August 8, 2019

August 8, 2019 Vol. 20, No. 11

In This Issue DIRECTIONS

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

For more information, see page 4.

g n i r a o S r e m m u S

S

Back to School 2019 Middle School Edition Inserted Today!

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9 AM Clouds/PM Sun High 98° Low 78°

Events abound as school start nears PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION

SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 Partly Cloudy High 100° Low 77°

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Mostly Sunny High 100° Low 80°

If you’re looking for fun this weekend, the FireLake Fireflight Balloon Fest will be held in Shawnee this weekend.

Yet it’s far from the only happening on the agenda this weekend.

Lots of events will be available for those wanting to get out and take advantage of the summer. Although summer officially continues for another month, schedules are getting ready to change. That’s because school officially begins in Edmond starting Friday, Aug. 16. Some 25,000 students in the Edmond Public Schools, grades pre-K to 12 will be back in the classroom. This week please check out our second installment of our “Back to School” guide.

A third, and final, installment will be

part of next week’s edition.

Because of school, the regular season will end this Sunday at Pelican Bay. The aquatics center, at 1034 S. Bryant, will then go to their weekend hours only schedule until closing after Labor Day. Pelican Bay will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Other weekend highlights include the Edmond Junior Rodeo this weekend at the Round Up Club, north of Second Street, off Kelly.

Of course the weekly Edmond Farmer’s Market will be held until the fall each Saturday morning at the Festival Market Place in downtown. If you’re planning for the next Heard on Hurd, please make a note.

The seasonal street party, complete

with food and entertainment, will be held on Saturday evening Aug. 17.

Of the metro events, the FireLake balloon festival features family-friendly activities, fireworks, a hunting and fishing expo, a 5K, and a display of 25 majestic hot air balloons.

If none of that appeals to you, then please turn to Page 8 this week for our regular feature, “What’s Happening This Weekend.”

And if you do get out and about Saturday and Sunday, bring the sunscreen and drink lots of water.

Temperates are expected to top the century mark.

Use caution but have fun with the remaining weekends of your summer.

Page 2 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 3

UCO Alumni Association announces 2019 Distinguished Alumni recipients The University of Central Oklahoma Alumni Association will recognize six recipients of its Distinguished Alumni Award at its annual 2019 Distinguished Alumni Awards Luncheon at 11:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 4 in the Grand Ballroom of the Nigh University Center.

The six recipients include Oklahoma City homebuilder Jack Evans, Linda T. Hohenberger Fanning, Tom Friedemann, Ph.D., Retired Lt. Col. Oren Lee Peters, Shannon Price and Lance Robertson.

In 2003, Evans founded and became managing partner of Oklahoma Citybased TimberCraft Homes, whose communities include Chisolm Creek Farms and Princeton Park Evans in Edmond as well as two communities in Mustang, Oklahoma and two communities in Yukon, Oklahoma.

Evans graduated from Central in 1996 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance. He has previously served as the event chairperson for Oklahoma City’s annual Parade of Homes, coordinated by the Central Oklahoma Home Builders Association of which he is a member. TimberCraft Homes has also constructed multiple custom-built homes for the annual St. Jude Dream Home fundraising program, which benefits the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. He and his wife Theresa live in Edmond.

Hohenberger Fanning, who received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Central in 1980, is the vice president and chief nursing officer of INTEGRIS Deaconess, a 238-bed acutecare hospital that is part of INTEGRIS Fanning Health, Oklahoma’s largest health system.

She received her Master of Science in nursing in 1998 from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Hohenberger Fanning’s career in hospital administration began in 1996 when she became the director

of quality resource management at Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City. She would spend 11 years with the Mercy Hospital system before returning to Deaconess in 2015 as chief nursing officer. In 2018, she was promoted to vice president and chief nursing officer when INTEGRIS acquired Deaconess. She and her husband Tom live in Oklahoma City.

Friedemann retired in June 2019 as the superintendent and CEO of Francis Tuttle Technology Center after serving a decade in the role.

He began his career as a marketing eduFriedemann cation teacher at Putnam City West High School before serving as assistant superintendent at Great Plains Technology Center in Lawton. He then served nearly 20 years for the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education before joining Francis Tuttle as chief of staff in 1997.

Friedemann graduated from Central in 1974 with a Master of Education in counseling psychology. He received his Ph.D. in occupational and adult education from Oklahoma State University in 1991. He and his wife Cindy reside in Oklahoma City.

Peters graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in education in 1950. Peters was a teacher and football, track and basketball coach at Edmond High School from 1945-47.

He also exPeters perienced a long and honorable career with the U.S. military, and has built a respected reputation through his civic and community service.

A World War II and Korean War veteran, Peters joined the U.S. Army National Guard in high school and has been awarded more than 20 honors related to his service, including the Purple Heart and Silver Star. He has also earned the title of distinguished Eagle Scout through his more than 80 years with the Boy Scouts of America. Peters and his wife Lucille

Men’s basketball program

Bronchos introduce Hoffman as coach The University of Central Oklahoma athletic department introduced Monday Bob Hoffman as its new head men’s basketball coach at a press conference in the Stampede Club Theatre at the Sports Performance Center.

Hoffman becomes the 22nd head coach at Central Oklahoma, which began play in 1921.

Hoffman is an Oklahoma City native and played his high school basketball at Putnam City High School in the early 1970s, winning a state championship for the Pirates in 1972.

He then moved on to play collegiately at Oklahoma Baptist in Shawnee, Okla., where he would spend the next four years scoring more than 1,000 points. To this day, Hoffman still ranks among the alltime scoring leaders for the Bison.

Hoffman accepted his first head coaching job at Piedmont High School and coached there from 198286 while simultaneously attending graduate school at Central Oklahoma, earning his master of education in 1985.

After working with OBU as an assistant coach for a couple years, he took is first head coaching position at the college level at Southern Nazarene in 1987.

At SNU, Hoffman averaged 29 wins per season, going 88-16 in a three-year stretch. He took a program that never had a winning season and

Bob Hoffman won a national championship in 1989, earning Sooner Athletic Conference, District 9, and NAIA Coach of the Year honors for his efforts.

Hoffman then returned to Shawnee to become the head coach at his alma mater and would soon leave a mark on the program still remembered today.

Now a member of the OBU Athletics Hall of Fame, Hoffman led the Bison from 1990-99 and won 243 games along the way. He led OBU to the national tournament six times and had three teams win 30 or more games. The Bison finished second in the national tournament in 1993 and 1997, while finishing third in 1994.

He reached the Sweet 16 in 1996 and the Elite Eight in 1999.

were married for 53 years before she died in 2006. He resides in Edmond, and has four children, 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Price is the executive director for the Fine Arts Institute in Edmond. Over the past 26 years, she has held many positions at the Fine Arts Institute including art instructor, special events coorPrice dinator and assistant director. She graduated from Central in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design, a minor in advertising and a K-12 teaching certificate.

Price is involved with a variety of organizations including Oklahoma Leadership Arts, Executive Women’s Forum, Oklahomans for the Arts, Leadership Edmond Alumni, Edmond Rotary Club and the Oklahoma Arts Council Statewide Learning Advisory Committee. She was recognized as the 2017 Woman of the Year by the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband Carl live in Edmond.

Robertson graduated from Central in 2015 with a Master of Public Administration. He began serving as the assistant secretary for Aging and administrator for the Administration Robertson for Community Living for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in August 2017. Prior to this role, he served as the director of Aging Services for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services from 2007-17.

Luncheon set for Oct. 4 at UCO ----Call 405-974-2421 for tickets Robertson was an administrator for 12 years at Oklahoma State University, where he co-founded the Gerontology Institute and directed the regional professional association, Partnerships for Aging. He is past president of the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities. He and his wife Lori reside in Washington, D.C. A committee selected the Distinguished Alumni Award recipients based on peer recommendations and notable accomplishments in one of three categories: professional, community service and university service.

The UCO Alumni Association has given the awards annually since 1952.

"Our Distinguished Alumni honorees are great examples of what it means to be a ‘Bronchos for Life’,” said Lauri Monetti, director of UCO Alumni Relations.

"Each one of the individuals being recognized has made lasting impacts in their communities. We look forward to celebrating their accomplishments as a highlight of our homecoming activities.”

The luncheon will include a formal awards presentation with video highlights of the honorees' lifetime accomplishments as well as provide an opportunity for alumni to reconnect.

Alumni and friends are invited to attend the luncheon by purchasing a $25 ticket, meal included, by Sept. 14.

To purchase tickets, call UCO Alumni Relations at 405-974-2421 or register online at www.centralconnection.org/homecoming.

Page 4 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Driving habits must change Lots of ink and newsprint have been spent in this newspaper about calming traffic in downtown Edmond.

Numerous conversations on that subject with elected city officials over the years have been ignored as well. I see the look in their eye when I bring it up. It is one of, “Here he goes again” and honestly it is not appreciated. Just Ray Hibbard two weeks ago at a gathering at the chamber, three city council members asked the group what they thought of bringing Lime scooters to Edmond.

I suggested, again, that before we bring anything new to downtown, we find a way to calm traffic because it is an accident waiting to happen here.

“Yah, OK,” was the response I received.

Tragically, the CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond was hit by a car last week in downtown Edmond.

She was in a crosswalk and had the light, but a truck knocked her about four feet and completely out of her shoes. The truck stopped when she was struck, or it could have been far worse with the truck running over her. As it is, she has a broken wrist and is banged up on one side.

Granted, speed was not the issue in her getting hit. Thank goodness it was not, or the outcome could have been far worse. If it was a car shooting off Second and Broadway, it could have killed her.

I’ve talked to most of our city council members and the mayor about the problem last week. They are now paying attention.

Here are some tips for driving in pedestrian friendly areas: First, realize that you have blind spots in your car. Sitting in your driver’s seat, look to your upper left where the door meets the front windshield.

Most cars have a band of composite material that makes the connection. It may seem too narrow to be a blind spot, but it is folks. A person can be standing at a crosswalk so that when you are getting ready to turn left, they are blocked from your view. As you turn left and they start walking toward your side of the street, they remain in that blind spot until you are right on top of them.

The fix? Before you start your left turn, move your head left or right of the blind spot to check the crosswalk completely. If it is clear, you are good to go. If you are having trouble finding that blind spot, come by my office and I will show you.

Any of my staff can do it as well. We have all come close to being hit by folks not looking around that blind spot. Often, they are accelerating into the turn and that can make your heart jump right out of your chest. I have jumped out of the way, screamed and once hit the car with my fist as it swung by with no knowledge that they were about to kill me.

The reaction is always the same, Surprise that anyone was in the crosswalk.

Of course, the main thing you can do is just slow down. My desk is in front of a giant plate glass window between First and Second street on Broadway. I rarely see a car heading north on Broadway going the 25 mph speed limit. They just don’t adjust in time even though the speed limit south of Second street on Broadway is supposed to

‘Hamilton’ production worth the hype July 30 marked opening night for the much-anticipated Broadway smash Hamilton in Oklahoma City.

The American musical is sung and rapped through out the show about the life and times of America’s founding father, Alexander Hamilton. It was inspired by the 2004 biography Alexander Hamilton written by historian Ron Chernow. If you come away with nothing else, the musical will give you a more complete history of his life then you ever got in school unless you were a history major.

For our money, Hamilton certainly lived up to the hype it has received The cast of the smash-hit musical ‘Hamilton’ over the years of selling out on Broadway.

Walker takes the evening by far. He does more The show and cast delivered in a big way at the with what some might consider a minor part then Civic Center in Oklahoma City. The good news is I’ve ever seen on stage. Fantastic performance in that you have another two weeks to see the show. his role as King of England.

The closing performance is August 18th. I don’t The only criticism would be that at times the lyrics think you will be disappointed. are hard to follow. It could be that these old ears Great voices top the list of what was so good have a hard time following rap. The music overtaking about this performance but not far behind is the the voices on stage is what I think made it harder to set and costumes. The story is one that is seldom follow. That could have easily been first night adjusttold of Alexander Hamilton which goes much ments that needed to be made in the sound system deeper than being a founding father of our counas well. Certainly not enough of a problem to put a try. He is responsible for our entire banking system damper on the show. and many of the financial principles that are still The story doesn’t shy away from some of the used every day. Immigrating to the Colonies from unflattering events in Hamilton’s life. It lays the inNevis in his teens, his contributions were extensive. formation out for the audience to decide. I like the Jon Patrick Walker portrayed King George and no sugar coating of the story. It is as honest and darn near stole the entire show with his few apforth coming as the music and choreography are pearances. I will say he must keep the rest of the solid. I wouldn’t miss an opportunity to see a great cast on their toes. One lazy night on their part and cast in a fantastic show. be 30 mph. More enforcement is needed to slow people down.

A calming feature or group of calming features need to be put in place to make downtown Edmond truly pedestrian friendly. Some of the ideas being considered include raised cross walks. It gets the pedestrian up higher and more visible and they serve as speed bumps to slow folks down.

Flashing lights in crosswalks are another idea that might work. It does a good job for school zones. It would let folks now that there is someone in the crosswalk even if you can’t see them. It would also give a warning to drivers when a person was getting ready to enter a sidewalk.

Slowing the speed down to 20 mph has been another suggestion. This would be a good idea but once again needs enforcement. The enforcement needs to take place as cars are entering the downtown area from both the north and south. This isn’t popular but could save a life.

Another unpopular idea would be to narrow

Broadway to two lanes and put a median in the middle. I honestly like this idea but then again, I would be for making part of Broadway pedestrian only. Many folks would not like this idea, but I think it should at least be considered.

In the coming weeks, the city staff will be preparing a list of suggestions on actions that can be taken downtown to calm the traffic. My guess is that those recommendations will find their way into a workshop where the public can have input for the changes to be made.

We have a fantastic downtown with beautiful sidewalks. The City of Edmond has invested millions to make downtown pedestrian friendly. We just need to make sure that folks driving cars through the area know that they must take care to slow down and be aware of the folks walking. If not, another tragedy is around the corner.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

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

Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 8.

How secure is the election process? ..........................................Page 10.

Medical breakthroughs ..............................................................Page 13.

George Gust reviews a cable documentary ................................Page 15.

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

Real estate ads ..........................................................................Page 18.

The plight of Asian elephants ....................................................Page 19.

Business news ............................................................................Page 21.

Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.

See if you can find ‘Directions’ “Directions,” in real life is located in front of OnCue, at 15th and I-35, 4100 E 15th Street, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. E-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

Local artist Joe Slack created the sculpture to draw the public in. “I just want to engage,” said Slack, “And for it to be part of the landscape.” At it’s tallest point of 17 feet ‘Directions' is the largest sculpture Slack has ever attempted. It features three huge faces with a rust patina. Located along I-35 it is certain to draw travelers in to engage with just one of the pieces of public art Edmond is known for.

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

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

Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2019 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Cover Design April Burgess

instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 5

Hundreds of Edmond educators at EPS Leads Conference Edmond educators, from left, Jonathan Kerby, Sally Turek, and Kelly Bertels participate in a breakout session about laying a strong foundation for writing in the classroom at the recent EPS Leads Conference. More than 300 Edmond educators attended the conference where they learned new ideas and new perspectives.

Heritage Elementary teachers Kathy Combs and Lynnse Self visit the Technology Playground at the recent EPS Leads Conference - a two-day event organized by Edmond Schools- to learn more about 3D printers. Cody Faas from education provider Troxell explains how the printer can be used to enhance curriculum.

Photos provided by Susan Parks-Schlepp

Page 6 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED

Barrett, left, a current patient at The Children’s Hospital, shares some love with his new friend Joy. Also with them is his sister, Ivy.

Trained in-residence dog now giving children joy at hospital Last week, The Joy in Childhood Foundation granted The Children’s Hospital at OU Medicine in Oklahoma City a trained in-residence dog at a canine-themed “Day of Joy” welcome event.

The event gave patients, staff and their families a chance to celebrate the newest canine team member while enjoying dog-themed crafts, a doughnut decorating bar, ice cream social, and the unveiling of dog supplies, ranging from bedding to toys.

Guests were also treated to an appearance by the hospital’s current

in-residence dogs, Targa, Ned and Dany.

Some of Targa’s biggest fans are Barrett, a current patient at The Children’s Hospital, and his sister, Ivy. They’ve wanted a golden retriever of their own ever since they met her.

After attending the event, Barrett said, “You know that feeling when you just can’t stop smiling?”

A few days ago, Barrett and his sister finally got a golden retriever to call their own, and the impact of our Day of Joy event was evident – they decided to name her Joy.

Law will help regulate automated vehicles Gov. Kevin Stitt signed legislation last week that sets the trajectory for the regulation of automated personal vehicles on state roads for the future.

“Although fully self-driving cars may still be a decade away from mainstream adoption,” said Mark Madeja, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson, “cars with advanced automation are already prevalent.”

This transition to vehicles equipped for highly-automated operations will continue for the rest of most current drivers’ lives as newer models are purchased.

Transportation stakeholders surround Senator Michael Bergstrom and Governor Kevin Stitt as he signs SB365.

Authored by Sen. Micheal Bergstrom (R-Adair), SB365 creates the Oklahoma Driving Automation System Uniformity Act to harmonize rules and regulations across the state.

Its aim is to minimize confusion among motorists, law enforcement and first responders. Representative Ryan Martinez (R-Edmond) carried the bill through House proceedings.

“Without uniform state regulation, municipalities might create different regulations that could cause confusion for motorists and jeopardize the very safety that these advances offer,” Madeja said. Uniform state regulations have been urged by AAA, pointing to the challenges drivers - especially those who are not local – will face in staying fully educated on the differences in laws as they move from town to town.

Safety Potential with Automated Features Government and safety experts estimate that the majority of wrecks occurring on roads today can be avoided by vehicles that are connected with sensors to other vehicles

AAA found that technology now standard on most new vehicles could have prevented crashes that took nearly 9,500 lives in 2016. and surroundings and which operate autonomously. Human error contributes to 90 percent of today’s crashes, according to AAA research.

AAA found that technology now standard on most new vehicles could have prevented crashes that took nearly 9,500 lives in 2016. At that rate, some 188 of those killed in Oklahoma crashes that year could potentially have lived if the technology had been available and used correctly by drivers.

Technologies factored into the study included blind spot monitoring systems, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist, included on 2019 models offered by the vast majority of manufacturers.

Many offered these featured in their earlier models.

“When properly utilized, these technologies have the potential to prevent 40 percent of all vehicle crashes and nearly 30 percent of traffic deaths. However, driver understanding and proper use is crucial in reaping the full safety benefits of these systems,” said Dr. David Yang, executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

“This law positions Oklahoma as a progressive state in the rapidly changing landscape of advancing vehicle technology,” Madeja said. Oklahoma join 32 other states and the District of Columbia with foundational laws addressing autonomous vehicles.

Reminder on GOP women’s meeting The Edmond Republican Womens Club will meet Monday, Aug. 19, at Johnnies Charbroil on 33rd St. in Edmond, starting at 11:30 a.m. for those who would like to order lunch.

The general meeting will begin at noon. The guest speaker for the August meetiing will be Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell. Members, guests, and general public are encouraged to attend.

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 7

Young gymnast gets back in the sport with help of OU Medicine Edmond Physical Therapy With the gymnastics competition season looming, an 8-year-old Edmond gymnast found herself on the sidelines after an injury made it necessary to postpone her training. Physical therapy became her best chance to train in time to return to competition.

Madilyn “Madi” Donner has been a competitive gymnast since she was just 6 years old. Her passion for the sport and her eagerness to compete are evident in her level of achievement and the multiple awards earned at her gymnastics studio.

But for Madi, everything came to a halt when she lost the use of her right arm, the result of a practice-related injury. On March 8, 2018, Madi was practicing a tumbling pass when a landing went wrong. Her father, David Donner, took her to the emergency department at The Children’s Hospital.

“They took my vitals and an X-ray, then put me in a splint for a few days,” Madi said. “And then for the checkup I got to pick out a blue cast, which is my favorite color.”

Madi’s treatment included four days in a splint as swelling subsided, followed by two weeks in a cast. Anticipating removal of the cast and a return to training, Madi went to her follow-up appointment with excitement, but received shocking news.

Even while immobilized in the cast, the bone had been displaced, resulting in a lateral epicondyle fracture of the elbow. Surgery was the only viable option. The procedure, which took place the following day, left her right arm with pins, minor scars and another cast.

Most kids heal after this corrective surgery and regain motion after six months. However, because Madi’s arm had been at a 90-degree angle for several weeks, her arm grew stiff and lost mobility.

Once again, with competition season around the corner, physical therapy was essential if she was to resume training in time to compete.

Madi underwent therapy at OU Medical Center Edmond-Edmond Physical Therapy, Edmond’s only outpatient physical therapy center with pediatric specific programming and equipment. Jay Wheat, MPT, director of rehab services at the center, created a specialized program for his young patient.

“You can’t do drills if you can’t fully extend your arm,” Wheat said. “So for Madi, we started slow with gradual movements, and then moved to athletic-specific exercises and movements.”

Over the course of three months, Madi went through rigorous sessions with Wheat, as often as three times a week. Treatments included soft tissue and joint mobilizations, static to dynamic stretching and cupping.

Through good days and difficult ones, Madi persevered, gaining strength as she continued to train with her teammates. She intended to avoid falling behind and to stay on track with her physical conditioning.

“Treatments were pretty tough. We didn’t put light pressure on her arm to stretch it out; we worked it pretty hard,” Wheat said. “But the whole time, she knew what she wanted the end result to be - to return to competition - so she worked ex-

PHOTO PROVIDED

Madi Donner, right, with Peng Peng Lee, UCLA gymnast and Canadian Olympic team captain.

tremely hard.”

After 10 weeks of therapy, Madi began to put weight on her arm and eased back into her gymnastic specialty, the bars. It took more time and effort than before, but Madi was ready to compete when the season finally arrived.

Although she missed her USA Gymnastics Level 3 State Meet due to the injury, the spring 2019 season proved to be a winning season for Madi.

She competed the next year to qualify for level 4

and won champion in bars and second all-around.

Even her regular fan base had grown.

“After spending so much time with Madi I knew I had to see her in action,” Wheat said.

Now 10 years old, Madi will compete this coming season to advance to a skill level of 6.

The OU Medical Center Edmond-Edmond Physical Therapy, Edmond’s premiere outpatient rehabilitation center, is located at 305 S. Bryant, Suite 140. For appointments, call (405) 340-2019.

Page 8 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

How to organize family records Have you been lucky enough to have inherited some family treasures, old photographs or other heirlooms? Many of us have and don't know what to do with them, how to display them or the proper storage methods for them.

Or, do you have boxes and piles of genealogy “stuff” under the bed, in the closet and taking over your dining room table? If so, you won't want to miss our August program.

The OHCE Genealogy Group will meet on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at 10:15 a.m. at the Oklahoma History Center.

Group member Glenn Clure, Sr. will present So, I've Got All This Genealogy Stuff.... What Do I Do With It?? His program will offer tips and demonstration of display and storage options for

your heirloom items and how to organize your genealogy research and keep track of documents and individuals in your family tree. He will also discuss how to avoid covering the same research ground again and again. Glenn will show us some of his items and collections and how he displays them in his home.

Glenn Clure, Sr. is a member of the OHCE Genealogy Group, Oklahoma Genealogical Society, OGS Computer Special Interest Group, Edmond Genealogical Society, and the Oklahoma City Astronomy Club. He is an retired Electrical Systems Automation Robotics Electrician from General Motors.

Glenn has varied interests in genealogy and family history, geology,

astronomy, paleontology, histories of the Civil War, WWI and WWII with physical hobbies of stained glass, woodworking, camping and gardening.

He has 16 grand, great-grand and greatgreat-grand parents who were living in Oklahoma before statehood. He is a husband, father. grandfather, brother, nephew and uncle.

The OHCE Genealogy group meets at 10:15 a.m. in the third floor Fischer boardroom on the third Wednesday monthly at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zudhi Dr. in Oklahoma City – across from the State Capitol.

The Sept. 21st program will feature Chad Williams, Director of the Research Division of the Oklahoma Historical Society who will present Using Newspapers for Genealogy Research For more information, visit our website: www.ohcegenealogy.co m or find us on Facebook: ohcegenealogy.

The programs are always open to the public.

Thursday, Aug. 8 ---- In the Gallery ---- Concerts in the Park – R&B/Rock/Light Rock ---- Dead Armadillo Pint Night ---- Edmond Weekly Game Night ---- The Journal Record’s 2nd Annual Battle of the Corporate Bands ---- OKC Broadway presents: Hamilton Friday, Aug. 9 ---- In the Gallery ---- Grown Ups Paint Night ---- Jeremy Thomas Quartet Featuring Mike Mitchell ---- Movie in the Park – The Lego Movie Part 2 ---- Outdoor Movie Night – Wonder Park ---- Edmond Junior Rodeo ---- OKC Broadway presents: Hamilton ---- Oklahoma City Renovation & Landscaping Show Saturday, Aug. 10 ---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Edmond Junior Rodeo ---- Adult Pool Party ---- Art in Public Places Tour ---- for King & Country Autograph Signing ---- Beats & Bites ---- Replay ---- OKC Broadway presents: Hamilton ---- Oklahoma City Renovation & Landscaping Show ---- OKC Gun Show Sunday, Aug. 11 ---- In the Gallery ---- Regular Season Closing Day at Pelican Bay ---- OKC Broadway presents: Hamilton ---- Oklahoma City Renovation & Landscaping Show ---- OKC Gun Show

Glenn Clure

Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring works by Austin Navrkal; for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com Edmond Farmers Market Location: Festival Marketplace & Plaza Extra Info: Free admission; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; for more information go to: edmondOK.com

on Facebook Grown Ups Paint Night Location: Unpluggits Paint & Play – Craft Studio and Indoor Playground Extra Info: 7 – 10 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Jeremy Thomas Quartet Featuring Mike Mitchell Location: Jazz Lab Extra Info: $20 ---- $35; 8:30 – 10:30 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Movie in the Park – The Lego Movie Part 2 Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Free admission; 8:30 – 11 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Outdoor Movie Night – Wonder Park Location: VIP Insurance Extra Info: Free; 8:45 – 11:45 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Edmond Junior Rodeo Location: Edmond Round Up Club Carl Benne Arena Extra Info: $1 to $5; For more information go to edmondroundupclub.com Adult Pool Party Location: Oak Tree Country Club Extra Info: 6:30 – 9:30; $15; for more information visit them on Facebook Art in Public Places Tour Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: $10; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; for more information go to edmondok.com King & Country Autograph Signing Location: Mardel Christian & Education Extra Info: 12 – 2 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Regular Season Closing Day at Pelican Bay Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Extra Info: for more information go to pelicanbayaquatics.com Beats & Bites Location: Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Free; John Michael Montgomery at 8 p.m. for more information visit riverwind.com

Concerts in the Park – R&B/Rock/Light Rock Location: Hafer Park Extra Info: Free; 6:15 – 8:45 p.m.; For more information visit edmondok.com

Replay Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 9 p.m.; for more information go to riverwind.com

Dead Armadillo Pint Night Location: The Patriarch Craft Beer House Extra Info: 5 – 11:59 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook

OKC Broadway presents: Hamilton Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for information and tickets go to okcciviccenter.com

Edmond Weekly Game Night Location: Denny’s Extra Info: 6 – 11 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook

Oklahoma City Renovation & Landscaping Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for information go to homeshowcenter.com

The Journal Record’s 2nd Annual Battle of the Corporate Bands Location: UCO – Jazz Lab Extra Info: $10 advance, $15 at the door; for more information visit them

OKC Gun Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for more information visit okcgunshow.com

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 9

U.S. Senate resolution recognizes ‘National Child Awareness Month’ Last week, the Senate passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) designating September 2019 as “National Child Awareness Month.”

The resolution promotes the awareness of charities that benefit children and youth-serving organizations across the country.

The resolution is also cosponsored

by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Doug Jones (D-AL), Mike Braun (R-IN), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Gary Peters (DMI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).

“We are at our best as a nation when we care for children,” said Lankford. “My family is grateful for

Stanley Kelley

Stanley Kelley 1939-2019

Community leader dies Longtime civic leader, Stanley Kelley died July 28, 2019.

Stanley (Stan) Lee Kelley was born on Aug. 20, 1939, at Amber, Oklahoma, to Clarence and Lola Kelley. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Louis Kelley; and twin granddaughters, Jill and Joy Kiefer. He was raised on a farm and learned solid work ethic at a young age which helped him throughout his life. He grew up in the Bridge Creek community and graduated from Bridge Creek High School in 1957. He played baseball and basketball, lettering four years in each sport. Stan accepted Christ at 12 years of age and was baptized in a Bridge Creek community pond.

Stan moved to Edmond, Okla. in 1957, to attend Central State College (CSC), now the University of Central Oklahoma. He earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management with minors in Accounting and Economics graduating in 1962.

In late 1957, he met the love of his life Beatrice (Bea) Witt. They were married on May 1, 1959. They have four children: Vickie Garlitz, her husband Mike, and children, Matthew Allen, Seth (Mattie), Zach (Ashley), and Hannah Floyd (Grant). Gary Kelley, his wife, Lisa, and children Lana Lacey (Tyrel), Cara Northup (Ryan), and Cooper. Valerie Roach, her husband, Ron, and children, Lacey and Caroline. Julie Kiefer, her husband, Jerry, and children, Jared and Jay. Stan has two great grandchildren, Ellie Kate and Calvin Thomas Garlitz. All of his immediate family live in Edmond and attend Henderson Hills Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beatrice Kelley; his aforementioned children and their families; a sister in law, Thelma Kelley of Moore, Oklahoma; and a nephew, Richard Kelley, Oklahoma City. He has many relatives and friends.

Stan and Bea have been members of Henderson Hills Baptist Church since 1967. He served in numerous leadership positions throughout his years at HHBC. He was a deacon for decades and also served as Chairman of the Deacons. He was a Sunday School teacher. He has been blessed with the opportunity to serve on two pastor search teams and two worship pastor search teams as well as numerous other church teams, including Long Range Planning, Management Team, Building & Land Team, Personnel and Finance teams and many others.

Stan was employed by Central Sales Promotions, Inc. (CSPi) in April, 1959 where he worked the afternoon/evening schedule while completing his degree at CSC. After graduating from CSC in 1962, he continued working for the company for 34 years. His mentor at the company was William (Bill) H. Richardson, then president of CSPi. Stan was appointed president in 1982 and served in that capacity until 1993. Because of Bill’s vision and interest in serving the SPAI National/International Trade Association Board, he introduced Stan to the Association. Stan was elected to the Board in 1977 serving 16 years on the

Obituary notice SPAI Board and was Chairman of the Board in 1983. In 1993, Stan received the Howard Parmele Award, the highest honor of the screen printing and graphic imaging industry. Named in tribute to one of the Association's founders, the Parmele award is considered the "Oscar" or "Emmy" of the screen printing and graphic imaging industry, awarded each year since 1955. The Parmele Award is conferred upon someone whose dedication and accomplishments reflect an ongoing commitment to improve the industry's products, services and image. He also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the SPTF Board in 1990 and 1991. Serving on the National Trade Association Board provided Stan and Bea many travel experiences.

They visited most of the United States and made two trips to Europe. Bill also introduced Stan to Rotary, and he has been a Rotarian for more than 45 years between the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City and the Rotary Club of Edmond.

After leaving CSPi, he helped oversee the building of the 1994 Worship Center for Henderson Hills Baptist Church. He did business consulting and joined Solution Ware in Oklahoma City as a Junior Partner. He worked for Solution Ware from 1996 until 2004 when he retired for a short time. He then worked for a year with AVL in Edmond. Most recently he was employed for ten years at Funds for Learning as Business Development Director.

Stan served for many years on the Oklahoma FCA Executive Board and was Chairman of the board from 1986-1989. He was the Oklahoma FCA Man of the Year in 1986. Stan received many awards and accolades in his lifetime including the highest honor from the City of Edmond for Outstanding Service to the Community in 1977. He also received the Jim Thorpe Award and in recent years received the “George Mikesell Award” Rotarian of the Year in 2012-2013 by the Edmond Rotary Club.

Stan was a person that was blessed to help other people throughout his life. His life purpose was to put God First, Family Second, Work/Church third and all other activities last.

His life verse was “Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6.

Stan had many friends and acquaintances too numerous to list. He loved all of them and was blessed to have them in his life.

If you have a story that you would like to share about Stan email it to: thankyoustankelley@gmail.com In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following causes that were most important to Stan: Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Henderson Hills Baptist Church Future Building Projects, or the Rotary Club of Edmond Scholarship Fund

the tireless dedication of providers, volunteers, and all those who pitch in to give our children and youth support, care, mentorship, and encouragement. September is a month for us to pause and say an additional thank you for their continued work to provide a strong foundation for children. I am honored to join Senator Feinstein again this year to recognize September as National Child Awareness Month."

“National Child Awareness Month is a chance to celebrate the crucial role that charities and nonprofits play in improving the lives of children in America,” said Feinstein. “These groups invest in children at all ages to prepare them for success in school and beyond, and we’re thankful for the work they do.”

Page 10 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Urban challenges We live in a news cycle age, which constantly moves on from one story to another.

Sadly this week it will be about mass shootings.

Last week we were talking about Steve Gust America’s inner cities and all the challenges they face.

That topic became big news when President Trump accused Congressman Elijah Cummings of not doing a good job with his district in Baltimore. Trash, joblessness, crime and rodents apparently plague Cummings’ city.

It’s my hope we don’t just forget about Baltimore and the other large U.S. cities with problems.

The only thing more tragic than the problems these towns face are the attitudes some people seem to have about the cities.

It’s like we’re content to sit back and say, “Oh well that’s the way those cities are and that’s probably the way they’ll always be. There just isn’t anything we can do about it.”

All of that comes a few weeks after we celebrated putting a man on the moon a whopping 50 years ago.

We’re saying that the “can-do,” atti-

tude we had in 1969 can’t be duplicated today?

It’s awful that a lot of these big urban areas have plight, high murder rates and schools that aren’t preparing the youngsters for life.

Republicans will be quick to point out that the big cities are an example of how Democrat policies are failing and failing miserably.

I always kind of thought city politics were non-partisan. I’ve rarely known what the party affiliation is for Edmond’s City Council members.

For argument’s sake, let’s say the Democrats have messed up the big cities. That doesn’t mean the GOP and independents can’t come up with some ideas that can help. The president is the president of the entire nation, including Baltimore. Couldn’t he sit down with Cummings and discuss how to turn things around?

I agree with Trump on the state of some of these towns. Few people would ever chose to live in places like that. Yet for goodness sakes don’t let the problem fester for decades more.

Government and the private sector need to show compassion for the folks who live there and make those cities safer and better places to live.

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

Leader warns candidates

By Oklahoman Editorial Board In an open letter last week, Rahm Emanuel, who served as chief of staff to former President Barack Obama, offered advice to the Democrats seeking to run against President Trump next year. The candidates didn’t exactly embrace it during the latest debates, but Emanuel’s observations were noteworthy nonetheless.

He wrote that much of what came out of the first debates left “many of us shaking our heads.” Emanuel presented his letter as suggestions for the second debates, which were Tuesday and Wednesday in Detroit.

He offered a fivestep process to winning the nomination: n Remind voters that the United States has always won when

it has invested in itself.

Taxpayers “have spent the last 20 years in both blood and treasure building roads, schools and hospitals in Iraq and Afghanistan,” he wrote. “All the while, American wages continued to stagnate.” n Drive home the importance that improved education — providing every 4-yearold pre-K and every high school graduate a spot in a community college -- can play in creating the workforce for the 21st century. n Tout the need to invest in rebuilding roads and bridges.

“Most voters will take comfort knowing that we have to hire American workers to pave American roads.” n Offer national unity through universal national service. “Nothing would better unite our country like serving alongside each other.”

n Promise to build on the Affordable Care Act by letting anyone older than 55 buy into Medicare. Candidates should “make sure all Americans are aware that Trump’s only real idea on health care is Medicare cuts for all.”

Emanuel also said the person who defeats Trump will need to be able to unite all primary voters, and then show that he or she can win in a general election.

“Before our party promises health care coverage to undocumented immigrants — a position not even Ted Kennedy took — let’s help the more than 30 million Americans who are a single illness away from financial ruin,” Emanuel wrote. “Before we start worrying about whether the Boston Marathon bomber can vote, let’s stop states that are actively trying to curtail voting rights of citizens. And before we promise a guaranteed minimum income to health adults who prefer to stay home and play video games, let’s increase the minimum wage and the Earned Income Tax Credit to benefit the millions of people who work hard and still live near poverty.”

But aside from a few exceptions (notably U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Ohio, former Rep. John Delaney of Maryland and former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, all long shots to emerge from the pack), many of the candidates — including the leaders — back positions that appeal to the far left but may turn off moderate Democrats and independents.

Whether that changes remains to be seen. Either way, Emanuel can say he tried.

From Oklahoman.com

Election security finally getting a boost?

By The Oklahoman Ediitorial Board Similar to his report to Congress about the 2016 presidential election, special prosecutor Robert Mueller’s recent appearance before two House committees served to further members’ political causes.

Democrats continue to push for impeachment proceedings against President Trump, Republicans say it’s time to move on.

What may have gained some momentum, however, is the issue of election security, a topic Mueller was firm about on a day when he otherwise seemed addled.

Mueller reiterated that Russia is already trying to mess with U.S. elections as it did in 2016. His report had said that “sweeping and systemic” attacks were leveled against election infrastructure, along with a disinformation campaign on social media. Before

Congress, he said, “I have seen a number of challenges to our democracy. The Russian government’s effort to interfere in our election is among the most serious. This deserves the attention of every American. They’re (the Russians) doing it as we sit here.

And they expect to do it during the next campaign.”

Several times before the House Intelligence Committee, Mueller cited the potential damage that could result from meddling by Russia and other U.S. enemies.

Journalist Judith Miller, writing for City Journal, suggests that Mueller’s appearance could ramp up pressure on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to allow votes on bills that seek to strengthen our voting systems against interference.

“As the 2020 presidential election nears, Democrats may benefit from what they portray as Republican indifference to protecting America’s vulnerable

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.

voting systems,” Miller wrote.

McConnell, R-Ky., has blocked two bills recently, saying they’re redundant. He also notes that Congress already has allocated about $380 million in the past year to boost states’ election security.

However, last week the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee released its report on Russian meddling and said once that $380 million is spent, Congress should direct more money and attention toward this issue.

The report said elections should continue to be locally run — McConnell and others have cited concerns about federalizing elections — but suggested Congress could do more to help.

The committee’s chairman, Sen. Richard Burr, RN.C., says election officials at the state and local levels “have dramatically changed how they approach election security” in the past three years, but that, “There is still much work that remains to be done, however.”

One recommendation from the committee is for states and local jurisdictions to replace outdated voting systems that are potential targets for cyberattacks (this wouldn’t apply to Oklahoma, whose system is first-rate).

Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., the committee vice chairman, said he hopes the report drives home the point that “regardless of political party … this threat remains urgent, and we have a responsibility to defend our democracy against it.”

Miller argues that McConnell “may be able to dismiss prosecutor Mueller’s warning, but ignoring the Senate intelligence committee may be harder.” In the months ahead, we’ll see whether that proves true.

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 11

Upcoming season of concerts announced Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble will celebrate the contribution of notable women composers, from Clara Schumann to contemporaries such as Libby Larsen, in its 2019-2020 season. This year the ensemble marks its 17th as Oklahoma City’s premier classical chamber music presenter. The five-concert regular season will also include works

by Brahms, Dvořák, Mozart, Haydn and Tchaikovsky. In June the ensemble will again present a four-concert summer chamber music festival.

The ensemble will be joined by two guest artists: pianist Stephen Buck in Concert 3 and French horn player Adam Unsworth in Concert 4.

Buck is Visiting Professor of Music at the Conservatory of Music at the State University of New York, and Unsworth is Professor of Horn at the University of Michigan.

Concert 1 – “Melodic Masters” September 24, presents a lyrical evening with Germaine Tailleferre’s piano trio, Josef Suk’s Piano Quartet in A minor, and Johannes Brahms String Sextet No. 1.

Concert 2 – “From Café to Concert Hall” November 12, will include Clara Schumann’s masterpiece, her Piano Trio in G minor; Paul Schoenfield’s ever-popular Café Music, a trio for violin, cello and piano; and Antonín Dvořák’s Piano Trio No. 4, the “Dumky,” one of his best-loved works.

Concert 3 – “Rustic Gardens” January 21, features Libby Larsen’s Barn Dances, Carl Maria von Weber’s Clarinet Quintet, W. A. Mozart’s Quartet No. 1, and Arnold Schoenberg’s Chamber Symphony No. 1 (arr. by Anton Webern). Joining ensemble musicians will be guest pianist Stephen Buck.

Concert 4 – “The Virtuoso French Horn” March 3, will showcase the versatility and elegance of the French horn, ranging from works by Joseph Haydn and Mozart to contemporary Catherine Likhuta,

PHOTO PROVIDED/PERFORMINGARTSPHOTOS.COM

From left are Amy I-Lin Cheng, Gregory Lee, Zach Reaves amd Mark Neumann.

Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble with guest artist Adam Unsworth.

Concert 5 – “Musical Panorama” April 14, concludes the regular season with works by Pytor Ilyich Tchaikovsky, his popular Souvenir de Florence, Sir Malcolm Arnold’s Suite Bourgeoise for Flute, Oboe and Piano and Joan Tower’s Island Prelude for Oboe and String Quartet. Capping the evening will be “In Box” by Oklahoma City’s Edward Knight, an off-kilter look at the daily communications flooding the inbox.

In June the Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble will present Summer Festival IX at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Edmond woman elected to national DAR board

By Andrea Wallis Aven Earlier this summer, native Oklahoman Patsy “Pat” Miller McFall of Edmond was installed as Registrar General of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution at the organization’s annual Continental Congress in Washington, D.C. Born in Tuttle, McFall joined the DAR Black Beaver Chapter in Norman in 1986 and has since served in numerous positions including Regent of the Samuel King Chapter in Edmond, Oklahoma State Regent, and Vice President General on the DAR’s National Board of Management. As one of 12 women who make up the DAR’s National Executive Board, McFall’s three-year term as Registrar General requires her to oversee the processing of all applications for DAR membership, as well as responsibility for the 45 professional genealogists who review and verify those applications. In 2018 the Society received over 11,000 applications.

As McFall states, “I am thrilled to serve as Registrar General. I am very excited about the future of our Society as this Executive Board works with our President General, Denise Doring VanBuren. DAR will be at the forefront as we approach our nation's 250th anniversary in 2026, and as the history of our country, and the ancestors who had a part in building our nation, will be highlighted."

A retired educator with over 40 years of experience in conducting genealogical and family history research, McFall felt an immediate affinity for DAR when she was first introduced by a member who made a presentation to her students on the Revolutionary War. “I fell in love with this organization that promotes genealogy and family history along with historical preservation, patriotism, and education. What a dynamic combination for which all elements struck a deep feeling of pride in my family and in my country.”

McFall was also attracted to the service component of DAR, and as Oklahoma State Regent from 20122014, spearheaded the Veterans First Fund Endowment which continues to provide, in collaboration with the VA

Patsy ‘Pat’ Miller McFall hospitals, non-medical assistance to the veterans of Oklahoma such as clothing, educational materials, and necessities for veterans transitioning home from the hospital.

McFall is an enthusiastic advocate of community service and states, “The patriotic, hard-working women in the 43 DAR chapters in Oklahoma are excited to serve in their communities through a multitude of endeavors which includes service to veterans, scholarships for students, supporting our schools, and preserving history at the local, state, and national level.”

Founded in 1890, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children. With more than 185,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world's largest and most active service organizations.

Any woman 18 years or older-regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. For more information go to the Oklahoma DAR site at: https://oklahomadar2.weebly.com/, or the National DAR website at: DAR.org.

Dates and programs will be announced in January.

Season Membership Passes are available on our website or at the door for $100 for all regular season concerts and the four festival concerts. Single admission prices are $20 at the door. Children admitted free. Active-duty military and students are free with ID. Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble, Oklahoma City’s own chamber ensemble, presents fine classical chamber music in the beautiful and acoustically-rich St. Paul’s Cathedral at NW 7th and N. Robinson near downtown Oklahoma City. Free parking is available just south of the cathedral. For more information about the ensemble and upcoming concerts, visit www.brightmusic.org

Page 12 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 13

The Four Italian Tenors

Four Italian Tenors to open Armstrong Arts Series Making their United States debut, the Four Italian Tenors will perform an evening of operatic tenor hits at Armstrong Auditorium on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. to begin the 2019-20 Performing Arts Series.

“This group represents some of the finest talent in the newest generation of world-class tenors,” Armstrong Auditorium Concert Manager Ryan Malone said. “We are thrilled to have these vocal powerhouses launch Armstrong’s 2019-20 season.”

In a program titled Viva Italia—a salute to four great Italian tenors Enrico Caruso, Mario Lanza, Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli—the quartet presents an extraordinary program of the most fa-

mously beloved Italian opera arias and songs, fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism and dramatic flair. Viva Italia includes tenor hits from favorite composers such as Puccini, Rossini, Verdi, Donizetti and more. This performance is part of the inaugural U.S. tour for this sensational young new Italian grouping.

Tickets to the Four Italian Tenors begin at $31 for balcony seating and $71 for orchestra seating.

For more information about ticket options, subscriptions, group rates or current exhibits, please visit Armstrong Auditorium’s websiteor call the box office.

Since 1998, the Armstrong International Cultural

Foundation has elevated Oklahoma as a worldclass center for the arts by welcoming acclaimed performances from a plethora of genres, including classical, jazz and folk music, theater, classical ballet, folk dance and more. Since 2010, Armstrong Auditorium has exponentially enhanced that mission. With only 75 feet from the stage to the back wall, its 823-seat theater is crafted for the most exceptional projection of balance and sound and boasts a nine-millisecond initial time delay gap.

The award-winning venue continues to receive praise for its beauty, crisp acoustics and intimate atmosphere that provides an exceptional concert experience.

Page 14 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Medical breakthroughs

PHOTO PROVIDED

PHOTO PROVIDED

Dr. John Summers introduces the WATCHMAN heart implant device.

An upclose view of the WATCHMAN.

Heart implant device may eliminate use of blood thinners SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital is pleased to introduce the WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device, a medical device designed for patients with atrial fibrillation not caused by heart valve problems who seek an alternative for longterm use of blood thinners. The hospital is one of the only facilities in Oklahoma to offer this innovative procedure.

“Our goal in introducing WATCHMAN technology to SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital is twofold,” Dr. John Summers, cardiologist and electrophysiologist, said. “First, we endeavor to expand our offerings of the best life-sustaining therapy options to those patients who aren’t ideal candidates for blood thinners. Second, and most important, we hope to contribute to an overall reduction in rates of stroke, bleeding and cardiovascular-related death.”

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that may present with a rapid quivering or pounding in the chest. An estimated 5 million Americans are impacted by this condition, and these individuals have a five times greater risk of stroke when compared to individuals with a normal heart rhythm.

Oral anticoagulants, or blood thinners, have traditionally been the only option for stroke risk reduction in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Unfortunately, approximately 40 percent of atrial fibrillation patients are not ideal candidates to take these medications, which include Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto among others. Ideal candidates for the WATCHMAN procedure include individuals who are at increased risk of stroke who are unable to take blood thinners due to reasons related to coexisting health problems, high cost or work-related hazards.

“In addition to the reduced risk of stroke, bleeding and death, many WATCHMAN patients experience improved quality of life due to freedom from chronic blood thinner therapy and its inherent restrictions and requirements,” Summers said. “Many atrial fibrillation patients on oral anticoagulation must undergo regular blood work to assess the effectiveness of their blood thinners. Even more must restrict activities which might place them at increased risk of bleeding. WATCHMAN can be life changing by freeing patients to live without these limitations.”

The majority of strokes with atrial fibrillation occur due to clot formation in a structure called the left atrial appendage. The WATCHMAN device closes off this area of the heart preventing harmful blood clots that can form there from entering the blood stream and potentially causing a stroke. It is

a small metallic device with a porous membrane that is deployed into the left atrial appendage.

Heart tissue then grows over the implant, permanently sealing the appendage and forming a barrier. Patients will usually remain on a blood thinner during the initial healing period after which a combination of aspirin and clopidogrel, a type of blood thinner, is typically given for a total of six months.

After that, aspirin is continues on an ongoing basis.

The WATCHMAN procedure has been performed in more than 50,000 patients worldwide.

It is a proven therapy with a 95 percent success rate at the time of implant and a complication rate similar to other cardiac procedures such as ablation or stent placement. Ninety-nine percent of patients are able to stop oral anticoagulation after one year.

Although medical procedures and recovery times can vary by patient, implantation is most often a one-time, one-hour procedure performed under general anesthesia. Typically, patients spend one to two nights in the hospital and can anticipate one week off work for recovery.

SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital is proud to offer this new therapy for stroke reduction in atrial fibrillation patients.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Dr. Bradley Bohnstedt and the neurology team in action.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The WEB Stent device.

OU Medicine neurosurgeon achieves a medical first Patricia Procter of Oklahoma City is one of two patients who became Oklahoma’s first recipients of an innovative device developed to prevent rupture of brain aneurysms. The devices were recently placed by OU Medicine neurosurgeon Bradley Bohnstedt, M.D., during the first such procedures performed in the state.

With not one, but three brain aneurysms, Proctor had to avoid any situation that might increase the risk of aneurysm rupture. “I couldn’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds and any physical exertion was potentially dangerous. Even bending over could increase the pressure to a dangerous level,” she said.

The presence of the aneurysms and the risks they posed effectively blocked Proctor’s path to treatment for other complex health concerns.

Bohnstedt chose to use the WEB, a mesh-like system that stabilizes the vessel and prevents rupture or recurrent rupture.

Bohnstedt explained that aneurysms - weakened areas in the walls of blood vessels - are common, occurring in 2 to 6 percent of the population, often without symptoms or problems. They can occur in various areas of the body and most remain small and undiagnosed. However, much like stretched and thinned areas on a balloon, this

weakened area of an aneurysm becomes increasingly thin, making it vulnerable to rupture. This makes brain aneurysms dangerous and potentially deadly.

“When aneurysms rupture, 10 percent of patients won’t even make it to a hospital,” Bohnstedt said. “Of those who survive, nearly half will die within six months due to a range of complications.”

Inserted by means of a catheter, the pre-shaped WEB device remains in place permanently. The procedure took about two hours and required two very small incisions, one behind each eye. Proctor said she had to remain reclined on her back for several hours following the procedure to minimize pressure in the treated area.

Bohnstedt explained that smoking and hypertension are among the highest risk factors for aneurysm rupture. Genetic or familial links are present in 10 to 20 percent of cases. With a family history of high blood pressure, Proctor began dealing with the condition in her early 30s.

Many aneurysms are detected incidentally, during diagnostic imaging procedures associated with other conditions. Such was the case for Proctor, whose aneurysms were found during a CT scan, performed in connection with chronic sinus infec-

tions that had required multiple surgeries.

The central location between Proctor’s eyes and size made this aneurysm (of the three she has) the best option for treatment using the WEB device.

The neck of the aneurysm was comparatively large, which can limit the success of traditional treatment approaches.

The WEB is available in many pre-shaped configurations and selection depends in part on what size best suits the specific aneurysm. The structure of the device serves to encourage growth of the blood vessel’s inner lining over the neck of the aneurysm. This effect prevents recurrence and limits the continual blood flow that would increase pressure on vessel walls. Aneurysms cannot dissolve on their own, so the WEB acts as a life-saving safety net.

“I’m very fortunate that it was found,” Proctor said. “Now, I feel just normal. The things I couldn’t do because I couldn’t move freely, the many things I had to have extra help with – maybe they don’t sound like much, but it’s a lot.

“My life has drastically changed. I’m going places and doing things I haven’t been able to do for a long time. I’m so thankful these advanced technologies are available, and for doctors with such amazing skills to use them.”

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 15

A 21st century story difficult to process

Cable special truly engrossing

By George Gust “I Love You, Now Die: The Commonwealth vs.

Michelle Carter” is a two-part HBO documentary miniseries following the true crime story that shocked the nation in 2017.

After 18-year-old Conrad Roy killed himself in his car in Fairhaven, Mass., police discovered text messages in which his girlfriend, 17-year-old Michelle Carter, seemed to encourage him to commit suicide. The case lead to a trial that raised difficult questions about technology, social media and mental health, while asking if one person can be held responsible for the suicide of another.

The total run time of “I Love You, Now Die” sits at roughly two and a half hours, but the case and the two teenagers at the center of it merit such a deep exploration of technology, media influence and mental health. Playing out over two parts each segment covers one side of the case, first the prosecution’s side of the story, then the defense. What results is a thoughtful, yet non-exploitative examination of a case that could only happen in the age of the smart phone.

Following a tragedy, such as the suicide of an 18-year-old boy, there is a desperate need and want for all those affected to know why and how such a tragedy could occur. When the authorities find the text conversation between Roy and Carter, it was clear that these two teens were engaged in a destructive relationship that existed almost entirely over text message.

The filmmakers display much of the text conversation, Twitter and Facebook posts between the two, giving the audience the opportunity to judge for themselves and come to their own conclusions about the nature of their relationship and the path it took to tragedy.

With “I Love You, Now Die” there is an extensive record record what took place. In the past the loved ones of the deceased would be left with only questions.

When I first learned of this story in the news, like most other people, I only heard the headline story version of this case. Now after two and half hours, I’m left feeling conflicted about the moral and legal questions this documentary have brought up, which is testament to the filmmaker’s restraint in not trying to get a message across in terms of

Food pantry expands Project 66 Food & Resource Center held a grand opening recently to unveil the new client grocery room. The newly constructed 1,800 square foot space which more than doubles the room that was used for the past two years.

“This construction was possible because of many generous donations and support from community businesses,” said Kenny Thomas, Project 66 Board President.

Project 66, 2612 S. Kelly, is a local food & resource center in Edmond, working as a partner agency with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Founded in 2010, Project 66 serves approximately 500 families each month in the Edmond area. Clients are allowed to visit once a month and receive about a two-week supply of food. They select food in a clientchoice food pantry designed much like a grocery store; this allows clients to choose foods they prefer, preserving client dignity and making a greater us of Project 66 resources.

In 2018, Project 66 served over 5,800 families in the Edmond area, representing 17,944 individuals. In addition to food, Project 66 provides special services like holiday meals, back to school supplies and teacher walkout services, totaling over 23,000 individuals impacted by Project 66.

assigning guilt.

The details in this case and documentary are difficult to process, especially for parents, as our children get more and more inundated with technology and living a large chunk of their lives online and in their smart phones. Yet the way in which the filmmakers present the case is undeniably engrossing and will challenge you to formulate your own decision on the case.

“I Love You, Now Die: The Commonwealth vs.

Michelle Carter” is rated TV-MA and contains strong language and distributing details and is available right now on HBO. 4 out of 5 stars.

Answers Page 23

‘I Love You, Now Die’ dives deep into the details of the suicide of an 18- year-old boy and the toxic text relationship with his girlfriend that appears to have been a contributing factor in his tragic death.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: BACK TO SCHOOL ACROSS 1. "American Graffiti" director 6. *"High School ____" with Michael J. Fox 9. Chutzpah 13. *Beside, in Shakespeare class 14. Actor Lowe 15. "Melting Pot" island 16. Lazybones 17. General Services Administration 18. Prominent 19. *Opposite of wide ruled 21. *Like Core 23. Husk of corn 24. *Ballpoint type 25. Pet rock or Beanie Baby 28. Foal's mother 30. Put on a pedestal 35. Flock's echo 37. *Human Biology focus 39. *Divide by two 40. Plural of focus 41. #28 Across girlfriend?

43. Iranian coin 44. Resembling a serpent 46. "Cogito, ____ sum" 47. Taro plant 48. Radiant 50. Taj Mahal city 52. *Even, in Poetry class 53. *Ginsberg's lit class staple 55. *Students' docs 57. *What Miss Othmar said 60. *Lunch box companion 64.

"Tippe____ and Tyler Too" 65. International Monetary Fund 67. Physicist of exclusion principle fame 68. *First-year undergrad 69. Luftwaffe's WWII enemy 70. Arch of ____, Rome 71. Lincoln coin

72. I do this with my little eye 73. Hoity-toity sorts DOWN 1. Nonclerical 2. Ctrl + Z 3. Unit of life 4. Anoint 5. Watch Hulu, e.g.

6. Spur on 7. ABBA's 1975 hit 8. *Olden schoolhouse math tool 9. Steal 10. *Type of sax in band 11. Bank holding 12. 1960s altered state inducer 15. Catch in a net 20. "Up for ____" 22. *Smallest whole number 24. F in FBI 25. *Financial aid acronym 26. In the midst 27. Hot rod sticker 29. *Traditional learning method 31. Container weight 32. Omit 33. Avoid, as in taxes 34. *Thornton of "Back to

School" fame 36. Goddess of victory 38. Slang for safecracker 42. Not Ionic or Corinthian 45. Name of God in the Old Testament 49. Extinct flightless bird 51. Virtuosos 54. Sounds like a helicopter 56. "The rain in ____ falls mainly in the plain" 57. Ending with hard or soft 58. *Soon, in Shakespeare class 59. Rat during bubonic plaque epidemic, e.g.

60. Questionable 61. *Drivers Ed "classroom" 62. *Afterschool get-together 63. Gene Simmons' band 64. Chlorofluorocarbon 66. *Geography class prop

See Answers Page 23

Page 16 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Governor signs Living Donor Legislation

PHOTO PROVIDED

Four-year-old Laney Culpepper, who received a kidney transplant at The Children’s Hospital earlier this year, helps Gov. Kevin Stitt as he signed Living Donor Legislation into effect today at the Capitol. Laney’s uncle was her living kidney donor. He drove from Arkansas to join Laney’s family and OU Medicine doctors at the bill signing last week.

New health care authority director named by Stitt Gov. Kevin Stitt this week announced the appointment of Kevin Corbett as the next agency director for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA).

“Kevin Corbett’s financial expertise and strong organizational leadership will serve the Health Care Authority and the State of Oklahoma well,” said Gov. Stitt. “Corbett will bring his wealth of experience in accounting and consulting to ensure OHCA’s $6 billion budget is being delivered on target and to effectively partner with other state agencies to improve care for the most vulnerable in our state. I look forward to working with Corbett in order to achieve Top Ten outcomes in Oklahoma.”

Corbett will begin leading OHCA on Aug. 15, and his appointment will require Senate confirmation in the 2020 legislative session.

Corbett previously served as the Interim Corbett Chief Financial Officer at Lagoon Water Solutions. Prior to this, Corbett served as a senior partner and Risk Advisory practice leader with Ernst & Young, retiring in 2017 with over 38 years of service. During his career, Corbett advised some of the largest companies in the U.S. and abroad, gaining extensive experience in a wide array of corporate matters, including public offerings, merger and acquisitions, debt restructurings, bankruptcy proceedings, risk management and transformational change.

Corbett is a graduate of Oklahoma State University (BS in Accounting) and the executive management program at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. Corbett has served on the board of several civic organizations in Oklahoma and Texas, including Sunbeam Family Services, Junior Achievement, United Way, and Oklahoma State University Foundation Board of Governors. Corbett is a CPA

licensed in Oklahoma and Texas and a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors.

“Kevin Corbett brings to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority a distinguished record of leading people to drive effective outcomes. His proven ability to focus and lead high-performing teams will be a powerful tool in helping us achieve Top Ten outcomes for the health of all Oklahomans - particularly the most vulnerable among us.

I deeply appreciate Kevin's willingness to bring his seasoned experience to bear in service to his home State.” – Jerome Loughridge, Secretary of Health and Mental Health “It’s exciting to have Kevin Corbett join the leadership at the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. Kevin brings a wealth of business experience and acumen to this position. His results-driven leadership and ability to build teams will transform the OHCA into a high performing agency that is committed to advancing the health status of Oklahoma’s most vulnerable populations and to making Oklahoma a Top Ten State in health.” – Dr. Kayse Shrum, Secretary of Science and Innovation “I have had the privilege to know and work with Kevin Corbett for many years. His leadership skills, business acumen and knowledge of best practices will be of great benefit to the OHCA. I have full confidence he will serve the people of Oklahoma well.”– Mike Sanner, Former Oklahoma City Managing Partner at Ernst & Young “Governor Stitt has made an excellent choice in Kevin Corbett. As a consultant to my company, Kevin was an effective manager and skilled accountant who helped us drive stronger outcomes with our resources. He will bring accountability and precision to the Health Care Authority’s multi-billiondollar budget and ensure taxpayer dollars are achieving the goals of the state. I cannot think of anyone better to manage this important state agency.” – David Williams, Former Chairman and CEO of Noble Corporation

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 17

UCO deemed ‘Veteran Friendly’

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma has been designated as a Top Veteran-Friendly School by the U.S. Veterans Magazine 2019 Best of the Best list. The annual review is an evaluation of the nation’s employers, initiatives, government agencies and educational institutions.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Andrew Kowalski presents Center of Family Love director Debbie Espinosa with the Person of the Year award.

Intellectual disabilities home director receives recognition Center of Family Love CEO, Debbie Espinosa, was honored with the Notre Dame Club of Oklahoma City Person of the Year Award at the Universal Notre Dame Night Banquet on late last month.

The award is a highly prestigious honor according to Notre Dame alumnus and Notre Dame Club of Oklahoma City treasurer, Mike Milligan, and is not exclusive to Notre Dame alumni.

“This honor is reserved for a person who clearly demonstrates the spirit of Notre Dame,” said Milligan during the award presentation. “Debbie Espinosa has clearly exemplified this spirit through her outstanding achievements in service and profession. When Debbie became the CEO of the Center of Family Love, the organization began making tremendous strides and leaps in the way it serves adults with disabilities. I’ve personally seen how far she has brought the ministry in the time she’s served there, and I know she has plans to continue building on this momentum.”

The award was presented to Espinosa by Notre Dame alumnus and Notre Dame Club of Oklahoma City president, Andrew Kowalski, and Espinosa was then invited to the podium to give an acceptance speech and share a brief informational video message on the Center of Family

Love.

“I am so honored to receive this award,” said Espinosa, “but my first instinct is to say that I’m not the one who deserves it. It’s easy to be successful when you are surrounded by such an amazing team that strives daily to serve our residents who live with disabilities at the Center of Family Love. Really, this award goes to our team, our donors, our volunteers, our community and everyone who sacrifices to give these incredible individuals the life they deserve.”

For nearly 40 years, the Center of Family Love has provided innovative day programs and residential opportunities that inspire individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities to reach for and achieve their dreams.

The organization has plans to begin the first phase of a $25 million capital campaign later this year that will provide the funds for an expansion of programs, resources and opportunities for its residents and the surrounding communities.

The mission of the Center of Family Love is to provide quality lifetime care to individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. To learn more about Center of Family Love, ways to volunteer or to make a donation in support of the organization visit www.centeroffamilylove.org or call 405.263.4658.

The University of Central Oklahoma has been designated as a Top Veteran-Friendly School by the U.S. Veterans Magazine 2019 Best of the Best list.

The annual review is an evaluation of the nation’s employers, initiatives, government agencies and educational institutions.

U.S. Veterans Magazine Best of the Best identifies employment, business and supplier avenues within the federal government and corporate America for veterans, transitioning service members, disabled veterans, spouses and veteran business owners.

“We’re excited to be listed as a Top Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine for a third year in a row,” said Catherine Orozco-Christmas, director of Central’s Veteran Higher Education Resource and Opportunity Center.

“We appreciate the accolade acknowledging the important work we do and we will continue to serve our heroes both in and out of uniform to the best of our ability.”

Central has also been recognized as a top school for student veterans and active military by The Military Times, among all surveyed four-year colleges and universities in the U.S., on its “Best for Vets: Colleges 2019” list. For more information about Central, visit www.uco.edu.

Page 18 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

1932 bank holdup in Boley

Genealogy group will hear of botched robbery 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.

The little bank in the On Aug. 19 quiet all-black thriving village of Boley, Okla. devoting years of reprobably looked like search to family heran easy target to bank itage. He has robber Charles "Pretty discovered previously Boy" Floyd's gang. unknown data on sixConsisting of two plus generations of his white men and one own family. He is black, the gang was founder and CEO of soon proven to be the Coltrane Group, an dead wrong.

Andre’ Head organization commitAfter the dust setted to preserving the tled on the morning of Nov. 23, rich heritage and deep history of Ok1932, two of the bank robbers had lahoma's historic all-black towns. been killed and the other seriously Heavily involved in the revitalizawounded. Surrounded by Boley's citition efforts of Boley and her renewal zens who had grabbed their own efforts, the Coltrane Group recently weapons, the townspeople opened completed an assessment of the fire as the robbers tried to flee. All Boley Public Library for the National the money was recovered. UnfortuPark Service, and a museum exhibit nately, bank manager D. J. Turner of photographs of Boley from the 20s was killed after he set off an alarm and 30s initially shown for six and being warned by the robbers not months at the Oklahoma History to do so. However; bank bookkeeper Center. He is currently working on and cashier H.C. McCormick grabbed the restoration of the Boley Farmers a rifle in the bank's vault and morand Merchants Bank, the scene of his tally wounded Turner's killer moprogram. Mr. Head has produced a ments after the bank manager was documentary about “The Crown shot.

Jewel” (Boley) and her annual rodeo.

The dead robbers were identified The Coltrane Group also offers sevas George Birdwell, Floyd's chief lieueral different chartered bus tours of tenant who was considered the Oklahoma's historic black towns brains of the gang, and novice robber guided by Andre' and his wife. Head Charles Glass, the driver of the getalso created and is President of the away car. Robber C.C. Patterson sufBlack Genealogy Research Group fered multiple bullet wounds but (BGRG) which meets monthly at the recovered and was sent to prison for Oklahoma History Center. his part in the robbery.

Having served on numerous fire, Floyd himself didn't participate in safety and law enforcement boards the robbery in the vibrant town that and agencies, Andre’ is a member of was the largest one of 29 all-black the American Association of Musetowns established before statehood. ums, the Oklahoma Historical SociIn fact, he had warned his gang ety, OHCE Genealogy Group, the members against robbing the Boley National Fire Marshals Association, bank because there wasn't much the International Association of Arson money there, the people of Boley all Investigators, and other professional had guns, knew how to shoot them organizations. Andre’ is a member of and weren't afraid to use them. The St. John Missionary Baptist Church residents of Boley definitely knew where he serves on its Black Heritage how to use their guns, and did!

Committee and is a leader on their Pretty Boy Floyd had plans to avenge security team. the murders of his friends, but he Andre' is a man of diverse talents. never got a chance as he was gunned He is happily married to his high downed in Ohio two years later school sweetheart, Jessilyn. Andre’ The Edmond Genealogical Society and his wife are proud parents of five will meet Monday, Aug. 19 at 6:30 grown children and doting grandparp.m. at the LDS Church, 1315 E. ents to seven beautiful grandbabies.

33rd Street in Edmond. Our program, Andre’ is eager to share with you the The Boley Farmers and Merchant's rich history and continued progress Bank Robbery will be presented by of the historic all-black towns of Andre' Head, President of the Black Oklahoma.

Genealogy Research Group (BGRG) The group’s Sept. 16 program will and CEO of the Coltrane Group. You feature Using Ancestry.com prewon't want to miss this exciting prosented by Pam Kirkland, Director of gram. the Family History Center in Moore.

Andre’ Head brings over 30 years Genealogical research assistance is of managerial experience to his quest available at 5:30 p.m. prior to the for community preservation and meetings. restoration, historical confirmation, For more information, visit our and family research. He is a retired website: http://www.rootsweb.com/ U.S. Federal Marshal, fire chief, ~okegs and find us on Facebook: Edsafety officer, explosives detection of- mond Genealogical Society. Meetings ficer, arson investigator and educator. are always open to the public, who is Andre' became an avid genealogist, cordially invited.

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 19

Publication recognizes Edmond professor

PHOTO PROVIDED

Asian elephants Asha and Chandra.

Species facing challenges

Official awareness for Asian elephants The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) are kicking off a month-long campaign to raise awareness of the plight of Asian elephants and to empower the public to take action to help save the endangered species.

The inaugural Asian Elephant Awareness Month features activities at the Zoo, a community conservation event and an engaging social media campaign (#TONSoflove) that will give wildlife fans ample opportunities to show their love for Asian elephants.

Why Asian Elephants?

Asian elephants face unique challenges compared to other elephant species. They are much more susceptible to elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), a fast-moving virus with a 60 percent fatality rate. Asian elephant populations in the wild have fallen below 40,000 (roughly equivalent to the human population of Yukon) according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, which classifies the species as endangered. African elephant populations are 10 times more abundant with about 500,000 individuals in the wild.

The 13 nations that make up the natural habitat of Asian elephants contain the densest human population on the planet and, as a result, elephants’ room to roam has been reduced by 85 percent in 40 years.

Poaching for ivory is a major threat to all elephant species, but because only male Asian elephants have tusks, illegal hunting has created a scarcity of males and a lack of genetic diversity in some wild populations.

“Asian elephants and the specific threats they face are almost invisible to the general public,” said Rebecca Snyder, OKC Zoo curator of conservation and science. “It’s been the African elephant species that has long dominated the conversation and represented all elephants in the zeitgeist. We want Asian Elephant Awareness Month to raise awareness about the dire situation facing Asian elephants and provide actionable ways for the public to get involved to ensure the species’ future.” #TONSoflove Social Media Campaign AZA-zoos, animal caretakers and all wildlife fans are encouraged to

share their love of Asian elephants on social media with #TONSoflove. To provide a visual signal unifying the posts, participants are encouraged to hold their hands in the shape of a heart and use that heart to frame an el-fie (elephant selfie). Fans are asked to include the #TONSoflove and reasons why they love Asian elephants in their photo captions. To learn conservation and fun facts about Asian elephants, click here.

Asian Elephant Awareness Month Events The OKC Zoo is celebrating World Elephant Day on Sunday, Aug. 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by Bob Moore Subaru, Zoo guests are invited come together for elephants and enjoy a day of fun and learning with games, crafts, bio-facts and other activities on-site at the Zoo’s Sanctuary Asia elephant habitat and entry plaza. This global event brings attention to how individuals can help conserve and protect these beloved animals. At Sanctuary Asia, Zoo guests can play conservation games for chances to win sweet treats, made by companies observing sustainable palm oil practices, complete an elephant “fun fact” activity card for a chance to get a “TONS OF LOVE” temporary tattoo, and design a conservation flag. In the entry plaza, guests can pledge their support and sign their names to a banner that will be given to the elephants during a special 2 p.m. presentation at the elephant pavilion in Sanctuary Asia. All World Elephant Day events are free with Zoo admission.

Empire for Elephants! Also on Sunday, Aug. 11, Empire Slice House, located in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District, is donating a portion of sales to the International Elephant Foundation specifically to help fund EEHV prevention and treatment in Asian elephant native range countries.

Additionally, the first 100 patrons to dine-in at Empire Slice House will receive a voucher good for one small bag of OKC Zoo Poo, redeemable at the Guest Services office in the Zoo’s entry plaza.

The ZOObaru and animal experts will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Plus, the OKC Zoo elephant team will assist the Empire Slice team as they unveil their new Ellie elephant mascot at 6:30 p.m.

rights and women’s rights Rose State College proactivist, and for her acafessor, Nyla Khan of Eddemic and political work mond, was recently in the Kashmir region of recognized by The JourIndia. nal Record as part of In March, Dr. Khan their 2019 list of “Fifty was appointed as ComMaking a Difference.” missioner of the OklaThis list spotlights fehoma Commission on the male business and comStatus of Women by Senmunity leaders making a ator Greg Treat, President difference in Oklahoma, Pro Tempore of the Oklaand includes individuals homa Senate. Dr. Khan from various sectors, Nyla Khan was also awarded the both private and public.

President’s Volunteer Service Award Khan is one of forty first-time honand Silver Medal for her bridge-buildorees on the 2019 list. ing work at the community and “I am delighted to have been recgrassroots-level in the State of Oklaognized by the Journal Record homa.

Woman of the Year Committee Dr. Khan was most recently se2019,” said Khan. “I have always belected by Gov. Kevin Stitt, as a memlieved that women play an essential ber of the International Team of the role in establishing a more inclusive Governor of Oklahoma, a group that democracy and new forums for citi“brings together business people, zen cooperation. Female leaders can members of government at the local, lead the way by offering new ideas, state and federal levels … The membuilding broad-based political coalibers are as diverse as the interests tions, and working to bridge organithey serve, but they are all commitzational divides in order to build a ted to a prosperous and globally foglorious Oklahoma.“ cused Oklahoma.”

Dr. Nyla Khan is a member of the The 2019 honorees of the Journal Harvard-based Scholars Strategy Network and a Humanities Professor at Record’s “Fifty Making a Difference” Rose State College where she teaches will be recognized during a banquet English Language. Khan is known at the National Cowboy and Western most notably for work as a human Heritage Museum on Oct. 10.

Page 20 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

U.S. News & World Report says the metro’s Stephenson Cancer Center is among the upper two percent in the nation treating and fighting cancer.

An elite hospital in cancer fight Stephenson Center & OU Medical honored OU Medicine is the No. 1 ranked hospital system in the Oklahoma City metro, and its oncology program at Stephenson Cancer Center and OU Medical Center ranked in the Top 50 in the nation, in the 2019-2020 rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.

The cancer ranking places Stephenson Cancer Center at OU Medicine in the Top 2 percent in the country.

This achievement makes OU Medicine, which includes OU Medical Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, The Children’s Hospital, OU Physicians, OU Medical Center Edmond and the OU Health Sciences Center the only healthcare system in Oklahoma to currently hold a national ranking, and it marks the first time in state history that a cancer care program has earned a national ranking. For OU Medicine, the achievement comes a little over a year after becoming a locally owned, nonprofit healthcare system and a year after earning the prestigious National Cancer Institute designation at Stephenson Cancer Center, which is held by only 2 percent of cancer centers in the country.

“We are honored and inspired by the extraordinary dedication and skill of our physicians, nurses, researchers, healthcare professionals and support staff who bring their best to our patients every day, “ said Chuck Spicer, President and CEO of OU Medicine.

“It is our privilege to serve the residents of Oklahoma by providing the most complex and specialized health care services that are only offered at OU Medicine.”

U.S. News & World Report especially recognized OU Medicine for its breadth of medical specialties and physician expertise to treat the most complex diseases and conditions. In addition, the health system earned commendations for the highest performance possible in three specific areas: the specialty of ophthalmology and the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart failure.

To generate hospital rankings, U.S. News & World Report evaluated nearly 5,000 hospitals nationwide. It assessed each hospital in 16 adult specialties, nine adult medical procedures or conditions and 10 pediatric specialties.

OU Medicine broke into the coveted U.S. News & World Report national

top 50 ranking for Best Cancer Hospitals by ranking No. 48 for 2019-2020.

U.S. News and World Report started with an initial pool of 4,653 hospitals, then narrowed this list down to 900 top cancer programs nationwide for more in depth analysis. In partnership with Stephenson Cancer Center at OU Medicine, the program was particularly recognized for its excellence in patient survival 30 days after a stay in the hospital, as well as the frequency that its patients are able to go directly home from the hospital rather than being sent to another facility for continued care. In addition, OU Medicine received a commendation for its volume of patients with high-risk cancers over three years. That recognition is especially relevant because higher patient volume is associated with better outcomes, according to research studies.

“At Stephenson Cancer Center, we lead the nation in enrollment for clinical trials and offer the most cutting edge and complex cancer treatments in the region. The National Cancer Institute designation we received last year is a testament to the excellent clinical research we are providing to our patients to ensure they are receiving the best cancer treatment available in the country. This additional recognition from U.S. News & World Report further confirms for Oklahomans that they can receive world class cancer care right here at home,” said Robert Mannel, M.D., Associate Vice Provost for Cancer Programs at OU Health Sciences Center and Director of Stephenson Cancer Center at OU Medicine.

OU Medicine’s cancer treatment program was also recognized for its use of advanced technologies, such as proton therapy and image-guided radiation therapy. For its holistic patient services, the cancer program received an excellent rating, which points to Stephenson Cancer Center’s Supportive Care program that provides pain management, palliative care, emotional and spiritual support, and more.

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Citizens Bank of Edmond, one of Edmond’s oldest businesses is a Beacon Award honoree for the bank’s commitment to volunteerism, charitable giving and community involvement. The downtown financial business was founded in 1901, before statehood.

Citizens Bank of Edmond noted for ‘Charitable Influence’ Citizens Bank of Edmond is incredibly honored to be named one of the Journal Record’s 2019 Beacon Award honorees in the category of “Charitable Influence”.

On July 11, 2019, The Journal Record’s Beacon Awards recognized 23 businesses and organizations for their contributions to their community in three categories, including “Charitable Influence”, “Philanthropic Impact,” and “Nonprofits Serving Nonprofits”.

The organizations recognized in the “Charitable Influence” category demonstrate a company cul-

ture that encourages and supports volunteerism, charitable giving and community involvement by its members, as described by the Journal Record.

Founded in 1901, Citizens Bank of Edmond has been an integral part of the Edmond community since before statehood. Over the last six years the bank has increased its community involvement by implementing several major initiatives to increase economic development in downtown Edmond, including its seasonal Heard on Hurd street festival and its regular “Cash

Cox improves Net speeds Cox Internet customers are now enjoying faster download speeds at no additional cost. The speeds are now up to 50 percent faster and are automatic for Cox customers with the popular Preferred and Premier tiers of service. All a customer needs to do is restart their modem to experience the increased speeds.

“We have increased internet speeds every year for the last 14 years as part of our commitment to providing the best experience inside and outside the home. With speed increases, our customers can do everything faster and make their homes even smarter,” said Christine Martin, director of communications.

“It’s how we help people make the most of their day and stay connected to the things they care about most.”

Cox customers with Premier service have download speeds up to 200 mbps (increased from 150 mbps), and customers with Preferred, the

most popular tier of service, have download speeds up 150 mbps (increased from 100 mbps).

To maximize the in-home experience, Cox’s Panoramic Wifi uses advanced technology designed for speed and performance to reach every device in every room of the home. This year, Cox also expanded its Panoramic Wifi offering to include the smartest Wifi experience, with reliable speed, coverage and control.

Outside the home, Cox High Speed Internet customers can access more than 650,000 wifi hotspots in cities across the nation at no additional cost.

Cox is investing $10B over the next five years to continue leading the broadband market and enable future growth. The company currently offers gigabit speeds to more than 95 percent of customers within its footprint, and all households will have Gigablast available by end of the year.

Advocating for more tourism

PHOTO PROVIDED

Staff from the Edmond Convention and Visitors Bureau were in downtown Edmond last week visiting with local merchants about bringing more tourism to Edmond. At Ellis Island from left are, Terry Lanham, Jennifer Seaton, Jessica Burns and Emily Northcutt.

Mob” events at local businesses.

“We were so thrilled to even be considered as one of the finalists for this prestigious community leadership award,” said Citizens Bank of Edmond’s President & CEO, Jill Castilla. “Just to be listed among the likes of the other honorees in our category is incredibly special and we are so grateful.”

Citizens wants to say a huge congratulations to all the overall winners of the categories, but most specifically to Cancer Treatment Centers of America, who was the overall 2019 winner for “Charitable Influence”.

Page 22 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Targets working adults

OCU offers career development classes NORTH NOR RT TH SECTION SECTION

RED ROCK L LAKE AKE

ACREAGE W/SHOP

OAKTREE PARK

UPGRADES GALORE!

SHADOW LAKE HILLS

SOLD!

5 ACRES W/POOL

VALENCIA

FAIRWAY ESTATES

THE OAKS ADDITION

REDSTONE CUSTOM HOME

TIMBERDALE

ROBIN RIDGE

SOLD!

EDMOND SCHOOLS

THE VALLEY

SOLD!

ACREAGE IN EDMOND

BIRNAM WOODS

EDMOND SCHOOLS

ACREAGE IN DEER CREEK SCHOOLS

ACREAGE IN E. EDMOND

5+ ACRES IN WEATHERS ESTATE

OAK TREE WEST

TOWN SQUARE

SPACIOUS AND FUNCTIONAL

VALENCIA PARK

SOLD!

LO LOTS TS & ACREAGES ACREAGES

SOLD! SO OL D !

agement Certificate program will be held on Fridays from Sept. 20 to Nov. 8. The program provides students with the knowledge and understanding of government contract acquisition and management. Students may attend in person or via live-stream from anywhere with an internet connection. Cost is $1,175, which includes books and materials.

The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) online certification test preparation programs will run for nine weeks from Sept. 9 to Nov. 8. Certification exams are offered year-round, so participants may apply for the examination immediately upon completion of the preparation course. Tuition is $600 plus the cost of books.

The Professional in Human Resources program, which is offered in cooperation with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), will run 12 weeks on Tuesday evenings from Sept. 3 to Nov. 5.

The program will prepare continuing education students for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certification exam.

Tuition is $600 plus the cost of books.

For more information about the certificate programs, visit okcu.edu/business, or contact professional program specialist Trudi Cunningham at tcunningham@okcu.edu or 405-208-5590.

Food bank & matching gift drive One in four Oklahoma children are living without consistent access to food. To help fight childhood hunger, the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, Lezlie and David Hudiburg, David Gorham, 7-Eleven Stores and an anonymous donor have issued a matching gift challenge.

Through Sept. 30, every donation made to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma's Food for Kids Programs will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $180,000.

“Masonic lodges from across the state and the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma are again committing our efforts to support the

F FAIRFAX AIRF IRF FAX A BEAUTY BEAUTY

EDMO EDMOND ND OFFICE BUILDING BUILDING

F FAIRVIEW AIRVIEW FARM FA ARM

ROSE CREEK 9TH FAIRWAY FA AIRWAY

6 CAR G GARAGE ARAGE

OAK O A AK TREE

EAST GOLF COURSE COURSE - 15TH HOLE

STUNNING HOME ON ON 1.61 ACRES ACRES

13TH F FAIRWAY AIR RWAY - OAK OAK TREE BEAUTY BEAUTY

LAKE A ACREAGE CREAGE IN HIDDEN LAKE

Enrollment has opened for four professional certificate programs beginning this fall in the Meinders School of Business at Oklahoma City University, which has been a leader in professional education for nearly two decades.

The business school is offering certificate programs in project management, government contracting, and two programs for human resources professionals. The classes, taught by Meinders School of Business professors and certified professionals, are held in evenings and on weekends in the school at NW 27th Street and McKinley Avenue.

“These programs offer professionals a quick and focused option to advance their careers, without having to sacrifice work time,” said Melissa Cory, director of Continuing Professional Education for the business school.

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preparation course will run for 10 weeks on Saturdays from Sept. 7 to Nov. 9. OCU’s program was ranked one of the “Top 50 Best Value Project Management Certificates” by Value Colleges. Tuition is $1,495 plus the cost of books.

Discounts are available for members of the military, companies who enroll three or more students, and for OCU students and alumni.

The Government Contract Man-

Food for Kids Match campaign,” said John Logan, Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma executive director.

“The Food for Kids Match allows our lodges to make a meaningful contribution to the benefit of children across our state.”

Last year, the Regional Food Bank provided more than 2.3 million meals for chronically hungry children through its Food for Kids Programs like the Backpack Program. The Backpack Program began in 2003 and provides sacks of food to help students that have been identified as food insecure get through weekends and long holiday breaks.

Did somebody just say Christmas?

Salvation Army making plans for Christmas assistance program The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma is now giving appointments for registration to residents of Oklahoma County for its 2019 Angel Tree program.

The Angel Tree program helps families with children 0 - 12, and senior citizens 62 and older by providing Christmas assistance. Last year, over 2,000 Angels received Christmas assistance through The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma's program.

Appointments for registration will be available Monday, Aug. 5 through Friday, Aug. 30 at our social services office located at 1001 N Pennsylvania Avenue in Okla-

homa City. Staff will be available to assist families from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4:00pm.

To receive an appointment, individuals must bring a current photo ID and proof of residency, such as a current utility bill or rent/lease receipt.

Residents of Oklahoma County and residents of ZIP codes 73159, 73165 and 73170 of Cleveland County are eligible to receive an appointment at this office.

For more information, please contact The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma at 405-246-1100 Monday through Friday during business hours.

City is offering sponsorships for ‘Enchanted Stroll’ attraction Edmond’s newest holiday tradition kicks off again on Nov. 23.

Sponsorships are now available for Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll. The new walkthru holiday tradition returns to Mitch Park and runs Nov. 23 – Jan. 5 from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. each night.

“We had our grand opening in 2018 with 20, 3D lighted displays,” said Jessica Lyle, Edmond Electric Community Relations Coordinator. “We are excited to continue to

grow this year and really look forward to partnering with local businesses to create a unique experience for our residents.”

Businesses have the unique opportunity to get in on the ground floor with what is sure to be a huge hit for many years to come. Sponsorship opportunities for this oneof-a-kind holiday event are limited and information can be found at www.edmondlights.com. For further questions, please contact Jessica Lyle at 216-7729.

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 23

The Baha’is invitation to prayers for peace Two communities will circle the metro with 200 minutes of prayer in August to commemorate the upcoming 200th anniversary of the birth the Bab in late October.

Most religious traditions across the world speak of a future filled with peace and harmony for mankind.

Members of the Baha’i Faith in Edmond and Norman invite their area communities to join them on two occasions in August to pray together for that universal peace to spread across the world.

The public may offer prayers with the Baha’is at the following times: n Aug. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Edmond Baha’i Center, 321 E. Campbell, Edmond; n Aug. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Norman Baha’i Center, 526 Iowa St., Norman.

Both public events will be followed by a luncheon. No monetary donations are accepted.

Baha’is across the world have been attending devotional gatherings and sponsoring special events this year in anticipation of the bicentenary observation of the birth of the Bab, a prophet herald of the Baha’i Faith, whose 200th birthday, which falls on Tuesday, Oct, 29. The Bab, which means the Gate, foretold of a messenger of God who would bring a message of universal peace. Baha’u’llah proclaimed this message in 1844 in Persia, now Iran.

Baha'is view the world's major religions as part of a single, progressive process through which God reveals His will to humanity.

Other major Baha’i tenets include the oneness of humanity, equality of men and women, eradication of prejudice, harmony of science and religion and universal education. To learn more about the

Baha’i Faith in America, visit www.bahai.us.

Among the prayers to be offered at these events include prayers for humanity, nearness to God, for America, spiritual growth, tests and difficulties, for protection, for the departed and service to God. This is the second time this summer that Norman and Edmond Baha’is have gathered in their respective communities to offer prayers as they prepare for the 200th anniversary of the Bab’s birth, which will be celebrated with a metro-wide event at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the University of Oklahoma Memorial Union Ballroom.

This event is sponsored by several metro Baha’i communities.

Additionally, mark your calendars for observances at the Edmond Baha’i Center marking the

births of the Twin Manifestations of the Bab and Baha’u’llah at these times: n 7 p.m. Oct. 28 honoring the Bab, and n 7 p.m. Oct. 29 honoring Baha’u’llah. n Both October events will be at the Edmond Baha’i Center, 321 E. Campbell Dr. n And look for additional Oklahoma City events to be announced soon. n The public is invited to all events.

For more information about the Aug. 11 Edmond event, please call the Edmond Baha’i Center at (405) 348-9992 or email edmond@edmondbahai.org. You also can visit @edmondbahaifaith on Facebook or go online to www.edmondbahai.org.

For more information about the Aug. 18 Norman event, email norman.bahais@gmail.com or go online at http://www.bahaisofnorman.org/.

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

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

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

SCRIPTURE • TRADITION • REASON

Page 24 • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 1B

MIDDLE SCHOOL EDITION

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT OF EDMOND LIFE & LEISURE

Page 2B • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Fashion trends are cyclical and those in the know love it! From chunky soles to bold colors and oversized brand logos, this back-to-school season, 90s-inspired sneakers are all the rage.

Here are some tips on how to stay comfortable and on-trend this school year from Laryssa Grant, a young adult buyer for national family footwear retailer, Rack Room Shoes.

Jewel Tones, Pops of Color Fashion is a form of expression, and right now shoes are doing all the talking. Simple clothing choices paired with bold, jewel-toned shoes make getting dressed easy and fun.

Shoes to Try: Vans sneakers in red, blue, purple or yellow. Vans’ retro styles come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns with sizes for school-aged girls and boys -- and parents, too.

Big Logos When it comes to clothing and shoe choices this school year, there’s no need for subtlety. Bigger is better. Bolder is better. Top brands are embracing this concept in their logo designs.

Shoes to try: A variety of brands such as Nike, Adidas, Fila and Converse offer styles this season that kick it up a notch with brighter and more pronounced logo choices.

Prints and Patterns In the past, mixing patterns has

been taboo, but according to Grant, it’s now encouraged.

Patterned shoes are no longer treated as a statement shoe, but rather as a neutral that can be mixed and paired with any item in the closet.

Shoes to try: Converse has put a fun twist on its classic style with floral and rainbow patterns. Paired with a swing dress or jeans and a t-shirt, these styles make even the most standard outfit unique.

Chunky Remember when mom jeans became a fashion must-have? A style better known as “chunky dad shoes” are just as hot this year. For men, women and kids of all ages, sneakers with extra thick soles take a casual look to the next level and provide comfort for even the most active little feet.

Shoes to try: Fila is nailing the chunky sole trend and has sneakers in sizes for the whole family.

For one-stop-shopping during the back-to-school season, parents can visit the Kids Club at Rack Room Shoes in stores or online at rackroomshoes.com.

“Back-to-school shopping is always an exciting time for families,” says Grant. “And this year parents can revisit the styles they loved while helping their children express their individualities.”

-StatePoint

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 3B

Heartland Middle School principal eager to start

PHOTO PROVIDED/SUSAN PARKS-SCHLEPP

The Edmond Board of Education has named James Keeton principal of Heartland Middle School. He most recently was the assistant principal at Heartland. He previously served as an assistant principal at Summit Middle School and a career counselor at Santa Fe High School.

ORGANIZED

LOCKERS

keep students on track School is often a student’s home away from home. Spending an average of six hours per day and five days a week, 10 months a year in the classroom or on campus, students may feel as though they spend more time roaming school grounds than they do relaxing at home.

Lockers can be havens for students, giving them a place to store supplies and personal items and meet up with friends each day.

Organized lockers may help students handle all of their responsibilities more capably.

Developing organizational habits early on is a worthwhile lesson for students, helping them avoid tardiness and keep their assignments in order.

Students typically keep a number of items in relatively small lockers, which only makes it more challenging to stay organized. The following tips can help students stay organized this school year.

• Make the most of locker space. Space is limited, but with some additions, lockers can be that much more functional. Insert

a removable shelf to double the space available. Metal shelves are preferable, but adjustable plastic ones can be effective if they aren’t overloaded.

Install adhesive hooks on the door or an inside wall of the locker to hang clothing, bags and more. Invest in hooks that can hold a lot of weight.

• Organize books by class. Keep books organized by class schedule so that books can be grabbed quickly during period changes. Put folders and notebooks with the textbooks so that all related items will be together.

• Add some personality. The Container Store suggests adding

color and function with magnetic accessories to liven up the space.

Dry-erase calendars, pencil/pen containers, a mirror, cubbies for notes and other tools, and magnetic picture frames are some ideas.

• Keep on top of trash. Routinely clean out the locker if things become unruly. Tucking a small waste pail in the bottom of the locker can be handy for taming garbage.

Otherwise, periodically clean your locker during after-school hours, emptying it of old assignments and taking clothes home for laundering.

Keeping an organized locker can help students thrive in the classroom.

-MS

The Edmond Board of Education has named James Keeton principal of Heartland Middle School, 4900 Explorer Drive. Keeton will take over the leadership position from Jason Galloway who has accepted a position with Oklahoma City Public Schools’ district office.

Keeton comes to the leadership position with a unique skill set and range of experiences. From his earliest work as a Stillwater Junior High teacher, certified in both English and English as a Second Language, to his experience at Edmond Santa Fe as a career counselor, to his several years as an assistant principal at both Summit Middle School and Heartland, his background predicts a rich and interesting experience for the Heartland families and students. Heartland Principal James Keeton stands in the school office “I am confident that my first-hand experience at Heartland has given me

insight into the students’ needs, the staff’s needs, and the district’s expectations. I understand the seriousness of the task at hand, and I am eager to begin,” said Keeton.

Dr. Debbie Bendick, associate superintendent of secondary education said Keeton is the right person to guide the Heartland staff and patrons through the next stages of growth.

“He will center his focus on community, communication, and consistency,” said Bendick.

Keeton has a master’s of Education Leadership and a master’s of Guidance and Counseling from UCO. In addition, he is a member of the Oklahoma Middle Level of Educators Association, National Board for Certified Counselors and the American School Counselor Association.

Editor’s note: This article originally ran in the June 13, 2019 issue of Edmond Life & Leisure.

Page 4B • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUST-READS Recommended by Best of Books For over 30 years, Best of Books has been Edmond’s go-to, family operated book store. From current best sellers to thrillers and romance, Best of Books carries it all.

They are also known for their section of children’s books, which they have in abundance. Here are some picks from the staff at Best of Books that are great reads for middle school aged children.

The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden Seventh-grader Zoey has her hands full as she takes care of her much younger siblings after school every day while her mom works her shift at the pizza parlor. Not that her mom seems to appreciate it. At least there’s Lenny, her mom’s boyfriend— they all get to live in his nice, clean trailer.

At school, Zoey tries to stay under the radar. Her only friend Fuchsia has her own issues, and since they’re in an entirely different world than the rich kids, it’s best if no one notices them.

Zoey thinks how much easier everything would be if she were an octopus: eight arms to do eight things at once. Incredible camouflage ability and steady, unblinking vision. Powerful protective defenses.

Unfortunately, she’s not totally invisible, and one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club.

Even though Zoey resists participating, debate ultimately leads her to see things in a new way: her mom’s relationship with Lenny, Fuchsia’s situation, and her own place in this town of people who think they’re better than her. Can Zoey find the courage to speak up, even if it means risking the most stable home she’s ever had?

This moving debut novel explores the cultural divides around class and the gun debate through the eyes of one girl, living on the edges of society, trying to find her way forward.

The War Outside by Monica Hesse It’s 1944, and World War II is raging across Europe and the Pacific. The war seemed

2 0 1 9

E D M O N D J U L Y S 7

2 0 1 9

T

W T

F

S

1

2

3

5

6

8

9

10 11 12 13

4

S 4

M 5

T 6

March Forward, Girl

by Melba Pattillo Beals From the legendary civil rights activist and author of the million-copy

–

P U B L I C

S C H O O L S

F

S

S

M

T

W T

F

S

172 INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS

1

2

3

1

2

3

4

6

7

Nine Week Reporting Period

8

9

10

8

9

10 11 12 13 14

7

2 0 1 9

S E P T

2 0 1 9 5

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

28 29 30 31

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

29 30

S 6

M T 7

2 0 1 9

N O V

W T

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

8

9

10 11 12

S M T 3

4

5

BOE APPROVED 12/3/18

2 0 2 0

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

O C T

selling Warriors Don’t Cry comes an ardent and profound childhood memoir of growing up while facing adversity in the Jim Crow South.

Long before she was one of the Little Rock Nine, Melba Pattillo Beals was a warrior. Frustrated by the laws that kept African-Americans separate but very much unequal to whites, she had questions. Why couldn’t she drink from a “whites only” fountain?

Why couldn’t she feel safe beyond home—or even within the walls of church? Adults all told her: Hold your tongue. Be patient. Know your place. But Beals had the heart of a fighter—and the knowledge that her true place was a free one.

Combined with emotive drawings and photos, this memoir paints a vivid picture of Beals’ powerful early journey on the road to becoming a champion for equal rights, an acclaimed journalist, a best-selling author, and the recipient of this country’s highest recognition, the Congressional Gold Medal.

W T

A U G U S T

M

far away from Margot in Iowa and Haruko in Colorado--until they were uprooted to dusty Texas, all because of the places their parents once called home: Germany and Japan.

Haruko and Margot meet at the high school in Crystal City, a “family internment camp” for those accused of colluding with the enemy. The teens discover that they are polar opposites in so many ways, except for one that seems to override all the others: the camp is changing them, day by day and piece by piece. Haruko finds herself consumed by fear for her soldier brother and distrust of her father, who she knows is keeping something from her. And Margot is doing everything she can to keep her family whole as her mother’s health deteriorates and her rational, patriotic father becomes a man who distrusts America and fraternizes with Nazis.

With everything around them falling apart, Margot and Haruko find solace in their growing, secret friendship. But in a prison the government has deemed full of spies, can they trust anyone--even each other?

2 0 1 9 W T 6

7

Aug. 16—Oct. 17 Oct. 22—Dec. 20 Jan. 7—Mar.13 Mar. 23—May 22

D E C

2 0 1 9

F

S

S M T

W T

F

S

1

2

1

2

3

4

6

7

8

9

8

9

10 11 12 13 14

5

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

27 28 29 30 31

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

29 30 31

42 39 First Semester 81 47 44 Second Semester 91

days days days days days days

Six Week Reporting Period Aug. 16—Sept. 26 27 days Sept. 27—Nov. 6 27 days Nov. 7—Dec. 20 27 days First Semester 81 days Jan. 7—Feb. 19 30 days Feb. 20—Apr. 8 30 days Apr. 9—May 22 31 days Second Semester 91 days Holidays

J A N S M T

2 0 2 0

F E B S

1

2

3

4

8

9

10 11

2

3

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

9

10 11 12 13 14 15

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

26 27 28 29 30 31

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

29 30 31

7

A P R I L S 5

M T 6

7

2 0 2 0

W T

F

S

1

2

3

4

8

9

10 11

4

5

M A Y S M T 3

4

5

6

F

2 0 2 0

F

6

W T

M A R C H

W T

5

S M T

2 0 2 0

7

S

S

M T

W T

F

S

1

1

2

3

4

6

7

8

8

9

10 11 12 13 14

2 0 2 0 W T 6

7

J U N E

F

S

1

2

8

9

S 7

5

July Sept.

Sept.

Sept.

Oct. Oct. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May

2 0 2 0

M T

W T

F

S

1

2

3

5

6

8

9

10 11 12 13

4

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

26 27 28 29 30

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

28 29 30

31

4 2 3 16 17 18 21 25 — 29 23 — Jan. 3 6 20 17 16-20 24 25

Independence Day Labor Day Fall Teacher Collaboration/Staff PD Day Teacher Prof Dev Day Conference Break Fall Break Teacher Prof Dev Day Thanksgiving Break Winter Break Spring Teacher Collaboration / Staff PD Day Martin Luther King Day President’s Day Spring Break April Day Memorial Day

Professional Development Days

Aug. 8 & 9 Aug. 12 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 & 15 Aug. 14 Sept. 3 Sept.16 Oct. 21 Jan. 6 Feb. 17 May 26

Inductee Teachers Report New Teachers Report All Teachers Report Professional Day Convocation Fall Teacher/Staff Collaboration Day Professional Day Professional Day Spring Teacher/Staff Collaboration Day Professional Day Teacher Record Day

STUDENT INFORMATION Aug. 9 Middle School Information Day

Oct. 10 & 15

Elementary Parent/Teacher Conference (4:30—8:00 pm)

Aug. 13 Elementary Information Day

Oct. 10 & 14

Middle School Parent/Teacher Conference (4:30—8:00 pm)

Aug. 16 First Day of School PK—12

Oct. 8 & 15

High School Parent/Teacher Conference (4:30—8:00 pm)

May 22

Last Day of School

GRADUATION is MAY 16, 2020 - North 10 a.m. / Santa Fe 2:00 p.m. / Memorial 6:00 p.m.

Edmond Life & Leisure • August 8, 2019 • Page 5B

Strategies parents can use to motivate students Students may need some time to adjust at the beginning of a new school year. Summer vacations typically lack the structure of the school year, and it might be unfair to expect kids to seamlessly slip back into their more regimented lives as students.

While some early school year sluggishness might be normal, that should wear off pretty quickly. If not, and students appear to be struggling to get motivated for their schoolwork, parents can try various strategies that should help reignite youngsters’ passions for learning.

• Make your home more school-friendly. Summer is a relaxing time of year when parents have a tendency to relax rules around the house. But come the school year, parents must make sure their homes are as conducive to studying as possible. Resist the urge to turn the television on each night so students are not distracted from their studies.

Keep the home quiet so students are motivated to focus on their studies.

• Encourage participation in extracurricular activities. Various studies have examined the relationship between extracurricular activities and academic performance. A 2002 study published in the journal Sociology of Education found that participation in extracurricular activities is associated with improved grade point average, increased college attendance and reduced absenteeism. The link between participation in extracurricular activities and improved academic

performance is still in need of study, but such participation may help children acclimate to the structure of the school year more quickly than they might if they do not participate in such activities.

• Encourage curious youngsters.

Kids are curious, and fostering that curiosity can be a great way for parents to get their kids excited about learning. Whether it’s during the school year and part of their curriculum or on summer break, encourage kids to engage in subjects that interest them. As kids learn more about the topics and subjects that interest them, they may develop a passion for learning that they can then take with them to the classroom.

• Express an interest in the subjects children are studying. Another way to motivate students at the dawn of a new school year is to express an interest in the subjects they’re studying. Ask questions about their studies and encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions.

Engaging students about the subjects they’re studying can motivate them to explore those subjects more deeply than they otherwise might.

Motivating kids to be excited about their schoolwork at the dawn of a new school year can sometimes be difficult. But parents can employ various strategies that can help their children readjust to life in the classroom and motivate them to perform to the best of their abilities.

-MS

Getting kids the homework help they need Homework has long been a way to reinforce lessons learned in the classroom and ensure that the learning process continues when students leave school each day. A recent survey of teachers conducted by the University of Phoenix College of Education found that high school teachers assign about 17.5 hours of homework each week (3.5 hours per class), middle school teachers assign about 3.2, and elementary school teachers assign about 2.9 hours per week.

Thanks to ever-evolving curriculums and new problem-solving methodologies — particularly in mathematics — parents may no longer have the expertise to help their children with their homework, leading to confusion and frustration. So where does a parent and student turn when homework has become challenging?

Students who are struggling should not feel embarrassed about the fact that homework has become an issue.

Such students should speak with their parents, teachers or school counselors if they are having difficulty with their homework. Such discussions alert teachers that there are potential issues. Teachers can be important resources because they can give specific advice on assignments or strate-

gies for tackling complex processes.

Next up, students and parents can consult with older students who have already “been there, done that” in terms of assignments. Oftentimes high school and college students volunteer their time for community service hours. Ask at the local library or at schools in town if older students offer homework help.

Families also can do their best to make the environment at home conducive to homework. Scholastic suggests setting up a schedule that includes a time indicating when assignments must be completed. In addition, setting up a quiet, distraction-free zone for doing homework can help kids concentrate on their assignments. Students can tackle harder assignments first, as they will likely take the bulk of the time, and then move on to the easier assignments. If homework is taking a long time to complete, parents can speak to teachers about when it might be alright to offer youngsters some extra help.

If these homework helpers are ineffective, families can hire private tutors who can work on homework with the student and reinforce classroom lessons.

-MS

Page 6B • August 8, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure