May 23, 2019

Page 1

May 23, 2019

Vol. 19, No. 52

In This Issue DIRECTIONS

Directions, by Joe Slack, in real life is located in front of OnCue, at 15th and I-35, 4100 E. 15th Street, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email c o n te s t @ e d m o n d p a p e r. c o m with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.

Remember and Honor Memorial Day is May 27

PHOTO PROVIDED

In December the Lomazov/Rackers Piano Duo will be at Armstrong Auditorium for a Dec. 3 performance. Recently they’ve been named runner-up in a national piano competition.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

AM Thunderstorms High 81° Low 70°

SATURDAY, MAY 25 Cloudy High 82° Low 70°

SUNDAY, MAY 26 Partly Cloudy High 85° Low 70°

The Armstrong International Cultural Foundation continues its tradition of presenting worldrenowned artists with the announcement of the Armstrong Auditorium 2019-2020 Performing Arts Series. The series showcases a rich diversity of performances from around the globe for all audiences to enjoy. “We are elated to welcome a world-class lineup of familiar performers from our previous series as well as famous fresh faces making their debuts in the United States this upcoming season,” concert manager Ryan Malone said. “We are eager to expand the arts in Oklahoma through these enriching performances.” Armstrong Auditorium’s 21st performing arts season opens on Sept. 12 with the Four Italian Tenors performing the most famous and beloved opera arias and songs on their debut tour of the United States. With romanticism, lyricism and dramatic flair, the Four Italian Tenors captivate audiences with

magnificent voices and pay homage to the four great Italian tenors: Enrico Caruso, Mario Lanza, Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli. Through unique arrangements, this new generation of world-class tenors delivers wonderfully entertaining interpretations of well-known masterpieces, all in their inimitable style. Daniel Hope and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra come to the Armstrong stage on Nov. 12, performing an unusual pairing of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons with famed film composer Max Richter’s Vivaldi Recomposed, an exciting reimagining of the Baroque classic. Conducting from the violin, Hope is regarded as one of the most thoughtful and brilliant violinists in the world. The recorded version of Hope and Zurich Chamber Orchestra’s rendition has become a wildly successful classical recording, reaching No. 1 in more than 22 countries. On Dec. 3, the Lomazov/Rackers Piano Duo bring their impressive

talents to Armstrong Auditorium. Garnering wide attention as the second prize winners of the Sixth Biennial Ellis Duo Piano Competition, the only national competition for piano duo in the U.S. at that time, the pair will perform a variety of works including the Paganini Variations by Lutoslawski, works by Mozart and Brahms, with additional special guests and surprises. Multi-Grammy and Emmy Award nominee David B. Hooten will introduce the Armstrong audience to his “Legends of Dixieland” show on Jan. 16. A native Oklahoman, Hooten has performed on stage with jazz greats such as Al Hirt, Pete Fountain, Boots Randolph, Bob Snyder and Wynton Marsalis, to name a few. The festive show depicts a traditional New Orleans funeral and features a pantheon of classic Dixieland hits. Hooten’s unforgettable performances demonstrate a prominent display of mastery over the genre. continued on Page 3


Page 2 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 3

David B. Hooten

Cover From Page 1 Renowned for its exciting presentation of authentic regional dances of Mexico under the direction of Silvia Lozano, Ballet Folclórico Nacional de Mexico will captivate audiences with a delightful evening of colorful dances on Feb. 13. Featuring an abundance of traditional heritage brought to life by resplendent dancers adorned in brilliantly-colored costumes and accompanied by uplifting songs, the company transcends cultural barriers and presents an unforgettable experience the entire family will enjoy. On March 4, the Siberian State Symphony Orchestra, with Artistic Director and Maestro Vladimir Lande, will present Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, two of the most evocative works in classical music, in an all-Russian program featuring violinist Pavel Milyukov. The orchestra delivers a passionate, exhilarating presentation marked by mastery and vigor, ensuring that its well-deserved reputation as one of the most magnificent Russian orchestras is secure. The famous father-son pairing of Julian and Gerard Schwarz, along with the Mozart Orchestra of New York, take the Armstrong stage on March 24. They will perform an exciting program of cello masterpieces from composers Haydn and Vivaldi, including the rarely-performed Vivaldi Double Cello Concerto. Julian Schwarz will perform this piece with Armstrong’s own dynamic father-son duo, featuring Seth Malone on cello and Ryan Malone on the harpsichord. The season closes on April 23, 2020 with the classical vocal ensemble Chanticleer, known around the world as an “orchestra of voices” for the seamless blend of its 12 male

voices ranging from countertenor to bass. The evening will feature a journey around the world, showcasing sea shanties from either side of the Atlantic, along with folk and contemporary works from China, Japan, Korea and Samoan culture, including works by Chen Yi and Grammy-nominated composer Zhou Tian. The Armstrong International Cultural Foundation performing arts series began years before Armstrong Auditorium opened. In the fall of 1998, the non-profit humanitarian organization began a small series in various smaller venues throughout Edmond until it opened the auditorium in the fall of 2010. The series is now well established as it celebrates its 21st season. Ticket packages for Armstrong Auditorium’s 2019-20 season are now available for season ticket holders, and individual event tickets go on sale June 1. Three- and five-performance FlexPass packages allow patrons to create their personalized subscriptions while saving 10 and 15 percent off regular ticket prices, respectively. Packages start at just $84 for three concerts. A full-season subscription ensures excellent seats for each performance, and a host of additional benefits including 20 percent off ticket prices to all season performances, preferred seating in advance of the general public, free and easy ticket exchanges, access to the exclusive subscriber prepaid parking lot and more. To subscribe to the Armstrong Auditorium 2019-20 Performing Arts Series, call (405) 285-1010 or visit ArmstrongAuditorium.org. Groups of 20 or more may be eligible to receive a discount off the original ticket price. Please contact the box office for more information.


Page 4 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Harroz a great choice for OU It may have taken the University of Oklahoma regents until the early morning hours to make the final call but once they decided to replace current OU President James Ray Hibbard Gallogly, it was a good one. The decision to tap OU Law College Dean Joe Harroz, Jr. will prove to be just what the doctor ordered for the university. It may seem like a back handed complement since I am a graduate of Oklahoma State University, but it is not. While I bleed orange and am “Loyal and True,” I have always wished the best for OU. Heck, I even sent my kids there along with my money. They were unduly influenced by their mother who is an OU graduate. I must admit it was a little hard to write those checks at first, but it got easier on this Cowboy. All you really want is for your kids to get a good education and graduate which both of mine did in record time. Except for a few sports events when the two schools face each other, I am in favor of the Sooners. I have known Harroz for most of his life. In his youth, he exhibited great character and set high goals for himself. He comes from one of the best families in Oklahoma as well. He is smart, well educated and knows the students and faculty at OU. Most importantly, he is a leader in the best sense of the word. He encourages others and inspires them. There is no one at the university that will outwork President Harroz. His education includes, of course, a B.A. with distinction in Economics and a minor in Zoology from OU in 1989 and his Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center in 1992. His education and experience at and around the U.S. capital will prove to be a great benefit to the university. Former Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry when asked about Harroz as president, said, “One of the things you have to do is set the tone on campus and the culture and that’s something that’s been a bit of an issue in the last number of years.” He added, “Joe is very accessible, down to earth and relatable. That temperament is essential at a modern American university. It’s probably smart to bring in someone like that in a university setting.” Harroz has outside experience

from the university that will prove valuable as well. He has done great things with the OU Law school and will do even more for OU. He is an incredibly kind individual, but no one should mistake his kindness for weakness. While we don’t know that the next 15 months will hold for the university or what other troubles might be unearthed, Harroz is the right person to have in place to lead the university. Congratulation Joe! Cox adds Amazon Prime Video Nothing has changed the way we watch our televisions more then the addition of Netflix, YouTube and more. It has created binge watching which I have a love hate relationship with. There is no reason to blame the services I have for launching all the episodes of a series at once. I am the one who does not have the discipline to spread it out over several weeks. We just go ahead and watch one right after the other until sleep takes over. Our friends at Cox have added yet another great App to their Contour services users. They had already added Netflix and YouTube last year but now they have included Amazon Prime Video to your choices in Contour. As Cox puts it, “Amazon Prime Video is the latest in a series of successful integrations that connect Contour customers with the content they care about most.” Customer can simply say “Amazon Prime Video” or “Prime Video” into their Contour voice remote and watch award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Hanna, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Guava Island, Homecoming, and The Man in the High Castle. “When it’s time to enjoy your favorite streaming content, just say the word and we’ll serve it up on your screen. It has never been easier to find and enjoy favorite TV shows, movies and video clips all in one place,” said Kevin Hart, executive vice president and chief product and technology officer for Cox. “We’ve removed the complexity that comes with toggling, switching inputs or the necessity of watching on a smaller screen. Now all you have to do is say the name of your favorite Prime Video show or movie into your Contour remote and it will appear on your TV.” Prime Video is committed to making our customers’ favorite shows, movies and live sports effortless to watch,” said Andrew Bennett, head of worldwide business development

for Prime Video. “Bringing the Prime Video app to Contour gives our Prime members even more ways to stream Amazon Originals including the upcoming launches of Good Omens and Chasing Happiness, the Jonas Brothers’ documentary.” In addition to live TV, recorded DVR content and thousands of titles available On Demand, Contour customers can use the voice remote to pull from the vast library of content available on Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube. Truly the go-to hub for all entertainment needs, Contour is also seamlessly integrated with iHeartRadio. Contour customers can use their voice remote to access extensive music libraries, search for their favorite radio stations and artists over a range of genres, including pop, country, hip-hop, R&B, alternative and rock. “Our goal is to make life easier and connect our customers with the content that they care about,” said Hart. “Whatever they’re looking for, all they have to do is ask their Contour Voice Remote.” Tony DeSare comes to UCO Jazz Lab Tres Amigos Productions, the not for profit production company that

benefits jazz scholarships through the UCO Foundation, has announced their next concert for this season. It is vocalist Tony DeSare. He is coming September 27th at 8:00 to the UCO Jazz Lab. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased by calling (405) 3408552. DeSare is hailed as an outstanding singer and pianist. He is also an award winning composer who not only won first place in the USA Songwriting Contest but he has written the theme song for the motion picture, My Date With Drew, several broadcast commercials and has composed the full soundtracks for the Hallmark Channel’s Love Always, Santa and Lifetime’s Nanny Nightmare. DeSare began playing the piano as a young boy and had public performances in his late teens. He was born in Glens Falls, New York in 1976. He kept performing locally during his studies at Ithaca College. DeSare’s career was given a boost when he moved to New York in 1998 and played in a hotel and performed in an off-Broadway musical. He met guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli who also helped develop his career. (Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Tony DeSare

Check out what’s inside! n n n n n n n n n

Navy coming to town ..................................................................Page 8. Suppose you could live to be 200? ............................................Page 10. Calendar of events ......................................................................Page 11. Sports ........................................................................................Page 14. Movie review by George Gust ....................................................Page 15. Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15. New ESA officers ........................................................................Page 19. Business of the week ..................................................................Page 22. Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.

See if you can find ‘Directions’ “Directions,” in real life is located in front of OnCue, at 15th and I-35, 4100 E 15th Street, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. E-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Local artist Joe Slack created the sculpture to draw the public in. “I just want to engage,” said Slack, “And for it to be part of the landscape.” At it’s tallest point of 17 feet ‘Directions' is the largest sculpture Slack has ever attempted. It features three huge faces with a rust patina. Located along I-35 it is certain to draw travelers in to engage with just one of the pieces of public art Edmond is known for. For more information on Edmond public art please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php

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

Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2019 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) 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

Photographer Melinda Infante

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Cover Design April Burgess

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Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 5

Action taken to honor Betz The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation announced the establishment of the Don Betz Endowed Chair for International Studies to honor retiring UCO President Don Betz. Betz will retire June 30 after serving eight years as UCO’s 20th president. Through the generosity of corporate and private donations, the UCO Foundation has raised $600,000 for the endowment. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will match those funds, making the Don Betz Endowed Chair for International Studies the largest endowed chair at UCO. “President Betz has had such a long history of working to improve international relations through his work with the United Nations and through his nearly 50 years in higher education,” said Anne

Lankford Chamber Speaker PHOTO PROVIDED

U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-Edmond) was the recent guest and speaker for the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. Welcoming him to the event was Jan Moran, this year’s president of the chamber.

Holzberlein, vice president for Advancement at UCO and president of the UCO Foundation. “This endowed chair is a fitting tribute to continue the legacy of his work in higher education and bring a higher profile and increased learning and research opportunities for international studies to UCO.” More than 25 individuals and organizations contributed to the establishment of the Don Betz Endowed Chair in International Studies, including the Chickasaw Nation, the Burger Family Foundation, MidFirst Bank and UCO alumnus and philanthropist Leroy Coffman. The establishment of the endowment was announced at a dinner honoring Betz April 26. The event included tributes from Oklahoma City University President Martha Burger,

Oklahoma Christian University President John deSteiguer, Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby and former Oklahoma Gov. George Nigh, who also served as the 18th president of UCO from 1992-1997. Nigh inducted both Betz and his wife Susanne Betz into the university’s Luminary Society, recognizing their monumental contributions to the university. The UCO Foundation was established as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1975 to provide scholarship assistance to deserving students and support for faculty, campus activities and vital programs at UCO. To learn more about the Don Betz Endowed Chair in International Studies, visit www.centralconnection.org/betz or email foundation@uco.edu.


Page 6 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Helping non-violent offenders Gov. Kevin Stitt signed into law last week a bill that could help non-violent offenders with felony convictions find high-paying jobs. House Bill 1373, by state Rep. Zack Taylor, known as “Fresh Start Act,” will allow people with felonies on their records the opportunity to still seek occupational licensing for certain professions as long as the crimes do not substantially relate to the practice of the occupation. Taylor said the bill accomplishes occupational licensure reform in conjunction with criminal justice reform. “Our laws should encourage those non-violent offenders who have paid their debt to find work so they can be productive, provide for their families and reduce the likelihood of recidivism,” said Taylor, R-Seminole.

PHOTO PROVIDED/MELINDA MYERS

Not using chemicals outdoors will help protect backyard visitors such as this hummingbird.

Attacking outdoor pests without using chemicals By Melinda Myers It’s time to get outside and enjoy summer BBQs, gardening, hikes and much more. Don’t let mosquitoes keep you inside; Instead enlist these chemical-free strategies to manage these pests in your landscape. Start by eliminating the mosquitoes’ breeding grounds. Drain the water out of buckets, old tires and clogged gutters and downspouts that hold water needed for mosquitoes to reproduce. Check kids’ toys, tarps and pool covers that also retain water. Drain the water and store these items in the garage or turn them over to keep them from becoming a mosquito breeding ground. Even small containers hold enough water for hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes to breed. Change the water in birdbaths at least once a week. Make it part of your routine maintenance; rinse birdbaths when watering containers. Or install a small pump to keep water moving to prevent mosquito breeding. Use organic mosquito control like Mosquito Dunks and Mosquito Bits (SummitResponsibleSolutions.com) in birdbaths, rain barrels and water features. Mosquito Bits quickly knock down the mosquito larval population, while Mosquito Dunks provide 30 days of control. They both contain a naturally occurring soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis that kills mosquito larvae, are certified organic and safe for pets, fish, wildlife and children. Use Mosquito Dunks to manage these pests in areas subject to periods of standing water. One dunk provides control of 100 square feet of water surface for 30 days. Slide a dunk over a stake secured in the problem area, preventing it from washing away in heavy rains. It remains in place and provides control when the area is flooded again. Attract insect-eating birds to the landscape with a few birdhouses. You’ll enjoy their beauty and benefit from their diet of insects, including many garden pests and mosquitoes. Reduce the mosquitoes’ daytime resting spaces by keeping your garden weeded. Removing weeds and managing neglected garden spaces will make your landscape less inviting to these pests. Keep mosquitoes away when hosting a party, gardening or relaxing outdoors. Use a fan to create a gentle breeze that keeps the weak-flying

mosquitoes away from you and your guests. Some gardeners even take a small fan into the garden while weeding. Light a few citronella candles for a bit of ambience and mosquito control at your next evening party or event. Citronella oil and the scented candles do have some mosquito-repelling properties. Scatter lots of candles throughout your entertainment space. Position the candles within a few feet of your guests for some short-term relief from these pests. These strategies and some personal protection will help you increase your summer enjoyment. Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing, covering as much of your skin as possible with long sleeves and pants. For Deet-free personal repellent options, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has also approved products with the active ingredient picaridin (found in Skin So Soft products), IR3535, and the synthetic oil of lemon and eucalyptus. Avoid products that contain both sunscreen and insect repellents as you need to apply the sunscreen more often than the repellent. Using a combination of these mosquito-management strategies is sure to provide a summer filled with more enjoyable gatherings with family and friends.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Summit for her expertise to write this article. Myers’s web site is www.melindamyers.com.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 7

PHOTO PROVIDED/SUSAN PARKS/SCHLEPP

Will Hartman, left, and Kevin Zhang are two of four Memorial students earning a perfect mark on their ACT.

Four Memorial students earn a perfect mark on the ACT Four Edmond Memorial High School students have earned perfect scores on the ACT College Entrance Exam. The achievement puts juniors Oliver Wu, Will Hartman, Kevin Zhang and senior Cade Christison in the top one-tenth of one percent of all students who take the exam each year. “A perfect ACT score is one of the most exceptional accomplishments a student can achieve. It will open college admission and scholarship doors to our nation's most prestigious universities,” said Debbie Bendick, associate superintendent of secondary education for Edmond Public Schools. Hartman was surprised by his perfect score because it was his first time taking the test. He was in class in early May when he learned about it. “I logged on to check my score and didn’t believe it. I logged out and logged back in to double check thinking there had been a mistake...I was really excited,” he said. Zhang had a “bad feeling” after taking the test and so he assumed he did not do his best. “Getting a 36 completely blew my expectations out of the water,” he said. “I am extremely grateful and lucky that I was able to receive the golden number.” Zhang plans to pursue mechanical engineering in college and is hoping to attend Georgia Tech, University of Michigan, or Carnegie Mellon for his post-secondary education. Christison, an avid hunter, and out-

doorsman had already made a 35 on the test early in his senior year but decided to brave ice-covered roads during a winter storm to take the test one last time. “That’s just Cade,” laughed Teresa, his mother. “He just loves to learn, and he has had some really quality teachers at Edmond Memorial, who together with his Advanced Placement classes - were able to give him what he needed,” she noted. Cade will attend Oklahoma State University on a full scholarship and plans to major in Aerospace Engineering. Oliver Wu had also posted a nearperfect 35 on the test but decided that one more time might be the charm. “I was one point short so I just wanted to try for it,” said Wu, who participates in Youth and Government, Asian Club, German Club, and serves as captain of the Edmond Memorial Academic Team. All four students credit Advanced Placement Classes for better preparing them for the test. “My Advanced Placement courses challenged me, and it was because of these challenging courses that I was able to succeed on the ACT,” noted Hartman. The ACT is a curriculum-based test scored on a scale of 0-36. It is designed to measure the skills needed for success in first-year college coursework. The four individual areas that comprise the test are math, English, reading and science reasoning.

Oliver Wu

Cade Christison


Page 8 • February 21, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Navy Week to be celebrated in metro By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian T. Glunt, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs MILLINGTON, Tenn. -- Oklahoma’s “Big Friendly” readies for underway of Oklahoma City Navy Week, May 27 through June 2, in conjunction with the Star Spangled Salute Air Show. Historically, Navy Week events

draw thousands of attendees to participate and create a dialogue between Sailors and local residents. The events are designed to raise awareness about the Navy in areas that do not have a large naval presence. “Oklahoma City has historically been a great area for the Navy Week program,” said Lt. John Stevens, lead planner for the Oklahoma City Navy Week. “This marks the sixth Okla-

homa City Navy Week, and it’s unique this year because it’s the first time we’ll be here for the Star Spangled Salute. In the past we’ve participated in the Oklahoma State Fair and Navy Days in the fall.” During Oklahoma City Navy Week, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Greg Slavonic and Rear Adm. Jeff Trussler, director of future plans at the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, will serve as senior representatives. They will meet with corporate, civic, education and government leaders throughout the week in an effort to increase awareness of the Navy, its mission and the importance of the Navy to the people of Oklahoma City. Citizens of Oklahoma City will have a chance to interact with Sailors during the week at various public events and even hear from some of their own native Oklahomans. Both Slavonic and Trussler have ties to the area and Navy Week provides the unique opportunity to bring them back, further strengthening the connection between the Navy and Oklahoma City. “It's always an honor to go back to your home state, especially when it's Oklahoma City,” said Slavonic, the principal Navy Week host. “It’s a city that has such a Navy heritage to it -- a cruiser named in its honor, a submarine named in its honor -- and a state that's got a battleship named after it.” “Oklahoma has a long history of supporting the Navy,” added Slavonic. “We've had many famous individuals from Oklahoma, like Adm. Jocko Clark, and several civic leaders who have distinguished themselves in the military.” Adm. Joseph J. “Jocko” Clark (1893-1971) was a Pryor Creek, Okla., native and Citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He commanded USS Yorktown (CV 10) and later Carrier Task Group 58.1 during World War II in the Pacific, and commanded U.S. Seventh Fleet during the Korean War. He received the Navy Cross for his actions in command of TG 58.1,

and became an honorary chief in both the Sioux and Cherokee Nations. Some of the major highlights during the week include the Navy’s Blue Angels at the Star Spangled Salute Air Show at Tinker Air Force Base, a virtual reality experience provided by Navy Recruiting District Dallas, and Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial. Several concerts are also scheduled to be performed around the city by Navy Band Southwest’s “32nd Street Brass Band,” full wind ensemble, as well as the woodwind and brass quintets. “Navy Band Southwest is excited to return to Oklahoma City,” said Lt. Joel Davidson, Navy Band Southwest. “During this year’s Navy Week, we have performances by four different ensembles scheduled throughout the city. Navy weeks offer the opportunity for us to bring the Navy to places that don’t normally get to see sailors and all of the incredible work they do around the world, around the clock. I can’t think of a better time for us to bring America’s Navy to Oklahoma City than Memorial Day weekend. I am looking forward to a great week and hope all of Oklahoma City comes out to see Navy Band Southwest.” During Navy Week, Sailors from the fast-attack submarine, USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723), USS Constitution, Navy Recruiting District Dallas, and Strategic Communications Wing ONE will be participating in community relations projects with multiple YMCAs, Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity and reading to children during “Story Times” at multiple local libraries. Oklahoma City Navy Week is one of only 14 Navy Weeks in 2019 that focus a variety of equipment and personnel in a single city for a weeklong series of engagements designed to bring America’s Navy closer to the people it protects. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit www.outreach.navy.mil.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 9

Red Day Committee receiving the 2020 goal to raise $250,000 with a goal of 1,500 runners from speaker Mo Anderson. Since the race inception in 2015 we have been able to give out $471,000 to Edmond area non-profits.

There was a total of $186,500 given to seven local non-profits. It was courtesy of proceeds of Red Day 5k 2019, ran May 11th.

Total reaches $186,500

RED Day Run posts record in annual benefit Edmond’s largest charitable run, the RED Day Run, handed out $186,500 to seven Edmond-area nonprofits at the Appreciation Breakfast last week, the largest contribution made in RED Day history. Saturday’s 5K and 1-mile Fun Run in Downtown Edmond had 1,024 registered runners, walkers, and volunteers. Michael Sohn of Metro OKC Insurance paraphrased a quote by Keller Williams Realty’s Vice Chairman Mo Anderson with his opening speech. “Your Professionalism has to be backed by your actions and attitude,” he said. “This Run is the action that backs that professionalism. Valuing generosity and giving back is the attitude backing that professionalism.” Sohn, a long-time supporter of RED Day endeavors, was the Marquee Sponsor for the 2019 Run. Keller Williams Central Oklahoma was the host and Legacy Sponsor of the Run. The Presenting Sponsors were The Clay Team with Certainty Home Loans, Tom Rosser with Edmond’s Gateway Mortgage, Stewart Title Edmond, Arvest Bank, Chicago Title Oklahoma, and Dennis Chaumont with State Farm. The event was marked by the spirit of community. Each charity and several sponsors spoke to the impact the Run has had on their operations, businesses, and lives. The seven nonprofits that benefited from the Run were: Wings Special Needs Community, Project 66 Food & Resource Center, Pepper’s Ranch, Make-A-Wish Oklahoma, Folds of Honor Oklahoma, Edmond Public Schools Foundation, and Caleb’s Cause Foundation. The organizations received the funds raised from registrations, sponsorships, and donations on a pro-rata basis based on the number of votes each charity receives. Participants were able to choose which charity their vote goes toward when registering. Finishing first in the voting was Pepper’s Ranch foster care community. They received 25 percent of the total amount raised, equaling $46,625. “To the sponsors, thank you. We’re on this race together and if you’re not on this road yet, lace up those running shoes and get going,’ said Pepper’s Ranch Executive Director, Tonya Ratcliff. Folds Of Honor Oklahoma came in second

Introduced in 2009, RED Day was created by Keller Williams Realty International to recognize the leadership of KW Vice-Chairman of the Board and long-time Edmond resident, Mo Anderson. place, receiving $27,975, which will go toward providing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of the fallen, wounded, and disabled military veterans who served in the armed forces. In third place was Wings Special Needs Community, which was presented with $24,245 to continue helping enhance the lives of those with special needs in Edmond. The fourth, fifth and sixth place finishers received 10 percent of the funds raised, or $18,650 each. They are Caleb’s Cause Foundation, a charity that provides diapers to low-income families around Oklahoma, the Edmond Public Schools Foundation, which supplements funding for classroom and teacher needs in the Edmond Public Schools system, and Project 66 Food Pantry, a client-choice food pantry for those in Edmond, Arcadia, and the surrounding areas. Last but certainly not least was Make-A-Wish Oklahoma. They walked away with $13,055 which will be put toward granting the wishes of kids with critical illnesses all over Oklahoma. “I’m so proud of you all,” said Mo Anderson, Vice Chairman of the Board for Keller Williams Realty International. “This year with your $186,500 donation to these charities, it represents the largest contribution ever made for RED Day internationally.” Ten percent of the money raised is held to tithe, and this year, 50% of that went to two organizations run by Keller Williams agents, Fostering Sweet Dreams with realtor Kristy Payne and Friends of Guthrie Animal Shelter with Von Coburn each received $4,663. The other 50% of that money went to charities that applied but were not chosen for the grand prize. Each of the following organizations received $1,166: Angels Foster Family Network, Edmond

Mobile Meals, Filling Tummies, Halo Project, Project 31, Turning Point Ministries, and UR Special Ministries. “The amount of money we were able to raise is absolutely mind blowing,” said Edmond REALTOR and RED Day Run Sponsorship Chair, Brad Reeser. “It takes a lot of involvement not only from the committee, from our agents at KWCO, from the donors and sponsors, but also from the community. Next year we’re going to do it even bigger! Our goal for the 2020 RED Day Run is to raise $250,000 and have 1,500 race participants. If you’ve been with us from the start, thank you so much. If you haven’t, consider joining us—it really is incredible to see the impact this Run has on the community of Edmond.” In 2018, the RED Day Run distributed $105,000 to five local charities allowing them to directly help over 29,000 people in the metro area. Since the event’s inception in 2014, over $471,500 has been raised by realtors, affiliates, and runners for those most in need in and around Edmond. Introduced in 2009, RED Day was created by Keller Williams Realty International to recognize the leadership of KW Vice-Chairman of the Board and long-time Edmond resident, Mo Anderson, in crafting the culture of the company. Giving back to the community in which KW realtors live and work is at the heart of this company culture. Designed to fulfill the ‘Giving Where You Live’ montre, RED Day is internationally celebrated the second week of May. The company-wide day of giving earned its moniker from the signature hue of the real estate company and also serves as an acronym of the principles describing our goal: Renew, Energize, Donate. Each Keller Williams market center is free to choose how they spend that day, and the RED Day Run is Central Oklahoma’s version. In 2014, the Edmond market center decided to transition the day of service to a day of fundraising, widening the scope of those impacted by their efforts. To join us next year and for more information about the RED Day Run, visit www.centralokredday.com, or call 405-330-2626. To learn more about Keller Williams and the RED Day of service, go to http://www.kw.com/kw/redday.


Page 10 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Whales and progress I read an interesting little tidbit in Reader's Digest this month. Maybe it's common knowledge but I wasn't aware of the longevity of a bowhead whale. It could very well be that I Steve Gust missed science class that day in school. Yet some of the ocean creatures can live over 200 years. So the mammal that inspired the publishing of "Moby Dick," in 1851 could still be alive out there somewhere. Can you imagine if a person could live for 200 years? It would mean you would have been born when James Monroe was president. He was the fifth president of the nation. We've had 40 more since him. It would also mean you've lived to see the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War I and Gulf War II. And if you think those are the only conflicts the nation has been involved with, you'd be sadly mistaken. There have been dozens of arned conflicts in our history. Most of them I've never heard of before like the Pugent Sound War in

1855 and 1856 in Washington. For whatever reason, diplomacy must be a lot tougher than what it should be. We've probably had a dozen military conflicts alone in the 21st century. Four or five of those are ongoing. Anyway I digress a bit. If you were born in 1819, you would not have only seen the development of the atomic bomb, you would have been born before all the guys who worked on the development of the nuclear age. Perhaps the greatest development has been with transportation where we've gone from horse and buggy to automobiles, airplanes and eventually the space age. Communication has also been dramatic seeing the telegraph in the 19th century to smart phones today. The real point is that society has seen a lot of change and development in a scant 200 years. For those who avoid predators and hunters, the bowhead whales are lucky enough to just ignore it all and keep swimming while mankind battles it out on land. Yet when the whales have offspring, it makes you wonder what in the world life will look like in 200 years. The year 2219 most likely is going to be a heck of a lot different than today. Who knows? People then may think this is a primitive age.

Assault on fossil fuels The Oklahoman Editorial Board Democratic presidential candidates are climbing over each other to win the backing of environmental activists, although they’ve all got a ways to go to keep up with Bernie Sanders. Sanders, the senator from Vermont who for years decried American dependence on fossil fuels, has proposedThe Oklahoman Editorial Board Democratic presidential candidates are climbing over each other to win the backing of environmental activists, although they’ve all got a ways to go to keep up with Bernie Sanders. Sanders, the senator from Vermont who for years decried American dependence on fossil fuels, has proposed an energy plan that couldn’t be greener and he’s using Oklahoma to help sell it.

In a recent video driving home his support for an end to hydraulic fracturing, Sanders’ campaign notes the large increase in wastewater-related earthquakes that Oklahoma experienced a few years ago. Naturally, the video makes no mention that the number of quakes fell swiftly following moves by regulators and the oil and gas industry. The video also includes a comment from a landowner who opposes fracking. “This is a wind and solar state and we could power everything that way,” the man says. The wind energy industry has grown considerably in Oklahoma, and continues to do so, but the idea that we’re a wind and solar state would come as a surprise to the tens of thousands of residents who make their living in the oil and gas industry, or to those

who monitor the state treasury. The fallout from the collapse in energy prices a few years ago underscores that point. But then, Sanders’ goal is simply to demonize fossil fuels. The video includes clips from Sanders through the years, including one in which he says fracking “is a danger to our water supply, to the air we breathe and can cause lung cancer, it has resulted in more earthquakes and it is contributing to climate change.” That just about covers it. Sanders’ energy plan places fossil fuels squarely in the cross hairs. He wants to pass the Green New Deal, whose goal is energy derived solely from renewables. Among other things, a Sanders administration would ban fracking and new fossil fuel infrastructure, end U.S. exports of coal, natural gas and crude oil, and build out high-speed rail and electric vehicles. “We don’t have any time. We are out of time,” the Oklahoma landowner declares in Sanders’ video. The governor of Washington, Jay Inslee, one of the many Democrats seeking the presidency in 2020, apparently feels the same way. Recently, Inslee signed a law that makes Washington the fourth state to ban fracking (Vermont, New York and Maryland are the others). Sanders and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard are the only candidates thus far to call for a nationwide ban on fracking. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Sanders has said her administration would ban offshore drilling on her first day in office. Why not fracking, too? In the race for their base’s support, promising to "save the planet" may trail only “defeating President Trump” as Democrats’ juiciest piece of red meat.

State senator breaks down work on the budget By State Senator Stephanie Bice When you look at the most important functions of state government, you can break them down into a handful of areas — education, public safety, transportation, health and mental health. After years of fighting to hold these areas harmless as much as possible, it is so gratifying to know we can now make critically-needed Bice investments in each of these areas. That’s what we will accomplish with the budget agreement announced this past week at the State Capitol, and it is being accomplished without any tax increase. We’re increasing our investments in public schools, colleges and our career-techs significantly

in the 2020 fiscal year budget. We’re boosting public school funding by $157.7 million which will include enough funds to make our teacher salaries first in the region, giving teachers an average raise of $1,220 beyond what they received last year. There’s also an additional $74.3 million for the classroom to hire additional teachers or meet other critical needs as determined by our local districts. We’re fully funding the state’s Reading Sufficiency Act for the first time since its passage, providing resources to boost reading levels and improve learning. The education investment includes $18 million for our career-techs and $28 million for higher education. Additional funds in public safety mean we can pay for two new trooper academies, helping us put an estimated 80 more troopers on the roads in 2020. The budget also provides for a 14 percent

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.

raise for correctional officers. This boost will help the Department of Corrections address staffing shortages, increasing security in our state prisons. At the same time, the budget also provides funding for much-needed criminal justice reforms that will save our state money in the long run. Examples of programs prioritized for these investments include Smart on Crime Programs through the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the Women in Recovery diversion program, additional funding for mental health services and resources to begin reforming the funding of District Attorney offices . The budget agreement means we are fully funding the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s 8-year plan and restoring $30 million to a special program supporting county roads and bridges. Access to healthcare is critical for our state, and this budget addresses that with additional investments for programs supporting physician training in rural hospitals, a significant reallocation to increase provider rates for doctors, hospitals and nursing homes, additional money to decrease the Developmental Disability Services wait list and increase provider rates and additional resources for our county health departments. We’ve also targeted additional funds to job development and economic growth in our state, and boosted our state savings account in order to better stabilize the state budget during future economic downturns. Of course all of these core services depend on

See Budget Page 9


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 11

Budget From Page 8

What’s Happening This Weekend May 23 ---- 27 Thursday May 23 ---- In the Gallery ---- OKC Broadway presents: Cats ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Friday May 24 ---- In the Gallery ---- Miss Brown To You ---- Edmond Junior Rodeo ---- Chris Neal’s Future Stars of Calf Roping ---- Gary Allen ---- OKC Broadway presents: Cats ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Saturday May 25 ---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Edmond Junior Rodeo ---- Chris Neal’s Future Stars of Calf Roping ---- Garrett “Big G” Jacobson ---- Opening Day at Pelican Bay ---- Walk For Hunger ---- Jack Waters & the Unemployed ---- Annual Chuck Wagon Festival ---- OKC Broadway presents: Cats ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship ---- Paseo Arts Festival ---- Signature Tour Sunday May 26 ---- In the Gallery ---- Chris Neal’s Future Stars of Calf Roping ---- Signature Tour ---- OKC Broadway presents: Cats ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship ---- Paseo Arts Festival Monday May 27 ---- Chris Neal’s Future Stars of Calf Roping ---- Memorial Day Picinic in the Park ---- Memorial Day Special ---- Paseo Arts Festival Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring works by Brad McNeill, for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com/ Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place & Plaza Extra Info: Free admission; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; for more information go to edmondok.com Edmond Junior Rodeo Location: Edmond Round Up Club Carl Benne Arena Extra Info: $1 ---- $5, Fri, 7 p.m.; Sat, 6 p.m.; for more information visit edmondroundupclub.com Chris Neal’s Future Stars of Calf Roping Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: For more information visit

them on Facebook Opening Day at Pelican Bay Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Extra Info: for more information visit pelicanbayaquatics.com Walk For Hunger Location: Mitch Park, pavilion 3 Extra Info: $40+; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; 5K; for more information visit buy.chip-in.us Memorial Day Picnic in the Park Location: Hafer Park Extra Info: Free; 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.; for more information visit edmondok.com Memorial Day Special Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Extra info: $6; 12 -5 p.m.; for more information visit pelicanbayaquatics.com Jack Waters & the Unemployed Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino, Norman Extra Info: 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.; for more information visit riverwind.com Gary Allen Location: Showplace Theater, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 8 p.m.; for more information visit riverwind.com Annual Chuck Wagon Festival Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; for more information visit nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 1 – 2 p.m.; for more information visit nationalcowboymuseum.org Miss Brown To You Location: UCO – Jazz Lab Extra Info: 8 p.m., $10; for more information visit ucojazzlab.com Garrett “Big G” Jacobson Location: UCO – Jazz Lab Extra Info: 8 p.m., $10, for more information visit ucojazzlab.com OKC Broadway presents: Cats Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for more information visit okcciviccenter.com Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Location: Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark Extra Info: for tickets visit oss.ticketmaster.com Paseo Arts Festival Location: Paseo Arts District Extra Info: for more information visit

If you have an item for calendar please send to Melinda Infante at infante318@cox.net.

Doctor to give address on kidney stone pain men’s sexual health OU Medical Center conditions. He treats Edmond’s next physipatients at OU Medical cian education presenCenter Edmond and tation is scheduled for OU Physicians Fountain Tuesday, May 28, at Lake, 14101 N. Eastern. the hospital. Bowen’s presentation Did you know that is part of OU Medical kidney stones are one Center Edmond’s physiof the main reasons cian education series. people visit the emerThe presentations are gency department? OU held from 5:30 to 6:30 Medicine Urologist Ashp.m., in Classroom 1 of ley Bowen, M.D., will Dr. Ashley Bowen OU Medical Center Edshare information on mond’s Medical Office Building, 105 where to go and what to do if you S. Bryant Ave., suite 201. Light reexperience bladder pain that may be freshments will be provided. There is caused by kidney stones. Bowen speno cost to participants. To RSVP, cializes in the treatment of urologic issues through minimally invasive sur- please call (405) 271-8001, extension 49199. gery and in diagnosing and treating

the state employees who provide them. This budget agreement provides additional state employee pay increases of up to $1,500 beyond the raises given last year. There are also funds for digital transformation of state government services to enhance transparency and improve customer services. The agreement also includes an appropriation for the creation of the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency to improve efficiencies and target duplication and waste throughout state government.

This session has been extremely productive in terms of public policy that will move our state forward—with this agreement we will be able to pass a budget that will further assist that effort, providing investments that will benefit Oklahoma for years to come. If you have any questions about legislation or other issues dealing with state government, please contact me at 405-521-5592, or email bice@oksenate.gov. Thank you for allowing me to be your voice in the Oklahoma State Senate.


Page 12 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

State group names elementary principal ‘Administrator of the Year’ PHOTO PROVIDED

Edmond Public Schools administrators and representatives from the Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) congratulate Heritage Elementary School Principal Cathey Bugg on being named ‘Administrator of the Year.’ Left to right; Julie Bloss, Past President of OAESP, Price Brown, EPS Executive Director of Elementary, Dr. Gracie Branch, Executive Director of OAESP, Cathey Bugg, Heritage Elementary School Principal and OAESP Administrator of the Year, Dr. Angela Grunewald, EPS Associate Superintendent and Bret Towne, EPS Superintendent.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 13

PHOTO PROVIDED

Five University of Central Oklahoma students, along with one student from a partner university, received military commissions in connection with the completion of the UCO Army ROTC program and degrees during the university’s annual spring commissioning service held May 10 at Central. Pictured from left to right, 2nd Lts. Erik E. Gonzalez, Spencer C. Grider, Kaden A. Secrest, Cody L. Giblet, Seth M. Shaffer and Lester L. Joash celebrate their commissioning.

Army ROTC students get commissions Five University of Central Oklahoma students, along with one student from a partner university, received military commissions in connection with the completion of the UCO Army ROTC program and their academic degrees during the university’s annual spring commissioning service held May 10 at Central. Army ROTC serves as the largest commissioning source for the Army, producing approximately 70 percent of all the officers for the active Army, Army National Guard and Army Reserve. Cadets complete a rigorous curriculum of classroom and leadership lab instruction, physical training, and various summer training opportunities, all while attending college as full-time students. The newly commissioned UCO students are: n 2nd LT Cody L. Giblet, from Canute, Oklahoma, earned a bachelor’s degree in professional

Education association honors UCO’s James Machell

media. He will serve as a field artillery officer in the Oklahoma Army National Guard. n 2nd LT Erik E. Gonzalez, from Los Angeles, California, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. He will serve in the U.S. Army on active duty as an armor officer. n 2nd LT Spencer C. Grider, from Lewisville, Texas, received his bachelor’s degree in general studies. He will serve the U.S. Army on active duty as an air defense artillery officer. n 2nd LT Kaden A. Secrest, from Stillwater, Oklahoma, is a distinguished military graduate and received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He will serve the U.S. Army on active duty as an infantry officer. n 2nd LT Seth M. Shaffer, from Bedford, Pennsylvania, is a distinguished military graduate and received his master’s degree in political science-in-

James Machell, Ph.D., dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) at the University of Central Oklahoma, recently received the Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Vision Award from the National and State Teacher of the Year Chapter of Oklahoma. The award, established to honor educators in Oklahoma whose background, foresight and wisdom have resulted in the enhancement of the teaching pro-

ternational affairs. He will serve as an infantry officer on active duty. Central’s Army ROTC program is host to five active affiliated universities: Oklahoma Christian, Oklahoma City University, Southern Nazarene University, Southwestern Christian University and Langston University, allowing non-UCO students to commission through the UCO Army ROTC program with the completion of a bachelor’s degree at their home university. The newly commissioned student from an affiliated university is: n 2nd LT Lester L. Joash, from Edmond, Oklahoma, earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Oklahoma Christian University. He will serve as an engineer corps officer. For more information about the UCO Army ROTC program, visit www.uco.edu/business/rotc.

fession in the state, is selected by former Oklahoma Teacher of the Year winners. "Overwhelmingly, the Oklahoma Teachers of the Year were honored to recognize Dean James Machell with this award due to his service, scholarship and advocacy in and for the teaching profession in Oklahoma,” said Stephanie Canada-Phillips, Ph.D., president of the Oklahoma National and State Teacher of the Year Chapter and

assistant professor of kinesiology and health studies at Central. Machell began his teaching career as a fourth-grade elementary school teacher in 1974 for Oklahoma City Public Schools and Machell has served in a variety of educational leadership roles throughout his career.


Page 14 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Sports

The lessons coach wants to teach youngsters By Coach Daniel Jones I started coaching three years ago a 4-6 year old team. Four of the kids have been with me each year. We have both girls and boys ranging from PreK to 1st grade. We welcome to new team members, by sending out an initial email introducing my family and myself, what to expect, practice schedule, I always schedule two per week only asking each family to come to one or the other or both giving them options that work with their schedules as we are all very busy this time of year. On the first day of practice we all introduce ourselves. Next, we review the teams expectations not only to me but to each other. We have the same expectations for every team member, boy or girl 4-6….doesn’t matter. The first is WE NEVER SAY “I CAN’T”, second expectation is, WE NEVER QUIT UNTIL WE REACH OUR GOAL, third is, WE NEVER COMPLAIN, AND fourth is, WE ALWAYS ENCOURAGE OTHERS. We repeat these four expectations throughout the practice each week. I believe the setting expectations is paramount for a great season! Touch on how you assist with the program at the meets, we want to highlight that as well. At each meet during warm up there are always a few kids that are not on my team but need some guidance none the less. I always try and look around for kids who are watching us and get them

From the back from left, are Olivia Jones, Isaac Jones, Sullivan Gilbert, Will Benzer, Daylen Moore and Coach Jones. On the front are Josiah Calderon, Henry Netterville, Charlie Jones and Spencer Sullivan. Not Pictured: Erianna Hudson, Jayden Word, Tyson Word, Jason Maltenfort and Ryan Dale.

to come warm up and practice with us, coaching them as if they were one of our team members. During the start of all the races for the 4-6 year olds, I help all the athletes line up, encourage them and tell them to never quite until they run through the finish line. On the receiving end is my co-coach (My Wife Sharla) who helps with passing out rib-

bons, encouraging them to keep their arms straight, stay in their lanes and to finish strong. I work with my team and other teams to prepare for the relay race, working on hand off’s. Most important job I can do is encourage all the athletes with clapping as they finish their events or while lapping the field.

Golf season comes to end for OC Eagles

Trevor Norby

Oklahoma Christian put together a final-day run earlier this month at the NCAA Division II South Central-West Super Regional, but it wasn't quite enough to extend the Eagles' season. Led by an exquisite 7-under-par 65 from junior Trevor Norby at The Ledges Golf Club, the Eagles posted a team score of 281 (7-under), giving them a three-day score of 870. That was good enough to move them up six spots in the 20-team field into a tie for eighth, but they finished eight shots out of fourth place, important because the top four teams advanced to the Division II Championships later this month in Daniels, W.Va. It was a difficult end to a special season in which the 12th-ranked Eagles won five tournaments – including the Heartland Conference title – and never finished below fifth in any tournament until this week.

There were some positives Saturday. The 65 shot by Norby, a junior from Carlsbad, Calif., on the 7,145-yard course was the lowest round posted by any of the tournament's 108 players over three days. It included seven birdies, including six over the final 10 holes, and no bogeys. It ranked tied for ninth in program history for the lowest round in relation to par. It was Norby's second-lowest career round, just one shot shy of the 8-under 64 he shot in the second round of the Heartland Conference Championship at Slick Rock Golf Course in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. Norby finished tied for 10th individually at 212 (4-under). OC senior Garrett White posted three birdies en route to a final-round 71 and tied for 51st at 220. Two shots back was senior Juan Pallach, who closed with a 73 that included three birdes.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 15

Here come the summer movies By George Gust As Alice Cooper once so eloquently stated, “School’s out for Summer!” With that comes the deluge of Hollywood offerings attempting to get you and yours out to the theater with a handful of snacks and a popcorn tub the size of your head. Of course, there are the big franchises that seem to be rotating summers between them, but alas, this summer looks to be serving up more unique and original movies to balance out yet another summer of reboots, offshoots and baby Groots. The Summer of Disney Dominance: “Aladdin” (May 24), “Toy Story 4” (June 21), “Spider-Man: Far From Home” (July 2), “Lion King” (July 19) After the record shattering box office performance of “Avengers: Endgame” the Disney/Marvel train is off to a screaming start this summer season but wait there’s more (so much more!) in store this year. Pulling your nostalgia heart strings with “live action” adaptations of touchstone animated films, telling the same stories, but now with a real-world grit or in the case of “Lion King” more computergenerated animals. And following those up with feeding the Pixar and Marvel machines with what looks like lovely additions to their respective franchises. Reboots and Safe Bets: “Rocketman” (May 31), “Dark Phoenix” (June 7), “Men in Black International” & “Shaft” (June 14), “Fast and Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw” (August 2), “Angel Has Fallen” (August 23) There’s been a niche in recent years for big dumb action movies that are unafraid to be as big and dumb as possible (Thanks Fast & Furious!). This category features another attempt to recapture the magic of franchises like Men in Black and X-Men as well as continuing the inexplicable Gerard Butler “Die Hard” clone “Fallen” series. Look for “Rocketman” to be another surprise jukebox hit a la “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Character driven movies that don’t feature the end of the world: “Late Night” (June 7), “Yesterday” (June 28), “The Farewell” (July 12), “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (July 26), “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” (August 9), “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” (August 16) These are the movies that fall squarely under the radar for most but are certainly exciting in a year

Zoo news Date nights at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden offer an unforgettable experience every Thursday evening in June (June 6, June 13, June 20 and June 27) from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Almost the entire Zoo will be open for couples 21 and older to explore together, enjoying the beautiful late spring and early summer Oklahoma sunsets with a multitude of activity options. In addition to exploring wildlife at dusk, DATE NIGHT attendees can participate in beer and wine tastings, a sea lion presentation, dance lessons, karaoke, outdoor games and special keeper chats with OKC Zoo animal experts who will share the unique courting rituals of some of our most popular animals. The full menu of custom culinary creations at Lotus Pavilion will be available for purchase, as well as selections from a special outdoor grille at the Devon picnic grounds overlooking Zoo Lake. Create lifelong memories with your special someone at DATE NIGHTS at the OKC Zoo! The Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Regular admission is $11 for adults and $8 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Stay up-to-date with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

of movies that are made with the box office bottom line in mind. There are a few movies that have immensely talented casts like Emma Thompson and Mindy Kaling in the comedic “Late Night” and another fiery performance from Cate Blanchette in “Where’d You Go, Bernadette.” And then there are the strong director driven movies that have you signing up regardless of the subject matter, like Tarintino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”, Danny Boyle’s Beatle’s centric drama “Yesterday” and Guillermo del Toro produced horror film based on the popular children’s book “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.” And rounding out the year is “The Farewell” which scored highly at the Sundance film festival that looks to be a moving film about family and featuring a subdued performance from the usually loud and over-the-top Awkwafina (“Crazy Rich Asians” “Ocean’s 8”).

Answers Page 23

"Toy Story 4" "Rocketman" and "The Farewell" look to dazzle and move in a summer full of a diverse crop of movies.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: U.S. TRIVIA ACROSS 1. First notation on musical staff 5. Took a load off 8. Wharton degree 11. *Skylab ____ to Earth in 1979 12. Delhi wrap 13. Same as vial 15. FBI assignment 16. Campus hangout 17. More than one iamb 18. *Location of longest cave system in the world 20. *First Nation nation 21. What a spooked horse does, with away 22. *.____ domain 23. Post-graduate "journey" 26. *Military College of South Carolina, with The 30. *Beehive State native 31. Expect to be true 34. *RBG's garb 35. Tax of one tenth 37. *Rockefeller's industry 38. Type of digital storage 39. Pelvic bones 40. Caribbean rattle 42. *Anna Jarvis' honoree 43. Reusable pattern painting device 45. *State with longest coastline 47. Popular white fish 48. Winchester 30-30, e.g. 50. Country alliance 52. *World's largest office building 55. The Commodores' "____ House" 56. Indian music 57. Enthusiasm 59. "____ Business," movie 60. In Tiger's bag 61. Aquarium organism 62. Electric guitar hookup 63. Greenwich time 64. Tan-

doori bread DOWN 1. Olden-day aerosol can propellant 2. Julian Assange's announcement? 3. Other than what's implied 4. Strip fat like a whaler 5. Impertinence 6. Middle Eastern vodka, pl. 7. Not a slob, adj. 8. Play charades 9. *George Herman Ruth's nickname 10. *Boxer and conscientious objector 12. Knight in training 13. Lace loop 14. *First university in the U.S. 19. "And Then ____ Were None" 22. What Tom Collins and Gibson have in common 23. Skin, anatomically speaking 24. Like Tower of Pisa 25. Change shoelace knot, e.g. 26. Soda jerk's offering

27. Boarding school dwellings 28. Book on a NOOK 29. Helping theorem 32. *U.S. has the world's largest reserves of this 33. ____ Royale 36. *First to sign Declaration of Independence 38. Type of lily 40. Prefix for central 41. Type of tunic 44. Overly self-confident 46. Thessaloniki sea 48. Give new guns 49. Gold bar 50. Panama part 51. Pronounce s sound like th 52. Arrogant snob 53. Paella pot 54. Half human, half cobra in Hinduism 55. Lingerie staple 58. A Bobbsey twin

See Answers Page 23


Page 16 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

State announces FY budget 2020 Gov. Kevin Stitt, House Speaker Charles McCall, and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat announced last week the Fiscal Year 2020 budget deal. “This year’s budget is historic. Holding firm to my commitment of no new taxes, we will put away $200 million more in savings while also increasing the state’s investment in core services by more than five percent,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said. “For the first time in state history, we will increase Oklahoma’s savings account, in order to protect core services in the future, without the law forcing it. For the first time in state history, we will give Oklahoma teachers a pay raise for a second year in a row. For the first time in state history, we will fully fund the Reading Sufficiency Act while also putting an additional $74 million into the funding formula for local classroom needs. For the first time in state history, we will fully fund our roads and bridges, and we will also make the largest deposit into the Quick Action closing fund, helping Oklahoma compete for new jobs. We will move the needle in criminal justice reform by investing in drug courts and diversion programs, and we will reform District Attorneys’ funding model so they are not reliant on high fines, fees and court costs that have created a debtor’s prison. We will prioritize funding for oversight, transparency and audits as well as funding to modernize the delivery of state services, making it customerfocused and cost efficient. Congratulations to the Legislature and leadership for their hard work; I am committed to helping carry it across the finish line as the Legislature works to send this fiscally responsible budget to my desk for signature.” ---“This is an amazing budget deal that makes huge investments in class-

room funding, teacher pay, mental health, corrections and other critical areas all while holding back $200 million in savings,” said President Pro Temp Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City. “We can make investments in core services, while still showing fiscal restraint to prepare and save for tougher economic times. Working together, we’ve accomplished an incredible amount this session. When history looks back at this session and this budget deal, it will be recorded as one of the most significant in history. I appreciate the work of the Senate appropriations chair and subcommittee chairs for their tireless and diligent work to craft this incredible budget. I also thank Governor Stitt and Speaker McCall for their leadership and willingness to work with me to ensure all of our priorities were fulfilled in this budget. It’s a great day for Oklahoma and the investments we are making in this budget will help us achieve our goal of making Oklahoma an even better state!” ---“This budget agreement moves Oklahoma forward by increasing funding for education, rural infrastructure, public safety and healthcare,” said Speaker McCall, R-Atoka. “We believe increasing teacher pay directly addresses the teacher shortage by incentivizing new teachers into the classroom and keeping the veteran teachers we already have. The Legislature has now increased the common education budget by more than 26 percent during the last two years. We are also prioritizing funding for county roads and bridges, nursing homes, concurrent enrollment programs for high school juniors and seniors and pay increases for corrections officers in our prisons and all other state employees. This budget is an investment in Oklahoma, and I am very grateful for my colleagues in the House, Senate leadership and Gov. Stitt for their hard work during budget negotiations.”

Oklahoma Budget FY 2020 Highlights | May 15, 2019 SAVINGS $200 million in Oklahoma’s savings account, putting Oklahoma on the path to storing two months of expenses, more than $1 billion, to protect core services in difficult times. EDUCATION: $203 million increase for public education across the spectrum $157.7 million for common education: On average $1,220 teacher pay raise. Compromise language has been agreed to that will require school districts on the funding formula, which is 97 percent of school teachers, to deliver an on average $1,220 pay raise. The compromise language will require school districts to report how those pay raises will be executed and sustained within districts, and the reports will be made available online for the public to view. $5.5 million for the Reading Sufficiency Act, fully funding the thirdgrade reading initiative for the first time in state history; An additional $74.3 million for local schools to use to hire additional teachers, counselors, social works or address their unique needs in their districts. $18 million for career tech centers to increase compensation for employees and teachers $28 million for higher education to bolster research programs and provide a salary increase for college teachers Graduate Medical Education funding for of physician residency programs for Oklahoma’s teaching hospitals (see below in health care section) AGRICULTURE AND RURAL OKLAHOMA $500,000 to fund a public-private partnership to maintain clean water in Northeast Oklahoma and areas with high poultry density $90,000 to hire an additional state veterinarian $1.1 million for Wildfire mitigation funding and additional resources for rural fire fighters $1.5 million to improve rural flood control dams GOVERNMENT MODERNIZATION $37.7 million for an additional state employee pay raise of up to $1,300. This builds upon the state employee pay raises given in FY’2019 of up to $2,000 per employee. $15 million for digital transformation of state government services to enhance transparency and make customer service more efficient and effective $1.7 million for the creation of the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency $700,000 to hire more auditors

and increase the State Auditor’s office capability to conduct more regular audits across state agencies ROAD AND BRIDGES Fully funding Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s 8-year plan Restored $30 million in funding to CIRB supporting county roads PUBLIC SAFETY Funding prioritization for two new trooper academies, putting an estimated 80 more troopers on the roads in 2020. $2 per hour pay increase for correctional officers, which is a 14% raise. This will bring correctional officer pay to the regional market average and in turn will bolster the Department’s recruitment effort to fill vacancies. $1 million to reduce the backlog of untested rape kits CRIMINAL JUSTICE $20 million to reform the funding of District Attorney offices $10 million for Smart on Crime programs through the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services $1.5 million for the Women in Recovery diversion program $1.7 million to address increasing demand for mental health services JOBS / ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT $19 million for the Quick Action Closing Fund, prioritizing recruitment opportunities to grow Oklahoma $1 million for additional job growth and economic development specifically in the automotive industry and in aerospace through the Department of Commerce’s Aerospace Commerce Economic Services (ACES) program $1 million to assist new entrepreneurs and small business innovators through the Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology $5.3 million to modernize and expedite the Oklahoma Corporation Commissions’ permit processing for energy development HEALTH CARE $62.8 million for Graduate Medical Education program to support physician training for rural hospitals $105 million reallocation to increase provider rates for physicians, hospitals and nursing homes $29 million saved to a new preservation fund to preserve Medicaid provider rates when the United States federal government’s threeyear rolling average results in a rate decline. $10 million to decrease the Developmental Disability Services wait list and increase provider rates $4.6 million to increase immunizations and staff county health departments throughout the state

Minority party leader not pleased with GOP budget OKLAHOMA CITY – House Minority Leader Emily Virgin, D-Norman, released the following statement last week in response to the Republican budget proposal announced by Gov. Kevin Stitt: “This is what a budget looks like when you decide taxpayer money is better suited to sit in a bank than be invested back into state resources like our children, state employees, and middle and low wage earners. Our state agencies were brutally impacted by Republican cuts over the past decade. This budget fails to make these agencies, including the state department of education, whole.

The Republican budget will now be voted on and passed before lawmakers have a chance to go home, talk to their constituents and receive feedback from the people in their communities. I hope those constituents will ask “why?” After being in session since February, and being promised transparency from day one, why didn’t we allow constituents more time to provide feedback? In contrast, House Democrats put out the “Brand New State” budget more than two weeks ago. We took transparency to the point of posting a line-by-line budget on www.brandnewstateok.com/budget.

Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 17

OMRF donors get crash course in research Earlier this month, a group of donors gathered at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation to get a better understanding of how the Oklahoma City nonprofit was using their gifts. But instead of the customary speech from a podium or PowerPoint, these OMRF supporters engaged in an evening of “scientific speed dating.” In 15-minute intervals, the donors—125 longterm givers to the foundation—rotated through five different interactive lab stations hosted by OMRF scientists. Along the way, they learned how to use cheek swabs to gather DNA from inside a person’s mouth. They also peered through microscopes to examine heart tissue and saw frogs and tiny fish eggs that researchers use to study basic biological processes. At one stop, scientists used liquid nitrogen from OMRF’s ultra-cold biorepository to flash-freeze Boba, the tapioca balls used in drinks. The crowd then sampled the delicious frozen treats, which resembled Dippin’ Dots. “It’s so much fun to see the research going on, and they make it so accessible,” said Sharon Neuwald of Oklahoma City, who’s been giving to OMRF since 2005. “It makes science come alive.” The event was OMRF’s way of honoring the members of its Loyal Donors Society. Established in 2015, the Society recognizes those who have made donations to the nonprofit institute for at least five straight years. And many have given for considerably longer, including retired Maj. Gen. Stanley Newman of Oklahoma City, who’s made a charitable gift to OMRF each year since 1973. “I like the history of OMRF and that it started with regular people funding it,” said Edmond’s Lura Fabian, who began supporting OMRF in 1995 with her husband, Robert. “It’s sort of a hidden jewel, because many people aren’t aware that it’s here. But the quality of this facility is just phenomenal.” “For us to be healthy, research is just one of those things we have to have,” said Robert Fabian.

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Umesh Deshmukh, Ph.D., right, shows donor Mark Fortuna how to operate a tabletop centrifuge at the Loyal Donors reception.

“Why wouldn’t you support research? It’s necessary for all of us.” Long-term, consistent giving is the key to ensuring that scientists can make strides against disease, said OMRF Vice President of Development Penny Voss.

“It takes vision and faith to support something whose payoff won’t come today or tomorrow,” said Voss. “This group of donors understands that, and tonight was just our small way of saying thank you to them. They make everything we do at OMRF possible.”

P.E.O. announces scholarship winners Chapter D, P.E.O. is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 scholarships. Each of the three young women selected will receive $1,500 to use toward their college education. They are as follows n Lauren Stephens, daughter of Keith and Dawn Legg Stephens. She's a graduating senior from Deer Creek High School in Edmond and plans to attend the University of Arkansas in the fall majoring in fashion merchandising and journalism. n Lauren Fox is the daughter of Michael and Abby Fox. She also is a graduating senior from Deer creek and plans to attend Oklahoma State University in the fall, majoring in allied health and nutritional scions. n Emilia Kelly, daughter of John and D.J. Kelly, graduated from Edmond's Santa Fe High School. She wants to attend the University of Tulsa in the fall and major in political science and pre law. In other club news, Ryann James is the Cottey College Girl and will be attending her second year. Askansha Dalai, daughter of Bhavin Dalal and Alpha Shiroff, graduated from Santa Fe and will attend Oklahoma University in the fall majoring in microbiology. P.E.O. is an international philanthropic education organization with the purpose of promoting and educating women. Its theme is "Reach for the Stars." Chapter D was organized in May 1906 and is the longest active women's organization in Edmond. "We are proud to assist the outstanding young women our community," officials said.

Earning scholarships from the Edmond chapter of P.E.O. are, from left, Ryann James, Emilia Kelly and Lauren Stephens.


Page 18 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

What to know before taking out your boat Airbnb has shown that the sharing economy can work. A new report says, in 2018, the peerto-peer rental company’s annual sales surpassed Hilton, based on data from U.S. travelers (excluding business spending). For boat owners looking to make extra money renting their boats on peerto-peer boat rental networks like Boatsetter, what can they learn from Airbnb’s success? Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) offers five tips for the most important things boat owners should consider before renting out their boats. Know your liabilities: If you wish to rent your boat, your first concern should be insurance. Most everyday recreational marine insurance policies don’t cover boat rentals, so you need to see if the peer-to-peer rental company offers coverage for both the boat (hull) and liability, as well as other coverages like medical payments for potential claims such as a trip to the emergency room. Most peer-to-peer boat rental companies, however, simply advise owners that they need to determine if coverage is provided under the owner’s boat policy. The largest peer-to-peer network, Boatsetter, offers both boat (hull) coverage and liability coverage through the BoatUS Marine Insurance program’s peer-to-peer policy, regardless of the boat’s own insurance policy. Know your coverage: Once you have insurance

coverage, you need to understand it. It may be different, both in type, coverages and policy limits, from your boat’s own policy. The BoatUS peer-to-peer policy for Boatsetter is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance and provides hull coverage on an actual-cash-value basis and includes $300,000 per person liability coverage and $300,000 total liability per accident, $25,000 in medical payments, and $100,000 in uninsured boater coverage. Renters using peer-topeer networks are typically responsible for any deductibles related to insurance. In the case of Boatsetter, the company takes a $1,000 deposit at every rental for this purpose. Unexpected breakdowns: Recognize that unexpected breakdowns can happen and there may be a need to tow your boat to the dock or launch ramp. If a boat owner has an on-water assistance towing plan provided by a national towing-assistance company, chances are that the service is not extended to a renter, so the owner will likely need to make arrangements and pay separately for this service, which averages about $750 per incident nationwide. BoatUS provides all Boatsetter rentals with 24-hour on-water assistance by TowBoatUS, dispatched through the BoatUS App or by calling 24-hour nationwide dispatch. This service is included with the rental fee. Will you be the captain? While most peer-to-

peer boat rentals are “bareboat,” you may want to helm your boat for the rental period or provide a hired captain. Just remember that any captain on a hired vessel must be U.S. Coast Guard-licensed. Having a captain also means the number of guests aboard is limited to six, which complies with regulations for an Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (“6-Pack”) license. To carry more than six passengers, additional regulations and inspections will apply. Do a little checking up: Most peer-to-peer companies require renters to fill out a boating experience questionnaire and will confirm a valid driver’s license. Like Airbnb, peer-to-peer boat rental companies also provide a rating system that’s useful when past renters want to rent your boat. That’s harder to do with new renters. That’s when it’s up to the owner to work on building their comfort level. Set up a phone call way ahead of time or meet the renters, or take them out for a short ride to get a feel for their experience, abilities and any boating safety training. This would also be a good time to familiarize the renter with systems and equipment on the boat. Most peer-to-peer boat rentals give the owner (and renter) the option to cancel for any reason, but it usually must be done by a certain date prior to the beginning of the rental period.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Aja Montgomery, Santa Fe High School Senior, holds the Nevin and Beverly Starkey Edmond Kiwanis Club Scholarship certificate that she received during the school’s awards assembly on May 8 that her parents, Willie and Deidra, also attended with City of Edmond Mayor Dan O’Neil (far right), who presented her with the certificate and is also an Edmond Kiwanis Club member, standing with her and her family.

Starkey Kiwanis Club scholarship awarded to SF’s Aja Montgomery Aja Montgomery, Santa Fe High School Senior, received the 20192020 Nevin and Beverly Starkey Edmond Kiwanis Club Scholarship during an awards ceremony at the school on May 8. The amount of the scholarship for the awarded academic year is $2,000; this scholarship can be renewed for up to four consecutive years for a total potential funding of $8,000. This scholarship was established in 2018 to honor the lives and community service of the Starkeys. Nevin and Beverly joined the Edmond Kiwanis Club at the suggestion of a friend, and they quickly found their niche. She began working with the Edmond High School Key Clubs, quickly becoming a most successful advisor. In 2004, she became Regional Key Club Advisor for the Texas-Oklahoma District Key Clubs and served as a trustee for the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation, responsible for Key Club college scholarships. This couple made a great team in life and service. Together they earned numerous awards including the Kiwanis International Hixon Award, which was presented shortly before Nevin’s death in 2011. Following Beverly’s death in 2018, a gift from their trust established the

Nevin and Beverly Starkey Edmond Kiwanis Club Scholarship at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. This scholarship encourages graduating seniors from high schools supported by the Edmond Kiwanis Club to pursue a degree in higher education. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation, established in 1969, is a not-for-profit foundation with over $150 million in assets under management. Montgomery, who also is the recipient of a $1,000 scholarship given recently by The Character Council of Edmond, volunteers with the Ascend Leadership Program, Shiloh Adventure Camp and Word First Ministries. She enjoys being a mentor and tutoring to youth in her church and community. In addition, she is a member of Key Club, FCCCLA and Business Professionals of America. Montgomery is a member of the Santa Fe High School track team. She plans to attend Cameron University majoring in criminal justice. The Edmond Kiwanis Club meets at noon Wednesdays in the ballroom of University of Central Oklahoma's International House, 930 East Second Street. The program includes a speaker and lunch is available. Visitors are always invited.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 19

New Officers Gamma Zeta, a chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha international philanthropic organization, installed new officers recently. They are, from left, Ruth Simpson: Educationals; Kelly Wasso: Ways and Means; Laura Howell: Parliamentarian & Philanthropic; Jeannette Smith: secretary; Winnie Redwine: Vice President; Veronica McCain: President. Not pictured: Billye Peterson: Treasurer

Lankford honors military on floor of the Senate Senator James Lankford (R-OK) recently spoke on the Senate floor to honor the women and men serving in the US military and their families during Military Appreciation Month. Lankford took a moment to thank the Gold Star Families—families who have lost a loved one in military service—during the speech. Lankford introduced legislation this month that will expand the eligibility for the Fry Scholarship to spouses and children of members of the National Guard and Reserves who died of service-connected causes but whose deaths did not occur when the member was on active duty. Lankford also introduced the Reserve Component DD-214 Act of 2019, which is a bipartisan effort to help reserve component members of the US Armed Forces, including members of the Reserves and National Guard, receive the benefits they have earned following their retirement or completion of service. Transcript: Mr. President, the month of May is Military Appreciation Month. It's a time when we, as a country, we come together, we pause, we recognize the sacrifice of those who have raised their right hand, worn the cloth of our country, and they continue to serve the world's greatest military day-in and day-out. They have exceptionally long days, difficult tasks. Sometimes they fight the fight of boredom and hanging out and guarding a spot, and sometimes they are in an exceptionally stressful fullon combat mode. They’re prepared for both. Throughout the month of May, there are actually six different days of observation to honor our nation's military and their families who sacrifice so much: Loyalty Day, Public Service Recognition Week, Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Day, and, of course, at the end of the month of May, a pause for Memorial Day. All of these observances within one month, May. It's a clear sign that our military is one of the most important cornerstones of our country and their sacrifice is unmatched, and so it should be honored and celebrated. In addition to our service members and veterans, I hope that all Americans also recognize the service of their family members: husband, wife, son, daughter, mom, and dad. They are wearing the uniform, and they can be gone months at a time on multiple deployments. I had the opportunity to be able to meet with many family members in Oklahoma, that their spouse, mom, dad, son, daughter have been deployed multiple times in several different theaters, and while they are forward deployed, their family waits. And it's a long, difficult wait. It's tough on the family, for those that serve in our National Guard, it's tough on employers, it's tough on their personal finances, and it's a

Lankford stressful environment. For those folks that have done it and continue to serve, that 1 percent of our nation that defends the other 99 percent of our nation, we could not be more grateful for them and for their family members. And to our Gold Star Families, those who were left behind to continue the legacy of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we thank you for your service and for your love of country. It's our duty as a nation to continue to support our Gold Star Families, to be able to encourage them, check on them, live life with them. Just last week I introduced legislation with Senator Carper to expand certain educational benefits to the survivors of Guardsmen and Reservists who have died as a result of their service. This is part of the least we can do as a nation to be able to walk alongside those Gold Star Families. Over 33,000 active duty guard, reserve, and active duty personnel are currently assigned in Oklahoma and have Oklahomans serving our country and protecting our interests literally all over the world right now. We're home to Altus Air Force Base, Tinker Air Force Base, Vance Air Force Base, Fort Sill Fire’s Center of Excellence, and McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, as well as countless different National Guard lotions all around the state. We train and equip our soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines. And I’m proud of the Oklahomans that wear that uniform. As we continue this Military Appreciation Month, I hope all Americans take the time to remember that 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether you are awake or asleep, someone is on guard watching our nation right now. Someone is defending our freedoms right now—whether you are hearing about Military Appreciation Month while you're at work, while you're at play, while you're at rest, someone is not resting right now—they are defending your freedoms, and we are grateful.


Page 20 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Student places first at national Taekwondo competition The University of Central Oklahoma Taekwondo team member Isaac Weintraub, a junior business management major from Sarasota, Florida, won his third consecutive men’s flyweight national championship at the National Collegiate Taekwondo Championship at the University of Texas at Austin April 20-21. He won the black belt sparring division 58kg category. This was the 44th annual event sanctioned by USA Taekwondo with more than 460 athletes competing. The championships included poomsae and sparring competitions for color belts and black belts. All competitors will qualify to compete at the 2019 USA Taekwondo National Championships in their corresponding poomsae and/or sparring divisions. Collegiate black belt sparring and poomsae team trial divisions will serve as Team Trials for the 2019 U.S. National Collegiate team. Other UCO Taekwondo team members competing in the event include Makayla Gorka, a junior kinesiology major from Shorewood, Illinois; Weintraub; Even Medell, a junior business management major from Grand Haven, Michigan; and, Reid Landherr, a junior marketing major from Olathe, Kansas. “As the coach of these UCO students, I could not be prouder of these athletes and their championships. The continued support of UCO and USA Taekwondo is invaluable in the successes and growth of these athletes,” said Jason Poos, coach of Central’s taekwondo team. In addition to Weintraub’s success, Gorka won the women’s middleweight category and will be part of the Summer World University Games (SWUG) team for the second time. She will travel to Italy this year to compete for team USA and Central.

he University of Central Oklahoma Taekwondo team recently competed at the National Collegiate Taekwondo Championship at the University of Texas at Austin April 20-21, including Isaac Weintraub who won his third consecutive men’s flyweight national championship. Pictured from left to right, Makayla Gorka, Weintraub, Jason Poos, Reid Landherr and Evan Medell.

Medell has been ranked in the top three in the world and is tracking as a 2020 medal hopeful for team USA in the Paralympics in Tokyo, Japan. In 2016, UCO and USA Taekwondo (USAT) partnered to become an official training site for

USA Taekwondo. This agreement allows USAT to recruit athletes to train at UCO as a part of the university’s designation as a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site. To learn more, visit ucotrainingsite.com.

Benjamin Taylor Power

Youth earns Eagle rank Benjamin Taylor Power, age 13, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank within the Boy Scouts of America program. He is a member of Troop 177 chartered to Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City, under the direction of Scoutmaster Bryon Brandon. Ben demonstrated leadership to others in a service project benefitting Church of the Servant. Ben planted 76 holly shrubs along the front of the church for members and passers-by to enjoy. Ben’s favorite Scouting memory is his patrol winning the best out of

council score at Score-O, a orienteering competition at Sid Richardson Scout Ranch in Bridgeport, Texas. When not Scouting, Ben plays cello in the Crossing Christian School orchestra and was selected to be in the North Central Honors Orchestra last year. When asked for a thought about Scouting, Ben remembered a quote from Lord Baden-Powell, “there is no teaching to compare to example.” Please join us in congratulating Ben and his parents Justin and Nicole on his earning of the rank of Eagle Scout.


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 21

Applications open for Leadership Edmond Applications for the Leadership Edmond Class XXXV are now available on the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce’s website. Applications must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, July 15. Class size is limited to 35 individuals. Class members are selected to represent a broad range of occupations and backgrounds. Leadership Edmond is a leadership development program designed to provide community leaders with a deeper understanding of the critical issues affecting the Edmond area. This program also provides an ongoing source of diverse leaders who are prepared and committed to serve as catalysts and sustainers of positive change for the quality of life in the Edmond area. Each applicant accepted for the program is required to pay tuition of $995 for Chamber members and $1195 for nonmembers. Tuition includes class materials, meals, overnight lodging at opening retreat and name tag. Payment can be made by personal check, corporate check, or major credit card and must be received by July 31, 2019, in order to secure participants spot in the class.

Realty market sends mixed signs By Brian Preston April sales are down 28 transactions from last April for a 7 percent decrease. That brings year to date closing to 1282, just six more that this time last year. Yes April was down, but it was also the second best April in six or more years. Active Listings were steady this month, dropping only 17. But the number of active listing is down 250 from this time last year. Listings in the lower price ranges are getting hard to find, with only 10 active listing total prices at $150,000 and below. Of course you will see about 50 more signs than that, being there are currently 49 in this price range under contract. 83 percent of them with contracts on them. If we had that same percentage in the top three price ranges ($500,000 and above) there would be 310 pendings instead of 86. The big news this month is the number of pending contracts, 799. At first when doing the searches, it did not seem we had 48 more contracts than last month, every price range was close to where they were in march until the $400,000-$500,000 ranch. 24 of the 48 more contracts pending were in this two price ranges. We also came up one contract short, at the time I searched, of the magic 800 pending contracts. We have only made that number three times in back to back months in spring of 2013. I was thinking how great May should be, because back then the closing numbers were at half or a little less than the number of pending contracts, which we have improved on since

2013. But it looks like we are back on that trend this year. with our best ratio in the first four months is 50 percent, with the other three months in 40 percent range of number of closings compared to pending contract numbers. I wish I knew what the reasons are, if they are busting from inspections, appraisals, loans, or other reasons. The average price for April feel below $300,000 for the first time this year. But we only had one million plus

Tourism industry honors UCO with recognition The University of Central Oklahoma, in partnership with the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Edmond Convention and Visitors Bureau, received a RedBud Award in the category of “Best Partnership” for the 2018 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) at the Oklahoma Travel Industry Associations annual RedBud Awards Gala May 7 in Oklahoma City. The RedBud Award represents the highest honor given in the Oklahoma tourism industry and recognizes Oklahoma’s top tourism attractions, events, programs and organizations for outstanding efforts to serve and promote Oklahoma’s tourism industry. “This award reflects recognition for the most important part of our efforts with the National Conference on Undergraduate Research – collaboration,” said John Barthell, Ph.D., provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Central. “We are incredibly grateful for our colleagues in Edmond and Oklahoma City who made this possible through a partnership we will continue to

value and carry into the future.” Emceed by Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell and Jenifer Reynolds, story contributor for TV show “Discover Oklahoma,” 32 awards were given in 16 categories. Competition entries must have been produced, published, broadcast or held between Jan. 1, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2018. All entries were evaluated by a slate of tourism professionals on specific criteria including customer service and experience, marketing effectiveness, media relations, variety of audiences reached, value and overall creativity. Themed “Connection to Place,” NCUR 2018 was planned in partnership with the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR), a national organization of individual and institutional members – representing more than 900 colleges and universities – that aims to provide undergraduate research opportunities for faculty and students at all institutions serving undergraduate students. CUR selected UCO to host the 2018, bringing NCUR to Oklahoma for the first time in the conference’s 30-year history.

Latest award for Integris INTEGRIS Health Edmond is a proud recipient of the Healthgrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award. The distinguished honor recognizes hospitals that provide an overall outstanding patient experience—delivering a positive experience for patients during their hospital stay—as reported by patients. These hospitals are top in the nation for overall patient experience.

Healthgrades evaluates patient experience performance by applying a scoring methodology to nine patient experience measures, from a 32-question survey of the hospital’s own patients. The methodology uses Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient survey data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

home close in April compared to an average of five a month the first three months, and some big ones at that. The YTD average is still over $300,000 and our YTD Median price is at $249,750. Going to be interesting watching the numbers this year. (Brian Preston is an Edmond Realtor who follows the local market closely in his monthly blog, The Preston Report.)


Page 22 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Goodbye bad habits & hello good ones It’s said that we become our habits. In some cases that is not a good thing; bad habits prevail among many Americans. One report found that over 70 percent of US adults have at least one unhealthy behavior associated with chronic health problems. Breaking bad habits isn’t easy, but sometimes the best answer is replacing them with empowering new habits that bring positive changes to one’s daily life. “We often have habits that hold us back, like smoking or eating food lacking in nutrition,” says Dr. Rob Carter III, co-author with his wife, Dr. Kirti Salwe Carter, of The Morning Mind: Use Your Brain to Master Your Day and Supercharge Your Life(www.themorningmind.com). “A great way to start every day is with a series of empowering habits. Morning, in fact, according to some researchers is the best time to start making these kinds of changes in your life.” Carter has six ways you can create new, empowering habits and make them stick: Prioritize habits. “For each area in which you want to grow,” Carter says, “take some time to think about what kind of empowering habits you’d like to establish around that topic.” Areas to consider are health, wealth, social, relationships, job, hobbies, self-esteem, interpersonal skills, positive thinking, time management, and life purpose. Focus on one at a time. “Because we have a limited amount of willpower in the morning, it’s very important how we use that energy,” Carter says. “By focusing on just one habit you would like to change – for example, eating a healthy breakfast – you can concentrate that willpower on the task at hand until it becomes a habit.” Be reasonable with yourself. The time it will take to establish the new habit depends upon how much resistance a person has. And sometimes developing a new habit represents a long leap from where one currently stands. “That’s too daunting,” Carter says, “so break it down into more achievable steps. Incremental improvements add up to a big transformation and are often more powerful and sustainable.” Commit specific time toward the goal. Carter suggests nailing down a detailed timeline and committing a full effort toward formation of the new habit within that time span. “Write down what

you hope to achieve, how many times a week you will practice the new habit, and when and where you’ll do it,” Carter says. “Having a specific goal helps keep you accountable to yourself. Reward success. Have a reward in place to celebrate performing your new habit. “It has to be something that will motivate you to complete your habit,” Carter says. Stack habits. “The neural pathways of your preexisting habits are well-travelled routes in your brain,” Carter says. “You can take advantage of this by building a new habit and associating it with an old one that is well-established. This is a quicker way to create new habits than if you were to start

from scratch. For example, if you want to create a new habit of exercising in the morning, and you have a habit of reading the newspaper every morning, tie these activities together by exercising immediately before you read the paper. Reading the paper becomes your reward.” “When you learn for yourself how simple it is to change habits,” Carter says, “you’ll want to make adjustments to all areas of your life.” About Dr. Rob Carter III and Dr. Kirti Salwe Carter Dr. Rob Carter III and Dr. Kirti Salwe Carter are co-authors of The Morning Mind: Use Your Brain to Master Your Day and Supercharge Your Life (www.themorningmind.com).

Senior government officials visit Tinker Air Force Base Assistant Secretaries of the Navy and Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Hon. Gregory J. Slavonic and Hon. Shon J. Manasco, visited Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City earlier this month. The purpose of the visit was to see first-hand the headquarters of the Air Force Sustainment Center and receive briefings on the symbiotic U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy working relationship, which began in May 1992 when the Navy’s Strategic Communications Wing ONE (SCW-1) was established and included relocation of Fleet Reconnaissance Squadron’s 3 and 4 from Barbers Point, Hawaii and Patuxent River, Md. During the visit, the assistant secretaries visited the massive Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex (ALC), which has facilities and personnel that provide depot-level maintenance repair and overhaul on the Air Force’s B-1, B-2 and B-52 bombers, as well as the KC-135 aerial refueling tanker and the Navy’s E6B Mercury. Mr. Manasco noted, “I cannot overstate Oklahoma’s importance to the military’s mission and our nation’s security. Its military installations not only provide invaluable training and materiel support to warfighters but also serves as Oklahoma’s singlelargest economic engine. This mutual value has forged an unbreakable bond.” Lt. Gen. Gene Kirkland, Air Force Sustainment Center commander, and his staff provided the briefings and tour of the ALC and the base, including the site of the new KC-46A Sustainment Campus currently under construction. Capt. Michael Black, SCW-1 commander, then provided a tour of his Wing’s headquarters and the E-6B aircraft. SCW-1 is responsible for manning, training and equipping the Navy squadrons responsible for the command, con-

Navy Capt. Mike Black briefs Assistant Secretaries of the Navy and Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Gregory Slavonic, right, and Shon Manasco, center, on the capabilities of the Mercury E-6A aircraft and the Strategic Communications Wing ONE mission. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Leslie Long/Released)

trol and communications to the nation’s nuclear triad of strategic bombers, submarines and intercontinental ballistic missile silos. Both the Air Force and Navy meetings included discussions about manpower challenges, hiring processes and strategic communications systems. “This was a fantastic visit to Oklahoma, home of one of the most vital commands in the Navy,” Slavonic said. “We saw how the Navy and Air Force work together to accomplish their individual missions in support of our National Defense Strategy. To perform these difficult missions requires great leadership and the best trained and equipped people to do the

job – both uniformed and civilian personnel.” Slavonic went on to say, “a key ingredient to the success of the Air Force-Navy teams is the support provided by the local communities to the Airmen, Sailors and their families. Without this strong support, their jobs would be more difficult,” he said. The assistant secretaries are responsible for the overall supervision and oversight of manpower and reserve component affairs of their departments, including the development of programs and policy related to military personnel (active, reserve, retired),

See Tinker Page 23


Edmond Life & Leisure • May 23, 2019 • Page 23

Letter carrier drive raises tons of food for needy Letter carriers from across the Oklahoma City metro area collected 217,980 pounds of food during the 27th annual National Association of Letter Carriers' "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive. Food from the drive goes to benefit the Regional Food Bank and its community-based partner agencies. "We are very grateful for the hard work of letter carriers and those who volunteered their time to sort donations," said Katie Fitzgerald, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "Rest assured that your donations will help the Regional Food Bank's partners have more food available for Oklahomans living with food insecurity." Letter carriers in hundreds of communities in central and western Oklahoma collected food do-

nations on May 11 from homes along their routes. Those donations were then sorted by hundreds of volunteers at post offices and then distributed to food assistance programs in those communities where the food was donated. "Hunger is closer than you think. Letter carriers across the state see the impact of hunger every day," said Steve Riggs, statewide chair of the Letter Carriers' Food Drive. "Thank you for opening your hearts and donating to help your fellow Oklahomans in need of food assistance." One in six Oklahomans live with food insecurity, according to the Map the Meal Gap 2019 study. Map the Meal Gap 2019 uses data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and food price data and analysis provided by Nielsen, a

global provider of information and insights. Join the fight against hunger in Oklahoma. The metro’s Regional Food Bank helps provide four meals for every dollar donated. To make a donation, visit feedinghope.org or call 405-6003136. The Letter Carriers’ Food Drive is presented by APMEX.com and the Cresap Family Foundation. The drive is also sponsored by Allen Lund Company, American Fidelity, Ascent Resources, Bank of Oklahoma, Chesapeake Energy, Devon Energy, JAKE FM, KOMA, La Zeta, Lamar, Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, News 9, OG&E, Oklahoma Firefighters Association 157, Printers of OKC, Riverwind Casino, Tapstone Energy, The Journal Record, The Oklahoman, Tyler Outdoor, United Way of Central Oklahoma and Valpak.

Tinker From Page 22 their family members, and the civilian workforce; the tracking of the contractor workforce; and the oversight of Human Resources systems within the Department of Defense. SCW-1 is home to more than 1,700 active duty Sailors, 60 contractors and 30 DoD civilians. These dedicated Sailors and civilians team together to provide maintenance, security, operations, administration, training and logistics support for the Navy’s E-6B fleet. Tinker Air Force Base is Oklahoma’s largest single-site employer, with more than 26,000 uniformed and civilian personnel reporting to the base every day.

Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi Good Shepherd Anglican Church (Traditional Episcopal) 1000 N. Broadway, Edmond •314-8715 Sundays - Holy Communion 8:00 & 10:00am Animal Friendly Parish “If you have people who exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have those who deal likewise with their fellow human being.” St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

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

SCRIPTURE • TRADITION • REASON


Page 24 • May 23, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure


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