Edmond Life and Leisure - September 9, 2021

September 9, 2021 Vol. 22, No. 17

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

A look at EPS new superintendent

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

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

For more information, see page 4.

UCO football team wins its opener See Page 13

FRIDAY, September 10 Sunny High 96° Low 70°

SATURDAY, September 11 Mostly Sunny High 96° Low 69°

SUNDAY, September 12 Mostly Sunny High 93° Low 70°

PHOTO BY Patty Miller

Edmond Public Schools’ new superintendent Angela Grunewald

By Patty Miller Edmond Public Schools’ new superintendent Angela Grunewald brings 31 years of teaching and directing educators with her as she takes the helm of the Edmond School District for 2021-22.

Supt. Grunewald said her love of education began early as a student in Woodward public schools, and her sixth grade teacher sparked her interest in education that grew each year.

“My sixth grade teacher was the best ever,” Grunewald said. “She greeted me every day and made me feel special. When I was in the sixth grade I knew I wanted to be a teacher.”

When Grunewald began her college career she said she wanted to be an English teacher but that changed and elementary education became her focus.

“My late husband encouraged me to further with my education,” Grunewald said. “I was always the senior teacher on the staff and my job included helping new teachers grow and become better educators.

“I realized I enjoyed working in a leadership position and I had the desire to help teachers become better educators.”

It was then she went back to school to work on her administrative degree.

MOVE TO EDMOND FULFILLING She is happy she made the change bringing her to Edmond.

The district has 25,821 students and a total staff of 2,631.

“I love this district,” Grunewald said. “I want others to love it as much. Edmond teachers take care of their students and they are committed to excellence.”

Grunewald said Edmond offers courses not available in many school districts.

“We have internships, AP classes, orchestra courses, computer science classes, and Robotics, which many schools are not able to offer,” Grunewald said.

Her education has not stopped. As a new superintendent she is required to attend training sessions once a month with the Cooperative Council of School Administration, CCSA, the Oklahoma State School Board Association, OSSBA, and the State Department of Education, SDE. “We have numerous Nationally Board Certified Teachers,” Grunewald said, “and many Great Expectations Schools as well as Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.”

She added at the beginning of the school year each site provides Parenting Tips.

“We ask our parents to read the tips and communicate with their child’s teacher,” Grunewald said.

“If anything needs to be addressed we ask that the parents contact the teacher initially so he or she can take of the parents’ concern.”

EDUCATING ONE OF MANY JOBS Grunewald said in addition to educating the students, there are topics surrounding the Corona-19 virus pandemic that must be addressed by the Edmond Board of Education as well as herself.

Friday the school board voted to extend authority to Supt. Grunewald to make decisions concerning Covid-19 that might need to be made immediately.

“No decisions will be made without first contacting the Oklahoma State Department of Health, medical officials, the administrative staff, and school board members,” Grunewald said.

The three topics facing the superintendent and board in relation to the Covid-19 virus at this time include masks, quarantining students, and vaccinations. The policies continued on Page 3

Page 2 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 3

Cover From Page 3 in effect are outlined on the Edmond School District’s website.

Critical Race Theory or CRT is another topic facing educators across the nation, but in the Edmond School District CRT will not be taught in the classrooms Grunewald said.

“CRT curriculum is not part of the standards we teach, and we will follow policy which is set in place,” Grunewald said.

Supt. Grunewald began her career in education in 1990 teaching all elementary grades at various schools. In 2003 she moved up to the position of assistant principal at Charles Haskell Elementary School, and the following year took over as principal at Charles Haskell.

Grunewald moved up to principal at Sequoyah Middle School before taking the position of Piedmont Public Schools Director of Curriculum & Instruction.

Her next move was to Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction at Mustang Public Schools before taking the job as Edmond Public Schools Associate Superintendent of Educational Services in July 2016.

“One of my strongest leadership attributes is my ability to assist in solving problems or working through change in a positive and meaningful manner,” Grunewald said. “I collaborate and communicate well with others while realizing the importance of working and utilizing their expertise to help form the foundation of the district.

“I enjoy mentoring and helping others grow. I am continually searching for innovative methods to im-

prove student achievement.”

Grunewald added one way parents can take part in their child’s education is by sharing their ideas through public participation at the beginning of school board meetings.

Fifteen minutes is set aside at the beginning of each meeting with a 2minute time limit if more than three people are speaking.

“We do need people to be civil though,” Grunewald said. “We want to hear everyone who is signed up .”

The purpose of a school board meeting is to conduct the business of the schools.

“I would like to emphasize that myself and the board listen to what is being said,” Grunewald said, “whether it is by public participation or through e-mails.”

She emphasized there is a difference between not listening and listening but not giving the end result someone might want.

“I wish people could find empathy and be kind,” Grunewald said. “We don’t have to all agree but we still need to be kind.”

Grunewald said she goes out and visits the students in their classrooms at least two times a week.

“I see the students laughing, having fun, learning and enjoying school,” Grunewald said. “That is why we are here.

“Teachers are teaching and students are learning.”

(Editor’s Note: Please see Page 10 as the superintendent explains her decision to make the wearing of masks mandatory.

Edmond lawmaker hosts study to look at criminal justice reform Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, hosted an interim study last week to examine Oklahoma’s existing expungement system and potential avenues to further reform in Oklahoma.

Interim Study 21-054, held before the House Judiciary – Criminal Committee, focused on the economic impact of additional reforms, including access to education and workforce development.

“I don’t know all the answers, but I will tell you this: I believe that this is an issue that is worth working on,” Miller told the committee in an opening statement. “I believe that we can never let up, that we have to keep at it. And I believe that government itself should not be in the business of erecting barriers to people getting on with their lives and being productive members of society. And the one thing I believe more than anything else is that there’s got to be another way.”

Ryan Haynie, criminal justice reform fellow for Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs, said that a criminal record can reduce the chance of a call back or job offer by up to 50%.

He also said that one year after a criminal record is sealed, a person is 11% more likely to be employed and they earn about 22% higher wages.

Haynie said that, in addition to eligibility factors based on the type of charges and amount of time passed since the end of their sentence, other people who may be eligible for expungement include those who have been acquitted, had their cases dismissed or reversed, or received a gubernatorial pardon.

Erin Brewer, who previously owned Red Pin Bowling and Diner, spoke

highly about her experience as a second chance employer. Brewer said that over eight of their nine year history, anywhere from 10 to 30% of their workforce on any given day had a criminal record.

“The sad truth is that we were hesitant when those folks came to see us, and it took us several months of being open to even give them consideration,” Brewer said. “And what we learned is that we were totally wrong in any of our hesitancy or prejudice or ill-conceived ideas of what those employees might be like. What we learned was that there was a ready and able workforce that was capable and reliable and hardworking and honest.”

Brett Tolman, national director and executive director for Right on Crime, said expungement was a necessary part of reducing crime.

“Being tough on crime means you are going to implement policies that reduce crime, and that is not always just punishment of the criminal,” Tolman said.

The Oklahoma Policy Institute’s Damion Shade spoke about the effects of House Bill 1269, which was implemented in Nov. 2019 and granted commutations to more than 450 Oklahomans across the state.

The action was the largest single-day commutation release of prisoners in U.S. history.

The bill applied retroactively to inmates serving time for simple drug possession and property crimes valued at less than $1,000. Voters approved the reclassification of these crimes from felonies to misdemeanors with the passage of State Question 780 in 2016.

Angela Grunewald

What’s your Master Plan for thriving to 100?

Most of us are more confident when we have a plan, always looking for ward.

Society generally sets expectations which mean we customarily plan for elementar y school and high school followed by a choice of college, or trade school, or militar y, then followed by career, marriage, and family. But what then? What are the options for mature adults?

This second half of life mayy include retirement consisting of gardening, travel, television, d golfing, and grandchildr But it also will naturally include doctor visits and planning ahead for downsizing, relocating and like it or not “who will care for me in a crisis?”

More and more mature adults in greater Oklahoma

City are choosing to include working and volunteering through VillagesOKC during this season of life.

VillagesOKC is a safe place to increase trusted friendships, locate trusted resources for suppor t, learn about the many new options for aging. Yees, VillagesOKC is a Plan, Not a Place.

(It’s a place to learn about and make plans along with others who are in the same aging boat.)

Beginning with the GIFT Beginni sho ops and a memberr-ship p in VillagesOKC is a good first step while go we each determine our own plan.

To learrn more about ViillagesOKC or to enoll in the GIFT T, call or text 405.990.6637 or email inffo o@villagg-esokc.orrgg.

Page 4 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Where in the world is Murphy?

You may have been one of us following the exploits of a dog named Murphy here in Edmond.

His story spread far and wide on social media. I have a love/hate relationship with those things.

You do get some useful information for your neighborhood but more often than not, they lead to untrue rumors and issues get blown way out of proportion. This Ray Hibbard is what I know about our canine friend Murphy, but it has been gathered from bits and pieces of social media as well as a conversation with the Edmond Animal Shelter. Forgive me if it is not entirely accurate.

A couple weeks ago a plea appeared on behalf of a dog named Murphy. Old Murphy was mostly a mutt but a sweet dog that was beloved by several neighborhoods mainly in east Edmond. Murphy was also an escape artist and just would not stay put. I’m not sure where his origin was from, but my guess is whoever housed Murphy must have given up on keeping him at his home. There was a house Murphy liked best, but he would frequently escape the confines of that home as well.

These nice folks would make sure he got fed and had water. It was a place he could return to as well and he knew it.

Other days would have Murphy going for a visit to different houses in different neighborhoods.

From reports, he was happy with his life and enjoyed greeting all the friends he had. Murphy might stay a night or two somewhere but then he was off on his travels. It seems old Murphy needed room to roam.

Murphy reminded me of a dog a friend of mine had in college. His name was Tom, but the dog’s name was Larry. Larry liked to do the same thing.

He always came home but he liked to go visit Tom’s friends and some that he had made over the years in Stillwater. Tom always knew when Larry was getting ready to go “under the wire” because he would eat up all the food in his bowl and drink a bunch of water and then give Tom a look that said, “See ya in about a week”.

Off he would go and eventually Tom would get a call from one of his friends saying that Larry was with them and that they would send him home after a few days. During the week Tom got regular reports of Larry’s where abouts so that he wouldn’t worry. As regular as a clock, Larry would return and stay home for about a month before he repeated the entire process over again.

Back to Murphy, his pattern went pretty well until one day he was caught by the long arm of the law and picked up by Edmond Animal Services.

Neighbors saw this and panic ensued over the possible fate of Murphy. Folks took to the neighborhood social media sites and the story got bigger and bigger. Some accounts had a count down going to when Murphy might be put down because the animal shelter would not let him be adopted by well meaning people. My understanding is the police chief, city council members and even the city attorney were petitioned to intervene on Murphy’s behalf as if he were an inmate on death row.

“Save Murphy” was the battle cry and continued to spread even to our office where folks

wanted us to do a story in order to save our little canine who’s only crime was a love for space. They wanted us to use our connections at the television stations to do a story on the injustice that Murphy had been dealt.

The truth is that Murphy was never in danger.

He couldn’t be released to just any home because of his roaming nature even though there were plenty of volunteers. The goal of the Edmond Animal Shelter is not just to find an animal a home but the right home. While folks were ringing the alarms on Murphy’s behalf, he was probably getting a bath and having his belly rubbed. The staff at Edmond Animal Shelter are wonderful and they have a true love for animals folks. Edmond has one of the finest facilities for taking care of and adopting out animals.

I have confirmed that Murphy is with owners that have a lot of acres for him to run off his energy and it is a very good home. Even though the “Save Murphy” campaign was not necessary, it warms my heart to know so many Edmond folks wanted to help this little guy. Live long and prosper Murphy!

Integris introduces Health @ Home Hospital Care With the onslaught of COVID-19, health systems everywhere have turned to technology to find better solutions for patients. Virtual doctor visits once thought impossible are now considered routine. In the pursuit of constant innovation, INTEGRIS Health announces a new partnership with Medically Home Group, Inc. that will provide hospital-level care to patients in the comfort and convenience of their own homes.

The program is called INTEGRIS Health @ Home and will offer at home services to patients who would otherwise require inpatient hospitalization.

The model is only available through a handful of health systems across the country.

Eligible patients typically suffer from common chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure, respiratory ailments, diabetes complications, infections like pneumonia, as well as COVID-19. Using a new technology platform, certain patients will have the choice to transition to a home-based setting where they will receive a combination of vir-

tual and in-person care, as well as recovery services.

“We began researching innovative ways to provide this type of care to eligible patients before the pandemic began, but the COVID crisis prompted us to accelerate our timeline,” said Timothy Pehrson, the president and chief executive officer of INTEGRIS Health. “We see the benefit as twofold. The program allows our patients to heal in a familiar environment surrounded by loved ones, while improving access by opening up beds for other high acute issues .”

Qualifying patients will receive a remote patient monitoring kit and other home health equipment as needed for their particular diagnoses. Standard equipment includes a blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, cellular-enabled digital tablet and a digital scale. Based on need, additional equipment such as a continuous heart rate and oxygen sensor will be added. All the devices connect to a tablet through Bluetooth and transmit vital signs to a remote monitoring center. Patients are also given an emergency call bracelet.

The command center that receives all the data is monitored 24/7 by a team of INTEGRIS Health physicians and nurses who will respond immediately to a patient’s medical needs via video or telephone. Daily in-home visits by a nurse practitioner and other health care professionals are also part of the treatment plan. IV therapies, oxygen treatments, lab tests, mobile imaging like x-rays and ultrasound are all performed in the home. Other services include skilled nursing, medications, infusions, behavioral health and rehabilitation.

Pehrson adds, “Technology is enabling us to provide the right care to patients in a way that is safe and helps them recover where they are most comfortable. As the Hospital at Home model continues to expand across the country, we expect more and more patients will choose to receive this high-quality care at home. We are proud to partner with Medically Home to bring this revolutionary concept to Oklahoma.” The INTEGRIS Health @ Home program is expected to be up and running by January.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 6.

---- Supintendent explains reasons for mask mandate ......................Page 10.

---- Carol’s winning recipe for cabbage ............................................Page 12.

---- UCO wins football opener ........................................................Page 13.

---- George Gust reviews ‘Candyman’ movie ....................................Page 14.

---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

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

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 5

The first Thursday of the month, artists and the public come downtown for music and art.

Good VIBES Downtown

Singing is skilled musician Edgar Cruz.

The public can watch as art comes to life.

Photos by Melinda Infante

Page 6 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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

Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

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

Aug. 23 Mingshan Lu, 34, of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Damonne Rashard Nickens, 24 of Edmond.

Speeding (16-20 miles per hour over), driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Mohamed Amine Lamrani, 28 of Norman. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Aug. 24 Jared Lane Shipley, 45 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or above.

Angelica Martina Christina Mendez, 18 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property and possession CDS. Omar Demond Silas, 23, of Oklahoma City. Two counts (misdemeanor value) recieving stolen property, possession CDS and discharging a firearm.

Kenyon Devonta Silas, 29 of Oklahoma City.

(Misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property and possession of CDS. Leo Charles Patterson, 37 of Edmond. Assault and battery/battery (felony) on a police officer or correctional staff and public intoxication.

Aug. 25 Timothy Austin Hess, 27 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Mary Lindsay Flannery, 41 of Edmond. Harboring or concealing felons/fugitives.

Joevanie Reyes-Jimenez, 32 of Perris, Calif. Two felony warrants.

Marisha Monae Wilson, 29 of Oklahoma City.

Possession of CDS, transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Errol Quincy Davis-Long, 24 of Edmond. False representation to an officer.

Aug. 26 Richard Kevin Rodriquez, 21 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Micah Javon James, 25 of Oklahoma City.

Felony warrant.

Claretta Roshann Roberson, 31 of Edmond.

(Felony) domestic assault and battery.

Aug. 27 Patricia Louise Sivils, 36 of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer, driving with license, canceled, suspended or revoked and possession of CDS.’ John Edward Jones, 34 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Logan Boyce Mitchell, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Jessie Tarrell Kirkland, 39 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear and misdemeanor warrant.

Kristine Lee Atkinson, 38 of Oklahoma City.

Felony warrant.

Aug. 28 Luis Enrique Vazquez-Boza, 33 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

William Andrew Pappadopouloss, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or above.

Grace Lynne McAlister, 61 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and two counts of no proof of insurance.

Yan-Amont Billy Darianssen, 48 homeless. Public intoxication, possession of drug paraphernalia and trespassing.

Hannah Grace Prato, 21 of Edmond. Public intoxication and leaving the scene of an accident.

Saghar Rose Hosseni Goshaghani, 20 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Cllifford Adam Brady, 46 of Tulsa. Public intoxication.

Patrick James Thacker Hudson, 30 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication. (Lake only) Casey James Coplen, 41 of Jones. Failure to appear.

Aug. 29 Dustin Tyler Muscussen, 29 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Bradley Don Smith, 38 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. John Statehood Lloyd, 50 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Weekend Calendar of Events Sept. 9-12 calendar.uco.edu

What’s Happening This Weekend Sep 9-12

Learn to Curl with Oklahoma Curling Club Location: Arctic Edge Ice Arena Extra Info: Sun, Sep 12; 4 – 6 p.m.; $25; facebook.com

---- In the Gallery: Dead Feather (Joshua Garrett) ---- VIRTUAL:: Edmond’s African American History ---- “Dark and Shallow Lies” with Ginny Myers Sain ---- Uncle Zep w/Edgar Cruz ---- Brent Blount and Friends ---- Movie at the Park: Trolls World Tour ---- 43rd Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival ---- Artists Living – The Art Show ---- Doggy Paddle Day ---- Fall Brush Calligraphy Workshop ---- Garrett “Big G” Jacobson ---- Learn to Curl with Oklahoma Curling Club ---- Drawing in Different Styles ---- Signature Tour ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: The Republic of Mexico: Decades in the Making ---- Still-Life Drawing in New Beginnings: An American Story of Romantics and Modernists in the West ---- Sunday Spotlight – Tattoo Artist Adrian Redbird ---- Drop-In Drawing: Still Life ---- Oklahoma City Ballet Presents: Ballet Under the Stars ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Opening Night ---- Guthrie Road Celebration Car Show ---- Redbud Classic

Drawing in Different Styles Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Sep 9; 6-9 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11 & Sun, Sun 12; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Brown Bag Lunch Series: The Republic of Mexico: Decades in the Making Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Sep 9; 12 ---- 1 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Still-Life Drawing in New Beginnings: An American Story of Romantics and Modernists in the West Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Sep 10 – Sun, Jan 2, 2022; 5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Extra Information In the Gallery: Dead Feather (Joshua Garrett) Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; featuring the art of Dead Feather (Joshua Garrett); edmondfinearts.com

Sunday Spotlight – Tattoo Artist Adrian Redbird Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Sep 12; 1 – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

VIRTUAL: Edmond’s African American History Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 31; edmondhistory.org

Drop-In Drawing: Still Life Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Sep 12; 2 –3 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

“Dark and Shallow Lies” with Ginny Myers Sain Location: Best of Books Extra Info: Thu, Sep 9; 6 p.m.; free; bestofbooksok.com Uncle Zep w/Edgar Cruz Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Thu, Sep 9; 7:30 p.m.; $20-$30 Brent Blount and Friends Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Fri, Sep 10; 8 p.m.; $15; calendar.uco.edu Movie at the Park: Trolls World Tour Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Sat 10; 8:30 p.m.; Free; facebook.com 43rd Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Fri, Sep 10 – Sun, Sep 12; Free; downtownedmonok.com Artists Living – The Art Show

MELINDA INFANTE

Football has returned on both the prep level and college as UCO played, and won Thursday.

Location: Venue 102 Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 7 – 9 p.m.; Free; facebook.com Doggy Paddle Day Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 12 – 2 p.m.; pelicanbayaquatics.com Fall Brush Calligraphy Workshop Location: The Collective Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; eventbrite.com Garrett “Big G” Jacobson Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 8 p.m.; $15;

Oklahoma City Ballet Presents: Ballet Under the Stars Location: Scissortail Park Extra Info: Fri, Sep 10; 5:30 – 8 p.m.; okcballet.org OKC Philharmonic presents: Opening Night Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 8 p.m.; okcphil.org Guthrie Road Celebration Car Show Location: Mineral Wells Park, Guthrie, OK Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11; 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; guthrieroadcelebration.com Redbud Classic Location: NW 63rd & Penn, OKC Extra Info: Sat, Sep 11 – Sun, Sep 12; Sat ---- Cycling, 7-11 a.m.; Children’s Fun Run, 11 a.m.; Woof Walk, 12 p.m.; Sun – Running events 2 p.m.; redbud.org

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 7

UCO will graduate 409 from its summer semester The University of Central Oklahoma congratulates the 409 students from throughout Oklahoma, the U.S. and the world who completed their college degrees during the summer 2021 semester. Of that number, Central received applications for graduation from 341 undergraduate students and 68 graduate students.

A complete list of graduates, including their degree earned and major, organized alphabetically by hometown, may be downloaded for publication at media.uco.edu/press/2021SummerGrads.

Since Central does not hold a summer commencement ceremony, many of these students participated in the spring 2021 ceremony.

With strong connections throughout the Oklahoma City metro, the University of Central Oklahoma is dedicated to developing in students the confidence to succeed through transformative learning experiences.

Central prides itself as a smart investment for success, preparing future leaders in an opportunity-rich environment, with access to more than 200 student organizations and the internship, employment, entertainment and cultural offerings of the rapidly growing Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

Founded in 1890, Central connects its nearly 14,000 students to unmatched value found in 122 undergraduate areas of study and 80 graduate majors from its main campus in Edmond and facilities throughout the metro area. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

For more information about the University of Central Oklahoma, visit www.uco.edu.

Page 8 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Integris professionals saved life of RN

A ‘Home Run for Life’ success story The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health recently continued the “Home Run For Life” series by honoring Adrianne Ayers of Midwest City, during the Dodgers’ game against the Las Vegas Aviators at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Ayers, a registered nurse, fell ill with the flu in February 2018. Several days later her health spiraled to the point where one of her children had to call 911 and Ayers was taken to the hospital.

“They told us had he not called 911, I might not have made it through the night,” Ayers recalled.

In addition to flu, Ayers had developed pneumonia and strep throat so severe that her body went septic. She developed necrotizing pneumonia, a severe complication from a bacterial lung infection that can cause lung tissue damage. Her lungs, heart and kidneys were all shutting down.

It was determined that extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, known as ECMO, was necessary for Ayers’ survival and she was transferred to INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, which specializes in ECMO, to receive the last-resort, lifesaving treatment. ECMO provides both cardiac and respiratory support to patients whose heart and/or lungs are so severely diseased or damaged that they can no longer serve their function. The goal is to allow the heart or lungs to rest and recover while the machine does all the work.

“What it does is takes the blood out of the body on one side and puts oxygen into it and then flows back into your body through different tubes,” Ayers said. “It’s almost like dialysis — in one side and out the other.”

Ayers ended up on ECMO for an INTEGRIS Health record 119 days — just one piece of the extensive multi-disciplinary care she received during her five months in the hospital.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the Oklahoma City community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a prerecorded home run “lap” around the bases during an ingame ceremony. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize some amazing Oklahomans who have endured significant health challenges,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said.

“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these individuals and to help inspire others with their incredible stories.”

Throughout her five months at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, Ayers was also on a ventilator, had a tracheostomy and was on dialysis in addition to ECMO. There was talk of potential double kidney and lung transplants for her.

Ayers was enrolled in the ATHOS 3 Expanded Access Protocol for Giapreza clinical trial for a medication that regulates blood pressure, becom-

Adrianne Ayers ing one of 10 patients in the world to have received the therapy while on ECMO at the time.

She also became the first patient in the OKC area to benefit from an off-label use of Olympus Spiration endobronchial valves, which were inserted into her lungs, opening breathing passageways like they would an artery during a cardiac procedure.

One special moment especially stands out in Ayers’ mind to describe the depth and range of care she received at INTEGRIS Health.

“The doctors and nurses at INTEGRIS are amazing. They are saints,” she said. “There was one point where I was tired and I was tired of fighting and I was tired of everything going on and (one of the doctors) took me outside just to get some vitamin D. Anytime they took me anywhere in the hospital it was a huge ordeal because I had the ECMO machine and dialysis and the vent and the chair, so it was like a small parade going down the hallway.

“Just for a doctor to do that, I can’t say enough

good things about them…They are just amazing people.”

Ayers was released from the hospital in July 2018 and still undergoes frequent checkups. There is a possibility in the future she will need a lung transplant, but says she is doing well now. Ayers, 44, returned to work as a RN at St. Anthony in April 2021 and said she brings a new perspective with her to work after all she has been through.

“I have always been a patient person with patients and am even more so now,” she said. “I can’t even explain it. It’s like you walk into a room and see both points of view at the same time. You can empathize even small things, like tape coming off an IV. After it’s done 100 times, that hurts.

“It’s weird, but I am thankful for everything I have been through because I think it makes me relate to patients better.”

To read Ayers’ full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks.

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 9

Check out new food at State Fair One of the most iconic Fair staples is the FOOD! Continue reading to see what new and exciting creations our vendors have crafted for visitors of the 2021 Oklahoma State Fair – and we’ve even included some treats for your family members of the canine variety!

Apple Fries: Fairgoers can visit Granny’s to try out these lightly battered apple slices which are deepfried and sprinkled with cinnamon & sugar.

Dragon Fruit Lemonade: Gringo’s is serving up this new specialty drink that is sure to be a fan favorite.

New for 2021 Deep Fried Cookie Dough Sundae: Created by 2019’s FAIRest of Them All winner Original Minneapple Pie, this sweet treat is guaranteed to be a Fair favorite. This dessert is made of homemade cookie dough and ice cream and brings together an amazing combination of hot and cold.

Caramel Apple Delight: Found at Amish Annie, this original large glazed donut is filled with homemade whipped cream, sprinkled with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon oat crumble, and topped with a caramel sauce drizzle.

Gelato Nachos: Brought to the Fair courtesy of a new vendor, Funky Flamingo, this dessert is made up of homemade stroopwafel chips, three flavors of gelato, your choice of two dessert sauces and three candy toppings, all topped with whipped cream.

Ghost Pepper Tater Tots: Found at Project KRAVE, those who appreciate spice are invited to try these extremely hot tots.

Handmade Ice Cream Sandwiches: Available in several signature flavors such as mint double chocolate chip, s’more and gluten free snickerdoodle, visitors to the Fair can cool down with these sweet treats from Thelma’s Handmade Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Peanut Butter Puppy Scoops Ice Cream Mix: Made especially for dogs, this ice cream mix is pet friendly and sure to be a welcome treat for your canine friends. Find it at Lucky Pup Lodge.

Puppy Cake Mix: In multiple flavor varieties, dog owners can buy a dogsafe cake mix to make for their pooch. These can be found at Lucky Pup Lodge.

Cotton Candy Cookie Dough Crunch On-A-Stick: Also from Funky Flamingo, this creation is comprised of homemade cookie dough on-astick, dipped in a cotton candy confetti crunch, and topped with whipped cream.

Fun & Unique Foods Returning in 2021 Watermelon Pie: A winner of our annual Great TASTE of a Fair competition, this watermelon pie is refreshing and light and brought to us by Cutie Pies Concessions.

Elk Sausage Corn Dog: Try out this rustic take on a Fair classic at the Pioneer Wagon

Wonder Boy: Served up at Diamond Dawgs, visitors can try out the delicious and sweet Cap’n Crunch battered corn dog served with honey mustard dipping sauce.

Rattlesnake Sausage Corn Dog: For the braver Fair foodies, the Pioneer Wagon is frying up corndogs filled with actual rattlesnake sausage.

Fruity Pebble Donut: Also found at Amish Annie, don’t miss this sweet, soft, and crunchy donut.

DoughBoy Sandwich: DoughBoys will be serving up this free form soft glazed bun, sliced in half and stuffed with your favorite flavor of ice cream, topped with your favorite syrup and a cream cheese frosting.

Giant S’more On-A-Stick Sampler: This sampler from A Latte Love includes an original chocolate and graham cracker s’more, a cookies-n-cream s’more topped with white chocolate and Oreos, and their salted caramel s’more topped with caramel and pretzels.

Falcone’s Pizza by the Slice: Enjoy classic pizza by the slice, brought to the Fair by Falcone’s Pizzeria Food Truck.

Cannoli: Also from Falcone’s, fairgoers can enjoy this classic Italian dessert while strolling the Fairgrounds.

Deep-Fried Spaghetti with Meatballs: A Fair-style twist on a classic dish, catch this creation at Falcone’s Pizzeria Food Truck.

Gilty Mac and Cheese: A homestyle, creamy macaroni and cheese topped with juicy pulled pork and drizzled in barbeque sauce, located at the Gilty Pleasure booth.

Loaded Gilty Mac: Also found at Gilty Pleasure, this delightful Gilty Mac and Cheese comes with a twist!

This spicey version features grilled jalapeños, diced hot links, and caramelized onions.

Peaches and Cream Pie: Another creation by Gilty Pleasure, this light summer treat pairs perfectly with their Sweet Peach Tea. It's a rich and creamy blend of deliciousness.

Avocado Fries: Vegetarian and fried until golden, enjoy slices of avocado served with sauce for dipping, located at Gringo’s.

Chocolate Covered Bacon: Double the delicious, fairgoers can try this unique flavor combination at Gringo’s Deep-Fried Coffee: For lovers of caffeine, Gringo’s is serving up this bizarre but enticing creation.

Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger: Harvell Concessions is bringing back this bacon cheeseburger served between two sweet Honey Buns.

Frosted Flakes Chicken On-A-Stick: Netterfield’s is serving up one of their most beloved items. The chicken is battered and rolled in Frosted Flakes cereal and deep fried to perfection.

Cheese Curd Taco: This delicious taco includes a unique element that takes it to another level – deep fried cheese curds. Find this delectable creation at O’Neil’s.

PB&J Burger: Porky’s is serving up a half pound burger with peanut butter and jalapenos Donut Burger: Also at Porky’s, enjoy a juicy burger surrounded by a soft and sweet donut.

Waffle wrapped Snow Ice: Enjoy a gourmet snowcone encased in a delicious waffle, courtesy of Snow S’More Bug Pizza: Swain’s Pizza On-A-Stick is offering up multiple varieties of Bug Pizza. Adventurous fairgoers can choose their favorite of scorpions, crickets, or meal worms.

Caveman Turkey Leg: This giant turkey leg is wrapped with almost one pound of bacon and slow cooked to perfection at the Bacon Habit.

Funnel Cake Fries: Found at the Urb Express is this twist on a classic, funnel cake in fry form!

Page 10 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

EPS district leader explains mask mandate Editor’s Note: Edmond Public Schools superintedent, Angela Grunewald sent out a letter last week to patrons of the district, explaning her decision for a mask mandate with the number of COVID cases increasing.

Dear Edmond Families, I am writing this letter to notify you of changes to our COVID Learning Plan. I have never been one to back down from a hard decision when I knew it was the right decision. This is a hard decision. After meeting and talking with respected medical professionals and the Oklahoma City-County Health Department (OCCHD), as well as watching how Covid has raced through different classrooms and grade levels, I have determined we need to move from “masks encouraged” to “masks required.” The goal is - and always has been - to keep students safe and in school.

This requirement will go into effect

September 8 (earlier this week) for all staff and students in grades 1-12 and apply to all indoor settings, including schools, buses, and district offices.

PK-K students will wear their masks when traveling throughout the building and when sitting in groups. Like last year, students will be given frequent opportunities for mask breaks throughout the day. The mask requirement will remain in effect until October 13, the end of the first nine weeks. At that time, this decision will be reviewed.

Why masks? Masks will help us to obtain our goal of keeping students and teachers in class. When there is a close contact exposure the radius of quarantines decreases from 6 feet to 3 feet if both parties are wearing masks. This reduces our quarantines and allows more students to stay in school.

Exemptions: If parents/legal guardians or eligible students indicate that compliance

with the new requirement is not possible due to medical, religious, or strong personal reasons, they may request an exemption in writing by completing this exemption form.

Only a completed and signed copy of the exemption form emailed or delivered to the school will revoke the mask requirement. Go to the “Covid Updates” quick link at edmondschools.net to access the form and the individual school emails used to submit the form. Today’s decision will stir emotions and create many questions. I’ve tried to answer some of the most likely questions about masks and other topics below.

Will the district be providing “supplemental” adult and child-sized masks?

Yes, if a student comes to school without a mask, school sites will have a disposable mask available.

Will masks be required for indoor

athletic and arts events, concerts, contests, competitions?

Yes. All indoor activities will be treated the same as the classroom and masks will be required.

Will masks be required outdoors for athletics, student activities, or recess?

Not at this time.

Will attendance be limited for any indoor or outdoor events?

Not at this time. Attendance at these types of activities is voluntary.

Attendees should be aware that there will be people in the crowd who have opted out of the mask requirement and will not be wearing a face covering.

Can kids be seated in class according to “opting out” versus “not opting out” to spare those in masks from having to quarantine?

No. Seating arrangements should be based on creating a classroom environment optimal for learning.

Will Virtual Edmond Enrollment be extended due to the mask requirement?

No. Staffing has already occurred for VE. Allowing students to switch back and forth throughout the semester from VE to in-person is disruptive to their learning.

Are there any other changes being made to the 2021-2022 Learning Plan?

Yes. Most notably, the district has eliminated the tiered plan. The tiered plan was in place for masks and school closures. After extensive consultation with medical professionals, masks should not be implemented once a site reaches a certain level of positive cases. Masks should be implemented as a preventative measure from the beginning. Also, we have been able to work with the OCCHD concerning site closure and to make smaller closures such as a class, grade level, or team without closing an entire site.

See, Masks, Page 11

Anger issues at meetings kids and their future.

By Steve Gust During the school boundary issues in the It does amaze me how angry people past, I’ve heard people come to the meeting are anymore. and simply barbecue the former superintendAll across the country, including here in ent over imaginary issues.

Edmond, people go after school boards.

Those meetings now seem tame over what And there have been city councils, includhas been happening recently. ing our own, that see folks get really hot Parents, and everyone, have a right to critiunder the collar. cize those who represent us.

There was almost an arrest made at the But before getting too mad and too perOklahoma City Council the other day. One Steve Gust sonal in the attacks, please stop and think. guy very mad. Most of the anger is over the Superintendents have a lot on the plate. mandatory wearing of masks to fight the COVID They worry about a million things that can, and virus. There are some exceptions Although across the country, many parents aren’t too happy with some of sometimes do, go wrong in the operation of a school district. It’s a big job. Most of us, incliuding me, the subjects taught in schools. would never want to do it.

I’ll grant you that the mask issue is a tricky one.

Make your opinion known, but there’s no need to I don’t mind people expressing their views about it be bitter about it. at a school board meeting.

I just wish folks could be a bit more civil about it.

School board members are volunteers and gener(Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaally only want one thing: a good education for our per.com)

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.

Lankford, others take aim at Biden’s policies on energy Senators James Lankford (ROK), John Barrasso (R-WY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), all Republican members of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to President Joe Biden demanding to know why his Administration is favoring forLankford eign sources of oil over American oil.

The senators specifically question the Biden Administration’s request of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and other nations (OPEC+) to increase oil production to reduce high gasoline prices here in the United States. At the same time, the Administration continues to block new federal oil and gas leasing at home.

In the letter, the senators expressed their deep concern over the Biden Administration’s request for more foreign oil while enforcing punishing policies to reduce American oil production.

“Your Administration’s request to OPEC+ will strengthen their economies, while weakening ours,” wrote the senators. “We ask that your Administration cease making these ill-advised requests to the international energy community and immediately resume robust federal oil and gas leasing here at home.”

Immediately following the announcement, Lankford joined Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) in a letter to President Biden urging the Administration to implement policies that support domestic oil production rather than asking OPEC to increase oil production in response to rising gas prices.

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 11

Awards ceremony & benefit

History Museum event Sept. 23 The Edmond Historical Society and Museum presents the Heritage Awards Ceremony and Fundraiser on Sept. 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Venue 102, the Old Farmers Grain building at 94 W 1st St, Edmond The Heritage Awards honor individuals and organizations for their commitment to the museum and Edmond’s history.

Awardees are: Historic Preservation, Downtown Edmond: Barry Rice for preserving downtown buildings; David Chapman for preserving Edmond’s “little old houses;” Judy Pike for researching and writing historical plaques.

Historic Arts: Dave Miller for publishing Outlook Magazine for 16 years; Kyle Dillingham with Peter Markes and Brent Saulsbury (known as Horseshoe Road) for playing and preserving American music.

Community Service: Dana Eckhart for quickly adjusting children’s services at the Rankin YMCA during the pandemic; David Glover for providing a large, free Christmas lights display for seven years.

Roll of Honor: Andrea Aven for creating awareness about John and Cordelia Steen, the

Send news to news@edmondpaper.com

first pioneer family of Edmond; Kathy and the late Bob Thomas for their lifetime of service to Edmond’s history and arts.

History and music enthusiasts are encouraged to take advantage of the Heritage Awards, which offers a casual atmosphere and entertainment by Nick Massey. The event will include light hors d’oeuvre boxes, beer and wine, plus the opportunity to participate in a wine pull for

$20. Ticket cost is $60. A portion of the cost of tickets is a tax deductible contribution to the museum.

Museum Information: Edmond Historical Society & Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday – Friday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. To purchase event tickets, visit the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org or call 405-340-0078.

Masks From Page 10 If my child completes an exemption, how can I be assured that they will be treated fairly regardless of this choice?

Mask-bullying will not be allowed and will be investigated just like any other reported incident of bullying.

Mask issues should not take away from our goal of quality instruction for all students.

Can I keep my student home to avoid exposure, quarantines, or illness?

Yes, but your child will be counted absent. The Covid Excused Absence (DVAP) only applies to symptomatic students, diagnosed positive Covid isolations and exposure quarantines (including families who self-quarantine siblings with a positive or exposed brother or sister).

Will the occasional volunteer who enters a school site be required to wear a mask?

Yes Across the board, parents, educators, and public health officials agree that in-person learning is the best education model for students. Wearing masks, coupled with other measures,

including getting vaccinated and following proper isolation and quarantine protocols, are key components to stopping the spread of the virus which gives students a greater chance of staying in school. I did not make this decision lightly. I wanted to provide you with a link to statements I have received from our local medical community. I have provided this to help you understand the basis for taking this action today.

Edmond Public Schools can’t do this alone. We need your help! By uniting in this effort, we show our students the importance of taking action for the greater good - arguably one of life’s most important lessons!

Thank you for your support at this difficult time. We are grateful to serve a community that is so supportive and passionate about education.

As a reminder, offices will be closed on Friday for staff professional development meetings. In addition, all schools and district offices will be closed Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day. Any Covid questions can be directed to our Covid email: Covid-19@edmondschools.net.

Sincerely, Angela Grunewald EPS Superintendent

Page 12 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Who knew cabbage?

What? No Sriracha? Just a pleasant peasant dish

Cabbage leaves can be used for many dishes.

By Carol Smaglinski Serving as assistant director at a 20 stove-French cooking school, a few students would come back from Paris for our week long classes.

Upon entering, they would quietly say, “coucou” which meant “I’m here,” an informal way to say hello.

Then, they would pinch our cheeks and say, “Mon Petit Chou” (mohn petee shoo). The first time I heard that expression uttered, I thought they were talking about my shoes, which at least I thought were very stylish and all the staff taught in high heels.

“Mon petit chou” means “my little cabbage,” a sign of endearment usually saved for children while pinching the little one’s cheek, which we thought was delightful.

The French call cabbage “cobache,” meaning “head” and cabbage can certainly grow as large as a human head.

Nobody needs to ask, “Hey, what’s cooking?’” when cabbage is simmering because with one sniff, they know. Cabbage contains sulfurous compounds and when heated, your nose thinks you have come into contact with rotten eggs.

Fresh cabbage is at its best from spring to fall and then it goes into storage. Cabbage is so inexpensive per pound, goes far and will not wilt like head lettuce.

Count on a pound for four servings. This equals about 3-½ cups shredded raw cabbage, but cooks down to about 2-½ cups.

Purchase heads of cabbage heavy for their size. Leave the ones with brown leaves or blemishes. Don’t wash until you are ready to use the cabbage as added moisture could add to its spoilage.

For many years, cabbage was thought of as “immigrant fare,” or peasant food, and it was boiled until limp and apartment houses reeked of the smell. But for those who might have tasted authentic cabbage rolls

filled with rice, ground beef and pork might ask for seconds. The humble recipe is unintimidating, yet succulent.

The Polish rolls, with a cultural and culinary history of the Baltic countries, are called Golabki. Traditionally they were served at weddings and celebrations. All the neighborhood women joined in to make dozens at a time for later after they danced the polka and waltzed away the night between sips of beer, wine or vodka.

Stuffed Cabbage Leaves Makes 4 servings 1 cup rice (will make 2 cups underdone) 2 small heads of cabbage (using the tender outer leaves) ½ lb. ground pork and ½ lb. ground beef 1 onion, minced and 3 cloves garlic, minced and sauteed 1 egg salt and pepper to taste Rinse and cook rice in boiling salted water for 10 minutes and drain.

Meanwhile, core the bottom of the cabbages and scald the whole cabbage in boiling salted water for 15 minutes. Remove one leaf at a time, cutting off the tough vein on the bottom of each leaf for easier rolling. Set 16 leaves aside and prepare to fill four at a time.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix pork, hamburger, onion and garlic, rice, egg and seasonings. Place a large spoonful of the mixture on each leaf. Fold and roll and tuck the ends.

Chop the leftover cabbage, place on the bottom of the oiled 9 by 13-inch pan with rolls close together seam side down.

Mix the topping: 4 slices cooked bacon, diced 1 small onion, chopped 1 large can of tomato sauce 1 bay leaf Simmer for 2 minutes and pour over the top. Bake for 1-½ hours.

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 13

Sports

Bronchos win opener, 24-20 The University of Central Oklahoma football team returned to the field for the 2021 season opener Thursday night at Wantland Stadium and came away with a 24-20 victory over Missouri Western in an MIAA play before 5,428 fans.

Central (1-0, 1-0 MIAA) got a huge interception from Rae'Quan Wicks on a 4th & 20 from Missouri Western's own 21-yard line with 1:20 left in the game. UCO's kicker Alex Quevedo missed a 36-yard field goal with 1:57 to play but a stout defensive effort from the Bronchos followed and Central kneeled down the ball to run out the clock on the victory.

"It was really just kind of surreal," UCO head football coach Nick Bobeck said. "We haven't played a real football game in so long this is kind of surreal. But I think we played really well tonight.

There were some pretty high highs and a few not so good moments. What matters is the team found a way in the end."

Stephon Brown led the way for the Broncho offense, which put up 383 yards on the night. Brown was 17-for-27 passing with 189 yards and one touchdown. He also had a team-high 14 carries for 126 yards and one score. Brown had a 30-yard touchdown strike to Markiese King in the second quarter. That followed his own 45-yard touchdown scamper earlier in the frame.

King led UCO with four catches for 64 yards and the 30-yard score. He totaled 36 yards after the catch on the night. Daunte McGee had three catches for 17 yards and Diego Richards managed two grabs for 44 yards. Sherrod Davis (2-24), Jayce Gardner (2-18), Payton Scott (2-12) and Jalen Teague (1-11) also helped out in the pass game for Central Thursday night.

Gardner ran the ball out of the backfield 13 times Thursday. The second-year freshman from Moore, Oklahoma tallied 43 yards for a 3.3 yards per carry mark in his Broncho debut. Scott also had nine carries for 25 yards and one touchdown.

Scott got the first score for the Bronchos since 2019 when the sophomore running back from Sand Springs darted left for a 12-yard rushing touchdown to give Central a 7-0 lead with 8:26 to play in the opening quarter.

Just two plays into Missouri Western's ensuing drive, Dylan Buchheit forced a fumble that Derrick Shaw recovered to give the Bronchos a golden opportunity starting their second drive at the MWSU 13-yard line. Central did go three & out but Quevedo made it 10-0 with a 36-yard field goal.

Central took a 10-0 lead into the second quarter.

Missouri Western finally got on the scoreboard to cut the lead to 10-7 with 12:09 to play in the second quarter. But Brown's 45-yard score capped off a 4-play, 65-yard scoring drive right after MWSU got on the board and Central had a 17-7 lead.

Missouri Western seemed to be moving with an answer but missed a 32-yard field goal. Brown followed again with a big drive, capping off the 7play, 80-yard scoring drive with the 30-yard touchdown to King that put UCO ahead 24-7 with 3:34 to play.

Both teams settled in in the third quarter, with MWSU's 1-yard touchdown rush with 2:05 to play in the frame the only score. And MWSU had the only fourth quarter score as well, getting a 3-yard touchdown rush with 13:26 to play to make it 2420.

Central punted on all three possessions in the

MELINDA INFANTE

QB Stephon Brown (2) looks down field for an open receiver

RB Peyton Scott (33) breaks the plane for the first touchdown of the night

The fans were in a mood to cheer on UCO Thursday night.

third quarter and the first two possessions of the fourth quarter. Quevedo's miss from 36 yards, wide right, came on UCO's third possession of the final quarter. After Wicks's pick in the fourth, Brown took a knee on three-straight downs to end the game.

Buchheit led the defensive effort for Central.

The sophomore from Moore, Oklahoma made a game-high 10 tackles, including eight solo. Lamon-

tre Huval made six tackles and Elijah Wright had five, including one for a loss.

Central posted four tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Tre'Vaughn Craig and Michael Slater teamed up for the only sack of the game.

UCO hits the road in Week 2. The Bronchos take on Emporia State in Emporia, Kansas Saturday, Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. Central Oklahoma returns home in Week 3 to take on Missouri Southern.

Page 14 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of film ‘Cinderella’

No crime skipping this Amazon adaptation

By George Gust Amazon Prime’s and writer/director Kay Cannon present a new take on a beloved classic in “Cinderella” A modern movie musical with a bold take on the timeless fairy tale. Our ambitious heroine (Pop Star Camila Cabello) has big dreams and with the help of her fab Godmother (Billy Porter), she perseveres to make them come true.

It always seems like a bottomless well to return to the “Cinderella” storyline; princess marketability, simple story that everyone knows, and a clear list of iconography. That’s why when you see Cannon (the mind behind the massively successful “Pitch Perfect” series and the underrated comedy “Blockers”) at the helm of this modernized adaptation you have hope for a fresh fun take. However, “Cinderella” is a movie that sounds like a fun update on paper, but in execution the movie ends up feeling like it’s trying too hard to be the #girlboss version of the classic story.

Cannon is known for writing strong female protagonists in a way that feels relatable and in that “Cinderella” has elements of that track record. Ca-

bello brings a modern kind of quirk to the role with a knowing wink and a smile to the classic depiction of the character. But for however modern and slick Cabello plays the famed princess there is an underlying superficiality to her performance as well as the rest of the overly qualified cast. And in terms of chemistry with her prince, played mostly flatly by Nicholas Galitzine, there is precious little to be seen on screen outside of the over-the-top musical numbers.

Overall, this modern jukebox take on “Cinderella”

is a misfire for the talent in front of and behind the camera, full of attempts to update the fairytale to modern audience with style and charm but only are able to produce a catalogue of cringeworthy moments.

There is plenty to be said of the bold and colorful sets and dance numbers, but the overall experience of this version of “Cinderella” is a baffling exercise in trying to seem hip and updated. Of course, there will always be a contingent of teens or teens at heart who will enjoy the familiar songs sung by beautiful people, but if you’re not impressed that our lovers slow dance to Ed Sheeran, you’d do fine to skip this Amazon adaptation.

“Cinderella” is rated PG for suggestive material and language. Now available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription and in select theaters.

1.6 out of 5 stars.

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Camilla Cabello and Nicholas Galitzine bring back to the screen the classic love story of ‘Cinderella’ from the makers of ‘Pitch Perfect’ in an adaptation that is anything but.

Genealogy meeting set for Sept. 15 Answers appearing on Page 19

When we think of the early settlers of America we usually think of the English but, if you are doing any research into your family tree or ethnicity, you most likely will find a German ancestor. Germans were among the first ships landing at Jamestown and made up one-third of America’s colonists.

Tracing those German ancestors will be the topic of the next Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group meeting on Wednesday, September 15th at 10:00 am at the OSU Extension office, 2500 NE 63rd St. “German Research” will be presented by Helen Lehman and will give you guidance and ideas on finding and documenting those elusive German ancestors.

Helen has been doing genealogy for 40 years, concentrating on migration patterns and European research, culminating in a 600 page book on her Lehman/Lehmann family and filling 26 huge 3-ring binders full of family papers and genealogical records. She and her husband were Directors of the Family History Library in Oklahoma City for seven years.

This meeting is open to the public and masks are optional at this time.

Further information can be found on our webpage: www.ohcegenealogy.com or on Facebook: OHCEgenealogy.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: TV Couples ACROSS 1. Sweeney Todd's weapon 6. It's in the hole?

9. Plural of #6 Across 13. Soft palate dangler 14. Each one for himself?

15. Red Cross supply 16. Short skirts 17. Flightless bird 18. Wavelike patterned silk 19. *Philip Banks' wife 21. *Dre Johnson's wife on "Black-ish" and occasional site around rain storm 23. 31st of the month, e.g.

24. E-mailed 25. Digital audio workstation 28. Essence of idea 30. Mouth infection 35. Fusses 37. Burden or load 39. Official language of Lesotho 40. Choose politically 41. Sashay 43. Thailand, formerly 44. All worked up 46. One assigned menial work 47. Rancher's unit 48. Blue jeans 50. Famous Scottish lake 52. A cause of inflation 53. Number one 55. Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's guitar 57. *Stars Hollow Luke's love interest 61. *Louise Jefferson's husband 64. Like a solitaire player 65. Government Printing Office 67. Home to BYU 69. Request to Geico 70. Calendar mo.

71. Gladdened 72. 36 inches 73. *Jake and ____ of "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" 74. Rub off DOWN 1. Cuba Libre ingredient 2. Tel ____, Israel 3. Pueblo tribesman

4. Good will branch 5. Leveling to the ground 6. Congregation's echo 7. *Mitch's husband in "Modern Family" 8. Accustom 9. Long, long time 10. Baby container 11. German currency 12. Old World duck 15. The ____, an English rock band from the '80s 20. Goodbye to amiga 22. Marching insect 24. Classroom attendee 25. *Patrick's fiance on "Schitt's Creek" 26. Dig, so to speak 27. King of the gods in Wagner's "Das Rheingold" 29. Barber shop sound 31. Civil Rights icon 32. Ancient city in Africa 33. *Javen's companion on "Temptation Island" or Lamb Chops' puppeteer 34. *Marge Simpson's husband

36. Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence 38. Kind of gin 42. Follow as a consequence 45. Bald Eagle to Americans, e.g.

49. Old Man's turf, according to Hemingway 51. Capital of the Republic of Macedonia 54. Fraternity letter 56. Trial's partner 57. Like a doily 58. Paella pot 59. Big cat sound 60. Blyton or Bagnold 61. Like a bloody horror movie 62. Romantic painter Francisco ____ 63. December 24 and 31, e.g.

66. *Jim's co-worker and wife on "The Office" 68. Type of poem

Answers are found on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 15

For the trait of loyalty

Wallace honored by Character Council Long time Edmond resident, Gary Wallace received recognition as Champion of Character for Loyalty.

Character Council President Jim Hulsey presented Wallace with the certificate, with friends and family present.

In her nomination, friend Stephanie Carel said, “Gary is always dependable and is there for his family, friends, co-workers and fellow volunteers no matter what. I have never met anyone so loyal and dedicated.”

Wallace and his wife, Judy, have been married for 49 ½ years and raised two sons, Travis, an accountant and Adam, a pain management doctor. They moved to Edmond on New Year’s Day in 1984.

Wallace’s father died when he was in the sixth grade. His two grandfathers and an uncle became his role models.

Wallace said there was a principle that he grew up with: “Your word is your bond.” He recalls thinking about certain situations he was in and having an idea about how he should handle them. When he talked it over with his grandfathers, they had a different perspective. Wallace said, “They would say, ‘This is the way you do it, because it’s the right way.’”

Carel met Wallace through the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust.

Wallace has been a member for almost a decade. Carel said, “Gary has proven to be an amazing asset to the preservation of our 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse as well as our group.

This guy goes above and beyond by jumping in during emergency and maintenance situations at the schoolhouse.”

He shows the same dedication to the EHPT. Carel said, “He is our treasurer and always makes sure that we are being smart with our money and providing the best possible options for our community. He is always willing to go the extra mile and help the members of the group with fundrais-

ers, collection of history and strategic planning for our future.”

Wallace volunteers with different organizations such as the National Cowboy and Heritage Museum and the Edmond Historical Society and Museum.

He’s also been involved helping with the Boy Scouts and the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organizations. He wants to be a good example to the boys and girls he works with. He believes that you can’t emphasize loyalty enough and sought to be an example to them. Wallace said, “Loyalty is doing what you say you’re going to do and fulfilling it even when it’s not popular.”

His motivation for loyalty comes from within himself. Wallace said, “You have to be satisfied with who you are. Even though you might not profit. It’s the right thing to do, so that’s what you do” On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Gary Wallace was honored as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of loyalty, “Demonstrating commitment to others.”

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

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

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

The National Institutes of Health has awarded Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Magdalena Bieniasz, Ph.D., a $450,000 grant to study promising ovarian cancer treatments.

Grant will help researchers treat ovarian cancer cases The National Institutes of Health has awarded the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation $450,000 to research promising new ovarian cancer treatments.

OMRF scientist Magdalena Bieniasz, Ph.D., received the two-year grant to test combinations of drugs that may be more effective than current treatments for aggressive forms of ovarian cancer.

“There is a receptor protein that signals tumor cells to multiply faster and survive better,” said Bieniasz, who joined OMRF in 2016 from the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Utah.

“We are studying drugs that could inhibit this signal.”

The presence of this receptor signal is one reason ovarian cancer often develops resistance to traditional therapies. After chemotherapy treatment, this signal promotes the growth of any cancer cells that weren’t stopped, producing a new tumor resistant to the previous medicine.

In an effort to slow or prevent this resistance, Bieniasz’s lab team plans to pair the compound blocking receptor signaling with a chemotherapytype drug.

“We know that to achieve the strongest response, there has to be a combination,” Bieniasz said. “Two drugs combined may be better than the sum of each by itself.”

These drug combinations will be tested on cell models that represent tumors of patients at the University of Oklahoma Health Stephenson Cancer Center. OMRF scientists will use a targeted approach to treat the models, applying different drug combinations based on cancer type and stage.

“In targeted therapy, drugs are matched to specific tumors that have specific features,” said Bieniasz. “We characterize the samples so we know which tumor would be a good candidate for each treatment.”

Bieniasz noted this project will focus not only on what works, but why. Understanding the mechanism of the receptor signaling inhibition will help set up future studies for more effective treatments.

“The signaling protein is present in nearly half of ovarian cancer patients, and each one of those patients could benefit from this,” Bieniasz said.

The grant, No. R21 CA264573-01, is funded by the National Cancer Institute, a part of the NIH.

Gary Wallace receives his recognition from Stephanie Carel.

Page 16 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

More COVID found in wastewater Researchers from the University of Oklahoma and OU Health have detected a major increase of SARSCoV-2 in sewage samples collected in the state’s metropolitan areas, which predicted the current surge in COVID-19 cases across the City and the State as a whole.

Over the past two weeks, the concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 in the different samples from wastewater-treatment plants have been anywhere from 33 to 67 times higher than when they were measured in May. “The increasing levels of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater over the past month are yet another indicator that new infections are occurring rapidly throughout the state. We haven’t seen concentration levels like these since just before our winter case surge,” said Halley Reeves, Vice President of Community and Rural Health Impact for OU Health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many people infected with COVID-19 shed the virus in their waste before developing symptoms. OU, OU Health and several partners have been continually monitoring sewage for SARS-CoV-2 as a means of predicting potential surges. “We use the same technology to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus that is used in the individual PCR tests. The concentration of virus per liter is directly related to the number of individuals with COVID-19 in the sewershed,” said Dr. Bradley Stevenson, Associate Professor of Mi-

crobiology at the University of Oklahoma.

“Analyzing wastewater helps to predict surges about a week before we see case counts increase.

High concentrations suggest that community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurs at high levels and almost certainly among some of the vulnerable populations that our surveillance covers,” said Dr. Katrin Kuhn, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the Hudson College of Public Health According to the state’s weekly COVID report, last week there were 14,793 new COVID-19 infections reported in Oklahoma and 136 deaths attributed to COVID-19 this last week. Cumulatively and across the state, 5.8% of the cases have been hospitalized.

“This data has been an incredible tool as we continue to help fight the ongoing pandemic,” Phil Maytubby, OCCHD chief operating officer said. “Data has been crucial in our response and this predictive methodology has enhanced our planning effort. As the research has continued and specific mutations have been detected that are found in the genome of the Delta variant, OCCHD has used this data to better assess our operation. Because wastewater samples do not suggest a decrease in transmission during the near future, it is important to remain aware of a high risk of infection and take recommended precautions such as wearing masks and receiving the COVID vaccination.”

Ginger Jantz and Michelle McCaileigh at Sip and Taste sponsored by Epsilon Sigma Alpha.

ESA hosts benefit called ‘Sip & Taste’ A successful "Sip and Taste" fundraiser for the Gamma Zeta chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha was recently held in the home of Bill and Pam Fink in Piedmont. Amy Urbach instructed the group about the different wines which are from an independent winery in Napa, California. The majority of grapes are sourced in California; however, the winemaster is Alex Reble, a third generation winemaker from Bourdeaux, France. Europe has a higher standard for their winemaking with more regulatory standards than the United States so Reble makes sure the wines meet the European standards.

The monies raised will support local charities such as UR Special, No Boundaries, Boys’ Ranch Town, Free to Live, Salvation Army and Coffee Creek Riding Stables.

Ms. Urbach, our advisor for the evening, has worked for 3 years for the company which has been in business for 15 year, but they can now direct ship to one’s door. If you are interested in hosting a Sip and Taste party, contact Urbach at 405-659-3778 or Urbachwineshop.com.

New eye doctor on staff he Dean McGee Eye Institute and the University of Oklahoma, Department of Ophthalmology announce the appointment of Aman Mittal, MD as a new specialist in cornea, external disease, and refractive surgery. Dr. Mittal will join the faculty as a Clinical Assistant Professor.

Dr. Mittal A cornea and external disease specialist cares for patients with disorders of the cornea (the transparent structure at the front of the eye), the sclera (the white outer coat of the eye), and the conjunctiva (the layer of tissue between the sclera and the eyelids). A refractive surgeon performs LASIK and other procedures to correct or improve vision.

Dr. Mittal earned his undergraduate degree (magna cum laude) at Duke University and his medical degree from the University of Southern California. He completed his internship at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles, California; his residency at University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas; and his fellowship at the University of California in Irvine, California.

Appointments with Dr. Mittal can be made by calling 405.271.1095.

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 17

Oil, gas fuel boost in state revenue resurgence of the coronavirus,” Oklahoma Gross Receipts Treasurer McDaniel said. “In to the Treasury in August regard to the energy industry, grew by almost 20 percent demand continues to be over the year with a restrong worldwide.” bounding fossil fuel industry The gross production tax leading the way, State Treascomprises less than 10 percent urer Randy McDaniel anof August gross receipts, but nounced last week. the economic activity generTotal monthly gross reMcDaniel ated by the oil and gas indusceipts of $1.17 billion are try impacts all revenue higher than August of last streams. August remittances are from year by $191.2 million, or 19.5 peroil field activity in June, when West cent. Collections from the gross production tax on oil and natural gas are Texas Intermediate Crude at Cushing was set at $70.46 per barrel and up by more than 150 percent. IndiHenry Hub Natural Gas was selling vidual income tax, sales and use tax, for $3.15 per million BTU. and motor vehicle receipts also grew In July, the latest data available, by double digits during the month. the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics “Oklahoma’s economy is doing reported there were 27,900 jobs in well, but there’s concern about the

Oklahoma oil fields. That is the highest level of oil field employment since June 2020, but is still significantly lower than its peak of 65,000 in December 2014.

Twelve-month total collections of $14.29 billion show ongoing economic expansion with all major revenue sources higher than the previous 12 months.

Other indicators The Oklahoma Business Conditions Index for August points to anticipated economic growth. The monthly index was set at 68.4, down from 72.7 in July. Numbers above 50 indicate expansion is expected during the next three to six months.

The July unemployment rate in

Oklahoma was reported as 3.5 percent by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state’s jobless rate was down from 3.7 percent in June and from 7.2 percent in July 2020. The U.S. unemployment rate was set at 5.4 percent in July.

August collections Compared to gross receipts from August 2020, collections in August 2021 show: Total monthly gross collections are $1.17 billion, up $191.2 million, or 19.5 percent.

Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $310.8 million, up by $31.9 million, or 11.4 percent.

See State, Page 18

Francis Tuttle to teach electric vehicle skills There is now no doubting the growth potential for electric vehicles, with automakers pledging manufacturing quotas and municipalities across the country announcing intentions to switch to full electric service vehicle fleets in the coming years.

The clearest indication of this in Oklahoma is the announcement by electric vehicle startup Canoo of plans for a 400-acre production plant in Pryor that will employ over 2,000 people by 2023.

Given its unique role in education and workforce development, Francis Tuttle Technology Center is establishing itself as a resource for training and expansion in this exciting new field.

This summer, Francis Tuttle acquired two electric vehicle training simulators that will allow it to host training programs through its Workforce Economic Development (WED) arm. These simulators replicate the flow of electricity from the battery to vital components of any type of electric vehicle cur-

rently on the market.

“There’s a lot that we can do right now with these training components,” WED Trainer Monte Doan said. “They can simulate what goes on inside a vehicle that is exclusively powered by electric battery, as well as gas-electric hybrids. The training covers a wide range of industries at the moment, and based on the vision we have for this, it’s only the beginning.”

The first classes are expected to start in October of this year.

Trainees will work on the simulators to develop an understanding of several training concepts, including recognizing repair needs in electric vehicles, replacing high-voltage components, operational testing, comparing measurement results to desired data, and checking and evaluating signals. This will allow them to safely and effectively work on the high-voltage (HV) batteries that power electric vehicles.

Business executive will lead Oklahoma State Oklahoma State University President Kayse Shrum has recommended the appointment of respected business and public policy executive Jerome Loughridge to serve as a strategic advisor overseeing the operations of the OSU system campuses in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Okmulgee, with a combined enrollment of over 34,000.

The appointment follows a national search to identify a seasoned leader with significant experience in administration, management, policy and planning to serve as senior vice president of operations.

“Managing the operations of a higher educational system as large and diverse as OSU’s — while developing an ambitious strategic vision to capitalize on our distinct land grant mission with aspirations to elevate our status as one of the nation’s renowned teaching and research universities — will require a dynamic individual with a fresh perspective and history of leading bold initiatives,” said Dr. Shrum. “The experiences and successes Jerome achieved in the private and public sectors in numerous high profile roles leading private equity ventures, managing complex organizations and shaping public policy will be a major asset as he works with our university community to seize the opportunities ahead to shape a dynamic and impactful future.”

At OSU, Loughridge will serve on the president’s cabinet and be responsible for overseeing the multifaceted critical operations of the various campuses, including development, planning, budgeting and property management.

“Jerome’s strong background in operational leadership, policy development and strategic decision making will support the development of a strategic plan to guide our initiative to accelerate and elevate our academic

Loughridge and research endeavors to achieve greater presence and prominence as one of the nation’s leading institutions. He shares our Cowboy values of honesty, respect, trust and humility.

Having worked with Jerome in the past, I am pleased and excited to have him join my leadership team,” Shrum said.

Mr. Loughridge’s career spans more than two decades and includes key positions in higher education and executive positions within the energy sector and Wall Street private equity. He also served as the Oklahoma Secretary of Health & Mental Health.

A former Truman Scholar, Mr. Loughridge also was selected into the White House Fellow leadership development program during which he served at the Pentagon as a special assistant to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. He holds a master of public policy from Harvard University.

“I am honored to serve under the strong leadership of Dr. Kayse Shrum,” said Loughridge. “I witnessed firsthand as secretary of health her calm-under-pressure leadership style, strategic thinking, decisiveness and innovative ideas that made a real difference for the state of Oklahoma.

The training simulators are just the start for Francis Tuttle, which is now partnering in the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) initiative for developing a workforce pipeline for modern energy. ACOG was recently awarded an Industry Sector Partnership Grant from the Oklahoma Office of Workforce Development for such an initiative.

Workforce training is a central part of the grant.

Francis Tuttle’s WED department not only offers customized training to industry partners, but it also promoted career advancement for individuals through open enrollment courses that are focused on trending talent needs.

In the future, the electric vehicle training will be expanded. It is anticipated that first responders and maintenance technicians working for municipalities will get the most from training initially, and then the program will grow in response to market demands.

Page 18 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

State From Page 17 Individual income tax collections are $294.6 million, an increase of $33.4 million, or 12.8 percent.

Corporate collections are $16.2 million, down by $1.5 million, or 8.3 percent. Wide monthly variances in corporate income tax collections are common.

Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $538.7 million – up by $72.3 million, or 15.5 percent.

Sales tax collections total $466.6 million, an increase of $65.6 million, or 16.4 percent.

Use tax receipts, collected on outof-state purchases including internet sales, generated $72.1 million, an increase of $6.6 million, or 10.2 percent.

Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas total $103.1 million, an increase of $62.3 million, or 153.1 percent.

Motor vehicle taxes produced $77.7 million, up by $13.5 million, or 21.1 percent.

Other collections composed of some 60 different sources including taxes on fuel, tobacco, medical marijuana, and alcoholic beverages, produced $140.5 million – up by $11.2 million, or 8.6 percent.

The medical marijuana tax produced $5.5 million, up by $36,795, or 0.7 percent from August 2020.

Twelve-month collections Combined gross receipts for past 12 months compared to the trailing 12 months show: Gross revenue totals $14.29 billion.

That is $1 billion, or 7.7 percent, above collections from the previous period.

Gross income taxes generated $5 billion, an increase of $256.9 million, or 5.4 percent.

Individual income tax collections total $4.25 billion, up by $151 million, or 3.7 percent.

Corporate collections are $757.9 million, an increase of $105.9 million, or 16.2 percent.

Combined sales and use taxes generated $5.95 billion, an increase of $483 million, or 8.8 percent.

Gross sales tax receipts total $5.1 billion, up by $354.6 million, or 7.5 percent.

Use tax collections generated $880.4 million, an increase of $128.4 million, or 17.1 percent.

Oil and gas gross production tax collections generated $876.3 million, up by $140 million, or 19 percent.

Motor vehicle collections total $841.8 million, an increase of $63.9 million, or 8.2 percent.

Other sources generated $1.62 billion, up by $79 million, or 5.1 percent.

Medical marijuana taxes generated $66.5 million, up by $18.7 million, or 39 percent.

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

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

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

OSU offering vaccinations prior to start of home games To make it easier for students, fans and the community to receive a vaccine, Oklahoma State University will host COVID-19 vaccine clinics before home football games this fall.

The first clinic was set for last Saturday’s game at the northwest corner of Boone Pickens Stadium by Hall of Fame Avenue.

OSU Medicine will be distributing shots of Johnson & Johnson, as well as Moderna to anyone who wants one. Patrons will need to bring a health insurance card, but there is no out of pocket expense for the vaccination. Fans will need to get their shot before getting into their gameday vibe, though, as immunizations

may not be given to individuals with alcohol in their system.

Students who are vaccinated at the pod will need to upload their vaccination card to the University Health Services portal to be eligible for Pokea-thon, a vaccine incentive campaign with prizes that include football suite tickets, a Cade Cunningham signed basketball, iPads, three $3,500 bursar credits and more.

T-shirts, hand sanitizer, masks and bottled water will also be given away at the event Saturday. Patrons will be entered into a raffle for two sets of tickets to the Bedlam football game in November, which will be in Stillwater this year.

Arcadia Round Barn will host UkeFest Sunday Back by popular demand, the UkeFest will return to the Arcadia Round Barn from noon to 5 p.m. Sept.

12.

Bands and solo acts will include The Ukulelians, Misspent Ukes, Janice Francis-Smith, the Tulsa Ukulele Club, Jeff Howard, Dustin Cooper, Frank and Scott, Susan House and Stardust.

Renowned classical guitarist Edgar Cruz will even get in on the fun this year, and is scheduled to make a cameo appearance on the ukulele about 1:30 p.m.

Shortly before 5 p.m., The Big Ol’ Uke Band, comprised of several of the acts, will take the stage for a finale. This will be the third UkeFest for the Round Barn, which features live music every weekend.

The festival stage will be outdoors beneath the shade of the giant elm tree on the north side of the barn. Guests can bring blankets and lawn chairs or sit at the picnic tables.

Ukulele players not on the program are invited to bring their instruments for jam sessions to be held inside the Round Barn. The UkeFest will take the place of the monthly Round Barn Rendezvous, which will return in October.

Food will be available from the OK Taco Truck to be parked across the street near the barn’s historical marker.

Admission is free but donations will be accepted for the maintenance of the barn, which was built in 1898 and is owned and operated by the nonprofit Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society.

The Round Barn is six miles east of Interstate 35 on historical Route 66 and is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about live music at the barn, Jeff Howard is among the musicians on the lineup for the Sept. 12 UkeFest at the Arcadia Round Barn. call Joe Baxter at 405-833-1350.

Edmond Life & Leisure • September 9, 2021 • Page 19

COVID surge cause changes with DHS Effective now, all visits to Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) offices will be by appointment only to protect the health and safety of the agency’s customers and workforce. If customers cannot be served online at OKDHSLive.org or OKBenefits.org, or have difficulty with online applications, they can call (405) 522-5050 for assistance or to schedule an appointment.

Scheduling appointments will allow OKDHS to help mitigate the spread of COVID by screening for symptoms and will also allow staff to help serve customers via phone, if possible. Oklahomans who are unable to make an appointment in advance of visiting a county office will not be turned away and will be served as quickly and safely as possible.

"OKDHS is committed to service to our customers in the midst of this most recent surge of the pandemic, while also protecting their health and safety, as well as that of our committed workforce," said Justin Brown, Secretary for Human Services and OKDHS director. "The decision to move to appointment only, rather than allowing for walk-ins, was not made lightly and takes into account the moderate risk level assigned by the Oklahoma State Department of Health for nearly all of Oklahoma’s counties."

Brown continued that throughout the course of the pandemic, OKDHS has learned that Oklahomans can be well-served using the agency’s online benefits portals at OKDHSLive.org and OKBenefits.org, and that OKDHS continues to invest in technology solutions to provide a robust and efficient customer service experience.

However, some Oklahomans who rely on the

critical services provided by OKDHS may have limited online accessibility, and those customers can still be served through an appointment at their local OKDHS office.

"The Centers for Disease Control and the Oklahoma State Department of Health guidance includes social distancing, masking and vaccinations as the most effective tools to slow the spread of COVID-19," said Brown. “We continue urge our customers and workforce alike to follow this guidance to keep themselves and others with whom they come into contact safe. We

have a real opportunity to play our part in slowing the spread of COVID while serving our communities at the same time. I’m thankful for our staff’s commitment to their neighbors as we continue to navigate the pandemic.”

Those in need of services from the Department of Oklahoma Human Services can alwatys complete an application online at OKDHSLive.org or OKBenefits.org or by calling (405) 522-5050. OKDHS will continue to monitor this evolving situation and provide updates as needed.

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Page 20 • September 9, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure