Edmond Life and Leisure - May 27, 2021

May 27, 2021

Vol. 22, No. 2

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

North AD bids farewell after 41 years of service

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

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

For more information, see page 4.

Tom Snider’s long tenure with Edmond Schools Publisher looks back on life of Hoot Gibson See page 4

FRIDAY, May 28

Mostly Cloudy High 77° Low 61°

SATURDAY, May 29

Scattered Thunderstorms High 79° Low 64°

SUNDAY, May 30

Scattered Thunderstorms High 81° Low 66°

Tom Snider

By Eriech Tapia From coaching athletes to impacting generations of Edmond Public School students, Edmond North Athletic Director Tom Snider has become the pride of his school and will retire at the end of the 20202021 school year after 41-years with the district.

“I never had a desire to go anywhere else because I knew I was already there,” Snider said. “Edmond schools was the place to be and still is.”

It was never Snider’s plan to work with students, but it would all change when he was asked to help a group of special needs athletes.

“We helped those kids and there was nothing more fulfilling than helping those kids,” Snider said.

“And I thought, I want to do something like this.”

This passion has defined Snider’s career in education, according to those who have worked closely with him for decades.

“I think the world of Tom and it is amazing all of the things he has done for me and our students,” said Kent Douglas, Edmond North assistant athletic director. “The Tom Snider you see is the Tom Snider you get.”

Douglas has known Snider for

around 20 years, whether it was when they coached against each other, or when they began working together in 2003.

“We have traveled all over Oklahoma together,” Douglas said. The two also ride motorcycles, run, and gush about their grandchildren together.

“It is all about caring for not only the kids but those you work with,” Snider said.

Snider came to Edmond Public Schools after finishing his degree in physical education and history from Oklahoma Christian in 1980.

“It has not been a job but a lifestyle,” Snider said. “I never dread coming in the front door for work.”

When he came to the district, he was given advice from a colleague who stated that “Every kid in every sport is important,” and it stuck with him.

Those words are what Snider has lived by ever since and is constantly reminded of when students come back to thank him for his service.

Academics is one area Snider pushes student-athletes to excel in as well; he often tells them to “get your grades.”

Early on in his career Snider would coach football, track and other sports at Sequoyah Middle School until he went to coach girls cross

PHOTO BY ERIECH TAPIA

country at Edmond High School-now Memorial High School.

He was the first full-time athletic director at Edmond North since the position previously had been under the role of the assistant principal.

“The position has really grown since I started in 97 – 98,” Snider said, who recalls having a suitcase full of cash boxes slammed on his desk during the first week and being told, “Here you go.”

In total, Sider oversees 19 sports at Edmond North. He often works 60 to 70 hours a week, including nights and weekends. But, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

During his time at Edmond North, the school has captured 68 state championships.

“Tom Snider is the definition of ‘irreplaceable’,” said Mike Nunley, the athletic director for Edmond Schools.

“He is Edmond North Husky pride.”

While Snider said he cannot go “cold turkey,” he does have plans for retirement including starting construction of a new church building, spending more time with his grandchildren, and restoring classic cars, including a 1962 Chevy truck and his wife’s original 1966 Mustang.

“I have felt very fortunate from the very beginning of my career,” Snider said.

Page 2 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 3

Deal is announced near the theater

ICON Cinema coming to Edmond Kickingbird Cinema, located in Kickingbird Square at Bryant and Danforth, has been sold to ICON Cinema Theaters and will become Kickingbird ICON Cinema. Before the new theater can open, new owners Edwin and Jessica Snell will be doing a complete remodel of the movie theater.

The new owners are part of a family-owned group of movie theaters known as ICON Cinema with VIP seating. They have theaters currently in Albuquerque,N.M., Colorado Springs, Colo. and San Angelo, Texas.

The Snells are planning a move to Edmond and look forward to becoming part of the Edmond community.

A signature feature of the movie group and part of the remodel is the installation of electric recliner seating.

They also feature all you can eat popcorn and Coca Cola in their concession stand. There will be eight screens including a 3D screen. The theater will feature the best of first run movies.

It is too early in the remodel process to give an exact date of reopening but hope it will be in time for the new movies being release this fall. Edmond Life & Leisure will keep you updated. Kickingbird Square is separate from the movie theater and is still under the same ownership.

Highlights of state budget The Oklahoma Senate last week passed the appropriations bill to fully fund state government services for Fiscal Year 2022, which starts July 1.

“This is a tremendous budget for the state of Oklahoma that prioritizes and makes increased investments in education, provides tax relief for families and small businesses, and yet still maintains to keep more than $800 million in savings,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City. “A year ago, the state faced a $1.3 billion shortfall and there was great economic uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic. Now, this budget will help ensure the state can advance and thrive as we continue to emerge from the pandemic.

It’s a huge accomplishment and I want to thank Senator Roger Thompson, Senator Chuck Hall, and Senate staff for their leadership and hard work.”

The Fiscal Year 2022 budget appropriates $8.8 billion.

"I'm very excited about this budget and what it does for the citizens of Oklahoma. I believe the behavioral health center for children at OU is going to be life-changing for countless families in our state," said Thompson, R-Okemah, and chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. "This is a positive budget that moves our state forward."

House Bill 2900 passed on a 38-9 vote and now goes to the governor for consideration.

"This has been my first year to serve as vice chair of Appropriations. Having seen how this process works and how the budget comes together, I could not be more proud of the tireless efforts of Chairman Thompson who has worked the entire year, along with our subcommittee chairs, to develop a budget that will meet the needs of the citizens of Oklahoma," said Hall, R-Perry.

In addition to the budget, the Senate adopted measures on Thurs-

day lowering the tax burden on families and businesses. The FY’22 budget agreement highlights include: • Common education funding increased more than $210 million, and received an appropriation of $3.16 billion.

• Provides $50 million in caps on the Equal Opportunity Scholarship program, $25 million for public schools and $25 million for private schools.

• Provides tax relief for families and business. ◦ Reduces the top personal income tax rate from 5 percent to 4.75 percent. ◦ Reduces the corporate income tax rate from 6 percent to 4 percent.

• $30 million for a film tax incentive to spur more projects and investment.

• Expansion of broadband service in underserved and unserved areas statewide through a $42 million tax incentive for providers.

• Aggressively recruits jobs with more than $35 million in new economic development funding.

• Restores the Earned Income Tax Credit refundability, supporting lowand moderate-income working families.

• $164 million to fund Medicaid expansion approved by a vote of the people.

• Restores historic sales tax credit for OU Health, allowing them to train a significant number of additional nurses and medical doctors.

• $9.9 million for the creation of a children’s mental health unit at OU Health.

• Additional funding for the Attorney General’s Office to push back against federal overreach and represent the state in legal challenges associated with the McGirt case.

• $15.4 million for Rural Economic Action Plan that makes grants for infrastructure projects in rural Oklahoma.

Page 4 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Gibson was a community treasure We try to point out that today’s Edmond was built on the foundation that many great community leaders built over the years. None of what we enjoy, especially in downtown Edmond, was built in a day or even by current city leaders. It came from past leaders like Morris “Hoot” Gibson. Our friend fell asleep in the Lord last week at the young Ray Hibbard age of 98 years old. To say he will be missed is an incredible understatement.

He got the nick name Hoot from his friends at a young age. There was a well-known movie cowboy named Hoot Gibson and you can just say it kind of stuck. Among his many services to the community, Gibson was active with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, on city boards, and was on the board of Citizens Bank of Edmond for almost 50 years. He was the father of the popular annual “Krazy Daze” event in Edmond. Serving on the Edmond Parks Board, he pushed for and was instrumental in building Kickingbird Golf Course.

The most significant service to the Edmond community was the successful operation of his clothing stores here in Edmond. With the help of his family, Gibson inspired and encouraged others to open a business in Edmond. His smooth style made it look easy, but I can promise you he worked hard at his business. Even into his ‘90’s our friend was about the coolest, smoothest, and most dapper dressed man in town. The guy looked like a million bucks.

Growing up during the Great Depression, he naturally spent much of his time helping in the family’s dry-goods store, Gibson Mercantile, one of the only places to get supplies at the time. This was formative and sparked his enthusiasm for business at an early age. He understood quickly that a good business is more than just about profit; that success stems from helping your community and your neighbors. Gibson would often share with me lessons he had learned while working in the mercantile.

His college days were put on hold during World War II, when he joined and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. After the war, he returned to the University of Oklahoma and graduated with a degree in history. He married Charlotte Rupe and the newlywed couple moved to New York City while Hoot pursued a master’s degree in Retailing at New York University.

A few years were spent working on oil rigs before returning to Oklahoma to finally put his retail skills to work, opening McCall’s Men’s Clothing Store in downtown Edmond in 1953. Hoot and Charlotte welcomed three children, Cheryl, Steve, and Janet.

The family became deeply involved in every aspect of Edmond. Their business prospered, growing right along with the town. Deep and strong friendships were formed throughout the years.

After Charlotte’s death, Gibson found love once more and married Marilyn Mitchell Meacham. A man from a big family himself, he naturally opened his arms to welcome her daughters Jo and Jeanne and their families as his own, and they built and shared a life of admiration and adventure. Always traveling, dancing, and enjoying their life together.

Some might have thought Gibson was quiet, but I would tell you he was a listener. He learned from others and would listen to what they had to say. He

Morris ‘Hoot’ Gibson inside of his store, McCall’s Men’s Clothing in 2013.

was a man of more action than talk. I got to know him much better when I started serving with him on the Citizens Bank of Edmond board of directors. He was as gentlemanly as anybody you could ever meet but you would not want to try and put that Marine’s back up against the wall. He could be as tough as they come when pushed in defense of others.

A young man named James Bumgarner come up from Norman to help Gibson get his shop in Edmond ready to open. “He helped me sweep and clean up the back room to get the place ready,” Gibson told me. He worked a week and made enough for bus fare to California. The young man wanted to do some modeling since it was easier than using a broom. As you may have guessed, James Bumgarner turned out to be movie star James Garner. “He made a good choice,” Gibson told me.

Gibson’s life work and the way he led by example told his story. I was at an event last week and folks were talking about his death and how he will be missed. A nice lady came up to me after the meeting and told her story of Gibson.

She had moved here 30 years ago engaged to a man from Edmond. She was a schoolteacher. Wanting to get her fiancé a nice Christmas gift she went to McCall’s where she knew the man had shopped most of his life. Hoot showed her a nice jacket.

When she said that it was more then she could afford she asked him if she could pay a little each month until Christmas. Hoot agreed and told her it was not a problem.

December came but she did not have the jacket paid for and she went to Hoot with only a request of a certificate so that she would have something to wrap and give him Christmas morning to know it was coming. She said, “Hoot laughed and gave me a big smile. He brought the jacket out from the back and told me to take it.” “Just pay me when you can,” he told her.

Here is what some other folks that knew Gibson had to say: “Hoot was a professional, old fashioned fine clothing merchant. He built a business at McCall’s that

could be relied on to provide his customers with quality clothing, well-tailored and properly priced. He was also a good guy for a chat, and he loved Edmond. He was a guy one could rely on to do the right thing and be an asset to his friends and community neighbors. I always enjoyed my time with Hoot.”

Ed Livermore, former publisher of The Edmond Sun "I treasured the friendship I had with Hoot and admired him so much. He was a driving force behind what Downtown Edmond is today. Always seeing the possibilities and future of our district. Besides his many accomplishments, I valued his love and wisdom. Always caring about his family and friends and going out of his way to make your day a little better.

When I first started working with DEBA he gave me some invaluable pointers that I still think back to and use today. The loss of such a sweet friend will be felt forever" Stephanie, Carel, downtown business owner and director of the merchant’s association “We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Morris “Hoot” Gibson. He served as a member of our Board for over 50 years as both a Director and Director Emeritus, was a pillar of integrity and a true friend. Hoot was the epitome of a man among men, having served in the United States Marine Corps and demonstrating thoughtful leadership in our community of Edmond. For those of us who were fortunate enough to have known him, we are better off because of it. He will be remembered in the highest regard and truly missed.”

Jill Castilla, CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond Gibson’s customers were his friends. He would be the first to tell you that his life was blessed with so many people and experiences. The truth is that we and our community are richer and better because Hoot Gibson was in or lives. Semper Fi Hoot!

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure may be reached by e-mail at

Check out what’s inside!

---- Police arrest report ......................................................................Page 6.

---- News from Edmond Rotary Club..................................................Page 8.

---- Stroke prevention advice ..............................................................Page 9.

---- Columnist addrsses sports & politics issue..................................Page 10.

---- Edmond scholarship winners named ..........................................Page 11.

---- Weekend calendar of event........................................................Page 12.

---- George Gust movie review ........................................................Page 14.

---- Business news ............................................................................Page 17.

---- Church directory ........................................................................Page 19.

This, and much more, in this week’s edition!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 5

Page 6 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department.

Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

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

Jesse Amos Adkisson, 34 of Edmond. Felony warrant, interruption, disruption, interference with an emergency telephone call and (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Joshua David Young, 30 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Felecia Monique Shanks, 40 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

May 10 Cougar Amos, 33 of Edmond.

Felony DUI/APC. Jeremiah Cameron Gene Woods, 23 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Christopher Dickey Place, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

May 12 Garrett David Wood, 34 of Oklahoma City. Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more.

Mishona Maree Herring, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Stephen De Shawn Ligons, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Antonio Lamont Sprowl, 22 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

May 11 Mark Conrad, 21 of Edmond. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

David Peter, (no age listed) of Edmond, Public intoxication.

Tara Kin, 67 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Taknes Kin, 41 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

May 13 Jordan Jennifer Morris, 18 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Willie Cain Young, 31 of Edmond.

(Misdemeanor) Domestic abuse as-

sault.

Barry Nicolas Edson, 42 of Edmond. (Drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution, possession of drug paraphernalia and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Joshua Lee Young, 38 of Edmond.

(Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Connor Lee Akins, 30 of Guthrie.

Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and felony DUI/APC. May 14 Chaz Aaron Detamore, 24 of Bethany. Failure to carry security verification form in vehicle, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Christian Emmanuel Toles, 36 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, possession of marijuana and failure to appear.

Cody Ryan Thorton, 30 of Edmond Felony warrant.

May 15 Michael Richard Dees Jr., 35 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Emily Anne Thompson, 36 homeless. Public intoxication.

Howard Amirald Gee IV, 38 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Christian Emmauel Toles, 36 of Edmond. Disorderly conduct.

Daqun Alexander Dixon, 20 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

May 16 Nathanael Matthew Barker, 24 of Moore. Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Marque Franklin Depp,26 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jason Lee Daniels, 43 of Oklahoma City. Charged with public intoxication.

Clarence Robert Patterson, 27 of Midwest City. (Misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property.

Jeremy Luiz Martinez, 24 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

UCO no longer is mandating the use of masks or distancing The University of Central Oklahoma will no longer mandate the use of masks or require social distancing, effective Monday, May 24.

The updated guidance is consistent with the recently revised CDC guidelines and recommendations that fully vaccinated individuals — those who have received their final COVID-19 vaccination at least two weeks ago — no longer need to wear masks or practice social distancing as COVID19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue to decline, and vaccination efforts continue.

Those who have not been vaccinated should continue to wear a mask, preferably a surgical or KN-95

mask, to protect themselves and others.

Those who have been vaccinated may continue to voluntarily wear a mask if they choose.

Hand sanitizer will continue to be available in dispensers throughout campus. The university is continuing to improve filtration systems in buildings, as well as thorough cleaning and disinfection of facilities.

The revised CDC guidelines mean the university can return to Level 1 operations, as defined in the university’s COVID-19 operational decisionmaking framework.

For more information, please visit www.uco.edu.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Edmond Gamma Zeta members of Epsilon Sigma Alpha attended the recent state convention. From left are, Jacque Cantrel, Jacci Gantz, Billye Putnam, and Liz King.

Edmond represented at Oklahoma ESA convention Oklahoma’s state convention for Epsilon Sigma Alpha was recently held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 29 E.S.A. chapters from across the state attended this conference to promote this vital, philanthropic organization.

Members are volunteers, philanthropists, mentors, givers, innovators, change-makers, leaders and doers to give back to the communities they serve. The Edmond chapter won five awards: two different awards for total monies donated, one for submitting a gold seal entry, another for philanthropic hours, and one for new members award.

Local projects supported by the Edmond chapter are 1) UR Special 2) No Boundaries 3) Boys’ Ranch Town 4) Free to Live 5) Salvation Army and 6) Coffee Creek Riding Stables.

The state projects are Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Oklahoma. The national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Gamma Zeta is always looking for energetic women to join their group.

If interested, please call Jacci Gantz at 405-922-5954.

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 7

Bill would help revamp REAL ID The Oklahoma House of Representatives last week gave final approval to a bill supporting tag agencies helping Oklahomans become REAL ID compliant. Senate Bill 1057 also adds renewal options of four and eight years.

The bill was presented on the House floor recently by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee.

“After reviewing and working through the complications that our tag agencies are facing, we’ve learned that it takes a well-trained tag agent between 15 and 20 minutes to process each customer’s credentials through federal regulations,” Kerbs said. “We have many tag agents across the state who are doing a great job, and they should be commended for their work. I strongly encourage agencies that opted out to again provide the great services they are known for.”

“Moving forward, we want to be sure to get all agents back to providing the same great services, and I believe Senate Bill 1057 will get us there,” Kerbs continued.

SB1057 previously passed the Senate 48-0. Having passed the House 92-1, it now moves to the Governor’s desk for consideration.

RAY HIBBARD

BEAUTIFYING STREETERY --- Lanes on Broadway in downtown Edmond were partially blocked last week while the team from Yo, Bro, Hayley Owen and Lindsay Zodrow, turned the concrete blocks protecting diners at outdoor eateries into pieces of art.

The local company has been contracted by the City of Edmond to do the same for other restaurants with outdoor seating.

Page 8 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED

Scholarship Committee & Recipients: (from left to right) Chris Berry, Randy Taylor, Christine Merideth -Committee Chair, Manuvel Sibichan, Layla Molina, Kaylee Wilburn, Cindy Dimit – Club President, Betty DeHart, Mark Jones, Jessica Lyle and Heather Lawrence.

Rotary Club of Edmond honors seniors Each year, the Rotary Club of Edmond recognizes Edmond seniors by awarding up to three deserving students $2,000 each.

This year was no different with the Club selecting three Edmond seniors.

The Club wishes to congratulate this year’s recipients.

Layla Molina is a senior at Edmond Santa Fe High School; she is planning on majoring in Architectural Engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Words used to describe Layla are out-

standing student, kind person of integrity and someone who sets a perfect example of balance when it comes to leadership, achievement, and social appropriateness.

She has dreams to work for an architectural firm locally, but also aspires to go to the mission field and design homes, water wells, and healthcare facilities for those in need.

She has such a passion for people in lesser-fortunate countries, and it is so important to her that those in need

can have the same access to basic necessities that we so easily take for granted in the U.S. In addition to being selected as a Rotary Scholarship Recipient, Layla was selected for this year’s Charles D. Lamb Service Above Self Award, which gives an additional $500.

Layla’s future plans are a wonderful example of furthering Charles Lamb’s legacy of being truthful, fair and building goodwill and friendships that benefit all.

Kaylee Wilburn is a senior at Edmond North High School; she is planning on majoring in English with a minor in editing and publishing at the University of Oklahoma. Words used to describe Kaylee are kind, helpful and hardworking.

Kaylee plans to use the financial support from the Rotary Club of Edmond to help her achieve her goals of teaching and inspiring others to love English and reading as much as she does. She wants to help others learn and be inspired to try new things. She says, the scholarship will help her get the tools she needs to continue her education and achieve her goals.

Manuvel Sibichan is a senior at Edmond Santa Fe High School; he is planning on majoring in Finance with the goal of going into the world of nonprofit fundraising. He has applied and been accepted to OU, UCO, Baylor and UT Austin, however, he hasn’t confirmed which university he will attend. Words used to describe Manuvel are diligent, energetic and an inspiration to his peers.

Manuvel plans to use the financial support from the Rotary Club of Ed-

mond to further his pursuit of nonprofit fundraising. He believes the funds would be able to help provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards and build goodwill and peace in the world.

Charles D. Lamb Service Above Self Scholarship The principal motto of Rotary, “Service Above Self”, best conveys the philosophy of unselfish volunteer service. The Charles D. Lamb Service Above Self scholarship was awarded to an Edmond student who exemplified “Service Above Self” through his or her contributions to the community and has future potential to continue to further the Rotary mission.

The mission of Rotary International is to provide service to others, promote integrity, advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

The scholarship, named in honor of Mayor Charles Lamb was awarded to Layla Molina. Lamb was known to have a servant’s heart. Lamb’s wife Cheri, said that her late husband’s “greatest joy was watching and encouraging young people.” In response to this year’s recipient, Cheri Lamb noted, “Layla is everything that Charles stood for when it came to being selfless and serving others; he would be very proud to have her represent what this scholarship stands for.”

To find out more about Edmond Rotary Club please visit http://www.edmondrotary.org or https://www.facebook.com/RotaryClubOfEdmond/.

PHOTO PROVIDED

From left are Layla Molina, Kaylee Wilburn and Manuvel Sibichan.

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 9

Prevention is the key According to the American Heart Association, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds, accounting for one out of every 19 deaths.

Stroke is a leading cause of death and serious disability nationwide and around the world. But it doesn’t have to be.

With May being National Stroke Awareness month, it’s important to know that stroke is 80% preventable.

What’s a stroke?

A stroke is when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Blood carries oxygen to cells in the body. When brain cells are starved of blood, they die. Stroke is a medical emergency. It’s important to get care as soon as possible. Some treatments for stroke work only if given the first three hours after symptoms start. A delay in care can raise the risk of permanent brain damage or death.

Knowing the symptoms of stroke and how to respond quickly, can help save a life.

You can help prevent stroke with healthy lifestyle choices.

Healthy diet.

Choosing healthy meal and snack choices can help prevent stroke. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. Eating foods low in saturated fats, trans fat and cholesterol and high in fiber can prevent high cholesterol. Limiting salt in your diet can also lower your blood pressure. High cholesterol and high blood pressure raise your chances of a stroke.

Healthy weight.

Being overweight or obese increases your risk for stroke. To find out if your weight is in a healthy

range, doctors often figure out your body mass index (BMI). If you know your weight and height, you can calculate your BMI at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Assessing Your Weight website. Doctors sometimes also use waist and hip measurements to measure excess body fat.

Physical activity.

Physical activity can help you stay at a healthy weight and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. For adults, the Surgeon General suggests two-and-a-half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity, like a brisk walk, each week.

No smoking.

Cigarette smoking greatly increases your chances of having a stroke. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.

If you smoke, quitting lowers your risk for stroke.

Your doctor can suggest ways to help you quit.

Limited alcohol.

Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can raise your blood pressure. Men should have no more than two drinks per day and women only one.

Talk to your doctor.

Maintain a good relationship with your doctor to help manage conditions that can increase your risk of stroke. This can include high blood pressure and diabetes, among others.

Clinic reminds public to be weather aware Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, wants you to stay safe this tornado season.

“Staying informed about the weather is the best way to keep your family healthy and safe against being caught in a tornado or severe thunderstorm,” said Robyn Sunday-Allen, CEO of Oklahoma City Indian Clinic.

“Remember to take COVID-19 precautions when devising a shelter plan. Do this beforehand so your family can prepare if severe weather is in your immediate path.”

If the threat of severe weather or a tornado warning arises, the Oklahoma Department of Emer-

gency Management and Homeland Security suggest the following safety measures: • GET IN: get as far inside a strong building as you can, away from doors and windows. ◦ Being outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle are all unsafe in a tornado or severe thunderstorm. Find stronger shelter before the storm arrives and remember to get in, get down and cover up.

• GET DOWN: get as low as you can and to the lowest floor of the building you’re in. ◦ A reinforced underground storm shelter, storm cellar, enclosed basement or safe room are usually the safest places in a tornado. Underground shelters get you out of the way of flying

and falling debris, which is a tornado’s most lethal weapon. ◦ If you cannot get underground, remember the basic guidelines. Get as far inside the strongest building you can find.

Stay away from doors, windows and other openings to the outside. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can.

• COVER UP: use whatever you can to protect yourself from flying or falling debris; like a pillow, blanket, sleeping bag, mattresses, helmet, hardhat, etc.

Be advised that some places that normally offer shelter during dangerous storms may not be doing so because of COVID-19 restrictions. Make your plans now, and get ahead of the storm.

Medicare Virtual Fair set for those approaching 65 The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is partnering with the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to host the Welcome to Medicare Virtual Fair on June 23, 2021, from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. CST. This is a national event for people turning 65, retiring or joining Medicare because of a disability.

There is no cost to attend.

There will be general sessions with expert presenters on Medicare eligibility, enrollment, costs, and coverage options. In the general sessions, the event will offer subtitles in English and a live transcript in Spanish.

You can visit state-specific virtual exhibits at any time during this event. MAP encourages Oklahomans to join this national event to get trusted, unbiased Medicare education and ask live questions to the MAP counselors.

“Whether you’re new to Medicare

or returning, this is a great opportunity for Oklahomans to learn about coverage options, financial assistance and important deadlines,” MAP Director Ray Walker said. “You can join us at any time during the event and ask questions to our counselors.”

Visit www.shiphelp.org for more details. MAP is part of the national Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP) network, funded in part by the U.S. ACL, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling. MAP provides one-on-one counseling and information for people eligible for Medicare. All services are free, unbiased, and confidential. For more information, contact the MAP at 1-800-763-2828 or visit https://www.map.oid.ok.gov.

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

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. Thank you!

Paseo First Friday nears Each First Friday of the month, the community is invited to stroll the historic Paseo Arts District. All of the Paseo galleries have reopened, some with abbreviated hours, and most will be open late for First Friday. Restaurants will be open for dining, patio seating and takeout. This month’s First Friday is June 4, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Paseo Arts and Creativity Center (PACC) is pleased to feature two exhibits in June - in Gallery One, Conflicted Harmonies with art by George Oswalt, Marylee Wright, and John Wolfe, and in Gallery Two, Living Impressions from the Past art

by Jann Jeffrey. An opening reception will be held on Friday, June 4, 6 to 9 p.m. The PACC will limit capacity and require masks and social distancing.

Both exhibits will be on display June 4-26 in the PACC at 3024 Paseo.

For more information, call the Paseo Arts Association at (405) 525-2688 or email amanda@thepaseo.org.

Page 10 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side A sport devoid of politics?

Investigation urged for It was refreshing to watch part of the PGA Championship over the weekend.

Who would have thought veteran golfer Phil Mickelson stood much of a chance to win the whole thing? But he Steve Gust did.

The gallery got a bit out of control on the 18th. They were excited.

Who can blame them? Although Mickelson's playing partner that round, Brooks Koepka, was said not to be too happy with it.

What I liked best is not seeing politics play a role at a sporting event.

In case you've missed it, many players in other sports are protesting a variety of causes by kneeling during the national anthem.

I defend their constitutional right to do so, but I find it very disrespectful. I don't believe it does much to promote the cause of national unity.

The woke folk don't place much

of a value on working with anyone who does not believe every wacky thing they do or vote the wacky way they do.

Can't we just go back to playing sports and celebrating our country?

We still have a great nation to celebrate. Our federal government leadership isn't great, but the nation is.

Speaking of our federal leadership, why does House Speaker Nancy Pelosi insist on members wearing masks on the House Floor? Pelosi will fine people for not having a mask. Then she'll go over to the White House and mingle maskless with throngs of fellow socialists.

Just what exactly goes on in the mind of Nancy Pelosi?

On second thought, I’m not sure I really want to know.

---I hope everybody has a great Memorial Day weekend. Remember the vets who sacrificed for our nation. And also God bless and remember our family members who have gone on to the next world.

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

COVID deaths in New York Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) and a group of Senate Finance Committee Republicans to call on Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) to open an investigation into New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s cover-up of New York’s nursing home death toll.

“This committee has direct oversight on this issue and a responsibility to act when HHS is unable to do its job due to a state deliberately misleading investigators or health officials. Nursing homes have been held accountable for failures to report coronavirus disease data to CMS, and state leaders should be as well,” the

Senators wrote.

Recently, The New York Times reported that the cover-up of the death toll numbers was far worse than had been previously known with Cuomo’s aides overruling state health officials from releasing the actual numbers of COVID-19 deaths.

Lankford and Sasse were joined by Senators Chuck Grassley (IA), John Thune (SD), Tim Scott (SC), and John Barrasso (WY).

The full letter is available below: Dear Chairman Wyden, We ask that the Senate Finance Committee immediately open an investigation into New

York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s cover-up of the nursing home death toll during the COVID19 pandemic and hold a hearing on this important topic.

Last week, The New York Times reported that Gov. Cuomo’s cover-up “was far greater than previously known, with aides repeatedly overruling state health officials over a span of at least five months… Mr. Cuomo’s most senior aides engaged in a sustained effort to prevent the state’s own health officials… from releasing the true death toll to the public or sharing it with state lawmakers…" Governor Cuomo’s administration knew that 9,739 nursing home residents had died of COVID-19 by May 2020—approximately 35 percent of the state’s total COVID deaths. However, Governor Cuomo’s administration publicly claimed that just 21 percent of COVID deaths were in nursing homes. This is horrifying and unacceptable.

While we appreciate the hearing this committee held in March on the issue of COVID-19 nursing home oversight and the investigation that the US attorney in Brooklyn and the FBI have opened into the actions of the Cuomo administration, more must be done. 1.2 million of our nation’s seniors live in nursing homes and are disproportionately at risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. Medicaid is the primary payer for 62 percent of nursing home residents and Medicare is the primary payer for another 12 percent.

Lankford among those wanting schools to open ments, the agency is required

By Sen. James Lankford to produce documents to the Senators James Lankford (Rsenators.

OK), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Rand On Feb. 12, 2021, the CDC Paul (R-KY), Rick Scott (R-FL), issued its Operational Strategy and Josh Hawley (R-MO) sent a for Reopening Schools. Accordletter to Secretary of Health and ing to emails released by AmerHuman Services (HHS) Xavier icans for Public Trust and Becerra and Centers for Disease obtained under the Freedom of Control and Prevention (CDC) Lankford Information Act, the American Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Federation of Teachers (AFT) rerequesting information and docceived an advanced copy of the CDC’s uments related to apparent political indraft guidance. The CDC included lanterference by teachers’ unions in the guage from the AFT nearly word for CDC’s school reopening guidance. word in the final guidance.

Senator Johnson is leading an effort A copy of the letter is below. in which he and four other members of Dear Secretary Becerra and Director the Senate Committee on Homeland Walensky: Security and Governmental Affairs are Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. § 2954, we requesting documents from federal write to request information regarding agencies pursuant to a federal statute. the Centers for Disease Control and Under the terms of the law, as long as Prevention’s (CDC) guidance entitled five committee members request docu-

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.

“Operational Strategy for Reopening Schools.” Recently released emails show close coordination between the CDC and teachers’ unions on the language of school reopening guidance. Political interference from administration-friendly special interest groups that is divorced from science harms children who have been lacking in-person instruction for prolonged periods of time.

Emails obtained by Americans for Public Trust show a close “partnership” with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and collaboration with the National Educational Association (NEA) on the drafting of the CDC’s school reopening guidance. On February 1, 2021, CDC and White House staff received an email from senior staff at AFT. The email read, Thank you again for Friday's rich discussion about forthcoming CDC guidance and for your openness to the suggestions made by our president, Randi Weingarten, and the AFT. We are hopeful that lines of communications will remain open, and that we can serve as a true thought partner as you continue the important work toward safe reopening of schools.

The email further reveals that AFT received a copy of the draft guidance document and that they were grateful that the guidance included materials that AFT had been calling for since last year.

Finally, AFT included suggested language for inclusion into the draft guid-

ance document. CDC included AFT’s language nearly word for word.

On Feb. 3, Director Walensky wrote to AFT to inform them of the inclusion of their language in the guidance document and to commit to a “partnership” with the special interest group. Director Walensky’s email read: Dear All, I just wanted to circle back and extend my gratitude for the language you have provided us below. Regrets for my delay in reply but I wanted to be certain you knew it is being worked into (with just a few small tweaks) the school opening guidance.

We have also included the executive summary you suggested. Please know we are listening and working hard to ensure your confidence and partnership in this endeavor.

AFT replied later that day: Dr. Walensky, [t]hank you so much for your responsiveness to the suggestions made by Randi and our team. We are immensely grateful for your genuine desire to earn our confidence and your commitment to partnership. We will pass this message along to Randi. She will certainly be most grateful. We look forward to continued dialogue and partnership as we continue our respective focus on safe reopening of schools and society.

Once CDC issued the guidance, AFT issued a press release praising it. CDC’s close coordination with ideologically-

See Lankford, Page 11

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 11

Lankford From Page 10 aligned interest groups raises serious concerns about the scientific integrity of the guidance documents. In order to assist Congress in performing its oversight function, please provide the following information 1. How many drafts of the school reopening guidance did CDC share with AFT? 2. When did CDC share each draft of the school reopening guidance with AFT? 3. A list of all non-governmental organizations CDC and/or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) communicated or consulted with in drafting and updating the guidance. For this request, please provide the date of communication, whether the non- governmental organization received a draft of the guidance, and whether CDC implemented suggested changes to the draft guidance.

4. All documents and communications with the American Federation of Teachers referring or relating to the guidance.

5. All documents and communications with the National Educational Association referring or relating to the guidance.

5 U.S.C. § 2954 states, “An Executive agency, on request of the Committee on [Oversight and Reform] of

the House of Representatives, or of any seven members thereof, or on request of the Committee on [Homeland Security and] Governmental Affairs of the Senate, or any five members thereof, shall submit any information requested of it relating to any matter within the jurisdiction of the committee.”

The Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs is charged with studying the “the efficiency and economy of operations of all branches of the Government including the possible existence of fraud, misfeasance, malfeasance, collusion, mismanagement, incompetence, corruption or unethical practices, waste, extravagance, conflicts of interest, and the improper expenditure of Government funds in transactions, contracts, and activities of the Government or of Government officials and employees and any and all such improper practices between Government personnel and corporations, individuals, companies, or persons affiliated therewith, doing business with the Government, and the compliance or noncompliance of such corporations, companies, or individuals or other entities with the rules, regulations, and laws governing the various governmental agencies and the Government's relationships with the public.”

Emails obtained by Americans for Public Trust show a close “partnership” with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and collaboration with the National Educational Association (NEA) on the drafting of the CDC’s school reopening guidance.

Federal overreach alarms lawmakers A compromise between the Oklahoma House of Representatives and Oklahoma Senate was reached on a bill establishing an intra-branch legal process to guard against federal overreach in Oklahoma. The bill has now been sent to the governor for his review and approval.

House Bill 1236, by House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, establishes a constitutional process to exercise Oklahoma’s authorities as a state under the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by reviewing federal actions for constitutionality and seeking judicial rulings to block unconstitutional federal actions from taking effect in Oklahoma. Upon recommendation from the Legislature, the executive branch, through the attorney general, could review any federal executive order, federal agency rule or federal legislative action for constitutionality and seek judicial branch intervention when necessary to prevent unconstitutional federal overreach in Oklahoma.

The bill went to a joint conference committee of the House and Senate after amendments were placed on it during the Senate review process.

“Nearly the entire House coauthored House Bill 1236 earlier this session to protect Oklahomans from federal actions that encroach on their rights,” said McBride. “Both representatives and senators worked together during the conference committee process to get the language right without compromising the substance

and strength of the bill. I am glad that we could find a way to get this common sense legislation closer to the finish line.”

The conference committee substitute maintains the tenets of the initial version of HB 1236 and eliminates any constitutionality concerns. The bill includes compromise language that clarifies the role of the courts in the process by providing that legislative findings of unconstitutionality will need court affirmation. Additionally, it creates no new government bureaucracy and should have no fiscal impact.

“We have given Oklahomans a bill that has some backbone,” said Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, Chairman of the House States’ Rights Committee.

“One of the focuses of the House this session has been protecting our citizens from unconstitutional federal overreach and this bill helps do that.

We have sent a clear message to the federal government that here in Oklahoma we are going to maintain the separation of powers prescribed in the Tenth Amendment, and we will not hesitate to act on unconstitutional federal actions.”

“Along with additional funding to the Attorney General’s Office included in the budget agreement, this legislation now puts real teeth into the push back against the Biden administration’s attempts to infringe on state authority and power. I appreciate Speaker McCall and House leadership for working with me and the Senate on a compromise that will make a difference in the fight against federal overreach,” Treat added.

More Edmond scholarship winners named The University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD) recently awarded more than 130 scholarships for the 2021-22 academic year, including Edmond residents Gillian Andersen, Kassidy Carsten, Chloe Becker, Adam Brewer, Jessica Couch, Emily Falls, Anna Beth Ferguson, Alexis Gass, Keyoka Gevero, Nelson Gonzalez, Auburn Hilliard, Juliana Hing, Dean Kelly, Cody Landers, Timothy Privrat and Katie Sturm.

Andersen, a theatre arts performance and tech major, received the Douglas R. Getzoff Endowed Theatre Design Scholarship.

Becker, a dance major, received the Jamie Jacobson Memorial Endowed Dance Scholarship.

Brewer, a graphic design major, received the Tinker Federal Credit Union Design Scholarship.

Carsten, a theatre education and communication major, received the Barbara Kay Gilmore Endowed Scholarship for Drama.

Couch, a graphic design major, received the Macaulay Family Scholarship and Piyush and Lisa Patel Scholarship for Design.

Falls, a graphic design major, received the Ryan Wood Freedom Art Endowed Scholarship.

Ferguson, a studio art major, received the Piper Family Scholarship for the Arts. Gevero, a theatre arts performance major, received the Barbara Kay Gilmore Endowed Scholarship for Drama.

Gass, a theatre arts-design and tech major, received the Barbara Kay Gilmore Endowed Scholarship for Drama.

Gonzalez, an arts administration major, received the Dean’s Recognition Award.

Hilliard, a musical theatre major, received the Music Theatre Endowed Scholarship.

Hing, a studio art major, received the Piper Family Scholarship for the Arts.

Kelly, a graphic design major, received the Merit Scholarship for Illustrations Minors.

Landers, an audio production major, received the Conner Hicks Memorial Endowed Music Scholarship.

Privrat, an instrumental music education major, received the Academic Excellent Award in Honor of Ted Honea.

Sturm, a dance major, received the Lorraine Remmel Watson Scholarship for Dance.

“The University of Central Oklahoma is student centered and helping students learn is our number one priority,” said Charleen Weidell, M.F.A., dean of CFAD. “Each year scholarships are made available to students through the generosity of our alumni and donors. Award recipients are thoughtfully selected by faculty committees and college deans from a competitive pool of applicants. When a student receives a scholarship award it is our way of saying, ‘We recognize you for your hard work and commitment to your education.’”

CFAD is a center of excellence for the fine and performing arts, as well as a center of innovation

for improving and promoting arts education. The mission of the college is to prepare creative leaders and professionals in fine arts, education and design.

---The University of Central Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts recently awarded scholarships to Edmond residents Lauren Bieri, Olliever Buchanan, Marcela Checketts, Chase Compton, Katherine Dan, Tatyana Dawson, Callie Hambrick, Zach Hope, Janelle Lawson, Emily McBride, Olivia Nanyonga, Valary Omollo, Sydney Vance, Brendan Willoughby and Reagan Young in recognition of their academic excellence and outstanding service to the university.

Bieri, a public administration major, received the Dr. Brett Sharp Scholarship for Public Administration and the Liberal Arts Student Organization Officer Scholarship, worth $1,500.

Buchanan, a general studies major, received the Dr. Churchill Gender and Sexuality Student Scholarship, worth $300.

Checketts, a public administration major, received the Outstanding Second Year Graduate Student in Political Science, worth $400.

Compton, a double major in applied mathematics and modern language - German, received the Nollert Family Scholarship in German Studies, worth $500.

Dan, a double major in forensic science and sociology-human services, received the Finney Scholars Scholarship for Sociology, Gerontology and Substance Abuse Studies, worth $750.

Dawson, a strategic communication major, received the Gean B. Atkinson Scholarship for Advertising Excellence, worth $250.

Hambrick, an interpersonal communication

major, received the Dr. Ray Tassin Endowed Scholarship in Mass Communication, worth $500.

Hope, a public administration major, received the Outstanding First Year Graduate Student Award in Political Science, worth $400.

Lawson, a modern language education - Spanish major, received the Steve and Carol Barrymore Endowed Spanish Scholarship, worth $1,000.

McBride, an English major, received the Dr. Sandra Malin Mayfield Endowed Scholarship, worth $1,000.

Nanyonga, a gerontology major, received the Edmond Senior Community Foundation Scholarship in Gerontology, worth $1,000.

Omollo, a public administration major, received the Dr. Brett Sharp Scholarship for Public Administration, worth $1,200.

Vance, an English – creative writing major, received the Bob Burke Endowed Scholarship in Creative Writing Program and the Carol Hamilton Creative Writing Endowed Scholarship, worth $3,500.

Willoughby, a political science major, received the Carl F. Reherman Endowed Scholarship in Political Science, worth $500.

Young, an applied liberal arts major, received the Finney Scholars Scholarship for Humanities and Philosophy, worth $750.

“It is especially rewarding to recognize excellence this year, as our students have managed to achieve under strange and varying circumstances.

The college takes enormous pride in these scholarship winners and looks forward to their ongoing success,” said Catherine Webster, Ph.D., dean of Central’s College of Liberal Arts.

For more information about the UCO College of Liberal Arts, visit uco.edu/cla.

Page 12 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Weekend Calendar of Events May 27-30 ---- In the Gallery: Brad McNeill ---- What’s Cooking, Edmond?

---- VIRTUAL:: Edmond’s African American History ---- Concert in the Park: Above the Frey & Squeezebox ---- BEST DAY EVER! School is Flynnished!

---- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Celtic Throne: The Royal Journey of Irish Dance ---- Annual Chuck Wagon Festival ---- Signature Tour ---- Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Extra Information In the Gallery: Brad McNeill Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; featuring the art of Brad McNeill; edmondfinearts.com What’s Cooking, Edmond?

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Tue, Aug 31; Free; edmondhistory.org VIRTUAL: Edmond’s

African American History Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 31; edmondhistory.org Concert in the Park: Above the Frey & Squeezebox Location: Hafer Park & A.C. Caplinger Ball Fields Extra Info: Thu, May 27; Free; 6:15 – 9 p.m.; edmondok.com BEST DAY EVER! School is Flynn-ished!

Location: We Rock the Spectrum Extra Info: Fri, May 28; 6 – 9 p.m.; $30; eventbrite.com Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place Extra Info: Sat, May 29; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.com Celtic Throne: The Royal Journey of Irish Dance Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Sun, May 30; 2 p.m.; $30$55; armstrongauditorium.vbotickets.com Annual Chuck Wagon Festival Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, May 29 & Sun, May 30; 10 a.m. – Sun, May 30; 4 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, May 29; 1-2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Celtic Throne, returning soon to Armstrong Auditorium.

Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Location: Bricktown Ballpark, OKC Extra Info: Tue, May 25 – Sun, May 30; milb.com

‘Kabobing’ for America’s authenticate meat eaters

By Carol Smaglinski Looking through my extensive collection of cookbooks and my old recipes, I discovered a few that were long in the tooth, with one recipe that caught my eye.

In my many decades of writing and teaching about food, I had never seen a recipe for “How to Cook A Skunk.” By the way, I also found out that a cowboy term for an onion used to be a “skunk egg.” Another cowboy term: “slow elk” - beef butchered without the owner’s permission.

What? I had to delve deeper into this one. In a time when colonists arrived here, Americans were eating game, mainly venison and buffalo, tongue and beaver tails. Why not?

Visitors went back to Europe and told everyone that Americans ate meat three times a day, which was unheard of at that time.

But, back to the skunk, otherwise known as a polecat or the stinker.

They skinned it, removed the scent glands from under the front and hind legs. It was then boiled in heavily salted water for 20 minutes and then it was steamed until it was tender. A skunk lover said once that skunk meat was among the sweetest of all meat. I think I’ll pass on that one.

These days, we are eating beef, chicken, pork and occasionally, lamb.

But elk is available in Edmond, frozen of course, along with fresh bison and every size, shape and flavor of sausage.

In your kitchen, fresh meat is your best bet; just try to use it as soon as possible.

When meat is frozen, ice crystals form inside. Then these ice crystals crush the tissues in the meat and wring the juices from them.

During the thawing process, more juices leak out. So reach for the fresh meat, which will be juicier with the fat that protects the flavor. That is

called aging.

Turks, Arabians, Armenians, Persians, and Syrians with their magnificent herbs and spices all cook kabob-style, but it was a primitive man that probably should get the credit.

Tender lamb was favored along with goat, which was tough and strong.

When making the following pork kabobs, be sure to soak the bamboo skewers before using to prevent burning. And, take care as pork can easily be burned or dried out. So stay with it.

Pork Kabobs (for 4) 8 skewers 1-¼ lb. lean pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 red pepper, halved and seeded 1 green pepper, halved and seeded ½ cup barbecue sauce 1 lemon, quartered Preheat the broiler. Cut the peppers into chunks and reserve.

Oil the wire rack and spread out the pork cubes on it. Broil until the pork juices drip, then dip each piece into the barbecue sauce.

Place pork cubes back under the broiler and let broil for about 30 seconds on each side repeating the dipping process two more times.

Then, thread the meat and vegetables onto the skewers in a pattern: a chunk of red pepper, another pork, a chunk of green pepper making sure each skewer has four pieces of meat.

Place the skewers back under the broiler and cook until your instant read thermometer registers 160 degrees for the pork, with no pink inside. Place two on each plate and squeeze a bit of lemon on each kabob.

Serve immediately.

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 13

Now called UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake

UCO OAR gets a name change The University of Central Oklahoma's Center for Outdoor Adventure and Recreation (OAR) has been renamed the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake, located in Edmond Park on the north bank of Lake Arcadia.

"The naming of the OAR was originally meant to describe the activities at the facility," said Katrina Shaklee, assistant vice president for wellness and sport at Central.

"As time has passed and our goals have become clearer, we determined changing the name to the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake would assist with the marketing efforts of the lake itself and also provide a better way to promote the boathouse."

Central's OAR opened in August 2009, as an extension of the UCO Wellness Center to provide the Central and Edmond communities with outdoor recreation opportunities.

The 4,800 square-foot facility features boat storage, offices, meeting space and equipment for kayaking, canoeing, standup paddleboards, mountain biking, a ropes course that includes team-building opportunities and a zip line for recreational use by anyone interested in the facility's use.

The facility is free to UCO students, faculty and staff and can also be used by the community for a fee.

For more information about the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake or to make reservations, visit www.uco.edu/offices/wellness/uco-boathouse-arcadialake or call 405-974-2200. (end)

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma's Center for Outdoor Adventure and Recreation (OAR) has been renamed the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake, located in Edmond Park on the north bank of Lake Arcadia. Central's OAR opened in August 2009, as an extension of the UCO Wellness Center to provide the Central and Edmond communities with outdoor recreation opportunities. Pictured, an individual receives instruction on using a kayak.

Page 14 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of Netflix ‘The Woman in the Window’

Film thriller’s ending a bit too rushed

By George Gust “The Woman in the Window” is the Netflix film adaptation of the popular 2018 novel of the same name. The film follows Anna Fox (Amy Adams), an agoraphobic child psychologist who finds herself keeping tabs on the picture-perfect family across the street through the windows of her New York City brownstone. Her life is turned upside down when she inadvertently witnesses a brutal crime.

“The Woman in the Window” is a psychological thriller that has the feeling of a star-studded mid budget thrillers of the 90’s and early 2000’s. With movie stars lined up in every role and an intriguing premise, “The Woman in the Window” showed great promise as an engaging film for fans of mystery and Hitchcockian style filmmaking. The first two acts of the film deliver on this promise with an absorbing performance from Adams, gripping mysterious psychological plot, and impressive cinematography (especially for the limited number of locations featured in the film). However, the third act of the film features such a whiplash inducing change of tone and pace that the result of the film may leave the audience with a sour taste for the whole experience.

“The Woman in the Window” is the kind of movie that fans of mystery will enjoy. Knowing that there is a psychological element to the film and a murder mystery, you will be cataloguing every detail the filmmakers provide in the early scenes of the film to unravel the mystery. However, the payoffs for these setups early on feel rushed by the time the film gets to its climatic reveals and less satisfying than they could have been. The filmmakers so desperately want “The Woman in the Window” to be a classic Hitchcock thriller a la “Rear Window” (even going so far to feature an image from the film in the character’s

TV screen) with the filmmaking style of David Fincher films like “Gone Girl” and “Panic Room” but the ultimate plot machinations end up falling flat upon close review.

Overall, “The Woman in the Window” delivers a fair amount of mystery and intrigue to satisfy fans of the genre, but can’t quite land the dismount in a rushed and slapdash edited final act. You’re in good hands with an engaging lead performance from Adams and movie star supporting turns from perennial talents like Gary Oldman and Julianne Moore, but you may find yourself wanting more beefed up roles for such a talented ensemble.

“The Woman in the Window” is well worth the hour and forty minute runtime and is another in a line of solid modern mystery novel adaptation (see “Gone Girl” “Girl on a Train”), but won’t find itself on many top 10 lists of films in the genre.

“The Woman in the Window” is rated R for violence and language. Now available on Netflix.

3 out of 5 stars.

To comment on this film review, or any other movie review, please e-mail George at gust.george@gmail.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

‘The Woman in the Window’ finds an agoraphobic Amy Adams entangled in a murder mystery that will reveal shocking secrets about her neighbors and her own traumitic past.

Arcadia concerts scheduled

Answers appearing on Page 19

Two Elm Tree Concerts and the regular Saturday morning concert are coming up during Memorial Day weekend at the Arcadia Round Barn.

Cushing singer-songwriter Rick Reiley will perform at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 29, and Oklahoma City singer-songwriter Buffalo Rogers will present the Elm Tree Concert at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 30.

Reiley has been a frequent performer at Woodyfest in Okemah and at the Bob Childers Gypsy Café in Stillwater.

He has recorded two albums, “Unwashed, Unplugged, Unrehearsed,” in 2002, and “Mud and Bone,” in 2011.

Rogers has been playing his grassroots original Americana music regionally for the past 13 years. His songs have been recorded by many artists, including the Damn Quails.

Rogers is a multi-instrumentalist and lyricist, and his shows are an Oklahoma City acoustic music crowd favorite.

The Round Barn house band, “The Round Barn Ramblers,” will perform at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 29.

All concerts are free but donations are accepted for the maintenance of the nonprofit Round Barn, which was built in 1898.

The Round Barn is located six miles east of Interstate 35 on historic Route 66 and is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: 1970s Lyrics ACROSS 1. *Carole King: "But you're ____ ____ away" 6. "I Thee ____" 9. Ring practice 13. Hacienda brick 14. *Billy Joel: "I love you just the way you ____" 15. What speakers do 16. Leg of lamb 17. Styling goo 18. Spooky 19. *Rod Stewart: "Oh, Maggie, I couldn't have tried ____ ____" 21. *Stevie Wonder: "Very superstitious, writing's on ____ ____" 23. Type of constrictor 24. Can of worms 25. *"____ Cola, what a beautiful drink" 28. Capital of Peru 30. *Carly Simon: "I had some dreams, they were ____ in my coffee" 35. Bad luck precursor 37. Swing seat, possibly 39. Macaroni shape 40. Capital on the Baltic Sea 41. Figure with vertex and rays 43. Venetian magistrate 44. Not fitting 46. Sealed with a handshake 47. Wise man 48. Annotator and commentator 50. Facts and figures 52. Bambino 53. Chinese monetary unit 55. International Labor Organization 57. *The Knack: "M M M My ____" 61. *Sister Sledge: "We are family, get up everybody ____ ____" 65. Last European colony in China 66. Pastrami's partner 68. Sheik's bevy 69. Movie premiere, e.g.

70. Gunk 71. Ancient assembly area 72. Used to be wild?

73. Attila, e.g.

74. Part of mortise joint DOWN 1. Long story

2. War god in Norse mythology 3. Same as fogey 4. J. Robert Oppenheimer's project 5. Reorganize or modify 6. $7.25/hour, e.g.

7. Old fashioned 'before' 8. Nile's mouth 9. Boatload 10. What paralegal and parachute have in common 11. Seed covering 12. Angler's spool 15. Punch buggy car 20. Indian cuisine yogurt staple 22. Drunkard's sound?

24. Enter uninvited (2 words) 25. *Bruce Springsteen: "Tramps like us, baby we were born ____ ____" 26. ____ acid 27. "And Seth.... ____ Enos" 29. *Eric Clapton: "Darling, won't you ease my worried ____" 31. Oldsmobile founder 32. Lusitania's destroyer 33. Grown-up pupper, in social media 34. *ABBA: "Dancing queen,

young and ____, only seventeen" 36. Back of the neck 38. Dashing style 42. Spritelike 45. Test (2 words) 49. *Terry Jacks: "We had seasons in the ____" 51. One tritely familiar 54. Frustration, in print 56. Missouri River tributary 57. Old World duck 58. *Creedence Clearwater Revival: "____ you ever seen the rain?"

59. They're hidden up a sleeve?

60. Goes with rave 61. Eon, alt. sp.

62. *Black Sabbath: "I am ____ man" 63. Infamous Roman emperor 64. J. Edgar Hoover's man 67. *Queen: "Scaramouch, Scaramouch, will ___ do the Fandango"

Answers are found on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 15

New program helps delayed youth In observance of National Better Hearing and Speech Month during May, the John W. Keys Speech and Hearing Center, operating under the University of Oklahoma College of Allied Health, is highlighting one of its premier programs, iLEAP (Interprofessional Language, Enrichment and Pre-Kindergarten Program), specifically designed to bridge gaps in communication skills related to developmental delays.

The Keys Center has long served children with a variety of developmental needs related to language, speech and hearing.

The program also addresses the needs of children with learning challenges as a result of behavioral concerns, as well as typically developing children. Guided by experts in speech-language pathology, the small-group approach enhances learning for children across a broad range of developmental stages.

The iLEAP program has been housed in the John W. Keys Clinic since the early 1990s. Jessica Lathem, M.A., CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist, and co-director of iLEAP, said the program, though not new, has evolved to meet the growing needs of a population whose educational concerns may be problematic.

“What’s new and different about the program is the ability to offer two different classrooms and curriculums based on children’s needs; the traditional language classroom, and now the classroom for children on the autism spectrum,” Latham said. “We continually heard from parents seeking re-

sources because their children had difficulty functioning in a traditional preschool setting.

We specialize in providing services that specifically address the challenges faced by this unique population. Our programming is a direct response to parents who found limited options where their children could learn effectively.”

Beth Lane, M.A., CCC-SLP, assistant clinical professor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, said, “It’s an optimal learning environment for children who otherwise may not receive individualized attention, which is particularly important to speech and language.”

In her role as co-director of the iLEAP program, Lane brings extensive background and depth of expertise in teaching children on the autism spectrum. The halfday program is for children ages 2½ to 4 years, with limited class size that preserves a low child-to-teacher ratio.

The age at which children are eligible to participate was recently lowered in order to capitalize on an important developmental window, a best practice in early intervention.

“These classes are a nice transition that move children toward a traditional full-time preschool experience at a comfortable pace,” Lane said.

She explained that iLEAP makes the transition more successful due to building socialization and pre-academic skills, utilizing one on one assistance and small class sizes.

“Socialization is also a learned skill, which can present obstacles for children with special needs. It’s beneficial for many children to

PHOTO PROVIDED

Jessica Lathem, M.A., CCC-SLP (left) and Beth Lane, M.A., CCC-SLP

continue in the program until age 4. With this foundation, they are better prepared for mainstreaming into a preschool program.”

The programs of the John W. Keys Speech and Hearing Center also contribute to the professional development of speech-language pathology experts. “The individually tailored learning experience we offer is a training program for

graduate students, providing a means to meet requirements toward their master’s degrees,” said Lathem. Additionally, iLEAP facilitates interprofessional relationships through collaboration with other OU Health Sciences Center entities and resources, including the College of Dentistry, Rehabilitation Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Audiology.

“Our goal for all of our children in the iLEAP program is to connect, communicate and thrive as they prepare to transition to a traditional preschool program.” said Lathem.

For more information, contact: Jessica Lathem, MA, CCC-SLP at (405) 271-4214, ext. 30597, or Beth Lane, MA, CCC-SLP, at (405) 2714214 ext. 46086.

UCO’s Siew is honored as the top ‘Student Broadcaster’ The Tulsa Press Club and Benevolent Association recently honored University of Central Oklahoma professional media students at the annual Great Plains Journalism Awards during a virtual award ceremony, May 7.

The regional contest honors newspaper, web, television and magazine journalists for outstanding stories, photography and design. The eightstate competition includes Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Amanda Siew, a professional media spring 2021 graduate from Selangor, Malaysia, received the Student Broadcaster of the Year award for her work with UCentral News.

"The stereotype of a good broadcast talent is someone who wants to be in front of the camera. However, truly good broadcast journalists just want to tell stories with whatever tools they have available," said Desiree Hill, Ph.D., assistant professor of mass communication at Central and adviser for UCentral News.

"Amanda distinguished herself this year by telling the story of the pandemic, despite a government-mandated quarantine in Malaysia. Due to time zone differences, she worked overnight throughout the fall semester to produce UCentral News two days a week. Even though she doesn't seek the spotlight, her exemplary

Amanda Siew work finds its way there."

In addition to Siew's win, Central students Ashley Jones, a senior professional media major from Oklahoma City; Jay Mayes, a spring 2020 professional media graduate from Vian, Oklahoma; and Mikala Novitsky, a fall 2020 professional media graduate from Midwest City, Oklahoma, were honored as finalists for the Best University Newscast award.

The regional competition included more than 600 entries, with winners and finalists named in 73 professional and student categories.

For more information about Central, visit www.uco.edu.

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Page 16 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Arledge & Associates Q&A

What to know about outsourcing key financial analysis From LaDonna Sinning Arledge & Associates Many large law firms are investing in creating financial analyst departments. This trend has been building for the past several years and is seemingly making quite an impact on the bottom-line for these firms. These employees are using data to advise decision makers on everything from bonuses to client bids. As a smaller law firm, should we be jumping on the bandwagon with this trend?

You are right to be considering it. Financial analysts are the right people when it comes to profit margins, profit contribution, and overall profitability of business decisions. A financial analyst can help your firm identify operational inefficiencies; specific contribution levels of employees, contractors, and clients; places to cut costs or Sinning make changes to allow a better bottom line; and areas where you can afford to be more flexible. With this information, your firm can use the money freed up to expand your talent pool or give raises or bonuses; increase contributions back to the community through non-profit dona-

tions or pro bono work; and find flexibility in the bidding process when completing requests for proposal on services.

Would the increased profits offset the cost of hiring a financial analyst?

One of the benefits of the pandemic is that our society has adapted to remote work. When it comes to hiring, these same capabilities allow law firms to contract out roles, like a financial analyst, instead of hiring directly. Outsourcing roles doesn’t have to mean seeking less expensive talent elsewhere, it can mean finding a part-time person or team for the role. Outsourcing a financial pricing and analysis team will allow your firm to focus on helping your clients while the experts run the numbers and advise managing partners on key changes they can make to improve the bottom line.

Should other professional services firms or even other types of businesses consider using a financial analyst?

Absolutely. Just as the large law firms have learned, having a professional take your data and then complete the analysis needed to provide appropriate advice can pay off – from increasing

profits to ensuring top performers are appropriately identified and rewarded. When you’re ready to take the next steps in exploring the benefits of profitability analysis, reach out to your CPA. They’ll be happy to discuss what this service can look like for your firm, the pricing, and potential benefits.

LaDonna Sinning, CPA, CFE, is a partner at Arledge & Associates, PC, an Edmond-based accounting firm. Arledge and Associates, PC is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting. Through its Gateway Executive Solutions division, the firm offers outsourced CFO, controller and cloud-based accounting solutions.

This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

OCU business students can now apply for scholarships Leaders at Oklahoma City University’s Meinders School of Business have found themselves in a unique position – one that could be advantageous for high school seniors across the state and region.

Thanks to some recent generous donations, the positive performance of the stock market and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education application trends, Oklahoma City University has a substantial sum of scholarship money available for undergraduate business students enrolling for the fall 2021 semester: More than $1 million.

“We have several scholarships available that will cover full tuition for four years of undergraduate study at our business school, as well as several other partial-tuition scholarships,” said Steven Agee, dean of OCU’s Meinders School of Business for the past 11 years. “This is caused by a one-time-only confluence of events, and our future students would be the beneficiaries.”

OCU typically fills all of its business scholarship slots, but the recent creation of a scholarship in the name of Agee – who will step down as dean at the end of June to focus on

teaching at Meinders – has created several additional openings. Full-tuition scholarships in the name of the business school’s namesake, Oklahoma City businessman and philanthropist Herman Meinders, also are available.

Agee said education industry trends point to many high school seniors delaying their college decision during the COVID-19 era. This, combined with OCU’s scholarship availability in the business school, could be a boon to students looking to start college in the fall, he said.

“I would encourage students who haven’t decided where they want to attend college, or who aren’t receiving a great deal of scholarship money, to submit their application as soon as they can,” Agee said. “An OCU business degree can help position students for great success in the world – especially when some or all of your tuition is taken care of.”

Business scholarships at OCU may require that students meet certain academic standards.

More information about the Meinders school, including scholarships and application details, is available here.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Steven Seagal’s home in Arizona, complete with bulletproof glass has gone on the market for almost $3.4 million.

One of Steven Seagal’s homes is up for sale Controversial and eccentric, actor and musician, martial arts guru and blessed with swoon-worthy good looks for his entire career, tough-guy Steven Seagal is selling his Arizona home on Desert Mountain. With stunning views via the unusual safety of bulletproof glass, it has come to the market priced at $3.395 million.

Seagal’s life story, from his days as a frail and asthmatic child to one of Hollywood’s all-time action stars, is like a novel almost too unbelievable to get published. Well known from his acting career in films such as Fire Down Below, Patriot and the television series he created, Steven Seagal: Lawman only scratched the surface of his varied talents. A master and instructor of the Japanese martial art of Aikido, he has made it a part of many films, while his guitar skills have provided music for others. Steven holds citizenship in three countries: United States, Russia and Serbia, where he owns a martial arts studio. He has been married four times and has seven children, has co-authored a book, The Way of the Shadow Wolves: The Deep State And The Hijacking Of America and has released two studio albums: Songs from the Crystal Cave and Mojo Priest.

No stranger to elegant real estate, Seagal has owned and still owns homes in beautiful locations. He is

now selling his Arizona home that overlooks the Chiricahua Golf Course, the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, and the valley beyond.

Ideal for golfers, the home is located in a link’s paradise with six Jack Nicklaus Signature courses plus a new USGA-rated, par-54 course nearby.

Located in guard-gated Carefree Ranch Homesteads, the home was built in 2001 into a hillside on almost 12 acres. A study in copper, stone and glass walls, the main house measures over 8,000 square feet with four bedrooms and five baths, while the 600-square-foot guest house has a living room, full kitchen and bedroom suite. The main house is all about the staggering views and making the house one with nature. Large expanses of glass walls appear in almost every room. Filled with spaces to entertain, rooms are large, airy and filled with bright Arizona sunlight. There are the living, family and dining rooms, an eat-in chef’s kitchen and dining terrace, a theatre also large enough for hosting friends and several flexible-use rooms. There are a number of terraces - some covered, some open - an infinity pool and spa.

There is also a three-car garage and plenty of parking for guests.

The listing agents are Julianna Eriksen and Bob Nathan of Engel & Völkers, Scottsdale, Ariz.

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 17

OSU will honor top alumni ventures New leader for OSU-OKC campus Dr. Scott Newman has been selected as the next president of the Oklahoma State University-OKC campus pending approval by the Oklahoma State University/A&M Board of Regents. He was selected by OSU System President Burns Hargis in consultation with President Designee Dr. Kayse Shrum after Newman a competitive, national search.

Newman currently serves as the provost and vice president of academic affairs for Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) in Okmulgee, Okla. His nearly 21-year career at OSUIT ranges from serving as a faculty member and dean to chief academic officer.

Newman’s accomplishments at OSUIT include leading numerous student success initiatives, boosting graduation rates and reorganizing the institution’s academic programs to improve service to stakeholders while reducing administrative costs. He also served as the founding dean for OSUIT’s School of Information Technologies in 2001 for which he led the creation of award-winning associate and bachelor’s degree programs, and developed industry partnerships.

The School of Entrepreneurship and the Riata Center for Entrepreneurship in conjunction with the Oklahoma State University Foundation is set to host its inaugural Cowboy100 Honoree Gala to celebrate the 2020 fastest-growing and top 10 revenue-generating OSU graduate-owned or -led businesses on Nov. 5 in Stillwater.

The Cowboy100 was designed to recognize outstanding entrepreneurship throughout OSU’s alumni base while raising funds for the Riata Center’s student programs and activities. It also serves as an additional resource for students to engage with industry leaders and for the Riata Center to become the reference point for entrepreneurship throughout the university.

“The event recognizes OSU graduates from every college on campus who started and own, or lead, a business in any industry,” said Marc Tower, executive director for the Riata Center and assistant professor of professional practice. “The Cowboy100 companies are ranked on growth and the Blazing 10 on revenue.”

Companies may be located anywhere in the world as long as they are OSU alumni Cowboyowned or Cowboy-led. Other qualifications for consideration include: verifiable revenues of $100,000 or more in each calendar year from 2018 to 2020; must have been in business for a minimum of five years; and operate with high integrity.

JTaylor, Advisory, Assurance and Tax will be processing applications and calculating the compound annual growth rate for each applicant, which will determine the 2020 Cowboy100 and Blazing 10 award winners.

The alphabetical list of honorees will be released in October. The OSU School of Entrepreneurship’s Cowboy100 nominations and applications are open and available at https://business.okstate.edu/riata/cowboy100/i ndex.html. The nomination deadline is June 30 and applications close July 31.

“A huge impact of launching the Cowboy100 is the opportunity to engage with brand-new OSU alumni and industry-specific experts we have not previously encountered,” said Chad Mills, manager of outreach programs for the Riata Center. “Engaging with alumni and experts increases our network of mentors, competition judges and guest speakers benefitting our students significantly.”

Tiered sponsorship opportunities are available on a limited basis and provide website, pre-show reception or prominent Cowboy100 Honoree Gala recognition. Sponsorship options also include invitations to the pre-show reception, tickets to the gala, reserved parking and mentions in the ENGAGE@Spears and STATE magazines. For more information about becoming a Cowboy100 sponsor visit, https://business.okstate.edu/riata/cowboy10 0/sponsorships.html.

Fair president & CEO making plans to step down Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. President & CEO Timothy J. O’Toole announced his plans to retire May 31, 2022 at the organization’s recent annual Board of Director’s meeting.

O’Toole has served in his position since January 2004. Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. produces the annual Oklahoma State Fair and manages the 435-acre Oklahoma City owned OKC Fairgrounds on a year-round basis.

Under O’Toole’s leadership, the OKC Fairgrounds has undergone over $150 million dollars of renovations to their trade show, equine and livestock facilities, evolving the property into a 21st Century Tourism Destination.

O’Toole has also worked closely with the City of Oklahoma City on these improvements and MAPS projects at the OKC Fairgrounds, including

North’s Wood among those named a top economic student The Oklahoma City Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and Oklahoma Council on Economic Education awarded Edmond North High School student Harper Wood as one of six students honored at the 11th annual Outstanding Economic Student Awards.

Here are the six winners: • Brooklyn Bailey, Mustang High School • Adrian Beltran, Western Heights High School • Kallie Morisset, Wyandotte High School • Sophia Reynolds, Muskogee High School • Tessa Roberts, Monte Cassino Middle School • Harper Wood, Edmond North High School “The Federal Reserve Bank and OCEE are pleased to partner and present awards to these bright economic students,” said Chad Wilkerson, vice president and Oklahoma City Branch executive for the Oklahoma City Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. “Each student is exceptional. During the awards ceremony, there was a common theme as each student was recognized for learning economic concepts now and for how they plan to apply these concepts in the future.”

Amy Lee, executive director of the Oklahoma Council on Economic Education, explained that the Outstanding Economic Student Awards shines a light on students who exhibit a passion in an economic way of thinking.

“While some of these students are

Harper Wood certainly top achievers in their economic classes, the Federal Reserve Bank and OCEE want to recognize and encourage students who bring economic skills and practices into other interest areas that students are involved in or pursuing,” said Lee. “Economics is all around us, so if students can be taught and inspired in the analysis of the production, distribution and consumption of goods and services, they will have great tools to be successful in any field they choose.”

The Outstanding Economic Student Award program recognizes exemplary students and highlights the importance of economics in Oklahoma curriculum. Students must be full-time, have maintained a satisfactory scholastic record, and are perceived to be an excellent citizen, both within the school and the community. The honored student and the nominating educator submitted videos for a virtual celebration and awards ceremony, which can be viewed here: www.kansascityfed.org/oklahomacity/educationok/outstanding-economic-student-awards

See Harper, Page 18

the MAPS 3 Bennett Event Center which opened in January 2017.

The outgoing president has similarly been involved in the advance planning for the upcoming MAPS 4 Fairgrounds Coliseum.

Additionally, during this time, the Oklahoma State Fair has continued to prosper and be recognized as one of America’s premier State Fairs. www.okcfairgrounds.com

Timothy J. O’Toole

Page 18 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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By Audrey Woods Edmond Family Counseling We have this instinct when in the presence of a crying baby or whiney child - to stop the crying and whining, to do Woods anything and everything to make it stop.

Often, this takes the form of parents gently (and sometimes not so gently) saying something like, “You’re OK, you’re OK.” We want to help the frail, naive creature in front of us understand there really is nothing to cry about! It was only a sound or it doesn’t really matter what color the marker is or you get so much stuff already it shouldn’t bother you not to get the shoes right now. Babies’ and children’s concerns seem so trivial, might I even say ridiculous, when compared to what’s coming. Bills, jobs, and important decisions are the real stressors of life; just you wait!

This instinct, the “You’re ok” one, is a well-intentioned fumble. It essentially discounts the feelings of the child because we want that small creature get. it. together. now. While I am firm believer that children over react (my toddler bawled for 20 minutes this morning because I didn’t have 27 arms to hold her and do all the things), I’m also a firm believer that we adults are in a prime position to teach our children how to handle those big emotions. Here’s what I wish I had said to her this morning: “You’re sad mommy can’t hold you right now, I know baby, that stinks!

It’s ok to be sad. Maybe a hug from Bunny (her stuffy) would help.” I didn’t say that… I ignored her crying as I ran around the house frazzled trying to get out of the door. Even though I didn’t give her the most therapeutic response, I called it a win because I didn’t lose my you-know-what and yell or tell her to stop crying. Small victories!

This instinct follows us right into our adolescent’s life and even becomes stronger as we expect our middle schoolers to just get it by now! Toddlers might be known for their meltdowns, but boy those middle schoolers have perfected the art of drama. Pre-teen: “Everyone hates me!” Parent: “Honey, that’s not true.

You’re blowing things out of proportion.” Pre-teen: “You don’t even know how hard it is now!” Parent: “What’s going on with you?” Pre-teen: “I HATE MY LIFE;” slams door, and scene!

In order to effectively teach our children how to manage big emotions, we have to squash the “You’re OK” instinct. It’s unhelpful. Rather, we have to focus on sending this message as frequently as possible: your feelings are ok, sometimes your behavior is not. With toddlers, it looks like my woulda-coulda-shoula scenario this morning. Simply name their feelings, tell them it’s ok to feel like that, and coach them through what might help. Sometimes, nothing will help except your comfort as par-

ent. Know that even when it’s just you saying “this stinks” in a relatively calm, empathetic manner, you are literally showing them how to handle frustrations. Don’t we all just have to say “UGH!” on occasion and push through an annoying task? That’s exactly what you’re showing them how to do.

With older kids, not much changes. You are helping them name their feelings and being perhaps a bit more specific on what they’re experiencing. “You feel like you don’t have any friends right now; you were really hurt by that; you just want a friend you can really trust.” Your instinct will be to make them ok by suggesting ways they can solve the current predicament or tell them they are ok because said predicament is not that bad. Neither are helpful. When you just focus on making sure your child knows you are listening and understand what they are telling or showing you, good things happen. Their brains literally begin to calm down (a physiological response to empathy being the calming of the Vagus Nerve) so they can begin to work through their own problem. It may take them longer than you might like, 20 minutes of venting/crying/whining feels like eternity, but I promise you that 20 minutes now will pay dividends in 5, 10, 15 years when your adult child is a functional human being with healthy relationships.

Teaching kids how to manage big emotions is critical. Don’t you know people who never learned to handle their big emotions? They end up getting divorced, losing jobs, and are generally unhappy individuals because emotion regulation affects every, literally every, aspect of life.

Emotions are with us every moment of every day whether we acknowledge them or not. So instead of focusing on teaching your child academic knowledge, read about how to teach them what to do with anger. You can start with young ones by following Big Little Feelings online, reading about positive parenting by authors like Dan Siegel and Laura Markham. If things are feeling overwhelming and your kid can’t seem to handle the day-to-day stressors of life effectively, counseling can be a space to begin learning about what to do with big emotions. But I warn you, at least in my office, you as the parent are an integral part of that process, attending parts of every session and really looking at what you can do at home to help challenge the “You’re OK” instinct.

You can start counseling services at Edmond Family Counseling by calling 405-341-3554 and learning about our intake process. Audrey Woods is a Staff Therapist, M.A., NCC, at Edmond Family Counseling.

Harper From Page 17

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The Oklahoma City Branch is one of three branches of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, which serves the Tenth Federal Reserve District, encompassing the western third of Missouri; all of Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Wyoming; and the northern half of New Mexico. As part of the nation’s central bank, the Bank participates in setting national monetary policy, supervising and regulating numerous commercial banks and bank holding companies, and providing financial services to depository institutions. More informa-

tion is available online at www.kansascityfed.org.

The Oklahoma Council on Economic Education is a non-profit, educational organization whose mission is promoting economic and financial literacy for all Oklahomans.

Established in 1954, OCEE is affiliated with the national Council on Economic Education, a network of state councils and university-based centers.

For more information about OCEE, visit www.econisok.org or call 405.974.5343.

Congratulations to Harper Wood

Edmond Life & Leisure • May 27, 2021 • Page 19

Oklahoma lawmakers honor service of child care providers during pandemic The Oklahoma House of Representatives unanimously approved a resolution recognizing the heroic actions of child care centers and homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rep. Randy Randleman, R-Eufaula, presented House Resolution 1036 on the House floor Tuesday morning. The resolution reads, in part, “These workers and the Oklahoma Licensed Child Care Centers and Homes are to be commended for their dedication, financial sacrifice and service to the State of Oklahoma during the past year and continuing into 2021.”

Child care centers were considered essential businesses and remained open so parents could continue working.

Randleman said it was critical for parents to have reliable child care as Oklahoma opened

back up so they could return to work and spur the state’s economy.

“With this resolution, I wanted to acknowledge how difficult it has been for Oklahoma’s licensed child care centers and homes to stay open during the pandemic,” Randleman said. “The workers and staff are to be commended for their heroic efforts in spite of tremendous financial, physical and emotional strain. They have done a great service to the people of Oklahoma, and I know they will continue to provide loving care for our children in the upcoming days.

To all of the licensed child care centers and homes across our state, you are appreciated!”

Randleman also recognized representatives from some child care organizations who were present in the House gallery, including the Oklahoma Child Care

Association, the Licensed Child Care Association of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Family Child Care Alliance.

PHOTO RIGHT -Addy and Lila Lemieux visited the Capitol with their grandfather, Gus Blackwell of the Oklahoma Child Care Association, to hear Rep. Randleman present House Resolution 1036.

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Page 20 • May 27, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure