Edmond Life and Leisure - April 6, 2023

In This Issue

FOUR SEASONS

Seasons,

Volunteers pick up trash at Arcadia Lake

See page 9

FRIDAY, April 7

Partly Cloudy High 69° Low 43°

SATURDAY, April 8

Partly Cloudy High 70° Low 50°

SUNDAY, April 9

Partly Cloudy High 78° Low 52°

Edmond has embraced the concept of public art. Many outsiders make Edmond a destination site, just to take in the various works of art.

Editor’s Note: Edmond Life and Leisure will be regularly featuring columns by Jennifer Seaton, Tourism director. She examines features around town, which draw interest, visitors and money to Edmond. Her column is called “Experience Edmond.”

By Jennifer Seaton Tourism Director

Visit Edmond

2901 ConferenEdmond has more public art than any city our size in the United States. More than 300 works of art dot Edmond with color and beauty. Bronze sculptures, murals and interactive art pieces can be found at parks, along streets, on the University of Central Oklahoma campus and historic downtown.

How did Edmond become a public art destination?

The Edmond Visual Arts Commission (EVAC) was established 20 years ago to provide a means for the selection, display, and maintenance of the City of Edmond’s public art collection. Funds come from a couple of sources:

1% from City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): For example, the Public Safety Center, new Fire Stations, YMCA, Edmond Center Court, and the renovated KickingBird Golf Course all feature specially selected public art.

Matching funds: For example, if a private individual or business wants to display a public art piece, they can bring the art idea and cost to EVAC. If approved, EVAC will match 50% of the cost up to $30,000 with city funds. The matching budget is approved by City Council annually. In 2022, EVAC had $250,000 for matching funds.

Here are three ways to enjoy Edmond’s public art:

Art in Public Places Tour: A monthly walking/driving tour costs $15 and showcases the stories behind public

art pieces. The walking portion covers most of Downtown from 1st Street to Hurd and back; lunch is provided. Transportation during the driving portion is provided by the Edmond Parks and Recreation Department. Two hour guided walking tours of Downtown as well as private group tours are available upon request. Reserve your spot by calling 405-216-7635.

Self-Guided Tours: Find art on foot or via bike on your own time.

Bicycle Art Tour - Take a scenic ride to enjoy more than 20 art pieces.

Downtown Art Tour - Explore more than 30 art pieces on this walking tour.

Mural Art Tour - Embark on a journey of color and imagination to see more than 10 murals.

BoulevART Art Tour - Boulevard Street features more than 20 installations, with at least one piece on each block.

UCO Art Tour - Admire more than 15 sculptures on the University of Central Oklahoma campus.

Historic Art Tour - Experience Edmond’s history through more than 20 sculptures.

Four of the art tours have printed brochures. Downtown, Bicycle, UCO and Historic Art brochures are available at the City of Edmond Planning Department, the City of Edmond Parks and Recreation Office and Visit Edmond Offices.

Interactive Art Map: Find a colorful map and list of art pieces with photos at www.visitedmondok.com/art Art in Edmond ranges from abstract to realistic, with many inviting interactions. Some are in plain sight, while others are tucked away and surprise residents and visitors. Take time to write on the “I’m Grateful” wall in chalk or add a lock to “Key to My Heart” near the Edmond Railyard. Learn more by calling Cinda Covel, Public Art Director, at 405-285-4275.

Four

by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Coed killed by intoxicated driver in 2020

Measure, honoring late UCO student, clears the Oklahoma State Senate

The full Senate has given its approval to legislation to ensure greater accountability when alcohol is served at event venues.

Sen. Paul Rosino is the principal author of Senate Bill 1057, creating the Marissa Murrow Act. Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, said the legislation is named for a University of Central Oklahoma student who was struck head-on by an intoxicated driver who’d been drinking at a wedding event venue in 2020. Marissa’s parents, Jeff and Kristy Murrow, are constituents and worked with Rosino on the legislation.

“Marissa was valedictorian of her Mustang High School class and planned to become a special education teacher – she had a bright future ahead of her, but her life was taken by a four-time drunk driver coming from an event venue,” Rosino said. “Our current laws address situations when someone has been overserved at a bar or restaurant, but it doesn’t specifically address event venues. SB 1057 will

Jeff and Kristy Murrow look on from the Senate Gallery as members approve SB 1057, the Marissa Murrow Act, named for their daughter, who died after a headon collision with a four-time drunk driver who had been drinking at an event venue.

close that loophole.”

Rosino said there are currently some 3,000 event venues in the state, and under current statutes, they are not required to hold any kind of license in order for alcohol to be served at their locations. SB 1057 would stipulate that a caterer could not sell or distribute alcoholic beverages on the premises unless the venue holds an event venue license from the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission.

The Murrows watched from the Senate gallery as Rosino presented the legislation on the floor.

“We know that nothing’s going to bring our daughter back, but our number one goal is to provide more safety so that someone else doesn’t have to experience what we did,” said Kristy Murrow. “It’s an unthinkable thing, and if we can help someone else… that’s what our goal is.”

Marissa Murrow

Community banks a great option

With the breakneck speed failure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, many folks are wondering if their deposits are safe in Oklahoma banks. I can tell you that they are safe. I serve as chairman of the board of directors of one of our local banks where safety and soundness are key to the way we do business.

Ray Hibbard

First we need to understand what was at the heart of the failure of these two banks. Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank failed with enormous speed – so quickly that they could be textbook cases of classic bank runs, in which too many depositors withdraw their funds from a bank at the same time. The failures at SVB and Signature were two of the three biggest in U.S. banking history, following the collapse of Washington Mutual in 2008.

There are two ways banks can fail. One is if they have an abundance of bad loans. We saw this so much during the oil bust here in Oklahoma if any of you are old enough to remember those depressing days. The bust lasted 8 years and thank goodness we have seen nothing like it since in this state.

While the most common type of risk faced by a commercial bank is a jump in loan defaults or known as credit risk, that’s not what happened with these two banks.

The second way is through lack of liquidity or not enough cash to pay off demand from depositors. Liquidity risk is the risk that a bank won’t be able to meet its obligations when they come due without incurring losses. This is what got our out-ofstate friends in trouble. Customers of SVB were withdrawing their deposits beyond what it could pay using its cash reserves, and so to help meet its obligations the bank decided to sell $21 billion of its securities portfolio at a loss of $1.8 billion. The drain on equity capital led the lender to try to raise over $2 billion in new capital.

Normally a bank deals with such possibilities by pledging or selling some of the securities they own to raise the funds to pay depositors. If you just keep a bunch of cash at the bank and do not invest it there will be no earnings. The investments SVB made were not risky, they were just too long. The Federal Reserve has been aggressively raising rates, 4.5 percentage points so far, in a bid to tame soaring inflation. As a result,

the yield on debt has jumped at a commensurate rate. Hence, the reason for the loss on selling of SVB securities was to raise cash to meet demand.

They had a fail safe and that was to sell more stock and raise more capital. The problem was that most of their loan customers were concentrated on one type of business. Word was spread to get your cash out today. Once the panic set in, there was no real option except to close the bank. The role federal bank regulators played in all this is a topic for another column.

Another issue is that customers of the bank and the staff at the bank did not take advantage of the insurance available. Many of SVB’s customers had deposits well above the $250,000 insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. — and so they knew their money might not be safe if the bank were to fail. Roughly 88 percent of deposits at SVB were uninsured.

This is an incredibly stupid percentage of uninsured deposit. I believe our community bank is at 11% uninsured deposit. Most of them have other arrangements to protect their money and the bank offers deposit options above the FDIC insurance of $250,000 per account. I asked Jill Castilla, CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond to explain some of these options:

“We are proud that Citizens Bank of Edmond has been at the same location, serving our community for 120 years, and we are confident we will be here for another 100 years. Citizens Bank of Edmond is well capitalized with a healthy diversified portfolio of deposits and investments, and we have a strong liquidity position. The safety and soundness of our operations have been - and remain - our utmost priority.

We also offer robust tools for you to maximize deposit insurance and bring you peace of mind. Citizens Bank of Edmond has been using these tools for over a decade, and with our team expertise, you can benefit from them at any time.”

FDIC Insurance

• Protects depositors in insured banks (Member FDIC) to at least $250,000

o $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership type, per financial institution

o Example – if you have a joint account the insurance is up to $500,000 can also add beneficiaries to expand coverage

• Covers all types of deposits

o Checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs, money market accounts

• Does not cover money invested in stocks, bonds, life insurance policies, mutual funds, etc.

• FDIC Insurance protects depositors in the event an insured bank fails IntraFi

• Formerly known as Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS) and Insured Cash Sweep (ICS)

• Additional network that Member FDIC banks can participate in

• This network spreads funds across multiple accounts at different banks to maximize the FDIC insurance

• The funds are managed under a single umbrella with one bank

• You can elect to put your money in CDs, checking accounts or money market accounts depending on liquidity needs

• If the bank is a member of IntraFi (like Citizens Bank of Edmond) – your account would be opened and operated at one bank and deposits are managed at reciprocal banks in order to leverage the FDIC insurance of $250,000

• Citizens Bank of Edmond has been in the IntraFi network for more than 13 years

• Citizens Bank of Edmond can insure deposits up to $1.5 million

If you are like me and feel good with the $250,000 of FDIC insurance, you have nothing to worry

about. If you are one of those individuals that are lucky enough to have excess cash over the limit, ask your local banker what you can do and how the bank can help you insure your funds.

You will hear the talking heads on television describe SVB as a regional bank. Many of the banks in this town are community banks and not regional. Community banks are the ones that support local events and organizations. They provide the lending needed for our residents. They are just as safe if not safer than any regional bank. Most likely no matter where you bank these days, there is no need to move your money.

Downtown Edmond leader passed last week

It is with the heaviest heart imaginable that we announce the passing of Becky Crow. She owns Broadway Antiques & Market and has been such an important part of the growth of Downtown Edmond. She has been a friend to all and we can't imagine Downtown without her loving spirit!

Our downtown Edmond area would not be where it is today without her leadership and energy. She was a giant organizer for the Edmond Arts Festival and many other projects in the area. Our thoughts and prayers to her family.

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

“Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.

Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable.

visit

Group urges organ donations during April

April is National Donate Life Month, an awareness event designed to encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. It is also a time set aside to honor those who have saved lives through the gift of organ donation.

One organ donor can extend the lives of up to eight people, restore sight to two people through cornea donation and heal up to 75 others through tissue donation. On average, 22 people die each day waiting on a lifesaving organ transplant.

The Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center and LifeShare Oklahoma invite the media to attend a special flag raising ceremony to acknowledge the importance and growing need for transplantation.

The event will be at 2 p.m., April 14 at the flag pole at the main entrance of Integris Health Baptist Medical Center at 3300 N.W. Expressway.

You are encouraged to wear blue or green to the event to show support of Donate Life Month. Flags will be on display as another powerful visual. Each one will represent someone currently on the transplant waiting list at INTEGRIS Health or a donor who gave the ultimate gift of life.

Oklahomans have three options to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Residents can sign-up when renewing their driver’s license, visit LifeShareRegistry.org to sign up online, or call 800-826-LIFE (5433) and request a donor registration form.

City looking to ascertain its future housing needs

The City of Edmond has kicked off a Housing Assessment to look at Edmond’s top housing challenges.

The assessment will look at future supply and demand, identify gaps and barriers to meeting demand, and develop an action-based strategy to address those identified gaps. The goal is to provide pathways to attainable housing for existing and future households of all types, ages, and income levels.

As part of the process, the City is conducting several public outreach activities to gather public input. Popup events are scheduled at the Farmer’s Market and at Heard on Hurd on Saturday, April 15. While enjoying the festivities, the public is encouraged to stop by the City of Edmond tent and participate in a quick interactive exercise to share your thoughts on Edmond’s housing types and challenges. Some questions focus on:

• What types of housing would you be interested in living in Edmond?

• What do you see as Edmond’s top housing challenges?

• What issues come to mind when trying to purchase a home?

• What barriers come to mind when looking for a rental in Edmond?

• Are there any other thoughts that come to mind about housing in Edmond?

“In the past decade we have seen demographics changing rapidly in the City of Edmond. Due to this reality the City of Edmond has committed to assessing our housing needs to analyze the types of housing products that are in demand and to identify gaps,” said Randy Entz, Director of Planning and Zoning for the City.

“These pop-up events offer the public an opportunity to share what they think are Edmond’s top housing challenges and priorities while enjoying a day out at one of our two most popular events. We are hoping for a robust turnout and a chance to meet up face-to-face. Can you join us to share your thoughts?”

For more information, visit www.edmondok.gov/housingassessment. Your ideas and comments are vital to the success of this proje

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Eugene “Gene” Streller

Beloved husband, father, and papa, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2023, with family by his side. He was 85.

Gene was born on March 3, 1938, in Perry, OK. He was the first of four children of John and Dorothy Streller. He spent his childhood working on his family farm and exploring the great outdoors.

After graduating from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Gene met Mary Bullis. They married in 1965 and went on to have three children, Scott, Kristi, and Gina.

Gene made a career as a Civilian Mechanical Engineer at Tinker Air Force Base for nearly 40 years.

During his generous and industrious life, Gene made family his life. From playing bridge with Mary, building tree houses, skipping rocks in the creek, and having long talks about operas and musicals or quantum theory and DNA, to building a tennis court for his family, discussing how to properly set every setting on every type of camera, and being an always-on-call driver for anyone who needed to get to practice, school, or Braum’s, he was eager to be involved. He often would write letters to his children when they were in college. It was never easy to read his handwriting, but it was always a joy to receive the usually 2-3 sentence note, often accompanied by a comic he had cut out of the newspaper.

Gene loved his grandkids, and they each have a unique bond with him. Whatever they were into, he was there, ready to support them in every way he could. He explored STEM topics with Read, from chemistry to physics to rocket science, and went hunting, fishing, and got into all kinds of outdoor activities with David. He had a unique admiration for horses and photography with Mary Kate, and he and Sarah used their brilliant minds and imaginations to explore the cosmos. He loved talking to Luke about tennis and basketball, and he was so proud of the strong person Alex was becoming. His face lit up so brightly when Adam gave him hugs.

Gene’s faith also was a top priority. He made sure his family traveled to see as much of the world as possible, never missing Mass even while on vacation. But more pertinent than that, he was a consummate example of doing selfless acts for others, no matter the inconvenience or difficulty it might cause him.

Gene is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary; and his children: son, Scott and daughter-in-law, Shannon Streller (Edmond); daughter, Kristi Smith (The Woodlands, TX); and daughter, Gina and son-in-law Neil Hasty (Tulsa). He also leaves behind 7 adoring grandchildren: Read, David, Mary Kate, and Sarah Streller, and Junior Nsengiyumva; Luke and Alexandra Smith; and Adam Hasty. He is also survived by his brothers, Johnny (Mary Lee) Streller and Gerald (Judy) Streller, and sister, Mariann Moery.

Funeral Mass was held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (900 S. Littler Ave., Edmond, OK).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities of Oklahoma City.

(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)

March 13

Trina Michellle Stone, 49, homeless. Public intoxication.

Wilfre Ronaldo Coc Caal, 24 of Edmond. Speeding (15 mph over) and driving without a proper driver’s license.

Willie Neal Franklin, 66 of Arcadia. Speeding (21 to 25 mph over) and driving while privilege is cancelled, suspended, denied or revoked.

William Franklin Stockwell, Jr. 34 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Justin Dale Nicholas, 31 homeless. Failure to appear.

March 14

Archie Dean Hill Jr., 50 of Oklahoma City. Three counts of possession of CDS, possess firearm after conviction of felony, misdemeanor warrant and two counts of failure of appear.

Sarahann Nicole Tiller, 22 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or over.

Isaac David Stuart, 36 of Guthrie. Interruption, disruption or interference with emergency phone call and (misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse assault (in the presence of a minor child)

Quinton Whatoff Rudkin, 58 of Edmond. Improper turn and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Trevor Sebastian Drake Heiskill, 21 of Edmond. Failure to carry security verification form in vehicle, leaving the scene of accident (unattended vehicle); operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Shelby Lang Smith, 25 of Ardmore. Defrauding an innkeeper.

Tyrone Alexander Kelley, 45 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Justin Wayne Turner, 31 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

March 15

Wyatt Austin Stierwalt, 25 of Atlanta, Ill. Transport open container of beer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or above.

William Graeber Edmiston, 33 of Guthrie. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage of beer and operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level or .15 or more.

Stephanie Danielle Nichols, 41 of Oklahoma City. Possess of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to appear.

Nina Gayle Smith, 22 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jennifer Margeerite Wilken, 30 of Stillwater. Trespassing.

Nicolas Juarez Guerrero, 50 of Edmond. Expired tag over three months, driving without proper valid ID.

Rebecca Leann Hill, 29 of Oklahoma City. Speeding (11-14 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jordan D. Tonkumoh, 20 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Dairon Taray Williams, 22 of Oklahoma City., Misdemeanor warrant, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and speeding (16-20 mph over)

March 16

Shannon Leslie Bacus, 41 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Courtney Allison McGee, 34 of Warr Acres. Misdemeanor warrant, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Rotasha LaShawn Lewis, 34 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear and no proof of insurance by owner.

March 17

Jeremy Jay Lashley, 45 of Edmond. Expired tag (over three months) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Holden Alec Anderson, 25 of Yukon. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Edward IV Bullock IV, 25 of Guthrie. Expired tag over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, sus-

pended, denied or revoked.

David Tyler Burshik, 38 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Johnny David Hopson, 66 homeless. (Misdemeanor) unlawful proceeds, (felony value) receive stolen property and (felony value) obtaining by false pretense, trick or deception.

Larry O’Neil Boatwright, Jr., 38 homeless. Public intoxication.

Blake Tyler Evans, 24 of Edmond.m Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Dtrick Allan Moore, 20 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Adam Joseph Pardi, 41 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and failure to appear.

Andrew Patrick Morgan, 34 of Edmond. Nonassault resisting officer and public intoxication.

March 18

Gabriel Benjamin Leo Nora Morris, 21 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Gabriel Elijah Covington, 25 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Kristine Gail Jones, 44 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Travis Don Horton, 28 homeless. Trespassing. Kearston Rayne Lairson, 28 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

William Craigory Coderre, 32 of Edmond. Felony warrant and a misdemeanor warrant.

Khia Monet Glover, 32 of Midwest City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Cord LaShandon Moore, 29 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Brandon Issac Pohocsucut, 24 of Moore. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and a misdemeanor warrant.

James Roark Puglisi, 39 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, no proof of insurance and expired tag — over three months. ‘

Justin Reid Schrimsher, 43 of Edmond. Possession of CDS and felony DUI/APC.

March 19

Gregory Lynn Thomas, 52 of Oklahoma City. A felony warrant and a misdemeanor warrant. Ryan Christopher Woods, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Bobby Joe Whitaker Jr., 42 of Edmond. A felony warrant, possession CDS, possess drug paraphernalia, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or combination of schedule one chemical or controlled substance.

Gwendolyn Paige Peterson, 59 of Dallas, Texas. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Michael Arrington Eldridge Jr., 39 of Guthrie. Two counts of possession of CDS, obstruction of police officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, three misdemeanor warrants and one felony warrant.

March 20

Brendon Johnson Allen, 30 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Darrius Deangelo Jackson, 18 of Oklahoma City. Leaving the scene of accident unattended vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license, motor vehicle theft, obstruction of a police officer, robbery, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and eluding police officer (M)

Malik Jaquez Glover, 18 of Edmond. Motor vehicle theft, obstruction of police officer and robbery, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon.

Patricia Ann Cotner-McCullough, 65 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Justice Latrice Conney, 20 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Vance Marsh Trumpp, 51 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Nathan Eugene Walton, 35 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Mario Manuel-Juan, 24 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication

Terry Dean Murdach, 61 of Oklahoma City. Two felony warrants, one misdemeanor warrant, possession of marijuana and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Shakira Diane Brooke, 42 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Cody Daniel Baldridge, 29 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

March 21

Erick Dawayne Harrison, 30 of Cushing. Possession of a firearm after conviction of a felony, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and public intoxication.

Gerald Len Whalen, 43 of Edmond. Misdemeanor domestic abuse assault.

Joseph Warren Urbin, 27 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag over three months and driving without a proper/valid driver’s license.

Monique Lasha Porter, 21 of Edmond. Reckless driving and driving without a proper./valid driver’s license.

March 22

Jonathan Lee Meierhoff, 39 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Chadwick C. Lavender, 47 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Terry Lee Dyer, 62 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

D’anty Javay Goree, 32 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Tonya Natasha Williams, 42 of Tulsa. Felony warrant and larceny from building grand larceny.

March 23 Jeffrey Wayne Wright Jr. 37 of Edmond. Two felony warrants, possession of CDS, possess drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Catherine Irene Bowe, 32 of Edmond. Possession of CDS, public intoxication and possess drug paraphernalia.

Essence Monae Keith, 27 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and two counts of failure to appear.

Kestolym Sam, 24 of Jones. No proof of insurance by owner, expired tag – over three months and driving without a proper/valid driver’s license.

Chelsea Mae Peaster 34 of Edmond. Two misdemeanor warrants and a felony warrant.

Andrew Lewis Robbins, 27 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Anthony Dewayne Prosser Kierzek, 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse assault (in the presence of a minor child)

Jose Alejandro Ruiz-Fernandez, 24 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Devyn Nikolai Sloan, 25 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and public intoxication.

March 24

Parker Lynn Moore, 21 of Yukon. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Noah Michael Pollard, 21 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Jeffrey Wayne Wright Jr., 37 of Edmond. Two felony warrants.

Ryan Joseph Cummings, 37 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Syeda Massoma Abedi, 42 homeless Failure to appear.

David Samuel Winterink, 34 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC.

Tonya Lee Ann Duncan, 54 of Norman. Public intoxication.

Macy Rae Meritt 18 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

March 25

Jungmok Shin, 31 of Edmond. Operate (DUI ro APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Tristen James Wells, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Anesha Nikole Yarbrough, 40 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Tyler Jon Wennersten, 20 homeless. Possess CDS and a misdemeanor warrant.

Victoria Michelle Swim, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Oscar Omar Robles, 25 of Laredo, Texas. Nonassault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Cristina Marisol Contreras, 31 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Victor Daniel Gonzalez, 25 of Oklahoma City. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Adarius Mashaun Avery, 26 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Zachery Wesley Schwerdtfeger, 30 of Edmond. See Police, Page 7

Weekend calendar, April 6-9

What’s Happening This Weekend April 6-9

---- In the Gallery

---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

---- UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ---- 2020 ---- Barrel Bash

---- Live Music at Round Midnight

---- Frenzy in April

---- UCO Jazz Lab Events in April ---- VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience

---- Little Loksi

---- Signature Tour

---- OKC Broadway presents: Riverdance 25th Anniversary Tour

---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Play That Goes Wrong

---- TeamOKC Champagne & Oysters

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: James Coplin Gallery Opening; Thu, Apr 6; 5 – 8 p.m.; Free; Featuring the art of James Coplin; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31, 2023; edmondhistory.org

UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO Nigh Center

Police

Misdemeanor warrant and public intoxication.

Peter John Harrington, 50 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Toni Danielle Seymor, 47 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Dennis Traevon Murphy, 31 of Edmond. Three counts of failure to appear and a misdemeanor warrant.

Christopher Lawaun Thompson, 39 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Donte Tarron Anderson, 34 homeless. Failure to appear.

March 26

Tyson Macaiah Morrison, 18 of Guthrie. Nonassault resisting officer and shoplifting.

Zachary Clifton Edge, 37 of Yukon. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or above.

Noah Alexander Shemely, 22 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or above.

Mikolash Hernandez, 19 of Oklahoma City. Unlawful carrying of weapon.

Bennie Williams, 35 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia and two counts of failure to appear.

Jerry Don Bynum, 43 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and two counts of failure to appear.

Brandon Tyler Gage, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Extra Info: Thu, Mar 30 – Fri, May 12; free; calendar.uco.edu

Unveiled: Edmond’s

Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum

Extra Info: Wed, Mar 1 – Fri, Dec 1; visitedmondok.com

Barrel Bash Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 7 – Sun, Apr 9; lazye.com

Live Music at Round Midnight

Location: Round Midnight

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 6: Adam Ray Trio; Fri, Apr 7: Noah Engh Trio; Sat, Apr 8: Savoy Trio; 7 – 10 p.m.; facebook.com

Frenzy in April

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 6: Blake Bricker; 6 p.m.; Fri, Apr 7: Zack Baker; 8 p.m.; Sat, Apr 8: Brek Osenbaugh; 8 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com

UCO Jazz Lab Events in April

Location: University of Central Oklahoma

– UCO Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 6: Miss Brown to You; 7:30 p.m.; $15; Fri, Apr 7: “Blue Lou” Marini & His Blues Brothers Buddies; 8 p.m.; $60; Sat, Apr 8: Garrett “Big G” Jacobson; 8 p.m.; $15; ucojazzlab.com

VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 6; 5 – 9 p.m.; free

Little Loksi

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 7; 10 a.m. ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 8 – Sun, Apr 9; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

OKC Broadway presents: Riverdance 25th Anniversary Tour

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Wed, Apr 5 – Thu, Apr 6; 7:30 p.m.; okcbroadway.com

Lyric Theatre Presents: The Play That Goes Wrong

Location: Lyric at the Plaza

Extra Info: Wed, Apr 5 – Sat, Apr 29; Wed & Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 2 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com

TeamOKC Champagne & Oysters

Location: Devon Boathouse

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 7; 6 – 9 p.m.; riversportokc.org

Send calendar inems to infante318@cox.net

From Page 6

Jerry Glen Cook, 58 of Guthrie. Two misdemeanor warrants and two counts of failure to appear.

Dick Robert Eugene Jr., 41 of Yukon. Operating obstructive/dangerous vehicle, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and a misdemeanor warrant.

Deandra Jamal Henderson, 30 of Spencer. Misdemeanor warrant.

March 27

Lakesia Rashonda Cross, 40 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Christine Regina Ambrosio, 46 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

James Kalvin Owens, 46 of Edmond. Three counts of failure to appear.

Eric Daniel Wolf, 35 of Edmond. Failure to wear seatbelt and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Ryan Daniel McWaters, 29 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, two counts of possession of CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of schedule one chemical or controlled substance.

March 28

Tayvaughn Lashawm Crump, 23 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

Jeffrey Adam Windbigler, 30 of Guthrie. Reckless driving.

Darick Lamont Walker, 27 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Monica Rae Baldner, 60 of Edmond. Petty larceny.

Samuel David Flores Gil, 26 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

John Travis Roden, 39 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property and trafficking in illegal drugs.

March 29

Freddie Doyle Johnson Jr., 43 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possess CDS.

Kimberly Raquel Herrera, 41 of Del City. Possess drug paraphernalia, three counts possession of CDS and (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution.

Jeremy Benjamin Frantz, 34 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Josiah Deion Washington, 20 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Zachary Calhoun, 52 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

From March 13 to March 29, 129 booking reports.

Please remember. Do not drink and drive

State Senate OKs education funding

The Oklahoma State Senate last week gave passage to its historic $700 million education package.

Senators voted overwhelmingly on both measures 40 – to – 7 on House Bill 1935 and 46 – to – 2 on House Bill 2775, approving the single largest appropriations increase to education in state history, sending it back to the House of Representatives.

Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, said the Senate did its job and delivered for teachers, children and parents.

“Today is a great day for education in Oklahoma,” Pro Tem Treat said. “My Senate colleagues and I passed measures that, when signed into law will make drastic improvements to public education, reward our teaches, empower parents to make the best choice for their kids and fund students, not systems.”

Senate Education Package

Over $700 million for Education

The Senate is proposing the single largest appropriations increase to education in history with

the passage of HB 1935 and HB 2775.

HB 1935 will give parents additional options and control over their children’s education by providing a $100 million investment in school choice. This bill provides a $7,500 tax credit per eligible student each tax year if the eligible student attends a private school and the family has an income of less than $250,000. The bill also provides for a $1,000 tax credit per family, for certain qualified expenditures, each tax year if one or more eligible students is homeschooled. Valid receipts must be provided to OTC to receive the $1,000 tax credit.

HB 2775 appropriates $500,000,000 to the State Board of Education for the purpose of providing Oklahoma teachers a pay raise as well as substantially increasing the State Aid Formula.

HB 2775 will also appropriate $30 million for the creation of the Rewarding Excellent Educators Grant Program. This program will provide grant funds to school districts to implement qualitative bonus pay plans for eligible teachers and eligible support employees.

Other Senate education measures sent to the House include:

• $16.5 million for eight weeks of paid maternity leave for teachers who become new mothers;

• $41 million for the Oklahoma Teacher Corps Program which will aid schools by paying for tuition and fees for students who agree to teach for four years in a Title I School;

• $1.6 million for a teacher mentorship program, providing mentor teachers with a $500 annual stipend;

• A pilot program to provide on-site childcare services to specific districts, contracted childcare to the district, or to provide stipends to employees to help cover childcare costs;

• $20 million for school safety and security. Schools will be able to undergo a risk and vulnerability assessment to enable schools to have the best plan in place to protect their children; and

•Providing additional funding to school districts dedicated to pay for additional certifications and credentials for teachers.

Cynthia Johnson

Genealogy meeting set

The challenges of searching for

African-American ancestors

African-Americans have a much harder time doing their family tree. They can face Insurmountable brick walls because slaves in the census were not named, only counted by tally marks.

The Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group will meet on April 19th,  and Ms. Cynthia Johnson will present “This is My Story, This is My Song,”  detailing the search for her African-American family history. Ms. Johnson began researching her family’s history over eight years ago but ran into many barriers and roadblocks. Reluctance to talk about the past, long kept secrets and lack of documentation meant turning to DNA. That DNA enabled her to continue her research.

Ms. Johnson was born and raised in Oklahoma and currently resides in Ardmore. She is a Navy veteran and retired from Michelin North America. She now works as a Mediator in the South-Central district of Oklahoma for the State of Oklahoma

The OHCE Genealogy Group meets at 10 a.m. at the Oklahoma County Extension office, 2500 NE 63rd St and this presentation is open to the public. For more information you can go to our website: ohcegenealogy.com or our Facebook page: OHCEGenealogy.

Arcadia Lake Sweep

Nicole Offutt assigns the area of the lake to be swept by Phil Fitzgerald and Vickie Tuning.

Last weekend volunteers showed up early Saturday morning to help imrpove the looks of Arcadia Lake. They checked the shorelines and parks for any stray trash. Volunteers worked from 8 to 11 a.m.

Photos by Melinda Infante

World in a bad mood

By Steve Gust

People seem to be more and more mad each day.

Like I was saying the other week, I realize I probably have a lot of room for improvement myself.

Gov. Stitt will be along the lines of this.

“Happy Easter? Well, it might be if you’d give teachers in this state a reasonable wage to live on.” (Note: the Governor can’t do this on his own. It has to be voted on by the state legislature.)

Lankford concerned over foreigners purchasing land

This is a national security issue and a human rights issue. We need to know who is buying our land, how they are using it, and if any criminal activity is occurring.”

Steve Gust

But social media is full of people, who seem to fly off the handle with very little provocation.l

There are a ton of video clips of road rage as well as rage on jetliners coast to coast.

People will actually attack people at fast food places if they perceive their order hasn’t been filled properly.

Enough already.

Is it really worth it to treat someone so poorly over $5 or $10? I don’t think so.

The social media online world isn’t much better.

I imagine later this week, Gov. Stitt will most likely wish everyone a Happy Easter.

You’d think a simple greeting like this would be harmless enough. You’d be wrong.

Some of the comments awaiting

Or another comment he might get, would be something like,”Happy Easter? You may not realize this, but there is a separation of church and state in this nation, bud. You can’t violate that.”

And then the writer would go on some diatribe against Christianity and then follow that up with telling the Governor he is an atheist.

I don’t know how public officials put up with the venom from opponents. By the way, those are the same opponents who keep telling us that they are the tolerant and accepting people. Nothing could be further from the truth.

I better not think about it much longer. I might get mad.

Steve Gust, may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com.)

Teens not handling phones properly

EDITOR:

In reference to the article in the March 16 issue concerning Paycom’s enhancement of $1.25 million being provided by the Edmond School Foundation for mental health of kids, why do we see this as cause for celebration? Seems to me this mainly attempts to put on band-aids instead of addressing the root cause of most youngsters' mental health issues today – unrestricted access to cell phones, social media and the Internet, and the resulting lack of social interaction. Parents have become enablers, unwittingly contributing to this crisis, and are in the best position to stop it, not our school system. Would any parent give their child a box of rat poison just because their friends eat it and TikTokers say it is OK; and then feel like a great parent because they limit consumption to one pellet a day? That would be insane and grounds for child abuse. Providing an immature youngster a cell phone is basically the same thing – a source of poison for the developing mind at its most vulnerable, even in small doses. So why be surprised when they get sick, think suicidal thoughts or even die from the experience!

To me, the best use of PayCom’s $50,000 donation is to buy each family a hammer they can use to smash the cell phone of their kids under age 16. Then, put your own phone in the drawer each evening and all weekend, and help them use their rediscovered “kid time” to read or do homework,

Letter to the Editor

enjoy the outdoors, play games, go to concerts and museums, interact in person with friends, help a neighbor, or treat them to memorable experiences that may actually restore their happiness, and will certainly make them smarter and better-adjusted human beings. Parents must regain control over their kids and what they are exposed to, instead of ceding such control to social media abusers, school counselors or therapists!

When a kid turns 16, if they have abided by your rules and are mature enough to withstand peer pressure and the propaganda and disinformation spouted on social media, perhaps they will have earned the privilege of having a phone. If not, try again at age 18. When they reach maturity, having a phone is their own business and should be at their own expense.

The mental health problems of our young people deserve far more than costly but simplistic band-aids (cuddly animals and safe spaces) offered by school administrators and big nanny government. Real solutions lie mostly in the hands of loving, caring, hammer-wielding parents willing to make hard decisions, set and enforce the rules and devote the time and resources necessary to raise their kids as happy, healthy, educated, well-adjusted and productive members of society.

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) last week introduced the bipartisan Security and Oversight of International Landholdings (SOIL) Act, along with Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Michael Bennet (D-CO), in order to provide oversight and transparency of purchases of US agricultural land that threaten national security. On the heels of a successful rejection of allowing more marijuana growth in the state, Lankford continues to respond to concerns from Oklahomans about the multiple recent purchases of Oklahoma agricultural land by foreign entities.

“Our state overwhelming rejected ‘legalizing’ recreational marijuana earlier this month because we have seen firsthand how foreign criminal organizations exploit vulnerabilities in our law to destroy our families and communities for their profit,” said Lankford. “Every region of Oklahoma is concerned about foreign nationals buying up farmland. Our loose oversight has allowed transnational criminal organizations to partner with Chinese nationals to buy land and businesses throughout Oklahoma.

Oklahoma has over 7,000 licensed marijuana grows. The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) believes that 2,000 of those farms have a Chinese connection. T

he marijuana market in Oklahoma has ushered in other serious crimes like human trafficking, forced labor, and money laundering.

“While there’s no question America has some of the best farmland in the world, it’s doubtful China is buying it up to plant more wheat and potatoes,” said Risch. “The SOIL Act will introduce stricter measures and oversight to prevent bad actors, like China and Russia, from purchasing our agricultural land—particularly land near US military installations.”

“Food security is national security, and it’s alarming how the Chinese Communist Party has been buying up American farmland as fast as they can,” said Tillis. “This commonsense legislation increases transparency and oversight on these purchases so we can protect both North Carolina farmers and the world’s most abundant food supply from our adversaries.”

“For too long, Washington has allowed foreign adversaries like China and Russia to buy up American farmland and its precious water resources while our family farmers and our economies became collateral damage. For the sake of American growers, farmers, and ranchers, we need to modernize and strengthen our tools to evaluate the risk of these foreign purchases on our supply chains and our national security,” said Bennet.

Background

The SOIL Act deters criminal investment in US agriculture by:

1 Requiring Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) review of agriculture real estate purchases by certain foreign entities

2 Banning federal assistance for certain foreign-held real estate holdings

3 Broadening disclosure requirements for land purchases made by foreign entities

Oklahoma State House censures Rep. Dean Davis of Broken Arrow

The Oklahoma House of Representatives last week censured Rep. Dean Davis, R-Broken Arrow, for conduct unbecoming a member. Davis was arrested in March in Oklahoma City for public intoxication.

Speaker of the House Charles McCall, R-Atoka, issued the following statement:

"As a body, the House of Representatives and its members must hold ourselves to a high standard, and Rep. Davis' conduct did not live up to that standard. The deci-

sion to censure a member of the House is not one that is made easily or carelessly, but is made when it is necessary to maintain the integrity of the House of Representatives and the trust of the great people of the state of Oklahoma in their government. The House of Representatives has nothing but the utmost respect for the members of our law enforcement community, and we expect the members of our body to exemplify that in their dealings with law enforcement."

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).

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Lubbock, Texas truly a special stop

By Elaine Warner

Unlike cities Oklahoma City, Kansas City, and Dallas, places that are not only destinations but drive-through cities on major interstate highways, you have to want to go to Lubbock to get there. The city sits on an arid plateau with few attractive geographic features – just prairie, and wind, and an occasional jackrabbit. So why bother? Because Lubbock is an exciting little city with a great university, a variety of interesting museums, an amazing grape-growing and winemaking industry, an active art scene, and restaurants ranging from casual and comfort food to haute cuisine.

Did you know that Texas Tech has the secondlargest college campus in the country? The university property includes the National Ranching Heritage Center, which I wrote about previously. The Museum of Texas has exhibitions in the areas of anthropology, paleontology, art, clothing and textiles, and history. The Moody Planetarium is also part of the museum. Tech also has an impressive collection of public art. Of the 104 pieces on the campus, 71 are outside.

Another Texas Tech site, off-campus, is the Lubbock Lake Historical Landmark. One of the most important archaeological sites in America – excavations prove 12,000 years of continuous human activity and provide historic information on climate changes and the effects on plant and animal life. Life-sized sculptures of Columbian mammoths, a shortfaced bear, an ancient bison, even a giant armadillo represent prehistoric animals whose remains were found at the site. A small museum on site offers lots of information about the area. Despite the name, there’s no lake here – so leave your fishing pole at home.

Lubbock’s favorite son is Buddy Holly. In spite of his brief career, Holly’s music had a profound effect on rock and roll worldwide. At the Buddy Holly Center, a short biographical film cameos artists like Paul McCartney, Don McLean and Bob Dylan describing Holly’s influence on their music. In the exhibit area are mementoes of Holly’s life and career including the most poignant item, Holly’s black-rimmed glasses found in the wreckage of the plane in which he, Big Bopper, and Richie Valens died.

It’s not surprising, given the importance of windmills to the development of the area, that the world’s largest windmill museum, the American Windmill Museum, is here in Lubbock.

Another unusual collection is found at the Silent Wings Museum, which highlights the importance of gliders during World War II. Because gliders were intended to crash land, there are few existing examples of these planes. Silent Wings has one of the few fully restored CG-4A gliders on display. Exhibits include artifacts and history, but perhaps the most engaging features are the recorded stories of the pilots themselves.

Is art your thing? The Lubbock Art District is awash with art opportunities: classes, galleries, studios, and artists’ living/work spaces. The striking, new Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences hosts a variety of events including Broadway productions, symphony, ballet, opera, and contemporary concerts. The District’s First Friday Art Trail combines art with food, drink, and entertainment.

Speaking of drink – oenophiles will find happi-

ness in their glasses here. Over eighty-five percent of all the wine grapes grown in Texas are grown in this area. McPherson Cellars, in Lubbock’s Depot Entertainment District, is a must-stop. With over 600 medals won in wine competitions, you’re sure to find a favorite.

Outside of town, Llano Estacado. another local treasure, is the second-oldest winery in Texas. Llano Estacado wines were served on several occasions at the White House during the presidency of George H.W. Bush and Queen Elizabeth II sipped a Llano Chardonnay at a state reception hosted by the late Governor Ann Richards.

Foodies will love Lubbock, too. Breakfast -- we had three good ones. Cast Iron Grill serves comfort food including popular pies. People order pie for breakfast for fear their favorites will be gone by lunch. A piece of strawberry banana split pie preceded my eggs, sausage, and biscuit and gravy.

Ninety-two Bakery and Café was charming, warm, and welcoming. Part of a larger organiza-

The west Texas town of Lubbock pays homage to their late-favorite son, the talented Buddy Holly.

Elaine

See Elaine, Page 12

tion, the staff blends good service with service to the world community. My Croque Madame – a slice of sourdough bread topped with Dijon mustard, ham, Gruyere, bechamel sauce and a poached egg, garnished with radish slices and arugula – was a real treat.

A quick slice of quiche at Brulee Bakery helped get me to the airport on time. And I picked up a kolache with a good-sized sausage to serve as lunch later.

Our first lunch was at Burklee Hill Bistro and Tasting Room in what was once a Kress store. Kress never looked this good! The restaurant specializes in food and wine pairings. We were brought a beautiful charcuterie board with meats, cheeses and fruit – which I filled up on.

Dirk’s Chicken presented some interesting lunch choices – a variety of chicken styles but a couple of Cajun entrees, too. I tried the KFC – Korean Fried Chicken, quite spicy, accompanied with maque choux (Cajun creamed corn) which also had a bit of a kick. Both were very tasty – but required a lot of Diet Dr. Pepper.

Dinners were a gustatory adventure beginning with a trip to Spain at La Diosa Cellars. Plate after plate of tapas were brought out and we sampled

until an offer of dessert, when we had to give a resounding, “No thanks!” I love this little restaurant with its colorful décor and wonderful food.

Dining in a fairy-tale- like former greenhouse sparkling with strings of lights added to the delight of dinner at The Nicolett. Chef Finn Walter was a semi-finalist for a James Beard Award as Best Chef in Texas 2022 and the restaurant was named one of Bon Appetit’s “50 Best New Restaurants of 2022.” The whole meal was amazing but the dessert capped everything – Chocolate Elixir with Honey Fluff. I was so tempted to lick the cup!

Our last dinner was at West Table, a sleek, sophisticated restaurant with an open kitchen. When I saw the chef trimming and cutting filets, I knew I had to order one. It was not a mistake! Other options looked appealing, but the beef was outstanding.

With all our activity, a good night’s sleep was a must. The Cotton Court Hotel provided a great bed – and an interesting décor highlighting the cotton heritage of the area.

If I haven’t convinced you that Lubbock is something special, I haven’t done my job. It had everything I could ask for – except deep sea fishing –but the pie for breakfast made up for that.

For the trait of enthusiasm

Jim Hulsey honored as Character Champ

Character Council of Edmond board members collaborated to surprise President Jim Hulsey by recognizing him as a Champion of Character for Enthusiasm at their March 27th meeting. His wife, Sheri, was present for the special occasion.

Jim has a favorite quote for most of the character traits. They are usually from well-known poets, philosophers, or the Bible. One of Jim’s familiar sayings that gets to the heart of his enthusiasm comes from Larry the Cable Guy, “Let’s ‘git-r-done.’” Jim likes to get things done, yesterday. His good-natured forward movement rubs off on others.

Jim’s faith in God motivates him to recognize and strengthen potential in others. His mindset allows Character Council board members to work together and use their unique ideas, gifts, and talents to reinforce good character in our community.

Jim served in the military during the Vietnam War. When he was still a private, he received notification that he was to be awarded a Bronze Star. Although he was excited, he knew there were others who needed the recognition and encouragement. He asked that the honor be given to another deserving soldier. They complied.

Jim worked for 27 years as a photojournalist at the NBC affiliate in OKC. After retiring, he went back to school and earned a Master’s degree from OSU (2001) in mass communications. A close friend of his worked for the City of Edmond and invited Jim to take part in an initiative to promote good character practices. Several Edmond departments were participating in character programs, like Character First! So, a “city character council” was created to help with the city’s involvement.

Jim said, he was excited about “the possible impact of sharing character concepts, especially within our school system. Many former teachers, served as board members.”

In 2003, the character council was redesigned as a 501(c)3 and became

known as “The Character Council of Edmond.” Jim, a volunteer, became a co-chairman and then President.

Character Council Vice President, Diane Krakowski said in the nomination, “Since 2003, Jim has been instrumental in motivating our board to continue to make a positive difference in the Edmond community.

Jim cited one of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s best-known quotes, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Jim said, enthusiasm plays a role in his life “every day, every season.”

Jim’s family lived in Edmond since 1936 when his paternal grandparents relocated to Edmond on New Year’s Day. Following the end of WWII, Jim’s parents came to Edmond where his father attended Central State College to study pre-med prior to going to medical school. Jim was an infant at the time. Jim lived in the Edmond area off and on. He and his wife Sheri moved from Oklahoma City in 1994 and remained since.

On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Jim Hulsey was honored as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of enthusiasm, defined by Character First as “expressing interest and excitement in what I do.”

The Character Council is a grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to creating a citywide initiative to build Edmond into a "Community of Character."

The group believes that the character of a nation can only be strengthened one person at a time, one community at a time. Toward that end, the Character Council of Edmond seeks to recognize residents who demonstrate character, as witnessed by those who have been affected and influenced.

To nominate a citizen as a “Champion of Character,” one who exemplifies these character traits, visit www.edmondcharacter.org or write: Champions of Character, PO Box 392, Edmond OK 73083-0392.

Jim Hulsey

Review of movie ‘Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’

New adventure film has a fresh look

By George Gust

In an age where everyone in Hollywood is looking for brand loyalty and brand recognition, it seems inevitable that someone would return to the Dungeons and Dragons well after the crash and burn “Dungeons and Dragons” movie from 2000 that left no cultural impact or box office impact. However, “Dungeon and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” feels much different than the other blockbuster would-be tentpole film franchises with its more earnest and knowing tone and focus on delivering a fun film going experience throughout.

“Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” follows a charming thief (Chris Pine) and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.

As someone largely unfamiliar with the lore and the mechanics of the roleplaying game Dungeons and Dragons, the expectations of the world building in this film were akin to attending mid-term exam without studying the material, but as the movie unfolds through charming characters and engaging adventure those expectations were greatly exceeded. Where “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among

Thieves” succeeds is the fun and earnest tone. With most big budget movies of late (looking at you Marvel) there is a ‘wink at the camera’ comedic style that lets the audience know they’re in on the joke about these over-the-top antics, where this movie is not ashamed to be a fun and cheesy adventure movie about Dungeons and Dragons.

The cast of “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a talented and fresh ensemble that is a good encapsulation of the varied characters that appear in the world of the game. Each member of the core team brings their unique energy, led by

the endless charm of Pine, who’s able to be earnest, comedic and deliver believably during the action sequences. Hugh Grant is a fun in his role as antagonist and turning this era of his career into a fun villainous character actor and eschew the foppish charming Brit of his early career. Also standing out in the proceedings was Rege-Jean Page who even in limited onscreen time made a large impression in his overpowered character role.

Overall, “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is both a fresh kind of adventure blockbuster movie while bringing in the straightforward tone and brisk pacing from some of your favorite adventure movies of the past. There are times the computer-generated effects are less than dazzling, but that less than stellar production and the inclusion of more physical props adds to the throwback blockbuster charm.

“Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is rated PG-13 for fantasy action/violence and some language.

3.9 out of 5 stars

To reach George Gust for a comment on this review, please e-mail gust.george@gmail.com

Answers on Page 19

‘Dungeons

Wedding dress history

The Edmond History Museum hosts Wedding Dress History Presentation on April 10th at 5:30 for a lecture and panel discussion about our new exhibit, Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion, 1875 to 2020. This free program, suitable for adults and interested young people, features three professors from the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) professors, Dr. Patti Loughlin, Dr. Joanne Wong, & Heidi Vaughn. Each panelist will discuss a different aspect of wedding history with time for questions at the end.

· Dr. Patti Laughlin will discuss the wedding ceremony of Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory at statehood.

· Dr. Joanne Wong will discuss traditions and fashion trends that influence the styles of wedding gowns and highlight the Dougherty family, featuring Jo Ann Dougherty Compton's wedding dress.

·Heidi Vaughn will be discussing the history of the wedding dress in the UCO Laboratory of History Museum collection referred to as the "Y-Chapel Wedding Dress" and will include information on the history of this WWII-era dress and its intimate connection to the Central campus/

Crossword Puzzle

and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ finds Chris Pine leading a talented cast of characters on a magical adventure based on the famous role playing game.

Serving as a senate page

Edmond Memorial High School junior, Addison Dry, has completed a week of service as a page for Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond. Addison served at the Capitol during the eighth week of session from March 27-30.

Paging gives high school students a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process. They provide important services during the busy legislative session, including assisting in Senate committee meetings and daily sessions of the full Senate. The group met with Gov. Kevin Stitt and took a commemorative photo. They also met with Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat and Oklahoma City Senator Carri Hicks. As OU Day was this past Wednesday, the group also had the opportunity to meet with OU President Joseph Harroz and OU football coach Brent Venables.

The pages participated in a mock

legislative committee meeting, along with a floor session, called Pageville, where they presented and debated bills from the 2023 legislative session. Finally, they toured the Oklahoma History Center and the newly renovated Capitol, which is also the state’s largest museum with hundreds of paintings, sculptures and other art pieces depicting Oklahoma’s history.

Addison participates in her school’s swim team, National Honor Society, plays violin in symphonic orchestra, and plays in her church’s band. She has volunteered as a D-group leader at her church and in NHS. In her free time, Addison enjoys playing instruments, art, photography, and digital media. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Aviation Management with the goal of becoming a pilot.

She is the daughter of Edmond resident, Melanie Spoon.

SF student serves at Capitol

Edmond Santa Fe High School junior, Katarina Samwel has completed a week of service as a page for Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond. Katarina Samwel served at the Capitol during the eighth week of session from March 27-30.

Paging gives high school students a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process. They provide important services during the busy legislative session, including assisting in Senate committee meetings and daily sessions of the full Senate.

The group met with Gov. Kevin Stitt and took a commemorative photo. They also met with Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat and Oklahoma City Senator Carri Hicks. As OU Day was this past Wednesday, the group also had the opportunity to meet with OU President Joseph Harroz and OU football coach Brent Venables.

The pages participated in a mock legislative committee meeting, along with a floor session, called Pageville, where they presented and debated bills from the 2023 legislative session. Finally, they toured the Oklahoma History Center and the newly renovated Capitol, which is also the state’s largest museum with hundreds of paintings, sculptures and other art pieces depicting Oklahoma’s history.

Katarina participates in cross country, track and National Honor Society. She has volunteered at her local food bank, hotdogs for the homeless, and has cleaned litter from roads. In her free time, Katarina enjoys running. She plans to attend college and pursue a degree in political science with the goal of attending law school.

She is the daughter of Edmond residents, Aron and Peter Samwel.

Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, joins Edmond Memorial High School junior, Addison Dry, who served as a page for the Senate during the eighth week of the legislative session from March 27-30.

Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, joins Edmond Santa Fe High School junior, Katarina Samwel, who served as a page for the Senate during the eighth week of the legislative session from March 27-30.

Director named for stem cell research center

The Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research (OCASCR) has named Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Lorin Olson, Ph.D., as its new scientific director.

OCASCR was founded in 2010 by the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) to increase adult stem cell research in Okla-

homa. Since then, OCASCR has funded research projects on diabetes, blindness, cancer and other illnesses at OMRF, Oklahoma State University, the University of Oklahoma and the OU Health Sciences Center.

Olson earned his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University and his doctorate in bio-

medical science from the University of California, San Diego. Following postdoctoral training at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle and the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, Olson launched his lab at OMRF in 2010. His work in the Cardiovascular Biology Research Program focuses on the intricate process of wound repair and the genes that control connective tissue development and disease.

Olson succeeds OMRF’s recently appointed vice president of research, Courtney Griffin, Ph.D., as OCASCR’s scientific director. In that role, he will oversee a semiannual review of grant applications from Oklahoma scientists to fund studies and equipment needed for specific research.

Olson plans to continue OCASCR’s focus on adult stem cell research and regenerative medicine. “Regenerative medicine is looking at how to use adult stem cells or their by-products to repair and restore diseased or damaged organs. That’s especially important in diseases related to smoking and obesity, both of which are focuses of TSET,” he said.

TSET Executive Director Julie Bisbee said she is excited about the future of OCASCR and the role this research plays in TSET’s overall goal.

“TSET is proud to support OCASCR as their researchers develop new treatments for cancer and other tobacco-related diseases,” said Bisbee. “That work is key to TSET’s mission and helps support scientific research and discoveries in Oklahoma. The work of this unique collaboration between academic and research institutions will be felt for generations to come.”

Since OCASCR’s founding, TSET has invested $31 million in Oklahoma scientists focused on adult stem cell research, with a return on that investment of more than $280 million in grants resulting from projects launched through the initiative.

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Lorin Olson, Ph.D.

Penalty for prostitution would increase under bill

Rep. Eric Roberts, R-Oklahoma City, recently passed legislation in the Oklahoma House of Representatives that increases penalties for those who purchase prostitution services.

House Bill 2054 increases the penalty for someone who purchases prostitution services from a misdemeanor to a felony.

"This bill aims to curb sex trafficking by reducing the demand for prostitution services," Roberts said. "Many of those engaging in prostitution are victims of human trafficking."

The Oklahoma City Police Department Vice Unit requested that the penalty for purchasing prostitution be changed from a misdemeanor to a felony. Texas made a similar penalty change and found it

successful in reducing trafficking.

Under HB2054, a person can be sentenced to up to three years in prison and is subject to a fine of up to $1,000 for a first offense, $2,500 for a second offense and up to $5,000 for a third or subsequent offense.

If the victim of the offense is a minor, the penalty is a maximum of ten years imprisonment and provides a fine of up to $5,000 for a first offense, $10,000 for a second offense and up to $15,000 for a third or consecutive offense.

The measure would also require the offender to register as a sex offender upon a third conviction. The bill does not increase penalties for people engaging in prostitution.

HB2054 passed the House 76-15 and now moves to the Senate.

Under HB2054, a person can be sentenced to up to three years in prison and is subject to a fine of up to $1,000 for a first offense.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Lawmaker makes tax relief, inflation priorities

By Collin Duel State House Rep.

We only had a small amount of floor work this week as the bills we received from the Senate were still being assigned to their House committees, but I expect it to pick up all this week!

I will present three Senate bills during the first session of the 59th Legislature: SB34, SB398 and SB483. I plan to keep you updated on their progress throughout session.

Now, I want to discuss tax relief and inflation. Inflation remains at a 40-year high, and House Republicans are committed to providing Oklahomans much-needed relief.

Americans across the nation are feeling the burden of the federal government's out-of-control spending. States across the country are cutting taxes, including income taxes, and Oklahoma must take action to remain competitive economically.

Due to wise budgeting, Oklahoma is in a position to help provide relief to hardworking families. This is being done through a very systematic approach, just like Oklahoma Republicans have done for the past 15 years.

We must address inflation today without causing budget problems tomorrow. Oklahoma House Republicans have passed multiple bills to provide tax relief for our state's hardworking citizens.

House Bill 1955 passed the House, which would end the state grocery sales tax. Did you know that Oklahoma is one of only 13 states with a sales tax on groceries?

At the current rate of 4.5%, people spending $200

a week on groceries pay $468 in taxes on those groceries every year.

HB1955 would only apply to state sales taxes. Many counties and municipalities have their own sales taxes, and groceries would still be susceptible to those local taxes.

Another bill that passed was House Bill 1645. It repeals the corporate "throwback rule" in the Oklahoma Tax Code.

The "throwback rule" punishes businesses that sell out of state, encouraging them to relocate their headquarters or distribution facilities to other states. Over time, tax avoidance strategies eliminate most or all revenue gains from throwback rules.

Eliminating this rule will strengthen Oklahoma's economy and prevent avoidance and restructuring issues in the future.

The last bill I am going to mention is House Bill 2695. It eliminates the Oklahoma franchise tax and the requirement to file a franchise tax return.

We have passed several more tax bills, but those are just the few I wanted to mention. This isn't the government's money—it's your money, and House Republicans are working to get more of it back to you.

Last, I am excited to announce that Speaker McCall appointed me to serve on the Administrative Rules Committee this session in addition to my regular duties.