Launch Party Location: The Patriarch Craft Beer House Extra Info: 12 – 8 p.m., for more information visit them on Facebook. Kim Ventrella, Brad McLelland, & Melanie Sumrow Book Signing Location: Best of Books Extra Info: 1 – 2:30 p.m., for information visit them on Facebook or visitedmondok.com Andy Griffiths at Best of Books Location: Best of Books Extra Info: 1 – 3 p.m., visit them on Facebook Clint Black, singer Location: Showplace Theatre, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 8 p.m., for more information visit riverwind.com Special Exhibition Tours Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 1 – 2 p.m., 45-minute tours of the spring exhibitions, for more information visit; nationalcowboymuseum.org Brian Gorrell & Jazz Company Location: UCO – Jazz Lab Extra Info: 8 p.m., $10, for more info visit; ucojazzlab.com Monica Mancini Location: UCO – Jazz Lab Extra Info: 8 p.m., $75, for more information visit; ucojazzlab.com or visitedmondok.com Weaving with Rachel Denbow Location: Gathered Home Shop Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., $135, for more information visit; gatheredhomeshop.com Jason Young Band Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Mar 9, 9 p.m. – Mar 10, 1 a.m.
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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Bet on Catholic teams It would behoove state to save surplus bucks
March is a fun time of year for basketball. I liked reading some of the articles in The Oklahoman on the state high school basketball tournament. Last week it was the small Steve Gust schools. This week it's the larger schools. The games are truly some of the most fun sporting events you can attend. Being a ex-sports editor multiple times, I went to several of these games and covered them. In fact there are lots of people who regularly attend the games who have absolutely no connection to the schools. They just enjoy the action that much. I remember many years ago watching Konawa play in the state finals. And pardon me, but I forgot the team they played. I do remember the game went to three overtimes, before Konawa lost. The fans at the state tournament games really go nuts. It's something to watch how they hang on every play. You'd think they had bet $500 on each game. For a high school and a player,
there is probably no better feeling in the world than winning a state title. Conversely, losing one has to be painful. Yet to have made it to the big game is a great honor regardless the outcome. There are always a bunch of other schools who would have loved to have made it that far, but couldn't. After the high schools have finished, then it's time for the colleges. Most offices will have an office pool for the NCAA men's tournament. Years ago I worked at another newspaper and my two sons talked me into letting them fill out a bracket. I'll be darned if they didn't actually win the thing. It was only $60 or so, but it was huge for them. Recently I have been on something of a winning streak for our office pool winning a few of them in a row. Hey it's easy. I don't like giving away my secret but here it is. Bet on the Catholic teams. --I really hope the best for any future peace talks with North Korea. To probably save millions of people from a nuclear strike is a very worthwhile goal.
(Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)
By The Oklahoman Editorial Board Many problems in state government owe more to short-term thinking and short-term memory than outside forces. Gov. Kevin Stitt is trying to break that cycle when it comes to government financial planning, but there are signs lawmakers are finding old habits hard to break. This year lawmakers have about $574.5 million in additional revenue. Stitt wants to use part of that money for things like a teacher pay raise, but also wants to set aside $200 million for savings. Combined with an expected $359.7 million deposit that will go into the state's Rainy Day Fund later this year, that would bring state savings up to more than $1
billion. That may sound like a lot, but $1 billion will cover only one-and-ahalf months of state expenses. Stitt’s long-term goal is for Oklahoma to have at least $2 billion in savings, which would cover about three months of expenses. From 2015 to 2017, lawmakers faced budget shortfalls of $610 million, $1.3 billion and $870 million. Those shortfalls owed much to an oil bust. Yet, as Stitt noted in his State of the State speech early this month, the tax increases approved by the Legislature in recent years have made state government finances “more dependent on the price of oil.” Thus, when another inevitable oil price downturn occurs, the impact for state government will
be even more severe than in recent years. Clearly, placing $1 billion in savings is not an extravagance far out of line with potential need. Yet lawmakers show little evidence they want to face this reality. House Republican leaders say they want to save only around $60 million. House Democrats don’t want to save any surplus. That is short-term thinking at its worst and an almost inexplicable case of selective amnesia when it comes recent financial events. Lawmakers’ proposed combination of higher state spending and lower state savings will leave Oklahoma government finances more precarious than ever. Secretary of Budget Mike Mazzei warns that current trends indicate there may be “no growth revenue” next year. “If current trends continue, and we appropriate all available funds for FY 2020 operations, we could be setting ourselves up for some difficulty next year,” he said. Just one year ago, the state Board of Equalization certified that lawmakers had $5.88 billion to spend. Due to economic growth and numerous tax increases, that figure now stands at $8.24 billion, an increase of 40 percent. There is no sensible argument against setting a small, $200 million piece of that growth into savings. Stitt wasn't in office during the recent budget shortfalls but appears to recall them far better than the legislators who were in office at the time. Oklahomans need to support Stitt as he fights to keep spendthrift legislators from driving Oklahoma into the financial ditch again.
A busy time at the State Capitol By Rep. Garry Mize The last few weeks have seen a packed schedule of committee meetings, budget and policy discussions and floor votes. Last Wednesday, the Board of Equalization announced a $575 million surplus to put toward the fiscal year 2020 budget. This number is a great indication of how well our economy is doing right now, but we must be cautious. Our state’s economy is so dependent on the oil and gas industry, which fluctuates year to year. Until we diversify our economy, we can’t keep spending every dime our state brings in. We need to save more money for the future so that when our oil-dependent economy inevitably downturns, we won’t have to cut core government services like we’ve seen over the last several years. Normal, everyday families have to balance their budget
while also saving for the future—our state should do the same. Also last week, the House passed the second teacher pay raise in two years. House Bill 1780 funds a $1,200 across-the-board pay increase for public school teachers in the classroom in addition to last year’s historic increase. Our state has a severe shortage of qualified teachers, and House Republicans are working to address this issue. I believe HB1780 will help Oklahoma compete with our neighboring states so that we can bring in the best and brightest teachers in the region. HB1780 helps move us closer to that goal. This raise was a top priority in Gov. Stitt’s platform and I’m glad the House unanimously voted to support the bill. This past Thursday was the legislative deadline
Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste). Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.
to pass House bills out of committee, the first step in the legislative process and necessary to making bills eligible to be heard on the House floor. I presented HB2511 before the Appropriations & Budget Committee on Wednesday. This bill is a request from the Oklahoma Film & Music Office and places an emphasis on the film and Mize music industry in Oklahoma. Given Guthrie’s active role in this industry in our state, I was proud to serve as an author on the bill and am pleased it passed the first step of the legislative process unanimously. Our next deadline is March 14, when bills must be passed out of the chamber they originated in to proceed through the legislative process. Until then, we’ll continue to meet on the floor to hear and debate bills that passed committee. I’m looking forward to presenting my bill on the House floor in the coming weeks. Things have been busy at the Capitol, but I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve the community of District 31. Please reach out to my office with any questions, comments or concerns. Rep Garry Mize, a Republican, serves District 31 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes Logan and Oklahoma counties.
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Richetti’s defense team & its weaknesses By David Farris The trial of Adam Richetti began on June 13, 1935, and was wrapped up in only four days. It was either by irony or devious planing that the last day of the proceedings also marked the two year Farris anniversary of the brutal crime for which he was charged. Four lawmen and their prisoner were killed when they were ambushed by three gunmen at the Union Train Station in Kansas City, Mo. John Edgar Hoover's “g-men” had traced a series of phone calls that placed a Kansas City gangster, Vern Miller, at the station on the morning of the massacre. Agents later decided that his two accomplices were Richetti and his partner, Charley “Pretty Boy” Floyd. Miller's body was found in a ditch near Detroit, Michigan, on Nov. 29, 1933. He had been murdered by mob associates who were furious over the mess he and the other shooters had made at the Union Station. There were others suspected in the shooting, who were also associated with Kansas City organized crime, which made Floyd and Richetti seem even less likely as suspects. William Weissman and brothers Homer and Maurice Denning, were suspected as having been the ones involved in the massacre. These men, like Miller, also met untimely deaths. It seems that the actual shooters had already received retribution from their underworld associates, for having drawn so much attention to them and their various operations from authorities. It also seems likely that if Floyd and Richetti had been involved at the Union Station, they too would have been murdered by the mob. Miller and Floyd were suspected in different murders and were likely already facing the death penalty. On
Nov. 22, 1934, Floyd was chased down and shot dead by a posse of agents and local police near East Liverpool, Ohio. That left his partner-in-crime as the only one left to be prosecuted for the Union Station murders. Before Richetti became a suspect in the massacre, he was, at best, wanted for only a few robberies and was probably looking at spending a couple of decades behind bars. Certainly nothing that would have sent him to death row. The trial was not going well for Richetti's defense attorneys, Ralph Latshaw and James Daleo, which seemed strange, since there was no actual evidence conRichetti necting their client to the massacre. The only two witnesses who testified as to having seen the defendant on that morning hadn't identified him as one of the shooters until almost two years later, when the case was headed to court. Hoover's men, who originally stated that they never saw the shooters' faces, were suddenly able to identify Miller, Floyd and Richetti. The defense team couldn't go after the agents who had so seamlessly synchronized their perjured statements. Neither could they discredit the ballistics expert, Merle Gill, who claimed to have matched a single shell casing from the massacre to one of the two automatic .45 caliber Colt pistols taken from Floyd as he lay dying. Funny thing was that, on Nov. 19, 1934, Gill had proclaimed in a letter sent to the FBI and also to the Kansas City Journal-Post that Pretty Boy Floyd, and by extension Richetti, “had absolutely nothing to do with the massacre.” After four days of lies, questionable evidence, and a whole lot of razzle-dazzle on behalf of Hoover's men, it was hard to tell whether Richetti
was on trial or Floyd. Much of the testimony given during the last few days by the prosecution's witnesses was hard to discredit. However, their star witness, 51-year-old, Lottie West, was a different matter. To the defense, discrediting her testimony was low-hanging fruit; but also, it was all that they had to attack. Mrs. West attended a desk for the Traveler's Aid Society at the Union Station, and was present on the morning of the massacre. At first, agents didn't take her seriously as a witness, due to far-flung statements she had made that couldn't be verified. The most dramatic of which was her claim of finding Pretty Boy Floyd, himself, seated at her desk when she arrived on that morning. It was soon determined that the man in question was a station employee, and not Floyd. None of the other witnesses reported seeing Pretty Boy, and no one, not even West, claimed to have seen Richetti. Despite this glaring fact, the prosecution brought her forth to testify, under oath, and recall her embellished tale of heroism. According to West, after seeing Floyd, she claimed to have been outside of the building on the sidewalk assisting six Benedictine Nuns, who were dressed in full habit, to hail a cab. She then heard gunfire and saw two men firing machine guns and a third gunman armed with two automatic pistols; one was a “blue gun” (blued finish) and the other was “nickle plated.” After telling her story, West pointed to the defendant as the man she saw firing the pistols. The prosecution's premise was that one of the two pistols found on Floyd, and matched to the shell casing from the massacre, had also been used by Richetti on that morning. Latshaw immediately attacked West's testimony and character. None of the other witnesses had reported seeing the group of Nuns (formerly called a “superfluity”) West mentioned, nor did they see her outside of the building until after the shooting ended. It defied logic that she was able to openly stand on the sidewalk during the shooting, and observe such detail, while everyone else dove for cover. Much like agents discovered when they first interviewed West, she was prone to exaggeration. She had worked for the Welfare Board that became attached to the Kansas City Police Department and, as a result, referred to herself as “an acting policewoman.” During her testimony, she claimed that almost daily she had assisted officers in making arrests
that sometimes required force. West was more accurately described by coworkers as a police wannabe. There may have been another factor involving West's testimony, regarding the perception of race in America during the 1930s. Her account of events was given more validity than that of other witnesses, who were referred to in bureau reports as “colored.” The fact that West's testimony was so important to the prosecution, exemplified the weakness of their case. Hopefully, by exposing as ridiculous statements made by the prosecution's star witness, the jury would see through the charges. If nothing else, maybe the defense could reach at least one juror, which would be all that was needed for a mistrial. Finally, the only strategy left for the defense was to put Richetti on the stand and address the court in his own words. This was a risky move, because the prosecution then had the opportunity to cross-examine the defendant. Richetti didn't have much to say. He was sworn in, stated his name, and replied “Yes, sir” when Latshaw asked if he was the defendant. When asked if he was in Kansas City on the morning of the massacre, his reply was “No, sir,” which was a lie. It was a well-known fact that he and Pretty Boy had arrived in town around 10 p.m. on the evening before, because they had brought with them the Sheriff of Polk County, Missouri, Jack Killingsworth, as a hostages. Lastly, the attorney asked his client if he was at the Union Station on the morning of the massacre, to which he replied, as convincingly as he could, “No, sir.” This was the only testimony he had to give and, with that, the defense rested. When asked if the prosecution had any questions for the defendant, surprisingly they declined. That's how confident they were of the outcome. Everyone knew that it was all over when a memo arrived at Bureau headquarters in Washington, D.C., that enthusiastically stated, “Mr. Tolson was advised by Mr. Conroy that the Richetti case will go to the jury tonight and that it looks very good. Much better than expected...” It didn't take the jury long to find Adam Richetti guilty, or for the judge to sentence him to death. The saga of Pretty Boy Floyd was almost complete. Among other loose ends, the final chapter involved getting Richetti to pay the ultimate price for his partner's crimes.
Edmond Life & Leisure • March 7, 2019 • Page 13
PHOTO PROVIDED
The University of Central Oklahoma College of Mathematics and Science is now accepting applications for Summer Bridge@UCO, a paid research program for incoming college freshmen designed to ease the transition from high school to postsecondary coursework for students majoring in STEM fields. Pictured is a UCO student working in one of the campus labs.
Program eases transition from high school to college The University of Central Oklahoma College of Mathematics and Science is accepting applications through March 29 for Summer Bridge@UCO, a paid research program for incoming college freshmen designed to ease the transition from high school to postsecondary coursework for students majoring in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields. “Summer Bridge@UCO provides an opportunity for students who are interested in STEM education and research to have an early start. Through the summer and follow-up research activities, they will establish long-term relationships with faculty mentors and pursue cutting-edge research at UCO,” said Wei R. Chen, Ph.D., dean of UCO’s College of
Mathematics and Science. Participants in the three-week program set for July 8-26 work with College of Mathematics and Science faculty in an intensive research environment. Students get exposure to university-level teaching and research activities in Central’s laboratories and in the field. The 2019 Summer Bridge@UCO research focuses include the study of laser immunotherapy for the treatment of cancer, stem cell biology, operations research and marine natural product drug discovery. Campus housing and meals are available at no cost for the duration of the program and all students receive a stipend for their participation.
Summer Bridge@UCO applicants must be admitted to UCO as a fall 2019 freshman with a STEM major and plan to enroll in and attend classes at UCO. The following UCO majors qualify: biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering and physics (including biomedical engineering), or mathematics and statistics. Forensic Science majors who have a second major in one of the qualifying disciplines will be considered for the program For more information or to apply, visit www.uco.edu/cms/summer-bridge or contact UCO’s Office of Sponsored Programs in the College of Mathematics and Science at 405-974-5150 or cmsosp@uco.edu.
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Integris offers session on handling grief Integris Hospice will sponsor a community grief workshops facilitated by Reverend Bob Willis, B.A., Theology. Willis will sculpt a broken heart from clay as he shares helpful grief information. Content includes normal grief responses, myths about grief, honoring relationships and healthy expressions of grief. Each free-of-charge session is open to the public. Attendees must register for only one session, in advance. Call the Integris HealthLine to enroll, 405-951-2277. Space is limited. A short break during the session is offered for networking and resource gathering. The session will be Tuesday, March 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Integris Hospice Administrative Office, 5710 NW 130th Street, Oklahoma City. It’s in the board room on the south entrance. Willis served as a hospice bereavement coordinator for 17 years and has authored two books: The Ultimate Caregiver and A Guide for Grievers. He is currently a sculptor for the outdoor drama, The Great Passion Play, in Eureka Springs, Ark.
Lankford co-sponsor of bill wanting to end shutdowns Senators James Lankford (R-Edmond) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) recently introduced the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, a bipartisan Senate proposal to address the threat of government shutdowns. The bill is fairly simple. If all appropriations bills are not passed by both houses and signed by the President by Oct. 1, no official travel will be allowed for Office of Management and Budget (OMB) leadership or staff, Cabinet members, or Senators and Representatives along with their committee and personal staffs (except for official travel within the DC metro area). “Oklahomans and people around the country have asked for a solution to end government shutdowns that puts the punishment for failing to appropriate funds on the House, Senate, and White House, not our federal families,” said Lankford. “Americans have suggested that simply cutting Member pay would help prevent or quickly end shutdowns. I believe the real way to punish Washington dysfunction is to prevent Congress, the White House, and relevant staff from leaving until the job is done. Preventing travel and holding mandatory roll call votes ensure the negotiators remain at the table until the job is done, while the automatic funding mechanism ensures federal employees are paid and prevents the waste of tax dollars that comes from shutting down and reopening the government. This is a common-sense, bipartisan bill, and I look forward to its full consideration in the Senate.” “It is the height of irresponsibility that government shutdowns are becoming a frequent occurrence, and we need to come together across party lines to end this madness,” Hassan said. “Our bipartisan bill would prevent future shutdowns by providing automatic funding to keep the government’s doors from closing and forcing members of Congress to do their jobs and remain in Washington until a funding agreement is reached. Ending shutdowns is common-sense, and I’m glad to be working with Senator Lankford on this important issue.” Bill Highlights During a period of lapsed appropriations, there will be: n No taxpayer-funded travel allowances for official business (except
one flight to return to Washington DC) for the following: n White House OMB staff and leadership n White House Cabinet Members n Members of the House and Senate n Committee and personal staff of the House and Senate n Official travel permitted within the national capital region (DC metro) n No CODEL or STAFFDEL delegation travel n No travel reimbursement (meals, per diem, or any type, including for state staff) n No use of campaign funds by congressional offices to supplement official duties or travel expenses n No other votes made in order in the House and Senate unless they pertain to passage of the appropriations bills or mandatory quorum calls in the Senate n No motions to recess or adjourn the Senate or House in order for more than 23 hours n A waiver process for these restrictions in the House or Senate if they meet a two-third majority vote threshold in each chamber n Implementation of an automatic continuing resolution (CR) on October 1 at last year’s spending levels until passage of a law to appropriate all remaining lapsed spending for that fiscal year n A required recorded quorum call vote each day at noon in the House and Senate to confirm attendance, which keeps Members in town for mandatory votes Lankford served on the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform, where he worked to develop reforms to our federal budget and spending processes. Lankford also serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management and the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth, Senator Hassan is committed to working across party lines to maintain fiscal responsibility and improve innovation and efficiency within government.
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In advance of release of ‘Captain Marvel’
George looks back at top Marvel films By George Gust In advance of this weekend’s release of “Captain Marvel” which appears to be the last gasp of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know and before the finality(?) of this spring’s “Avengers: Endgame” there’s no better time to look back on the decade plus of Marvel movies that brought us to where we are today. There have been mostly highs and only a couple of lows in the 20 Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, so It can feel daunting if your unfamiliar with the universe but fear not! Here are some of the top Marvel movies (so far): 6. “Thor: Ragnarok” Thor had been presented in a fish out of water uneven sort of way up until this third entry in his stand-alone series. Upping the humor and adding in a couple of heat seeking performances from the incomparable Jeff Goldblum and a fully CGI Hulk, this one was fun romp throughout the Marvel galaxy. 5. “Spiderman: Homecoming” The only entry in the list that feels tangential to the overarching storyline of the series, this movie had a unique feel and fun teen take on your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. 4. “Guardians of the Galaxy” This movie was
the big gamble of the earlier days of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A talking racoon, a verbally limited tree man, a female protagonist in all green makeup, all set in an unseen space opera setting equals box office gold of course! Funny, and surprisingly heartwarming, this movie from writer/director James Gunn took the series to another level and introduced everyone to Chris Pratt as a leading man. 3. “Marvel’s The Avengers” Ambitious, unprecedented and surprisingly comedic, this movie from writer/director Joss Wheedon changed the way we look at comic book movies and supported more on screen characters than
we’d seen before. 2. “Black Panther” Nominated for Best Picture in the most recent Academy Awards, and with a phenomenal script and compelling performances its not hard to see why. Director Ryan Coogler brought his distinct artistic voice to the series and turned in a fresh film in a series that is almost old enough for its bat mitzah. 1. “Iron Man” The movie that started it all. The pitch perfect casting of Robert Downy Jr., simple origin story and charm bursting from its metallic seams, this movie remains one of the most rewatchable and fun marvel movies in the series. Skippables: Not every film can be a home run, but these films you won’t be missing much if you skip them. “Thor: The Dark World” A continuation of the Thor’s fish out of water story from the first movie, this entry doesn’t add much to the overarching story and features a generic villain. “The Incredible Hulk” The most ho hum film in the Marvel series, starring Edward Norton who would subsequently be replaced by Mark Ruffalo, most people (Marvel included) have ignored this film.
Marvel has offered many great action films including ‘The Avengers.’
Crossword Puzzle
Comic coming to metro Paula Poundstone is in town for one night only. Join fans for a night of fun at Oklahoma City Community College’s Visual and performing arts center Saturday March 9 at 8 pm. For tickets and information visit http://tickets.occc. edu. Paula has had numerous HBO specials and starred in her own series on HBO and ABC. Her second special for HBO, Paula Poundstone goes to Harvard, marked the first time the elite university allowed its name to be used in the title of a television show.
Poundstone
STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: 20th CENTURY ACROSS 1. Nibble away 5. *Information space 8. School support org. 11. Royal Indian 12. Short for Dorothea 13. Oak nut 15. And others, for short 16. Seat of intellect 17. Branch of philosophy 18. *War to end all wars? 20. Lump of stuff 21. Type of examination, pl. 22. Owned 23. Downer 26. Wiggle room 29. *___-Wan of "Star Wars," a 20th Century Fox film 30. Tends to fire 33. Affirm 35. Grabbing tool 37. Blade drops 38. ____ ballerina or ____ donna 39. *Village People song 40. Verse with repeating lines 42. Bartender's Triple ____ 43. Panhandler 45. *"Cheers" owner 47. Any high mountain 48. Like yellow polka dot bikini 50. Tropical edible root 52. *First on the moon 56. Holy See's administering body 57. Focuses 58. *____ Lady, a.k.a. Margaret Thatcher 59. Newspapers and such 60. December 24 and 31, e.g. 61. Vena ____ 62. Common conjunction 63. Itty-bitty 64. Fence piece
DOWN 1. Increased in size 2. *North Atlantic Alliance, acr. 3. Slightly open 4. Whack 5. Mark from a lash 6. Is dressed in 7. Dry riverbed 8. *Walt Kelly's comic strip (1948-1975) 9. *Aldous Huxley's journey 10. *Mandela's org. 12. Foil 13. Aquarium scum 14. *Conflict without active fire 19. One step to success? 22. "For ____ a jolly..." 23. Half-rotten 24. *Manhattan Project invention 25. Don't do this to words! 26. Raunchy 27. Dispatch boat 28. *Aden Emergency locale 31. Skunk's defense
32. *"The Century Trilogy" author Follett 34. *Space ____ 36. *First in space 38. Manufacturing site 40. *Tupac's genre 41. Vomiting 44. Triumph maliciously 46. Song words 48. Treasure collection 49. Event host 50. U, on the road 51. Like Mojave 52. "____ ____Good Men" 53. Singular of #21 Across 54. Most luminous star 55. Buzzing pest 56. Number cruncher
See Answers On Page 23
Answers Page 23
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1951-2019
Obituary notice
Ronald ‘Ron’ Melton Ivey Ronald “Ron” Melton Ivey, 67 years old, of Edmond, OK, passed away on Wednesday, February 27th, 2019. LIFE Ron was born in Enid, Oklahoma, on March 21st, 1951 to Cecil and Betty Ivey. A middle child, Ron’s older brother was Charles Ivey (deceased) and his younger sister is Cecilia Ivey Runnels. Musical from a young age, he played the trumpet in the high school band and later became the drum major of the Enid High School Marching Band. During his time as the drum major, he met and fell in love with the blue-eyed band queen, Susan Jane Fitzgerald. They became high school sweethearts and continued to date into college when both attended the University of Oklahoma. After OU, Ron traveled to Hawaii, learned to surf and lived there for a short time. Luckily, Susan was able to convince him to come back to Oklahoma. In 1974, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Enid, OK, these two sweethearts married and honeymooned in Big Meadows National Park near South Fork, Colorado. They had two sons, Ronald “Ron Jr.” born in 1978 and James “Jimmy” Ivey born in 1981. Learning from his maternal grandfather John Laforge, Ron discovered his gifts of craftsmanship and woodworking. He worked as a trim carpenter building homes first in Enid and then later when he and Susan moved to Edmond in 1980. In 1986, Ron decided to shift careers and become a real estate agent. He loved serving clients and enjoyed working with his colleagues at Remax, Keller Williams and Churchill Brown. A few of these co-workers became fishing and hunting buddies and close friends. Later, he had the joy of working with his wife Susan as she transitioned from a forty-year career as a public school teacher to partner with him in his real estate business. In 2006, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Edmond Board of Realtors for helping many Edmond families find their dream homes. Ron was an avid fly-fisherman, hunter and out-
Ronald “Ron” Melton Ivey doorsman. He shared these passions with his two sons on many trips to South Fork, Colorado, where they often vacationed. He loved training bird dogs and walking the landscapes of Oklahoma on bird-hunting trips with his sons and friends. Given his lifelong connection to homebuilding and real estate, he enjoyed serving on the Edmond Board of Realtors committee for Habitat for Humanity and helping the disadvantaged find their homes. Over the years, Ron was an active member of churches in both Enid and Edmond and spent his final years as a member of Henderson Hills Baptist Church (HHBC). He loved attending HHBC
community groups with Susan and participating in the men’s bible studies. Susan and the family are deeply indebted to HHBC staff and their community groups for caring for Ron and his family during his illness. Ron will be remembered as a man that loved God, his family, his friends and his local community. Ron is survived by his wife Susan Ivey of Edmond, Oklahoma; his son Ron Jr. and wife Kathryn Ivey of Paris, France; his son Jimmy, wife Megan Ivey, and his granddaughter Penelope of Edmond, Oklahoma. He is also survived by his sister Cecilia and her husband Robert Runnels of Enid, Oklahoma. He is predeceased by his father Cecil Ivey (2000), his mother Betty (2010), both of Enid, Oklahoma and his brother Charles Ivey (2009) of Kansas, City, Missouri. The memorial service occurred on Tuesday March 5th at 11:00AM at Henderson Hills Baptist Church in Edmond, Oklahoma, officiated by Pastor Rob Hunt. A reception was hosted by Crawford Family Funeral Service on Monday evening, March 4th from 5:00-7:00PM. Crawford Funeral Service managed all arrangements. For more information please call 405-3402333. If you would like to make a donation in Ron’s name, please donate to Ministries of Jesus at Henderson Hills Baptist Church: 1200 East I-35 Frontage Rd. Edmond, OK 73034.
“May your heart be speechless At the sight of the truth Of all your belief had hoped, Your heart breathless In the light and lightness Where each and every thing Is at last its true self Within that serene belonging That dwells beside us On the other side Of what we see.” John O'Donohue
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Group seeks reform to criminal bail system Holding Oklahomans accused of nonviolent offenses in jail prior to trial is costing county and municipal governments millions of dollars each year and disproportionately impacting offenders who cannot afford to pay bail. A new study of court records by Open Justice Oklahoma finds the harmful effects of money bail are felt across the state, creating deep disparities in the likelihood and length of pretrial detentions. “Money bail is meant to put a steep cost on people who fail to show up for their court dates,” said Ryan Gentzler, director of Open Justice Oklahoma with the Oklahoma Policy Institute. “The Open Justice Oklahoma study shows that in practice, Oklahoma’s money bail system drains millions of dollars from vulnerable communities through bail bond fees, causes unnecessary incarceration of low-risk defendants and costs counties millions of dollars every year.” Last year, Oklahomans accused of nonviolent of-
fenses paid nearly $8.2 million in nonrefundable bail bond fees, even if their charges were dismissed or they were found not guilty. Counties across Oklahoma spent approximately $8.9 million to hold nonviolent defendants who could not afford their bond. The Oklahoma Legislature is currently considering Senate Bill 252, pretrial reform that would reduce the costs to vulnerable communities and counties. The bill is set to be heard in the Senate Appropriations committee on Wednesday. SB 252 would ensure people accused of misdemeanors or nonviolent felonies are considered for recognizance bonds, a promise to appear in court without money bail, and are detained only if they pose a specific threat to public safety or have a history of failing to appear for their court date. Within 48 hours of a person’s arrest, the proposal would require a judge to consider their history of missing court dates and other factors in order to
Brief Singer-songwriter Tanner Miller will provide Morning Music from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 9 at the Arcadia Round Barn. Miller is a Dallas native who arrived on the Norman music scene in 2010. He said his songs “reflect true-life situations and are essentially folkie short stories about bona fide people.” Morning Music is presented every Saturday in the downstairs museum of the Arcadia Round Barn. Admission is free
determine whether to grant a recognizance bond. “Right now there are thousands of Oklahomans who have not been convicted of a crime sitting in county jail simply because they cannot afford to pay their bail. This is clogging our county jails, tearing families apart and costing taxpayers millions,” said Kris Steele, executive director of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, a bipartisan coalition of criminal justice reform advocates “In order to create meaningful change, policymakers must address the problems with the money bail system which adds to Oklahoma’s ever-increasing incarceration rate. SB 252 would keep communities safe, reduce Oklahoma’s bloated prison population and save taxpayer dollars.” The full report from Open Justice Oklahoma is available at https://openjustice.okpolicy.org/. Oklahoma Policy Institute is an independent, nonpartisan non-profit that provides factual information.
County destroys many decades of old records By Silas Allen NewsOK.com/The Oklahoman Oklahoma County has rid itself of several tons of unneeded court records, some of which it had been storing for more than a century. Since April, volunteers have shredded millions of pages of court documents that have been sitting in storage for decades. The documents included property files from 1926 and divorce cases from 1915, said District 2 Commissioner Brian Maughan. The project began last April, when Oklahoma County Court Clerk Rick Warren asked Maughan about finding more storage space for the documents his office keeps. The county stores court documents in the courthouse, in an annex next door and at another building the county leases. But all of that storage space was beginning to fill up, Maughan said. “It was really just becoming a monstrosity," he said. So county officials asked court departments to identify records they no longer needed to store. In many
cases, the records were documents the county was required to keep for five to 10 years, but had been storing long after those expiration dates passed. Others were duplicate records for which the county had original copies. Once the documents were identified, Maughan enlisted volunteers from community groups, the county's Start Helping Impacted Neighborhoods Everywhere, or SHINE, program and the West OKC Rotary Club. Volunteers spent days at county offices shredding documents, bagging them up and piling them into dumpsters. Warren said a representative from the court clerk's office was on hand to make sure volunteers destroyed documents properly according to state statutes and only shredded documents the county wasn't required to keep. Maughan said the project bought officials about 55,000 square feet of storage space and saved the county the expense of renting another building for storage.
Gov. Stitt appoints new regent to OU Regents Gov. Kevin Stitt announced last week the appointment of Eric Stevenson to the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, a position that requires Senate confirmation. “I am excited to appoint Eric Stevenson to the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents,” said Gov. Stitt. “Eric is a business-oriented and reform-minded leader who will be a dedicated representative for the students, employees, and staff.” “I appreciate Gov. Stitt's thoughtful consideration of the needs of OU with his appointment of Eric Stevenson to our Board of Regents,” said James Gallogly, University of Oklahoma President. “Eric’s close ties to OU and our Price College of Business as well as his leadership role in a national business enterprise make him an excellent choice. OU has local, national and international reach with its students, alums and academic programs. I’m eager to tap into Eric’s expertise and to have him join us for the work ahead.” “As Chairman of the OU, Cameron, and Rogers State Boards of Regents, congratulations to Governor Stitt on this nomination,” said Dr. Leslie Rainbolt-Forbes, Chair of the
OU Board of Regents. “Eric brings a very unique complement of skills, including extensive strategic planning experience, large corporate management experience, and outstanding national level communication experience, that he has honed at some of the largest and most prestigious companies in the United States. His expertise will directly benefit the Board, the Universities we govern, all our students, and the State of Oklahoma.” “Governor Stitt has made an inspired choice for appointment to the OU Board of Regents,” said Bryan M. Burke, OU graduate, Sr. Vice President at Federated Investors and member of the Price College of Business Board of Visitors. “Eric Stevenson is an accomplished industry leader in financial services. I have seen firsthand his contributions on wide-ranging topics in the Price College of Business where he is a longtime trusted advisor and engaged listener. Eric has a unique background and the fact he has been a successful small business owner in addition to rising to the highest levels of corporate America will inspire both fellow board members but, more importantly, our students.”
Master Gardeners to have April meeting The Oklahoma County Master Gardeners are kicking off the 2019 gardening season with a star presenter for the April Wednesday @ Will Rogers Gardens program. On April 10 at 6 pm you are invited to come listen to popular author and garden blogger Dee Nash talk about Enchanting April – How to Get the Most from your Oklahoma Garden in Spring. Dee is the author of Red Dirt Ramblings, a popular garden blog, The
Gardenangelists podcast, and The 20/30-Something Garden Guide book. Dee knows gardening, and Dee knows Oklahoma, and can help gardeners of all levels achieve success in our difficult conditions. This is a perfect way to jump-start the garden of your dreams this year. The free program on Enchanting April will take place on Wednesday, April 10 at 6:00pm in the exhibition building at the Will Rogers Gardens, 3400 N.W. 36th in Oklahoma City.
Edmond Life & Leisure • March 7, 2019 • Page 19
THE RESUL RESULTS LTS T ARE IN!
PUBLISHERS PUBLISHER RS N NOTE: OTE: This is the one and only ORIGINAL Edmond Favorites. We used the same open format this year on Edmond -H]VYP[LZ 0[ PZ ]LY` SHIVY PU[LUZP]L [V OHUK JV\U[ HUK [HI\SH[L [OL IHSSV[Z I\[ V\Y Z[HɈ ILSPL]LZ P[ PZ ^VY[O [OL LɈVY[ 0[ gives us a better picture of what our readers are thinking. Our goal is to highlight and celebrate the number of quality people, places and businesses that we have in our Edmond. In many categories, two or three names received the majority of the votes and were very close but the business that received the most votes is highlighted in italic. Edmond is a community full of great choices of where to shop and places to enjoy. We thank our readers for their time and responses to this ORIGINAL Edmond Life & Leisure annual event.
FAVORITE F FA A AVO AV VO V OR RITE IT TE FOOD FO OOD OD / RESTAURANTS: R REST ES ESTAU ST TAU TA UR RANT RA RANTS: NTS TS: S: Asian Food: Thai Delight Bakery: Eileen’’s Col Colossal Cookies
( ! $ $ &+ Ň? $Ň‘Äš ( ( ( ( ! ! $ $ $ &+ Ň? $ $Ň‘Ň‘Äš Consignment/Resale: HOPEfully Yo ours
&" "" ņ " !( " Ň? $Ň‘Äš &" " "" " ņ " " ! !( !( " Ň? $Ň‘Äš Florist: A Flower Place Golf Course: Kickingbir ngbirrd Golf Course
Barbecue: Earl’’s Rib Palace, Billy Sims, Klemm’s Smoke Haus
Flooring: Don’’s Floor Floo Gallery Furniture: Edmond Furrnitur n re Gallery
/HPY :HSVU! Bella Strada Salon & Spa, Rumors Salon, Tangles ang a
Breakfast/Brunch: Arround o the Corrner n , Eggington’s
Gifts: Sterling’’s in Downtown D Edmond, Gourmet Gallery
Insurance Agent: Gary Baccus, State Farm; Dennis Chaumont, State Farm
Burger: The Garage, Johnnies Charcoal Broilerr, The Fixx
Groceries: Uptown Grrocery o Co
Management Lawn Care: Pitzer’’s Lawn L Live Music Ve enue: UCO Jazz Lab, Heard on Hurd, Armstrong Auditorium
o Caterer: Uptown Grrocery *VɈLL /V\ZL! CafĂŠ Evoke Desserts: Eileen’’s Colossal C Cookies o’’s Ethnic Food: Othello’ Food Truck: Klemm’’s Smoke Haus Ice Cream/Frozen Yo ogurt: Braum’’s eam and Dairy Ice Crre Lunch spot: The Zu, Around the Cornerr, Eggington’s rado’’s Mexican food: Alvarado’
ond Furrn niturre /VTL +LJVY! Edmond Gallery, Gathered Home Shop & Creative Space, Sterling’s in Downtown Edmond Jewelry: Silver Leaf Gems Mattresses: Sleepworld Men’s clothing: McCall’ cCall’’s
Massage: Therapeutic utic Touch o Massage Nail Salon: Bella Strada Salon & Spa estone Oil Change: Firresto e Park: Mitch Park
Plants/Landscaping: TLC
Pet Grooming: Bubbles & Pets Grrooming G o i Salon S l
Shoes: Head Over Heels Boutique
Pharmacy: Thrifty Pharmacy
Sporting Goods/Outdoor Gear: Academy Sports
Romantic Places to Stay the Night: Two w Hearts Inn
Night Spot: The Zu, UCO Jazz Lab, The Patriarch
Tires: Hibdon Tirres e Plus Auto Carre
Trravel Agency: Prime e Time Travel r
Wine & Spirits: Edmond Wine Shop
Pizza: Hideaway
Women’ o s Clothing: Fashion Boutique
Veterinarian: e Wo oodla and Trails r Animal Hospital
Sandwiches/Subs: The Fixx Seafood: Fish City Grill
BUSINESS BUS USINES ESS SS / SERVICES: SERV SER RV VICES: IC CES ES: S:
Special occasion restaurant: Signaturre Grill
Automobile repair: Metric Motors
Steak: Boulevarrd Steakhouse St
Barber: Friendly Barber in Downtown Edmond
Sushi: The Sushi Bar
Birthday Parties: Paint aint Yo our Art Out
FAVORITE F FA A AVO AV VO V OR RITE IT TE PLA PLACE PLA AC AC CE ET TO O BUY BUY: UY: Y: Y: Antiques: Brroadway o Antiques, Edmond Antiques Appliances: We eathe er’’s TV and Appliance Athletic Shoes: Academy Sports & Outdoors Beauty/cosmetic supplies: Ulta Beauty Books: Best of Books Children’s Clothing: Cinnamon Bears
prress e Carwash Car Wash: Okie Expr Chiropractor: Harmony mony Chirro opractic Custom framing: Framin’ Gallery Dance Studio: Dance Unlimited, Star Steps, Dance Phase Dentist: Drr. Krista M. M Jones Dry cleaner: Parkway Cleaners Eye Care: Edmond Regional Eye Associates
OTHER: O TH TH HER ER: R: Best Customer Service: Citizens Bank of Edmond, Prime Bank, House of Vacuums a Most Attractive Building: Fine Arts Institute of Edmond Civic Organization: Edmond Wo omen’’s Club Edmond Event or Festival: LibertyFest, Heard on Hurd, Edmond Arts Festival Locally Owned Business: Citizens Bank of Edmond, Prime Bank, Framin’ Gallery
Financial Planner: Edwarrd Jones
Long Term e Busines Citizens Bank Business: of Edmond
-P[ULZZ /LHS[O *S\I! RESULTS Fitness & Nutrition, YMCA
Public Art: Swans in Flight at the Armstrro ong Auditorium Auditoriu
Page 20 • March 7, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Pedestrian deaths top 6,000 last year A new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) projects that 6,227 pedestrian fatalities occurred in 2018, the highest number in nearly three decades. States were asked to report pedestrian fatalities for the first six months of 2018. After adjusting this raw data based on historical trends, GHSA projects a four percent increase in the number of pedestrians killed during the full 2018 calendar year. In 2017, 5,977 people on foot lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes. GHSA’s yearly “Spotlight on Highway Safety” offers a first look at state and national trends in 2018 pedestrian traffic deaths, based on preliminary data provided by State Highway Safety Offices in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Richard Retting of Sam Schwartz Consulting analyzed the data and authored the report. “While we have made progress reducing fatalities among many other road users in the past decade, pedestrian deaths have risen 35 percent,” noted GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins. “The alarm bells continue to sound on this issue; it’s clear we need to fortify our collective efforts to protect
pedestrians and reverse the trend.” Pedestrians are projected to account for 16 percent of all traffic deaths in 2018, compared to 12 percent in 2008. While advancements in motor vehicle safety and technology have increased survivability for vehicle occupants involved in crashes, pedestrians remain just as susceptible to sustaining serious or fatal injuries when struck by a motor vehicle. A number of trends offer insight into the many causes behind the rise in pedestrian fatalities: n More walking has increased exposure, as one survey1 estimated that the number of Americans walking to work in the past week increased about four percent between 2007 and 2016; n Most pedestrian fatalities take place on local roads, at night, away from intersections, suggesting the need for safer road crossings. Over the past 10 years, nighttime crashes accounted for more than 90 percent of the total increase in pedestrian deaths; n Many unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding, distracted and drowsy driving, pose risks to pedestrians, and alcohol impairment by the driver and/or pedestrian was reported in about half of traf-
fic crashes that resulted in pedestrian fatalities in 2017; and n Finally, the number of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) involved in pedestrian deaths has increased by 50 percent since 2013. By comparison, (nonSUV) passenger cars’ involvement in pedestrian fatalities increased by 30 percent over the same time period. Although passenger cars still account for the majority of pedestrian deaths, SUVs – which generally cause more severe pedestrian injuries – make up an increasingly large percentage of registered vehicles. “Crossing the street should not be a death sentence,” said report author Richard Retting. “We have a range of proven infrastructure, engineering, and behavioral strategies that we know can reduce pedestrian deaths. Critical improvements to road and vehicle design are being made, but take significant time and resources to implement. It is also important to conduct law enforcement and safety education campaigns now to ensure drivers and pedestrians can safely coexist. It’s crucial to do everything we can to protect pedestrians utilizing a broad approach.”
Journalism Hall of Fame announces inductees Nine journalists and two longtime educators will be honored as the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame launches its 50th year with a special First Amendment Day on the University of Central Oklahoma campus. The induction ceremony will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 25, in the Nigh University Center. The 49th hall of fame inductees are M.J. Alexander, internationally recognized journalist; Mary BishopBaldwin, Tulsa World assistant editor and marriage equality pioneer; Brian Blansett, owner of the Tri-County Herald; Ziva Branstetter, The Washington Post’s corporate accountability editor; Chris Casteel, The Oklahoman’s news director; Bob Dotson, retired NBC- TV correspondent and author; Wayne Greene, the Tulsa World’s editorial page editor; Griff Palmer, database journalism pioneer and former New York Times reporter; and Timothy E. Talley, political reporter for The Associated Press. The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame is also giving individual Lifetime Achievement Awards to retiring University of Central Oklahoma President Don Betz and UCO President Emeritus W. Roger Webb. “Dr. Betz and Dr. Webb were chosen to both receive Lifetime Achievement Awards by the selection committee because of their Webb support for the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame and for journalism,” said Joe Hight, Hall of Fame director and Edith Kinney Gaylord Endowed Chair of Journalism Ethics at UCO. “They have shown a commitment to First Amendment and press freedoms throughout their careers and have spotlighted the important role that the press plays in our democratic society,” he said. “Dr. Webb is responsible for relocating the hall of fame at the Nigh University Center and its yearly support. Dr. Betz has maintained that support and also committed to establishing a hall of fame museum and improving its presence as a statewide institution.” Doors will open at 11:15 a.m. for the ceremony, and the luncheon program will begin at 11:30 a.m. on the third floor of the Nigh University Center, across the hallway from the Hall of Fame. Master of ceremonies will be Mark Thomas, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Press Association. Vance Harrison, president of the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters, will serve as the presenter. Tribute videos will feature each hall of fame inductee, who will receive a plaque and a lapel pin signifying membership. Hight praised the accomplishments of the new members of the
Hall, as it prepares for the 50th anniversary celebration next year. “The nine inductees are among the pioneers in their field and who show why the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame features the best of journalism in this country.” “This is a high-profile class of inductees who represent national, regional and local news organizations. It's also the 49th class and one that kicks off our 50th anniversary of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame,” he said. “But most of all it represents a group of individuals who have distinguished themselves in their profession. As part of the kickoff to the 50th anniversary, Betz has declared April 25 as First Amendment Day on the UCO campus. The induction ceremony will be among several activities planned on the campus that day. Betz and hall of fame inductees will be part of the activities including a march to dedicate a special First Amendment display in the Mass Communication building. The “1 (Amendment) for ALL” organization provided a grant for the day’s activities. Betz “Even before being selected as a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Dr. Betz wholeheartedly supported and declared April 25, 2019, as First Amendment Day,” Hight said. “Freedom of the press, guaranteed in the First Amendment, is a foundation of our country.” Student co-directors Erin Barnett and Trevor Stone, both UCO seniors, are working with Hight on other daily events, which will be announced later. The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame was founded in 1971 by former UCO Journalism Chairman Dr. Ray Tassin. He was followed by Dennie Hall as director. Hight is the fourth director, succeeding Dr. Terry Clark, who retired two years ago and serves as a consultant. This year’s honorees make for 427 total members, all of whom are featured on the hall of fame website (okjournalism.uco.edu). Past honoree plaques are on display in the Hall of Fame in UCO’s Nigh University Center. The hall, hosted by the UCO Department of Mass Communication, is also supported with funding from the University of Central of Oklahoma. The Ethics & Excellence in Journalism Foundation is also a sponsor. Ten members were on the Selection Committee this year: Harrison and hall of fame members Barbara Hoberock, Carla Hinton, Billie Rodely, Ralph Schaefer, Jennifer Gilliland, Terri Watkins, Lindel Hutson, Thomas and Hight. A primary consideration of the committee is how nominees distinguish themselves as journalists.
Edmond Life & Leisure • March 7, 2019 • Page 21
CPA group honors two UCO grads The Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants (OSCPA) released the names of its 2019 Trailblazers and Path Finders in conjunction with the March/April special issue of the society’s magazine, CPAFOCUS. Only 10 Trailblazers were selected and only five Path Finders were selected. Of the 15 named award winners across the state, two graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma. The Trailblazer program was established in 2010 to recognize the innovation, professional dedication and community commitment of the OSCPA’s New CPAs, defined as members who are under the age of 40 and have five or fewer years of CPA experience. This is the first year for OSCPA Path Finders, an elite group of Oklahoma CPAs who are successful, well respected and devoted to their communities who are also deeply involved in mentoring new CPAs, welcoming them to the profession and showing them ways to be successful. James Gripka, CPA, a director with BKD CPAs & Advisors in Oklahoma City was named a 2019 Trailblazer. He graduated in May 2007 from UCO. Additionally, Vicky Petete, CPA, CGMA, an executive vice president and CFO with Vision Bank, NA in Ada, Oklahoma, was named a 2019 Path Finder. She graduated from UCO in 1979. “The OSCPA Trailblazers program has been a tremendous opportunity for the membership to see the young talent that will lead our profession in the future,” said OSCPA Chairman of the Board Neil Jay, CPA, ABV.
EEDA features The Collective in newsletter The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) recently featured The Collective in a recent issue of EEDA's newsletter, The Arrow. The Arrow is a monthly newsletter emailed to approximately 2,000 subscribers. Featured businesses also receive a commemorative arrow to recognize their participation. "The featured business portion of The Arrow was created as an outlet for the EEDA to further support and promote the Edmond business community," said Janet Yowell, EEDA executive director. "We were pleased to share The Collective's story in The Arrow and highlight some of the services the co-working space offers." The Collective is a co-working space for women that features high-speed Wi-Fi, business mailing address, printing, unlimited access via personal electronic key, 24/7 video monitoring, discounted space rental, and a kitchen with coffee bar, refrigerator, microwave and dishes. Members of The Collective also have access to members-only gatherings that offer collaborating, coaching and networking opportunities. "I saw a need for community and workspace for women who were working from home while juggling family or other responsibilities," said Amber Klunzinger, owner of The Collective. "When deciding where to locate The Collective, I wanted to be in downtown Edmond because I loved the feel of that area and knew that Edmond offered a great business community." To read the full The Collective feature in The Arrow, visit www.eeda.com/archives. To subscribe to The Arrow, visit www.eeda.com. The EEDA exists to offer resources that stimulate the growth of Edmond's economy by creating and maintaining an optimum environment for both new and existing businesses, offering services that facilitate the growth and expansion of those businesses and generating opportunities to increase the sales tax base of the city of Edmond.
Arvest supports heart association Arvest Bank is proud to announce its continuing support of the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Ball, which was held last weekend at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Arvest has been a loyal supporter of the event since 2013 and has stepped up each year to sponsor the event’s annual silent auction, which includes more than 100 items offered by dozens of local businesses, restaurants, retailers and individuals. “Arvest Bank has always been community-focused, and we couldn’t be happier with our role in supporting the American Heart Association be-
cause of their efforts to build a foundation of health in our community and to ensure everyone lives a longer, healthier life,” said Ron Witherspoon, president for Arvest Bank in Oklahoma City. The black-tie event has raised more than $5 million over the past decade for cardiovascular research and community health programs. The Heart Association is currently funding $1.2 million in research in the State of Oklahoma, the association says. To contribute to the mission of the American Heart Association, call Sandra Leaver at 405-415-3036 or visit www.heart.org/okcheartball.
OG&E offering teachers trip grant Oklahoma teachers in the Oklahoma Gas and Electric service area have the opportunity to apply for an all-expensepaid trip to the 2019 National Energy Conference for Educators. OG&E will offer 24 scholarships to sixth, seventh and eighth grade math and science teachers to attend the conference this summer. The deadline for applications is April 1. “The company is pleased to be able to support teachers who want to learn more about energy efficiency,” said Kathleen O’Shea, OG&E Spokesperson. “Investing in these teachers is an investment in the future of the energy indus-
try.” To apply, teachers should complete an online application detailing what energy efficiency means to them and how learning more about energy efficiency will help them teach the curriculum in their classroom. Entries can be submitted at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/EnergyConferenceOGE The conference is July 7-11, 2019 in Galveston, Texas. Teachers who attend the conference will learn about renewable and nonrenewable energy resources, the development and use of transportation fuels, the efficient use of energy, the science, generation and transmission of energy and much more.
A new soccer stadium in metro? A 10,000-seat multi-purpose arena is being pitched to be part of a MAPS 4 ballot, with backers including the owners of the Energy FC. The proposal was submitted last week to Mayor David Holt and suggests the stadium would be built in the downtown area with an estimated cost of $65 million to $80 million for construction and $6 million to $12 million for site acquisition. The group also proposes the city work with Fields and Futures — a nonprofit founded by OKC Energy FC Partner Tim McLaughlin, which is ded-
icated to keeping youth in school by refurbishing athletic programs and facilities in Oklahoma City public schools — to add up to 10 soccer fields to Wheeler Park to be used for tournaments that attract visitors to our region, youth development, league play, and engagement events between professional athletes and the community. “I’ve witnessed soccer fields transform communities by inspiring young athletes and bringing neighbors together over a common interest,” McLaughlin said.
The EEDA presented The Collective Owner Amber Klunzinger with a commemorative arrow for being a recent Featured Business in The Arrow.
Page 22 • March 7, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Mortgage Matters
Simplifying your short & long term financing 13TH F FAIRWAY AIR RWAY - OAK OAK TREE BEAUTY BEAUTY
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By Kenneth Wohl RCB Bank Building a home? How a Bank Can Simplify your Short and Long-Term Financing. Building a house is a two-loan process. Wohl First, you need temporary construction financing to cover the costs of building your home. Then you will need permanent financing for your mortgage. In many cases, a bank can take care of both loans, simplifying your financing process. Here’s four reasons to consider obtaining both loans from the same institution. Reason #1 – Cost Savings When both loans are financed with a bank, the process is streamlined. You only provide your information to one place, which is used to prepare both your loans. You may also save on appraisal costs. Appraisal requirements differ for temporary and permanent financing. Using separate companies for your construction loan and mortgage may require you to pay for two appraisals. By using the same bank for both loans, you may only have to pay for one appraisal and then a less expensive appraisal certificate to certify the construction is complete. Reason #2 – Pre-Approved longterm financing Securing both loans through a bank may offer you the opportunity to get pre-approved early for permanent financing. A pre-approval is based on documentation you provide at the time, assuming your situation does not change. By using the same bank for both loans, there is less chance to be surprised with financing delays for long-term financing after you have already started to build. Reason #3 – Efficiency During construction, your lender works with your builder or contractor
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to ensure invoices are paid based on the work done or materials provided. The lender monitors the progress of the project so payments are only made for work completed. By financing both loans through the same bank, closing on the mortgage can be schedule to occur quickly once the contractor gives the ok to move in. Reason #4 – Communication You can have as much or as little involvement in the construction process as you want. Some customers prefer the builder communicate directly with the lender. The builder sends invoices requesting payment for work done, and the lender conducts an inspection to make sure work completed is done or materials are on site prior to releasing funds. Some soon-to-be-homeowners are more hands on and want to deliver invoices in person to the lender and then personally deliver payment to the contractor. You can feel comfortable in a smooth process when using a onestop shop like a bank for both temporary and permanent financing. At RCB Bank, we are flexible and adapt to your needs. Plus, we’re reachable, by phone, in person, or at the job site, if necessary. Building a house is a huge project. Find a lender you trust, one who sees you as a customer, not a project. I’m here to help, even if you’re not an RCB Bank customer. Feel free to call me, Kenneth Wohl, at 405-6085291 or email kwohl@bankrcb.net. ---Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the author and meant for generic illustration purposes only. For specific questions regarding your personal lending needs, please call RCB Bank at 855-BANKRCB. With approved credit. Some restrictions apply. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151. Kenneth Wohl NMLS #4539
The Oklahoma City Dodgers and The Oklahoman will host open auditions from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, March 16 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark for musical performers to sing or play “The StarSpangled Banner” before Dodgers home games in 2019. National Anthem Tryouts presented by the OKC Dodgers and The Oklahoman were originally scheduled March 2 at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Water Stage, but inclement weather and cold temperatures led organizers to reschedule the auditions to coincide with OKC Dodgers Fan Fest in just over two weeks. All 125 audition time slots filled up in less than one week after registration opened in late January for the ninth annual National Anthem Tryouts presented by The Oklahoman and the OKC Dodgers. Performers still interested in auditioning can join a standby list at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark’s Mickey Mantle Plaza starting at 10:30 a.m. March 16. If the tryouts run ahead of schedule, or if a performer does not show up for a scheduled time, those in the standby line will be chosen to audition. Standby performers are encour-
aged to arrive early and will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Based on the turnout of previous events, about 20 standby participants will likely be given an opportunity to audition. Performers will take the stage in front of a live audience and a judging panel consisting of editors and columnists from The Oklahoman, city officials and community leaders. Winners will be selected based on voice quality, creative style and stage presence. The auditions draw a wide variety of performers from the Oklahoma City area, as well as from across the state of Oklahoma and even a handful from surrounding states. Winners will perform the national anthem at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark throughout the upcoming 70game home schedule. The grand prize winner will perform as part of Opening Day Thursday, April 4 when the Dodgers host the San Antonio Missions. For more information about National Anthem Tryouts presented by The Oklahoman and the OKC Dodgers, Fan Fest, season ticket packages or group outings, call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.
Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.
Latter-day Saints
Open house scheduled for renovated temple The First Presidency has announced public open house dates for the newly renovated Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The public is invited to visit the temple during a free open house from Wednesday, April 24, to Wednesday, May 1. The temple will be closed on Sunday, April 28. Reservations for the open house can be made through the www.templeopenhouse.lds.org in the coming weeks. At the conclusion of the open house, the temple will be formally rededicated on Sunday, May 19, 2019, by President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency of the Church. Attendance to the session will be by invitation. The Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple was originally dedicated July 30, 2000, by President James E. Faust, then second counselor in the First Presidency of the Church. It was closed on October 15, 2017, for an extensive renovation project. Worldwide there are 201 temples operating, announced or under construction. The Oklahoma City Oklahoma temple serves Latter-day Saints in Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri. Latter-day Saint temples differ from the meetinghouses or chapels where members meet for Sunday worship services. Temples are considered “houses of the Lord” where Christ’s teachings are reaffirmed through marriage, baptism, and other ordinances that unite families for eternity. Inside, members learn more about the purpose of life and make covenants to serve Jesus Christ and their fellowman.
Edmond Life & Leisure • March 7, 2019 • Page 23
Non-profit group seeks young professionals Sunbeam Family Services invites professionals aged 24 to 40 to join the Beacons. The Beacons connects professionals interested in making a difference in central Oklahoma by partnering with Sunbeam. These dedicated individuals volunteer their time and talent to raise awareness about Sunbeam and its mission to provide help, hope and the opportunity to succeed through Early Childhood, Foster Care, Counseling and Senior Services. Beacons advocate for Sunbeam throughout the community, help recruit volunteers and donors, provide valuable feedback to fulfill Sunbeam’s mission. “The Beacons are mission-driven, collaborative advocates who are passionate about helping children, families and seniors thrive,” said Jim Priest, chief executive officer of Sunbeam Family Services. “We are grateful for their partnership and impact on Sunbeam’s clients and our community." Beacons serve a two-year term. Applications are
available online at sunbeamfamilyservices.org/beacons and are due on March 20 at 5 p.m. “Being a Beacon gives me the unique opportunity to learn about programs that are directly impacting Oklahoma City’s most vulnerable through Sunbeam Family Services”, states Jordan Johnston, Beacons president. “I get to intentionally use my time and resources to find ways of helping create a better city for our future generations.” Current Beacons members include Chelsea Baker, OU Health Science Center; Jenefar Battle, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma; Kody Bollenbach, Heritage Institutional Services; Kacie Cardenas, Bank of Oklahoma; Anthony Coby, Rainbow Fleet; Jordan Evans, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education; Lynde Gleason, TEEM; Jordan Johnston, Oklahoma State Legislative Aide; Bethany Scott, Eventures; and Tyler Whiteside, PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
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 24 • March 7, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure