Edmond Life and Leisure - April 09, 2020

April 09, 2020

Vol. 20, No. 46

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

For more information, see page 4.

Easter is Sunday April 12

FRIDAY, APRIL 10 Mostly Sunny High 62 Low 47°

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 PM Showers High 69° Low 48°

SUNDAY, APRIL 12 Partly Cloudy High 60 Low 40°

There’s something about a community challenge, which can bring out the best in folks.

That’s certainly true of Edmond Mobile Meals. Their mission of helping elderly and disabled with food, has never been more needed during the virus outbreak.

“Right now we are serving approximately 1,130 meals every Wednesday,” said its director Cristi Twenter.

“We’re providing five meals to each client on that day.

She explained Wednesday’s delivery took 75 volunteers to make it happen.

“We have volunteers who package the meals, volunteers who deliver them, and volunteers who make calls to check on clients and alert them when to expect the meal delivery,” she added.

In addition, the group’s web site gives full information on how Edmond Mobile Meals is dealing with the outbreak.

Twenter urged anyone in the community to help them with their mission.

“Anyone who is interested in volunteering or donating should visit: www.edmondmobilemeals.org - we have

volunteer applications online and they an also donate online at edmondmobilemeals.org,” she said.

Other groups are also seeking help from the community as the battle against the virus continues.

The Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps (OKMRC) is recruiting volunteers to serve in medical and non-medical positions. Please see that article on Page 11.

Also a new volunteer initiative that will connect courageous Oklahomans to volunteer opportunities in their communities, once health professionals determine it is safe and appropriate to do so. That program is called Ready. Help. Go. To know more please visit readyhelpgo.org or see Page 14.

Page 2 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 3

Drew Scott

KC’s MLB team likes alternative logo designed by Edmond youth Drew Scott is a huge fan of the Kansas City Royals, and now a million fellow baseball fans are seeing Scott’s talent on display.

With school closed and baseball practice cancelled due to coronavirus precautions, Scott put ink to paper to create an alternate logo for his favorite team.

Scott’s mom posted a photo of the design on social media and then Twitter did what Twitter does.

The next thing the Edmond 8th grader knew, his logo was part of the team’s weekly kids’ activity sheet. The Royals turned Scott’s creation into a coloring page disRoyals announcing logo on Twitter. tributed to the club’s an additional baseball look,” Scott more than 1 million Twitter fans.

The drawing even drew positive re- said “I like drawing and thinking about how to promote things I love. I views from Royals outfielder Brett created an ad for my lawn mowing Phillips.

“I’m a huge Royals fan,” said Scott. business too. It’s just fun to pull things together.”

“I like the way they play the game Scott is anxiously awaiting opening and one time I got to sit next to Jerry day and hopes to see his boys in blue Terrell. He was so nice and it made from the Kauffman Stadium seats this me like the team even more.” summer.

Since Scott, who plays catcher on Until then, Scott will continue to his middle school team, couldn’t play hone his skills behind the plate and the game he loves, he put another at the artist’s easel. talent to work designing the logo.

Drew Scott is the son of Andy and “I’ve always liked the Royals logo Tara Scott of Edmond. and I thought I could combine it with

Page 4 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

‘Tiger King’ misses serious issues Like most Oklahomans, I watched the Netflix’s recent miniseries, Tiger King. Like me, some of you were probably scanning the background of the pictures looking for people you knew.

Mostly I was just hoping that folks around the country, world for that matter, were not going to conclude that all Oklahomans Ray Hibbard behave like the players in the series. We have fought so hard over the last three decades to turn the image around of Oklahoma it would be a shame to see it destroyed in a few hours of television.

I must admit it does have an intriguing cast of players. It has polygamy, a murder-for-hire plot, felons, wild animals and even a presidential and gubernatorial campaign. Heck, what is not to love about this show.

Joseph Maldonado-Passage or as he is better known, Joe Exotic was the owner of Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in south central Oklahoma. At one time it was a prominent cub petting and tiger breeding operation. Currently, Exotic is serving 22 years in federal prison for plotting to have his main critic, Carole Baskin, murdered and for killing five tigers. He also was convicted of selling tigers across state lines.

Exotic even spends a lot of footage claiming that Baskin had her second husband killed. He accuses her of killing the man and feeding him to the tigers. Others express that same accusation. While no one can explain what happened to the man and there is no body to be found, Baskin denies all such allegations. Even so, it is hard for that not to get your attention and the film producers played right to our interest in such a possibility.

The series even had the federal prosecutor for the case featured. She posed in the most bizarre fashion I have even seen for a “crime” story. It was like she was one of the players. They had a long shot of her standing in her all black outfit with this mean look on her face.

Honestly, I think the lady has gotten a little carried away with this case and should probably hand it off to someone else in her office. It is like she is loving the “star” status associated with all the players.

Then again, she fits right into the eccentric cast of characters. If this was a Hollywood movie, none of us would have believed it. We would have written it off as too weird to ever be true. As a true story, it sucks you in not believing there are that many folks out their so strange in their behavior.

I read an interview with one of the directors and she said it started out as a story to expose the cruel process of breeding and selling these giant animals. Once they started looking at five years of film, they uncovered story lines that had to be told. All the players in the series love their camera time. My observation from the series is that people in the private wild animal zoo business are at least one brick short of a load as my dad used to say. They are more than a couple of bricks short.

I don’t fault any of you who are fascinated with these nut jobs but there is a more serious side to

NetFlix is streamming a popular series on lions and tigers, known as ‘Tiger King.’

the story that never got told. I don’t even criticize the folks that made this because there is no way a filmmaker could resist what they discovered.

Broadcast folks like to say, “It’s gold, solid gold” when they are talking about a story that will bring in the ratings. It has done just that.

National Geographic has put out a couple of stories on the serious issues at hand with these operations. Cub petting is an incredibly bad idea. I get that folks like to play with an adorable tiger cub.

The cubs eventually outgrow this cute factor and become a mouth to feed. They sometimes are killed when they are no longer useful. The tigers get speed breed to insure a constant supply. As soon as a litter is born, cubs are taken from the mother which makes her go into heat sooner. The cubs are useful for only eight to 12 weeks. After that, they get dangerous to have interact with visitors.

These side show carnivals like to tell visitors that they are all about breeding these tigers for conservation. None of the big cats are ever going to be released in the wild. They would not survive if they were released. They would not know how to take care of themselves and genetics plays a big role in the reason for this. It was a complete surprise to me.

The tiger kingdom is made up of a multiple of subspecies in the wild. Each subspecies is genetically geared to adapt to live in a certain part of the world. Sumatra, Siberian and Bengal tigers could not survive in each other’s varied terrain. In private zoos, they are often bread with each other. They are mixed or unknown lineage. This disqualifies them from participating in captive breeding effort for accredited zoos and legitimate institutions that are looking to preserve each subspecies. I was shocked to find out that some of these facilities even bread tigers and lions. They call them liger cubs and they are born from a male lion and a female tiger. A true sanctuary does not breed or

allow hands-on interactions with animals, and it maintains high standards of care and operation.

Genetic and health problems can occur when different species are cross breed.

While you or your family is enjoying playing with these cubs, it is not so much fun for the tiger or lion cub. Contact with humans is stressful for them. Being taken from their mother before they are ready is a stress factor for the cub along with noise, bright lights and getting passed around. To the cub, it is like being passed around by a predator.

Here are some tips offered by National Geographic about the care of animals in such a “zoo”.

“Tigers are big, nocturnal, solitary animals, and that means they have some special needs in captivity, according to graduate research by Leigh Pitsko, now at Smithsonian’s National Zoo. They need space to exercise, and they shouldn’t be crowded with other tigers. They need a place to hide if they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed by human visitors, and they should always have access to shade and water. Toys, activities, and climbing equipment are important for keeping tigers’ brains active, and enclosures with natural flooring substances, not concrete, are important not only for the health of their feet and skin but also for their well-being. The more natural their enclosure, the better.”

The series visited three or four different wildlife parks and showed extensive footage inside each one. None of them would have fit the above description. Once we get to traveling again and families are back on the road, stay away from these roadside fake zoos. It is all about the money and the cruelty to animals is widespread. They deny it, but they lie as well.

What ever you do, don’t eat the pizza!

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

Check out what’s inside!

---- Doctor’s view on the frontlines of virus fight ................................Page 7 ---- University’s athletic director to step down ..................................Page 9.

---- Keep churches in your prayers this Easter ..................................Page 10.

---- Should everyone be wearing a mask? ........................................Page 11.

---- George Gust reviews Pixar film ‘Onward’ ..................................Page 15.

---- Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15.

---- Mike Nunley’s devotion to his wife ..........................................Pages 16.

---- Business News ............................................................................Page 17.

---- Church directory ........................................................................Page 18.

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

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

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

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

For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

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

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2020 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Photographer Melinda Infante

twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 5

Brian Lamb, UCO Music Director, during a past performance of the Summer Band.

Summer Band cancelled (Editor’s note: The following is a letter sent out by Brian Lamb, director of the School of Music at the University of Central Oklahoma. It announces the cancellation of an annual event held at UCO during the summer.)

We just received the official word from the UCO Provost’s office that the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) have made the decision to limit all summer activities on campus to “alternative delivery,” which is what we have done to end this semester. To quote the email that was just distributed on campus: Health officials have warned that the infection of the novel Coronavirus will peak in Oklahoma in mid to late April.

We anticipate that the lingering effects of the virus will echo through much of the month of June. To ensure the safety of all faculty, staff and students, we will continue the alternative instructional format for all face-to-face courses for the summer semester, regardless of location. This includes inter-

session, block 1, block 2 and full semester courses.

I’m not sure what is being planned for the rest of LibertyFest, but in order to comply with campus policies, it appears that we must cancel the 70th season of the UCO/Edmond Summer Band. I’m very disappointed by this, but I definitely believe it is the right decision to make. I believe the situation is unique enough that we will simply resume activities in 2021, and call THAT the 70th annual season. We don’t have to say anything about “continual” seasons.

I haven’t figured out the best way to communicate this to the bandmembers, yet. I will probably send an email like this one to all that I have on the email distribution list, and I’ll get our marketing team to try and spin this positively for posting on the Facebook page for UCO Summer Band.

Sincerely, Dr. Brian Lamb Director of the School of Music University of Central Oklahoma

Page 6 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

State Rep. Mize announces re-election bid Republican State Representative Garry Mize has announced he will seek re-election this year. A strong conservative, Mize was first elected in 2018. He represents District 31, which encompasses most of Logan County and far north Oklahoma County.

“I grew up in Guthrie, live in south Logan County and have my business in Edmond,” Mize said. “There is no other place I would rather live, work and raise a family than right here.

Representing my home area in the State House is a tremendous honor, and I hope the voters give me the privilege of continuing to represent them at the Capitol.”

Supporters Speak Up Representative Mize’s re-election bid is already gaining broad support.

Tony Lauinger, State Chairman of Oklahomans for Life (National Right to Life affiliate), said, "Garry has stood strong for the right to life in Oklahoma. He has been especially helpful in moving life-affirming legislation through committee to the floor of the full House of Representatives. We need committed legislators like Garry Mize who are willing to defend the right to life.”

Kevin Craft, Guthrie insurance agent, said, “Garry has proven to be a great leader in our community and truly looks out for his constituents.

He always listens. His leadership and faith is exactly what this community needs.”

Guthrie Fire Chief Eric Harlow said he’s “proud to endorse Garry, a great supporter of public safety."

Jason Reece, owner of Reece Appliances in Guthrie, said, "Garry looks out for small business, the engine that drives our local economy."

George Shafer, U.S. Army, retired, of Guthrie, said, "Garry is a patriot and a leader. He courageously stands for conservative values at the Capitol, and he's a friend to veterans."

Deer Creek teacher Tracie McCall said, "Garry has been a strong supporter of our schools and teachers.

It's wonderful to know we have someone who cares so much about great schools like Garry."

More About Garry Garry lives in south Logan County with his wife, Jennifer, and their three kids, Maxwell, Maddox and Maverick.

Jennifer is a UCO graduate who works as a 1st Vice President and Area Manager for business lending at MidFirst Bank.

Garry’s children are the fifth generation of his family to live in Logan County. Garry graduated from Guthrie High School in 1995 and earned a business degree from Southern Nazarene University.

Garry owns and operates Mize and Associates, a retirement income and financial planning firm in Edmond. He and his family attend NorthChurch.

Garry Mize & his family

State election filings continue Oklahoma’s 2020 candidate filing period for federal, state, and legislative offices will occur as scheduled, Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced last. The three-day filing period runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 9, and 10.

It started on Wednesday.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary is encouraging candidates for federal, state, and legislative offices to file their paperwork, along with the required filing fee or petition, by mail or delivery service.

Candidates who file in-person will do so using a “drive-through” in the State Capitol parking lot.

The “drive-through” will help maintain social distancing protocols in an effort to minimize risks to Election Board personnel and candidates.

Secretary Ziriax said State Election Board personnel can review declarations of candidacy and cashier’s checks or certified checks ahead of time to ensure they are in good order. Candidates who would like their information reviewed prior to filing can email documents to info@elections.ok.gov.

Candidates should visit the State Election Board’s website at elections.ok.gov for specific details about candidate filing, such as delivery instructions or information about the “drive-through” filing procedures. Candidates can also contact the State Election Board for details at (405) 521-2391 or info@elections.ok.gov.

“This is not an ideal situation for either election officials or candidates. But, with a little patience and a lot of precautions, we will get through the candidate filing period together,” Ziriax said.

Candidate filing for county offices will also be held April 9, and 10 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Candidates should contact their County Election Board for specific filing instructions.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 7

Integris physician treating virus patients

A view from the frontlines Meet David Boggs, M.D., a pulmonary and critical care physician at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center.

Working in an intensive care unit dedicated for respiratory illness, he is quite literally on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis.

The 25-year veteran is an expert in lung disease and caring for patients suffering from Dr. Boggs Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome known as ARDS, the condition blamed for taking the lives of many COVID-19 patients.

Although it changes daily, he says over 75 percent of the coronavirus patients in the INTEGRIS Baptist ICU are currently on ventilators.

Boggs understands he and his team are playing an important role in this pandemic. “I feel like my particular specialty is leading the charge in this battle by caring for these very complex patients. We are blessed to be able to offer this expert specialty care to Oklahomans in need.”

While he is confident in the quality of care INTEGRIS can provide, he admits there is uncertainty in the unknown as we anxiously await an expected influx of patients. “I think the stress of not knowing the trajectory of this disease and whether or not we will have enough resources to meet the

needs of our patients is weighing heavily on all of us.”

Boggs continues, “At the present time we have the appropriate personal protective equipment but there is a concern that we could be in short supply when and if a surge of critically ill patients occurs.”

There is also concern for his own health, the health of his co-workers and the health of his family. “I am not scared, but I am concerned for the safety and well-being of our community and all of the caregivers that may encounter this disease,” Boggs reveals. “I consider myself to be in good health, but I do think about what would happen if I were to become critically ill. I gain comfort in the fact that I have the utmost faith and confidence in the caregivers I work with and I know what great care they take of their patients.”

Dr. Boggs wearing appropriate examples of PPE while caring for COVID-19 patients.He adds, “Of course the last thing I want to do is infect a family member, or anyone for that matter. I have implemented a very rigorous routine when returning home in hopes of reducing the likelihood of transmission to my loved ones.”

He encourages us all to be responsible in our actions. “I would like to thank all of the people in the community who are taking this pandemic seriously and doing their part by complying with the recommendations for social distancing and staying safer at home. You are saving lives!”

He states, as difficult as this is or as difficult as it may become, we will get through this. He says he works with some of the most committed, dedicated, resilient and honorable professionals in the

UCO Foundation raising funds to help students The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation is raising funds to support the UCO COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund to help students experiencing unexpected hardships during the global pandemic.

Since launching March 25, the crowdfunding campaign has generated more than $32,000 from donors. The UCO Foundation matched funds dollar-for-dollar up to $20,000 and the UCO Student Association (UCOSA) matched up to $10,000.

In addition to transitioning to alternative instructional delivery for the rest of the spring semester, many students also are struggling to cover costs related to food, housing and access to technology.

“Many of our hardworking students work one or more jobs that no longer exist because of closures on campus and within the community,” said Anne Holzberlein, vice president for UCO Advancement and president of the UCO Foundation.

“We hope this fund helps alleviate

some of the anxiety that our students may be experiencing during this time of uncertainty.”

UCO’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund offers limited emergency financial assistance to current UCO students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses because of temporary hardship related to an unexpected situation.

The fund is designated to offset short-term financial need and is not intended to replace or supplement financial aid.

Central’s Office of Enrollment and Student Success manages the application process for the fund. Applicant selection and the amount awarded to an individual student will be done on a case-by-case basis. Submitting an application does not guarantee selection.

For more information and to apply, visit www.uco.edu/coronavirus/emergency-relief-resources.

To learn more about the campaign or to donate, visit www.give.uco.edu/project/20485.

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 submitted by noon Thursday.

Dr. Boggs in PPE. state who are here for the long haul.

“We have the best nurses, respiratory therapists and physicians. They work hard. They stay late.

They give their all every single day. And they are all working towards a singular goal. To save as many lives as possible during this ordeal.”

Boggs concludes, “There is no greater reward than using your education and skills to care for a critically ill patient who survives their illness and returns to an excellent quality of life.”

Page 8 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Update from Edmond Fine Arts Institute Due to theGovernor’s announcement to close all non-essential businesses, the Edmond Fine Arts Institute is postponing all classes and events until May. In addition, the building is closed to all public access until further notice.

Classes will resume and events will be rescheduled as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience as we proceed with caution during this unprecedented time.

Follow @EdmondFineArts on Instagram and Facebook for current updates and art ideas you can enjoy at home.

File photograph of an FAI class

County Clerk Hooten is seeking re-election Oklahoma County Clerk David B. Hooten Announces Re-election Campaign Hooten wants to continue to serve and finish the mission of reforming county government Republican David B. Hooten announced he will seek re-election as the Oklahoma County Clerk.

First elected in 2016, Hooten has led major reforms in Oklahoma County’s government to modernize operations, increase efficiency and make records more readily accessible to the public.

Civic and business leaders have praised Hooten’s work.

“David is a public-spirited fiscal conservative, who, after building a career as a highly-successful entrepreneur, professional musician and nonprofit executive, chose to further serve his community by running for County Clerk,” said former Gov. Frank Keating. “He’s using his broad experience to modernize and reform not only his office, but also county government as a whole.”

Former Oklahoma Congressman J.C. Watts said, “David has been a strong leader for the County, someone I’m proud to support,” adding that, with his creative thinking, Hooten has been “a breath of fresh air for county government, just what we need at this time.”

Oklahoma State House Majority Leader Jon Echols, who represents western Oklahoma County, echoed these sentiments, saying Hooten’s reforms have been “a model for the entire state.”

“Serving the people of Oklahoma County has been a great honor,” Hooten said. “We’ve pushed through long needed reforms, and I want to keep this progress going.”

A Record of Accomplishment As County Clerk, Hooten has focused on improved customer service, increased accountability and responsible budgets.

David Hooten Improved customer service Hooten launched a highly acclaimed, user-friendly website, www.okcc.online, which for the first time ever, allows citizens to print at their home or office official copies of real estate and UCC records. All documents are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. With this change, citizens no longer must physically travel to the County Courthouse downtown to get official records.

Hooten also established a system to automatically notify property owners when legal filings (like deeds, mortgages, liens, etc.) are made in their name. The free system helps citizens discover potentially fraudulent filings as soon as possible.

Increased accountability In response to past “ghost” employee scandals, Hooten improved accountability and productivity countywide by requiring all workers to use a fingerprint-activated, automated timekeeping system.

Hooten also increased transparency by implementing electronic records for all County public meetings, creating a YouTube channel on which his office now live-streams meetings and archives recordings for anytime playback by citizens, and streamlining the processing of media and citizen re-

See Hooten, Page 9

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 9

Eddie Griffin

Broncho AD to step down University of Central Oklahoma athletic director Eddie Griffin announced Friday his intention to retire effective April 30, 2020, ending his three-year post as the head of the Broncho athletic department.

“Eddie has brought stability and accomplishment to our athletics program,” UCO President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar said. “His record of athletic leadership preceded him and will most certainly follow him as he leaves us. Broncho sports are stronger for his contribution to our winning history, focus on building character on and off the field and the foundation on which so many victories have been achieved. We are grateful for his service to UCO and we wish him all the best!”

“Eddie has contributed much to the foundation of success in UCO Athletics,” Vice President of Finance and Operations Kevin Freeman said.

“We will honor his legacy by continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of our student-athletes.”

Griffin became the eighth athletic director in school history Oct. 5, 2017, making a return to the school where he not only received a masters in education, but also coached the wrestling team. Griffin coached UCO to three national championships in four years (1979, 1981, 1982), laying a foundation for a program that would eventually hold claim to 15 national wrestling championships.

Upon his return, Griffin oversaw a dramatic transformation of campus.

The university has opened the Sports Performance Center, the Hamilton Field House addition, an indoor training facility, and made historic improvements to the baseball complex, including a new locker room.

Griffin has spent 50 years working in athletics, both coaching and serving as an athletic director. He’ll be inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame this August.

A national search for Griffin’s successor will follow.

Catholic Charities helping those affected by virus Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City (CCAOKC) recognizes thousands of Oklahomans have lost their jobs and continue to be financially impacted due to the COVID-19 virus. CCAOKC is here to help non-Catholic and Catholic Oklahomans with emergency assistance now and in the future. Now more than ever, CCAOKC needs contributions to help Oklahomans who are desperate for assistance.

CCAOKC is a social services nonprofit serving central and western Oklahoma for 108 years. The financial assistance we offer our clients prevents homelessness or unsafe living conditions due to unforeseen loss of income or unexpected expenses.

More than $400,000 annually is released to help Oklahomans with these costs. We expect this need to increase.

“We are mostly concerned with those who were vulnerable prior to learning about this virus, and now have newly vulnerable people coming forward. We will continue to serve those in need as circumstances

allow,” Raglow said.

CCAOKC is raising funds for those who have been impacted directly or indirectly by job loss, illnesses, homelessness or other tragedies due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We encourage those who can to make a donation to help struggling families,” Raglow said.

“Renters who are experiencing direct or indirect disruptions caused by COVID-19 are struggling to pay their rent,” said Jessi Riesenberg, senior director of CCAOKC Development and Outreach. “While many property owners and utility companies are offering generous deferments, the deferments will delay expenses but will not eliminate them. We expect an increased demand for emergency assistance as well as our other services as the impacts of this virus are felt. This is an unprecedented time for all of us; by pulling together, we will continue to be a resource to those in need.”

For more information, please log onto to www.catholiccharitiesok.org

Hooten From Page 8 quests for public records.

Responsible budgets Upon inheriting an office in financial crisis, Hooten successfully turned around the County Clerk’s budget in record time, making it sustainable, without reducing public services, increasing taxes or getting a funding “bailout.” Last year Hooten’s office operated with 17% fewer employees and a 14% smaller budget than his predecessor. Some budgetary savings are now being invested to replace an antiquated real estate and UCC records software system with a modern, user-friendlier system which will benefit businesses and citizens for decades to come.

Innovative Youth Civic Engagement Programs Launched Hooten additionally created two new highly successful, innovative youth leadership and arts programs.

Directed initially to inner city high school students, their purpose is to communicate the role of county government, present public service as a career option, increase diversity within applicant pools for future county job openings, and promote the arts. Nearly 800 students have already participated in the County Clerk’s “Youth and Government” and “Spotlight on the Arts” program, recently including students from a suburban Oklahoma County schoo

Page 10 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Easter is a special time Remember your local churches this Sunday during the great holiday of Easter.

It’s a shame people won’t be able to celebrate in person.

Please know that your local preacher or Steve Gust priest would love to hear an encouraging word from you as Easter, and the resurrection of Christ, is observed.

It’s been tough on them being apart from their flocks. Let them know you’re thinking of them and they are in your prayers.

Also please continue to send a donation to them. Just because you’re not there, doesn’t mean that their bills have ceased.

I saw an article on the web, which discussed satanic influences on priests during this challenging time.

As the article stated, the spirits were causing havoc with some of technology used to stream Masses and other religious services.

I have a story similar to that.

Please know I’m a rational guy who relies on facts for what I encouter.

Here’s what happened. For this period of Lent, which is ending this week,

I was teaching my wife how to pray the rosary.

This is an excellent prayer. And by the way, you don’t have to be Catholic to pray it.

I know now evil spirits don’t like the rosary one bit.

Anyway, I was using a laptop to help with the prayer.

About a third of the way through, the computer went off. We suspected the laptop ran out of power. I continued the prayer on my own and then later plugged the laptop back in to be charged. It was then I noticed it was fully charged anyway.

About an hour or two later, a loud noise woke us both up. And then I heard something odd right in the room.

It sounded like two children laughing but in an evil way.

It was a sobering moment, but we haven’t stopped the prayer and haven’t had any problems since.

It’s going to be nice for people to get to return back their places of worship once again.

I again salute Father Hamilton for his outdoor Masses at St. Monica’s.

That was featured last week on Laura Ingraham’s Fox News program.

(Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)

Long-term changes?

By Oklahoman Editorial Board Much has changed in the weeks since the COVID-19 pandemic struck the United States.

Businesses practices have been upended, whether they’re restaurants now serving to-go only or offices with employees working remotely.

Schools, from elementary through college, are conducting coursework online. Energy prices, so important to Oklahoma’s economy, have plummeted.

In time, the coronavirus will be behind us.

When that happens, it’s a good bet some aspects of our lives won’t be the same again.

Andy Kessler, an investment banker and venture capitalist, recalled how the stock market changed course and embraced emerging technology companies after the collapse of October

1989. He expects another shift, post-coronavirus.

Kessler says clean and renewable energy might be set back a decade because of lower fossil fuel prices. In the area of high-tech, “here’s hoping for some knock-yoursocks-off new mobile products.” He expects the next tech era to include “implementation of AI-infused systems into every business.”

Big changes may be coming to higher education as well. Noting how college campuses had turned to online classes, Kessler wrote, “At some point, parents will surely ask, ‘Why again are we paying 78 grand a year?’

Is the end of the universities far behind?”

Will elementary and secondary education go back to what they were before COVID-19? In Oklahoma and many states, grade school and

high school students are practicing “distance learning.” That looks different for different districts, but might this serve as an impetus to develop innovative strategies long term?

For example, might we see permanent opportunities for students with disabilities or special needs to learn remotely?

Is a blended learning model possible? Or perhaps more students could access AP classes not offered at their school. It’s worth pursuing.

Kessler forecasts the end of China’s dominance. “No one will ever again concentrate manufacturing in China alone,” he wrote.

That sentiment is shared by others including conservative commentator Victor Davis Hanson. Writing at the American Greatness website, Hanson said that when the coronavirus ebbs, China “may be permanently rebranded and recalibrated by the world at large. …”

“Some assembly plants will be shut down. Nations will be less trusting to outsource key industries to Chinese companies. Supply chains were changing before the epidemic and will redirect even more afterward.”

Some travel executives wonder whether the business of conducting business will change forever, with face-to-face gatherings going by the wayside.

“I don’t know if people in the industry are focused on this yet, but they need to because it’s going to happen,” Jim Butler, chairman of the Global Hospitality Group at law firm Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLB, told The Wall Street Journal in the early days of the pandemic. “People have Zoom and are learning how to work at home. People will get used to it, and get used to the technology.”

State’s budget finds itself in a pinch

By The Oklahoman Editorial Board In an excellent article last week by The Oklahoman’s Jack Money about how world events are pounding the state’s energy sector, University of Oklahoma economist Robert Dauffenbach said, “We have been here before.” Indeed, we have — and it hurts every time.

The pain from this latest downturn will require tough choices by policymakers, although a flush state savings account will ease that a bit.

The state budget for fiscal year 2021 is based on estimates of oil selling at about $54 per barrel.

The price of late has been closer to $20 per barrel, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on demand and a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Several energy companies have cut their capital expenditures budgets in recent weeks. A $300 million reduction in capital expenditure plans announced recently by Devon Energy Corp. made its revised budget 45% smaller than originally planned.

All of which makes for nervous times for the tens of thousands of Oklahomans who work for energy companies or whose businesses are related to production and processing.

State political leaders and agency heads may be antsy, too. COVID-19 has closed the state’s casinos, which provide a revenue stream based on gaming activity, and the shuttering of restaurants and bars will affect sales tax revenue.

The current budget faces a $416 million shortfall that will require lawmakers' attention. The good news is that more than $1 billion combined

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.

is available in the state’s Rainy Day Fund and its equalization fund. The state also received about $300 million in June 2019, the result of revenues exceeding the estimates that were used to build this year's budget.

In February, the state Board of Equalization projected an essentially flat budget for FY 2021 and a FY 2022 budget of $7.9 billion — that would be $400 million less than this budget year.

But again, that was before COVID-19.

In late February, when oil was selling at $47 per barrel, House Speaker Charles McCall, RAtoka, said funding for core services such as education, health and infrastructure were “going to be solid” for FY 2021. Now, McCall says, “The House is going to put forth a stabilized (i.e. essentially flat) budget for '21. Given the uncertainty of things right now, that stabilized approach is prudent.”

Steve Agee, an economist and dean of the Meinders School of Business at Oklahoma City University, says the outlook will improve postcoronavirus, when demand for oil increases, and when Saudi Arabia and Russia end their feud.

Meantime, he told Money, there is “no question that this is going to be a dire circumstance.”

McCall acknowledges that the longer the low energy prices persist, the more challenging the FY 2022 budget will be. “There’s going to be an impact, no question about it,” he said. “But we’re going to get through it.”

No doubt that’s true. But Oklahoma state agencies would do well to brace for some pain, a feeling they know all too well.

From Oklahoman.com

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 11

Should most of the public be wearing protective masks?

By Ryan Stewart As the Covid-19 coronavirus continues to spread, top health officials are considering shifting their stance on whether all citizens should wear masks for protection.

“Although specialized masks are available to protect the wearer from small, viral particles, most regularly available masks were not developed to protect the person wearing them,” said Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation President Stephen Prescott, M.D. “Masks, traditionally, should be put on people who are coughing or sneezing and might spread the virus to provide some containment.”

That remains the official stance of the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but perhaps not for long. This guidance may change because of a pandemic in which large numbers of seemingly healthy people are unknowingly ill.

“A huge problem we’re seeing with Covid-19 is that many people who are infected have no symptoms at all,” said OMRF immunologist Eliza Chakravarty, M.D. “People may be infectious and able to pass it along for 48 hours before they feel sick. That’s terrifying.”

“So many individuals are asymptomatic or presymptomatic that they could be infecting countless others and not have any idea,” she said. “And this isn’t likely to stop, because many people have no option but to get out and go to the doctor or pharmacy or purchase basic supplies like groceries.”

For this reason, Chakravarty, like many other experts, has begun recommending that healthy individuals wear masks as they go about their day-to-day lives.

During the 2003 outbreak of SARS, another coronavirus, studies found that mask-wearing was actually more effective at preventing viral spread than washing hands 10 times per day or wearing gloves. These findings, said Chakravarty, make sense.

“Wearing a mask helps remind you to follow social distancing rules and generally keeps you more aware,” she said. “You’re more likely to stay away from others, wash your hands, and avoid touching your face.”

Also, said Chakravarty, if more people wear masks, it reduces the stigma for at-risk individuals who must use them to protect their health.

“Immune-compromised people or the elderly don’t want to stand out in a crowd,” she said. “It’s

Dr. Chakravarty a reminder we’re all in this together and that we all need to do our part.”

She encourages people to take a do-it-yourself approach, which ensures that professional-grade masks are preserved for medical personnel on the front lines of the pandemic.

“There are many places on the internet where you can find instructions for making facemasks yourself, as well as how and where to donate them,” said Chakravarty. “If you can sew, it’s a great way to contribute to the solution and aid those in need.”

Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps recruiting volunteers for virus response In an effort to prepare for medical surge and prolonged response to COVID-19 in the state, the Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps (OKMRC) is recruiting volunteers to serve in medical and non-medical positions.

Lezlie Carter, OKMRC state coordinator, said volunteers are needed to serve in multiple capacities, but there is an increased need for those with medical training. Licensed medical professionals may be needed to assist with triage, supplementing hospital personnel, monitoring critical patients, assisting with transporting patients and providing critical care in the field.

“We are preparing for a surge to our state’s medical system,” said Carter. “It is important for us to begin processing new volunteers now so they are properly registered and trained for their role within the OKMRC.” Other functions include specialty services such as the Stress Response Team where licensed mental health professionals provide behavioral and emotional support at hospitals, shelters, phone banks, community outreach teams, first responders and more.

Volunteers without medical training are needed for warehouse support, record keeping and administrative duties. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, live or work in Oklahoma, agree to a comprehensive background check and complete the OKMRC training.

Coordinated through the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), the OKMRC is the state’s only medical and public health volunteer program comprised of specialty teams and county units operating under the authority of local county health departments. The program has an established system to identify, train and organize medical and public health professionals, as well as volunteers from the public to supplement and support ongoing response operations and personnel.

The concept of the Medical Reserve Corps was created in 2002 after many Americans wanted to know how to help with the recovery efforts from Sept. 11, 2001. It has since evolved into a nationwide program.

To volunteer or to learn more about OKMRC functions, visit okmrc.org.

Changes to solid waste procedures The City of Edmond’s solid waste department is indefinitely suspending all services that include the manual handing of waste materials. The change will begin immediately and is necessary to reduce an added COVID-19 exposure risk for solid waste workers.

Included in these temporary changes are: Collection of pre-paid city-coded bags outside of the solid waste cart.

Overstuffed containers that would require the driver to exit the truck or handle the materials in the container to make it serviceable will be left unemptied. Customers will be notified, and solid waste drivers will return on the next service day.

Bulk pick up will be machine only with no bulk pick up performed by hand. Any bulk materials that

are to be removed must be reachable by the clamshell truck. This means that items must be within 3 feet of the curb and clear from obstructions. These obstructions include overhead trees, powerlines, phone and electric boxes, gas meters, mailboxes, and fire hydrants. Any materials that do not meet these requirements will not be removed.

The customer will be notified of the issues and we will service them when the materials meet the requirements.

Free disposal of boxes and packing materials for new move-in customers.

At this time, Bulk Drop-Off is still available at the privately managed Edmond Transfer Station. For full details on how this fee-based service works, please visit http://edmondok.com/605/Bulk-Drop-Off.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 13

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma donated personal protective equipment to INTEGRIS Health Edmond. University staff delivered hand sanitizer, N95 masks, gloves, respirators, respirator cartridges, safety goggles and Tyvek coveralls. Pictured, a medical professional with INTEGRIS Health Edmond and Brent Miller, director of environmental health and safety for Central, unload the medical supplies donated by Central.

UCO donates PPE to Integris Edmond The University of Central Oklahoma donated personal protective equipment to help protect health care professionals in Edmond amid the COVID-19 virus pandemic on April 2.

“As a strong partner to the metro, UCO is finding ways to help prepare our community for what may come through this crisis,” said UCO President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar.

“Departments from all across the university pooled every resource we could give. Our only hope for helping those who are sick is to protect our health care workers, many of whom are our alumni. These individuals are on the front line of the COVID-19 fight and we are all so immensely grateful.”

University staff delivered 48 bottles of hand sanitizer, 400 N95 masks, 14 boxes of gloves, eight respirators, five boxes of 20 respirator cartridges,

60 safety goggles and 30 Tyvek coveralls to INTEGRIS Health Edmond in Edmond, Oklahoma.

“We absolutely have a need for this. All of the stuff that you’ve donated to us is considered personal protection equipment. Under normal circumstances, we usually have enough however, we are anticipating a surge in the next week or two and we honestly can’t have enough to protect all of our people,” said Dena O’Leary, M.D., a physician with INTEGRIS Health Edmond.

University staff from the departments of Environmental Health and Safety and Emergency Management delivered the PPE items to the hospital Thursday afternoon.

“UCO and Edmond are a community. Whatever affects us is going to affect the community and any little bit we can give that helps the community helps us,” said Norman Nieves, director of Emer-

gency Management at Central.

Central is taking additional steps to prevent and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus by closing its physical campus to all but essential employees and transitioning all classes to alternative instructional delivery methods for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.

Even though the physical campus is closed, the virtual campus is open. Through the virtual campus, students will be able to access services such as the Career Development Center, Testing Services and Academic Advisement. Additionally, Max Chambers Library resources and staff assistance are available online.

For more information on the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and available services and resources for the university community, visit www.uco.edu/coronavirus.

Page 14 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

ER expansion at Integris Baptist As part of ongoing preparations for the COVID-19 pandemic, we have expanded our emergency room and triage areas at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center.

This 20 X 60 foot tent structure was constructed today just outside of the INTEGRIS Baptist ER. It is designed to be an overflow clinical area should we have an influx of patients in the near future. It will serve as a 30 bed extension of the ER. In addition, this new semi-permanent structure was erected earlier this week just outside of the hospital’s emergency department. Thanks to an already existing covered circle-drive, we were able to construct a large secure area that is better equipped to withstand Oklahoma high winds

and spring storms.

This new exterior space allows us the opportunity to keep the majority of those with the virus outside of our hospital, since most of those who have COVID-19 can be successfully treated at home.

Patients requiring hospitalization will be moved from the exterior space to the appropriate care setting. Special dividers are in place to separate our COVID-19 patients from our other patient populations.

The expanded triage unit is now open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, seven days a week. Plans are in place to duplicate this structure at INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center as the need arises.

To help empower recovery effort

Gov. Stitt announces ‘Ready. Help. Go.’ Governor Kevin Stitt announced the launch of a new volunteer initiative that will connect courageous Oklahomans to volunteer opportunities in their communities, once health professionals determine it is safe and appropriate to do so.

The program, called Ready. Help.

Go., provides a place for Oklahomans to offer their hand in future volunteer opportunities. Ready. Help.

Go.’s first phase will focus on gathering information about willing volunteers and their skill sets and is intended to support communities throughout the state through the COVID-19 response and beyond.

Oklahomans who want to volunteer can visit readyhelpgo.org and fill out a quick form with their contact information, skills and interests. In future phases, once health professionals determine it is safe to mobilize volunteers, the program will assess where help is needed most and send emails to volunteers letting them know about personalized opportunities near them.

“Every Oklahoman can help from home by filling out the form,” said Gov. Stitt. “Our state is facing an unprecedented crisis, but the Oklahoma Standard is to step up when things get tough. Let’s be good neighbors during this trying time and start planning for recovery.”

Ready. Help. Go. is a collaboration between Gov. Stitt and the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

“Our goal with Ready. Help. Go. is to help people to direct their energy into safe, appropriate volunteer opportunities to lift up their neighbors,” said Secretary of Human Services and Early Childhood Initiatives Justin Brown. “The Department of Human

Gov. Stitt Services has the right partners to connect volunteers with opportunities that fit their talents. Right now, we’re asking Oklahomans to help us get ready by signing up from the safety of their home.”

The public rollout and enrollment of volunteers for the Ready. Help.

Go. campaign will include a paid digital media effort along with public service announcements. Purchased media was supported in-full by the Arnall Family Foundation, the George Kaiser Family Foundation and the Inasmuch Foundation.

“We are grateful for these great foundations who saw the need in their communities and are willing to help us promote this effort,” said Sec. Brown.

For more information about Ready.

Help. Go., please visit readyhelpgo.org.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 15

Pixar’s ‘Onward’ pulls on the heartstrings

By George Gust Years from now when looking at the history and legacy of Pixar movies, “Onward” will have the dubious distinction of being one of the lowest box office earners among its highly successful Pixar peers as well as being the last movie to hold the number one spot on the weekend box office before movie theaters had to close.

“Onward” is set in a suburban fantasy world, and introduces audiences to two teenage elf brothers (voices of Chris Pratt and Tom Holland) who embark on an extraordinary quest to discover if there is still a little magic left out there.

From it’s early trailers and setting, “Onward” didn’t feel like many of its Pixar predecessors. The first parts of the film have a lot of setup to get out of the way that creates something of a steep learning curve. For the adults watching there are loads of fantasy details and references to fantasy stories of the past that will get past the younger audience. After the initial setup, the film gets to fantastical kid friendly rock n’ roll infused road trip adventure that like many other road trip movies is more about the friends we’ve made along the way

than the destination.

The voice cast in “Onward” is nothing short of phenomenal, with Pratt and Holland filling their roles in an energetic and engaging way. Pratt is the standout though, with bold and comedic dynamism that fits with the adventures and rocking tone of the film. Also noteworthy was the voice work of Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the brothers’ mother who was able to convey the motherly pride and concern while providing the same kind of comedic verve that she’s been known for across her illustrious comedic career.

While “Onward” has a tone and feel dissimilar to movies like “Finding Nemo” or “Toy Story” the underlying heavy emotional subject matter falls right in line with those films. “Onward” focuses on the familial bond between the brothers as they deal with loss and accepting and appreciating the relationship they’ve grown out of the pain of losing their father.

This movie delivers the signature Pixar pulls of the emotional heartstrings in a way that feels organic within the story of the film, but plays out in a way that you might not expect.

Overall, “Onward” adds a new perspective to the Pixar emotional storytelling formula, but takes somewhat of a rocky road to get to its final destination. There is a lot of fun to be had in the film, but the amount of initial setup and the constantly evolving lore of the film’s world holds it back from becoming an instant classic.

“Onward” is rated PG for action/peril and some mild thematic elements. Now available to stream on Disney+ and other streaming platforms.

3.8 out of 5 stars

PHOTO PROVIDED

Chris Pratt and Tom Holland lend their voices to Pixar's emotional road trip fantasy adventure ‘Onward’ now available on streaming services.

Show cancelled PAWNEE, Okla. — After much consideration, the Oklahoma Historical Society and the board members of the Friends of the Pawnee Bill Ranch Association have decided to cancel this year's Pawnee Bill’s Original Wild West Show and festival that was scheduled for June 12–13.

The first priority of the Oklahoma Historical Society is the health and safety of our patrons, volunteers and staff. We stand with our fellow Oklahomans in the effort to contain the spread of COVID19. While we will certainly miss the reunion of returning guests, friends and reenactors this year, we hope to see everyone in 2021 when this one-of-kind historical reenactment will return. Please continue to support the Oklahoma Historical Society and the Pawnee Bill Ranch Association during this difficult time when hard decisions such as this must be made.

The Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society.

The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: NAME THE ANIMAL ACROSS 1. Spoil 6. Delivery service 9. Gallup's inquiry 13. Madison Square Garden, e.g.

14. One of the Tudors 15. Pinkerton's gallery member 16. Beneath, to a poet 17. Bird-to-be 18. Not slouching 19. *Koko or Digit 21. *George or Marcel 23. Langley agency 24. Can of worms 25. Pine juice 28. Up to the task 30. Most recent 35. Furnace output 37. Gives a helping hand 39. Veranda in Honolulu 40. *European sea eagle 41. Waterwheel 43. Ladder crosspiece 44. *Valued for its down 46. Steelers's Chuck 47. Genealogical plant?

48. Treat for Dumbo 50. Hoofbeat sound 52. "To ____ is human" 53. Jim Carrey's 1994 disguise 55. Garden cultivator 57. *Roger or Peter 60. *Rocket or Rascal 64. "Random" audience member 65. Mozart's "L'____ del Cairo" 67. Resin-producing tree 68. Like haunted house 69. Time delay 70. City in Germany 71. Not a bee 72. Pilot's deadline 73. Not those DOWN 1. Pirates on a

plank?

2. Black and white treat 3. *Papa or Mama 4. Clown act 5. Perennial garden flower 6. Iris holder 7. *Babe or Wilbur 8. Fraternity letter 9. Politician's barrelful 10. Curved molding 11. Famous Australopithecus 12. "____ the wild rumpus begin!"

15. Hertz offering 20. Labanotation founder 22. Doesn't mix well with water 24. Wilma and Fred's hometown 25. *Dolly 26. Eagle's nest 27. *Giant or Red 29. *Simba or Elsa 31. Queen of Hearts' pastry 32. Accustom 33. Not so crazy

34. *Detroit mascot 36. Not quite an adult 38. Perfect houseplant spot 42. Luau greeting 45. S. E. Hinton's "____ Fish" 49. Chi precursor 51. Place for a square 54. Furry scarf 56. What's in your e-wallet?

57. Actress Perlman 58. Runs, as on TV 59. Radar flash 60. Indian music 61. Yorkshire river 62. Lode deposits 63. Supreme Court number 64. Make a seam 66. *Tom or Sylvester

See Answers Page 19

Answers to the puzzle On Page 19

Page 16 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Visitor policy restricted in virus aftermath

Edmond AD finds way to visit wife

By Jenni Carlson Oklahoman.com BETHANY — Mike Nunley walked up to the glass doors but did not reach for the handle.

He knew he wasn't allowed inside, and a sign tacked on the glass reminded all that visitors to the assisted-living center were prohibited.

ATTENTION: ALL NON-EMERGENT VISITATIONS SUSPENDED. But neither that nor anything else would keep Nunley from seeing the woman he came to see — his wife.

“Look at that face,” he said looking through the glass at her.

He chuckled with glee.

“Look at that face!”

Nunley is the district athletic director for Edmond Public Schools, but when he’s at Grace Living Center in Bethany, he’s “Becky’s husband.”

In 1990, Becky Nunley was diagnosed with brain cancer and given six months to live. Thirty years and many treatments, medicines and seizures later, she can neither walk nor speak. But she continues to live.

Up until the coronavirus outbreak, Mike would visit her every day. He’d go to her room, sit with her, talk with her, care for her. There were only a couple days in the eight years since she moved into Grace, also known as The Grand, that he didn’t hold her hand or give her a kiss.

But now, he is like millions of Americans prohibited from visiting loved ones in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Nearly all such facilities have closed to outside visitors in an attempt to keep out COVID-19.

“As a person that’s there often during the week … just all of a sudden finding out you can’t go in was challenging,” Nunley said. “I’m not gonna say that I handled it well.”

On March 9, Grace limited its visitation hours. No one after 5 p.m.

No one on weekends.

Then on March 12 — the day after the Thunder-Jazz game was postponed by Rudy Gobert’s positive coronavirus test — the facility and many others like it around the country decided to move to a complete lockdown.

No visitors at all.

“I felt like there should be other options,” Nunley said. “I wanted all

SARAH PHIPPS/OKLAHOMAN.COM

Mike Nunley, district athletic director for Edmond Public Schools, visits his wife, Becky, through the doors of Grace Living Center in Bethany. Like most assisted-living facilities in the United States, it is closed to visitors during the coronavirus pandemic.

kinds of options — two minutes, three minutes, five minutes, I’ll gown up, I’ll scrub up, I’ll put on rubber gloves, I’ll go straight to her room and only her room.

“I had all kinds of ideas that weren’t successful.”

Nunley, who’s always joking and ever self-deprecating, chuckled.

“I felt like I was coaching again,” he said. “I didn’t make any good decisions.”

There was no wiggle room on the visitor ban, and over time, Nunley came to terms with that. He came to understand Becky is the 1% of the 1% of people for whom COVID19 is most dangerous. He came to realize this isn’t about him.

That didn’t fix everything — but it helped.

So have the staff members at Grace.

“The people I brag on, whether it’s Wendy or Bertha or Vera or Stephanie or Deidre or Felicia or Kendra or Amy or Ashley or Amanda — I probably left somebody out that’s one of her caregivers — they care for her, too,” Nunley said.

“They care for her, and they have

been very tolerant of me.”

He has cell numbers for most of Becky’s caregivers, and they’ll take his calls any time of day. And often, they call him with updates on Becky. How she slept overnight. How she ate at lunch.

They’ve even taken to calling Mike via FaceTime when they’re in Becky’s room. He gets to see her then. Gets to talk to her, too.

But he doesn’t get to do, as he calls it, the good stuff.

“Comb her hair. Wash her face,” he said, then he chuckled. “I did get to do her laundry.”

Right now, he’ll take what he can get.

Most days, that means going to the windows of Becky’s room and looking in on her. Strips of dirt on the glass have been rubbed clean over the last couple weeks, Mike’s attempt to get a better view.

When the nurses promised to wheel Becky to the front doors at 1:30 p.m. one day earlier this week, Mike was there 15 minutes early. He wasn’t about to miss a chance to see her as up close as possible these days.

Right before 1:30, there was movement down the long hallway, and eventually into the light came Becky, sitting up in her bed, wearing purple and black striped socks, laying under a pastel animal print blanket.

“She looks good,” Mike said loud enough to be heard through the door.

A muffled response came from one of the nurses.

“No,” Mike said, “I miss you.”

The nurses turned Becky, trying to get her to look at Mike.

He sensed something in her eyes.

Frustration? Anger? Bemusement?

“I know!” he said to her through laughter. “I know!”

He looked again at the nurses.

“She’s been awake today,” he said loud enough for them to hear. “She was awake with Felicia this morning, so I’m pretty thrilled.”

He looked at Becky.

“Well, I know, you’re unhappy,” he said. “We’ll get Sprite later.”

After a few more smiles and laughs and waves, it was time for Becky to head back to her room.

Less than 90 seconds after she was rolled up to the door, she was being rolled back down the hallway.

It wasn’t nearly enough.

Then again, Mike would’ve stood there all day.

“You keep telling yourself this is good,” he said, “but then, you also feel like you’ve let them down.

“I don’t want her to think that I bailed on her.”

All Mike Nunley can do is be there as much as possible. He’ll keep doing Becky's laundry, sneaking chocolates for the nurses in the bottom of the basket. He’ll keep making the half-hour drive even if it’s for 90 seconds. He’ll take every opportunity to see his wife even if they’re separated by glass and circumstance.

He’ll remember, too, that they’ve been through tough times before.

“We did 63 days in ICU in a coma,” he said. “She did 31 days of radiation.

“What’s a couple weeks?”

Jenni Carlson: Jenni can be reached at 405-475-4125 or jcarlson@oklahoman.com. Like her at facebook.com/JenniCarlsonOK or follow her at twitter.com/jennicarlson_ok.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 17

Upcoming reports have treasurer concerned Oklahoma Gross Receipts to the Treasury in March show the calm before the storm. As has been the case for several months, they indicate slight overall growth, but with slowing sales tax collections and reduced oil and gas production, State Treasurer Randy McDaniel announced on Friday.

“This month marks the end of al- McDaniel most three years of economic growth,” said Treasurer McDaniel. “I expect to see a much different picture emerge in the coming months.”

Total March receipts are $1.09 billion, up by $6.4 million, or 0.6 percent, from March of last year.

As a lagging economic indicator, Gross Receipts to the Treasury provide a look back at recent performance of the state’s economy. The numbers indicate the state’s economy remained relatively strong for almost three years, but had recently started to show signs of weakening. Then, the coronavirus pandemic

hit Oklahoma.

McDaniel listed several data points showing a significant decline is underway: First-time unemployment claims hit almost 45,000 the last week of March, the highest number ever reported in Oklahoma.

Oil prices fell from some $47 per barrel at the start of the month to less than $20 before month’s end.

Already suppressed drilling dropped from 50 wells in April to 39 in March.

The Dow Jones Industrial average dropped by 23 percent during the first quarter of the year, its worst quarterly performance in history.

The Oklahoma Business Condition Index dropped to 45.7 in March, down from 51.5 in February. Numbers below 50 indicate expected economic contraction in the next three to six months.

“The economic indicators are disconcerting, but working together we will get through this downturn,” McDaniel said. “My thoughts and prayers are for the health and safety of my fellow Oklahomans. I am thankful for the first responders, health care providers

Unclear how outbreak will affect Edmond home market

By Brian Preston February 2020 was up 10 percent from last year’s record numbers and an increase of 8 percent for year to date sales. So we started off great for 2020.

It will be interesting to see what the next few months will bring with everyone following the precautions for the Coronavirus. I have had many calls and emails asking me what the numbers are because of it.

We will not see how that affects us until April or even May. March should still be good for closing because they were under contract in Early February

or most in January, having a 30 to 45 day average closing time. Pending contracts are up right now. Also listings are up. Not many have taken their homes off the market so far. Next month will give a better picture of how this effects the real estate market. Could be a total shut down, depending on some actions that have been talked about. Hopefully this will not take long. Everyone take care and be safe.

(Brian Preston is an Edmond Realtor who closely follows the local Edmond home market and blogs about it online.)

Company pledges relief Jasco, an industry leader in home electronics and lighting products, last week announces it will donate $1 million to support COVID-19 relief efforts in Oklahoma and across the nation.

The company is reaching out to potential partners to determine how to maximize the impact of the $1 million it will donate and will focus on a combination of national and local faith-based organizations. The company hopes to provide a range of assistance, from helping families meet basic needs as well as donating personal protective equipment to hospital workers putting their own lives at risk to care for others.

This pledge was born from the ethos of Jasco: to serve and improve the lives of others. For more than a decade, the company has donated 50 percent of its net profits to faithbased humanitarian causes like water, food, shelter and disaster relief.

“At Jasco, we are committed to serving our team members, our customers and our communities. We give God all the glory for all that He is doing through Jasco and our charity partners that put their faith in ac-

tion to meet the needs of God’s people every day,” said Jason Trice, CEO of Jasco. “It is in this spirit that we are pledging to give $1 million to faith-based organizations that are helping people affected by COVID19. This is an unprecedented time, but we remain united to serve our communities in this time of need.”

As an essential business, Jasco is going above and beyond government regulations to help protect its own people – mandating that our employees who are able to perform their jobs work from home. We are also providing masks and gloves for employees working in our distribution center, enhancing cleaning procedures, and establishing a fund to help employees who may be struggling during this time.

To learn more about Jasco’s donation and to watch Trice’s video announcement, please visit www.byjasco.com/covid-19-response.

About Jasco Jasco leads the market in lighting fixtures, lighting controls, consumer electronics, power protection and charging products.

School support staff can be paid Gov. Kevin Stitt signed an executive order last week ensuring support staff of Oklahoma public schools can be paid for the remainder of their current contract despite school buildings being closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The directive resolves what had been several weeks of uncertainty, as some districts were concerned they could not do so constitutionally.

The order also clarifies any ambiguity that existed relating to the amount of paid leave and benefit coverage these employees can have during this health emergency. The Governor’s action waives any such statutory or rulebased limitations on which these individuals may accumulate or receive leave for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Governor Stitt and State Superin-

tendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister had been seeking a legislative remedy for the nearly 41,000 support staffers, but those efforts stalled when the state Legislature was forced to halt meeting due to the spread of the virus.

“It is important to me that our local school boards have the authority to fulfill support staff contracts and pay their employees while their buildings are closed,” said Gov. Stitt.

“This remedy was urgently needed. I thank Gov. Stitt for taking this action to ensure certainty for the cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, teachers’ assistants and so many others whose work is critical to our schools,” Hofmeister said. “This executive order helps bring a measure of comfort and stability to these valued workers.”

and many others that are stepping up to make a difference.”

March collections March gross collections total $1.09 billion, up by $6.4 million, or 0.6 percent, from March 2019.

Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $382.6 million, an increase of $27.8 million, or 7.8 percent, from the previous March.

Individual income tax collections for the month are $328.4 million, up by $851,048, or 0.3 percent, from the prior year. Corporate collections are $54.2 million, an increase of $27 million, or 98.8 percent.

Large variances in monthly corporate collection are common.

Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $422 million in March. That is $19.2 million, or 4.4 percent, less than March 2019.

See State, Page 18

Page 18 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

State From Page 17 Sales tax collections in March total $368.2 million, a drop of $14.8 million, or 3.9 percent from the same month of the prior year. Use tax receipts, collected on out-of-state purchases including online sales, generated $53.8 million, a decrease of $4.4 million, or 7.6 percent, over the year.

Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas total $78.9 million in March, a decrease of $17.3 million, or 18 percent, from last March. Compared to February 2020 reports, gross production collections are down by $6 million, or 7 percent.

Motor vehicle taxes produced $72.5 million, up by $5.2 million, or 7.7 percent, from the same month of 2019.

Other collections composed of some 60 different sources including taxes on fuel, tobacco, medical marijuana, and alcoholic beverages, produced $134.4 million during the month. That is $10 million, or 8 percent, more than last March.

Twelve-month collections Gross revenue totals $13.72 billion from the past 12 months, April 2019 through March 2020. That is $456.5 million, or 3.4 percent, above collections from the previous 12-month period.

Gross income taxes generated $4.8 billion for the 12 months, reflecting an increase of $338.7 million, or 7.6 percent, from the prior 12 months.

Individual income tax collections total $4.18 billion, up by $238.9 million, or 6.1 percent, from the prior period. Corporate collections are $613.9 million for the period, an increase of $99.8 million, or 19.4 percent, over

the previous 12 months.

Combined sales and use taxes for the 12 months generated $5.56 billion, an increase of $48.5 million, or 0.9 percent, from the prior period.

Gross sales tax receipts total $4.83 billion, down by $37.2 million, or 0.8 percent, during the period. Use tax collections generated $727.2 million, an increase of $85.6 million, or 13.3 percent, over the previous 12 months.

Oil and gas gross production tax collections brought in $976.5 million during the 12 months, down by $113.6 million, or 10.4 percent, from the previous 12 months.

Motor vehicle collections total $796.3 million for the 12 months. This is an increase of $13.6 million, or 1.7 percent, from the trailing period.

Other sources generated $1.59 billion, up by $169.4 million, or 11.9 percent, from the previous period.

About Gross Receipts to the Treasury The monthly Gross Receipts to the Treasury report, developed by the state treasurer’s office, provides a timely and broad view of the state’s economy.

It is released in conjunction with the General Revenue Fund report from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, which provides information to state agencies for budgetary planning purposes.

The General Revenue Fund, the state’s main operating account, receives less than half of the state’s gross receipts with the remainder paid in rebates and refunds, remitted to cities and counties, and apportioned to other state funds.

Protecting mental health during the virus outbreak Life has changed dramatically in the last month and will likely continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The spread of COVID-19, now a global pandemic, has upended our routines, pushed pause on travel and many businesses, locked down entire countries, brought children from preschool to college back into our homes for an unknown time and is a relentless foe for health care workers and officials.

So, with all that said, if you’re not quite feeling like your usual self, cut yourself some slack. These are unprecedented times. It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous, anxious, sad, scared, hopeful, motivated or lethargic. Or even all those things at once.

The Centers for Disease Control tells us that stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include: Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones n Changes in sleep or eating patterns n Difficulty sleeping or concentrating n Worsening of chronic health problems n Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs The trick with good mental health is in many ways the same as the trick with good physical health. Consistency is important, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and good habits are key. In many cases, good mental health is a habit,

which can be maintained and improved upon.

During this pandemic, if you are already in treatment for your mental health, the National Institute for Mental Health says, “For those with mental illnesses, be sure to continue your treatment regimens. Consider developing a plan for telehealth sessions with your provider if you (or your provider) are quarantined or must avoid exposure to the public for any reason. And, reach out to friends and family for support, virtually if necessary.” It’s also very important to make sure you continue taking any mental health medications you’ve been prescribed.

If you aren’t being treated for your mental health but need some help calming your anxiety right now, here six straightforward tips for managing the stress created by the pandemic, courtesy of Yale Medicine.

Information is useful, but too much information can be unhelpful. Limit your news intake to sources that are actually providing new information.

There’s no benefit in watching the same news over and over. Also, make sure you stick with reliable news sources.

Take the necessary and recommended precautions to stay safe, like social distancing and washing your hands often, but don’t try to “innovate” new ones. The goal is to be ‘careful enough.’ When we try to ensure perfection and 100 percent safety, we can get caught up in unhelpful behaviors and obsessions.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 9, 2020 • Page 19

Groups combine to help feed the needy The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA), Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association (OHLA), Feed the Children and Crossings Community Church are partnering to announce ‘Phase One’ of an Essentials Package guaranteeing more than 400 non-perishable food and personal care packages to Oklahoma City hospitality workers who are unemployed due to COVID-19 layoffs.

Each care package contains a 25 lb. box of nonperishable food and a 12 lb. box of personal essentials. Donations will be distributed on April 8, and Oklahoma City hospitality employees are encouraged to register in advance through the Feed the Children’s Hospitality Essential Care Package portal.

This effort is being organized by Feed the Children and hosted and sponsored by Crossings Community Church who is providing volunteers and other resources. It is expected to significantly impact the lives of many unemployed individuals who are struggling to make ends meet, due to no fault of their own. “With an estimated 15,000 hotel workers and 140,000 restaurant workers currently unemployed, any resource to help them survive is crucial. Feed the Children stepped up, and their efforts will ultimately support the front lines of hospitality. Employee resources are equally important as the fight to survive this short-term crisis, in the minds of hospitality operators. Both are ready to get back to doing what they do best: demonstrating Oklahoma hospitality to their guests and communities,� said Patti Colley, Chief Strategy Officer of the ORA and OH&LA. Both associations continue to communicate and encourage their members to register for Feed the Children’s official Hospitality Essential Care Pack-

age portal.

"The Crossings family is heavily invested in our community 365 days a year. We are thankful to have an opportunity to serve those who've served us through the years,� said Marty Grubbs, Senior Pastor of Crossings Community Church. “Feed the Children is taking action to ensure our neighbors aren't forgotten. We understand that many Americans are facing unexpected challenges, and we are working diligently with our corporate and community partners to ensure that as needs rise, children and their families continue to receive the food and supplies they need,� said Travis Arnold, Feed the Children president and CEO. This is one of two donation phases the partnered associations and non-profit will provide for hospitality employees in need. After the first round of food and essential distributions on April 8,

‘Phase Two’ of distributions will take place at a different location. Food and resources are critical to the survival of hospitality workers. To register, visit the Hospitality Essential Care Package portal.

Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. Visit okrestaurants.com for more information.

Incorporated in 1974, the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association is Oklahoma's trade association for the hotel and lodging industry.

&K KDQQLQJ 8QLWDULDQ DQQLQJ 8QLWDULDQ 8QLYHUVDOLVW &KXUFK QLYHUVDOLVW &KXUFK For the For the safety safety of of o our ur me members mbers and and friends, friends, all services Channing hanning UUC UUC all servi ces aand nd events at C have been April 12th, h ave b een ccancelled ancelled tthrough hrough Ap ril 12 th, 2020 off tthe Pandemic.

20 20 iin n llight ight o he COVID COVID 19 Pa ndemic. tÄž ĆľĆŒĹ?Äž Ä‚ĹŻĹŻ Ä?Ĺ?Ć&#x;ÇŒÄžĹśĆ? ƚŽ Ä¨Ĺ˝ĹŻĹŻĹ˝Ç ĆšĹšÄž Ĺ?ĆľĹ?ĚĞůĹ?ŜĞĆ? tÄž ĆľĆŒĹ?Äž Ä‚ĹŻĹŻ Ä?Ĺ?Ć&#x;ÇŒÄžĹśĆ? ƚŽ Ä¨Ĺ˝ĹŻĹŻĹ˝Ç ĆšĹšÄž Ĺ?ĆľĹ?ĚĞůĹ?ŜĞĆ? Ĺ?Ĺ?ǀĞŜ Ä?LJ ƚŚĞ Ĺ˝ĆŒ ĹŻĹ˝Ä?Ä‚ĹŻ Ä‚ĆľĆšĹšĹ˝ĆŒĹ?Ć&#x;ÄžĆ?͘ Ĺ?Ĺ?ǀĞŜ Ä?LJ ƚŚĞ Ĺ˝ĆŒ ĹŻĹ˝Ä?Ä‚ĹŻ Ä‚ĆľĆšĹšĹ˝ĆŒĹ?Ć&#x;ÄžĆ?͘ Please Please be be safe.

: WK 6WUHHWÂł(GPRQG 2. : WK 6WUHHWÂł(GPRQG 2.

SSee ee u uss on on Facebook Facebook at: at: Ç Ç Ç Í˜Ä¨Ä‚Ä?ÄžÄ?Ĺ˝Ĺ˝ĹŹÍ˜Ä?Žž͏ ŚĂŜŜĹ?ĹśĹ?hh ĹšĆľĆŒÄ?Ĺš Ç Ç Ç Í˜Ä¨Ä‚Ä?ÄžÄ?Ĺ˝Ĺ˝ĹŹÍ˜Ä?Žž͏ ŚĂŜŜĹ?ĹśĹ?hh ĹšĆľĆŒÄ?Ĺš

In light of COVID 19 for the time being, all worship services are suspended.

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • April 9, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure