Edmond Life and Leisure - October 20, 2022

Fall fun here

Lots of activities for Halloween 2022

In the past few years COVID canceled or postponed most anything having to do with the fall.

But that’s certainly not the case this year. Throughout the metro there are probably dozens of Halloween and fall activities scheduled.

First of all, the City of Edmond has officially designat ed Monday, Oct. 31 as the date for Halloween and trick or treating. Both children and adults are encouraged to cooperate in limiting the time of activities to the late afternoon and early evening hours for pedestrian safety. However, the city does not set an official start and finish time frame.

Households should indicate their willingness to welcome their neighbors by turning on their porch and exterior lights, while children should only visit homes so lighted. Following these recommended practices will ensure Halloween is a happy and safe occasion for all!

Also don’t forget that the Edmond Historic Preser

Edmond Library. You will get to walk around the park to different ghost scenes and hear documented stories from five of Edmond’s historical figures.

That popular event will also be matched with the Sto rybook Forrest at Arcadia Lake.It will be held the week of Oct. 23 to Oct. 30. Please contact storybookforest. com for additional information on hours and cost.

Not far from the Storybook Forrest is the Parkhurst Ranch. If you’re in the mood to ride a pony, hold a bunny or feed a goat, consider Parkhurst. They also sell pumpkins and offer tractor rides and a petting zoo.

Speaking of zoos, there is also the “Haunt the Zoo,” in the metro. It also runs until Sunday, Oct. 30.

For many more events, please see our Calendar of Events on page 6. Also, EL&L publisher Ray Hibbard covers some activities offered by the Downtown Ed mond Business Association. His column appears on Page 4.

PHOTO BY Melinda Infante

Amira, 11 months, exploring the pumpkins at The Pumpkin Stand on South Broadway.

City seeking vendors

Luminance, Edmond Electric’s walkthru holiday 3-D light display, kicks off Nov. 18, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mitch Park. As part of that kick-off celebration, Merry Marketplace – an early holiday shopping opportunity featuring 10 pop-up shops at the entrance to the displays – will open that same day at 4 p.m.

There are 10 spots available on Nov. 18 for interested vendors and on a second date set Dec. 17, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“We are excited to bring back this very popular holiday shopping experience at our annual kick-off event this year and also, because of last year’s success, offer a second night to visitors,” said Nicole Koehn, Electric Program Coordinator for Edmond Electric. “We hope to bring more visitors to Mitch Park to experience Luminance as well as take advantage of our outdoor ice-skating rink.”

Vendor applications for Merry Marketplace are open at https://edmondlights.com/events and the deadline is Oct. 14. Vendors will be notified of selection no later than Oct. 18, with rental fees due by Oct. 27. If selected, vendors will be provided tents and free electricity.

OCCC & art grant

The Kirkpatrick Foundation recently awarded Oklahoma City Community College a $50,000 grant to

Briefs

support the purchase of state-of-theart equipment for its world-renowned digital cinema program, named one of the best film programs in the United States and Canada by MovieMaker Magazine.

“We are appreciative of the Kirkpatrick Foundation’s support of the arts at OCCC through the years. Executive Director Louisa McCune and the Board of Directors have provided valuable assistance to our program and ensured we have the latest technology to provide our students with the highest quality of education,” said Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, OCCC President.

Guthrie Carnival set

The Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie will host its “History Never Dies” Halloween Carnival on Saturday, October 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. This free, family-friendly festival returns this year with a “Hocus Pocus” theme. At the two-hour event, families can enjoy carnival games, prizes, food, candy and Halloween-themed activities both inside and outside of the museum. The carnival also gives children another chance to dress up, as costumes are encouraged! The museum exhibit galleries and the Carnegie Library will be free and open to the public during this event.

From

Hearing care center giving back

It comes as no surprise to folks that know the doctors and staff at Hearing Care by Hough that they are once again, giving back to the community. A couple of years ago I did an in-depth article on the wellknown hearing care center and got to know both Dr. Hough and his staff. I was impressed and I think our readers were as well.

To be transparent, Hearing Care by Hough is an advertiser of Edmond Life & Leisure but that is not the reason I am letting folks know about a program they are doing to help people in our community. Our advertising results stand on its own merit and do not need an “advertorial” approach to get by like other publications in the market. However, when a business steps up and helps others, it deserves to be recognized and gives our community an opportunity to help someone they know. I was taught that lesson by my mentor in this business, J. Leland Gourley. Best community journalist, ever.

With more than 60 years of combined professional experience, Hearing Care by Hough provides excellent care for patients to achieve better hearing goals and improve their quality of life. They strongly believe in helping enhance relationships through better communication with friends, family and loved ones. They are committed to working toward the best solutions for the needs of their patients.

The Gift of Hearing Campaign 2022 allows them to deliver on a commitment to help neighbors and give back to our community.

For a chance to win a pair of lifechanging Oticon hearing aids:

Download the application form by going to https://hearingcarebyhough.com/giftof-hearing/ Fill out the application form with the necessary information

Send them your application via: Email: monica.hearingcare@outlook.com Fax: 405-471-6477 Mail: 100 NW 150th St. Suite A2 Edmond, OK 73013 OR hand-deliver it to their office

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

Hearing loss that affects communica-

tion and quality of life

Information on how this person serves the community and/or impacts others

Willing to share their story/publicity

Applications must be received by Dec. 9, 2022.

Hearing Care by Hough’s goal has always been to improve the quality of life for those they serve and their family members. Better hearing safeguards quality of life by helping people maintain an active, healthy lifestyle and stay socially and cognitively engaged.

Please help spread the word so that they can change someone’s life in our community. Edmond is truly blessed with great corporate citizens that care about our community and want to give back. Many communities around our nation are not so blessed.

Activities in downtown abound

Regular readers of this column will note that every season is my favorite time in Edmond and fall is no exception. Winter is at the bottom of the list but even that has improved here in downtown Edmond with all the new restaurants and activities with more on the way.

The Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA) has come so far in the last 10 years and done wonders with promoting the growing number of events here in Edmond. Lots of volunteer hours go into each of these events. Here are some upcoming events you may want to take note of. Of course, you can find a complete list on the DEBA website and social media pages. The executive director of DEBA, Stephanie Carel, keeps both up to date and pushes all of us to do better in letting folks know what is coming.

Around the Corner – Pumpkin pancakes are here. I think I mentioned it in a column a few weeks ago but it certainly deserves more attention. They are wonderful. Years ago, when I was in Austin and having breakfast at the classic Magnolia Café, I enjoyed some ginger pancakes. The ATC pumpkin waffle is even better. Nancy tells me she is working on a ginger pancake but if it is not up to her quality standard, she will not put it on the menu. You may be swamped with pumpkin spice stuff but trust me when I tell you this is different and will end after the holidays. Call me when you go, and I can join you. I just need an excuse to have another one. You can skip the butter and syrup to make it a healthy breakfast but then again, why would you want to do that?

Th Addams Family Movie – It is

being held today, the date of this paper in downtown Edmond. There will be a costume contest at 7 pm and the movie will start at 7:30. The location is Broadway and Campbell by Silver Leaf Gems. Should be perfect fall weather folks.

Two events at Frenzy – Frenzy is one of the great breweries in Edmond. I would call it new, but it is not and has been open even before the pandemic. On October 22 they are having an Oktoberfest celebration starting at noon. On October 23 starting at 1:00 pm they will host a Hocus Pocus Halloween Party and Trivia Contest. The address is 15 S Broadway here in downtown Edmond.

Hallow Alley Drive Through Trick or Treat – The event will be October 27 at 5:00 pm. This brings back some trick or treat fun in downtown Edmond. DEBA for many years put on one of the best trick or treat events in the metro folks. Even though I serve on the board of directors for DEBA I really cannot tell you why we stopped. Our staff loved the event and handing out candy to all the kids. We did shut down the streets and for some reason, City of Edmond staff does not like to do so. This is a toe back in the water and the route starts at 10 E Ayers. Please drive though with all the costumes you can legally load in the van.

Haunting Downtown – This event will be on October 28 and starts at 6:00 pm starting at the Railyard which is just east of Broadway on 1st Street. The full name is A Haunting Downtown Halloween Spooktacular and

Paranormal Ghost Tour. It should be fun as well and again, bring back some Halloween fun into downtown Edmond.

Mayor’s Essay Contest open for entries

The 38th annual Mayor’s Essay Contest is now open for entries. The contest is open to all students in grades 1 through 5 in Edmond.

Students wishing to participate will author a short essay (250-word limit) on the following topic: Imagine a winter wonderland and write about it. What does it look like, where is it located, and what is the overall feel?

To enter, students must submit their essay along with their name, school, grade, and parent’s contact information no later than 5 p.m. Nov. 9. Essays may be turned in to the Mayor’s office at 24 E. First Street in downtown Edmond or email to specialevents@edmondok.gov.

The top three winners in each grade will be recognized during the Luminance Kick-Off and Tree Lighting celebration at Mitch Park beginning at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 18. Contest winners will have their picture taken with the Mayor and awarded a special keepsake.

This event has such a great tradition in Edmond. It goes back through many mayors and each one has kept the tradition alive. We look forward to it every year.

For additional information or questions, contact Sarah London at 405359-4580.

“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.

Ray Hibbard

Many events planned for UCO Homecoming week

The University of Central Oklahoma invites the community to celebrate its 2022 homecoming with a week of events, beginning Oct. 23.

This year’s theme is “Bronchos Untamed,” which showcases the unstoppable spirit of Central students, faculty, staff and alumni.

“Each year we look forward to hosting UCO Homecoming and welcoming alumni back to campus,” said Art Cotton, vice president of the UCO Office for Advancement.

“It’s a time to reconnect with one another and remember why we celebrate our Broncho Pride.”

Homecoming events begin with a day dedicated to decorating the campus followed by Rock the Block from 6-10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, at Buddy’s Lawn, located on Central’s campus. The event will include a game of tug-of-war, a pep rally and a foam party.

The week’s events culminate Saturday, Oct. 29 with the Homecoming Festival and Alumni Family Tailgate at 10 a.m., and the football game at 2 p.m. against Pittsburg State University.

Additional homecoming activities include:

• Student Leadership Reunion, 5:30 p.m., Oct. 26, First National Center, 120 N. Robinson Ave., Oklahoma City: A UCO Homecoming reunion event for alumni of Central’s Emerging Leaders Program, Leaders of Tomorrow, President’s Leadership Class and Student Association Executive Boards. Registration is required at www.centralconnection.org/leadershipreunion.

• Golden Bronchos’ Reunion Breakfast, 9-11 a.m., Oct. 27, Nigh University Center, Ballroom A: The UCO Alumni Association invites graduates, faculty and staff from 1972 or prior, to join them for a complimentary reunion breakfast. Graduates from the class of 1972 will receive special recognition and a commemorative gift to celebrate their 50th anniversary of graduating from Central. Register at www.centralconnection.org/goldenbronchos.

• Bronchtoberfest, 5 p.m., Oct. 27, Frenzy Brewing Company, 15 S. Broadway, Edmond:  Kick off the weekend’s homecoming activities with fellow alumni, Central faculty and staff and the UCO Alumni Association Board of Directors. The first

100 registered attendees who arrive will receive their first drink free. Register at www.centralconnection.org/bronchtoberfest.

• Distinguished Alumni Awards, 7 p.m., Oct. 28, Nigh University Center, Grand Ballrooms: Join the UCO Alumni Association as we honor this year’s recipients of the highest awards given to Central alumni. Registration is required at www.centralconnection.org/daa.

• Alumni Family Tailgate, 10 a.m., Oct. 29, west side of Chad Richison Stadium: The UCO Alumni Association invites everyone to join for free family fun. There will be free food and inflatables. Register at. www.centralconnection.org/alumnitailgate.

•Homecoming Festival, 10 a.m., Oct. 29, west side of Chad Richison Stadium: The Homecoming Activities Board invites the UCO and Edmond communities to its second annual fall festival. There will be activities and game booths, free food and guest appearances from student organizations.

For questions, email homecoming@uco.edu.

(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.)

Oct. 3

Lisa Kay Thompson, 60 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Oct. 4

Tiffany Paula Vis, 27 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag — over three months, stop sign violation, possession of marijuana and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Kaylee Madyson Dumas, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Chad Wesley Schwerdtfeger, 50 homeless. Public intoxication and failure to appear.

Melik Davonte Ward, 21 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol, possess CDS and misdemeanor warrant.

Oct. 5

Mosia Negus Figaro, 22 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Darien Jonas Stone, 19 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and disregard of signal light.

Mekhi Amari Davis, 25 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Monashia Kne’Cole Anderson, 20 of Oklahoma City. Trespassing after being warned.

John Matthew Green, 41 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is

canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Eric James Roesler, 37 of Guthrie. Take or receive credit or debit card, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property, public intoxication, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and failure to appear.

Oct. 6

Chad Michael Buffington, 36 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.

Syeda Masooma Abedi, 42 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Yan-Amont Billy Darianssen, 49 homeless. Public intoxication, (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution and possess CDS.

Liping Zhang, 62 of Edmond. Engage/solicit prostitution.

Jim Ames, 40 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and disregard signal light.

Jared Levi Leaf, 35 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants.

Jonathon Wesley James, 32 of Edmond. Public intoxication and failure to appear.

Celiah Olivia Cross, 35 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Zachary Duane Jaco, 36 homeless. Failure to appear.

Oct. 7

Aldexter Darius Johnson, 21 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication and false representation to an officer.

Georgia Jean Targgart, 29 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Oct. 8

Brittney Renee Knight, 26 of Oklahoma City.

Public intoxication.

Dmarea Lament Knight. 28 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle while driver’s license is suspended/revoked, transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, failure to stop for red signal light, elude police officer endanger others (F), operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, possess CDS and possess drug paraphernalia.

Christopher Dontrell Whitaker, 24 of Edmond. Three counts of failure to appear.

Jared Michael Wesel, 33 homeless. Public intoxication.

Andrew Tony Leyva, 49 homeless. Public intoxication.

Nathan Lee Griffin, 28 of Guthrie. Trespassing after being warned.

Dylan Thomas Ryburn 23 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Oct. 9

Jared Grant Davis, 50 of Nichols Hills, Okla. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Haylee Lynn Blankenship 20 of Edmond. Social host violation.

Monique Araceli Canales, 19 of Guthrie. Public intoxication.

Margie Jisell Hernandez, 21 of Guthrie. Public intoxication.

Robert Jeffrey Hoffman, 31 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Syeda Masooma Bedi, 42 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Lucretia Lynn McGirt, 51 of Oklahoma City. Petty larceny.

Weekend calendar of events, Oct. 20-23

What’s Happening This Weekend Oct 20 -- 23

In the Gallery

Farmer’s Market

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors

Nerf Battles

Frontier City Fright Fest

Wings Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch

Haunt the Zoo

Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

Guthrie Haunts

Lyric Theatre Presents: “The Rocky Horror Show”

OKC Ghost Tour

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

Wicked Forest of Terror

Pumpkinville

History & Haunts at the Overholser

Oklahoma River Cruises’ Haunt the River

Live Music at Frenzy

Downtown Movie Night

Chris Renzema Concert

Grown-Up Arts & Crafts

Edmond Historical Ghost Tours

Oktoberfest

Storybook Forest

Community Ofrenda

Todos Somos Americanos. We Are All Americans.

Signature Tour

Haunt the Harn

An Affair of the Heart

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Blithe Spirit

OKC BBQ Fest

OKC Ghost Tour

World Cup Finals of Team Roping

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring Mark & Jennifer Hustis & William Mantor; Free; edmondfinearts.com

Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 16 – Wed, Oct 19; 8 a.m. –1 p.m.; edmondok.gov

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31; edmondhistory.org

Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Sun, May 1 – Sat, Dec 1; edmondhistory.org

Battles

Location: The Hive Basketball Complex

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 2---- Sat, Dec 17; 6 – 8 p.m.; $13/hr or $20/2 hr; arena51fun.com

Frontier City Fright Fest

Location: Frontier City Extra Info: Sat, Sep 24 – Sun, Oct 30; Sat & Sun Only – hours vary; $34.99; sixflags.com

Wings Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch

Location: Wings Event Center

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 30 – Sun, Oct 23; Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 6 p.m.; Free; wingsok.org

Haunt the Zoo

Location: Oklahoma City Zoo

Extra Info: Sat, Oct 8 – Sun, Oct 30; Sat & Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okczoo.org

Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

Location: Orr Family Farm

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 24 – Sat, Nov 12; orrfamilyfarm.com

Guthrie Haunts

Location: 4524 Riverside Circle, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 16 – Fri, Nov 5; guthriecaregrounds.com

Lyric Theatre presents: “The Rocky Horror Show”

Location: Plaza Theatre

Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Sun, Oct 30; Wed –Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 5 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com

OKC Ghost Tour

Location: 101 E Sheridan Ave

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 16 – Fri, Oct 28; Tours begin at 7 p.m.; Eventbrite.com

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia, OK

Extra Info: Wed, Sep 21 – Sun, Nov 13; Wed –Fri: 1 p.m. – dark; Sat: 10 a.m. – dark; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; parkhurstranch.com

Wicked Forest of Terror

Location: 9420 W I-40 Service Rd, OKC

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 24 – Mon, Oct 31; 8 p.m. –close; Tiny Terror: arrive before sundown Oct 22 & 29 only; wickedforestofterror.com

Pumpkinville

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 7 – Sun, Oct 23; 10 a.m. 5 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

History & Haunts at the Overholser

Location: Overholser Mansion

Extra Info: Sat, Oct 8 – Sat, Oct 29; 6 p.m.; overholsermansion.org

Oklahoma River Cruises’ Haunt the River

Location: Oklahoma River Cruises

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 14 – Sat, Oct 29; 7:45 p.m.; okrivercruises.com

Live Music at Frenzy

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Oct 20 – Sat, Oct 21; 7 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com

Downtown Movie Night

Location: Silver Leaf Gems

Extra Info: Thu, Oct 20; 7 p.m.; Free; edmondhistory.org

Chris Renzema Concert

Location: Oklahoma Christian University

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 21; 7:30 – 10 p.m.; $15; oklahoma-christian-university.ticketleap.com

Grown-Up Arts & Crafts

Location: MAC in Mitch Park

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 21; $15; 6 – 8 p.m.; edmondparks.com

Edmond Historical Ghost Tours

Location: Shannon Miller Park

Extra Info: Sat, Oct 22; 6 – 8 p.m.; $10; edmondhistoricaltrust.com

Oktoberfest

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Sat, Oct 22; 12 p.m.; Free; facebook.com

Storybook Forest Location: Arcadia Lake

Extra Info: Sun, Oct 23 – Sun, Oct 30; Child: $12, Adult: $5; 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.; storybookforest.com

Community Ofrenda

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Oct 1 – Wed, Nov 2; 10 a.m. –5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Todos Somos Amerianos.

We Are All Americans.

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 21; 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Haunt the Harn

Location: Harn Homestead Museum

Extra Info: Thu, Oct 20; 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.; harnhomestead.com

An Affair of the Heart

Location: State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 21 – Sun, Oct 23.

Memorial girls are state champions!

Ryley Watkins wasn’t nervous at all.

Even though the bases were loaded in the bottom of the seventh inning, the senior from Edmond Memorial was actually excited as she stepped to the plate with the state championship on the line.

“This is going to be the last one so might as well make it count,” Watkins thought. “We still had an out to work with and I was confident that if I dån’t do it, somebody behind me would.”

Watkins didn’t need anybody else. She did what she had dreamed of doing since her freshman year of high school.

With the bases loaded, Watkins smashed an RBI single to left field bringing home Kensington Perrotti to lift Edmond Memorial past Broken Arrow 1-0 for the Class 6A title. Memorial topped Broken Arrow 1-0 over the weekend to win its fourth fastpitch state championship and first since 2019.

The Bulldogs found the teary-eyed Watkins as she rounded second base and tackled her in celebration.

“She’s a senior, she’s not going on to play in college, she’s going to remember that for forever,” First-year Edmond Memorial coach Kayla Carlsward said of Watkins.

With the performance of Edmond Memorial freshman pitcher Keegan Baker and Broken Arrow’s Adison Norman, the two teams were locked in a pitcher’s duel for the first six innings of the game. Each time Broken Arrow looked like it was going to break through, Edmond Memorial would shut it down.

In the fifth inning, Broken Arrow’s Maysie Childers earned the Tigers first hit of the game and then two walks loaded the bases with one out. But when Broken Arrow hit a ground ball the runner at third didn't run. Edmond Memorial third baseman Beth Damon tagged both runners out.

“She is definitely the one we want with the ball in her hands in a sticky situation like that,” Carlsward said of Damon. “She’s a very experienced player, she knows how to hold her composure, and stay calm in crazy situations so we couldn’t have asked for it to be hit to a better person.”

From Oklahoman.com

Your 2022 state girls 6A champions are from Edmond Memorial!

Four in a row for the Bronchos

Central Oklahoma used a secondhalf surge to pull away from Fort Hays State Saturday afternoon, earning head coach Adam Dorrel his 100th career victory with a 35-23 win at Chad Richison Stadium.

Central Oklahoma is now 5-2 on the season following its fourth consecutive win. The Bronchos improved to 4-0 at home this Fall as well.

"We didn't like the way we started and the guys did a good job of correcting some things," Dorrel said. "That's something you like to see. It's not always perfect, but if you can make those corrections and come away with a win, that goes a long way."

Dorrel won 76 games at Northwest Missouri from 2011-16 before moving to Abilene Christian, where he won 19 from 2017-21. His five this season at Central Oklahoma bring his career coaching record to 100-42.

Saturday, Central Oklahoma got off to a slow start, trailing 10-0 in the first quarter. Fort Hays State got the opening kickoff and drove 60 yards on 10 plays before settling for a field goal. The Tigers then got the ball back on an interception before a 3-yard, 34-yard touchdown scoring drive.

But the Bronchos responded after that. A 15-play, 66-yard drive that spanned the final seven minutes of the first quarter and two plays into the second quarter ended with a 25yard field goal from Nicky Quevedo to put UCO on the board, 10-3.

UCO's defense forced a punt on the next possession and then worked a little play-calling magic.

On 1st & 10 from its own 20-yard line, Stephon Brown threw a deep pass over the middle of the field to a wide open streaking Oscar Hammond, who hauled it in and trotted into the end zone for the 80-yard score.

UCO forced another Hays punt, then produced another big drive. This one took more time, nine plays, but the 72-yard scoring drive also ended with a touchdown and UCO took a 16-10 lead.

Brown had passes to Nasir Kemper (17 yards), Madison Ridgeway (18)

and Terrill Davis (28). The latter put UCO on the Hays 3-yard line and Kemper ran it in for the score on the next play.

UCO got the ball to start the second half and took it 46 yards before settling for a 43-yard field goal from Quevedo.

Quevedo hit another 38-yard field later in the quarter. Fort Hays State added its second touchdown of the game late in the frame.

The teams went to the fourth quarter 22-17 before a late UCO pullaway.

Ridgeway scored on a 23-yard touchdown pass from Brown with 11:14 to play. That capped a 6-play, 48-yard scoring drive and put UCO ahead 28-17.

Dominique Dunn then caught a 26-yard touchdown pass from Brown with 8:44 to play to give UCO a 3517 lead.

Hays added one late score, with 1:32 to play, to pull it to the final, 35-23.

Brown finished with a career night. The Kernersville, N.C. native was 26for-33 passing for 381 yards and three touchdowns. Brown's 381 yards passing is tied for 12th on Central's single game passing list and the most of any Broncho since 2017.

Brown connected with 10 different receivers on Saturday.

Hammond was the big target with catches of 80 and 62. He finished with five catches for 148 yards and one touchdown. Davis also had five catches for 38 yards. Ridgeway finished with three for 68 and one score.

UCO had 114 rushing yards as a team, led by Kemper's 57 on 13 carries.

Defensively, Connor Johnson and Jason Harris both led the Bronchos with seven tackles each. Johnson added one sack for a 10-yard loss.

Central Oklahoma's four-game win streak is the longest since 2018 when the Bronchos won five in a row.

UCO hits the road in Week 8 to take on Washburn in Topeka, Kan. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. The Bronchos are back home in Week 9, hosting Pittsburg State at 2 p.m. for Homecoming at Chad Richison Stadium.

UCO quarterback Stephon Brown threw for almost 400 yards.

VillagesOKC marks anniversary with event at Okla. History Center

Nearly 200 members and guests gathered at the Oklahoma History Center to celebrate the fourth anniversary of VillagesOKC, a metro nonprofit which connects older adults to opportunities to learn, plan and serve. Theme for the evening was "Everyone Has a Story." Stories shared on video included Carolyn Wettengel and Steve Childers, both of whom talked about how NewView Oklahoma, a VillagesOKC partner, has helped them deal with diminished sight. A live interview of Patty and Bill Johnson by Dr. Nikki Buckelew told the inspiring story of how the two met at a VillagesOKC workshop, developed a relationship and married. Both were final-stage caregivers for their former spouses. The plated dinner was provided by Rococo on Western. The evening ended with a visit to museum exhibits.

Jill McCartney, Nancy Morgan and Yvonne Mercer. At left, Oklahoma History Center hosted the event with plated dinner service by Rococo

Susan Diffee, Lance Ward and Jeni Ward.

Chris Buckelew, Eddie Roach, Petra Roach and Dr. Nikki Buckelew.

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side Demonizing the opponent

By Steve Gust

It’s tough to watch a lot of the political ads that are flooding the airways right before our general election in November.

People generally characterize their opponent as a war criminal.

OK it may not be quite that bad, but the candidates go out of their way to make it clear that you have no business voting for the other person.

You really have to wonder who the people are that these ads are trying to reach.

After months, and years, of watching the people who govern, who could really be undecided at this point?

I’m still waiting for President Biden and Vice President Harris to come barnstorming into Oklahoma to get votes for the Democrats.

Somehow I don’t think that’s going to happen anytime soon.

Last week I talked about the jobs which get a lot of criticism. At the top of that list is football coach. But editors also get their fair share and sometimes deserve it.

Randy Eilts is a nice guy. He handles communications for the Covenant Living Communities and Serivces. He pointed out, and accurately that my headline a few weeks ago on Miss Okla., Megan Gold, moving into the assisted living center in Tulsa probably wasn’t accurate.

I wrote “nursing home” in the headline and he said the center has assisted and independenc lviing quarters.

Megan, the North High School graduate, has an apartment at Covenant Living at Inverness.

If you’re interested, we still probably have the article on our web page.

It truly is a neat story for Megan to make friends, and learn about life from seasoned citizens.

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

AARP not pleased with latest OG&E hike

On Oct. 7, OG&E customers received an email that read, "Beginning Oct. 1, 2022, you will see an increase to the fuel charge on your bill of 7.4% or approximately $9.73 per month for the average residential customer." While an investigation is underway and subject to a hearing in early November, OG&E unilaterally opted to saddle customers with another rate hike. AARP Oklahoma intervened at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, objecting to OG&E's plan for the collection of a $424 million fuel adjustment charge from customers.

AARP Oklahoma state president Jim Randall supports the investigation filed by corporation

commission staff. He said the exorbitant charges are unfair and questioned the lack of accountability and transparency from profitable utility companies like OG&E.

"Three rate hikes in one year is outrageous, egregious and shameful. Oklahomans are making sacrifices because they can't afford these skyrocketing utility bills. OG&E continues to line its pockets without regard for the economic hardships Oklahomans face.

Where is OG&E's plan to share in the sacrifice? All we see is OG&E's report of nearly $10.0 million in profit last quarter and predicted another year of profits between

$375 and $395 million. Why isn't OG&E being asked to kick in some of their estimated $395 million in profits and help customers?

AARP Oklahoma warned of relentless utility rate hikes that extend beyond the recent rate increases approved by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. That is why we continue to advocate for a moratorium on rate hikes and an investigation by the corporation commission. We must get to the bottom of this out-of-control spending frenzy on the backs of Oklahoma families."

Randall said news of yet another OG&E rate hike in less than three months is unbelievable.

"OG&E also plans another rate increase of $12 per month beginning in January 2023. Customers can't afford it, and OG&E knows this, but OG&E just doesn't care," Randall said.

Randall said AARP Oklahoma would continue to fight for fair and reasonable utility rates on behalf of our nearly 400,000 and all Oklahomans. Randall urged Oklahomans to fight back and visit action.aarp.org/stopthehike to tell the corporation commissioners, "Enough is enough!"

General

Lankford, others say VA abortions are illegal

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) was joined by 12 Republican Senators and 26 members of the House of Representatives to file a public comment letter expressing strong opposition to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) interim final rule (IFR) that illegally allows abortions to be offered by the VA. The Members cite that the rule directly violates the VA’s explicit statutory prohibition on abortion that has governed the VA for 30 years. The letter calls on Secretary of VA Denis McDonough to promptly rescind the rule.

Lankford was joined in sending the letter by Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Roger Marshall, M.D. (RKS), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mike Braun (R-IN), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Jim Risch (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (RTN), Mike Crapo (R- ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Rick Scott (R-FL). Representative Michael Cloud (R-TX) lead the effort in the House of Representatives.

The Members wrote in their letter, “The VA does not have the power to override an Act of Congress to impose its preferred policy of taxpayer-funded abortion on demand until birth. Tragically, the IFR is the latest in a long string of actions the Biden Administration has taken to promote the killing of unborn children through abortion in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. We demand that you immediately rescind the IFR and revert the VA’s policies to the longstanding prior regulation excluding abortion and

abortion counseling from the VA’s medical benefits package as well as the CHAMPVA program, in conformity with the law and congressional intent.”

Lankford remains the leading pro-life voice in the Senate to stand up against the Biden Administration’s obsession with abortion, especially after the Supreme Court’s ruling to return decisions about abortions to the people’s elected representatives. After the initial reports about the IFR in August, Lankford immediately began his effort to challenge the VA providing abortions. The latest episode of Lankford’s podcast, The Breakdown with James Lankford, was a conversation about the pro-abortion lobby spreading false rumors about miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, and what that means for the future of women’s health.

Secretary McDonough,

We write in strong opposition to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Interim Final Rule (IFR), “Reproductive Health Services,” 87 FR 55287, RIN: 2900AR57, published in the Federal Register on September 9, 2022. The IFR directly violates the VA’s explicit statutory prohibition on abortion that has governed the VA for more than 30 years and has never been repealed.

As Members of Congress, we have a unique Constitutional interest in ensuring the law, as written by Congress, is followed and implemented by the Executive Branch. Rather than follow the law, the IFR purports to immediately authorize the VA to provide taxpayer-

Letters to the Editor policy

funded abortions and abortion counseling to veterans, as well as eligible spouses and dependents, in defiance of both federal and state law. Moreover, the IFR fails to demonstrate a “good cause” to forgo notice and comment procedures for rulemaking required under the Administrative Procedure Act.

The VA does not have the power to override an Act of Congress to impose its preferred policy of taxpayerfunded abortion on demand until birth. Tragically, the IFR is the latest in a long string of actions the Biden Administration has taken to promote the killing of unborn children through abortion in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

We demand that you immediately rescind the IFR and revert the VA’s policies to the long-standing prior regulation excluding abortion and abortion counseling from the VA’s medical benefits package as well as the CHAMPVA program, in conformity with the law and Congressional intenåt.

The IFR directly contradicts explicit statutory prohibitions on abortion services at the VA.

Section 106(a) of the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 (VHCA) restricts the VA from providing abortions: “In furnishing hospital care and medical services under chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may provide to women . . .

[g]eneral reproductive health care . . . but not including under this section . . . abortions.” So while the VA claims that access to abortion is “needed,” Congress has unequivocally prohibited it.

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Consistent with the 1992 law, the VA’s former regulations governing its medical benefits package promulgated in 1999 stated that “the ‘medical benefits package’ does not include . . . abortions and abortion counseling.”

While the IFR attempts to portray itself as reasonable by appearing to limit abortions to the case of rape or incest or if the life of the pregnant veteran would be endangered if the pregnancy were carried to term, the IFR also includes an incredibly broad “health” exception that allows any individual abortion provider to determine that the abortion is necessary for a woman’s health.

Steve Gust

Fall beauty may lead to greater risk of fire both indoors & outdoors

By Okla. Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

After a long summer of fun in the sun, the fall season has finally arrived in Oklahoma. Fall brings cool, crisp weather and beautiful colors. It also brings new hazards and risks along with falling leaves and cooler temperatures. While it’s nice to warm up next to a fire or with a heated blanket, it’s important to understand the risks involved. Home fires and related injuries increase in the fall with the use of candles, space heaters, stoves for cooking and fireplaces to keep warm.

As we ease into the colder months and get ready for Fire Prevention Week, now is a great time to make sure your home heating system is working properly, and you understand the importance of seasonal inspections. Proper maintenance protects your family from avoidable fire dangers and protects all of Oklahoma from fire disasters and increasing insurance rates. Last year, insurance companies paid out over $1.3 billion in claims for fire-related damages nationwide.

During Fire Prevention Week, I’d like to share helpful reminders to Oklahomans on fire safety. Here are a few simple tips to help you protect your family and property as you crank up the heat.

Inside Your Home

Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

Clean fireplaces and chimneys.

Install fire extinguishers in your home.

Keep flammable objects away from furnaces, fireplaces and other heating units.

Never leave burning candles or items on the stove unattended.

Never use a range or an oven as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a safety hazard, but it can also be a source of potentially toxic fumes.

Outside Your Home

Remove dead leaves and other debris around the house and from the roof.

Clean or replace the furnace filter and clean the entire furnace area to remove debris.

Have heating units inspected by a licensed contractor.

Never discard hot ashes near the home. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.

Many fire departments, including Oklahoma City and Tulsa, offer free smoke detectors, batteries and installation to residents who request it. It’s a product that can save your life, so I strongly encourage you to get it installed. After learning these safety tips, I hope we can all remain safe and healthy while enjoying the fall season without any fires.

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

Champion of Character trait of ‘Orderliness’

Schoolmarm, aka Carol Anderson, honored

Carol Lowery Anderson, known to many as the 1889 Territorial Schoolmarm, Miss Lowery, received recognition as Champion of Character for Orderliness at the Edmond History Museum’s Annual meeting, Tuesday, September 20th.

Carol grew up in an orderly home. She found the example served her well as she pursued her career as a teacher. Her first teaching position placed her in the footsteps of Bertie Phelps, a highly esteemed teacher. Ms. Phelps gave her some of her old units and lesson plans, which inspired Carol. She recognized how Ms. Phelp’s organizational skills opened the door to a creative and fun classroom.

Edmond History Museum’s Executive Director, Amy Stephens, nominated Carol for the Champion of Character honor.

Amy said, “Carol enjoys taking students "back in time" to experience life in early-day Edmond. Not only is she extremely organized in preparing her lessons and materials, but she runs her classroom strictly on schedule, without breaking her 1889 characterization.”

Since teaching at the Territorial School, Carol finds orderliness even more important. The audience she encounters changes from one group to the next. She may have students who come from public, private or home schools. Considering their perspectives ahead of time, enables her to adapt to the unique characteristics and needs of each group. It also creates freedom and variety in the living history program.

The extra effort pays off. Carol said, “They are so caught up in it. They want to do school like that

every day.”

In 1889, there were not only more rules but a greater emphasis on rules and respect. Teachers stressed reading out loud, memorization and recitation.

Carol said, “Kids love those things. They also love the outdoor games.”

On occasion she thinks about not preparing. Just freefall… No, she can’t bring herself to abandon her preplanning. Of course, there are things that happen beyond her control.

The Edmond History Museum holds summer camps each June for children 6 to12 years old. Carol adds new stations to give repeat campers a different experience.

One year they made model sod houses and learned about life on the prairie. Carol gathered the materials and practiced making the sod bricks at home to avoid any surprises. Everything worked fine. Getting the right consistency of the clay right was a little tricky, though.

When it came time to make the model soddies at camp, it didn’t go so well. The clay had dried out. She kept hearing one child after another say, “My sod house keeps falling down. It’s all crumbly.” She came up with a solution. “Everyone gets to take a brick home.” They went home with smiles. At least they had a good visual. A sense of humor and flexibility helped.

Summer camp requires a lot of volunteers. Sometimes older students who aspire to pursue a teaching career want to help. Carol’s orderliness allows her to bring them into an apprenticeship program. They get hands-on experience and see aspects of teaching beyond just showing up. Carol makes modeling orderliness a priority. She invites them to come with her to go shopping for supplies and preparing ahead. Their assistance helps the camp run more smoothly.

Carol said, “If it’s an orderly camp it projects a calmness to parents. They know we have a plan, practice good safety, and have good commu-

nication. So, they feel secure leaving their children with us.”

Describing the benefits of Carol’s orderliness, Amy said, “School teachers, homeschool parents and citizens under Carol's tutelage have come to expect a high-quality educational experience at the schoolhouse because of her well-ordered teaching and historical knowledge. Carol has trained many new Schoolmarms in her techniques, setting a high standard for teaching the modern-day students about life in 1889.”

Carol and Scott married 41 years ago. They moved to the United Arab Emirates a short time later, where they worked with a mission organization. Carol taught school and Scott built a hospital, as a Civil Engineer. All three of their children were born overseas.

The Andersons have lived in Edmond for the past 20 years. Since then, they’ve added five grandchildren to their family.

On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Carol Lowery Anderson was honored as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of orderliness, defined by Character First as, “Arranging myself and my surroundings to achieve greater efficiency.”

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.

Carol Lowery Anderson,

Silver Dollar City: Something for everyone

By Elaine Warner

There are very few things where onesize-fits-all actually works. This applies to clothes – and to theme parks. Disney World is great – but it costs an arm and a leg and a spleen plus legs of steel to cover all the territory. Other parks concentrate on rides and a young crowd. But there’s one park which truly does appeal to every generation – Silver Dollar City.

It has over 40 rides and attractions plus amazing shopping, super entertainment, fabulous landscaping, great food, and a manageable size. Top that off with a massive limestone cave, and you have a real winner. This family-owned park is truly for the whole family.

Right now, Silver Dollar City is hosting one of my favorite festivals –one of ten throughout the year – its Harvest Festival: Featuring Crafts and Pumpkins in the City. Running until October 29, the park is a riot of fall colors and a showcase of American’s finest craftspeople.

An underlying theme in the park is the history of the area. Foods of the region are supplemented with fall favorite flavors. This year’s specialties include pumpkin-spiced rubbed smoked ribs, salted caramel apple funnel cakes, pumpkin-spiced churros, pumpkin bisque, pumpkin bread pudding, even pumpkin pizza.

With a number of eating options, it pays to check menus before you go. You’ll find everything from sandwiches and salads to skillets and full meals. Don’t worry if you don’t care for pumpkin – and I’m not a huge fan -- there are plenty of items to choose from.

This is an FYI for the future: One of my favorite things at Silver Dollar City – one many people don’t know exists – is the Cooking School. I’ve

been to two different sessions. A limited number of guests sit around a cooking island and watch instructors prepare a variety of tasty dishes. And guests not only get to eat the examples, they come home with recipes. Thanks to COVID, the school is currently closed. For later visits, do check to see if they have reopened, it’s a real treat.

Musical entertainment is big at Silver Dollar City with a variety of venues. Groups range from country and bluegrass to gospel and contemporary performers. For comedy, the longest-running show at SDC is Showdown at the Silver Dollar Saloon.

While there are craft demonstrations throughout the year, this festival features craftspeople from all over the United States. In the Cowboy

Emporium, look for Buck Taylor, Gunsmoke and Yellowstone star, who is also a fine watercolorist.

Throughout the park, you’ll find hand-crafted candles, soap, leatherwork, woodwork, jewelry, pottery –you could practically furnish your home. If you’re looking for large pieces of furniture, Heartland Home Furnishings features beautiful items hand-crafted right here with traditional tools.

If rides are your thing, there are attractions from gentle ones like Fireman’s Flyers, a low-flying swing, or Lucky’s Dizzy Dogs, which bump and bounce around a giant fire hydrant, to mind-bending roller coasters for thrill seekers.

All ages enjoy a ride around the park on the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train. This 20-minute ride

takes you through wooded Ozark scenery – with a brief interruption by tricky train robbers.

There are a number of ways to get wet at Silver Dollar City but unless there’s an unexpected heat wave, you’ll probably want to skip these.

The wildest one is Mystic River Falls which ends in a four-and-a-half story plunge – the tallest drop of a water raft ride in the Western Hemisphere.

Roller coaster fans rejoice at the choices here. PowderKeg gets riders off to an explosive start, accelerating from 0 to 53 miles an hour in less than three seconds. Traveling at speed of up to 66 miles an hour, WildFire takes guests through five wild loops. Outlaw Run is the world’s most daring wooden roller coaster with a top speed of 68 miles an hour and features not only the world’s only wooden coaster to do a double barrel roll but also the only wood coaster to twist upside-down with a record-breaking three inversions.

As wild as these rides are, my vote for the scariest ride is Time Traveler.

A double-launch, spinning coaster, this monster begins with a 10-story, 90 degree (completely vertical) drop. It brings new meaning to the term “throw up!” While you’d never get me on this one, I made a stop at the gift shop by the ride to check out the steam-punk-themed souvenirs.

In addition to all the permanent attractions, Harvest Festival features more than 15,000 pumpkins, thousands hand-carved. Watch master carver Barry Brown turn pumpkins into intricately carved lanterns. Look for giant sculptures made of pumpkins or dance with pumpkin pals at the nightly Pumpkin Plaza Dance Party.

Silver Dollar City is my favorite theme park and fall is my favorite time to go. Here’s an insider tip: Go in the afternoon and stay until after dark. The pumpkins are fun in the daytime but absolute magic at night.

PHOTO PROVIDED/ SILVER DOLLAR CITY

Riders board the old-fashioned steam train from a replica of a 19th century train depot.

Elaine

PHOTO PROVIDED/SILVER DOLLAR CITY

TV star Buck Taylor is a talented painter who will be displaying his works during the Crafts Festival.

By George Gust

“Luckiest Girl Alive” is Netflix’s adaptation of the Jessica Knoll novel of the same name. Following a sharp-tongued New Yorker, Ani (Mila Kunis), who appears to have it all.

But when the director of a crime documentary invites her to tell her side of the shocking incident that took place when she was a teenager at a prestigious School, Ani is forced to confront a dark truth that threatens to unravel her meticulously crafted life.

We’ve seen this kind of mystery thriller “Luckiest Girl Alive” appears to be in countless forms, heck Ashley Judd even made a career out of ‘strong woman with a mysterious past’ thriller. However, “Luckiest Girl Alive” is not like all the other girls in the novel adapted thriller genre.

Much of this difference comes from the film’s unflinching view and portrayal of sensitive and gruesome acts that can be triggering to view.

In terms of performance, “Luckiest Girl Alive” is a phenomenal showcase for Kunis who is usually know more for her light comedic/charming

persona.

However, in this film she’s asked to show a darker more complex character. Without spoilers, Kunis’s character goes through two of the more terrifying and emotionally scarring events a young person can go through.

Kunis was able to bring this trauma and grief across the screen in a believable way even though her character may be unlikable at timesthe ultimate character arc reveals that her unlikable ways were essentially a coping mechanism

for the horrible events in her past.

Overall, “Luckiest Girl Alive” has all the trappings of a true crime TV movie of the week on a channel like Lifetime, but the filmmakers behind this film were able to use a deft touch to navigate the harsh subject matter of the film. For many there will be times that you may want to fast forward the film if the acts depicted are triggering, but the film is able to give an engaging and heartbreaking view on trauma and grief wrapped up in the glossy world of New York elites.

“Luckiest Girl Alive” is Rated R for violent content, rape, sexual material, language throughout and teen substance use. Now available to stream on Netflix.

3.6 out of 5 stars.

You can reach George Gust to comment on this film, or any of his motion picture reviews at gust.george@gmail.com. Check out past reviews on www.edmondlifeandleisure.com.

Essay contest seeks entries

The 38th annual Mayor’s Essay Contest is now open for entries. The contest is open to all students grades 1 through 5 in Edmond.

Students wishing to participate will write a short essay (250-word limit) on the following topic: Imagine a winter wonderland and write about it. What does it look like, where is it located, and what is the overall feel?

To enter, students must submit their essay along with their name, school, grade and parent’s contact information no later than 5 p.m. Nov. 9. Essays may be turned in to the Mayor’s office at 24 E. First Street in downtown Edmond or emailed to specialevents@edmondok.c om.

The top three winners in each grade will be recognized during the Luminance Kick-Off and Tree Lighting celebration at Mitch Park beginning at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 18. Contest winners will have their picture taken with the Mayor and awarded a special keepsake.

For additional information or questions, contact Sarah London at 405-359-4580.

PHOTO PROVIDED

TSET partnership sends nine MD’s to rural areas

The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) and the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Training Commission (HWTC) welcome nine doctors to the newest class of the Physician Loan Repayment Program recipients serving rural communities across the state.

The new physicians were placed in McAlester, Kingston, Talihina, Henryetta, Okemah, Muskogee, Ponca City, and Altus.

Physicians who participate in the program agree to work in a rural or underserved area of the state for up to four years and can receive up to $200,000 in student loan repayment assistance. Importantly, physicians who work in rural and underserved parts of the state bring vital access to health care – part of the core mission of HWTC and TSET’s constitutional mandate.

“Physicians provide lifesaving and preventative care to Oklahomans every day,” said Julie Bisbee, executive director of TSET. “The closer doctors are to the people they serve, the more likely they can prevent and reduce serious medical conditions from developing. TSET is proud to partner in this program that helps attract and retain doctors in

In the past year, the program has graduated four physicians who began the program in 2018.

TSET funding supports up to 42 physicians.

rural areas and invests in the long-term health of Oklahomans.”

Since 2013, TSET has worked with the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Training Commission – formerly the Physician Manpower Training Commission – to financially support the placement of physicians in rural Oklahoma.

TSET provides 40% of the total funding for the loan repayment assistance for each TSET-sponsored physician. TSET provides the largest share of funding to attract public and private partners to the initiative. Public and private partners providing match

include hospitals, cities, insurance providers, medical associations and banks.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with TSET and for their commitment to the Commission’s efforts to expand the availability of physicians and quality healthcare to rural Oklahoma,” said Janie Thompson, executive director of HWTC. “Thanks to this partnership, the Physician Loan Repayment Program has allowed rural communities the opportunity to decrease the financial burden of medical education debt and starting a new medical practice for new physicians in a rural community.”

Since mid-2022, the Physician Loan Repayment Program has added nine new physicians in eight separate communities. Additionally, in the past year, the program has graduated four physicians who began the program in 2018. TSET funding supports up to 42 physicians within the loan repayment program.

According to the American Medical Association, a physician in Oklahoma supports 11.7 jobs on average and generates $1.9 million in annual local economic activity.

Brightmusic to present Schubert’s Octet Nov. 1

The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble will perform Franz Schubert’s monumental Octet in F major at Tuesday, Nov. 1 7:30 pm at the First Baptist Church, 1201 N. Robinson in Oklahoma City. Now in its 20th year as Oklahoma City’s premier classical chamber music ensemble, Brightmusic will present its second concert of the season, “Musical Transcendence.” Also on the program are two brief but enchanting works by contemporary American composer Benjamin Park.

Written in 1824 and intended as an imitation of Beethoven’s enormously popular septet (a piece for seven instruments), Schubert’s sixmovement octet, his largest scale chamber work, written for eight performers, clocks in at around an hour of pure transcendence. Schubert was a phenomenally prolific Austrian composer born in 1797 in the twilight of the Classical era. Though only 31 when he died, he completed over 1500 works, including 630 lieder (songs). He also wrote seven symphonies and left behind fragments of six others, including his famous 8th Symphony, “Unfinished.” Patterned after Beethoven’s lofty Septet in E-flat major, the good-natured octet was commissioned with instructions that it was to be “exactly like Beethoven’s septet.” Schubert delivered, but with some departures, notably, the addition of a second violin. A critic, shortly after its premiere, wrote that the themes “are worked out with individual originality, and Herr Schubert has proved himself . . . as a gallant and felicitous composer.”

Park’s “Green Flash,” written for clarinet and string quartet, is ten minutes of intriguing aural sensations.

The name refers to the optical phenomenon that can occur after sunset or just before sunrise in the right atmospheric conditions. For the briefest moment, the upper rim of

the sun can appear green due to refracted light. The piece was premiered in Boulder, Colorado, at the Flatirons Chamber Music Festival.

Park’s rhapsodic “For Purple Mountains,” also for clarinet and string quartet, is another short, mesmerizing piece with strains of “America the Beautiful” woven through.

Program “Musical Transcendence”

Benjamin Park, Green Flash for Clarinet and String Quartet Benjamin Park, For Purple Mountains for Clarinet and String Quartet Franz Schubert, Octet in F Major, D 803

Musicians performing: Chad Burrow (clarinet), Rod Ackmann (bassoon), Kate Pritchett (horn), Gregory Lee and Katrin Stamatis (violin), Mark Neumann (viola), Jonathan Ruck (cello) and Anthony Stoops (double bass).

The ensemble will perform its entire 2022-23 season in the sanctuary of the beautiful First Baptist Church, 1201 N Robinson in midtown Oklahoma City. Free parking is available north and southwest of the building. The venue offers a lot of space to spread out and attend concerts in comfort and greater safety.

Handicap Access is available through the door under the awning on the south side of the building. The elevator is just inside, around the corner to the left. Go up one level to the Sanctuary.

Season Subscriptions are still available on our website and at the door for $125 and include the five regular concerts and all four concerts of the Summer Festival. This is a significant savings over the single admission price of $180 for all nine concerts and is a remarkable value at only $13.88 per concert. The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble is Oklahoma City’s foremost presenter of classical chamber music. For more information, visit us at www.brightmusic.org

PHOTO PROVIDED/MALCOLM ZACHARIAH

Chad Burrow, Steven Beck, and Jonathan Ruck at First Baptist Church.

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How to Work Out Without Excuses

It’s all-too-common for those embarking on a regular exercise routine to skip a planned workout for one reason or another. Here are some of the most common excuses that people make not to exercise, along with some solutions to overcome these challenges:

“I need low-impact exercises.” Many tradi tional workouts are tough on joints, which over time, can cause overuse injuries or ex acerbate existing conditions. To achieve your fitness goals pain-free, consider low-impact ex ercises such as yoga, swimming and elliptical machines.

“I don’t have the space to work out at home.” Whether you live in a small apart ment or just can’t dedicate too much space to a home gym, there’s good news. Certain manufacturers of exercise equipment have your back and are developing versatile, sleek fitness equipment to address your needs. At less than 23 pounds, the Cubii Total Body+ (available now for pre-order) is a good exam ple of a compact machine offering a low-im pact, approachable and achievable workout that targets everything from abs and arms to quads and calves. With a low-impact motion,

you can hit eight key muscle groups using one machine. Its elliptical component features 12 resistance levels that can be adjusted from your phone, and its resistance bands range from 2 to 7 pounds, allowing you, to tone, sculpt and strengthen your upper body, no matter what your fitness level is.

“I’m not seeing results.” If you’ve been working out for a little while and haven’t seen immediate results, don’t get discouraged. Whether your fitness goal centers around weight loss or getting toned, it’s important to remember that little changes add up over time.

“I’m just not motivated.” If keeping the exercise spark alive is difficult, consider turn ing to tech. New apps that connect to your equipment via Bluetooth, like the Cubii App, can send you reminders to get moving, as well as help you track your goals. They can also help you stay accountable by allowing you to connect with a fitness community and compete with friends, or join live and on-de mand classes.

“I don’t have any time.” Between work, family and other commitments, finding the

time to hit the gym for an hour or more isn’t always possible. But practicing self-care and prioritizing your own health and wellness is essential. What you may not realize is that a high-quality workout doesn’t need to happen in a specific place or require a lot of time. In fact, some forms of exercise can occur while you’re working or watching TV. What’s more, even a short burst of activity is very beneficial to getting you strong, boosting your metab olism and energy, and improving your mood. That’s where a great versatile piece of equip ment for the home or office can come into play.

For example, unlike a traditional standalone piece of fitness equipment, the Cubii Total Body+ is a 2-in-1 system that combines cardio with upper body strength training for a fullbody workout you can do anytime, anywhere. To learn more about how to get active today, visit cubii.com.

Creating a new exercise habit can be an uphill struggle, especially if you are short on time, space or motivation. Luckily, new tools are emerging that can help you work out without excuses. -StatePoint

Tips to manage your cholesterol

Cholesterol is a complex topic that can be difficult to understand. Cholesterol is present in the body and it also can be found in food. That can make it hard for people to under stand why cholesterol is often seen in such a negative light. Any confusion surrounding cholesterol can serve as the perfect spring board to learn more about it.

What is cholesterol?

A waxy, chemical compound, cholesterol often gets a bad rap. However, the American Heart Association says it is actually needed to build cells. The liver makes all the cholesterol a person needs. Additional cholesterol comes from diet.

There are two types of cholesterol carried through the blood. Low-density liproprotein (LDL) transports cholesterol particles through out the body. This is considered “bad” choles terol because it can build up in the walls of the arteries. High-density liproprotein (HDL) picks up excess cholesterol and takes it back to the liver, which is why it is considered “good” cholesterol.

In terms of measuring cholesterol, a total cholesterol level of less than 200 mg/dL is desirable. High HDL numbers are best, and any amount less than 40 mg/dL is a red flag. In regard to LDL, less than 100 mg/dL is optimal.

Why is cholesterol sometimes concerning?

When present in the right amounts, choles terol is instrumental in building healthy cells. When there is too much bad cholesterol in the blood, that can pose a problem. That’s because it can increase risk for heart disease, warns the Mayo Clinic.

In high amounts, LDL cholesterol can depos it fatty residue in the blood vessels. These de posits will grow over time and harden, block ing off the flow of blood through the arteries and making vessels less flexible, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Sometimes choles terol deposits break off suddenly from the walls of blood vessels and then form a clot

The dangers of ultraprocessed foods

The results of two studies recently pub lished in the British medical journal The BMJ found that eating a lot of ultraprocessed foods significantly increases men’s risk of colorectal cancer. Published in August 2022, the studies, which examined individuals in both the United States and Italy, also found that diets high in ultraprocessed foods can lead to heart disease and early death in both and men and women. Processed and ultrap rocessed foods include meats such as bacon, beef jerky, corned beef, ham, hot dogs, and salami. Various organizations, including the World Health Organization, the American Cancer Society and the American Institute for Cancer Research, have previously warned that those meats are associated with a high er risk of bowel cancer in men and women. The studies published in August 2022 re ported that it’s not just ultraprocessed meats that increase risk for cancer, but also other processed or ultraprocessed foods, including ready-to-eat-or-heat foods such as french fries, prepackaged soups, sauces, frozen piz za, doughnuts, and store-bought cookies and cakes, among others.

that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

In addition to cholesterol, doctors will measure triglycerides during lipid profiles. The Mayo Clinic says triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. Having high triglyceride levels also can increase risk for heart disease.

Managing cholesterol levels

High cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for coronary heart disease, though it is controllable. By making some changes and being cognizant of cholesterol numbers, individuals can improve their overall health significantly.

It is important that individuals know the baseline numbers in their lipid profile, includ ing HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels. Doctors may differ in their interpretations of how

cholesterol levels factor into the bigger pic ture of a person’s lifestyle and overall health. But people can still do their best to keep bad cholesterol levels down.

• Make changes to a diet to reduce con sumption of foods high in saturated fats, trans fats and animal proteins.

• Reduce weight to have a body mass index lower than 30.

• Increase exercise, which will help boost HDL naturally.

• Quit smoking, which can lower levels of HDL.

• Consume alcohol in moderation. Alcohol tends to increase total cholesterol levels.

Individuals are urged to speak to their doc tors if they have concerns about cholesterol.

How to overcome mental fatigue

Fatigue and exhaustion are often discussed in terms that characterize the physical effects that they have on the body. However, men tal fatigue can be just as draining as physical exhaustion, even if its symptoms are not as evident as achy muscles or tired feet.

The online medical resource WebMD notes that mental fatigue typically arises when indi viduals focus on mentally challenging tasks for extended periods of time. Many individuals also experienced mental fatigue during the pandemic. Pandemic-related restrictions forced individuals across the globe to confront a number of unforeseen, unexpected challenges, including a sudden shift to remote work and school closures that forced working parents to juggle the rigors of their careers with the difficulties of remote learning. That upheaval contributed to prolonged mental fatigue for many individuals.

Much like athletes need routine breaks from exercise to let their muscles recover, individ uals need to look for ways to give their over worked minds a chance to recuperate from fatigue. Each person is different, but these strategies can help people overcome mental fatigue.

• Take breaks from the news. Overcon sumption of news is one potential contributor to mental fatigue. That’s especially so in the digital age, when the latest headlines are nev er further than a smartphone away. The Johns Hopkins Women’s Mood Disorders Center notes that limiting news consumption during stressful times can be an effective way to reduce symptoms of stress, including mental fatigue.

• Schedule time to relax. The pressure to feel as if you should always be doing some thing, whether it’s working, taking care of your family or tackling a to-do list around the house, can contribute to mental fatigue. Schedule time to relax and make a concerted effort to keep that time open. Avoid using scheduled relaxation time to work on house hold chores or check work emails. Instead, use this time to do something you find genuinely relaxing, even if that activity feels like you’re doing “nothing.”

• Spot the signs of mental fatigue. Another way to overcome mental fatigue is to learn to recognize its symptoms. Recognition of these symptoms allows individuals to use them as

alarm bells that alert them when it’s time to take a step back and unwind. WebMD notes that mental fatigue symptoms include mood-related issues like increased irritability or anger; difficulty concentrat ing that makes it hard to finish tasks; zoning out; difficulty sleep ing; and engaging in unhealthy behaviors, including overcon sumption of alcohol.

The signs of mental fatigue may not be as instantly recognizable as the symptoms of physical exhaustion. But mental fatigue can be just as danger ous as physical tired ness if left unchecked.

Dan Marino’s Tips to Keep Health Goals on Track During Football Season

The kickoff to football season is here again, and with it comes piz za, beer, wings and more.

In a poll of 2,000 American men conducted by OnePoll and com missioned by Nutrisystem, 37% said they usually gain weight during football season from September to January, with 53% claiming they gain 10 pounds or more.

But football season doesn’t need to wreak havoc on your overall health, wellness and weight loss goals. Just ask pro football Hall-ofFame quarterback, Dan Marino.

“After playing pro football for 17 years, my knees took a beating and I had to have both of them replaced. Couple that with the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I couldn’t exercise or do the things I wanted to stay active, so I put on some weight,” says Marino. “I knew I needed to make a change, turned to Nutrisystem and lost 26 pounds.”

To help football fans stay on track this season, Marino is sharing his best tips to lose weight and get healthier.

1. Make a Commitment: It all starts with a commitment. You make a commitment to yourself to get healthier and then you find a game plan to do it. When you see results, you’re motivated to keep going to reach your goal.

2. Keep it Simple: Men, especially, need things to be simple. If your goal is to lose weight, look for programs like Nutrisystem that are easy, take the guesswork out of dieting and deliver your favorite foods made healthier right to your door. Plus, they have great game day foods like popcorn, pizza and burgers to ensure you’re making good choices.

3. Seek Support: Studies show that individuals lose up to 20% more weight when dieting with a partner. Find that teammate who will help motivate you to stick with your wellness goals.

4. Focus on Protein: Protein keeps your hunger in check and will keep you from grabbing those not-so-good for you game day foods. Aim to get your protein from foods like meat and fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and nut butters. For an afternoon snack, I always grab a Nutrisystem shake, which is packed with protein to keep me full until dinner.

Did you know?

The right time to exercise is a different time of day for everyone. But there is good reason to consider moving your workout to the morning. The health experts at Healthline say that morning workouts are less vulnerable to distrac tions as phone calls and texts will typical ly take place later in the day. Piedmont Medical group says there are mental health benefits of exercise, including the secretion of neurotransmitters that pro

5. Get Moving: Get up and off the couch! Call up your friends and organize a game of football or shoot some hoops. I love to hit the golf course and I often walk instead of grabbing a cart. This way, I’m getting in extra exercise.

For more great tips to feel your best this football season and be yond, visit Nutrisystem’s blog at leaf.nutrisystem.com.

The most important thing to remember is keeping up with your health and wellness doesn’t need to be hard. It’s all about balance. If you find yourself over-indulging as you’re watching the game, that’s okay. Commit to getting back on track the next day. -StatePoint

mote mental clarity and improve atten tion span. Working out first thing in the morning can help you focus and take charge at work or in school soon after. Since exercise can boost metabolism, it starts the day out on a good foot, and may help you make healthier decisions throughout the day, including choosing more nutritious foods. Healthline also says that cortisol is a hormone that keeps you awake and alert. Cortisol increases in the morning, peaking around 8 a.m. Working out around this time may make workouts more efficient and effective.

Officials: 900,000 attended State Fair

The 2022 Oklahoma State Fair ran September 15 through 25 at the OKC Fairgrounds. The 2022 State Fair theme was YOUR FAIR SHARE OF FUN. Fairgoers enjoyed a variety of new foods, shopping vendors, entertainment, and more.

The State Fair opened with five days of Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures in the Jim Norick Arena, offering a total of nine performances from September 15 through 19. Additionally, attendees enjoyed the return of the PRCA Xtreme Bulls & Broncs Tour & Concerts event on September 23 and 24 featuring concerts by Trace Adkins and Chris Janson, respectively. Fairgoers also expe-

Golfers, others welcome Indoor 18 to Edmond area

Indoor 18 recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 17516 N. Western Ave.

Indoor 18 is the premier indoor golf facility in OKC. They provide a climate-controlled indoor golf experience for golfers of all levels. Whether you are a scratch golfer or you have never touched a club.

They use the latest technology to provide users with the best indoor experience available. Using Trackman technology their facility can not only provide simulation practice and game play, but for competitive golfers can provide immediate feedback about your swing using video and data analysis. They were the first to serve the OKC Metro in this business. Bays can be rented by the hour not the person. Many people ask how long will it take to play? Most individuals in for the first time can play 18 holes in around 45 minutes.

rienced thrills on the midway, equine and livestock shows, and free nightly concerts on the Chickasaw Country Entertainment Stage.

Along with these, visitors delighted in new attractions such as the miniature silky fainting goat show, Pirate Game Show and Pirate Foam Zone, the Equine Empowerment Horse Show, the Ninja Nation Obstacle Course, and the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, among other new attractions.

Oklahoma City experienced above average temperatures for this time of year for the majority of the 11-day event, with heat indexes over 100 degrees on some days.

However, approximately 900,000 visitors took to the Fairgrounds for the 2022 Oklahoma State Fair. Twenty-five percent of visitors came from outof-town for the event, while 75 percent were locals, producing an economic impact of $103.95 million in direct spending into the Oklahoma City economy.

For more information regarding September events, or any upcoming months, please contact the OKC Fairgrounds Office at 405-948-6700. To stay up-to-date on all the OKC Fairgrounds has to offer, visit www.okcfairgrounds.com, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

QCB adds employees

Quail Creek Bank, Oklahoma City, announces the following:

Shelli Fiscus was promoted to Assistant Vice President in June 2022 by the bank’s board of directors. Fiscus joined the bank in 2000 as a commercial loan assistant. Over her 21-year tenure, Fiscus also worked as an audit assistant, and currently serves as an executive assistant to the president and senior lender. Her additional roles include board secretary, supervisor and trainer. Fiscus’ knowledge and leadership are respected and appreciated by our entire lending team.

——

Also, Jennifer Bryant was promoted to Assistant Vice President in

July 2022 by the bank’s board of directors. Bryant joined the bank in 2003 in deposit operations. Her role includes managing bank systems and all aspects of electronic banking and data processing. She has earned several banking certifications including National Check Professional (NCP), Accredited ACH Professional (AAP), and Accredited Payments Risk Professional (APRP) which have made Bryant a great asset to the bank. During Bryant’s 24 years in the industry, she has mastered every area of bank operations and is an expert in her field. When she’s not working to improve processes or thwart fraudsters, she enjoys spending time with her son and extended family.

UCO professor gets grant worth more than $400,000

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health (NIH), recently awarded a three-year research enhancement grant totaling $425,928 to University of Central Oklahoma faculty member Benjamin Tayo, Ph.D., associate professor of engineering and physics.

physics research.

The NIH research enhancement grant, also known as NIH R15, supports small-scale research projects at educational institutions, and is the second NIH R15 grant received in Central history.

Tayo

Tayo's project, titled “DNA Base Detection Using 2D Materials Beyond Graphene,” will use research to find simple and cost-effective methods to detect and differentiate DNA, which can produce value to cancer and human genetic disorder research, as well as other research areas. The grant will also involve a three-year collaboration with Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and employ up to two graduate and four undergraduate students in advanced medical

“I am thrilled that Dr. Tayo has received an NIH R15 grant to support his research,” said Gloria Caddell, Ph.D., dean for the College of Mathematics and Science at Central.

“This grant, only the second NIH R15 grant awarded to UCO, will allow students to participate in advanced research and help prepare them for success in STEM fields. I congratulate him on this achievement and appreciate his efforts to involve students in his research.”

There is a critical need for inexpensive and faster approaches to automated DNA sequencing.

Fiscus

Bryant

To learn more about Indoor 18, visit www.indoor18.com.

Riversport expansion plans

RIVERSPORT OKC has announced plans for a $1.4M bike park expansion. The new Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park will act as a hub on the newest expansion of the city’s trail system which will now run through RIVERSPORT Boathouse District and will soon connect to the Katy Trail to the east. Construction will begin in November and once finished, cyclists can make a complete 45-mile loop around Oklahoma City on paved trails as well as access revamped mountain bike trails and jump lines.

Slated to open in Spring, 2023, the Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion will include a new bike plaza, an outdoor classroom, a community garden, and play area, as well as paved parking. Shipping containers will be used to create a unique gathering place that includes a welcome center, a nature center, and ADA restrooms.

“Biking is one of the most accessible ways for people to enjoy the outdoors,” said Mike Knopp, executive director of RIVERSPORT. “With this expansion, we’re able to provide the amenities that really make the trails work such as accessible restrooms,

drinking fountains and refillable water bottle stations, plenty of shade and seaåting for rest stops, and a place where you can do minor bike repairs.”

One of the more unique features of the project is a new elevated trail that will travel across the rooftops of the shipping containers.

“We always enjoy doing something that elevates a project and in this case, we took it quite literally and are putting a trail on top of the shipping containers,” Knopp said. “When we combine the city’s trails with our mountain bike trails and the worldclass Velosolutions pump track, we really have a unique experience for cyclists at all levels.”

The bike park’s location at the intersection of I 35 and I 40 is also expected to draw visitors from across the country off the highway and into RIVERSPORT.

Funding for the project is being provided by a grant from the Oklahoma Recreational Trails Program, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and several anonymous donors. The project was designed by Allford, Hall, Monaghan, Morris.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Groups help to match animals with veterans

Second Chance Animal Rescue in Norman, Oklahoma has partnered with Pets for Patriots to support the adoption of the most overlooked shelter animals by veterans in our community. This partnership aligns with Second Chance’s values to help homeless animals find placement through adoption services and education.

Pets for Patriots recognizes Second Chance’s shared passion for giving our nation’s veterans renewed purpose through companion pet adoption. By joining forces with Pets for Patriots, Second Chance will offer waived adoption fees to veterans who adopt program-eligible dogs and cats through its partnership with Pets for Patriots.

“Second Chance Animal Sanctuary is proud to be the first rescue in Oklahoma to partner with the national Pets for Patriots program. With Tinker Air Force Base right around the corner, we hope to unite our animals with the hardworking service men and women in Central Oklahoma who represent all the good things that make America so great. It means so much to have this opportunity and to be able to change the lives of our animals and the families that will love them,” said Rose Grimm, Shelter Director at Second Chance Animal Rescue

Animals eligible for adoption through Pets for Patriots include dogs and cats who are adult, special needs, or long-term homeless, as well as larger breed dogs.

The program is open to veterans from WWII to those in active duty.

“We help shelters inspire the adoption of the more overlooked animals in their care,” said Beth Zimmerman, Pets for Patriots Executive Director. “At the same time, veterans find a new sense of purpose through the unconditional love of a shelter pet who

has been given a second, maybe even a third, chance at life.”

Veterans must first apply to Pets for Patriots online and provide relevant eligibility documents.

Approval to receive a pet typically takes no more than two business days, after which veterans can visit Second Chance to find their new best friends.

For more information about Second Chance Animal Rescue, please visit secondchancenorman.com. To learn about Pets for Patriots, visit petsforpatriots.org.

About Pets for Patriots

Pets for Patriots gives the gifts of fidelity, joy and love to veterans and pets through companion animal adoption. The nationally operating nonprofit organization helps veterans and service members adopt the most overlooked dogs and cats, including adult, special needs, long-term homeless, and large breed pets, offering them a second chance at life through adoption. Pets for Patriots partners with U.S. shelter and veterinary networks, military and veteran organizations, and the public to value and honor the lives of the most vulnerable and heroic among us.

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